Architects: recognition of qualifications, review of Directive 85/384/EEC

In adopting the report by Mrs Maria Margarethe BERGER (PSE, A) on the review of the "Architects" Directive (85/384/EEC), the European Parliament welcomed the full and detailed information contained in the Commission's report. It provisionally noted the amendments to Directive 85/384/EEC which the Commission intended to submit, and announced that it would reach its decision on them in its opinion on the Commission's proposal for a Directive on the subject (see 'fiche de procédure' COD97345), but regretted that the Commission had deprived Parliament of the opportunity to deliver an opinion before it adopted this proposal. In connection with the review of Directive 85/384/EEC, Parliament called for the competent authority in the host country to be clearly designated and its identity systematically communicated to the Commission. Similarly, while approving the Commission's intention of easing the requirements concerning proof of financial standing as regards the provision of services, Parliament called likewise for easing of the formalities regarding the production of qualifications and certificates when providing services for the second time. It called on the Commission to reconsider whether, under proposal for a directive COD97345, those Member States which in 1985 did not apply for or receive derogations would have the opportunity of obtaining recognition for training of longer standing combined with lengthy periods of working experience. Parliament considered that the Commission should involve it in general thinking about the desirability of incorporating architecture into the general arrangements for recognition of qualifications. However, it took the view that in the present context Directive 85/384/EEC should continue to apply as such, as it had worked well in practice.�