With the constitution of the new European Parliament Transport and Tourism (TRAN) Committee, a new legislative period kicks in. Two independent rail company groups, ERFA and ALLRAIL, submitted their wish list of changes and improvements that must be done to the rail sector and infrastructure if freight and passenger traffic is to grow.

ERFA (European Rail Freight Association) represents the rail freight industry, while ALLRAIL is a relatively new interest group bringing together non-incumbent companies from the freight and passenger rail market. Both have taken the opportunity to be heard by the TRAN before it is to hold its first meeting.

Way ahead

Considering that the development of the rail market share is key for the European sustainable development, they were keen to address all the Members of European Parliament suggesting the way ahead at the starting point of the new legislative period.

“This includes full completion of the liberalisation of the rail sector to provide fair competition and better service quality for passengers and freight, whilst at the same time reducing the cost to the taxpayers of ongoing subsidies”, they urged.

Second hand rolling stock

ERFA and ALLRAIL call on the European Parliament, the Council and the European Commission to support these initiatives, which are necessary to create one transparent and competitive European rail network.

Carole Coune, ERFA Acting Secretary General : The main transversal challenges are the guarantee of having independent, well-staffed and efficient regulatory bodies all across Europe and a European infrastructure with a high level of resilience at an affordable price. For freight, the development of a healthy market in second hand rolling stock of all types, as there is one for air and road vehicles.”