Parliament supports bill on road transport

The Croatian parliament on Tuesday morning continued its session with a debate on a bill of amendments to the Road Transport Act which regulates the transport of passengers and goods and the mutual recognition of diplomas and certificates between Croatian and EU hauliers.

The bill, introduced by Transport Minister Božidar Kalmeta, allows cabotage in the transport of passengers and goods for hauliers from the EU from the day Croatia joins the EU, based on the principle of reciprocity and on a temporary basis.

The bill also provides for measures to be introduced in case of a crisis on the transport services market.

The bill proposes cancelling restrictions regarding the year of production of a vehicle intended for the road transport of passengers and goods, with its proper technical condition being the only requirement for obtaining a license for public transport.

The bill also introduces the obligation for companies and public institutions, established by local self-government units, that did not require a license, to obtain one.

Parliamentary clubs of deputies supported the bill, noting that the national transport system would have to prepare well for the fierce competition on the EU haulier market. (Hina)