E.U. FINANCES TOURISM REPORTS

As previously announced, the Ministry of Tourism was granted around 130,000 Ecus by the European Union under the Fourth Financial Protocol to carry out two studies on how the harmonisation of Maltese laws with E.U. directives will effect tourist guides as well as small and medium sized enterprises with particular reference given to hotels and travel agencies. This second study is directed towards assessing the economic impact which accession to the European Union may have on the sectors.

Following a call for international tenders the EU Commission concluded a framework agreement with ECODES Consultants, part of the GOPA Group, to undertake an assessment of the tourism sector as defined in the Ministry's terms of reference. Since January 2001 a high-profile team composed of experts from Italy, the United Kingdom, France and Malta visited Malta on various occasions and a Draft Report assessing the impact on Maltese tourist guides and the quality of guided tours in Malta following harmonisation with the Acquis Communitaire has now been completed for consideration by the Ministry.

The Draft Report addresses a number of legal, economic and practical issues which arise from Maltese legislation and practices in the tourism field. It also identifies and highlights opportunities available to Maltese tourist guides as a result of harmonisation with E.U. directives.

The ECODES team members will be in Malta next week to discuss their Draft Report with the Ministry. They will also be making a presentation on Tuesday, 29 May, 2001 at the Foundation for International Studies to which all licensed guides have been invited. The presentation will be held at 1900 hours and will focus on the effect which the adoption of the Acquis will have on tourist guides, the free movement of people, the provision of services and other matters relevant to ensure free competition.