... or in the absence of any such date, the twentieth day following that of publication (Art 254 (1), (2) EC). Directives are mainly useful when the aim is to harmonize the laws within a specific are or to introduce complex legislative change. Directives have direct effect enabling individuals to rely on them, at least in actions against the state (Reyners v Belgium [1974] ECR 631). There are two types of direct effect; the vertical direct effect which concerns the relationship between EC law and National law and the horizontal direct effect which concerns the relationship between individuals - including companies. Member States are given a period in which to implement Directives which can range from one year to five or more, depending on the complexity of the subject matter and the urgency for the legislation; and they can be liable for damages for non-implementation of a directive under articles 169 ...

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