Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2018/5
of 3 January 2018
amending Implementing Decision 2012/270/EU as regards the symptoms of Epitrix cucumeris (Harris), Epitrix papa sp. n., Epitrix subcrinita (Lec.) and Epitrix tuberis (Gentner) and the establishment of relevant demarcated areas
(notified under document C(2017) 8788)
THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,
Having regard to Council Directive 2000/29/EC of 8 May 2000 on protective measures against the introduction into the Community of organisms harmful to plants or plant products and against their spread within the Community1, and in particular the fourth sentence of Article 16(3) thereof,
Whereas:
(1)
Since the last amendment of Commission Implementing Decision 2012/270/EU2 by Implementing Decision (EU) 2016/13593, experience has shown that the superficial galleries and the associated small holes dug by the larvae under the epidermis of the potato tubers are reliable signs of infestation by the specified organisms. Therefore, the provisions laid down in Implementing Decision 2012/270/EU, as regards inspection, survey, notification and demarcation measures should not only apply for the presence of the specified organisms on potato tubers but also where these signs have been observed without the specified organisms.
(2)
Implementing Decision 2012/270/EU should therefore be amended accordingly.
(3)
The measures provided for in this Decision are in accordance with the opinion of the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION: