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Committee of the Regions - European Union
CoR/02/01051.en Brussels, 15 October 2002
A quality policy that places the tourist at the centre
At its plenary session on 10 October 2002, the CoR adopted an opinion
on the Situation in the European tourism sector and on Working
together for the future of European tourism (rapporteur: Alfonso
Andria - I/EPP - President of the province of Salerno).
The CoR points out that the first step towards developing the sector
is to analyse the current situation, surveying needs, assessing
facilities and evaluating transport systems. A survey should be
conducted to ascertain how tourist demand has changed since 11
September 2001.
The EU's cities and regions highlight the priorities for developing
and promoting European tourism on the world market. Mr Andria
considers that the tourist must be at the centre of any draft
legislation. He is keen to promote cultural and ecotourism, noting
that these forms of tourism are less seasonal in nature and can help
to spread tourist flows more evenly throughout the year.
The rapporteur proposes the development of an IT system to bring
providers and tourists together more effectively. He calls on the
Commission and the Member States to develop effective working
practices that engage local and regional authorities. The CoR also
recommends promoting the responsibility of public and private players,
so that the link between them is no longer one of subordination;
instead, they should be partners for sustainable development.
In the rapporteur's view, quality standards need to be set for
accommodation and other tourist services. The CoR therefore calls on
the Commission to regularly evaluate national systems, with a view to
a standardisation project. Mr Andria also favours the introduction of
a charter which would set out operators' duties to tourists, as well
as highlighting the responsibilities of visitors.
The CoR agrees with the Commission about the need to improve the
safety and quality of the transport network. It also endorses the
Commission's analysis of the main needs as regards training for people
working in the tourism sector. The rapporteur recommends that
financial resources be earmarked for pre-university training courses.
Mr Andria supports the open consultation and coordination method, but
stresses the importance of transparency and democratic parliamentary
scrutiny.
Lastly, the CoR asks the Commission to put forward further proposals
on "tourism for all", building on what has already been proposed for
improving access for people with disabilities.
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