WRITTEN QUESTION E-3345/97 by W.G. van Velzen (PPE) to the Commission (22 October 1997)

Subject: Problems encountered by users of mobile telecommunications services in using the European emergency number 112

In early October 1997 reports appeared in the Dutch press concerning the poor operation of the European emergency number 112 for users of mobile phones. Such problems do not arise for emergency calls made using fixed links. Decision No 91/396/EEC ((OJ L 217, 6.8.1991, p. 31. )) introduced the single emergency call number 112 and laid down that Member States must take the necessary measures to ensure that the number operates satisfactorily.

1. Is the Commission aware of the problems experienced by users of mobile telephones in the Netherlands with emergency number 112? If so, what contacts have taken place on this matter with the Netherlands government?

2. What powers does the Commission have to ensure that the Netherlands fulfils its obligations as laid down in Article 4 of the abovementioned decision?

3. Is the Commission aware of any instances of similar problems in other Member States?

4. Is the Commission prepared to undertake a speedy investigation at European level and hold consultations with technological institutes, operators and suppliers of telecommunications equipment with a view to finding a rapid (technical) solution to this problem, which could have very serious, life-threatening consequences?

Answer given by Mr Bangemann on behalf of the Commission (8 December 1997)

1. In 1992 the Netherlands requested, pursuant to Article 3 (2) of Council Decision 91/396/EEC, an additional period for implementation of the single European emergency number until 31 December 1996 at the latest, owing to financial and organisational difficulties. In February 1997 the Commission was informed by the Netherlands authorities that the '112' emergency number has been available throughout the country since 31 December 1996. Since then, the Commission has not received any information or complaint concerning implementation of '112' in the Netherlands, and is not aware of any particular problem concerning mobile phones.

2. The Commission has followed closely the transposition and implementation process of Council Decision 91/396/EEC in all Member States, and has reported on this issue to the commission on petitions on numerous occasions (2 February 1995, 22 November 1995, 9-13 June 1997). Infringement proceedings were launched early this year against three Member States which have not yet notified national implementation measures. It is also useful to recall that, besides these formal powers laid down in the EC Treaty, the Commission has developed regular contacts with national authorities of all Member States, as part of the exercise to ensure the transposition of the telecommunications package. Use of these informal channels is proving very effective for the purpose of assisting Member States and obtaining updated information on progress in implementation. The Commission will certainly have recourse to these informal channels to check implementation of the Decision with the Netherlands authorities.

3. With the exception of the three Member States which have not yet implemented the Council Decision, the Commission is not aware of any problem concerning implementation of '112' in Europe, in particular concerning mobile communications.

4. The Commission does not consider it necessary to put in place surveillance measures in addition to those referred to above.