Press Release: Employment: EU requests Italy to end discriminatory conditions for public sector posts

The European Commission sent on 24 June 2010 Italy a formal request to end discrimination against applicants to public sector posts in the province of Bolzano, as such discrimination is in breach of Italy's obligations under EU law on free movement of workers and on discrimination on grounds of nationality. The discriminatory conditions relate to the requirement of specific locally-issued certificates as proof of language knowledge to access the posts, as well as priority for applicants residing locally. The request takes the form of a 'reasoned opinion' under EU infringement procedures. In the absence of a satisfactory response within two months, the Commission may decide to refer Italy to the EU's Court of Justice.