The Council of Transport Ministers and the European Parliament have reached a compromise over the thorny issue of airport security that leaves member states with the final say on funding.
The two sides clashed over the issue of funding for additional security measures, with the member states refusing to acquiesce to Parliament's demand that they should shoulder at least some of the additional financial burden. The UK, in particular, had refused to budge. The compromise on funding lifts the threat that the proposals would be sent back to European Commission, leading to further delays in the quest for an EU-wide framework for security regulations.
The compromise includes a "recognition" by member states that they have a responsibility to assist with any additional costs, but there is no obligation to do so. However, Jacqueline Foster, the Member of the European Parliament who took the lead on this issue, warns that she will continue to press member states on this subject.
The issue now passes to the European Commission (EC) which is including it in a study it is carrying out into intra-airport competition. This is expected to be completed by the end of the year, or early next year, and will include analysis of the competitive distortions caused by the different attitudes to security funding by the member states.
"We must now find the best way to increase the commitment of the member states to ensure the same high level of security everywhere in Europe," says Gilles Gantelet, spokesman for EC transport commissioner Loyola de Palacio. He adds that, "after months of tough discussions between the Council and Parliament, this is the best agreement which could have been reached".
ACI Europe, which represents Europe's airports in Brussels, also criticised the refusal of member states to foot the bill for increased security. "Application of these crucial new security measures entails the purchase of sophisticated technology, implementing major infrastructure changes, employing additional resources and significant staff training," says Philippe Hamon, director general at ACI Europe. "Rather than passing the cost on to air passengers, the financing of these new security measures must be shouldered by governments, whose moral duty it is to protect their citizens from terrorism."
The agreed measures will see unannounced airport inspections by independent European Union inspectors working alongside national civil aviation authority inspectors; 100% staff searches in restricted areas and improved staff background checks; and more rigorous baggage screening methods. In addition to the 15 EU member states, a further 23 states that are members of the European Civil Aviation Conference have agreed to abide by the proposals.
COLIN BAKER LONDON
Source: Airline Business