EU: new marine equipment directive

The European Parliament has adopted the Commission’s proposed new Directive on marine equipment. Better rules on marine equipment in the EU will result in safer journeys for the ships and their crew, less red tape for Member States, reduced costs for business, and increased competitiveness of the EU industry. European Commission Vice-President Siim Kallas, responsible for transport, said “These new rules are an important development in this sector as marine equipment represents a significant fraction of the value of a ship, and its quality and safe operation are critical for the safety of the ship and its crew. It is equally important for the prevention of maritime accidents and pollution of the marine environment”. More information here.