### only statements of support forms which comply with the model set out in annex iii may be used for this purpose . the organiser shall complete the forms as indicated in annex iii prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories . the information given in the forms shall correspond to the information contained in the register . ### only registered language versions of statements of support forms which comply with the model set out in annex iii may be used for this purpose . the organisers shall complete the forms as indicated in annex iii prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories . the information given in the forms shall correspond to the information contained in the register .


### the identity of the person can be verified ; ### the fact that each person submits only one statement can be verified ;


### the system can generate individual statements of support in a form complying with the model set out in annex iii , in order to allow for the control by the member states , in accordance with article 9 . ### the system can generate statements of support in a form complying with the model set out in annex iii , in order to allow for the control by the member states , in accordance with article 9 .


### within 12 months following the entry into force of this regulation , the commission shall adopt technical specifications for the implementation of paragraph 4 , in accordance with the regulatory procedure laid down in article 19 . ### within six months following the entry into force of this regulation , the commission shall adopt by means of delegated acts technical specifications for online collection systems .


### after having collected the necessary statements of support from signatories in accordance with articles 5 and 7 , and provided that the commission has decided that a proposed citizens ' initiative is admissible in accordance with article 8 , the organiser shall submit the statements of support , in paper or in electronic form , to the relevant competent authorities provided for in article 14 for verification and certification . for this purpose the organiser shall use the form set out in annex vi . ### after having collected the necessary statements of support from signatories in accordance with articles 5 and 7 , the organisers shall submit the statements of support , in paper or in electronic form , to the relevant competent authorities provided for in article 14 for verification and certification . for this purpose the organisers shall use the form set out in annex vi .


### the organiser shall submit statements of support to the member state that issued the identification document indicated therein . ### the organisers shall submit statements of support to the member state where the signatories have their permanent residence or , in the case of signatories having their permanent residence in a third country , to the member state of which they are nationals .


### the competent authorities shall , within a period that shall not exceed three months , verify the statements of support provided on the basis of appropriate checks , and deliver to the organiser a certificate in accordance with the model set out in annex vii , certifying the number of valid statements of support for that member state . ### the competent authorities shall , within a period that shall not exceed three months , verify the statements of support provided on the basis of appropriate checks , and deliver to the organiser a certificate in accordance with the model set out in annex vii , certifying the number of valid statements of support for that member state . for the purpose of verifying statements of support , the competent authorities shall check that the person is eligible to sign and has signed only once . the authentication of signatures shall not be required .


### the communication referred to in paragraph 1 shall be notified to the organiser of the citizens ' initiative as well as to the european parliament and the council and shall be made public . ### the communication referred to in paragraph 1 shall be notified to the organisers as well as to the european parliament and the council and shall be made public .


### the organiser shall destroy all statements of support received for a given citizens ' initiative and any copies thereof at the latest one month after submitting that initiative to the commission in accordance with article 10 or 18 months after the date of registration of a proposed citizens ' initiative , whichever is the earlier . ### unless the proceedings are the subject of litigation , the organiser shall destroy all statements of support received for a given citizens ' initiative and any copies thereof at the latest two months after the publication of the commission communication referred to in point of article 11 . in the event of litigation , they shall be destroyed one month after the conclusion of the litigation . save where the competent authorities of member states have not yet concluded their verification of statements of support , they shall also be destroyed if a proposed citizens ' initiative has not been submitted to the commission within 18 months after the date of its registration .


### the competent authority shall destroy all statements of support and copies thereof that it has received for the purpose of carrying out the verification in accordance with article 9 , at the latest one month after issuing the certificate referred to therein . ### the competent authority shall destroy all statements of support and copies thereof that it has received for the purpose of carrying out the verification in accordance with article 9 , at the latest two months after issuing the certificate referred to therein . in the event of litigation they shall be destroyed one month after the conclusion of the litigation .


### member states shall ensure that organisers resident or established on their territory shall be liable under their civil or criminal law for infringements of this regulation and in particular for : ### member states shall ensure that organisers resident on their territory shall be liable under their civil or criminal law for infringements of this regulation and in particular for :


### amendment of the annexes the commission may adopt , by means of delegated acts in accordance with articles 16 , 17 and 18 , amendments to the annexes of this regulation . ### delegated acts the commission may adopt , by means of delegated acts in accordance with articles 16 , 17 and 18 : – technical specifications for online collection systems pursuant to article 6 ; – provisions determining the minimum amount of support and funding in respect of which information is to be provided pursuant to the first paragraph of article 10 ; – amendments to the annexes to this regulation .


### the european parliament and the council may object to the delegated act within a period of two months from the date of notification . at the initiative of the european parliament or the council this period shall be extended by one month . ### the european parliament and the council may object to the delegated act within a period of two months from the date of notification . at the initiative of the european parliament or the council this period shall be extended by two months .


### five years after the entry into force of this regulation , the commission shall present a report to the european parliament and the council on the implementation of this regulation . ### three years after the entry into force of this regulation , and every three years thereafter , the commission shall present a report to the european parliament and the council on the implementation of this regulation , with special emphasis on online collection systems and the application of transparency requirements concerning the funding of initiatives , together , if appropriate , with a legislative proposal for amendment of this regulation .


### this regulation shall enter into force on the twentieth day following that of its publication in the official journal of the european union . ### this regulation shall enter into force on the first day of the month following its publication in the official journal of the european union . it shall start to apply six months after its entry into force .


### form for the submission of statements of support to the member states’ competent authorities full name , postal address and e - mail address of the organiser or , in the case of a legal entity or organisation , its legal representative* : 2 . title of citizens’ initiative* : 3 . commission registration number* : 4 . date of registration* : 5 . date of request for a decision on admissibility* : 6 . number of signatories coming from [ name of ms ] * 7 . annexes* : certifying that the conformity of the online collection system with regulation xxxx / xxxx ) 8 . date and signature of the organiser* : * : mandatory fields ### form for the submission of statements of support to the member states’ competent authorities full name , postal address and e - mail address of the organisers and the contact persons* : 2 . title of citizens’ initiative* : 3 . commission registration number* : 4 . date of registration* : 6 . number of signatories coming from [ name of ms ] * 7 . annexes* : certifying that the conformity of the online collection system with regulation xxxx / xxxx ) 8 . date and signature of the organisers* : * : mandatory fields


### a european state which has applied to join the union can become a member only when it has been confirmed that it meets the membership criteria agreed at the copenhagen european council in june 1993 and provided that the accession does not overstretch the capacity of the union to integrate the new member . these criteria relate to the stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy , the rule of law , respect of human rights and respect for , and protection of , minorities , the development of the economy that must be sufficient to withstand the competitive pressure in the internal market , and the ability to assume not only the rights but also the obligations under the treaties . ### a european state which has applied to join the union can become a member only when it has been confirmed that it meets the membership criteria agreed at the copenhagen european council in june 1993 . these criteria relate to the stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy , the rule of law , respect of human rights and respect for , and protection of , minorities , the development of the economy that must be sufficient to withstand the competitive pressure in the internal market , and the ability to assume not only the rights but also the obligations under the treaties .


### in view of their specific nature , special provisions as to labelling should be adopted for protected designations of origin and protected geographical indications , requiring producers to use the appropriate union symbols or indications on packaging . the use of such symbols or indications should be made obligatory in the case of union names , on the one hand , to make this category of products and the guarantees attached to them better known to consumers and , on the other , to permit easier identification of these products on the market so as to facilitate checks . taking into account the requirements of the world trade organization , the use of such symbols or indications should be made voluntary for geographical indications and designations of origin originating in a third country . ### in view of their specific nature , special provisions as to labelling should be adopted for protected designations of origin and protected geographical indications , requiring producers to use the appropriate union symbols and , where appropriate , indications on packaging . the use of such symbols should be made obligatory in the case of union names , on the one hand , to make this category of products and the guarantees attached to them better known to consumers and , on the other , to permit easier identification of these products on the market so as to facilitate checks . taking into account the requirements of the world trade organization , the use of such symbols or indications should be authorised only in the case of products that have complied with the procedures set out in chapter iv of title v of this regulation , for geographical indications and designations of origin originating in a third country .


### to ensure that names of genuine traditional products are registered under the scheme , other criteria and conditions for registration of a name should be reviewed , in particular concerning the definition of ‘ traditional’ that should be changed to cover products that have been produced for a highly significant period of time . to improve protection of the culinary heritage of the union , the scope of the traditional specialities guaranteed scheme should henceforth be more clearly focussed on prepared meals and processed products . ### to ensure that names of genuine traditional products are registered under the scheme , and in order to make the ‘ traditional speciality guaranteed’ scheme more attractive , it is appropriate to retain clear criteria and conditions for registration of a name , in particular those concerning the definition of ' traditional ' , which should continue to be fixed as the time period generally ascribed to one generation so that products using old methods of production which have been revived by products more recently placed on the market can continue to be covered .


### in order to avoid creating unfair conditions of competition , any producer , including third - country producers , should be able to use a registered name and , where appropriate , the union symbol associated with the indication ‘ traditional speciality guaranteed’ , provided that the product complies with the requirements of the relevant specification and the producer is covered by a system of controls . ### in order to avoid creating unfair conditions of competition , any producer , including third - country producers , should be able to use a registered name , provided that the product complies with the requirements of the relevant specification and the producer is covered by a system of controls . for traditional specialities guaranteed produced inside the union , the union symbol should be indicated on the labelling and may be associated with the indication ‘ traditional speciality guaranteed’ , where appropriate .


### at least one of the production steps of which take place in the defined geographical area . ### the production and / or processing and / or preparation of which take place in the defined geographical area .


### a scheme for traditional specialities guaranteed is established in order to assist producers of traditional product in marketing and communicating the value adding attributes of the product to consumers . ### a scheme for traditional specialities guaranteed is established to safeguard and promote traditional methods of production and recipes by assisting producers of traditional product in marketing and communicating the value adding attributes of the product to consumers .


### results from a mode of production and composition corresponding to traditional practice for that product , and ### results from a mode of production and / or processing and composition corresponding to traditional practice for that product or foodstuff , and


### without prejudice to regulation no 882 / 2004 and in particular the provisions of chapter vi of title ii thereof , member states may charge a fee to cover their costs of managing the quality schemes , including those incurred in processing applications , statements of opposition , applications for amendments and requests for cancellations provided for in this regulation . ### without prejudice to regulation no 882 / 2004 and in particular the provisions of chapter vi of title ii thereof , member states may charge a reasonable fee to cover their costs of managing the quality schemes , including those incurred in processing applications , statements of opposition , applications for amendments and requests for cancellations provided for in this regulation .


### the agency may object to the information submitted or parts thereof on grounds related to non - compliance with the provisions of title viiia of directive 2001 / 83 / ec within 60 days after receipt of the notification . if the agency does not object within 60 days , the information shall be deemed accepted and may be published . ### the agency may object to the information submitted or parts thereof on grounds related to non - compliance with the provisions of title viiia of directive 2001 / 83 / ec within 30 working days after receipt of the notification , giving full details of the grounds of objection . the objections must be taken into account by the marketing authorisation holder in the production of the final information . if the agency does not object within 30 working days , the information shall be deemed accepted and may be published .


### where a medicinal product is authorized subject to the requirement to conduct a post - authorisation safety study or where there are conditions or restrictions with regard to the safe and effective use of the medicinal product , the medicinal product should be intensively monitored on the market . patients and healthcare professionals should be encouraged to report all suspect adverse reactions to such medicinal products , and a publicly available list of such medicinal products should be maintained up to date by the european medicines agency established by regulation no 726 / 2004 of the european parliament and of the council of 31 march 2004 laying down community procedures for the authorisation and supervision of medicinal products for human and veterinary use and establishing a european medicines agency . ### where a medicinal product is authorized subject to the requirement to conduct a post - authorisation safety study or where there are conditions or restrictions with regard to the safe and effective use of the medicinal product , the medicinal product should be intensively monitored on the market . patients and healthcare professionals should be encouraged to report all suspect adverse reactions to such medicinal products , identified by a corresponding explanatory sentence on the summary of product characteristics , and on the patient information leaflet , and a publicly available list of such medicinal products should be maintained up to date by the european medicines agency established by regulation no 726 / 2004 of the european parliament and of the council of 31 march 2004 laying down community procedures for the authorisation and supervision of medicinal products for human and veterinary use and establishing a european medicines agency .


### a marketing authorisation may be granted subject to one or more of the following conditions : ### in addition to the provisions of article 19 , marketing authorisation may be granted subject to one or more of the following conditions :


### food labels should be clear and understandable to assist consumers wanting to make better - informed food and dietary choices . studies show that legibility is an important element in maximising the possibility that labelled information can influence its audience and that the small print size is one of the main causes of consumer dissatisfaction with food labels . ### food labels should be clear , understandable and legible , without providing an excessive amount of information , to assist consumers wanting to make better - informed food and dietary choices . studies show that legibility is an important element in maximising the possibility that labelled information can influence its audience and that the small print size is one of the main causes of consumer dissatisfaction with food labels .


### member states should retain the right , depending on local practical conditions and circumstances , to lay down rules in respect of the provision of information concerning non - prepacked foods . although in such cases the consumer demand for other information is limited , information on potential allergens is considered very important . evidence suggests that most food allergy incidents can be traced back to non - prepacked food . therefore such information should always be provided to the consumer . ### information about non - prepacked foods and about mass catering wares should in principle be provided voluntarily . although in such cases the consumer demand for other information is limited , information on potential allergens is considered very important . evidence suggests that most food allergy incidents can be traced back to non - prepacked food . therefore the provision of such information should be mandatory in accordance with this regulation .


### without prejudice to article 9 , mandatory food information shall appear in a language easily understood by the consumers of the member states where a food is marketed . ### without prejudice to article 9 , mandatory food information shall appear in a language easily understood by all consumers of the member states where a food is marketed , including those who are blind or partially sighted .


### in addition to the nutrition declaration per 100g or per 100ml referred to in article 31 , the information may be expressed per portion as quantified on the label , provided that the number of portions contained in the package is stated . ### in addition to the nutrition declaration per 100g or per 100ml referred to in article 31 , the information may be expressed per portion as quantified on the label , provided that the number of portions contained in the package is stated . portions may be indicated using the word ' portion ' or a pictogram depicting the portion visually .


### aviation security at european airports is essentially a state responsibility . each member state decides on the methods for financing aviation security . it is , however , necessary to establish a common framework regulating the essential features of security charges and the way they are set , as in the absence of such framework basic requirements in the relationship between airport managing bodies and airport users may not be respected . ### aviation security at european airports is essentially a state responsibility . it is necessary to establish a common framework regulating the essential features of security charges and the way they are set , as in the absence of such framework basic requirements in the relationship between bodies setting such charges and airport users may not be respected .


### it is vital for airport users to obtain from the airport managing body , on a regular basis , information on how and on what basis aviation security charges are calculated . this information will provide air carriers with an insight into the costs incurred by providing security services and the productivity of related investments . to allow an airport managing body to properly assess the requirements with regard to its future investments , the airport users should be required to share all their operational forecasts , developments projects and specific demands and wishes with the airport managing body on a timely basis . ### it is vital for airport users to obtain from the body setting or applying the charges , on a regular basis , information on how and on what basis aviation security charges are calculated . this information will provide airport users with an insight into the costs incurred by providing security services such as referred to in regulation no 300 / 2008 of 11 march 2008 on common rules in the field of civil aviation security and repealing regulation no 2320 / 20021 and its implementing rules , the productivity of related investments and any grants and subsidies allocated by the authorities for security purposes . to allow the competent body setting or applying the charges to properly assess the requirements with regard to its future investments , airport users should be required to share all their operational forecasts , developments projects and specific demands and wishes with the competent body on a timely basis __________________ 1 oj l 97 , 9 . 4 . 2008 , p . 72 .


### as the methods for establishing and levying the amounts due for the coverage of security costs differ across the community , the harmonisation of the basis for charging security costs at community airports where the costs of security are reflected in the security charges is necessary . at these airports the charge should be related to the cost for providing security , taking into account any public financing of security costs . ### as the methods for funding or establishing and levying the amounts due for the coverage of security costs differ across the community , the harmonisation of the basis for charging security costs at community airports where the costs of security are reflected in the security charges is necessary . at these airports the charge should be related to the cost for providing security , taking into account any public funding of security costs , with a view to avoiding any profit and to providing suitable and cost - effective security services and facilities at the airports concerned .


### it is important to establish transparency in relation to the economic impact of national security measures more stringent than the common basic standards established in accordance with regulation no 300 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 march 2008 on common rules in the field of civil aviation security and repealing regulation no 2320 / 2002 . ### it is important to establish transparency with regard to the use of national security measures more stringent than the common basic standards established in accordance with regulation no 300 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 march 2008 on common rules in the field of civil aviation security and repealing regulation no 2320 / 2002 .


### an independent supervisory authority in every member state should ensure the proper and effective application of this directive . the authority should be in possession of all the necessary resources in terms of staffing , expertise and the financial resources for the performance of its tasks . ### in every member state in which security charges are levied at airports an independent supervisory authority should ensure the proper and effective application of this directive . the authority should be in possession of all the necessary resources in terms of staffing , expertise and the financial resources for the performance of its tasks .


### this directive applies to any airport located in a territory subject to the provisions of the treaty . ### this directive applies to any airport located in a territory subject to the provisions of the treaty and open to commercial traffic .


### ‘ security charge’ means a levy which is specifically designed to recover all or part of the cost of security measures intended to protect civil aviation against acts of unlawful interference . ### ‘ security charge’ means a levy collected by any entity , airport or airport user in different forms which is specifically designed to recover the costs of security measures intended to protect civil aviation against acts of unlawful interference .


### consultation ### consultation and remedy


### member states shall ensure that the airport managing body has access to all necessary information on the costs of providing aviation security services at the airport . ### member states shall ensure that the competent body has access to all necessary information on the costs of providing aviation security services at the airport .


### member states shall ensure that at each airport a compulsory and regular procedure for consultation between the airport managing body and airport users is established with respect to the operation of the system of security charges and the level of such charges . that consultation shall take place at least once a year . ### member states shall ensure that a compulsory procedure for regular consultation between the competent body and airport users or the representatives or associations of airport users and the associations of air passengers is established with respect to the operation of the system of security charges and the level of such charges . such consultation shall take place at least once a year , unless agreed otherwise in the latest consultation . where a multi - annual agreement between the competent body and the airport users exists , the consultations shall take place as provided for in such agreement . member states shall retain the right to request more frequent consultations .


### the airport managing body shall submit any proposal to modify the system or the level of security charges to the airport users no later than four months before it enters into force , together with the reasons for the proposed changes . the airport managing body shall hold consultations on the proposed changes with the airport users and take their views into account before a decision is taken . ### the competent body shall submit any proposal to modify the system or the level of security charges to the airport users or the representatives or associations of airport users no later than four months before it enters into force , together with the reasons for the proposed change . the competent body shall hold consultations on the proposed changes with the airport users and take their views into account before a decision is taken .


### the airport managing body shall publish its decision no later than two months before it enters into force . when no agreement on the proposed changes is reached between the airport managing body and the airport users , the airport managing body shall justify its decision with regard to the airport users . ### the competent body shall publish its decision no later than two months before it enters into force . when no agreement on the proposed changes is reached between the competent body and the airport users , the competent body shall justify its decision with regard to the airport users .


### the revenue and cost of each category of security charges levied at the airport ; ### the revenue of the security charges and the total cost of the services covered by them ;


### forecasts of the level of security charges ; ### forecasts of the situation at the airport as regards the security charges , traffic growth and proposed investments ;


### member states shall ensure that airport users submit information to the managing body before every consultation , as provided for in article 4 , concerning in particular : ### member states shall ensure that airport users submit information to the competent body before every consultation , as provided for in article 4 , concerning in particular :


### impact assessments ### more stringent measures


### before adopting more stringent measures pursuant to article 6 of regulation no 300 / 2008 , member states shall undertake an impact assessment with regard to the effects on the level of security charges . with regard to more stringent national measures already existing on [ the date of entry into force of this directive ] , member states shall undertake impact assessments during a transitional period of three years from the date of entry into force of this directive . ### the additional costs of implementing more stringent measures pursuant to article 6 of regulation no 300 / 2008 shall be borne by the member states .


### security charges shall be used exclusively to meet security costs . these costs shall be determined using the principles of accounting and evaluation generally accepted in each of the member states . ### security charges shall be used exclusively to meet security costs . these costs shall be determined using the principles of accounting and evaluation generally accepted in each of the member states . the total revenue from security charges shall not be higher than the total costs of aviation security for that airport , airport network , or group of airports .


### member states shall guarantee the independence of the independent supervisory authority by ensuring that it is legally distinct from and functionally independent of any airport managing body and air carrier . member states that retain ownership or control of airports , airport managing bodies or air carriers shall ensure effective structural separation of the regulatory function from activities associated with ownership or control . member states shall ensure that the independent supervisory authority exercises its powers impartially and transparently . ### member states shall guarantee the independence of the independent supervisory authority by ensuring that it is legally distinct from and functionally independent of any competent body or air carrier . member states that retain ownership or control of airports , airport managing bodies or air carriers shall ensure effective structural separation of the regulatory function from activities associated with ownership or control . member states shall ensure that the independent supervisory authority exercises its powers impartially and transparently .


### establish a procedure for resolving disagreements between the airport managing body and the airport users ; ### establish a procedure for resolving disagreements between the competent body and the airport users ;


### member states shall bring into force the laws , regulations and administrative provisions necessary to comply with this directive by [ &#8230 ; . ] at the latest . they shall forthwith communicate to the commission the text of those provisions and a correlation table between those provisions and this directive . ### member states shall bring into force the laws , regulations and administrative provisions necessary to comply with this directive before . . . * . they shall forthwith communicate to the commission the text of those provisions and a correlation table between those provisions and this directive . _______________ *oj : please insert the date 2 years after the entry into force of this directive .


### the programme should particularly address smes , as defined in commission recommendation 2003 / 361 / ec of 6 may 2003 concerning the definition of micro , small and medium - sized enterprises . particular attention should be paid to micro enterprises , enterprises engaged in craft activities and social enterprises . attention should also be paid to the specific characteristics and requirements of young entrepreneurs , new and potential entrepreneurs and female entrepreneurs , as well as specific target groups , such as migrants and entrepreneurs belonging to socially disadvantaged or vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities . the programme should also encourage senior citizens to become and remain entrepreneurs and promote second chances for entrepreneurs . ### the programme should particularly address smes , as defined in commission recommendation 2003 / 361 / ec of 6 may 2003 concerning the definition of micro , small and medium - sized enterprises . when implementing the programme , the commission should closely involve relevant stakeholders , in particular sme representative organisations , using existing structures to the greatest extent possible . particular attention should be paid to micro enterprises , enterprises engaged in craft activities , the self - employed , liberal professions and social enterprises . attention should also be paid to the specific characteristics and requirements of young entrepreneurs , new and potential entrepreneurs and female entrepreneurs .


### many of the union ' s competitiveness problems involve smes ' difficulties in getting access to finance because they struggle to demonstrate their credit - worthiness and have difficulties in gaining access to risk capital . this has a negative effect on the level and quality of the new enterprises created and on the growth of enterprises . the added value for the union of the proposed financial instruments lies inter alia in strengthening the single market for venture capital and in developing a pan - european sme finance market . the union ' s actions should be complementary to the member states ' use of financial instruments for smes . the entities entrusted with the implementation of the actions should ensure additionality and avoid double financing through eu resources . ### many of the union ' s competitiveness problems involve smes ' difficulties in getting access to finance because they struggle to demonstrate their credit - worthiness and have difficulties in gaining access to risk capital . this has a negative effect on the level and quality of the new enterprises created and on the growth and survival rate of enterprises . the added value for the union of the proposed financial instruments lies inter alia in strengthening the single market for venture capital , in developing a pan - european sme finance market and in addressing market failures that cannot be addressed by member states . the union ' s actions should be complementary to the member states ' use of financial instruments for smes . the entities entrusted with the implementation of the actions should ensure additionality and avoid double financing through eu resources . the programme should promote access to finance for smes in their start - up , growth and transfer phases .


### the agreement on the european economic area and protocols to association agreements provide for the participation of the countries concerned in union programmes . participation by other third countries should be possible when agreements and procedures so indicate . ### the agreement on the european economic area and protocols to association agreements provide for the participation of the countries concerned in union programmes . participation by other third countries should be possible when agreements and procedures so indicate . participation in the programme should also be open to entities established in other third countries , but they should in principle not receive financial contributions from the union .


### the financial envelope established under this regulation may also cover expenses pertaining to preparatory , monitoring , control , audit and evaluation activities which are required for the management of the programme and the achievement of its objectives ; in particular , studies , meetings of experts , information and communication actions , including corporate communication of the political priorities of the union as far as they are related to the general objectives of the programme , expenses linked to it networks focusing on information processing and exchange , together with all other technical and administrative assistance expenses incurred by the commission for the management of the programme . ### the financial envelope established under this regulation may also cover expenses pertaining to preparatory , monitoring , control , audit and evaluation activities which are required for the management of the programme and the achievement of its objectives , in particular : - studies , - meetings of experts , - information and communication actions , including corporate communication of the political priorities of the union as far as they are related to the general objectives of the programme , - expenses linked to it networks focusing on information processing and exchange , - other technical and administrative assistance expenses incurred by the commission for the management of the programme .


### entities established in countries referred to in paragraph 1 , in case the conditions established in that paragraph are not fulfilled or when those countries decide not to join the programme , or entities established in other third countries may participate in actions under the programme . ### an entity established in a country referred to in paragraph 1 may participate in parts of the programme where that country participates under the conditions laid out in the respective agreements described in paragraph 1 .


### the commission shall support actions which aim to improve access to finance for smes in their start - up and growth phases , being complementary to the member states ' use of financial instruments for smes at national and regional level . in order to ensure complementarity , these actions will be closely coordinated with those undertaken in the framework of cohesion policy and at national level . such actions shall aim to stimulate the supply of both equity and debt finance . ### the commission shall support actions which aim to improve access to finance for smes in their start - up , growth and transfer phases , being complementary to the member states ' use of financial instruments for smes at national , regional and local level . in order to ensure complementarity , these actions will be closely coordinated with those undertaken in the framework of cohesion policy , horizon 2020 and at national , regional or local level . such actions shall aim to stimulate the supply of both equity and debt finance .


### as part of the actions referred to in paragraph 1 , the commission shall develop measures , subject to market demand , to improve cross - border and multi - country financing , thereby assisting smes to internationalise their activities in compliance with union law . ### as part of the actions referred to in paragraph 1 , the commission shall develop measures , subject to market demand , to improve cross - border and multi - country financing , thereby assisting smes to internationalise their activities in compliance with union law . the commission may also examine the possibility of developing other innovative financial instruments subject to market demand and in consultation with relevant stakeholders , including sme representative organisations .


### in order to implement the programme , the commission shall adopt an annual work programme in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 16 . the annual work programmes shall set out the objectives pursued , the expected results , the method of implementation and their total amount . they shall also contain a description of the actions to be financed , an indication of the amount allocated to each action and an indicative implementation timetable , as well as appropriate indicators for monitoring effectiveness in delivering outcomes and achievements of the objectives . they shall include for grants the priorities , the essential evaluation criteria and the maximum rate of co - financing . ### in order to implement the programme , the commission shall adopt an annual work programme in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 16 . the annual work programmes shall set out the objectives pursued , on the basis of prior consultation of the relevant stakeholders , including sme representative organisations . the annual work programmes shall also include the expected results , the method of implementation and their total amount . they shall also contain a description of the actions to be financed , an indication of the amount allocated to each action and an indicative implementation timetable , as well as appropriate indicators for monitoring effectiveness in delivering outcomes and achievements of the objectives . they shall include for grants the priorities , the essential evaluation criteria and the maximum rate of co - financing .


### the identification of good practices and policy approaches , and their further development ; ### the identification and dissemination of good practices and policy approaches , and their further development ;


### impact assessments of union measures of particular relevance for the competitiveness of enterprises , with a view to identifying areas of existing legislation that need to be simplified , or areas in which new legislative measures need to be proposed ; ### systematic impact assessments of union measures of relevance for the competitiveness of enterprises , in particular smes , with special attention being paid to micro - enterprises , with a view to identifying areas of existing legislation that need to be simplified , or areas in which new legislative measures need to be proposed ;


### the commission shall draw up an annual monitoring report examining the efficiency and effectiveness of supported actions in terms of financial implementation , results and , where possible , impact . the report shall include information on the amount of climate - related expenditure and the impact of support to climate - change objectives to the extent that the collection of this information does not create unjustified administrative burden for smes . ### the commission shall draw up an annual monitoring report examining the efficiency and effectiveness of supported actions in terms of financial implementation , results and , where possible , impact . the report shall include basic information on grant beneficiaries and anonymised basic information on grant applicants , if available . the report shall also include information on the amount of climate - related expenditure and the impact of support to climate - change objectives to the extent that the collection of this information does not create unjustified administrative burden for smes .


### an evaluation report shall be established on the longer - term impacts and the sustainability of effects of the measures to feed into a decision on a possible renewal , modification or suspension of a subsequent measure . ### an ex - post evaluation report shall be established on the longer - term impacts and the sustainability of effects of the measures .


### promotion of human rights and fundamental freedoms , the rule of law , principles of equality , establish deep and sustainable democracy , promote good governance and developing a thriving civil society including social partners ; ### promotion of human rights , fundamental freedoms , the rule of law and principles of social justice and equality , establish deep and sustainable democracy , promote good governance and developing a thriving civil society including social partners ;


### achieving progressive integration into union the eu internal market and enhanced sector and cross - sectoral co - operation , including through legislative approximation and regulatory convergence towards union and other relevant international standards , related institution building and investments , notably in interconnections ; ### achieving progressive integration into union the eu internal market and enhanced sector and cross - sectoral co - operation , including through social investment , legislative approximation and regulatory convergence towards union and other relevant international standards , related institution building and investments , notably in interconnections ;


### promoting confidence building and other measures contributing to security and the prevention and settlement of conflicts ; ### promoting cultural , ethnic and religious awareness and tolerance , confidence building and other measures contributing to security and the prevention and settlement of conflicts ;


### without prejudice to the provisions on the suspension of aid in partnership and cooperation agreements and association agreements with partner countries and regions , where a partner country fails to observe the principles of democracy , the rule of law and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms , the union shall invite the country concerned to hold consultations in view of finding a solution acceptable to both parties , except in cases of special urgency . where consultation with the country concerned does not lead to a solution acceptable to both parties , or if consultations are refused or in case of special urgency , the council may take appropriate measures in accordance with article 215 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union , which may include full or partial suspension of union support . ### without prejudice to the provisions on the suspension of aid in partnership and cooperation agreements and association agreements with partner countries and regions , where a partner country fails to observe the principles of democracy , the rule of law and respect for human rights , fundamental freedoms and social justice , the union shall invite the country concerned to hold consultations in view of finding a solution acceptable to both parties , except in cases of special urgency . where consultation with the country concerned does not lead to a solution acceptable to both parties , or if consultations are refused or in case of special urgency , the council may take appropriate measures in accordance with article 215 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union , which may include full or partial suspension of union support .


### it is important for all stakeholders to establish a clear relation between this regulation and directive 2006 / 42 / ec on the safety of machinery34 , in order to clearly establish which requirements a specific product needs to fulfil . ### it is important for all stakeholders to establish a clear relation between this regulation and directive 2006 / 42 / ec on the safety of machinery34 , in order to avoid overlapping and clearly establish which requirements a specific product needs to fulfil .


### food labels should be clear and understandable to assist consumers wanting to make better - informed food and dietary choices . studies show that legibility is an important element in maximising the possibility that labelled information can influence its audience and that the small print size is one of the main causes of consumer dissatisfaction with food labels . ### food labels should be clear and understandable to assist consumers to make targeted food and dietary choices . studies show that legibility is an important element in maximising the possibility that labelled information can influence its audience and that the small print size is one of the main causes of consumer dissatisfaction with food labels .


### the nutrition declaration on a food concerns information on the presence of energy and certain nutrients in foods . the mandatory provision of nutrition information should assist action in the area of nutrition education for the public and support informed food choice . ### the nutrition declaration on a food concerns information on the presence of energy and certain nutrients in foods . the mandatory provision of nutrition information on the front and back of the packaging should be supported by actions by member states such as a nutritional action plan as part of their public health policy , which will provide specific recommendations for nutrition education for the public and support informed food choice .


### the commission white paper on a strategy for europe on nutrition , overweight and obesity related health issues highlighted certain nutritional elements of importance to public health . therefore , it is appropriate that the requirements on the mandatory provision of nutrition information should take into account such elements . ### the commission white paper on a strategy for europe on nutrition , overweight and obesity related health issues highlighted certain nutritional elements of importance to public health . therefore , it is appropriate that the requirements on the mandatory provision of nutrition information are in line with the recommendations of that white paper .


### when food information law establishes new requirements , consideration shall be given to the need for a transitory period after the entry into force of the new requirements , during which foods bearing labels not complying with the new requirements can be placed on the market and for stocks of such foods that have been placed on the market before the end of the transitory period to continue to be sold until exhausted . ### when food information law establishes new requirements , consideration shall be given to the need for a transitory period after the entry into force of the new requirements , during which foods bearing labels not complying with the new requirements can be placed on the market and for stocks of such foods that have been placed on the market before the end of the transitory period to continue to be sold until exhausted . new food labelling rules shall be introduced according to a standard date of implementation to be set by the commission after consulting member states and interest representatives .


### without prejudice to paragraphs 3 and 4 , food business operators , within the businesses under their control , shall ensure compliance with the requirements of food information law which are relevant to their activities and shall verify that such requirements are met . ### the person responsible for food information shall ensure the presence and substantive accuracy of the particulars given .


### food business operators placing on the market for the first time a food intended for supply to the final consumer or mass caterer shall ensure the presence and accuracy of the food information in accordance with the applicable food information law . ### to the extent that their activities affect the food information within the business under their control , food business operators shall ensure that the information provided satisfies the requirements of this regulation .


### mandatory food information shall be available before the purchase is concluded and shall appear on the material supporting the distance selling or be provided through other appropriate means ; ### the food information stipulated in articles 9 and 29 shall be available at the request of consumers before the purchase is concluded and may appear on the material supporting the distance selling or be provided through other appropriate means .


### in the case of packaging or containers the largest surface of which has an area of less than 10 cm2 only the particulars listed in article 9 , , and shall be mandatory on the package or on the label . the particulars referred to in article 9 shall be provided through other means or shall be available at the request of the consumer . ### in the case of packaging or containers the largest printable surface of which has an area of less than 80 cm2 only the particulars listed in article 9 , , and and article 29 shall be mandatory on the package or on the label . provision of further particulars on the package shall be possible on a voluntary basis . the particulars referred to in article 9 shall be provided through other means or shall be available at the request of the consumer .


### the amount of energy and nutrients referred to in paragraph 1 shall be expressed per 100 g or per 100 ml or , subject to article 32 and , per portion . ### the amount of energy and nutrients referred to in paragraph 1 shall be expressed per 100g or per 100ml . in addition , the amount of energy and nutrients may be expressed per portion . if the food is prepacked as an individual portion , the energy and nutrition values referred to in paragraph 1 shall also be indicated . if information is provided per portion , the number of portions which the package contains shall be indicated , the portion size shall be realistic and the information shall be presented or explained in a manner which is comprehensible to the average consumer .


### the amount of energy and nutrients referred to in paragraph 1 shall be expressed per 100 g or per 100 ml or , subject to article 32 and , per portion . ### the amount of energy and nutrients referred to in paragraph 1 shall be expressed per 100 g or per 100 ml or , subject to article 32 and , per portion . in addition , the amount of energy and nutrients may be expressed per portion . if the food is prepacked as an individual portion , the energy and nutrition values referred to in paragraph 1 shall also be indicated . if information is provided per portion , the number of portions which the package contains shall be indicated , the portion size must be realistic and the information shall be presented or explained in a manner which is comprehensible to the average consumer . in cooperation with food enterprises and the competent authorities of the member states , the commission shall develop guidelines for the indication of realistic portion sizes . such measures , designed to amend non - essential elements of this regulation , shall be adopted in accordance with the regulatory procedure with scrutiny referred to in article 49 .


### border control at internal borders may only be reintroduced in accordance with the procedures foreseen in articles 24 , 25 and 26 of this regulation . the criteria listed in article 23a must be taken into account in each case where a decision on the reintroduction of border control at internal borders is contemplated . ### border control at internal borders may only be reintroduced in accordance with the procedures foreseen in articles 24 , 25 and 26 of this regulation . the criteria listed in article 23a must be applied in each case where a decision on the reintroduction of border control at internal borders is contemplated .


### if the serious threat to public policy or internal security at the union or national level persists beyond the period provided for in paragraph 1 , border control at internal borders may , taking account of the criteria listed in article 23a , be prolonged on the same grounds as those referred to in paragraph 1 and , taking into account any new elements , for renewable periods of up to 30 days . ### if the serious threat to public policy or internal security at the union or national level persists beyond the period provided for in paragraph 1 , border control at internal borders may , taking account of the criteria listed in article 23a , be prolonged on the same grounds as those referred to in paragraph 1 and , taking into account any new relevant elements , for renewable periods of up to 30 days .


### article 29 report on the reintroduction of border control at internal borders at the latest four weeks after the lifting of border control at internal borders , the member state which has carried out border control at internal borders shall present a report to the european parliament , the council and the commission on the reintroduction of border control at internal borders , outlining , in particular , the operation of the checks and the effectiveness of the reintroduction of border control at internal borders . ### article 29 accountability in order to enhance the dialogue between the european parliament , the council and the commission , and to ensure greater transparency and accountability at the latest four weeks after the lifting of border control at internal borders , the member state which has carried out border control shall present a report to the european parliament , the council and the commission on the reintroduction of border control at internal borders , outlining , in particular , the operation of the checks , the effectiveness of the reintroduction of border control at internal borders and the proportionality of the measures taken . 2 . the commission shall present to the european parliament and to the council an annual report on the functioning of the area without internal border controls . the report shall include a list of all decisions to reintroduce controls at internal borders taken during the year covered . 3 . the representatives of the member states which have reintroduced internal border controls referred to in paragraph 1 shall be invited to the presentation of the report referred to in paragraph 2 .


### in duly justified circumstances and to ensure the coherence and effectiveness of union financing or to foster regional or trans - regional cooperation , the commission may decide to extend the eligibility of actions to countries , territories and regions which otherwise would not be eligible for financing . notwithstanding the provisions of article 8 of the common implementing regulation , natural and legal persons from countries , territories and regions concerned may participate in the procedures implementing such actions . ### in duly justified circumstances and to ensure the coherence and effectiveness of union financing or to foster regional or trans - regional cooperation , it may be decided to extend the eligibility of actions to countries , territories and regions which otherwise would not be eligible for financing . the decision shall be taken by the commission through a delegated act in accordance with article 14 . notwithstanding the provisions of article 8 of the common implementing regulation , natural and legal persons from countries , territories and regions concerned may participate in the procedures implementing such actions .


### the scope of the common fisheries policy extends to conservation , management and exploitation of marine biological resources . in addition , the common fisheries policy’s scope extends in relation to market measures and financial measures in support of its objectives , to fresh water biological resources and aquaculture , as well as to the processing and marketing of fishery and aquaculture products , where such activities take place on the territory of member states , or in union waters , including by fishing vessels flying the flag of , and registered in , third countries , or by union fishing vessels , or by nationals of member states , without prejudice to the primary responsibility of the flag state , bearing in mind the provisions of article 117 of the united nations convention on the law of the sea . ### the scope of the common fisheries policy extends to conservation , sustainable management of marine biological resources , and the minimisation of impacts caused to the marine environment . in addition , the common fisheries policy’s scope extends in relation to market measures and financial measures in support of its objectives , to fresh water biological resources and aquaculture , as well as to the processing and marketing of fishery and aquaculture products , where such activities take place on the territory of member states , or in union waters , including by fishing vessels flying the flag of , and registered in , third countries , or by union fishing vessels , or by nationals of member states , without prejudice to the primary responsibility of the flag state , bearing in mind the provisions of article 117 of the united nations convention on the law of the sea .


### the common fisheries policy should ensure that fishing and aquaculture activities contribute to long - term sustainable environmental , economic , and social conditions . it should contribute moreover to increased productivity , a fair standard of living for the fisheries sector , stable markets , ensure the availability of resources and that supplies reach consumers at reasonable prices . ### the common fisheries policy should ensure that fishing and aquaculture activities contribute to long - term sustainable environmental , economic , and social stability . it should contribute moreover to increased productivity , the delivery of food security , a fair standard of living for the fisheries sector , decent working conditions for those working in the sector , stable markets , ensure the availability of resources and that supplies reach consumers at reasonable prices .


### multi - annual plans should where possible cover multiple stocks where those stocks are jointly exploited . the multiannual plans should establish the basis for fixing fishing opportunities and quantifiable targets for the sustainable exploitation of stocks and marine ecosystems concerned , defining clear timeframes and safeguard mechanisms for unforeseen developments . ### multi - annual plans should where possible cover either fisheries exploiting single fish stocks or fisheries exploiting a mixture of stocks . the multiannual plans should establish the basis for fixing fishing opportunities in compliance with the best available scientific advice , quantifiable targets for the sustainable management of stocks and marine ecosystems concerned , defining clear timeframes and safeguard mechanisms for unforeseen developments . the multiannual plans should include an assessment of the balance between fleet capacity and available fishing opportunities .


### measures are needed to reduce and eliminate the current high levels of unwanted catches and discards . indeed , unwanted catches and discards constitute a substantial waste and affect negatively the sustainable exploitation of marine biological resources and marine ecosystems as well as the financial viability of fisheries . an obligation to land all catches of managed stocks caught during fishing activities in union waters or by union fishing vessels should be established and gradually implemented . ### workable and realistic measures are needed to reduce and eliminate the current high levels of unwanted catches and discards . unfortunately , previous legislation has often obliged fishermen to discard valuable resources . discards constitute a substantial waste and affect negatively the sustainable exploitation of marine biological resources and marine ecosystems as well as the financial viability of fisheries . an obligation to land all catches of managed stocks caught during fishing activities in union waters or by union fishing vessels should be established and gradually implemented on a fishery by fishery basis .


### for stocks for which no multi - annual plan has been established , exploitation rates delivering maximum sustainable yield should be ensured by setting catch and / or fishing effort limits . ### for stocks for which no multi - annual plan has been established , catch and fishing effort limits should be set to ensure that the exploitation rates do not compromise the objective to restore and maintain population of harvested species above levels which can produce the maximum sustainable yield by 2015 .


### the union should promote the objectives of the common fisheries policy internationally . to this end , the union should strive to improve the performance of regional and international organisations in conservation and management of international fish stocks , by promoting decision - making based on science and improved compliance , increased transparency and stakeholder participation , and by combating illegal , unreported and unregulated fishing activities . ### the union should promote the objectives of the common fisheries policy internationally . to this end , the union should strive to improve the performance of regional and international organisations in conservation and sustainable management of international fish stocks , by promoting decision - making based on science and improved compliance , increased transparency and stakeholder participation , and by combating illegal , unreported and unregulated fishing activities .


### sustainable fisheries agreements concluded with third countries should ensure that union fishing activities in third country waters are based on the best available scientific advice , ensuring a sustainable exploitation of the marine biological resources . those agreements , which provide for access rights in exchange for a financial contribution from the union , should contribute to the establishment of a high quality governance framework to ensure in particular efficient monitoring , control and surveillance measures . ### sustainable fisheries agreements concluded with third countries should ensure that union fishing activities in third country waters are based on the best available scientific advice , ensuring a sustainable exploitation of the marine biological resources . those agreements , which provide for access rights in exchange for a financial contribution from the union , should contribute to data collection on stocks and current fishing pressure and to the establishment of a high quality governance framework to ensure in particular efficient monitoring , control and surveillance measures .


### aquaculture should contribute to the preservation of the food production potential on a sustainable basis throughout the union so as to guarantee long - term food security for european citizens and to contribute to the growing world aquatic food demand . ### aquaculture should contribute to the preservation of the food production potential on a sustainable basis throughout the union so as to guarantee long - term food security for european citizens and to contribute to the growing world aquatic food demand . aquaculture should not increase the fishing pressure on wild stocks and should be subjected to environmental impact assessment prior to any expansion .


### union financial assistance should be made conditional upon compliance by member states and operators with the common fisheries policy . thus such financial assistance should be interrupted , suspended or corrected in cases of non - compliance with the rules of common fisheries policy by member states and serious infringements of those rules by operators . ### union financial assistance should be made conditional upon compliance by member states and operators with the common fisheries policy . thus such financial assistance should be interrupted , suspended and corrected in cases of non - compliance with the rules of common fisheries policy by member states and serious infringements of those rules by operators .


### general objectives ### objectives


### specific objectives ### objectives


### establishment of measures in accordance with the best available scientific advice ; ### establishment of measures in accordance with the available scientific advice and step - by - step criteria for discards and maximum sustainable yields ;


### – ‘ maximum sustainable yield’ means the maximum catch that may be taken from a fish stock indefinitely ; ### – ‘ maximum sustainable yield’ means the maximum catch that may be taken from a fish stock with the minimum risk to stock sustainability ;


### – ‘ fishing capacity’ means a vessel’s tonnage in gt and its power in kw as defined in articles 4 and 5 of council regulation no 2930 / 86 ; ### – ‘ fishing capacity’ means the ability of a vessel to catch fish . indicators that can be used to quantify fishing capacity are vessel characteristics , including a vessel’s tonnage in gt and its power in kw as defined in articles 4 and 5 of council regulation no 2930 / 86 , the fishing gear and fishing technique it employs and the number of days spent at fishing ;


### measures for the conservation of marine biological resources ### measures for the conservation and sustainable exploitation of marine biological resources


### measures for the conservation of marine biological resources may include the following : adopting multiannual plans under articles 9 - 11 establishing targets for the sustainable exploitation of stocks ; adopting measures for the purpose of adapting the number of fishing vessels and / or types of fishing vessels to available fishing opportunities ; establishing incentives , including those of an economic nature , to promote more selective or low impact fishing ; fixing fishing opportunities ; adopting technical measures as referred to in article 14 ; adopting measures concerning the obligation to land all catches ; conducting pilot projects on alternative types of fishing management techniques . ### measures for the conservation , sustainable management and exploitation of marine biological resources shall include some or all of the following : adopting multiannual plans under articles 9 - 11 establishing targets for the sustainable exploitation of stocks ; adopting measures to contribute to achieving good environmental status by 2020 at the latest as set out in directive 2008 / 56 / ec ; adopting measures to contribute to member states’ implementation of directive 92 / 43 / eec and directive 2009 / 147 / ec ; establishing marine and fisheries reserves . adopting measures for the purpose of adapting the number of fishing vessels and / or the quantity of gear deployed and / or types of fishing vessels to available fishing opportunities ; adopting measures for the purpose of restricting or imposing conditions on the exercise of certain fishing activities d ) establishing incentives , including those of an economic nature and in the form of access to fishing opportunities , to promote more selective or low impact fishing , more environmentally sustainable methods of fishing , or to encourage compliance with regulatory requirements ; fixing fishing opportunities ; establishing conservation reference sizes ; adopting technical measures as referred to in article 14 ; g ) adopting measures concerning the obligation to land all catches and measures to reduce and eliminate by - catch ; conducting pilot projects on alternative types of fishing management techniques ; setting targets and providing incentives for measures to improve the marine environment and to increase the health of fish stocks .


### fishing opportunities allocated to member states shall ensure each member state relative stability of fishing activities for each fish stock or fishery . the interests of each member state shall be taken into account when new fishing opportunities are allocated . 2 . by - catch fishing opportunities may be reserved under the total fishing opportunities . 3 . fishing opportunities shall comply with quantifiable targets , time frames and margins established in accordance with article 9 and 11 , and . 4 . member states may , after notifying the commission , exchange all or part of the fishing opportunities allocated to them . ### - 1 . the council , acting on a proposal from the commission under article 43 tfeu , shall decide on fishing opportunities and on the allocation of those fishing opportunities among member states . the commission proposal and council decision shall comply fully with article 4 . such fishing opportunities shall not provide for catches of any species to exceed in any one year , or part of a year , the level necessary to achieve the objective set out in article 10 . fishing opportunities allocated to member states shall ensure each member state relative stability of fishing activities for each fish stock or fishery . the interests of each member state shall be taken into account when new fishing opportunities are allocated in the context of achieving the objective set out in articles 2 and 3 , and applying the good governance principles set out in article 4 . 2 . by - catch fishing opportunities may be reserved under the total fishing opportunities . 3 . fishing opportunities shall not exceed the level specified in the scientific advice and shall comply with the objectives set out in articles 2 and 3 and the good governance principles set out in article 4 , as well as with quantifiable targets , time frames and margins established in accordance with article 9 and 11 , and . 3a . member states shall be responsible for apportioning their allocated fishing opportunities between different segments of their fishing fleets , and , in determining priorities , member states may take into account social and environmental factors including the potential benefits to be derived from increasing the share in which small - scale and low impact fishing is practiced . 4 . member states may , after notifying the commission , exchange all or part of the fishing opportunities allocated to them .


### fishing opportunities shall comply with quantifiable targets , time frames and margins established in accordance with article 9 and 11 , and . ### fishing opportunities shall comply with quantifiable targets , time frames and margins established in accordance with article 9 and 11 and .


### are compatible with the objectives set out in articles 2 and 3 ; ### are compatible with the objectives set out in this regulation ;


### are no less stringent than those existing in union legislation . ### are at least as stringent as those existing in union legislation .


### member states adopting conservation measures pursuant to article 17 shall notify the commission , other interested member states and relevant advisory councils of such measures . ### member states adopting conservation measures shall do so in cooperation with the competent regional authorities and the relevant racs , this being the best means of ensuring that such measures are tailored to the specific features of each fishing ground , the various types of fishing practised and the needs of each area or region . they shall notify the commission and other interested member states in accordance with the provisions of this regulation .


### where conservation and management measures to be adopted by a member state are liable to affect fishing vessels of other member states , such measures shall be adopted only after consulting the commission , the relevant member states and relevant advisory councils on a draft of the measures accompanied by an explanatory memorandum . ### where conservation and management measures to be adopted by a member state are liable to affect fishing vessels of other member states , such measures shall be adopted only after notifying the commission , the relevant member states and relevant advisory councils of the measures accompanied by an explanatory memorandum that also demonstrates that they are non - discriminatory .


### member states shall record the information on characteristics and activity for union fishing vessels flying their flag that is necessary for the management of measures established under this regulation . ### member states shall cooperate with the regional authorities and the racs concerned so as to gather all relevant data and to record the information on characteristics and activity for union fishing vessels flying their flag that is necessary for the management of measures established under this regulation .


### member states shall collect biological , technical , environmental and socio - economic data necessary for ecosystem based fisheries management , manage them and make them available to end users of scientific data , including bodies designated by the commission . those data shall in particular enable the assessment of : ### member states shall collect biological , technical , environmental and socio - economic data , paying due account to regionalisation criteria , necessary for ecosystem based fisheries management , manage them and make them available to regional authorities and end users of scientific data , including bodies designated by the commission . those data shall in particular enable the assessment of :


### the state of exploited marine biological resources , ### the current state of exploited marine biological resources ,


### the socio - economic performance of the fisheries , aquaculture and processing sectors within and outside union waters . ### the current socio - economic performance of the fisheries , aquaculture and processing sectors within and outside union waters .


### avoid duplication of data collection for different purposes ; ### set up coordination mechanisms with a view to avoiding duplication of data collection for different purposes ;


### ensure that the commission , or bodies designated by it , have access to the national databases and systems used for processing the collected data for the purpose of verification of the existence and quality of the data . ### forward to the commission , or bodies designated by it , the collected data , verify its existence and quality and process it in a harmonised manner .


### member states shall ensure the national coordination of the collection and management of scientific data for fisheries management . to this end , they shall designate a national correspondent and organize an annual national coordination meeting . the commission shall be informed of the national coordination activities and be invited to the coordination meetings . ### member states shall ensure the national coordination of the collection and management of scientific and socio - economic data for fisheries management . regionalisation criteria will be introduced into national planning for data collection and management , thereby encouraging the involvement of regional authorities . the involvement of both the fisheries sector and local research centres in the collection of scientific data will be encouraged . to this end , they shall designate a national correspondent and organise an annual national coordination meeting . the commission shall be informed of the national coordination activities and be invited to the coordination meetings .


### member states shall coordinate their data collection activities with other member states in the same region , and make every effort to coordinate their actions with third countries having sovereignty or jurisdiction over waters in the same region . ### the commission shall ensure that data collection activities carried out by different member states in the same region are coordinated , and make every effort to coordinate their actions with third countries having sovereignty or jurisdiction over waters in the same region .


### the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 55 , to specify the targets for the precision of the data to be collected and to define the aggregation levels for the collection , management and use of such data , for the multi - annual programme referred to in paragraph 5 . ### the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 55 , to specify the targets for the precision of the data to be collected and to define the aggregation levels for the collection , management and use of such data , for the multi - annual programme referred to in paragraph 5 , and to ensure the coordination between member states of data collection and its presentation .


### sustainable fisheries agreements with third countries shall establish a legal , economic and environmental governance framework for fishing activities carried out by union fishing vessels in third country waters . ### sustainable fisheries agreements with third countries shall establish a legal , economic , social and environmental governance framework for fishing activities carried out by union flagged and / or owned fishing vessels in third country waters . sustainable fisheries agreements must be in line with international obligations and policy objectives and consistent with articles 2 , 3 and 4 .


### multiannual national strategic plans shall aim in particular at the following : administrative simplification , in particular regarding licenses ; certainty for aquaculture operators in relation to access to waters and space ; indicators for environmental , economic and social sustainability ; assessment of other possible cross - bordering effects on neighbouring member states . ### multiannual national strategic plans shall specifically address the following : administrative simplification , in particular regarding licenses ; certainty for aquaculture operators in relation to access to waters and space ; indicators for quality and environmental , economic and social sustainability ; measures to ensure that aquaculture activities are in full compliance with existing union environmental legislation ; guarantee the use of sustainable feeds ; assessment of other possible cross - bordering effects on marine biological resources and marine ecosystems on neighbouring member states .


### multiannual national strategic plans shall aim in particular at the following : ### multiannual regional and national strategic plans shall aim in particular at the following :


### union financial assistance towards operators shall be conditional upon compliance with the rules of the common fisheries policy by operators . ### union financial assistance towards operators , vessel owners and fishermen shall be conditional upon compliance with the rules and objectives of the common fisheries policy by operators .


### advisory councils may : ### advisory councils :


### submit recommendations and suggestions on matters relating to fisheries management and aquaculture to the commission or to the member state concerned ; ### shall submit recommendations and suggestions on matters relating to fisheries management and aquaculture to the commission or to the member state concerned .


### inform the commission and member states of problems relating to fisheries management and aquaculture in their area of competence ; ### shall inform the commission and member states of problems relating to fisheries management and aquaculture in their area of competence ;


### contribute , in close cooperation with scientists , to the collection , supply and analysis of data necessary for the development of conservation measures . ### shall contribute , in close cooperation with scientists , to the collection , supply and analysis of data necessary for the development of conservation measures .


### advisory councils may apply for union financial assistance as bodies pursuing an aim of general european interest . ### advisory councils may apply for union financial assistance under the emff covering both administrative technical and scientific costs associated with carrying out studies to underpin their recommendations .


### notwithstanding article 57 , regulation no 199 / 2008 shall continue to apply to the national programmes adopted for the collection and management of data for the years 2011 - 2013 . ### notwithstanding article 57 , regulation no 199 / 2008 shall continue to apply to the national programmes adopted for the collection and management of data until such time as the entry into force of new measures to establish a union framework for the collection , management and use of data in the fisheries sector .


### it is important to improve consumer protection . to achieve this general objective , specific objectives should be set as regards safety , consumer information and education , rights and redress as well as enforcement in respect of consumer rights . the value and impact of the measures taken under the programme should regularly be monitored and evaluated . for the purposes of evaluating consumer policy indicators should be developed . ### it is important to improve consumer protection . to achieve this general objective , specific objectives should be set as regards safety , consumer information and education , rights and redress as well as enforcement in respect of consumer rights . the value and impact of the measures taken under the programme should regularly be monitored and evaluated and the benefits of simplification , smart regulation and the minimising of cost for consumers and administrative burdens for smes should always be taken into consideration . for the purposes of evaluating consumer policy indicators should be developed .


### objective 3 - rights and redress : to consolidate consumer rights in particular through regulatory action and improving access to redress including alternative dispute resolution . this objective will be measured in particular through the recourse to alternative dispute resolution to solve cross - border disputes and through the activity of a union - wide on - line dispute resolution system . ### objective 3 - rights and redress : to consolidate consumer rights in particular through smart regulatory action and improving access to affordable redress including alternative dispute resolution . this objective will be measured in particular through the recourse to alternative dispute resolution to solve domestic and cross - border disputes and through the activity of a union - wide on - line dispute resolution system .


### objective 4 - enforcement : to support enforcement of consumer rights by strengthening cooperation between national enforcement bodies and by supporting consumers with advice . this objective will be measured in particular through the level of information flow and cooperation within the consumer protection cooperation network and the activity of the european consumer centres . ### objective 4 - enforcement : to support enforcement of consumer rights by strengthening cooperation between national enforcement bodies and with third countries and by supporting consumers with advice . this objective will be measured in particular through the level of information flow and cooperation within the consumer protection cooperation network and the activity of the european consumer centres as well as the level of cooperation with international organisations .


### preparation , transposition assessment , monitoring , evaluation , implementation and enforcement by member states of consumer protection legislative and other regulatory initiatives and the promotion of co - regulatory and self - regulatory initiatives , including studies , ex ante and ex - post evaluations , impact assessments , public consultations , evaluation of existing legislation ; seminars , conferences , workshops and meetings of stakeholders and experts ; development and maintenance of easily and publicly accessible databases covering the implementation of union legislation on consumer protection ; evaluation of actions undertaken under the programme . ### preparation , transposition assessment , monitoring , evaluation , implementation and enforcement by member states of consumer protection legislative and other regulatory initiatives and the promotion of co - regulatory and self - regulatory initiatives , including studies and smart regulation activities such as ex ante and ex - post evaluations , impact assessments , public consultations , evaluation and simplification of existing legislation ; seminars , conferences , workshops and meetings of stakeholders and experts ; development and maintenance of easily and publicly accessible databases covering the implementation of union legislation on consumer protection ; the promotion of action that benefits consumer protection in order to reduce the administrative burdens on smes ; evaluation of actions undertaken under the programme .


### administrative and enforcement cooperation with third countries which are not participating in the programme . ### administrative and enforcement cooperation with third countries which are not participating in the programme and with international organisations .


### science can contribute to addressing these challenges and finding solutions to the environmental problems in the baltic sea . however , the gravity of the present situation calls for a qualitative and quantitative stepping up of current research in the baltic region through the development and implementation of a fully - integrated approach whereby the relevant research programmes of all the bordering states can be streamlined and focused in order to address the complex and urgent issues in a coordinated , efficient and effective manner . ### science must contribute to addressing these challenges and finding solutions to the urgent environmental problems in the baltic sea . however , the gravity of the present situation calls for a qualitative and quantitative stepping up of current research in the baltic region through the development and implementation of a fully - integrated approach whereby the relevant research programmes of all the bordering states can be streamlined and focused in order to address the complex and urgent issues in a coordinated , efficient and effective manner .


### at the end of the strategic phase , the commission , assisted by independent expert should evaluate the maturity and the readiness of the initiative to enter the implementation phase . ### at the end of the strategic phase , the commission , assisted by independent experts , should assess the quality of the strategic phase and , if appropriate , suggest improvements . the transition to the implementation phase should be seamless and without unnecessary delays .


### in order to efficiently implement bonus - 169 , during the implementation phase , financial support should be granted to participants in bonus - 169 projects selected at the central level under the responsibility of the bonus eeig following calls for proposals . ### in order to efficiently implement bonus , during the implementation phase , financial support should be granted to participants in bonus projects selected at the central level under the responsibility of the bonus eeig following calls for proposals . the grant of such financial support to participants in bonus and its payment should be transparent and unbureaucratic .


### it is essential that the research activities carried out under bonus - 169 conform to basic ethical principles , including those reflected in article 6 of the treaty on the european union and in the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , and follow the principles of gender mainstreaming and gender equality . ### it is essential that the research activities carried out under bonus conform to ethical principles in accordance with the general principles laid down in the seventh framework programme , and follow the principles of gender mainstreaming , gender equality and sustainable development .


### the implementation phase shall last for a minimum of five years . during the implementation phase at least three calls for proposals shall be published with a view to funding projects which address the objectives of the bonus - 169 . these calls shall be targeted at multi - partner and trans - national projects , and include research , technological development , training and dissemination activities . projects shall be selected according to the principles of equal treatment , transparency , independent evaluation , co - financing , no - profit , financing not cumulated with other community sources , as well as the principle of non - retroactivity . ### the implementation phase shall last for a minimum of five years . during the implementation phase the calls for proposals shall be published with a view to funding projects which address the objectives of the bonus . these calls shall be targeted at multi - partner and trans - national projects , and include research , technological development , training and dissemination activities . projects shall be selected according to the principles of equal treatment , transparency , independent evaluation , co - financing , no - profit , financing not cumulated with other community sources , as well as the principle of non - retroactivity .


### a commitment by each participating state to contribute its share of the financing to bonus - 169 and the payment of cash and the effective provision of in kind infrastructure contribution when this is requested ; these commitments shall be included in a financing plan agreed by the competent national authorities in order to contribute to the joint execution of the bonus - 169 implementation phase ; ### a commitment by each participating state to contribute its share of the financing to bonus and the effective payment of their financial contribution , in particular the funding of participants in the bonus projects selected following the calls for proposals ;


### launch at least three cross - thematic , strategically focused and multi - partner joint calls for proposals ### launch cross - thematic , strategically focused and multi - partner joint calls for proposals


### provided that the results of the evaluation and the ex - ante audit of bonus eeig are positive , the commission and the bonus eeig shall conclude the implementation agreement . ### the commission and the bonus eeig shall conclude the implementation agreement as described in article 3 .


### during the implementation phase , at least three joint calls for proposals shall be published and implemented in view of funding strategically targeted bonus - 169 projects addressing the objectives of the initiative . the topics shall originate from the bonus - 169 strategic research agenda , respect as much as possible the established roadmap and cover research , technological development , and training and / or dissemination activities . ### during the implementation phase , joint calls for proposals shall be published and implemented in view of funding strategically targeted bonus projects addressing the objectives of the initiative . the topics shall originate from the bonus strategic research agenda , respect as much as possible the established roadmap and cover research , technological development , and training and / or dissemination activities .


### the bonus shall be managed by bonus eeig through its secretariat . bonus eeig shall establish the following structures for the purposes of bonus : steering committee , secretariat , advisory board , forum of sector research , and the forum of project coordinators . ### the bonus shall be managed by bonus eeig through its secretariat . bonus eeig has established the following structures for the purposes of bonus : steering committee , secretariat , advisory board , forum of sector research , and the forum of project coordinators .