Employment regulation has forced Spain to change its rules regarding discrimination of workers on ships displaying the national flag.

The European Commission announced it closed a legal case against the country, originally launched because Spain violated laws on the free movement of workers in the EU.

In November 2008 it was decided that the nation's legislation, which stopped non-Spanish EU citizens from becoming chief mate or captain on various ships flying the flag, was not compatible with other rules implemented across the continent.

EU commissioner for employment, social affairs and inclusion Laszlo Andor said free labor movement is a fundamental freedom and seafarers should not be discriminated against because of their nationality.

"Spain has successfully adapted its rules following the commission's legal action and this is good news," he added.

Mr Andor regularly comments on issues involving the EU workforce and one of his aims for the next five years is to encourage the promotion of flexicurity agendas.

Posted by Alex Donnell