title: Recommendation of the European Central Bank of 15 November 2013 to the Council of the European Union on the external auditors of Latvijas Banka (ECB/2013/42)

text:
               22.11.2013

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               C 342/1

         RECOMMENDATION OF THE EUROPEAN CENTRAL BANK
   of 15 November 2013
   to the Council of the European Union on the external auditors of Latvijas Banka
   (ECB/2013/42)
   2013/C 342/01
   THE GOVERNING COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN CENTRAL BANK,
   Having regard to the Statute of the European System of Central Banks and of the European Central Bank, and in particular Article 27.1 thereof,
   Whereas:

               (1)

               The accounts of the European Central Bank (ECB) and national central banks of the Member States whose currency is the euro are audited by independent external auditors recommended by the ECB’s Governing Council and approved by the Council of the European Union.

               (2)

               Pursuant to Article 1 of Council Decision 2013/387/EU (1), Latvia fulfils the necessary conditions for the adoption of the euro and the derogation in favour of Latvia referred to in Article 4 of the 2003 Act of Accession (2) is abrogated with effect from 1 January 2014.

               (3)

               Pursuant to Article 43 of the Law on Latvijas Banka, from 1 January 2014 the annual financial statements of Latvijas Banka shall be audited by independent external auditors recommended by the ECB’s Governing Council and approved by the Council.

               (4)

               The external auditors recommended herein are Latvijas Banka's current auditors, who were appointed for the financial years 2012 to 2014,

         HAS ADOPTED THIS RECOMMENDATION:
   It is recommended that SIA Ernst & Young Baltic should be appointed as the external auditors of Latvijas Banka for the financial year 2014.

      Done at Frankfurt am Main, 15 November 2013.

            The President of the ECB

         Mario DRAGHI

      (1)  Council Decision 2013/387/EU of 9 July 2013 on the adoption by Latvia of the euro on 1 January 2014 (OJ L 195, 18.7.2013, p. 24).

      (2)  OJ L 236, 23.9.2003, p. 33.


title: Commission Recommendation of  14 December 2005  on the coordinated inspection programme in the field of animal nutrition for the year 2006 in accordance with Council Directive 95/53/EC

text:
               22.12.2005

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               L 337/51

         COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
   of 14 December 2005
   on the coordinated inspection programme in the field of animal nutrition for the year 2006 in accordance with Council Directive 95/53/EC
   (2005/925/EC)
   THE COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES,
   Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community,
   Having regard to Council Directive 95/53/EC of 25 October 1995 fixing the principles governing the organisation of official inspections in the field of animal nutrition (1), and in particular Article 22(3) thereof,
   Whereas,

               (1)

               In 2005 Member States identified certain issues as worthy of a coordinated inspection programme to be carried out in the year 2006.

               (2)

               Although Directive 2002/32/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 7 May 2002 on undesirable substances in animal feed (2) establishes maximum contents of aflatoxin B1 in feedingstuffs, there are no Community rules for other mycotoxins, such as ochratoxin A, zearalenone, deoxynivalenol, fumonisins, T-2 and HT-2 toxins. Gathering information on the presence of those mycotoxins through random sampling could provide useful data for an assessment of the situation with a view to the development of the legislation. Furthermore, certain feed materials such as cereals and oil seeds are particularly exposed to mycotoxin contamination because of harvesting, storage and transport conditions. As mycotoxin concentration varies from year to year, it is appropriate to collect data from consecutive years for all mycotoxins mentioned.

               (3)

               Previous results of checks for the presence of antibiotics and coccidiostats in certain feedingstuffs intended for animal species or category for which those active substances are not authorised indicate that this type of infringement still occurs. Furthermore, in accordance with the provisions of Article 11(2) of Regulation (EC) No 1831/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 22 September 2003 on additives for use in animal nutrition (3), it is important to ensure that the phasing out of antibiotic feed additives is effectively enforced.

               (4)

               It is important to ensure that the restrictions on the use of feed materials of animal origin in feedingstuffs, as laid down in the relevant Community legislation, are effectively enforced.

               (5)

               It is appropriate to ensure that the levels of the trace elements copper and zinc in compound feedingstuffs for pigs do not exceed the maximum content laid down by Commission Regulation (EC) No 1334/2003 of 25 July 2003 amending the conditions for authorisation of a number of additives in feedingstuffs belonging to the group of trace elements (4).

               (6)

               The measures provided for in this Recommendation are in accordance with the opinion of the Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health,

         HEREBY RECOMMENDS THAT MEMBER STATES:

               1.

               carry out during the year 2006 a coordinated inspection programme aimed to check:

                           (a)

                           the concentration of mycotoxins (aflatoxin B1, ochratoxin A, zearalenone, deoxynivalenol, fumonisins, T-2 and HT-2 toxins) in feedingstuffs, indicating the methods of analysis; the method of sampling should comprise both random and targeted sampling; in the case of targeted sampling, the samples should be feed materials suspected of containing higher concentrations of mycotoxins, such as cereal grains, oil seeds, oil fruits, their products and by-products, and feed materials stored for a long time or transported by sea over a long distance; in the case of aflatoxin B1, particular attention should also be paid to compound feedingstuffs for dairy animals other than dairy cattle; the results of the checks should be reported using the model set out in Annex I;

                           (b)

                           coccidiostats and/or histomonostats, whether or not authorised as feed additives for certain animal species and categories, that occur frequently in non-medicated pre-mixtures and compound feedingstuffs in which these substances are not authorised; the checks should target those substances in pre-mixtures and compound feedingstuffs if the competent authority considers that there is a greater probability of finding irregularities; the results of the checks should be reported using the model set out in Annex II;

                           (c)

                           the implementation of the phasing out of antibiotics as feed additives as set out in Annex II;

                           (d)

                           the implementation of restrictions on the production and use of feed materials of animal origin, as set out in Annex III;

                           (e)

                           the levels of copper and zinc in compound feedingstuffs for pigs, as set out in Annex IV.

               2.

               include the results of the co-ordinated inspection programme provided for in paragraph 1 in a separate Chapter in the annual report on inspection activities to be transmitted by 1 April 2007 and the latest version of the harmonised reporting model.

      Done at Brussels, 14 December 2005.

            For the Commission

         Markos KYPRIANOU

            Member of the Commission

      (1)  OJ L 265, 8.11.1995, p. 17. Directive as last amended by Directive 2001/46/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 234, 1.9.2001, p. 55).

      (2)  OJ L 140, 30.5.2002, p. 10. Directive as last amended by Commission Directive 2005/8/EC (OJ L 27, 29.1.2005, p. 44).

      (3)  OJ L 268, 18.10.2003, p. 29. Regulation as amended by Commission Regulation (EC) No 378/2005 (OJ L 59, 5.3.2005, p. 8).

      (4)  OJ L 187, 26.7.2003, p. 11. Regulation as amended by Regulation (EC) No 2112/2003 (OJ L 317, 2.12.2003, p. 22).
   ANNEX I
   Concentration of certain mycotoxins (aflatoxin B1, ochratoxin A, zearalenone, deoxynivalenol, fumonisins, T-2 and HT-2-toxins) in feedingstuffs
   Individual results of all tested samples; model for reports as referred to in paragraph 1(a)

               Feedingstuffs

               Sampling
               (random or targeted)

               Type and concentration of mycotoxins (μg/kg relative to a feedingstuff with a moisture content of 12 %)

               Class (1)

               Type (2)

               Country of origin

               Aflatoxin B1

               Ochratoxin A

               Zearalenone

               Deoxynivalenol

               Fumonisins (3)

               T-2- and HT-2-toxins (4)

         The competent authority should also indicate:

               —

               the action taken when maximum levels for aflatoxin B1 are exceeded;

               —

               the methods of analysis used;

               —

               the limits of detection.

      (1)  Select one of the following classes: feed material, feed additive, premixture, complementary feed, complete feed, compound feed.

      (2)  Select one of the following types: (a) for feed materials, the name of the feed material as laid down in Part B of the Annex to Council Directive 96/25/EC (OJ L 125, 23.5.1996, p. 35); (b) for other feedingstuffs, the target species.

      (3)  The concentration of fumonisins B1 and B2 can be reported as the sum of both.

      (4)  The concentration of the T-2 and HT-2 toxins can be reported as the sum of both.
   ANNEX II
   Presence of certain medicinal substances not authorised as feed additives
   Certain medicinal substances may be legally present as additives in pre-mixtures and compound feedingstuffs for certain animal species and categories, when fulfilling the requirements of Article 10 of Regulation (EC) No 1831/2003.
   The presence of unauthorised medicinal substances in feedingstuffs for certain animal species and categories constitutes an infringement.
   The medicinal substances to be controlled should be chosen from the following:

               1.

               Medicinal substances authorised as feed additives for certain animal species or categories only:

                           decoquinate (Deccox)

                           diclazuril (Clinacox 0,2 %)

                           halofuginone hydrobromide (Stenorol)

                           lasalocid A sodium (Avatec 15 %)

                           maduramicin ammonium alpha (Cygro 1 %)

                           monensin sodium (Elancoban G100, 100, G200, 200)

                           narasin (Monteban)

                           narasin — nicarbazin (Maxiban G160)

                           robenidine hydrochloride (Cycostat 66 G)

                           salinomycin sodium (Sacox 120G, 120)

                           semduramicin sodium (Aviax 5 %)

               2.

               Medicinal substances no longer authorised as feed additives:

                           amprolium

                           amprolium/ethopabate

                           arprinocid

                           avilamycin

                           avoparcin

                           carbadox

                           dimetridazole

                           dinitolmid

                           flavophospholipol

                           ipronidazol

                           meticlorpindol

                           meticlorpindol/methylbenzoquate

                           nicarbazin

                           nifursol

                           olaquindox

                           ronidazol

                           spiramycin

                           tetracyclines

                           tylosin phosphate

                           virginiamycin

                           zinc bacitracin

                           other antimicrobial substances

               3.

               Medicinal substances never authorised as feed additives:
               other substances
               Individual results of all non-compliant samples; model for reports as referred to in paragraph 1(b)

                           Type of feedingstuff
                           (animal species and category)

                           Substance detected

                           Level found

                           Reason for the infringement (1)

                           Action taken

                     The competent authority should also indicate:

                           —

                           the total number of samples tested,

                           —

                           the names of the substances which have been investigated,

                           —

                           the methods of analysis used,

                           —

                           the limits of detection.

      (1)  Reason leading to the presence of the unauthorised substance in the feedingstuff, as concluded after an investigation carried out by the competent authority.
   ANNEX III
   Restrictions on the production and use of feed materials of animal origin
   Without prejudice to Article 3 of Regulation (EC) No 882/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1), Member States should during 2006 undertake a coordinated inspection programme to determine whether restrictions on the production and use of feed materials of animal origin have been complied with.
   In particular, in order to ensure that the ban on feeding processed animal protein to certain animals, as laid down in Annex IV to Regulation (EC) No 999/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council (2), are effectively applied, Member States should implement a specific control programme based on targeted controls. In accordance with Article 3 of Regulation (EC) No 882/2004, that control programme should be based on a risk-based strategy where all stages of production and all types of premises where feed is produced, handled and administered are included. Member States should pay special attention to the definition of criteria that can be related to a risk. The weighting given to each criterion should be proportional to the risk. The inspection frequency and the number of samples analysed in the premises should be in correlation to the sum of weightings allocated to those premises.
   The following indicative premises and criteria should be considered when drawing up a control programme:

               Premises

               Criteria

               Weighting

               Feed mills

                           —

                           Double-stream feed mills producing ruminant compound feed and non-ruminant compound feed containing derogated processed animal proteins

                           —

                           Feed mills with previous history, or suspicion, of non-compliance

                           —

                           Feed mills with a large amount of imported feedingstuffs with high protein content such as fishmeal, soybean meal, corn gluten meal and protein concentrates

                           —

                           Feed mills with a high production of compound feed

                           —

                           Risk of cross-contamination resulting from internal operational procedures (dedication of silos, control of the effective separation of lines, control of ingredients, internal laboratory, sampling procedures)

               Border Inspection Posts and other points of entry into the Community

                           —

                           Large/small amount of imports of feedingstuffs

                           —

                           Feedingstuffs with high protein content

               Farms

                           —

                           Home mixers using derogated processed animal proteins

                           —

                           Farms keeping ruminants and other species (risk of cross feeding)

                           —

                           Farms purchasing feedingstuffs in bulk

               Dealers

                           —

                           Warehouses and intermediate storage of feedingstuffs with high protein content

                           —

                           High volume of bulk feedingstuffs traded

                           —

                           Dealers in compound feedingstuffs produced abroad

               Mobile mixers

                           —

                           Mixers producing for both ruminants and non-ruminants

                           —

                           Mixers with previous history, or suspicion, of non-compliance

                           —

                           Mixers incorporating feedingstuffs with high protein content

                           —

                           Mixers with high production of feedingstuffs

                           —

                           Large number of farms served including farms which keep ruminants

               Means of transportation

                           —

                           Vehicles used for the transportation of processed animal proteins and feedingstuffs

                           —

                           Vehicles with previous history, or suspicion, of non-compliance

         As an alternative to these indicative premises and criteria, Member States may forward their own risk assessment to the Commission before 31 March 2006.
   Sampling should be targeted on batches or events where cross-contamination with prohibited processed proteins is most likely (first batch after the transport of feedingstuffs containing animal protein prohibited in this batch, technical problems or changes in production lines, changes in storage bunkers or silos for bulk material).
   Controls could also be extended to the analysis of dust in vehicles, manufacturing equipment and storage areas.
   The minimum number of inspections per year in a Member State should be 10 per 100 000 tonnes of compound feed produced. The minimum number of official samples per year in a Member State should be 20 per 100 000 tonnes of compound feed produced. Pending the approval of alternative methods, microscopic identification and estimation as described in Commission Directive 2003/126/EC (3) should be used for analysing samples. The detection of animal proteins shall be interpreted in line with the provisions in Regulation (EC) No 999/2001.
   The results of the inspection programmes should be communicated to the Commission using the following formats.
   Summary of checks concerning feeding restrictions for feed of animal origin (feeding of prohibited processed animal proteins)
   A.   Documented inspections

               Stage

               Number of inspections comprising checks on the presence of processed animal proteins

               Number of breaches based on documentary checks etc. rather than laboratory testing

               Import of feed materials

               Storage of feed materials

               Feed mills

               Home mixers/mobile mixers

               Intermediaries of feedingstuffs

               Means of transport

               Farms keeping non-ruminants

               Farms keeping ruminants

               Others:…

         B.   Sampling and testing of feed materials and compound feedingstuffs for processed animal proteins

               Premises

               Number of official samples tested for processed animal proteins

               Number of non-compliant samples

               Presence of processed animal protein from terrestrial animals

               Presence of processed animal protein from fish

               Feed materials

               Compound feedingstuffs

               Feed materials

               Compound feedingstuffs

               Feed materials

               Compound feedingstuffs

               for ruminants

               for non-ruminants

               for ruminants

               for non-ruminants

               for ruminants

               for non-ruminants

               At import

               Feed mills

               Intermediaries/storage

               Means of transport

               Home mixers/mobile mixers

               On farm

               Others:

         C.   Summary of prohibited processed animal proteins found in samples of feedingstuffs intended for ruminants

               Month of sampling

               Type degree and origin of contamination

               Sanctions (or other measures) applied

               1

               2

               3

               4

               5

               …

      (1)  OJ L 165, 30.4.2004, p. 1.

      (2)  OJ L 147, 31.5.2001, p. 1.

      (3)  OJ L 339, 24.12.2003, p. 78.
   ANNEX IV
   Individual results of all samples (both compliant and non-compliant) concerning the content of copper and zinc in compound feedingstuffs for pigs

               Type of compound feedingstuff
               (animal category)

               Trace element
               (copper or zinc)

               Level found
               (mg/kg of complete feedingstuff)

               Reason for exceeding the maximum content (1)

               Action taken

      (1)  As concluded after an investigation carried out by the competent authority.


title: Recommendation for a COUNCIL REGULATION (EEC) on the conclusion of the Additional Protocol to the Agreement between the European Economic Community and Haiti on trade in textile products consequent on the accession of the Hellenic Republic to the Community (submitted to the Council by the Commission)

text:
ARCHIVES HISTORIQUES
DE LA COMMISSION
COLLECTION RELIEE DES
DOCUMENTS "COM"
COM (81) 602
Vol. 1981/0182
 ---pagebreak--- Disclaimer
Conformément au règlement (CEE, Euratom) n° 354/83 du Conseil du 1er février 1983
concernant l'ouverture au public des archives historiques de la Communauté économique
européenne et de la Communauté européenne de l'énergie atomique (JO L 43 du 15.2.1983,
p. 1), tel que modifié par le règlement (CE, Euratom) n° 1700/2003 du 22 septembre 2003
(JO L 243 du 27.9.2003, p. 1), ce dossier est ouvert au public. Le cas échéant, les documents
classifiés présents dans ce dossier ont été déclassifiés conformément à l'article 5 dudit
règlement.
In accordance with Council Regulation (EEC, Euratom) No 354/83 of 1 February 1983
concerning the opening to the public of the historical archives of the European Economic
Community and the European Atomic Energy Community (OJ L 43, 15.2.1983, p. 1), as
amended by Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1700/2003 of 22 September 2003 (OJ L 243,
27.9.2003, p. 1), this file is open to the public. Where necessary, classified documents in this
file have been declassified in conformity with Article 5 of the aforementioned regulation.
In Übereinstimmung mit der Verordnung (EWG, Euratom) Nr. 354/83 des Rates vom 1.
Februar 1983 über die Freigabe der historischen Archive der Europäischen
Wirtschaftsgemeinschaft und der Europäischen Atomgemeinschaft (ABI. L 43 vom 15.2.1983,
S. 1), geändert durch die Verordnung (EG, Euratom) Nr. 1700/2003 vom 22. September 2003
(ABI. L 243 vom 27.9.2003, S. 1), ist diese Datei der Öffentlichkeit zugänglich. Soweit
erforderlich, wurden die Verschlusssachen in dieser Datei in Übereinstimmung mit Artikel 5
der genannten Verordnung freigegeben.
 ---pagebreak--- COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES
                                               COM(81)602 final
                                               Brussels , 23 October 1981
                            Recommendation for a
                           COUNCIL REGULATION ( EEC )
        on the conclusion of the Additional Protocol to the Agreement
        between the European Economic Community and Haiti on trade in
        textile products consequent on the accession of the Hellenic Republic
                              to the Community
                 ( submitted to the Counci I by "the Commission )
                                u-j ^        1 ^       , ~J
                                \<:         «-  Z.    ' '71
                                 V>;        " ^ :^y
 C0M(81 ) 602 final
 ---pagebreak---                          EXPLANATORY MEMORANDUM
1 . Under the Act of Accession of Greece to the European Communities
    ( Article 123 ), it was agreed that the Community would negotiate
    protocols of adaptation to the bilateral agreements on trade in
    textile products between the Community and third countries .
2 . By Decision of 1 August 1980 the Council authorised the Commission to
    open negotiations with Haiti to conclude an agreement on such
    adaptation .                          \               ,      '
3 . In accordance with that Council Decision and in consultation with the
    Article . 113 Committee , the Commission conducted negotiations with Haiti
    from 22 September to 16 December 1980 .
    Following the negotiations ^ a draft Protocol was drawn up extending the'
    terms of the original bilateral agreement to trade between Haiti - and
  ' the enlarged Community , thus ( inter alia )               *
    - extending the existing consultation procedures whereby new voluntary
    .  restraint measures may be introduced for categories of products not
       at present subject to limitation , where certain thresholds are exceeded ,
       in respect of both the whole Community and Greece .               .
    The heads of Delegation initialled the text of the draft Protocol on
    16 December 1980 having noted it correctly representgd the results of
    the negotiations .
4 . The Protocol has-already been implemented by Council Regulation ( EEC )
    No 3553 / 80 of 22 December 1980 ( 1 ) amending the existing regime established
    by Regulation ( EEC ) No 3059 / 78 of 21 December 1978 ( 2)i
 ---pagebreak---                                                                                9
                                                                              à.
                                     - 2 -
5 . The Commission considers that the draft Protocol embodies an arrangement
      which is acceptable to the Community . It therefore recommends that the
      Counci I :
        ( i ) approve the Protocol by adopting the Regulation , the draft of
              which is annexed hereto ;
      ( ii ) pending approval of the Protocol , take the necessary decisions
              in connection with the signing thereof .
 ( 1 ) O.J. No L 381 of 31 . 12.1980 , p. 1
 ( 2 ) O.J. No L 365 of 27.12.1978 , p. 1
 ---pagebreak---                                                       Oftiaal Too mil of the European CommursiHo •                               No L
                                                         (Acts who** publication k obligatory)
                                                                     4
                                                              RECOMMENDATION
                                                    COUNCIL REGULATION ( EEC
                      on the conclusion of ihe Additional Protocol to the Agreement between the Earopcn
                      Economic Community and                    Haiti                            ort            Xn        -i1
                     ; rod T ctr cov\S€<juenL                    the. accession of t'v.                           Ro.iuMic
                     *t o  c(,c   's ' - 4 * i i t v
    THF. COUNCIL OK THL fcUKOI'hAN COMMUNIIIhS.                                          . consequent on the accckiion of the Hellenic
                                                                                Republic to the Community ii hereby approved on
                                                                                behalf of the Community.
    Having regard to the Treaty establishing the Kuropean
    Economic Community, and in particular Article 113
   thereof,
                                                                                The text of the Protocol ia annexed to thia Regulation.
   Hjving retard to the reiommendanon from the
   ( oinnusMtto ,
   Whereas it 11 ncttuary to approve the Additional
   Protocol to the Agreement berween the European
                                                                                ArtuU 2
   kioronuc Community and Haiti
on         in textile products to take account of                               The President of the Council thai! give the notification
   the    accession       of   the   Hellenic          Republic   to the
   i • miiiiuiiity .                                                            provided for it) Arode 4 of the Additional Protocol ( I )
   HAS ADOPTfcD THIS REGULATION:
                                                                                Artici4 3
                                 ArttcU 1
                                                                                This Regulation shall enter into force on the day
   The AdJioonal Protocol to the Agreement between the                          following its publication in the Official Journal of the
   European Economic Community and Haiti                                        F.uropfjrt Commumtift.
   t.i ir - o in i : til -                , . '•' • • icto
                     This Regulation shall be binding in ia entirety and directly applicable in all Member States.
                     Done at Brussels,
                                                                                ' For tha Council
                                                                            ( I ) The date of entry into force of the Prwocol will he
                                                                                published in the Official            of tht E*rop+*n
                                                                                Cvmrntmiiim by (he General Secretarial of the CouaoL
 ---pagebreak--- Additional Protocol to the Agreement
between the European Economic Community
and Haiti on trade in textile products
consequent on the accession of the Hellenic
Republic to the European Communities .
         ( initialled on I6 December 1980 )
 ---pagebreak--- THE COUNCIL OP THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES
of the one part , and
THE GOVERNMENT OP HAITI
of "the other part ,
CONSIDERING the accession of the Hellenic Republic to the European Communities
on January I I98l |
HAVING REGARD TO the Agreement concluded "between the European Economic
Community and Haiti on 15 January 19^0 , hereinafter referred to as the
" Agreement " ,
HAVE DECIDED to determine by common accord the adjustments and the
transitional measures to be incorporated in the said Agreement consequent on
the accession of the Hellenic Republic to the European Communities .
and TO CONCLUDE THIS PROTOCOL :
 ---pagebreak---                                 - 2 -
                                                                                L
                                Article I
The text of the Agreement amended as follows and those of the annexe and
protocols forming an integral part thereof , 'shall be drawn up in Greek
and he authentic as are the original texts .
                                Article 2
The Agreement is hereby amended as follows :
      1.   Paragraph 2 of Protocol C to the Agreement shall be replaced
           by the following :
           "Where the Community finds , under the system of administrative
           control set up , that the level of imports of products in any
           category listed in the Annexe originating in Haiti exceeds , in
           relation to 102% of the preceding year 's total imports of products
           in that category into the territories within which the Treaty establishing
           the mropean Lcononic Community was applied on 31 December 19 oC ,
           the following rates ;
           - for categories of products in Group I :                    0.2%
           - for categories of products in Group II :                   1.5'1°
           - for categories of products in Group III , IV or V : 4,»0%
           it may request the opening of consultations in accordance with
           the procedure described in Article 5        "the Agreement , with a view
           to reaching agreement on an appropriate restraint level for the
           products in such a category .
      2.   paragraph 6 of Protocol C to the Agreement shall oe replaced oy
           the following :
           'Quantitative limits on a regional basis may be introduced cr.l;
           where imports of a riven product into any region of the Oo.x.ro;:ity
           . ..co . • the following regional percentages of 100/102 ( 100 divided
           by 102 ) of the amounts determined in accordance with paragraph 2 :
 ---pagebreak---                                    - 3 -
                         Germany             28.5%
                         Bénélux             10.5%
                         Prance              lQ.5%
                         Italy               15 $
                         Denmaxk               3  »
                         Ireland               I fo
                         UK                  23.5$
                         Greece                2 %
       3.    For "the purpose of working out the "preceding year 's total
             imports ", as referred to in paragraph I , the figure for imports
             from Greece to be used in the calculations for both 1980 and
             1981 shall be the volume of imports recorded in 1980 .
                                  Article 3
This Protocol shall form an integral part of the Agreement ,
                                  Article 4
This Protocol shall be adopted in accordance with the procedures laid down
by the Contracting Parties .     It shall enter into force on I January 1981 ,
providing the Contracting parties have notified each other before that date
that the necessary procedures have been completed . After this date the
Protocol shall enter into force on the first day of the second month following
such notification .
                                          *
                                  Article 5
This Protocol is drawn up in duplicate in the Danish , German , Greek , English ,
 French , Italian and Dutch languages , each . text being equally authentic .
 ---pagebreak---                               :T0T2 VZ3BAL2
     The Mission of the Republic of Haiti presents its compliments to the
Directorate* General fcr lirternal Relations of the Commission of the European
Communities and has the honour to refer to the Additional Protocol to the
Agreement on trade in textile products consequent on the accession of the
Hellenic Republic to the European Communities initialled today by the
Republic cf Hait'i and the European Economic Community .
     The Mission of the Republic of Haiti wishes to inform the Directorate-
General for External Relations that , pending completion of the procedures
necessary for the conclusion and entry into force of the Protocol the
Government of the Republic of Haiti is prepared to agree that the provisions
of the Agreement be applied de facto from I January 1981 if the Community
is prepared to do likewise .
     The Mission of the Republic of Haiti considers that this Uote , together
with the Community 's Kote of acknowledgement , constitutes an Agreement
between the Government of the Republic of Haiti and the Community .
     The Llission of the Republic of Haiti takes this opportunity of renewing
to the Directorate-General for External Relations the assurance of its
highest consideration .
 ---pagebreak---                               iTOTE VER BAIE
      The Directorate-General for External Relations of the Commission 01
the European Communities presents its compliments to the Mission of the
Republic of Haiti and has the honour to acknowledge receipt of its ITote
Ver'bale of today 's date which reads as follows :
      " The Ilission of the Republic of Haiti presents its compliments to the
Directorate-General for External Relations of the Commission of the European
Communities and has the honour to refer to the Additional Protocol to the
Agreement on trade in textile products consequent on the accession of the
Hellenic Republic to the European Communities initialled today by the
Republic of Haiti and the European Economic Community .
      The Mission of the . Republic of Haiti wishes to inform the Directorate-
General for External Relations that , pending completion of the procedures .
necessary for the conclusion and entry into force of the Protocol , the
Government of the Republic of Haiti is prepared to agree that the provisions
of the Agreement be applied de facto from I January I98I if "the Community
is prepared to do likewise .
      The Ilission of the Republic of Haiti considers that this Note , together
with the Community 's ITote of acknowledgement , constitutes an Agreement between
the Government of the Republic of Haiti and the Community .
      The Ilission of the Republic of Haiti takes this opportunity of renewing
to the Directorate-General for External Relations the assurance of its highest
consideration


title: Council Recommendation of 10 July 2012 on the appointment of a member of the Executive Board of the European Central Bank

text:
               21.7.2012

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               C 215/4

         COUNCIL RECOMMENDATION
   of 10 July 2012
   on the appointment of a member of the Executive Board of the European Central Bank
   2012/C 215/05
   THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
   Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 283(2) thereof,
   Having regard to the Protocol on the Statute of the European System of Central Banks and of the European Central Bank, and in particular Article 11.2 thereof,
   HEREBY RECOMMENDS TO THE EUROPEAN COUNCIL:
   To appoint Mr Yves MERSCH as member of the Executive Board of the European Central Bank for a term of office of eight years.

      Done at Brussels, 10 July 2012.

            For the Council

            The President

         V. SHIARLY


Avis juridique important

|

32002H0755

Commission Recommendation of 16 September 2002 on the results of the risk evaluation and risk reduction strategy for the substance diphenyl ether, octabromo derivative (Text with EEA relevance) (notified under document number C(2002) 3394)

Official Journal L 249 , 17/09/2002 P. 0027 - 0030

Commission Recommendationof 16 September 2002on the results of the risk evaluation and risk reduction strategy for the substance diphenyl ether, octabromo derivative(notified under document number C(2002) 3394)(Text with EEA relevance)(2002/755/EC)THE COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES,Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community,Having regard to Council Regulation (EEC) No 793/93 of 23 March 1993 on the evaluation and control of the risks of existing substances(1), and in particular Article 11(2) thereof,Whereas:(1) In the framework of Regulation (EEC) No 793/93 diphenyl ether, octabromo derivative has been identified as a priority substance for evaluation in accordance with Commission Regulation (EC) No 1179/94 of 25 May 1994 concerning the first list of priority substances as foreseen under Council Regulation (EEC) No 793/93(2). In Regulation (EC) No 1179/94 France and the United Kingdom have been designated as rapporteur Member States for that substance.(2) Those rapporteur Member States have completed all the risk evaluation activities with regard to man and the environment for diphenyl ether, octabromo derivative(3) and have suggested a strategy for limiting the risks in accordance with Commission Regulation (EC) No 1488/94 of 28 June 1994 laying down the principles for the assessment of risks to man and the environment of existing substances in accordance with Council Regulation (EEC) No 793/93(4).(3) The Scientific Committee on Toxicity, Ecotoxicity and the Environment (CSTEE) has been consulted with respect to the risk evaluations carried out by the Member State rapporteurs.(4) The results of the risk evaluation are contained in the Annex to this recommendation.(5) The measures provided for in this recommendation are in accordance with the opinion of the Committee set up pursuant to Article 15 of Regulation (EEC) No 793/93,HEREBY RECOMMENDS:1. All sectors importing, producing, transporting, storing, formulating into a preparation or other processing, using and disposing or recovering:- diphenyl ether, octabromo derivativeCAS No 32536-52-0EINECS No 251-087-9should take into account the results of the risk evaluation set out in the Annex.2. The strategy for limiting risks set out in point II of the Annex should be implemented.Done at Brussels, 16 September 2002.For the CommissionMargot WallströmMember of the Commission(1) OJ L 84, 5.4.1993, p. 1.(2) OJ L 131, 26.5.1994, p. 3.(3) The comprehensive risk assessment report as forwarded to the Commission by the rapporteur Member States is publicly available. A short summary is also available. Both can be found on the internet site of the European Chemicals Bureau, Institute for Health and Consumer Protection of the Joint Research Centre in Ispra, Italy (http://ecb.jrc.it/regulation-results/).(4) OJ L 161, 29.6.1994, p. 3.ANNEXDiphenyl ether, octabromo derivative or octabromodiphenyl etherCAS No: 32536-52-0EINECS No: 251-087-9Rapporteurs: France and United KingdomClassification: not yet classifiedThe risk assessment is based on current practices related to the life-cycle of the substance produced in or imported into the European Community as described in the risk assessment forwarded to the Commission by the Member States Rapporteurs.The risk assessment has, based on the available information, determined that in the European Community the substance is mainly used as flame retardant mostly in applications in the plastics and textile industries.I. RISK ASSESSMENTA. Human healthThe conclusions of the assessment of the risks toWORKERS are:1. that there is a need for further information and/or testing. This conclusion is reached since information is needed on transthyretin-T4 competition with octabromodiphenyl ether as well as information on the extent of excretion of commercial octabromodiphenyl ether into the breast milk and information on the effects of prolonged exposure; and2. that there is a need for limiting the risks; risk reduction measures which are already being applied shall be taken into account. This conclusion is reached for manufacture (bagging and cleaning activities) and for compounding and master batching (bag emptying). There are concerns for:- systemic effects after inhalation and dermal repeated exposure,- local effects in the respiratory tract after inhalation repeated exposure, and- effects on female fertility after inhalation and dermal repeated exposure.The conclusion of the assessment of the risks forCONSUMERS isthat there is at present no need for further information and/or testing or for risk reduction measures beyond those which are being applied already.This conclusion is reached because consumer exposure is considered negligible.The conclusion of the assessment of the risks forHUMANS EXPOSED VIA THE ENVIRONMENT isthat there is a need for further information and/or testing.This conclusion is reached since further information is needed on emissions into the environment from use or on soil-plant transfer; on the extent of excretion of commercial octabromodiphenyl ether into the breast milk and cow's milk. Depending upon the results submitted by Industry on milk excretion further information might be requested. There is a need for exposure information from local and regional sources on the concentration of octabromodiphenyl ether in cows milk. Information is needed as well on transthyretin-T4 competition with octabromodiphenyl ether and on the effects of prolonged exposure.The conclusion of the assessment of the risks toHUMAN HEALTH (PHYSICO-CHEMICAL PROPERTIES) isthat there is at present no need for further information and/or testing or for risk reduction measures beyond those which are being applied already.B. EnvironmentThe conclusions of the assessment of the risks to theENVIRONMENT are1. that there is a need for further information and/or testing. This conclusion applies to the risk of secondary poisoning from all sources of octabromodiphenyl ether. It is possible that the current PEC/PNEC approach for secondary poisoning may not be appropriate in terms of both the PEC and the PNEC, and could underestimate the risk. This issue needs further investigation.A second aspect of the concern for secondary poisoning is that although the substance is persistent, there is evidence that it can degrade under some conditions to more toxic and bioaccumulative compounds.There is a high level of uncertainty associated with the suitability of the current risk assessment approach for secondary poisoning and the debromination issue. The combination of uncertainties raises a concern about the possibility of long-term environmental effects that can not easily be predicted. It is not possible to say whether or not on a scientific basis there is a current or future risk to the environment.This uncertainty is sufficient to warrant risk reduction measures directly based on the information currently provided in the risk assessment;2. that there is at present no need for further information and/or testing or for risk reduction measures beyond those which are being applied already. This conclusion applies to the environmental assessment of risks to the aquatic (surface water, sediment and waste water treatment plants), terrestrial and atmospheric compartments by the conventional PEC/PNEC approach for octabromodiphenyl ether itself from all sources (including the assessment of the hexabromodiphenyl ether component);3. that there is a need for limiting the risks; risk reduction measures which are already being applied shall be taken into account. This conclusion applies to the assessment of secondary poisoning via the earthworm route for the hexabromodiphenyl ether component in the commercial octabromodiphenyl ether product from the use in polymer applications.II. STRATEGY FOR LIMITING RISKSFor HUMANS EXPOSED VIA THE ENVIRONMENT:While the outcome of the human health risk assessment for exposure via the environment is that further information/testing is required, Member States noted the uncertainties regarding the risk characterisation for infants exposed to commercial octabromodiphenyl ether from human breast or cow's milk. In particular, there was concern that it would take a significant time to gather the information and that the resulting refined risk assessment could then indicate a risk to breast-feeding infants. Any risk reduction measures proposed for the substance must take account of the concern about infants exposed via milk.For WORKERS:The legislation for workers' protection currently in force at Community level is generally considered to give an adequate framework to limit the risks of the substance to the extent needed.Within this framework it is recommended to develop at Community level occupational exposure limit values for the substance. Until such time as occupational exposure limit values for the substance have been adopted at Community level, exposure in the workplace should be reduced as low as technically feasible. The use of non-inhalable forms (pellets etc.) in place of the powder form should be considered. The need for such measures will be dependent on the outcome of proposals to protect human health and the environment.For the ENVIRONMENT:Marketing and use restrictions should be considered at Community level to protect the environment from the use of octabromodiphenyl ether.


Avis juridique important

|

31987H0142

87/142/EEC: Commission Recommendation of 6 February 1987 on certain methods for the removal of non-fibrous matter prior to quantitative analysis of fibre mixtures

Official Journal L 057 , 27/02/1987 P. 0052 - 0055

*****COMMISSION  RECOMMENDATION  of 6 February 1987  on certain methods for the removal of non-fibrous matter prior to quantitative analysis of fibre mixtures  (87/142/EEC)  THE COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES,  Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Economic Community, and in particular the second indent of Article 155,  Whereas Council Directive 71/307/EEC of 26 July 1971, on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to textile names (1), as last amended by Directive 83/623/EEC (2), requires mandatory labelling of textile products, whose fibre content must be checked by analysis for conformity with the indications given on the label;  Whereas Council Directive 72/276/EEC (3), as last amended by Directive 81/75/EEC (4), and Council Directive 73/44/EEC (5) lay down analytical requirements that must be complied with in order to determine, during checks on conformity carried out in the Community, the fibre content of textile products composed of binary and ternary mixtures; whereas these requirements concern both the pretreatment of the sample and the quantitative analysis itself;  Whereas Directive 72/276/EEC and 73/44/EEC stipulate that non-fibrous matter added to textile products must be removed prior to the analysis of the fibre content of the sample; whereas these Directives lay down a standard removal method applicable exclusively to non-fibrous matter that can be extracted with light petroleum and water, but do not specify any procedure in respect of the many types of added matter that are insoluble in those substances; whereas, under these circumstances, the laboratories carrying out conformity checks on textile products may use different methods that may give differing results;  Whereas, in the current state of the art, it is in practice impossible to lay down binding and exhaustive methods for the removal of added matter that is insoluble in light petroleum and water, because of the complexity and varying composition of such matter;  Whereas it is nevertheless expedient, in order to ensure as far as possible the necessary uniformity of the results of conformity checks on textile products carried out in the Community, to provide laboratories with suitable methods for the removal of the main types of added matter that cannot be extracted with light petroleum and water, which those laboratories should use; whereas methods displaying these characteristics are set out in ISO technical report 5090 of 15 February 1977 and UNI standard 8046 of June 1980, as confirmed by experts from the national laboratories at a meeting of the Commission's 'Analyses' working party; whereas it is desirable to make provision for using these methods in appropriate cases and, therefore, that their use be recommended; whereas reference can therefore be made to the abovementioned documents, stipulating the necessary variants and the inherent limits of such methods;  Whereas these conclusions are in accordance with the views expressed by the Committee for Directives relating to Textile Names and Labelling,  HEREBY FORMULATES THIS RECOMMENDATION:  Article 1  It is hereby recommended that the laboratories conducting verifications of the conformity of the composition of textile products use, for the pretreatment of the sample for analysis, the methods for the removal of non-fibrous matter given in the Annex to this recommendation.  Article 2  The Member States shall inform the Commission of the measures taken on the basis of this recommendation.  Article 3  This recommendation is addressed to the Member States.  Done at Brussels, 6 February 1987.  For the Commission  Grigoris VARFIS  Member of the Commission  (1) OJ No L 185, 16. 8. 1971, p. 16.  (2) OJ No L 353, 15. 12. 1983, p. 8.  (3) OJ No L 173, 31. 7. 1972, p. 1.  (4) OJ No L 57, 4. 3. 1981, p. 23.  (5) OJ No L 83, 30. 3. 1973, p. 1.  ANNEX  RECOMMENDED METHODS FOR THE REMOVAL OF NON-FIBROUS MATTER PRIOR TO THE QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS OF TEXTILE FIBRE MIXTURES  (Point I.6, third paragraph, first sentence of Annex II, part 1 to Directive 72/276/EEC and Directive 72/44/EEC)  1. INTRODUCTION  In the textile industry 'non-fibrous matter' means all substances of natural or synthetic origin added to textile products at any stage in their processing. These substances serve a wide variety of purposes depending on the type and intended use of the textile product to which they are applied.  Non-fibrous matter is subdivided into a number of categories, namely:  - lubricants and batching agents,  - sizes,  - finishes.  2. PROVISIONS FOR THE REMOVAL OF ADDED MATTER  To verify the fibre content of textile products, it is necessary, in the case of mixtures or when extraneous fibres are found in textile products claimed to be 'pure', to make a quantitative analysis of the fibre composition, generally by dissolving one or more constituents of the product.  2.1. Prior to the analysis proper, however, all the non-fibrous matter must be removed in accordance with the new Article 12 (3) of Directive 71/307/EEC on textile names, set out in Article 1 (7) of Directive 83/623/EEC.  2.2. This requirement is also included in a slightly different form in Directives 72/276/EEC (Annex II, section 1, fourth and fifth paragraphs) and 73/44/EEC (Annex I, Introduction, eighth and ninth paragraphs) on the quantitative analysis of binary and ternary fibre mixtures.  2.3. For the removal of certain types of non-fibrous matter, in particular non-fibrous matter that can be extracted with light petroleum and water (oils, fats, waxes, water-soluble products, etc.), Annexes I and II to the two abovementioned Directives on quantitative analysis lay down in item I.6, 'Pretreatment of laboratory test sample', a standard method consisting of extraction with light petroleum, followed by soaking in cold water, then hot water.  2.4. No removal method is given for other non-fibrous matter, the third and fourth paragraphs of item I.6 stipulating:  'Where non-fibrous matter cannot be extracted with light petroleum and water, it should be removed by substituting for the method described above a suitable method that does not substantially alter any of the fibre constituents. . .  Analysis reports should include full details of the methods of pretreatment used.'  The great variety and complexity of composition of the matter added to textile products and the continual technical development of such substances, the characteristics and in particular solubility of which vary over a period of time, mean that their removal is highly complex and gives varying results.  Consequently, it appears virtually impossible to define before the analysis precise and exhaustive standard methods for the removal of all types of added matter.  That is why the Directives on analysis do not specify such methods but leave it to the laboratories to choose suitable procedures for the removal of added matter that may be present in textile products for analysis.  3. RECOMMENDED METHODS  3.1. Despite the impossibility of devising standard methods for all added matter, it would still be useful for analytical laboratories to have methods with precise procedures that could, where appropriate, be used in the different cases that arise and in particular for the dissolution of the added substances most frequently used.  Without such methods the removal of these substances prior to the analysis of textile products may well be carried out in different laboratories in varying ways, which could lead to varying results being obtained from analysis.  Consequently, to introduce some uniformity in the pretreatment of the samples to be examined it is advisable to suggest suitable methods for the removal of the main substances added to textile products. 3.2. The following methods are regarded as suitable for the removal of non-fibrous matter, especially finishes, and can therefore be used:  - those given in ISO technical report 5090 of 15 February 1977, Table and Annex,  - those given in UNI (1) standard 8046 of June 1980, appearing in Chapter 4, points 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 4.9, 4.11 on the added substances referred to in Chapter 5 under serial Nos 5.4, 5.8, 5.10, 5.17, 5.19, 5.21, 5.22, 5.23, 5.28 and 5.29.  4. COMMENTS  The methods of removing resins for crease-resistant treatment described in points A.11 of ISO technical report 5090 and 4.9 of UNI standard 8046 are equivalent and either may be used.  The methods for the removal of sizes and finishes based on acrylic resins described in point A.6 of ISO technical report 5090 and points 5.4 and 5.21 of UNI standard 8046 are to be regarded as complementary, and therefore their use depends on the case in question.  5. WARNING  Attention should be drawn to the following considerations also set out in the second sentence of the first paragraph of ISO report 5090:  - the methods proposed are sometimes imprecise and cannot, in the present state of knowledge, be improved,  - some methods are missing for the removal of certain non-fibrous materials,  - since methods for the identification of all non-fibrous matter are not available at present, it is not possible to decide whether removal has been total or not,  - certain methods can damage textile fibres without it being possible, at present, to assess the degree of damage.  (1) UNI = Ente Nazionale Italiano di Unificazione.


title: Recommendation for a Council opinion in accordance with the third paragraph of Art. 5 of Council Regulation (EC) No 1466/97 of 7 July 1997 on the updated stability programme of Belgium, 2005-2009

text:
Important legal notice

|

52006SC0108

Recommendation for a Council opinion in accordance with the third paragraph of Art. 5 of Council Regulation (EC) No 1466/97 of 7 July 1997 On the updated stability programme of Belgium, 2005-2009  /* SEC/2006/0108 final */

	[pic] | COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES |Brussels, 1.2.2006SEC(2006) 108 finalRecommendation for aCOUNCIL OPINIONin accordance with the third paragraph of Art. 5 of Council Regulation (EC) No 1466/97 of 7 July 1997 On the updated stability programme of Belgium, 2005-2009(presented by the Commission)EXPLANATORY MEMORANDUMBackgroundThe Stability and Growth Pact, which entered into force on 1 July 1998, is based on the objective of sound government finances as a means of strengthening the conditions for price stability and for strong sustainable growth conducive to employment creation. In 2005, the Pact was amended for the first time. The reform acknowledged the Pact’s usefulness in anchoring fiscal discipline but sought to strengthen its effectiveness and economic underpinnings as well as to safeguard the sustainability of the public finances in the long run.Council Regulation (EC) No 1466/97 on the strengthening of the surveillance of budgetary positions and the surveillance and coordination of economic policies[1], which is part of the Pact, stipulates that Member States have to submit, to the Council and the Commission, stability or convergence programmes and annual updates thereof (Member States that have already adopted the single currency submit (updated) stability programmes and Member States that have not yet adopted it submit (updated) convergence programmes). The first stability programme of Belgium was submitted in December 1998. In accordance with the Regulation, the Council delivered an opinion on it on 15 March 1999 on the basis of a recommendation from the Commission and after having consulted the Economic and Financial Committee. In accordance with the same procedure, updated stability and convergence programmes are assessed by the Commission and examined by the Committee mentioned above, while the Council may examine them.In these programmes, Member States need to specify their medium-term objective for the budgetary position and set out the policy measures to achieve and maintain it, including the accompanying economic assumptions. Following the reform of the Pact, the medium-term objective should be differentiated for individual Member States in the light of the economic and budgetary heterogeneity in the Union, including as regards the fiscal risk to sustainability. Other elements of the reform are that a more symmetrical approach to fiscal policy over the cycle through enhanced budgetary discipline in economic good times should be achieved, while “major structural reforms” with a verifiable impact on long-term sustainability should be taken into account for a temporary deviation from the medium-term objective or the adjustment path towards it.Taking into account the Commission services’ autumn 2005 forecast, the code of conduct[2], the commonly agreed methodology for the estimation of potential output and cyclically-adjusted balances and the broad economic policy guidelines included in the integrated guidelines for the period 2005-2008, the Commission has examined the recently submitted update of the stability programme of Belgium and, based on its assessment below, has adopted a recommendation for a Council opinion on it.Assessment(1) The 2005 update of the Belgian stability programme was submitted on 5 December 2005, one week after the deadline. It covers the period 2005-2009. The programme broadly follows the model structure and data provision requirements for stability and convergence programmes specified in the new code of conduct[3].(2) In Belgium, real annual GDP growth over the last decade has been close to 2% on average, slightly above the euro area average. However, the employment rate is low (around 60%) and unemployment is characterised by significant regional disparities and a high level of long-term unemployment. Since 2000, Belgium has maintained a budgetary position close to balance.(3) The macroeconomic scenario presented in the programme foresees a moderate improvement of real GDP growth to 2.2% on average over the period 2006-2009 after a relatively weak performance in 2005 (1.4%), accompanied by a slow but steady growth in employment (0.7% annually). This scenario can be considered plausible and differs only marginally from that in the Commission services’ autumn 2005 forecast. Towards the end of the programme period, the programme foresees a narrowing of the negative output gap. Although the inflation projections in the programme are slightly higher than in the Commission services’ autumn forecast, they appear realistic given the somewhat less favourable external assumptions.(4) In its opinion of 17 February 2005 the Council endorsed the budgetary strategy presented in the 2004 update of the stability programme of Belgium. As regards budgetary implementation in 2005, the Commission services’ autumn 2005 forecast projects a balanced general government budget for 2005, which is in line with the target in the previous update of the stability programme, despite significantly lower GDP growth. However, the statistical recording of some one-off transactions still has to be clarified with Eurostat and might lead to a large one-off increase in the 2005 deficit outcome[4].(5) The budgetary strategy outlined in the update aims at keeping a balanced general government position until 2006 and at building up surpluses afterwards (up to 0.7% of GDP by 2009), in order to maintain the debt ratio on a downward trend. After a gradual decline from 7.2% of GDP in 2001 to 4.3% in 2005, the primary surplus should stabilise at just above 4% of GDP from 2006 onwards. The programme foresees a decrease in the government revenue ratio (mainly as a result of a reduction of the tax burden on labour), but this is more than compensated by a cut in the expenditure ratio (mainly interest expenditure). One-off and other temporary measures still play a significant role in 2006 (0.6% of GDP), although the Belgian authorities project that the recourse to such measures should decrease from 2006 onwards. The new update largely confirms the budgetary strategy outlined in the previous programme against a broadly similar growth outlook.(6) Based on Commission services’ calculations on the basis of the programme, according to the commonly agreed methodology, the structural balance (i.e. cyclically adjusted, net of one-off and other temporary measures) is estimated to improve by almost 1% of GDP over the programme period. It deteriorates from zero in 2005 to a deficit of 0.25% of GDP in 2006, followed by an improvement to a surplus of 0.5% of GDP in 2007. Thereafter, the improvement in the structural position, to a surplus of almost 1% of GDP in 2009, is more gradual. The Belgian authorities have identified a medium-term objective (MTO) as meant in the Stability and Growth Pact as a structural surplus of 0.5% of GDP, which is expected to be reached by 2007. As the MTO is more demanding than the minimum benchmark (estimated at a deficit of around 1% of GDP), its achievement should fulfil the aim of providing a safety margin against the occurrence of an excessive deficit. The MTO can be considered appropriate under the current assessment, as it lies within the range indicated for euro area and ERM II Member States in the Stability and Growth Pact and the code of conduct and is more demanding than implied by the debt ratio and average potential output growth in the long term.(7) On balance, the budgetary outcomes could be worse than projected in the programme, especially in 2006-2007. While the macroeconomic scenario can be considered plausible and the government has recently introduced new measures to better control health-care expenditure, for 2006 the tax revenue envisaged in the programme appears to be on the optimistic side and the expenditure projections do not seem to provide an adequate buffer against adverse developments. For 2007 the programme does not explain how it will compensate for the expiration of a significant package of one-off and other temporary measures. However, it should be acknowledged that the Belgian authorities have in the recent past demonstrated a strong commitment to achieving their balanced budget targets.(8) Taking into account the risk assessment above, the budgetary stance in the programme may not be sufficient to ensure that the programme’s MTO is achieved by 2007 as foreseen by the Belgian authorities. However, as stated above, the programme’s MTO is more demanding than required by the Stability and Growth Pact and the programme’s budgetary strategy seems sufficient to achieve a budgetary position in structural terms that can be considered as appropriate under the Pact throughout the programme period. The budgetary stance in the programme also provides a sufficient safety margin against breaching the 3% of GDP deficit threshold with normal macroeconomic fluctuations. Although the average annual improvement in the structural balance is small, the pace of adjustment towards the MTO can be considered as broadly appropriate. In 2006, however, the adjustment is not in line with the Pact, as the structural balance is planned to deteriorate by 0.25% of GDP in a situation where the output gap (though still negative) is narrowing.(9) The Belgian debt ratio remains well above the 60% of GDP reference value (94% of GDP at the end of 2005) but has been on an impressive downward path since 1993 (137% of GDP). After a temporary slowdown in 2005 following a debt take-over from the national railway company SNCB (of 2.5% of GDP), the debt ratio is projected to continue its decline, to below 80% of GDP by 2009. The main driver behind the decline continues to be the high primary surplus (which however has decreased from over 7% of GDP in 2001 to over 4% in 2005). Debt developments could be less favourable than projected in the programme given the above-mentioned possibility of worse-than-anticipated budgetary outcomes. Nevertheless, the debt ratio seems to be sufficiently diminishing towards the reference value and approaches it at a rapid pace.(10) With regard to the sustainability of public finances, Belgium appears to be at medium risk on grounds of the projected budgetary costs of ageing populations. The current level of gross debt, while declining, remains well above the reference value and a steady reduction of the debt ratio hinges upon sustaining high primary surpluses for a prolonged period of time. The Belgian strategy of putting longer-term concerns at the heart of fiscal policy, including by reducing debt, will undoubtedly alleviate sustainability risks and the ‘ageing fund law’ reinforces the political commitment by setting legally binding budgetary targets. Furthermore, recent measures aimed at increasing the effective retirement age and the employment ratio should contribute positively to sustainability. However, the current budgetary position may not be sufficient to cover fully the substantial increase in expenditure due to ageing populations, underlying the importance of maintaining large primary surpluses in the coming years.(11) The envisaged measures in the area of public finances are broadly consistent with the broad economic policy guidelines included in the integrated guidelines for the period 2005-2008. In particular, the debt ratio is being reduced at a satisfactory pace and some reforms are undertaken to improve the sustainability of the social security system. However, the deterioration of the structural balance in 2006 is not fully in line with the integrated guideline that calls for taking all necessary corrective measures to achieve the MTO.(12) The National Reform Programme (NRP) of Belgium, submitted on 26 October 2005 in the context of the renewed Lisbon strategy for growth and jobs, identifies the following challenges with significant implications for public finances: (i) to support employment by reducing the tax burden on labour, and (ii) to keep the general government budget close to balance and to start building up surpluses from 2007 onwards, in order to maintain the debt ratio on a downward trend. However, the budgetary implications of the actions outlined in the NRP are not sufficiently reflected in the budgetary projections of the stability programme. Measures in the area of public finances envisaged in the stability programme seem to be broadly in line with the actions foreseen in the NRP.In view of the above assessment, the budgetary position can be considered sound and the continued debt reduction envisaged in the programme provides an example of fiscal policies conducted in compliance with the Pact. However, it would be appropriate for Belgium to step up the structural adjustment in 2006 and, in the subsequent years, to identify and implement additional structural measures to reach the budgetary targets, thereby limiting the recourse to one-off measures.Recommendation for aCOUNCIL OPINIONin accordance with the third paragraph of Art. 5 of Council Regulation (EC) No 1466/97 of 7 July 1997 On the updated stability programme of Belgium, 2005-2009THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community,Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 1466/97 of 7 July 1997 on the strengthening of the surveillance of budgetary positions and the surveillance and coordination of economic policies[5], and in particular Article 5(3) thereof,Having regard to the recommendation of the Commission,After consulting the Economic and Financial Committee,HAS DELIVERED THIS OPINION:1.  In Belgium, real annual GDP growth over the last decade has been close to 2% on average, slightly above the euro area average. However, the employment rate is low (around 60%) and unemployment is characterised by significant regional disparities and a high level of long-term unemployment. Since 2000, Belgium has maintained a budgetary position close to balance.2.  In its opinion of 17 February 2005 the Council endorsed the budgetary strategy presented in the 2004 update of the stability programme of Belgium.3.  As regards budgetary implementation in 2005, the Commission services’ autumn 2005 forecast projects a balanced general government budget for 2005, which is in line with the target in the previous update of the stability programme, despite significantly lower GDP growth. However, the statistical recording of some one-off transactions still has to be clarified with Eurostat and might lead to a large one-off increase in the 2005 deficit outcome[6].4.  On [14 February 2006] the Council examined the updated stability programme of Belgium, which covers the period 2005 to 2009. The programme broadly follows the model structure and data provision requirements for stability and convergence programmes specified in the new code of conduct[7].5.  The macroeconomic scenario underlying the programme envisages that real GDP growth will pick up from 1.4% in 2005 to 2.2% on average over the rest of the programme period. Assessed against currently available information, this scenario appears to be based on plausible growth assumptions. The programme’s projections for inflation also appear realistic.6.  The budgetary strategy outlined in the programme aims at keeping a balanced general government position until 2006 and at building up surpluses afterwards (up to 0.7% of GDP by 2009), in order to maintain the debt ratio on a downward trend. After a gradual decline from 7.2% of GDP in 2001, the primary surplus should stabilise just above 4% of GDP from 2007 onwards. The programme foresees a decrease in the government revenue (mainly as a result of a reduction of the tax burden on labour), but this is more than compensated by a cut in the expenditure ratio (mainly interest expenditure). The new update largely confirms the budgetary strategy outlined in the previous programme against a broadly similar growth outlook.7.  Over the programme period, the structural balance (i.e. the cyclically-adjusted balance net of one-off and other temporary measures) calculated according to the commonly agreed methodology is planned to improve by almost 1% of GDP. The authorities set the medium-term objective (MTO) for the budgetary position at a structural surplus of 0.5% of GDP and aim at achieving this position by 2007. As the MTO is more demanding than the minimum benchmark (estimated at a deficit of around 1% of GDP), its achievement should fulfil the aim of providing a safety margin against the occurrence of an excessive deficit. The MTO can be considered appropriate under the current assessment, as it lies within the range indicated for euro area and ERM II Member States in the Stability and Growth Pact and the code of conduct and is more demanding than implied by the debt ratio and average potential output growth in the long term.8.  The budgetary outcome could be worse than projected in the programme, especially in 2006 and 2007. In particular, while the macroeconomic scenario can be considered plausible and the government has recently introduced new measures to better control health-care expenditure, for 2006 the tax revenue envisaged in the programme appears to be on the optimistic side and the expenditure projections do not seem to provide an adequate buffer against adverse developments. For 2007 the programme does not explain how it will compensate for the expiration of a significant package of one-off and other temporary measures. However, it should be acknowledged that the Belgian authorities have in the recent past demonstrated a strong commitment to achieving their balanced budget targets.9.  In view of this risk assessment, the budgetary stance in the programme may not be sufficient to ensure that the programme’s MTO is achieved by 2007 as envisaged in the programme. However, as stated above, the programme’s MTO is more demanding than required by the Stability and Growth Pact. The budgetary strategy seems sufficient to achieve a budgetary position in structural terms that can be considered as appropriate under the Pact throughout the programme. In addition, the budgetary stance in the programme seems to provide a sufficient safety margin against breaching the 3% of GDP deficit threshold with normal macroeconomic fluctuations throughout the programme. As for the adjustment path towards reaching the MTO, although the average annual improvement in the structural balance is small, the pace of adjustment towards the MTO can be considered as broadly appropriate. In 2006, however, the adjustment is not in line with the Pact, as the structural balance is planned to deteriorate by 0.25% of GDP in a situation where the output gap (though still negative) is narrowing.10.  The debt ratio is estimated to have reached 94% of GDP at the end of 2005, far above the 60% of GDP Treaty reference value. The programme projects the debt ratio to decline by 16 percentage points of GDP over the programme period, to less than 80% of GDP. The evolution of the debt ratio might be less favourable than projected in the programme given the risks to the budgetary targets mentioned above. Nevertheless, the debt ratio seems to be sufficiently diminishing towards the reference value and approaches it at a rapid pace.11.  With regard to the sustainability of public finances, Belgium appears to be at medium risk on grounds of the projected budgetary costs of ageing populations. The current level of gross debt, while declining, remains well above the reference value and a steady reduction of the debt ratio hinges upon sustaining high primary surpluses for a prolonged period of time. The Belgian strategy of putting longer-term concerns at the heart of fiscal policy, including by reducing debt, will undoubtedly alleviate sustainability risks and the ‘ageing fund law’ reinforces the political commitment by setting legally binding budgetary targets. Furthermore, recent measures aimed at increasing the effective retirement age and the employment ratio should contribute positively to sustainability. However, the current budgetary position may not be sufficient to cover fully the substantial increase in expenditure due to ageing populations, underlying the importance of maintaining large primary surpluses in the coming years.12.  The envisaged measures in the area of public finances are broadly consistent with the broad economic policy guidelines included in the integrated guidelines for the period 2005-2008. In particular, the debt ratio is being reduced at a satisfactory pace and some reforms are undertaken to improve the sustainability of the social security system. However, the deterioration of the structural balance in 2006 is not fully in line with the integrated guideline that calls for taking all necessary corrective measures to achieve the MTO.13.  The National Reform Programme (NRP) of Belgium, submitted on 26 October 2005 in the context of the renewed Lisbon strategy for growth and jobs, identifies the following challenges with significant implications for public finances: (i) to support employment by reducing the tax burden on labour, and (ii) to keep the general government budget close to balance and to start building up surpluses from 2007 onwards, in order to maintain the debt ratio on a downward trend. However, the budgetary implications of the actions outlined in the NRP are not sufficiently reflected in the budgetary projections of the stability programme. Measures in the area of public finances envisaged in the stability programme seem to be broadly in line with the actions foreseen in the NRP.In view of the above assessment, the Council is of the opinion that, overall, the budgetary position is sound and the continued debt reduction envisaged in the programme provides an example of fiscal policies conducted in compliance with the Pact. However, Belgium should step up the structural adjustment in 2006 and, in the subsequent years, identify and implement additional structural measures to reach the budgetary targets, thereby limiting the recourse to one-off measures.Comparison of key macroeconomic and budgetary projections2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 |Real GDP (% change) | SP Dec 2005 | 2.6 | 1.4 | 2.2 | 2.1 | 2.3 | 2.2 |COM Nov 2005 | 2.6 | 1.4 | 2.1 | 2.0 | n.a. | n.a. |SP Dec 2004 | 2.4 | 2.5 | 2.5 | 2.1 | 2.0 | n.a. |HICP inflation (%) | SP Dec 2005 | 1.9 | 2.9 | 2.8 | 2.0 | 1.9 | 1.7 |COM Nov 2005 | 1.9 | 2.7 | 2.6 | 1.9 | n.a. | n.a. |SP Dec 2004 | 1.9 | 2.0 | 1.8 | 1.8 | 1.8 | n.a. |COM Nov 2005 | 4.8 | 4.4 | 3.8 | 3.4 | n.a. | n.a. |SP Dec 2004 | 4.9 | 4.5 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.7 | n.a. |Cyclically-adjusted balance (% of GDP) | SP Dec 20051 | 0.1 | 0.4 | 0.3 | 0.6 | 0.8 | 0.9 |COM Nov 2005 | 0.1 | 0.4 | 0.1 | 0.0 | n.a. | n.a. |SP Dec 20041 | 0.5 | 0.3 | 0.1 | 0.5 | 0.9 | n.a. |COM Nov 2005 | 96.2 | 94.9 | 91.1 | 88.1 | n.a. | n.a. |SP Dec 2004 | 96.6 | 95.5 | 91.7 | 88.0 | 84.2 | n.a. |Notes: 1 Commission services calculations on the basis of the information in the programme. 2 Based on potential growth of 2.0%, 2.1%, 2.1% and 2.3% respectively in the period 2004-2007. 3 Cyclically-adjusted balance (as in the previous rows) excluding one-off and other temporary measures. 4 One-off and other temporary measures taken from the programme (0.4% of GDP in 2005 and 0.6% in 2006; all deficit-reducing). The figures for the one-off measures from 2007 onwards (0.2% in 2007, 0.1% in 2008 and 0.0% in 2009) were provided by the Belgian authorities after the submission of the programme with the caveat that they “should be considered as assumptions and do not prejudge any decision by the Belgian authorities”. 5 One-off and other temporary measures taken from the Commission services’ autumn 2005 forecast (0.4% of GDP in 2005 and 0.5% in 2006; all deficit-reducing). Source: Stability programme (SP); Commission services’ autumn 2005 economic forecasts (COM); Commission services’ calculations. |[1] OJ L 209, 2.8.1997, p. 1. Regulation as amended by Regulation (EC) No 1055/2005 (OJ L 174, 7.7.2005, p. 1). All the documents referred to in this text can be found at the following website: http://europa.eu.int/comm/economy_finance/about/activities/sgp/main_en.htm[2] “Specifications on the implementation of the Stability and Growth Pact and guidelines on the format and content of stability and convergence programmes”, endorsed by the ECOFIN Council of 11 October 2005.[3] The programme does not have a separate section on institutional features of public finances. It also has gaps in the compulsory data and does not provide all optional data prescribed by the new code of conduct.[4] For the time being, the assumption of railway company debt (2.5% of GDP) by the government in 2005 has been treated without direct impact on the government deficit, while the securitisation of tax arrears in 2005 (0.2% of GDP) has been recorded as deficit-reducing.[5] OJ L 209, 2.8.1997, p. 1. Regulation as amended by Regulation (EC) No 1055/2005 (OJ L 174, 7.7.2005, p. 1). The documents referred to in this text can be found at the following website: http://europa.eu.int/comm/economy_finance/about/activities/sgp/main_en.htm[6] For the time being, the assumption of railway company debt (2.5% of GDP) by the government in 2005 has been treated without direct impact on the government deficit, while the securitisation of tax arrears in 2005 (0.2% of GDP) has been recorded as deficit-reducing.[7] The programme does not have a separate section on institutional features of public finances, but some information on these issues is provided in other sections. It also has gaps in the compulsory data and does not provide all optional data prescribed by the new code of conduct.


Avis juridique important

|

31986H0037

86/37/EEC, ECSC: Recommendation of the Commission of 28 February 1986 to the Member States on the extension of the period of validity of the transitional measures adopted in respect of ACP States and overseas countries and territories: - Council Regulation (EEC) No 485/85, - Council Regulation (EEC) No 486/85, - Council Decision 85/159/EEC, - Decision 85/160/ECSC of the representatives of the Government of the Member States of the European Coal and Steel Community, meeting within the Council of 26 February 1985

Official Journal L 055 , 01/03/1986 P. 0109 - 0109

*****RECOMMENDATION  OF THE COMMISSION  of 28 February 1986  to the Member States on the extension of the period of validity of the transitional measures adopted in respect of ACP States and overseas countries and territories:  - Council Regulation (EEC) No 485/85,  - Council Regulation (EEC) No 486/85,  - Council Decision 85/159/EEC,  - Decision 85/160/ECSC of the representatives of the Government of the Member States of the European Coal and Steel Community, meeting within the Council of 26 February 1985  (86/37/EEC, ECSC)  The Commission has presented to the Council proposals for extending the period of validity of the Regulations and Decisions on the transitional arrangements adopted in respect of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (ACP) and the overseas countries and territories. The Council has not yet reached a decision on those proposals.  Pending a decision, Member States are hereby invited by the Commission to continue to apply the arrangements laid down in the Regulations and Decisions listed above, subject to the decision which, it is expected, will shortly be reached by the Council.  Done at Brussels, 28 February 1986.  For the Commission  Frans ANDRIESSEN  Vice-President