CER welcomes EP call to allocate budget for Interrail initiative

The Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER) welcomes today’s adoption by the European Parliament of the Mureşan report on the general guidelines for the preparation of the 2018 EU budget, Section III. In particular, CER appreciates the Members of the European Parliament broadly endorsing a call to the European Commission to assess the potential cost and funding sources of an initiative called ‘18th Birthday Interrail pass for Europe’, and to put forward a relevant proposal. 

CER Executive Director Libor Lochman said: “Today’s vote shows that the report was supported by a large set of political groups, and this is very good news. As part of the 2018 budget proposal, we expect the European Commission to come up with a dedicated plan for the ‘18th Birthday Interrail pass for Europe’ initiative.” 

“We take this vote as a sign of recognition of the European rail sector’s role in the creation of the European identity. Railways have been connecting Europe for almost two centuries and continental routes have strengthened the bonds between states. In more recent decades, Interrail passes have especially proven to be an affordable and reliable mobility solution for all Europeans, and particularly for young people. This is why we wholeheartedly support the call of the European Parliament and put our expertise at the Commission’s disposal.”