News

The EU Commission has just released its report to the Council and the European parliament on the application of the second postal directive (97/67/EC).



This report covers the period 2006-2008 and provides brief information about the importance of postal services and the evolution of the sector. The latest regulatory developments are also tackled, including postal liberalization in Germany or the Netherlands, as well as the development of competition. The Universal service and regulatory authorities are also reported on as well as market trends.



The report is accompanied by the Commission Staff working paper which has more details about the above information



Both reports however draw on the study undertaken by Ecorys that was released last autumn, which is disturbing since information contained in the report was of most concern to UNI.

Furthermore, its is worrying to see that according to the commission, “The Postal Directive and its application by Member States have led to an improved quality of service and have secured the provision of a universal service accessible to all customers” and that “…Market opening and the introduction of competition are the key instruments for creating jobs and achieving better services for consumers.” Although it is further written that “..benefits for businesses and consumers remain slower than expected…”.



The report, in all EU languages, may be found here:

http://ec.europa.eu/internal_market/post/reports_en.htm