On 13 November 2007 at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, a debate took place among members of the Intergroup on Ageing, under the chairing of Liz Lynne MEP, which addressed the lack of implementation of the Employment Directive by EU Member States. Speakers included Vincent Depaigne from DG Employment in the European Commission and Anne-Sophie Parent, Director of AGE – The European Older People’s Platform.
Anne-Sophie Parent welcomed the opportunity to present AGE members concerns over the lack of implementation of the Employment Directive and on the problems involved in combating age discrimination in the workplace. “Combating age-based discrimination in the workforce is unfortunately not at the heart of most Member States employment strategies”, observed Mrs Parent. “While the Directive has led to many positive changes in the anti-discrimination laws of most Member States, there remain some formidable challenges to be tackled and a question mark remains around the scope of exceptions in the area of discrimination on the ground of age”.
“The implementation of the Directive requires a range of mechanisms and strategies including voluntary compliance, proactive engagement and enforcement. Governments, specialised agencies, social partners and civil society organisations all have their distinctive roles to play,” she added. “Litigation is an important tool and one that is being used increasingly. However, it is important to recognise that anti-discrimination law has its limits and that on its own it does not necessarily reverse the legacy or effects of cumulative discrimination that may have grown over time. Positive action measures are therefore necessary to secure equal opportunities for all in employment.”
Vincent Depaigne provided a comprehensive update on the European Commission’s review of the transposition and implementation process across Member States. The Commission has the duty to ensure that EU Directives are properly transposed and implemented in all Member States. They are presently analysing the information they received from Member States to check the compliance with the Directive. Following this review, the Commission will issue “reasoned opinions” to the Member States that have not implemented the Directive correctly.
The Intergroup on Ageing adopted a Resolution on the Employment Directive and Liz Lynne MEP concluded the meeting by calling on the Member States to make a clear commitment to fully implementing the Directive with regard to age and on the European Commission to carry out a substantial review of the implementation of the Directive to assess the way Member States have interpreted the exemptions allowed under Article 6. She emphasised that ”the Commission should address the lack of adequate transposition and implementation and take measures to ensure that all Member States implement the Directive properly with regard to age and that all exceptions are justified”.
Please find here below AGE press release.
Last Updated on Thursday, 04 February 2010 12:45
