France secures EU aid approval
The European Commission has approved a €225 million French aid scheme to reimburse part of pension contributions for rail freight operators. The measure will refund the so-called T2 surcharge paid by companies employing statutory workers formerly with SNCF, the state rail group. It will apply for ten years from 1 January 2025 and cover only the employer’s share of the T2 contribution for eligible employees. If a worker changes job, support transfers to the new rail freight employer.
The Commission found the scheme compatible with EU State aid rules under Article 107(3)(c) TFEU, as it helps remove legacy costs and supports sector stability. France argued the measure will improve labour mobility and maintain qualified staff within the freight rail sector. (js)