S.L. 451.3 Art. 29Common training framework.

(1) For the purpose of this regulation, "common training framework" means a common set of minimum knowledge, skills and competences necessary for the pursuit of a specific profession.

A common training framework shall not replace national training programmes unless otherwise stated by law. For the purpose of access to and pursuit of a profession in Malta which is regulated, the designated authorities shall give evidence of professional qualifications acquired on the basis of such a framework the same effect in Malta as the evidence of formal qualifications which are issued by competent authorities in Malta, on condition that such framework is adopted by means of a delegated act issued by the European Commission in terms of Directive 2005/36/EC.

(2) In the event that the European Commission establishes a common training framework for a given profession by means of a delegated act adopted in accordance with Directive 2005/36/EC, the designated authority responsible for that profession shall be exempted from the obligation of introducing the common training framework and from the obligation of granting automatic recognition to the professional qualifications acquired under that common training framework if one of the following conditions is fulfilled:

(a) there are no education or training institutions available in Malta to offer such training for the profession concerned;

(b) the introduction of the common training framework would adversely affect the organisation of the system of education and professional training in Malta;

(c) there are substantial differences between the common training framework and the training required in Malta, which entail serious risks for public policy, public security, public health or for the safety of the service recipients or the protection of the environment.

(3) The relevant designated authority shall, within six months of the entry into force of the delegated act referred to in sub-regulation (2), notify to the Commission and to the other Member States:

(a) the national qualifications, and where applicable the national professional titles, that comply with the common training framework; or

(b) any use of the exemption referred to in sub-regulation (2), along with a justification of which conditions under sub-regulation were fulfilled. In the event that the Commission requests further clarification, the designated authority shall reply within three months of any such request.