# Official Journal C 93/21 A

| | ISSN 1725-2423 |
| --- | --- |
| Official Journal
  of the European Union | C 93 |
| | |
| English edition | Information and Notices | Volume 4921 April 2006 |

ISSN 1725-2423

Official Journal

of the European Union

C 93

English edition

Information and Notices

Volume 4921 April 2006

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| Notice No | Contents | page |
| --- | --- | --- |
| | I   Information |
| | Council |
| 2006/C 093/1 | COST Open Call for Proposals to Support European Cooperation in the field of Scientific and Technical Research | 1 |
| | Commission |
| 2006/C 093/2 | Euro exchange rates | 3 |
| 2006/C 093/3 | Commission notice pursuant to Article 4(1)(a) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92 — Imposition of a public service obligation for the period 1.3.2006 — 28.2.2009 on scheduled air services between Mariehamn/Åland (MHQ) and Stockholm/Arlanda (ARN), supplementing earlier decisions (
  1
  ) | 4 |
| 2006/C 093/4 | Notice of the impending expiry of certain anti-dumping measures | 6 |
| 2006/C 093/5 | Authorisation for State aid pursuant to Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty — Cases where the Commission raises no objections (
  1
  ) | 7 |
| 2006/C 093/6 | Notification by the Czech Republic pursuant to Article 10 of Directive 94/22/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 1994 on the conditions for granting and using authorisations for the prospection, exploration and production of hydrocarbons (
  1
  ) | 9 |
| 2006/C 093/7 | State aid — Luxembourg — State aid No C 13/2004 — Community guidelines for State aid concerning TSE tests, fallen stock and slaughterhouse waste. Rejection of proposals for appropriate measures — Invitation to submit comments pursuant to Article 88(2) of the EC Treaty | 10 |
| 2006/C 093/8 | Commission notice pursuant to Article 4(1)(a) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92 (
  1
  ) | 13 |
| 2006/C 093/9 | Authorisation for State aid pursuant to Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty — Cases where the Commission raises no objections | 25 |
| 2006/C 093/0 | Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case COMP/M.4131 — Bain/Texas Instruments) (
  1
  ) | 27 |

Notice No

Contents

page

I   Information

Council

2006/C 093/1

COST Open Call for Proposals to Support European Cooperation in the field of Scientific and Technical Research

1

Commission

2006/C 093/2

Euro exchange rates

3

2006/C 093/3

Commission notice pursuant to Article 4(1)(a) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92 — Imposition of a public service obligation for the period 1.3.2006 — 28.2.2009 on scheduled air services between Mariehamn/Åland (MHQ) and Stockholm/Arlanda (ARN), supplementing earlier decisions (
  1
  )

1

4

2006/C 093/4

Notice of the impending expiry of certain anti-dumping measures

6

2006/C 093/5

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

1

7

2006/C 093/6

Notification by the Czech Republic pursuant to Article 10 of Directive 94/22/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 1994 on the conditions for granting and using authorisations for the prospection, exploration and production of hydrocarbons (
  1
  )

1

9

2006/C 093/7

State aid — Luxembourg — State aid No C 13/2004 — Community guidelines for State aid concerning TSE tests, fallen stock and slaughterhouse waste. Rejection of proposals for appropriate measures — Invitation to submit comments pursuant to Article 88(2) of the EC Treaty

10

2006/C 093/8

Commission notice pursuant to Article 4(1)(a) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92 (
  1
  )

1

13

2006/C 093/9

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

25

2006/C 093/0

Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case COMP/M.4131 — Bain/Texas Instruments) (
  1
  )

1

27

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

---

(1)   Text with EEA relevance

1

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

EN

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I Information

Council

| 21.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 93/1 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

21.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 93/1

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COST Open Call for Proposals to Support European Cooperation in the field of Scientific and Technical Research

(2006/C 93/01)

The COST Committee of Senior Officials (CSO) at its 164th meeting on 29/30 March 2006 agreed to launch the following Open Call for Proposal to Support European Cooperation in the field of Scientific and Technical Research (1):

COST Open Call for Proposals to Support European Cooperation in the field of Scientific and Technical Research

COST brings together research teams in different countries working on specific topics. It finances networking of nationally funded activities in supporting meetings, conferences, short term scientific exchanges and outreach activities. COST therefore does NOT fund research itself. Currently more than 200 scientific networks (Actions) are supported. Every year approximately 45 new Actions are approved and started.

Developing stronger links amongst European scientists is crucial to building the European Research Area (ERA). COST's main objective is to stimulate new, innovative, interdisciplinary and broad scientific networks in Europe. COST activities are carried out by research teams to strengthen the foundations for building scientific excellence in Europe.

COST invites proposals for Actions contributing to the scientific, economic, cultural or societal development of Europe. Proposals playing a precursor role for other European programmes and/or involving young groups' ideas are especially welcome.

COST is organised in nine scientific and technical Domains (Biomedicine and Molecular Biosciences; Chemistry and Molecular Sciences and Technologies; Earth System Science and Environmental Management; Food and Agriculture, Forests, their Products and Services; Individuals, Society, Culture and Health; Information and Communication Technologies; Materials, Physical and Nanosciences; Transport and Urban Development).

Proponents are invited to indicate their preference for one Domain. Proposals not fitting this broad disciplinary structure are also welcome and will be assessed separately.

Proposals should include researchers from a minimum of five COST member states and should network nationally funded research activities. Their work plan should include no more than four targeted Working Groups and include activities such as meetings, short term scientific missions, work shops, conferences and outreach activities. On average financial support of some EUR 90 000 p.a. as grant for up to 4 years can be expected.

A two stage process will be followed to assess proposals. Preliminary Proposals (maximum 1500 words/3 pages), submitted using the on-line template at www.cost.esf.org/open_call should provide a brief overview of the proposal and its impact. Proposals will be screened for eligibility. Proposals not conforming to the eligibility criteria of COST (e.g. requesting research funding) will be excluded. A pre-selection will rank the remaining Preliminary Proposals of which some 75 per collection date will be invited to submit a Full Proposal. These will be peer reviewed according to the assessment criteria which can be found at www.cost.esf.org/open_call. The decision will normally be taken within six months of the collection date below and the Actions should expect to start about six weeks thereafter.

The first collection date for Preliminary Proposals is 31 May 2006. Full Proposals will be invited by 30 June 2006 for submission by 15 September 2006. The next collection date is expected to be 30 March 2007

Proponents may wish to contact their national COST Coordinator (CNC) for information and guidance. Proposals must be submitted on-line to the COST Office web site. For details including the criteria, a list of COST Member States and contact details for the COST National Coordinators see www.cost.esf.org/cnc.

COST receives financial support for its coordinating activities from the EU RTD Framework Programme. The COST Office, established by the European Science Foundation (ESF), acting as the implementing agent for COST during the 6th FP on RTD, provides the scientific secretariat for COST activities.

All grants to be offered in response to this call are subject to COST being awarded funds from the seventh RTD Framework Programme.

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(1)  COST is the oldest and widest European intergovernmental networking for cooperation in research, currently covering 34 European States and 1 co-operating State.

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Commission

| 21.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 93/3 |
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21.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 93/3

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Euro exchange rates (1)

20 April 2006

(2006/C 93/02)

1 euro=

| | Currency | Exchange rate |
| --- | --- | --- |
| USD | US dollar | 1,2346 |
| JPY | Japanese yen | 145,27 |
| DKK | Danish krone | 7,4606 |
| GBP | Pound sterling | 0,69240 |
| SEK | Swedish krona | 9,2882 |
| CHF | Swiss franc | 1,5723 |
| ISK | Iceland króna | 97,51 |
| NOK | Norwegian krone | 7,7900 |
| BGN | Bulgarian lev | 1,9558 |
| CYP | Cyprus pound | 0,5761 |
| CZK | Czech koruna | 28,460 |
| EEK | Estonian kroon | 15,6466 |
| HUF | Hungarian forint | 266,23 |
| LTL | Lithuanian litas | 3,4528 |
| LVL | Latvian lats | 0,6960 |
| MTL | Maltese lira | 0,4293 |
| PLN | Polish zloty | 3,8945 |
| RON | Romanian leu | 3,4814 |
| SIT | Slovenian tolar | 239,61 |
| SKK | Slovak koruna | 37,235 |
| TRY | Turkish lira | 1,6415 |
| AUD | Australian dollar | 1,6594 |
| CAD | Canadian dollar | 1,4039 |
| HKD | Hong Kong dollar | 9,5742 |
| NZD | New Zealand dollar | 1,9535 |
| SGD | Singapore dollar | 1,9722 |
| KRW | South Korean won | 1 171,14 |
| ZAR | South African rand | 7,3860 |
| CNY | Chinese yuan renminbi | 9,8924 |
| HRK | Croatian kuna | 7,2975 |
| IDR | Indonesian rupiah | 10 969,42 |
| MYR | Malaysian ringgit | 4,520 |
| PHP | Philippine peso | 63,576 |
| RUB | Russian rouble | 33,9020 |
| THB | Thai baht | 46,608 |

Currency

Exchange rate

USD

US dollar

1,2346

JPY

Japanese yen

145,27

DKK

Danish krone

7,4606

GBP

Pound sterling

0,69240

SEK

Swedish krona

9,2882

CHF

Swiss franc

1,5723

ISK

Iceland króna

97,51

NOK

Norwegian krone

7,7900

BGN

Bulgarian lev

1,9558

CYP

Cyprus pound

0,5761

CZK

Czech koruna

28,460

EEK

Estonian kroon

15,6466

HUF

Hungarian forint

266,23

LTL

Lithuanian litas

3,4528

LVL

Latvian lats

0,6960

MTL

Maltese lira

0,4293

PLN

Polish zloty

3,8945

RON

Romanian leu

3,4814

SIT

Slovenian tolar

239,61

SKK

Slovak koruna

37,235

TRY

Turkish lira

1,6415

AUD

Australian dollar

1,6594

CAD

Canadian dollar

1,4039

HKD

Hong Kong dollar

9,5742

NZD

New Zealand dollar

1,9535

SGD

Singapore dollar

1,9722

KRW

South Korean won

1 171,14

ZAR

South African rand

7,3860

CNY

Chinese yuan renminbi

9,8924

HRK

Croatian kuna

7,2975

IDR

Indonesian rupiah

10 969,42

MYR

Malaysian ringgit

4,520

PHP

Philippine peso

63,576

RUB

Russian rouble

33,9020

THB

Thai baht

46,608

---

(1)

Source: reference exchange rate published by the ECB.

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| 21.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 93/4 |
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21.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 93/4

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Commission notice pursuant to Article 4(1)(a) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92

Imposition of a public service obligation for the period 1.3.2006 — 28.2.2009 on scheduled air services between Mariehamn/Åland (MHQ) and Stockholm/Arlanda (ARN), supplementing earlier decisions

(2006/C 93/03)

(Text with EEA relevance)

Pursuant to 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, the Government of Åland has decided to impose a public service obligation in respect of scheduled air services for the route Mariehamn (MHQ) — Stockholm/Arlanda (ARN) as follows:

Minimum frequency

During the period 1.3.2006 — 28.2.2009, the frequency Monday — Friday shall be at least 2 round trips per day. There will be no flights in July on account of the low level of demand. All flights must be direct.

Number of seats

At least 30 seats shall be available per flight and at least 2 500 seats per month. If the cabin factor exceeds 80 % during any calendar quarter in the first year, the offer shall be adjusted for the next period of the timetable.

Timetable

Travellers on any working day from Åland must have the opportunity to make a round trip to all destinations with scheduled air traffic connections in Sweden, and to Oslo, Copenhagen and the major airports in the rest of Europe.

The aircraft should arrive at ARN Monday — Friday by 06.30 at the latest and between 16.30 and 18.30. Departure from ARN should be Monday — Friday between 08.00 and 09.30 and between 19.30 and 21.00, if appropriate slots can be provided. During certain days of the year when demand is particularly low, such as bank holiday weekends or lengthy holiday periods, flights may, in special circumstances, be reduced, with the agreement of the awarding authority, subject to a specially agreed credit per single trip. By analogy, the offer may be increased subject to a specially agreed fare per round trip.

Type of aircraft

The true air speed (TAS) shall be at least 360 km/h. The aircraft must have a pressurised cabin with toilet facilities. The baggage and loading allowance, per passenger, on a fully loaded aircraft and under normal weather conditions, shall be at least 20 kg.

Fares

The fare for a round trip MHQ-ARN must not exceed EUR 290 including taxes and VAT.

Price adjustments can be made in accordance with SCB's flight fare index for business trips, subject to approval by the Government of Åland. Discount fares shall be made available, eg for children, young people, students and senior citizens.

Information, booking, sales and marketing

Reliable information shall be available for the whole trip prior to departure. The airline is responsible for ensuring that up-to-date and correct timetable, fare and other information is readily available and is spread by an appropriate means. Marketing shall also take place through advertisements in the local press, other media and in tourist brochures, with the objective of promoting air travel.

Continuity of flights

A maximum of 20 % of departures may be more than 5 minutes late and a maximum of 5 % of departures may be more than 15 minutes late. Apart from situations beyond the airline's control, the regularity of flights shall be at least 99 % per calendar quarter. The airline must give a minimum of 6 months' notice prior to cancellation of the operation.

Accessibility

The airline must meet the requirements of travellers in the following way:

| — | Boarding and disembarkation must take place in a dignified, safe, and secure manner. |
| --- | --- |

—

Boarding and disembarkation must take place in a dignified, safe, and secure manner.

| — | Special attention shall be paid to sick and disabled people and people with special needs and their legitimate requirements in terms of in-flight assistance. |
| --- | --- |

—

Special attention shall be paid to sick and disabled people and people with special needs and their legitimate requirements in terms of in-flight assistance.

| — | Escorting and other reasonable services shall be provided when changing flights. |
| --- | --- |

—

Escorting and other reasonable services shall be provided when changing flights.

| — | Information on travel opportunities and travel routes shall be given upon request. |
| --- | --- |

—

Information on travel opportunities and travel routes shall be given upon request.

| — | Safety and other information must be provided graphically (in such a way that passengers with a sight or hearing impediment can assimilate it). |
| --- | --- |

—

Safety and other information must be provided graphically (in such a way that passengers with a sight or hearing impediment can assimilate it).

| — | Booking and purchase of tickets shall be simple for the traveller. |
| --- | --- |

—

Booking and purchase of tickets shall be simple for the traveller.

| — | All on-board announcements must be given in Swedish and English. |
| --- | --- |

—

All on-board announcements must be given in Swedish and English.

Environmental requirements

The aircraft's noise levels must not exceed the current limits. All equipment installed on the aircraft that is designed to improve comfort and the environment must function and be used in accordance with current instructions.

Reporting

The airline operating the MHQ-ARN route is required to report to the Government of Åland each calendar quarter on how its service obligations have been met.

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| 21.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 93/6 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

21.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 93/6

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Notice of the impending expiry of certain anti-dumping measures

(2006/C 93/04)

| 1. | As provided for in Article 11(2) of Council Regulation (EC) No 384/96 of 22 December 1995 (1) on protection against dumped imports from countries not members of the European Community, the Commission gives notice that, unless a review is initiated in accordance with the following procedure, the anti-dumping measures mentioned below will expire on the date mentioned in the table below. |
| --- | --- |

1.

As provided for in Article 11(2) of Council Regulation (EC) No 384/96 of 22 December 1995 (1) on protection against dumped imports from countries not members of the European Community, the Commission gives notice that, unless a review is initiated in accordance with the following procedure, the anti-dumping measures mentioned below will expire on the date mentioned in the table below.

2.   Procedure

Community producers may lodge a written request for a review. This request must contain sufficient evidence that the expiry of the measures would be likely to result in a continuation or recurrence of dumping and injury.

Should the Commission decide to review the measures concerned, importers, exporters, representatives of the exporting country and Community producers will then be provided with the opportunity to amplify, rebut or comment on the matters set out in the review request.

3.   Time limit

Community producers may submit a written request for a review on the above basis, to reach the European Commission, Directorate-General for Trade (Division B-1), J-79 5/16, B-1049 Brussels (2) at any time from the date of the publication of the present notice but no later than three months before the date mentioned in the table below.

| 4. | This notice is published in accordance with Article 11(2) of Council Regulation (EC) No 384/96 of 22 December 1995. |
| --- | --- |

4.

This notice is published in accordance with Article 11(2) of Council Regulation (EC) No 384/96 of 22 December 1995.

| Product | Country(ies) of origin or exportation | Measures | Reference | Date of expiry |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Urea | Belarus
  Bulgaria
  Croatia
  Libya
  Romania
  Ukraine | Anti-dumping duty | Council Regulation (EC) No 92/2002 (OJ L 17, 19.1.2002, p. 1) as last amended by Council Regulation (EC) No 73/2006 (OJ L 12, 18.1.2006, p. 1) | 20.1.2007 |

Product

Country(ies) of origin or exportation

Measures

Reference

Date of expiry

Urea

Belarus

Bulgaria

Croatia

Libya

Romania

Ukraine

Anti-dumping duty

Council Regulation (EC) No 92/2002 (OJ L 17, 19.1.2002, p. 1) as last amended by Council Regulation (EC) No 73/2006 (OJ L 12, 18.1.2006, p. 1)

20.1.2007

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(1)  OJ L 56, 6.3.1996, p. 1. Regulation as last amended by Council Regulation (EC) No 2117/2005 (OJ L 340, 23.12.2005, p. 17).

(2)  Telefax : (32-2) 295 65 05.

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| 21.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 93/7 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

21.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 93/7

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

Cases where the Commission raises no objections

(2006/C 93/05)

(Text with EEA relevance)

Date of adoption of the decision:

Member State: Greece

Number of the aid: N 169/2005

Title: Amendments to TANEO risk capital fund

Objective: Risk capital

Legal basis: Άρθρο 28 του Νόμου 2843/2000 ‘Εκσυγχρονισμός των χρηματιστηριακών συναλλαγών, εισαγωγή εταιριών επενδύσεων στην ποντοπόρο ναυτιλία στο Χρηματιστήριο Αξιών Αθηνών και άλλες διατάξεις’

Budget: EUR 45 million for the scheme; 31.12.2005 for acceptance by TANEO of new venture capital funds

Duration: Until 2016

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:

Member State: Germany (Neue Länder und ehemaliges Ost-Berlin)

Number of the aid: N 409/2005

Title: Förderrichtlinien des Bundesministeriums für Bildung und Forschung zur Initiative InnoRegio

Objectives: Regional development — Research and development — Innovation — Small and medium-sized enterprises — Training (All sectors)

Legal basis: Bundeshaushaltsgesetz, Förderrichtlinien des BMBF zur Initiative InnoRegio

Budget: Annual expenditure planned:

2006: EUR 4 million

2007: EUR 27 million

2008: EUR 25 million

2009: EUR 22 million

Maximum aid intensity: 100 %

Duration: End date: 31.12.2009

Other information: Aid scheme — Direct grant

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:

Member State: Germany (Mecklenburg-Vorpommern)

Number of the aid: N 446/2005

Title: Regional investment aid to ADAM OST GmbH

Objectives: Regional development — Small and medium-sized enterprises (Limited to the manufacturing industry)

Legal basis: Gesetz über die Gemeinschaftsaufgabe (GA) ‘Verbesserung der regionalen Wirtschaftsstruktur’ vom 6. Oktober 1969 last approved up to 31 December 2006 by the Commission Decision N 642/02 on 1.10.2003. OJ C 284, 27.11.2003, p. 2

Budget: EUR 20 089 000

Maximum aid intensity: 50 %

Duration: Unlimited

Other information: Individual aid — Direct grant

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: Germany

Number of the aid: N 539/2003

Title: Allocations from the fisheries levy to assist fish stocks, waters and fisheries — Schleswig-Holsteins

Objective: aid to the fisheries sector

Legal basis: Richtlinie für die Gewährung von Zuwendungen aus den Mitteln der Fischereiabgaben durch das Land Schleswig-Holstein

Budget: EUR 460 000 per year

Aid intensity or amount: 75-100 % of the eligible costs

Duration: 2004-2006

Other information: 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/

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| 21.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 93/9 |
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21.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 93/9

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Notification by the Czech Republic pursuant to Article 10 of Directive 94/22/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 1994 on the conditions for granting and using authorisations for the prospection, exploration and production of hydrocarbons (1)

(2006/C 93/06)

(Text with EEA relevance)

For the purposes of Article 10 of Directive 94/22/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on the conditions for granting and using authorisations for the prospection, exploration and production of hydrocarbons:

The Ministry of the Environment issues decisions on the establishment of exploration areas (authorisation for the prospection and exploration of hydrocarbons) and carries out monitoring in accordance with Act No 62/1988 Coll. (Geological Act), as amended.

The Ministry of the Environment issues decisions on the granting of prior consent regarding the submission of proposals to establish extraction sites in accordance with Act No 44/1988 Coll. (Mining Act), as amended.

The State mining administration, through its Regional Mining Authorities, issues decisions on the establishment of extraction sites in accordance with Act No 44/1988 Coll. (Mining Act), as amended.

The State mining administration, through its Regional Mining Authorities, issues decisions on the authorisation of mining activities (authorisation for the production of hydrocarbons) in accordance with Act No 61/1988 Coll. (on mining activities, explosives and the State mining administration), as amended.

ADDRESS LIST

Ministry of the Environment

| Ministerstvo životního prostředí |
| --- |
| Vršovická 65 |
| CZ-100 10 Praha 10 |

Ministerstvo životního prostředí

Vršovická 65

CZ-100 10 Praha 10

Czech Mining Authority

| Český báňský úřad |
| --- |
| Kozí 4 |
| CZ-110 01 Praha 1 – Staré Město |

Český báňský úřad

Kozí 4

CZ-110 01 Praha 1 – Staré Město

Kladno Regional Mining Authority

| Obvodní báňský úřad Kladno |
| --- |
| Kozí 4 |
| CZ-110 01 Praha 1 – Staré Město |

Obvodní báňský úřad Kladno

Kozí 4

CZ-110 01 Praha 1 – Staré Město

Příbram Regional Mining Authority

| Obvodní báňský úřad Příbram |
| --- |
| Nám. T.G. Masaryka 145 |
| CZ-261 80 Příbram I |

Obvodní báňský úřad Příbram

Nám. T.G. Masaryka 145

CZ-261 80 Příbram I

Plzeň Regional Mining Authority

| Obvodní báňský úřad Plzeň |
| --- |
| Hřímalého 11 |
| CZ-301 00 Plzeň |

Obvodní báňský úřad Plzeň

Hřímalého 11

CZ-301 00 Plzeň

Sokolov Regional Mining Authority

| Obvodní báňský úřad Sokolov |
| --- |
| B. Němcové 1932 |
| CZ-356 01 Sokolov |

Obvodní báňský úřad Sokolov

B. Němcové 1932

CZ-356 01 Sokolov

Most Regional Mining Authority

| Obvodní báňský úřad Most |
| --- |
| U města Chersonu 1429 |
| CZ-434 61 Most |

Obvodní báňský úřad Most

U města Chersonu 1429

CZ-434 61 Most

Liberec Regional Mining Authority

| Obvodní báňský úřad Liberec |
| --- |
| Tř. 1. máje 858/26 |
| CZ-460 01 Liberec |

Obvodní báňský úřad Liberec

Tř. 1. máje 858/26

CZ-460 01 Liberec

Trutnov Regional Mining Authority

| Obvodní báňský úřad Trutnov |
| --- |
| Lomní 357 |
| CZ-541 01 Trutnov |

Obvodní báňský úřad Trutnov

Lomní 357

CZ-541 01 Trutnov

Brno Regional Mining Authority

| Obvodní báňský úřad Brno |
| --- |
| Cejl 13 |
| CZ-601 42 Brno |

Obvodní báňský úřad Brno

Cejl 13

CZ-601 42 Brno

Ostrava Regional Mining Authority

| Obvodní báňský úřad Ostrava |
| --- |
| Veleslavínova 18 |
| CZ-718 03 Ostrava 1 |

Obvodní báňský úřad Ostrava

Veleslavínova 18

CZ-718 03 Ostrava 1

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(1)  OJ L 164, 30.6.1994, p. 3.

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| 21.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 93/10 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

21.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 93/10

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STATE AID — LUXEMBOURG

State aid No C 13/2004 — ‘Community guidelines for State aid concerning TSE tests, fallen stock and slaughterhouse waste. Rejection of proposals for appropriate measures’

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

(2006/C 93/07)

By means of the letter dated 16 March 2004, reproduced in the authentic language on the pages following this summary, the Commission notified the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg of its decision to initiate the procedure laid down in Article 88(2) of the EC Treaty concerning the abovementioned state aid.

Interested parties may submit their comments on the 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 Agriculture |
| Directorate H2 |
| Office: Loi 130 5/120 |
| B-1049 Brussels |
| Fax: (32-2) 296 76 72 |

European Commission

Directorate-General for Agriculture

Directorate H2

Office: Loi 130 5/120

B-1049 Brussels

Fax: (32-2) 296 76 72

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

SUMMARY

By letter dated 12 December 2002, the Commission asked the Luxembourg authorities to confirm that they accepted these proposals for appropriate measures in writing by 31 March 2003 at the latest, in accordance with the provisions of Chapter IX of Community guidelines for State aid concerning TSE tests, fallen stock and slaughterhouse waste.

After the Luxembourg authorities failed to reply, the Commission sent several reminders dated 23 April 2003, 9 July 2003 and lastly 10 October 2003. All of these reminders remained unanswered.

By letter dated 26 September 2003, the Minister for Agriculture, Viticulture and Rural Development of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg requested a derogation from the application of the rules of the guidelines in order to allow the government to finance 50 % of the costs of slaughterhouse waste treatment after 31 December 2003.

This derogation request was refused by the Commission by letter of 10 October 2003. In this letter the Luxembourg authorities were also warned that, in accordance with point 53 of the aforementioned guidelines, if they did not confirm their acceptance in writing before the date indicated (within 10 days of receipt), the Commission would apply Article 19(2) of Regulation (EC) No 659/1999 and would initiate the procedure set out in this provision. No reply was received.

Evaluation

In accordance with point 53 of the guidelines, if a Member State did not confirm their acceptance in writing before this date, the Commisison would apply Article 19(2) of Regulation (EC) No 659/1999 and, if necessary, would initiate the procedure referred to by that provision.

The Commission has decided to initiate the procedure laid down in Article 88(2) of the Treaty because, despite repeated requests, the Luxembourg authorities have failed to communicate their acceptance of the appropriate measures in accordance with the new TSE guidelines and because, taking into consideration the express request for derogation from the rules presented by the Luxembourg authorities, at this stage doubts are growing concerning the compatibility of possible ad hoc aid or aid schemes, which Luxembourg would grant contrary to the aforementioned guidelines.

In this context, the Commission has requested the Luxembourg authorities:

| (a) | to forward the provisions relating to the implementation of any aid which might still be granted and which would fall within the scope of the guidelines, and in particular the texts of all laws and other regulations in force regarding such aid; |
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(a)

to forward the provisions relating to the implementation of any aid which might still be granted and which would fall within the scope of the guidelines, and in particular the texts of all laws and other regulations in force regarding such aid;

| (b) | to specify if, and when, they have modified all of their existing aid schemes regarding State aid covered by the TSE guidelines to bring them into conformity with these same guidelines; |
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(b)

to specify if, and when, they have modified all of their existing aid schemes regarding State aid covered by the TSE guidelines to bring them into conformity with these same guidelines;

| (c) | to supply information concerning adjustments made to these potential schemes or ad hoc aid following the guidelines. |
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(c)

to supply information concerning adjustments made to these potential schemes or ad hoc aid following the guidelines.

TEXT OF LETTER

| ‘1. | Par la présente, la Commission a l'honneur d'informer le Luxembourg qu'elle a décidé d'ouvrir la procédure prévue à l'article 88, paragraphe 2, du Traité CE à l'égard de la non-communication de leur acceptation des propositions de mesures appropriées conformément aux dispositions du chapitre IX des lignes directrices de la Communauté concernant les aides d'État liées aux tests EST, aux animaux trouvés morts et aux déchets d'abattoirs (1). |
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‘1.

Par la présente, la Commission a l'honneur d'informer le Luxembourg qu'elle a décidé d'ouvrir la procédure prévue à l'article 88, paragraphe 2, du Traité CE à l'égard de la non-communication de leur acceptation des propositions de mesures appropriées conformément aux dispositions du chapitre IX des lignes directrices de la Communauté concernant les aides d'État liées aux tests EST, aux animaux trouvés morts et aux déchets d'abattoirs (1).

Procédure et description des faits

| 2. | Le 27 novembre 2002, après d'amples discussions avec les États membres, la Commission a adopté des nouvelles lignes directrices concernant les aides d'État liées aux tests EST, aux animaux trouvés morts et aux déchets d'abattoirs (ci après “les lignes directrices”). Ces nouvelles règles sont applicables depuis le 1er janvier 2003. |
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2.

Le 27 novembre 2002, après d'amples discussions avec les États membres, la Commission a adopté des nouvelles lignes directrices concernant les aides d'État liées aux tests EST, aux animaux trouvés morts et aux déchets d'abattoirs (ci après “les lignes directrices”). Ces nouvelles règles sont applicables depuis le 1er janvier 2003.

| 3. | Par lettre datée du 12 décembre 2002 (AGR 29701), les services de la Commission ont invité les autorités luxembourgeoises à confirmer par écrit, pour le 31 mars 2003 au plus tard, leur acceptation des propositions de mesures appropriées, conformément au dispositions du chapitre IX des lignes directrices (“Période d'application et propositions de mesures appropriées”). |
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3.

Par lettre datée du 12 décembre 2002 (AGR 29701), les services de la Commission ont invité les autorités luxembourgeoises à confirmer par écrit, pour le 31 mars 2003 au plus tard, leur acceptation des propositions de mesures appropriées, conformément au dispositions du chapitre IX des lignes directrices (“Période d'application et propositions de mesures appropriées”).

| 4. | N'ayant pas obtenu de réponse des autorités luxembourgeoises, les services de la Commission ont envoyé un premier rappel à celles-ci le 23 avril 2003 (réf. AGR 011093). Ce rappel étant resté sans réponse, un deuxième rappel demandant de confirmer par écrit cette acceptation au plus tard pour le 30 juillet 2003 a été envoyé le 9 juillet 2003 (réf. VI 017922). Ce deuxième rappel est, lui aussi, resté sans réponse. |
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4.

N'ayant pas obtenu de réponse des autorités luxembourgeoises, les services de la Commission ont envoyé un premier rappel à celles-ci le 23 avril 2003 (réf. AGR 011093). Ce rappel étant resté sans réponse, un deuxième rappel demandant de confirmer par écrit cette acceptation au plus tard pour le 30 juillet 2003 a été envoyé le 9 juillet 2003 (réf. VI 017922). Ce deuxième rappel est, lui aussi, resté sans réponse.

| 5. | Entretemps, par lettre datée du 26 septembre 2003, le Ministre de l'Agriculture, de la Viticulture et du Développement rural du Grand-Duché de Luxembourg a demandé une dérogation à l'application des règles des lignes directrices, afin de permettre à son gouvernement de financer à 50 % les coûts liés au traitement des déchets d'abattoirs après le 31 décembre 2003. |
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5.

Entretemps, par lettre datée du 26 septembre 2003, le Ministre de l'Agriculture, de la Viticulture et du Développement rural du Grand-Duché de Luxembourg a demandé une dérogation à l'application des règles des lignes directrices, afin de permettre à son gouvernement de financer à 50 % les coûts liés au traitement des déchets d'abattoirs après le 31 décembre 2003.

| 6. | Concrètement, il s'agirait de déroger à la règle prévue aux points 38 et 39 des lignes directrices, qui interdisent l'octroi de toute aide d'État pour couvrir des coûts générés par l'élimination sûre des matériels à risque spécifiés et des farines de viande et d'os produits après 2003. |
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6.

Concrètement, il s'agirait de déroger à la règle prévue aux points 38 et 39 des lignes directrices, qui interdisent l'octroi de toute aide d'État pour couvrir des coûts générés par l'élimination sûre des matériels à risque spécifiés et des farines de viande et d'os produits après 2003.

| 7. | Par lettre datée du 10 octobre 2003 (réf: VI \ 027340), les services de la Commission ont indiqué aux autorités luxembourgeoises qu'une telle dérogation aux règles n'était pas possible car elle allait à l'encontre des objectifs d'harmonisation et d'élimination des distorsions de concurrence poursuivis par les lignes directrices elles-mêmes. |
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7.

Par lettre datée du 10 octobre 2003 (réf: VI \ 027340), les services de la Commission ont indiqué aux autorités luxembourgeoises qu'une telle dérogation aux règles n'était pas possible car elle allait à l'encontre des objectifs d'harmonisation et d'élimination des distorsions de concurrence poursuivis par les lignes directrices elles-mêmes.

| 8. | Dans cette même lettre, les services de la Commission, tout en soulignant que le gouvernement du Grand-Duché de Luxembourg avait manqué à son obligation de communiquer en temps utile son acceptation des lignes directrices, ont invité une dernière fois celui-ci à confirmer par écrit, dans les dix jours suivant réception de cette lettre, leur acceptation des mesures appropriées conformément aux dispositions du chapitre IX des lignes directrices. |
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8.

Dans cette même lettre, les services de la Commission, tout en soulignant que le gouvernement du Grand-Duché de Luxembourg avait manqué à son obligation de communiquer en temps utile son acceptation des lignes directrices, ont invité une dernière fois celui-ci à confirmer par écrit, dans les dix jours suivant réception de cette lettre, leur acceptation des mesures appropriées conformément aux dispositions du chapitre IX des lignes directrices.

| 9. | Les autorités luxembourgeoises ont aussi été averties du fait que, conformément aux dispositions du point 53 des directrices, la Commission appliquerait l'article 19, paragraphe 2, du règlement (CE) no 659/1999 et ouvrirait la procédure qui y est prévue. si elles ne confirmaient pas leur acceptation par écrit avant la date signalée (à savoir 10 jours après la réception de la lettre), |
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9.

Les autorités luxembourgeoises ont aussi été averties du fait que, conformément aux dispositions du point 53 des directrices, la Commission appliquerait l'article 19, paragraphe 2, du règlement (CE) no 659/1999 et ouvrirait la procédure qui y est prévue. si elles ne confirmaient pas leur acceptation par écrit avant la date signalée (à savoir 10 jours après la réception de la lettre),

| 10. | Malgré cette troisième invitation, les services de la Commission n'ont pas obtenu de réponse des autorités luxembourgeoises. |
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10.

Malgré cette troisième invitation, les services de la Commission n'ont pas obtenu de réponse des autorités luxembourgeoises.

Évaluation

| 11. | Conformément à l'article 88, paragraphe 1, du traité, la Commission procède avec les États membres à l'examen permanent de régimes d'aides existant dans ces États. Elle propose à ceux-ci les mesures utiles exigées par le développement progressif ou le fonctionnement du marché commun. |
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11.

Conformément à l'article 88, paragraphe 1, du traité, la Commission procède avec les États membres à l'examen permanent de régimes d'aides existant dans ces États. Elle propose à ceux-ci les mesures utiles exigées par le développement progressif ou le fonctionnement du marché commun.

| 12. | La législation relative à l'ESB de ces dernières années a fondamentalement modifié les conditions économiques de la production de viande et des déchets d'abattoirs. Ce qui constituait auparavant un produit valorisable est synonyme aujourd'hui de déchets dont l'élimination est, en outre, coûteuse. |
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12.

La législation relative à l'ESB de ces dernières années a fondamentalement modifié les conditions économiques de la production de viande et des déchets d'abattoirs. Ce qui constituait auparavant un produit valorisable est synonyme aujourd'hui de déchets dont l'élimination est, en outre, coûteuse.

| 13. | Pour permettre à ce secteur de s'adapter à la situation, la Commission a autorisé pendant les années de la crise le paiement d'aides publiques importantes. Mais la poursuite de cette politique risquait de fausser gravement la concurrence. Dès lors, un réexamen de la politique suivie dans ce domaine s'imposait. |
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13.

Pour permettre à ce secteur de s'adapter à la situation, la Commission a autorisé pendant les années de la crise le paiement d'aides publiques importantes. Mais la poursuite de cette politique risquait de fausser gravement la concurrence. Dès lors, un réexamen de la politique suivie dans ce domaine s'imposait.

| 14. | Dans ce contexte, les services de la Commission, après avoir lancé une vaste enquête dans les États membres, ont proposé des nouvelles lignes directrices pour ce secteur afin de trouver un équilibre entre la nécessité de protéger la santé humaine et l'environnement et d'éviter des distorsions de concurrence anormales par l'octroi d'aides d'État. |
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14.

Dans ce contexte, les services de la Commission, après avoir lancé une vaste enquête dans les États membres, ont proposé des nouvelles lignes directrices pour ce secteur afin de trouver un équilibre entre la nécessité de protéger la santé humaine et l'environnement et d'éviter des distorsions de concurrence anormales par l'octroi d'aides d'État.

| 15. | Avant d'être adopté par la Commission, le texte des lignes directrices a été longuement discuté avec les États Membres, y compris avec le Grand-Duché de Luxembourg, lors de réunions qui ont eu lieu le 27 mai 2002 et le 8 novembre 2002. |
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15.

Avant d'être adopté par la Commission, le texte des lignes directrices a été longuement discuté avec les États Membres, y compris avec le Grand-Duché de Luxembourg, lors de réunions qui ont eu lieu le 27 mai 2002 et le 8 novembre 2002.

| 16. | Comme indiqué au paragraphe 3, la Commission a finalement adopté, le 27 novembre 2002, des nouvelles lignes directrices concernant les aides d'État à l'élimination des déchets d'abattoirs et aux animaux trouvés morts, ainsi qu'aux frais de dépistage des encéphalopathies spongiformes transmissibles (EST). Ces nouvelles règles précisent et modifient la politique communautaire en matière d'aides d'État dans ces secteurs. Elles sont applicables aux nouvelles aides d'État, y compris aux notifications en cours des États membres, depuis le 1er janvier 2003. |
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16.

Comme indiqué au paragraphe 3, la Commission a finalement adopté, le 27 novembre 2002, des nouvelles lignes directrices concernant les aides d'État à l'élimination des déchets d'abattoirs et aux animaux trouvés morts, ainsi qu'aux frais de dépistage des encéphalopathies spongiformes transmissibles (EST). Ces nouvelles règles précisent et modifient la politique communautaire en matière d'aides d'État dans ces secteurs. Elles sont applicables aux nouvelles aides d'État, y compris aux notifications en cours des États membres, depuis le 1er janvier 2003.

| 17. | Par lettre du 12 décembre 2002 (réf. AGRI 29701), les services de la Commission ont transmis formellement le texte des nouvelles règles aux États membres. Ils ont aussi invité tous les États Membres à confirmer par écrit, leur acceptation de ces propositions de mesures appropriées pour le 31 mars 2003 au plus tard, conformément aux dispositions du chapitre IX des lignes directrices (“Domaine d'application et propositions de mesures appropriées”). |
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17.

Par lettre du 12 décembre 2002 (réf. AGRI 29701), les services de la Commission ont transmis formellement le texte des nouvelles règles aux États membres. Ils ont aussi invité tous les États Membres à confirmer par écrit, leur acceptation de ces propositions de mesures appropriées pour le 31 mars 2003 au plus tard, conformément aux dispositions du chapitre IX des lignes directrices (“Domaine d'application et propositions de mesures appropriées”).

| 18. | Les États membres ont également été invités à modifier leurs régimes d'aides existants concernant des aides d'État couvertes par les lignes directrices “TSE”, en vue de les rendre conformes à ces mêmes lignes directrices pour le 31 décembre 2003 au plus tard. |
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18.

Les États membres ont également été invités à modifier leurs régimes d'aides existants concernant des aides d'État couvertes par les lignes directrices “TSE”, en vue de les rendre conformes à ces mêmes lignes directrices pour le 31 décembre 2003 au plus tard.

| 19. | Conformément aux dispositions du point 53 des lignes directrices, si un État membre ne confirmait pas son acceptation par écrit avant cette date, la Commission appliquerait l'article 19, paragraphe 2, du règlement (CE) no 659/1999 et, si nécessaire, ouvrirait la procédure visée dans cette disposition. |
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19.

Conformément aux dispositions du point 53 des lignes directrices, si un État membre ne confirmait pas son acceptation par écrit avant cette date, la Commission appliquerait l'article 19, paragraphe 2, du règlement (CE) no 659/1999 et, si nécessaire, ouvrirait la procédure visée dans cette disposition.

| 20. | L'article 19 paragraphe 2, du règlement (CE) no 659/1999 établit que “Si l'État membre concerné n'accepte pas les mesures proposées et que la Commission, après examen des arguments qu'il présente, continue de penser que ces mesures sont nécessaires, elle ouvre la procédure visée à l'article 4, paragraphe 4. [..] ”. |
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20.

L'article 19 paragraphe 2, du règlement (CE) no 659/1999 établit que “Si l'État membre concerné n'accepte pas les mesures proposées et que la Commission, après examen des arguments qu'il présente, continue de penser que ces mesures sont nécessaires, elle ouvre la procédure visée à l'article 4, paragraphe 4. [..] ”.

| 21. | La Commission constate, à ce stade, que, malgré les invitations répétées, les autorités luxembourgeoises n'ont pas communiqué leur acceptation des mesures appropriées conformément aux nouvelles lignes directrices concernant les aides d'État à l'élimination des déchets d'abattoirs et aux animaux trouvés morts, ainsi qu'aux frais de dépistage des encéphalopathies spongiformes transmissibles (EST). |
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21.

La Commission constate, à ce stade, que, malgré les invitations répétées, les autorités luxembourgeoises n'ont pas communiqué leur acceptation des mesures appropriées conformément aux nouvelles lignes directrices concernant les aides d'État à l'élimination des déchets d'abattoirs et aux animaux trouvés morts, ainsi qu'aux frais de dépistage des encéphalopathies spongiformes transmissibles (EST).

| 22. | La Commission constate aussi que, selon les informations fournies par les autorités luxembourgeoises (voir point 5 de la présente lettre), un ou plusieurs régime(s) d'aides ou des aides ad hoc contraires aux dispositions des lignes directrices peuvent encore être en vigueur au Luxembourg. |
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22.

La Commission constate aussi que, selon les informations fournies par les autorités luxembourgeoises (voir point 5 de la présente lettre), un ou plusieurs régime(s) d'aides ou des aides ad hoc contraires aux dispositions des lignes directrices peuvent encore être en vigueur au Luxembourg.

| 23. | À ce stade, la Commission ne peut que douter de la compatibilité avec le marché commun de ce(s) régime(s) d'aide ou de ces aides ad hoc, qui seraient appliqués en contradiction avec les dispositions des lignes directrices. La Commission a donc décidé d'ouvrir la procédure d'examen prévue à l'article 88, paragraphe 2 du Traité. |
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23.

À ce stade, la Commission ne peut que douter de la compatibilité avec le marché commun de ce(s) régime(s) d'aide ou de ces aides ad hoc, qui seraient appliqués en contradiction avec les dispositions des lignes directrices. La Commission a donc décidé d'ouvrir la procédure d'examen prévue à l'article 88, paragraphe 2 du Traité.

| 24. | La Commission rappelle aux autorités luxembourgeoises que la Cour de Justice a confirmé à plusieurs reprises (2) l'effet contraignant des lignes directrices adoptés par la Commission en matière d'aides d'Etat. Dans cette même jurisprudence la Cour a établi, “En prévoyant que la Commission procède avec les Etats membres à l'examen permanent des régimes d'aides existants dans ces Etats et propose à ces derniers les mesures utiles exigées par le développement progressif ou le fonctionnement du marché commun, l'article 93, paragraphe 1, du traité crée une obligation de coopération régulière et périodique à la charge de la Commission et des Etats membres, dont ni la Commission ni un Etat membre ne sauraient s'affranchir pour une période indéfinie dépendent de la volonté de l'une ou de l'autre.”. |
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24.

La Commission rappelle aux autorités luxembourgeoises que la Cour de Justice a confirmé à plusieurs reprises (2) l'effet contraignant des lignes directrices adoptés par la Commission en matière d'aides d'Etat. Dans cette même jurisprudence la Cour a établi, “En prévoyant que la Commission procède avec les Etats membres à l'examen permanent des régimes d'aides existants dans ces Etats et propose à ces derniers les mesures utiles exigées par le développement progressif ou le fonctionnement du marché commun, l'article 93, paragraphe 1, du traité crée une obligation de coopération régulière et périodique à la charge de la Commission et des Etats membres, dont ni la Commission ni un Etat membre ne sauraient s'affranchir pour une période indéfinie dépendent de la volonté de l'une ou de l'autre.”.

| 25. | Dans ce contexte, pour pouvoir effectuer toutes les vérifications qui lui permettraient de lever ses doutes, la Commission enjoint aux autorités luxembourgeoises de lui communiquer, dans un délai d'un mois à compter de la date de réception de la présente lettre, les dispositions relatives à la mise en œuvre de toutes les aides éventuelles qui seraient encore accordées et qui tomberaient sous le champ d'application des lignes directrices, et notamment les textes de toutes les lois et autres réglementations en vigueur prévoyant de telles aides. À défaut, la Commission adoptera une décision sur la base des éléments dont elle dispose. Elle invite vos autorités à transmettre immédiatement une copie de cette lettre au bénéficiaire potentiel des aides existantes. |
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25.

Dans ce contexte, pour pouvoir effectuer toutes les vérifications qui lui permettraient de lever ses doutes, la Commission enjoint aux autorités luxembourgeoises de lui communiquer, dans un délai d'un mois à compter de la date de réception de la présente lettre, les dispositions relatives à la mise en œuvre de toutes les aides éventuelles qui seraient encore accordées et qui tomberaient sous le champ d'application des lignes directrices, et notamment les textes de toutes les lois et autres réglementations en vigueur prévoyant de telles aides. À défaut, la Commission adoptera une décision sur la base des éléments dont elle dispose. Elle invite vos autorités à transmettre immédiatement une copie de cette lettre au bénéficiaire potentiel des aides existantes.

| 26. | Les autorités luxembourgeoises devront aussi préciser si, et à partir de quelle date, elles ont modifié tous leur régimes d'aides existants prévoyant des aides d'État couvertes par les lignes directrices “TSE”, en vue de les rendre conformes à ces mêmes lignes directrices. Des précisions concernant ces adaptations aux lignes directrices sont aussi nécessaires. |
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26.

Les autorités luxembourgeoises devront aussi préciser si, et à partir de quelle date, elles ont modifié tous leur régimes d'aides existants prévoyant des aides d'État couvertes par les lignes directrices “TSE”, en vue de les rendre conformes à ces mêmes lignes directrices. Des précisions concernant ces adaptations aux lignes directrices sont aussi nécessaires.

| 27. | Si le Grand-Duché de Luxembourg a institué de nouvelles aides couvertes par les lignes directrices “TSE” sans autorisation de la Commission, celle-ci rappelle 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 prévoit que toute aide illégale pourra faire l'objet d'une récupération auprès de son bénéficiaire. |
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27.

Si le Grand-Duché de Luxembourg a institué de nouvelles aides couvertes par les lignes directrices “TSE” sans autorisation de la Commission, celle-ci rappelle 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 prévoit que toute aide illégale pourra faire l'objet d'une récupération auprès de son bénéficiaire.

| 28. | Par la présente, la Commission avise le Luxembourg 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. Tous les intéressés seront invités à présenter leurs observations dans un délai d'un mois à compter de la date de cette publication.’ |
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28.

Par la présente, la Commission avise le Luxembourg 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. Tous les intéressés seront invités à présenter leurs observations dans un délai d'un mois à compter de la date de cette publication.’

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(1)   JO C 324 de 24.12.2000, p. 2.

1

(2)  Voir Arrêt du 29.6.1995, “Espagne v. Commission”, affaire C- 135/93, Recueil ??? et Arrêt du 15.10.1996, “IJssel-Vliet Combinatie BV v. Minister van Economische Zaken”, affaire C-311/9 ?, Recueil ???.

2

C- 135/

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| 21.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 93/13 |
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21.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 93/13

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Commission notice pursuant to Article 4(1)(a) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92

(2006/C 93/08)

(Text with EEA relevance)

Pursuant to 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, the Italian Government has decided, in accordance with the proposal put forward by the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to impose public service obligations on scheduled air services on certain routes between Sardinian airports and the main national airports.

The insularity of Sardinia significantly limits the scope for connections, which is why air transport has a fundamental and irreplaceable role for which there are no valid comparable alternatives.

Consequently, scheduled air services are considered to be public-interest services which are vital for the economic and social development of the island to guarantee both the freedom of movement of persons and their right to travel freely.

1.   ROUTES CONCERNED AND GENERAL PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE SERVICE OBLIGATIONS

| 1.1. | The routes concerned by the imposition of public service obligations are as follows: | Alghero — Bologna and vice versa |
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1.1.

The routes concerned by the imposition of public service obligations are as follows:

Alghero — Bologna and vice versa

| | Alghero — Turin and vice versa |
| --- | --- |

Alghero — Turin and vice versa

| | Cagliari — Bologna and vice versa |
| --- | --- |

Cagliari — Bologna and vice versa

| | Cagliari — Turin and vice versa |
| --- | --- |

Cagliari — Turin and vice versa

| | Cagliari — Florence and vice versa |
| --- | --- |

Cagliari — Florence and vice versa

| | Cagliari — Verona and vice versa |
| --- | --- |

Cagliari — Verona and vice versa

| | Cagliari — Naples and vice versa |
| --- | --- |

Cagliari — Naples and vice versa

| | Cagliari — Palermo and vice versa |
| --- | --- |

Cagliari — Palermo and vice versa

| | Olbia — Bologna and vice versa |
| --- | --- |

Olbia — Bologna and vice versa

| | Olbia — Verona and vice versa |
| --- | --- |

Olbia — Verona and vice versa

| 1.2. | In accordance with Article 9 of Regulation (EEC) No 95/93 of 18 January 1993, as amended by Regulation (EC) No 793/2004, relating to common rules for the allocation of slots at Community airports, the competent authorities may reserve certain slots for the operation of services in accordance with these obligations. |
| --- | --- |

1.2.

In accordance with Article 9 of Regulation (EEC) No 95/93 of 18 January 1993, as amended by Regulation (EC) No 793/2004, relating to common rules for the allocation of slots at Community airports, the competent authorities may reserve certain slots for the operation of services in accordance with these obligations.

| 1.3. | Each of the above routes and the obligations imposed on them must be accepted individually, in their entirety and as a whole by the carriers concerned. |
| --- | --- |

1.3.

Each of the above routes and the obligations imposed on them must be accepted individually, in their entirety and as a whole by the carriers concerned.

| 1.4. | Each individual carrier which accepts the public service obligations must provide a performance security for the purpose of guaranteeing the correct performance and continuation of the service. That security must amount to at least 5 % of the total estimated turnover evaluated by ENAC (the Italian National Civil Aviation Authority) for the air services scheduled for the package of routes in question. The security will be payable to ENAC, which will use it to ensure the continuation of the services concerned in the event of unjustified abandonment, and is to consist of a first request bank surety (50 %) and an insurance surety (for the remaining 50 %). |
| --- | --- |

1.4.

Each individual carrier which accepts the public service obligations must provide a performance security for the purpose of guaranteeing the correct performance and continuation of the service. That security must amount to at least 5 % of the total estimated turnover evaluated by ENAC (the Italian National Civil Aviation Authority) for the air services scheduled for the package of routes in question. The security will be payable to ENAC, which will use it to ensure the continuation of the services concerned in the event of unjustified abandonment, and is to consist of a first request bank surety (50 %) and an insurance surety (for the remaining 50 %).

| 1.5. | ENAC, acting in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, will verify whether the accepting carriers possess the requisite structure and meet the minimum requirements for access to the service in order to meet the objectives pursued by the imposition of the public service obligations. On conclusion of this verification, the carriers which are considered suitable to perform the services concerned will be allowed to do so. |
| --- | --- |

1.5.

ENAC, acting in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, will verify whether the accepting carriers possess the requisite structure and meet the minimum requirements for access to the service in order to meet the objectives pursued by the imposition of the public service obligations. On conclusion of this verification, the carriers which are considered suitable to perform the services concerned will be allowed to do so.

| 1.6. | To avoid the overcapacity which would result if several carriers were to accept a route subject to the obligations, considering the infrastructure limitations and conditions of the airports involved, the Italian National Civil Aviation Authority, after consultation with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, has the task of intervening in the public interest to limit the accepting carriers' flight schedules so as to ensure that, taken together, they are in line with the travel requirements underlying the obligations imposed.
  Such intervention should be aimed at a fair redistribution of routes and frequencies between the accepting carriers. |
| --- | --- |

1.6.

To avoid the overcapacity which would result if several carriers were to accept a route subject to the obligations, considering the infrastructure limitations and conditions of the airports involved, the Italian National Civil Aviation Authority, after consultation with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, has the task of intervening in the public interest to limit the accepting carriers' flight schedules so as to ensure that, taken together, they are in line with the travel requirements underlying the obligations imposed.

Such intervention should be aimed at a fair redistribution of routes and frequencies between the accepting carriers.

| 1.7. | For the purposes of accepting the service obligations on the abovementioned routes, each accepting carrier must meet the following minimum requirements:






  1. | be a Community air carrier in possession of the AOC and the required licence in accordance with Regulation (EEC) No 2407/92; |
| --- | --- | --- |

1.7.

For the purposes of accepting the service obligations on the abovementioned routes, each accepting carrier must meet the following minimum requirements:

1.

be a Community air carrier in possession of the AOC and the required licence in accordance with Regulation (EEC) No 2407/92;

| 2. | demonstrate that it has the requisite size and financial capacity to guarantee meeting the objectives underlying the imposition of public service obligations, with a turnover from air traffic in the year preceding the imposition of these obligations at least equal to the total for the route accepted, or equivalent capital; |
| --- | --- |

2.

demonstrate that it has the requisite size and financial capacity to guarantee meeting the objectives underlying the imposition of public service obligations, with a turnover from air traffic in the year preceding the imposition of these obligations at least equal to the total for the route accepted, or equivalent capital;

| 3. | demonstrate that it has at its disposal, either in its ownership or on lease guaranteed for the entire duration of the obligations, an adequate number of aircraft consistent with the number of first flights in the morning leaving Sardinia, as provided for in the obligations imposed, and in general an adequate number of aircraft with the requisite seating capacity to satisfy the requirements of the obligations imposed; |
| --- | --- |

3.

demonstrate that it has at its disposal, either in its ownership or on lease guaranteed for the entire duration of the obligations, an adequate number of aircraft consistent with the number of first flights in the morning leaving Sardinia, as provided for in the obligations imposed, and in general an adequate number of aircraft with the requisite seating capacity to satisfy the requirements of the obligations imposed;

| 4. | employ on the routes concerned personnel who speak Italian fluently and correctly; |
| --- | --- |

4.

employ on the routes concerned personnel who speak Italian fluently and correctly;

| 5. | distribute and sell tickets with at least one of the principal CRS (Amadeus, Galileo, Sabre, World Span) by Internet, by telephone, at airport ticket counters, and through the travel agency system, at least one of the methods listed being without any charge to the purchasers; |
| --- | --- |

5.

distribute and sell tickets with at least one of the principal CRS (Amadeus, Galileo, Sabre, World Span) by Internet, by telephone, at airport ticket counters, and through the travel agency system, at least one of the methods listed being without any charge to the purchasers;

| 6. | self-certify having achieved during the period from 1 January 2004 to 31 December 2004 an overall regularity coefficient of at least 98 % and a punctuality coefficient (on the basis of IATA's statistical conventions) of at least 80 % to within 15 minutes; |
| --- | --- |

6.

self-certify having achieved during the period from 1 January 2004 to 31 December 2004 an overall regularity coefficient of at least 98 % and a punctuality coefficient (on the basis of IATA's statistical conventions) of at least 80 % to within 15 minutes;

| 7. | provide the performance security as described in Point 1.4 above. |
| --- | --- |

7.

provide the performance security as described in Point 1.4 above.

| 1.8. | In order to guarantee the objectives of continuity, reliability, punctuality and security of service, carriers which intend to accept the service obligations must provide ENAC with appropriate supporting documents (in Italian or English) to show that they meet the abovementioned minimum requirements and have the organisational, technical, and financial resources needed for the service. |
| --- | --- |

1.8.

In order to guarantee the objectives of continuity, reliability, punctuality and security of service, carriers which intend to accept the service obligations must provide ENAC with appropriate supporting documents (in Italian or English) to show that they meet the abovementioned minimum requirements and have the organisational, technical, and financial resources needed for the service.

| 1.9. | The carriers which accept the present public service obligations undertake to observe and apply domestic, international and Community law with regard to the protection of passengers in cases of physical damage, overbooking, late or cancelled flights, and lost, late or damaged baggage; they also undertake to apply the Community rules of Regulation (EC) No 261/2004, which entered into force on 17 February 2005, concerning overbooking, flight cancellations and delays, with particular regard to the rights of disabled passengers and passengers with reduced mobility. By accepting the present obligations, the carriers at the same time commit themselves to ensuring that their conduct vis-à-vis users conforms to the principles contained in the European and Italian Charter of Passengers' Rights. |
| --- | --- |

1.9.

The carriers which accept the present public service obligations undertake to observe and apply domestic, international and Community law with regard to the protection of passengers in cases of physical damage, overbooking, late or cancelled flights, and lost, late or damaged baggage; they also undertake to apply the Community rules of Regulation (EC) No 261/2004, which entered into force on 17 February 2005, concerning overbooking, flight cancellations and delays, with particular regard to the rights of disabled passengers and passengers with reduced mobility. By accepting the present obligations, the carriers at the same time commit themselves to ensuring that their conduct vis-à-vis users conforms to the principles contained in the European and Italian Charter of Passengers' Rights.

2.   ORGANISATION OF THE PUBLIC SERVICE OBLIGATIONS

| 2.1. | The public service obligations are organised taking into consideration the special conditions arising from Sardinia's insularity. In terms of the number of minimum frequencies and capacity offered the obligations are as follows:
  2.1.1.   On the Alghero — Bologna route
  a)   Minimum daily frequency
  On the Alghero — Bologna route at least 1 outward flight and 1 return flight are to be guaranteed throughout the year. The service must be direct without any intermediate stopover.
  b)   Timetables
  The flight schedule must take into consideration the need to guarantee the outward flight from and the return flight to Sardinia within the day and a significant length of stay at the destination. To this end, the outward flight from Sardinia must leave no later than 9.30 and the return flight to Sardinia must leave no earlier than 19.00.
  c)   Capacity
  The minimum daily capacity offered throughout the year must be 40 seats on the Alghero — Bologna route and 40 seats on the Bologna — Alghero route.
  If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights exceeds 80 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to introduce additional flights or use aircraft with a greater capacity in order to satisfy the demand, without any extra charge to the Administration.
  If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights is less than 50 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to use aircraft with a smaller capacity and/or bring supply into line with demand.
  2.1.2.   On the Alghero — Turin route
  a)   Minimum daily frequency
  On the Alghero — Turin route at least 1 outward flight and 1 return flight are to be guaranteed throughout the year. The service must be direct without any intermediate stopover.
  b)   Timetables
  The flight schedule must take into consideration the need to guarantee the outward flight from and the return flight to Sardinia within the day and a significant length of stay at the destination. To this end, the outward flight from Sardinia must leave no later than 9.30 and the return flight to Sardinia must leave no earlier than 19.00.
  c)   Capacity
  The minimum daily capacity offered throughout the year must be 40 seats on the Alghero — Turin route and 40 seats on the Turin — Alghero route.
  If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights exceeds 80 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to introduce additional flights or use aircraft with a greater capacity in order to satisfy the demand, without any extra charge to the Administration.
  If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights is less than 50 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to use aircraft with a smaller capacity and/or bring supply into line with demand.
  2.1.3.   On the Cagliari — Bologna route
  a)   Minimum daily frequency
  On the Cagliari — Bologna route, at least 1/2 (1) outward flights and 1/2 (1) return flights are to be guaranteed from 1 October to 31 May, and at least 2 outward flights and 2 return flights are to be guaranteed from 1 June to 30 September (plus the Christmas and Easter periods).
  b)   Timetables
  The flight schedule must take into consideration the need to guarantee the outward flight from and the return flight to Sardinia within the day and a significant length of stay at the destination. To this end, the outward flight from Sardinia must leave no later than 9.30 and the return flight to Sardinia must leave no earlier than 19.00.
  c)   Capacity
  The daily capacity offered is determined taking into consideration the different frequencies provided for during the two periods indicated in the obligations.
  The minimum daily capacity offered during the period from 1 October to 31 May must be 150 seats on the Cagliari — Bologna route and 150 seats on the Bologna — Cagliari route.
  The minimum daily capacity offered during the period from 1 June to 30 September (including the Christmas and Easter periods) must be 300 seats on the Cagliari — Bologna route and 300 seats on the Bologna — Cagliari route.
  If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights exceeds 80 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to introduce additional flights or use aircraft with a greater capacity in order to satisfy the demand, without any extra charge to the Administration.
  If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights is less than 50 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to use aircraft with a smaller capacity and/or bring supply into line with demand.
  2.1.4.   On the Cagliari — Turin route
  a)   Minimum daily frequency
  On the Cagliari — Turin route, at least 1/2 (2) outward flights and 1/2 (2) return flights are to be guaranteed from 1 October to 31 May, and at least 2 outward flights and 2 return flights are to be guaranteed from 1 June to 30 September (plus the Christmas and Easter periods).
  b)   Timetables
  The flight schedule must take into consideration the need to guarantee the outward flight from and the return flight to Sardinia within the day and a significant length of stay at the destination. To this end, the outward flight from Sardinia must leave no later than 9.30 and the return flight to Sardinia must leave no earlier than 19.00.
  c)   Capacity
  The daily capacity offered is determined taking into consideration the different frequencies provided for during the two periods indicated in the obligations.
  The minimum daily capacity offered during the period from 1 October to 31 May must be 150 seats on the Cagliari — Turin route and 150 seats on the Turin — Cagliari route.
  The minimum daily capacity offered during the period from 1 June to 30 September (including the Christmas and Easter periods) must be 300 seats on the Cagliari — Turin route and 300 seats on the Turin — Cagliari route.
  If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights exceeds 80 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to introduce additional flights or use aircraft with a greater capacity in order to satisfy the demand, without any extra charge to the Administration.
  If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights is less than 50 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to use aircraft with a smaller capacity and/or bring supply into line with demand.
  2.1.5.   On the Cagliari — Florence route
  a)   Minimum daily frequency
  On the Cagliari — Florence route at least 1 outward flight and 1 return flight are to be guaranteed throughout the year. The service must be direct without any intermediate stopover.
  b)   Timetables
  The flight schedule must take into consideration the need to guarantee the outward flight from and the return flight to Sardinia within the day and a significant length of stay at the destination. To this end, the outward flight from Sardinia must leave no later than 9.30 and the return flight to Sardinia must leave no earlier than 19.00.
  c)   Capacity
  The minimum daily capacity offered throughout the year must be 130 seats on the Cagliari — Florence route and 130 seats on the Florence — Cagliari route.
  If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights exceeds 80 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to introduce additional flights or use aircraft with a greater capacity in order to satisfy the demand, without any extra charge to the Administration.
  If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights is less than 50 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to use aircraft with a smaller capacity and/or bring supply into line with demand.
  2.1.6.   On the Cagliari — Verona route
  a)   Minimum daily frequency
  On the Cagliari — Verona route at least 1 outward flight and 1 return flight are to be guaranteed throughout the year. The service must be direct without any intermediate stopover.
  b)   Timetables
  The flight schedule must take into consideration the need to guarantee the outward flight from and the return flight to Sardinia within the day and a significant length of stay at the destination. To this end, the outward flight from Sardinia must leave no later than 9.30 and the return flight to Sardinia must leave no earlier than 19.00.
  c)   Capacity
  The minimum daily capacity offered throughout the year must be 150 seats on the Cagliari — Verona route and 150 seats on the Verona — Cagliari route.
  If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights exceeds 80 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to introduce additional flights or use aircraft with a greater capacity in order to satisfy the demand, without any extra charge to the Administration.
  If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights is less than 50 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to use aircraft with a smaller capacity and/or bring supply into line with demand.
  2.1.7.   On the Cagliari — Naples route
  a)   Minimum daily frequency
  On the Cagliari — Naples route at least 1 outward flight and 1 return flight are to be guaranteed throughout the year. The service must be direct without any intermediate stopover.
  b)   Timetables
  The flight schedule must take into consideration the need to guarantee the outward flight from and the return flight to Sardinia within the day and a significant length of stay at the destination. To this end, the outward flight from Sardinia must leave no later than 9.30 and the return flight to Sardinia must leave no earlier than 19.00.
  c)   Capacity
  The minimum daily capacity offered throughout the year must be 130 seats on the Cagliari — Naples route and 130 seats on the Naples — Cagliari route.
  If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights exceeds 80 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to introduce additional flights or use aircraft with a greater capacity in order to satisfy the demand, without any extra charge to the Administration.
  If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights is less than 50 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to use aircraft with a smaller capacity and/or bring supply into line with demand.
  2.1.8.   On the Cagliari — Palermo route
  a)   Minimum daily frequency
  On the Cagliari — Palermo route at least 1 outward flight and 1 return flight are to be guaranteed throughout the year. The service must be direct without any intermediate stopover.
  b)   Timetables
  The flight schedule must take into consideration the need to guarantee the outward flight from and the return flight to Sardinia within the day and a significant length of stay at the destination. To this end, the outward flight from Sardinia must leave no later than 9.30 and the return flight to Sardinia must leave no earlier than 19.00.
  c)   Capacity
  The minimum daily capacity offered throughout the year must be 40 seats on the Cagliari — Palermo route and 40 seats on the Palermo — Cagliari route.
  If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights exceeds 80 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to introduce additional flights or use aircraft with a greater capacity in order to satisfy the demand, without any extra charge to the Administration.
  If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights is less than 50 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to use aircraft with a smaller capacity and/or bring supply into line with demand.
  2.1.9.   On the Olbia — Bologna route
  a)   Minimum daily frequency
  On the Olbia — Bologna route, at least 1 outward flight and 1 return flight are to be guaranteed from 1 October to 31 May, and at least 2 outward flights and 2 return flights are to be guaranteed from 1 June to 30 September (plus the Christmas and Easter periods). The service must be direct without any intermediate stopover.
  b)   Timetables
  The flight schedule must take into consideration the need to guarantee the outward flight from and the return flight to Sardinia within the day and a significant length of stay at the destination. To this end, the outward flight from Sardinia must leave no later than 9.30 and the return flight to Sardinia must leave no earlier than 19.00.
  c)   Capacity
  The minimum daily capacity offered throughout the year must be 150 seats on the Olbia — Bologna route and 150 seats on the Bologna — Olbia route.
  The minimum daily capacity offered during the period from 1 June to 30 September (including the Christmas and Easter periods) shall be 300 seats on the Olbia — Bologna route and 300 seats on the Bologna — Olbia route.
  If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights exceeds 80 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to introduce additional flights or use aircraft with a greater capacity in order to satisfy the demand, without any extra charge to the Administration.
  If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights is less than 50 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to use aircraft with a smaller capacity and/or bring supply into line with demand.
  2.1.10.   On the Olbia — Verona route
  a)   Minimum daily frequency
  On the Olbia — Verona route, at least 1 outward flight and 1 return flight are to be guaranteed from 1 October to 31 May, and at least 2 outward flights and 2 return flights are to be guaranteed from 1 June to 30 September (plus the Christmas and Easter periods). The service must be direct without any intermediate stopover.
  b)   Timetables
  The flight schedule must take into consideration the need to guarantee the outward flight from and the return flight to Sardinia within the day and a significant length of stay at the destination. To this end, the outward flight from Sardinia must leave no later than 9.30 and the return flight to Sardinia must leave no earlier than 19.00.
  c)   Capacity
  The daily capacity offered is determined taking into consideration the different frequencies provided for during the two periods indicated in the obligations.
  The minimum daily capacity offered during the period from 1 October to 31 May must be 150 seats on the Olbia — Verona route and 150 seats on the Verona — Olbia route.
  The minimum daily capacity offered during the period from 1 June to 30 September (including the Christmas and Easter periods) must be 300 seats on the Olbia — Verona route and 300 seats on the Verona — Olbia route.
  If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights exceeds 80 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to introduce additional flights or use aircraft with a greater capacity in order to satisfy the demand, without any extra charge to the Administration.
  If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights is less than 50 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to use aircraft with a smaller capacity and/or bring supply into line with demand. |
| --- | --- |

2.1.

The public service obligations are organised taking into consideration the special conditions arising from Sardinia's insularity. In terms of the number of minimum frequencies and capacity offered the obligations are as follows:

2.1.1.   On the Alghero — Bologna route

a)   Minimum daily frequency

On the Alghero — Bologna route at least 1 outward flight and 1 return flight are to be guaranteed throughout the year. The service must be direct without any intermediate stopover.

b)   Timetables

The flight schedule must take into consideration the need to guarantee the outward flight from and the return flight to Sardinia within the day and a significant length of stay at the destination. To this end, the outward flight from Sardinia must leave no later than 9.30 and the return flight to Sardinia must leave no earlier than 19.00.

c)   Capacity

The minimum daily capacity offered throughout the year must be 40 seats on the Alghero — Bologna route and 40 seats on the Bologna — Alghero route.

If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights exceeds 80 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to introduce additional flights or use aircraft with a greater capacity in order to satisfy the demand, without any extra charge to the Administration.

If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights is less than 50 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to use aircraft with a smaller capacity and/or bring supply into line with demand.

2.1.2.   On the Alghero — Turin route

a)   Minimum daily frequency

On the Alghero — Turin route at least 1 outward flight and 1 return flight are to be guaranteed throughout the year. The service must be direct without any intermediate stopover.

b)   Timetables

The flight schedule must take into consideration the need to guarantee the outward flight from and the return flight to Sardinia within the day and a significant length of stay at the destination. To this end, the outward flight from Sardinia must leave no later than 9.30 and the return flight to Sardinia must leave no earlier than 19.00.

c)   Capacity

The minimum daily capacity offered throughout the year must be 40 seats on the Alghero — Turin route and 40 seats on the Turin — Alghero route.

If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights exceeds 80 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to introduce additional flights or use aircraft with a greater capacity in order to satisfy the demand, without any extra charge to the Administration.

If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights is less than 50 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to use aircraft with a smaller capacity and/or bring supply into line with demand.

2.1.3.   On the Cagliari — Bologna route

a)   Minimum daily frequency

On the Cagliari — Bologna route, at least 1/2 (1) outward flights and 1/2 (1) return flights are to be guaranteed from 1 October to 31 May, and at least 2 outward flights and 2 return flights are to be guaranteed from 1 June to 30 September (plus the Christmas and Easter periods).

b)   Timetables

The flight schedule must take into consideration the need to guarantee the outward flight from and the return flight to Sardinia within the day and a significant length of stay at the destination. To this end, the outward flight from Sardinia must leave no later than 9.30 and the return flight to Sardinia must leave no earlier than 19.00.

c)   Capacity

The daily capacity offered is determined taking into consideration the different frequencies provided for during the two periods indicated in the obligations.

The minimum daily capacity offered during the period from 1 October to 31 May must be 150 seats on the Cagliari — Bologna route and 150 seats on the Bologna — Cagliari route.

The minimum daily capacity offered during the period from 1 June to 30 September (including the Christmas and Easter periods) must be 300 seats on the Cagliari — Bologna route and 300 seats on the Bologna — Cagliari route.

If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights exceeds 80 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to introduce additional flights or use aircraft with a greater capacity in order to satisfy the demand, without any extra charge to the Administration.

If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights is less than 50 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to use aircraft with a smaller capacity and/or bring supply into line with demand.

2.1.4.   On the Cagliari — Turin route

a)   Minimum daily frequency

On the Cagliari — Turin route, at least 1/2 (2) outward flights and 1/2 (2) return flights are to be guaranteed from 1 October to 31 May, and at least 2 outward flights and 2 return flights are to be guaranteed from 1 June to 30 September (plus the Christmas and Easter periods).

b)   Timetables

The flight schedule must take into consideration the need to guarantee the outward flight from and the return flight to Sardinia within the day and a significant length of stay at the destination. To this end, the outward flight from Sardinia must leave no later than 9.30 and the return flight to Sardinia must leave no earlier than 19.00.

c)   Capacity

The daily capacity offered is determined taking into consideration the different frequencies provided for during the two periods indicated in the obligations.

The minimum daily capacity offered during the period from 1 October to 31 May must be 150 seats on the Cagliari — Turin route and 150 seats on the Turin — Cagliari route.

The minimum daily capacity offered during the period from 1 June to 30 September (including the Christmas and Easter periods) must be 300 seats on the Cagliari — Turin route and 300 seats on the Turin — Cagliari route.

If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights exceeds 80 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to introduce additional flights or use aircraft with a greater capacity in order to satisfy the demand, without any extra charge to the Administration.

If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights is less than 50 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to use aircraft with a smaller capacity and/or bring supply into line with demand.

2.1.5.   On the Cagliari — Florence route

a)   Minimum daily frequency

On the Cagliari — Florence route at least 1 outward flight and 1 return flight are to be guaranteed throughout the year. The service must be direct without any intermediate stopover.

b)   Timetables

The flight schedule must take into consideration the need to guarantee the outward flight from and the return flight to Sardinia within the day and a significant length of stay at the destination. To this end, the outward flight from Sardinia must leave no later than 9.30 and the return flight to Sardinia must leave no earlier than 19.00.

c)   Capacity

The minimum daily capacity offered throughout the year must be 130 seats on the Cagliari — Florence route and 130 seats on the Florence — Cagliari route.

If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights exceeds 80 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to introduce additional flights or use aircraft with a greater capacity in order to satisfy the demand, without any extra charge to the Administration.

If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights is less than 50 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to use aircraft with a smaller capacity and/or bring supply into line with demand.

2.1.6.   On the Cagliari — Verona route

a)   Minimum daily frequency

On the Cagliari — Verona route at least 1 outward flight and 1 return flight are to be guaranteed throughout the year. The service must be direct without any intermediate stopover.

b)   Timetables

The flight schedule must take into consideration the need to guarantee the outward flight from and the return flight to Sardinia within the day and a significant length of stay at the destination. To this end, the outward flight from Sardinia must leave no later than 9.30 and the return flight to Sardinia must leave no earlier than 19.00.

c)   Capacity

The minimum daily capacity offered throughout the year must be 150 seats on the Cagliari — Verona route and 150 seats on the Verona — Cagliari route.

If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights exceeds 80 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to introduce additional flights or use aircraft with a greater capacity in order to satisfy the demand, without any extra charge to the Administration.

If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights is less than 50 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to use aircraft with a smaller capacity and/or bring supply into line with demand.

2.1.7.   On the Cagliari — Naples route

a)   Minimum daily frequency

On the Cagliari — Naples route at least 1 outward flight and 1 return flight are to be guaranteed throughout the year. The service must be direct without any intermediate stopover.

b)   Timetables

The flight schedule must take into consideration the need to guarantee the outward flight from and the return flight to Sardinia within the day and a significant length of stay at the destination. To this end, the outward flight from Sardinia must leave no later than 9.30 and the return flight to Sardinia must leave no earlier than 19.00.

c)   Capacity

The minimum daily capacity offered throughout the year must be 130 seats on the Cagliari — Naples route and 130 seats on the Naples — Cagliari route.

If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights exceeds 80 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to introduce additional flights or use aircraft with a greater capacity in order to satisfy the demand, without any extra charge to the Administration.

If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights is less than 50 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to use aircraft with a smaller capacity and/or bring supply into line with demand.

2.1.8.   On the Cagliari — Palermo route

a)   Minimum daily frequency

On the Cagliari — Palermo route at least 1 outward flight and 1 return flight are to be guaranteed throughout the year. The service must be direct without any intermediate stopover.

b)   Timetables

The flight schedule must take into consideration the need to guarantee the outward flight from and the return flight to Sardinia within the day and a significant length of stay at the destination. To this end, the outward flight from Sardinia must leave no later than 9.30 and the return flight to Sardinia must leave no earlier than 19.00.

c)   Capacity

The minimum daily capacity offered throughout the year must be 40 seats on the Cagliari — Palermo route and 40 seats on the Palermo — Cagliari route.

If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights exceeds 80 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to introduce additional flights or use aircraft with a greater capacity in order to satisfy the demand, without any extra charge to the Administration.

If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights is less than 50 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to use aircraft with a smaller capacity and/or bring supply into line with demand.

2.1.9.   On the Olbia — Bologna route

a)   Minimum daily frequency

On the Olbia — Bologna route, at least 1 outward flight and 1 return flight are to be guaranteed from 1 October to 31 May, and at least 2 outward flights and 2 return flights are to be guaranteed from 1 June to 30 September (plus the Christmas and Easter periods). The service must be direct without any intermediate stopover.

b)   Timetables

The flight schedule must take into consideration the need to guarantee the outward flight from and the return flight to Sardinia within the day and a significant length of stay at the destination. To this end, the outward flight from Sardinia must leave no later than 9.30 and the return flight to Sardinia must leave no earlier than 19.00.

c)   Capacity

The minimum daily capacity offered throughout the year must be 150 seats on the Olbia — Bologna route and 150 seats on the Bologna — Olbia route.

The minimum daily capacity offered during the period from 1 June to 30 September (including the Christmas and Easter periods) shall be 300 seats on the Olbia — Bologna route and 300 seats on the Bologna — Olbia route.

If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights exceeds 80 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to introduce additional flights or use aircraft with a greater capacity in order to satisfy the demand, without any extra charge to the Administration.

If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights is less than 50 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to use aircraft with a smaller capacity and/or bring supply into line with demand.

2.1.10.   On the Olbia — Verona route

a)   Minimum daily frequency

On the Olbia — Verona route, at least 1 outward flight and 1 return flight are to be guaranteed from 1 October to 31 May, and at least 2 outward flights and 2 return flights are to be guaranteed from 1 June to 30 September (plus the Christmas and Easter periods). The service must be direct without any intermediate stopover.

b)   Timetables

The flight schedule must take into consideration the need to guarantee the outward flight from and the return flight to Sardinia within the day and a significant length of stay at the destination. To this end, the outward flight from Sardinia must leave no later than 9.30 and the return flight to Sardinia must leave no earlier than 19.00.

c)   Capacity

The daily capacity offered is determined taking into consideration the different frequencies provided for during the two periods indicated in the obligations.

The minimum daily capacity offered during the period from 1 October to 31 May must be 150 seats on the Olbia — Verona route and 150 seats on the Verona — Olbia route.

The minimum daily capacity offered during the period from 1 June to 30 September (including the Christmas and Easter periods) must be 300 seats on the Olbia — Verona route and 300 seats on the Verona — Olbia route.

If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights exceeds 80 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to introduce additional flights or use aircraft with a greater capacity in order to satisfy the demand, without any extra charge to the Administration.

If the total daily load factor for the scheduled flights is less than 50 %, the carriers accepting the route may be authorised by ENAC, in agreement with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to use aircraft with a smaller capacity and/or bring supply into line with demand.

3.   Type of aircraft to be used on each route

The aircraft to be used on the routes

| | Cagliari — Bologna — Cagliari |
| --- | --- |

Cagliari — Bologna — Cagliari

| | Cagliari — Turin — Cagliari |
| --- | --- |

Cagliari — Turin — Cagliari

| | Cagliari — Verona — Cagliari |
| --- | --- |

Cagliari — Verona — Cagliari

| | Olbia — Verona — Olbia |
| --- | --- |

Olbia — Verona — Olbia

| | Olbia — Bologna — Olbia |
| --- | --- |

Olbia — Bologna — Olbia

must each have a minimum capacity of 150 seats.

The aircraft to be used on the routes

| | Cagliari — Naples — Cagliari |
| --- | --- |

Cagliari — Naples — Cagliari

| | Cagliari — Florence — Cagliari |
| --- | --- |

Cagliari — Florence — Cagliari

must each have a minimum capacity of 130 seats.

The aircraft to be used on the routes

| | Alghero — Bologna — Alghero |
| --- | --- |

Alghero — Bologna — Alghero

| | Alghero — Turin — Alghero |
| --- | --- |

Alghero — Turin — Alghero

| | Cagliari — Palermo — Cagliari |
| --- | --- |

Cagliari — Palermo — Cagliari

must each have a minimum capacity of 40 seats.

| 3.1. | The entire capacity of each aircraft used, even if it exceeds the minimum capacities provided for above, for each flight, must be offered for sale in accordance with the obligations imposed, without any seating quota system for residents and/or non-residents. Similarly, bookings and additions to waiting lists must be accepted without discrimination against the categories of passengers envisaged by the service obligations. |
| --- | --- |

3.1.

The entire capacity of each aircraft used, even if it exceeds the minimum capacities provided for above, for each flight, must be offered for sale in accordance with the obligations imposed, without any seating quota system for residents and/or non-residents. Similarly, bookings and additions to waiting lists must be accepted without discrimination against the categories of passengers envisaged by the service obligations.

| 3.2. | Any practices designed to circumvent this requirement, in particular the refusal to issue tickets at a concessionary fare notwithstanding seat availability on the aircraft, will be considered a serious breach of the obligations imposed. |
| --- | --- |

3.2.

Any practices designed to circumvent this requirement, in particular the refusal to issue tickets at a concessionary fare notwithstanding seat availability on the aircraft, will be considered a serious breach of the obligations imposed.

4.   FARES

| 4.1. | The fare structure for all the routes concerned must include:






  — | a maximum concessionary fare which is the maximum price applicable to passengers who belong to a favoured category as described herein, |
| --- | --- | --- |

4.1.

The fare structure for all the routes concerned must include:

—

a maximum concessionary fare which is the maximum price applicable to passengers who belong to a favoured category as described herein,

| — | a maximum non-concessionary fare which is the maximum price applicable to all passengers who do not belong to a favoured category. Carriers which accept the public service obligations undertake to structure the fares according to the different groups so as to guarantee the sale of an adequate number of special and discount tickets resulting in an average sales price significantly lower than the maximum non-concessionary fare. |
| --- | --- |

—

a maximum non-concessionary fare which is the maximum price applicable to all passengers who do not belong to a favoured category. Carriers which accept the public service obligations undertake to structure the fares according to the different groups so as to guarantee the sale of an adequate number of special and discount tickets resulting in an average sales price significantly lower than the maximum non-concessionary fare.

Fares are to be structured as follows:

| Route concerned | Maximum concessionary fare
  (EUR) | Maximum non-concessionary fare
  (EUR) |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Alghero — Bologna | 55,00 | 97,00 |
| Alghero — Turin | 55,00 | 97,00 |
| Cagliari — Bologna | 55,00 | 97,00 |
| Cagliari — Turin | 55,00 | 97,00 |
| Cagliari — Florence | 55,00 | 97,00 |
| Cagliari — Verona | 55,00 | 97,00 |
| Cagliari — Naples | 55,00 | 97,00 |
| Cagliari — Palermo | 55,00 | 97,00 |
| Olbia — Bologna | 55,00 | 97,00 |
| Olbia — Verona | 55,00 | 97,00 |

Route concerned

Maximum concessionary fare

(EUR)

Maximum non-concessionary fare

(EUR)

Alghero — Bologna

55,00

97,00

Alghero — Turin

55,00

97,00

Cagliari — Bologna

55,00

97,00

Cagliari — Turin

55,00

97,00

Cagliari — Florence

55,00

97,00

Cagliari — Verona

55,00

97,00

Cagliari — Naples

55,00

97,00

Cagliari — Palermo

55,00

97,00

Olbia — Bologna

55,00

97,00

Olbia — Verona

55,00

97,00

| 4.2. | All the fares indicated are inclusive of VAT and net of airport taxes and charges and of a crisis surcharge which shall not exceed EUR 6,00. Should the conditions which brought about the levying of the crisis surcharge no longer apply or become less significant, the crisis surcharge will have to be removed or proportionately reduced. No other charges of any kind, whatever their designation, may be applied to the fares indicated. |
| --- | --- |

4.2.

All the fares indicated are inclusive of VAT and net of airport taxes and charges and of a crisis surcharge which shall not exceed EUR 6,00. Should the conditions which brought about the levying of the crisis surcharge no longer apply or become less significant, the crisis surcharge will have to be removed or proportionately reduced. No other charges of any kind, whatever their designation, may be applied to the fares indicated.

| 4.3. | The concessionary fare must be unlimited and unrestricted and must not be subject to penalties for changes of date/time/ticket or for reimbursement. |
| --- | --- |

4.3.

The concessionary fare must be unlimited and unrestricted and must not be subject to penalties for changes of date/time/ticket or for reimbursement.

| 4.4. | At least one form of ticket distribution and sale must be provided which is entirely free of charge and places no additional economic burden on passengers. |
| --- | --- |

4.4.

At least one form of ticket distribution and sale must be provided which is entirely free of charge and places no additional economic burden on passengers.

| 4.5. | Every year, beginning on 1 January 2007, the competent authorities will review the indicated fares on the basis of the inflation rate for the preceding year calculated according to the general ISTAT/FOI consumer price index. The revision will be communicated to all the carriers which operate on the routes concerned applying the fares in question and to the European Commission for publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. |
| --- | --- |

4.5.

Every year, beginning on 1 January 2007, the competent authorities will review the indicated fares on the basis of the inflation rate for the preceding year calculated according to the general ISTAT/FOI consumer price index. The revision will be communicated to all the carriers which operate on the routes concerned applying the fares in question and to the European Commission for publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

| 4.6. | As from the second half of 2006, if the average cost of fuel and/or the average EUR/US dollar exchange rate varies by more than 5 %, the fares must be revised in proportion to such variation and to the effect of the cost of fuel on the carrier's operating costs. The Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, after consultation with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia and on the basis of an inquiry carried out by a Joint Technical Committee consisting of a representative appointed by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, ENAC and the Autonomous Region of Sardinia respectively, will adjust the fares. In the event of an increase in excess of the indicated percentage, the said Joint Technical Committee will initiate the procedure for deciding on an adjustment upon receiving notice from the carriers operating on the routes concerned. In the event of a decrease, the procedure will be initiated automatically. During the abovementioned inquiry, the carriers operating the routes concerned must be given an opportunity to comment. Any adjustment to fares will take effect as from the six-month period following that in which it is decided. |
| --- | --- |

4.6.

As from the second half of 2006, if the average cost of fuel and/or the average EUR/US dollar exchange rate varies by more than 5 %, the fares must be revised in proportion to such variation and to the effect of the cost of fuel on the carrier's operating costs. The Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, after consultation with the Autonomous Region of Sardinia and on the basis of an inquiry carried out by a Joint Technical Committee consisting of a representative appointed by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, ENAC and the Autonomous Region of Sardinia respectively, will adjust the fares. In the event of an increase in excess of the indicated percentage, the said Joint Technical Committee will initiate the procedure for deciding on an adjustment upon receiving notice from the carriers operating on the routes concerned. In the event of a decrease, the procedure will be initiated automatically. During the abovementioned inquiry, the carriers operating the routes concerned must be given an opportunity to comment. Any adjustment to fares will take effect as from the six-month period following that in which it is decided.

| 4.7. | Increases in fares by any amount and on whatever grounds decided outside the abovementioned procedure will be considered unlawful. |
| --- | --- |

4.7.

Increases in fares by any amount and on whatever grounds decided outside the abovementioned procedure will be considered unlawful.

| 4.8. | Concessionary fares as specified above must be applied at least to:






  — | residents of Sardinia; |
| --- | --- | --- |

4.8.

Concessionary fares as specified above must be applied at least to:

—

residents of Sardinia;

| — | persons born in Sardinia even if they do not reside in Sardinia; |
| --- | --- |

—

persons born in Sardinia even if they do not reside in Sardinia;

| — | disabled persons (3); |
| --- | --- |

—

disabled persons (3);

| — | young persons aged 2 to 21 years (3); |
| --- | --- |

—

young persons aged 2 to 21 years (3);

| — | elderly persons aged over 70 years (3); |
| --- | --- |

—

elderly persons aged over 70 years (3);

| — | university students until they reach 27 years of age (3). |
| --- | --- |

—

university students until they reach 27 years of age (3).

5.   CONTINUITY OF SERVICES

In accordance with Article 4(1)(c) of Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92, the carrier which accepts the public service obligations must guarantee the service for a period of at least 36 consecutive months and may not suspend the service without giving six-months' prior notice to ENAC and the Autonomous Region of Sardinia.

| 5.1. | For the purpose of guaranteeing the continuity, regularity and punctuality of the service, the carriers which accept the public service obligation must undertake:






  — | to operate 98 % of the flights provided for in the flight schedules each year, with a maximum cancellation margin of 2 %; |
| --- | --- | --- |

5.1.

For the purpose of guaranteeing the continuity, regularity and punctuality of the service, the carriers which accept the public service obligation must undertake:

—

to operate 98 % of the flights provided for in the flight schedules each year, with a maximum cancellation margin of 2 %;

| — | to pay the regulatory body EUR 2 500 in respect of each flight cancelled in excess of the 2 % annual cancellation limit. The sums received in this connection will be allocated to the territorial continuity heading of the budget of Sardinia . |
| --- | --- |

—

to pay the regulatory body EUR 2 500 in respect of each flight cancelled in excess of the 2 % annual cancellation limit. The sums received in this connection will be allocated to the territorial continuity heading of the budget of Sardinia .

| — | to operate 85 % of the flights each year to within 20 minutes of the established timetable; |
| --- | --- |

—

to operate 85 % of the flights each year to within 20 minutes of the established timetable;

| — | to compensate each passenger for any delay of more than 20 minutes by giving a credit of EUR 15,00 to be used in the purchase of a subsequent ticket. |
| --- | --- |

—

to compensate each passenger for any delay of more than 20 minutes by giving a credit of EUR 15,00 to be used in the purchase of a subsequent ticket.

| 5.2. | The abovementioned rules will not apply to cancelled flights and flights delayed due to weather conditions, industrial action or events beyond the responsibility and/or control of the carrier. |
| --- | --- |

5.2.

The abovementioned rules will not apply to cancelled flights and flights delayed due to weather conditions, industrial action or events beyond the responsibility and/or control of the carrier.

6.   PENALTIES

Suspension of the service without prior notice or with prior notice but contrary to the abovementioned rules will be subject to administrative and financial penalties, the amounts of which will take into account the damage caused to the public authorities and the damage caused to passengers.

| 6.1. | In order to guarantee proper observance of these obligations by the carriers which accept them, a Joint Monitoring Committee has been established, under the aegis of the Transport Ministry of the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to monitor the performance of the public service obligations (hereinafter ‘the Joint Monitoring Committee’), consisting of one member appointed by the Regional Transport Minister; one member appointed by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport; one member appointed by ENAC, and one member appointed by each carrier which has accepted the public service obligations. |
| --- | --- |

6.1.

In order to guarantee proper observance of these obligations by the carriers which accept them, a Joint Monitoring Committee has been established, under the aegis of the Transport Ministry of the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, to monitor the performance of the public service obligations (hereinafter ‘the Joint Monitoring Committee’), consisting of one member appointed by the Regional Transport Minister; one member appointed by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport; one member appointed by ENAC, and one member appointed by each carrier which has accepted the public service obligations.

| 6.2. | The Joint Monitoring Committee will:






  — | be chaired by the Regional Transport Minister and will as a rule meet once every three months, except in cases of emergency as determined by its Chairman, |
| --- | --- | --- |

6.2.

The Joint Monitoring Committee will:

—

be chaired by the Regional Transport Minister and will as a rule meet once every three months, except in cases of emergency as determined by its Chairman,

| — | make use of the information collected by the District Airport Management Officer of Sardinia, by the airport management companies, by individual citizens or by consumer groups with respect to compliance with these obligations, |
| --- | --- |

—

make use of the information collected by the District Airport Management Officer of Sardinia, by the airport management companies, by individual citizens or by consumer groups with respect to compliance with these obligations,

| — | determine possible breaches of these service obligations, document such breaches, and propose to ENAC the measures to be adopted to restore the service and, where appropriate, impose penalties, suggesting the type and the amount thereof. |
| --- | --- |

—

determine possible breaches of these service obligations, document such breaches, and propose to ENAC the measures to be adopted to restore the service and, where appropriate, impose penalties, suggesting the type and the amount thereof.

7.   VALIDITY

The date on which the above obligations become mandatory will be laid down by a subsequent decree.

8.   ACCEPTANCE

Carriers which intend to accept the public service obligations contained in this document must submit their formal acceptance to the Ente Nazionale per l'Aviazione Civile (Italian National Civil Aviation Authority) within 30 days of publication in the Official Journal of the European Union of the Commission notice relating to the imposition of those obligations.

---

(1)  The number of scheduled flights marked with an asterisk may vary within the season according to the period and day of the week. The final schedule, organised by periods and days of the week, is to be drawn up by the companies which have accepted the obligations. The schedule must aim to satisfy demand fully and must be lodged with ENAC by the carriers which have accepted the service obligations at least 15 days prior to the beginning of each scheduling season; it must also be communicated to the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, which reserves the right to call for adjustments if it discovers shortcomings. The service must be direct without any intermediate stopover.

(2)  The number of scheduled flights marked with an asterisk may vary within the season according to the period and day of the week. The final schedule, organised by periods and days of the week, is to be drawn up by the companies which have accepted the obligations. The schedule must aim to satisfy demand fully and must be lodged with ENAC by the carriers which have accepted the service obligations at least 15 days prior to the beginning of each scheduling season; it must also be communicated to the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, which reserves the right to call for adjustments if it discovers shortcomings. The service must be direct without any intermediate stopover.

(3)  Without any discrimination with regard to place of birth, residence and nationality.

Children younger than two years of age travel free provided they do not occupy a seat.

---

| 21.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 93/25 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

21.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 93/25

---

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

Cases where the Commission raises no objections

(2006/C 93/09)

Date of adoption of the decision:

Member State: Italy (Veneto)

Number of aid measure: N 73/2006

Title: Assistance in farming areas affected by natural disasters (hail-storm of 14 August 2005 in the province of Vicenza)

Objective: To compensate for damage to farming structures as a result of bad weather

Legal basis: Decreto legislativo n. 102/2004

Budget: See the approved scheme (NN 54/A/04)

Aid intensity or amount: Up to 100 %

Duration: Until the final payment is made

Other details: Measure applying the scheme approved by the Commission under State aid NN 54/A/2004 (Commission letter C(2005) 1622 final, dated 7 June 2005)

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: Italy (Campania)

Number of aid measure: N 79/2006

Title: Assistance in farming areas affected by natural disasters (heavy snowfalls during the period from 26 to 31 January 2005 in the province of Salerno)

Objective: To compensate for damage to agricultural production and agricultural structures as a result of bad weather

Legal basis: Decreto legislativo n. 102/2004

Budget: See the approved scheme (NN 54/A/04)

Aid intensity or amount: Up to 100 %

Duration: Until the final payment is made

Other details: Measure applying the scheme approved by the Commission under State aid NN 54/A/2004 (Commission letter C(2005)1622 final, dated 7 June 2005)

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: Italy (Sicily)

Number of aid measure: N 81/2006

Title: Assistance in farming areas affected by natural disasters (frosts during the period from 15 January to 11 March 2005 in the province of Caltanissetta)

Objective: To compensate for damage to agricultural production as a result of bad weather (frost)

Legal basis: Decreto legislativo n. 102/2004

Budget: See the approved scheme (NN 54/A/04)

Aid intensity or amount: Up to 80 %

Duration: Until the final payment is made

Other details: Measure applying the scheme approved by the Commission under State aid NN 54/A/2004 (Commission letter C(2005) 1622 final, dated 7 June 2005)

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: Italy (Sicily)

Number of aid measure: N 82/2006

Title: Assistance in farming areas affected by natural disasters (frosts during the period from 10 January to 14 March 2005 in the province of Messina)

Objective: To compensate for damage to agricultural production as a result of bad weather (frost)

Legal basis: Decreto legislativo n. 102/2004

Budget: See the approved scheme (NN 54/A/04)

Aid intensity or amount: Up to 80 %

Duration: Until the final payment is made

Other details: Measure applying the scheme approved by the Commission under State aid NN 54/A/2004 (Commission letter C(2005) 1622 final, dated 7 June 2005)

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: Italy (Basilicata)

Number of aid measure: N 97/06

Title: Assistance in farming areas affected by natural disasters (excessive snow from 25 January to 1 March 2005 in the province of Potenza)

Objective: To compensate for damage to agricultural production as a result of bad weather (excessive snow from 25 January to 1 March 2005 in the province of Potenza)

Legal basis: Decreto legislativo n. 102/2004 («Nuova disciplina del Fondo di solidarietà nazionale»)

Budget: To be financed from the budget approved under Aid No NN 54/A/04

Aid intensity or amount: Up to 100 %

Duration: Measure applying an aid scheme approved by the Commission

Other information: Measure applying the scheme approved by the Commission under State aid NN 54/A/2004 (Commission letter C(2005)1622 final, dated 7 June 2005)

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/

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| 21.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 93/27 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

21.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 93/27

---

Non-opposition to a notified concentration

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

(2006/C 93/10)

(Text with EEA relevance)

On 17 March 2006, the Commission decided not to oppose the above notified concentration and to declare it compatible with the common market. This decision is based on Article 6(1)(b) of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004. The full text of the decision is available only in English and will be made public after it is cleared of any business secrets it may contain. It will be available:

| — | from the Europa competition website (http://europa.eu.int/comm/competition/mergers/cases/). This website provides various facilities to help locate individual merger decisions, including company, case number, date and sectoral indexes, |
| --- | --- |

—

from the Europa competition website (http://europa.eu.int/comm/competition/mergers/cases/). This website provides various facilities to help locate individual merger decisions, including company, case number, date and sectoral indexes,

| — | in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website under document number 32006M4131. EUR-Lex is the on-line access to European law. (http://europa.eu.int/eur-lex/lex) |
| --- | --- |

—

in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website under document number 32006M4131. EUR-Lex is the on-line access to European law. (http://europa.eu.int/eur-lex/lex)

---