Covid-19, Estonia, Financial Services, Good for Business, Legislation, Transport

Government spokespeople said that direct support to operators is needed because, due to the emergency situation declared to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, they have virtually stopped international passenger transport.

Given that shipping route operators have continued to operate ships due to the preservation of international freight transport, the government considers that compensation for damage through direct support is also justified.

With the support, it is possible for an international passenger ship operator to receive compensation for the losses incurred in the extent of 80%. If the amount required by all applicants exceeds 20 million euros, the money will be distributed proportionally among the applicants. The State Shared Services Center will pay the direct support.

The measure proposed in the bill constitutes state aid within the meaning of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. The basis for granting the support is the decision of the European Commission authorizing the granting of state aid on July 10.