ESC opinions on telecommunications and health and safety proposals
The Economic and Social Committee of the European Union has published two opinions on Commission legislative proposals in the fields of telecommunications and safety and health. The opinions are as follows: - Proposal for a Directive on interconnection in telecommunications with regard to ensuring universal service and interoperability through application of the principles of Open Network Provision (ONP): The Committee welcomed the proposal, but was concerned that there was insufficient distinction between interconnection and interoperability, which it feels are too distinct to be treated together. The Committee called for fairer competition rules to apply equally to all operators, both new entrants and existing operators. In addition, the Committee felt that "Universal service" still needs to be defined adequately, and a link with "basic service" needs to be created. - Proposal for a Directive on minimum requirements for improving the safety and health protection of workers potentially at risk from explosive atmospheres: The Committee welcomed the fact that the proposal had been drafted following extensive consultation with the social partners. Furthermore, in leaving the implementation to the Member States, and having relatively short transition periods for the minimum requirements, the proposed Directive is fully in line with the recommendations of the Committee and the standardization bodies.