EU News Passenger Rights

"Baby steps" in the right direction on EU passenger rights, says MEP

Irish Independent MEP Marian Harkin today (15 February) praised the European Parliament for taking "baby steps in the right direction" after it backed a new regulation on the rights of passengers in bus and coach transport.

Harkin argued that this new law would prove particularly beneficial to passengers with a disability or reduced mobility, and should therefore be celebrated as proof of the positive impact the EU can have on the lives of its citizens.

"Although I voted in favour of the regulation, I feel it does not go far enough," said the Ireland North-West MEP, explaining that "it is a start and sometimes we take only 'baby steps' in the EU.

In particular, Harkin lamented the fact that some EU Member States are outside the regulation, and pointed out that it applies only to services where the distance travelled is greater than 250 km. "I would have much preferred the line taken by my political group here in the Parliament (ALDE), which would have ensured passenger rights on journeys of much shorter distances," she noted.

On the positive side, Harkin remarked that she was nonetheless "especially pleased to see that some of the basic rights in the regulation will apply to passengers travelling over shorter distances. These rights in particular apply to passengers with a disability or passengers with reduced mobility and will include non-discriminatory access to transport and disability-related straining of staff on buses and coaches".

Long-distance disabled or reduced mobility passengers will have the right to specific assistance in terminals and on board, including free transport for companions if the company is unable to provide the necessary assistance themselves – provided that the passenger gives 36 hours notice of their intention to travel.

The Independent MEP urged EU leaders to waste no time in bringing in these important changes.

"Member States may have a derogation period of up to 10 years and while small businesses providers of coach and bus services need adequate time to comply, I would encourage Member States to make every effort to ensure compliance with the regulation as soon as possible," she said.