2009-12-03
The European Passengers' Federation (EPF) has welcomed EU Regulation 1371/2007 on rail passengers' rights. The regulation enters into force today and provides significant new protections for passengers and their baggage when travelling by train in the EU. The changes take particular account of the needs of people with reduced mobility and provide a system of compensation and assistance if passengers suffer significant delay or are involved in an accident. EPF has acknowledged the personal contribution of European Commission Vice President Tajani to securing implementation of the Regulation.
EPF sees this as an important step in ensuring a comprehensive system of passenger rights for users of all modes of public transport including bus and coach and maritime transport. It has made it clear that it looks forward to working more closely in the future with transport operators and the commission in promoting passengers' interests.
EPF has told Vice President Tajani of its concern that a number of member states have failed to take up this opportunity to improve conditions for passengers within their countries by seeking exemption from this Regulation for their domestic rail services. Christopher Irwin, vice-chairman of the European Passengers' Federation, commented: "The failure of some member states to implement this regulation to its full extent is an indication of a two speed Europe: some are seriously committed to furthering the rights of their consumers, others don't appear to their citizens rights with the respect they are due."
EPF is seeking to cooperate with The Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER), the International Association of Public Transport (UITP), the International Road Transport Union (IRU) and the European Commission in developing a workable set of passengers rights for journeys by public transport, irrespective of mode. It is also planning to bring pressure to bear on national administrations by working through the Federation's thirty member associations in the 18 European states where it is represented."