# Official Journal C 47/25 F

| | ISSN 1725-2423 |
| --- | --- |
| Official Journal
  of the European Union | C 47 |
| | |
| English edition | Information and Notices | Volume 4925 February 2006 |

ISSN 1725-2423

Official Journal

of the European Union

C 47

English edition

Information and Notices

Volume 4925 February 2006

---

| Notice No | Contents | page |
| --- | --- | --- |
| | I   Information |
| | Commission |
| 2006/C 047/1 | Euro exchange rates | 1 |
| 2006/C 047/2 | Information communicated by Member States regarding State aid granted under Commission Regulation (EC) No 70/2001 of 12 January 2001 on the application of Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty to State aid to small and medium-sized enterprises (
  1
  ) | 2 |
| 2006/C 047/3 | Information communicated by Member States regarding State aid granted under Commission Regulation (EC) No 70/2001 of 12 January 2001, as amended by Commission Regulation (EC) No 364/2004 of 25 February 2004, on the application of Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty to State aid to small and medium-sized enterprises (
  1
  ) | 4 |
| 2006/C 047/4 | Information communicated by Member States regarding State aid granted under Commission Regulation (EC) No 68/2001 of 12 January 2001 on the application of Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty to training aid, as amended by Commission Regulation (EC) No 363/2004 of 25 February 2004 (
  1
  ) | 6 |
| 2006/C 047/5 | Information communicated by Member States regarding State aid granted under Commission Regulation (EC) No 68/2001 of 12 January 2001 on the application of Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty to training aid (
  1
  ) | 13 |
| 2006/C 047/6 | State aid — Belgium — State aid No C 40/2005 (ex N 331/2005) — Ford Genk — Invitation to submit comments pursuant to Article 88(2) of the EC Treaty (
  1
  ) | 14 |
| 2006/C 047/7 | Authorisation for State aid pursuant to Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty — Cases where the Commission raises no objections (
  1
  ) | 21 |
| 2006/C 047/8 | Prior notification of a concentration (Case COMP/ M.4095 — Deutsche Telekom/Corpus/Morgan Stanley/Sireo) — Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  ) | 23 |
| 2006/C 047/9 | Prior notification of a concentration (Case COMP/M.4157 — Wendel Investissement/Groupe Materis) (
  1
  ) | 24 |
| 2006/C 047/0 | Prior notification of a concentration (Case COMP/M.4104 — Aker Yards/Chantiers de l'Atlantique) (
  1
  ) | 25 |
| 2006/C 047/1 | Prior notification of a concentration (Case COMP/M. 4131 — Bain Capital/Texas Instruments) — Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  ) | 26 |
| | European Data Protection Supervisor |
| 2006/C 047/2 | Opinion of the European Data Protection Supervisor on the Proposal for a Council Framework Decision on the protection of personal data processed in the framework of police and judicial co-operation in criminal matters (COM (2005) 475 final) | 27 |

Notice No

Contents

page

I   Information

Commission

2006/C 047/1

Euro exchange rates

1

2006/C 047/2

Information communicated by Member States regarding State aid granted under Commission Regulation (EC) No 70/2001 of 12 January 2001 on the application of Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty to State aid to small and medium-sized enterprises (
  1
  )

1

2

2006/C 047/3

Information communicated by Member States regarding State aid granted under Commission Regulation (EC) No 70/2001 of 12 January 2001, as amended by Commission Regulation (EC) No 364/2004 of 25 February 2004, on the application of Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty to State aid to small and medium-sized enterprises (
  1
  )

1

4

2006/C 047/4

Information communicated by Member States regarding State aid granted under Commission Regulation (EC) No 68/2001 of 12 January 2001 on the application of Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty to training aid, as amended by Commission Regulation (EC) No 363/2004 of 25 February 2004 (
  1
  )

1

6

2006/C 047/5

Information communicated by Member States regarding State aid granted under Commission Regulation (EC) No 68/2001 of 12 January 2001 on the application of Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty to training aid (
  1
  )

1

13

2006/C 047/6

State aid — Belgium — State aid No C 40/2005 (ex N 331/2005) — Ford Genk — Invitation to submit comments pursuant to Article 88(2) of the EC Treaty (
  1
  )

1

14

2006/C 047/7

Authorisation for State aid pursuant to Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty — Cases where the Commission raises no objections (
  1
  )

1

21

2006/C 047/8

Prior notification of a concentration (Case COMP/ M.4095 — Deutsche Telekom/Corpus/Morgan Stanley/Sireo) — Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  )

1

23

2006/C 047/9

Prior notification of a concentration (Case COMP/M.4157 — Wendel Investissement/Groupe Materis) (
  1
  )

1

24

2006/C 047/0

Prior notification of a concentration (Case COMP/M.4104 — Aker Yards/Chantiers de l'Atlantique) (
  1
  )

1

25

2006/C 047/1

Prior notification of a concentration (Case COMP/M. 4131 — Bain Capital/Texas Instruments) — Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  )

1

26

European Data Protection Supervisor

2006/C 047/2

Opinion of the European Data Protection Supervisor on the Proposal for a Council Framework Decision on the protection of personal data processed in the framework of police and judicial co-operation in criminal matters (COM (2005) 475 final)

27

| | III   Notices |
| --- | --- |
| | Commission |
| 2006/C 047/3 | GR-Elliniko: operation of scheduled air services — Invitation to tender for contracts for the operation of scheduled air routes subject to public service obligations, issued by the Hellenic Republic under Article 4(1)(d) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92 | 48 |
| 2006/C 047/4 | P-Lisbon: operation of scheduled air services — Corrigendum to invitation to tender issued by Portugal under Article 4(1)(d) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92 in respect of the operation of scheduled air services between Lisbon/Bragança and Bragança/Vila Real/Lisbon (Supplement to the Official Journal of the European Union No S 25 of 7.2.2006, open procedure, 27011-2006) (Official Journal of the European Union C 32 of 8.2.2006)
   (
  1
  ) | 51 |

III   Notices

Commission

2006/C 047/3

GR-Elliniko: operation of scheduled air services — Invitation to tender for contracts for the operation of scheduled air routes subject to public service obligations, issued by the Hellenic Republic under Article 4(1)(d) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92

48

2006/C 047/4

P-Lisbon: operation of scheduled air services — Corrigendum to invitation to tender issued by Portugal under Article 4(1)(d) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92 in respect of the operation of scheduled air services between Lisbon/Bragança and Bragança/Vila Real/Lisbon (Supplement to the Official Journal of the European Union No S 25 of 7.2.2006, open procedure, 27011-2006) (Official Journal of the European Union C 32 of 8.2.2006)
   (
  1
  )

Official Journal of the European Union

(Official Journal of the European Union C 32 of 8.2.2006)

1

51

| | |
| --- | --- |
| 2006/C 047/5 | Notice | s3 |

2006/C 047/5

Notice

Notice

s3

| | |
| --- | --- |
| | (1)   Text with EEA relevance |

---

(1)   Text with EEA relevance

1

| EN | |
| --- | --- |

EN

---

I Information

Commission

| 25.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 47/1 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

25.2.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 47/1

---

Euro exchange rates (1)

24 February 2006

(2006/C 47/01)

1 euro=

| | Currency | Exchange rate |
| --- | --- | --- |
| USD | US dollar | 1,1896 |
| JPY | Japanese yen | 139,11 |
| DKK | Danish krone | 7,4604 |
| GBP | Pound sterling | 0,68030 |
| SEK | Swedish krona | 9,4200 |
| CHF | Swiss franc | 1,5602 |
| ISK | Iceland króna | 78,82 |
| NOK | Norwegian krone | 8,0465 |
| BGN | Bulgarian lev | 1,9558 |
| CYP | Cyprus pound | 0,5747 |
| CZK | Czech koruna | 28,360 |
| EEK | Estonian kroon | 15,6466 |
| HUF | Hungarian forint | 252,77 |
| LTL | Lithuanian litas | 3,4528 |
| LVL | Latvian lats | 0,6960 |
| MTL | Maltese lira | 0,4293 |
| PLN | Polish zloty | 3,7850 |
| RON | Romanian leu | 3,5053 |
| SIT | Slovenian tolar | 239,49 |
| SKK | Slovak koruna | 37,285 |
| TRY | Turkish lira | 1,5724 |
| AUD | Australian dollar | 1,6062 |
| CAD | Canadian dollar | 1,3715 |
| HKD | Hong Kong dollar | 9,2302 |
| NZD | New Zealand dollar | 1,7949 |
| SGD | Singapore dollar | 1,9323 |
| KRW | South Korean won | 1 149,63 |
| ZAR | South African rand | 7,2830 |
| CNY | Chinese yuan renminbi | 9,5682 |
| HRK | Croatian kuna | 7,3098 |
| IDR | Indonesian rupiah | 11 054,36 |
| MYR | Malaysian ringgit | 4,419 |
| PHP | Philippine peso | 62,038 |
| RUB | Russian rouble | 33,5320 |
| THB | Thai baht | 46,852 |

Currency

Exchange rate

USD

US dollar

1,1896

JPY

Japanese yen

139,11

DKK

Danish krone

7,4604

GBP

Pound sterling

0,68030

SEK

Swedish krona

9,4200

CHF

Swiss franc

1,5602

ISK

Iceland króna

78,82

NOK

Norwegian krone

8,0465

BGN

Bulgarian lev

1,9558

CYP

Cyprus pound

0,5747

CZK

Czech koruna

28,360

EEK

Estonian kroon

15,6466

HUF

Hungarian forint

252,77

LTL

Lithuanian litas

3,4528

LVL

Latvian lats

0,6960

MTL

Maltese lira

0,4293

PLN

Polish zloty

3,7850

RON

Romanian leu

3,5053

SIT

Slovenian tolar

239,49

SKK

Slovak koruna

37,285

TRY

Turkish lira

1,5724

AUD

Australian dollar

1,6062

CAD

Canadian dollar

1,3715

HKD

Hong Kong dollar

9,2302

NZD

New Zealand dollar

1,7949

SGD

Singapore dollar

1,9323

KRW

South Korean won

1 149,63

ZAR

South African rand

7,2830

CNY

Chinese yuan renminbi

9,5682

HRK

Croatian kuna

7,3098

IDR

Indonesian rupiah

11 054,36

MYR

Malaysian ringgit

4,419

PHP

Philippine peso

62,038

RUB

Russian rouble

33,5320

THB

Thai baht

46,852

---

(1)

Source: reference exchange rate published by the ECB.

---

| 25.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 47/2 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

25.2.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 47/2

---

Information communicated by Member States regarding State aid granted under Commission Regulation (EC) No 70/2001 of 12 January 2001 on the application of Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty to State aid to small and medium-sized enterprises

(2006/C 47/02)

(Text with EEA relevance)

Aid number: XS 30/2001

Member State: Italy

Region: Marche

Title of aid scheme: Regional Law 9.5.2001 n. 5 — amendments of the regional law 28.10.1991, n.33 — ‘Measures and improvements of the touristic offers of the Region’

Legal basis: Legge regionale 9 maggio 2001 n. 5

Annual expenditure planned under the scheme: EUR 250 000 for 2003

EUR 250 000 for 2004

EUR 250 000 for 2005

EUR 250 000 for 2006

Maximum aid intensity: 15 % gge for small enterprises and 7,5 % gge for medium-sized enterprises; in areas qualifying for exemption under Article 87(3)(c) of the EC Treaty, 8 % nge + 10 % gge for small enterprises and 8 % nge + 6 % gge for medium-sized enterprises

Date of implementation: From 2001

Duration of scheme: Regulation (EC) No 70/2001 is to expire on 31 December 2006; this scheme is to continue beyond that, but the Region of Marche undertakes to amend it to ensure that it complies with any new Community guidelines

Objective of aid: The scheme provides for both grants and interest subsidies for investment in tourism, in accordance with the definitions in Article 2 of Regulation (EC) No 70/2001

Economic sector(s) concerned: SMEs operating in tourism

Name and address of granting authority:

| Regione Marche |
| --- |
| Servizio Turismo ed Attività ricettive |
| Via G. da Fabriano |
| I-60100 Ancona |
| Tel. 071 80 61 |

Regione Marche

Servizio Turismo ed Attività ricettive

Via G. da Fabriano

I-60100 Ancona

Tel. 071 80 61

Aid No: XS 122/04

Member State: Italy

Region: Marche

Title of aid scheme: Single Programming Document Objective 2 2000-2006 — Measure 1.1 Aid to productive and environmental investment by small and medium-sized industrial and craft firms, Submeasure 1.1.1 Aid to productive investment by small and medium-sized industrial firms, assistance b2 Law 598/94, Article 11 — Investment subsidies for technological innovation, environmental protection, organisational innovation, commercial innovation and safety at work

Legal basis: Docup Ob. 2 2000-2006

Annual expenditure planned: Ordinary aid:

EUR 788 835,00 for 2001

EUR 831 006,00 for 2002

EUR 989 370,60 for 2003

Total: EUR 2 609 211,60

Transitional aid:

EUR 268 149,60 for 2001

EUR 431 879,10 for 2002

EUR 402 292,20 for 2003

Total: EUR 1 102 320,90

Ordinary aid

EUR 3 028 405,00 for 2004

EUR 3 221 452,00 for 2005

EUR 1 600 855,00 for 2006

Transitional aid:

EUR 411 207,00 for 2004

EUR 32 622,00 for 2005

Maximum aid intensity: In accordance with Regulation (EC) No 70/2001, the following rates of aid will be applied: 15 % gge for small firms and 7,5 % gge for medium-sized firms; in areas qualifying for exemption under Article 87(3)(c) of the EC Treaty, 8 % nge + 10 % gge for small firms and 8 % nge + 6 % gge for medium-sized firms

Date of implementation: In accordance with Commission guidelines, aid will be granted for costs incurred by the final recipient from the date of publication of the call for applications.

Only expenditure incurred after the date on which the aid application was submitted is eligible

Duration of scheme: The scheme shall be implemented for the same length of time as SPD Objective 2 2000-06

Objective of aid: The aid is intended for small and medium-sized industrial firms in Objective 2 and phasing-out areas in the Marche

Economic sectors concerned: Sections C, D, E and F of the 1991 Italian Statistical Office (ISTAT) classification of economic activities, subject to the exclusions and limitations laid down by the Community rules on state aid (including export aid and aid to the motor manufacturing industry).

Activities involving the production, processing or marketing of the goods listed in Annex I to the EC Treaty are excluded

Name and address of the granting authority:

| Regione Marche |
| --- |
| Servizio Industria e Artigianato |
| Via Tiziano, n. 44 |
| I-60100 Ancona |
| Tel. 0718061 |

Regione Marche

Servizio Industria e Artigianato

Via Tiziano, n. 44

I-60100 Ancona

Tel. 0718061

Other information: Amendment to the duration of aid XS 140/2003

---

| 25.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 47/4 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

25.2.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 47/4

---

Information communicated by Member States regarding State aid granted under Commission Regulation (EC) No 70/2001 of 12 January 2001, as amended by Commission Regulation (EC) No 364/2004 of 25 February 2004, on the application of Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty to State aid to small and medium-sized enterprises

(2006/C 47/03)

(Text with EEA relevance)

| Aid No | XS 149/04 |
| --- | --- |
| Member State | United Kingdom |
| Region | North East England |
| Title of aid scheme or name of company receiving individual aid | Alnwick Garden Trust |
| Legal basis | Industrial Development Act 1982 Sections 7 & 11
  Section 2 Local Government Act 2000 |
| Annual expenditure planned under the scheme or overall amount of individual aid granted to the company | Aid scheme | Annual overall amount | |
| Loans guaranteed | |
| Individual aid | Overall aid amount | GBP 1 908 313 |
| Loans guaranteed | |
| Maximum aid intensity | In conformity with Articles 4(2)-(6) and 5 of the Regulation | Yes | |
| Date of implementation | From 13 October 2004 |
| Duration of scheme or individual aid award | Until 30 April 2005 |
| Objective of aid | Aid to SMEs | Yes | |
| Economic sectors concerned | All sectors eligible for aid to SMEs | Yes |
| Name and address of the granting authority | Name:
  Government Office for the North East
  European Programmes Secretariat |
| Address:





  Citygate |
| Gallowgate |
| Newcastle Upon Tyne |
| NE1 4WH |
| United Kingdom |

Aid No

XS 149/04

Member State

United Kingdom

Region

North East England

Title of aid scheme or name of company receiving individual aid

Alnwick Garden Trust

Legal basis

Industrial Development Act 1982 Sections 7 & 11

Section 2 Local Government Act 2000

Annual expenditure planned under the scheme or overall amount of individual aid granted to the company

Aid scheme

Annual overall amount

Loans guaranteed

Individual aid

Overall aid amount

GBP 1 908 313

Loans guaranteed

Maximum aid intensity

In conformity with Articles 4(2)-(6) and 5 of the Regulation

Yes

Date of implementation

From 13 October 2004

Duration of scheme or individual aid award

Until 30 April 2005

Objective of aid

Aid to SMEs

Yes

Economic sectors concerned

All sectors eligible for aid to SMEs

Yes

Name and address of the granting authority

Name:

Government Office for the North East

European Programmes Secretariat

Address:

Citygate

Gallowgate

Newcastle Upon Tyne

NE1 4WH

United Kingdom

Large individual aid grants

In conformity with Article 6 of the Regulation

Yes

| Aid No | XS 6/05 |
| --- | --- |
| Member State | Italy |
| Region | Umbria |
| Title of aid scheme | Aid to SMEs in the tourist accommodation business (hotels, self-catering units, open-air facilities, historic buildings), related activities and the artistic and traditional craftwork sector |
| Legal basis | Determinazione Dirigenziale n. 9086 del 21 ottobre 2004. Bando per la presentazione di proposte per la promozione di progetti integrati da parte dei seguenti soggetti: Pool di piccole e medie imprese, pool di piccole e medie imprese ed enti pubblici per la realizzazione della filiera turismo — ambiente — cultura nella regione Umbria |
| Annual expenditure planned | A maximum of EUR 2 million per year out of a maximum total budget of EUR 7 million allocated to the scheme |
| Maximum aid intensity | — | Small enterprises: 15 % gross grant equivalent of the total cost of eligible investments; |

Aid No

XS 6/05

Member State

Italy

Region

Umbria

Title of aid scheme

Aid to SMEs in the tourist accommodation business (hotels, self-catering units, open-air facilities, historic buildings), related activities and the artistic and traditional craftwork sector

Legal basis

Determinazione Dirigenziale n. 9086 del 21 ottobre 2004. Bando per la presentazione di proposte per la promozione di progetti integrati da parte dei seguenti soggetti: Pool di piccole e medie imprese, pool di piccole e medie imprese ed enti pubblici per la realizzazione della filiera turismo — ambiente — cultura nella regione Umbria

Annual expenditure planned

A maximum of EUR 2 million per year out of a maximum total budget of EUR 7 million allocated to the scheme

Maximum aid intensity

—

Small enterprises: 15 % gross grant equivalent of the total cost of eligible investments;

| — | Medium-sized enterprises: 7.5 % gross grant equivalent of the total cost of eligible investments; |
| --- | --- |

—

Medium-sized enterprises: 7.5 % gross grant equivalent of the total cost of eligible investments;

| — | Small enterprises located in areas covered by Article 87(3)(c) of the Treaty: 10 % gross grant equivalent of the total cost of eligible investments plus 8 % net grant equivalent; |
| --- | --- |

—

Small enterprises located in areas covered by Article 87(3)(c) of the Treaty: 10 % gross grant equivalent of the total cost of eligible investments plus 8 % net grant equivalent;

| — | Medium-sized enterprises located in areas covered by Article 87(3)(c) of the Treaty: 6 % gross grant equivalent of the total cost of eligible investments plus 8 % net grant equivalent |
| --- | --- |

—

Medium-sized enterprises located in areas covered by Article 87(3)(c) of the Treaty: 6 % gross grant equivalent of the total cost of eligible investments plus 8 % net grant equivalent

Date of implementation

Publication of the notice inviting applications: Ordinary Supplement to the Regional Official Gazette, General Series, No 46, 4.11.2004. Deadline for submission of applications: 16.2.2005.

Aid will be granted only on presentation by the firms concerned of suitable applications, which may be submitted from the day following publication of the notice. Only investments made after presentation of the application for aid will be eligible

Duration of scheme

Aid will be granted for investments by the firms concerned up to 31.12.2006

Objective of aid

Aid to existing or newly created SMEs in the tourist accommodation business (hotels, self-catering units, open-air facilities, historic buildings), related activities and the artistic and traditional craftwork sector. The investments concerned by this scheme relate to costs incurred in building work, internal and external finishing, fittings and sporting/recreational equipment, hardware, machinery, outdoor furniture, technical design and supervision of construction work

Economic sectors concerned

Firms in the tourism and artistic and traditional craftwork sectors

Name and address of the granting authority

Name:

Regione dell'Umbria

Direzione Cultura, Turismo, Istruzione, Formazione e Lavoro — Servizio Turismo

Address:

| Via Mario Angeloni 61 |
| --- |
| I-06100 Perugia |
| Tel. No: (39-75) 504 58 87 |
| Fax: (39-75) 504 58 87 |
| Email: sezione.aiuti@umbria2000.it |

Via Mario Angeloni 61

I-06100 Perugia

Tel. No: (39-75) 504 58 87

Fax: (39-75) 504 58 87

Email: sezione.aiuti@umbria2000.it

---

| 25.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 47/6 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

25.2.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 47/6

---

Information communicated by Member States regarding State aid granted under Commission Regulation (EC) No 68/2001 of 12 January 2001 on the application of Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty to training aid, as amended by Commission Regulation (EC) No 363/2004 of 25 February 2004

(2006/C 47/04)

(Text with EEA relevance)

| Aid No | XT 11/05 |
| --- | --- |
| Member State | Poland |
| Region | Entire country |
| Title of aid scheme or name of company receiving individual aid | General training aid for young employees |
| Legal basis | Art. 12 ust. 5 pkt 5 i ust. 6 ustawy o promocji zatrudnienia i instytucjach rynku pracy (Dz.U. nr 99, poz. 1001)
  Rozporządzenie Rady Ministrów z dnia 31 sierpnia 2004 r. w sprawie refundowania ze środków Funduszu Pracy wynagrodzeń wypłacanych młodocianym pracownikom (Dz.U. nr 190 poz. 1951) |
| Annual expenditure planned or overall amount of individual aid granted to the company | Aid scheme | Annual overall amount: | |
| 2004 | EUR 80 645 161,29 |
| 2005 | EUR 41 474 654,38 |
| Loans guaranteed | |
| Individual aid | Overall aid amount | |
| Loans guaranteed | |
| Maximum aid intensity | In conformity with Article 4(2)-(7) of the Regulation | Yes | |
| Date of implementation | 31.8.2004 |
| Duration of scheme or individual aid award | Until 31.12.2006 |
| Objective of aid | General training | Yes |
| Specific training | No |
| Economic sectors concerned | All sectors eligible for training aid | Yes |
| Name and address of the granting authority | Name:
  Wojewódzkie Komendy Ochotniczych Hufców Pracy i Powiatowe Urzędy Pracy (Provincial Voluntary Labour Offices and district job centres), dispersed throughout Poland |
| Address:
  about 370 branches throughout Poland |
| Large individual aid grants | In conformity with Article 5 of the Regulation | Yes | |

Aid No

XT 11/05

Member State

Poland

Region

Entire country

Title of aid scheme or name of company receiving individual aid

General training aid for young employees

Legal basis

Art. 12 ust. 5 pkt 5 i ust. 6 ustawy o promocji zatrudnienia i instytucjach rynku pracy (Dz.U. nr 99, poz. 1001)

Rozporządzenie Rady Ministrów z dnia 31 sierpnia 2004 r. w sprawie refundowania ze środków Funduszu Pracy wynagrodzeń wypłacanych młodocianym pracownikom (Dz.U. nr 190 poz. 1951)

Annual expenditure planned or overall amount of individual aid granted to the company

Aid scheme

Annual overall amount:

2004

EUR 80 645 161,29

2005

EUR 41 474 654,38

Loans guaranteed

Individual aid

Overall aid amount

Loans guaranteed

Maximum aid intensity

In conformity with Article 4(2)-(7) of the Regulation

Yes

Date of implementation

31.8.2004

Duration of scheme or individual aid award

Until 31.12.2006

Objective of aid

General training

Yes

Specific training

No

Economic sectors concerned

All sectors eligible for training aid

Yes

Name and address of the granting authority

Name:

Wojewódzkie Komendy Ochotniczych Hufców Pracy i Powiatowe Urzędy Pracy (Provincial Voluntary Labour Offices and district job centres), dispersed throughout Poland

Address:

about 370 branches throughout Poland

Large individual aid grants

In conformity with Article 5 of the Regulation

Yes

| Aid No | XT 15/05 |
| --- | --- |
| Member State | Italy |
| Region | Liguria |
| Title of aid scheme or name of company receiving individual aid | Notice published by the Region of Liguria concerning measures to promote training plans at company, sectoral and local/regional level and to develop continuing training in 2004 |
| Legal basis | Art. 9 legge 19 luglio 1993 n. 236;
  Art. 48, legge 23.12.2000 n. 388;
  Decreto del Ministero del Lavoro n. 243 del 22 settembre 2004 |
| Annual expenditure planned or overall amount of individual aid granted to the company | Aid scheme | Annual overall amount | EUR 1 671 562.65 |
| Loans guaranteed | |
| Individual aid | Overall aid amount | |
| Loans guaranteed | |
| Maximum aid intensity | In conformity with Article 4(2)-(6) of the Regulation | Yes | |
| Date of implementation | 21.2.2005 |
| Duration of scheme or individual aid award | Until around 30.6.2007. If Regulation (EC) No 68/2001 is amended after 31.12.2006, the scheme will be brought into line with the new rules. |
| Objective of aid | General training | Yes |
| Specific training | Yes |
| Economic sectors concerned | All sectors eligible for training aid | Yes |
| Name and address of the granting authority | Name:
  Regione Liguria
  Settore Politiche Attive del Lavoro |
| Address:





  Via Fieschi 15 |
| I-16121 Genova |
| Tel. No: 010/54851 |
| Fax: 010/5485932 |

Aid No

XT 15/05

Member State

Italy

Region

Liguria

Title of aid scheme or name of company receiving individual aid

Notice published by the Region of Liguria concerning measures to promote training plans at company, sectoral and local/regional level and to develop continuing training in 2004

Legal basis

Art. 9 legge 19 luglio 1993 n. 236;

Art. 48, legge 23.12.2000 n. 388;

Decreto del Ministero del Lavoro n. 243 del 22 settembre 2004

Annual expenditure planned or overall amount of individual aid granted to the company

Aid scheme

Annual overall amount

EUR 1 671 562.65

Loans guaranteed

Individual aid

Overall aid amount

Loans guaranteed

Maximum aid intensity

In conformity with Article 4(2)-(6) of the Regulation

Yes

Date of implementation

21.2.2005

Duration of scheme or individual aid award

Until around 30.6.2007. If Regulation (EC) No 68/2001 is amended after 31.12.2006, the scheme will be brought into line with the new rules.

Objective of aid

General training

Yes

Specific training

Yes

Economic sectors concerned

All sectors eligible for training aid

Yes

Name and address of the granting authority

Name:

Regione Liguria

Settore Politiche Attive del Lavoro

Address:

Via Fieschi 15

I-16121 Genova

Tel. No: 010/54851

Fax: 010/5485932

Large individual aid grants

In conformity with Article 5 of the Regulation

The measure excludes awards of aid, or requires prior notification to the Commission of awards of aid, if the amount of aid granted to one enterprise for a single training project exceeds EUR 1 million

Yes

| Aid No | XT 54/05 |
| --- | --- |
| Member State | United Kingdom |
| Region | North West England |
| Title of aid scheme or name of company receiving individual aid | United Biscuits (UK) Limited |
| Legal basis | Regional Development Act 1998 |
| Annual expenditure planned under the scheme or overall amount of individual aid granted to the company | Aid scheme | Annual overall amount | |
| Loans guaranteed | |
| Individual aid | Overall aid amount | GBP 0,250 million |
| Loans guaranteed | |
| Maximum aid intensity | In conformity with Article 4(2)-(7) of the Regulation | Yes 50 % | |
| Date of implementation | 31.12.2005 |
| Duration of scheme or individual aid award | Until 31.12.2006 |
| Objective of aid | General training | Yes |
| Specific training | No |
| Economic sectors concerned | All sectors eligible for training aid | Yes |
| Name and address of the granting authority | Name:
  Contact: Jayant Mehta
  North West Development Agency |
| Address:





  Renaissance House |
| PO Box 37 |
| Centre Park |
| Warrington |
| Cheshire WA1 1XB |
| United Kingdom |

Aid No

XT 54/05

Member State

United Kingdom

Region

North West England

Title of aid scheme or name of company receiving individual aid

United Biscuits (UK) Limited

Legal basis

Regional Development Act 1998

Annual expenditure planned under the scheme or overall amount of individual aid granted to the company

Aid scheme

Annual overall amount

Loans guaranteed

Individual aid

Overall aid amount

GBP 0,250 million

Loans guaranteed

Maximum aid intensity

In conformity with Article 4(2)-(7) of the Regulation

Yes 50 %

Date of implementation

31.12.2005

Duration of scheme or individual aid award

Until 31.12.2006

Objective of aid

General training

Yes

Specific training

No

Economic sectors concerned

All sectors eligible for training aid

Yes

Name and address of the granting authority

Name:

Contact: Jayant Mehta

North West Development Agency

Address:

Renaissance House

PO Box 37

Centre Park

Warrington

Cheshire WA1 1XB

United Kingdom

Large individual aid grants

In conformity with Article 5 of the Regulation

Yes

| Aid No | XT 55/05 |
| --- | --- |
| Member State | United Kingdom |
| Region | North West of England — Liverpool |
| Title of aid scheme or name of company receiving individual aid | Buddleia Project — Upper Parliament Street/Greenland Lane |
| Legal basis | S 5 Regional Development Agencies Act 1998 |
| Annual expenditure planned under the scheme or overall amount of individual aid granted to the company | Aid scheme | Annual overall amount | |
| Loans guaranteed | |
| Individual aid | Overall aid amount | GBP 500 000 |
| Loans guaranteed | |
| Maximum aid intensity | In conformity with Article 4(2)-(7) of the Regulation | Yes | Intensity 5 % |
| Date of implementation | From 31.12.2005 |
| Duration of scheme or individual aid award | Until 31.12.06 |
| Objective of aid | General training | Yes |
| Specific training | |
| Economic sectors concerned | All sectors eligible for training aid | Yes |
| Name and address of the granting authority | Name:
  Jayant Mehta, State Aid Coordinator |
| Address:





  North West Development Agency |
| Renaissance House |
| PO Box 37, |
| Centre Park, |
| Warrington WA1 1XB |
| United Kingdom |

Aid No

XT 55/05

Member State

United Kingdom

Region

North West of England — Liverpool

Title of aid scheme or name of company receiving individual aid

Buddleia Project — Upper Parliament Street/Greenland Lane

Legal basis

S 5 Regional Development Agencies Act 1998

Annual expenditure planned under the scheme or overall amount of individual aid granted to the company

Aid scheme

Annual overall amount

Loans guaranteed

Individual aid

Overall aid amount

GBP 500 000

Loans guaranteed

Maximum aid intensity

In conformity with Article 4(2)-(7) of the Regulation

Yes

Intensity 5 %

Date of implementation

From 31.12.2005

Duration of scheme or individual aid award

Until 31.12.06

Objective of aid

General training

Yes

Specific training

Economic sectors concerned

All sectors eligible for training aid

Yes

Name and address of the granting authority

Name:

Jayant Mehta, State Aid Coordinator

Address:

North West Development Agency

Renaissance House

PO Box 37,

Centre Park,

Warrington WA1 1XB

United Kingdom

Large individual aid grants

In conformity with Article 5 of the Regulation

Yes

| Aid No | XT 56/05 |
| --- | --- |
| Member State | United Kingdom |
| Region | West Midlands |
| Title of aid scheme or name of company receiving individual aid | Manufacturing Recruitment and Skills Matching Service |
| Legal basis | Training: Employment Act 1973 Section 2(1) and 2(2) as substantiated by Section 25 of the Employment and Training Act 1998 and the Industrial Development Act 1982, Section 11 |
| Annual expenditure planned under the scheme or overall amount of individual aid granted to the company | Aid scheme | Annual overall amount | GBP 3,6 million |
| Loans guaranteed | |
| Individual aid | Overall aid amount | |
| Loans guaranteed | |
| Maximum aid intensity | In conformity with Article 4(2)-(6) of the Regulation | Yes | |
| Date of implementation | 19.8.2005 |
| Duration of scheme or individual aid award | Until 31.12.2006 |
| Objective of aid | General training | Yes |
| Specific training | Yes |
| Economic sectors concerned | Limited to specific sectors | Yes |
| — | All manufacturing |

Aid No

XT 56/05

Member State

United Kingdom

Region

West Midlands

Title of aid scheme or name of company receiving individual aid

Manufacturing Recruitment and Skills Matching Service

Legal basis

Training: Employment Act 1973 Section 2(1) and 2(2) as substantiated by Section 25 of the Employment and Training Act 1998 and the Industrial Development Act 1982, Section 11

Annual expenditure planned under the scheme or overall amount of individual aid granted to the company

Aid scheme

Annual overall amount

GBP 3,6 million

Loans guaranteed

Individual aid

Overall aid amount

Loans guaranteed

Maximum aid intensity

In conformity with Article 4(2)-(6) of the Regulation

Yes

Date of implementation

19.8.2005

Duration of scheme or individual aid award

Until 31.12.2006

Objective of aid

General training

Yes

Specific training

Yes

Economic sectors concerned

Limited to specific sectors

Yes

—

All manufacturing

Yes

Name and address of the granting authority

Name:

Learning and Skills Council

Address:

| Chaplin Court |
| --- |
| 80 Hurst Street |
| Birmingham |
| West Midland B5 4WG |
| United Kingdom |

Chaplin Court

80 Hurst Street

Birmingham

West Midland B5 4WG

United Kingdom

Large individual aid grants

In conformity with Article 5 of the Regulation

The measure excludes awards of aid or requires prior notification to the Commission of awards of aid, if the amount of aid granted to one enterprise for a single training project exceeds EUR 1million

Yes

| Aid No | XT 57/05 |
| --- | --- |
| Member State | United Kingdom |
| Region | West Midlands |
| Title of aid scheme or name of company receiving individual aid | Ex-Rover Training and Support Project |
| Legal basis | Training: Employment Act 1973 Section 2(1) and 2(2) as substantiated by Section 25 of the Employment and Training Act 1998 and the Industrial Development Act 1982, Section 11 |
| Annual expenditure planned under the scheme or overall amount of individual aid granted to the company | Aid scheme | Annual overall amount | GBP 3,6 million |
| Loans guaranteed | |
| Individual aid | Overall aid amount | |
| Loans guaranteed | |
| Maximum aid intensity | In conformity with Article 4(2)-(6) of the Regulation | Yes | |
| Date of implementation | 4.8.2005 |
| Duration of scheme or individual aid award | Until 31.12.2006 |
| Objective of aid | General training | Yes |
| Specific training | Yes |
| Economic sectors concerned | Limited to specific sectors | Yes |
| — | All manufacturing |

Aid No

XT 57/05

Member State

United Kingdom

Region

West Midlands

Title of aid scheme or name of company receiving individual aid

Ex-Rover Training and Support Project

Legal basis

Training: Employment Act 1973 Section 2(1) and 2(2) as substantiated by Section 25 of the Employment and Training Act 1998 and the Industrial Development Act 1982, Section 11

Annual expenditure planned under the scheme or overall amount of individual aid granted to the company

Aid scheme

Annual overall amount

GBP 3,6 million

Loans guaranteed

Individual aid

Overall aid amount

Loans guaranteed

Maximum aid intensity

In conformity with Article 4(2)-(6) of the Regulation

Yes

Date of implementation

4.8.2005

Duration of scheme or individual aid award

Until 31.12.2006

Objective of aid

General training

Yes

Specific training

Yes

Economic sectors concerned

Limited to specific sectors

Yes

—

All manufacturing

Yes

Name and address of the granting authority

Name:

Learning and Skills Council

Address:

| Chaplin Court |
| --- |
| 80 Hurst Street |
| Birmingham |
| West Midland B5 4WG |
| United Kingdom |

Chaplin Court

80 Hurst Street

Birmingham

West Midland B5 4WG

United Kingdom

Large individual aid grants

In conformity with Article 5 of the Regulation

The measure excludes awards of aid or requires prior notification to the Commission of awards of aid, if the amount of aid granted to one enterprise for a single training project exceeds EUR 1million

Yes

| Aid No | XT 58/05 |
| --- | --- |
| Member State | United Kingdom |
| Region | North West |
| Title of aid scheme or name of company receiving individual aid | North West Foundation Placement Scheme |
| Legal basis | S 5 Regional Development Agency Act 1998 |
| Annual expenditure planned under the scheme or overall amount of individual aid granted to the company | Aid scheme | Annual overall amount | GBP 190 000 |
| Loans guaranteed | |
| Individual aid | Overall aid amount | |
| Loans guaranteed | |
| Maximum aid intensity | In conformity with Article 4(2)-(7) of the Regulation | Yes | |
| Date of implementation | 19.9.2005 |
| Duration of scheme or individual aid award | Until 31.3.2006 |
| Objective of aid | General training | Yes |
| Specific training | No |
| Economic sectors concerned | Limited to specific sectors | Yes |
| Other services | Entertainment |
| Name and address of the granting authority | Name:
  North West Development Agency |
| Address:





  c/o Jayant Mehta, State Aid Coordinator |
| PO Box 37 |
| Renaissance House |
| Centre Park |
| Warrington WA1 1XB |
| United Kingdom |

Aid No

XT 58/05

Member State

United Kingdom

Region

North West

Title of aid scheme or name of company receiving individual aid

North West Foundation Placement Scheme

Legal basis

S 5 Regional Development Agency Act 1998

Annual expenditure planned under the scheme or overall amount of individual aid granted to the company

Aid scheme

Annual overall amount

GBP 190 000

Loans guaranteed

Individual aid

Overall aid amount

Loans guaranteed

Maximum aid intensity

In conformity with Article 4(2)-(7) of the Regulation

Yes

Date of implementation

19.9.2005

Duration of scheme or individual aid award

Until 31.3.2006

Objective of aid

General training

Yes

Specific training

No

Economic sectors concerned

Limited to specific sectors

Yes

Other services

Entertainment

Name and address of the granting authority

Name:

North West Development Agency

Address:

c/o Jayant Mehta, State Aid Coordinator

PO Box 37

Renaissance House

Centre Park

Warrington WA1 1XB

United Kingdom

Large individual aid grants

In conformity with Article 5 of the Regulation

Yes

---

| 25.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 47/13 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

25.2.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 47/13

---

Information communicated by Member States regarding State aid granted under Commission Regulation (EC) No 68/2001 of 12 January 2001 on the application of Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty to training aid

(2006/C 47/05)

(Text with EEA relevance)

Aid number: XT 27/01

Member State: Italy

Region: Marche

Title of aid scheme: Regulation (EC) No 68/2001 — Approval of State aid schemes for vocational training — Mechanisms for implementing and financing vocational training measures for workers in employment

Legal basis: Deliberazione della Giunta regionale n. 1045 del 22.5.2001

Annual expenditure planned up to 31 December 2006: LIT 70 billion

Maximum aid intensity:

| Large enterprises | Specific training | General training |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Non-assisted areas | 25 | 50 |
| Assisted areas | 30 | 55 |

Large enterprises

Specific training

General training

Non-assisted areas

25

50

Assisted areas

30

55

| Small and medium-sized enterprises | Specific training | General training |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Non-assisted areas | 35 | 70 |
| Assisted areas | 40 | 75 |

Small and medium-sized enterprises

Specific training

General training

Non-assisted areas

35

70

Assisted areas

40

75

The percentages referred to above are increased by 10 percentage points for training for disadvantaged workers, defined as follows:

| — | young persons under 25 who have not previously obtained their first regular paid employment, but only if they were taken on no more than six months before the date indicated in the notice under which the application for assistance is made; |
| --- | --- |

—

young persons under 25 who have not previously obtained their first regular paid employment, but only if they were taken on no more than six months before the date indicated in the notice under which the application for assistance is made;

| — | persons with serious disabilities which result from physical, mental or psychological impairments but who are capable of entering the labour market, |
| --- | --- |

—

persons with serious disabilities which result from physical, mental or psychological impairments but who are capable of entering the labour market,

| — | migrant workers who move or have moved within the Community or become resident in the Community to take up work and who need professional and/or language training, but only if they were taken on no more than six months before the date indicated in the notice under which the application for assistance is made; |
| --- | --- |

—

migrant workers who move or have moved within the Community or become resident in the Community to take up work and who need professional and/or language training, but only if they were taken on no more than six months before the date indicated in the notice under which the application for assistance is made;

| — | persons wishing to re-enter working life after a break of at least three years, and particularly persons who gave up work on account of the difficulty of reconciling their working lives and family lives, but only if they were taken on no more than six months before the closing date of the notice under which the application for assistance is made; |
| --- | --- |

—

persons wishing to re-enter working life after a break of at least three years, and particularly persons who gave up work on account of the difficulty of reconciling their working lives and family lives, but only if they were taken on no more than six months before the closing date of the notice under which the application for assistance is made;

| — | persons older than 45 who have not attained an upper secondary educational qualification or its equivalent; |
| --- | --- |

—

persons older than 45 who have not attained an upper secondary educational qualification or its equivalent;

| — | long-term unemployed persons, i.e. persons who have been without work for 12 consecutive months, but only if they were taken on no more than six months before the date indicated in the notice under which the application for assistance is made. |
| --- | --- |

—

long-term unemployed persons, i.e. persons who have been without work for 12 consecutive months, but only if they were taken on no more than six months before the date indicated in the notice under which the application for assistance is made.

Where the aid is granted in the maritime transport sector, it may reach an intensity of 100 %, regardless of whether the training project concerns specific or general training, provided that the trainee is not an active member of the crew but supernumerary on board, and the training is carried out on board ships entered on Community registers

Date of implementation: June 2001

Duration of scheme:

Objective of aid: The scheme applies both to specific training and to general training. ‘General’ training is training which is not applicable only or principally to the employee's present or future position in the assisted firm but which provides qualifications that are largely transferable to other firms or fields of work and thereby substantially improves the employability of the employee.

The following are considered general training:

inter-enterprise training, i.e. training organised jointly by different independent enterprises (under the Community rules defining SMEs) or in which employees of different enterprises may take part;

training within a single firm if the matter covered is within the profiles set out in the tabulation of qualifications and job descriptions maintained by the Region, or within profiles whose insertion has been applied for

Economic sector(s) concerned: All sectors

Name and address of granting authority:

| Regione Marche |
| --- |
| Servizio formazione professionale e problemi del lavoro |
| Via Tiziano 44 |
| I-60125 Ancona |

Regione Marche

Servizio formazione professionale e problemi del lavoro

Via Tiziano 44

I-60125 Ancona

---

| 25.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 47/14 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

25.2.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 47/14

---

STATE AID — BELGIUM

State aid No C 40/2005 (ex N 331/2005) — Ford Genk

Invitation to submit comments pursuant to Article 88(2) of the EC Treaty

(2006/C 47/06)

(Text with EEA relevance)

By means of the letter dated 9 November 2005 reproduced in the authentic language on the pages following this summary, the Commission notified Belgium of its decision to initiate the procedure laid down in Article 88(2) of the EC Treaty concerning the training aid linked with the above-mentioned aid.

Interested parties may submit their comments on the training aid in respect of which the Commission is initiating the procedure within one month of the date of publication of this summary and the following letter, to:

| European Commission |
| --- |
| Directorate-General for Competition |
| State Aid Greffe |
| Rue de la Loi/Wetstraat, 200 |
| B-1049 Brussels |
| Fax No: (32-2) 296 12 42 |

European Commission

Directorate-General for Competition

State Aid Greffe

Rue de la Loi/Wetstraat, 200

B-1049 Brussels

Fax No: (32-2) 296 12 42

These comments will be communicated to Belgium. Confidential treatment of the identity of the interested party submitting the comments may be requested in writing, stating the reasons for the request.

TEXT OF SUMMARY

Procedure

The planned aid to Ford in Genk was notified to the Commission by letter dated 22 June 2005. The Commission requested further information by letter dated 27 July 2005, to which Belgium replied by letter registered on 15 September 2005.

Description

Beneficiary of the aid would be Ford-Werke GmbH in Genk, Belgium, which is part of the Ford Motor Company. At the end of 2003 the company announced an investment programme of about EUR 700 million, primarily devoted to a new flexible manufacturing system. As a result, the traditional production of the Mondeo model would be complemented with the next generation Galaxy and with a third vehicle.

The Belgian authorities propose to grant training aid amounting to EUR 12,28 million. for eligible costs covering a period of 3 years, from 2004 to 2006. The aid is to be granted as ‘ad hoc’ aid from the Vlaamse Gemeenschap. The total eligible costs of the training project are EUR 33,84 million. The programme includes elements of specific training amounting to EUR 25,34 million and general training measures amounting to EUR 8,5 million.

Assessment

At this stage, the Commission has serious doubts that the envisaged aid fulfils the conditions of the Regulation in two aspects. Firstly, as regards the eligibility of costs for the following concepts: ‘Training enablers’ (infrastructure for reading and socialising); personnel costs of the training department; ‘cascading’ (implementation of the beneficiary's ‘lean organisation system’); costs resulting from restructuring; costs resulting from launching of new models; expenses corresponding to the period before the notification. Secondly, as regards the proposed classification of general vs. specific training for ‘consultancy costs’ and ‘off-line personnel costs’.

Conclusion

In view of the doubts mentioned above, the Commission has decided to initiate the procedure laid down in Article 88(2) of the EC Treaty.

TEXT OF LETTER

‘Par la présente, la Commission a l'honneur d'informer la Belgique qu'après avoir examiné les informations fournies par vos autorités sur la mesure citée en objet, elle a décidé d'ouvrir la procédure prévue à l'article 88, paragraphe 2, du traité CE.

PROCÉDURE

| 1. | Le projet d'aide en faveur de la société Ford, à Genk, a été notifié à la Commission par lettre du 22 juin 2005. La Commission a demandé des renseignements complémentaires par lettre du 27 juillet 2005, à laquelle la Belgique a répondu par lettre enregistrée le 15 septembre 2005. |
| --- | --- |

1.

Le projet d'aide en faveur de la société Ford, à Genk, a été notifié à la Commission par lettre du 22 juin 2005. La Commission a demandé des renseignements complémentaires par lettre du 27 juillet 2005, à laquelle la Belgique a répondu par lettre enregistrée le 15 septembre 2005.

DESCRIPTION DU PROJET

| 2. | Le bénéficiaire de l'aide serait la société Ford-Werke GmbH établie à Genk, en Belgique, qui fait partie de Ford Motor Company. L'usine a été ouverte en 1964 et, depuis lors, elle a produit plus de 12 millions de véhicules. Fin 2003, elle a subi, dans le cadre d'une restructuration générale de Ford Europe, une réduction importante de ses effectifs, qui a concerné environ 3 000 salariés sur un total de 9 000. Dans le même temps, la société a annoncé un programme d'investissement d'environ 700 millions d'EUR, essentiellement destinés à un nouveau système de production flexible. Ce programme prévoyait que la production traditionnelle du modèle Mondeo serait complété par la production de la nouvelle génération de Galaxy et d'un troisième véhicule. Actuellement, le travail dans l'usine s'effectue en deux équipes, avec des effectifs de 4 946 personnes. L'année dernière, 207 163 véhicules ont été produits sur le site. |
| --- | --- |

2.

Le bénéficiaire de l'aide serait la société Ford-Werke GmbH établie à Genk, en Belgique, qui fait partie de Ford Motor Company. L'usine a été ouverte en 1964 et, depuis lors, elle a produit plus de 12 millions de véhicules. Fin 2003, elle a subi, dans le cadre d'une restructuration générale de Ford Europe, une réduction importante de ses effectifs, qui a concerné environ 3 000 salariés sur un total de 9 000. Dans le même temps, la société a annoncé un programme d'investissement d'environ 700 millions d'EUR, essentiellement destinés à un nouveau système de production flexible. Ce programme prévoyait que la production traditionnelle du modèle Mondeo serait complété par la production de la nouvelle génération de Galaxy et d'un troisième véhicule. Actuellement, le travail dans l'usine s'effectue en deux équipes, avec des effectifs de 4 946 personnes. L'année dernière, 207 163 véhicules ont été produits sur le site.

| 3. | Les autorités belges se proposent d'accorder des aides à la formation d'un montant de 12,28 millions d'EUR, couvrant des aides admissibles sur une période de trois ans, de 2004 à 2006. L'aide doit être accordée sous forme d'aide “ad hoc” de la Vlaamse Gemeenschap. Les coûts admissibles totaux du projet de formation s'élèvent à 33,84 millions d'EUR. |
| --- | --- |

3.

Les autorités belges se proposent d'accorder des aides à la formation d'un montant de 12,28 millions d'EUR, couvrant des aides admissibles sur une période de trois ans, de 2004 à 2006. L'aide doit être accordée sous forme d'aide “ad hoc” de la Vlaamse Gemeenschap. Les coûts admissibles totaux du projet de formation s'élèvent à 33,84 millions d'EUR.

| 4. | D'après les renseignements fournis par la Belgique, le programme comprend une partie “formation spécifique”, dont le coût s'élève à 25,34 millions d'EUR. Cette formation spécifique couvrira les activités liées aux postes suivants:






  — | coûts de services de conseil: 0,88 million d'EUR; |
| --- | --- | --- |

4.

D'après les renseignements fournis par la Belgique, le programme comprend une partie “formation spécifique”, dont le coût s'élève à 25,34 millions d'EUR. Cette formation spécifique couvrira les activités liées aux postes suivants:

—

coûts de services de conseil: 0,88 million d'EUR;

| — | formation dans l'entreprise: 5,44 millions d'EUR; |
| --- | --- |

—

formation dans l'entreprise: 5,44 millions d'EUR;

| — | organisation allégée: 1,65 million d'EUR; |
| --- | --- |

—

organisation allégée: 1,65 million d'EUR;

| — | frais de personnel hors ligne: 2,35 millions d'EUR; |
| --- | --- |

—

frais de personnel hors ligne: 2,35 millions d'EUR;

| — | “locaux de formation”: 1,48 million d'EUR; |
| --- | --- |

—

“locaux de formation”: 1,48 million d'EUR;

| — | “gestion en cascade”: 1,6 million d'EUR; |
| --- | --- |

—

“gestion en cascade”: 1,6 million d'EUR;

| — | restructuration: 4,47 millions d'EUR; |
| --- | --- |

—

restructuration: 4,47 millions d'EUR;

| — | coûts de lancement: 7,44 millions d'EUR. |
| --- | --- |

—

coûts de lancement: 7,44 millions d'EUR.

| 5. | Les coûts de la formation générale s'élèvent à 8,5 millions d'EUR et couvrent les activités liées aux postes suivants:






  — | coûts de services de conseil: 2,05 millions d'EUR; |
| --- | --- | --- |

5.

Les coûts de la formation générale s'élèvent à 8,5 millions d'EUR et couvrent les activités liées aux postes suivants:

—

coûts de services de conseil: 2,05 millions d'EUR;

| — | frais de personnel hors ligne: 5,5 millions d'EUR; |
| --- | --- |

—

frais de personnel hors ligne: 5,5 millions d'EUR;

| — | frais de personnel du service formation: 0,92 million d'EUR. |
| --- | --- |

—

frais de personnel du service formation: 0,92 million d'EUR.

APPRÉCIATION DE L'AIDE

| 6. | À ce stade, la Commission estime que les mesures en cause constituent des aides d'État au sens de l'article 87, paragraphe 1, du traité CE; en effet, elles sont attribuées sous forme d'une subvention du gouvernement flamand et sont donc financées par des ressources d'État. Elles sont sélectives, puisqu'elles sont limitées à Ford Genk. Compte tenu du fait qu'elles constituent une part importante du financement de la formation, elles sont susceptibles de fausser la concurrence au sein de la Communauté, en conférant à Ford Genk un avantage sur d'autres concurrents qui ne bénéficient pas des mêmes aides. Enfin, le marché des véhicules à moteur se caractérise par des échanges intensifs entre les États membres. |
| --- | --- |

6.

À ce stade, la Commission estime que les mesures en cause constituent des aides d'État au sens de l'article 87, paragraphe 1, du traité CE; en effet, elles sont attribuées sous forme d'une subvention du gouvernement flamand et sont donc financées par des ressources d'État. Elles sont sélectives, puisqu'elles sont limitées à Ford Genk. Compte tenu du fait qu'elles constituent une part importante du financement de la formation, elles sont susceptibles de fausser la concurrence au sein de la Communauté, en conférant à Ford Genk un avantage sur d'autres concurrents qui ne bénéficient pas des mêmes aides. Enfin, le marché des véhicules à moteur se caractérise par des échanges intensifs entre les États membres.

| 7. | La Belgique ne conteste absolument pas que les mesures en cause constituent des aides d'État et elle demande qu'elles soient approuvées en tant qu'aides à la formation. |
| --- | --- |

7.

La Belgique ne conteste absolument pas que les mesures en cause constituent des aides d'État et elle demande qu'elles soient approuvées en tant qu'aides à la formation.

| 8. | Les aides prévues ont été appréciées conformément au règlement (CE) no 68/2001 du 12 janvier 2001 concernant l'application des articles 87 et 88 du traité CE aux aides à la formation (1) (ci-après dénommé “le règlement”). Conformément à l'article 5 de ce règlement, si le montant de l'aide accordée à une même entreprise pour un projet individuel de formation est supérieur à 1 million d'EUR, l'aide n'est pas automatiquement exemptée et doit être notifiée et appréciée en vertu des dispositions du règlement. La Commission note qu'en l'espèce, l'aide prévue s'élève à 12,28 millions d'EUR, qu'elle doit être accordée à une seule entreprise et que le projet de formation est un projet individuel. C'est pourquoi elle considère que l'obligation de notification s'applique à l'aide en cause. |
| --- | --- |

8.

Les aides prévues ont été appréciées conformément au règlement (CE) no 68/2001 du 12 janvier 2001 concernant l'application des articles 87 et 88 du traité CE aux aides à la formation (1) (ci-après dénommé “le règlement”). Conformément à l'article 5 de ce règlement, si le montant de l'aide accordée à une même entreprise pour un projet individuel de formation est supérieur à 1 million d'EUR, l'aide n'est pas automatiquement exemptée et doit être notifiée et appréciée en vertu des dispositions du règlement. La Commission note qu'en l'espèce, l'aide prévue s'élève à 12,28 millions d'EUR, qu'elle doit être accordée à une seule entreprise et que le projet de formation est un projet individuel. C'est pourquoi elle considère que l'obligation de notification s'applique à l'aide en cause.

| 9. | Conformément à l'article 3, paragraphe 1, du règlement, les aides individuelles sont compatibles avec le marché commun au sens de l'article 87, paragraphe 3, point c), du traité, à condition qu'elles remplissent toutes les conditions du règlement. |
| --- | --- |

9.

Conformément à l'article 3, paragraphe 1, du règlement, les aides individuelles sont compatibles avec le marché commun au sens de l'article 87, paragraphe 3, point c), du traité, à condition qu'elles remplissent toutes les conditions du règlement.

| 10. | Au stade actuel de la procédure, la Commission doute sérieusement que les aides envisagées remplissent les conditions du règlement pour ce qui est 1) de la façon dont les autorités belges interprètent l'étendue des coûts admissibles et 2) de la catégorisation proposée en tant que formation générale ou spécifique. |
| --- | --- |

10.

Au stade actuel de la procédure, la Commission doute sérieusement que les aides envisagées remplissent les conditions du règlement pour ce qui est 1) de la façon dont les autorités belges interprètent l'étendue des coûts admissibles et 2) de la catégorisation proposée en tant que formation générale ou spécifique.

I.   Coûts admissibles

| 11. | La Commission note que l'article 4, paragraphe 7, du règlement prévoit que les coûts admissibles d'un projet d'aide à la formation sont les suivants:






  (a) | coûts de personnel des formateurs; |
| --- | --- | --- |

11.

La Commission note que l'article 4, paragraphe 7, du règlement prévoit que les coûts admissibles d'un projet d'aide à la formation sont les suivants:

(a)

coûts de personnel des formateurs;

| (b) | frais de déplacement des formateurs et des participants à la formation; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

frais de déplacement des formateurs et des participants à la formation;

| (c) | autres dépenses courantes (telles que les dépenses au titre des matériaux et des fournitures); |
| --- | --- |

(c)

autres dépenses courantes (telles que les dépenses au titre des matériaux et des fournitures);

| (d) | amortissement des instruments et des équipements au prorata de leur utilisation exclusive pour le projet de formation en cause; |
| --- | --- |

(d)

amortissement des instruments et des équipements au prorata de leur utilisation exclusive pour le projet de formation en cause;

| (e) | coûts des services de conseils concernant l'action de formation; |
| --- | --- |

(e)

coûts des services de conseils concernant l'action de formation;

| (f) | coûts de personnel des participants jusqu'à concurrence du total des autres coûts éligibles figurant aux points a) à e). |
| --- | --- |

(f)

coûts de personnel des participants jusqu'à concurrence du total des autres coûts éligibles figurant aux points a) à e).

| 12. | La Belgique a fourni un aperçu des coûts de formation qui permet à la Commission d'identifier les coûts admissibles proposés. Les coûts admissibles du programme de formation notifié s'élèvent au total à 33,84 millions d'EUR, dont 25,34 millions correspondent à des actions de formation spécifique et 8,5 millions à des actions de formation générale. D'après les renseignements fournis par la Belgique, les coûts de personnel des participants au projet ne sont pas supérieurs au total des autres coûts admissibles. |
| --- | --- |

12.

La Belgique a fourni un aperçu des coûts de formation qui permet à la Commission d'identifier les coûts admissibles proposés. Les coûts admissibles du programme de formation notifié s'élèvent au total à 33,84 millions d'EUR, dont 25,34 millions correspondent à des actions de formation spécifique et 8,5 millions à des actions de formation générale. D'après les renseignements fournis par la Belgique, les coûts de personnel des participants au projet ne sont pas supérieurs au total des autres coûts admissibles.

| 13. | À ce stade de la procédure, la Commission doute sérieusement de la compatibilité avec l'article 4, paragraphe 7, du règlement d'un certain nombre de dépenses envisagées par la Belgique. Les doutes de la Commission concernent notamment les éléments de coûts suivants: |
| --- | --- |

13.

À ce stade de la procédure, la Commission doute sérieusement de la compatibilité avec l'article 4, paragraphe 7, du règlement d'un certain nombre de dépenses envisagées par la Belgique. Les doutes de la Commission concernent notamment les éléments de coûts suivants:

i)   “Locaux de formation”

| 14. | La Belgique décrit les “locaux de formation” comme de grandes salles vitrées comportant des zones réservées à la lecture et aux contacts sociaux. La Belgique propose d'amortir ces zones en tant que coûts admissibles. Or, en l'état actuel des choses, il semble douteux que des bâtiments ou d'autres types d'infrastructures puissent entrer dans le champ d'application de l'article 4, paragraphe 7, point d), du règlement, qui ne mentionne que des “instruments” et des “équipements”. En outre, la Belgique n'a pas fourni suffisamment d'informations sur la mesure dans laquelle ces infrastructures seront utilisées à des fins autres que la formation. |
| --- | --- |

14.

La Belgique décrit les “locaux de formation” comme de grandes salles vitrées comportant des zones réservées à la lecture et aux contacts sociaux. La Belgique propose d'amortir ces zones en tant que coûts admissibles. Or, en l'état actuel des choses, il semble douteux que des bâtiments ou d'autres types d'infrastructures puissent entrer dans le champ d'application de l'article 4, paragraphe 7, point d), du règlement, qui ne mentionne que des “instruments” et des “équipements”. En outre, la Belgique n'a pas fourni suffisamment d'informations sur la mesure dans laquelle ces infrastructures seront utilisées à des fins autres que la formation.

ii)   Coûts de personnel du service Formation

| 15. | La Belgique propose d'inclure sous ce poste l'ensemble des coûts de personnel du service de formation de Ford Genk. Or, la Commission doute que ces coûts puissent entrer dans le champ d'application de l'article 4, paragraphe 7, point e), du règlement (“coûts des services de conseil concernant l'action de formation”). |
| --- | --- |

15.

La Belgique propose d'inclure sous ce poste l'ensemble des coûts de personnel du service de formation de Ford Genk. Or, la Commission doute que ces coûts puissent entrer dans le champ d'application de l'article 4, paragraphe 7, point e), du règlement (“coûts des services de conseil concernant l'action de formation”).

| 16. | En outre, toute société de la taille du bénéficiaire étant normalement dotée d'un service de formation chargé d'assurer et de coordonner les besoins en formation de son personnel, il ne semble pas, à première vue, que la mesure d'aide envisagée puisse être de nature à inciter le bénéficiaire à renforcer son offre de formation. |
| --- | --- |

16.

En outre, toute société de la taille du bénéficiaire étant normalement dotée d'un service de formation chargé d'assurer et de coordonner les besoins en formation de son personnel, il ne semble pas, à première vue, que la mesure d'aide envisagée puisse être de nature à inciter le bénéficiaire à renforcer son offre de formation.

iii)   Gestion “en cascade”

| 17. | D'après la notification, le directeur de l'usine réunit son personnel trois fois par an, afin de l'informer sur la mise en œuvre du système d'“organisation allégée” de Ford. Au stade actuel de la procédure, la Commission doute fortement que cette action aille au-delà d'une simple pratique de gestion ou réponde à un quelconque objectif de formation. Il est donc douteux qu'elle soit admissible au titre de l'article 4, paragraphe 7, du règlement. |
| --- | --- |

17.

D'après la notification, le directeur de l'usine réunit son personnel trois fois par an, afin de l'informer sur la mise en œuvre du système d'“organisation allégée” de Ford. Au stade actuel de la procédure, la Commission doute fortement que cette action aille au-delà d'une simple pratique de gestion ou réponde à un quelconque objectif de formation. Il est donc douteux qu'elle soit admissible au titre de l'article 4, paragraphe 7, du règlement.

| 18. | En outre, on peut également douter que la société ait besoin d'une aide d'État pour entreprendre de telles actions de gestion “en cascade”. Le caractère nécessaire de l'aide constitue une condition préalable à sa compatibilité, conformément à l'article 87, paragraphe 3, point c), du traité. Dans le contexte de la présente affaire, une aide à la formation peut se justifier si elle est nécessaire pour inciter le bénéficiaire à offrir une formation appropriée à ses employés. La gestion “en cascade” semblant être partie intégrante des pratiques de gestion courantes de Ford Genk, la Commission considère qu'à ce stade de la procédure, la nécessité de l'aide n'a pas été démontrée de façon suffisante. |
| --- | --- |

18.

En outre, on peut également douter que la société ait besoin d'une aide d'État pour entreprendre de telles actions de gestion “en cascade”. Le caractère nécessaire de l'aide constitue une condition préalable à sa compatibilité, conformément à l'article 87, paragraphe 3, point c), du traité. Dans le contexte de la présente affaire, une aide à la formation peut se justifier si elle est nécessaire pour inciter le bénéficiaire à offrir une formation appropriée à ses employés. La gestion “en cascade” semblant être partie intégrante des pratiques de gestion courantes de Ford Genk, la Commission considère qu'à ce stade de la procédure, la nécessité de l'aide n'a pas été démontrée de façon suffisante.

iv)   Coûts de restructuration et coûts de lancement

| 19. | Ford Europe a tenté, ces dernières années, d'adapter sa capacité de production à une demande en stagnation. Dans ce contexte, Ford Genk a licencié 2 770 salariés entre décembre 2003 et avril 2004. D'après les autorités belges, la société a demandé à un certain nombre de “salariés clés” de rester pendant encore quelques semaines ou quelques mois dans l'entreprise et de former leurs successeurs, afin de garantir la continuité de la production et le maintien des normes de qualité de la société. Au stade actuel de la procédure, la Commission doute que ces coûts soient admissibles en vertu de l'article 4, paragraphe 7, du règlement, dans la mesure où ils semblent résulter exclusivement de la récente restructuration de l'installation de production. |
| --- | --- |

19.

Ford Europe a tenté, ces dernières années, d'adapter sa capacité de production à une demande en stagnation. Dans ce contexte, Ford Genk a licencié 2 770 salariés entre décembre 2003 et avril 2004. D'après les autorités belges, la société a demandé à un certain nombre de “salariés clés” de rester pendant encore quelques semaines ou quelques mois dans l'entreprise et de former leurs successeurs, afin de garantir la continuité de la production et le maintien des normes de qualité de la société. Au stade actuel de la procédure, la Commission doute que ces coûts soient admissibles en vertu de l'article 4, paragraphe 7, du règlement, dans la mesure où ils semblent résulter exclusivement de la récente restructuration de l'installation de production.

| 20. | En outre, il semble que la transmission du savoir-faire à travers les générations successives de salariés soit également partie intégrante du cœur de métier de la société, c'est-à-dire des actions nécessaires à la survie de l'entreprise, et qu'elle soit la conséquence de l'objet même de l'activité commerciale. C'est pourquoi la Commission estime, au stade actuel de la procédure, que les aides qui doivent être accordées au titre des coûts de formation liées à la “restructuration” ne semblent pas de nature à réellement inciter la société à renforcer ses actions de formation. |
| --- | --- |

20.

En outre, il semble que la transmission du savoir-faire à travers les générations successives de salariés soit également partie intégrante du cœur de métier de la société, c'est-à-dire des actions nécessaires à la survie de l'entreprise, et qu'elle soit la conséquence de l'objet même de l'activité commerciale. C'est pourquoi la Commission estime, au stade actuel de la procédure, que les aides qui doivent être accordées au titre des coûts de formation liées à la “restructuration” ne semblent pas de nature à réellement inciter la société à renforcer ses actions de formation.

| 21. | Cet argument vaut également pour les aides en faveur du poste “coûts de lancement”. Ces dépenses sont nécessaires pour pouvoir produire de nouveaux modèles dans l'usine, ce qui constitue une caractéristique normale et courante du secteur automobile, nécessaire au maintien de la compétitivité. Il semble donc que les forces du marché devraient suffire, à elles seules, à inciter la société à supporter ce type de coûts. C'est pourquoi la Commission estime qu'à cet égard également, la Belgique n'a pas suffisamment démontré la nécessité de l'aide d'État. |
| --- | --- |

21.

Cet argument vaut également pour les aides en faveur du poste “coûts de lancement”. Ces dépenses sont nécessaires pour pouvoir produire de nouveaux modèles dans l'usine, ce qui constitue une caractéristique normale et courante du secteur automobile, nécessaire au maintien de la compétitivité. Il semble donc que les forces du marché devraient suffire, à elles seules, à inciter la société à supporter ce type de coûts. C'est pourquoi la Commission estime qu'à cet égard également, la Belgique n'a pas suffisamment démontré la nécessité de l'aide d'État.

v)   Dépenses relatives à 2004

| 22. | La Commission note qu'une partie des coûts admissibles, à savoir 12 243 705 EUR, correspond à des dépenses qui ont déjà été effectuées en 2004. Dans la mesure où cette aide est destinée à alléger des dépenses passées, il est douteux qu'elle ait pu avoir une quelconque incidence sur les actions de formation de la société au cours de cette période. |
| --- | --- |

22.

La Commission note qu'une partie des coûts admissibles, à savoir 12 243 705 EUR, correspond à des dépenses qui ont déjà été effectuées en 2004. Dans la mesure où cette aide est destinée à alléger des dépenses passées, il est douteux qu'elle ait pu avoir une quelconque incidence sur les actions de formation de la société au cours de cette période.

II)   Nature de la formation

| 23. | La Commission note que l'article 4 du règlement opère une distinction entre les projets de formation spécifique et les projets de formation générale. |
| --- | --- |

23.

La Commission note que l'article 4 du règlement opère une distinction entre les projets de formation spécifique et les projets de formation générale.

| 24. | L'article 2, point d), définit la formation spécifique comme “une formation comprenant un enseignement directement et principalement applicable aux postes actuels ou prochains des salariés dans l'entreprise bénéficiaire et procurant des qualifications qui ne sont pas transférables à d'autres entreprises ou d'autres domaines de travail ou ne le sont que dans une mesure limitée”. |
| --- | --- |

24.

L'article 2, point d), définit la formation spécifique comme “une formation comprenant un enseignement directement et principalement applicable aux postes actuels ou prochains des salariés dans l'entreprise bénéficiaire et procurant des qualifications qui ne sont pas transférables à d'autres entreprises ou d'autres domaines de travail ou ne le sont que dans une mesure limitée”.

| 25. | L'article 2, point e), définit la formation générale comme “une formation comprenant un enseignement qui n'est pas uniquement ou principalement applicable aux postes de travail actuels ou prochains du salarié dans l'entreprise bénéficiaire, et qui procure des qualifications largement transférables à d'autres entreprises ou à d'autres domaines de travail et améliore par conséquent substantiellement la possibilité du salarié d'être employé”. |
| --- | --- |

25.

L'article 2, point e), définit la formation générale comme “une formation comprenant un enseignement qui n'est pas uniquement ou principalement applicable aux postes de travail actuels ou prochains du salarié dans l'entreprise bénéficiaire, et qui procure des qualifications largement transférables à d'autres entreprises ou à d'autres domaines de travail et améliore par conséquent substantiellement la possibilité du salarié d'être employé”.

| 26. | Conformément à l'article 4, paragraphes 2 et 3, les aides à la formation sont compatibles avec le marché commun si elles sont conformes aux intensités d'aide mentionnées dans cet article pour les coûts admissibles. Conformément au règlement, les intensités d'aide maximum pour les grandes entreprises situées dans des régions pouvant bénéficier d'aides régionales conformément à l'article 87, paragraphe 3, point c), du traité sont de 30 % pour la formation spécifique et de 55 % pour la formation générale. |
| --- | --- |

26.

Conformément à l'article 4, paragraphes 2 et 3, les aides à la formation sont compatibles avec le marché commun si elles sont conformes aux intensités d'aide mentionnées dans cet article pour les coûts admissibles. Conformément au règlement, les intensités d'aide maximum pour les grandes entreprises situées dans des régions pouvant bénéficier d'aides régionales conformément à l'article 87, paragraphe 3, point c), du traité sont de 30 % pour la formation spécifique et de 55 % pour la formation générale.

| 27. | À ce stade de la procédure, la Commission exprime des doutes quant à la façon dont les autorités belges interprètent la définition de la formation générale par rapport à la formation spécifique. Il ne peut être exclu qu'elles aient appliqué au projet une définition trop large de la notion de formation générale. |
| --- | --- |

27.

À ce stade de la procédure, la Commission exprime des doutes quant à la façon dont les autorités belges interprètent la définition de la formation générale par rapport à la formation spécifique. Il ne peut être exclu qu'elles aient appliqué au projet une définition trop large de la notion de formation générale.

| 28. | Les doutes de la Commission concernent notamment les postes “coûts des services de conseil” et “coûts de personnel hors ligne” (2). Au stade actuel de la procédure, la Commission ne dispose pas d'informations suffisantes sur le contenu précis de ces actions pour pouvoir déterminer quelle est la proportion appropriée de formation “générale” et de formation “spécifique”. |
| --- | --- |

28.

Les doutes de la Commission concernent notamment les postes “coûts des services de conseil” et “coûts de personnel hors ligne” (2). Au stade actuel de la procédure, la Commission ne dispose pas d'informations suffisantes sur le contenu précis de ces actions pour pouvoir déterminer quelle est la proportion appropriée de formation “générale” et de formation “spécifique”.

| 29. | D'après les autorités belges, le service Formation de Ford Genk estime qu'environ 70 % de cette formation est de nature générale. Néanmoins, conformément à l'article 4, paragraphe 5, du règlement, dans les cas où le projet comprend des éléments à la fois de formation spécifique et de formation générale qui ne peuvent être séparés aux fins du calcul de l'intensité de l'aide et dans les cas où le caractère spécifique ou général du projet d'aide à la formation ne peut être établi, ce sont les intensités définies pour la formation spécifique qui sont applicables. |
| --- | --- |

29.

D'après les autorités belges, le service Formation de Ford Genk estime qu'environ 70 % de cette formation est de nature générale. Néanmoins, conformément à l'article 4, paragraphe 5, du règlement, dans les cas où le projet comprend des éléments à la fois de formation spécifique et de formation générale qui ne peuvent être séparés aux fins du calcul de l'intensité de l'aide et dans les cas où le caractère spécifique ou général du projet d'aide à la formation ne peut être établi, ce sont les intensités définies pour la formation spécifique qui sont applicables.

| 30. | En outre, la Commission n'a reçu aucune indication supplémentaire permettant de penser que ces cours puissent être considérés comme de la formation générale, c'est-à-dire qu'ils sont organisés conjointement par plusieurs entreprises indépendantes ou que des salariés de différentes entreprises peuvent bénéficier de la formation. La Commission n'a pas non plus reçu d'informations indiquant que les cours sont reconnus, agréés ou validés par les pouvoirs publics. C'est pourquoi, au stade actuel de la procédure, la Commission doute que la formation relève de la définition de la formation spécifique figurant dans le règlement. |
| --- | --- |

30.

En outre, la Commission n'a reçu aucune indication supplémentaire permettant de penser que ces cours puissent être considérés comme de la formation générale, c'est-à-dire qu'ils sont organisés conjointement par plusieurs entreprises indépendantes ou que des salariés de différentes entreprises peuvent bénéficier de la formation. La Commission n'a pas non plus reçu d'informations indiquant que les cours sont reconnus, agréés ou validés par les pouvoirs publics. C'est pourquoi, au stade actuel de la procédure, la Commission doute que la formation relève de la définition de la formation spécifique figurant dans le règlement.

DÉCISION

| 31. | Compte tenu des considérations qui précèdent, la Commission a décidé d'engager la procédure prévue à l'article 88, paragraphe 2, du traité CE et elle enjoint à la Belgique de lui fournir, dans un délai d'un mois à compter de la réception de la présente, tous les documents, informations et données nécessaires pour apprécier la compatibilité de l'aide. Elle invite la Belgique à transmettre immédiatement copie de cette lettre au bénéficiaire potentiel de l'aide. |
| --- | --- |

31.

Compte tenu des considérations qui précèdent, la Commission a décidé d'engager la procédure prévue à l'article 88, paragraphe 2, du traité CE et elle enjoint à la Belgique de lui fournir, dans un délai d'un mois à compter de la réception de la présente, tous les documents, informations et données nécessaires pour apprécier la compatibilité de l'aide. Elle invite la Belgique à transmettre immédiatement copie de cette lettre au bénéficiaire potentiel de l'aide.

| 32. | La Commission rappelle à la Belgique l'effet suspensif de l'article 88, paragraphe 3, du traité CE et se réfère à l'article 14 du règlement (CE) no 659/1999 du Conseil, qui stipule que toute aide illégale pourra faire l'objet d'une récupération auprès de son bénéficiaire. |
| --- | --- |

32.

La Commission rappelle à la Belgique l'effet suspensif de l'article 88, paragraphe 3, du traité CE et se réfère à l'article 14 du règlement (CE) no 659/1999 du Conseil, qui stipule que toute aide illégale pourra faire l'objet d'une récupération auprès de son bénéficiaire.

| 33. | Par la présente, la Commission avise la Belgique qu'elle informera les intéressés par la publication de la présente lettre et d'un résumé de celle-ci au Journal officiel de l'Union européenne. Elle informera également les intéressés dans les pays de l'AELE signataires de l'accord EEE par publication d'une communication dans le supplément EEE du Journal officiel, ainsi que l'autorité de surveillance de l'AELE, en lui envoyant une copie de la présente. Tous les intéressés susmentionnés seront invités à présenter leurs observations dans un délai d'un mois à compter de la date de cette publication.» |
| --- | --- |

33.

Par la présente, la Commission avise la Belgique qu'elle informera les intéressés par la publication de la présente lettre et d'un résumé de celle-ci au Journal officiel de l'Union européenne. Elle informera également les intéressés dans les pays de l'AELE signataires de l'accord EEE par publication d'une communication dans le supplément EEE du Journal officiel, ainsi que l'autorité de surveillance de l'AELE, en lui envoyant une copie de la présente. Tous les intéressés susmentionnés seront invités à présenter leurs observations dans un délai d'un mois à compter de la date de cette publication.»

„Hierbij stelt de Commissie België ervan in kennis dat zij, na onderzoek van de door uw autoriteiten met betrekking tot de bovengenoemde steunmaatregel verstrekte inlichtingen, heeft besloten de procedure van artikel 88, lid 2, van het EG-Verdrag in te leiden.

PROCEDURE

| 1. | De voorgenomen steunmaatregel voor Ford in Genk is bij schrijven van 22 juni 2005 bij de Commissie aangemeld. De Commissie heeft om aanvullende inlichtingen verzocht bij schrijven van 27 juli 2005, waarop de Belgische autoriteiten hebben geantwoord bij een schrijven dat op 15 september 2005 werd geregistreerd. |
| --- | --- |

1.

De voorgenomen steunmaatregel voor Ford in Genk is bij schrijven van 22 juni 2005 bij de Commissie aangemeld. De Commissie heeft om aanvullende inlichtingen verzocht bij schrijven van 27 juli 2005, waarop de Belgische autoriteiten hebben geantwoord bij een schrijven dat op 15 september 2005 werd geregistreerd.

BESCHRIJVING VAN HET PROJECT

| 2. | De steun zou worden verleend aan Ford-Werke GmbH in Genk, België, dat deel uitmaakt van de Ford Motor Company. De fabriek werd in 1964 in bedrijf gesteld en sedertdien werden ruim twaalf miljoen wagens geproduceerd. Eind 2003 vond — in het kader van een algemene herstructurering van Ford Europe — een aanzienlijke personeelsafvloeiing plaats, waarbij 3 000 personeelsleden op een totaal van 9 000 werknemers waren betrokken. Tegelijkertijd maakte de onderneming een investeringsprogramma bekend van ongeveer 700 miljoen EUR, dat hoofdzakelijk bestemd was voor een nieuw flexibel fabricagesysteem. Daarbij zou de traditionele productie van het model Mondeo worden aangevuld met de nieuwe versie van het model Galaxy en een derde wagen. Momenteel telt de fabriek 4 946 werknemers die in twee ploegen werken. Vorig jaar werden 207 163 wagens geproduceerd. |
| --- | --- |

2.

De steun zou worden verleend aan Ford-Werke GmbH in Genk, België, dat deel uitmaakt van de Ford Motor Company. De fabriek werd in 1964 in bedrijf gesteld en sedertdien werden ruim twaalf miljoen wagens geproduceerd. Eind 2003 vond — in het kader van een algemene herstructurering van Ford Europe — een aanzienlijke personeelsafvloeiing plaats, waarbij 3 000 personeelsleden op een totaal van 9 000 werknemers waren betrokken. Tegelijkertijd maakte de onderneming een investeringsprogramma bekend van ongeveer 700 miljoen EUR, dat hoofdzakelijk bestemd was voor een nieuw flexibel fabricagesysteem. Daarbij zou de traditionele productie van het model Mondeo worden aangevuld met de nieuwe versie van het model Galaxy en een derde wagen. Momenteel telt de fabriek 4 946 werknemers die in twee ploegen werken. Vorig jaar werden 207 163 wagens geproduceerd.

| 3. | De Belgische autoriteiten nemen zich voor opleidingssteun te verlenen ten bedrage van 12,28 miljoen EUR voor subsidiabele kosten die betrekking hebben op een periode van drie jaar, van 2004 tot 2006. De steun wordt toegekend in de vorm van een ad-hocsubsidie van de Vlaamse Gemeenschap. De totale subsidiabele kosten van het opleidingsproject bedragen 33,84 miljoen EUR. |
| --- | --- |

3.

De Belgische autoriteiten nemen zich voor opleidingssteun te verlenen ten bedrage van 12,28 miljoen EUR voor subsidiabele kosten die betrekking hebben op een periode van drie jaar, van 2004 tot 2006. De steun wordt toegekend in de vorm van een ad-hocsubsidie van de Vlaamse Gemeenschap. De totale subsidiabele kosten van het opleidingsproject bedragen 33,84 miljoen EUR.

| 4. | Volgens de door België verstrekte informatie omvat het voor steun in aanmerking komende programma de onderstaande specifieke opleidingsactiviteiten ten belope van 25,34 miljoen EUR:






  — | consultancykosten: 0,88 miljoen EUR; |
| --- | --- | --- |

4.

Volgens de door België verstrekte informatie omvat het voor steun in aanmerking komende programma de onderstaande specifieke opleidingsactiviteiten ten belope van 25,34 miljoen EUR:

—

consultancykosten: 0,88 miljoen EUR;

| — | on-the-job training: 5,44 miljoen EUR; |
| --- | --- |

—

on-the-job training: 5,44 miljoen EUR;

| — | slanke organisatie: 1,65 miljoen EUR; |
| --- | --- |

—

slanke organisatie: 1,65 miljoen EUR;

| — | off-line personeelskosten: 2,35 miljoen EUR; |
| --- | --- |

—

off-line personeelskosten: 2,35 miljoen EUR;

| — | „training enablers” (opleidingsruimten): 1,48 miljoen EUR; |
| --- | --- |

—

„training enablers” (opleidingsruimten): 1,48 miljoen EUR;

| — | „cascading” (cascadeproces): 1,6 miljoen EUR; |
| --- | --- |

—

„cascading” (cascadeproces): 1,6 miljoen EUR;

| — | herstructurering: 4,47 miljoen EUR; |
| --- | --- |

—

herstructurering: 4,47 miljoen EUR;

| — | opstartkosten: 7,44 miljoen EUR. |
| --- | --- |

—

opstartkosten: 7,44 miljoen EUR.

| 5. | De uitgaven voor algemene opleidingsactiviteiten bedragen 8,5 miljoen EUR en omvatten de volgende kosten:






  — | consultancykosten: 2,05 miljoen EUR; |
| --- | --- | --- |

5.

De uitgaven voor algemene opleidingsactiviteiten bedragen 8,5 miljoen EUR en omvatten de volgende kosten:

—

consultancykosten: 2,05 miljoen EUR;

| — | off-line personeelskosten: 5,5 miljoen EUR; |
| --- | --- |

—

off-line personeelskosten: 5,5 miljoen EUR;

| — | personeelskosten van de dienst opleiding: 0,92 miljoen EUR. |
| --- | --- |

—

personeelskosten van de dienst opleiding: 0,92 miljoen EUR.

BEOORDELING VAN DE STEUNMAATREGEL

| 6. | In dit stadium van de procedure is de Commissie van oordeel dat de desbetreffende maatregelen staatssteun vormen in de zin van artikel 87, lid 1, van het EG-Verdrag: de steun wordt verleend in de vorm van een subsidie van de Vlaamse regering en wordt derhalve met staatsmiddelen bekostigd. De steunmaatregelen zijn selectief omdat zij alleen op Ford Genk van toepassing zijn. Aangezien de maatregelen een belangrijk aandeel in de financiering van de opleiding vertegenwoordigen, valt te verwachten dat zij de mededinging binnen de Gemeenschap verstoren, doordat Ford Genk een voordeel ontvangt ten opzichte van andere ondernemingen waaraan geen steun wordt verleend. Ten slotte wordt de markt voor motorvoertuigen gekenmerkt door een intensief handelsverkeer tussen de lidstaten. |
| --- | --- |

6.

In dit stadium van de procedure is de Commissie van oordeel dat de desbetreffende maatregelen staatssteun vormen in de zin van artikel 87, lid 1, van het EG-Verdrag: de steun wordt verleend in de vorm van een subsidie van de Vlaamse regering en wordt derhalve met staatsmiddelen bekostigd. De steunmaatregelen zijn selectief omdat zij alleen op Ford Genk van toepassing zijn. Aangezien de maatregelen een belangrijk aandeel in de financiering van de opleiding vertegenwoordigen, valt te verwachten dat zij de mededinging binnen de Gemeenschap verstoren, doordat Ford Genk een voordeel ontvangt ten opzichte van andere ondernemingen waaraan geen steun wordt verleend. Ten slotte wordt de markt voor motorvoertuigen gekenmerkt door een intensief handelsverkeer tussen de lidstaten.

| 7. | België vecht geenszins aan dat de betwiste maatregelen staatssteun zijn en verzoekt dat deze maatregelen als opleidingssteun worden goedgekeurd. |
| --- | --- |

7.

België vecht geenszins aan dat de betwiste maatregelen staatssteun zijn en verzoekt dat deze maatregelen als opleidingssteun worden goedgekeurd.

| 8. | Het steunvoornemen moet worden getoetst aan Verordening (EG) nr. 68/2001 van de Commissie van 12 januari 2001 betreffende de toepassing van de artikelen 87 en 88 van het EG-Verdrag op opleidingssteun (3) (hierna „de verordening” te noemen). Volgens artikel 5 van de verordening is opleidingssteun niet automatisch vrijgesteld wanneer het bedrag dat voor één enkel opleidingsproject aan één onderneming wordt verleend meer dan 1 miljoen EUR bedraagt. Bijgevolg moet deze steun worden aangemeld en getoetst aan de verordening. De Commissie merkt op dat de voorgenomen steun in deze zaak 12,28 miljoen EUR bedraagt; dat de steun aan één enkele onderneming wordt uitgekeerd; en dat het opleidingsproject één enkel project is. Daarom is de Commissie van oordeel dat voor dit steunvoornemen de aanmeldingsverplichting geldt. |
| --- | --- |

8.

Het steunvoornemen moet worden getoetst aan Verordening (EG) nr. 68/2001 van de Commissie van 12 januari 2001 betreffende de toepassing van de artikelen 87 en 88 van het EG-Verdrag op opleidingssteun (3) (hierna „de verordening” te noemen). Volgens artikel 5 van de verordening is opleidingssteun niet automatisch vrijgesteld wanneer het bedrag dat voor één enkel opleidingsproject aan één onderneming wordt verleend meer dan 1 miljoen EUR bedraagt. Bijgevolg moet deze steun worden aangemeld en getoetst aan de verordening. De Commissie merkt op dat de voorgenomen steun in deze zaak 12,28 miljoen EUR bedraagt; dat de steun aan één enkele onderneming wordt uitgekeerd; en dat het opleidingsproject één enkel project is. Daarom is de Commissie van oordeel dat voor dit steunvoornemen de aanmeldingsverplichting geldt.

| 9. | Volgens artikel 3, lid 1, van de verordening, zijn individuele steunmaatregelen die aan alle voorwaarden van deze verordening voldoen, verenigbaar met de gemeenschappelijke markt in de zin van artikel 87, lid 3, onder c), van het Verdrag. |
| --- | --- |

9.

Volgens artikel 3, lid 1, van de verordening, zijn individuele steunmaatregelen die aan alle voorwaarden van deze verordening voldoen, verenigbaar met de gemeenschappelijke markt in de zin van artikel 87, lid 3, onder c), van het Verdrag.

| 10. | In dit stadium van de procedure heeft de Commissie ernstige twijfel of het steunvoornemen op volgende punten aan de voorwaarden van de verordening voldoet: 1) de opvatting van de Belgische autoriteiten omtrent de kosten die als subsidiabel kunnen worden beschouwd en 2) de voorgestelde indeling bij algemene of specifieke opleiding. |
| --- | --- |

10.

In dit stadium van de procedure heeft de Commissie ernstige twijfel of het steunvoornemen op volgende punten aan de voorwaarden van de verordening voldoet: 1) de opvatting van de Belgische autoriteiten omtrent de kosten die als subsidiabel kunnen worden beschouwd en 2) de voorgestelde indeling bij algemene of specifieke opleiding.

I.   Subsidiabele kosten

| 11. | De Commissie merkt op dat in artikel 4, lid 7, van de verordening is bepaald welke kosten in aanmerking komen voor opleidingssteun:






  (a) | de personeelskosten van de opleiders; |
| --- | --- | --- |

11.

De Commissie merkt op dat in artikel 4, lid 7, van de verordening is bepaald welke kosten in aanmerking komen voor opleidingssteun:

(a)

de personeelskosten van de opleiders;

| (b) | de verplaatsingskosten van de opleiders en degenen die de opleiding volgen; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

de verplaatsingskosten van de opleiders en degenen die de opleiding volgen;

| (c) | andere lopende uitgaven voor materiaal en benodigdheden; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

andere lopende uitgaven voor materiaal en benodigdheden;

| (d) | de afschrijving van werktuigen en uitrusting, in de mate waarin deze uitsluitend voor het opleidingsproject worden gebruikt; |
| --- | --- |

(d)

de afschrijving van werktuigen en uitrusting, in de mate waarin deze uitsluitend voor het opleidingsproject worden gebruikt;

| (e) | de kosten van diensten inzake begeleiding en advisering met betrekking tot het opleidingsproject; |
| --- | --- |

(e)

de kosten van diensten inzake begeleiding en advisering met betrekking tot het opleidingsproject;

| (f) | de personeelskosten van degenen die de opleiding volgen, ten belope van ten hoogste het totaal van de overige, in de punten a) tot en met e) bedoelde, in aanmerking komende kosten. |
| --- | --- |

(f)

de personeelskosten van degenen die de opleiding volgen, ten belope van ten hoogste het totaal van de overige, in de punten a) tot en met e) bedoelde, in aanmerking komende kosten.

| 12. | België heeft een overzicht van de opleidingskosten ingediend waardoor de Commissie kon nagaan wat onder de voorgestelde subsidiabele kosten wordt verstaan. De totale subsidiabele kosten van het aangemelde opleidingsprogramma bedragen 33,84 miljoen EUR, waarvan 25,34 miljoen EUR bestemd is voor specifieke opleiding en 8,5 miljoen voor algemene opleiding. Volgens de door België verstrekte informatie liggen de personeelskosten van degenen die de opleiding volgen niet hoger dan het totaal van de overige subsidiabele kosten. |
| --- | --- |

12.

België heeft een overzicht van de opleidingskosten ingediend waardoor de Commissie kon nagaan wat onder de voorgestelde subsidiabele kosten wordt verstaan. De totale subsidiabele kosten van het aangemelde opleidingsprogramma bedragen 33,84 miljoen EUR, waarvan 25,34 miljoen EUR bestemd is voor specifieke opleiding en 8,5 miljoen voor algemene opleiding. Volgens de door België verstrekte informatie liggen de personeelskosten van degenen die de opleiding volgen niet hoger dan het totaal van de overige subsidiabele kosten.

| 13. | In dit stadium van de procedure heeft de Commissie ernstige twijfel of een aantal van de door België voorgestelde uitgaven voldoen aan artikel 4, lid 7, van de verordening. In het bijzonder heeft de Commissie twijfel over de volgende kostenposten: |
| --- | --- |

13.

In dit stadium van de procedure heeft de Commissie ernstige twijfel of een aantal van de door België voorgestelde uitgaven voldoen aan artikel 4, lid 7, van de verordening. In het bijzonder heeft de Commissie twijfel over de volgende kostenposten:

i)   „Training enablers” (opleidingsruimten)

| 14. | België beschrijft „Training enablers” als grote glazen lokalen met ruimten voor lectuur en sociale contacten. België stelt voor dat de afschrijving van de kosten voor deze ruimten als subsidiabel wordt beschouwd. In deze fase lijkt het evenwel twijfelachtig of gebouwen of andere soorten infrastructuur binnen de werkingssfeer van artikel 4, lid 7, onder d), van de verordening vallen, waarin alleen „werktuigen” en „uitrusting” worden vermeld. Voorts heeft België onvoldoende gegevens verstrekt met betrekking tot de mate waarin deze infrastructuur voor andere doeleinden dan opleiding zal worden gebruikt. |
| --- | --- |

14.

België beschrijft „Training enablers” als grote glazen lokalen met ruimten voor lectuur en sociale contacten. België stelt voor dat de afschrijving van de kosten voor deze ruimten als subsidiabel wordt beschouwd. In deze fase lijkt het evenwel twijfelachtig of gebouwen of andere soorten infrastructuur binnen de werkingssfeer van artikel 4, lid 7, onder d), van de verordening vallen, waarin alleen „werktuigen” en „uitrusting” worden vermeld. Voorts heeft België onvoldoende gegevens verstrekt met betrekking tot de mate waarin deze infrastructuur voor andere doeleinden dan opleiding zal worden gebruikt.

ii)   Personeelskosten van de dienst opleiding

| 15. | België stelt voor in deze kostenpost alle personeelskosten van de dienst opleiding van Ford Genk op te nemen. Volgens de Commissie is het twijfelachtig of dergelijke kosten binnen de werkingssfeer van artikel 4, lid 7, onder e), van de verordening vallen („de kosten van diensten inzake begeleiding en advisering met betrekking tot het opleidingsproject”). |
| --- | --- |

15.

België stelt voor in deze kostenpost alle personeelskosten van de dienst opleiding van Ford Genk op te nemen. Volgens de Commissie is het twijfelachtig of dergelijke kosten binnen de werkingssfeer van artikel 4, lid 7, onder e), van de verordening vallen („de kosten van diensten inzake begeleiding en advisering met betrekking tot het opleidingsproject”).

| 16. | Aangezien een onderneming met de omvang van de begunstigde onderneming normaal gezien over een dienst opleiding beschikt die verantwoordelijk is voor het aanbieden en coördineren van de opleiding van het personeel, lijkt het op het eerste gezicht niet waarschijnlijk dat de begunstigde onderneming door het steunvoornemen extra stimulansen krijgt om haar eigen opleidingsaanbod te vergroten. |
| --- | --- |

16.

Aangezien een onderneming met de omvang van de begunstigde onderneming normaal gezien over een dienst opleiding beschikt die verantwoordelijk is voor het aanbieden en coördineren van de opleiding van het personeel, lijkt het op het eerste gezicht niet waarschijnlijk dat de begunstigde onderneming door het steunvoornemen extra stimulansen krijgt om haar eigen opleidingsaanbod te vergroten.

iii)   „Cascading” (cascadeproces)

| 17. | Volgens de aanmelding vindt er driemaal per jaar een bijeenkomst plaats waarop de directeur van de fabriek het personeel een korte uiteenzetting geeft over de tenuitvoerlegging van het „lean organisation”-systeem („FPS” — slanke organisatie) van Ford. In deze fase van de procedure heeft de Commissie ernstige twijfel of deze activiteit meer is dan een zuivere beheershandeling of aan een of andere opleidingsdoelstelling beantwoordt. Bijgevolg is het twijfelachtig of deze activiteit subsidiabel is in het kader van artikel 4, lid 7, van de verordening. |
| --- | --- |

17.

Volgens de aanmelding vindt er driemaal per jaar een bijeenkomst plaats waarop de directeur van de fabriek het personeel een korte uiteenzetting geeft over de tenuitvoerlegging van het „lean organisation”-systeem („FPS” — slanke organisatie) van Ford. In deze fase van de procedure heeft de Commissie ernstige twijfel of deze activiteit meer is dan een zuivere beheershandeling of aan een of andere opleidingsdoelstelling beantwoordt. Bijgevolg is het twijfelachtig of deze activiteit subsidiabel is in het kader van artikel 4, lid 7, van de verordening.

| 18. | Voorts rijst de vraag of de onderneming nood heeft aan staatssteun om een dergelijk cascadeproces ten uitvoer te leggen. Overeenkomstig artikel 87, lid 3, onder c), van het Verdrag is de noodzaak van de steun een voorwaarde om met de gemeenschappelijke markt verenigbaar te zijn. In deze zaak kan opleidingssteun worden gerechtvaardigd wanneer deze noodzakelijk is om de begunstigde onderneming de juiste stimulansen te geven om haar personeel een passende opleiding aan te bieden. Aangezien het cascadeproces deel lijkt uit te maken van de gebruikelijke beheershandelingen van Ford Genk, is de Commissie in deze fase van oordeel dat de noodzaak van de steun voor deze kostenpost onvoldoende is gestaafd. |
| --- | --- |

18.

Voorts rijst de vraag of de onderneming nood heeft aan staatssteun om een dergelijk cascadeproces ten uitvoer te leggen. Overeenkomstig artikel 87, lid 3, onder c), van het Verdrag is de noodzaak van de steun een voorwaarde om met de gemeenschappelijke markt verenigbaar te zijn. In deze zaak kan opleidingssteun worden gerechtvaardigd wanneer deze noodzakelijk is om de begunstigde onderneming de juiste stimulansen te geven om haar personeel een passende opleiding aan te bieden. Aangezien het cascadeproces deel lijkt uit te maken van de gebruikelijke beheershandelingen van Ford Genk, is de Commissie in deze fase van oordeel dat de noodzaak van de steun voor deze kostenpost onvoldoende is gestaafd.

iv)   Herstructurerings- en opstartkosten

| 19. | In de voorbije jaren heeft Ford Europe geprobeerd haar productiecapaciteit aan te passen aan een stagnerende vraag. Zo zijn bij Ford Genk in de periode van december 2003 tot april 2004 2 770 werknemers afgevloeid. Volgens de Belgische autoriteiten werd een aantal „belangrijke personeelsleden” verzocht om nog enkele extra weken of maanden in dienst te blijven en hun opvolgers op te leiden om de continuïteit van de productie en de kwaliteitszorg van de fabriek te garanderen. In deze fase betwijfelt de Commissie of deze kosten subsidiabel zijn overeenkomstig artikel 4, lid 7, van de verordening, aangezien deze uitsluitend lijken voort te vloeien uit de recente herstructurering van de fabriek. |
| --- | --- |

19.

In de voorbije jaren heeft Ford Europe geprobeerd haar productiecapaciteit aan te passen aan een stagnerende vraag. Zo zijn bij Ford Genk in de periode van december 2003 tot april 2004 2 770 werknemers afgevloeid. Volgens de Belgische autoriteiten werd een aantal „belangrijke personeelsleden” verzocht om nog enkele extra weken of maanden in dienst te blijven en hun opvolgers op te leiden om de continuïteit van de productie en de kwaliteitszorg van de fabriek te garanderen. In deze fase betwijfelt de Commissie of deze kosten subsidiabel zijn overeenkomstig artikel 4, lid 7, van de verordening, aangezien deze uitsluitend lijken voort te vloeien uit de recente herstructurering van de fabriek.

| 20. | Voorts lijkt de kennisoverdracht naar jongere personeelsleden ook deel uit te maken van de kernactiviteiten van de onderneming omdat deze noodzakelijk is voor het overleven van de onderneming en voortvloeit uit de kerndoelstelling van de onderneming. Bijgevolg is de Commissie in deze fase van mening dat de steun voor opleiding in het kader van de herstructurering geen echte stimulansen lijkt te bieden voor de opleidingsactiviteiten van de onderneming. |
| --- | --- |

20.

Voorts lijkt de kennisoverdracht naar jongere personeelsleden ook deel uit te maken van de kernactiviteiten van de onderneming omdat deze noodzakelijk is voor het overleven van de onderneming en voortvloeit uit de kerndoelstelling van de onderneming. Bijgevolg is de Commissie in deze fase van mening dat de steun voor opleiding in het kader van de herstructurering geen echte stimulansen lijkt te bieden voor de opleidingsactiviteiten van de onderneming.

| 21. | Hetzelfde geldt voor steun voor een startopleiding. Deze opleidingskosten zijn nodig voor de productie van nieuwe modellen in de fabriek, hetgeen een normaal en vaak voorkomend verschijnsel is in de auto-industrie en noodzakelijk is om concurrerend te blijven. Het lijkt dus dat de marktwerking alleen reeds voldoende zou zijn om de onderneming ertoe aan te zetten deze kosten te maken. Bijgevolg is de Commissie ook in dit opzicht van mening dat België de noodzaak van staatssteun onvoldoende heeft aangetoond. |
| --- | --- |

21.

Hetzelfde geldt voor steun voor een startopleiding. Deze opleidingskosten zijn nodig voor de productie van nieuwe modellen in de fabriek, hetgeen een normaal en vaak voorkomend verschijnsel is in de auto-industrie en noodzakelijk is om concurrerend te blijven. Het lijkt dus dat de marktwerking alleen reeds voldoende zou zijn om de onderneming ertoe aan te zetten deze kosten te maken. Bijgevolg is de Commissie ook in dit opzicht van mening dat België de noodzaak van staatssteun onvoldoende heeft aangetoond.

v)   Uitgaven met betrekking tot 2004

| 22. | De Commissie stelt vast dat een gedeelte van de subsidiabele kosten, namelijk 12 243 705 EUR, uitgaven betreft die reeds in 2004 werden gemaakt. In de mate dat steun wordt benut ter dekking van vroegere uitgaven, is het twijfelachtig of deze steun een stimulans kan zijn voor de opleidingsactiviteiten van de onderneming in deze periode. |
| --- | --- |

22.

De Commissie stelt vast dat een gedeelte van de subsidiabele kosten, namelijk 12 243 705 EUR, uitgaven betreft die reeds in 2004 werden gemaakt. In de mate dat steun wordt benut ter dekking van vroegere uitgaven, is het twijfelachtig of deze steun een stimulans kan zijn voor de opleidingsactiviteiten van de onderneming in deze periode.

II.   Soort opleiding

| 23. | De Commissie wijst erop dat in artikel 4 van de verordening een onderscheid gemaakt wordt tussen specifieke en algemene opleiding. |
| --- | --- |

23.

De Commissie wijst erop dat in artikel 4 van de verordening een onderscheid gemaakt wordt tussen specifieke en algemene opleiding.

| 24. | In artikel 2, onder d), wordt „specifieke opleiding” omschreven als „een opleiding die bestaat in onderricht dat direct en hoofdzakelijk op de huidige of toekomstige functie van de werknemer in de begunstigde onderneming gericht is, en door middel waarvan bekwaamheden worden verkregen die niet of slechts in beperkte mate naar andere ondernemingen of andere werkgebieden overdraagbaar zijn.” |
| --- | --- |

24.

In artikel 2, onder d), wordt „specifieke opleiding” omschreven als „een opleiding die bestaat in onderricht dat direct en hoofdzakelijk op de huidige of toekomstige functie van de werknemer in de begunstigde onderneming gericht is, en door middel waarvan bekwaamheden worden verkregen die niet of slechts in beperkte mate naar andere ondernemingen of andere werkgebieden overdraagbaar zijn.”

| 25. | In artikel 2, onder e) wordt „algemene opleiding” omschreven als „een opleiding die bestaat in onderricht dat niet uitsluitend of hoofdzakelijk op de huidige of toekomstige functie van de werknemer in de begunstigde onderneming gericht is, maar door middel waarvan bekwaamheden worden verkregen die in ruime mate naar andere ondernemingen of werkgebieden overdraagbaar zijn, zodat de inzetbaarheid van de werknemer wordt verbeterd.” |
| --- | --- |

25.

In artikel 2, onder e) wordt „algemene opleiding” omschreven als „een opleiding die bestaat in onderricht dat niet uitsluitend of hoofdzakelijk op de huidige of toekomstige functie van de werknemer in de begunstigde onderneming gericht is, maar door middel waarvan bekwaamheden worden verkregen die in ruime mate naar andere ondernemingen of werkgebieden overdraagbaar zijn, zodat de inzetbaarheid van de werknemer wordt verbeterd.”

| 26. | Opleidingssteun is volgens artikel 4, leden 2 en 3, verenigbaar met de gemeenschappelijke markt wanneer de daarin genoemde steunintensiteiten in verhouding tot de subsidiabele kosten worden nageleefd. Volgens de verordening bedragen de maximaal toegestane steunintensiteiten voor grote ondernemingen in gebieden die uit hoofde van artikel 87, lid 3, onder c), van het Verdrag voor steun in aanmerking komen, 30 % voor specifieke opleiding en 55 % voor algemene opleiding. |
| --- | --- |

26.

Opleidingssteun is volgens artikel 4, leden 2 en 3, verenigbaar met de gemeenschappelijke markt wanneer de daarin genoemde steunintensiteiten in verhouding tot de subsidiabele kosten worden nageleefd. Volgens de verordening bedragen de maximaal toegestane steunintensiteiten voor grote ondernemingen in gebieden die uit hoofde van artikel 87, lid 3, onder c), van het Verdrag voor steun in aanmerking komen, 30 % voor specifieke opleiding en 55 % voor algemene opleiding.

| 27. | In dit stadium van de procedure heeft de Commissie enige twijfel bij de manier waarop de Belgische autoriteiten de definitie van algemene versus specifieke opleiding interpreteren. Niet uit te sluiten valt dat in dit project een al te ruime definitie van „algemene opleiding” werd gehanteerd. |
| --- | --- |

27.

In dit stadium van de procedure heeft de Commissie enige twijfel bij de manier waarop de Belgische autoriteiten de definitie van algemene versus specifieke opleiding interpreteren. Niet uit te sluiten valt dat in dit project een al te ruime definitie van „algemene opleiding” werd gehanteerd.

| 28. | De Commissie heeft in het bijzonder twijfel omtrent de opleidingsonderdelen „consultancykosten” en „off-line personeelskosten” (4). In deze fase beschikt de Commissie over onvoldoende gegevens met betrekking tot de precieze inhoud van deze activiteiten om het overeenkomstige deel „algemene” en „specifieke” opleiding te kunnen vaststellen. |
| --- | --- |

28.

De Commissie heeft in het bijzonder twijfel omtrent de opleidingsonderdelen „consultancykosten” en „off-line personeelskosten” (4). In deze fase beschikt de Commissie over onvoldoende gegevens met betrekking tot de precieze inhoud van deze activiteiten om het overeenkomstige deel „algemene” en „specifieke” opleiding te kunnen vaststellen.

| 29. | Volgens de Belgische autoriteiten raamt de dienst opleiding van Ford Genk dat ongeveer 70 % van deze opleiding als algemene opleiding kan worden beschouwd. Overeenkomstig artikel 4, lid 5, van de verordening zijn de steunintensiteiten die voor specifieke opleiding gelden, van toepassing, ingeval het steunproject zowel componenten van specifieke opleiding als componenten van algemene opleiding omvat die voor de berekening van de steunintensiteit niet van elkaar kunnen worden gescheiden en ingeval het specifieke dan wel algemene karakter van het opleidingsproject niet kan worden aangetoond. |
| --- | --- |

29.

Volgens de Belgische autoriteiten raamt de dienst opleiding van Ford Genk dat ongeveer 70 % van deze opleiding als algemene opleiding kan worden beschouwd. Overeenkomstig artikel 4, lid 5, van de verordening zijn de steunintensiteiten die voor specifieke opleiding gelden, van toepassing, ingeval het steunproject zowel componenten van specifieke opleiding als componenten van algemene opleiding omvat die voor de berekening van de steunintensiteit niet van elkaar kunnen worden gescheiden en ingeval het specifieke dan wel algemene karakter van het opleidingsproject niet kan worden aangetoond.

| 30. | Bovendien heeft de Commissie geen verdere aanwijzingen ontvangen dat deze cursussen als algemene opleiding kunnen worden aangemerkt — dat deze cursussen dus door verschillende onafhankelijke ondernemingen gezamenlijk worden georganiseerd of ten goede kunnen komen aan werknemers van verschillende ondernemingen. Evenmin heeft de Commissie informatie ontvangen dat de cursussen worden erkend, gecertificeerd of gehomologeerd door een overheidsorgaan. Derhalve betwijfelt de Commissie — in dit stadium — dat de opleiding onder de definitie valt van algemene opleiding in de zin van de verordening. |
| --- | --- |

30.

Bovendien heeft de Commissie geen verdere aanwijzingen ontvangen dat deze cursussen als algemene opleiding kunnen worden aangemerkt — dat deze cursussen dus door verschillende onafhankelijke ondernemingen gezamenlijk worden georganiseerd of ten goede kunnen komen aan werknemers van verschillende ondernemingen. Evenmin heeft de Commissie informatie ontvangen dat de cursussen worden erkend, gecertificeerd of gehomologeerd door een overheidsorgaan. Derhalve betwijfelt de Commissie — in dit stadium — dat de opleiding onder de definitie valt van algemene opleiding in de zin van de verordening.

BESLUIT

| 31. | Gelet op de bovenstaande overwegingen heeft de Commissie besloten de procedure van artikel 88, lid 2, van het EG-Verdrag in te leiden en maant zij België aan, haar binnen één maand na de datum van ontvangst van dit schrijven, alle documenten, inlichtingen en gegevens te verstrekken die nodig zijn om de verenigbaarheid van de steunmaatregel te beoordelen. Zij verzoekt België onverwijld een afschrift van dit schrijven aan de potentiële begunstigde van de steunmaatregel te doen toekomen. |
| --- | --- |

31.

Gelet op de bovenstaande overwegingen heeft de Commissie besloten de procedure van artikel 88, lid 2, van het EG-Verdrag in te leiden en maant zij België aan, haar binnen één maand na de datum van ontvangst van dit schrijven, alle documenten, inlichtingen en gegevens te verstrekken die nodig zijn om de verenigbaarheid van de steunmaatregel te beoordelen. Zij verzoekt België onverwijld een afschrift van dit schrijven aan de potentiële begunstigde van de steunmaatregel te doen toekomen.

| 32. | De Commissie wijst België op de schorsende werking van artikel 88, lid 3, van het EG-Verdrag. Zij verwijst naar artikel 14 van Verordening (EG) nr. 659/1999 van de Raad, volgens hetwelk elke onrechtmatige steun van de begunstigde kan worden teruggevorderd. |
| --- | --- |

32.

De Commissie wijst België op de schorsende werking van artikel 88, lid 3, van het EG-Verdrag. Zij verwijst naar artikel 14 van Verordening (EG) nr. 659/1999 van de Raad, volgens hetwelk elke onrechtmatige steun van de begunstigde kan worden teruggevorderd.

| 33. | Voorts deelt de Commissie België mee, dat zij de belanghebbenden van deze zaak in kennis zal stellen door dit schrijven en een samenvatting ervan in het Publicatieblad van de Europese Unie bekend te maken. Tevens zal zij de belanghebbenden in de EVA-staten die partij zijn bij de EER-Overeenkomst door de bekendmaking van een mededeling in het EER-Supplement van het Publicatieblad in kennis stellen, alsmede de Toezichthoudende Autoriteit van de EVA door haar een afschrift van dit schrijven toe te zenden. Alle bovengenoemde belanghebbenden zal worden verzocht hun opmerkingen te maken binnen één maand vanaf de datum van deze bekendmaking.’ |
| --- | --- |

33.

Voorts deelt de Commissie België mee, dat zij de belanghebbenden van deze zaak in kennis zal stellen door dit schrijven en een samenvatting ervan in het Publicatieblad van de Europese Unie bekend te maken. Tevens zal zij de belanghebbenden in de EVA-staten die partij zijn bij de EER-Overeenkomst door de bekendmaking van een mededeling in het EER-Supplement van het Publicatieblad in kennis stellen, alsmede de Toezichthoudende Autoriteit van de EVA door haar een afschrift van dit schrijven toe te zenden. Alle bovengenoemde belanghebbenden zal worden verzocht hun opmerkingen te maken binnen één maand vanaf de datum van deze bekendmaking.’

---

(1)  JO L 10 du 13.1.2001, p. 20.

1

(2)  Cette considération s'appliquerait également au poste “coûts de personnel du service formation”, si ces coûts étaient éventuellement considérés comme admissibles en vertu de l'article 4, paragraphe 7, du règlement (voir section I ci-dessus).

2

(3)  PB L 10 van 13.1.2001, blz. 20.

3

(4)  Indien de „personeelskosten van de dienst opleiding” in aanmerking waren genomen als subsidiabele kosten overeenkomstig artikel 4, lid 7, van de verordening (zie afdeling I), dan zou voor deze kosten ook een soortgelijke opmerking kunnen worden gemaakt.

4

---

| 25.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 47/21 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

25.2.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 47/21

---

Authorisation for State aid pursuant to Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty

Cases where the Commission raises no objections

(2006/C 47/07)

(Text with EEA relevance)

Date of adoption of the decision:

Member State: United Kingdom (England)

Aid No: N 144/2003

Title: Fishing Vessels (Decommissioning) Scheme 2003

Objective: To withdraw fishing vessels from the fleet in order to reduce effort on cod fishing by 15-20 %

Legal basis: Statutory Instrument

Aid intensity or amount: The applications will be considered on the basis of individual, competitive bids and will be selected those representing the highest benefit deriving from the bid. For vessels of 10 years or more the awards will be within the limits provided for under the Regulation 2792/1999 plus an additional 20 % scrapping premium. For vessels less than 10 years of age the ceilings will be increased by 1,5 % for each year less than 10 years of age

Duration: 2003-2004

Other information: Annual report

The authentic text(s) of the decision, from which all confidential information has been removed, can be found at:

http://europa.eu.int/comm/secretariat_general/sgb/state_aids/

Date of adoption of the decision:

Member State: United Kingdom (Scotland)

Aid No: N 155/2003

Title: The Sea Fishing (Transitional Support) (Scotland) (No 2) Scheme 2003

Objective: To provide economic compensation to vessels affected by reductions in fishing effort on cod stocks in the North Sea

Legal basis: Scottish Statutory Instrument

Budget: GBP 10 million (around EUR 15 million)

Aid intensity or amount: GBP 142 per Vessel Capacity Unit for vessels qualified for the entire period.

Duration: 1 March — 31 August 2003

Other information: Annual report

The authentic text(s) of the decision, from which all confidential information has been removed, can be found at:

http://europa.eu.int/comm/secretariat_general/sgb/state_aids/

Date of adoption of the decision:

Member State: Ireland

Aid No: N 340/2001

Title: Tax reliefs on investment in the whitefish fleet

Objective: To encourage capital investment into the whitefish fleet

Legal basis: Finance Act 2001

Budget: The actual monetary costs and benefits of the scheme will depend on the type and scale of the project, the taxation scale against which the relief is taken and the level of funding other than grant aid

Form of aid and intensity: Rates of assistance established on the basis of Council Regulation (EC) No 2792/1999, as amended by Council Regulation (EC) No 2369/2002 of 20 December 2002

Period of assistance: 2001, 2002, 2003, ending on 3 September 2004

Other information: Annual report

The authentic text(s) of the decision, from which all confidential information has been removed, can be found at:

http://europa.eu.int/comm/secretariat_general/sgb/state_aids/

Date of adoption of the decision:

Member State: Netherlands

Aid No: N 356/2003

Title: Safeguarding the interests of the fishery products landing sector

Objective: Financing advisory services for and safeguarding the interests of the fishery products landing sector

Legal basis:

| — | Instellingsverordening Productschap Vis |
| --- | --- |

—

Instellingsverordening Productschap Vis

| — | Verordening instelling van een fonds voor de aanvoersector |
| --- | --- |

—

Verordening instelling van een fonds voor de aanvoersector

Budget: Between EUR 50 and EUR 100 000 per year

Duration: 2003 and subsequent years

Rate of aid/amount: Within the limits laid down in the Guidelines for the examination of State aid to fisheries and aquaculture (OJ C 19, 20.1.2001, p. 7)

Other details: Annual report

The authentic text(s) of the decision, from which all confidential information has been removed, can be found at:

http://europa.eu.int/comm/secretariat_general/sgb/state_aids/

Date of adoption of the decision:

Member state: Spain

Aid no: N 574/2002

Title: Agreement with Morocco — Conversion of the fishing fleet (Valencia)

Objective: To promote conversion of vessels and redeployment of fishermen dependent, until 1999, on the fisheries agreement with Morocco

Legal basis: Orden de la Conselleria de Agricultura, Pesca y Alimentación por la que se establecen determinados requisitos y condiciones que afectan a la reconversión de los buques y pescadores por la finalización del Acuerdo de pesca con Marruecos

Budget: EUR 1 500 000

Aid intensity or amount: Criteria and scales laid down in Council Regulations (EC) Nos 2792/1999 and 2561/2001

Duration: 2002-03

The authentic text(s) of the decision, from which all confidential information has been removed, can be found at:

http://europa.eu.int/comm/secretariat_general/sgb/state_aids/

Date of the decision:

Member state: Italy

Aid no: N 702/2002

Title: Measures implemented by the industry. Fisheries sector

Objective: Implementation of structural measures by those involved in the fishing industry included in the Community support framework

Legal basis: Circolare applicativa della normativa CE in materia di OO.PP. e Associazioni di OO.PP. (Ministero delle Politiche Agricole e Forestali)

Budget: EUR 5 286 000

Aid intensity or amount: According to the rates set in Council Regulation (EC) No 2792/99

Duration: 2000-2006

Other information: Annual report

The authentic text(s) of the decision, from which all confidential information has been removed, can be found at:

http://europa.eu.int/comm/secretariat_general/sgb/state_aids/

Date of the decision:

Member state: Portugal

Aid no: NN 92/2002

Title: Temporary stopping of fishing for sardine — Fisheries sector

Objective: To compensate fishermen and the owners of fishing vessels for the temporary suspension of fishing for sardine (Sardina pilchardus) owing to an unforeseeable biological development in the northern region (exceptional abundance of juveniles) and the resulting ban on fishing with a view to the recovery of the spawning biomass

Legal basis: Portaria no. 123-B/2002, de 8 de Fevereiro, que estabelece o Regulamento de apoio à cessação temporária da actividade das embarcações de pesca dirigida à sardinha

Budget: EUR 1 200 000

Duration: Two months during 2002

The authentic text(s) of the decision, from which all confidential information has been removed, can be found at:

http://europa.eu.int/comm/secretariat_general/sgb/state_aids/

---

| 25.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 47/23 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

25.2.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 47/23

---

Prior notification of a concentration

(Case COMP/ M.4095 — Deutsche Telekom/Corpus/Morgan Stanley/Sireo)

Candidate case for simplified procedure

(2006/C 47/08)

(Text with EEA relevance)

| 1. | On 17 February 2006, the Commission received a notification of a proposed concentration pursuant to Article 4 of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1) by which the undertakings Deutsche Telekom AG (‘DTAG’, Germany), Corpus Immobiliengruppe GmbH & Co. KG (‘Corpus’, Germany) and Morgan Stanley Bank AG (‘MSBAG’, Germany) belonging to the Morgan Stanley group acquire within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Council Regulation joint control of the existing joint venture Sireo Real Estate Asset Management GmbH (‘Sireo’, Germany) in its new expanded format. |
| --- | --- |

1.

On 17 February 2006, the Commission received a notification of a proposed concentration pursuant to Article 4 of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1) by which the undertakings Deutsche Telekom AG (‘DTAG’, Germany), Corpus Immobiliengruppe GmbH & Co. KG (‘Corpus’, Germany) and Morgan Stanley Bank AG (‘MSBAG’, Germany) belonging to the Morgan Stanley group acquire within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Council Regulation joint control of the existing joint venture Sireo Real Estate Asset Management GmbH (‘Sireo’, Germany) in its new expanded format.

| 2. | The business activities of the undertakings concerned are:






  — | for undertaking DTAG: telecoms; |
| --- | --- | --- |

2.

The business activities of the undertakings concerned are:

—

for undertaking DTAG: telecoms;

| — | for undertaking Corpus: asset management, real estate services and project development; |
| --- | --- |

—

for undertaking Corpus: asset management, real estate services and project development;

| — | for undertaking MSBAG: financial services; |
| --- | --- |

—

for undertaking MSBAG: financial services;

| — | for undertaking Sireo: real estate funds and consultancy services for real estate funds. |
| --- | --- |

—

for undertaking Sireo: real estate funds and consultancy services for real estate funds.

| 3. | On preliminary examination, the Commission finds that the notified transaction could fall within the scope of Regulation (EC) No 139/2004. However, the final decision on this point is reserved. Pursuant to the Commission Notice on a simplified procedure for treatment of certain concentrations under Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (2) it should be noted that this case is a candidate for treatment under the procedure set out in the Notice. |
| --- | --- |

3.

On preliminary examination, the Commission finds that the notified transaction could fall within the scope of Regulation (EC) No 139/2004. However, the final decision on this point is reserved. Pursuant to the Commission Notice on a simplified procedure for treatment of certain concentrations under Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (2) it should be noted that this case is a candidate for treatment under the procedure set out in the Notice.

| 4. | The Commission invites interested third parties to submit their possible observations on the proposed operation to the Commission.
  Observations must reach the Commission not later than 10 days following the date of this publication. Observations can be sent to the Commission by fax (No (32-2) 296 43 01 or 296 72 44) or by post, under reference number COMP/M. 4095 — Deutsche Telekom/Corpus/Morgan Stanley/Sireo, to the following address:





  European Commission |
| --- | --- |
| Competition DG |
| Merger Registry |
| J-70 |
| B-1049 Brussels |

4.

The Commission invites interested third parties to submit their possible observations on the proposed operation to the Commission.

Observations must reach the Commission not later than 10 days following the date of this publication. Observations can be sent to the Commission by fax (No (32-2) 296 43 01 or 296 72 44) or by post, under reference number COMP/M. 4095 — Deutsche Telekom/Corpus/Morgan Stanley/Sireo, to the following address:

European Commission

Competition DG

Merger Registry

J-70

B-1049 Brussels

---

(1)  OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1.

(2)  OJ C 56, 5.3.2005, p. 32.

---

| 25.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 47/24 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

25.2.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 47/24

---

Prior notification of a concentration

(Case COMP/M.4157 — Wendel Investissement/Groupe Materis)

(2006/C 47/09)

(Text with EEA relevance)

| 1. | On 17 February 2006, the Commission received a notification of a proposed concentration pursuant to Article 4 of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1) by which the undertaking Wendel Investissement SA (Wendel, France) acquires within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Council Regulation control of the whole of Materis Holding Luxemburg SA including its subsidiaries (Materis, Luxemburg) by way of purchase of shares. |
| --- | --- |

1.

On 17 February 2006, the Commission received a notification of a proposed concentration pursuant to Article 4 of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1) by which the undertaking Wendel Investissement SA (Wendel, France) acquires within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Council Regulation control of the whole of Materis Holding Luxemburg SA including its subsidiaries (Materis, Luxemburg) by way of purchase of shares.

| 2. | The business activities of the undertakings concerned are:






  — | Wendel: Holding company in particular active in the control and certification of products and processes through its subsidiary Bureau Veritas; |
| --- | --- | --- |

2.

The business activities of the undertakings concerned are:

—

Wendel: Holding company in particular active in the control and certification of products and processes through its subsidiary Bureau Veritas;

| — | Materis: products for the construction industry. |
| --- | --- |

—

Materis: products for the construction industry.

| 3. | On preliminary examination, the Commission finds that the notified transaction could fall within the scope of Regulation (EC) No 139/2004. However, the final decision on this point is reserved. |
| --- | --- |

3.

On preliminary examination, the Commission finds that the notified transaction could fall within the scope of Regulation (EC) No 139/2004. However, the final decision on this point is reserved.

| 4. | The Commission invites interested third parties to submit their possible observations on the proposed operation to the Commission.
  Observations must reach the Commission not later than 10 days following the date of this publication. Observations can be sent to the Commission by fax (No (32-2) 296 43 01 or 296 72 44) or by post, under reference number COMP/M.4157 — Wendel Investissement/Groupe Materis, to the following address:





  European Commission |
| --- | --- |
| Competition DG |
| Merger Registry |
| J-70 |
| B-1049 Brussels |

4.

The Commission invites interested third parties to submit their possible observations on the proposed operation to the Commission.

Observations must reach the Commission not later than 10 days following the date of this publication. Observations can be sent to the Commission by fax (No (32-2) 296 43 01 or 296 72 44) or by post, under reference number COMP/M.4157 — Wendel Investissement/Groupe Materis, to the following address:

European Commission

Competition DG

Merger Registry

J-70

B-1049 Brussels

---

(1)  OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1.

---

| 25.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 47/25 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

25.2.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 47/25

---

Prior notification of a concentration

(Case COMP/M.4104 — Aker Yards/Chantiers de l'Atlantique)

(2006/C 47/10)

(Text with EEA relevance)

| 1. | On 20 February 2006, the Commission received a notification of a proposed concentration pursuant to Article 4 of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1) by which the undertaking Aker Yards France Holding AS, wholly-owned by Aker Yards ASA (‘Aker Yards’), which is controlled by the Norwegian group Aker ASA (‘Aker ASA’), acquires within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Council Regulation control of most of the assets and activities of the French undertaking Chantiers de l'Atlantique, a wholly owned subsidiary of Alstom Holdings, in turn a wholly owned subsidiary of Alstom SA (France), by way of purchase of shares in a newly created company. |
| --- | --- |

1.

On 20 February 2006, the Commission received a notification of a proposed concentration pursuant to Article 4 of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1) by which the undertaking Aker Yards France Holding AS, wholly-owned by Aker Yards ASA (‘Aker Yards’), which is controlled by the Norwegian group Aker ASA (‘Aker ASA’), acquires within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Council Regulation control of most of the assets and activities of the French undertaking Chantiers de l'Atlantique, a wholly owned subsidiary of Alstom Holdings, in turn a wholly owned subsidiary of Alstom SA (France), by way of purchase of shares in a newly created company.

| 2. | The business activities of the undertakings concerned are:






  — | for Aker Yards: international shipbuilding group focusing on sophisticated vessels, including cruise ships and ferries; |
| --- | --- | --- |

2.

The business activities of the undertakings concerned are:

—

for Aker Yards: international shipbuilding group focusing on sophisticated vessels, including cruise ships and ferries;

| — | for Aker ASA: industrial group with wide-spread activities around the world, active in the shipbuilding industry through Aker Yards and Aker American Shipping; |
| --- | --- |

—

for Aker ASA: industrial group with wide-spread activities around the world, active in the shipbuilding industry through Aker Yards and Aker American Shipping;

| — | for Chantiers de l'Atlantique: French shipyard focusing on high value-added shipbuilding, including construction of cruise ships, LNG tankers and naval ships. Through its subsidiary AMR it is also involved in the manufacturing of mobile homes and casing sheets for industrial machines. |
| --- | --- |

—

for Chantiers de l'Atlantique: French shipyard focusing on high value-added shipbuilding, including construction of cruise ships, LNG tankers and naval ships. Through its subsidiary AMR it is also involved in the manufacturing of mobile homes and casing sheets for industrial machines.

| 3. | On preliminary examination, the Commission finds that the notified transaction could fall within the scope of Regulation (EC) No 139/2004. However, the final decision on this point is reserved. |
| --- | --- |

3.

On preliminary examination, the Commission finds that the notified transaction could fall within the scope of Regulation (EC) No 139/2004. However, the final decision on this point is reserved.

| 4. | The Commission invites interested third parties to submit their possible observations on the proposed operation to the Commission.
  Observations must reach the Commission not later than 10 days following the date of this publication. Observations can be sent to the Commission by fax (No (32-2) 296 43 01 or 296 72 44) or by post, under reference number COMP/M.4104 — Aker Yards/Chantiers de l'Atlantique, to the following address:





  European Commission |
| --- | --- |
| Competition DG |
| Merger Registry |
| J-70 |
| B-1049 Brussels |

4.

The Commission invites interested third parties to submit their possible observations on the proposed operation to the Commission.

Observations must reach the Commission not later than 10 days following the date of this publication. Observations can be sent to the Commission by fax (No (32-2) 296 43 01 or 296 72 44) or by post, under reference number COMP/M.4104 — Aker Yards/Chantiers de l'Atlantique, to the following address:

European Commission

Competition DG

Merger Registry

J-70

B-1049 Brussels

---

(1)  OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1.

---

| 25.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 47/26 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

25.2.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 47/26

---

Prior notification of a concentration

(Case COMP/M. 4131 — Bain Capital/Texas Instruments)

Candidate case for simplified procedure

(2006/C 47/11)

(Text with EEA relevance)

| 1. | On 20 February 2006, the Commission received a notification of a proposed concentration pursuant to Article 4 of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1), by which Bain Capital Investors, LLC (‘Bain’, USA) acquires, within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Council Regulation, sole control over the sensors and controls businesses of Texas Instruments Inc. (USA) by way of purchase of shares and assets. |
| --- | --- |

1.

On 20 February 2006, the Commission received a notification of a proposed concentration pursuant to Article 4 of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1), by which Bain Capital Investors, LLC (‘Bain’, USA) acquires, within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Council Regulation, sole control over the sensors and controls businesses of Texas Instruments Inc. (USA) by way of purchase of shares and assets.

| 2. | The business activities of the undertakings concerned are:






  — | for Bain: private equity investment; |
| --- | --- | --- |

2.

The business activities of the undertakings concerned are:

—

for Bain: private equity investment;

| — | for sensors and controls businesses of Texas Instruments Inc.: sensors and controls. |
| --- | --- |

—

for sensors and controls businesses of Texas Instruments Inc.: sensors and controls.

| 3. | On preliminary examination, the Commission finds that the notified concentration could fall within the scope of Regulation (EC) No 139/2004. However, the final decision on this point is reserved. Pursuant to the Commission Notice on a simplified procedure for treatment of certain concentrations under Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (2) it should be noted that this case is a candidate for treatment under the procedure set out in the Notice. |
| --- | --- |

3.

On preliminary examination, the Commission finds that the notified concentration could fall within the scope of Regulation (EC) No 139/2004. However, the final decision on this point is reserved. Pursuant to the Commission Notice on a simplified procedure for treatment of certain concentrations under Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (2) it should be noted that this case is a candidate for treatment under the procedure set out in the Notice.

| 4. | The Commission invites interested third parties to submit their possible observations on the proposed operation to the Commission.
  Observations must reach the Commission not later than 10 days following the date of this publication. Observations can be sent to the Commission by fax (No (32-2) 296 43 01 or 296 72 44) or by post, under reference number COMP/M.4131 — Bain/Texas Instruments to the following address:





  European Commission |
| --- | --- |
| Competition DG |
| Merger Registry |
| J-70 |
| B-1049 Brussels |

4.

The Commission invites interested third parties to submit their possible observations on the proposed operation to the Commission.

Observations must reach the Commission not later than 10 days following the date of this publication. Observations can be sent to the Commission by fax (No (32-2) 296 43 01 or 296 72 44) or by post, under reference number COMP/M.4131 — Bain/Texas Instruments to the following address:

European Commission

Competition DG

Merger Registry

J-70

B-1049 Brussels

---

(1)  OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1.

(2)  OJ C 56, 5.3.2005, p. 32.

---

European Data Protection Supervisor

| 25.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 47/27 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

25.2.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 47/27

---

Opinion of the European Data Protection Supervisor on the Proposal for a Council Framework Decision on the protection of personal data processed in the framework of police and judicial co-operation in criminal matters (COM (2005) 475 final)

(2006/C 47/12)

THE EUROPEAN DATA PROTECTION SUPERVISOR,

Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community, and in particular its Article 286,

Having regard to the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, and in particular its Article 8,

Having regard to Directive 95/46/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 October 1995 on the protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data,

Having regard to the request for an opinion in accordance with Article 28 (2) of Regulation (EC) No 45/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 December 2000 on the protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data by the Community institutions and bodies and on the free movement of such data.

HAS ADOPTED THE FOLLOWING OPINION:

I.   PRELIMINARY REMARKS

Consultation of the EDPS

| 1. | The Proposal for a Council Framework Decision on the protection of personal data processed in the framework of police and judicial co-operation in criminal matters has been sent by the Commission to the EDPS by letter of 4 October 2005.The EDPS understands this letter as a request to advise Community institutions and bodies, as foreseen in Article 28 (2) of Regulation nr. 45/2001/EC. According to the EDPS, the present opinion should be mentioned in the preamble of the Framework Decision. |
| --- | --- |

1.

The Proposal for a Council Framework Decision on the protection of personal data processed in the framework of police and judicial co-operation in criminal matters has been sent by the Commission to the EDPS by letter of 4 October 2005.The EDPS understands this letter as a request to advise Community institutions and bodies, as foreseen in Article 28 (2) of Regulation nr. 45/2001/EC. According to the EDPS, the present opinion should be mentioned in the preamble of the Framework Decision.

The importance of the present proposal

| 2. | The EDPS underlines the importance of the present proposal, from the perspective of the fundamental rights and freedoms of natural persons to have their personal data protected. The adoption of this proposal would mean a considerable step forwards for the protection of personal data, in an important area which in particular requires a consistent and effective mechanism for the protection of personal data on the level of the European Union. |
| --- | --- |

2.

The EDPS underlines the importance of the present proposal, from the perspective of the fundamental rights and freedoms of natural persons to have their personal data protected. The adoption of this proposal would mean a considerable step forwards for the protection of personal data, in an important area which in particular requires a consistent and effective mechanism for the protection of personal data on the level of the European Union.

| 3. | In this context, the EDPS emphasises that police and judicial cooperation between the member states, as an element of the progressive establishment of an area of freedom, security and justice, is of growing significance. The Hague Programme has introduced the principle of availability in order to improve the cross-border exchange of law-enforcement information. According to the Hague Programme (1), the mere fact that information crosses borders should no longer be relevant. The introduction of the principle of availability reflects a more general trend to facilitate the exchange of law enforcement information (see for instance the so called Prüm Convention (2) as has been signed by seven Member States and the Swedish proposal for a Framework Decision on simplifying the exchange of information and intelligence between law enforcement agencies (3)). The very recent approval by the European Parliament of a Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on the retention of communication data (4) can be viewed in the same perspective. These developments require the adoption of a legal instrument to guarantee an effective protection of personal data within all the Member States of the European Union, based on common standards. |
| --- | --- |

3.

In this context, the EDPS emphasises that police and judicial cooperation between the member states, as an element of the progressive establishment of an area of freedom, security and justice, is of growing significance. The Hague Programme has introduced the principle of availability in order to improve the cross-border exchange of law-enforcement information. According to the Hague Programme (1), the mere fact that information crosses borders should no longer be relevant. The introduction of the principle of availability reflects a more general trend to facilitate the exchange of law enforcement information (see for instance the so called Prüm Convention (2) as has been signed by seven Member States and the Swedish proposal for a Framework Decision on simplifying the exchange of information and intelligence between law enforcement agencies (3)). The very recent approval by the European Parliament of a Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on the retention of communication data (4) can be viewed in the same perspective. These developments require the adoption of a legal instrument to guarantee an effective protection of personal data within all the Member States of the European Union, based on common standards.

| 4. | The EDPS points to the fact that the present general framework for data protection in this area is insufficient. In the first place, directive 95/46/EC does not apply to the processing of personal data in the course of activities which fall outside the scope of Community law, such as those provided for by Title VI of the Treaty on the European Union (Article 3 (2) of the directive). Although in most Member States the scope of the implementing legislation is wider than the directive itself requires and does not exclude data processing for the purpose of law enforcement, significant differences in national law exist. In the second place, the Council of Europe Convention No 108 (5) by which all the Member States are bound does not provide for the necessary preciseness in the protection as has been recognised already at the time of the adoption of Directive 95/46/EC. In the third place, neither of these two legal instruments takes into account the specific characteristics of the exchange of data by police and judicial authorities (6). |
| --- | --- |

4.

The EDPS points to the fact that the present general framework for data protection in this area is insufficient. In the first place, directive 95/46/EC does not apply to the processing of personal data in the course of activities which fall outside the scope of Community law, such as those provided for by Title VI of the Treaty on the European Union (Article 3 (2) of the directive). Although in most Member States the scope of the implementing legislation is wider than the directive itself requires and does not exclude data processing for the purpose of law enforcement, significant differences in national law exist. In the second place, the Council of Europe Convention No 108 (5) by which all the Member States are bound does not provide for the necessary preciseness in the protection as has been recognised already at the time of the adoption of Directive 95/46/EC. In the third place, neither of these two legal instruments takes into account the specific characteristics of the exchange of data by police and judicial authorities (6).

A contribution to the success of the cooperation itself

| 5. | An effective protection of personal data is not only important for the data subjects but also contributes to the success of the police and judicial cooperation itself. In many aspects, both public interests go hand in hand. |
| --- | --- |

5.

| 6. | One has to bear in mind that the personal data concerned are quite often of a sensitive nature and have been obtained by police and judicial authorities as a result of an investigation on persons. The willingness to exchange these data with authorities of other member states will increase if an authority is assured of the level of protection in that other member state. The EDPS mentions as relevant elements of data protection the confidentiality and security of data and the limitations on access and further use. |
| --- | --- |

6.

One has to bear in mind that the personal data concerned are quite often of a sensitive nature and have been obtained by police and judicial authorities as a result of an investigation on persons. The willingness to exchange these data with authorities of other member states will increase if an authority is assured of the level of protection in that other member state. The EDPS mentions as relevant elements of data protection the confidentiality and security of data and the limitations on access and further use.

| 7. | Moreover, a high level of data protection can assure the accuracy and reliability of personal data. Upon exchange of data between police and/or judicial authorities the accuracy and reliability of these data become even more important, especially since, further to consecutive exchanges and retransmission of data between law enforcement authorities, data are eventually processed far from their source and out of the context in which they were originally collected and used. Normally, the receiving authorities do not have any knowledge about additional circumstances and have to rely fully on the data themselves. |
| --- | --- |

7.

Moreover, a high level of data protection can assure the accuracy and reliability of personal data. Upon exchange of data between police and/or judicial authorities the accuracy and reliability of these data become even more important, especially since, further to consecutive exchanges and retransmission of data between law enforcement authorities, data are eventually processed far from their source and out of the context in which they were originally collected and used. Normally, the receiving authorities do not have any knowledge about additional circumstances and have to rely fully on the data themselves.

| 8. | The harmonisation of the national rules on personal data in the area of police and justice — including adequate safeguards for the protection of these data — can thus stimulate the mutual trust as well as the effectiveness of the exchange itself. |
| --- | --- |

8.

The harmonisation of the national rules on personal data in the area of police and justice — including adequate safeguards for the protection of these data — can thus stimulate the mutual trust as well as the effectiveness of the exchange itself.

Respect of the principles of data protection, combined with an additional set of rules

| 9. | The need for and the importance of the present proposal have been emphasised on several occasions. During the Spring Conference in Krakow in April 2005, the European Data Protection Authorities adopted a declaration and a position paper in which they called for the adoption of a new legal framework on data protection applicable in third pillar-activities. This new framework should not only respect the principles of data protection as laid down in Directive 95/46/EC — it is important to guarantee the consistency of the data protection within the European Union — but also provide for an additional set of rules taking into account the specific nature of the area of law enforcement
   (7). The EDPS welcomes the fact that the present proposal takes into account these starting points: it respects the principles of data protection as laid down in Directive 95/46/EC and it provides for an additional set of rules. |
| --- | --- |

9.

The need for and the importance of the present proposal have been emphasised on several occasions. During the Spring Conference in Krakow in April 2005, the European Data Protection Authorities adopted a declaration and a position paper in which they called for the adoption of a new legal framework on data protection applicable in third pillar-activities. This new framework should not only respect the principles of data protection as laid down in Directive 95/46/EC — it is important to guarantee the consistency of the data protection within the European Union — but also provide for an additional set of rules taking into account the specific nature of the area of law enforcement
   (7). The EDPS welcomes the fact that the present proposal takes into account these starting points: it respects the principles of data protection as laid down in Directive 95/46/EC and it provides for an additional set of rules.

| 10. | This opinion will analyse to what extent the result is acceptable from the perspective of data protection, with due respect to the specific context of data protection in the area of law enforcement. On the one hand the data concerned are quite often of a very sensitive nature (see point 6 of this opinion) and, on the other hand, there is a strong pressure to access these data, in view of an effective performance by law enforcement, which can include the protection of the life and the physical security of persons. According to the EDPS, data protection rules should respond to justified needs of law enforcement, but should also protect the data subject against unjustified processing and access. To be in accordance with the principle of proportionality, the result of the considerations of the European legislator needs to reflect the respect of the two potentially opposite public interests. In this context, the EDPS mentions once more that quite often both interests go hand in hand. |
| --- | --- |

10.

This opinion will analyse to what extent the result is acceptable from the perspective of data protection, with due respect to the specific context of data protection in the area of law enforcement. On the one hand the data concerned are quite often of a very sensitive nature (see point 6 of this opinion) and, on the other hand, there is a strong pressure to access these data, in view of an effective performance by law enforcement, which can include the protection of the life and the physical security of persons. According to the EDPS, data protection rules should respond to justified needs of law enforcement, but should also protect the data subject against unjustified processing and access. To be in accordance with the principle of proportionality, the result of the considerations of the European legislator needs to reflect the respect of the two potentially opposite public interests. In this context, the EDPS mentions once more that quite often both interests go hand in hand.

The context of Title VI of the Treaty on the European Union

| 11. | Finally, it is to be mentioned that the present proposal forms part of Title VI of the Treaty on the European Union, the so called third pillar. The intervention of the European legislator is bound by clear limitations: limitations of the legislative powers of the Union to the subjects mentioned in Articles 30 and 31, limitations as to the legislative procedure which does not include the full participation of the European Parliament, and limitations as to the judicial control since the competences of the European Court of Justice under Article 35 TEU are incomplete. These limitations require an even more careful analysis of the text of the proposal. |
| --- | --- |

11.

Finally, it is to be mentioned that the present proposal forms part of Title VI of the Treaty on the European Union, the so called third pillar. The intervention of the European legislator is bound by clear limitations: limitations of the legislative powers of the Union to the subjects mentioned in Articles 30 and 31, limitations as to the legislative procedure which does not include the full participation of the European Parliament, and limitations as to the judicial control since the competences of the European Court of Justice under Article 35 TEU are incomplete. These limitations require an even more careful analysis of the text of the proposal.

II.   THE CONTEXT: EXCHANGE OF INFORMATION UNDER THE AVAILABILITY PRINCIPLE, DATA RETENTION AND THE SPECIFIC FRAMEWORKS OF SIS II AND VIS

II.1   The principle of availability

| 12. | The proposal is closely linked to the proposal for a Council Framework Decision on the exchange of information under the principle of availability (COM(2005) 490 final). The latter proposal aims to implement the principle of availability and by doing so ensure that information available to competent authorities of a Member State for the fight against crime shall be provided to equivalent authorities of other Member States. It should lead to the abolishment of the internal borders for the exchange of this information by subjecting the exchange of information to uniform conditions across the Union. |
| --- | --- |

12.

The proposal is closely linked to the proposal for a Council Framework Decision on the exchange of information under the principle of availability (COM(2005) 490 final). The latter proposal aims to implement the principle of availability and by doing so ensure that information available to competent authorities of a Member State for the fight against crime shall be provided to equivalent authorities of other Member States. It should lead to the abolishment of the internal borders for the exchange of this information by subjecting the exchange of information to uniform conditions across the Union.

| 13. | The close link between the two proposals results from the fact that law enforcement information involves to a large extent personal data. Legislation on the exchange of law enforcement information can not be adopted without safeguarding an adequate protection of personal data. When an intervention on the level of the European Union results in the abolishment of the internal borders for the exchange of this information, the protection of personal data can no longer be solely dealt with by national law. It has become a task of the European institutions to guarantee the protection of personal data across the territory of the Union without internal borders. This task has been explicitly stated in Article 30 (1)(b) TEU and is a consequence of the obligation for the Union to respect fundamental rights (Article 6 TEU). Moreover:






  — | Article 1 (2) of the present proposal explicitly states that Member States may no longer restrict or prohibit the cross-border flow of information for reasons of protection of personal data. |
| --- | --- | --- |

13.

The close link between the two proposals results from the fact that law enforcement information involves to a large extent personal data. Legislation on the exchange of law enforcement information can not be adopted without safeguarding an adequate protection of personal data. When an intervention on the level of the European Union results in the abolishment of the internal borders for the exchange of this information, the protection of personal data can no longer be solely dealt with by national law. It has become a task of the European institutions to guarantee the protection of personal data across the territory of the Union without internal borders. This task has been explicitly stated in Article 30 (1)(b) TEU and is a consequence of the obligation for the Union to respect fundamental rights (Article 6 TEU). Moreover:

—

Article 1 (2) of the present proposal explicitly states that Member States may no longer restrict or prohibit the cross-border flow of information for reasons of protection of personal data.

| — | The proposal for a Council Framework Decision on the exchange of information under the principle of availability contains several references to the present proposal. |
| --- | --- |

—

The proposal for a Council Framework Decision on the exchange of information under the principle of availability contains several references to the present proposal.

| 14. | The EDPS points out that a Council Framework Decision on the exchange of information under the principle of availability should only be adopted under the condition that a Framework Decision on the protection of personal data is adopted as well. However, the present proposal for a Council Framework Decision on data protection has its own merits and is needed even in the absence of a legal instrument on availability. This has been emphasised in section I of this opinion. |
| --- | --- |

14.

The EDPS points out that a Council Framework Decision on the exchange of information under the principle of availability should only be adopted under the condition that a Framework Decision on the protection of personal data is adopted as well. However, the present proposal for a Council Framework Decision on data protection has its own merits and is needed even in the absence of a legal instrument on availability. This has been emphasised in section I of this opinion.

| 15. | This being the case, the EDPS will analyse the two proposals in two separate opinions. This also has a practical reason. There is no guarantee that the proposals will be dealt with jointly and with the same promptness by Council and European Parliament. |
| --- | --- |

15.

This being the case, the EDPS will analyse the two proposals in two separate opinions. This also has a practical reason. There is no guarantee that the proposals will be dealt with jointly and with the same promptness by Council and European Parliament.

II.2   Data retention

| 16. | On 26 September 2005, the EDPS presented his opinion on the proposal for a Directive on the retention of communication data (8). In this opinion he pointed out some important shortcomings of the proposal and suggested adding to the directive specific provisions on access to the traffic and location data by the competent authorities and on the further use of the data, as well as adding further additional safeguards for data protection. The text of the Directive as adopted by the European Parliament and the Council contains a limited — but by no means sufficient — provision on data protection and data security and contains an even more insufficient provision on access, referring the issuing of measures on the access to the retained data to national law, subject to relevant provisions of European Union law or public international law. |
| --- | --- |

16.

On 26 September 2005, the EDPS presented his opinion on the proposal for a Directive on the retention of communication data (8). In this opinion he pointed out some important shortcomings of the proposal and suggested adding to the directive specific provisions on access to the traffic and location data by the competent authorities and on the further use of the data, as well as adding further additional safeguards for data protection. The text of the Directive as adopted by the European Parliament and the Council contains a limited — but by no means sufficient — provision on data protection and data security and contains an even more insufficient provision on access, referring the issuing of measures on the access to the retained data to national law, subject to relevant provisions of European Union law or public international law.

| 17. | The approval of the Directive on the retention of communication data makes it even more urgent to establish a legal framework for data protection in the third pillar. By adopting the directive, the Community legislator obliges the providers of telecommunications and internet services to retain data for law enforcement purposes, without the necessary and appropriate safeguards for the protection of the data subject. A gap in the protection remains, since the directive does not (sufficiently) address the access to the data, nor their further use once the data have been accessed by competent authorities in the field of law enforcement. |
| --- | --- |

17.

The approval of the Directive on the retention of communication data makes it even more urgent to establish a legal framework for data protection in the third pillar. By adopting the directive, the Community legislator obliges the providers of telecommunications and internet services to retain data for law enforcement purposes, without the necessary and appropriate safeguards for the protection of the data subject. A gap in the protection remains, since the directive does not (sufficiently) address the access to the data, nor their further use once the data have been accessed by competent authorities in the field of law enforcement.

| 18. | The present proposal fills an important part of this gap since it applies to the further use of the data once they have been accessed by law enforcement authorities. The EDPS regrets however that the present proposal does not deal with access to these data either. Contrary to what is foreseen for the SIS II and the VIS-systems (see II.3 of this opinion), this subject-matter is left to the discretion of the national legislator. |
| --- | --- |

18.

The present proposal fills an important part of this gap since it applies to the further use of the data once they have been accessed by law enforcement authorities. The EDPS regrets however that the present proposal does not deal with access to these data either. Contrary to what is foreseen for the SIS II and the VIS-systems (see II.3 of this opinion), this subject-matter is left to the discretion of the national legislator.

II.3   Processing in the framework of SIS II and VIS

| 19. | The European Union is currently using or developing several large scale information systems (Eurodac, SIS II, VIS) and striving towards synergies between these systems. There is also a growing tendency to granting a wider access for law enforcement purposes to these systems. These far reaching developments must take into account, according to the Hague Programme, the ‘need to strike the right balance between law enforcement purposes and safeguarding fundamental rights of the individuals’. |
| --- | --- |

19.

The European Union is currently using or developing several large scale information systems (Eurodac, SIS II, VIS) and striving towards synergies between these systems. There is also a growing tendency to granting a wider access for law enforcement purposes to these systems. These far reaching developments must take into account, according to the Hague Programme, the ‘need to strike the right balance between law enforcement purposes and safeguarding fundamental rights of the individuals’.

| 20. | In his opinion of 19 October 2005 on the proposals for a Second Generation Schengen Information System (SIS-II) (9), the EDPS has underlined some elements regarding simultaneous application of general rules (lex generalis and more specific rules (lex specialis) on data protection. The present proposal can be seen as a lex generalis, replacing Convention 108 in the framework of the third pillar (10)
  . |
| --- | --- |

20.

In his opinion of 19 October 2005 on the proposals for a Second Generation Schengen Information System (SIS-II) (9), the EDPS has underlined some elements regarding simultaneous application of general rules (lex generalis and more specific rules (lex specialis) on data protection. The present proposal can be seen as a lex generalis, replacing Convention 108 in the framework of the third pillar (10)
  .

| 21. | The EDPS underlines in this context that the proposal also provides for a general framework for data protection for specific instruments like the third pillar part of the SIS II and the access by law enforcement to the Visa Information System. (11) |
| --- | --- |

21.

The EDPS underlines in this context that the proposal also provides for a general framework for data protection for specific instruments like the third pillar part of the SIS II and the access by law enforcement to the Visa Information System. (11)

III.   THE HEART OF THE PROPOSAL

III.1   Common standards applicable to all processing

The starting point

| 22. | According to its Article 1 (1), the proposal intends to determine common standards to ensure the protection of personal data in the course of activities of police and judicial co-operation in criminal matters. Article 1 (1) should be read in conjunction with Article 3 (1) that states that the proposal shall apply to the processing of personal data (...) by a competent authority for the purpose of the prevention, investigation, detection and prosecution of criminal offences. |
| --- | --- |

22.

According to its Article 1 (1), the proposal intends to determine common standards to ensure the protection of personal data in the course of activities of police and judicial co-operation in criminal matters. Article 1 (1) should be read in conjunction with Article 3 (1) that states that the proposal shall apply to the processing of personal data (...) by a competent authority for the purpose of the prevention, investigation, detection and prosecution of criminal offences.

| 23. | It follows from these provisions that the proposed Framework Decision has two main characteristics: it sets common standards and it applies to all processing for the purpose of enforcement of criminal law, even if the data concerned have not been transmitted or made available by competent authorities of other Member States. |
| --- | --- |

23.

It follows from these provisions that the proposed Framework Decision has two main characteristics: it sets common standards and it applies to all processing for the purpose of enforcement of criminal law, even if the data concerned have not been transmitted or made available by competent authorities of other Member States.

| 24. | The EDPS underlines the importance of these two main characteristics. It should be the ambition of the present proposal to establish a framework for data protection that fully complements the already existing legal framework in the first pillar. Only if this condition is met, does the European Union fully comply with its obligation under Article 6 (2) TEU to respect the fundamental rights as guaranteed by the ECHR. |
| --- | --- |

24.

The EDPS underlines the importance of these two main characteristics. It should be the ambition of the present proposal to establish a framework for data protection that fully complements the already existing legal framework in the first pillar. Only if this condition is met, does the European Union fully comply with its obligation under Article 6 (2) TEU to respect the fundamental rights as guaranteed by the ECHR.

Common standards

| 25. | As to the first characteristic: the present proposal aims to ensure that the existing principles of data protection will be applied within the area of the third pillar. Moreover, it provides for common standards specifying these principles, in view of their application in this area. The EDPS emphasises the importance of these aspects of the proposal. They reflect the specific and sensitive nature of the processing of personal data in this area. The EDPS values in particular the introduction of the principle of the distinction between personal data of categories of persons, as a specific principle of data protection for the area of police and judicial cooperation in criminal matters, in addition to existing principles of data protection (Article 4 (4)). According to the EDPS the principle itself and its legal consequences for the data subject should even be more specified (see points 88-92 of this opinion). |
| --- | --- |

25.

As to the first characteristic: the present proposal aims to ensure that the existing principles of data protection will be applied within the area of the third pillar. Moreover, it provides for common standards specifying these principles, in view of their application in this area. The EDPS emphasises the importance of these aspects of the proposal. They reflect the specific and sensitive nature of the processing of personal data in this area. The EDPS values in particular the introduction of the principle of the distinction between personal data of categories of persons, as a specific principle of data protection for the area of police and judicial cooperation in criminal matters, in addition to existing principles of data protection (Article 4 (4)). According to the EDPS the principle itself and its legal consequences for the data subject should even be more specified (see points 88-92 of this opinion).

| 26. | The rules have to apply to different situations, so they can not be too detailed. On the other hand, they need to give the citizen the necessary legal certainty, as well as an adequate protection of his personal data. According to the EDPS the balance between these two potentially conflicting legislative requirements has generally been met by the proposal. The provisions leave flexibility where needed, but are in most areas precise enough to protect the citizen. |
| --- | --- |

26.

The rules have to apply to different situations, so they can not be too detailed. On the other hand, they need to give the citizen the necessary legal certainty, as well as an adequate protection of his personal data. According to the EDPS the balance between these two potentially conflicting legislative requirements has generally been met by the proposal. The provisions leave flexibility where needed, but are in most areas precise enough to protect the citizen.

| 27. | On some points, however, the proposal is too flexible and does not provide for the needed safeguards. For example, in Article 7 (1) the proposal provides in a general exemption to the safeguards, under the sole condition ‘otherwise provided by law’. Leaving such a broad discretionary power to keep the data for longer than necessary for the envisaged purpose would not only be incompatible with the fundamental right to data protection, but would also harm the basic need for harmonisation of the protection of personal data processed in the framework of police and judicial co-operation in criminal matters. |
| --- | --- |

27.

On some points, however, the proposal is too flexible and does not provide for the needed safeguards. For example, in Article 7 (1) the proposal provides in a general exemption to the safeguards, under the sole condition ‘otherwise provided by law’. Leaving such a broad discretionary power to keep the data for longer than necessary for the envisaged purpose would not only be incompatible with the fundamental right to data protection, but would also harm the basic need for harmonisation of the protection of personal data processed in the framework of police and judicial co-operation in criminal matters.

| 28. | Exemptions, where needed, should be limited to — national or European — legal provisions, issued to protect specific public interests. Article 7 (1) should mention these public interests. |
| --- | --- |

28.

Exemptions, where needed, should be limited to — national or European — legal provisions, issued to protect specific public interests. Article 7 (1) should mention these public interests.

| 29. | This leads to another point. Whenever any other specific legal instrument under Title VI of the EU Treaty provides for more precise conditions or restrictions for the processing of or access to data, this more specific legislation should apply as a lex specialis
  . Article 17 of this proposal provides for derogations to Articles 12, 13, 14 and 15 when specific legislation under Title VI lays down specific conditions for the transmission of data. This is an illustration of the general nature of the proposal (as explained here above), but does not cover all the hypotheses. According to the EDPS, Article 17 should:






  — | be drafted in a more general way: if there is a more specific legislation governing whatever aspect of data processing (not only transmission of data), the specific legislation applies. |
| --- | --- | --- |

29.

This leads to another point. Whenever any other specific legal instrument under Title VI of the EU Treaty provides for more precise conditions or restrictions for the processing of or access to data, this more specific legislation should apply as a lex specialis
  . Article 17 of this proposal provides for derogations to Articles 12, 13, 14 and 15 when specific legislation under Title VI lays down specific conditions for the transmission of data. This is an illustration of the general nature of the proposal (as explained here above), but does not cover all the hypotheses. According to the EDPS, Article 17 should:

—

be drafted in a more general way: if there is a more specific legislation governing whatever aspect of data processing (not only transmission of data), the specific legislation applies.

| — | contain the safeguard that derogations may not lower the level of protection. |
| --- | --- |

—

contain the safeguard that derogations may not lower the level of protection.

Applicable to all processing

| 30. | As to the second characteristic: the ideal result would be that all collection and processing of personal data within the framework of the third pillar should be covered. |
| --- | --- |

30.

As to the second characteristic: the ideal result would be that all collection and processing of personal data within the framework of the third pillar should be covered.

| 31. | It is essential for the achievement of its objective that the Framework Decision covers all police and judicial data, even if they are not transmitted or made available by competent authorities of other Member States. |
| --- | --- |

31.

| 32. | This is all the more important since any limitation to data that are transmitted or made available to competent authorities in other Member States would make the field of application of the framework decision particularly unsure and uncertain, which would be contrary to its essential objective (12). Harm would be done to the legal certainty of individuals. Under normal circumstances, one never knows in advance — at the time of collection or processing of personal data — if those data will be relevant for an exchange with competent authorities in other Member States. The EDPS refers in this context to the principle of availability and the abolishment of the internal borders for the exchange of law enforcement data. |
| --- | --- |

32.

This is all the more important since any limitation to data that are transmitted or made available to competent authorities in other Member States would make the field of application of the framework decision particularly unsure and uncertain, which would be contrary to its essential objective (12). Harm would be done to the legal certainty of individuals. Under normal circumstances, one never knows in advance — at the time of collection or processing of personal data — if those data will be relevant for an exchange with competent authorities in other Member States. The EDPS refers in this context to the principle of availability and the abolishment of the internal borders for the exchange of law enforcement data.

| 33. | Finally, the EDPS notes that the proposal does not apply to:







  — | processing in the framework of the second pillar of the EU-Treaty (common foreign and security policy). |
| --- | --- | --- |

33.

Finally, the EDPS notes that the proposal does not apply to:

—

processing in the framework of the second pillar of the EU-Treaty (common foreign and security policy).

| — | processing of data by intelligence services and the access by these services to these data when processed by competent authorities or other parties (this follows from Article 33 TEU). |
| --- | --- |

—

processing of data by intelligence services and the access by these services to these data when processed by competent authorities or other parties (this follows from Article 33 TEU).

In these areas, national law is to provide adequate protection of data subjects. This gap in the protection on EU level has to be taken into account in the appraisal of the proposal: (13)
  since not all processing in the field of law enforcement can be covered, the legislator has to ensure an even more effective protection in the areas that are indeed covered by the proposal.

III.2   The legal basis

| 34. | The recitals of the proposal for a Council Framework Decision on the exchange of information under the principle of availability mention a specific legal basis, namely Article 30 (1)(b). To the contrary, the present proposal does not specify which provisions under Article 30 or Article 31 form the legal basis. |
| --- | --- |

34.

The recitals of the proposal for a Council Framework Decision on the exchange of information under the principle of availability mention a specific legal basis, namely Article 30 (1)(b). To the contrary, the present proposal does not specify which provisions under Article 30 or Article 31 form the legal basis.

| 35. | Although it is not the task of the EDPS as an advisor on legislation of the European Union to choose the legal basis of a proposal, it is useful to suppose that also the present proposal could be based on Article 30 (1)(b). In addition, it could be based on Article 31 (1)(c) TEU and should also apply, in its entirety, to domestic situations, provided that this is necessary to improve the police and judicial cooperation between the Member States. In this context, the EDPS emphasises once more that all personal data that have been collected, stored, processed, or analysed for the purpose of law enforcement can, in particular under the principle of availability, be subject to an exchange with competent authorities of another Member State. |
| --- | --- |

35.

Although it is not the task of the EDPS as an advisor on legislation of the European Union to choose the legal basis of a proposal, it is useful to suppose that also the present proposal could be based on Article 30 (1)(b). In addition, it could be based on Article 31 (1)(c) TEU and should also apply, in its entirety, to domestic situations, provided that this is necessary to improve the police and judicial cooperation between the Member States. In this context, the EDPS emphasises once more that all personal data that have been collected, stored, processed, or analysed for the purpose of law enforcement can, in particular under the principle of availability, be subject to an exchange with competent authorities of another Member State.

| 36. | The EDPS shares the view that the Articles 30 (1)(b) and 31 (1)(c) TEU provide for a legal basis for rules on data protection not limited to the protection of personal data that are actually exchanged between the competent authorities of the Member States but also applicable to domestic situations. In particular:






  — | Article 30 (1)(b) that can serve as a legal basis for rules on the collection, storage, processing, analysis and exchange of relevant information is not limited to information that has been made available or transmitted to other Member States. The only limitation imposed by Article 30 (1)(b) lies in the relevance of the information to police cooperation. |
| --- | --- | --- |

36.

The EDPS shares the view that the Articles 30 (1)(b) and 31 (1)(c) TEU provide for a legal basis for rules on data protection not limited to the protection of personal data that are actually exchanged between the competent authorities of the Member States but also applicable to domestic situations. In particular:

—

Article 30 (1)(b) that can serve as a legal basis for rules on the collection, storage, processing, analysis and exchange of relevant information is not limited to information that has been made available or transmitted to other Member States. The only limitation imposed by Article 30 (1)(b) lies in the relevance of the information to police cooperation.

| — | As far as judicial cooperation is concerned, Article 31 (1)(c) is even more explicit, since common action shall include ‘ensuring compatibility in rules applicable in the Member States, as may be necessary to improve such cooperation’. |
| --- | --- |

—

As far as judicial cooperation is concerned, Article 31 (1)(c) is even more explicit, since common action shall include ‘ensuring compatibility in rules applicable in the Member States, as may be necessary to improve such cooperation’.

| — | It follows from the Pupino Case (14), that the Court of Justice applies principles of Community law on third pillar matters. This case law reflects the development from pure cooperation between authorities of Member States within the third pillar towards an area of freedom, security and justice, comparable to the internal market as established within the EC-Treaty. |
| --- | --- |

—

It follows from the Pupino Case (14), that the Court of Justice applies principles of Community law on third pillar matters. This case law reflects the development from pure cooperation between authorities of Member States within the third pillar towards an area of freedom, security and justice, comparable to the internal market as established within the EC-Treaty.

| — | According to the EDPS, the principle of effectiveness entails the Treaty not being interpreted in a way that hampers the institutions of the European Union to carry out their tasks effectively. This includes their task to protect fundamental rights. |
| --- | --- |

—

According to the EDPS, the principle of effectiveness entails the Treaty not being interpreted in a way that hampers the institutions of the European Union to carry out their tasks effectively. This includes their task to protect fundamental rights.

| — | As has been said before, a limitation to cross-border situations would not respect the consequences of the principle of availability and would harm the legal certainty of individuals. |
| --- | --- |

—

As has been said before, a limitation to cross-border situations would not respect the consequences of the principle of availability and would harm the legal certainty of individuals.

| 37. | The EDPS draws separate attention to the exchange of data with third countries. The Member States use personal data collected and processed in third countries transferred to them for the purpose of law enforcement and they transfer personal data that they themselves have collected and/or processed to competent authorities in third countries and to international bodies. |
| --- | --- |

37.

The EDPS draws separate attention to the exchange of data with third countries. The Member States use personal data collected and processed in third countries transferred to them for the purpose of law enforcement and they transfer personal data that they themselves have collected and/or processed to competent authorities in third countries and to international bodies.

| 38. | Articles 30 and 31 TEU do not require a different treatment of personal data that have been gathered by authorities of third countries to those data that have originally been collected by competent authorities within the Member States. Data originating from third countries, once received, have to comply with the same standards as data collected within a Member State. However, the quality of the data can not always easily be secured (this will be discussed in the next chapter of this opinion). |
| --- | --- |

38.

Articles 30 and 31 TEU do not require a different treatment of personal data that have been gathered by authorities of third countries to those data that have originally been collected by competent authorities within the Member States. Data originating from third countries, once received, have to comply with the same standards as data collected within a Member State. However, the quality of the data can not always easily be secured (this will be discussed in the next chapter of this opinion).

| 39. | Transmission of personal data by competent authorities of Member States to third countries falls strictly speaking outside of the scope of Title VI of the EU-Treaty. If, however, data could be transmitted to third countries without the protection of the data subject being assured, this would seriously damage the protection envisaged by the present proposal within the territory of the European Union for the reasons mentioned in Section III.4 of this opinion. In short:






  — | The data subjects' rights as assured by the present proposal are directly affected if the transmission to third countries was not subjected to rules of data protection. |
| --- | --- | --- |

39.

Transmission of personal data by competent authorities of Member States to third countries falls strictly speaking outside of the scope of Title VI of the EU-Treaty. If, however, data could be transmitted to third countries without the protection of the data subject being assured, this would seriously damage the protection envisaged by the present proposal within the territory of the European Union for the reasons mentioned in Section III.4 of this opinion. In short:

—

The data subjects' rights as assured by the present proposal are directly affected if the transmission to third countries was not subjected to rules of data protection.

| — | The risk would occur that competent authorities of Member States could circumvent the strict norms on data protection. |
| --- | --- |

—

The risk would occur that competent authorities of Member States could circumvent the strict norms on data protection.

| 40. | Summarized, the applicability of common rules on data protection on personal data exchanged by competent authorities of Member States with authorities of third countries and international organisations is necessary for the effectiveness of the common rules on the protection of personal data between the competent authorities of the Member States and is thus necessary to improve the cooperation between the Member States. The Articles 30 and 31 TEU provide for the necessary legal basis. |
| --- | --- |

40.

Summarized, the applicability of common rules on data protection on personal data exchanged by competent authorities of Member States with authorities of third countries and international organisations is necessary for the effectiveness of the common rules on the protection of personal data between the competent authorities of the Member States and is thus necessary to improve the cooperation between the Member States. The Articles 30 and 31 TEU provide for the necessary legal basis.

III.3   Specific remarks on the scope of the proposal

Personal data processed by judicial authorities

| 41. | Personal data are processed and exchanged by police forces and also by judicial authorities. The proposal, based on the Articles 30 and 31 of the EU-Treaty applies to the cooperation between police forces and to the cooperation between judicial authorities. At this point, the proposal has a wider scope than the proposal for a Council Framework Decision on the exchange of information, that is limited to police cooperation and only applies to information prior to the commencement of a prosecution. |
| --- | --- |

41.

Personal data are processed and exchanged by police forces and also by judicial authorities. The proposal, based on the Articles 30 and 31 of the EU-Treaty applies to the cooperation between police forces and to the cooperation between judicial authorities. At this point, the proposal has a wider scope than the proposal for a Council Framework Decision on the exchange of information, that is limited to police cooperation and only applies to information prior to the commencement of a prosecution.

| 42. | The EDPS welcomes the fact that the proposal extends to personal data processed by judicial authorities. There is a good reason for dealing with police data and data of judicial authorities, processed for the purposes of law enforcement, in the same proposal. In the first place, the organisation in the Member States of the chain of criminal investigation and prosecution diverges. The involvement of judicial authorities starts at different stages in the different Member States. In the second place, all personal data in this chain can end up in a judicial file. There is no logic in having different applicable regimes for data protection in the foregoing stages. |
| --- | --- |

42.

The EDPS welcomes the fact that the proposal extends to personal data processed by judicial authorities. There is a good reason for dealing with police data and data of judicial authorities, processed for the purposes of law enforcement, in the same proposal. In the first place, the organisation in the Member States of the chain of criminal investigation and prosecution diverges. The involvement of judicial authorities starts at different stages in the different Member States. In the second place, all personal data in this chain can end up in a judicial file. There is no logic in having different applicable regimes for data protection in the foregoing stages.

| 43. | As to the supervision on the data processing however, a different approach is needed. Article 30 of the proposal enumerates the tasks of the supervisory authorities. Article 30 (9) states that the powers of the supervisory authority shall not affect the independence of the judiciary. The EDPS recommends clarifying in the proposal that the supervisory authorities do not monitor the data processing by judicial authorities as far as they are acting in their judicial capacities. (15) |
| --- | --- |

43.

As to the supervision on the data processing however, a different approach is needed. Article 30 of the proposal enumerates the tasks of the supervisory authorities. Article 30 (9) states that the powers of the supervisory authority shall not affect the independence of the judiciary. The EDPS recommends clarifying in the proposal that the supervisory authorities do not monitor the data processing by judicial authorities as far as they are acting in their judicial capacities. (15)

Processing by Europol and Eurojust (and the Customs Information System)

| 44. | According to Article 3 (2) of the proposal, the Framework Decision shall not apply to the processing of personal data by Europol, Eurojust and the Customs Information System (16). |
| --- | --- |

44.

According to Article 3 (2) of the proposal, the Framework Decision shall not apply to the processing of personal data by Europol, Eurojust and the Customs Information System (16).

| 45. | Strictly speaking this provision is superfluous, in any case in so far as it relates to Europol and Eurojust. A framework decision under Article 34 (b) TEU can only be adopted for the purpose of approximation of the laws and regulations of the Member States and can not be directed to Europol and Eurojust. |
| --- | --- |

45.

Strictly speaking this provision is superfluous, in any case in so far as it relates to Europol and Eurojust. A framework decision under Article 34 (b) TEU can only be adopted for the purpose of approximation of the laws and regulations of the Member States and can not be directed to Europol and Eurojust.

| 46. | As to substance, the text of Article 3 (2) leads to the following observations:






  — | the present proposal provides for a general framework, that should in principle be applicable to all situations falling within the third pillar. Consistency of the legal framework for data protection is in itself an element that enhances the effectiveness of data protection. |
| --- | --- | --- |

46.

As to substance, the text of Article 3 (2) leads to the following observations:

—

the present proposal provides for a general framework, that should in principle be applicable to all situations falling within the third pillar. Consistency of the legal framework for data protection is in itself an element that enhances the effectiveness of data protection.

| — | at this moment, Europol and Eurojust have well defined data protection systems at their disposal, including a system of supervision. For this reason, there is no immediate urgency to adapt the applicable rules to the text of this proposal. |
| --- | --- |

—

at this moment, Europol and Eurojust have well defined data protection systems at their disposal, including a system of supervision. For this reason, there is no immediate urgency to adapt the applicable rules to the text of this proposal.

| — | in the longer term, however, the rules on data protection applicable to Europol and Eurojust should be made fully consistent with the present framework decision. |
| --- | --- |

—

in the longer term, however, the rules on data protection applicable to Europol and Eurojust should be made fully consistent with the present framework decision.

| — | this is even more important since the present proposal for a framework decision -apart from its Chapter III — applies to the collection and processing of personal data that are transmitted to Europol and Eurojust by the Member States. |
| --- | --- |

—

this is even more important since the present proposal for a framework decision -apart from its Chapter III — applies to the collection and processing of personal data that are transmitted to Europol and Eurojust by the Member States.

III.4   Structure of the proposal

| 47. | The EDPS has analysed the proposal and concludes that generally speaking the proposal provides for a layered structure of protection. The common standards as laid down in Chapter II of the proposal (and on specific subject-matters, in Chapters IV-VII) contain two layers of protection:






  — | Transposition to the third pillar of general principles of data protection as laid down in Directive 95/46/EC, and other legal instruments of the European Communities, as well as Council of Europe Convention 108. |
| --- | --- | --- |

47.

The EDPS has analysed the proposal and concludes that generally speaking the proposal provides for a layered structure of protection. The common standards as laid down in Chapter II of the proposal (and on specific subject-matters, in Chapters IV-VII) contain two layers of protection:

—

Transposition to the third pillar of general principles of data protection as laid down in Directive 95/46/EC, and other legal instruments of the European Communities, as well as Council of Europe Convention 108.

| — | Additional rules on data protection, applicable to all processing of personal data within the framework of the third pillar. Examples of these additional rules can be found in Article 4 (3) and (4) of the proposal. |
| --- | --- |

—

Additional rules on data protection, applicable to all processing of personal data within the framework of the third pillar. Examples of these additional rules can be found in Article 4 (3) and (4) of the proposal.

| 48. | Chapter III adds a third layer of protection for specific forms of processing. The titles of the two sections of chapter III and the wording of several provisions of the proposal seem to imply that this chapter only applies to data transmitted or made available by competent authorities in other Member States. As a result, some important provisions for the protection of personal data would not apply to personal data if they are not exchanged between Member States. Having said that, the text is ambiguous since the provisions themselves seem to go beyond activities directly related to exchanged data. In any case, this limitation of the scope is not explicitly explained nor justified in the explanatory memorandum, nor in the impact assessment. |
| --- | --- |

48.

Chapter III adds a third layer of protection for specific forms of processing. The titles of the two sections of chapter III and the wording of several provisions of the proposal seem to imply that this chapter only applies to data transmitted or made available by competent authorities in other Member States. As a result, some important provisions for the protection of personal data would not apply to personal data if they are not exchanged between Member States. Having said that, the text is ambiguous since the provisions themselves seem to go beyond activities directly related to exchanged data. In any case, this limitation of the scope is not explicitly explained nor justified in the explanatory memorandum, nor in the impact assessment.

| 49. | The EDPS underlines the added value of such a layered structure which in itself can provide for an optimal protection of the data subject, taking into account the specific needs of law enforcement. It reflects the need for an adequate data protection as expressed during the Spring Conference in Krakow in April 2005 and is in principle in conformity with Article 8 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union and the European Convention for the protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, in particular its Article 8. |
| --- | --- |

49.

The EDPS underlines the added value of such a layered structure which in itself can provide for an optimal protection of the data subject, taking into account the specific needs of law enforcement. It reflects the need for an adequate data protection as expressed during the Spring Conference in Krakow in April 2005 and is in principle in conformity with Article 8 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union and the European Convention for the protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, in particular its Article 8.

| 50. | However, an analysis of the text of the proposal leads to the following observations. |
| --- | --- |

50.

However, an analysis of the text of the proposal leads to the following observations.

| 51. | In the first place: it should be ensured that the additional rules for data protection in Chapter II (the second layer, mentioned in point 47) do not derogate from the general principles of data protection. According to the EDPS, the additional rules in Chapter II should offer additional protection to the data subjects related to the specific context of the third pillar (police and judicial information). In other words: these additional rules may not lead to a lower level of protection. |
| --- | --- |

51.

In the first place: it should be ensured that the additional rules for data protection in Chapter II (the second layer, mentioned in point 47) do not derogate from the general principles of data protection. According to the EDPS, the additional rules in Chapter II should offer additional protection to the data subjects related to the specific context of the third pillar (police and judicial information). In other words: these additional rules may not lead to a lower level of protection.

| 52. | Moreover, Chapter III on specific forms of processing (in which the third layer of protection is incorporated) should not derogate from Chapter II. According to the EDPS, the provisions of Chapter III should offer additional protection to the data subjects in situations where competent authorities of more than one Member State are involved, but those provisions may not lead to a lower level of protection. |
| --- | --- |

52.

Moreover, Chapter III on specific forms of processing (in which the third layer of protection is incorporated) should not derogate from Chapter II. According to the EDPS, the provisions of Chapter III should offer additional protection to the data subjects in situations where competent authorities of more than one Member State are involved, but those provisions may not lead to a lower level of protection.

| 53. | In the second place: rules that are of a general nature should not be put in Chapter III. The EDPS recommends transferring those provisions to Chapter II. Only provisions that strictly relate to the protection of personal data in case of exchanging of data between Member States must be included in Chapter III. This is even more important since Chapter III contains important provisions in view of a high level of protection of the data subject in the context of law enforcement (see IV.1 of this opinion). |
| --- | --- |

53.

In the second place: rules that are of a general nature should not be put in Chapter III. The EDPS recommends transferring those provisions to Chapter II. Only provisions that strictly relate to the protection of personal data in case of exchanging of data between Member States must be included in Chapter III. This is even more important since Chapter III contains important provisions in view of a high level of protection of the data subject in the context of law enforcement (see IV.1 of this opinion).

IV.   ANALYSIS OF THE ELEMENTS OF THE PROPOSAL

IV.1   Starting points of the analysis

| 54. | The EDPS, in analysing the different substantive elements of the proposal, will take into account its particular structure and content. The EDPS will not comment on each article of the proposal. |
| --- | --- |

54.

The EDPS, in analysing the different substantive elements of the proposal, will take into account its particular structure and content. The EDPS will not comment on each article of the proposal.

| 55. | First of all, most of the provisions of the proposal mirror other EU legal instruments on the protection of personal data. Those provisions are consistent with the EU data protection legal framework and satisfactory to provide adequate data protection safeguards in the third pillar. |
| --- | --- |

55.

First of all, most of the provisions of the proposal mirror other EU legal instruments on the protection of personal data. Those provisions are consistent with the EU data protection legal framework and satisfactory to provide adequate data protection safeguards in the third pillar.

| 56. | However, the EDPS notes that some provisions currently contained in Chapter III of the proposal — on specific points of processing and generally speaking (see point 48 of this opinion) applicable only to data exchanged with other Member states — integrate general and essential principles of EU data protection law. Therefore, those provisions in Chapter III should be moved to Chapter II and made applicable to all processing of data by law enforcement authorities. This is the case of the provisions concerning the verification of data quality (Article 9 (1) and (6)) and regulating further processing of personal data (Article 11(1)). |
| --- | --- |

56.

However, the EDPS notes that some provisions currently contained in Chapter III of the proposal — on specific points of processing and generally speaking (see point 48 of this opinion) applicable only to data exchanged with other Member states — integrate general and essential principles of EU data protection law. Therefore, those provisions in Chapter III should be moved to Chapter II and made applicable to all processing of data by law enforcement authorities. This is the case of the provisions concerning the verification of data quality (Article 9 (1) and (6)) and regulating further processing of personal data (Article 11(1)).

| 57. | Some of the other articles of Chapter III of the proposal do not distinguish between additional conditions that are specifically related to the exchanges of data with other Member States — such as the consent of the competent authority of the transmitting Member State — and safeguards that are instead relevant and necessary also with regard to data processed within a Member state. In these cases, the EDPS recommends that the latter safeguards should be made generally applicable, even to those personal data that have not been transmitted or made available by another Member State. This recommendation concerns:






  — | transmission of data to private parties and to non law enforcement authorities (letters a) and b) of Articles 13 and 14), and |
| --- | --- | --- |

57.

Some of the other articles of Chapter III of the proposal do not distinguish between additional conditions that are specifically related to the exchanges of data with other Member States — such as the consent of the competent authority of the transmitting Member State — and safeguards that are instead relevant and necessary also with regard to data processed within a Member state. In these cases, the EDPS recommends that the latter safeguards should be made generally applicable, even to those personal data that have not been transmitted or made available by another Member State. This recommendation concerns:

—

transmission of data to private parties and to non law enforcement authorities (letters a) and b) of Articles 13 and 14), and

| — | transfers to third countries or international bodies (Article 15, except letter c)). |
| --- | --- |

—

transfers to third countries or international bodies (Article 15, except letter c)).

| 58. | This part of the opinion will also draw the attention of the legislator to some additional safeguards that are not laid down by the current proposal. According to the EDPS, these additional safeguards should be provided in relation to automated individual decisions, personal data received from third countries, access to private parties' databases, processing of biometric data and DNA profiles. |
| --- | --- |

58.

This part of the opinion will also draw the attention of the legislator to some additional safeguards that are not laid down by the current proposal. According to the EDPS, these additional safeguards should be provided in relation to automated individual decisions, personal data received from third countries, access to private parties' databases, processing of biometric data and DNA profiles.

| 59. | In addition, the following analysis will provide recommendations to improve the current text, with a view to ensuring effectiveness of the provisions, coherence of the text and consistency with current data protection legal framework. |
| --- | --- |

59.

In addition, the following analysis will provide recommendations to improve the current text, with a view to ensuring effectiveness of the provisions, coherence of the text and consistency with current data protection legal framework.

IV.2   Purpose limitation and further processing

| 60. | Article 4 (1)(b) states that personal data must be collected for specified, explicit and legitimate purposes and not further processed in a way incompatible with those purposes. Normally, data will be collected in relation to a specified crime (or, under certain circumstances, to investigate a criminal group or network, etc). They can be used for that original purpose and might then be processed for another purpose provided it is compatible with the original one (data collected on an individual convicted of drug trafficking could be used in the framework of an investigation concerning a network of drug dealers, for instance). This approach reflects well the principle of purpose limitation, as it is also enshrined in Article 8 of the Charter of Human Rights for the European Union and is thus consistent with current data protection legislation. |
| --- | --- |

60.

Article 4 (1)(b) states that personal data must be collected for specified, explicit and legitimate purposes and not further processed in a way incompatible with those purposes. Normally, data will be collected in relation to a specified crime (or, under certain circumstances, to investigate a criminal group or network, etc). They can be used for that original purpose and might then be processed for another purpose provided it is compatible with the original one (data collected on an individual convicted of drug trafficking could be used in the framework of an investigation concerning a network of drug dealers, for instance). This approach reflects well the principle of purpose limitation, as it is also enshrined in Article 8 of the Charter of Human Rights for the European Union and is thus consistent with current data protection legislation.

Further processing for purposes within the scope of the Framework Decision

| 61. | The EDPS notes that the proposal does not address completely satisfactorily one situation which may occur in police work: the need to further use the data for a purpose considered incompatible with the one they were collected for. Data, once collected by the police, might be needed to solve a completely different crime. To illustrate this, one can mention that data are collected for the prosecution of traffic offences and then used to locate and prosecute a car thief. The second purpose, however legitimate, cannot be considered as fully compatible with the purpose of the collection of data. If law enforcement authorities were not allowed to use the data for this second purpose, they could be inclined to collect data for broad or ill-defined purposes, in which case the principle of purpose limitation would loose its value as to collection. Moreover, the application of other principles, like proportionality, accuracy and reliability would be hampered (see Article 4 (1)(c) and (d)). |
| --- | --- |

61.

The EDPS notes that the proposal does not address completely satisfactorily one situation which may occur in police work: the need to further use the data for a purpose considered incompatible with the one they were collected for. Data, once collected by the police, might be needed to solve a completely different crime. To illustrate this, one can mention that data are collected for the prosecution of traffic offences and then used to locate and prosecute a car thief. The second purpose, however legitimate, cannot be considered as fully compatible with the purpose of the collection of data. If law enforcement authorities were not allowed to use the data for this second purpose, they could be inclined to collect data for broad or ill-defined purposes, in which case the principle of purpose limitation would loose its value as to collection. Moreover, the application of other principles, like proportionality, accuracy and reliability would be hampered (see Article 4 (1)(c) and (d)).

| 62. | Under EU data protection law personal data must be collected for specified and explicit purposes and not further processed in a way incompatible with those purposes. However, the EDPS is of the opinion that some flexibility must be allowed as to further use. The limitation on collection is more likely to be well complied with if the authorities in charge of internal security know that they can rely, with appropriate safeguards, on a derogation to the limitation as to further use. |
| --- | --- |

62.

Under EU data protection law personal data must be collected for specified and explicit purposes and not further processed in a way incompatible with those purposes. However, the EDPS is of the opinion that some flexibility must be allowed as to further use. The limitation on collection is more likely to be well complied with if the authorities in charge of internal security know that they can rely, with appropriate safeguards, on a derogation to the limitation as to further use.

| 63. | It should be clarified that this need for further processing is recognised in Article 11 of the proposal, but in a fairly insufficient way. Article 11 only applies to data received from or made available by the competent authority of another Member State and does not provide for sufficient safeguards. |
| --- | --- |

63.

It should be clarified that this need for further processing is recognised in Article 11 of the proposal, but in a fairly insufficient way. Article 11 only applies to data received from or made available by the competent authority of another Member State and does not provide for sufficient safeguards.

| 64. | The EDPS recommends applying Article 11 (1) to all data, regardless of whether or not they have been received from another Member State. Moreover, stricter safeguards should be added to what is stipulated in 11 (1)(b): the further use of data for a purpose considered incompatible with the initial one should be allowed only when it is strictly necessary, in a specific case, for the prevention, investigation, detection and prosecution of criminal offences or for the protection of the interests or fundamental rights of a person. Practically, the EDPS suggests laying down this provision in a new Article 4 bis (in any case, in Chapter II of the proposal). |
| --- | --- |

64.

The EDPS recommends applying Article 11 (1) to all data, regardless of whether or not they have been received from another Member State. Moreover, stricter safeguards should be added to what is stipulated in 11 (1)(b): the further use of data for a purpose considered incompatible with the initial one should be allowed only when it is strictly necessary, in a specific case, for the prevention, investigation, detection and prosecution of criminal offences or for the protection of the interests or fundamental rights of a person. Practically, the EDPS suggests laying down this provision in a new Article 4 bis (in any case, in Chapter II of the proposal).

| 65. | Article 11 (2) and 11 (3) remain applicable as they are; they provide for supplementary safeguards for data received from other Member States. The EDPS points out that Article 11 (3) will apply to data exchange through the SIS II: the EDPS already mentioned in his opinion on SIS II that it should be ensured that indeed SIS data cannot be used for any other purpose than the purposes of the system itself. |
| --- | --- |

65.

Article 11 (2) and 11 (3) remain applicable as they are; they provide for supplementary safeguards for data received from other Member States. The EDPS points out that Article 11 (3) will apply to data exchange through the SIS II: the EDPS already mentioned in his opinion on SIS II that it should be ensured that indeed SIS data cannot be used for any other purpose than the purposes of the system itself.

Further processing for purposes outside the scope of police and judicial cooperation

| 66. | In some cases, the data must be processed for the safeguard of other important interests. They could in these cases even be processed by other authorities than the competent authorities under this Framework Decision. These competences of the Member States could involve a privacy intrusive processing (for example, the screening of a person who is not a suspect) and should thus be accompanied by very strict conditions, like the obligation for Member States to adopt specific legislation if they want to make use of this derogation. Within the framework of the first pillar, this issue has been addressed in Article 13 of Directive 95/46/EC, stipulating that in specific cases restrictions to some provisions of the Directive are allowed. Member States applying such restrictions must do so in compliance with Article 8 ECHR. |
| --- | --- |

66.

In some cases, the data must be processed for the safeguard of other important interests. They could in these cases even be processed by other authorities than the competent authorities under this Framework Decision. These competences of the Member States could involve a privacy intrusive processing (for example, the screening of a person who is not a suspect) and should thus be accompanied by very strict conditions, like the obligation for Member States to adopt specific legislation if they want to make use of this derogation. Within the framework of the first pillar, this issue has been addressed in Article 13 of Directive 95/46/EC, stipulating that in specific cases restrictions to some provisions of the Directive are allowed. Member States applying such restrictions must do so in compliance with Article 8 ECHR.

| 67. | Along the same line of reasoning, this Framework Decision should stipulate in Chapter II that Member States should be allowed to adopt legislative measures to allow further processing when such a measure is necessary to safeguard:







  — | the prevention of threats to public security, defence or national security; |
| --- | --- | --- |

67.

Along the same line of reasoning, this Framework Decision should stipulate in Chapter II that Member States should be allowed to adopt legislative measures to allow further processing when such a measure is necessary to safeguard:

—

the prevention of threats to public security, defence or national security;

| — | the protection of an important economic or financial interest of a Member State or of the European Union. |
| --- | --- |

—

the protection of an important economic or financial interest of a Member State or of the European Union.

| — | the protection of the data subject. |
| --- | --- |

—

the protection of the data subject.

IV.3   Criteria for making data processing legitimate

| 68. | Article 5 of the proposal states that data may be processed by the competent authorities only if provided for by a law setting out that the processing is necessary for the fulfilment of the legitimate task of the authority concerned and for the purpose of the prevention, investigation, detection or prosecution of criminal offences. The EDPS supports the strict requirements of Article 5. |
| --- | --- |

68.

Article 5 of the proposal states that data may be processed by the competent authorities only if provided for by a law setting out that the processing is necessary for the fulfilment of the legitimate task of the authority concerned and for the purpose of the prevention, investigation, detection or prosecution of criminal offences. The EDPS supports the strict requirements of Article 5.

| 69. | However, the text of Article 5 underestimates the need for making data processing legitimate on other legal grounds, in specific circumstances. It is an important provision that should, for instance, not make it impossible for the police to fulfil its legal obligations under national law to disclose information to immigration services or taxation authorities. Therefore, the EDPS suggests that Article 5 take into account other justified legal grounds for processing personal data, such as the necessity for compliance with a legal obligation to which the controller is subject, the unambiguous consent of the data subject, provided that the processing is carried out in the interest of the data subject, or the necessity to protect the vital interest of the data subject. |
| --- | --- |

69.

However, the text of Article 5 underestimates the need for making data processing legitimate on other legal grounds, in specific circumstances. It is an important provision that should, for instance, not make it impossible for the police to fulfil its legal obligations under national law to disclose information to immigration services or taxation authorities. Therefore, the EDPS suggests that Article 5 take into account other justified legal grounds for processing personal data, such as the necessity for compliance with a legal obligation to which the controller is subject, the unambiguous consent of the data subject, provided that the processing is carried out in the interest of the data subject, or the necessity to protect the vital interest of the data subject.

| 70. | The EDPS remarks that respect of the criteria for making data processing legitimate has a special importance with regard to police and judicial cooperation, if one considers that an unlawful collection of personal data by police forces could entail that personal data not being able to be used as evidence in judicial proceedings. |
| --- | --- |

70.

The EDPS remarks that respect of the criteria for making data processing legitimate has a special importance with regard to police and judicial cooperation, if one considers that an unlawful collection of personal data by police forces could entail that personal data not being able to be used as evidence in judicial proceedings.

IV.4   Necessity and proportionality

| 71. | The Articles 4 and 5 of the proposal also aim to ensure — in a generally satisfactory manner — that limitations to the protection of personal data are necessary and proportional, as required under the law of the European Union and by the case law of the European Court of Human Rights on Article 8 ECHR:






  — | Article 4(1)(c) lays down the general rule that data shall be adequate, relevant and not excessive in relation to the purposes for which they are collected and/or further processed. |
| --- | --- | --- |

71.

The Articles 4 and 5 of the proposal also aim to ensure — in a generally satisfactory manner — that limitations to the protection of personal data are necessary and proportional, as required under the law of the European Union and by the case law of the European Court of Human Rights on Article 8 ECHR:

—

Article 4(1)(c) lays down the general rule that data shall be adequate, relevant and not excessive in relation to the purposes for which they are collected and/or further processed.

| — | Article 5 specifies that the processing should be necessary for the fulfilment of the legitimate task of the authority concerned and for the purpose of the prevention, investigation, detection or prosecution of criminal offences. |
| --- | --- |

—

Article 5 specifies that the processing should be necessary for the fulfilment of the legitimate task of the authority concerned and for the purpose of the prevention, investigation, detection or prosecution of criminal offences.

| — | Article 4(4) states that processing of personal data is only necessary if certain specific conditions are fulfilled. |
| --- | --- |

—

Article 4(4) states that processing of personal data is only necessary if certain specific conditions are fulfilled.

| 72. | The EDPS notes that the proposed formulation of Article 4(4) does not meet the criteria laid down by the case law of the European Court of Human Rights relating to Article 8 ECHR, according to which a restriction to private life might be imposed only when it is necessary in a democratic society. According to the proposal, data processing would be considered as necessary not only when it would make it possible for law enforcement and judicial authorities to carry out their tasks, but also when there are reasonable grounds to believe that the personal data concerned would merely facilitate or accelerate the prevention, investigation, detection or prosecution of a criminal offence. |
| --- | --- |

72.

The EDPS notes that the proposed formulation of Article 4(4) does not meet the criteria laid down by the case law of the European Court of Human Rights relating to Article 8 ECHR, according to which a restriction to private life might be imposed only when it is necessary in a democratic society. According to the proposal, data processing would be considered as necessary not only when it would make it possible for law enforcement and judicial authorities to carry out their tasks, but also when there are reasonable grounds to believe that the personal data concerned would merely facilitate or accelerate the prevention, investigation, detection or prosecution of a criminal offence.

| 73. | These criteria do not comply with the requirements of Article 8 ECHR, since almost any processing of personal data could be considered as facilitating the activities of police or of judicial authorities, even though the concerned data are not actually needed to carry out those activities. |
| --- | --- |

73.

These criteria do not comply with the requirements of Article 8 ECHR, since almost any processing of personal data could be considered as facilitating the activities of police or of judicial authorities, even though the concerned data are not actually needed to carry out those activities.

| 74. | The current text of Article 4 (4) would pave the way to unacceptably broad collection of personal data, merely based on the belief that personal data may make it easier to prevent, investigate, detect or prosecute a criminal offence. On the contrary, processing of personal data shall be considered necessary only where the competent authorities can clearly demonstrate a need for it, and provided that less privacy-intrusive measures are not available. |
| --- | --- |

74.

The current text of Article 4 (4) would pave the way to unacceptably broad collection of personal data, merely based on the belief that personal data may make it easier to prevent, investigate, detect or prosecute a criminal offence. On the contrary, processing of personal data shall be considered necessary only where the competent authorities can clearly demonstrate a need for it, and provided that less privacy-intrusive measures are not available.

| 75. | Therefore, the EDPS recommends redrafting the first indent of Article 4 (4) so as to ensure the respect of the case law on Article 8 ECHR. Furthermore, for systematic reasons, the EDPS suggests that Article 4 (4) is moved to the end of Article 5. |
| --- | --- |

75.

Therefore, the EDPS recommends redrafting the first indent of Article 4 (4) so as to ensure the respect of the case law on Article 8 ECHR. Furthermore, for systematic reasons, the EDPS suggests that Article 4 (4) is moved to the end of Article 5.

IV.5   Processing of special categories of data

| 76. | Article 6 lays down an in-principle prohibition on the processing of sensitive data, i.e. personal data revealing racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, religious or philosophical beliefs, trade-union membership, or concerning health or sex life. This prohibition will not apply when the processing is provided for by a law and is absolutely necessary for the fulfilment of the legitimate task of the authority concerned for the purpose of the prevention, investigation, detection or prosecution of criminal offences. Sensitive data can also be processed if the data subject has given his explicit consent. In both cases, suitable specific safeguards shall be put in place. |
| --- | --- |

76.

Article 6 lays down an in-principle prohibition on the processing of sensitive data, i.e. personal data revealing racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, religious or philosophical beliefs, trade-union membership, or concerning health or sex life. This prohibition will not apply when the processing is provided for by a law and is absolutely necessary for the fulfilment of the legitimate task of the authority concerned for the purpose of the prevention, investigation, detection or prosecution of criminal offences. Sensitive data can also be processed if the data subject has given his explicit consent. In both cases, suitable specific safeguards shall be put in place.

| 77. | The text of Article 6 leads to two remarks. In the first place, Article 6 relies too widely on the consent of the data subject. The EDPS stresses that processing of sensitive data on the basis of the explicit consent of the data subject should be allowed only insofar as the processing is carried out in the interest of the data subject, and the refusal to consent would not lead to negative consequences being imposed on the data subject. The EDPS recommends modifying Article 6 accordingly, also to make the article consistent with current EU data protection law |
| --- | --- |

77.

The text of Article 6 leads to two remarks. In the first place, Article 6 relies too widely on the consent of the data subject. The EDPS stresses that processing of sensitive data on the basis of the explicit consent of the data subject should be allowed only insofar as the processing is carried out in the interest of the data subject, and the refusal to consent would not lead to negative consequences being imposed on the data subject. The EDPS recommends modifying Article 6 accordingly, also to make the article consistent with current EU data protection law

| 78. | In the second place, the EDPS considers that also other legal grounds for processing, such as the necessity to protect the vital interests of the data subject or of another person (where the data subject is physically or legally incapable of giving his consent) could be taken into account. |
| --- | --- |

78.

In the second place, the EDPS considers that also other legal grounds for processing, such as the necessity to protect the vital interests of the data subject or of another person (where the data subject is physically or legally incapable of giving his consent) could be taken into account.

| 79. | In the field of police and judicial cooperation, the processing of other categories of possibly sensitive personal data, such as biometric data and DNA profiles, are of a growing importance. Those data are not explicitly covered by Article 6 of the proposal. The EDPS invites the EU legislator to pay special attention when implementing the general data protection principles laid down in this proposal into further legislation entailing the processing of these special categories of data. An example is the current proposal for a Council framework decision on the exchange of information under the availability principle (see above, points 12-15), which explicitly allows for processing and exchanges of biometric data and DNA profiles (see Annex II of the proposal), but does not address the sensitiveness and specificities of these data from a data protection point of view. |
| --- | --- |

79.

In the field of police and judicial cooperation, the processing of other categories of possibly sensitive personal data, such as biometric data and DNA profiles, are of a growing importance. Those data are not explicitly covered by Article 6 of the proposal. The EDPS invites the EU legislator to pay special attention when implementing the general data protection principles laid down in this proposal into further legislation entailing the processing of these special categories of data. An example is the current proposal for a Council framework decision on the exchange of information under the availability principle (see above, points 12-15), which explicitly allows for processing and exchanges of biometric data and DNA profiles (see Annex II of the proposal), but does not address the sensitiveness and specificities of these data from a data protection point of view.

| 80. | The EDPS recommends that specific safeguards should be provided, in particular with a view to guarantee that:







  — | biometric data and DNA profiles are used only on the basis of well established and interoperable technical standards, |
| --- | --- | --- |

80.

The EDPS recommends that specific safeguards should be provided, in particular with a view to guarantee that:

—

biometric data and DNA profiles are used only on the basis of well established and interoperable technical standards,

| — | their level of accuracy is carefully taken into account and might be challenged by the data subject through readily available means, and |
| --- | --- |

—

their level of accuracy is carefully taken into account and might be challenged by the data subject through readily available means, and

| — | that the respect of the dignity of persons is fully ensured. |
| --- | --- |

—

that the respect of the dignity of persons is fully ensured.

It is for the legislator to decide whether to provide for these additional safeguards in this framework decision or in the specific legal instruments regulating the collection and exchange of these special categories of data.

IV.6   Accuracy and reliability

| 81. | Article 4 (1) (d) lays down the general rules relating to data quality. According to this Article, the controller must ensure that data are accurate and, where necessary, up to date. He shall take every reasonable step to ensure that data which are inaccurate or incomplete, having regard to the purposes for which they were collected or for which they are further processed, are erased or rectified. This is in line with the general principles of EU data protection legislation. |
| --- | --- |

81.

Article 4 (1) (d) lays down the general rules relating to data quality. According to this Article, the controller must ensure that data are accurate and, where necessary, up to date. He shall take every reasonable step to ensure that data which are inaccurate or incomplete, having regard to the purposes for which they were collected or for which they are further processed, are erased or rectified. This is in line with the general principles of EU data protection legislation.

| 82. | Article 4 (1) (d), third sentence, establishes that Member States may provide for the processing of data to varying degrees of accuracy and reliability. The EDPS understands this provision as a derogation to the general principle of accuracy and recommends clarifying the derogatory nature of the provision, by adding ‘however’ or ‘nevertheless’ to the beginning of Article 4 (1)(d), third sentence. In these cases, where the accuracy of data cannot be fully ensured, the controller will have an obligation to distinguish data in accordance with their degree of accuracy and reliability, referring in particular to the fundamental distinction between data based on facts from data based on opinions and personal assessments. The EDPS underlines the importance of this obligation both for data subjects and law enforcement authorities, especially where data are processed far from their source (see point 7 of this opinion). |
| --- | --- |

82.

Article 4 (1) (d), third sentence, establishes that Member States may provide for the processing of data to varying degrees of accuracy and reliability. The EDPS understands this provision as a derogation to the general principle of accuracy and recommends clarifying the derogatory nature of the provision, by adding ‘however’ or ‘nevertheless’ to the beginning of Article 4 (1)(d), third sentence. In these cases, where the accuracy of data cannot be fully ensured, the controller will have an obligation to distinguish data in accordance with their degree of accuracy and reliability, referring in particular to the fundamental distinction between data based on facts from data based on opinions and personal assessments. The EDPS underlines the importance of this obligation both for data subjects and law enforcement authorities, especially where data are processed far from their source (see point 7 of this opinion).

Verification of data quality

| 83. | The general principle laid down in Article 4(1)(d) is supplemented by the more specific safeguards laid down in Article 9 on verification of data quality. In particular, Article 9 states that:






  1. | quality of personal data shall be verified at the latest before they are transmitted and made available. In addition, for data made available by direct automated access, the quality shall be regularly verified (Article 9 (1) and (2)). |
| --- | --- | --- |

83.

The general principle laid down in Article 4(1)(d) is supplemented by the more specific safeguards laid down in Article 9 on verification of data quality. In particular, Article 9 states that:

1.

quality of personal data shall be verified at the latest before they are transmitted and made available. In addition, for data made available by direct automated access, the quality shall be regularly verified (Article 9 (1) and (2)).

| 2. | in all transmissions of data, judicial decisions as well as decisions not to prosecute should be indicated, and data based on opinions checked at source before being transmitted, and their degree of accuracy or reliability indicated (Article 9 (1)). |
| --- | --- |

2.

in all transmissions of data, judicial decisions as well as decisions not to prosecute should be indicated, and data based on opinions checked at source before being transmitted, and their degree of accuracy or reliability indicated (Article 9 (1)).

| 3. | personal data shall be marked on request of the data subject if their accuracy is denied by the data subject and if their accuracy or inaccuracy cannot be ascertained (Article 9 (6). |
| --- | --- |

3.

personal data shall be marked on request of the data subject if their accuracy is denied by the data subject and if their accuracy or inaccuracy cannot be ascertained (Article 9 (6).

| 84. | Therefore, Article 4(1) and Article 9 ensure, if jointly applied, that the quality of personal data is adequately verified, both by the data subject and by those authorities that are the closest to the sources of the data processed and thus in the best position to check them. |
| --- | --- |

84.

Therefore, Article 4(1) and Article 9 ensure, if jointly applied, that the quality of personal data is adequately verified, both by the data subject and by those authorities that are the closest to the sources of the data processed and thus in the best position to check them.

| 85. | The EDPS welcomes these provisions, since, while focussing on the needs of law enforcement authorities, they ensure that each data is properly taken into account and used according to its accuracy and reliability, thus avoiding that a data subject is disproportionately affected by the possible lack of accuracy in some data concerning him or her. |
| --- | --- |

85.

The EDPS welcomes these provisions, since, while focussing on the needs of law enforcement authorities, they ensure that each data is properly taken into account and used according to its accuracy and reliability, thus avoiding that a data subject is disproportionately affected by the possible lack of accuracy in some data concerning him or her.

| 86. | Verification of data quality is an essential element of protection for the data subject, especially with regard to personal data processed by police and judicial authorities. Therefore, the EDPS regrets that the applicability of Article 9 on verification of quality of data is limited to data that are transmitted or made available to other Member states. This is unfortunate, since it entails that quality of personal data, which is essential also for law enforcement purposes, would be fully ensured only when these data are transmitted or made available to other Member States, but not when they are processed within a Member State (17). Instead, it is essential — both in the interest of data subjects and of competent authorities — to ensure that proper verification of the quality concerns all personal data, including those not transmitted or made available by another Member state. |
| --- | --- |

86.

Verification of data quality is an essential element of protection for the data subject, especially with regard to personal data processed by police and judicial authorities. Therefore, the EDPS regrets that the applicability of Article 9 on verification of quality of data is limited to data that are transmitted or made available to other Member states. This is unfortunate, since it entails that quality of personal data, which is essential also for law enforcement purposes, would be fully ensured only when these data are transmitted or made available to other Member States, but not when they are processed within a Member State (17). Instead, it is essential — both in the interest of data subjects and of competent authorities — to ensure that proper verification of the quality concerns all personal data, including those not transmitted or made available by another Member state.

| 87. | Therefore, the EDPS recommends removing in any case the limitations in the scope of application of Article 9 (1) and (6), by moving these provisions to Chapter II of the proposal. |
| --- | --- |

87.

Therefore, the EDPS recommends removing in any case the limitations in the scope of application of Article 9 (1) and (6), by moving these provisions to Chapter II of the proposal.

The distinction between different categories of data

| 88. | Article 4(2) lays down an obligation for the controller to make a clear distinction between personal data of different categories of persons (suspected, convicted, witnesses, victims, informers, contacts, others). The EDPS welcomes this approach. While it is true that law enforcement and judicial authorities might need to process data relating to very different categories of persons, it is essential that these data are distinguished according to the different degree of involvement in a crime. In particular, conditions for collecting data, time limits, conditions for refusing access or information to the data subject, modalities of access to data by competent authorities should reflect the particularities of the different categories of data processed and the different purposes for which these data are collected by law enforcement and judicial authorities. |
| --- | --- |

88.

Article 4(2) lays down an obligation for the controller to make a clear distinction between personal data of different categories of persons (suspected, convicted, witnesses, victims, informers, contacts, others). The EDPS welcomes this approach. While it is true that law enforcement and judicial authorities might need to process data relating to very different categories of persons, it is essential that these data are distinguished according to the different degree of involvement in a crime. In particular, conditions for collecting data, time limits, conditions for refusing access or information to the data subject, modalities of access to data by competent authorities should reflect the particularities of the different categories of data processed and the different purposes for which these data are collected by law enforcement and judicial authorities.

| 89. | In this context, the EDPS asks special attention for data relating to non-suspects. Specific conditions and safeguards are needed in order to ensure proportionality and to avoid prejudice for persons that are not actively involved in a crime. For this category of persons the proposal should contain additional provisions to restrict the purpose of the processing, to fix precise time limits and to limit the access to data. The EDPS recommends modifying the proposal accordingly. |
| --- | --- |

89.

In this context, the EDPS asks special attention for data relating to non-suspects. Specific conditions and safeguards are needed in order to ensure proportionality and to avoid prejudice for persons that are not actively involved in a crime. For this category of persons the proposal should contain additional provisions to restrict the purpose of the processing, to fix precise time limits and to limit the access to data. The EDPS recommends modifying the proposal accordingly.

| 90. | The current text of the proposal contains one specific safeguard relating to non suspects, namely Article 7 (1) of the proposal. According to the EDPS, this is an important safeguard, mainly since Member States are not allowed to provide for derogations. Unfortunately, Article 7 (1) lays down specific safeguards only with regard to time limits, and its applicability is limited to the category of persons mentioned in the last indent of Article 4 (3) of the proposal. Therefore, it does not provide for satisfactory guarantees and does not cover the whole group of non-suspects. (18) |
| --- | --- |

90.

The current text of the proposal contains one specific safeguard relating to non suspects, namely Article 7 (1) of the proposal. According to the EDPS, this is an important safeguard, mainly since Member States are not allowed to provide for derogations. Unfortunately, Article 7 (1) lays down specific safeguards only with regard to time limits, and its applicability is limited to the category of persons mentioned in the last indent of Article 4 (3) of the proposal. Therefore, it does not provide for satisfactory guarantees and does not cover the whole group of non-suspects. (18)

| 91. | Also data relating to convicted persons deserve specific attention. Indeed, as far as these data are concerned, the recent and future initiatives on exchanges of criminal records should be duly taken into account and consistency should be ensured. (19) |
| --- | --- |

91.

Also data relating to convicted persons deserve specific attention. Indeed, as far as these data are concerned, the recent and future initiatives on exchanges of criminal records should be duly taken into account and consistency should be ensured. (19)

| 92. | In the light of the foregoing observations, the EDPS recommends adding a new paragraph to Article 4 that contains the following elements:






  — | additional provisions to restrict the purpose of the processing, to fix precise time limits and to limit the access to data, as far as non suspects are concerned. |
| --- | --- | --- |

92.

In the light of the foregoing observations, the EDPS recommends adding a new paragraph to Article 4 that contains the following elements:

—

additional provisions to restrict the purpose of the processing, to fix precise time limits and to limit the access to data, as far as non suspects are concerned.

| — | the obligation for the Member States to lay down the legal consequences of the distinctions to be made between personal data of different categories of persons, reflecting the particularities of the different categories of data processed and the different purposes for which these data are collected by law enforcement and judicial authorities. |
| --- | --- |

—

the obligation for the Member States to lay down the legal consequences of the distinctions to be made between personal data of different categories of persons, reflecting the particularities of the different categories of data processed and the different purposes for which these data are collected by law enforcement and judicial authorities.

| — | the legal consequences should relate to conditions for collecting personal data, time limits, further transfer and use of data and conditions for refusing access or information to the data subject. |
| --- | --- |

—

the legal consequences should relate to conditions for collecting personal data, time limits, further transfer and use of data and conditions for refusing access or information to the data subject.

IV.7   Time limits for the storage of personal data

| 93. | The general principles governing time limits for storage of personal data are laid down by Article 4(1)(e) and Article 7(1) of the proposal. As a general principle, personal data should be stored for no longer than necessary for the purpose for which they were collected. This is consistent with EU data protection legislation. (20) |
| --- | --- |

93.

The general principles governing time limits for storage of personal data are laid down by Article 4(1)(e) and Article 7(1) of the proposal. As a general principle, personal data should be stored for no longer than necessary for the purpose for which they were collected. This is consistent with EU data protection legislation. (20)

| 94. | Nevertheless, the general provision of Article 7 (1) is only applicable ‘unless otherwise provided by national law’. The EDPS notes that this exception is very general and goes beyond the derogations admissible according to Article 4(1)(e). The EDPS proposes that the general derogation of Article 7 (1) should be deleted or at least explicitly restrict the public interests justifying the use of this derogation by the Member States
   (21). |
| --- | --- |

94.

Nevertheless, the general provision of Article 7 (1) is only applicable ‘unless otherwise provided by national law’. The EDPS notes that this exception is very general and goes beyond the derogations admissible according to Article 4(1)(e). The EDPS proposes that the general derogation of Article 7 (1) should be deleted or at least explicitly restrict the public interests justifying the use of this derogation by the Member States
   (21).

| 95. | Article 7(2) states that the compliance with time limits shall be ensured by appropriate procedural and technical measures, and shall be regularly reviewed. The EDPS welcomes this provision, but recommends to state explicitly that the appropriate procedural and technical measures should provide for automatic and regular deletion of personal data after a certain period of time. |
| --- | --- |

95.

Article 7(2) states that the compliance with time limits shall be ensured by appropriate procedural and technical measures, and shall be regularly reviewed. The EDPS welcomes this provision, but recommends to state explicitly that the appropriate procedural and technical measures should provide for automatic and regular deletion of personal data after a certain period of time.

IV.8   Exchanges of personal data with third countries

| 96. | Effective police and judicial cooperation within the EU borders increasingly depends on cooperation with third countries and international organisations. Many actions aimed at improving law enforcement and judicial cooperation with third countries or international organisations are currently discussed or envisaged both at national and EU level (22). The development of this international cooperation is likely to rely heavily on exchanges of personal data. |
| --- | --- |

96.

Effective police and judicial cooperation within the EU borders increasingly depends on cooperation with third countries and international organisations. Many actions aimed at improving law enforcement and judicial cooperation with third countries or international organisations are currently discussed or envisaged both at national and EU level (22). The development of this international cooperation is likely to rely heavily on exchanges of personal data.

| 97. | Therefore, it is essential that principles of fair and lawful processing — as well as principles of due process in general — also apply to the collection and the exchanges of personal data across Union borders, and that personal data are transferred to third countries or international organisations only if an adequate level of protection or appropriate safeguards are guaranteed by those third parties concerned. |
| --- | --- |

97.

Therefore, it is essential that principles of fair and lawful processing — as well as principles of due process in general — also apply to the collection and the exchanges of personal data across Union borders, and that personal data are transferred to third countries or international organisations only if an adequate level of protection or appropriate safeguards are guaranteed by those third parties concerned.

Transfers of personal data to third countries

| 98. | In this perspective, the EDPS welcomes Article 15 of the proposal that provides for protection in case of transfer to competent authorities in third countries or to international bodies. However, this provision, included in Chapter III of the proposal, only applies to data received from or made available by competent authorities of other Member States. As a consequence of this limitation, a shortcoming in the system of data protection on the level of the European Union remains with regard to data that are not received from competent authorities from other Member States. According to the EDPS, this shortcoming can not be accepted for the following reasons. |
| --- | --- |

98.

In this perspective, the EDPS welcomes Article 15 of the proposal that provides for protection in case of transfer to competent authorities in third countries or to international bodies. However, this provision, included in Chapter III of the proposal, only applies to data received from or made available by competent authorities of other Member States. As a consequence of this limitation, a shortcoming in the system of data protection on the level of the European Union remains with regard to data that are not received from competent authorities from other Member States. According to the EDPS, this shortcoming can not be accepted for the following reasons.

| 99. | Firstly, the level of protection offered by EU law in case of transfer to third country should not be determined by the source of the data — a police force within the Member State that transfers data to a third country, or a police force within another Member State. |
| --- | --- |

99.

Firstly, the level of protection offered by EU law in case of transfer to third country should not be determined by the source of the data — a police force within the Member State that transfers data to a third country, or a police force within another Member State.

| 100. | Secondly, it should be noted that the rules regulating transfers of personal data to third countries represent a fundamental principle of data protection law. This principle does not only represent one of the fundamental provisions of Directive 95/46/EC, but it is also enshrined by the Additional Protocol to Convention 108 (23). Common standards in protection of personal data, referred to by Article 1 of the proposal, could not be ensured if common rules for transfers of personal data to third countries do not embrace all processing operations. As a consequence, the data subjects' rights as ensured by the present proposal would be directly affected if personal data could be transmitted to third countries that do not offer an adequate level of protection. |
| --- | --- |

100.

Secondly, it should be noted that the rules regulating transfers of personal data to third countries represent a fundamental principle of data protection law. This principle does not only represent one of the fundamental provisions of Directive 95/46/EC, but it is also enshrined by the Additional Protocol to Convention 108 (23). Common standards in protection of personal data, referred to by Article 1 of the proposal, could not be ensured if common rules for transfers of personal data to third countries do not embrace all processing operations. As a consequence, the data subjects' rights as ensured by the present proposal would be directly affected if personal data could be transmitted to third countries that do not offer an adequate level of protection.

| 101. | Thirdly, limitation of the scope of these rules to ‘exchanged data’ would entail that — with regard to data processed only within one country — there would be no safeguards: paradoxically personal data could be transferred to third countries — disregarding any adequate protection of personal data — more ‘easily’ than to other Member States. This would give rise to possibilities of ‘information laundering’. Competent authorities of Member States could circumvent the strict norms on data protection by transmitting data to third countries or international organisations, where they could be accessed by a competent authority of another Member State or even sent back to such an authority. |
| --- | --- |

101.

Thirdly, limitation of the scope of these rules to ‘exchanged data’ would entail that — with regard to data processed only within one country — there would be no safeguards: paradoxically personal data could be transferred to third countries — disregarding any adequate protection of personal data — more ‘easily’ than to other Member States. This would give rise to possibilities of ‘information laundering’. Competent authorities of Member States could circumvent the strict norms on data protection by transmitting data to third countries or international organisations, where they could be accessed by a competent authority of another Member State or even sent back to such an authority.

| 102. | Therefore, the EDPS recommends amending the present proposal so as to ensure that Article 15 applies to the exchange of all personal data with third countries. This recommendation does not relate to Article 15 (1)(c) that by its nature can only be relevant to personal data exchanged with other Member States. |
| --- | --- |

102.

Therefore, the EDPS recommends amending the present proposal so as to ensure that Article 15 applies to the exchange of all personal data with third countries. This recommendation does not relate to Article 15 (1)(c) that by its nature can only be relevant to personal data exchanged with other Member States.

Exceptional transfers to non adequate countries

| 103. | Article 15 lays down a series of conditions for transfers to competent authorities in third countries or to international organisations comparable to the conditions of Article 25 of Directive 95/46/EC. Nonetheless, Article 15(6) lays down the possibility to transfer data to third countries or international organisations in which an adequate level of data protection is not ensured, provided that the transfer is absolutely necessary in order to safeguard the essential interests of a Member State or for the prevention of imminent serious danger threatening public security or a specific person or persons. |
| --- | --- |

103.

Article 15 lays down a series of conditions for transfers to competent authorities in third countries or to international organisations comparable to the conditions of Article 25 of Directive 95/46/EC. Nonetheless, Article 15(6) lays down the possibility to transfer data to third countries or international organisations in which an adequate level of data protection is not ensured, provided that the transfer is absolutely necessary in order to safeguard the essential interests of a Member State or for the prevention of imminent serious danger threatening public security or a specific person or persons.

| 104. | The applicability of the exception laid down by paragraph 6 should be clarified. Therefore, the EDPS recommends:






  — | making clear that this exception merely establishes a derogation to the condition of ‘adequate protection’ but does not impinge on the other conditions laid down by the first paragraph of Article 15. |
| --- | --- | --- |

104.

The applicability of the exception laid down by paragraph 6 should be clarified. Therefore, the EDPS recommends:

—

making clear that this exception merely establishes a derogation to the condition of ‘adequate protection’ but does not impinge on the other conditions laid down by the first paragraph of Article 15.

| — | adding that transfers of data carried out according to this exception should be subject to appropriate conditions (such as an explicit condition that data shall be processed only temporarily and for specific purposes) and shall be communicated to the competent Supervisory Authority. |
| --- | --- |

—

adding that transfers of data carried out according to this exception should be subject to appropriate conditions (such as an explicit condition that data shall be processed only temporarily and for specific purposes) and shall be communicated to the competent Supervisory Authority.

Processing of personal data received from third countries

| 105. | In the context of the increasing exchange of personal data with police and judicial authorities of third countries, special attention should also be paid to the personal data ‘imported’ from those third countries where adequate standards of respect for human rights — and in particular for protection of personal data — are not ensured. |
| --- | --- |

105.

In the context of the increasing exchange of personal data with police and judicial authorities of third countries, special attention should also be paid to the personal data ‘imported’ from those third countries where adequate standards of respect for human rights — and in particular for protection of personal data — are not ensured.

| 106. | From a broader perspective, the EDPS considers that the legislator should ensure that personal data received from third countries comply at least with international standards regarding the respect of human rights. For example, data collected under torture or through violations of human rights, blacklists based merely on political convictions or sexual preferences should not be processed and relied upon by law enforcement and judicial authorities, unless this is done in the interest of the data subject. Therefore, the EDPS recommends that this is clarified at least in a recital of the proposal, possibly by reference to relevant international instruments (24). |
| --- | --- |

106.

From a broader perspective, the EDPS considers that the legislator should ensure that personal data received from third countries comply at least with international standards regarding the respect of human rights. For example, data collected under torture or through violations of human rights, blacklists based merely on political convictions or sexual preferences should not be processed and relied upon by law enforcement and judicial authorities, unless this is done in the interest of the data subject. Therefore, the EDPS recommends that this is clarified at least in a recital of the proposal, possibly by reference to relevant international instruments (24).

| 107. | With regard more specifically to protection of personal data, the EDPS remarks that, when personal data are transmitted from countries where there are no adequate standards and guarantees for the protection of personal data, the possible lack of data quality shall be duly assessed with a view to avoiding erroneous reliance on such information by EU law enforcement authorities and preventing prejudice for data subjects. |
| --- | --- |

107.

With regard more specifically to protection of personal data, the EDPS remarks that, when personal data are transmitted from countries where there are no adequate standards and guarantees for the protection of personal data, the possible lack of data quality shall be duly assessed with a view to avoiding erroneous reliance on such information by EU law enforcement authorities and preventing prejudice for data subjects.

| 108. | Therefore, the EDPS recommends adding a provision to Article 9 of the proposal stating that the quality of personal data transmitted from third countries should be specifically assessed as soon as they are received and the degree of accuracy and reliability of those data should be indicated. |
| --- | --- |

108.

Therefore, the EDPS recommends adding a provision to Article 9 of the proposal stating that the quality of personal data transmitted from third countries should be specifically assessed as soon as they are received and the degree of accuracy and reliability of those data should be indicated.

IV.9   Exchanges of personal data with private parties and non law enforcement authorities

| 109. | Articles 13 and 14 of the proposal lay down a series of requirements to be fulfilled in cases where personal data are further transmitted to private parties and non law enforcement authorities. As mentioned before, these articles supplement the more general rules laid down in Chapter II, which should in any case be complied with. |
| --- | --- |

109.

Articles 13 and 14 of the proposal lay down a series of requirements to be fulfilled in cases where personal data are further transmitted to private parties and non law enforcement authorities. As mentioned before, these articles supplement the more general rules laid down in Chapter II, which should in any case be complied with.

| 110. | The EDPS is of the opinion that, while transfer to private parties and other public bodies can be necessary in particular cases for the purpose of preventing and combating crime, specific and strict conditions should apply. This is line with the point of view expressed by the European Data Protection Commissioners in the Krakow position paper (25). |
| --- | --- |

110.

The EDPS is of the opinion that, while transfer to private parties and other public bodies can be necessary in particular cases for the purpose of preventing and combating crime, specific and strict conditions should apply. This is line with the point of view expressed by the European Data Protection Commissioners in the Krakow position paper (25).

| 111. | In this perspective, the EDPS considers that additional conditions laid down by Articles 13 and 14 could be considered satisfactory, if applied jointly with general rules laid down in Chapter II, including a comprehensive application of the rules on further processing (see above, IV.2). However, the current proposal limits the applicability of Articles 13 and 14 to personal data received from or made available by the competent authorities of another Member State. |
| --- | --- |

111.

In this perspective, the EDPS considers that additional conditions laid down by Articles 13 and 14 could be considered satisfactory, if applied jointly with general rules laid down in Chapter II, including a comprehensive application of the rules on further processing (see above, IV.2). However, the current proposal limits the applicability of Articles 13 and 14 to personal data received from or made available by the competent authorities of another Member State.

| 112. | The general applicability of the latter conditions is even more important if one considers the growing exchange of data between law enforcement authorities and other authorities or private parties also within Member States. An example can be found in the public/private partnership in law enforcement activities (26). |
| --- | --- |

112.

The general applicability of the latter conditions is even more important if one considers the growing exchange of data between law enforcement authorities and other authorities or private parties also within Member States. An example can be found in the public/private partnership in law enforcement activities (26).

| 113. | Therefore, the EDPS recommends amending the present proposal so as to ensure that Article 13 and 14 apply to the exchange of all personal data, including those not transmitted or made available by another Member State. This recommendation does not relate to Articles 13 (c) and 14 (c). |
| --- | --- |

113.

Therefore, the EDPS recommends amending the present proposal so as to ensure that Article 13 and 14 apply to the exchange of all personal data, including those not transmitted or made available by another Member State. This recommendation does not relate to Articles 13 (c) and 14 (c).

Access and further use of personal data controlled by private parties

| 114. | The exchange of personal data with private parties is bidirectional: it entails personal data also being transmitted or made available by private parties to law enforcement and judicial authorities. |
| --- | --- |

114.

The exchange of personal data with private parties is bidirectional: it entails personal data also being transmitted or made available by private parties to law enforcement and judicial authorities.

| 115. | In this case, personal data collected for commercial purposes (commercial transactions, marketing, provision of services, etc.) and managed by private controllers are then accessed and further used by public authorities for the very different purpose of prevention, investigation, detection or prosecution of criminal offences. In addition, the accuracy and reliability of data processed for commercial purposes shall be carefully assessed when these data are used for law enforcement purposes (27). |
| --- | --- |

115.

In this case, personal data collected for commercial purposes (commercial transactions, marketing, provision of services, etc.) and managed by private controllers are then accessed and further used by public authorities for the very different purpose of prevention, investigation, detection or prosecution of criminal offences. In addition, the accuracy and reliability of data processed for commercial purposes shall be carefully assessed when these data are used for law enforcement purposes (27).

| 116. | A very recent and important example of access to private databases for law enforcement purposes is provided by the approved text of the Directive on the retention of communication data (see above, points 16-18), according to which providers of publicly available electronic communications services or of public communications networks will have to store for up to two years certain data concerning communications, in order to ensure that these data are available for the purpose of the investigation, detection and prosecution of serious crime. According to the approved text, issues concerning access to these data go beyond Community law and might not be regulated by the Directive itself. Instead, these important issues may be the subject of national law or action pursuant to Title VI of the TUE (28). |
| --- | --- |

116.

A very recent and important example of access to private databases for law enforcement purposes is provided by the approved text of the Directive on the retention of communication data (see above, points 16-18), according to which providers of publicly available electronic communications services or of public communications networks will have to store for up to two years certain data concerning communications, in order to ensure that these data are available for the purpose of the investigation, detection and prosecution of serious crime. According to the approved text, issues concerning access to these data go beyond Community law and might not be regulated by the Directive itself. Instead, these important issues may be the subject of national law or action pursuant to Title VI of the TUE (28).

| 117. | In his opinion on the proposal for this directive, the EDPS has defended a wider interpretation of the EC-Treaty, because limitation on access is necessary to assure an adequate protection of the data subject whose communications data have to be retained. Unfortunately, the European legislator did not include rules on access in the abovementioned directive. |
| --- | --- |

117.

In his opinion on the proposal for this directive, the EDPS has defended a wider interpretation of the EC-Treaty, because limitation on access is necessary to assure an adequate protection of the data subject whose communications data have to be retained. Unfortunately, the European legislator did not include rules on access in the abovementioned directive.

| 118. | In the present opinion, the EDPS expresses again his strong preference that EU law should provide common standards on access and further use by law enforcement authorities. As long as this is not dealt with under the first pillar, a third pillar instrument could provide for the necessary protection. This position of the EDPS is further supported by the general increase of exchanges of data between Member States and the recent proposal on availability principle. Different national rules on access and further use would not be compatible with the proposed EU-wide ‘free circulation’ of law enforcement information, which also includes data from private databases. |
| --- | --- |

118.

In the present opinion, the EDPS expresses again his strong preference that EU law should provide common standards on access and further use by law enforcement authorities. As long as this is not dealt with under the first pillar, a third pillar instrument could provide for the necessary protection. This position of the EDPS is further supported by the general increase of exchanges of data between Member States and the recent proposal on availability principle. Different national rules on access and further use would not be compatible with the proposed EU-wide ‘free circulation’ of law enforcement information, which also includes data from private databases.

| 119. | Therefore, the EDPS considers that common standards should apply on access by law enforcement authorities to personal data held by private parties, so as to ensure that access is permitted only on the basis of well defined conditions and limitations. In particular, access by competent authorities should be allowed only on a case-by-case basis, under specified circumstances, for specified purposes, and be under judicial control in the Member States. |
| --- | --- |

119.

Therefore, the EDPS considers that common standards should apply on access by law enforcement authorities to personal data held by private parties, so as to ensure that access is permitted only on the basis of well defined conditions and limitations. In particular, access by competent authorities should be allowed only on a case-by-case basis, under specified circumstances, for specified purposes, and be under judicial control in the Member States.

IV.10   Rights of the data subject

| 120. | Chapter IV deals with the rights of the data subject, in a way which is in general consistent with current data protection legislation and with Article 8 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights. |
| --- | --- |

120.

Chapter IV deals with the rights of the data subject, in a way which is in general consistent with current data protection legislation and with Article 8 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights.

| 121. | The EDPS welcomes these provisions, since they provide for a harmonised set of rights for data subjects, while taking into account the particularities of processing by law enforcement and judicial authorities. This is a significant improvement, since the current situation is characterized by a wide variety of rules and practices especially concerning the right of access. Some Member States do not allow for access of the data subject to his data but have a system of ‘indirect access’ (to be exercised by the national data protection authority in the name of the data subject). |
| --- | --- |

121.

The EDPS welcomes these provisions, since they provide for a harmonised set of rights for data subjects, while taking into account the particularities of processing by law enforcement and judicial authorities. This is a significant improvement, since the current situation is characterized by a wide variety of rules and practices especially concerning the right of access. Some Member States do not allow for access of the data subject to his data but have a system of ‘indirect access’ (to be exercised by the national data protection authority in the name of the data subject).

| 122. | Under the proposal, the possible derogations to the direct right of access are harmonized. This is all the more important to allow citizens, whose data are increasingly processed and exchanged by competent authorities of different EU Member States, to avail themselves of a harmonised set of rights as data subjects, disregarding the Member State in which data are collected or processed (29). |
| --- | --- |

122.

Under the proposal, the possible derogations to the direct right of access are harmonized. This is all the more important to allow citizens, whose data are increasingly processed and exchanged by competent authorities of different EU Member States, to avail themselves of a harmonised set of rights as data subjects, disregarding the Member State in which data are collected or processed (29).

| 123. | The EDPS recognizes the opportunity to restrict data subjects' rights in those cases when this is necessary for the purpose of the prevention, investigation, detection or prosecution of criminal offences. Anyway, since these limitations must be considered as exceptions to basic rights of the data subjects, a strict proportionality test should apply. This means that exceptions should be limited and well defined, and that restrictions should be, where possible, partial and limited in time. |
| --- | --- |

123.

The EDPS recognizes the opportunity to restrict data subjects' rights in those cases when this is necessary for the purpose of the prevention, investigation, detection or prosecution of criminal offences. Anyway, since these limitations must be considered as exceptions to basic rights of the data subjects, a strict proportionality test should apply. This means that exceptions should be limited and well defined, and that restrictions should be, where possible, partial and limited in time.

| 124. | In this perspective, the EDPS would like to draw the attention of the legislator especially to letter (a) of paragraph 2 of Articles 19, 20, 21, which lay down a very broad and undefined exception to the rights of data subjects, by stating that these rights may be restricted if necessary to ‘enable the controller to fulfil its lawful duties properly’. Furthermore, this exception overlaps with the provision of letter (b), which allows restrictions of data subject's rights when it is necessary ‘to avoid prejudicing of ongoing investigations, inquiries or proceedings or the fulfilment of the lawful duties of the competent authorities’. While the latter exception can be deemed to be justified, the former appears to impose a disproportionate restriction on data subject's rights. Therefore, the EDPS recommends deleting letter (a) of paragraph 2 of Articles 19, 20, 21. |
| --- | --- |

124.

In this perspective, the EDPS would like to draw the attention of the legislator especially to letter (a) of paragraph 2 of Articles 19, 20, 21, which lay down a very broad and undefined exception to the rights of data subjects, by stating that these rights may be restricted if necessary to ‘enable the controller to fulfil its lawful duties properly’. Furthermore, this exception overlaps with the provision of letter (b), which allows restrictions of data subject's rights when it is necessary ‘to avoid prejudicing of ongoing investigations, inquiries or proceedings or the fulfilment of the lawful duties of the competent authorities’. While the latter exception can be deemed to be justified, the former appears to impose a disproportionate restriction on data subject's rights. Therefore, the EDPS recommends deleting letter (a) of paragraph 2 of Articles 19, 20, 21.

| 125. | In addition, the EDPS recommends improving Articles 19, 20, 21 as follows:






  — | specify that the restrictions on the rights of the data subject are not compulsory, do not apply for an indefinite period of time and are permitted ‘only’ in the specific cases listed in the articles, |
| --- | --- | --- |

125.

In addition, the EDPS recommends improving Articles 19, 20, 21 as follows:

—

specify that the restrictions on the rights of the data subject are not compulsory, do not apply for an indefinite period of time and are permitted ‘only’ in the specific cases listed in the articles,

| — | take into account that information should be provided by the controller autonomously and not on the basis of a request by the data subject, |
| --- | --- |

—

take into account that information should be provided by the controller autonomously and not on the basis of a request by the data subject,

| — | add to Article 19(1)(c) that information should also be provided on ‘the time-limits for storing the data’, |
| --- | --- |

—

add to Article 19(1)(c) that information should also be provided on ‘the time-limits for storing the data’,

| — | ensure (by amending Article 20 (1) in line with other EU data protection instruments) that information — where data have not been obtained from the data subject or have been obtained from him without his knowledge — shall be provided to him ‘no later than the time when data are first disclosed’ |
| --- | --- |

—

ensure (by amending Article 20 (1) in line with other EU data protection instruments) that information — where data have not been obtained from the data subject or have been obtained from him without his knowledge — shall be provided to him ‘no later than the time when data are first disclosed’

| — | ensure that the mechanism to appeal against refusal or restriction of the data subjects' rights is applicable to cases of restriction of the right to be informed and amend the last sentence of Article 19(4) accordingly. |
| --- | --- |

—

ensure that the mechanism to appeal against refusal or restriction of the data subjects' rights is applicable to cases of restriction of the right to be informed and amend the last sentence of Article 19(4) accordingly.

Automated individual decisions

| 126. | The EDPS regrets that the proposal does not address the important issue of automated individual decisions at all. In fact, practical experience shows that law enforcement authorities make increasing use of automated processing of data intended to evaluate certain personal aspects of persons, in particular in order to assess their reliability and conduct. |
| --- | --- |

126.

The EDPS regrets that the proposal does not address the important issue of automated individual decisions at all. In fact, practical experience shows that law enforcement authorities make increasing use of automated processing of data intended to evaluate certain personal aspects of persons, in particular in order to assess their reliability and conduct.

| 127. | The EDPS — while recognising that these systems may be necessary in certain cases in order to increase the effectiveness of law enforcement activities — notes that decisions based solely on automated processing of data should be subject to very strict conditions and safeguards when they produce legal effects concerning a person or significantly affect a person. This is even more important in the third pillar context, since in this case competent authorities are endowed with public coercive power and thus their decisions or actions are likely to affect a person or to be more intrusive than would normally happen where such decisions/actions are taken by private parties. |
| --- | --- |

127.

The EDPS — while recognising that these systems may be necessary in certain cases in order to increase the effectiveness of law enforcement activities — notes that decisions based solely on automated processing of data should be subject to very strict conditions and safeguards when they produce legal effects concerning a person or significantly affect a person. This is even more important in the third pillar context, since in this case competent authorities are endowed with public coercive power and thus their decisions or actions are likely to affect a person or to be more intrusive than would normally happen where such decisions/actions are taken by private parties.

| 128. | In particular, and consistently with general data protection principles, such decisions or actions should be allowed only if expressly authorized by law or by the competent supervisory authority, and should be subject to appropriate measures aimed at safeguarding the data subject's legitimate interests. Moreover, the data subject should have readily available means allowing him/her to put forward his or her point of view and be able to know the logic of the decision, unless this is incompatible with the purpose for which data are processed. |
| --- | --- |

128.

In particular, and consistently with general data protection principles, such decisions or actions should be allowed only if expressly authorized by law or by the competent supervisory authority, and should be subject to appropriate measures aimed at safeguarding the data subject's legitimate interests. Moreover, the data subject should have readily available means allowing him/her to put forward his or her point of view and be able to know the logic of the decision, unless this is incompatible with the purpose for which data are processed.

| 129. | Therefore, the EDPS recommends introducing a specific provision on automated individual decisions, in line with current EU data protection legislation. |
| --- | --- |

129.

Therefore, the EDPS recommends introducing a specific provision on automated individual decisions, in line with current EU data protection legislation.

IV.11   Security of processing

| 130. | As far as security of processing is concerned, Article 24 lays down an obligation for the controller to implement appropriate technical and organisational measures, which are in line with the provisions of other EU data protection instruments. Furthermore, paragraph 2 gives a detailed and comprehensive list of measures that shall be implemented with regard to automated data processing. |
| --- | --- |

130.

As far as security of processing is concerned, Article 24 lays down an obligation for the controller to implement appropriate technical and organisational measures, which are in line with the provisions of other EU data protection instruments. Furthermore, paragraph 2 gives a detailed and comprehensive list of measures that shall be implemented with regard to automated data processing.

| 131. | The EDPS welcomes this provision, but suggests, with a view to facilitating an effective control by supervisory authorities, to add to the list of measures laid down by paragraph 2 the following supplementary measure: ‘k) implement measures to systematically monitor and report on the effectiveness of these security measures (systematic self-auditing of security measures)’. (30) |
| --- | --- |

131.

The EDPS welcomes this provision, but suggests, with a view to facilitating an effective control by supervisory authorities, to add to the list of measures laid down by paragraph 2 the following supplementary measure: ‘k) implement measures to systematically monitor and report on the effectiveness of these security measures (systematic self-auditing of security measures)’. (30)

Logging of data

| 132. | Article 10 states that each automated transmission or reception of personal data shall be logged in (in case of automated transmission) or documented (in case of non automated transmission), in order to ensure the subsequent verification of the lawfulness of transmission and data processing. Such information shall be available on request to the competent supervisory authority. |
| --- | --- |

132.

Article 10 states that each automated transmission or reception of personal data shall be logged in (in case of automated transmission) or documented (in case of non automated transmission), in order to ensure the subsequent verification of the lawfulness of transmission and data processing. Such information shall be available on request to the competent supervisory authority.

| 133. | The EDPS welcomes this provision. Nonetheless, the EDPS notes that, in order to ensure a comprehensive supervision and check proper use of personal data, also ‘access’ to data shall be logged in or documented. This information is essential, since an effective monitoring of a proper processing of personal data must focus not only on the lawfulness of the transmission of personal data between authorities, but also on the lawfulness of the access by those authorities (31). Therefore, the EDPS recommends modifying Article 10 so as to provide that also access to data is logged or documented. |
| --- | --- |

133.

The EDPS welcomes this provision. Nonetheless, the EDPS notes that, in order to ensure a comprehensive supervision and check proper use of personal data, also ‘access’ to data shall be logged in or documented. This information is essential, since an effective monitoring of a proper processing of personal data must focus not only on the lawfulness of the transmission of personal data between authorities, but also on the lawfulness of the access by those authorities (31). Therefore, the EDPS recommends modifying Article 10 so as to provide that also access to data is logged or documented.

IV.12   Judicial remedies, liability and sanctions

| 134. | Chapter VI of the proposal deals with judicial remedies (Article 27), liability (Article 28) and sanctions (Article 29). The provisions are in general consistent with current EU data protection legislation. |
| --- | --- |

134.

Chapter VI of the proposal deals with judicial remedies (Article 27), liability (Article 28) and sanctions (Article 29). The provisions are in general consistent with current EU data protection legislation.

| 135. | In particular, as far as sanctions are concerned, the EDPS welcomes the specification that sanctions, in case of infringement of the provisions laid down pursuant to the framework decision, will have to be effective, appropriate and dissuasive. Furthermore, criminal sanctions in case of intentionally committed offences implying serious infringements — especially with regard to confidentiality and security of processing — will ensure a higher deterrent effect for more serious breaches of data protection law. |
| --- | --- |

135.

In particular, as far as sanctions are concerned, the EDPS welcomes the specification that sanctions, in case of infringement of the provisions laid down pursuant to the framework decision, will have to be effective, appropriate and dissuasive. Furthermore, criminal sanctions in case of intentionally committed offences implying serious infringements — especially with regard to confidentiality and security of processing — will ensure a higher deterrent effect for more serious breaches of data protection law.

IV.13   Control, supervision and advisory tasks

| 136. | The provisions in the proposal that deal with the control and the supervision of data processing, as well as on the consultation on matters related to data processing resemble to a large extent the provisions of Directive 95/46/EC. The EDPS welcomes that the Commission has opted in its proposal for already tested and well functioning mechanisms and underlines in particular the introduction of a (compulsory) system of prior checking. Such a system is not only foreseen in Directive 95/46/EC, but is moreover included in Regulation 45/2001/EC and has proved to be an effective instrument at the disposal of the EDPS in the supervision of data processing by institutions and bodies of the European Communities. |
| --- | --- |

136.

The provisions in the proposal that deal with the control and the supervision of data processing, as well as on the consultation on matters related to data processing resemble to a large extent the provisions of Directive 95/46/EC. The EDPS welcomes that the Commission has opted in its proposal for already tested and well functioning mechanisms and underlines in particular the introduction of a (compulsory) system of prior checking. Such a system is not only foreseen in Directive 95/46/EC, but is moreover included in Regulation 45/2001/EC and has proved to be an effective instrument at the disposal of the EDPS in the supervision of data processing by institutions and bodies of the European Communities.

| 137. | Another instrument for the control and supervising of data processing that has proved to be effective is the appointment of Data Protection Officers by a controller. This instrument functions in several Member States. It is laid down in Regulation 45/2001/EC as a compulsory instrument and plays a key role on the level of the European Communities. Data Protection Officers are administrators within an organisation that shall ensure in an independent manner the internal application of provisions on data protection. |
| --- | --- |

137.

Another instrument for the control and supervising of data processing that has proved to be effective is the appointment of Data Protection Officers by a controller. This instrument functions in several Member States. It is laid down in Regulation 45/2001/EC as a compulsory instrument and plays a key role on the level of the European Communities. Data Protection Officers are administrators within an organisation that shall ensure in an independent manner the internal application of provisions on data protection.

| 138. | The EDPS recommends adding provisions on Data Protection Officers to the proposal. These provisions could be modelled analogous to the Articles 24-26 of Regulation 45/2001/EC. |
| --- | --- |

138.

The EDPS recommends adding provisions on Data Protection Officers to the proposal. These provisions could be modelled analogous to the Articles 24-26 of Regulation 45/2001/EC.

| 139. | The proposal for a framework decision is directed to the Member States. It is therefore logical that Article 30 of the proposal foresees supervision by independent supervisory authorities. This article is drafted in a similar way as Article 28 of Directive 95/46/EC. These national authorities should cooperate with each other, with the joint supervisory bodies set up under Title VI of the EU Treaty and with the EDPS. Moreover, Article 31 of the proposal envisages the establishment of a Working Party which must play a similar role as the Article 29 Working Party plays in first pillar matters. All the relevant players in the area of data protection are mentioned in Article 31 of the proposal. |
| --- | --- |

139.

The proposal for a framework decision is directed to the Member States. It is therefore logical that Article 30 of the proposal foresees supervision by independent supervisory authorities. This article is drafted in a similar way as Article 28 of Directive 95/46/EC. These national authorities should cooperate with each other, with the joint supervisory bodies set up under Title VI of the EU Treaty and with the EDPS. Moreover, Article 31 of the proposal envisages the establishment of a Working Party which must play a similar role as the Article 29 Working Party plays in first pillar matters. All the relevant players in the area of data protection are mentioned in Article 31 of the proposal.

| 140. | It goes without saying that, in a proposal that envisages improving the police and judicial cooperation between the Member States, cooperation between all the relevant players in the area of data protection plays an important role. The EDPS therefore welcomes the emphasis in the proposal on cooperation between the supervisory bodies. |
| --- | --- |

140.

It goes without saying that, in a proposal that envisages improving the police and judicial cooperation between the Member States, cooperation between all the relevant players in the area of data protection plays an important role. The EDPS therefore welcomes the emphasis in the proposal on cooperation between the supervisory bodies.

| 141. | Moreover, the EDPS emphasises the importance of a consistent approach on matters of data protection that could be enhanced by promoting the communication between the existing Article 29 Working Party and the Working Party established by the present proposal for a Framework Decision. The EDPS recommends an amendment of Article 31 (2) of the proposal so as to also entitle the chairperson of the Article 29-Working Party to participate or be represented in meetings of the new Working Party. |
| --- | --- |

141.

Moreover, the EDPS emphasises the importance of a consistent approach on matters of data protection that could be enhanced by promoting the communication between the existing Article 29 Working Party and the Working Party established by the present proposal for a Framework Decision. The EDPS recommends an amendment of Article 31 (2) of the proposal so as to also entitle the chairperson of the Article 29-Working Party to participate or be represented in meetings of the new Working Party.

| 142. | The text of Article 31 of the present proposal contains one remarkable difference with Article 29 of Directive 95/46/EC. The EDPS is a full member of the Article 29 Working Party. This membership includes the right to vote. The present proposal also designates the EDPS as a member of the Working Party (based on Article 31), but does not foresee a right to vote for the EDPS. It is not clear for what reasons the present proposal deviates from Article 29 of Directive 95/46/EC. According to the EDPS, the proposed text is ambiguous about the role of the EDPS which could hamper the effectiveness of his involvement in the work of the Working Party. The EDPS therefore recommends retaining consistency with the text of the directive. |
| --- | --- |

142.

The text of Article 31 of the present proposal contains one remarkable difference with Article 29 of Directive 95/46/EC. The EDPS is a full member of the Article 29 Working Party. This membership includes the right to vote. The present proposal also designates the EDPS as a member of the Working Party (based on Article 31), but does not foresee a right to vote for the EDPS. It is not clear for what reasons the present proposal deviates from Article 29 of Directive 95/46/EC. According to the EDPS, the proposed text is ambiguous about the role of the EDPS which could hamper the effectiveness of his involvement in the work of the Working Party. The EDPS therefore recommends retaining consistency with the text of the directive.

IV.14   Other provisions

| 143. | Chapter VIII of the proposal contains some final provisions amending the Schengen Convention and other instruments concerning the processing and protection of personal data. |
| --- | --- |

143.

Chapter VIII of the proposal contains some final provisions amending the Schengen Convention and other instruments concerning the processing and protection of personal data.

Schengen Convention

| 144. | Article 33 of the proposal stipulates that Articles 126 to 130 of the Schengen Convention will be replaced by this Decision for the matters falling within the scope of the EU Treaty. Articles 126 to 130 of the Schengen Convention contain the general data protection rules for processing of data communicated pursuant to the Convention (but outside of the Schengen Information System). |
| --- | --- |

144.

Article 33 of the proposal stipulates that Articles 126 to 130 of the Schengen Convention will be replaced by this Decision for the matters falling within the scope of the EU Treaty. Articles 126 to 130 of the Schengen Convention contain the general data protection rules for processing of data communicated pursuant to the Convention (but outside of the Schengen Information System).

| 145. | The EDPS welcomes this replacement as it improves consistency of the data protection regime in the third pillar and represents in some respects a significant improvement for the protection of personal data, for instance by increasing the powers of the supervisory authorities. However, it has on some points, the unintended — and unfortunate — result of lowering the level of data protection. Some provisions of the Schengen Convention are indeed stricter than those of the Framework Decision. |
| --- | --- |

145.

The EDPS welcomes this replacement as it improves consistency of the data protection regime in the third pillar and represents in some respects a significant improvement for the protection of personal data, for instance by increasing the powers of the supervisory authorities. However, it has on some points, the unintended — and unfortunate — result of lowering the level of data protection. Some provisions of the Schengen Convention are indeed stricter than those of the Framework Decision.

| 146. | The EDPS especially mentions Article 126 (3) (b) of the Schengen Convention that states that data can be used only by judicial authorities and departments and authorities carrying out tasks or performing duties in relation with the purposes stipulated by the Convention. This provision seems to exclude the transmission to private parties, while it would be allowed under the proposed Framework Decision. Another point is that the data protection provisions in the Schengen Convention apply also to all data communicated from or included in non-automated files (Article 127), while non structured files are excluded from the scope of the proposed Framework Decision. |
| --- | --- |

146.

The EDPS especially mentions Article 126 (3) (b) of the Schengen Convention that states that data can be used only by judicial authorities and departments and authorities carrying out tasks or performing duties in relation with the purposes stipulated by the Convention. This provision seems to exclude the transmission to private parties, while it would be allowed under the proposed Framework Decision. Another point is that the data protection provisions in the Schengen Convention apply also to all data communicated from or included in non-automated files (Article 127), while non structured files are excluded from the scope of the proposed Framework Decision.

Convention on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters between the Member States of the European Union

| 147. | Article 34 states that Article 23 of the Convention on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters between the Member States of the European Union is replaced by the framework decision. The EDPS notes that while this replacement would in general provide for a better protection of personal data exchanged in the framework of the Convention, it could also give rise to some problems of compatibility between the two instruments. |
| --- | --- |

147.

Article 34 states that Article 23 of the Convention on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters between the Member States of the European Union is replaced by the framework decision. The EDPS notes that while this replacement would in general provide for a better protection of personal data exchanged in the framework of the Convention, it could also give rise to some problems of compatibility between the two instruments.

| 148. | In particular, the Convention deals also with mutual assistance in interceptions of telecommunications. In this case, the requested Member State may give its consent — to the interception or transmission of the recording of telecommunications — subject to any conditions which would have to be observed in a similar national case. According to Article 23(4) of the Convention, when these additional conditions relate to the use of personal data, they will prevail on the data protection rules laid down by Article 23. Analogously, Article 23(5) determines the precedence of the additional rules safeguarding information collected by joint investigation teams. The EDPS notes that if Article 23 is replaced by the current proposal, it would be unclear whether the aforementioned additional rules would be still applicable. Therefore, the EDPS recommends clarifying this point, with a view to thoroughly assessing the consequences of a full replacement of Article 23 of the Convention by this framework decision. |
| --- | --- |

148.

In particular, the Convention deals also with mutual assistance in interceptions of telecommunications. In this case, the requested Member State may give its consent — to the interception or transmission of the recording of telecommunications — subject to any conditions which would have to be observed in a similar national case. According to Article 23(4) of the Convention, when these additional conditions relate to the use of personal data, they will prevail on the data protection rules laid down by Article 23. Analogously, Article 23(5) determines the precedence of the additional rules safeguarding information collected by joint investigation teams. The EDPS notes that if Article 23 is replaced by the current proposal, it would be unclear whether the aforementioned additional rules would be still applicable. Therefore, the EDPS recommends clarifying this point, with a view to thoroughly assessing the consequences of a full replacement of Article 23 of the Convention by this framework decision.

Convention 108 of the Council of Europe for the protection of individuals with regard to automatic processing of personal data

| 149. | Article 34(2) states that any reference to the Convention 108 shall be construed as a reference to this Framework Decision. The interpretation and the concrete applicability of this provision are far from being clear. In any case, the EDPS assumes that this provision only applies within the scope ratione materiae of this Framework Decision. |
| --- | --- |

149.

Article 34(2) states that any reference to the Convention 108 shall be construed as a reference to this Framework Decision. The interpretation and the concrete applicability of this provision are far from being clear. In any case, the EDPS assumes that this provision only applies within the scope ratione materiae of this Framework Decision.

Final issues

| 150. | As far as the systematic coherence of the text is concerned, the EDPS notes that some articles could find a better location in the text of the proposal.
  Therefore, the EDPS suggests:






  1. | Moving Article 16 (‘Committee’) from Chapter III (‘Specific forms of processing’) to a new chapter |
| --- | --- | --- |

150.

As far as the systematic coherence of the text is concerned, the EDPS notes that some articles could find a better location in the text of the proposal.

Therefore, the EDPS suggests:

1.

Moving Article 16 (‘Committee’) from Chapter III (‘Specific forms of processing’) to a new chapter

| 2. | Moving Article 25 (‘Register’) and 26 (‘Prior checking’) from Chapter V (‘Confidentiality and security of processing’) to a new chapter |
| --- | --- |

2.

Moving Article 25 (‘Register’) and 26 (‘Prior checking’) from Chapter V (‘Confidentiality and security of processing’) to a new chapter

V.   CONCLUSIONS

A considerable step forwards

| a) | The adoption of this proposal would mean a considerable step forwards for the protection of personal data, in an important area which in particular requires a consistent and effective mechanism for the protection of personal data on the level of the European Union. |
| --- | --- |

a)

The adoption of this proposal would mean a considerable step forwards for the protection of personal data, in an important area which in particular requires a consistent and effective mechanism for the protection of personal data on the level of the European Union.

| b) | An effective protection of personal data is not only important for the data subjects but also contributes to the success of the police and judicial cooperation itself. In many aspects, both public interests go hand in hand. |
| --- | --- |

b)

An effective protection of personal data is not only important for the data subjects but also contributes to the success of the police and judicial cooperation itself. In many aspects, both public interests go hand in hand.

Common standards

| c) | According to the EDPS, a new framework for data protection should not only respect the principles of data protection — it is important to guarantee the consistency of the data protection within the European Union — but also provide for an additional set of rules taking into account the specific nature of the area of law enforcement. |
| --- | --- |

c)

According to the EDPS, a new framework for data protection should not only respect the principles of data protection — it is important to guarantee the consistency of the data protection within the European Union — but also provide for an additional set of rules taking into account the specific nature of the area of law enforcement.

| d) | The present proposal fulfils these conditions: it ensures that the existing principles of data protection as laid down in Directive 95/46/EC will be applied within the area of the third pillar, since most of the provisions of the proposal mirror other EU legal instruments on the protection of personal data and are consistent with those legal instruments. Moreover, it provides for common standards specifying these principles, in view of their application in this area, that are generally speaking satisfactory to provide adequate data protection safeguards in the third pillar. |
| --- | --- |

d)

The present proposal fulfils these conditions: it ensures that the existing principles of data protection as laid down in Directive 95/46/EC will be applied within the area of the third pillar, since most of the provisions of the proposal mirror other EU legal instruments on the protection of personal data and are consistent with those legal instruments. Moreover, it provides for common standards specifying these principles, in view of their application in this area, that are generally speaking satisfactory to provide adequate data protection safeguards in the third pillar.

Applicable to all processing

| e) | It is essential for the achievement of its objective that the Framework Decision covers all police and judicial data, even if they are not transmitted or made available by competent authorities of other Member States. |
| --- | --- |

e)

It is essential for the achievement of its objective that the Framework Decision covers all police and judicial data, even if they are not transmitted or made available by competent authorities of other Member States.

| f) | Articles 30 (1)(b) and 31 (1)(c) TEU provide for a legal basis for rules on data protection not limited to the protection of personal data that are actually exchanged between the competent authorities of the Member States but also applicable to domestic situations. |
| --- | --- |

f)

Articles 30 (1)(b) and 31 (1)(c) TEU provide for a legal basis for rules on data protection not limited to the protection of personal data that are actually exchanged between the competent authorities of the Member States but also applicable to domestic situations.

| g) | The proposal does not apply to processing in the framework of the second pillar of the EU-Treaty (common foreign and security policy), nor to processing of data by intelligence services and the access by these services to these data when processed by competent authorities or other parties (this follows from Article 33 TEU). In these areas, national law is to provide adequate protection of data subjects. This gap in the protection on EU level requires an even more effective protection in the areas that indeed are covered by the proposal. |
| --- | --- |

g)

The proposal does not apply to processing in the framework of the second pillar of the EU-Treaty (common foreign and security policy), nor to processing of data by intelligence services and the access by these services to these data when processed by competent authorities or other parties (this follows from Article 33 TEU). In these areas, national law is to provide adequate protection of data subjects. This gap in the protection on EU level requires an even more effective protection in the areas that indeed are covered by the proposal.

| h) | The EDPS welcomes the fact that the proposal extends to personal data processed by judicial authorities. |
| --- | --- |

h)

The EDPS welcomes the fact that the proposal extends to personal data processed by judicial authorities.

In relation to other legal instruments

| i) | Whenever any other specific legal instrument under Title VI of the EU Treaty provides for more precise conditions or restrictions for the processing of or access to data, the specific legal instrument should apply as a lex specialis. |
| --- | --- |

i)

Whenever any other specific legal instrument under Title VI of the EU Treaty provides for more precise conditions or restrictions for the processing of or access to data, the specific legal instrument should apply as a lex specialis.

| j) | The present proposal for a Council Framework Decision on data protection has its own merits and is needed even in the absence of the adoption of a legal instrument on availability (as proposed by the Commission on 12 October 2005). |
| --- | --- |

j)

The present proposal for a Council Framework Decision on data protection has its own merits and is needed even in the absence of the adoption of a legal instrument on availability (as proposed by the Commission on 12 October 2005).

| k) | The approval by the European Parliament of the Directive on the retention of communication data makes it even more urgent to establish a legal framework for data protection in the third pillar. |
| --- | --- |

k)

The approval by the European Parliament of the Directive on the retention of communication data makes it even more urgent to establish a legal framework for data protection in the third pillar.

Structure of the proposal

| l) | The additional rules in Chapter II (in addition to the general principles of Directive 95/46/EC) should offer additional protection to the data subjects related to the specific context of the third pillar, but may not lead to a lower level of protection. |
| --- | --- |

l)

The additional rules in Chapter II (in addition to the general principles of Directive 95/46/EC) should offer additional protection to the data subjects related to the specific context of the third pillar, but may not lead to a lower level of protection.

| m) | Chapter III on specific forms of processing (in which the third layer of protection is incorporated) may not derogate from Chapter II: the provisions of Chapter III should offer additional protection to the data subjects in situations where competent authorities of more than one Member State are involved, but those provisions may not lead to a lower level of protection |
| --- | --- |

m)

Chapter III on specific forms of processing (in which the third layer of protection is incorporated) may not derogate from Chapter II: the provisions of Chapter III should offer additional protection to the data subjects in situations where competent authorities of more than one Member State are involved, but those provisions may not lead to a lower level of protection

| n) | The provisions concerning the verification of data quality (Article 9 (1) and (6)) and regulating further processing of personal data (Article 11(1)) should be moved to Chapter II and made applicable to all processing of data by law enforcement authorities, even if personal data have not been transmitted or made available by another Member State. It is, in particular, essential — both in the interest of data subjects and of competent authorities — to ensure that proper verification of the quality concerns all personal data. |
| --- | --- |

n)

The provisions concerning the verification of data quality (Article 9 (1) and (6)) and regulating further processing of personal data (Article 11(1)) should be moved to Chapter II and made applicable to all processing of data by law enforcement authorities, even if personal data have not been transmitted or made available by another Member State. It is, in particular, essential — both in the interest of data subjects and of competent authorities — to ensure that proper verification of the quality concerns all personal data.

Purpose limitation

| o) | The proposal does not address completely satisfactorily one situation which may occur in police work: the need to further use the data for a purpose considered incompatible with the one they were collected for. |
| --- | --- |

o)

The proposal does not address completely satisfactorily one situation which may occur in police work: the need to further use the data for a purpose considered incompatible with the one they were collected for.

| p) | Under EU data protection law personal data must be collected for specified and explicit purposes and not further processed in a way incompatible with those purposes. Some flexibility must be allowed as to further use. The limitation on collection is more likely to be well complied with if the authorities in charge of internal security know that they can rely, with appropriate safeguards, on a derogation to the limitation as to further use. |
| --- | --- |

p)

Under EU data protection law personal data must be collected for specified and explicit purposes and not further processed in a way incompatible with those purposes. Some flexibility must be allowed as to further use. The limitation on collection is more likely to be well complied with if the authorities in charge of internal security know that they can rely, with appropriate safeguards, on a derogation to the limitation as to further use.

| q) | The Framework Decision should stipulate in Chapter II that Member States should be allowed to adopt legislative measures to allow further processing when such a measure is necessary to safeguard:






  — | the prevention of threats to public security, defence or national security; |
| --- | --- | --- |

q)

The Framework Decision should stipulate in Chapter II that Member States should be allowed to adopt legislative measures to allow further processing when such a measure is necessary to safeguard:

—

the prevention of threats to public security, defence or national security;

| — | the protection of an important economic or financial interest of a Member State. |
| --- | --- |

—

the protection of an important economic or financial interest of a Member State.

| — | the protection of the data subject. |
| --- | --- |

—

the protection of the data subject.

These competences of the Member States could involve a privacy intrusive processing and should thus be accompanied by very strict conditions

Necessity and proportionality

| r) | The principles of necessity and proportionality of the proposal should fully reflect the case law of the European Court on Human Rights, by ensuring that processing of personal data is considered necessary only where the competent authorities can demonstrate a clear need for it, and provided that less privacy-intrusive measures are not available. |
| --- | --- |

r)

The principles of necessity and proportionality of the proposal should fully reflect the case law of the European Court on Human Rights, by ensuring that processing of personal data is considered necessary only where the competent authorities can demonstrate a clear need for it, and provided that less privacy-intrusive measures are not available.

Exchanges of personal data with third countries

| s) | If data could be transmitted to third countries without the protection of the data subject being assured, this would seriously damage the protection envisaged by the present proposal within the territory of the European Union. The EDPS recommends amending the present proposal so as to ensure that Article 15 applies to the exchange of all personal data with third countries. This recommendation does not relate to Article 15 (1)(c) |
| --- | --- |

s)

If data could be transmitted to third countries without the protection of the data subject being assured, this would seriously damage the protection envisaged by the present proposal within the territory of the European Union. The EDPS recommends amending the present proposal so as to ensure that Article 15 applies to the exchange of all personal data with third countries. This recommendation does not relate to Article 15 (1)(c)

| t) | When personal data are transmitted from third countries, their quality should be carefully assessed in the light of the respect of human rights and data protection standards before they are used. |
| --- | --- |

t)

When personal data are transmitted from third countries, their quality should be carefully assessed in the light of the respect of human rights and data protection standards before they are used.

Exchanges of personal data with private parties and non law enforcement authorities.

| u) | Transfer to private parties and other public bodies can be necessary in specific cases for the purpose of preventing and combating crime, but specific and strict conditions should apply. The EDPS recommends amending the present proposal so as to ensure that Articles 13 and 14 apply to the exchange of all personal data, including those not received or made available by another Member State. This recommendation does not relate to Articles 13 (c) and 14 (c). |
| --- | --- |

u)

Transfer to private parties and other public bodies can be necessary in specific cases for the purpose of preventing and combating crime, but specific and strict conditions should apply. The EDPS recommends amending the present proposal so as to ensure that Articles 13 and 14 apply to the exchange of all personal data, including those not received or made available by another Member State. This recommendation does not relate to Articles 13 (c) and 14 (c).

| v) | Common standards should apply to access by law enforcement authorities to personal data held by private parties, so as to ensure that access is permitted only on the basis of well defined conditions and limitations. |
| --- | --- |

v)

Common standards should apply to access by law enforcement authorities to personal data held by private parties, so as to ensure that access is permitted only on the basis of well defined conditions and limitations.

Special categories of data

| w) | Specific safeguards should be provided, in particular with a view to guarantee that:






  — | biometric data and DNA profiles are used only on the basis of well established and interoperable technical standards, |
| --- | --- | --- |

w)

Specific safeguards should be provided, in particular with a view to guarantee that:

—

biometric data and DNA profiles are used only on the basis of well established and interoperable technical standards,

| — | their level of accuracy is carefully taken into account and might be challenged by the data subject through readily available means, and |
| --- | --- |

—

their level of accuracy is carefully taken into account and might be challenged by the data subject through readily available means, and

| — | that the respect of the dignity of persons is fully ensured. |
| --- | --- |

—

that the respect of the dignity of persons is fully ensured.

The distinction between different categories of data

| x) | Personal data concerning different categories of people (suspects, convicted persons, victims, witnesses, etc) should be processed according to different, appropriate conditions and safeguards. Therefore, the EDPS proposes adding a new paragraph to Article 4 that contains the following elements:






  — | the obligation for the Member States to lay down the legal consequences of the distinctions to be made between personal data of different categories of persons. |
| --- | --- | --- |

x)

Personal data concerning different categories of people (suspects, convicted persons, victims, witnesses, etc) should be processed according to different, appropriate conditions and safeguards. Therefore, the EDPS proposes adding a new paragraph to Article 4 that contains the following elements:

—

the obligation for the Member States to lay down the legal consequences of the distinctions to be made between personal data of different categories of persons.

| — | additional provisions to restrict the purpose of the processing, to fix precise time limits and to limit the access to data, as far as non suspects are concerned. |
| --- | --- |

—

additional provisions to restrict the purpose of the processing, to fix precise time limits and to limit the access to data, as far as non suspects are concerned.

Automated individual decisions

| y) | Decisions based solely on automated processing of data should be subject to very strict conditions when they produce effects concerning a person or significantly affect a person. in this case. Therefore, the EDPS recommends introducing specific provisions on automated individual decisions, similar to those in Directive 95/46/EC. |
| --- | --- |

y)

Decisions based solely on automated processing of data should be subject to very strict conditions when they produce effects concerning a person or significantly affect a person. in this case. Therefore, the EDPS recommends introducing specific provisions on automated individual decisions, similar to those in Directive 95/46/EC.

Selection of other recommendations

| z) | The EDPS recommends:






  — | redrafting the first indent of Article 4 (4) so as to ensure the respect of the case law on Article 8 ECHR, since the proposed formulation of Article 4(4) does not meet the criteria laid down by the case law of the European Court of Human Rights relating to Article 8 ECHR. |
| --- | --- | --- |

z)

The EDPS recommends:

—

redrafting the first indent of Article 4 (4) so as to ensure the respect of the case law on Article 8 ECHR, since the proposed formulation of Article 4(4) does not meet the criteria laid down by the case law of the European Court of Human Rights relating to Article 8 ECHR.

| — | deleting the broad derogation of Article 7 (1) or at least explicitly restricting the public interests justifying its use by the Member States. |
| --- | --- |

—

deleting the broad derogation of Article 7 (1) or at least explicitly restricting the public interests justifying its use by the Member States.

| — | modifying Article 10 so as to provide that also access to data is logged or documented. |
| --- | --- |

—

modifying Article 10 so as to provide that also access to data is logged or documented.

| — | deleting letter (a) of paragraph 2 of Articles 19, 20 and 21. |
| --- | --- |

—

deleting letter (a) of paragraph 2 of Articles 19, 20 and 21.

| — | adding provisions on Data Protection Officers to the proposal. These provisions could be modelled analogous to the Articles 24-26 of Regulation 45/2001/EC. |
| --- | --- |

—

adding provisions on Data Protection Officers to the proposal. These provisions could be modelled analogous to the Articles 24-26 of Regulation 45/2001/EC.

| — | amending Article 31 (2) of the proposal so as to also entitle the chairperson of the Article 29-Working Party to participate or be represented in meetings of the new Working Party. |
| --- | --- |

—

amending Article 31 (2) of the proposal so as to also entitle the chairperson of the Article 29-Working Party to participate or be represented in meetings of the new Working Party.

Done at Brussels on 19 December 2005,

Peter HUSTINX

European Data Protection Supervisor

---

(1)  P. 18 of the programme.

1

(2)  Convention between the Kingdom of Belgium, the Federal Republic of Germany, the Kingdom of Spain, the French Republic, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Republic of Austria on the stepping up of cross-border cooperation, particularly in combating terrorism, cross-border crime and illegal migration. Prüm (Germany) 27 May 2005.

2

(3)  Initiative of the Kingdom of Sweden with a view to adopting a Framework Decision on simplifying the exchange of information and intelligence between law enforcement authorities of the Member States of the European Union, in particular as regards serious offences including terrorist acts (OJ, C 281).

3

(4)  On the basis of the proposal for a Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on the retention of data processed in connection with the provision of public electronic communication services and amending Directive 2002/58/EC (COM (2005) 438 final

4

(5)  Convention for the Protection of Individuals with regard to Automatic Processing of Personal Data of the Council of Europe, 28 January 1981

5

(6)  In 1987, the Council of Europe issued a Recommendation No R (87) 15 regulating the use of personal data in the police sector, but this recommendation is by nature not binding to the Member States.

6

(7)  See in the same sense ‘The EDPS as an advisor to the Community Institutions on proposals for legislation and related documents’, 18 March 2005, published on www.edps.eu.int.

7

(8)  Opinion of the European Data Protection Supervisor on the proposal for a Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on the retention of data processed in connection with the provision of public electronic communication services and amending Directive 2002/58/EC (COM(2005) 438 final), published on www.edps.eu.int

8

(9)  Par. 2.2.4 of the opinion.

9

(10)  Council of Europe's Convention for the protection of individuals with regard to automatic processing of personal data, 28 January 1981.

10

(11)  Proposal for a Council Decision concerning the access for consultation to the Visa Information System to authorities in Member States responsible for internal security and to Europol for the purposes of the prevention, detection and investigation of terrorist offences and other serious criminal offences (COM (2005) 600 final), issued on 24 November 2005. The EDPS intends to issue an opinion on this proposal in the beginning of 2006.

11

(12)  The EDPS refers to the same reasoning by the Court in (inter alia) its judgement in Österreichischer Rundfunk and Others, Joined cases C-465/00, C-138/01 and C-139/01, ECR [2003], p. I-4989.

12

inter alia

(13)  See in the same sense, the Opinion of the EDPS of 26 September 2005 on the Proposal for a Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on the retention of data processed in connection with the provision of public electronic communication services and amending Directive 2002/58/EC, point 33.

13

(14)  Judgment of the Court of 16 June 2005, Pupino, Case C-105/03.

14

(15)  The provision could be similar to the provision in Article 46 of Regulation 45/2001/EC.

15

(16)  The Customs Information System is a small but rather complicated system consisting of national and supranational elements, comparable to the Schengen Information System. Given the relatively limited importance of the present proposal for the Customs Information System and the complexity of the system itself, it will be left aside in this opinion. The EDPS will deal with the Customs Information System in another context.

16

(17)  In addition, this would not be in line with Council of Europe's Recommendation No.R (87) 15 of the Committee of Ministers to Member States regulating the use of personal data in the police sector. In particular, Principle 7.2 provides that ‘regular checks’ on the quality of personal data should be established in agreement with the supervisory authority or in accordance with domestic law.

17

(18)  See, more specific, point 94 of this opinion.

18

(19)  The decision of the Council 2005/876/JHA on the exchange of information extracted from the criminal record entered into force on 9 December. The decision adds to and facilitates existing mechanisms to transmit information referring to sentences based on existing conventions, such instruments as the European Convention on judicial assistance in criminal matters of 1959 and on the 2000 Convention on judicial assistance in criminal matters between the Member States. This text will later be replaced by a more precise Framework decision of the Council. The Commission envisages to propose a new Framework Decision in this area..

19

(20)  Besides the general provision on time limits for the storage of personal data, laid down by Article 7, the proposal lays down further specific provisions concerning personal data exchanged with other Member States. In particular, Article 9.7 establishes that personal data shall be deleted when:

20

| 1. | they should not have been transmitted, made available or received |
| --- | --- |

1.

they should not have been transmitted, made available or received

| 2. | after a time limit communicated by the transmitting authority, unless the personal data are further needed for judicial proceedings |
| --- | --- |

2.

after a time limit communicated by the transmitting authority, unless the personal data are further needed for judicial proceedings

| 3. | if data are not or no longer necessary for the purpose for which they were transmitted. |
| --- | --- |

3.

if data are not or no longer necessary for the purpose for which they were transmitted.

(21)  One could consider a limitation to the fight of terrorism and/or the specific public interests mentioned in Article 4 (1) (e): historical, statistical or scientific use.

21

(22)  For an example, see the recent Commission's Communication on ‘A Strategy on the External Dimension of the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice’ (COM(2005) 491 Final).

22

(23)  The Additional Protocol to the Convention for the Protection of Individuals with regard to Automatic Processing of Personal Data, regarding supervisory authorities and transborder data flows, was signed on 8/11/2001 and entered into force on 1/7/2004. This binding international law instrument has been signed so far by 11 States (9 of which are EU Members). Article 2.1 of the Protocol lays down the general principle that ‘Each Party shall provide for the transfer of personal data to a recipient that is subject to the jurisdiction of a State or organisation that is not Party to the Convention only if that State or organisation ensures an adequate level of protection for the intended data transfer’.

23

(24)  UN Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, signed by all EU Member States and entered into force on 26 June 1987. In particular, Article 15 states that ‘Each State Party shall ensure that any statement which is established to have been made as a result of torture shall not be invoked as evidence in any proceedings, except against a person accused of torture as evidence that the statement was made’.

24

(25)  Position paper on Law Enforcement & Information Exchange in the EU, adopted at the Spring Conference of European Data Protection Authorities, Krakow, 25-26 April 2005

25

Position paper on Law Enforcement & Information Exchange in the EU,

(26)  See Commission Legislative and Work Programme 2006 COM(2005) 531 final

26

(27)  For example, a phone bill will be reliable for commercial purposes as long as it correctly states which phone calls have been made; anyway, the same phone bill might not be fully relied upon by law enforcement authorities as conclusive evidence about who made a specific phone call.

27

(28)  According to the recitals of the Directive ‘Issues of access to data retained pursuant to this Directive by national public authorities for such activities as are referred to in the first indent of Article 3(2) of Directive 95/46/EC fall outside the scope of Community law. However, they may be the subject of national law, or action pursuant to Title VI of the Treaty on European Union, always noting that such laws or action must fully respect fundamental rights as they result from the common constitutional traditions of the Member States and as they are guaranteed by the ECHR. Article 8 ECHR, as interpreted by the European Court of Human Rights...’

28

(29)  In particular, Chapter IV deals with the right of information (Articles 19 and 20) and the right of access, rectification, erasure or blocking (Article 21). In general, these articles provide data subjects with all the rights that are usually guaranteed by EU data protection law, while laying down a series of exceptions aimed at taking into account the peculiarities of the third pillar. In particular, restrictions to data subjects' rights are allowed by almost identical provisions laid down with regard to both right to information (Articles 19.2 and 20.2) and right to access (Article 21.2).

29

(30)  See, in the same sense, the opinion of the EDPS on the Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council concerning the Visa Information System (VIS) and the exchange of data between Member States on short stay-visas, COM(2004) 835 final, published on www.edps.eu.int

30

(31)  This is in line with the provisions laid down by Article 18 of the proposal, according to which the transmitting authority will be informed on request about the further processing of the personal data transmitted or made available, and by Article 24, implementing the security measures, also in the light of the proposed systematic self-auditing of these measures.

31

---

III Notices

Commission

| 25.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 47/48 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

25.2.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 47/48

---

GR-Elliniko: operation of scheduled air services

Invitation to tender for contracts for the operation of scheduled air routes subject to public service obligations, issued by the Hellenic Republic under Article 4(1)(d) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92

(2006/C 47/13)

1.   Introduction: Pursuant to Article 4(1)(a) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92 of 23.7.1992 on access for Community air carriers to intra-Community air routes, the Greek Government has decided to impose a public service obligation from 1.4.2006 in respect of scheduled services on the following routes:

Athens-Kithira,

Athens-Naxos,

Athens-Paros,

Athens-Karpathos,

Athens-Sitia,

Athens-Skiathos,

Thessaloniki-Kerkira (Corfu),

Rhodes-Kos-Leros-Astypalea,

Kerkira (Corfu)-Aktio-Kephalonia-Zakinthos.

The stipulations of the public service obligation were published in the
  Official Journal of the European Union C 46 of 24.2.2006 and C 164 of 10.7.2002, p. 16.

If, by 1.3.2006, no air carrier has declared to the Civil Aviation Authority that it intends to operate scheduled flights on one or more of the above routes from 1.4.2006 in accordance with the stipulations of the public service obligation for the route or routes concerned and without financial compensation, Greece has decided that, under the procedure laid down in Article 4(1)(d) of the said Regulation, it will initiate the procedure to limit access to one or more of the above routes (as stated in the next article) to a single air carrier for 3 years and to offer the right to operate the routes concerned from 1.4.2006 by public tender.

2.   Object of the invitation to tender: The exclusive right to operate scheduled air services, subject to public service obligations for 3 years from 1.4.2006, on the following routes:

Athens-Kithira,

Athens-Naxos,

Athens-Paros,

Athens-Karpathos,

Athens-Sitia,

Athens-Skiathos,

Thessaloniki-Kerkira (Corfu),

Rhodes-Kos-Leros-Astypalea,

Kerkira (Corfu)-Aktio-Kephalonia-Zakinthos.

Services on these routes are to be operated in accordance with the stipulations of the corresponding public service obligation, published in the
  Official Journal of the European Communities C 46 of 24.2.2006 and C 164 of 10.7.2002, p. 16.

Tenders may be submitted for one or more of the above routes. However, all tenders shall be submitted separately for each of the above routes.

Because of the special nature of the air routes concerned, air carriers must be able to demonstrate that cabin crew serving passengers on the above routes speak and understand Greek.

3.   Participation in the tender procedure: All air carriers holding a valid operating licence issued by a Member State pursuant to Council Regulation (EEC) No 2407/92 on licensing of air carriers may take part in the tender procedure.

4.   Tender procedure: This tender procedure is subject to the provisions of Article 4(1)(d) and (i) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92 on access for Community air carriers to intra-Community air routes and to the provisions of Presidential Decree 346/98 aligning Greek legislation on public service contracts with the provisions of Council Directive 92/50/EEC of 18.7.1992, as amended by Presidential Decree 18/2000.

In an emergency, if it is decided to repeat the tender procedure (on account of the unsuccessful outcome of the initial procedure), the Ministry of Transport and Communications may take the necessary measures to ensure that the vital air transport needs of a particular remote region are covered, provided such measures are in line with the principles of non-discrimination, proportionality and transparency and will not last for more than 6 months.

Moreover, should only one tender be submitted, and should that tender be considered financially unacceptable, the negotiations procedure may be followed.

Bidders shall be bound by the tenders they have submitted until the contracts are awarded.

5.   Tender dossier: The full tender dossier, setting out the specifications, the supporting documents required for participation and other information is available free of charge from the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority, Directorate for Air Operations, Vas. Georgiou 1, GR-166 04 Elliniko. Tel. (30-210) 891 61 49 or fax (30-210) 894 71 01.

6.   Financial compensation: Tenders must explicitly state the fee required per quarter for operating each route for 3 years from the proposed date of commencement of operations (with an annual breakdown of the accounts as stated in the specifications). The financial compensation will be paid on a quarterly basis 30 days after the date of the corresponding invoice issued by the air carrier by means of a transfer to the account which the air carrier shall hold at a bank recognised in Greece. The exact amount of the compensation will be determined on the basis of the flights actually operated, a certificate from the relevant bodies of the Civil Aviation Authority stating that the terms of the contract have been properly complied with, and the amount of compensation due ‘pro rata’.

7.   Selection criterion: For each route covered by the invitation to tender, the criterion for choosing between the air carriers judged to be in a position to provide services on that route smoothly and in accordance with the stated requirements shall be the lowest figure for the total financial compensation sought in respect of that route.

8.   Duration, amendment and annulment of the contract: The contract will apply from 1.4.2006 and expire on 31.3.2009.

Any amendment to the contract must comply with the public service obligation published in the
  Official Journal of the European Communities C 46 of 24.2.2006 and C 164 of 10.7.2002, p. 16. All amendments to the contract must be in writing.

If there is any unexpected change in the operating conditions, the amount of the compensation may be reviewed.

Each contracting party may terminate the contract by giving 6 months' advance notice. If there are particularly serious grounds or if the air carrier has failed to comply properly with the contractual terms relating to the public service obligation, the awarding authority may terminate the contract without giving advance notice. The contract shall also be deemed to have terminated automatically if the contractor's operating licence or air operator's certificate (AOC) is suspended or revoked.

9.   Penalties for failure to abide by the terms of the contract: The air carrier shall be responsible for complying properly with the terms of the contract.

The number of flights cancelled for reasons for which the air carrier is responsible may not exceed 2 % of the total annual number of flights. In such cases, the amount of the financial compensation shall be reduced pro rata.

In the event of failure to discharge all or part of the contractor's obligations under the contract for reasons which do not constitute ‘force majeure’ (other than the case where the number of flights cancelled is less than 2 % of the total annual number of flights, referred to in the preceding paragraph), the awarding authority will be entitled to impose the following penalties:

where the number of flights cancelled on a given route exceeds 2 % of the total annual number of flights scheduled, the financial compensation payable in respect of that route (for the flights actually operated during the quarter) will be further reduced by an amount equal to that which would have applied had the flights been operated normally,

where the failure concerns the weekly number of seats actually offered during the quarter, the financial compensation will be reduced in proportion to the number of seats not offered,

where the failure concerns the fares charged, the financial compensation will be reduced in proportion to the difference between the fares charged and the required fares,

in the event of any other failure to honour the terms of the contract, the fine provided for in the airport regulations will be imposed,

where the contractor commits the same error for the third time in the same quarter on the same route, in addition to the above penalties, the forfeiture in whole or in part of the letter of guarantee of proper performance of the terms of the contract corresponding to that route may be demanded as a forfeit clause, following written notification from the Civil Aviation Authority to the contractor and provided the contractor does not adduce sufficient evidence that he is not to blame. In deciding whether to impose the penalties provided for in this point, account will be taken of the seriousness of every failure which has been ascertained, and the principle of proportionality will be applied.

The awarding authority may also demand compensation for damage caused.

10.   Submission of tenders: Tenders must be sent in 5 copies by registered post with recorded delivery or be delivered by hand with recorded delivery to the following address:

Ministry of Transport and Communications, Civil Aviation Authority, Directorate-General for Air Transport, Directorate for Air Operations, Section II, Vasileos Georgiou 1, GR-16604 Elliniko.

The closing time and date for the submission of tenders shall be 12:00 on the 32nd day following the date of publication of this invitation to tender in the Official Journal of the European Union. Tenders sent by post must be received by the time and date stated above, as certified by the record of delivery.

11.   Validity of the invitation to tender: This invitation to tender shall be valid provided that, by 1.3.2006, no Community air carrier has declared (by submitting a flight plan to the Civil Aviation Authority) its intention of operating scheduled flights on one or more of the above-mentioned routes from 1.4.2004, in accordance with the public service obligation imposed and without receiving financial compensation.

In any event, the invitation to tender shall continue to have effect in respect of those routes for which no air carrier has declared an interest as above by 1.3.2006 on the terms stated above.

---

| 25.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 47/51 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

25.2.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 47/51

---

P-Lisbon: operation of scheduled air services

Corrigendum to invitation to tender issued by Portugal under Article 4(1)(d) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92 in respect of the operation of scheduled air services between Lisbon/Bragança and Bragança/Vila Real/Lisbon

(Supplement to the
  Official Journal of the European Union No S 25 of 7.2.2006, open procedure, 27011-2006)

(Official Journal of the European Union C 32 of 8.2.2006)

(2006/C 47/14)

(Text with EEA relevance)

1.   Introduction: In pursuance of Article 4(1)(a) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92 of 23 July 1992 on access for Community air carriers to intra-Community air routes, Portugal has decided to amend the public service obligations imposed in respect of scheduled air services operated between Lisbon/Bragança and Bragança/Vila Real/Lisbon.

Insofar as by 8 March 2006 no air carrier has begun or is about to begin operating scheduled air services on the abovementioned routes in accordance with the public service obligations imposed and without requesting financial compensation, Portugal has decided, in accordance with the procedure laid down by Article 4(1)(d) of that Regulation, to limit access to those routes to one air carrier only and to offer by public tender the right to operate those services from 28 August 2006.

2.   Object of invitation to tender: Operation from 28 August 2006 of scheduled air services between Lisbon/Bragança and Bragança/Vila Real/Lisbon.

These services will be provided in accordance with the public service obligations imposed on those routes and published in the
  Official Journal of the European Union C 30 of 7.2.2006.

Please note that, given the special nature of these services, air carriers will have to demonstrate their capacity to operate the service in question with a cabin crew the majority of whom can speak and understand Portuguese.

3.   Participation: All air carriers holding a valid operating licence issued by a Member State in accordance with Council Regulation (EEC) No 2407/92 of 23 July 1992 on licensing of air carriers, and an appropriate air carrier's certificate, can operate these services.

4.   Procedure: This invitation to tender is subject to points d, e, f, g, h and i of Article 4(1) of Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92.

5.   Tender dossier: The complete tender dossier, comprising the specific rules governing the invitation to tender, may be obtained at the price of EUR 100 from: Instituto Nacional da Aviação Civil, Rua B, Edifícios 4, 5 e 6, Aeroporto da Portela 4, P-1749-034 Lisbon.

6.   Financial compensation: Tenders submitted must explicitly indicate the amount required by way of compensation for operating the service for 3 years from the scheduled starting date (with an annual breakdown). If the tenders include the operation of flights at weekends, these should not entail any increase in the financial contribution to be borne by the Member State. The financial impact resulting from the operation of flights at weekends (not to be borne by the Member State) will have to be duly explained and justified in the proposal of the tenderer.

The exact amount of compensation finally granted will be determined annually ‘ex post’ on the basis of the proven costs and revenue actually generated by the service, within the limits of the amount given in the tender.

7.   Fares: Tenderers' bids must indicate the planned fares, which must be in accordance with the public service obligations published in the
  Official Journal of the European Union C 30 of 7.2.2006.

8.   Duration, amendment and termination of contract: The contract shall enter into force on 28 August 2006 and end on 27 August 2009. The performance of the contract shall be subject to an annual examination, in cooperation with the carrier, during June and July. The amount of the financial compensation may be revised in the event of unforeseen changes in the operating conditions.

9.   Penalties: Should the carrier be unable to operate the service owing to ‘force majeure’, the amount of the financial compensation may be reduced in proportion to flights not operated.

Should the carrier fail to operate the service for reasons other than ‘force majeure’ or if he fails to fulfil the public service obligations, the Portuguese authorities may:

reduce the amount of the financial compensation in proportion to flights not operated,

request explanations from the carrier and, should these prove unsatisfactory, terminate the contract without notice and claim compensation for damages.

10.   Submission of tenders:

| 1. | Bids must be submitted by 17:00 on the thirtieth day at the latest following publication of this invitation to tender in the
  Official Journal of the European Union C 47 of 25.2.2006). |
| --- | --- |

1.

Bids must be submitted by 17:00 on the thirtieth day at the latest following publication of this invitation to tender in the
  Official Journal of the European Union C 47 of 25.2.2006).

| 2. | Tenders may be delivered by hand — with receipt — to the headquarters of the Instituto Nacional de Aviação Civil, Rua B, Edificios 4, 5 e 6, Aeroporto da Portela 4, — P-1749-034 Lisbon, between 09:00 and 17:00 hours, or sent by registered letter by the date and time laid down in point 1 above. |
| --- | --- |

2.

Tenders may be delivered by hand — with receipt — to the headquarters of the Instituto Nacional de Aviação Civil, Rua B, Edificios 4, 5 e 6, Aeroporto da Portela 4, — P-1749-034 Lisbon, between 09:00 and 17:00 hours, or sent by registered letter by the date and time laid down in point 1 above.

11.   Validity of invitation to tender: In accordance with the first sentence of Article 4(1)(d) of Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92, the validity of this invitation to tender is subject to the condition that no Community air carrier eligible to operate the service in question presents by 8 March 2006 an application to operate the routes in question as from 28 August 2006, in accordance with the public service obligations imposed, without receiving any financial compensation.

Where one or more carriers apply, by 8 March 2006, to operate these services, satisfying the public service obligations and without requesting compensation, this invitation to tender shall lapse.

---

25.2.2006

| 25.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 47/s3 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 47/s3

---

NOTICE

On 28 February 2006, in Official Journal of the European Union C 49 A, the ‘Common catalogue of agricultural plant species — Seventh supplement to the 23rd complete edition’ will be published.

Subscribers to the Official Journal may obtain the same number of copies and language versions of this Official Journal as those to which they subscribe free of charge. They are requested to return the attached order form, duly completed and bearing their subscription registration number (code appearing on the left of each label and beginning with: O/..........). This Official Journal will remain available free of charge for one year from the date of its publication.

Non-subscribers can order this Official Journal against payment from one of our sales offices (see overleaf).

This Official Journal — like all Official Journals (L, C, CA, CE) — can be consulted free of charge online at http://europa.eu.int/eur-lex/lex.

Image

---