Establishing the fundamental principles governing the investigation of accidents in the maritime transport sector

The Committee on Transport and Tourism adopted the report by Caroline NAGTEGAAL (Renew, NL) on the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Directive 2009/18/EC establishing the fundamental principles governing the investigation of accidents in the maritime transport sector.

The committee responsible recommended that the European Parliament's position adopted at first reading under the ordinary legislative procedure should amend the proposal as follows:

Obligation to investigate

The amended text stated that a safety investigation should be started without delay after the marine casualty or incident occurs and, in any event, no later than one month after its occurrence as opposed to two months proposed by the Commission.

The investigation authority should make every effort to conclude an investigation within 12 months of the date of the marine casualty or incident. If the investigation cannot be concluded within 12 months, and until it is concluded, the investigation authority should publish a report at least every year on the anniversary of the date of the marine casualty or incident, detailing the progress of the investigation and any safety issues raised.

Investigative bodies

At the request of the responsible national authorities, the Commission and the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) should assist the responsible national authorities. Furthermore, both the Commission and EMSA should assist accident investigation authorities in the implementation of harmonised EU wide quality management systems and their systematic application.

Training

Members suggested that the Commission and the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) should facilitate the development of capacities as well as the sharing of knowledge within and between the investigation authorities through the provision of regular training sessions and certifications on new legal and technological developments, specific techniques and tools and technologies relating to ships, their equipment and operations. Sufficient means should be provided to EMSA to organise dedicated training.