Council undecided on supplementary pension rights

31 May 2007

Pending the first reading opinion of the European Parliament, the Council endeavoured to reach agreement on a general approach on a draft Directive concerning supplementary pension rights.

However, given the impossibility of reaching a compromise that would satisfy all the delegations, the President had to conclude, with regret, that, at this stage, the Council was not yet in a position to agree on a text, as the required unanimity was not achieved.

As soon as the European Parliament has adopted its opinion at first reading, the possibility of resuming work on the basis of an amended proposal from the Commission will be explored. Supplementary pension schemes, established in the context of an employment relationship, are important for covering the risk of old age in the Member States.

The draft directive aims to facilitate worker's free movement, through provisions

guaranteeing an adequate protection of dormant rights of outgoing workers;

ensuring that workers receive appropriate information in the event of professional mobility.

Legal basis proposed: Articles 42 and 94 of the Treaty – unanimity required for a Council decision and co-decision procedure with the European Parliament applicable.

Communique
Background note
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