At a time of ecological transition, rail transport appears more than ever to be a modern and relevant solution, capable of both relieving road freight and offering a safe and low-carbon means of passenger transport. That is why Renew Europe welcomes the adoption today by the Parliamentary Committee on Transport and Tourism (TRAN) of a report making 2021 the “European Year of Rail". Europe must assert itself as a global competitiveness cluster for the rail industry, in a competitive environment. The promotion of rail to the public will be based in particular on events aimed at rejuvenating the image of this old means of transport, which is part of the cultural landscape of Europe. At the initiative of Renew Europe, an amendment provides in particular for partnerships with the film industry.
Dominique RIQUET (Renaissance, France), spokesperson for Renew Europe on this issue within TRAN, said: "This European year will put the spotlight on rail, which is a transport mode of the future in economic, environmental and social terms. In addition to this cultural and event-driven enhancement, the year of rail will mark the starting point of a renewed reflection on rail. I therefore proposed that a rail connectivity index, making it possible to measure the integration of the rail network, in order identify the areas in which investments are most necessary according to criteria of accessibility, average journey time or available routes."