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Protection of chickens kept for meat production

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Protection of chickens kept for meat production

Outline of the Community (European Union) legislation about Protection of chickens kept for meat production

Topics

These categories group together and put in context the legislative and non-legislative initiatives which deal with the same topic.

Food safety > Animal welfare

Protection of chickens kept for meat production

Document or Iniciative

Council Directive 2007/43/EC of 28 June 2007 laying down minimum rules for the protection of chickens kept for meat production

Summary

This Directive lays down a number of minimum requirements for holdings that rear chickens for meat production. Those requirements are designed to protect the welfare of the chickens, particularly those kept on high-density farms, and to eliminate distortions of competition in the sector.

Scope

This Directive applies to holdings that rear chickens for meat production (broiler chickens). It does not apply to holdings with fewer than 500 chickens or to holdings with only breeding stocks of chickens.

Rules that apply to all holdings

The poultry houses in which the chickens are kept must allow all chickens adequate access to a litter tray, a drinking channel and food. The buildings must have adequate lighting and ventilation, and should be inspected at least twice a day. Any chickens that are seriously injured or in poor health must be treated or immediately culled. Most surgical procedures performed for purposes other than medical treatment are prohibited. However, beak trimming and castration may be permitted in certain cases. Furthermore, the producer must keep a detailed record of the chickens reared, the conditions in which they are kept, their state of health, the mortality rate and any medical treatments administered.

The competent authorities must implement measures for monitoring and follow?up at the abattoir. If the post-mortem inspection reveals possible indications of poor welfare conditions, the holding and the competent authorities must take the appropriate measures.

Rules that apply to high-density holdings

The stocking density should not exceed 33 kg/m2. However, a higher stocking density (up to a maximum of 42 kg/m2) may be authorised if the producer meets additional criteria.

In addition to the rules that apply to all holdings, owners of high-density holdings must supply the competent authorities with specific documentation containing technical details relating to the holding and its equipment. Furthermore, holdings must be equipped with ventilation, heating and cooling systems to maintain the appropriate temperature, humidity and CO2 and NH3 concentrations.

Staff training

Farmers must follow training courses on the following subjects:

  • the characteristics of holdings and stocking density;
  • animal physiology;
  • handling chickens and administering emergency care;
  • preventive biosecurity.

Committee procedure

The Commission is assisted by the Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health in implementing this Directive.

Background

Before the entry into force of this Directive, the welfare of chickens kept for meat production was not covered by any specific Community legislation, except the general requirements of Council Directive 98/58/EC concerning the protection of animals kept for farming purposes. The Directive was proposed following a report drawn up in 2001 by the Scientific Committee on Animal Health and Animal Welfare , which concluded that the level of animal health and animal welfare was not satisfactory.

References

Act Entry into force Deadline for transposition in the Member States Official Journal
Directive 2007/43/EC

1.8.2007

30.6.2010

OJ L 182, 12.7.2007

Protection of laying hens

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Protection of laying hens

Outline of the Community (European Union) legislation about Protection of laying hens

Topics

These categories group together and put in context the legislative and non-legislative initiatives which deal with the same topic.

Food safety > Animal welfare

Protection of laying hens

Document or Iniciative

Council Directive 1999/74/EC of 19 July 1999 laying down minimum standards for the protection of laying hens [See amending act(s)].

Summary

This Directive establishes minimum standards for the protection of laying hens. It does not apply to establishments with fewer than 350 laying hens or establishments rearing breeding laying hens.

The rearing of laying hens must comply with the relevant provisions laid down by Directive 98/58/EC relating to the protection of farmed animals and with those laid down in the Annex to this Directive.

Alternative systems

From 1 January 2002, all newly built or rebuilt alternative systems of production and all such systems of production brought into use for the first time must comply with the following requirements:

  • all systems must be equipped with:
    1. either linear feeders (at least 10 cm per hen) or circular feeders (at least 4 cm per hen),
    2. either continuous drinking troughs (2.5 cm per hen) or circular drinking troughs (1 cm per hen),
    3. at least one nest for every seven hens,
    4. adequate perches (at least 15 cm per hen),
    5. and at least 250 cm2 of littered area per hen;
  • the floors of installations must support each of the forward-facing claws of each foot;
  • there are special provisions on systems of rearing allowing hens to move freely and/or permitting access to outside runs;
  • the stocking density must not exceed nine laying hens per m2 of usable area (however, where the usable area corresponds to the available ground surface, a stocking density of 12 hens per m2 is authorised until 31 December 2011 for those establishments applying this system on 3 August 1999).

Member States are to ensure that these requirements apply from 1 January 2007.

Rearing in unenriched cage systems

From 1 January 2003, all unenriched cages must comply with the following requirements:

  • at least 550 cm2 of cage area must be provided for each hen;
  • a feed trough (of a length of at least 10 cm multiplied by the number of hens), which may be used without restriction must be provided;
  • each cage must have an appropriate drinking system;
  • cages must be at least 40 cm high over 65 % of the cage area and not less than 35 cm at any point;
  • floors of cages must be constructed so as to support the claws of each foot. If the floor is on a slope, this must not exceed 14 % or 8 % except where the floor is made of a material other than wire mesh;
  • cages must be fitted with suitable claw-shortening devices.

With effect from 1 January 2003, no unenriched cages may be built or brought into service for the first time. This type of rearing system is prohibited with effect from 1 January 2012.

Rearing in enriched cages

From 1 January 2002, all enriched cages must comply at least with the following requirements:

  • each laying hen must have:
    1. at least 750 cm2 of cage,
    2. a nest,
    3. litter such that pecking and scratching are possible,
    4. appropriate perches of at least 15 cm;
  • a feed trough that may be used without restriction must be provided. Its length must be at least 12 cm multiplied by the number of hens in the cage;
  • each cage must have an appropriate drinking system;
  • there must be a minimum aisle width of 90 cm between tiers of cages and a space of at least 35 cm must be allowed between the floor of the building and the bottom tier of cages;
  • cages must be fitted with suitable claw-shortening devices.

Final provisions

The competent authority must register the establishments covered by the Directive and give them a distinguishing number that will ensure the traceability of eggs placed on the market for human consumption.

Member States must ensure that inspections are carried out under the responsibility of the competent authority to check that the provisions of the Directive are complied with. They must submit a report on the inspections to the Commission, which must then inform the Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health.

Veterinary experts from the Commission may, where necessary for the uniform application of the current Directive, carry out on-the-spot checks in cooperation with the competent authorities. The findings of those checks are discussed with the competent authorities, which then take any measures revealed to be necessary by the checks.

Not later than 1 January 2005, the Commission must submit to the Council a report, drawn up on the basis of an opinion from the Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health, on the different systems of rearing taking account of the requirements for the welfare of hens and the socio-economic implications of those systems. The report is to cover the negotiations within the World Trade Organisation and be accompanied by appropriate proposals.
The Council must act by a qualified majority on those proposals no later than 12 months after their submission.

Member States have until 1 January 2002 to bring into force the laws, regulations and administrative provisions, including any penalties, necessary to comply with the Directive and must forthwith inform the Commission thereof. In addition, they may maintain or apply within their territories more stringent provisions than those envisaged by the Directive.

References

Act Entry into force Deadline for transposition in the Member States Official Journal

Directive 1999/74/EC

3.8.1999

1.1.2002

OJ L 203, 3.8.2009
Amending Act(s) Entry into force Deadline for transposition in the Member States Official Journal

Regulation (EC) No 806/2003

5.6.2003

–

OJ L 122, 16.5.2003

Related Act(S)

Commission Directive 2002/4/EC of 30 January 2002 on the registration of establishments keeping laying hens, covered by Council Directive 1999/74/EC [Official Journal L 30 of 31 January 2002].

Member States must establish a system for registering every production site covered by Directive 1999/74/EC. The information required for registration includes the person responsible for the laying hens, the owner and the distinguishing number. Establishments must be registered before 31 May 3003. From 1 June 2003, establishments that are not registered may not continue or begin to operate.

Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament and the Council of 8 January 2007 on the various systems of rearing laying hens in particular those covered by Directive 1999/74/EC [COM(2007) 865 final – Not published in the Official Journal].

Protection of farmed animals

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Protection of farmed animals

Outline of the Community (European Union) legislation about Protection of farmed animals

Topics

These categories group together and put in context the legislative and non-legislative initiatives which deal with the same topic.

Food safety > Animal welfare

Protection of farmed animals

Document or Iniciative

Council Directive 98/58/EC of 20 July 1998 concerning the protection of animals kept for farming purposes [See amending act(s)].

Summary

All the Member States have ratified the European Convention for the Protection of Animals Kept for Farming Purposes, the main provisions of which relate to the provision of housing, feed and care appropriate to the needs of these animals.

Member States must take account of these animal welfare requirements when drawing up and implementing European legislation, especially in the area of agricultural policy.

Animals

This Directive applies to animals (including fish, reptiles and amphibians) reared or kept for the production of food, wool, skin or fur or for other farming purposes. It does not apply to:

  • wild animals;
  • animals intended for use in sporting or cultural events (shows);
  • experimental or laboratory animals;
  • invertebrate animals.

Rearing conditions

The Member States must adopt provisions to ensure that the owners or keepers of animals look after the welfare of their animals and see that they are not caused any unnecessary pain, suffering or injury. Based on past experience and present scientific knowledge, the rearing conditions relate to the following:

  • staff: animals must be looked after by a sufficient number of staff who have the appropriate professional skills, knowledge and competence;
  • inspections: all animals kept in husbandry systems must be inspected at least once a day. Injured or ill animals must be treated immediately and isolated if necessary in suitable premises;
  • maintaining records: the owner or keeper of the animals must keep a record of any medical treatment for at least three years;
  • freedom of movement: all animals, even if tethered, chained or confined, must be given enough space to move without unnecessary suffering or injury;
  • buildings and accommodation: materials used in the construction of buildings must be capable of being cleaned and disinfected. Air circulation, dust levels, temperature and relative humidity should be kept within acceptable limits. Animals kept in buildings must not be kept in permanent darkness or constantly exposed to artificial lighting;
  • automatic or mechanical equipment: automatic or mechanical equipment essential for the health and well-being of the animals must be inspected at least once a day. Where an artificial ventilation system is in use, an appropriate backup system must be in place to guarantee sufficient air renewal;
  • feed, water and other substances: the animals must be given a wholesome and appropriate diet, fed to them in sufficient quantities and at regular intervals. All other substances are prohibited, unless given for therapeutic or prophylactic reasons or for the purposes of zootechnical treatment. In addition, the feeding and watering equipment must minimise the risks of contamination;
  • mutilations: national rules on mutilation apply;
  • rearing methods: rearing methods that cause suffering or injury must not be used unless their impact is minimal, brief or expressly allowed by the national authorities. No animal should be kept on a farm if it is harmful to its health or welfare.

Inspections

Member States must take the necessary steps to ensure that the competent national authorities carry out inspections. They must report on these inspections to the Commission, which will use the reports to formulate proposals on harmonising inspections.

Evaluation and implementation

Every five years the Commission must report to the Council on the implementation of this Directive, with proposals for improvement, if appropriate. The Council adopts this report by qualified majority vote.

The Member States had to introduce the legislative, regulatory and administrative provisions (including any penalties) needed to comply with this Directive by 31 December 1999. They are allowed to keep or introduce stricter provisions.

References

Act Entry into force Deadline for transposition in the Member States Official Journal

Directive 98/58/EC

8.8.1998

31.12.1999

OJ L 221 of 8.8.1998
Amending act(s) Entry into force Deadline for transposition in the Member States Official Journal

Regulation (EC) No

806/2003

5.6.2003

–

OJ L 122 of 16.5.2003

The successive amendments and corrections to Directive 98/58/EC have been incorporated into the original text. This consolidated versionis for reference only.

Related Acts

Report from the Commission of 19 December 2006 on the experience acquired on the implementation of Directive 98/58/EC on the protection of animals kept for farming purposes [COM(2006) 838 final – Not published in the Official Journal].

In this report the Commission refers to the need for Member States to improve the planning and performance of inspections and the recording and transparency of inspection results. It emphasises the necessity of more training for the staff of the authorities concerned and a better notification system. It is also important to simplify procedures in order to avoid excessive bureaucracy.

Commission Decision 2006/778/EC of 14 November 2006 concerning minimum requirements for the collection of information during the inspections of production sites on which certain animals are kept for farming purposes [Official Journal L 314 of 15.11.2006].

Commission Decision 2000/50/EC of 17 December 1999 concerning minimum requirements for the inspection of holdings on which animals are kept for farming purposes [Official Journal L 19 of 25.01.2000].

Protection of animals at the time of killing

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Protection of animals at the time of killing

Outline of the Community (European Union) legislation about Protection of animals at the time of killing

Topics

These categories group together and put in context the legislative and non-legislative initiatives which deal with the same topic.

Food safety > Animal welfare

Protection of animals at the time of killing

Acte

Council Regulation (EC) No 1099/2009 of 24 September 2009 on the protection of animals at the time of killing.

Summary

This Regulation establishes rules applicable to the killing of animals kept for the production of food, wool, skin, fur, etc. It also lays down rules applicable to killing in emergencies and for the control of contagious diseases.

The rules established by this Regulation do not apply to animals killed as part of scientific experiments, hunting, cultural or sporting events and euthanasia practiced by a veterinarian, nor to poultry or rabbits killed for personal consumption.

Integration of animal welfare

This Regulation introduces standard operating procedures * for the welfare of animals at slaughter. Each operator * is responsible for establishing and applying these operating procedures in order to spare animals for slaughter as much pain, distress or suffering as possible.

In this context, operators should evaluate the efficiency of their stunning methods * using indicators based on the animals. Regular monitoring will ensure in particular that stunned animals do not regain consciousness before slaughter.

Manufacturers of restraining and stunning equipment should sell their equipment with instructions giving details in particular of the types of animals concerned and information on optimal use. Users must comply with manufacturers’ recommendations.

Moreover, an Animal Welfare Officer shall be appointed by the operator in each slaughterhouse. The Animal Welfare Officer is responsible for ensuring that the provisions of this Regulation are complied with. Small slaughterhouses shall be granted a derogation from this obligation.

Improving personnel competence

Slaughterhouse personnel dealing with live animals should possess a certificate of competence attesting that they have sufficient knowledge concerning animal welfare. The issue of the said certificate shall be subject to independent examination by an accredited body.

This Regulation also provides that Member States put in place a system of scientific support. This support will provide technical assistance for slaughterhouse inspection personnel as well as scientific assessments of new stunning equipment and new slaughterhouses. In addition, they shall be responsible for providing opinions on the capacity and suitability of the bodies which deliver the certificates of competence concerning animal welfare.

Depopulation

Emergency plans required by Community regulations on animal health (control of contagious diseases) should give details of the logistics procedures for slaughter in order to ensure that animal welfare is taken into account. Derogations to the said regulations will be granted when compliance with the provisions may have implications for human health or slow down the eradication of the disease. Furthermore, this Regulation improves the planning, monitoring, producing reports and the transparency of killing methods in the case of depopulation.

Technical requirements

A list of stunning methods shall be established in the Annex to the Regulation and shall describe the rules relating to and the context for the authorised use of each method. These methods should accompany scientific progress and take socio-economic questions into consideration. Moreover, technical changes could affect the construction, layout and equipment of slaughterhouses.

Context

This Regulation is also consistent with the Community Action Plan on the Protection and Welfare of Animals that introduced the concept of animal welfare indicators.

This Regulation will replace Directive 93/119/EC on the protection of animals at the time of slaughter or killing, which has never been amended despite scientific and technical developments.

Key terms of the Act
  • Standard operating procedures: a set of written instructions aimed at achieving uniformity of the performance of a specific function or standard.
  • Operator: any natural or legal person responsible for an undertaking which carries out activities covered by this Regulation.
  • Stunning: any intentionally induced process which causes loss of consciousness and sensibility without pain, including any process resulting in instantaneous death.

References

Act Entry into force Deadline for transposition in the Member States Official Journal

Regulation (EC) No 1099/2009

8.12.2009

–

OJ L 303 of 18.11.2009

Protection of calves intended for slaughter

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Protection of calves intended for slaughter

Outline of the Community (European Union) legislation about Protection of calves intended for slaughter

Topics

These categories group together and put in context the legislative and non-legislative initiatives which deal with the same topic.

Food safety > Animal welfare

Protection of calves intended for slaughter

Document or Iniciative

Council Directive 2008/119/EC of 18 December 2008 laying down minimum standards for the protection of calves.

Summary

This Directive lays down minimum standards for the protection of calves * placed in units in which they are raised for slaughter. These standards, which have been compulsory since 1 January 2007, do not apply to calves kept with the cow for suckling, or to holdings with fewer than six calves.

This Directive does not cover the transport of calves, which is governed by Regulation (EC) No 1/2005.

Group or individual pens

Pens must be constructed in such a way as to allow each calf to lie down, rest, stand up and groom itself without difficulty.

From the age of eight weeks, individual pens are prohibited except in the case of illness. This measure is justified by the gregarious nature of bovine animals.

Before the age of eight weeks, individual pens are permitted. They are to be composed of perforated walls which allow the calves to have visual and tactile contact. Solid walls may be used only to isolate sick animals from the rest of the herd.

Group pens must comply with the following standards relating to space (see table below).

Weight of animal in kg Area in m2

‹ 150

1.5

‹ 220

1.7

› 220

1.8

Calves must not be tethered (except possibly during the feeding of milk for a period of not more than one hour) or muzzled.

Housing, pens, equipment and utensils must be cleaned and disinfected.

Floors must be smooth but not slippery, so as to prevent injury to the calves. The lying area must be comfortable, clean and adequately drained. Bedding is compulsory for calves less than two weeks old.

Health

Each calf must receive bovine colostrum as soon as possible after it is born (within the first six hours of life).

Any calf which is ill or injured must be treated without delay. Veterinary advice must be obtained as soon as possible for any calf which is not responding to the stock-keeper’s care.

Diet

Calves are to be fed at least twice a day. Each calf must have access to food at the same time as the others in the group.

Their food must contain sufficient iron to ensure an average blood haemoglobin level of at least 4.5 mmol/litre, and a minimum daily ration of fibrous food must be provided for each calf over two weeks old.

Diet must be adapted to the age and weight of the animal. It must also be adapted to its behaviour and physiological needs.

Calves over two weeks of age should have access to fresh water.

Monitoring of animals

Housed calves must be inspected at least twice daily and mechanical equipment at least once daily. Where an artificial ventilation system is used, provision must be made for an alarm system (tested regularly) and a ventilation back-up system.

Light levels

Calves should be kept in conditions with natural or artificial lighting (equivalent to the period of natural light between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.).

Inspections

Member States must carry out inspections every year on a statistically representative sample.

The Commission may send veterinary experts to carry out on-the-spot checks with the assistance of the national inspectors.

Imports

To import animals from third countries, a certificate is required stating that they have received treatment equivalent to that granted to animals of Community origin.

Specific provisions

Member States may, within their territories, apply stricter provisions than those laid down in this Directive. In this case, they must inform the Commission in advance of any such measures.

Context

This Directive repeals Directive 91/629/EEC.

Key terms of the Act
  • Calf: a bovine animal up to six months old.

References

Act Entry into force Deadline for transposition in the Member States Official Journal
Directive 2008/119/EC

4.2.2009

–

OJ L 10 of 15.1.2009

Pre-accession agricultural instrument

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Pre-accession agricultural instrument

Outline of the Community (European Union) legislation about Pre-accession agricultural instrument

Topics

These categories group together and put in context the legislative and non-legislative initiatives which deal with the same topic.

Agriculture > Agriculture: enlargement

Pre-accession agricultural instrument (SAPARD)

Sapard is a Community framework for supporting sustainable agricultural and rural development in the central and eastern European applicant countries (CEECs) during the 2000-2006 pre-accession process. It is designed to solve problems affecting the long-term adjustment of the agricultural sector and rural areas and to help implement the Community acquis in matters of the common agricultural policy and related policies.

Document or Iniciative

Council Regulation (EC) No 1268/99 of 21 June 1999 on Community support for pre-accession measures for agriculture and rural development in the applicant countries of central and eastern Europe in the pre-accession period [See amending acts]

Summary

This Regulation is part of the follow-up to the Commission’s ” Agenda 2000 ” Communication and the conclusions of the Luxembourg European Council, which provided for financial aid for the CEECs in the form of structural and agricultural instruments for the period 2000-2006. Sapard and the other 2000-2006 pre-accession instruments have been replaced for the period 2007-2013 by the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA), which is the sole instrument for assisting the candidate countries and the potential candidate countries of the Western Balkans.

Eligible measures

Support for agriculture and rural development is focused on the priorities in this sector, and in particular on:

  • investment in agricultural holdings;
  • improving the processing and marketing of agricultural and fishery products;
  • improving structures for quality, veterinary and plant-health controls in the interests of food quality and consumer protection;
  • agricultural production methods designed to protect the environment and maintain the countryside;
  • development and diversification of economic activities;
  • setting up relief and management services for farmers;
  • setting up producer groups;
  • renovation and development of villages and the protection and conservation of the rural heritage;
  • land improvement and re-parcelling;
  • establishment and updating of land registers;
  • improvement of vocational training;
  • development and improvement of rural infrastructure;
  • water resources management;
  • forestry, including forestation, investments in forest holdings owned by private forest owners and processing and marketing of forestry products;
  • technical assistance for the measures covered by this Regulation, including studies to assist with the preparation and monitoring of the programme, information and publicity campaigns;
  • designing and implementing local and regional rural development strategies for rural communities in Bulgaria and Romania.

Complementarity

Community action must complement corresponding national actions or contribute to them. The Commission must ensure that the Community measures bring added value to national initiatives and to the achievement of the Regulation’s objectives.

Natural and legal persons from the Member States, the candidate countries and the Western Balkan countries are eligible to participate in invitations to tender and contracts.

Programming

Rural development measures must be the subject of a plan drawn up at the most appropriate geographical level. Such plans are to be prepared by the competent authorities of the applicant country, cover a period of up to seven years from 1 January 2000 and contain the following information:

  • a quantified description of the current situation showing disparities, shortcomings and potential for development, the main results of earlier operations in the same field, the financial resources deployed and any evaluation results available;
  • a description of the proposed strategy, its quantified objectives, the chosen priorities and the geographical scope;
  • a prior appraisal of the expected economic, environmental and social impact, including effects on employment;
  • an indicative overall financial table summarising the national, Community and, where appropriate, private financial resources earmarked for each of the chosen priorities;
  • for each year covered by the programming period, an indicative financial profile for each source of programme funding;
  • where appropriate, information on any studies, training or technical assistance operations needed for the preparation, implementation or adaptation of the measures concerned;
  • the competent authorities and bodies appointed to carry out the programme;
  • a definition of “final beneficiaries”, i.e. the public or private organisations or enterprises responsible for conducting the operations;
  • a description of the measures contemplated for implementing the plans, and in particular aid schemes;
  • provisions ensuring proper implementation of the programme, including monitoring, evaluation and the fixing of quantified evaluation indicators, and arrangements for controls and penalties;
  • the results of consultations and measures to involve competent authorities and bodies and the relevant economic, social and environmental partners.

Development plans must give priority to measures to improve market efficiency, quality and health standards and measures to maintain jobs and create new employment opportunities in rural areas, with due regard for provisions on the protection of the environment.

Applicant countries should submit their rural development plans within six months of the Regulation’s entry into force. On the basis of these plans, the Commission then has six months to approve the individual rural and agricultural development programmes in accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 50 of the Regulation laying down general provisions on the Structural Funds. The Commission must also appraise the proposed plan’s consistency with the Regulation.

Revision of the programme

The programme may be revised and amended in the light of:

  • socio-economic change, new information and the results of the actions concerned;
  • measures taken in the context of the accession partnership and the national programme for the adoption of the Community acquis;
  • the redistribution of resources following an applicant country’s accession to the European Union (Article 15 of the Regulation).

Prior appraisal, monitoring and evaluation

Aid under the Regulation is subject to prior appraisal, on-going monitoring and ex post evaluation. Monitoring is based on specific physical, environmental and financial indicators fixed beforehand, and on annual reports to the Commission from each applicant country.

Compatibility

Measures financed under the Regulation must comply with the commitments given in the accession partnership and be consistent with the principles of the national programme for the adoption of the Community acquis. They must also be consistent with the provisions of the Europe Agreements.

They must also be consistent with the objectives of the common agricultural policy (CAP), especially with regard to the market organisations, and Community structural measures. They must not cause disturbances on the market.

Financial arrangements

Financial assistance under this Regulation is granted during the period from 2000 to 2006. The annual appropriations are authorised within the limits of the financial perspective. The financial contribution may take the form of advances, part-financing or financing.

Within three months of the adoption of this Regulation, the Commission will inform each applicant country of its decisions concerning the indicative seven-year financial allocation.

The financial allocation is based on:

  • farming population,
  • agricultural area,
  • gross domestic product (GDP) in purchasing power parity,
  • specific territorial situation.

Up to 2% of the annual allocation may be used to finance measures taken on the initiative of the Commission for preliminary studies, exchange visits, evaluations and controls.

Rate of contribution

The Community will not normally contribute more than 75% of the total eligible public expenditure. In certain specific cases, it may, however, cover 100% of the total eligible. For revenue-generating investments, public aid may cover up to 50% of the total eligible cost.

Furthermore, Regulation (EC) No 696/2003 increases the natural contribution which may be made to projects to deal with exceptional disasters. This may amount to 85% of total eligible public expenditure or, in the case of revenue-generating projects, 75%.

Financial control

Financial support is governed by the principles laid down in Regulation (EC) No 1258/1999.

The Commission implements expenditure under this Regulation in accordance with the Financial Regulation applicable to the general budget of the European Communities, on the basis of the financing memorandum to be drawn up between the Commission and the applicant country.

Without prejudice to checks carried out by beneficiary countries, the Commission and the Court of Auditors may carry out on-the-spot technical or financial audits.

Reduction, suspension or cancellation of aid

If the implementation of a measure does not appear to justify any part of the finance allocated to it, the Commission examines the case, inviting the country concerned or its competent authorities to submit their comments within a specified period. Following the examination, the Commission may reduce or suspend aid for the measure concerned.

Implementing procedures

The Commission will adopt detailed rules for the implementation of the Regulation in accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 50(2) of Regulation (EC) No 1260/1999.

It will also adopt detailed financial implementing rules in accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 13 of Regulation (EC) No 1258/1999.

Reports

Each year the Commission will report to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on support granted under the Regulation.

Publicity

Programmes drawn up under the Regulation must be given appropriate publicity in the applicant countries. Such publicity must inform the general public inter alia of the Community’s role in the aid.

References

Act Entry into force – Date of expiry Deadline for transposition in the Member States Official Journal
Regulation (EC) No 1268/99 29.06.1999 – 31.12.2006 – OJ L 161 of 26.06.1999

Amending act(s) Entry into force Deadline for transposition in the Member States Official Journal
Regulation (EC) No 696/2003 20.04.2003 – OJ L 99 of 17.04.2003
Regulation (EC) No 769/2004 30.04.2004 – OJ L 123 of 27.04.2004
Regulation (EC) No 2008/2004 28.11.2004 – OJ L 349 of 25.11.2004
Regulation (EC) No 2257/2004 02.01.2005 – OJ L 389 of 30.12.2004
Regulation (EC) No 2112/2005 28.12.2005 – OJ L 344 of 27.12.2005

Related Acts

Commission Regulation (EC) No 447/2004 of 10 March 2004 laying down rules to facilitate the transition from support under Regulation (EC) No 1268/1999 to that provided for by Regulations (EC) Nos 1257/1999 and 1260/1999 for the Czech Republic, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary, Poland, Slovenia and Slovakia [Official Journal L 72 of 11.03.2004].

CONDITIONS OF ELIGIBILITY FOR AID

Commission Decision 1999/595/EC of 20 July 1999 on the indicative allocation of the annual Community contribution to pre-accession measures for agriculture and rural development [Official Journal L 226 of 27.08.1999].
The allocation valid for the period 2000-06 is indicated in the annex to the Decision.

Commission Regulation (EC) No 2759/1999 of 22 December 1999 laying down rules for the application of Council Regulation (EC) No 1268/1999 on Community support for pre-accession measures for agriculture and rural development in the applicant countries of central and eastern Europe in the pre-accession period [Official Journal L 331 of 23.12.1999].


The Regulation specifies the conditions under which aid can be granted for investment in agricultural holdings, improving the processing and marketing of agricultural and fishery products, agri-environmental measures, training, producer groups and forestry. It also gives details on the eligibility of expenditure, the management body, monitoring indicators, annual and final reports and assessments.
This Regulation has been amended by the following measure:
Regulation (EC) No 2356/2000 [Official Journal L 272 of 25.10.2000
The Regulation amends the provisions of Commission Regulation (EC) No 2759/1999 on aid to improve processing and marketing conditions for agricultural and fishery products and the eligibility of expenditure.
Regulation (EC) No 2251/2001 [Official Journal L 304 of 21.11.2001].
Regulation (EC) No 2251/2002 [Official Journal L 343 of 18.12.2002].
Regulation (EC) No 775/2003 [Official Journal L 112 of 06.05.2003]
Regulation (EC) No 2278/2004 [Official Journal L 396 of 31.12.2004].

DECENTRALISED MANAGEMENT

Commission Regulation (EC) No 2222/2000 of 7 June 2000 laying down financial rules for the application of Council Regulation (EC) No 1268/1999 on Community support for pre-accession measures for agriculture and rural development in the applicant countries of central and eastern Europe in the pre-accession period [Official Journal L 253 of 07.10.2000].
The Regulation lays down the conditions under which management of the aid is handed over to bodies in the ten applicant countries.
It has been amended by the following measures:
Regulation (EC) No 2252/2001 [Official Journal L 304 of 21.11.2001].
Regulation (EC) No 188/2003 [Official Journal L 27 of 01.02.2003]
Regulation (EC) No 1052/2006 [[Official Journal L 189 of 12.07.2006].

ANNUAL REPORTS AND SPECIAL REPORTS

Report from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions – Sapard Annual Report – Year 2000 [COM(2001) 341 final – Not published in the Official Journal].

Commission report – General report on pre-accession assistance (Phare, Ispa, Sapard) in 2000 [COM (2002) 781 final – Not published in the Official Journal].

Report from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions – Sapard Annual Report – Year 2001 [COM(2002) 434 final – Not published in the Official Journal].

Commission report – General report on pre-accession assistance (Phare, Ispa, Sapard) in 2001 [COM(2003) 329 final – Not published in the Official Journal].

Commission report – General report on pre-accession assistance (Phare, Ispa, Sapard) in 2002 [COM(2003) 844 final – Not published in the Official Journal].

Report from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions – Sapard Annual Report – Year 2002 [COM(2003) 582 final – Not published in the Official Journal].

Report from the Commission – 2002 Report on phare and the pre-accession instruments for Cyprus, Malta and Turkey [COM(2003) 497 final – Not published in the Official Journal].

Report from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions – Sapard Annual Report – Year 2003 [COM(2004) 851 final – Not published in the Official Journal].

Commission 2003 report on Phare and the pre-accession instruments for Cyprus, Malta and Turkey [COM(2005) 64 – Not published in the Official Journal].

Commission 2004 report on Phare, pre-accession and transition instruments [COM(2005) 701 final – Not published in the Official Journal]

Report from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions – SAPARD annual report [COM(2005)537 final – Not published in the Official Journal].

Report from the Commission to the European Parliament and the Council – General report on pre-accession assistance (Phare – Ispa – Sapard) in 2004 [COM(2006) 137 final – Not published in the Official Journal].

Report from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions – SAPARD Annual Report – Year 2005 [COM(2006) 780 final – Not published in the Official Journal].

Report from the Commission to the European Parliament and the Council – General report on pre-accession assistance (PHARE – ISPA – SAPARD) in 2005 [COM(2006) 746 final – Not published in the Official Journal].

Report from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament – 2005 report on PHARE, pre-accession and transition instruments – COM(2007) 3 – Not published in the Official Journal].

This summary is for information only and is not designed to interpret or replace the reference document.

Promoting young people's initiative, enterprise and creativity

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Promoting young people’s initiative, enterprise and creativity

Outline of the Community (European Union) legislation about Promoting young people’s initiative, enterprise and creativity

Topics

These categories group together and put in context the legislative and non-legislative initiatives which deal with the same topic.

Education training youth sport > Youth

Promoting young people’s initiative, enterprise and creativity

Document or Iniciative

Resolution of the Council and of the representatives of the Governments of the Member States meeting within the Council of 28 June 2001 on promoting young people’s initiative, enterprise and creativity: from exclusion to empowerment [Official Journal C 196 of 12 July 2001].

Summary

Involvement of the Commission and the Member States

This resolution invites the Commission:

  • to associate young people in the preparation of Community cooperation policy geared to youth, education and training;
  • to ensure that the “youth” dimension is taken into account in Community activities;
  • to take stock of the experience gained from the Youth programme;
  • to take the “youth” dimension into account in devising new strategies for lifelong learning.

This resolution invites the Member States:

  • to encourage young people’s initiative, enterprise and creativity in all fields;
  • to provide young people with better information about the opportunities and support available;
  • to promote pupil participation, initiative and creativity for active citizenship;
  • to promote student participation in higher education, in vocational training and in research;
  • to take note of young people’s initiative, enterprise and creativity in devising innovative methods of teaching and learning;
  • to integrate young people’s initiative, enterprise and creativity into practical employment-oriented measures;
  • to promote the sharing of good practice.

This resolution invites the Commission and Member States:

  • to integrate young people’s initiative, enterprise and creativity in combating social exclusion;
  • to encourage young people’s initiative and creativity in combating racism, xenophobia and intolerance;
  • to promote dissemination of best practice;
  • to encourage young people’s initiative, enterprise and creativity as a driving force for employment policy;
  • to take stock of the experience gained from the Socrates and Leonardo programmes in order to make the most of young people’s initiative and creativity;
  • to promote research and sharing of experience;
  • to develop young people’s initiative, enterprise and creativity through non-formal learning;
  • to promote cooperation between the Member States, the Commission and international organisations;
  • to clarify how young people’s initiative, enterprise and creativity are put to use as a resource;
  • to educate young people as critical consumers and practitioners in sectors such as music, film and other creative industries.

Context

Many Community initiatives have been launched to encourage young people’s initiative, enterprise and creativity, most of them stemming from education and training policy (e.g. the Youth and Youth for Europe programmes, the resolution on the social inclusion of young people, the resolution on youth participation, the memorandum on lifelong learning) and employment policy (e.g. the multiannual programme for enterprise and entrepreneurship, and the guidelines for employment).

Related Acts

Communication from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament, the European Economic and Social committee and the Committee of the Regions – Implementing the Community Lisbon Programme: Fostering entrepreneurial mindsets through education and learning

Council Decision 2001/63/ECof 19 January 2001 on guidelines for Member States’ employment policies for the year 2001 [Official Journal L 022 of 24.01.2001].

Council Decision 2000/819/EC of 20 December 2000 on a multiannual programme for enterprise and entrepreneurship, and in particular for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) (2001-2005) [Official Journal L 333 of 29.12.2000].

 

Programme to promote non-governmental organisations active in the youth field

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Programme to promote non-governmental organisations active in the youth field

Outline of the Community (European Union) legislation about Programme to promote non-governmental organisations active in the youth field

Topics

These categories group together and put in context the legislative and non-legislative initiatives which deal with the same topic.

Education training youth sport > Youth

Programme to promote non-governmental organisations active in the youth field (2004 – 2006)

The requirement for greater budgetary transparency in the European Communities has led the European Parliament and the Council to adopt a new programme to support international non-governmental organisations operating in the youth field.

Document or Iniciative

Decision No 790/2004/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 April 2004 establishing a Community action programme to promote bodies active at European level in the field of youth [Official Journal L 138 of 30.04.2004].

Summary

1. The European Parliament and the Council have adopted this Decision in the context of the need for budgetary transparency imposed by the 2002 Financial Regulation of the European Communities (Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 of 25 June 2002), which requires a legal basis to be established to cover existing support measures. This provides an opportunity for the European Parliament and the Council to do more to support non-governmental organisations active at European level in the field of youth – as mentioned in the Commission’s White Paper “A new impetus for European youth”.

2. These organisations help to strengthen Community action and increase its effectiveness by participating, inter alia, in youth exchanges, education and training programmes, youth policy debates, dissemination of information on Community action and activities fostering young people’s participation and initiative.

3. Under this programme, there are two categories for the award of operating grants, namely:

  • grants for the operation of the European Youth Forum, a body pursuing an aim of general European interest whose members are national youth councils and international non-governmental youth organisations;
  • grants for the operation of international non-governmental youth organisations, constituting non-profit-making bodies working for the benefit of young people, or a European network representing such bodies and involving young people in the management of their activities. It is stipulated that operating grants for international non-governmental youth organisations will be awarded on the basis of annual calls for proposals.

4. The programme is open to the Member States of the European Union (Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom), three countries of the European Economic Area (EEA – Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway), two candidate countries (Bulgaria and Romania) and Turkey. Participation is also open to the Balkan countries forming part of the stabilisation and association process for the countries of South-East Europe, and some countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States.

5. With an overall budget of EUR 13 million for the period 2004-06, this programme provides that:

  • a maximum of 80% of the Forum’s budget will be co-financed to cover operating costs and expenditure necessary for carrying out its activities. The resources allocated will not be less than EUR 2 million;
  • a maximum of 80% of the budget of international non-governmental youth organisations will be co-financed to cover the administration and operating costs necessary for the proper conduct of the normal activities of the body selected, relating in particular to personnel, overheads, internal meetings, publications, information and dissemination. This co-financing will be reduced progressively from the third year.

The European Commission is responsible for implementing the programme.

6. The Commission will present a report on the achievement of the programme’s objectives to the European Parliament and the Council no later than 31 December 2007.

References

Act

Entry into force – Date of expiry

Deadline for transposition in the Member States

Official Journal

Decision No 791/2004/EC [adoption: codecision procedure COD/2003/0113]

01.05.2004 – 31.12.2006

–

Official Journal L 138 of 30.04.2004

Related Acts

Decision No 1719/2006/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 November 2006 establishing the Youth in Actionprogramme for the period 2007 to 2013 [Official Journal L 327 of 24.11.2006].

Priorities for vocational education and training

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Priorities for vocational education and training

Outline of the Community (European Union) legislation about Priorities for vocational education and training

Topics

These categories group together and put in context the legislative and non-legislative initiatives which deal with the same topic.

Education training youth sport > Vocational training

Priorities for vocational education and training (2011-2020)

Document or Iniciative

Conclusions of the Council and of the Representatives of the Governments of the Member States, meeting within the Council, on the priorities for enhanced European cooperation in vocational education and training for the period 2011-2020 [OJ C 324 of 1.12.2010].

Summary

The Council sets the priorities of the Copenhagen process for the period 2011-2020. The Copenhagen process aims to improve the quality and attractiveness of Vocational Education and Training (VET) by strengthening cooperation at European level.

These updated objectives will help to achieve the priorities and initiatives of the Europe 2020 Strategy. VET is crucial in achieving two of the strategy’s objectives: by 2020, to increase the percentage of 30-34 year olds graduating from tertiary education to at least 40 %, and to reduce the proportion of early school leavers to below 10 %.

A global vision

The Council estimates that, to be completely effective, VET policies must opt for a global approach taking into account social and employment policies.

By 2020, VET systems should be more attractive and accessible to all, providing quality education with high labour market relevance. They must be flexible enough to allow permeability between the different education systems (school education, higher education, etc.). Continuing VET must be easily accessible and more career-oriented. Options for undertaking part of one’s vocational education or training abroad must be increased.

2011-2020 objectives

Several strategic objectives to be achieved by 2020 are defined. Each of them is accompanied by short-term deliverables (2011-2014) to be pursued at national level, together with details of the support provided by the European Union (EU) to achieve them. Six strategic objectives have been identified, namely:

  • making initial VET an attractive learning option. In the short term, national authorities are requested to promote the attractiveness of VET, but also to support activities which enable students to become acquainted with the different vocational trades and career possibilities available.
  • fostering the excellence, quality and relevance of VET to the labour market. Between 2011 and 2014, progress must be made in establishing national quality assurance frameworks. Cooperation between VET institutions and enterprises must also be strengthened, particularly by organising traineeships for teachers in enterprises. VET institutions should receive feedback on the employability of their graduates.
  • enabling flexible access to training and qualifications. At national level and in the short term, it will be necessary to review the use of incentives for participating in VET and the rights and obligations of the stakeholders involved. National authorities should also take appropriate measures to encourage participation in continuing VET. Referencing between the levels of the European Qualifications Framework and those of the national frameworks should be established by 2012.
  • encouraging international mobility in VET. To do so, Member States should specifically encourage students and professionals to participate in a mobility programme, and also encourage local and regional authorities and VET institutions to develop internationalisation strategies. Language learning should be integrated into curricula.
  • promoting innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship, and the use of new technologies. At national level, partnerships between VET institutions, higher education establishments, and design, art, research and innovation centres should be encouraged. VET institutions should be provided with the necessary equipment in terms of new technologies. Promoting practical experience should also encourage entrepreneurship.
  • making VET accessible to all, in particular by improving its contribution to tackling early school leaving. The participation of low-skilled and other ‘at risk’ groups should be encouraged through the use of appropriate guidance and support services, new technologies, and existing monitoring systems.

The Council also defines four transversal objectives:

  • increasing the involvement of VET stakeholders and making the results obtained through European cooperation better known;
  • coordinating the governance of European and national instruments in the areas of transparency, recognition, quality assurance and mobility;
  • intensifying cooperation between VET policy and other relevant policy areas;
  • improving the quality and comparability of data for EU policy-making in VET;
  • making good use of EU support.

Context

The objectives defined in the conclusions have been endorsed by the Bruges Communiquéof 7 December 2010 adopted by the Education Ministers of thirty-three European countries, social partners and the European Commission. This Communiqué constitutes the last update of the Copenhagen process.

This summary is for information only. It is not designed to interpret or replace the reference document, which remains the only binding legal text.

Protection of the aquatic environment against discharges of dangerous substances

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Protection of the aquatic environment against discharges of dangerous substances

Outline of the Community (European Union) legislation about Protection of the aquatic environment against discharges of dangerous substances

Topics

These categories group together and put in context the legislative and non-legislative initiatives which deal with the same topic.

Environment > Water protection and management

Protection of the aquatic environment against discharges of dangerous substances (until 2013)

Document or Iniciative

Directive 2006/11/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 February 2006 on pollution caused by certain dangerous substances discharged into the aquatic environment of the Community (Codified version).

Summary

This Directive lays down rules for protection against, and prevention of, pollution resulting from the discharge of certain substances into the aquatic environment. It applies to inland surface water, territorial waters and internal coastal waters.

Two lists of dangerous substances have been compiled to combat pollution:

  • discharge of substances in list I must be eliminated; while
  • discharge of substances in list II must be reduced.

Pursuant to Annex IX of the Water Framework Directive (Directive 2000/60/EC), quality objectives and emission limit values are established by the “daughter directives” of Directive 2006/11/EC. Moreover, emission limit values for pollutants must be based on the best available techniques in line with Article 10 of Framework Directive 2000/60/EC.

All discharges of substances included in list I require prior authorisation by the competent authority in the Member State concerned. The authorisation is granted for a limited period and lays down emission standards which may be more stringent than the thresholds set by Community legislation, particularly to take account of the toxicity or persistence of the substance in the environment into which it is discharged. It is up to the Member States to ensure compliance with the emission standards.

For the substances on list II, the Member States adopt and implement programmes to preserve and improve water quality. All discharges are subject to prior authorisation by the competent authority in the Member State concerned that lays down the emission standards.

The Member States draw up an inventory of the discharges into the waters covered by this Directive and may take more severe measures than those laid down by Community legislation to reduce or eliminate pollution caused by dangerous substances.

The Directive lays down a procedure for revising and adding to the lists or transferring specific substances from list II to list I.

Before 22 December 2012, Member States may carry out surveillance and notification pursuant to Articles 5, 8 and 15 of the Water Framework Directive.

Background

This Directive codifies and replaces Directive 76/464/EEC and its subsequent amendments. This codification leads to the clarification and rationalisation of legislation. It takes into account the adoption of the water framework Directive and the international conventions on the protection of water courses and the marine environment.

The Directive is repealed by the Water Framework Directive as from 22 December 2013.

References

Act Entry into force Deadline for transposition in the Member States Official Journal
Directive 2006/11/EC

24.4.2006

–

OJ L 64 of 4.4.2006

Related Acts

Environmental quality standards

Council Directive 82/176/EEC [Official Journal L 81 of 27.3.1982].

This Directive sets limit values and quality objectives for mercury discharges by the chlor-alkali electrolysis industry].
See consolidated version .

Council Directive 83/513/EEC [Official Journal L 291 of 24.10.1983]
This Directive sets limit values and quality objectives for cadmium discharges in the aquatic environment.
See consolidated version .

Council Directive 84/156/EEC [Official Journal L 74 of 17.3.1984]

This Directive sets limit values and quality objectives for mercury discharges in sectors other than the chlor-alkali electrolysis industry.
See consolidated version .

Council Directive [Official Journal L 274 of 17.10.1984].
This Directive sets limit values and quality objectives for discharges of hexachlorocyclohexane in the aquatic environment.

See consolidated version .

Council Directive 86/280/EEC [Official Journal L 181 of 4.7.1986]. This Directive sets limit values and quality objectives for discharges of certain dangerous substances included in List I of the Annex to Directive 2006/11/EC.

See consolidated version .

Directive 2008/105/CE of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2008 on environmental quality standards in the field of water, amending and repealing Council Directives 82/176/EEC, 83/513/EEC, 84/156/EEC, 84/491/EEC, 86/280/EEC and amending Directive [Official Journal L 348 of 24.12.2008].
This Directive establishes environmental quality standards (EQS) in the field of water. These quality standards aim to combat surface water pollution by 33 priority chemical substances (Annex II). This Directive provides in particular for:

  • an amendment of the list of priority substances and the corresponding EQS;
  • transparent criteria to designate so-called “mixing” zones, within which standards may be exceeded under certain conditions;
  • the preparation of an inventory of emissions, discharges and losses. This inventory will be used to prepare the Commission Report which will check progress achieved in reducing or ceasing emissions of pollutant substances by 2018.

The Directive supplements the legislative framework introduced by the Water Framework Directive. It allows decisions to be made at all levels of governance. Member States have until December 2009 to prepare plans for the management of hydrographical districts and programmes of measures relating thereto.

Improvement of information

Directive 91/692/EEC [Official Journal L 377 of 31.12.1991].

This Directive aims at rationalizing and improving on a sectoral basis the provisions on the transmission of information and the publication of reports concerning certain Community Directives on the protection of the environment.

Decision 92/446/EEC [Official Journal L 247 of 27.8.1992].

This Decision draws up the outlines of questionnaires needed to monitor the implementation of and compliance with the provisions of all Directives in the water sector, including Directives 76/464/EEC, 82/176/EEC, 83/513/EEC, 84/156/EEC, 84/491/EEC and 86/280/EEC.

Transfer Register

Regulation (EC) No 166/2006 [Official Journal OJ L 33 of 4.2.2006].
The EU introduces a European Pollutant Release and Transfer Register to improve access by the public to information and, in the long term, contribute to preventing and reducing pollution.