### comparison of the planned level of performance of the air traffic service provider concerned with other air traffic service providers being part of the same benchmark group. ### deleted


### in addition , the draft performance plan must comply with the following conditions: ### deleted


### 5. in the case of a designated air traffic service provider providing both en route air navigation services and terminal air navigation services , the draft performance plan for terminal air navigation services to be submitted to the national supervisory authority shall be the plan subject to a positive decision on the allocation of costs taken by the agency acting as prb in accordance with the third subparagraph of article 13(6). ### 5. in the case of a designated air traffic service provider providing both en route air navigation services and terminal air navigation services , the draft performance plan for terminal air navigation services to be submitted to the national supervisory authority shall be the plan subject to a positive decision on the allocation of costs taken by the national supervisory authority in accordance with the third subparagraph of article 13(6).


### 6. the national supervisory authority shall assess the performance targets for terminal air navigation services and the performance plans according to the criteria and conditions set out in paragraph 3. where paragraph 5 applies , the national supervisory authority shall base its assessment on the conclusions of the decision taken by the agency acting as prb in respect of the allocation of costs. ### 6. the national supervisory authority shall assess the performance targets for terminal air navigation services and the performance plans according to the criteria and conditions set out in paragraph 3. where paragraph 5 applies , the national supervisory authority shall consider its earlier decision on cost allocation.


### where the national supervisory authority finds that one or several performance targets for terminal air navigation services are not consistent with the union-wide performance targets or the performance plan does not meet the additional conditions set out in paragraph 3 , it shall deny the approval. ### where the national supervisory authority finds that the performance plan does not meet the conditions set out in paragraph 3 , it shall deny the approval.


### where the revised draft performance plan submitted in accordance with paragraph 7 is denied because it contains performance targets for terminal air navigation services that are not consistent with the union-wide performance targets , the national supervisory authority shall establish performance targets in consistency with the union-wide performance targets for the designated air traffic service provider concerned , taking into account the findings made in the decision referred to in paragraph 6. the final draft performance plan to be presented by the designated air traffic service provider concerned shall include the performance targets thus established by the national supervisory authority as well as the measures to achieve those targets. ### where the revised draft performance plan submitted in accordance with paragraph 7 is denied because it contains performance targets for terminal air navigation services that are still not consistent with the conditions described in paragraph 3 , the national supervisory authority shall establish performance targets for the designated air traffic service provider concerned , taking into account the findings made in the decision referred to in paragraph 6. the final draft performance plan to be presented by the designated air traffic service provider concerned shall include the performance targets thus established by the national supervisory authority as well as the measures to achieve those targets.


### where approval of the revised draft performance plan submitted in accordance with paragraph 7 is denied only because it does not comply with the conditions set out in the third subparagraph of paragraph 3 , the final draft performance plan to be presented by the designated air traffic service provider concerned shall include the performance targets contained in the draft performance plan and found to be consistent with the union-wide performance targets by the national supervisory authority , and shall contain the amendments necessary in view of the conditions the national supervisory authority has found not being met. ### deleted


### where approval of the revised draft performance plan submitted in accordance with paragraph 7 is denied because it contains performance targets for terminal air navigation services that are not consistent with the union-wide performance targets and because , in addition , it does not comply with the conditions set out in the third subparagraph of paragraph 3 , the final draft performance plan to be presented by the designated air traffic service provider concerned shall include the performance targets established by the national supervisory authority in accordance with the third subparagraph and the measures to achieve those targets and shall contain the amendments necessary in view of the conditions the national supervisory authority has found not being met. ### where approval of the revised draft performance plan submitted in accordance with paragraph 7 is denied because it contains performance targets for terminal air navigation services that are not consistent with the performance targets established by the national supervisory authority , the final draft performance plan to be presented by the designated air traffic service provider concerned shall include the performance targets established by the national supervisory authority and shall contain the amendments necessary in view of the conditions the national supervisory authority has found not being met.


### where performance targets are not reached or the performance plan is not correctly implemented , the national supervisory authority shall issue decisions requiring corrective measures to be implemented by the air traffic service providers. these corrective measures may include , where objectively necessary , a requirement for an air traffic service provider to delegate the provision of the relevant services to another air traffic service provider. where the performance targets continue to be missed , or where the performance plan continues to be incorrectly implemented , or where corrective measures imposed are not or not properly applied , the national supervisory authority shall request the agency acting as prb to conduct an investigation in accordance with article 24(2) , and the commission may take action in accordance with article 24(3). ### where performance targets are not reached or the performance plan is not correctly implemented , the national supervisory authority shall issue decisions requiring corrective measures to be implemented by the air traffic service providers. these corrective measures may include , where objectively necessary , a requirement for an air traffic service provider to delegate the provision of the relevant services to another air traffic service provider. where the performance targets continue to be missed , or where the performance plan continues to be incorrectly implemented , or where corrective measures imposed are not or not properly applied , the national supervisory authority may request the agency acting as prb to conduct an investigation in accordance with article 24(2) , and the commission may take action in accordance with article 24(3).


### article 15 ### deleted


### article 16 ### deleted


### article 17 ### deleted


### 3. designated air traffic service providers may request permission from the agency acting as prb as regards en route air navigation services , or from national supervisory authority concerned as regards terminal air navigation services , to revise one or several performance targets during a reference period. such a request can be made where alert thresholds are reached , or where the designated air traffic service providers demonstrate that the initial data , assumptions and rationales underpinning the performance targets are to a significant and lasting extent no longer accurate due to circumstances that were unforeseeable at the time of the adoption of the performance plan. ### 3. designated air traffic service providers may request permission from the national supervisory authority to revise one or several performance targets during a reference period. such a request can be made where alert thresholds are reached , or where the designated air traffic service providers demonstrate that the initial data , assumptions and rationales underpinning the performance targets are to a significant and lasting extent no longer accurate due to circumstances that were unforeseeable at the time of the adoption of the performance plan.


### 4. the agency acting as prb as regards en route air navigation services , or the national supervisory authority concerned as regards terminal air navigation services , shall authorise the designated air traffic service provider concerned to proceed with the intended revision only if it is necessary and proportionate , and where the revised performance targets ensure that consistency with the union-wide performance targets is maintained. where the revision has been authorised , designated air traffic service providers shall adopt new draft performance plans , in accordance with the procedures set out in articles 13 and 14. ### 4. the national supervisory authority concerned shall authorise the designated air traffic service provider concerned to proceed with the intended revision only if it is necessary and proportionate , and when en route services are concerned where it is demonstrated that the revised performance targets are consistent with the union-wide performance targets to the maximum extent possible. where the revision has been authorised , designated air traffic service providers shall adopt new draft performance plans.


### article 18 ### deleted


### for the implementation of the performance scheme , the commission shall adopt detailed requirements and procedures in respect of articles 10(3) , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 as well as 17 , in particular as regards the development of draft performance plans , the setting of performance targets , the criteria and conditions for their assessment , the methodology for allocation of costs between en route and terminal air navigation services , the monitoring of performance and issuance of corrective measures , and the timetables for all procedures. those requirements and procedures shall be set out in an implementing act adopted in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in article 37(2). ### for the implementation of the performance scheme , the commission shall adopt detailed requirements and procedures in respect of articles 10(2) , 10(3) , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 as well as 17 , in particular as regards the development of draft performance plans , the setting of performance targets , the criteria and conditions for their assessment , the methodology for allocation of costs between en route and terminal air navigation services , the monitoring of performance and issuance of corrective measures , the revision of performance plans and targets and the timetables for all procedures. those requirements and procedures shall be set out in an implementing act adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 37(3).


### 1. without prejudice to the possibility for member states to finance the provision of air traffic services covered in this article through public funds , charges for air navigation services shall be determined , imposed and enforced on airspace users. ### 1. without prejudice to the possibility for member states to finance the provision of air traffic services covered in this article through public funds , charges for air navigation services shall be determined , imposed and enforced on airspace users for the use of airspace navigation services only.


### 1. without prejudice to the possibility for member states to finance the provision of air traffic services covered in this article through public funds , charges for air navigation services shall be determined , imposed and enforced on airspace users. ### 1. without prejudice to the possibility for member states to finance the provision of air navigation services covered in this article through public funds , charges for air navigation services shall be determined , imposed and enforced on airspace users.


### 2. charges shall be based on the costs of air traffic service providers in respect of services and functions delivered for the benefit of airspace users over fixed reference periods as defined in article 10(2). those costs may include a reasonable return on assets to contribute towards necessary capital improvements. ### 2. charges shall be based on the costs of air traffic service providers incurred either directly or indirectly in relation to the provision of services and functions delivered to or ultimately beneficial for airspace users over fixed reference periods as defined in article 10(2). those costs may include a reasonable return on assets to contribute towards necessary capital improvements.


### 3. charges shall encourage the safe , efficient , effective and sustainable provision of air navigation services with a view to achieving a high level of safety and cost-efficiency and meeting the performance targets and they shall stimulate integrated service provision , whilst reducing the environmental impact of aviation. ### 3. charges shall encourage the safe , efficient , effective and sustainable provision of air navigation services.


### 5. revenues from charges imposed on airspace users in accordance with this article shall not be used to finance services which are provided under market conditions in accordance with article 8. ### 5. revenues from charges imposed on airspace users in accordance with this article shall not be used to finance terminal air navigation services which are provided under market conditions in accordance with article 8


### 6. financial data on determined costs , actual costs and revenues of designated air traffic service providers shall be reported to national supervisory authorities and the agency acting as prb and shall be made publicly available. ### 6. financial data on determined costs , and actual costs of designated air traffic service providers shall be reported to national supervisory authorities and when en-route services are concerned to the agency acting as prb. without prejudice to protection of confidential or sensitive data , including data on services provided under market conditions , this information on costs shall be made publicly available.


### 2. the determined costs referred to in paragraph 1 shall include the costs of relevant facilities and services , appropriate amounts for interest on capital investment and depreciation of assets , as well as the costs of maintenance , operation , management and administration. ### 2. the determined costs referred to in paragraph 1 shall cost-efficiently include the eligible and unavoidable costs of the use of necessary facilities and services , appropriate amounts for interest on capital investment and depreciation of assets , as well as the costs of maintenance , operation , management and administration.


### costs incurred by the air traffic service providers for fees and charges paid to the agency acting as prb; ### costs incurred by the air traffic service providers for fees and charges and annual contributions paid to the agency acting as prb;


### costs or parts thereof incurred by the air traffic service providers , in relation to their oversight and certification by national supervisory authorities , unless other financial resources are used by member states to cover such costs; ### costs or parts thereof incurred by the air traffic service providers , in relation to their oversight and certification by national authorities , unless other financial resources are used by member states to cover such costs;


### 4. determined costs shall not include the costs of penalties imposed by member states referred to in article 42 nor the costs of any corrective measures referred to in article 13(11) and article 14(10). ### 4. determined costs shall not include the costs of penalties imposed by member states referred to in article 42.


### 6. designated air traffic service providers shall provide details of their cost base to the agency acting as prb , the national supervisory authorities , and the commission. to this end , costs shall be broken down in line with the separation of accounts referred to in article 25(3) , and by distinguishing staff costs , operating costs other than staff costs , depreciation costs , cost of capital , costs incurred for fees and charges paid to the agency acting as prb , and exceptional costs. ### 6. designated air traffic service providers shall provide details of their cost base to the national supervisory authorities , the commission and , when en route services are concerned , to the agency acting as prb. to this end , costs shall be broken down in line with the separation of accounts referred to in article 25(3) , and by distinguishing staff costs , operating costs other than staff costs , depreciation costs , cost of capital , costs referred to in article 20(3) and exceptional costs.


### 2. unit rates shall be set by the national supervisory authorities , after verification by the agency acting as prb that they comply with article 19 , article 20 and with this article. where the agency acting as prb finds that a unit rate does not fulfill those requirements , the unit rate shall be reviewed accordingly by the national supervisory authority concerned. where a unit rate continues to not fulfill those requirements , the agency acting as prb shall conduct an investigation and provide an opinion to the commission in accordance with article 24(2) , and the commission may take action in accordance with article 24(3). ### 2. unit rates shall be set by member states , where applicable in line with the eurocontrol multilateral agreement relating to route charges and in compliance with article 19 , article 20 and with this article.


### for charging purposes , and when congestion causes significant network problems including deterioration of environmental performance , the commission may define , by way of an implementing regulation adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 37(3) , a common unit rate for en route air navigation services across the single european sky airspace , and detailed rules and procedures for its application. the common unit rate referred to in the first subparagraph shall be calculated on the basis of a weighted average of the different unit rates of the air navigation service providers concerned. the proceeds of the common unit rate shall be reallocated so as to achieve revenue neutrality for those air traffic service providers concerned. ### deleted


### for charging purposes , and when congestion causes significant network problems including deterioration of environmental performance , the commission may define , by way of an implementing regulation adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 37(3) , a common unit rate for en route air navigation services across the single european sky airspace , and detailed rules and procedures for its application. the common unit rate referred to in the first subparagraph shall be calculated on the basis of a weighted average of the different unit rates of the air navigation service providers concerned. the proceeds of the common unit rate shall be reallocated so as to achieve revenue neutrality for those air traffic service providers concerned. ### for charging purposes , and when congestion causes significant network problems including deterioration of environmental performance , the commission may define , by way of an implementing regulation adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 37(3) , a common unit rate for en route air traffic services across the single european sky airspace , and detailed rules and procedures for its application. in order to assess the impact on the traffic forecast of each original charging zones and the impact on the total number of service units , an ex-ante impact assessment shall be conducted prior to the concept of a common unit rate being proposed by the commission in accordance with the preceding subparagraph. the commission shall also conduct consultation with stakeholders before any draft implementing regulation is presented in accordance with the preceding subparagraph. the common unit rate referred to in the first subparagraph shall be calculated on the basis of a weighted average of the different unit rates of the air traffic service providers concerned. the proceeds of the common unit rate shall be reallocated so as to achieve revenue neutrality for those air traffic service providers concerned.


### 2. the charge for en route air navigation services for a given flight in a given en route charging zone shall be calculated on the basis of the unit rate established for that en route charging zone and the en route service units for that flight. the charge shall be made out of one or more variable components , each based on objective factors. ### 2. the charge for en route air navigation services for a given flight in a given en route charging zone shall be calculated on the basis of the unit rate established for that en route charging zone and the en route service units for that flight.


### 3. the charge for terminal air navigation services for a given flight in a given terminal charging zone shall be calculated on the basis of the unit rate established for that terminal charging zone and the terminal service units for that flight. for the purpose of calculating the charge for terminal air navigation services , the approach and departure of a flight shall count as a single flight. the charge shall be made out of one or more variable components , each based on objective factors. ### 3. the charge for terminal air navigation services for a given flight in a given terminal charging zone shall be calculated on the basis of the unit rate established for that terminal charging zone and the terminal service units for that flight. for the purpose of calculating the charge for terminal air navigation services , the approach and departure of a flight shall count as a single flight.


### 5. charges shall be modulated to encourage air navigation service providers , airports and airspace users to support improvements in environmental performance , or service quality such as increased use of sustainable alternative fuels , increased capacity , reduced delays and sustainable development , while maintaining an optimum safety level , in particular for implementing the european atm master plan. the modulation shall consist of financial advantages or disadvantages and shall be revenue neutral for air traffic service providers. ### 5. following consultation with stakeholders , charges may be modulated to encourage air navigation service providers and airspace users to support improvements in environmental performance , or service quality such as increased use of sustainable alternative fuels , increased capacity , reduced delays and sustainable development , while maintaining an optimum safety level , in particular for implementing the european atm master plan. the modulation shall consist of financial advantages or disadvantages and shall be preceded by an analysis confirming how revenue neutrality for air traffic service providers will be ensured.


### for the implementation of the charging scheme , the commission shall adopt detailed requirements and procedures in respect of articles 19 , 20 , 21 and 22 in particular regarding the cost bases and determined costs , the setting of unit rates , the incentives schemes and risk sharing mechanisms and the modulation of charges. those requirements and procedures shall be set out in an implementing act adopted in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in article 37(2). ### for the implementation of the charging scheme , the commission shall adopt detailed requirements and procedures in respect of articles 19 , 20 , 21 and 22 in particular regarding the cost bases and determined costs , the setting of unit rates , the incentives schemes and risk sharing mechanisms and the modulation of charges. those requirements and procedures shall be set out in an implementing act adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 37(3).


### 1. the commission shall regularly review the compliance with articles 10 to 17 and 19 to 22 and the implementing acts referred to in articles 18 and 23 , by the air traffic service providers and the member states , as the case may be. the commission shall act in consultation with the agency acting as prb and with national supervisory authorities. ### 1. without prejudice to the tasks of the national supervisory authorities and the agency acting as prb , the commission shall provide for ongoing review of compliance with articles 10 to 17 and 19 to 22 and the implementing acts referred to in articles 18 and 23 , by the air traffic service providers and the member states , as the case may be. the commission shall act in consultation with the agency acting as prb and with national supervisory authorities.


### 1. the commission shall regularly review the compliance with articles 10 to 17 and 19 to 22 and the implementing acts referred to in articles 18 and 23 , by the air traffic service providers and the member states , as the case may be. the commission shall act in consultation with the agency acting as prb and with national supervisory authorities. ### 1. the commission shall regularly review the compliance with articles 10 to 17 and 19 to 22 and the implementing acts referred to in articles 18 and 23 , by the air traffic service providers and the member states , as the case may be. the commission shall act in consultation with airspace users , the agency acting as prb and with national supervisory authorities.


### 2. at the request of one or more member states , of a national supervisory authority or of the commission , the agency acting as prb shall carry out an investigation into any allegation of non-compliance as referred to in paragraph 1. where it has indications of such non-compliance , the agency acting as prb may initiate an investigation on its own initiative. it shall conclude the investigation within four months of receipt of a request , after having heard the member state , the national supervisory authority concerned and the designated air traffic service provider concerned. without prejudice to article 41(1) , the agency acting as prb shall share the results of the investigation with the member states concerned , the air traffic service providers concerned and the commission. ### 2. at the request of one or more member states , of a national supervisory authority or of the commission , the agency acting as prb shall carry out an investigation into any allegation of non-compliance as referred to in paragraph 1 in cases where en route air navigation services are concerned. where it has indications of such non-compliance , the agency acting as prb may initiate an investigation on its own initiative. it shall conclude the investigation within four months of receipt of a request , after having heard the member state , the national supervisory authority concerned and the designated air traffic service provider concerned. without prejudice to article 41(1) , the agency acting as prb shall share the results of the investigation with the member states concerned , the air traffic service providers concerned and the commission. results of the investigation may be subject to appeal.


### 2. at the request of one or more member states , of a national supervisory authority or of the commission , the agency acting as prb shall carry out an investigation into any allegation of non-compliance as referred to in paragraph 1. where it has indications of such non-compliance , the agency acting as prb may initiate an investigation on its own initiative. it shall conclude the investigation within four months of receipt of a request , after having heard the member state , the national supervisory authority concerned and the designated air traffic service provider concerned. without prejudice to article 41(1) , the agency acting as prb shall share the results of the investigation with the member states concerned , the air traffic service providers concerned and the commission. ### 2. at the request of one or more member states , of a national supervisory authority , of the commission , of airspace users or a relevant group representing them , the agency acting as prb shall carry out an investigation into any allegation of non-compliance as referred to in paragraph 1. where it has indications of such non-compliance , the agency acting as prb may initiate an investigation on its own initiative. it shall conclude the investigation within four months of receipt of a request , after having heard the member state , the national supervisory authority concerned and the designated air traffic service provider concerned. without prejudice to article 41(1) , the agency acting as prb shall share the results of the investigation with the member states concerned , the air traffic service providers concerned and the commission.


### 1. air navigation service providers , independently of their system of ownership or legal structures , shall annually draw up and publish their financial accounts. these accounts shall comply with the international accounting standards adopted by the union . where , owing to the legal status of the air navigation service provider , full compliance with the international accounting standards is not possible , the provider shall achieve such compliance to the maximum possible extent. air navigation service providers shall publish an annual report and regularly undergo an independent audit for the accounts referred to in this paragraph . ### 1. subject to the protection of confidential information and except where pertaining to air navigation services provided under market conditions in accordance with article 8 , air navigation service providers , independently of their system of ownership or legal structures , shall annually draw up and publish their financial accounts. these accounts shall comply with the international accounting standards adopted by the union. where , owing to the legal status of the air navigation service provider , full compliance with the international accounting standards is not possible , the provider shall achieve such compliance to the maximum possible extent. air navigation service providers shall publish an annual report and regularly undergo an independent audit for the accounts referred to in this paragraph.


### 2. national supervisory authorities and the agency acting as prb shall have the right to access the accounts of the air navigation service providers under their supervision. member states may decide to grant access to these accounts to other supervisory authorities. ### 2. national supervisory authorities shall have the right to access the accounts of the air navigation service providers under their supervision. access to these accounts shall be granted to the agency acting as prb in cases where demonstrably necessary for carrying out its tasks , subject to prior consent from the national supervisory authority concerned. member states may decide to grant access to these accounts to other supervisory authorities.


### 2. national supervisory authorities and the agency acting as prb shall have the right to access the accounts of the air navigation service providers under their supervision. member states may decide to grant access to these accounts to other supervisory authorities. ### 2. national supervisory authorities , airspace users or a relevant group representing them and the agency acting as prb shall have the right to access the accounts of the air navigation service providers under their supervision. member states may decide to grant access to these accounts to other supervisory authorities.


### 3. air navigation service providers shall , in their internal accounting , keep separate accounts for each air navigation service as they would be required to do if these services were carried out by separate undertakings with a view to avoiding discrimination , cross-subsidisation and distortion of competition. an air navigation service provider shall also keep separate accounts for each activity where: ### 3. without prejudice to article 46(2) , air navigation service providers shall , in their internal accounting , keep separate accounts for each air navigation service as they would be required to do if these services were carried out by separate undertakings with a view to avoiding discrimination , cross-subsidiation in accordance with article 20(5) , and distortion of competition. an air navigation service provider shall also keep separate accounts for each activity where:


### the determined costs , actual costs and revenues deriving from air navigation services shall be broken down into staff costs , operating costs other than staff costs , depreciation costs , cost of capital , costs incurred for fees and charges paid to agency acting as prb , and exceptional costs and they shall be made publicly available , subject to the protection of confidential information. ### deleted


### 4. the financial data on costs and revenues reported in accordance with article 19(6) and other information relevant for the calculation of unit rates shall be audited or verified by the national supervisory authority or an entity independent of the air navigation service provider concerned and approved by the national supervisory authority. the conclusions of the audit shall be made publicly available. ### 4. the financial data on costs reported in accordance with article 19(6) and other information relevant for the calculation of unit rates shall be audited or verified by the national supervisory authority or an entity independent of the air navigation service provider concerned and approved by the national supervisory authority. the conclusions of the audit shall be reported by the national supervisory authority to the air navigation service provider , the member state concerned and – where en route services are concerned – to the agency acting as prb.


### 4. the financial data on costs and revenues reported in accordance with article 19(6) and other information relevant for the calculation of unit rates shall be audited or verified by the national supervisory authority or an entity independent of the air navigation service provider concerned and approved by the national supervisory authority. the conclusions of the audit shall be made publicly available. ### 4. the financial data on costs and revenues reported in accordance with article 19(6) and other information relevant for the calculation of unit rates shall be audited or verified by the national supervisory authority or an entity independent of the air navigation service provider concerned and approved by the national supervisory authority after consultation of the airspace users. the conclusions of the audit shall be made publicly available.


### 1. the air traffic management network functions shall ensure the sustainable and efficient use of the airspace and of scarce resources. they shall also ensure that airspace users can operate environmentally optimal trajectories , while allowing maximum access to airspace and air navigation services. those network functions , enumerated in paragraphs 2 and 3 , shall support the achievement of the union-wide performance targets and shall be based on operational requirements . ### 1. the air traffic management network functions shall ensure the sustainable and efficient use of the airspace and of scarce resources. they shall also ensure that airspace users can operate environmentally optimal trajectories , while allowing maximum access to airspace and air navigation services. those network functions , enumerated in paragraphs 2 and 3 , shall support the achievement of the union-wide performance targets and shall be based on operational requirements and be aimed at supporting initiatives at national level and at the level of functional airspace blocks and shall be executed in a manner which respects the separation of regulatory and operational tasks.


### 1. the air traffic management network functions shall ensure the sustainable and efficient use of the airspace and of scarce resources. they shall also ensure that airspace users can operate environmentally optimal trajectories , while allowing maximum access to airspace and air navigation services. those network functions , enumerated in paragraphs 2 and 3 , shall support the achievement of the union-wide performance targets and shall be based on operational requirements . ### 1. the network functions shall ensure the sustainable and efficient use of the airspace and of scarce resources. and they shall also ensure that airspace users can operate environmentally optimal trajectories , while allowing maximum access to airspace and air navigation services. those network functions , enumerated in paragraphs 2 and 3 , shall support the achievement of the union-wide performance targets and shall be based on operational requirements and aimed at supporting initiatives at regional and local level and shall be executed in a manner which respects the separation of regulatory and operational tasks.


### 2. the network functions referred to in paragraph 1 include the following: ### deleted


### 3. the network functions referred to in paragraph 1 also include the following: ### 3. the network functions include the following:


### optimisation of airspace design for the network and facilitation of delegation of air traffic services provision through co-operation with the air traffic service providers and member state authorities; ### the design of the european airspace structures as well as optimisation of airspace design for the network and facilitation of delegation of air traffic services provision through co-operation with the air traffic service providers and member state authorities;


### management of the delivery of air traffic control capacity in the network as set out in the binding network operations plan (nop); ### facilitation of the delivery of air traffic control capacity in the network as set out in the network operations plan (nop);


### air traffic flow and capacity management; ### air traffic flow management extended to capacity management service;


### the management of the planning , monitoring and coordination of implementation activities of the deployment of infrastructure in the european atm network , in accordance with the european atm master plan , taking into account operational needs and associated operational procedures; ### contributing to the planning , monitoring and coordination of implementation activities of the infrastructure necessary for the execution of the network functions , in accordance with the european atm master plan , taking into account operational needs and associated operational procedures through a partnership led by operational stakeholders;


### 4. the functions listed in paragraphs 2 and 3 shall not involve the adoption of binding measures of a general scope or the exercise of political discretion. they shall be performed in coordination with military authorities in accordance with agreed procedures concerning the flexible use of airspace. ### 4. the functions listed in paragraphs 2 and 3 shall not involve the adoption of binding measures of a general scope or the exercise of political discretion. they shall take into account proposals established at national level and at the level of functional airspace blocks. they shall be performed in coordination with military authorities in accordance with agreed procedures concerning the flexible use of airspace.


### 5. the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 36 to amend this regulation in order to add functions to the ones listed in paragraphs 2 and 3 , where necessary for the functioning and performance of the network. ### deleted


### 1. in order to achieve the objectives referred to in article 26 , the commission , supported by the agency where relevant , shall ensure that the network manager contributes to the execution of the network functions set out in article 26 , by carrying out the tasks referred to in paragraph 4 . ### 1. in order to achieve the objectives referred to in article 26 , the commission , supported by the agency where relevant , shall ensure that the network manager contributes to the execution of the network functions set out in article 26 , by carrying out the tasks referred to in paragraph 4. the execution of network manager tasks shall be measured by clear specification of the required services and performance , including appropriate agreements , such as service level agreements between the commission and the network manager and between the operational stakeholders and the network manager regarding tasks and quality of service and conditions.


### 3. the tasks of the network manager shall be executed in an independent , impartial and cost efficient manner . they shall be subject to appropriate governance , which shall recognise separate accountabilities for service provision and regulation where the competent body designated as the network manager also has regulatory functions. in the execution of its tasks , the network manager shall take into consideration the needs of the whole atm network and shall fully involve the airspace users , air navigation service providers , aerodrome operators and the military. ### 3. the tasks of the network manager shall be executed in an independent , impartial and cost efficient manner. they shall be subject to appropriate governance , which shall recognise separate accountabilities for the service provision from any other activities performed by the entity appointed as network manager. in the execution of its tasks , the network manager shall take into consideration the needs of the whole atm network and shall fully involve the airspace users , air navigation service providers , aerodrome operators and the military.


### 4. the network manager shall contribute to the execution of the network functions through support measures aimed at safe and efficient planning and operations of the network under normal and crisis conditions and through measures aimed at the continuous improvement of network operations in the single european sky and the overall performance of the network , especially regarding the implementation of the performance scheme. the action taken by the network manager shall take account of the need to fully integrate the airports in the network. ### 4. the network manager shall contribute to the execution of the network functions through support measures aimed at safe and efficient planning and operations of the operational stakeholders within the network under normal and crisis conditions and through measures aimed at the continuous improvement of network operations in the single european sky and the overall performance of the network , especially regarding the implementation of the performance scheme. the action taken by the network manager shall take account of the need to fully integrate the airports in the network.


### decide on individual measures to implement the network functions and to support the effective implementation of the binding network operations plan and the achievement of the binding performance targets; ### based on a cooperative decision-making process decide on individual measures to implement the network functions and to support the effective implementation of the binding network operations plan and the achievement of the binding performance targets;


### decide on individual measures to implement the network functions and to support the effective implementation of the binding network operations plan and the achievement of the binding performance targets; ### propose in coordination with the operational stakeholders on individual measures to implement the network functions and to support the effective implementation of the network operations plan and the achievement of the performance targets;


### advise the commission and provide relevant information to the agency acting as prb on the deployment of the atm network infrastructure in accordance with the european atm master plan , in particular to identify investments necessary for the network. ### advise , within the framework of the cooperation with operational stakeholders , the commission and provide relevant information to the agency acting as prb on the monitoring of the infrastructure necessary for the execution of the network functions in particular to identify investments necessary for the network.


### 9. aspects of design of airspace structures other than those referred to in paragraphs 2 and 3 of article 26 shall be addressed by member states. in this regard , member states shall take into account air traffic demands , seasonality and complexity of air traffic and of performance plans. before deciding on those aspects , they shall consult airspace users concerned or groups representing such airspace users and military authorities as appropriate. ### 9. aspects of design of airspace structures other than those referred to in paragraph 2 of article 26 shall be addressed by member states. in this regard , member states shall take into account air traffic demands , seasonality and complexity of air traffic and of performance plans and they shall take under due consideration needs of airspace users concerned or groups representing such airspace users and military authorities as appropriate.


### the air traffic service providers shall establish consultation mechanisms to consult the relevant airspace users and aerodrome operators on all major issues related to services provided , including relevant changes to airspace configurations , or strategic investments which have a relevant impact on air traffic management and air navigation service provision and/or charges. the airspace users shall also be involved in the process of approving strategic investment plans. the commission shall adopt measures detailing the modalities of the consultation and of the involvement of airspace users in approving investment plans. those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 37 (3). ### the air traffic service providers shall establish consultation mechanisms to consult the relevant airspace users and aerodrome operators on all major issues related to services provided , including relevant changes to airspace configurations , or strategic investments which have a relevant impact on air traffic management and air navigation service provision and/or charges.


### 2. prices for the service referred to in paragraph 1 shall be based on the marginal cost of making the data available. ### deleted


### 1. the commission may set up common projects for implementing the essential operational changes identified in the european atm master plan having a network-wide impact. ### 1. the commission may set up common projects for implementing the essential operational changes identified in the european atm master plan which:


### 2. the commission may also establish governance mechanisms for common projects and their implementation. ### deleted


### 4. the commission shall establish the common projects and governance mechanisms referred to in paragraphs 1 and 2 through implementing acts adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 37(3). ### 4. the commission shall establish the common projects referred to in paragraph 1 through implementing acts adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 37(3).


### 1. member states , national supervisory authorities , the agency whether or not it is acting as prb and the network manager shall establish consultation mechanisms for appropriate consultation of stakeholders for the exercise of their tasks in the implementation of this regulation. ### 1. member states , national supervisory authorities , the agency whether or not it is acting as prb and the network manager shall establish binding and annual consultation mechanisms for appropriate consultation of stakeholders for the exercise of their tasks in the implementation of this regulation.


### 2. article 3(3) shall apply from [op please insert the date - 48 months after the entry into force of this regulation]. ### 2. article 3(3) and article 25(3) shall apply from [xy months after the entry into force of this regulation to become applicable as from 1 january 2025].


### a. whereas the blue economy , and hence the fisheries and aquaculture sectors , must respect the environmental , social and economic pillars across the board in order to be considered sustainable; ### a. whereas the blue economy , and hence the fisheries and aquaculture sectors , must equally respect the environmental , social and economic pillars across the board in order to be considered sustainable;


### 1. welcomes the commission's new sustainable eu blue economy strategy; regrets , however , the lack of specific objectives for the different sectors , in particular fisheries and aquaculture; points out that new action plans must always be based on the best available scientific knowledge and on environmental , social and economic impact studies; ### 1. welcomes the commission's new sustainable eu blue economy strategy; regrets , however , the lack of specific objectives for the different sectors , in particular fisheries and aquaculture as the most important sectors of the blue economy; points out that new action plans must always be based on the best available scientific knowledge and on environmental , social and economic impact studies;


### 1. recalls the critical role of small-scale fisheries in food security and nutrition; notes the potential conflicts between fisheries and other emerging sectors of the blue economy; ### 1. recalls the critical role of small-scale fisheries in food security and nutrition; underlines its support for the sustainable development of small-scale fisheries; notes the potential conflicts between fisheries and other emerging sectors of the blue economy;


### 3. calls on the commission to establish legally binding instruments to make the blue economy ‘greener’ and to align it with the overall objectives of the european green deal; ### 3. calls on the commission to establish legally binding instruments and , after carrying out the assessment of the impact on the fisheries and aquaculture sectors , to align the blue economy as much as possible with the overall objectives of the european green deal;


### 5. stresses that the production of fishmeal and fish oil contributes to overfishing in developing countries; calls for mandatory due diligence measures to ensure that the whole seafood-industry supply chain is fair , fully traceable and free of illegal , unreported and unregulated fishing; ### 5. stresses that the production of fishmeal and fish oil contributes to overfishing in developing countries; calls for due diligence measures to ensure that the whole seafood-industry supply chain is fair , fully traceable and free of illegal , unreported and unregulated fishing;


### g. whereas the loss of marine biodiversity is having a major environmental , social and economic impact on the eu fisheries sector and on coastal and island communities and must therefore be urgently reversed and biodiversity restored; ### g. whereas the loss of marine biodiversity is having a major environmental , social and economic impact on the eu fisheries sector and on coastal and island communities and must therefore be reversed and biodiversity restored; in cooperation with all stakeholders , and in particular with the fisheries sector and the scientific community.


### i. whereas covid-19 pandemic has had a significant economic impact on those employed in the fisheries and aquaculture sector owing to the combined effects of waning demand and supply chain disruption; ### i. whereas covid-19 pandemic has had a significant economic impact on those employed in the fisheries and aquaculture sector owing to the combined effects of waning demand; market disruptions caused by the pandemic have negatively affected fishers all over the eu; the fishers still managed to provide a high-quality food supply and for that very reason , special attention must be paid to fishers due to their importance for the security of food supply in the eu;


### 2. stresses the need for local authorities to reengineer public transport in order to ensure safe , healthy and environmentally sustainable commuting options and to complement public transport with on-demand and shared transport services; ### 2. notes the need for local authorities to reengineer public transport in order to ensure safe , healthy and environmentally sustainable commuting options and to complement public transport with on-demand and shared transport services; notes however that this is often decided on the regional level in the member states. this should therefore be seen as a recommendation.


### 3. calls for a revision of the commission guidelines on developing and implementing sustainable urban mobility plans to include a new objective to improve the resilience of mobility systems in case of rapid fluctuations in mobility demand; ### deleted


### 4. recognises that urban logistics are an essential public service; calls on local authorities to develop dedicated sustainable urban logistics plans that integrate freight into the planning of more dynamic and flexible uses of curb space; ### 4. recognises that urban logistics are an essential public service;


### 6. believes that the commission should ensure that access to eu funding programmes for urban mobility , such as the european regional development fund , the cohesion fund and the connecting europe facility , is conditional on existing or prospective sustainable urban mobility plans; ### deleted


### 7. reiterates that sustainable development and the management of urban tourism need to be fully integrated into the wider urban agenda. ### deleted


### 4. notes that , due to the covid-19 pandemic , fewer on the spot visits were possible in 2020 , leading dg eac to adapt its supervision and auditing approach and to provide specific guidance on covid-19 for the reporting by national agencies and independent audit bodies; ### 4. notes that , due to the covid-19 pandemic , fewer on the spot visits were possible in 2020 , leading dg eac to adapt its supervision and auditing approach and to provide specific guidance on covid-19 for the reporting by national agencies and independent audit bodies; acknowledges the necessity of such measures; however , underlines that on the spot visits cannot fully be replaced as a means for auditing and supervision; calls , therefore , on dg eac to increase the number of such visits , taking into account travel conditions and limitations;


### 4. regrets that the residual error rate has increased by comparison to the previous year (2 ,69 % in 2020 as compared to 2 ,65 % in 2019)for grants under direct management of the directorate-general for justice and consumers (dg just); notes that the main cause of error is the lack of supporting documents which has even worsened in 2020 by the fact that due to the covid-19 crisis the audits had to be performed remotely without access to the bookkeeping of the beneficiaries; calls on the commission to address this issue and make use of digital tools that allow remote access to bookkeeping of beneficiaries; welcomes the corrective action plan outlined by dg just; recalls the importance of monitoring visits for ensuring sound financial management; ### 4. regrets that the residual error rate has increased by comparison to the previous year (2 ,69 % in 2020 as compared to 2 ,65 % in 2019) for grants under direct management of the directorate-general for justice and consumers (dg just); notes that the main cause of error is the lack of supporting documents which has even worsened in 2020 by the fact that due to the covid-19 crisis the audits had to be performed remotely without access to the bookkeeping of the beneficiaries; deplores such practices and calls on the commission to urgently address this issue and make use of digital tools that allow remote access to bookkeeping of beneficiaries; welcomes the corrective action plan outlined by dg just; recalls the importance of regular monitoring visits for ensuring sound financial management;


### 4. notes the eca’s special report “reducing grand corruption in ukraine” focused on the union’s contributions to anti-corruption and judicial reforms between 2016-2019; is concerned that grand corruption is still prevalent in ukraine and has negative effects on the rule of law and economic development in the country; notes , however , that in comparison to the period before 2014 the country has clearly developed positively through huge efforts of real political reformers , civil society activities and comprehensive union support and cooperation to this end; calls for implementing eca’s recommendations to the commission , the eeas and the european advisory mission in ukraine. ### 4. notes the eca’s special report “reducing grand corruption in ukraine” focused on the union’s contributions to anti-corruption and judicial reforms between 2016-2019; is concerned that grand corruption is still prevalent in ukraine and has negative effects on the rule of law and economic development in the country as well as spillover effects on foreign elections; notes , however , that in comparison to the period before 2014 the country has clearly developed positively through huge efforts of real political reformers , civil society activities and comprehensive union support and cooperation to this end; calls for implementing eca’s recommendations to the commission , the eeas and the european advisory mission in ukraine.


### 5. welcomes the 2020 update of dg eac’s anti-fraud strategy and the measures taken to prevent the risk of covid-19-related fraud , including in the design of the next generation of programmes; ### 5. welcomes the 2020 update of dg eac’s anti-fraud strategy and the measures taken to prevent the risk of covid-19-related fraud , including in the design of the next generation of programmes; underlines that the parliament will monitor closely the implementation of the strategy and calls on dg eac to communicate its progress regularly to the parliament;


### 6. urges dg eac , dg connect and the european education and culture executive agency (eacea) to take without delay all appropriate measures to improve the protection of personal data wherever needed , to minimise the risks linked to third country data transfers , in order to enable the continuation of international operations in 2021 in full compliance with eu data protection law , and to strengthen staff awareness and knowledge of data protection rules. ### 6. urges dg eac , dg connect and the european education and culture executive agency (eacea) to take without delay all appropriate measures to improve the protection of personal data wherever needed , to minimise the risks linked to third country data transfers , in order to enable the continuation of international operations in 2021 in full compliance with eu data protection law , and to strengthen staff awareness and knowledge of data protection rules by introducing additional trainings; highlights that protecting the data of european citizens must remain a high priority in all relevant activities and must be achieved by all necessary measures;


### 7. welcomes the positive evaluation of the trans-european transport network (ten-t) policy progress and the agreement on the streamlining directive , which will play a key role in accelerating pre-identified cross-border projects on the core network; notes however that there are bottlenecks along the corridors where more focus is needed to guarantee connectivity and timely completion of the core network by 2030; is concerned that phased and new projects along the ten-t network are at risk due delays in adoption of partnership agreements and cohesion programmes for the 2021-2027 period; ### 7. welcomes the positive evaluation of the trans-european transport network (ten-t) policy progress; notes however that there are bottlenecks along the corridors where more focus is needed to guarantee connectivity and timely completion of the core network by 2030; is concerned that phased and new projects along the ten-t network are at risk due delays in adoption of partnership agreements and cohesion programmes for the 2021-2027 period;


### 2. reiterates its deep concerns regarding the situation concerning the rule of law in a number of member states , which is deeply worrying in its own right and may ultimately lead to serious losses for the union budget and underlines its requests to the commission to use all available tools to limit the risk of such losses. this should include the immediate and full application of regulation (eu , euratom) 2020/2092 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 december 2020 on a general regime of conditionality for the protection of the union budget; ### deleted


### 2. reiterates its deep concerns regarding the situation concerning the rule of law in a number of member states , which is deeply worrying in its own right and may ultimately lead to serious losses for the union budget and underlines its requests to the commission to use all available tools to limit the risk of such losses. this should include the immediate and full application of regulation (eu , euratom) 2020/2092 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 december 2020 on a general regime of conditionality for the protection of the union budget; ### 2. reiterates its deep concerns regarding the situation concerning the rule of law in a number of member states , which is deeply worrying in its own right and may ultimately lead to serious losses for the union budget and underlines its requests to the commission to use all available tools to limit the risk of such losses;


### 2. reiterates its deep concerns regarding the situation concerning the rule of law in a number of member states , which is deeply worrying in its own right and may ultimately lead to serious losses for the union budget and underlines its requests to the commission to use all available tools to limit the risk of such losses. this should include the immediate and full application of regulation (eu , euratom) 2020/2092 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 december 2020 on a general regime of conditionality for the protection of the union budget; ### 2. reiterates its deep concerns regarding the situation concerning the rule of law in a number of member states , which is deeply worrying in its own right and may ultimately lead to serious losses for the union budget and underlines its requests to the commission to use all available tools to limit the risk of such losses. this should include the immediate and full application of regulation (eu , euratom) 2020/2092 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 december 2020 on a general regime of conditionality for the protection of the union budget; insists that the commission ensures that the delivery of external aid is subject to the rule of law and respect for human rights in recipients countries; stresses , in particular , the need to guarantee that no union funds , by third parties and/or natural person are allocated or linked to any cause or form of terrorism and/or religious and political radicalization;


### 2. underlines that expenditures in heading 4 ‘global europe’ are considered high-risk , except for budget support payment; notes that most errors found by the european court of auditors (eca) in this area concern absence of essential supporting documents , non-compliance with public procurement rules , costs not incurred and ineligible costs; fully supports the recommendations formulated by the eca and calls on taking steps so that international organisations provide the eca with complete , unlimited and timely access to documents necessary to carry out our task in accordance with the tfeu; ### 2. underlines that expenditures in heading 4 ‘global europe’ are considered high-risk , except for budget support payment; notes that most errors found by the european court of auditors (eca) in this area concern absence of essential supporting documents , non-compliance with public procurement rules , costs not incurred and ineligible costs; fully supports the recommendations formulated by the eca and calls on steps to be taken so that international organisations provide the eca with complete , unlimited and timely access to documents necessary to carry out their task in accordance with the tfeu , questions the wisdom of parliament granting discharge to the commission while these issues remain to be addressed;


### 2. underlines that expenditures in heading 4 ‘global europe’ are considered high-risk , except for budget support payment; notes that most errors found by the european court of auditors (eca) in this area concern absence of essential supporting documents , non-compliance with public procurement rules , costs not incurred and ineligible costs; fully supports the recommendations formulated by the eca and calls on taking steps so that international organisations provide the eca with complete , unlimited and timely access to documents necessary to carry out our task in accordance with the tfeu; ### 2. underlines that expenditures in heading 4 ‘global europe’ are considered high-risk , except for budget support payment; notes that most errors found by the european court of auditors (eca) in this area concern absence of essential supporting documents , non-compliance with public procurement rules , costs not incurred and ineligible costs; fully supports the recommendations formulated by the eca and calls on steps to be taken so that international organisations provide the eca with complete , unlimited and timely access to documents necessary to carry out their task in accordance with the tfeu;


### 2. recalls that the global europe instrument’s spending target of 20% for human development and social inclusion is a minimum target; calls for substantially higher expenditure in this area , given the crucial importance of health , education , nutrition , water , sanitation and hygiene for the realisation of human rights and of a life in dignity for all , the devastating impacts of the covid pandemic and the human rights-based approach laid down in the global europe - ndici regulation , the implementation of which parliament will scrutinise; ### 2. recalls that the global europe instrument’s spending target of 20% for human development and social inclusion is a minimum target; calls for substantially higher expenditure in this area , given the crucial importance of health , education , nutrition , water , sanitation and hygiene and poverty eradication for the realisation of human rights and of a life in dignity for all , the devastating impacts of the covid pandemic and the human rights-based approach laid down in the global europe - ndici regulation , the implementation of which parliament will scrutinise;


### 3. stresses that the union in its response to the covid-19 pandemic secured financial support for partner countries and fragile populations amounting to more than eur 40 billion; welcomes team europe efforts in addressing the immediate effects of the health crisis and the resulting humanitarian needs in the partner countries , as well as its contribution to the covax facility which provides fair and equitable access to covid-19 vaccines in low- and middle-income countries; ### 3. stresses that the union in its response to the covid-19 pandemic prioritized financial support amounting to more than eur 40 billion for partner countries and fragile populations over the interests of citizens in member states; takes note of the increasing financial burden of team europe efforts in addressing the immediate effects of the health crisis and never ending humanitarian needs in third countries , as well as its contribution to the covax facility which provides access to covid-19 vaccines in low- and middle-income countries;


### 3. stresses that the union in its response to the covid-19 pandemic secured financial support for partner countries and fragile populations amounting to more than eur 40 billion; welcomes team europe efforts in addressing the immediate effects of the health crisis and the resulting humanitarian needs in the partner countries , as well as its contribution to the covax facility which provides fair and equitable access to covid-19 vaccines in low- and middle-income countries; ### 3. stresses that the union in its response to the covid-19 pandemic , which originated in wuhan , china , secured financial support for partner countries and fragile populations amounting to more than eur 40 billion; welcomes team europe efforts in addressing the immediate effects of the health crisis and the resulting humanitarian needs in the partner countries , as well as its contribution to the covax facility which provides fair and equitable access to covid-19 vaccines in low- and middle-income countries;


### 12. calls on the commission to provide parliament with an annual report setting out in detail the contribution of each budget item to the climate mainstreaming (at least 30 %) and the biodiversity (7 ,5 % as of 2024 and 10% in 2026 and in 2027) targets , in order to facilitate their monitoring; calls further on the commission to report whether any budget item fails to respect the "do no significant harm" criterion as referred to in the taxonomy regulation; ### 12. calls on the commission to provide parliament with an annual report setting out in detail the contribution of each budget item to the climate mainstreaming (at least 30 %) and the biodiversity (7 ,5 % as of 2024 and 10% in 2026 and in 2027) targets , in order to facilitate their monitoring;


### 13. reiterates its strong concern that the reservation on reputational , legal , financial and institutional grounds related to significant security risks identified in the maintenance and the operation of the union registry system of the eu emissions trading system , as reported in aars since 2010 and as confirmed by the latest risk assessment exercise , is repeated in dg climate action’s 2020 aar; awaits the study on potential alternative and security-sustainable operating models for the union registry that is expected in 2021; ### 13. reiterates its strong concern that the reservation on reputational , legal , financial and institutional grounds related to significant security risks identified in the maintenance and the operation of the union registry system of the eu emissions trading system , as reported in aars since 2010 and as confirmed by the latest risk assessment exercise , is repeated in dg climate action’s 2020 aar; notes that the most recent evaluation in 2019 continued to reveal residual risk levels which , combined with the rapid rise in the carbon price , has lead to threats outpacing the implementation rate of the security measures that dg clima and dg digit can sustain given their operating constraints and resource allocations; awaits the study on potential alternative and security-sustainable operating models for the union registry , expected in 2021 , which will provide options to be considered to prevent future cyber-attacks;


### 1. notes that for expenditure specifically for heading iii (security and citizenship) the court of auditors (the ‘court’) chose to examine a sample of 27 transactions designed to contribute to the court's overall statement of assurance; deeply regrets that the court did not estimate the error rate for heading iii as the audit scope was not designed to be representative for this heading; regrets this choice by the court despite multiple calls from parliament to calculate the estimated level of error; deplores the fact that eight out the 27 transactions examined by the court contained errors among which four contained quantifiable errors which had a financial impact on the amounts charged to the union budget; highlights that such cases may have an important negative reputational impact; urges the commission to address that situation and report to the discharge authority about the progress achieved; ### 1. notes that for expenditure specifically for heading iii (security and citizenship) the court of auditors (the ‘court’) examined a sample of 27 transactions; deplores the fact that eight out the 27 transactions examined by the court contained errors among which four contained quantifiable errors which had a financial impact on the amounts charged to the union budget; highlights that such revelations have a negative reputational impact; urges the commission to address any and all such situations and report to the discharge authority about the progress achieved;


### 1. grants the commission discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the european union for the financial year 2020; ### 1. postpones its decision on granting the commission discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the european union for the financial year 2020;


### 1. grants the director of the european education and culture executive agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the agency’s budget for the financial year 2020; ### 1. postpones its decision on granting the director of the european education and culture executive agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the agency’s budget for the financial year 2020;


### 1. grants the director of the european innovation council and smes executive agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the agency’s budget for the financial year 2020; ### 1. postpones its decision on granting the director of the european innovation council and smes executive agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the agency’s budget for the financial year 2020;


### 1. grants the director of the consumers , health , agriculture and food executive agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the agency’s budget for the financial year 2020; ### 1. postpones its decision on granting the director of the consumers , health , agriculture and food executive agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the agency’s budget for the financial year 2020;


### 1. grants the director of the european research council executive agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the agency’s budget for the financial year 2020; ### 1. postpones its decision on granting the director of the european research council executive agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the agency’s budget for the financial year 2020;


### 1. grants the director of the european research executive agency discharge in relation to the implementation of the agency’s budget for the financial year 2020; ### 1. postpones its decision on granting the director of the european research executive agency discharge in relation to the implementation of the agency’s budget for the financial year 2020;


### 1. grants the director of the european climate , infrastructure and environment executive agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the agency’s budget for the financial year 2020; ### 1. postpones its decision on granting the director of the european climate , infrastructure and environment executive agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the agency’s budget for the financial year 2020;


### 1. recalls that 2020 was highly affected by the covid-19 outbreak , which required swift and significant modifications of the union budget in responding to the pandemic and had a substantial impact on the eu’s finances; notes furthermore that 2020 was the last year of the 2014-2020 multiannual financial framework; ### 1. recalls that 2020 was highly affected by the covid-19 pandemic , which originated in wuhan , china , and had a substantial impact on the eu’s finances; notes furthermore that 2020 was the last year of the 2014-2020 multiannual financial framework;


### 1. notes that the replacement of the development cooperation instrument with the global europe instrument coincides with a dramatic reversal of the progress towards the sustainable development goals and with rapid aggravation of the global climate crisis; insists that in the implementation of the global europe instrument , maximum efficiency in the response to these incomparably important challenges must be sought; ### 1. notes that the replacement of the development cooperation instrument with the global europe instrument coincides with a dramatic reversal of the progress towards the sustainable development goals and with rapid aggravation of the global climate crisis; insists that in the implementation of the global europe instrument , maximum efficiency and effectiveness in the response to these incomparably important challenges must be sought;


### 11. notes with concern the court's findings in special report 18/2020: "the eu’s emissions trading system: free allocation of allowances needed better targeting" that free allowances are not well targeted , tended to slow decarbonisation and that the commission needs to update its procedure for targeting free allowances to reflect the paris agreement; ### 11. notes the court's findings in special report 18/2020 on the audit question “did decisions on free emissions trading system allowances provide a reasonable basis to encourage the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions?” that while the use of free allocation was justified , better targeting of free allowances will enable multiple benefits for decarbonisation , public finances and the operation of the single market;


### 18. notes with concern that , in its special report 15/2020 "protection of wild pollinators in the eu —commission initiatives have not borne fruit" , the court found that union measures did not ensure the protection of wild pollinators and that union pesticides legislation was a main cause of wild pollinator loss; ### 18. notes in its special report 15/2020 "protection of wild pollinators in the eu —commission initiatives have not borne fruit" , the court found that union measures did not fully protect wild pollinators from habitat loss , invasive alien species , and the use of pesticides and fertilisers , identifying gaps in some key policies and concluding that the eu pollinators initiative does not have the requisite tools and mechanisms to address these gaps;


### 111. notes with satisfaction that the court estimates that the level of error in spending on “administration” was not material; ### 111. notes that the court also examines the regularity of the information in the annual activity reports of the commission , including those of its directorates-general and offices primarily responsible for administrative expenditure; notes with satisfaction that the court estimates that the level of error in spending on “administration” was not material;


### 115. welcomes the initiatives taken by the commission to ensure gender equality and recalls the commission president’s commitment to reach gender equality at all levels of management by the end of the current commission mandate , which is fully supported by parliament; ### 115. welcomes the initiatives taken by the commission to ensure gender equality , but recalls that knowledge , merit and experience should be the main criteria for recruitment and promotion;


### 116. underlines its request for the commission to ensure a fair geographical balance of its members of staff at all levels while at the same time fulfilling the requirements in the staff regulation in relation to competences and merits of candidates; ### 116. regrets the persisting geographical imbalances in the composition of the commission staff , especially at middle and senior management levels; underlines its request for the commission to ensure a fair geographical balance of its members of staff at all levels while at the same time fulfilling the requirements in the staff regulation in relation to competences and merits of candidates;


### b. continue its work in order to ensure gender equality at all levels of management by the end of the current commission mandate and to report gender-disaggregated data; ### b. continue its work in order to ensure a geographical balance among staff members at all levels of management by the end of the current commission mandate and to report data disaggregated by member state;


### b. whereas the eu is being confronted with new trends and challenges in automation that could have a huge impact on road safety; whereas the growing phenomenon of distraction by mobile devices needs to be addressed; whereas in the near future , the presence of both vehicles with a wide range of automated/connected features and traditional vehicles in mixed traffic will pose a new risk , especially for vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists , cyclists and pedestrians; ### b. whereas the eu is being confronted with new trends and challenges in automation that could have a huge impact on road safety; whereas technological progress means that conditions in the field of mobility change very quickly , which creates challenges for the member states at both the legislative and the technical level; whereas the growing phenomenon of distraction by mobile devices needs to be addressed; whereas in the near future , the presence of both vehicles with a wide range of automated/connected features and traditional vehicles in mixed traffic will pose a new risk , especially for vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists , cyclists and pedestrians;


### c. whereas the share of road deaths of vulnerable road users is increasing , as car users have been the main beneficiaries of improved vehicle safety and other road safety measures; whereas the safety of cyclists and pedestrians must be urgently addressed; ### c. whereas the share of road deaths of vulnerable road users is increasing , as car users have been the main beneficiaries of improved vehicle safety and other road safety measures; whereas a systematic increase in the numbers of vehicles on the roads can be observed; whereas the safety of cyclists and pedestrians must be urgently addressed;


### d. whereas among pedestrians , road deaths affect almost twice as many women as men; whereas gender and social inequalities also exist in mobility and road safety aspects; ### d. whereas among pedestrians , road deaths affect almost twice as many women as men; whereas gender , age and social inequalities also exist in mobility and road safety aspects;


### 5. highlights that a proactive assessment of the eu road network will be a useful tool to assess the in-built safety of roads and to target investment; welcomes , in this regard , the risk mapping and safety rating of motorways and primary roads introduced in the recently revised eu infrastructure safety rules4and calls on the member states to designate as many primary roads in their territory as possible to increase the road safety potential of the new directive; calls on the commission and the member states to agree as soon as possible on a methodology to carry out systematic network-wide road assessments as mandated in the revision of the above-mentioned act; calls on the commission and the member states to speed up the work on the specifications at eu level for the performance of road signs and markings in order to prepare the way for a higher level of automation in vehicles; ### 5. highlights that a proactive assessment of the eu road network will be a useful tool to assess the in-built safety of roads and to target investment; welcomes , in this regard , the risk mapping and safety rating of motorways and primary roads introduced in the recently revised eu infrastructure safety rules4 and calls on the member states to designate as many primary roads in their territory as possible to increase the road safety potential of the new directive; calls on the commission and the member states to agree as soon as possible on a methodology to carry out systematic network-wide road assessments as mandated in the revision of the above-mentioned act , taking into account elements which are important for the safety of active road users; calls on the commission and the member states to speed up the work on the specifications at eu level for the performance of road signs and markings in order to prepare the way for a higher level of automation in vehicles; calls on the commission to speed up work on quality requirements for pedestrian and cycling infrastructure;


### 6. calls for measures to further strengthen road safety in urban nodes and improve operational safety throughout the life cycle of critical infrastructure in the forthcoming revision of the ten-t regulation; calls on the commission to set out therein the bases for future investment decisions relating to road safety; ### 6. calls for measures to further strengthen road safety in urban nodes and improve operational safety throughout the life cycle of critical infrastructure in the forthcoming revision of the ten-t regulation; calls on the commission to consider including the eurovelo cycle-route network in the ten-t network; calls on the commission to set out therein the bases for future investment decisions relating to road safety;


### 8. urges the commission , in line with the tran implementation report on the road safety aspects of the roadworthiness package , to take due account of the technical progress in vehicle safety features provided for in new general safety regulation and to include advanced safety systems in the scope of the next revision of the roadworthiness package to ensure they are checked during periodical technical inspections; ### 8. urges the commission , in line with the tran implementation report on the road safety aspects of the roadworthiness package , to take due account of the technical progress in vehicle safety features provided for in new general safety regulation and to include advanced safety systems in the scope of the next revision of the roadworthiness package and to ensure a systematic growth of the knowledge and expertise of inspectors together with the development of new vehicle technologies to ensure these systems are properly checked during periodic technical inspections;


### 11. notes that according to a commission study , alcohol is estimated to be involved in around 25 % of all road fatalities , while drugs are involved in 15 % of road fatalities5; notes that the eu recommendation on permitted blood alcohol content dates from 2001; calls the commission to include a zero-tolerance drink-driving limit in its recommendations , and to introduce an eu recommendation for zero tolerance regarding illicit psychoactive drugs and standards on roadside drug-driving enforcement; calls on the commission to also include in the revised recommendations guidance on the fitting of alcohol interlock devices , with a special focus on repeat offenders , high-level first-time offenders and all professional drivers; ### 11. notes that according to a commission study , alcohol is estimated to be involved in around 25% of all road fatalities , while drugs are involved in 15% of road fatalities5; notes that the eu recommendation on permitted blood alcohol content dates from 2001; calls the commission to include a zero-tolerance drink-driving limit in its recommendations , and to introduce an eu recommendation for zero tolerance regarding illicit psychoactive drugs and standards on roadside drug-driving enforcement; points out that making the permitted blood alcohol level the same in all the member states and for all vehicle categories will facilitate comparisons under the key performance indicators with regard to sobriety on the roads; calls on the commission to draw up guidelines on the labelling of medications which affect people's ability to drive a vehicle and to launch information campaigns to raise the awareness of medical services in this area; calls on the commission to also include in the revised recommendations guidance on the fitting of alcohol interlock devices , with a special focus on repeat offenders , high-level first-time offenders and all professional drivers;


### 12. notes that speeding is a key factor in around 30 % of fatal road crashes and an aggravating factor in most crashes; calls on the commission to come up with a recommendation to apply safe speed limits in line with the safe system approach for all road types , such as maximum speeds of 30km/h in residential areas and areas where there are high numbers of cyclists and pedestrians , or where there could be potential to increase cycling and walking levels , and to assess the feasibility of limiting the maximum top speed of all new vehicles as an effective way of reducing road casualties , as well as air pollution and carbon dioxide emissions; ### 12. notes that speeding is a key factor in around 30% of fatal road crashes and an aggravating factor in most crashes; calls on the commission to come up with a recommendation to apply safe speed limits in line with the safe system approach for all road types , such as maximum speeds of 30km/h in residential and rural areas and areas where there are high numbers of cyclists and pedestrians , at the same time acknowledging the right of local and central authorities to increase the maximum permissible speed where this is allowed by infrastructure security; calls on the commission to assess the feasibility of limiting the maximum top speed of all new vehicles as an effective way of reducing road casualties , as well as air pollution and carbon dioxide emissions;


### 14. recalls that the driving licence directive established a harmonised eu licence model and introduced minimum requirements for obtaining licences; notes that the directive will need to be kept up-to-date regarding new technological developments in vehicle and infrastructure technology and vehicle automation; calls on the commission to consider introducing a graduated licencing system that encourages novice drivers to gain more experience while limiting certain high-risk activities such as driving at night and with passengers; notes with concern that cases of irregular issuing of driving licences have been reported in several member states and calls on the commission to monitor this issue; ### 14. recalls that the driving licence directive established a harmonised eu licence model and introduced minimum requirements for obtaining licences; notes that the directive will need to be kept up-to-date regarding new technological developments in vehicle and infrastructure technology and vehicle automation; stresses that minimal standards for driving licence courses and driving tests should ensure that drivers are able to drive both vehicles with standard accessories and technologically-advanced vehicles; calls on the commission to consider introducing a graduated licensing system that encourages novice drivers to gain more experience while limiting certain high-risk activities such as driving at night and with passengers; notes with concern that cases of irregular issuing of driving licences have been reported in several member states and calls on the commission to monitor this issue; calls on the commission to make theoretical and practical training and a practical examination mandatory for moped riders;


### 16. highlights the importance of fast and effective post-crash care in significantly reducing the consequences of injury; calls on the member states , in this context , to establish closer collaboration between their road safety authorities and the health sector , to make it mandatory to build emergency lanes and to enforce their correct use to speed up rescue operations; calls on the commission to consider making first aid training compulsory in the future revision of the driving licence directive; ### 16. highlights the importance of fast and effective post-crash care in significantly reducing the consequences of injury; calls on the member states , in this context , to establish closer collaboration between their road safety authorities and the health sector , to make it mandatory to build emergency lanes and to enforce their correct use to speed up rescue operations; points out that the obligation to form 'life corridors' is regulated by law in only a few member states; calls on the member states to take action in this regard to enable the emergency services to reach the scene of an accident more easily; calls on the commission to consider making first aid training compulsory in the future revision of the driving licence directive; calls on the commission to extend the categories of vehicles for which installation of ecall is mandatory , with particular regard to powered two-wheeled vehicles;


### 17. stresses that poor enforcement of road traffic rules undermines efforts to achieve vision zero; encourages the member states to set annual targets for enforcement and compliance in their road safety plans and to ensure their adequate funding; underlines that only well-explained and well-publicised consistent enforcement activities can have a long-lasting effect on driving behaviour; ### 17. stresses that poor enforcement of road traffic rules undermines efforts to achieve vision zero; encourages the member states to set annual targets for enforcement and compliance in their road safety plans , ensure their adequate funding and increase fines and the enforceability of penalties for exceeding the speed limit , particularly in the case of offences detected by speed cameras; underlines that only well-explained and well-publicised consistent enforcement activities can have a long-lasting effect on driving behaviour;


### 20. calls on the commission , in view of the upcoming revision of the urban mobility package , to promote synergies between safety and sustainability measures in urban areas; calls , in this regard , for the reprioritisation of transport infrastructure in dense urban areas away from individual motorised transport towards public transport and sustainable , safer and healthier transport modes such as walking and cycling; ### 20. calls on the commission , in view of the upcoming revision of the urban mobility package , to promote synergies between safety and sustainability measures in urban areas; calls , in this regard , for the reprioritisation of transport infrastructure in dense urban areas away from individual motorised transport towards public transport and sustainable , safer and healthier transport modes such as walking and cycling , and for the implementation of legislation which prioritises active road users;


### 8. recalls that the agency has the smallest budget among the transport agencies despite the outstanding environmental performance and other benefits of rail transport; stresses in particular that the agency should not be put in a position where it feels compelled to request additional support from the commission , due to inadequate financial means , especially at a time when railways are a policy priority of the european union; calls for an increase of the budget of the agency in order to provide it with the necessary means to enable it to act as an efficient authority and to fulfil its tasks , particularly those with regard to increasing competitiveness , improving safety and cross-border interoperability; ### 8. recalls that the agency has the smallest budget among the transport agencies despite the outstanding environmental performance and other benefits of rail transport; stresses in particular that the agency should not be put in a position where it feels compelled to request additional support from the commission , due to inadequate financial means , especially at a time when railways are a policy priority of the european union;


### 1. believes that , given the particular uncertainty about the economic outlook , which is not expected to recover to its pre-pandemic level in 2022 , and the imperative need for a quick recovery from the economic and social damage caused by the covid-19 pandemic , the 2022 union budget should play an even more pivotal role in ensuring a positive and tangible impact on citizens’ lives and contributing to sustaining the european economy , leveraging investments and supporting job creation throughout the union , as well as facilitating the reduction of economic , social , territorial and generational disparities; ### 1. believes that , given the particular uncertainty about the economic outlook , which is not expected to recover to its pre-pandemic level in 2022 , and the imperative need for a quick recovery from the economic and social damage caused by the covid-19 pandemic , the 2022 union budget should play an even more pivotal role in ensuring a positive and tangible impact on citizens’ lives and contributing to sustaining the european economy , leveraging investments and supporting job creation and family-work life balance throughout the union , as well as facilitating the reduction of economic , social , territorial and generational disparities;


### 1. is deeply concerned that , as a result of the covid-19 pandemic , the education gap has increased and , with it , the inequalities in our education systems; urges the commission to enhance the coordination of approaches aimed at helping to prevent disadvantaged children and students from vulnerable and marginalised backgrounds from falling further behind; ### 1. is deeply concerned that , as a result of the closing of schools , the education gap has increased and , with it , the inequalities in our education systems; urges the commission to enhance the coordination of approaches aimed at helping to prevent children and students from all backgrounds from falling further behind;


### 1. stresses that 2022 will be a year of social and economic recovery for europe; emphasises that europe’s recovery will need to foster europe’s twin-transition; believes therefore that funding for digital and energy related investments play a key role in the recovery; ### 1. stresses that 2022 should be a year of social and economic recovery for europe; emphasises that europe’s recovery will need to foster europe’s twin-transition which should go hand-in-hand with regional cohesion and industrial competitiveness of the union; believes therefore that funding for digital and energy related investments play an important role in the recovery;