Coastal zones: integrated management ICZM, implementation of a strategy

All the amendments of the European Parliament can be accepted by the Commission. They clarify the text and highlight issues of particular concern, such as population pressure in the coastal zone and the effects of climate change. One amendment usefully adds an evaluation of policies and legislation to the requirements for Member States reports. Other amendments strengthen the texts as regards consultation with local or regional authorities as well as international organisations. The reporting time-scales proposed strike a sound balance between the common position and the initial proposal of two years. The Commission recognises that the building of national strategies will require substantial efforts in most Member States. The proposal for 45 months for the Member States reports and strategies, and a subsequent Commission evaluation at 55 months, is realistic and acceptable.�