Rail transport: Commission calls on GERMANY to properly implement EU legislation

The Commission is urging Germany to bring its national legislation in line with Directive (EU) 2016/797 on the interoperability of the rail system within the European Union (Recast of Directive 2008/57/EC).

The railway interoperability Directives(EU) 2016/797 and 2008/57/EC set out the conditions to be met to achieve interoperability within the Union rail system.

These conditions concern the design, construction, placing in service, upgrading, renewal, operation and maintenance of the parts of this system, as well as the professional qualifications and health and safety conditions for the staff who contribute to its operation and maintenance.

In this case, the Commission considers that national provisions concerning requirements for freight wagon braking equipment are not compliant with EU law and hamper interoperability efforts.

Germany now has four months to reply to the arguments raised by the Commission, otherwise the Commission may decide to send a reasoned opinion.

Arianna Podesta –