### they may also be purchased by a public body and made available free of charge to the partner organisations . in that case , the food may be obtained from the use , processing or sale of the products in intervention stocks made available in accordance with article 15 of the regulation no [ cmo ] , provided that this is economically the most favourable option and does not unduly delay the delivery of the food products to the partner organisations . any amount derived from a transaction concerning those stocks shall be used for the benefit of the most deprived persons , and shall not be applied so as to diminish the obligation of the member states , provided in article 18 of this regulation , to co - finance the programme . ### they may also be purchased by a public body and made available free of charge to the partner organisations . in that case , the food may be obtained from the use , processing or sale of the products in intervention stocks made available in accordance with article 15 of the regulation no [ cmo ] , provided that this is economically the most favourable option and does not unduly delay the delivery of the food products to the partner organisations . any amount derived from a transaction concerning those stocks shall be used for the benefit of the most deprived persons to complement the resources of the fund without the costs of that use being deducted from the relevant financial appropriations .


### the costs of purchasing food and basic consumer goods for personal use of homeless persons or of children ; ### the costs of purchasing food and basic goods as basic clothing items or blankets for personal use of homeless persons or of deprived children ;


### the costs of purchasing food and basic consumer goods for personal use of homeless persons or of children ; ### the costs of purchasing food meeting quality and food safety requirements and basic consumer goods for personal use of homeless persons or of children ;


### following the commission decision adopting the operational programme , a pre - financing amounting 11% of the fund overall contribution to the operational programme concerned shall be paid by the commission . ### following the commission decision adopting the operational programme , a pre - financing amounting 20% of the fund overall contribution to the operational programme concerned shall be paid by the commission .


### the communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions on ' a budget for europe 2020 ' recognises the role of the egf as a flexible fund to support workers who lose their jobs and help them to find another job as rapidly as possible . the union should continue to provide , for the duration of the multiannual financial framework from 1 january 2014 to 31 december 2020 , specific , one - off support to facilitate the re - integration into employment of redundant workers in areas , sectors , territories or labour markets suffering the shock of serious economic disruption . given its purpose , which is to provide support in situations of urgency and unexpected circumstances , the egf should remain outside the multiannual financial framework . ### the communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions on ' a budget for europe 2020 ' recognises the role of the egf as a flexible fund to support workers who lose their jobs and help them to find another job as rapidly as possible . the union should continue to provide , for the duration of the multiannual financial framework from 1 january 2014 to 31 december 2020 , specific , one - off support to facilitate the re - integration into employment of redundant workers in areas , sectors , territories or labour markets suffering the shock of serious economic disruption . in view of the experience gained over 2007 - 2013 , the scope of the egf and certain arrangements for its mobilisation should , however , be partially modified . given its purpose , which is to provide support in situations of urgency and unexpected circumstances , the financial envelope allocated to the egf should remain outside and be supplementary to the ceilings for commitments established by the 2014 - 2020 multiannual financial framework .


### in order to support redundant workers effectively and rapidly , member states should do their utmost to submit complete applications . the provision of supplementary information should be exceptional and limited in time . ### in order to support redundant workers effectively and rapidly , member states should do their utmost to submit complete applications . the provision of supplementary information should be exceptional and limited in time . the member states and the commission are invited to work closely together to keep to the deadlines for examining applications for mobilisation as defined in article 8 .


### the aim of the egf shall be to contribute to economic growth and employment in the union by enabling the union to show solidarity towards workers made redundant as a result of major structural changes in world trade patterns due to globalisation , trade agreements affecting agriculture , or an unexpected crisis , and to provide financial support for their rapid reintegration into employment , or for changing or adjusting their agricultural activities . ### the aim of the egf shall be to contribute to economic growth and employment in the union by enabling the union to show solidarity towards workers made redundant , or people considered to have been made redundant for the purposes of this regulation , as a result of major structural changes in world trade patterns due to globalisation or an unexpected crisis , and to provide financial support for their rapid reintegration into employment , or for changing or adjusting their activities .


### the member state shall submit a complete application to the commission within a period of 12 weeks from the date on which the criteria set in article 4 or are met or , where applicable , before the deadline set by the commission in accordance with article 4 . in exceptional and duly justified circumstances the application may be supplemented with additional information by the applicant member state within six months from the date of application , following which the commission shall assess the application on the basis of the available information . the commission shall complete its assessment of the application within twelve weeks of the date of receipt of a complete application or six months after the date of the initial application , whichever is the earlier . ### the member state shall submit a complete application to the commission within a period of eight weeks from the date on which the criteria set in article 4 or are met . in exceptional and duly justified circumstances the application may be supplemented with additional information by the applicant member state within eight weeks from the date of application , following which the commission shall assess the application on the basis of the available information . the commission shall complete its assessment of the application within six weeks of the date of receipt of a complete application or four months after the date of the initial application , whichever is the earlier . the commission and the member state shall do their utmost to keep to these deadlines .


### the commission ' s technical assistance shall include the provision of information and guidance to the member states for using , monitoring and evaluating the egf . the commission may also provide information on using the egf to the european and national social partners . ### the commission ' s technical assistance shall include the provision of information and guidance to the member states for using , monitoring and evaluating the egf . the commission must also provide information on using the egf to the european and national social partners .


### where the commission has concluded that the conditions for mobilising the egf are met , it shall submit a proposal to deploy it . the decision to deploy the egf shall be taken jointly by the two arms of the budgetary authority . the council shall act by a qualified majority and the european parliament shall act by a majority of its component members and three fifths of the votes cast . ### where the commission has concluded that the conditions for mobilising the egf are met , it shall submit a proposal to deploy it . the decision to deploy the egf shall be taken jointly by the two arms of the budgetary authority within a deadline not exceeding one month of the referral to the budgetary authority . the council shall act by a qualified majority and the european parliament shall act by a majority of its component members and three fifths of the votes cast .


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


### in order to ensure coherence between the accession process and the financial and technical assistance provided under this regulation and achieve the objectives of the accession agenda , a common strategic framework for using the instrument for pre - accession assistance should be established by the commission . this framework should define , inter alia , the list of key actions which may be supported under this regulation and the criteria for the allocation of funds . the common strategic framework should constitute the reference framework for the country and multi - country strategy papers . ### in order to ensure coherence between the accession process and the financial and technical assistance provided under this regulation and achieve the objectives of the accession agenda , a common strategic framework for using the instrument for pre - accession assistance should be established by the commission . the commission could seek support in this exercise by its eu agencies and other relevant institutions . this framework should define , inter alia , the list of key actions which may be supported under this regulation and the criteria for the allocation of funds . the common strategic framework should constitute the reference framework for the country and multi - country strategy papers .


### the objectives of the assistance should be defined in indicative country and multi–country strategy papers established by the commission for the duration of the union ' s multi - annual financial framework in partnership with the beneficiary countries , based on their specific needs and enlargement agenda . the strategy papers should identify the policy areas for assistance and , without prejudice to the prerogatives of the budgetary authority , lay down the indicative allocations of funds per policy area , broken down per year , including an estimate of climate related expenditure . sufficient flexibility should be built in to cater for emerging needs and to give incentives to improve performance . the strategy papers should ensure coherence and consistency with the efforts of beneficiary countries as reflected in their national budgets and should take into account the support provided by other donors . in order to take into account internal and external developments , the multiannual indicative strategy papers should be revised as appropriate . ### the objectives of the assistance should be defined in indicative country and multi–country strategy papers established by the commission for the duration of the union ' s multi - annual financial framework in partnership with the beneficiary countries , based on their specific needs and enlargement agenda . the strategy papers should identify the policy areas for assistance and , without prejudice to the prerogatives of the budgetary authority , lay down the indicative allocations of funds per policy area , broken down per year , including an estimate of climate related expenditure . sufficient flexibility should be built in to cater for emerging needs and to give incentives to improve performance and to enhance domestic and international investment for quality job creation and democracy enhancement . the strategy papers should ensure coherence and consistency with the efforts of beneficiary countries as reflected in their national budgets and should take into account the support provided by other donors . in order to take into account internal and external developments , the multiannual indicative strategy papers should be revised as appropriate .


### . promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms , enhanced respect for minority rights , promotion of gender equality , non - discrimination and freedom of the press , and promotion of good neighbourly relations ; ### . promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms , enhanced respect for minority rights and the rights of people with disabilities , protection of vulnerable groups , promotion of gender equality , non - discrimination and freedom of the press , and promotion of good neighbourly relations ;


### . the development of civil society and social dialogue ; ### . the development of civil society and social dialogue between employers ' organizations and trade unions


### . social and economic inclusion , in particular of minorities and vulnerable groups ; ### . social and economic inclusion , in particular of minorities and vulnerable groups including the european platform against poverty and social exclusion and other relevant fora ;


### – progress in the areas of democracy , the rule of law , the respect of human rights and fundamental freedoms , the justice system and the level of administrative capacity ; ### – progress in the areas of democracy , the rule of law , the respect of human rights and fundamental freedoms , the protection of minority rights and the rights of vulnerable groups , the justice system and the level of administrative capacity , and the promotion of civil society ;


### – progress in economic reforms ; the soundness and effectiveness of social and economic development strategies , progress towards smart , sustainable and inclusive growth , including through public investments supported by ipa ; ### – progress in socio - economic reforms ; the soundness and effectiveness of social and economic development strategies , progress towards smart , sustainable and inclusive growth and the creation of quality education , training and employment , including through public investments supported by ipa ;


### without prejudice to the provisions on suspension of aid in partnership and cooperation agreements with partner countries and regions , where a beneficiary country fails to respect the principles of democracy , the rule of law , human rights , minority rights and fundamental freedoms , or the commitments contained in the relevant agreements concluded with the union , or where progress towards fulfilment of the accession criteria is insufficient , the union shall invite the beneficiary country to hold consultations with a view to finding a solution acceptable to both parties , except in cases of special urgency . where consultations with the beneficiary country do not lead to a solution acceptable to both parties , or if consultations are refused or in cases of special urgency , the council may take appropriate measures in accordance with article 215 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union , which may include full or partial suspension of union assistance . the european parliament shall be fully and immediately informed of any decisions taken in this respect . ### without prejudice to the provisions on suspension of aid in partnership and cooperation agreements with partner countries and regions , where a beneficiary country fails to respect the principles of democracy , the rule of law , human rights , minority rights and fundamental freedoms , or the commitments contained in the relevant agreements concluded with the union , or where progress towards fulfilment of the accession criteria and transparency are insufficient , the union shall invite the beneficiary country to hold consultations with a view to finding a solution acceptable to both parties , except in cases of special urgency . where consultations with the beneficiary country do not lead to a solution acceptable to both parties , or if consultations are refused or in cases of special urgency , the council may take appropriate measures in accordance with article 215 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union , which may include full or partial suspension of union assistance . the european parliament shall be fully and immediately informed of any decisions taken in this respect .


### the marketing of goods infringing intellectual property rights does considerable damage to right - holders , law - abiding manufacturers and traders . it is also deceiving consumers , and could in some cases endanger their health and safety . such goods should , in so far as is possible , be kept off the market and measures should be adopted to deal with this unlawful activity without impeding legitimate trade . ### the marketing of goods infringing intellectual property rights does considerable damage to right - holders , law - abiding manufacturers and traders . it is also deceiving consumers , and could in some cases endanger their health and safety . such goods should , in so far as is possible , be kept off the market and measures should be adopted to deal with this unlawful activity without impeding legitimate trade . for this reason , consumers need to be well - informed about the risks involved in purchasing those goods .


### given that customs authorities take action upon prior application , it is appropriate to provide that the holder of the decision granting an application for action by the customs authorities should reimburse all the costs incurred by the customs authorities in taking action to enforce his / her intellectual property rights . nevertheless , this should not preclude the holder of the decision from seeking compensation from the infringer or other persons that might be considered liable according to the legislation of the member state concerned . costs and damages incurred by persons other than customs administrations as a result of a customs action , where the goods are detained on the basis of a claim of a third party based on intellectual property , should be governed by the specific legislation in each particular case . ### given that customs authorities take action upon prior application , it is appropriate to provide that the holder of the decision granting an application for action by the customs authorities should reimburse all the costs incurred by the customs authorities in taking action to enforce his / her intellectual property rights . nevertheless , this should not preclude the holder of the decision from seeking compensation from the infringer or other persons , including intermediaries such as carriers or freight forwarders , that might be considered liable according to the legislation of the member state concerned . costs and damages incurred by persons other than customs administrations as a result of a customs action , where the goods are detained on the basis of a claim of a third party based on intellectual property , should be governed by the specific legislation in each particular case .


### any mould or matrix which is specifically designed or adapted for the manufacture of goods infringing an intellectual property right , if such moulds or matrices infringe the right - holder ' s rights under union law or the law of that member state ; ### any mould or matrix which is specifically designed or adapted for the manufacture of goods infringing an intellectual property right , if such moulds or matrices infringe the right - holder ' s rights in the member state where the goods are found ;


### specific and technical data on the authentic goods , including images where appropriate ; ### specific and technical data on the authentic goods , including marking , such as bar - coding , and images where appropriate ;


### any information relevant to the customs authorities ' analysis and assessment of the risk of infringement of the intellectual property right concerned ; ### any information relevant to the customs authorities ' analysis and assessment of the risk of infringement of the intellectual property right concerned , such as the authorised distributors ;


### the customs authorities shall , upon request and if known , provide the holder of the decision granting the application with the names and addresses of the consignee , the consignor , the declarant or the holder of the goods , the customs procedure and the origin , provenance and destination of goods suspected of infringing an intellectual property right . ### the customs authorities shall , upon request and if known , provide the holder of the decision granting the application and , where relevant , law enforcement authorities and agencies with the names and addresses of the consignee , the consignor , the declarant or the holder of the goods , the customs procedure and the origin , provenance and destination of goods suspected of infringing an intellectual property right . for goods in transit that are suspected of infringing an intellectual property right in the country of destination , the customs authorities may communicate this information to the customs authorities in the country of destination .


### the declarant or holder of the goods shall be given the opportunity to express his / her point of view within 20 working days of dispatch of the decision to suspend the release of the goods or to detain them . ### the declarant or holder of the goods shall be given the opportunity to express his / her point of view within 20 working days of receipt of the decision to suspend the release of the goods or to detain them .


### where the declarant or holder of the goods objects to the destruction of the goods , the customs authorities shall inform the holder of the decision granting the application of such objection and of the number of items and their nature , including images of those items where appropriate . ### where the declarant or holder of the goods objects to the destruction of the goods , the customs authorities shall inform the holder of the decision granting the application of such objection and of the number of items and their nature , including images of those items or samples where appropriate .


### where requested by the customs authorities , the holder of the decision granting the application shall reimburse all costs incurred by the customs administration in keeping goods under customs supervision in accordance with articles 16 and 17 and in destroying goods in accordance with articles 20 and 23 . ### where requested by the customs authorities , the holder of the decision granting the application shall reimburse all costs incurred by the customs administration in keeping goods under customs supervision in accordance with articles 16 and 17 and in destroying goods in accordance with articles 20 and 23 . the holder of a decision shall , upon request , be given information by the customs authorities on where and how the detained goods are being stored and on the costs associated with this storage , and shall be given the opportunity to comment on this storage .


### the member states shall lay down the rules on administrative sanctions applicable to infringements of the provisions of this regulation and shall take all measures necessary to ensure that they are implemented . the administrative sanctions provided for must be effective , proportionate and dissuasive . ### the member states shall lay down the rules on sanctions applicable to infringements of the provisions of this regulation and shall take all measures necessary to ensure that they are implemented . the sanctions provided for must be effective , proportionate and dissuasive .


### “transaction cost” : a cost linked to a commitment but not directly attributable to its implementation ; ### “transaction cost” : a cost linked to a commitment that is indirectly generated by its implementation ;


### ' natural disaster ' : a naturally occurring event of biotic or abiotic nature that leads to important disturbances of agricultural production systems and forest structures , eventually causing important economic damage to the farming and forest sectors ; ### ' natural disaster ' : a naturally occurring event of biotic or abiotic nature that leads to important disturbances of agricultural production systems and forest structures , eventually causing important economic damage to the farming or forest sectors ;


### ' catastrophic event ' : an unforeseen event of biotic or abiotic nature caused by human action that leads to important disturbances of agricultural production systems and forest structures , eventually causing important economic damage to the farming and forest sectors ; ### ' catastrophic event ' : an unforeseen event of biotic or abiotic nature caused by human action that leads to important disturbances of agricultural production systems and forest structures , eventually causing important economic damage to the farming or forest sectors ;


### the competitiveness of agriculture ; ### the competitiveness of agriculture and forestry ;


### restoring and preserving biodiversity , including in natura 2000 areas and high nature value farming , and the state of european landscapes ; ### restoring and preserving biodiversity , including in natura 2000 areas and high nature value farming systems , and the state of european landscapes ;


### studies and investments associated with the maintenance , restoration and upgrading of the cultural and natural heritage of villages and rural landscapes , including related socio - economic aspects ; ### studies and investments associated with the maintenance , restoration and upgrading of the cultural and natural heritage , of areas of high ecological value , of villages and rural landscapes , including related socio - economic aspects , as well as environmental awareness initiatives ;


### investments targeting the relocation of activities and conversion of buildings or other facilities located close to rural settlements , with a view to improving the quality of life or increasing the environmental performance of the settlement . ### investments targeting the relocation of activities and conversion of buildings or other facilities located inside and close to rural settlements , with a view to improving the quality of life or increasing the environmental performance of the settlement .


### support shall be granted to producer groups which are officially recognised by the member states ' competent authority on the basis of a business plan . it shall be limited to producer groups coming under the definition of smes . ### support shall be granted to producer groups which are officially recognised by the member states ' competent authority on the basis of a business plan . it shall be limited to producer groups coming under the definition of smes or covered by the legislation of the member states .


### support shall be granted to farmers and to private forest owners and associations of forest owners respectively . in duly justified cases it may also be granted to other land managers . ### support shall be granted to farmers and to private forest owners and associations of forest owners respectively as well as to the owners or public administrators of forests not funded from national coffers . in duly justified cases it may also be granted to other land managers .


### for the verification of compliance with the rules on the common organisation of the markets of agricultural products , a well - established and specific control system is already in place . this regulation should therefore not apply to the verification of compliance with the provisions of council regulation no 1234 / 2007 of 22 october 2007 establishing a common organisation of agricultural markets and on specific provisions for certain agricultural products . ### for the verification of compliance with the rules on the common organisation of the markets of agricultural products , a well - established and specific control system is already in place . this regulation should therefore not apply to the verification of compliance with the provisions of council regulation no 1234 / 2007 of 22 october 2007 establishing a common organisation of agricultural markets and on specific provisions for certain agricultural products , with the exception of part ii , title ii , chapter i of that regulation .


### union agri - food chain legislation entrusts the competent authorities of the member states with specialised tasks to be carried out for the protection of animal health , plant health and animal welfare , for the protection of the environment in relation to gmos and plant protection products , and in order to ensure the identity and a high quality of plant reproductive material . those tasks are the public interest activities which the competent authorities of the member states must carry out for the purpose of eliminating , containing or reducing risks which may arise for human , animal or plant health , animal welfare , or for the environment . those activities , which include product approval , surveying , surveillance and monitoring including for epidemiologic purposes , and the eradication and containment of diseases , and other disease control tasks , are governed by the same sectoral rules which are enforced through the official controls . ### union agri - food chain legislation entrusts the competent authorities of the member states with specialised tasks to be carried out , not least for the protection of animal health , plant health and animal welfare , for the protection of the environment in relation to gmos and plant protection products , and in order to ensure the identity and a high quality of plant reproductive material . those tasks are the public interest activities which the competent authorities of the member states must carry out for the purpose of eliminating , containing or reducing risks which may arise for human , animal or plant health , animal welfare , or for the environment . those activities , which include product approval , surveying , surveillance and monitoring including for epidemiologic purposes , and the eradication and containment of diseases , and other disease control tasks , are governed by the same sectoral rules which are enforced through the official controls .


### for the performance of official controls aimed at verifying the correct application of union agri - food chain legislation , and of the other official activities entrusted to member state authorities by union agri - food chain legislation , member states should designate competent authorities which act in the public interest , are appropriately resourced and equipped , and offer guarantees of impartiality and professionalism . competent authorities should ensure the quality , consistency and effectiveness of official controls . ### for the performance of official controls aimed at verifying the correct application of union agri - food chain legislation , and of the other official activities entrusted to member state authorities by union agri - food chain legislation , member states should designate competent public authorities which act in the public interest and ensure the quality , consistency and effectiveness of official controls . the designated competent authority , or authorities , should be appropriately resourced and equipped , and member states should be able to guarantee their impartiality and professionalism by ensuring their independence from any operator operating within the agri - food chain .


### for the performance of official controls aimed at verifying the correct application of union agri - food chain legislation , and of the other official activities entrusted to member state authorities by union agri - food chain legislation , member states should designate competent authorities which act in the public interest , are appropriately resourced and equipped , and offer guarantees of impartiality and professionalism . competent authorities should ensure the quality , consistency and effectiveness of official controls . ### for the performance of official controls aimed at verifying the correct application of union agri - food chain legislation , and of the other official activities entrusted to member state authorities by union agri - food chain legislation , member states should , in all the areas falling within the scope of this regulation , designate competent authorities which act in the public interest , are appropriately resourced and equipped , and offer guarantees of impartiality and professionalism . competent authorities should ensure the quality , consistency and effectiveness of official controls .


### governing food and food safety , at any stage of production , the processing and distribution of food , including rules aimed at guaranteeing fair practices in trade and protecting consumer interests and information , and the manufacture and use of materials and articles intended to come into contact with food ; ### governing food , food safety , and food wholesomeness at any stage of production , the processing and distribution of food , including rules aimed at guaranteeing fair practices in trade and protecting consumer interests and information , and the manufacture and use of materials and articles intended to come into contact with food ;


### ' official veterinarian ' means a veterinarian appointed by the competent authorities and appropriately qualified to perform the official controls and other official activities in accordance with : ### ‘ official veterinarian’ means a veterinarian appointed by the competent authorities and appropriately qualified to perform official controls and other official activities in accordance with :


### ' delegated body ' means a third party , to which the competent authorities have delegated specific official control tasks ; ### ‘ delegated body’ means a third party , to which the competent authorities have delegated specific tasks relating to official controls and other official activities ;


### ' control authority for organic products ' means a public administrative organisation of a member state to which the competent authorities have conferred , in whole or in part , their competences in relation to the application of regulation no 834 / 2007 , including , where appropriate , the corresponding authority of a third country or operating in a third country ; ### ‘ control authority for organic production’ means a public administrative organisation of a member state to which the competent authorities have conferred , in whole or in part , their competences for inspections and certification in the organic production sector , in relation to the provisions of regulation no 834 / 2007 , including , where appropriate , the corresponding authority of a third country or operating in a third country ;


### ‘ equivalence’ or ‘ equivalent’ means : ### ‘ equivalence’ or ‘ equivalent’ means systems that are broadly the same and meet the same objectives ;


### have arrangements in place to ensure that staff performing official controls and other official activities are free from any conflict of interest ; ### have arrangements in place to ensure that staff performing official controls and other official activities are independent and free from any conflict of interest ;


### the use of products , processes , materials or substances that may influence food or feed safety , animal health or animal welfare , plant health or plant reproductive material identity and quality , or , in the case of gmos and plant protection products , may adversely impact on the environment ; ### the use of products , processes , materials or substances that may influence food safety and wholesomeness , feed safety , animal health or animal welfare , plant health or plant reproductive material identity and quality , or , in the case of gmos and plant protection products , may adversely impact on the environment ;


### to the extent strictly necessary for the organisation of the official controls , member states of destination may require operators who have animals or goods delivered to them from another member state to report the arrival of such animals or goods . ### to the extent strictly necessary for the organisation of the official controls , member states of destination shall require operators who have animals or goods delivered to them from another member state to report the arrival of such animals or goods .


### on operators and the activities and operations under their control , on their premises and processes , on the storage , transport , and the use of goods and the keeping of animals . ### on operators and the activities and operations under their control , on their premises , land , crops and processes , on the storage , transport and the use of goods and on the keeping of animals .


### competent authorities shall perform official controls with a high level of transparency and make available to the public relevant information concerning the organisation and the performance of official controls . ### competent authorities shall perform official controls with a high level of transparency and make available to the public relevant information concerning the results of the controls and the conformity of the production and products with the requirements of this regulation . where a threat to public health is detected , special measures shall be taken to inform the public of this .


### during official controls and other official activities , operators shall assist the staff of the competent authorities in the accomplishment of their tasks . ### during official controls and other official activities , operators shall assist the staff of the competent authorities and the delegated bodies , pursuant to article 25 , in the accomplishment of their tasks .


### establishing the modalities for access by the competent authorities to the computerised information management systems referred to in paragraph 1 ; ### establishing the modalities for access by the competent authorities and the delegated bodies , pursuant to article 25 , to the computerised information management systems referred to in paragraph 1 ;


### official controls on the production of meat shall include : ### in addition to the general rules on controls provided for in article 8 , official controls on the production of meat shall include :


### the need to enable the continued use of traditional methods at any of the stages of production , processing or distribution of food ; ### the need to enable the continued use of traditional methods at any of the stages of production , ageing , processing or distribution of food ;


### the specific responsibilities and tasks of the competent authorities , in addition to those provided for in paragraph 1 and articles 4 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 34 and , and 36 ; ### the specific responsibilities and tasks of the competent authorities , in addition to those provided for in paragraph 1 and articles 4 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 and 13 ;


### official controls to verify compliance with the rules laying down welfare requirements for animals in case of their transport shall include : ### in addition to the general rules on official controls provided for in article 8 , official controls to verify compliance with the rules laying down welfare requirements for animals in case of their transport shall include :


### official controls on the fitness of the animals being transported and on the means of transport ; ### official controls on the fitness of the animals being transported and on the means of transport to verify compliance with chapter ii and where applicable chapter vi of annex i to regulation no 1 / 1005 ;


### official controls on the fitness of the animals being transported and on the means of transport ; ### official controls on the fitness of the animals being transported and on the means of transport to verify that it complies with chapter ii and where applicable chapter vi of annex i to regulation no 1 / 2005 ;


### official controls to verify that transporters comply with applicable international agreements and have valid transporter authorisations and certificates of competence for drivers and attendants ; ### official controls to verify that transporters comply with applicable international agreements , including the european convention for the protection of animals during international transport and have valid transporter authorisations and certificates of competence for drivers and attendants ;


### uniform specific requirements for the performance of official controls having regard , in addition to the criteria referred to in article 8 , to the risks to the health , identity , quality and traceability of certain categories of plant reproductive material or of specific genera or species ; ### uniform specific requirements for the performance of official controls having regard , in addition to the criteria referred to in article 8 , to the risks to the health , identity , quality and traceability of all categories of plant reproductive material or of specific genera or species ;


### in the absence of the union rules referred to in paragraph 1 , official laboratories shall use state - of - the - art methods for their specific analytical , testing and diagnostic needs , taking into account : ### in the absence of the union rules referred to in paragraph 1 , in the context of official controls , official laboratories shall use state - of - the - art methods for their specific analytical , testing and diagnostic needs , taking into account , in the following order :


### in the context of screening , targeted screening and of other official activities , any of the methods referred to in paragraph 2 may be used in the absence of union rules referred to in paragraph 1 . ### by way of derogation from paragraph 2 , in the context of screening , targeted screening and of other official activities , any of the methods referred to in paragraph 2 may be used in the absence of union rules referred to in paragraph 1 . the same rule shall apply to the other official activities .


### samples shall be taken , handled and labelled in such a way as to guarantee their legal , scientific and technical validity . ### samples shall be taken and handled in accordance with the research standards applicable to the products concerned and labelled in such a way as to guarantee their legal , scientific and technical validity .


### communicate the information referred to in point through the traces system . ### communicate the information referred to in point through or in electronic exchange with the traces system .


### member states shall ensure that adequate financial resources are available to provide the staff and other resources necessary for the competent authorities to perform official controls and other official activities . ### member states shall ensure that adequate financial resources are available to provide the staff and other resources necessary for the competent authorities to perform official controls and other official activities by whatever means considered appropriate , including through general taxation or by establishing fees or charges .


### the use of resources collected through such fees ; ### the use of resources collected through such fees , including the number of controls performed and , where appropriate , the number of unsatisfactory findings within the field of responsibility of the authority . regional overviews should be produced ;


### the annual reports submitted by the member states in accordance with article&#160 ; 112 ; ### the annual reports submitted by the member states in accordance with article&#160 ; 112 , which shall include the information on fees referred to in paragraph 2 of article 83 on transparency ;


### take appropriate measures to ensure that the operator remedies the non - compliance and prevents further occurrences of it . ### take appropriate measures to ensure that the operator remedies the non - compliance and establishes systems to prevent further occurrences of it .


### order the unloading , transfer to another means of transport , holding and care of animals , quarantine periods , the postponement of the slaughter of animals ; ### order the unloading , transfer to another means of transport , holding in suitable accommodation with appropriate care of animals , quarantine periods , the postponement of the slaughter of animals , that veterinary assistance must be sought if necessary ;


### the delegation of power referred to in articles 4 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 , 19 , 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 , 40 , 43 , 45 , 46 , 49 , 51 , 52 and , 56 , 60 , 62 , 69 , 75 and , 97 , 98 , 99 , 101 , 106 , 110 , 111 , 114 and 125 , the third subparagraph of article 132 , articles 133 , 138 and , 143 , 144 , 151 , 153 and 159 shall be conferred for an indeterminate period of time from the date of entry into force of this regulation . ### the delegation of power referred to in articles 4 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 , 19 , 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 40 , 43 , 45 , 46 , 49 , 51 , 52 and , 56 , 60 , 62 , 69 , 75 and , 97 , 98 , 99 , 101 , 106 , 110 , 111 , 114 and 125 , the third subparagraph of article 132 , articles 133 , 138 and , 143 , 144 , 151 , 153 and 159 shall be conferred for an indeterminate period of time from the date of entry into force of this regulation .


### articles 27 and 30 of regulation no 834 / 2007 shall continue to apply until the date to be determined in the delegated act to be adopted in accordance with paragraph 3 . ### articles 27 and and 30 of regulation no 834 / 2007 shall continue to apply until the date to be determined in the delegated act to be adopted in accordance with paragraph 3 .


### grants may be awarded to a single national reference laboratory in each member state for each european union reference laboratory for plant health , up to three years after the designation of that european union reference laboratory . ' . ### the grants referred to in paragraph 1 may be awarded to a single national reference laboratory in each member state for each european union reference laboratory for plant health , up to three years after the designation of that european union reference laboratory . '


### articles 15 , 18 , 45 to 62 and 76 to 84 , point of article 150 , point of article 152 , point of article 154 , point of article 155 and point of article 156 shall apply from [ office of publications , please insert date of entry into force this regulation + 3 years ] . ### articles 15 , 18 , 45 to 62 and 76 to 84 , point of article 152 , point of article 154 and point of article 155 shall apply from [ office of publications , please insert date of entry into force this regulation + 3 years ] . point of article 150 and point of article 156 shall not apply until the delegated acts that replace them are in force .


### there is a need to build upon the experience gained during the first decade of functioning of economic and monetary union . ### there is a need to build upon the experience gained during the first decade of functioning of economic and monetary union regarding macroeconomic and social imbalances .


### in particular , surveillance of the economic policies of the member states should be broadened beyond budgetary surveillance to prevent excessive macroeconomic imbalances and help the member states affected devise corrective plans before divergences become entrenched . this broadening should go in step with deepening of fiscal surveillance . ### in particular , surveillance of the economic policies of the member states should be broadened beyond budgetary surveillance to prevent excessive macroeconomic and social imbalances , help the member states affected devise corrective plans before divergences become entrenched , promote mutually reinforcing development strategies and facilitate monitoring the progress towards the union’s growth and jobs objectives . this broadening should go in step with deepening of fiscal surveillance .


### to help address such imbalances , a procedure laid down in legislation is necessary . ### to help address such imbalances , a more integrated economic and social approach and a procedure laid down in legislation is necessary .


### it is appropriate to supplement the multilateral surveillance referred to in article 121 and of the treaty with specific rules for detection , prevention and correction of macroeconomic imbalances . the procedure should be embedded in the annual multilateral surveillance cycle . ### it is appropriate to supplement the multilateral surveillance referred to in article 121 and tfeu with specific rules for detection , prevention and correction of macroeconomic imbalances , that include incentives as well as fines . the procedure should be embedded in the annual multilateral surveillance cycle .


### enforcement of regulation no [ … / … ] should be strengthened by establishing fines for member states whose currency is the euro in case of repetitive non - compliance with the recommendations to address excessive macroeconomic imbalances . ### enforcement of regulation no [ … / … ] should be strengthened by establishing incentives as well as fines for member states whose currency is the euro in case of repetitive non - compliance with the recommendations to address excessive macroeconomic imbalances .


### the power to adopt individual decisions for the application of the fine provided for in this regulation should be conferred on the council . as part of the coordination of the economic policies of the member states conducted within the council as specified in article 121 of the treaty , these individual decisions are an integral follow - up to the measures adopted by the council in accordance with article 121 of the treaty and regulation no [ … / … ] . ### the power to adopt individual decisions for the application of the fine provided for in this regulation should be conferred on the council after consulting the european parliament . as part of the coordination of the economic policies of the member states conducted within the council as specified in article 121 tfeu , these individual decisions are an integral follow - up to the measures adopted by the council in accordance with article 121 and 148 tfeu and regulation no [ … / … ] .


### this regulation sets out a system of fines for effective correction of macroeconomic imbalances in the euro area . ### this regulation sets out a system of incentives and fines for effective correction of macroeconomic imbalances in the euro area .


### fines ### incentives and fines


### by derogation from paragraph 2 , the commission may , on grounds of exceptional economic circumstances or following a reasoned request by the member state concerned addressed to the commission within ten days of adoption of the council conclusions referred to in paragraph 1 , propose to reduce the amount of the fine or to cancel it . ### by derogation from paragraph 2 , the commission may , on grounds of exceptional economic or social circumstances or following a reasoned request by the member state concerned addressed to the commission within ten days of adoption of the council conclusions referred to in paragraph 1 , propose to reduce the amount of the fine or to cancel it .


### fines collected in accordance with article 3 of this regulation shall constitute other revenue , as referred to in article 311 of the treaty , and shall be distributed , in proportion to their share in the total gross national income of the eligible member states , between member states whose currency is the euro and which are not the subject of an excessive imbalance procedure within the meaning of regulation no [ … / … ] and do not have an excessive deficit as determined in accordance with article 126 of the treaty . ### fines collected in accordance with article 3 of this regulation shall constitute other revenue , as referred to in article 311 tfeu , and shall be used in support of achieving the union’s long - term investment and jobs objectives .


### in order to preserve the rights of the parties concerned when the competent authorities of member states cooperate with the competent authorities of third countries on the exchange of audit working papers or other relevant documents for the assessment of the quality of the audit performed , member states should ensure that the working arrangements entered into by their competent authorities based on which any exchange of such papers takes place comprise enough safeguards to protect the business secrecy , commercial interests , including the industrial and intellectual property rights of the audited entities . ### in order to preserve the rights of the parties concerned when the competent authorities of member states cooperate with the competent authorities of third countries on the exchange of audit working papers or other relevant documents for the assessment of the quality of the audit performed , member states should ensure that the working arrangements entered into by their competent authorities based on which any exchange of such papers takes place comprise enough safeguards to protect the business secrecy , commercial interests , including the industrial and intellectual property rights of the audited entities . member states shall ensure that those arrangements comply and are compatible with the provisions of directive 95 / 46 / ec of the european parliament and of the council on the protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data and of the free movement of such data .


### a delegated act adopted pursuant to articles 8 , 22 , 26 , 29 , 36 , 45 , 46 , 47 and 47 shall enter into force only if no objection has been expressed either by the european parliament or the council within a period of [ two months ] of notification of that act to the european parliament and the council or if , before the expiry of that period , the european parliament and the council have both informed the commission that they will not object . that period shall be extended by [ two months ] at the initiative of the european parliament or of the council . ' . ### a delegated act adopted pursuant to articles 8 , 22 , 26 , 29 , 36 , 45 , 46 , 47 and 47 shall enter into force only if no objection has been expressed either by the european parliament or the council within a period of four months of notification of that act to the european parliament and the council or if , before the expiry of that period , the european parliament and the council have both informed the commission that they will not object . that period shall be extended by two months at the initiative of the european parliament or of the council .


### the agency may also terminate joint operations and pilot projects if the conditions to conduct these initiatives are no longer fulfilled . ### the agency may also terminate joint operations and pilot projects if the conditions to conduct these initiatives , including respect for human rights and international protection obligations , are no longer fulfilled .


### the agency shall evaluate the results of the joint operations and pilot projects and transmit the detailed evaluation reports within 60 days following the end of the activity to the management board . the agency shall make a comprehensive comparative analysis of those results with a view to enhancing the quality , coherence and efficiency of future operations and projects to be included in its general report provided for in article 20 . ### the agency shall evaluate the results of the joint operations , rapid border intervention missions , and pilot projects and transmit the detailed evaluation reports within 60 days following the end of the activity to the management board , together with the observations of the independent monitors . the agency shall make a comprehensive comparative analysis of those results with a view to enhancing quality , coherence and the efficiency of future operations and projects to be included in its general report provided for in article 20 . to ensure that the above - mentioned activities are conducted transparently and evaluated coherently , the observations of the independent monitors shall also be incorporated in an annual reporting mechanism of the type specified in article 20 .


### a reporting and evaluation scheme containing detailed provisions on incident reporting , benchmarks for the evaluation report and final date of submission of the final evaluation report in accordance with article 3 . ### a reporting and evaluation scheme containing detailed provisions on incident reporting , benchmarks for the evaluation report and the final date of submission of the final evaluation report in accordance with article 3 . the incident reporting scheme shall be used by the agency to transmit , to the relevant public authorities and the management board , any information concerning credible allegations of breaches of , in particular , regulation no 2007 / 2004 or the schengen borders code , including fundamental rights , during joint operations and pilot projects ;


### the code of conduct will in particular pay attention to the obligation set out in article 8 of directive 2008 / 115 / ec to provide for an effective forced - return monitoring system . the monitoring of joint return operations should be carried out independently and should cover the whole joint return operation from the pre - departure phase until the hand - over of the returnees in the country of return . furthermore , observations of the monitor , which shall cover the compliance with the code of conduct and in particular fundamental rights , shall be made available to the commission and form part of the internal final return operation report . in order to ensure transparency and a coherent evaluation of the forced - return operations , reports of the monitor shall be included in an annual reporting mechanism . ### the code of conduct will in particular pay attention to the obligation set out in article 8 of directive 2008 / 115 / ec to provide for an effective forced - return monitoring system . the monitoring of joint return operations should be carried out independently and should cover the whole joint return operation from the pre - departure phase until the hand - over of the returnees in the country of return . member states shall ensure that relevant international and non - governmental organisations are involved during removal procedures in order to guarantee compliance with proper legal procedure . furthermore , observations of the monitor , which shall cover the compliance with the code of conduct and in particular fundamental rights , shall be made available to the commission and form part of the internal final return operation report . in order to ensure transparency and a coherent evaluation of the forced - return operations , reports of the monitor shall be included in the annual reporting mechanism referred to in article 20 .


### the agency may cooperate with europol , the european asylum support office , the fundamental rights agency , other european union agencies and bodies , and the international organisations competent in matters covered by this regulation in the framework of working arrangements concluded with those bodies , in accordance with the relevant provisions of the treaty and the provisions on the competence of those bodies . ### the agency may cooperate with europol , the european asylum support office , the european union agency for fundamental rights , other european union agencies and bodies , and the international and other organisations competent in matters covered by this regulation in the framework of working arrangements concluded with those bodies , in accordance with the relevant provisions of the treaty and the provisions on the competence of those bodies . in every case the agency shall inform the european parliament of any such arrangements without delay .


### the agency may deploy liaison officers , which should enjoy the highest possible protection to carry out their duties , in third countries . they shall form part of the local or regional cooperation networks of member states’ liaison officers set up pursuant to council regulation no 377 / 2004 . liaison officers shall only be deployed to third countries in which border management practices respect minimum human rights standards . priority for deployment should be given to those third countries , which on the basis of risk analysis constitute a country of origin or transit regarding illegal migration . on a reciprocal basis the agency may receive liaison officers posted by those third countries also , for a limited period of time . the management board shall adopt , on a proposal of the executive director , the list of priorities on a yearly basis in accordance with the provisions of article 24 . ### the agency may deploy liaison officers , who should enjoy the highest possible protection to carry out their duties , in third countries . in every case the agency shall inform the european parliament without delay of any such deployments , supplying a description of the duties of the officers concerned . they shall form part of the local or regional cooperation networks of member states’ liaison officers set up pursuant to council regulation no 377 / 2004 of 19 february 2004 on the creation of an immigration liaison officers network . liaison officers shall only be deployed to third countries in which border management practices respect fundamental rights and obligations related to international protection of refugees . before being deployed , liaison officers shall be given training in relevant eu and international law , including fundamental rights and access to international protection . priority for deployment should be given to those third countries , which on the basis of risk analysis constitute a country of origin or transit regarding irregular migration . on a reciprocal basis the agency may receive liaison officers posted by those third countries also , for a limited period of time . the management board shall adopt , on a proposal of the executive director , the list of priorities on a yearly basis in accordance with the provisions of article 24 . the european parliament shall be regularly informed of the activities of liaison officers deployed by the agency .


### the agency may deploy liaison officers , which should enjoy the highest possible protection to carry out their duties , in third countries . they shall form part of the local or regional cooperation networks of member states ' liaison officers set up pursuant to council regulation no 377 / 2004 . liaison officers shall only be deployed to third countries in which border management practices respect minimum human rights standards . priority for deployment should be given to those third countries , which on the basis of risk analysis constitute a country of origin or transit regarding illegal migration . on a reciprocal basis the agency may receive liaison officers posted by those third countries also , for a limited period of time . the management board shall adopt , on a proposal of the executive director , the list of priorities on a yearly basis in accordance with the provisions of article 24 . ### when member states are not sufficiently represented , the agency may deploy liaison officers , which should enjoy the highest possible protection to carry out their duties , in third countries . they shall form part of the local or regional cooperation networks of member states ' liaison officers set up pursuant to council regulation no 377 / 2004 . liaison officers shall only be deployed to third countries in which border management practices respect minimum human rights standards . priority for deployment should be given to those third countries , which on the basis of risk analysis constitute a country of origin or transit regarding illegal migration . on a reciprocal basis the agency may receive liaison officers posted by those third countries also , for a limited period of time . the management board shall adopt , on a proposal of the executive director , the list of priorities on a yearly basis in accordance with the provisions of article 24 .


### the tasks of the liaison officers shall include , in compliance with european union law and in accordance with fundamental rights , the establishment and maintaining of contacts with the competent authorities of the third country to which they are assigned to with a view to contribute to the prevention of and fight against illegal immigration and the return of illegal migrants . ### the tasks of the liaison officers shall include , in compliance with european union law and in accordance with fundamental rights , the establishment and maintaining of contacts with the competent authorities of the third country to which they are assigned to with a view to contributing to the prevention of and fight against irregular immigration and the return of irregular migrants .


### the agency may benefit from union funding in accordance with the provisions of the relevant instruments supporting the union’s external relations policy . it may launch and finance technical assistance projects in third countries regarding matters covered by this regulation . the agency may also invite representatives of third countries , other european union agencies and bodies or international organisations to participate in its activities referred to in articles 3 , 4 and 5 . these representatives shall receive the appropriate training from the agency prior to their participation . ### the agency may benefit from union funding in accordance with the provisions of the relevant instruments supporting the union’s external relations policy . it may launch and finance technical assistance projects in third countries regarding matters covered by this regulation , provided that , in their border management practices , the third countries concerned respect fundamental rights and obligations related to international protection of refugees . the agency may also invite representatives of third countries , other european union agencies and bodies or international and other expert organisations to participate in its activities referred to in articles 3 , 4 and 5 . these representatives shall receive the appropriate training from the agency prior to their participation .


### subject matter this directive lays down rules to ensure that member states effectively discharge their obligations as flag states to monitor compliance of ships flying their flag with directive 2009 / 13 / ec . this directive is without prejudice to directive 2009 / 21 / ec of the european parliament and of the council . ### subject matter this directive lays down rules to ensure that member states effectively discharge their obligations as flag states to monitor compliance of ships flying their flag with directive 2009 / 13 / ec and the social partners agreement annexed thereto . this directive is without prejudice to directive 2009 / 21 / ec of the european parliament and of the council .


### definitions ### definitions b ) “directive 2009 / 13 / ec” means that directive and the social partners agreement annexed thereto ;


### member states shall ensure that staff in charge of verifying the proper implementation of directive 2009 / 13 / ec has the training , competence , terms of reference , powers , status and independence necessary or desirable so as to enable them to carry out that verification and ensure compliance with that directive . ### a member state shall ensure that the institutions or other organisations referred to in article 3 and those members of their staff in charge of verifying the proper implementation of directive 2009 / 13 / ec have the training , competence , terms of reference , powers , status and independence necessary or desirable so as to enable them to carry out that verification and ensure compliance with that directive . the inspection or certification functions which the recognised organisations may be authorised to carry out shall come within the scope of the activities that are expressly referred to in paragraphs 1b to 1e as carried out by the member state or a recognised organisation .


### personnel in charge of dealing with complaints shall treat as confidential the source of any grievance or complaint alleging a danger or deficiency in relation to seafarers ' working and living conditions or a violation of laws and regulations and give no intimation to the shipowner , the shipowner ' s representative or the operator of the ship that an inspection was made as a consequence of such a grievance or complaint . ### personnel shall treat as confidential the source of any grievance or complaint alleging a danger or deficiency in relation to seafarers’ working and living conditions or a violation of laws and regulations and give no intimation to the ship owner , the ship owner’s representative or the operator of the ship that an inspection was made as a consequence of such a grievance or complaint .


### if a member state receives a complaint which it does not consider manifestly unfounded or obtains evidence that a ship that flies its flag does not conform to the requirements of directive 2009 / 13 / ec or that there are serious deficiencies in its implementing measures , that member state shall take the steps necessary to investigate the matter and ensure that action is taken to remedy any deficiencies found . ### if a member state receives a complaint which it does not consider manifestly unfounded under international labour law , such as the maritime labour convention , or under directive 2009 / 13 / ec , it shall take the steps necessary to investigate the matter and ensure that action is taken to remedy any deficiencies found . if a member state obtains evidence by means of an inspection that a ship that flies its flag does not conform to the requirements of directive 2009 / 13 / ec or that there are serious deficiencies in its implementing measures , that member state shall take the steps necessary to investigate the matter and ensure that action is taken to remedy any deficiencies found .


### having regard to the treaty establishing the european community , and in particular article 95 thereof , ### having regard to the treaty on the functioning of the european union , and in particular articles 114 and 168 thereof ,


### the commission shall adopt the measures necessary for the implementation of point of article 54 and of paragraphs and of this article . those measures , designed to amend non - essential elements of this directive by supplementing it , shall be adopted in accordance with the regulatory procedure with scrutiny referred to in article 121 ### the commission shall adopt the measures necessary for the implementation of point of article 54 and of paragraphs and of this article . before formulating a specific proposal as provided for by article 54 , the commission shall perform an impact assessment of the costs and benefits of the anti - counterfeiting systems currently in force and consult interested parties about the implementation and use of such authenticating seals . those measures , designed to amend non - essential elements of this directive by supplementing it , shall be adopted in accordance with the regulatory procedure with scrutiny referred to in article 121


### the commission , in accordance with the procedure set out in article 121 , shall adopt guidelines defining in detail the requirements set out in points to of paragraph 1 . ### the commission , in accordance with the procedure set out in article 121 , shall adopt guidelines defining in detail the requirements set out in points to of paragraph 1 , performing by means of the appropriate instruments , and possibly also by means of extraordinary measures , the verification and subsequent monitoring of the quality of the principles and safety .


### space debris has become the most serious threat to the sustainability of space activities . a space surveillance and tracking support programme should therefore be established with the aim to support the setting up and operation of services consisting of monitoring and surveying space objects with a view to preventing damage to spacecraft resulting from collisions , as well as to prevent damage to ground infrastructure or human population as a result of uncontrolled re - entries of entire spacecraft or space debris thereof into the earth ' s atmosphere . ### space debris has become the most serious threat to the sustainability of space activities , the availability of prime orbital slots and frequency spectrums , and windows of opportunity for the launch of spacecraft . a space surveillance and tracking support programme should therefore be established with the aim to support the setting up and operation of services consisting of monitoring and surveying space objects with a view to preventing damage to spacecraft resulting from collisions , as well as to prevent damage to ground infrastructure or human population as a result of uncontrolled re - entries of entire spacecraft or space debris thereof into the earth ' s atmosphere .


### the sst services should be complementary to research activities related to the protection of space - based infrastructure carried out under the horizon 2020 programme established by [ reference to horizon 2020 regulation to be added once adopted ] , as well as to the european space agency ' s activities in this domain . ### the sst services should be complementary to research activities related to the protection of space - based infrastructure carried out under the horizon 2020 programme established by [ reference to horizon 2020 regulation to be added once adopted ] such as the development of optic laser technologies for tracking , as well as the european space agency ' s or other international research activities in this domain . moreover it should also be complementary to the union ' s flagship space programmes i . e . copernicus and galileo , its digital agenda initiative , and other telecommunication infrastructures which aid the realisation of the information society .


### the sst support programme should also be complementary to existing mitigation measures such as the united nations guidelines for space debris mitigation or other initiatives , such as the union proposal for an international code of conduct on outer space activities . ### the sst support programme should also be complementary to existing mitigation measures such as the united nations guidelines for space debris mitigation or other international initiatives to ensure space sustainability , sound space governance structures , and / or universal access , such as the union proposal for an international code of conduct on outer space activities .


### civil - military ssa user requirements were defined in the commission staff working paper ‘ european space situational awareness high - level civil - military user requirements’14 endorsed by the member states in the political and security committee of the council on 18 november 201115 . the provision of sst services should serve only civilian purposes . purely military requirements should not be addressed by this decision . __________________ 14 sec 1247 final , 12 . 10 . 2011 . 15 council document 15715 / 11 , 24 . 10 . 2011 . ### civil - military ssa user requirements were defined in the commission staff working paper ‘ european space situational awareness high - level civil - military user requirements’14 endorsed by the member states in the political and security committee of the council on 18 november 201115 . the provision of sst services should serve only civilian purposes , but this should not restrict the european defence agency from contributing to the programme . purely military requirements should not be addressed by this decision . __________________ 14 sec 1247 final , 12 . 10 . 2011 . 15 council document 15715 / 11 , 24 . 10 . 2011 .


### the operation of sst services should be based on a partnership between the union and the member states and use existing as well as future national expertise and assets , such as mathematical analysis and modelling know - how , ground - based radars or telescopes made available by participating member states . the member states retain ownership and control over their assets and remain responsible for their operations , maintenance and renewal . ### the operation of sst services should be based on a partnership between the union and the member states and use existing as well as future national expertise and assets , such as mathematical analysis and modelling know - how , ground - based radars or telescopes made available by participating member states and esa . the member states and esa retain ownership and control over their assets and remain responsible for their operations , maintenance and renewal .


### precise information on the nature , specifications and location of certain space objects may affect the security of the european union or its member states . adequate security considerations should therefore be taken into account in the establishment and operation of the network of sst sensors , the capacity to process and analyse sst data and the provision of sst services . it is therefore necessary to lay down general provisions on the use and secure exchange of sst data and information between the member states , the eusc and the recipients of sst services in this decision . furthermore , the european commission and the european external action service should define the coordination mechanisms needed to address matters related to the security of the sst support programme . ### precise information on the nature , specifications and location of certain space objects may affect the security of the european union or its member states . adequate security considerations should therefore be taken into account in the establishment and operation of the network of sst sensors , the capacity to process and analyse sst data and the provision of sst services . it is therefore necessary to lay down general provisions on the use and secure exchange of sst data and information between the member states , the eusc , the enisa , the eda and the recipients of sst services in this decision . furthermore , the european commission and the european external action service should define the coordination mechanisms needed to address matters related to the security of the sst support programme .


### a space surveillance and tracking support programme is established for the period from 1 january 2014 to 31 december 2020 . ### the cassini space surveillance and tracking support programme is established for the period from 1 january 2014 to 31 december 2020


### ‘ space debris’ means spacecraft or parts thereof that no longer serve any specific purpose including parts of rockets or artificial satellites , or inactive artificial satellites ; ### ‘ space debris’ means all man - made objects including spacecraft or fragments and elements thereof , in earth orbit or re - entering the atmosphere , that are non - functional or no longer serve any specific purpose including parts of rockets or artificial satellites , or inactive artificial satellites ;


### the establishment and operation of a sensor function consisting of a network of ground - based or space - based existing national sensors to survey and track space objects ; ### the establishment and operation of a sensor function consisting of a secure network of ground - based or space - based existing national sensors to survey and track space objects ;


### the risk assessment of a collision between spacecraft or between spacecraft and space debris and the generation of collision avoidance alerts during the launch and in - orbit operation of spacecrafts ; ### the risk assessment of a collision between spacecraft , or between spacecraft and space debris , or between spacecraft and space objects and the generation of collision avoidance alerts during the launch and in - orbit operation of spacecrafts ;


### sst services shall be provided to member states , the council , the commission , the eeas , public and private spacecraft operators , and public authorities concerned with civil protection . the sst services shall be provided in compliance with the provisions on the use and exchange of sst data and information set out in article 9 . ### sst services shall be provided to member states , the council , the commission , the eeas , public and private spacecraft operators , public authorities concerned with civil protection , and wherever appropriate insurance companies . the sst services shall be provided in compliance with the provisions on the use and exchange of sst data and information set out in article 9 .


### the member states which comply with the criteria set out in article 7 and the eusc shall conclude an agreement laying down the rules and mechanisms for their cooperation in the implementation of the objectives set out in article 3 . in particular , that agreement shall include provisions on the following : ### the member states , the eusc and the enisa shall conclude an agreement laying down the rules and mechanisms for their cooperation in the implementation of the objectives set out in article 3 . in particular , that agreement shall include provisions on the following :


### four years after its entry into force , the commission shall submit a report on the application of this decision to the european parliament , the council and the european economic and social committee . ### after the entry into force of this decision , the commission shall submit , each year , a report on its application to the european parliament , the council and the european economic and social committee .


### the agency should contribute to a high level of network and information security within the union and to the development of a culture of network and information security for the benefit of citizens , consumers , businesses and public sector organisations in the european union , thus contributing to the smooth functioning of the internal market . ### the agency should contribute to a high level of network and information security within the union and to the development of a culture of network and information security for the benefit of citizens , consumers , businesses and public sector organisations in the european union , thus contributing to the smooth functioning of the internal market . in this regard , necessary budgetary provisions should be allocated to the agency so that it can propose , by the end of the second year of its new mandate and after consulting all relevant stakeholders , a clear pan - european strategy on cyber - security ;


### in order to guarantee the full autonomy and independence of the agency , it is considered necessary to grant it an autonomous budget whose revenue comes primarily from a contribution from the union and contributions from third countries participating in the agency ' s work . the host member state , or any other member state , should be allowed to make voluntary contributions to the revenue of the agency . the union ' s budgetary procedure remains applicable as far as any subsidies chargeable to the general budget of the european union are concerned . moreover , the court of auditors should undertake the auditing of accounts . ### in order to guarantee the full autonomy and independence of the agency , it is considered necessary to grant it an autonomous budget whose revenue comes primarily from a contribution from the union and contributions from third countries participating in the agency ' s work . the host member state , or any other member state , should be allowed to make voluntary contributions to the revenue of the agency . the union ' s budgetary procedure remains applicable as far as any subsidies chargeable to the general budget of the european union are concerned . moreover , the court of auditors should undertake the auditing of accounts to ensure more transparency and accountability .


### the management board may set up working bodies composed of its members to assist it in carrying out its tasks , including drafting its decisions and monitoring the implementation thereof . ### the management board shall set up an executive board composed of its members to assist it in carrying out its tasks , including drafting its decisions and monitoring the implementation thereof .


### board members and their alternates shall be appointed on the basis of their degree of relevant experience and expertise in the field of network and information security . ### board members and their alternates shall be appointed on the basis of their degree of relevant experience and expertise in the field of network and information security . they shall also have the necessary managerial , administrative and budgetary skills to fulfil the tasks listed in article 5 . management board members shall make a written declaration of commitments and a written declaration indicating any direct or indirect interest which might be considered prejudicial to their independence . they shall declare at each meeting any interest which might be considered prejudicial to their independence in relation to the items on the agenda and abstain from participating in the discussions and voting on such points .


### the term of office of the representatives of the groups referred to in paragraph 1 , and shall be four years . this term of office may be extended once . if a representative ceases his / her affiliation with the respective interest group , the commission shall appoint a replacement . ### the term of office of management board members shall be four years . this term of office may be extended once . if a representative ceases his / her affiliation with the respective interest group , the commission shall appoint a replacement .


### the executive director shall be appointed and dismissed by the management board . the appointment shall be done from a list of candidates proposed by the commission for a period of five years , on grounds of merit and documented administrative and managerial skills , as well as specific competence and experience . before appointment , the candidate selected by the management board may be invited to make a statement before the competent committee of the european parliament and answer questions put by its members . ### the executive director shall be appointed and dismissed by the management board . the appointment shall be done from a list of candidates proposed by the commission for a period of five years , on grounds of merit and documented administrative and managerial skills , as well as specific competence and experience . before appointment , the candidate selected by the management board may be invited to make a statement before the competent committee of the european parliament and answer questions put by its members . any opinion by that committee shall be taken into consideration before any formal appointment is made .


### the management board , acting on a proposal from the commission , taking into account the evaluation report and only in those cases where it can be justified by the duties and requirements of the agency , may extend the term of office of the executive director for no more than three years . ### the management board , acting on a proposal from the commission , taking into account the evaluation report and only in those cases where it can be justified by the duties and requirements of the agency , may extend the term of office of the executive director for no more than five years .


### the executive director shall , following adoption by the management board , forward the work programme to the european parliament , the council , the commission and the member states and shall have it published . ### the executive director shall , following adoption by the management board , forward the work programme to the european parliament , the council , the commission and the member states and shall have it published . he shall accept any invitation by the european parliament ' s competent committee to present and hold an exchange of views on the annual work programme .


### each year , the executive director shall submit to the management board a draft general report covering all the activities of the agency in the previous year . ### each year , the executive director shall submit to the management board a draft general report covering all the activities of the agency in the previous year . the general report shall include tailored performance indicators allowing for an effective assessment of the results achieved .


### within three years from the date of establishment referred to in article 34 , the commission , taking into account the views of all relevant stakeholders , shall carry out an evaluation on the basis of terms of reference agreed with the management board . the evaluation shall assess the impact and the effectiveness of the agency in achieving the objectives set out in article 2 , and the effectiveness of the agency ' s working practices . the commission shall undertake the evaluation notably in order to determine whether an agency is still an effective instrument and whether the duration of the agency should be further extended beyond the period specified in article 34 . ### within three years from the date of establishment referred to in article 34 , the commission , taking into account the views of all relevant stakeholders , shall carry out an evaluation on the basis of terms of reference agreed with the management board . the evaluation shall assess the impact and the effectiveness of the agency in achieving the objectives set out in article 2 , and the effectiveness of the agency ' s working practices . the commission shall undertake the evaluation notably in order to determine whether an agency is still an effective instrument and whether the duration of the agency should be further extended beyond the period specified in article 33 .


### the objectives of the csf funds should be pursued in the framework of sustainable development and the union ' s promotion of the aim of protecting and improving the environment as set out in article 11 and 19 of the treaty , taking into account the polluter pays principle . the member states should provide information on the support for climate change objectives in line with the ambition to devote at least 20% of the union budget to this end , using a methodology adopted by the commission by implementing act . ### the objectives of the csf funds should be pursued in the framework of sustainable development and the union ' s promotion of the aim of protecting and improving the environment as set out in article 11 and 19 of the treaty , taking into account primarily the polluter pays principle . the member states should provide information on the support for climate change objectives in line with the ambition to devote at least 20% of the union budget to this end , using a methodology adopted by the commission by implementing act .


### in order to supplement and amend certain non - essential elements of this regulation , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty should be delegated to the commission in respect of a code of conduct on the objectives and criteria to support the implementation of partnership , the adoption of a common strategic framework , additional rules on the allocation of the performance reserve , the definition of the area and population covered by the local development strategies , detailed rules on financial instruments , the rules on certain types of financial instruments set up at national , regional , transnational or cross - border level , rules concerning funding agreements , transfer and management of assets , the arrangements for management and control , the rules on payment requests , and establishment of a system of capitalisation of annual instalments , the definition of the flat rate for revenue generating operations , the definition of the flat rate applied to indirect costs for grants based on existing methods and corresponding rates applicable in union policies , the responsibilities of member states concerning the procedure for reporting irregularities and recovery of sums unduly paid , the modalities of exchange of information of operations , the arrangements for the adequate audit trail , the conditions of national audits , the accreditation criteria for managing authorities and certifying authorities , the identification of commonly accepted data carriers , and the criteria for establishing the level of financial correction to be applied . the commission should also be empowered to amend annex v in order to address future adaptation needs . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . ### in order to supplement and amend certain non - essential elements of this regulation , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty should be delegated to the commission in respect of a code of conduct on the objectives and criteria to support the implementation of partnership , the adoption of a common strategic framework , additional rules on the allocation of the performance reserve , the definition of the area and population covered by the local development strategies , detailed rules on financial instruments , the rules on certain types of financial instruments set up at national , regional , transnational or cross - border level , rules concerning funding agreements , transfer and management of assets , the arrangements for management and control , the rules on payment requests , and establishment of a system of capitalisation of annual instalments , the definition of the flat rate applied to indirect costs for grants based on existing methods and corresponding rates applicable in union policies , the responsibilities of member states concerning the procedure for reporting irregularities and recovery of sums unduly paid , the modalities of exchange of information of operations , the arrangements for the adequate audit trail , the conditions of national audits , the accreditation criteria for managing authorities and certifying authorities , the identification of commonly accepted data carriers , and the criteria for establishing the level of financial correction to be applied . the commission should also be empowered to amend annex v in order to address future adaptation needs . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level .


### the commission and the member states shall ensure the effectiveness of the csf funds , in particular through monitoring , reporting and evaluation . ### the commission and the member states shall ensure the efficiency and effectiveness of the csf funds , in particular by ensuring achievement of the proposed objectives and through monitoring , reporting and evaluation .


### the objectives of the csf funds shall be pursued in the framework of sustainable development and the union ' s promotion of the aim of protecting and improving the environment , as set out in article 11 of the treaty , taking into account the polluter pays principle . ### the objectives of the csf funds shall be pursued in the framework of sustainable development and the union ' s promotion of the aim of protecting and improving the environment , as set out in article 11 of the treaty , taking into account primarily the polluter pays principle .


### enhancing the competitiveness of small and medium - sized enterprises , the agricultural sector and the fisheries and aquaculture sector ; ### enhancing the competitiveness of european enterprises , and especially small and medium - sized enterprises , micro - enterprises and the agricultural sector and the fisheries and aquaculture sector ;


### supporting the shift towards a low - carbon economy in all sectors ; ### industrial development and supporting the shift towards a low - carbon economy in all sectors ;


### promoting employment and supporting labour mobility ; ### boosting employment and supporting labour mobility ;


### investing in education , skills and lifelong learning ; ### investing in health , education , skills and lifelong learning ;


### priority areas for cooperation activities for each of the csf funds , where appropriate , taking account of macro - regional and sea basin strategies ; ### priority areas for cooperation activities for each of the csf funds , where appropriate , taking account of macro - regional and sea and river basin strategies and synergies ;


### member states shall carry out ex ante evaluations to improve the quality of the design of each programme . ### member states , in cooperation with , and under the guidance of , the commission , shall carry out ex ante evaluations to improve the quality of the design of each programme .


### at the initiative of , or on behalf of the commission , the csf funds may support the preparatory , monitoring , administrative and technical assistance , evaluation , audit and control measures necessary for implementing this regulation . ### at the initiative of , or on behalf of the commission , or at the request of a member state and following approval by the commission , the csf funds may support the preparatory , monitoring , administrative and technical assistance , evaluation , audit and control measures necessary for implementing this regulation .