### data reported by member states are essential for the commission to monitor , review and assess the performance of the legislation against the objectives it pursues in order to inform any future evaluation of the legislation , in accordance with paragraph 22 of the interinstitutional agreement between the european parliament , the council of the european union and the european commission on better law - making of 13 april 201649 . it is appropriate to add provisions to several legislative acts in the environmental sector for the purpose of their future evaluation , on the basis of data collected during implementation , possibly complemented by additional scientific , analytical data . in that context , there is a need for relevant data that will allow better assessment of the efficiency , effectiveness , relevance , coherence and eu value added of union legislation , hence the necessity to ensure appropriate reporting mechanisms that can also serve as indicators for this purpose . _________________ 49 oj l 123 , 12 . 5 . 2016 , p . 1 . ### the process of member states’ comprehensive and timely reporting of relevant data is essential for the commission to monitor , review and assess the performance of the legislation against the objectives it pursues in order to inform any future evaluation of the legislation , in accordance with paragraph 22 of the interinstitutional agreement between the european parliament , the council of the european union and the european commission on better law - making of 13 april 201649 . it is appropriate to add provisions to several legislative acts in the environmental sector for the purpose of their future evaluation , on the basis of data collected during implementation , possibly complemented by additional scientific , analytical data . in that context , there is a need for relevant data that will allow better assessment of the efficiency , effectiveness , relevance , coherence and eu value added of union legislation , hence the necessity to ensure appropriate reporting mechanisms that can also serve as indicators for this purpose . _________________ 49 oj l 123 , 12 . 5 . 2016 , p . 1 .


### spatial data services as defined in article 3 of directive 2007 / 2 / ec of the european parliament and of the council* shall be used to present the spatial data sets included in the information registered in those records . ### spatial data services shall be used to present the spatial data sets included in the information registered in those records .


### the records referred to in paragraph 1 shall be made available to the public for each calendar year , within three months of the end of the relevant calendar year , in a consolidated format as laid down in the annex to commission decision 94 / 741 / ec** or another format provided pursuant to article 17 . ### the records referred to in paragraph 1 shall be made available to the public for each 2 calendar years , within three months of the end of the relevant calendar year , in a consolidated format as laid down in the annex to commission decision 94 / 741 / ec** or another format provided pursuant to article 17 .


### annex vi point 3 is replaced by the following : 3 . information exchange mechanism the commission , assisted by the european environment agency , shall develop a mandatory digital information exchange mechanism to share the information from the strategic noise maps and summaries of action plans , as referred to in article 10 in accordance with the regulatory procedure with scrutiny referred to in article 13 . ### annex vi point 3 is deleted .


### spatial data services as defined in article 3 of directive 2007 / 2 / ec of the european parliament and of the council** shall be used to present the spatial data sets , such as the spatial location of incidents , included in the information referred to in paragraph 1 of this article . ### spatial data services shall be used to present the spatial data sets , such as the spatial location of incidents , included in the information referred to in paragraph 1 of this article .


### the commission , assisted by the european environment agency , shall prepare every six years a composite report based on the information referred to in paragraph 1 . ### the commission , assisted by the european environment agency , shall prepare and publish , every six years , a composite report based on the information referred to in paragraph 1 .


### the commission services shall publish a union overview on the basis of the data submitted by the member states . ### the commission services shall publish and regularly update a union overview on the basis of the data submitted by the member states .


### member states shall provide , each year , to the commission by electronic transfer a report containing all the data referred to in article 5 and in a format and by a date to be established by the commission by means of implementing acts in accordance with the procedure referred to in article 19 . the reporting date shall be , in any case , no later than 9 months after the end of the reporting year . ### member states shall provide , every two years , to the commission by electronic transfer a report containing all the data referred to in article 5 and in a format and by a date to be established by the commission by means of implementing acts in accordance with the procedure referred to in article 19 . the reporting date shall be , in any case , no later than 9 months after the end of the reporting period .


### member states shall provide , each year , to the commission by electronic transfer a report containing all the data referred to in article 5 and in a format and by a date to be established by the commission by means of implementing acts in accordance with the procedure referred to in article 19 . the reporting date shall be , in any case , no later than 9 months after the end of the reporting year . ### no later than 31 march every year , member states shall provide to the commission by electronic transfer a report containing all the data referred to in article 5 and in a format to be established by the commission by means of implementing acts in accordance with the procedure referred to in article 19 . the reporting date shall be , in any case , no later than 9 months after the end of the reporting year .


### by december 2021 and every 6 years thereafter , the commission shall , on the basis of information on and experience with the application of this regulation , review the functioning and effectiveness of this regulation . in doing so it should take into account the progress on implementation of the voluntary partnership agreements . the commission shall report to the european parliament and to the council on the result of the review and accompany such reports where appropriate , by proposals for improvement of the flegt licensing scheme . ### by december 2021 and every 6 years thereafter , the commission shall , on the basis of information on and experience with the application of this regulation , review the functioning and effectiveness of this regulation . in doing so it takes the progress on implementation of the voluntary partnership agreements into account . the commission shall report to the european parliament and to the council on the result of the review every 6 years and accompany such reports where appropriate , by proposals for improvement of the flegt licensing scheme .


### since its establishment cedefop has played an important role in supporting the development of a common vocational education and training policy . at the same time the concept and significance of vocational training has evolved under the influence of changing labour markets , technological developments , particularly in the digital area , and increasing labour mobility . vocational training policies have evolved accordingly and encompass a variety of instruments and initiatives , some of which , namely related to skills and qualifications , including validation of learning , necessarily go beyond the traditional boundaries of vocational education and training . therefore the character of cedefop activities should be clearly spelled out and relevant terminology should be adjusted whilst staying within the remit of the treaty provisions for vocational education and training . ### since its establishment cedefop , by virtue of its expertise , has played an important role in supporting the development of a common vocational education and training policy . at the same time the concept and significance of vocational training has evolved under the influence of changing labour markets , technological developments , particularly in the digital area , which add to the challenge of better matching competences and qualifications with a constantly evolving demand , and increasing labour mobility . vocational training policies have evolved accordingly and encompass a variety of instruments and initiatives , some of which , namely related to skills and qualifications , including validation of learning , necessarily go beyond the traditional boundaries of vocational education and training . therefore the character of cedefop activities should be clearly spelled out and relevant terminology should be adjusted whilst staying within the remit of the treaty provisions for vocational education and training .


### manage and make available tools , datasets and services for skills , occupations and qualifications to citizens , companies , policy makers , social partners and other stakeholders . ### in collaboration with the commission , manage and make available tools , datasets and services for skills , occupations and qualifications to citizens , companies , policy makers , social partners and other stakeholders .


### members of the management board and their alternates shall be appointed in light of their knowledge in the field of vocational education and training , skills and qualifications , taking into account relevant managerial , administrative and budgetary skills . all parties represented in the management board shall make efforts to limit turnover of their representatives , in order to ensure continuity of the board ' s work . all parties shall aim to achieve a balanced representation between men and women on the management board . ### members of the management board and their alternates shall have appropriate knowledge in the field of vocational education and training , skills and qualifications as well as managerial , administrative and budgetary skills . all parties represented in the management board shall make efforts to limit turnover of their representatives , in order to ensure continuity of the board ' s work . all parties shall aim to achieve a balanced representation between men and women on the management board .


### give general orientation for the agency ' s activities and adopt each year the agency ' s programming document by a majority of two - thirds of members entitled to vote and in accordance with article 6 ; ### give strategic orientation for the agency ' s activities taking into account that the prime role of the management board is the strategic governance of the agency ' s work , such as its priorities and the specific themes on which it works and their coherence with the needs of stakeholders and adopt each year the agency ' s programming document by a majority of two - thirds of members entitled to vote and in accordance with article 6 ;


### adopt and regularly update the communication and dissemination plans based on an analysis of needs ; ### adopt and regularly update the communication activities and dissemination plans based on an analysis of needs and reflect this in the agency’s programming document ;


### the executive director shall manage the agency . the executive director shall be accountable to the management board . ### the executive director shall be responsible for the overall management of the agency according to the strategic direction set by the management board and shall be accountable to the management board .


### the agency may establish local offices in one or more member states , subject to their consent and in accordance with article 11 . ### the agency may run a liaison office in brussels in accordance with article 11 .


### the agency may establish local offices in one or more member states , subject to their consent and in accordance with article 11 . ### the agency may establish a liaison office in brussels in accordance with article 11 .


### the programme should seek synergies with other union programmes , from their design and strategic planning , to project selection , management , communication , dissemination and exploitation of results , to monitoring , auditing and governance . with a view to avoiding overlaps and duplication and increasing the leverage of union funding , transfers from other union programmes to horizon europe activities can take place . in such cases they will follow horizon europe rules . ### the programme should seek synergies with other union programmes , from their design and strategic planning , to project selection , management , communication , dissemination and exploitation of results , to monitoring , auditing and governance , as well as ensuring interoperability . with a view to avoiding overlaps and duplication and increasing the leverage of union funding , transfers from other union programmes to horizon europe activities can take place . in such cases they will follow horizon europe rules .


### the eit , primarily through its knowledge and innovation communities , should aim at strengthening innovation ecosystems that tackle global challenges , by fostering the integration of business , research , higher education and entrepreneurship . the eit should foster innovation in its activities and should support the integration of higher education within the innovation ecosystem , in particular by : stimulating entrepreneurial education , fostering strong non - disciplinary collaborations between industry and academia ; and identifying prospective skills for future innovators to address global challenges , which includes advanced digital and innovation skills . support schemes provided by the eit should benefit to eic beneficiaries , while start - ups emerging from eit kics should have access to eic actions . while the eit’s focus on innovation ecosystems should make it naturally fit within the pillar ' open innovation ' , the planning of its kics should be aligned through the strategic planning process with the pillar ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' . ### the eit , primarily through its knowledge and innovation communities , should aim at strengthening innovation ecosystems that tackle global challenges , by fostering the integration of business , research , higher education and entrepreneurship . the eit should foster innovation in its activities and should support the integration of higher education within the innovation ecosystem , in particular by : stimulating entrepreneurial education ; fostering strong non - disciplinary collaborations between industry and academia ; and identifying prospective skills for future innovators to address global challenges , which includes advanced digital and innovation skills . support schemes provided by the eit should benefit eic beneficiaries , while start - ups emerging from eit kics should have access to eic actions . while the eit’s focus on innovation ecosystems should make it naturally fit within the ' open innovation ' pillar , the planning of its kics should be aligned through the strategic planning process with the ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' pillar . cooperation with pillar ii and the missions under development is also important ; the development of a smoothly - functioning distribution of tasks and coordination between the eic and the eit is also important if overlapping is to be avoided .


### the financial envelope for the implementation of the framework programme for the period 2021 &#8211 ; 2027 shall be eur 94 100 000 000 in current prices for the specific programme referred to in article 1 and , in addition , the amount for the specific programme referred to in article 1 , as laid down in regulation&#8230 ; . establishing the european defence fund . ### the financial envelope for the implementation of the framework programme for the period 2021 &#8211 ; 2027 shall be eur 120 000 000 000 in constant prices for the specific programme referred to in article 1 and , in addition , the amount for the specific programme referred to in article 1 , as laid down in regulation&#8230 ; . establishing the european defence fund .


### eur 6 800 000 000 for marie skłodowska - curie actions ; ### eur 11 300 000 000 for marie skłodowska - curie actions ;


### eur 2 400 000 000 for research infrastructures ; ### eur 3 900 000 000 for research infrastructures ;


### –training and mobility action : action geared towards improvement of skills , knowledge and career prospects of researchers based on mobility between countries , and , if relevant , between sectors or disciplines ; ### –training and mobility action : action geared towards improvement of skills , knowledge and career prospects of researchers based on mobility between countries , and , if relevant , between sectors or disciplines ; greater emphasis should be placed on supporting young researchers and talented young people and also on developing digital capabilities ;


### those rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the eu project . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the eu budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as part of the new fund , the justice programme will continue to support the further development of union area of justice and cross - border cooperation . the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 programme rights , equality and citizenship established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council8 and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 20149 , . _________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 9 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020 ### those rights and values must continue to be cultivated , protected and promoted among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the eu project . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the eu budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . it is also crucial to create an enabling environment for peaceful democratic dialogue between representatives of different views . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as part of the new fund , the justice programme will continue to support the further development of union area of justice and cross - border cooperation . the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 programme rights , equality and citizenship established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council8 and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 20149 , , and it will be adjusted to address new challenges to the european values . _________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 9 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020


### those rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the eu project . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the eu budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as part of the new fund , the justice programme will continue to support the further development of union area of justice and cross - border cooperation . the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 programme rights , equality and citizenship established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council8and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 20149 , . _________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 9 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020 ### those rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the eu project . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the eu budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism , excessive populism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as part of the new fund , the justice programme will continue to support the further development of union area of justice and cross - border cooperation . the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 programme rights , equality and citizenship established by regulation no 1381 / 20138 of the european parliament and of the council and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 20149 , . _________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 9 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020


### the rights and values programme should allow developing synergies to tackle the challenges that are common to the promotion and protection of values and to reach a critical dimension to have concrete results in the field . that should be achieved by building on the positive experience of the predecessor programmes . this will enable to fully exploit the potential of synergies , to more effectively support the policy areas covered and to increase their potential to reach people . to be effective , the programme should take into account the specific nature of the different policies , their different target groups and their particular needs through tailor - made approaches . ### the rights and values programme should address the most important challenges to the promotion and protection of values , taking into account that the challenges may vary across the union . to ensure concrete impact , the programme will build on the lessons of the predecessor programmes . it will also take advantage of synergies with other policies and programmes of the union and of other actors . this will increase their effectiveness and efficiency and will increase their potential to reach people . to be effective , the programme should take into account the specific nature of the different policies , their different target groups and their particular needs through tailor - made approaches .


### remembrance activities and critical reflection on europe’s historical memory are necessary to make citizens aware of the common history , as the foundation for a common future , moral purpose and shared values . the relevance of historical , cultural and intercultural aspects should also be taken into account , as well as the links between remembrance and the creation of a european identity and sense of belonging together . ### remembrance activities and critical reflection on europe’s historical memory are important to make citizens aware of the common history and values , as the foundation for a common future , moral purpose and shared values . the relevance of historical , cultural and intercultural aspects should also be taken into account , as well as the links between remembrance and the creation of a european identity and sense of belonging together .


### independent human rights bodies and civil society organisations play an essential role in promoting , safeguarding and raising awareness of the union’s common values under article 2 teu , and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law , including the charter of fundamental rights of the eu . as reflected in the european parliament resolution of 18 april 2018 , adequate financial support is key to the development of a conducive and sustainable environment for civil society organisations to strengthen their role and perform their functions independently and effectively . complementing efforts at national level , eu funding should therefore contribute to support , empower and build the capacity of independent civil society organisations active in the promotion of human rights whose activities help the strategic enforcement of rights under eu law and the charter of fundamental rights of the eu , including through advocacy and watchdog activities , as well as to promote , safeguard and raise awareness of the union’s common values at national level . ### independent human rights bodies and civil society organisations play an essential role in promoting , safeguarding and raising awareness of the union’s common values under article 2 teu , and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law , including the charter of fundamental rights of the eu . as reflected in the european parliament resolution of 19 april 2018 , adequate financial support is key to the development of a conducive and sustainable environment for civil society organisations to strengthen their role and perform their functions independently and effectively . complementing efforts at national level , eu funding should therefore contribute to support , empower and build the capacity of independent civil society organisations active in the promotion of union values such as democracy , rule of law and fundamental rights , whose activities help the strategic enforcement of rights under eu law and the charter of fundamental rights of the eu , including through advocacy and watchdog activities , as well as to promote , safeguard and raise awareness of the union’s common values at national level .


### the programme should be open , subject to certain conditions , to the participation of european free trade association members which are members of the european economic area and efta members which are not members of the eea and other european countries . acceding countries , candidate countries and potential candidate countries benefiting from a pre - accession strategy should also be able to participate in the programme . ### in relation to the implementation of the specific objectives of promoting equality and rights , citizens’ engagement and participation in the democratic life of the union , and combating violence against groups at risk , the programme should be open , subject to certain conditions , to the participation of european free trade association members which are members of the european economic area and efta members which are not members of the eea and other european countries . acceding countries , candidate countries and potential candidate countries benefiting from a pre - accession strategy should also be able to participate in the programme .


### in order to ensure efficient allocation of funds from the general budget of the union , it is necessary to ensure the european added value of all actions carried out , their complementarity to member states’ actions , while consistency , complementarity and synergies shall be sought with funding programmes supporting policy areas with close links to each other , in particular within the justice , rights and values fund — and thus with the justice programme — as well as with creative europe programme , and erasmus + to realise the potential of cultural crossovers in the fields of culture , media , arts , education and creativity . it is necessary to create synergies with other european funding programmes , in particular in the fields of employment , internal market , enterprise , youth , health , citizenship , justice , migration , security , research , innovation , technology , industry , cohesion , tourism , external relations , trade and development . ### in order to ensure efficient allocation of funds from the general budget of the union , it is necessary to ensure the european added value of all actions carried out , including at local , regional and national level , directed at promoting and safeguarding the values enshrined in article 2 of the treaty of the european union . the commission is to seek consistency , synergies and complementarity with member states’ actions , and with other funding programmes supporting policy areas with close links to justice , rights and values fund , including with creative europe programme , and erasmus + , as well as with relevant policies of the union .


### the types of financing and the methods of implementation under this regulation should be chosen on the basis of their ability to achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver results , taking into account , in particular , the costs of controls , the administrative burden , and the expected risk of non - compliance . this should include consideration of the use of lump sums , flat rates and unit costs , as well as financing not linked to costs as referred to in article 125 of the financial regulation . in accordance with the financial regulation , regulation no 883 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council20 council regulation no 2988 / 9521 council regulation no 2185 / 9622 and council regulation 2017 / 193923 the financial interests of the union are to be protected through proportionate measures , including the prevention , detection , correction and investigation of irregularities and fraud , the recovery of funds lost , wrongly paid or incorrectly used and , where appropriate , the imposition of administrative sanctions . in particular , in accordance with regulation no 883 / 2013 and regulation no 2185 / 96 the european anti - fraud office may carry out administrative investigations , including on - the - spot checks and inspections , with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud , corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the union . in accordance with regulation 2017 / 1939 , the european public prosecutor’s office may investigate and prosecute fraud and other criminal offences affecting the financial interests of the union as provided for in directive 2017 / 1371 of the european parliament and of the council24 . in accordance with the financial regulation , any person or entity receiving union funds is to fully cooperate in the protection of the union’s financial interests , to grant the necessary rights and access to the commission , olaf , the eppo and the european court of auditors and to ensure that any third parties involved in the implementation of union funds grant equivalent rights . _________________ 20 regulation no 883 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 september 2013 concerning investigations conducted by the european anti - fraud office and repealing regulation no 1073 / 1999 of the european parliament and of the council and council regulation no 1074 / 1999 , no 2988 / 95 of 18 december 1995 on the protection of the european communities financial interests . 22 council regulation no 2185 / 96 of 11 november 1996 concerning on - the - spot checks and inspections carried out by the commission in order to protect the european communities’ financial interests against fraud and other irregularities . 23 council regulation 2017 / 1939 of 12 october 2017 implementing enhanced cooperation on the establishment of the european public prosecutor’s office . 24 directive 2017 / 1371 of the european parliament and of the council of 5 july 2017 on the fight against fraud to the union’s financial interests by means of criminal law . ### the types of financing and the methods of implementation under this regulation should be chosen on the basis of their ability to achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver results , taking into account , in particular , the costs of controls , the administrative burden for commission and beneficiary , capacity of potential beneficiary and the expected risk of non - compliance . this should include consideration of the use of lump sums , flat rates , unit costs , financial support for third parties , as well as financing not linked to costs as referred to in article 125 of the financial regulation . co - funding criteria should be accepted in kind , including in form of voluntary work , and may be waived in cases of limited complementary funding . in accordance with the financial regulation , regulation no 883 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council20 council regulation no 2988 / 9521 council regulation no 2185 / 9622 and council regulation 2017 / 193923 the financial interests of the union are to be protected through proportionate measures , including the prevention , detection , correction and investigation of irregularities and fraud , the recovery of funds lost , wrongly paid or incorrectly used and , where appropriate , the imposition of administrative sanctions . in particular , in accordance with regulation no 883 / 2013 and regulation no 2185 / 96 the european anti - fraud office may carry out administrative investigations , including on - the - spot checks and inspections , with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud , corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the union . in accordance with regulation 2017 / 1939 , the european public prosecutor’s office may investigate and prosecute fraud and other criminal offences affecting the financial interests of the union as provided for in directive 2017 / 1371 of the european parliament and of the council24 . in accordance with the financial regulation , any person or entity receiving union funds is to fully cooperate in the protection of the union’s financial interests , to grant the necessary rights and access to the commission , olaf , the eppo and the european court of auditors and to ensure that any third parties involved in the implementation of union funds grant equivalent rights . _________________ 20 regulation no 883 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 september 2013 concerning investigations conducted by the european anti - fraud office and repealing regulation no 1073 / 1999 of the european parliament and of the council and council regulation no 1074 / 1999 , no 2988 / 95 of 18 december 1995 on the protection of the european communities financial interests . 22 council regulation no 2185 / 96 of 11 november 1996 concerning on - the - spot checks and inspections carried out by the commission in order to protect the european communities’ financial interests against fraud and other irregularities . 23 council regulation 2017 / 1939 of 12 october 2017 implementing enhanced cooperation on the establishment of the european public prosecutor’s office . 24 directive 2017 / 1371 of the european parliament and of the council of 5 july 2017 on the fight against fraud to the union’s financial interests by means of criminal law .


### third countries which are members of the european economic area may participate in union programmes in the framework of the cooperation established under the eea agreement , which provides for the implementation of the programmes by a decision under that agreement . third countries may also participate on the basis of other legal instruments . a specific provision should be introduced in this regulation to grant the necessary rights for and access to the authorizing officer responsible , the european anti - fraud office as well as the european court of auditors to comprehensively exert their respective competences . ### in relation to the implementation of the specific objectives of promoting equality and rights , citizens’ engagement and participation in the democratic life of the union , and combating violence against groups at risk , third countries which are members of the european economic area may participate in union programmes in the framework of the cooperation established under the eea agreement , which provides for the implementation of the programmes by a decision under that agreement . third countries may also participate on the basis of other legal instruments . a specific provision should be introduced in this regulation to grant the necessary rights for and access to the authorizing officer responsible , the european anti - fraud office as well as the european court of auditors to comprehensively exert their respective competences .


### –a member state or an overseas country or territory linked to it ; ### –a member state or an overseas country or territory linked to a member state ;


### –a third country associated to the programme ; ### –a third country associated to the programme in accordance with article 7 of this regulation ;


### the agreements may also include other mechanisms for temporary withdrawal of tariff or of other preferential treatment . it is also necessary to lay down the procedures for the application of such mechanisms , where included in the agreements . ### the agreements may also include other mechanisms , such as the stabilisation mechanism for bananas , for temporary withdrawal of tariff or of other preferential treatment . it is also necessary to lay down the procedures for the application of such mechanisms , where included in the agreements .


### close monitoring of sensitive products , if any , should facilitate a timely decision concerning the possible initiation of an investigation and subsequent application of measures . therefore the commission should regularly monitor imports of sensitive products , if any , from the date of provisional application or entry into force of the agreements , if there is no provisional application . monitoring should be extended to other sectors upon a duly justified request made by the relevant industry . ### close monitoring of sensitive products , if any – including products from the outermost regions , which are key to these small , remote and often insular economies – should facilitate a timely decision concerning the possible initiation of an investigation and subsequent application of measures . therefore the commission should regularly monitor imports of sensitive products , if any , from the date of provisional application or entry into force of the agreements , if there is no provisional application . monitoring should be extended to other sectors upon a duly justified request made by the relevant industry .


### for the purposes of this regulation : ### for the purposes of this regulation , the following definitions apply , without prejudice to any definition provided for in the agreement :


### ‘ sensitive product’ means a product identified in a specific agreement as being relatively more vulnerable to a surge of imports than other products ; ### ‘ sensitive product’ means a product identified in a specific agreement as being relatively more vulnerable to a surge of imports than other products , or any product from an outermost region ;


### the commission shall inform all member states when it receives a request to initiate an investigation or when it considers initiation of an investigation to be appropriate on its own initiative pursuant to paragraph 1 . ### the commission shall inform all member states and the european parliament when it receives a request to initiate an investigation or when it considers initiation of an investigation to be appropriate on its own initiative pursuant to paragraph 1 .


### the commission shall notify the country concerned in writing of the initiation of an investigation . ### the commission shall , in accordance with the agreement , notify the country or countries concerned in writing of the initiation of an investigation .


### the commission shall adopt provisional safeguard measures in critical circumstances where a delay could cause damage which would be difficult to repair , pursuant to a preliminary determination by the commission on the basis of the factors referred to in article 6 that there is sufficient prima facie evidence that a product originating in the country concerned is imported : ### where the interests of the union so require , the commission shall adopt provisional safeguard measures in critical circumstances where a delay could cause damage which would be difficult to repair , making immediate action necessary , pursuant to a preliminary determination by the commission on the basis of the factors referred to in article 6 that there is sufficient prima facie evidence that a product originating in the country concerned is imported :


### a safeguard measure shall remain in force only for such period of time as may be necessary to prevent or remedy the serious injury to union industry and to facilitate adjustment . that period shall not exceed two years , unless it is extended under paragraph 3 . ### a safeguard measure shall remain in force only for such period of time as may be necessary to prevent or remedy the serious injury to union industry and to facilitate adjustment . that period shall not exceed two years , unless it is extended under paragraph 3 , without prejudice to any other time period agreed upon in the agreement concerned .


### the initial period of duration of a safeguard measure as referred to in paragraph 1 , may be extended by up to two years provided that the safeguard measure continues to be necessary to prevent or remedy serious injury to union industry and that there is evidence that the union industry is adjusting . ### the initial period of duration of a safeguard measure as referred to in paragraph 1 , may be extended by up to two years , without prejudice to any other time period agreed upon in the agreement concerned , provided that the safeguard measure continues to be necessary to prevent or remedy serious injury to union industry and that there is evidence that the union industry is adjusting .


### the total duration of a safeguard measure shall not exceed four years , including the period of application of any provisional safeguard measure , the initial period of application and prorogation thereof . ### the total duration of a safeguard measure shall not exceed four years , without prejudice to any other time period agreed upon in the agreement concerned , including the period of application of any provisional safeguard measure , the initial period of application and prorogation thereof .


### the european parliament may , within one month of submission of the commission ' s report , invite the commission to an ad hoc meeting of its responsible committee to present and explain any issues related to the implementation of this regulation . ### within one month of submission of the commission ' s report and upon the request of the european parliament , the commission shall present and explain any issues related to the implementation of this regulation to an ad hoc meeting of its responsible committee .


### where an agreement provides for other mechanisms and criteria permitting temporary withdrawal of preferences in respect of certain products , the commission shall , where the conditions laid down in the relevant agreement are met , adopt implementing acts : ### where an agreement provides for other mechanisms , such as the stabilisation mechanism for bananas , and criteria permitting temporary withdrawal of preferences in respect of certain products , the commission shall , where the conditions laid down in the relevant agreement are met , adopt duly justified implementing acts :


### suspending the preferences for the product concerned ; ### suspending or confirming the non - suspension of the preferences for the product concerned ;


### on duly justified imperative grounds of urgency , where a delay in the imposition of provisional safeguard measures would cause damage which would be difficult to repair or to prevent a negative impact on the situation of the union market , in particular as a result of an increase in imports , or as otherwise provided in the agreement , the commission shall adopt immediately applicable implementing acts in accordance with the procedure referred to in article 17 . ### on duly justified imperative grounds of urgency , where a delay in taking such action referred to in paragraph 1 would cause damage which would be difficult to repair or to prevent a negative impact on the situation of the union market , in particular as a result of an increase in imports , or as otherwise provided in the agreement , the commission shall adopt immediately applicable implementing acts in accordance with the procedure referred to in article 17 .


### infrastructure dedicated to the programme may require additional research and innovation , which may be supported under horizon europe , aiming for coherence with activities in this domain by the european space agency . synergies with horizon europe should ensure that research and innovation needs of the space sector are identified and established as part of the strategic research and innovation planning process . space data and services made freely available by the programme will be used to develop breakthrough solutions through research and innovation , including in horizon europe , in particular for sustainable food and natural resources , climate monitoring , smart cities , automated vehicles , security and disaster management . the strategic planning process under horizon europe will identify research and innovation activities that should make use of union - owned infrastructures such as galileo , egnos and copernicus . research infrastructures , in particular in situ observing networks will constitute essential elements of the in situ observation infrastructure enabling the copernicus services ### infrastructure dedicated to the programme may require additional research and innovation , which may be supported under horizon europe , aiming for coherence with activities in this domain by the european space agency . synergies with horizon europe should ensure that research and innovation needs of the space sector are identified and established as part of the strategic research and innovation planning process . space data and services made freely available by the programme will be used to develop breakthrough solutions through research and innovation , including in horizon europe , in particular for sustainable food and natural resources , climate monitoring , facilitating natural disaster prevention , smart cities , automated vehicles , security and disaster management . the strategic planning process under horizon europe will identify research and innovation activities that should make use of union - owned infrastructures such as galileo , egnos and copernicus . research infrastructures , in particular in situ observing networks will constitute essential elements of the in situ observation infrastructure enabling the copernicus services


### emergency management service to provide information in support of public authorities concerned with civil protection established in the union , supporting civil protection and emergency response operations , and prevention and preparedness actions in relation to different types of disasters ; ### emergency management service to provide information in support of public authorities concerned with civil protection established in the union , supporting civil protection and emergency response operations , and prevention and preparedness actions in relation to different types of disasters , including fires ;


### significant gaps and differences in member states’ laws in the area of fraud and counterfeiting of non - cash means of payment may hamper the fight against this type of crime and other serious and organised crimes related to and enabled by it , and may complicate effective police and judicial cooperation in this area . ### significant gaps and differences in member states’ laws in the area of fraud and counterfeiting of non - cash means of payment obstruct the prevention , detection and sanctioning of this type of crime and other serious and organised crimes related to and enabled by it , and complicate effective police and judicial cooperation in this area .


### the sanctions and penalties for fraud and counterfeiting of non - cash means of payment should be effective , proportionate and dissuasive throughout the union . ### the sanctions and penalties for fraud and counterfeiting of non - cash means of payment throughout the union should be effective , proportionate and dissuasive to prevent similar offences .


### fraud and counterfeiting of non - cash means of payment can result in serious economic and non - economic consequences for its victims . where such fraud involves identity theft , its consequences are often aggravated because of reputational damage and serious emotional harm . member states should adopt measures of assistance , support and protection aimed at mitigating these consequences . ### fraud and counterfeiting of non - cash means of payment can result in serious economic and non - economic consequences for its victims . where such fraud involves identity theft , its consequences are often aggravated because of reputational damage and serious emotional harm ; therefore more severe penalties should be applied in such cases . member states should adopt measures of assistance , support and protection aimed at mitigating these consequences .


### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that performing or causing a transfer of money , monetary value or virtual currencies in order to make an unlawful gain for the perpetrator or a third party is punishable as a criminal offence , when committed intentionally by : ### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that performing or causing a transfer of money , monetary value or virtual currencies in order to make an unlawful gain for the perpetrator or a third party is punishable as a criminal offence , when committed by :


### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that , when committed intentionally with fraudulent purpose , the production , procurement for use , import , export , sale , transport , distribution or otherwise making available of a device or an instrument , computer data or any other means specifically designed or adapted for the purpose of committing any of the offences referred to in article 4 and or article 5 , is punishable as a criminal offence . ### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that , the production , procurement for use , import , export , sale , transport , distribution or otherwise making available of a device or an instrument , computer data or any other means specifically designed or adapted for the purpose of committing any of the offences referred to in article 4 and or article 5 , is punishable as a criminal offence and any device , instrument , computer data or any other means specifically designed or adapted shall be confiscated along with any income derived from such activities .


### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that a legal person held liable pursuant to article 9 is subject to effective , proportionate and dissuasive sanctions , which shall include criminal or non - criminal fines and which may include other sanctions , such as : ### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that a legal person held liable pursuant to article 9 is subject to effective , proportionate and dissuasive sanctions , which shall include criminal or non - criminal fines and other sanctions , including :


### the offence is committed in whole or in part in its territory ; ### the offence is committed in whole or in part in its territory or ;


### the offender is one of its nationals ; ### the offender is one of its nationals or ;


### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that effective investigative tools , such as those which are used in organised crime or other serious crime cases , are available to persons , units or services responsible for investigating or prosecuting the offences referred to in articles 3 to 7 . ### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that effective investigative tools , such as those used in organised crime , money laundering , cybercrime or other serious criminal offences , are available to the intelligence and law enforcement units and any other person or authority responsible for investigating or prosecuting the offences referred to in articles 3 to 7 . such tools shall respond to the latest and continuously changing instruments of criminality involving&#160 ; cryptocurrencies and ransomeware attacks .


### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that , where national law oblige natural and legal persons to submit information regarding offences referred to in articles 3 to 7 , such information reaches the authorities investigating or prosecuting those offences without undue delay . ### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure the obligation of natural and legal persons to submit information regarding offences referred to in articles 3 to 7 , such information to reach the authorities investigating or prosecuting those offences without undue delay , and in no case later than ten days from the demand . the breach of this obligation to comply shall be sanctioned . such sanctions shall be determined by the member states .


### for the purpose of exchanging information relating to the offences referred to in articles 3 to 7 , member states shall ensure that they have an operational national point of contact available 24 hours a day and seven days a week . member states shall also ensure that they have procedures in place so that urgent requests for assistance are promptly dealt with and the competent authority replies within eight hours of receipt , at least indicating whether the request will be answered , and the form and estimated time of such an answer . member states may decide to make use of the existing networks of operational points of contact . ### for the purpose of exchanging information relating to the offences referred to in articles 3 to 7 , member states shall ensure an operational national point of contact available 24 hours a day and seven days a week . member states shall also ensure that they have procedures in place so that urgent requests for assistance are promptly dealt with and the competent authority replies within four hours of receipt . member states may decide to make use of the existing networks of operational points of contact .


### member states shall inform the commission , europol and eurojust of their appointed point of contact referred to in paragraph 1 . the commission shall forward that information to the other member states . ### member states shall inform the commission , europol and eurojust of their appointed point of contact referred to in paragraph 1 within ten days from the implementation date . the commission shall forward this information to the other member states .


### member states shall ensure that legal persons that are victims of offences referred to in articles 3 to 7 of this directive are , without undue delay after their first contact with a competent authority , offered information about : ### member states shall ensure that natural and legal persons that are victims of offences referred to in articles 3 to 7 of this directive are , without undue delay after their first contact with a competent authority , offered information about :


### the commission shall , by [ 96 months after entry into force ] , carry out an evaluation of this directive on combating fraud and counterfeiting of non - cash means of payment and submit a report to the european parliament and to the council . ### the commission shall , within [ 48 months after entry into force ] , report on the implementation of this directive to the european parliament and to the council .


### this regulation aims to ensure that all the necessary measures are taken to safeguard an uninterrupted supply of gas throughout the union , in particular to protected customers in the event of difficult climatic conditions or disruptions of the gas supply . these objectives should be achieved through the most cost - effective measures and in such a way that energy markets are not distorted . ### this regulation aims to ensure that all the necessary measures are taken to safeguard an uninterrupted supply of gas throughout the union , in particular to protected customers in the event of difficult climatic conditions or disruptions of the gas supply . these objectives should be achieved through the most cost - effective measures , through proportional and non - discriminatory mechanisms , and in such a way that energy markets are not distorted .


### in a spirit of solidarity , regional cooperation , involving both public authorities and natural gas undertakings , should be the guiding principle of this regulation , to identify the relevant risks in each region and optimise the benefits of coordinated measures to mitigate them and to implement the most cost - effective measures for union consumers . ### in a spirit of solidarity , regional cooperation , involving both public authorities and natural gas undertakings , should be the guiding principle of this regulation , to identify the relevant risks in each region and optimise the benefits of coordinated measures to mitigate them and to implement the most cost - effective measures for union consumers . solidarity should take shape at three levels : regional , inter - regional and union .


### to allow for a swift union response to changing circumstances as regards security of gas supply , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of amendment of regions and templates for risk assessment and plans . it is particularly important that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , it should ensure that relevant documents are simultaneously sent to the european parliament and the council , in good time and in the appropriate manner . ### to allow for a swift union response to changing circumstances as regards security of gas supply , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of amendment of templates for risk assessment and plans . it is particularly important that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , it should ensure that relevant documents are simultaneously sent to the european parliament and the council , in good time and in the appropriate manner .


### this regulation establishes provisions aimed at safeguarding the security of gas supply by ensuring the proper and continuous functioning of the internal market in natural gas , by allowing for exceptional measures to be implemented when the market can no longer deliver the required gas supplies and by providing for a clear definition and attribution of responsibilities among natural gas undertakings , the member states and the union regarding both preventive action and the reaction to concrete disruptions of supply . this regulation also provides transparent mechanisms , in a spirit of solidarity , for the coordination of planning for , and response to , an emergency at member state , regional and union levels . ### this regulation establishes provisions aimed at safeguarding the security of gas supply by ensuring the proper and continuous functioning of the internal market in natural gas , by allowing for exceptional measures to be implemented when the market can no longer deliver the required gas supplies and by providing for a clear definition and attribution of responsibilities among natural gas undertakings , the member states and the union regarding both preventive action and the reaction to concrete disruptions of supply . this regulation also provides transparent mechanisms , in a spirit of solidarity , for the coordination of planning for , and response to , an emergency at member state , regional and union levels in order to strengthen the energy union and energy security .


### a small or medium - sized enterprise , provided that it is connected to a gas distribution network , or an essential social service , provided that it is connected to a gas distribution or transmission network , and provided that such enterprises or services do not represent jointly more than 20 % of the total annual final gas consumption in that member state ; ### a small or medium - sized enterprise , provided that it is connected to a gas distribution network where there are strong grounds , or an essential social service , provided that it is connected to a gas distribution or transmission network , and provided that such enterprises or services do not represent jointly more than 20 % of the total annual final gas consumption in that member state ;


### each member state or , where a member state so provides , the competent authority shall ensure that the necessary measures are taken so that in the event of a disruption of the single largest gas infrastructure , the technical capacity of the remaining infrastructure , determined according to the n &#8211 ; 1 formula as provided in point 2 of annex ii , is able , without prejudice to paragraph 2 of this article , to satisfy total gas demand of the calculated area during a day of exceptionally high gas demand occurring with a statistical probability of once in 20 years . this is without prejudice to the responsibility of system operators to make the corresponding investments and to the obligations of transmission system operators as laid down in directive 2009 / 73 / ec and regulation no&#160 ; 715 / 2009 . ### each member state or the competent authority shall ensure that the necessary measures are taken so that in the event of a disruption of the single largest gas infrastructure , the technical capacity of the remaining infrastructure , determined according to the n &#8211 ; 1 formula as provided in point 2 of annex ii , is able , without prejudice to paragraph 2 of this article , to satisfy total gas demand of the calculated area during a day of exceptionally high gas demand occurring with a statistical probability of once in 20 years . this is without prejudice to the responsibility of system operators to make the corresponding investments and to the obligations of transmission system operators as laid down in directive 2009 / 73 / ec and regulation no&#160 ; 715 / 2009 .


### no later than 31 march 2017 member states shall notify the commission their definition of protected customers , the annual gas consumption volumes of the protected customers and the percentage they represent of the total annual final gas consumption in that member state . where a member state includes in its definition of protected customers the categories referred to in point or of article 2 it shall specify in the notification to the commission the gas consumption volumes corresponding to consumers belonging to those categories and the percentage that each of those groups of consumers represents in terms of the annual final use of gas . ### no later than 31 march 2017 the competent authorities within each region shall notify the commission the definition of protected consumers in that region , the annual and daily gas consumption volumes of the protected customers and the percentage they represent of the total annual final gas consumption in respective member states as well as how it could influence cross - border flows in the region . where a member state includes in its definition of protected customers the categories referred to in point or of article 2 it shall specify in the notification to the commission the gas consumption volumes corresponding to consumers belonging to those categories and the percentage that each of those groups of consumers represents in terms of the annual final use of gas .


### the competent authorities of each region as listed in annex i shall jointly make an assessment at regional level of all risks affecting the security of gas supply . the assessment shall take into account all relevant risks such as natural disasters , technological , commercial , social , political and other risks . the risk assessment shall be carried out by : ### the competent authorities of each region as listed in annex i shall jointly make an assessment at regional level of all risks affecting the security of gas supply . the assessment shall take into account all relevant risks such as natural disasters , technological , commercial , social , political and other risks , in the context of a strategy which should call upon all the parties involved to refrain from any policy and actions which might lead to a problematic energy supply causing dysfunctionality in the states and the european market . the risk assessment shall be carried out by :


### taking into account all relevant national and regional circumstances , in particular market size , network configuration , actual flows , including outflows from the member states concerned , the possibility of physical gas flows in both directions including the potential need for consequent reinforcement of the transmission system , the presence of production and storage and the role of gas in the energy mixes , in particular with respect to district heating and electricity generation and for the operation of industries , and safety and gas quality considerations ; ### taking into account all relevant national and regional circumstances , in particular preventive action plans and emergency plans developed under regulation no 994 / 2010 , updated as appropriate , market size , network configuration , actual flows , including outflows from the member states concerned , the possibility of physical gas flows in both directions including the potential need for consequent reinforcement of the transmission system , the presence of production and storage and the role of gas in the energy mixes , in particular with respect to district heating and electricity generation and for the operation of industries , and safety and gas quality considerations ;


### the competent authorities within each region shall agree on a cooperation mechanism to conduct the risk assessment within the deadline provided for in paragraph 5 of this article . competent authorities shall report to the gas coordination group on the agreed cooperation mechanism for conducting the risk assessment 18 months before the deadline for the adoption of the risk assessment and the updates of the risk assessment . the commission may have a facilitating role overall in the preparation of the risk assessment , in particular for the establishment of the cooperation mechanism . if competent authorities within a region do not agree on a cooperation mechanism , the commission may propose a cooperation mechanism for that region . ### the competent authorities within each region shall agree on a cooperation mechanism to conduct the risk assessment within the deadline provided for in paragraph 5 of this article . competent authorities shall report to the gas coordination group on the agreed cooperation mechanism for conducting the risk assessment 18 months before the deadline for the adoption of the risk assessment and the updates of the risk assessment . the commission shall have a facilitating role overall in the preparation of the risk assessment , in particular for the establishment of the cooperation mechanism . if competent authorities within a region do not agree on a cooperation mechanism , the commission shall propose a cooperation mechanism for that region .


### the risk assessment once agreed by all member states in the region shall be notified to the commission for the first time no later than on 1 september 2018 . the risk assessment shall be updated every four years unless circumstances warrant more frequent updates . the risk assessment shall take account of progress made in investments needed to cope with the infrastructure standard defined in article 4 and of country - specific difficulties encountered in the implementation of new alternative solutions . it shall also build on the experience acquired through the simulation of the emergency plans contained in article 9 . ### the risk assessment once agreed by all member states in the region shall be notified to the commission for the first time no later than on 1 september 2018 . the risk assessment shall be updated every four years unless circumstances warrant more frequent updates . the risk assessment shall take account of progress made in investments needed to cope with the infrastructure standard defined in article 4 and of country - specific difficulties encountered in the implementation of new alternative solutions . it shall also build on the experience acquired through the simulation of the emergency plans contained in article 9 . if the competent authorities within a region do not agree on the risk assessment , the commission shall present a risk assessment for that region in cooperation with the competent authorities .


### the competent authorities of the member states of each region as listed in annex i , after consulting the natural gas undertakings , the relevant organisations representing the interests of household and industrial gas customers , including electricity producers , and the national regulatory authorities , where they are not the competent authorities , shall establish jointly : ### the competent authorities of the member states of each region as listed in annex i , after consulting the natural gas undertakings , the relevant organisations representing the interests of household and industrial gas customers , including electricity producers , and the national regulatory authorities , where they are not the competent authorities and after taking into account the content and structure of national plans and mechanisms , shall establish jointly :


### competent authorities shall regularly report to the gas coordination group on the progress achieved on the preparation and adoption of the preventive action plans and the emergency plans . in particular competent authorities shall report to the gas coordination group on the agreed cooperation mechanism 18 months before the deadline for the adoption of the plans and the updates of the plans . the commission may have a facilitating role overall in the preparation of the plans , in particular for the establishment of the cooperation mechanism . if competent authorities within a region do not agree on a cooperation mechanism , the commission may propose a cooperation mechanism for that region . they shall ensure the regular monitoring of the implementation of such plans . ### competent authorities shall regularly report to the gas coordination group on the progress achieved on the preparation and adoption of the preventive action plans and the emergency plans . in particular competent authorities shall report to the gas coordination group on the agreed cooperation mechanism 18 months before the deadline for the adoption of the plans and the updates of the plans . the commission shall have a facilitating role overall in the preparation of the plans , in particular for the establishment of the cooperation mechanism . if competent authorities within a region do not agree on a cooperation mechanism , the commission shall develop a cooperation mechanism for that region . they shall ensure the regular monitoring of the implementation of such plans .


### the definition of protected customers in each member state of the region and the information described in the second subparagraph of article 5 ; ### the definition of protected customers in each member state of the region and the information described in the second subparagraph of article 5 ; the definition of protected customers should be harmonised at union level ;


### the other preventive measures designed to address the risks identified in the risk assessment , such as those relating to the need to enhance interconnections between neighbouring member states and the possibility to diversify gas routes and sources of supply , if appropriate , to address the risks identified in order to maintain gas supply to all customers as far as possible ; ### the other preventive measures designed to address the risks identified in the risk assessment , such as those relating to the need to enhance interconnections between neighbouring member states and the possibility to diversify gas routes and sources of supply , to initiate or increase deliveries from alternative suppliers through a voluntary demand aggregation mechanism , if appropriate , to address the risks identified in order to maintain gas supply to all customers as far as possible ;


### identify the contribution of market - based measures for coping with the situation at alert level and mitigating the situation at emergency level ; ### identify the contribution of market - based measures such as voluntary demand aggregation or virtual gas reserve mechanisms for coping with the situation at alert level and mitigating the situation at emergency level ;


### the first subparagraph shall apply to essential social services and district heating installations to the extent they are covered by the definition of protected customers in the respective member state . ### the first subparagraph shall apply to essential social services and district heating installations to the extent they are covered by the definition of protected customers in the respective region .


### the technical , legal and financial arrangements for the application of paragraph 3 shall be agreed among the member states which are directly connected to each other and described in the emergency plans of their respective regions . such arrangements may cover , among others , gas prices to be applied , use of interconnectors , including bi - directional capacity , gas volumes and the coverage of compensation costs . market - based measures such as auctions shall be preferred for the implementation of the obligation laid down in paragraph 3 . in case the technical , legal and financial arrangements necessary to apply paragraph 3 are amended , the relevant emergency plan shall be updated accordingly . ### the technical , legal and financial arrangements for the application of paragraph 3 shall be agreed among the member states which are directly connected to each other and described in the emergency plans of their respective regions . such arrangements may cover , among others , gas prices to be applied , use of interconnectors , including bi - directional capacity , gas volumes and the coverage of compensation costs . market - based measures such as auctions shall be preferred for the implementation of the obligation laid down in paragraph 3 . in case the technical , legal and financial arrangements necessary to apply paragraph 3 are amended , the relevant emergency plan shall be updated accordingly . by 31 march 2019 , the commission shall prepare guidelines and a list of best practices aimed at facilitating those arrangements .


### the technical , legal and financial arrangements for the application of paragraph 3 shall be agreed among the member states which are directly connected to each other and described in the emergency plans of their respective regions . such arrangements may cover , among others , gas prices to be applied , use of interconnectors , including bi - directional capacity , gas volumes and the coverage of compensation costs . market - based measures such as auctions shall be preferred for the implementation of the obligation laid down in paragraph 3 . in case the technical , legal and financial arrangements necessary to apply paragraph 3 are amended , the relevant emergency plan shall be updated accordingly . ### the technical , legal and financial arrangements for the application of paragraph 3 shall be agreed at the regional and inter - regional levels and described in the emergency plans . such arrangements may cover , among others , gas prices to be applied , use of interconnectors , including bi - directional capacity , gas volumes and the shared responsibility for compensation costs . market - based measures such as auctions shall be preferred for the implementation of the obligation laid down in paragraph 3 . in case the technical , legal and financial arrangements necessary to apply paragraph 3 are amended , the relevant emergency plan shall be updated accordingly .


### if the member states do not agree on the necessary technical , legal and financial arrangements , the commission may propose a framework for such measures in its opinion and decision on the plans . ### if the member states do not agree on the necessary technical , legal and financial arrangements , the commission shall propose a framework for such measures in its opinion and decision on the plans .


### if the member states do not agree on the necessary technical , legal and financial arrangements , the commission may propose a framework for such measures in its opinion and decision on the plans . ### if the member states do not agree on the necessary technical , legal and financial arrangements , the commission may propose a framework for such measures in its opinion and decision on the plans with a view to strengthening the solidarity clause .


### where the commission considers that the gas supply in a region or the union as whole is affected or is likely to be affected it may require the competent authorities to collect and submit to the commission information necessary to assess the situation of the gas supply in the union . the commission may share its assessment with the gas coordination group . ### where the commission considers that the gas supply in a region or the union as whole is affected or is likely to be affected it shall require the competent authorities to collect and submit to the commission information necessary to assess the situation of the gas supply in the union . the commission may share its assessment with the gas coordination group .


### where the commission considers that the gas supply in a region or the union as whole is affected or is likely to be affected it may require the competent authorities to collect and submit to the commission information necessary to assess the situation of the gas supply in the union . the commission may share its assessment with the gas coordination group . ### where the commission considers that the gas supply in a region or the union as whole is affected or is likely to be affected it may require the competent authorities to collect and submit to the commission information necessary to assess the situation of the gas supply in the union . the commission shall share its assessment with the gas coordination group .


### conditions for the suspension of gas deliveries . ### conditions for modification and suspension of gas deliveries .


### a gas coordination group is established to facilitate the coordination of measures concerning security of gas supply . the group shall be composed of representatives of the member states , in particular of their competent authorities , as well as the agency for the cooperation of energy regulators , the entso for gas and representative bodies of the industry concerned and those of relevant customers . the commission shall , in consultation with the member states , decide on the composition of the group , ensuring it is fully representative . the commission shall chair the group . the group shall adopt its rules of procedure . ### a gas coordination group is established to improve the coordination of measures concerning security of gas supply . the group shall be composed of representatives of the member states , in particular of their competent authorities , as well as the agency for the cooperation of energy regulators , the entso for gas and representative bodies of the industry concerned and those of relevant customers . the commission shall , in consultation with the member states , decide on the composition of the group , ensuring it is fully representative . the commission shall chair the group . the group shall adopt its rules of procedure .


### the commission , on the basis of the assessments referred to in article 7 shall , when appropriate , draw conclusions as to possible means to enhance security of supply at union level and report to the european parliament and the council on the implementation of this regulation , including , where necessary , recommendations for improvement of this regulation . ### the commission , on the basis of the assessments referred to in article 7 shall draw conclusions as to possible means to enhance security of supply at union level and report to the european parliament and the council on the implementation of this regulation , including recommendations for improvement of this regulation .


### the agency should consult interested parties , where appropriate , and provide them with a reasonable opportunity to comment on proposed measures , such as network codes and rules . ### the agency must consult interested parties , where appropriate , and provide them with a reasonable opportunity to comment on all proposed measures .


### the agency ' s budget should be assessed by the budgetary authority on an ongoing basis , with reference to the agency’s workload and performance . the budgetary authority should ensure that the best standards of efficiency are met . ### the agency ' s budget should be assessed by the budgetary authority on an ongoing basis , with reference to the agency’s workload , performance and the objective of working towards a single energy market and contributing to energy security to the benefit of eu consumers . the budgetary authority should ensure that the best standards of efficiency are met .


### through the cooperation of national regulators within the agency it is evident that majority decisions are a key pre - requisite to achieve progress on matters concerning the internal energy market which have significant economic effects in various member states . national regulators should therefore vote with simple majority within the board of regulators . ### through the cooperation of national regulators within the agency it is evident that majority decisions are a key pre - requisite to achieve progress on matters concerning the internal energy market which have significant economic effects in various member states . national regulators should therefore continue to vote with two - thirds majority within the board of regulators . the agency should be accountable to the european parliament , the council and the commission , where appropriate .


### through the cooperation of national regulators within the agency it is evident that majority decisions are a key pre - requisite to achieve progress on matters concerning the internal energy market which have significant economic effects in various member states . national regulators should therefore vote with simple majority within the board of regulators . ### through the cooperation of national regulators within the agency it is evident that majority decisions are a key pre - requisite to achieve progress on matters concerning the internal energy market which have significant economic effects in various member states . national regulators should therefore vote with two - thirds majority within the board of regulators . the agency should be accountable to the european parliament , the council and the commission , where appropriate .


### through the cooperation of national regulators within the agency it is evident that majority decisions are a key pre - requisite to achieve progress on matters concerning the internal energy market which have significant economic effects in various member states . national regulators should therefore vote with simple majority within the board of regulators . ### through the cooperation of national regulators within the agency it is evident that majority decisions are a key pre - requisite to achieve progress on matters concerning the internal energy market which have significant economic effects in various member states . national regulators should therefore vote with two - thirds majority within the board of regulators . where appropriate the agency should be accountable to the european parliament , the council and the commission .


### through the cooperation of national regulators within the agency it is evident that majority decisions are a key pre - requisite to achieve progress on matters concerning the internal energy market which have significant economic effects in various member states . national regulators should therefore vote with simple majority within the board of regulators . ### through the cooperation of national regulators within the agency it is evident that majority decisions are a key pre - requisite to achieve progress on matters concerning the internal energy market which have significant economic effects in various member states . national regulators should therefore vote with two - thirds majority within the board of regulators . the agency should be accountable to the european parliament , the council and the commission , where appropriate


### issue opinions and recommendations addressed to transmission system operators , regional operational centres and nominated electricity market operators ; ### issue opinions and recommendations addressed to transmission system operators , regional coordination centres and nominated electricity market operators ;


### tasks of the agency as regards regional operational centres ### tasks of the agency as regards regional coordination centres


### the proposals for methodologies and calculations related to the european resource adequacy assessment pursuant to article 19 , and of [ recast electricity regulation as proposed by com 861 / 2 ] . ### the proposals for methodologies related to the resource adequacy assessment pursuant to article 19 and of [ recast electricity regulation as proposed by com 861 / 2 ] .


### the agency , in close cooperation with the commission , the member states and the relevant national authorities including the national regulatory authorities and without prejudice to the competences of competition authorities , shall monitor the&#160 ; wholesale and retail markets in electricity and natural gas , in particular the retail prices of electricity and natural gas , &#160 ; compliance with the consumer rights laid down in [ recast electricity directive as proposed by com 864 / 2 ] and directive 2009 / 73 / ec , access to the networks including access of electricity produced from renewable energy sources , &#160 ; potential barriers to cross - border trade , state interventions preventing prices from reflecting actual scarcity , the performance of the member states in the area of electricity security of supply based on the results of the european resource adequacy assessment as referred to in article 19 of [ recast electricity regulation ] , in particular taking into account the ex - post evaluation referred to in article 16 of [ risk preparedness regulation as proposed by com 862 ] . ### the agency , in close cooperation with the commission , the member states and the relevant national authorities including the national regulatory authorities and without prejudice to the competences of competition authorities , shall monitor the&#160 ; wholesale and retail markets in electricity and natural gas , in particular the retail prices of electricity and natural gas , &#160 ; compliance with the consumer rights laid down in [ recast electricity directive as proposed by com 864 / 2 ] and directive 2009 / 73 / ec , access to the networks including access of electricity produced from renewable energy sources , &#160 ; the stage reached with regard to interconnections , potential barriers to cross - border trade , state interventions preventing prices from reflecting actual scarcity , the performance of the member states in the area of electricity security of supply based on the results of the european resource adequacy assessment as referred to in article 19 of [ recast electricity regulation ] , in particular taking into account the ex - post evaluation referred to in article 16 of [ risk preparedness regulation as proposed by com 862 ] .


### decisions of the administrative board shall be adopted on the basis of a simple majority of the members present , unless provided otherwise in this regulation . each member of the administrative board or alternate shall have one vote . ### decisions of the administrative board shall be adopted on the basis of a two thirds majority of the members present , unless provided otherwise in this regulation . each member of the administrative board or alternate shall have one vote


### each year , the administrative board shall adopt a programming document containing multi - annual and annual programming , based on a draft put forward by the director , taking into account the opinion of the commission and in relation to multiannual programming after consulting the european parliament . it shall forward it to the european parliament , the council and the commission no later than 31 january each year . ### each year , the administrative board shall adopt a programming document containing multi - annual and annual programming , based on a draft put forward by the director and approved by the board of regulators , taking into account the opinion of the commission and in relation to multi - annual programming after consulting the european parliament . it shall forward it to the european parliament , the council and the commission no later than 31 january each year


### where the commission considers that the continuation of the agency is no longer justified with regard to its assigned objectives , mandate and tasks , it may propose that this regulation be amended accordingly or repealed ### where the commission , having consulted the national regulatory authorities , considers that the continuation of the agency is no longer justified with regard to its assigned objectives , mandate and tasks , it may propose that this regulation be amended accordingly or repealed


### the member states should lay down rules on penalties applicable to infringements of the provisions of this regulation and should take all measures necessary to ensure that they are implemented . those penalties should be effective , proportionate and dissuasive . ### the member states should lay down a common system of rules on penalties applicable to infringements of the provisions of this regulation and should take all measures necessary to ensure that they are implemented . those penalties should be effective , proportionate and dissuasive .


### ‘ history of safe food use in a third country’ means that the safety of the food in question has been confirmed with compositional data and from experience of continued use for at least 25 years in the customary diet of a large part of the population of a third country , prior to a notification referred to in article 13 ; ### ‘ history of safe food use in a third country’ means that the safety of the food in question has been confirmed with compositional data and from experience of continued use for at least 25 years in the customary diet of a large part of the population of a third country , prior to a notification referred to in article 13 , and with the information referred to in article 19 ;


### its country of origin ; ### its country of origin and the countries of origin of the materials used in its manufacture ;


### the name and description of the novel food ; ### the name , description and composition of the novel food ;


### the food business operators shall forthwith inform the commission of : ### the food business operators and the health authorities of the member states shall forthwith inform the commission of


### the agency shall , at the request of member states , assist them to apply the operational standards , guidelines and best practices to their asylum and reception systems by providing the necessary expertise or operational and technical assistance . ### the agency shall , on its own initiative , or , at any event , at the request of the commission or member states , assist them to apply the operational standards , guidelines and best practices to their asylum and reception systems by providing the necessary expertise or operational and technical assistance .


### member states may request the agency for assistance in implementing their obligations with regard to asylum , in particular when their asylum and reception systems are subject to disproportionate pressure . ### member states may request the agency for assistance in implementing their obligations with regard to asylum , in particular when their asylum and reception systems are subject to disproportionate pressure . the agency shall lay down the common criteria for defining such pressure .


### the agency shall organise and coordinate , for a limited period of time , one or more of following operational and technical measures : ### the agency shall organise and coordinate , for a limited period of time , decided upon by the agency , one or more of following operational and technical measures :


### assist member states in ensuring that all the necessary child rights and child protection safeguards are in place ; ### assist member states in ensuring that all the necessary child rights and child protection safeguards are in place , and that all women ' s rights are respected ;


### without prejudice to adaptations of support schemes to bring them in line with state aid rules , renewables support policies should be stable and avoid frequent changes . such changes have a direct impact on capital financing costs , the costs of project development and therefore on the overall cost of deploying renewables in the union . member states should prevent the revision of any support granted to renewable energy projects from having a negative impact on their economic viability . in this context , member states should promote cost - effective support policies and ensure their financial sustainability . ### renewables support policies should be stable and avoid any frequent and retroactive changes . such changes have a direct impact on capital financing costs , the costs of project development and therefore on the overall cost of deploying renewables in the union . member states should prevent the revision of any support granted to renewable energy projects from having a negative impact on their economic viability . in this context , member states should promote cost - effective support policies , maintain a stable and transparent policy framework and ensure financial sustainability , which are essential for the successful and efficient development and penetration of renewable energy options across the union . member states should also remove all measures that directly or indirectly favour the use of polluting sources .


### without prejudice to adaptations of support schemes to bring them in line with state aid rules , renewables support policies should be stable and avoid frequent changes . such changes have a direct impact on capital financing costs , the costs of project development and therefore on the overall cost of deploying renewables in the union . member states should prevent the revision of any support granted to renewable energy projects from having a negative impact on their economic viability . in this context , member states should promote cost - effective support policies and ensure their financial sustainability . ### without prejudice to adaptations of support schemes to bring them in line with state aid rules or revisions already included in the framework in force in a member state , renewables support policies should lead to a reasonable rate of return , be stable and avoid frequent changes , unless they are justified by reasons of public interest , to protect the consumers ' interest or to adapt them to market changes . such changes have a direct impact on capital financing costs , the costs of project development and therefore on the overall cost of deploying renewables in the union . member states should prevent the revision of any support granted to renewable energy projects from having a negative impact on their economic viability . in this context , member states should promote cost - effective support policies and ensure their financial sustainability .