EBU Annual Event 2017 (9 March 2017, Brussels)

At the annual EBU event Director General DG MOVE, Henrik Hololei and EBU President Gunther Jaegers in their key notes emphasised the huge potential of inland waterway transport to serve the needs of the modernising transport sector and society. Inland waterways are an important asset in relieving the congested roads and contribute to an emission low transport. Investment in inland waterway infrastructure is well spent money and proper maintenance of the waterways much cheaper than roads and rails.

EBU’s President besides called for financial support for an engine renewal program. Given the huge societal benefit of the emission reduction this is expected to create a win-win situation for society and industry. DG Hololei supported this idea by the proposal to set up a European innovation fund for inland navigation.

Also from the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Environment Mark Frequin in his statement understood the sustainability of inland waterway transport as an opportunity to further
In the panel discussion with MEP Gesine Meissner, Director General Mobility of the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Environment Mark Frequin and Richard Payne, chairman of EUROMOT’s Marine Working Group it became clear that inland waterway transport must use its benefits as most sustainable mode of transport for which the idea of an innovation fund is part of the solution.

EBU is committed to support innovation and greening in the sector and welcomes the ideas expressed by the speakers and panel members. Together with the representatives of the Commission, Council and Parliament it will further elaborate solutions that contribute to the challenges of the sector. The combined efforts will further develop the integration of the sector and increase its modal share.

The speeches and presentations together with some pictures are available now on here.