Agenda 2000: trans-European networks, rules for granting Community financial aid

Under codecision procedure, the European Parliament adopted the recommendation by Edward Kellett-Bowman (PPE,UK) for second reading of the proposal for a European Parliament and Council regulation amending regulation 2236/95/EC laying down general rules for the granting of Community financial aid in the field of trans-European networks. The Parliament approves the Council's common position, subject to amendments. In particular, the Parliament proposes that the financial framework for the implementation of the proposed regulation for the period 2000-2006 shall be EURO 4,600 million, on the understanding that the annual appropriations shall be authorised by the budgetary authority wthin the limits of the financial perspective. Railways (including combined transport) should receive at least 55% of the funding for transport infrastructure projects, while roads should receive a maximum of 25%. Exceptionally, in the case of projects concerning satellite positioning and navigation systems, the total amount of Community aid may reach 20% of the total investment cost as from 01/01/2003. The Commission is required to specifically promote recourse to private sources of financing for projects funded under the regulation where the multiplier effect of Community financial instruments can be maximised in public-private partnerships. The Parliament allows for applications for financial aid to be submitted to the Commission by the public or private undertakings or bodies directly concerned, with the agreement of the Member State(s) concerned. It also maintains its position with regard to comitology.�