The renewal of licenses or certificates for professional carriers in the rail freight industry is at stake due to the public measures taken in most EU countries in view of the COVID-19 outbreak. Several countries reported to the European Commission that renewal or other related procedures have become impossible.

“The competent national administration or body may not be in a position to deliver the necessary documents or because the person or entity concerned may be prevented from completing the necessary formalities or procedures. The specific legal requirements (EU or national) liable to be affected by this situation will be identified and communicated as soon as possible”, the European Commission said in a statement.

Flexibility

Several countries have informed the EU institution that they “envisage to adopt measures in order to ensure continuity of the transport of goods and persons”. For example, the Dutch Minister Cora van Nieuwenhuizen of Infrastructure and Water Management called for flexibility, for example when evaluating professionals.

The Commission has said to understand the need for the national authorities to take initiatives in order to ensure continuity of transport under the present extraordinary circumstances.