Activities of Liadh NÍ RIADA
Plenary speeches (519)
European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (debate) GA
European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (debate) GA
Establishment of the European Monetary Fund (debate) GA
Guidelines for the 2020 Budget – Section III (debate) GA
Guidelines for the 2020 Budget – Section III (debate) GA
Protection of the Union's budget in case of generalised deficiencies as regards the rule of law in the Member States (debate) GA
Assessing how the EU budget is used for public sector reform (A8-0378/2018 - Brian Hayes) GA
Establishing the InvestEU Programme (debate) GA
New general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2019 (debate) GA
The situation of women with disabilities (B8-0547/2018) GA
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance GA
A European Strategy for Plastics in a circular economy - Options to address the interface between chemical, product and waste legislation (debate) GA
2019 budget - Trilogue mandate (debate) GA
Improving language learning and the mutual recognition of language competences in the EU (debate) GA
State of play of recreational fisheries in the EU (A8-0191/2018 - Norica Nicolai) GA
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance GA
Implementation of the EU Youth Strategy (debate) GA
2021-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework and own resources (debate) GA
Commission decision adopted on the MFF post-2020 package (debate) GA
Annual report on the financial activities of the European Investment Bank (debate) GA
Extension of the duration of the European Fund for Strategic Investments (debate) GA
Activities of the European Ombudsman in 2016 (debate) GA
General budget of the European Union for 2018 - all sections (A8-0299/2017 - Siegfried Mureşan, Richard Ashworth) (vote)
General budget of the European Union for 2018 - all sections (debate) GA
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance GA
The future of the Erasmus+ programme (debate) GA
Presentation of the programme of activities of the Estonian Presidency (debate) GA
EU action for sustainability - High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (debate) GA
2018 Budget - Mandate for the trilogue GA
Implementation of the European Fund for Strategic Investments (debate) GA
Foreign investments in strategic sectors (EU actions) (debate) GA
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance GA
Women and their roles in rural areas (A8-0058/2017 - Marijana Petir, Maria Lidia Senra Rodríguez) (vote) GA
Multiannual financial framework for 2014-2020 - Multiannual financial framework for 2014-2020 (Resolution) - Mobilisation of the Contingency Margin (debate) GA
Characteristics for fishing vessels (debate) GA
Implementation of the Creative Europe programme (debate) GA
Implementation of the Europe for Citizens programme (debate) GA
Breaches of current freedom of movement rights of EU citizens residing in the UK and the use of six-month expulsions (debate) GA
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance GA
Possible evolutions of and adjustments to the current institutional set-up of the European Union - Improving the functioning of the European Union building on the potential of the Lisbon Treaty - Budgetary capacity for the Eurozone (debate) GA
Conclusions of the European Council meeting of 15 December 2016 GA
Activities of the Committee on Petitions 2015 (A8-0366/2016 - Ángela Vallina)
International aviation agreements (B8-1337/2016, B8-1338/2016, B8-1339/2016)
Preparation of the European Council meeting of 15 December 2016 (debate) GA
Insolvency proceedings and insolvency practitioners (A8-0324/2016 - Tadeusz Zwiefka)
EC-Uzbekistan Partnership and Cooperation Agreement and bilateral trade in textiles (A8-0332/2016 - Maria Arena)
EC-Uzbekistan Partnership and Cooperation Agreement and bilateral trade in textiles (resolution) (A8-0330/2016 - Maria Arena)
EU-Colombia and Peru Trade Agreement (accession of Ecuador) (A8-0362/2016 - Helmut Scholz)
EU-Norway Agreement on reciprocal access to fishing in the Skagerrak (A8-0321/2016 - Jørn Dohrmann)
EU-Norway Agreement on reciprocal access to fishing in the Skagerrak (resolution) (A8-0320/2016 - Jørn Dohrmann)
Agreement on Operational and Strategic Cooperation between Georgia and Europol (A8-0343/2016 - Claude Moraes)
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2016/004 ES/Comunidad Valenciana automotive (A8-0379/2016 - Esteban González Pons)
Normalisation of the accounts of railway undertakings (A8-0368/2016 - Merja Kyllönen)
Domestic passenger transport services by rail (A8-0373/2016 - Wim van de Camp)
Single European railway area (A8-0371/2016 - David-Maria Sassoli)
Market access to port services and financial transparency of ports (A8-0023/2016 - Knut Fleckenstein)
Research programme of the Research Fund for Coal and Steel (A8-0358/2016 - Jerzy Buzek)
Annual Report on human rights and democracy in the world and the European Union’s policy on the matter 2015 (A8-0355/2016 - Josef Weidenholzer)
Implementation of the Common Foreign and Security Policy (Article 36 TEU) (A8-0360/2016 - Elmar Brok)
CAP tools to reduce price volatility in agricultural markets (A8-0339/2016 - Angélique Delahaye)
EU-Algeria Framework Agreement on the general principles for the participation of Algeria in Union programmes (A8-0367/2016 - Pier Antonio Panzeri)
North-East Atlantic: deep-sea stocks and fishing in international waters (A8-0369/2016 - Isabelle Thomas)
General revision of Parliament's Rules of Procedure (A8-0344/2016 - Richard Corbett)
A coherent EU policy for cultural and creative industries (A8-0357/2016 - Christian Ehler, Luigi Morgano)
Rights of women in the Eastern Partnership States (A8-0365/2016 - Mariya Gabriel)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance (debate) GA
US-EU Agreement on the protection of personal information relating to criminal offenses (A8-0354/2016 - Jan Philipp Albrecht)
EU-Ghana Stepping Stone Economic Partnership Agreement (A8-0328/2016 - Christofer Fjellner)
Draft amending budget No 4/2016: Update of appropriations to reflect the latest developments on migration and security issues, reduction of payment and commitment appropriations (A8-0350/2016 - José Manuel Fernandes)
Draft amending budget No 5/2016: Implementation of the Own Resources Decision (A8-0348/2016 - José Manuel Fernandes)
Mobilisation of the EU Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Germany (A8-0352/2016 - Monika Hohlmeier)
Draft amending budget No 6/2016 accompanying the proposal to mobilise the EU Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Germany (A8-0349/2016 - José Manuel Fernandes)
Mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument to finance immediate budgetary measures to address the ongoing migration, refugee and security crisis (A8-0351/2016 - Jens Geier)
Mobilisation of the EU Solidarity Fund to provide for payment of advances in the 2017 budget (A8-0323/2016 - Patricija Šulin)
Union Customs Code, as regards goods that have temporarily left the customs territory of the Union by sea or air (A8-0329/2016 - Maria Grapini)
Commissioners' declarations of interests - Guidelines (A8-0315/2016 - Pascal Durand)
Liability, compensation and financial security for offshore oil and gas operations (A8-0308/2016 - Kostas Chrysogonos)
Application of the European Order for Payment Procedure (A8-0299/2016 - Kostas Chrysogonos)
Key information documents for packaged retail and insurance-based investment products as regards the date of its application (A8-0356/2016 - Pervenche Berès)
EU-Kiribati Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0334/2016 - Mariya Gabriel)
EU-Solomon Islands Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0336/2016 - Mariya Gabriel)
EU-Micronesia Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0337/2016 - Mariya Gabriel)
EU-Tuvalu Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0333/2016 - Mariya Gabriel)
EU-Marshall Islands Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0335/2016 - Mariya Gabriel)
The European Union Solidarity Fund: an assessment (A8-0341/2016 - Salvatore Cicu)
2017 budgetary procedure: joint text (debate) GA
MFF revision (debate) GA
Macro-financial assistance to Jordan (A8-0296/2016 - Emmanuel Maurel)
Activities and supervision of institutions for occupational retirement provision (A8-0011/2016 - Brian Hayes)
Situation in Syria (B8-1123/2016, RC-B8-1249/2016, B8-1249/2016, B8-1250/2016, B8-1251/2016, B8-1252/2016, B8-1253/2016, B8-1254/2016, B8-1255/2016)
EU-Turkey relations (RC-B8-1276/2016, B8-1276/2016, B8-1277/2016, B8-1278/2016, B8-1279/2016, B8-1280/2016, B8-1281/2016, B8-1282/2016, B8-1283/2016)
EU accession to the Istanbul Convention on preventing and combating violence against women (B8-1229/2016, B8-1235/2016)
Activities of the European Ombudsman in 2015 (A8-0331/2016 - Notis Marias)
Towards a definitive VAT system and fighting VAT fraud (A8-0307/2016 - Werner Langen)
EU action plan against wildlife trafficking (A8-0303/2016 - Catherine Bearder)
New opportunities for small transport businesses (A8-0304/2016 - Dominique Riquet)
Situation in Belarus (RC-B8-1232/2016, B8-1232/2016, B8-1233/2016, B8-1234/2016, B8-1237/2016, B8-1238/2016, B8-1239/2016, B8-1240/2016)
Opinion from the Court of Justice on the compatibility with the Treaties of the proposed agreement between Canada and the European Union on a Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) (B8-1220/2016)
Emissions of certain atmospheric pollutants (A8-0249/2015 - Julie Girling)
Finalisation of Basel III (B8-1226/2016)
Implementation of the Common Security and Defence Policy (A8-0317/2016 - Ioan Mircea Paşcu)
Sign language and professional sign language interpreters (B8-1230/2016, B8-1241/2016)
Objection pursuant to Rule 106 : Renewing the approval of the active substance bentazone (B8-1228/2016)
Agreement on Operational and Strategic Cooperation between Ukraine and Europol (A8-0342/2016 - Mariya Gabriel)
Request for the waiver of the immunity of Jean-François Jalkh (A8-0318/2016 - Kostas Chrysogonos)
Request for the waiver of the immunity of Jean-François Jalkh (A8-0319/2016 - Kostas Chrysogonos)
Access to anti-money-laundering information by tax authorities (A8-0326/2016 - Emmanuel Maurel)
European Central Bank annual report for 2015 (A8-0302/2016 - Ramon Tremosa i Balcells)
Green Paper on Retail Financial Services (A8-0294/2016 - Olle Ludvigsson)
European Defence Union (A8-0316/2016 - Urmas Paet)
Unleashing the potential of waterborne passenger transport (A8-0306/2016 - Keith Taylor)
Sign language and professional sign language interpreters (debate) GA
European Central Bank annual report for 2015 (debate) GA
Discharge 2014: EU general budget - European Council and Council (A8-0271/2016 - Ryszard Czarnecki)
Discharge 2014: ENIAC Joint Undertaking (A8-0264/2016 - Marian-Jean Marinescu)
Discharge 2014: ARTEMIS Joint Undertaking (A8-0276/2016 - Marian-Jean Marinescu)
Discharge 2014: Joint Undertaking for ITER and the Development of Fusion Energy (A8-0275/2016 - Marian-Jean Marinescu)
European Voluntary Service (B8-1126/2016, B8-1126/2016, B8-1127/2016, B8-1128/2016, B8-1133/2016, B8-1134/2016, B8-1135/2016)
How the CAP can improve job creation in rural areas (A8-0285/2016 - Eric Andrieu)
General budget of the European Union for 2017 - all sections (A8-0287/2016 - Jens Geier, Indrek Tarand)
The MFF mid-term revision (B8-1173/2016)
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2016/003 EE/petroleum and chemicals (A8-0314/2016 - Victor Negrescu)
Trans fats (B8-1115/2016)
Automated data exchange with regard to DNA data in Denmark (A8-0289/2016 - Claude Moraes)
Automated data exchange with regard to dactyloscopic data in Denmark (A8-0288/2016 - Claude Moraes)
EU-China Agreement on short-stay visa waiver for holders of diplomatic passports (A8-0281/2016 - Bodil Valero)
Member States experiencing or threatened with serious difficulties with respect to their financial stability (A8-0292/2016 - Iskra Mihaylova)
Request for the waiver of the immunity of Jean-Marie Le Pen (A8-0301/2016 - Evelyn Regner)
Request for the defence of the privileges and immunities of Jane Collins (A8-0297/2016 - Tadeusz Zwiefka)
Request for the defence of the privileges and immunities of Mario Borghezio (A8-0312/2016 - Angel Dzhambazki)
Rail transport statistics, as regards the collection of data on goods, passengers and accidents (A8-0300/2016 - Michael Cramer)
Draft amending budget No 3/2016: Security of the Institutions (A8-0295/2016 - José Manuel Fernandes, Gérard Deprez)
EU strategy towards Iran after the nuclear agreement (A8-0286/2016 - Richard Howitt)
Fight against corruption and follow-up of the CRIM resolution (A8-0284/2016 - Laura Ferrara)
Human rights and migration in third countries (A8-0245/2016 - Marie-Christine Vergiat)
Corporate liability for serious human rights abuses in third countries (A8-0243/2016 - Ignazio Corrao)
EU strategy for liquefied natural gas and gas storage (A8-0278/2016 - András Gyürk)
How to make fisheries controls in Europe uniform (A8-0234/2016 - Isabelle Thomas)
Improving connection and accessibility of transport infrastructure in Central and Eastern Europe (A8-0282/2016 - Tomasz Piotr Poręba)
EU mechanism on democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights (A8-0283/2016 - Sophia in 't Veld)
The MFF mid-term revision (debate) GA
General budget of the European Union for 2017 - all sections (debate) GA
Situation in Syria (B8-1089/2016, B8-1090/2016)
2016 UN Climate change Conference in Marrakesh, Morocco (COP22) (B8-1043/2016)
Implementation of the Food Contact Materials Regulation (A8-0237/2016 - Christel Schaldemose)
2014 Annual report on monitoring the application of Union law (A8-0262/2016 - Heidi Hautala)
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: Placing on the market of genetically modified maize Bt11 seeds (B8-1083/2016)
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: Placing on the market of genetically modified maize 1507 seeds (B8-1085/2016)
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: Renewing the authorisation for genetically modified maize MON 810 seeds (B8-1086/2016)
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: Renewing the authorisation for genetically modified maize MON 810 products (B8-1084/2016)
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: Placing on the market of genetically modified cotton 281-24-236 × 3006-210-23 × MON 88913 (B8-1088/2016)
Accession of Peru to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (A8-0267/2016 - Angel Dzhambazki)
Accession of Kazakhstan to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (A8-0268/2016 - Angel Dzhambazki)
Accession of Korea to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (A8-0266/2016 - Angel Dzhambazki)
Global goals and EU commitments on nutrition and food security in the world (B8-1042/2016)
Need for a European reindustrialisation policy in light of the recent Caterpillar and Alstom cases (RC-B8-1051/2016, B8-1051/2016, B8-1052/2016, B8-1053/2016, B8-1055/2016, B8-1056/2016, B8-1057/2016, B8-1058/2016)
Mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Greece following the earthquake that affected the Ionian Islands in November 2015 (A8-0270/2016 - Georgios Kyrtsos)
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2016/001 FI/Microsoft (A8-0273/2016 - Petri Sarvamaa)
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2016/002 SE/Ericsson (A8-0272/2016 - Esteban González Pons)
Legal aid for suspects and accused persons in criminal proceedings and for requested persons in European arrest warrant proceedings (A8-0165/2015 - Dennis de Jong)
Europol-China Agreement on Strategic Cooperation (A8-0265/2016 - Claude Moraes)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance GA
Travel document for the return of illegally staying third-country nationals (A8-0201/2016 - Jussi Halla-aho)
Prospectus to be published when securities are offered to the public or admitted to trading (A8-0238/2016 - Petr Ježek)
Asylum: provisional measures in favour of Italy and Greece (A8-0236/2016 - Ska Keller)
Guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (A8-0247/2016 - Laura Agea)
Key objectives for the CITES CoP17 meeting in Johannesburg (B8-0987/2016)
Application of the Postal Services Directive (A8-0254/2016 - Markus Ferber)
Access to finance for SMEs and increasing the diversity of SME funding in a Capital Markets Union (A8-0222/2016 - Othmar Karas)
How best to harness the job creation potential of SMEs? (A8-0248/2016 - Zdzisław Krasnodębski)
Application of the Employment Equality Directive (A8-0225/2016 - Renate Weber)
Activities, impact and added value of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund between 2007 and 2014 (A8-0227/2016 - Marian Harkin)
Protocol to the EU-Switzerland Agreement on the free movement of persons (accession of Croatia) (A8-0216/2016 - Danuta Jazłowiecka)
Tripartite Social Summit for Growth and Employment (A8-0252/2016 - Csaba Sógor)
Economic Partnership Agreement between the EU and the SADC EPA States (A8-0242/2016 - Alexander Graf Lambsdorff)
Sporazum o provedbi Konvencije o radu u ribolovu (B8-0976/2016)
Recent developments in Poland and their impact on fundamental rights as laid down in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (B8-0865/2016, B8-0977/2016, B8-0978/2016)
Social dumping in the EU (A8-0255/2016 - Guillaume Balas)
Commission Delegated Regulation supplementing Regulation (EU) No 1286/2014 on key information documents for packaged retail and insurance-based investment products (PRIIPs) (B8-0974/2016)
Agenda of the next sitting : see Minutes GA
Cohesion Policy and Research and Innovation Strategies for smart specialisation (RIS3) (A8-0159/2016 - Ramón Luis Valcárcel Siso)
European territorial cooperation - best practices and innovative measures (A8-0202/2016 - Iskra Mihaylova)
Inquiry into emission measurements in the automotive sector (A8-0246/2016 - Pablo Zalba Bidegain, Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy)
Request for the waiver of the immunity of István Ujhelyi (A8-0229/2016 - Tadeusz Zwiefka)
Request for the defence of the privileges and immunities of Rosario Crocetta (A8-0230/2016 - Heidi Hautala)
Request for the waiver of the immunity of Sotirios Zarianopoulos (A8-0233/2016 - Gilles Lebreton)
EU-China Agreement relating to the accession of Croatia (A8-0231/2016 - Iuliu Winkler)
EU-Uruguay Agreement relating to the accession of Croatia (A8-0241/2016 - Pablo Zalba Bidegain)
Statistics relating to external trade with non-member countries (delegated and implementing powers) (A8-0240/2016 - Bernd Lange)
Statistics on natural gas and electricity prices (A8-0184/2016 - Barbara Kappel)
Towards a new energy market design (A8-0214/2016 - Werner Langen)
EU strategy on heating and cooling (A8-0232/2016 - Adam Gierek)
Enhancing the competitiveness of SMEs (A8-0162/2016 - Rosa D'Amato)
EU strategy for the Alpine region (A8-0226/2016 - Mercedes Bresso)
EU Trust Fund for Africa: implications for development and humanitarian aid (A8-0221/2016 - Ignazio Corrao)
Creating labour market conditions favourable for work-life balance (A8-0253/2016 - Tatjana Ždanoka, Vilija Blinkevičiūtė)
Implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (A8-0203/2016 - Helga Stevens)
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: Permitted health claims made on foods (B8-0842/2016)
High common level of security of network and information systems across the Union (A8-0211/2016 - Andreas Schwab)
Energy efficiency labelling (A8-0213/2016 - Dario Tamburrano)
European Border and Coast Guard (A8-0200/2016 - Artis Pabriks)
Community Fisheries Control Agency (A8-0068/2016 - Alain Cadec)
Secretariat of the OLAF Supervisory Committee (A8-0188/2016 - Ingeborg Gräßle)
Preparation of the post-electoral revision of the MFF 2014-2020: Parliament's input ahead of the Commission's proposal (A8-0224/2016 - Jan Olbrycht, Isabelle Thomas)
Tax rulings and other measures similar in nature or effect (TAXE 2) (A8-0223/2016 - Jeppe Kofod, Michael Theurer)
Synergies between structural funds and Horizon 2020 (RC-B8-0851/2016, B8-0851/2016, B8-0852/2016, B8-0857/2016, B8-0858/2016, B8-0860/2016, B8-0861/2016)
Preparation of the Commission Work Programme 2017 (RC-B8-0885/2016, B8-0885/2016, B8-0886/2016, B8-0892/2016, B8-0893/2016, B8-0894/2016, B8-0895/2016, B8-0896/2016)
Japan's decision to resume whaling in the 2015-2016 season (B8-0853/2016, B8-0853/2016, B8-0855/2016, B8-0862/2016, B8-0863/2016)
Objection pursuant to rule 105(4): EU guarantee to the European Investment Bank against losses as regards Belarus (B8-0869/2016, B8-0870/2016)
Objection pursuant to rule 105(4): Setting the minimum requirement for own funds and eligible liabilities (B8-0868/2016)
EU-Peru Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0197/2016 - Mariya Gabriel)
Emission limits for non-road mobile machinery (A8-0276/2015 - Elisabetta Gardini)
Refugees: social inclusion and integration into the labour market (A8-0204/2016 - Brando Benifei)
Social and environmental standards, human rights and corporate responsibility (A8-0217/2016 - Eleonora Forenza)
A forward-looking and innovative future strategy for trade and investment (A8-0220/2016 - Tiziana Beghin)
The fight against trafficking in human beings in the EU's external relations (A8-0205/2016 - Barbara Lochbihler)
Preparation of the post-electoral revision of the MFF 2014-2020: Parliament's input ahead of the Commission's proposal (debate) GA
Protocol to the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement between the EU and Lebanon (2004 enlargement) (A8-0194/2016 - Ramona Nicole Mănescu)
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2015/012 BE/Hainaut Machinery (A8-0207/2016 - Victor Negrescu)
EU-Monaco agreement on the automatic exchange of financial account information (A8-0206/2016 - Andreas Schwab)
Protocol to the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement between the EU and Lebanon (Framework Agreement) (A8-0193/2016 - Ramona Nicole Mănescu)
Protocol to the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement between the EU and Lebanon (accession of Bulgaria and Romania) (A8-0195/2016 - Ramona Nicole Mănescu)
Appointments to the Committee of Inquiry to investigate alleged contraventions and maladministration in the application of Union law in relation to money laundering, tax avoidance and tax evasion
Multiannual recovery plan for Bluefin tuna (A8-0367/2015 - Gabriel Mato)
Jurisdiction, applicable law and the recognition and enforcement of decisions in matters of matrimonial property regimes (A8-0209/2016 - Jean-Marie Cavada)
Jurisdiction, applicable law and the recognition and enforcement of decisions in matters of the property consequences of registered partnerships (A8-0208/2016 - Jean-Marie Cavada)
Massacres in eastern Congo (RC-B8-0801/2016, B8-0801/2016, B8-0802/2016, B8-0804/2016, B8-0805/2016, B8-0807/2016, B8-0808/2016, B8-0809/2016)
Follow-up of the Strategic Framework for European cooperation in education and training (ET2020) (A8-0176/2016 - Zdzisław Krasnodębski)
Renewable energy progress report (A8-0196/2016 - Paloma López Bermejo)
Implementation report on the Energy Efficiency Directive (A8-0199/2016 - Markus Pieper)
Jurisdiction, applicable law and the recognition and enforcement of decisions in matters of matrimonial property regimes - Jurisdiction, applicable law and the recognition and enforcement of decisions in matters of the property consequences of registered partnerships (debate) GA
Follow-up of the Strategic Framework for European cooperation in education and training (ET2020) (debate) GA
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance GA
Promoting free movement by simplifying the acceptance of certain public documents (A8-0156/2016 - Mady Delvaux)
Transfer to the General Court of jurisdiction at first instance in EU civil service cases (A8-0167/2016 - Mady Delvaux)
A regulation for an open, efficient and independent European Union administration (B8-0685/2016)
Competitiveness of the European rail supply industry (B8-0677/2016)
Mid-term review of the Investment Plan (debate) GA
Mid-term review of the Investment Plan (debate) GA
Setting up of a Committee of Inquiry to investigate alleged contraventions and maladministration in the application of Union law in relation to money laundering, tax avoidance and tax evasion, its powers, numerical strength and term of office (B8-0745/2016)
EU-Palau Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0177/2016 - Mariya Gabriel)
EU-Tonga Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0179/2016 - Mariya Gabriel)
Expansion of trade in Information Technology Products (ITA) (A8-0186/2016 - Godelieve Quisthoudt-Rowohl)
Subjecting α-PVP to control measures (A8-0175/2016 - Michał Boni)
Ratification and accession to the 2010 Protocol to the Hazardous and Noxious Substances Convention with the exception of aspects related to judicial cooperation in civil matters (A8-0191/2016 - Pavel Svoboda)
Ratification and accession to the 2010 Protocol to the Hazardous and Noxious Substances Convention with regard to aspects related to judicial cooperation in civil matters (A8-0190/2016-Pavel Svoboda)
EU-Philippines Framework Agreement on Partnership and Cooperation (accession of Croatia) (A8-0148/2016 - Elmar Brok)
EU-Philippines Framework Agreement on Partnership and Cooperation (consent) (A8-0149/2016 - Elmar Brok)
Rules against certain tax avoidance practices (A8-0189/2016 - Hugues Bayet)
Space market uptake (B8-0739/2016)
Situation in Venezuela (RC-B8-0700/2016, B8-0700/2016, B8-0723/2016, B8-0724/2016, B8-0725/2016, B8-0726/2016, B8-0728/2016, B8-0729/2016)
Endocrine disruptors: state of play following the Court judgment of 16 December 2015 (RC-B8-0733/2016, B8-0733/2016, B8-0734/2016, B8-0735/2016, B8-0736/2016, B8-0737/2016, B8-0738/2016)
Markets in financial instruments (A8-0126/2016 - Markus Ferber)
Markets in financial instruments, market abuse and securities settlement (A8-0125/2016 - Markus Ferber)
International Accounting Standards (IAS) evaluation (A8-0172/2016 - Theodor Dumitru Stolojan)
Technological solutions for sustainable agriculture (A8-0174/2016 - Anthea McIntyre)
Enhancing innovation and economic development in future European farm management (A8-0163/2016 - Jan Huitema)
Virtual currencies (A8-0168/2016 - Jakob von Weizsäcker)
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2015/010 FR/MoryGlobal (A8-0182/2016 - Anneli Jäätteenmäki)
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2015/011 GR/Supermarket Larissa (A8-0181/2016 - Liadh Ní Riada)
Request for waiver of immunity of Gianluca Buonanno (A8-0180/2016 - Evelyn Regner)
Provisional measures in the area of international protection for the benefit of Sweden (A8-0170/2016 - Ska Keller)
Transatlantic data flows (B8-0622/2016, RC-B8-0623/2016, B8-0623/2016, B8-0633/2016, B8-0639/2016, B8-0642/2016, B8-0643/2016, B8-0644/2016)
Poverty: a gender perspective (A8-0153/2016 - Maria Arena)
Non-tariff barriers in the Single Market (A8-0160/2016 - Daniel Dalton)
The Single Market strategy (A8-0171/2016 - Lara Comi)
Protection against subsidised imports from countries not members of the EU (A8-0257/2015 - Heidi Hautala)
Protection against dumped imports from countries not members of the EU (A8-0256/2015 - Heidi Hautala)
EU-Liberia sustainable fisheries partnership agreement (A8-0142/2016 - Jarosław Wałęsa)
EU-Mauritania fisheries partnership agreement: fishing opportunities and financial contribution (A8-0147/2016 - Gabriel Mato)
Cooperation agreement on a civil Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) with Korea (A8-0065/2016 - Gianluca Buonanno)
Statistics concerning balance of payments, international trade in services and foreign direct investment (A8-0227/2015 - Sven Giegold)
Cohesion policy in mountainous regions of the EU (A8-0074/2016 - Iliana Iotova)
EU-Mauritania fisheries partnership agreement: fishing opportunities and financial contribution - EU-Liberia sustainable fisheries partnership agreement (debate) GA
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance GA
Discharge 2014: EU general budget - European External Action Service (A8-0136/2016 - Ryszard Czarnecki)
Discharge 2014: Performance, financial management and control of EU agencies (A8-0080/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: Agency for Cooperation of Energy Regulators (ACER) (A8-0087/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: Office of the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (BEREC Office) (A8-0093/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: Translation Centre for the Bodies of the European Union (CdT) (A8-0084/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop) (A8-0082/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Police College (CEPOL) (A8-0088/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) (A8-0095/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Asylum Support Office (EASO) (A8-0133/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Banking Authority (EBA) (A8-0090/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) (A8-0103/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) (A8-0118/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Environment Agency (EEA) (A8-0100/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA) (A8-0104/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) (A8-0086/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) (A8-0085/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) (A8-0091/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) (A8-0117/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Medicines Agency (EMA) (A8-0114/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) (A8-0105/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) (A8-0102/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) (A8-0096/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Training Foundation (ETF) (A8-0116/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Agency for the operational management of large-scale IT systems in the area of freedom, security and justice (EU-LISA) (A8-0124/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA) (A8-0134/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: Euratom Supply Agency (ESA) (A8-0110/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions (Eurofound) (A8-0120/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: The European Union's Judicial Cooperation Unit (Eurojust) (A8-0099/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Police Office (Europol) (A8-0122/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) (A8-0108/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European Agency for the Management of Operational Cooperation at the External Borders of the Member States of the European Union (Frontex) (A8-0115/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: European GNSS Agency (GSA) (A8-0112/2016 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2014: ARTEMIS Joint Undertaking (A8-0092/2016 - Marian-Jean Marinescu)
Discharge 2014: Clean Sky Joint Undertaking (A8-0094/2016 - Marian-Jean Marinescu)
Discharge 2014: ECSEL Joint Undertaking (A8-0119/2016 - Marian-Jean Marinescu)
Discharge 2014: ENIAC Joint Undertaking (A8-0113/2016 - Marian-Jean Marinescu)
Discharge 2014: Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking (A8-0083/2016 - Marian-Jean Marinescu)
Discharge 2014: Innovative Medicines Initiative 2 Joint Undertaking (IMI) (A8-0081/2016 - Marian-Jean Marinescu)
Discharge 2014: Joint Undertaking for ITER and the Development of Fusion Energy (A8-0097/2016 - Marian-Jean Marinescu)
Discharge 2014: SESAR Joint Undertaking (A8-0089/2016 - Marian-Jean Marinescu)
European Investment Bank annual report 2014 (A8-0050/2016 - Georgi Pirinski)
Attacks on hospitals and schools as violations of international humanitarian law (B8-0488/2016, B8-0488/2016, B8-0489/2016, B8-0490/2016, B8-0491/2016, B8-0492/2016, B8-0493/2016)
Public access to documents for the years 2014-2015 (A8-0141/2016 - Laura Ferrara)
Women domestic workers and carers in the EU (A8-0053/2016 - Kostadinka Kuneva)
EU-Georgia Common Aviation Area Agreement (accession of Croatia) (A8-0128/2016 - Francisco Assis)
EU-Israel Euro-Mediterranean Aviation Agreement (accession of Croatia) (A8-0129/2016 - Francisco Assis)
Convention on mutual assistance and cooperation between customs administrations (accession of Croatia) (A8-0054/2016 - Liisa Jaakonsaari)
Request for the waiver of the immunity of Bolesław G. Piecha (A8-0152/2016 - Gilles Lebreton)
Safeguarding the best interest of the child across the EU on the basis of petitions addressed to the European Parliament (B8-0487/2016)
EU Agency for Railways (A8-0073/2016 - Roberts Zīle)
Interoperability of the rail system within the European Union (A8-0071/2016 - Izaskun Bilbao Barandica)
Railway safety (A8-0056/2016 - Michael Cramer)
Indices used as benchmarks in financial instruments and financial contracts (A8-0131/2015 - Cora van Nieuwenhuizen)
Discharge 2014: EU general budget - European Commission and Executive Agencies (A8-0140/2016 - Martina Dlabajová)
Discharge 2014: EU general budget - European Parliament (A8-0135/2016 - Markus Pieper)
Discharge 2014: EU general budget - European Council and Council (A8-0101/2016 - Ryszard Czarnecki)
Discharge 2014: EU general budget - Court of Justice (A8-0123/2016 - Anders Primdahl Vistisen)
Discharge 2014: EU general budget - European Court of Auditors (A8-0107/2016 - Ryszard Czarnecki)
European Investment Bank annual report 2014 (debate) GA
European Investment Bank annual report 2014 (debate) GA
Parliament's estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2017 (A8-0131/2016 - Indrek Tarand) (vote) GA
Protection of trade secrets against their unlawful acquisition, use and disclosure (A8-0199/2015 - Constance Le Grip)
2015 Report on Turkey (B8-0442/2016)
2015 Report on Albania (B8-0440/2016)
2015 Report on Bosnia and Herzegovina (B8-0441/2016)
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2015/009 SE/Volvo Trucks (A8-0077/2016 - Victor Negrescu)
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: EGF/2016/000 TA 2016/Technical assistance at the initiative of the Commission (A8-0078/2016 - Andrey Novakov)
Nomination of a member of the Court of Auditors - Samo Jereb (A8-0060/2016 - Bart Staes)
Nomination of a member of the Court of Auditors - Mihails Kozlovs (A8-0059/2016 - Igor Šoltes)
Nomination of a member of the Court of Auditors - Jan Gregor (A8-0057/2016 - Igor Šoltes)
Nomination of a member of the Court of Auditors - Ladislav Balko (A8-0055/2016 - Igor Šoltes)
Nomination of a member of the Court of Auditors - Janusz Wojciechowski (A8-0061/2016 - Igor Šoltes)
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: renewal of the approval of the active substance glyphosate (B8-0439/2016)
The EU in a changing global environment - a more connected, contested and complex world (A8-0069/2016 - Sandra Kalniete)
Parliament's estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2017 (debate) GA
Fisheries partnership agreement with Denmark and Greenland: fishing opportunities and financial contribution (A8-0067/2016 - Marco Affronte)
Minimum standard rate of VAT (A8-0063/2016 - Peter Simon)
Agreement on strategic cooperation between Brazil and Europol (A8-0070/2016 - Claude Moraes)
United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea: fisheries aspects (A8-0042/2016 - Norica Nicolai)
Breeding animals and their germinal products (A8-0288/2015 - Michel Dantin)
Annual reports 2012-2013 on subsidiarity and proportionality (A8-0301/2015 - Sajjad Karim)
Regulatory Fitness and Performance Programme (A8-0208/2015 - Sylvia-Yvonne Kaufmann)
Towards improved single market regulation (A8-0278/2015 - Anneleen Van Bossuyt)
Learning EU at school (A8-0021/2016 - Damian Drăghici)
Erasmus+ and other tools to foster mobility in vocational education and training (A8-0049/2016 - Ernest Maragall)
Small-scale coastal fishing in regions dependent on fishing (A8-0044/2016 - Ruža Tomašić)
External dimension of the CFP, including fisheries agreements (A8-0052/2016 - Linnéa Engström)
Veterinary medicinal products (A8-0046/2016 - Françoise Grossetête)
Towards a thriving data-driven economy (B8-0308/2016)
Banking Union - Annual report 2015 (A8-0033/2016 - Roberto Gualtieri)
Reduction in the sulphur content of certain liquid fuels (A8-0037/2016 - Laura Ferrara)
Trade diversion into the European Union of certain key medicines (A8-0038/2016 - Laura Ferrara)
EU-Andorra agreement on the automatic exchange of financial account information (A8-0047/2016 - Miguel Viegas)
Appointment of a new Executive Director of the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) (A8-0045/2016 - Roberto Gualtieri)
Procedural safeguards for children suspected or accused in criminal proceedings (A8-0020/2015 - Caterina Chinnici)
Guidelines for the 2017 Budget - Section III (A8-0036/2016 - Jens Geier)
Interinstitutional agreement on Better law-making (A8-0039/2016 - Danuta Maria Hübner)
Animal health (A8-0041/2016 - Jasenko Selimovic)
Aid scheme for the supply of fruit and vegetables, bananas and milk in the educational establishments (A8-0006/2016 - Marc Tarabella)
Harmonised indices of consumer prices (A8-0313/2015 - Roberto Gualtieri)
Gender mainstreaming in the work of the European Parliament (A8-0034/2016 - Angelika Mlinar)
The situation of women refugees and asylum seekers in the EU (A8-0024/2016 - Mary Honeyball)
Guidelines for the 2017 Budget - Section III (debate) GA
Activities of the European Ombudsman in 2014 (debate) GA
European network of Employment Services, workers' access to mobility services and the further integration of labour markets (A8-0224/2015 - Heinz K. Becker)
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2015/007 BE/Hainaut-Namur Glass (A8-0029/2016 - Tomáš Zdechovský)
European Semester for economic policy coordination: employment and social aspects in the Annual Growth Survey 2016 (A8-0031/2016 - Sofia Ribeiro)
Introduction of compatible systems for the registration of pet animals across Member States (RC-B8-0251/2016, B8-0251/2016, B8-0252/2016, B8-0253/2016, B8-0254/2016, B8-0256/2016)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance GA
20th anniversary of the Dayton Peace agreement (B8-1350/2015, RC-B8-1362/2015, B8-1362/2015, B8-1363/2015, B8-1364/2015, B8-1396/2015, B8-1397/2015, B8-1398/2015, B8-1401/2015)
Patents and plant breeders rights (RC-B8-1394/2015, B8-1394/2015, B8-1395/2015, B8-1399/2015, B8-1400/2015)
Protection of Virunga national park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (B8-1346/2015)
Operational and strategic cooperation between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Europol (A8-0352/2015 - Lorenzo Fontana)
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: authorisation of genetically modified maize NK603xT25
Situation in Hungary: follow-up to the European Parliament Resolution of 10 June 2015 (B8-1349/2015, B8-1351/2015, B8-1351/2015, B8-1358/2015, B8-1359/2015, B8-1360/2015, B8-1361/2015)
Making Europe's electricity grid fit for 2020 (A8-0330/2015 - Peter Eriksson)
Implementation of the European Progress Microfinance Facility (debate) GA
One-minute speeches (Rule 163) GA
Education for children in emergency situations and protracted crises (B8-1240/2015)
Draft amending budget No 8/2015: Own resources and European Data Protection Supervisor (A8-0337/2015 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial)
Mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument for immediate budgetary measures to address the refugee crisis (A8-0336/2015 - José Manuel Fernandes)
Accession to the Extended Commission of the Convention for the Conservation of Southern Bluefin Tuna (A8-0318/2015 - Carlos Iturgaiz)
The role of the EU within the UN (A8-0308/2015 - Paavo Väyrynen)
Financing of two new EU trust funds for Syria and Africa and Member States' contributions to these funds (debate) GA
Reform of the electoral law of the EU (A8-0286/2015 - Danuta Maria Hübner, Jo Leinen)
EU Agency for Law Enforcement Training (CEPOL) (A8-0048/2015 - Kinga Gál)
Transparency of securities financing transactions (A8-0120/2015 - Renato Soru)
European Semester for economic policy coordination: implementation of 2015 priorities (A8-0307/2015 - Dariusz Rosati)
Development of a satellite-based technology to enable global flight tracking systems (B8-1094/2015)
EU strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian region (A8-0279/2015 - Ivan Jakovčić)
Cohesion policy and review of the Europe 2020 strategy (A8-0277/2015 - Fernando Ruas)
European Structural and Investment Funds and sound economic governance (A8-0268/2015 - José Blanco López)
Draft general budget of the European Union for 2016 - all sections
Court of Justice of the European Union: number of judges at the General Court (A8-0296/2015 - António Marinho e Pinto)
Provisions for fishing in the GFCM (General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean) Agreement area (A8-0295/2015 - Gabriel Mato)
Common Agricultural Policy: repealing obsolete acts (A8-0255/2015 - Czesław Adam Siekierski)
EU-Switzerland agreement on the automatic exchange of financial account information (A8-0271/2015 - Jeppe Kofod)
Taxation of savings income in the form of interest payments: repealing the Savings Directive (A8-0299/2015 - Molly Scott Cato)
Package travel and linked travel arrangements (A8-0297/2015 - Birgit Collin-Langen)
European single market for electronic communications (A8-0300/2015 - Pilar del Castillo Vera)
Mandatory automatic exchange of information in the field of taxation (A8-0306/2015 - Markus Ferber)
Ebola crisis: long-term lessons (A8-0281/2015 - Charles Goerens)
General budget of the European Union for 2016 - all sections (debate) GA
Mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument for immediate budgetary measures under the European Agenda on Migration (A8-0290/2015 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial)
Draft amending budget No 7/2015: Managing the refugee crisis: immediate budgetary measures under the European Agenda on Migration (A8-0289/2015 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial)
Payment services in the internal market (A8-0266/2015 - Antonio Tajani)
Mortgage legislation and risky financial instruments in the EU: the case of Spain (B8-0987/2015)
The death penalty (B8-0998/2015, B8-0998/2015, B8-0999/2015, B8-1001/2015, B8-1005/2015, B8-1006/2015, B8-1007/2015, B8-1008/2015)
Renewal of the EU Plan of action on Gender equality and Women's empowerment in development (B8-0988/2015)
Equal opportunities and equal treatment of men and women in matters of employment and occupation (A8-0213/2015 - Anna Záborská)
Protocol to the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement on the general principles for the participation of Tunisia in Union programmes (A8-0254/2015 - Pier Antonio Panzeri)
European small claims procedure and European order for payment procedure (A8-0140/2015 - Lidia Joanna Geringer de Oedenberg)
Financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union (A8-0049/2015 - Ingeborg Gräßle)
ILO Forced Labour Convention: judicial cooperation in criminal matters (A8-0226/2015 - Helga Stevens)
Subjecting 5-(2-aminopropyl)indole to control measures (A8-0263/2015 - Teresa Jiménez-Becerril Barrio)
Mobilisation of the EU Solidarity Fund: disasters in Bulgaria and Greece in 2015 (A8-0253/2015 - Andrey Novakov)
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2015/002 DE/Adam Opel (A8-0273/2015 - Jens Geier)
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2015/003 BE/Ford Genk (A8-0272/2015 - Paul Rübig)
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2015/004 IT/Alitalia (A8-0274/2015 - Monika Vana)
Role of local authorities in developing countries in development cooperation (A8-0232/2015 - Eleni Theocharous)
Social entrepreneurship and social innovation in combatting unemployment (A8-0247/2015 - Verónica Lope Fontagné)
Fisheries partnership agreement with Guinea-Bissau: fishing opportunities and financial contribution (report) (A8-0236/2015 - João Ferreira)
Promoting youth entrepreneurship through education and training (A8-0239/2015 - Michaela Šojdrová)
Follow up to the European citizens' initiative Right2Water (A8-0228/2015 - Lynn Boylan)
Fisheries partnership agreement with Guinea-Bissau: fishing opportunities and financial contribution (recommendation) - Fisheries partnership agreement with Guinea-Bissau: fishing opportunities and financial contribution (report) - Fisheries partnership agreement with Madagascar: fishing opportunities and financial contribution - Fisheries partnership agreement with Cape Verde: fishing opportunities and financial contribution (report) - Fisheries partnership agreement with Cape Verde: fishing opportunities and financial contribution (recommendation) (debate) GA
Harmonisation of certain aspects of copyright and related rights (debate) GA
Maximum permitted levels of radioactive contamination following a nuclear accident (A8-0176/2015 - Esther Herranz García) GA
Building a Capital markets union (B8-0655/2015)
European Agenda on Security (B8-0676/2015, B8-0679/2015) GA
Situation in Yemen (RC-B8-0680/2015, B8-0680/2015, B8-0681/2015, B8-0682/2015, B8-0683/2015, B8-0686/2015, B8-0687/2015, B8-0688/2015) GA
Security challenges in the Middle East and North Africa and prospects for political stability (A8-0193/2015 - Vincent Peillon)
Review of the European neighbourhood policy (A8-0194/2015 - Eduard Kukan) GA
Harmonisation of certain aspects of copyright and related rights (A8-0209/2015 - Julia Reda)
Evaluation of activities of the European Endowment for Democracy (EED) (A8-0177/2015 - Andrzej Grzyb) GA
Situation in Burundi (RC-B8-0657/2015, B8-0657/2015, B8-0658/2015, B8-0665/2015, B8-0666/2015, B8-0667/2015, B8-0668/2015, B8-0669/2015)
Negotiations for the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) (A8-0175/2015 - Bernd Lange)
Market stability reserve for the Union greenhouse gas emission trading scheme (A8-0029/2015 - Ivo Belet)
Seafarers (A8-0127/2015 - Elisabeth Morin-Chartier) GA
Guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (A8-0205/2015 - Laura Agea)
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2015/001 FI/Broadcom (A8-0210/2015 - Petri Sarvamaa) GA
2016 Budget - Mandate for the trilogue (A8-0217/2015 - José Manuel Fernandes) GA
Green employment initiative (A8-0204/2015 - Jean Lambert) GA
Resource efficiency: moving towards a circular economy (A8-0215/2015 - Sirpa Pietikäinen) GA
Exercise of the Union’s rights under international trade rules (A8-0203/2015 - Jiří Maštálka) GA
Review of the implementation of the Dairy package (A8-0187/2015 - James Nicholson) GA
External impact of EU trade and investment policy on public-private initiatives (A8-0182/2015 - Jan Zahradil) GA
The fruit and vegetables sector since the 2007 reform (A8-0170/2015 - Nuno Melo) GA
2016 Budget - Mandate for the trilogue (debate) GA
European Fund for Strategic Investments (debate) GA
Strategic military situation in the Black Sea Basin following the illegal annexation of Crimea by Russia (A8-0171/2015 - Ioan Mircea Paşcu) GA
State of EU-Russia relations (A8-0162/2015 - Gabrielius Landsbergis) GA
Recent revelations of high-level corruption cases in FIFA (debate) GA
Sport and Human Rights, including in the context of the Baku European Games (debate) GA
Implementation of the Common Security and Defence Policy (A8-0054/2015 - Arnaud Danjean)
Financing the Common Security and Defence Policy (A8-0136/2015 - Eduard Kukan, Indrek Tarand)
Self-certification of importers of minerals and metals originating in conflict-affected and high-risk areas (A8-0141/2015 - Iuliu Winkler)
Commission Delegated Directive ../…/EU amending, for the purposes of adapting to technical progress, Annex III to Directive 2011/65/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards an exemption for cadmium in illumination and display lighting applications" (B8-0464/2015)
Maternity leave (B8-0453/2015)
UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (B8-0460/2015)
Financing for development (A8-0143/2015 - Pedro Silva Pereira) GA
Safer healthcare in Europe (A8-0142/2015 - Piernicola Pedicini) GA
Money market funds (A8-0041/2015 - Neena Gill)
European Public Prosecutor's Office (A8-0055/2015 - Monica Macovei) GA
Application of Articles 107 and 108 TFEU to certain categories of horizontal state aid (A8-0029/2014 - Andrzej Duda) GA
Rules for the application of Article 108 TFEU (A8-0047/2014 - Andrzej Duda) GA
International Convention on standards for fishing vessel personnel (A8-0064/2015 - Sofia Ribeiro) GA
Fuel quality directive and renewable energy directive (A8-0025/2015 - Nils Torvalds)
Reducing the consumption of lightweight plastic carrier bags (A8-0130/2015 - Margrete Auken) GA
Implementation of the Bologna process (A8-0121/2015 - Krystyna Łybacka) GA
A new EU Forest Strategy (A8-0126/2015 - Elisabeth Köstinger)
Landing obligation (debate) GA
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2014/016 IE/Lufthansa Technik (A8-0052/2015 - Victor Negrescu) GA
Macro-financial assistance to Ukraine (A8-0056/2015 - Gabrielius Landsbergis) GA
Annual Tax report (A8-0040/2015 - Eva Kaili)
Common rules for imports from certain third countries (A8-0014/2015 - Jarosław Wałęsa) GA
Stabilisation and Association Agreement with Montenegro (A8-0051/2014 - Andrzej Duda) GA
Guidelines for the 2016 budget - Section III (A8-0027/2015 - José Manuel Fernandes) GA
Annual report 2013 on the protection of EU's financial interests - Fight against fraud (A8-0024/2015 - Georgi Pirinski)
2014 Progress report on Montenegro (B8-0211/2015) GA
2014 Progress report on the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (B8-0212/2015) GA
2014 Progress report on Serbia (B8-0213/2015) GA
The European integration process of Kosovo (B8-0214/2015) GA
Fight against child sexual abuse on the Internet (RC-B8-0217/2015, B8-0217/2015, B8-0218/2015, B8-0219/2015, B8-0220/2015, B8-0226/2015, B8-0227/2015)
Setting-up of a special committee on tax rulings and other measures similar in nature or effect (B8-0169/2015)
Safeguard measures provided for in the Agreement with Iceland (A8-0031/2014 - Andrzej Duda)
Accession of Gabon to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (A8-0007/2015 - Heidi Hautala)
Cross-border exchange of information on road safety related traffic offences (A8-0001/2015 - Inés Ayala Sender)
US Senate report on the use of torture by the CIA (B8-0098/2015, RC-B8-0123/2015, B8-0123/2015, B8-0133/2015)
Country of origin labelling for meat ingredients in processed food (B8-0097/2015)
Ombudsman's annual report 2013 (debate)
Ombudsman's annual report 2013 (A8-0058/2014 - Jarosław Wałęsa)
Situation in Egypt (RC-B8-0012/2015, B8-0012/2015, B8-0019/2015, B8-0022/2015, B8-0023/2015, B8-0024/2015, B8-0026/2015, B8-0028/2015)
Protocol to the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement between the EC and Tunisia, to take account of the accession of Bulgaria and Romania to the EU (A8-0049/2014 - Elmar Brok)
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2013/014 FR/Air France (A8-0065/2014 - Marco Zanni)
Budgets 2014 and 2015 (debate)
Budgets 2014 and 2015 (debate)
Budget 2015: Result of the Conciliation Committee (debate) GA
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2014/007 IE/Andersen Ireland (A8-0024/2014 - Ivan Štefanec)
Peace process in Northern Ireland (debate)
Draft amending budget No 2/2014 - surplus resulting from the implementation of the budget year 2013 (debate)
General budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015 - all sections (debate)
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund - application EGF/2014/000 TA 2014 - Technical assistance at the initiative of the Commission (A8-0003/2014 - Liadh Ní Riada) (vote)
Structural shortage of payments in the Horizon 2020 budget (debate)
Payment situation in the EU budget given the unprecedented level of outstanding EU commitments (debate)
Reports (3)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (application from Greece – EGF/2015/011 GR/Supermarket Larissa) PDF (409 KB) DOC (104 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2013/011 BE/Saint-Gobain Sekurit, from Belgium) PDF (170 KB) DOC (100 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/000 TA 2014 – Technical assistance at the initiative of the Commission) PDF (185 KB) DOC (95 KB)
Shadow reports (111)
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund and repealing Regulation (EU) No 508/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council PDF (735 KB) DOC (338 KB)
REPORT on general guidelines for the preparation of the 2020 budget, Section III – Commission PDF (182 KB) DOC (62 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing ‘Erasmus’: the Union programme for education, training, youth and sport and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1288/2013 PDF (574 KB) DOC (263 KB)
INTERIM REPORT on the proposal for a Council Regulation on the establishment of the European Monetary Fund PDF (182 KB) DOC (73 KB)
RECOMMENDATION on the draft Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the Agreement to Prevent Unregulated High Seas Fisheries in the Central Arctic Ocean PDF (164 KB) DOC (55 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the InvestEU Programme PDF (1 MB) DOC (351 KB)
REPORT on the Council position on the second draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2019 PDF (506 KB) DOC (64 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide for the payment of advances in the general budget of the Union for 2019 PDF (359 KB) DOC (55 KB)
REPORT on the Council position on the draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2019 PDF (1 MB) DOC (199 KB)
REPORT on the mandate for the trilogue on the 2019 draft budget PDF (924 KB) DOC (133 KB)
REPORT on language equality in the digital age PDF (348 KB) DOC (74 KB)
REPORT on the state of play of recreational fisheries in the European Union PDF (298 KB) DOC (64 KB)
REPORT Towards a sustainable and competitive European aquaculture sector: current status and future challenges PDF (563 KB) DOC (91 KB)
REPORT on general guidelines for the preparation of the 2019 budget, Section III – Commission PDF (462 KB) DOC (67 KB)
REPORT on the next MFF: Preparing the Parliament’s position on the MFF post-2020 PDF (1 MB) DOC (234 KB)
REPORT on reform of the European Union’s system of own resources PDF (658 KB) DOC (110 KB)
REPORT on the Annual Report on the Financial Activities of the European Investment Bank PDF (484 KB) DOC (96 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the conservation of fishery resources and the protection of marine ecosystems through technical measures, amending Council Regulations (EC) No 1967/2006, (EC) No 1098/2007, (EC) No 1224/2009 and Regulations (EU) No 1343/2011 and (EU) No 1380/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council, and repealing Council Regulations (EC) No 894/97, (EC) No 850/98, (EC) No 2549/2000, (EC) No 254/2002, (EC) No 812/2004 and (EC) No 2187/2005 PDF (1 MB) DOC (356 KB)
REPORT on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 6/2017 of the European Union for the financial year 2017: Reduction of payment and commitment appropriations in line with updated forecasts of expenditure and update of revenue (own resources and fines) PDF (355 KB) DOC (52 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Decision EU 2017/344 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 December 2016 on the mobilisation of the Contingency Margin in 2017 PDF (361 KB) DOC (55 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) No 1295/2013 establishing the Creative Europe Programme (2014 to 2020) PDF (444 KB) DOC (77 KB)
REPORT on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 5/2017 of the European Union for the financial year 2017 providing the financing for the European Fund for Sustainable Development (EFSD) and increasing the Emergency Aid Reserve (EAR) further to the revision of the Multiannual Financial Framework regulation PDF (357 KB) DOC (56 KB)
REPORT on the Council position on the draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2018 PDF (993 KB) DOC (188 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument to provide the financing for the European Fund for Sustainable Development PDF (360 KB) DOC (56 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 on the Common Fisheries Policy PDF (427 KB) DOC (53 KB)
REPORT on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 3/2017 of the European Union for the financial year 2017 increasing the budgetary resources of the Youth Employment Initiative to pursue the reduction of youth unemployment across the European Union and updating the staff establishment plans of the decentralised agency ACER and the joint undertaking SESAR2 PDF (353 KB) DOC (51 KB)
REPORT on the mandate for the trilogue on the 2018 draft budget PDF (975 KB) DOC (131 KB)
REPORT on the role of fisheries-related tourism in the diversification of fisheries PDF (361 KB) DOC (78 KB)
REPORT on Towards an EU strategy for international cultural relations PDF (397 KB) DOC (76 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and amending Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002, Regulations (EU) No 1296/2013, (EU) 1301/2013, (EU) No 1303/2013, EU No 1304/2013, (EU) No 1305/2013, (EU) No 1306/2013, (EU) No 1307/2013, (EU) No 1308/2013, (EU) No 1309/2013, (EU) No 1316/2013, (EU) No 223/2014, (EU) No 283/2014, (EU) No 652/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council and Decision No 541/2014/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council PDF (3 MB) DOC (682 KB)
REPORT on the implementation of the European Fund for Strategic Investments PDF (647 KB) DOC (149 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulations (EU) No 1316/2013 and (EU) 2015/1017 as regards the extension of the duration of the European Fund for Strategic Investments as well as the introduction of technical enhancements for that Fund and the European Investment Advisory Hub PDF (1 MB) DOC (183 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF/2017/000 TA 2017 - Technical assistance at the initiative of the Commission) PDF (473 KB) DOC (65 KB)
REPORT on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 1/2017 to the general budget for 2017 accompanying the proposal to mobilise the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to the United Kingdom, Cyprus and Portugal PDF (350 KB) DOC (46 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to the United Kingdom, Cyprus and Portugal PDF (635 KB) DOC (62 KB)
REPORT containing a motion for a non-legislative resolution on the draft Council regulation amending Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 PDF (373 KB) DOC (52 KB)
RECOMMENDATION on the draft Council regulation amending Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 PDF (457 KB) DOC (58 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Decision (EU) 2015/435 on the mobilisation of the Contingency Margin PDF (359 KB) DOC (53 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Decision No 445/2014/EU establishing a Union action for the European Capitals of Culture for the years 2020 to 2033 PDF (574 KB) DOC (87 KB)
REPORT on general guidelines for the preparation of the 2018 budget, Section III – Commission PDF (472 KB) DOC (64 KB)
REPORT on budgetary capacity for the Eurozone PDF (616 KB) DOC (93 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (application from the Netherlands – EGF/2016/005 NL/Drenthe Overijssel Retail) PDF (429 KB) DOC (74 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council defining characteristics for fishing vessels (recast) PDF (461 KB) DOC (85 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Germany PDF (445 KB) DOC (55 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument to finance immediate budgetary measures to address the on-going migration, refugee and security crisis PDF (364 KB) DOC (60 KB)
REPORT on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 4/2016 of the European Union for the financial year 2016: Update of appropriations to reflect the latest developments on migration and security issues, reduction of payment and commitment appropriations as a result of the Global Transfer, extension of EFSI, modification of the staff establishment plan of Frontex and update of revenue appropriations (Own resources) PDF (437 KB) DOC (55 KB)
REPORT on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 6/2016 of the European Union for the financial year 2016 accompanying the proposal to mobilise the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Germany PDF (317 KB) DOC (52 KB)
REPORT on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 5/2016 of the European Union for the financial year 2016: Implementation of the Own Resources Decision No 2014/335/EU further to the closing of the ratification process and its entry into force on 1 October 2016 PDF (340 KB) DOC (53 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the Contingency Margin in 2016 PDF (346 KB) DOC (55 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the Contingency Margin in 2017 PDF (362 KB) DOC (60 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide for the payment of advances in the general budget of the Union for 2017 PDF (350 KB) DOC (55 KB)
RECOMMENDATION on the draft Council decision on the conclusion of the Agreement between the European Union and the Kingdom of Norway on reciprocal access to fishing in the Skagerrak for vessels flying the flag of Denmark, Norway and Sweden PDF (346 KB) DOC (47 KB)
REPORT containing a motion for a non-legislative resolution on the draft Council decision on the conclusion of the Agreement between the European Union and the Kingdom of Norway on reciprocal access to fishing in the Skagerrak for vessels flying the flag of Denmark, Norway and Sweden PDF (338 KB) DOC (46 KB)
REPORT on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 3/2016 of the European Union for the financial year 2016: Security of the Institutions PDF (338 KB) DOC (50 KB)
Report on the Council position on the draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2017 PDF (809 KB) DOC (162 KB)
REPORT on the preparation of the post-electoral revision of the MFF 2014-2020: Parliament’s input ahead of the Commission’s proposal PDF (834 KB) DOC (333 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF/2016/000 TA 2016 - Technical assistance at the initiative of the Commission) PDF (472 KB) DOC (105 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (application from Sweden – EGF/2015/009 SE/Volvo Trucks) PDF (471 KB) DOC (104 KB)
REPORT on innovation and diversification of small-scale coastal fishing in fisheries-dependent regions PDF (321 KB) DOC (125 KB)
REPORT on general guidelines for the preparation of the 2017 budget, Section III – Commission PDF (383 KB) DOC (114 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2015/007 - BE/Hainaut-Namur Glass, submitted by Belgium) PDF (397 KB) DOC (101 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2015/006 - IE/PWA International, from Ireland) PDF (182 KB) DOC (103 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2015/005 - FI/Computer Programming, from Finland) PDF (174 KB) DOC (100 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument for immediate budgetary measures to address the refugee crisis, in accordance with point 12 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management PDF (157 KB) DOC (79 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund, in accordance with point 11 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management to provide for payment of advances in the 2016 budget PDF (152 KB) DOC (74 KB)
REPORT on the joint text on the draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2016 approved by the Conciliation Committee under the budgetary procedure PDF (203 KB) DOC (189 KB)
REPORT on the Council position on the draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2016 PDF (354 KB) DOC (319 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument for immediate budgetary measures under the European Agenda on Migration, in accordance with point 12 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management PDF (152 KB) DOC (73 KB)
REPORT on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 7/2015 of the European Union for the financial year 2015, Managing the refugee crisis: immediate budgetary measures under the European Agenda on Migration PDF (171 KB) DOC (81 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2015/004 IT/Alitalia, from Italy) PDF (180 KB) DOC (99 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2015/002 DE/Adam Opel, from Germany) PDF (184 KB) DOC (105 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2015/003 BE/Ford Genk, from Belgium) PDF (179 KB) DOC (101 KB)
REPORT on promoting youth entrepreneurship through education and training PDF (213 KB) DOC (148 KB)
REPORT on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 1/2015 of the European Union for the financial year 2015, Section III – Commission, accompanying the proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the European Fund for Strategic Investments and amending Regulations (EU) No 1291/2013 and (EU) No 1316/2013 PDF (212 KB) DOC (334 KB)
REPORT on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 4/2015 of the European Union for the financial year 2015, accompanying the proposal to mobilise the European Union Solidarity Fund for Romania, Bulgaria and Italy PDF (131 KB) DOC (60 KB)
REPORT on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 3/2015 of the European Union for the financial year 2015 - entering the surplus of the financial year 2014 PDF (130 KB) DOC (60 KB)
REPORT on the mandate for the trilogue on the 2016 draft budget PDF (906 KB) DOC (1 MB)
REPORT on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 5/2015 of the European Union for the financial year 2015 - Responding to migratory pressures PDF (144 KB) DOC (74 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2015/001 FI/Broadcom, from Finland) PDF (180 KB) DOC (102 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2015/000 TA - Technical Assistance at the initiative of the Commission) PDF (179 KB) DOC (119 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the European Fund for Strategic Investments and amending Regulations (EU) No 1291/2013 and (EU) No 1316/2013 PDF (2 MB) DOC (1 MB)
REPORT on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 2/2015 of the European Union for the financial year 2015, Section III – Commission PDF (138 KB) DOC (72 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/017 FR/Mory-Ducros, from France) PDF (170 KB) DOC (89 KB)
REPORT on Follow-up on the implementation of the Bologna Process PDF (163 KB) DOC (106 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/016 IE/Lufthansa Technik, from Ireland) PDF (165 KB) DOC (93 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/015 GR/Attica publishing activities, from Greece) PDF (162 KB) DOC (91 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/018 GR/Attica Broadcasting, from Greece) PDF (163 KB) DOC (91 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union PDF (786 KB) DOC (537 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2013/009 PL/Zachem, from Poland) PDF (172 KB) DOC (89 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/012 BE/ArcelorMittal, from Belgium) PDF (169 KB) DOC (96 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/011 BE/Caterpillar, from Belgium) PDF (165 KB) DOC (92 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2013/007 BE/Hainaut Steel (Duferco-NLMK), from Belgium) PDF (171 KB) DOC (98 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/014 DE/Aleo Solar from Germany) PDF (167 KB) DOC (97 KB)
REPORT on general guidelines for the preparation of the 2016 budget, Section III – Commission PDF (161 KB) DOC (82 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2013/014 FR/Air France, from France) PDF (171 KB) DOC (94 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/010 IT/Whirpool, from Italy) PDF (166 KB) DOC (95 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/013 EL/Odyssefs Fokas, from Greece) PDF (179 KB) DOC (100 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2013/006 PL/Fiat Auto Poland S.A., from Poland) PDF (171 KB) DOC (94 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Council Regulations (EC) No 850/98, (EC) No 2187/2005, (EC) No 1967/2006, (EC) No 1098/2007, No 254/2002, (EC) No 2347/2002 and (EC) No 1224/2009 and repealing (EC) No 1434/98 as regards the landing obligation PDF (705 KB) DOC (443 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/005 FR/GAD, from France) PDF (175 KB) DOC (95 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/008 FI/STX Rauma, from Finland) PDF (172 KB) DOC (89 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/007 IE/Andersen Ireland, from Ireland) PDF (173 KB) DOC (97 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2013/002 BE/Carsid from Belgium) PDF (173 KB) DOC (98 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2013/012 BE/Ford Genk from Belgium) PDF (180 KB) DOC (94 KB)
REPORT on the Council position on the draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015 PDF (379 KB) DOC (361 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with Point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/004 ES/Comunidad Valenciana metal) PDF (178 KB) DOC (94 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2012/010 RO/Mechel from Romania) PDF (447 KB) DOC (98 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2013/010 ES/Castilla y León from Spain) PDF (175 KB) DOC (86 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and sound financial management (application EGF/2014/003 ES/Aragón food and beverage) PDF (182 KB) DOC (94 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/002 NL/Gelderland-Overijssel construction) PDF (180 KB) DOC (94 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/001 EL/Nutriart) PDF (176 KB) DOC (98 KB)
Opinions (6)
OPINION on EU action for sustainability
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulations (EU) No 1316/2013 and (EU) No 283/2014 as regards the promotion of Internet connectivity in local communities
OPINION on the European Semester for economic policy coordination: employment and social aspects in the Annual Growth Survey 2017
OPINION on how best to harness the job creation potential of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs)
OPINION on green growth opportunities for SMEs
OPINION on the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on seafarers amending Directives 2008/94/EC, 2009/38/EC, 2002/14/EC, 98/59/EC and 2001/23/EC
Shadow opinions (65)
OPINION on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2017, Section III – Commission and executive agencies
OPINION on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Translation Centre for the Bodies of the European Union for the financial year 2017
OPINION on the Council decision on the conclusion of the Protocol on the implementation of the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire (2018-2024)
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council laying down common provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund Plus, the Cohesion Fund, and the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund and financial rules for those and for the Asylum and Migration Fund, the Internal Security Fund and the Border Management and Visa Instrument.
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the European Regional Development Fund and on the Cohesion Fund
OPINION on the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on the re-use of public sector information (recast)
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the Rights and Values programme
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing ‘Erasmus’: the Union programme for education, training, youth and sport and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1288/2013
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund and repealing Regulation (EU) No 508/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the European Solidarity Corps programme and repealing [European Solidarity Corps Regulation] and Regulation (EU) No 375/2014
OPINION on differentiated integration
OPINION on the Annual Report on the financial activities of the European Investment Bank
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the Justice programme
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a Programme for the Environment and Climate Action (LIFE) and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1293/2013
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the 'Customs' programme for cooperation in the field of customs
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing Horizon Europe – the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation, laying down its rules for participation and dissemination
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the space programme of the Union and the European Union Agency for the Space Programme and repealing Regulations (EU) No 912/2010, (EU) No 1285/2013, (EU) No 377/2014 and Decision 541/2014/EU
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing Horizon Europe – the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation, laying down its rules for participation and dissemination
OPINION on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on establishing the specific programme implementing Horizon Europe – the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation
OPINION on the Interim report on MFF 2021-2027 – Parliament’s position in view of an agreement
OPINION on the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment
OPINION on minimum standards for minorities in the EU
OPINION on the draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2019
OPINION on the draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2019
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 laying down common provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund, the Cohesion Fund, the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund and laying down general provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund, the Cohesion Fund and the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund and repealing Council Regulation (EC) No 1083/2006 as regards support to structural reforms in Member States
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) No 1093/2010 establishing a European Supervisory Authority (European Banking Authority); Regulation (EU) No 1094/2010 establishing a European Supervisory Authority (European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority); Regulation (EU) No 1095/2010 establishing a European Supervisory Authority (European Securities and Markets Authority); Regulation (EU) No 345/2013 on European venture capital funds; Regulation (EU) No 346/2013 on European social entrepreneurship funds; Regulation (EU) No 600/2014 on markets in financial instruments; Regulation (EU) 2015/760 on European long-term investment funds; Regulation (EU) 2016/1011 on indices used as benchmarks in financial instruments and financial contracts or to measure the performance of investment funds; and Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 on the prospectus to be published when securities are offered to the public or admitted to trading on a regulated market
OPINION on a European strategy for plastics in a circular economy
OPINION on the mandate for the trilogue on the 2019 draft budget
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the European citizens’ initiative
OPINION on strengthening economic, social and territorial cohesion in the European Union: the 7th report of the European Commission
OPINION on the draft Council decision on the conclusion of a Protocol setting out the fishing opportunities and the financial contribution provided for by the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Mauritius
OPINION on implementation of the EU external financing instruments: mid-term review 2017 and the future architecture post-2020
OPINION on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2016, Section III - Commission and executive agencies
OPINION on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Translation Centre for the Bodies of the European Union for the financial year 2016
OPINION on the next MFF: preparing the Parliament’s position on the MFF post-2020
OPINION on the implementation of the Youth Employment Initiative in the Member States
OPINION on EU Citizenship Report 2017: Strengthening Citizens’ Rights in a Union of Democratic Change
OPINION on control of spending and monitoring of EU Youth Guarantee schemes’ cost-effectiveness
OPINION on the draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2018
OPINION on the mandate for the trilogue on the 2018 draft budget
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the European Foundation for the improvement of living and working conditions (Eurofound), and repealing Council Regulation (EEC) No 1365/75
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop) and repealing Regulation (EEC) No 337/75
OPINION on the proposal for a Council directive amending Directive 2006/112/EC, as regards rates of value added tax applied to books, newspapers and periodicals
OPINION on the right funding mix for Europe’s regions: balancing financial instruments and grants in EU cohesion policy
OPINION on the implementation of the European Fund for Strategic Investments
OPINION on the management of fishing fleets in the outermost regions
OPINION on constitutional, legal and institutional implications of a common security and defence policy: possibilities offered by the Lisbon Treaty
OPINION on EU funds for gender equality
OPINION on the implementation of Council Regulation (EU) No 390/2014 of 14 April 2014 establishing the ‘Europe for Citizens’ programme for the period of 2014–2020
OPINION on the draft report on the implementation of Regulation (EU) No 1295/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 establishing the Creative Europe Programme (2014 to 2020) and repealing Decisions No 1718/2006/EC, No 1855/2006/EC and No 1041/2009/EC (Text with EEA relevance)
OPINION on Erasmus+
OPINION on the draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2017
OPINION on access to finance for SMEs and increasing the diversity of SME funding in a Capital Markets Union
OPINION on the activities, impact and added value of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund between 2007 and 2014
OPINION on access to finance for SMEs and increasing the diversity of SME funding in a Capital Markets Union
OPINION on the draft Council decision on the conclusion on behalf of the European Union of the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Liberia and the Implementation Protocol thereto
OPINION on the draft Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the Protocol setting out the fishing opportunities and financial contribution provided for in the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Community and the Islamic Republic of Mauritania for a period of four years
OPINION on the European Semester for economic policy coordination: Annual Growth Survey 2016
OPINION on the European Semester for economic policy coordination: implementation of 2015 priorities
OPINION on tapping the job creation and growth potential of research and innovation in the blue economy
OPINION on the Sixth Report on Economic, Social and Territorial Cohesion: Investment for jobs and growth
OPINION on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Fisheries Control Agency for the financial year 2013
OPINION on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2013, Section III - Commission and executive agencies
OPINION on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2013, Section III – Commission and executive agencies
OPINION on the Council position on the draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015
Institutional motions (38)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the urgency for an EU blacklist of third countries in line with the Anti-Money Laundering Directive PDF (143 KB) DOC (55 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on gender balance in EU economic and monetary affairs nominations PDF (133 KB) DOC (50 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION seeking an opinion from the Court of Justice on the compatibility with the Treaties of the proposed Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Kingdom of Morocco, the Implementation Protocol thereto and an exchange of letters accompanying the said Agreement PDF (153 KB) DOC (54 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION seeking an opinion from the Court of Justice on the compatibility with the Treaties of the proposed agreement in the form of an Exchange of Letters between the European Union and the Kingdom of Morocco on the amendment of Protocols 1 and 4 to the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement establishing an association between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Kingdom of Morocco, of the other part PDF (151 KB) DOC (53 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul PDF (288 KB) DOC (53 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the EU’s input to a UN Binding Instrument on transnational corporations and other business enterprises with transnational characteristics with respect to human rights PDF (305 KB) DOC (60 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Yemen PDF (280 KB) DOC (51 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the threat of demolition of Khan al-Ahmar and other Bedouin villages PDF (266 KB) DOC (53 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on protection of investigative journalists in Europe: the case of Slovak journalist Jan Kuciak and Martina Kušnírová PDF (293 KB) DOC (63 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation of UNRWA PDF (270 KB) DOC (48 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation of UNRWA PDF (264 KB) DOC (51 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on combating sexual harassment and abuse in the EU PDF (309 KB) DOC (61 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on combating sexual harassment and abuse in the EU PDF (282 KB) DOC (53 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on achieving the two-state solution in the Middle East PDF (179 KB) DOC (54 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on negotiations with the United Kingdom following its notification that it intends to withdraw from the European Union PDF (293 KB) DOC (62 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the conclusion of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between Canada, of the one part, and the European Union and its Member States, of the other part PDF (304 KB) DOC (60 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on sign languages and professional sign language interpreters PDF (275 KB) DOC (85 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the need for a European reindustrialisation policy in light of the recent Caterpillar and Alstom cases PDF (177 KB) DOC (70 KB)
MOTION OF CENSURE ON THE COMMISSION MOTION OF CENSURE ON THE COMMISSION PDF (268 KB) DOC (71 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on attacks on hospitals and schools as violations of international humanitarian law PDF (295 KB) DOC (87 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the displacement of children in Northern Nigeria as a result of Boko Haram attacks PDF (184 KB) DOC (77 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Honduras: situation of indigenous rights defenders & LGBTI peoples PDF (195 KB) DOC (85 KB)
PROPOSITION DE RÉSOLUTION sur le Pakistan, en particulier sur l'attaque à Lahore FR PDF (192 KB) DOC (79 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the mutual defence clause (Article 42(7) TEU) PDF (235 KB) DOC (59 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Ibrahim Halawa, potentially facing the death penalty PDF (287 KB) DOC (83 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Ibrahim Halawa potentially facing the death penalty PDF (187 KB) DOC (77 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Burundi PDF (277 KB) DOC (74 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the death penalty PDF (189 KB) DOC (83 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on migration and the situation of refugees PDF (194 KB) DOC (89 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on recent revelations on high-level corruption cases in FIFA PDF (162 KB) DOC (87 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the List of Issues adopted by the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in relation to the initial report of the European Union PDF (254 KB) DOC (72 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation of the Yarmouk refugee camp PDF (127 KB) DOC (57 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on child sex abuse images online PDF (231 KB) DOC (60 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Mauritania, in particular the case of Biram Dah Arbeid PDF (128 KB) DOC (56 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on recognition of Palestinian statehood PDF (125 KB) DOC (54 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the 25th anniversary of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child PDF (159 KB) DOC (91 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the Northern Ireland peace process PDF (125 KB) DOC (58 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Israel-Palestine after the Gaza war and the role of the EU PDF (138 KB) DOC (67 KB)
Oral questions (19)
10th anniversary of the Horizontal Directive proposal PDF (197 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) PDF (196 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Request for an investigation into compliance with the Tobacco directive following the Filtergate scandal PDF (195 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Major interpellation - Israel's involvement in projects financed under Horizon 2020 PDF (105 KB) DOC (17 KB)
SMP and ANFA profits from Greek bonds PDF (105 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Ruling by the General Court of the European Union on the Commission's decision of 10 September 2014 to refuse to register the European Citizens' Initiative 'STOP TTIP' PDF (198 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Minor interpellation - VP/HR - The conclusion of EU-Egypt Partnership Priorities PDF (189 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Major interpellation - Follow-up to the Brazilian meat imports scandal PDF (195 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Minor interpellation - VP/HR - Israeli settlement policy PDF (191 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Violation of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights in Greece, concerning labour relations PDF (102 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Regarding leaked consolidated TTIP chapter PDF (109 KB) DOC (26 KB)
45th anniversary of the International Roma Day PDF (104 KB) DOC (25 KB)
45th anniversary of the International Roma Day PDF (104 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Tobacco agreement (PMI agreement) PDF (106 KB) DOC (26 KB)
Impunity of Francoist crimes in the Spanish state PDF (196 KB) DOC (27 KB)
Reports of consistent abuse of asylum-seekers by Bulgarian police PDF (105 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Tobacco agreements PDF DOC
Price volatility in the beef sector PDF DOC
Price volatility in the beef sector PDF DOC
Written explanations (929)
Eurojust-Denmark Agreement on judicial cooperation in criminal matters (A8-0192/2019 - Claude Moraes)
. – Denmark is a member of Eurojust but enjoys an opt-out from the Justice and Home Affairs pillar under Protocol 22 to the Treaties. Because of this, when the new Eurojust Regulation 2018/1727 enters into force on 12 December 2019, the country will be considered as a third country with respect to Eurojust.The Danish authorities have expressed the wish to continue to take part in Eurojust, but waiting for the new Regulation to come into force before making a new agreement could risk an ‘operational gap’. This report endorses an agreement made under the current legal framework that will avoid this. I therefore voted in favour.
Coordination of social security systems (A8-0386/2018 - Guillaume Balas)
. – This file is an update on the existing regulation 883/2004, which deals with the coordination of social security systems across the EU. However, when workers or individuals move between Member States there are a complicated series of effects on social security systems which this regulation tries to deal with. For example, when someone is injured on holiday and gets medical treatment in another Member State, or when they move between Member States for work, paying insurance in several countries, and then become unemployed.The outcome at Committee level was quite progressive, including better rules to protect workers at all levels. In general, respect has been maintained for the subsidiarity principle and the establishment of, and rules around, individual social security systems remain the competence of individual Member States, and some loopholes around social fraud have been closed.Unfortunately negotiations with the Council and Commission reached an impasse. Rather than leaving things dangling, with this vote the Parliament reconfirmed its support for the text adopted in Plenary last November. I voted in favour.
CO2 emission performance standards for new heavy-duty vehicles (A8-0354/2018 - Bas Eickhout)
. – I voted in favour of this report. Sinn Féin supported the Parliament’s position in the November 2018 vote and welcomes the agreed position between Parliament and Council after negotiations. Ambitious CO2 emissions reduction targets of new heavy-duty vehicles will be set for 2025 and for 2030, and a just transition towards zero-emission mobility is to be ensured, taking into account the social effects of the transition throughout the whole automotive value chain.
Promotion of clean and energy-efficient road transport vehicles (A8-0321/2018 - Andrzej Grzyb)
. – I voted in favour of this report. Our political group supported the Parliament’s position on this file when it voted in October 2018. The file presented a balanced report with ambitious yet much needed targets. Despite the fact that the final agreement between the Council and Parliament lost several of the Parliament’s ambitious commitments, we have been requesting public procurement to contribute to GHG emission reduction for a long time, and now we have binding procurement targets per Member State with sub targets for zero-emission vehicles. For these reasons I supported the final text.
Use of digital tools and processes in company law (A8-0422/2018 - Tadeusz Zwiefka)
. – I voted against this provisional agreement. The proposal is part of a new company law package which aims to promote company mobility within the EU. In attempting to reduce bureaucratic red tape and harmonise e-government services, this proposal just gives additional freedoms to companies to relocate as they please, without any safeguards on fraud or tax evasion. For instance, the physical presence of a company legal representative for the establishment of a company/branch before the relevant authority in the destination Member State is only optional and on a case-by-case basis when there are reasons to suspect identity falsification. There are clearly inadequate safeguards in place, and the effect could be the facilitation of fraud rather than the prevention of it.
Cross-border conversions, mergers and divisions (A8-0002/2019 - Evelyn Regner)
. – This report is part of the new ‘company law package’, which promotes company mobility by making it easier for companies to move their seat from one Member State to another. EU law currently only covers cross-border mergers, but this package introduces harmonised rules for conversions and divisions (another way of moving a company’s seat, which is handy for tax purposes).While the Commission proposal had a one-dimensional focus on delivering company mobility, Parliament’s report included strong provisions on workers’ involvement, information and consultation rights in order to ensure that workers are heard and their interests are safeguarded in the event of a cross-border operation. The report also contained a ‘real seat principle’ requiring genuine economic activity in the Member State where the company moves to in order to prevent the creation of letterbox companies. In trilogue negotiations, however, these provisions were watered down again. Overall, the final report now grants companies greater freedoms to move, without really helping workers. I therefore voted against.
European Defence Fund (A8-0412/2018 - Zdzisław Krasnodębski)
. – This file is the European Union’s proposal to create a EUR 13 billion slush fund for the European arms industry. This massive fund will be used to boost the profits of French and German arms companies and will increase the amount of weapons exported from Europe every year. This will fuel conflicts around the world as billions worth of European weapons are used in warzones every year.At a time of increased global insecurity as a result of political instability, climate change and poverty, European States should prioritise funds which address these challenges, not fuel the proliferation of arms by giving billions of euro of public money to the arms industry. I voted against.
Exposures in the form of covered bonds (A8-0384/2018 - Bernd Lucke)
. – I voted against this provisional agreement. The package of a Directive and Regulation will lessen the safety level of one of the few instruments that is actually relatively stable and has remained so even during the crisis by making it more complex and open to cross-border speculation.In the context of the deepening Capital Markets Union, the Commission has presented a proposal for enabling an EU framework on covered bonds facilitating the cross-border distribution of investments funds. This framework will aim to expand the capacity of credit institutions to provide financing to the real economy and contribute to the development of covered bonds across the EU, particularly in Member States where no market for them currently exists.Covered bonds are an asset class that has remained stable even during the financial crisis. Domestic and cross-border investments in covered bonds have worked well under the current legislative framework. The mandatory harmonisation of national models and their replacement by a European one that will allow the inclusion of derivative contracts and assets coming from third countries could endanger the risk level evaluation of the covered bonds. As a result I voted against.
Covered bonds and covered bond public supervision (A8-0390/2018 - Bernd Lucke)
. – I voted against this provisional agreement. The package of a Directive and Regulation will lessen the safety level of one of the few instruments that is actually relatively stable, and remained so even during the crisis, by making it more complex and open to cross-border speculation.In the context of the deepening Capital Markets Union, the Commission has presented a proposal for enabling an EU framework on covered bonds facilitating the cross-border distribution of investments funds. This framework will aim to expand the capacity of credit institutions to provide financing to the real economy and contribute to the development of covered bonds across the EU, particularly in Member States where no market for them currently exists.Covered bonds are an asset class that has remained stable, even during the financial crisis. Domestic and cross-border investments in covered bonds have worked well under the current legislative framework. The mandatory harmonisation of national models and their replacement by a European model that will allow the inclusion of derivative contracts and assets coming from third countries could endanger the risk level evaluation of the covered bonds. As a result I voted against.
InvestEU (A8-0482/2018 - José Manuel Fernandes, Roberto Gualtieri)
. – We voted against the InvestEU programme because it is far from the ambitious investment programme the Commission claims. The 40.8 billion euro (from 38 million euro) is expected to be able to leverage 650 billion additional capital to cover investment gaps across Europe. However, as with the previous Juncker Plan, high levels of leverage are only achieved by offering these financial incentive to projects which are already commercially viable. When this is the case these investment funds simply function as subsidies to the private sector and ultimately socialise loses and privatise profits.The claim is that the additionality principle will be more stringently adhered than under EFSI. This is based on the introduction of more sophisticated scorecards; however, these remain ill-defined and unlikely to address the issue. There exists a geographical bias towards favouring wealthier countries and more developed regions. The fund also continues to support fossil-fuel projects.Furthermore, when it comes to funding SMEs, InvestEU uses financial intermediaries (i.e. banks, finance institutions, private equity and venture capital funds) and there has been a worrying lack of transparency and therefore oversight of how effective this have been in supporting SMEs. For these reasons, we voted against.
European Maritime Single Window environment (A8-0006/2019 - Deirdre Clune)
. – We voted against this report. The Single Maritime Window aims to harmonise procedures in maritime transport by introducing a single window for reporting formalities for ships. The European Commission argues that there is difficulty due to different ways in reporting data between ports and national authorities. The European Commission will therefore create harmonised EU data formats and standards, and will set up a helpdesk on how to format this data.Although it is a technical file, initiatives like this are yet another example of the European Commission’s desire to be a body of oversight in every single sector. It merely furthers the EU’s wider harmonisation agenda, and sets a precedent of further erosion of Member States’ powers.
Disclosures relating to sustainable investments and sustainability risks (A8-0363/2018 - Paul Tang)
. – We strongly wanted to vote in favour of this proposal, but despite the best efforts of the rapporteur and the left groups in the Parliament, the report was significantly watered down in both committee and trilogue level. We abstained. This report relates to disclosure requirements as part of the sustainable finance package. It aims to introduce consistency and clarity on how institutional investors should integrate environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors in their investment decision-making process. These asset managers and institutional investors would have to demonstrate how their investments are aligned with ESG objectives and disclose to their customers how they comply with these duties.However, right wing groups succeeded in making the disclosures on sustainability requirement, which we had wanted to see apply to all financial products and financial advisors, applicable only to the tiny section of the industry that has clearly committed to ESG objectives (around one per cent of the financial sector). Additionally the Council has successfully removed the Parliament’s position that banks must also be covered by the regulation.
Persistent organic pollutants (A8-0336/2018 - Julie Girling)
. – We voted against the text resulting from negotiations between the Council and Parliament. Last November, we supported Parliament’s position on the recast of the 2004 Regulation on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POP). The new modifications introduced were aimed at assessing the danger to human health of substances already identified within the POPs list, and at updating the concerned concentration threshold of such substances.However, the agreed position with the Council on the introduction of these new substances and thresholds established that this will be done via delegated/implementing acts in the near future instead of including it in the current report under the Annexes, as initially agreed. This lack of commitment is unacceptable from a health and environmental perspective, and for this reason we voted against.
Clearing obligation, reporting requirements and risk-mitigation techniques for OTC derivatives, and trade repositories (A8-0181/2018 - Werner Langen)
. – We voted against this report. At the G20 summit in Pittsburgh in 2009, a number of significant proposals were agreed aimed at improving financial security in the wake of the global financial crisis. One of these was the promotion of central clearing counterparties (CCPs), which carry out ‘clearing’ between trading parties, especially in the derivatives market. They act as the intermediary between two traders and act as a form of insurance so that in case one party defaults, the other party will receive their money.CCPs are regulated by EMIR (the European Market Infrastructure Regulation). Although they were promoted after the financial crisis as a means to improve financial stability, they have concentrated huge amounts of money and complex financial instruments in the clearing houses.This proposal is part of the EMIR REFIT programme and it essentially aims to wind back some of the post-crisis legislation for CCPs that has been enacted in order to remove ‘burdens’ and ‘red tape’ for the industry. This is an attempt to deregulate the already limited regulatory requirements on highly complex and dangerous financial instruments, so we voted against.
Authorisation of CCPs and recognition of third-country CCPs (A8-0190/2018 - Danuta Maria Hübner)
. – We abstained on this proposal, which relates to the treatment of non-EU CCPs that clear in euro-dominations. There are 16 CCPs established and authorised in the EU (including three in the City of London). Thirty—two third country CCPs have been recognised under EMIR’s equivalence provisions, allowing them to offer their services in the EU. Following Brexit, the three CCPs based in Britain will de facto become third country CCPs.The provisional agreement has allowed the ESMA to announce that in the event of a no-deal Brexit, three central CCPs established in Britain will be recognised by the EU. ESMA has adopted these recognition decisions in order to limit disruption in central clearing and to avoid risks to financial stability.We are generally supportive of the proposal to improve the powers of ESMA to supervise the activities of CCPs, including up to the point where the Commission can request the relocation of CCPs trading in euros to be located in the EU. However, there are many areas where supervisory powers are not strong enough, and there is no incentive whatsoever to reduce the extreme high trade in complex financial instruments including derivatives under this proposal, so as a result we abstained.
Promotion of the use of SME growth markets (A8-0437/2018 - Anne Sander)
. – We abstained on this proposal, which is part of the Capital Markets Union programme. Obviously we are not opposed to the activity and growth of SMEs, but this proposal is part of the Commission’s drive to shift from bank financing of all business, big and small, to non-bank financing. This underpins the CMU, the rise of shadow banking, etc. This proposal is largely redundant; it is the lack of demand by indebted businesses that is causing a lack of traditional bank lending.The proposal presented by the Commission aims to simplify the existing procedures to favour the financing of SMEs in the so-called ‘growth markets’ (through non—bank financing). It is a model similar to that of the stock markets, but designed specifically for SMEs. The truth is that the result of this initiative has been very poor. Only 3 000 companies have accessed this funding facility.We did not vote against as we don’t want to undermine the potential for growth among SMEs, but in reality this is a very poor and ideologically misguided proposal, not backed up by any empirical evidence, so we did not vote in favour either.
Negotiations with Council and Commission on European Parliament's right of inquiry: legislative proposal (B8-0238/2019)
. – We voted in favour of this motion for resolution. Throughout this legislature, Sinn Féin has been calling for a strengthening of the European Parliament’s right of inquiry. We support the aims of this resolution to give a mandate to the Legal Affairs Committee to prepare an action before the European Court of Justice on the basis that the Council has breached the principle of sincere cooperation, as well as to investigate violations by the European Council in the legal framework of committees of inquiry like PANA and EMIS. We therefore voted in favour.
A comprehensive European Union framework on endocrine disruptors (B8-0241/2019)
. – We voted in favour of this resolution. Exposure to endocrine disruptors (EDs) has been clearly linked to many chronic health disorders, including obesity and metabolic disorders, male and female reproductive disorders, reproductive cancers, etc. The motion for resolution, supported by a large majority, follows closely the recommendations of a study commissioned by the PETI Committee published earlier this year, which presents the scientific knowledge regarding the health effects of endocrine disruptors. The JMR calls on the Commission to swiftly take all necessary action to ensure a high level of protection of human health and the environment against EDs by effectively minimising overall exposure of humans and the environment to EDs.
Interpretation of Rule 32(5), first subparagraph, second indent of the Rules of Procedure
. – I voted against these changes. The proposed changes are an attempt to make it more difficult to establish political groups by requiring every European parliamentary group to submit a declaration of ‘political affinity’ between national delegations in the group, which will set out the political orientation of a group ‘in a substantial and distinctive way’. This declaration can then be scrutinised by the Conference of Presidents, which will have the power to decide if a group is ‘real’ or ‘not real’ if this so called affinity is questionable. This proposal threatens the integrity of GUE/NGL, as well as any confederal political group. Sinn Féin’s political orientation is formed by our party membership at an Ard Fheis and cannot be influenced by a European political grouping. Therefore I voted against this regressive proposal.
Protocol to the EU-Denmark Agreement on the criteria and mechanisms for establishing the State responsible for examining a request for asylum and 'Eurodac' (A8-0196/2019 - Ignazio Corrao)
. – Since the 2013 update to the Eurodac Regulation, law enforcement authorities can consult the Eurodac biometric database (which was created originally to apply the Dublin Regulation, i.e. solely for asylum policies) for the purpose of ‘prevention, detection and investigation of terrorist offences and other serious criminal offences’.Denmark does not fully take part in the Eurodac Regulation. Since 2006, Denmark has had limited access, applying only the asylum elements, but not the law enforcement elements.Denmark has now requested extending this access to include law enforcement authorities, which this protocol would allow. All participating States, whether other EU Member States, Associated Countries or Denmark, with this access to Eurodac, may also access each other’s data for law enforcement purposes.This extension of the scope of the database has not undergone any assessment on its necessity or implementation, and there are serious privacy, proportionality and overreach concerns with how Eurodac is used. I therefore voted against.
Establishing Horizon Europe – laying down its rules for participation and dissemination (A8-0401/2018 - Dan Nica)
. – I voted against this report. This was a vote on the interinstitutional negotiations between the Commission, the Council and Parliament. While there is a positive element in this final report, which states that at least 35% of the Horizon Europe budget shall go to climate-related research, the reality is that Horizon Europe will still serve as a research scheme towards ‘activities aiming to foster the competitiveness, efficiency and innovation capacity of the European defence, technological and industrial base’. Sinn Féin supports a Horizon Europe programme for research and innovation for civil purposes, and not one that enhances projects on defence, militarisation and a European defence fund.
Programme implementing Horizon Europe (A8-0410/2018 - Christian Ehler)
. – I voted against this report. This was a vote on the interinstitutional negotiations between the Commission, the Council and Parliament. While there is a positive element in this final report, which states that at least 35% of the Horizon Europe budget shall go to climate-related research, the reality is that Horizon Europe will still serve as a research scheme towards ‘activities aiming to foster the competitiveness, efficiency and innovation capacity of the European defence, technological and industrial base’. Sinn Féin supports a Horizon Europe programme for research and innovation for civil purposes, and not one that enhances projects on defence, militarisation and a European defence fund.
Market surveillance and compliance of products (A8-0277/2018 - Nicola Danti)
. – I abstained on this vote. I completely agree that the market must be monitored to ensure the safety of products such as toys, but I think this proposal contained too much duplication, which would drive up costs.I was pleased to see this proposal aimed to put in place minimum powers for national authorities, designation of persons responsible for products and mutual evidence recognition between Member States. However, I disagree that a European compliance network and European test sites are needed. All Member States have testing facilities and a national authority in charge of market surveillance; to me this seems like costly duplication that is designed to make Member States more accountable to the Commission, which can convene and would be present at such meetings. I am disappointed the proposal overstretched what was needed in this way.
Promoting fairness and transparency for business users of online intermediation services (A8-0444/2018 - Christel Schaldemose)
. – I supported this proposal as it’s the first of its kind laying down rules to ensure that business users of online intermediation services and corporate website users in relation to online search engines are granted appropriate transparency, fairness, and effective redress possibilities.This regulation will make sure that terms and conditions are clearer, that accounts from businesses using platforms cannot suddenly be deleted anymore and platforms will need to be transparent on their main ranking parameters.When displaying the results, the online intermediation service shall also disclose close to each ranking whether it has been influenced by differentiated treatment or by any direct or indirect remuneration, contractual or direct ownership relation.
Better enforcement and modernisation of EU consumer protection rules (A8-0029/2019 - Daniel Dalton)
. – This file deals with the modernisation of a couple of pieces of consumer protection legislation.The Commission proposal introduces penalties for companies not respecting consumer protection rules, and supports more clarity for consumers on market places.There were a number of positive elements to this proposal which included:• no limitation on the right of withdrawal,• clearer rules on marketplaces,• more practices added to the blacklist and stricter rules on door-to-door selling.I supported this legislative proposal. The various consumer bodies in Ireland and Europe supported this proposal also as they considered it a step in the right direction.
Transparency and sustainability of the EU risk assessment in the food chain (A8-0417/2018 - Pilar Ayuso)
. – We voted in favour of this report. Although the Council blocked some of the progressive elements of the Parliament’s position, the result does markedly improve the transparency of risk assessments in the food chain. Applications for pesticides, GMOs and food additives, including the industry studies and data, will be made publicly available for scrutiny, and labs will be inspected and have to notify failures of good research practices.
Supplementary protection certificate for medicinal products (A8-0039/2019 - Luis de Grandes Pascual)
. – We voted in favour of this agreement from negotiations. Supplementary Protection Certificates in the EU extend the market exclusivity for medicinal products provided by patents by up to five years, to compensate for the time lapse between the patent application and the granting of the market authorisation. At the moment generic and biosimilar medicines cannot be exported while under this certificate, causing their producers to delocalise. The Commission proposal is to grant a manufacturing waiver during the validity of the these certificates, but for export purposes only, and is accompanied by a set of transparency measures on producers of generic and biosimilar medicines. We have no reason to object to this waiver.
Space programme of the Union and the European Union Agency for the Space Programme (A8-0405/2018 - Massimiliano Salini)
. – We voted against this report as there were a number of serious issues with this file. Whilst reduced dependence on bodies outside the Europe can be positive this programme could be used to further the militarisation agenda and weaponise space under the guise of security and defence.There is a concerning security-dimension central to GOVSATCOM and the Galileo project which also provides non-civilian applications in the areas of security and defence, specifically guidance systems or missile and military drone technology.Regarding the cost, the MFF period of 2021-27 we are looking at funding Galileo/Egnos at EUR 8.6bn in 2018 (constant) prices (EUR 9.7bn in current prices) and Copernicus at EUR 5.1bn (EUR 5.8bn). EUR 0.4bn (EUR 0.5bn) which has been allocated to STT and Govsatcom. This is a massive cost and expenditure of taxpayers’ money.
Digital Europe Programme for the period 2021-2027 (A8-0408/2018 - Angelika Mlinar)
. – In the summer of 2018 the European Commission proposed a regulation for the ‘Digital Europe’ programme for the period 2021-2027. The programme, which has a financial envelope of 9.2 billion euros, is to make investments in the main challenges for the digital transformation. The general objective of the programme is ‘to support the digital transformation of the European economy and society and bring its benefits to EU citizens and businesses’.We voted against this report because there are overlaps with existing programmes and instead of creating a new budget line, we could safeguard and better fund programmes like Cohesion funding to ensure the digital infrastructure is developed before we push ahead the digitisation agenda, otherwise areas with lessor connectivity could potentially fall farther behind.
Fiscalis programme for cooperation in the field of taxation (A8-0421/2018 - Sven Giegold)
. – We voted in favour of this report, which sets aside certain monies from the EU’s next long-term budget (MFF) to cross-border cooperation in tackling tax avoidance and evasion.The Commission proposal was improved and it now includes a list of priority actions that national tax authorities will need to work on to fight tax evasion and avoidance arising from the lessons learned through the Luxleaks, Panama Papers, Paradise Papers and other scandals, and the changes will increase the effectiveness of the programme.An improved evaluation and reporting system will uncover possible shortcomings in the cooperation and exchange between tax authorities. Additionally, the financing of joint audits of several national tax authorities will be possible under the programme. This will help to control tax payments of transnational corporations.This Fiscalis programme continues the existing Fiscalis 2020 programme and has a relatively small envelope of 270 million euros. The vast majority of the proposed budget will be spent on IT capacity building activities.
Programme for the Environment and Climate Action (LIFE) (A8-0397/2018 - Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy)
. – We voted in favour of this agreement from negotiations. LIFE is the EU’s financial instrument supporting environmental, nature conservation and climate action projects throughout the EU, and since 1992, it has co-financed more than 4 500 projects. The general objective of the proposed new LIFE programme for 2021-2027 is to contribute to the shift towards a clean, circular, energy-efficient, low-carbon and climate-resilient economy, including through the transition to clean energy. The new programme proposal has two main fields of action covering four sub-programmes, each with its own financial envelope: the Environment field and the Climate Action field. In addition to the final agreement, we also supported amendments from my group aiming to strengthen the programme, to stop the financing of fossil fuels and to increase the budget to 10 billion euro.
Justice programme (A8-0068/2019 - Josef Weidenholzer, Heidi Hautala)
. – We voted against this Regulation, which would establish a new EUR 305m fund to create an EU area of justice. The objectives are to protect the rule of law in the EU and it is clearly a reaction to worrying developments in Hungary and Poland. Although we agree with the promotion of tools to further democracy and the rule of law, and would like to see more support for civil society in these areas, this Regulation approaches the issue in the wrong way. The Regulation recommends the withdrawal of common programme funds to a Member State if they are subject to procedures related to Union values. In effect, this would mean economic sanctions on local communities and private citizens for the actions of their Government. We also massively disagree with the new approach of the Commission to force recipients of EU funds to use large portions of these funds on advertising the EU. Funds should be focussed on targeted actions, not expensive media campaigns. For these reasons we voted against.
Rights and Values programme (A8-0468/2018 - Bodil Valero)
. – We voted against this proposal. Sinn Féin have consistently fought for funding for NGOs, local organisations and local/regional government, however it is clear that this instrument is unfit for purpose. This instrument seeks to exploit endemic shortfalls in funding across Ireland in order to coerce local organisations to emulate the so called ‘values’ of the European Union and to ensure complete compliance in this regard. This is a clear attempt by the European Commission to create nodes of influence across the island in order forge ideas of ‘European history’, ‘European Culture’ and ultimately a homogenous European identity. We therefore voted against.
Number of inter-parliamentary delegations, delegations to joint inter-parliamentary committees and delegations to parliamentary cooperation committees and multilateral Parliamentary Assemblies (B8-0240/2019)
Implementation and financing of the EU general budget for 2019 in relation to the UK's withdrawal from the Union (A8-0197/2019 - Jean Arthuis)
. – We voted in favour of this file to ensure that Britain will honour its commitments to the EU budget until 31 December 2019. This file calls on Britain to agree in writing to continue it’s financing of the 2019 EU BUDG, to accept the controls and audits which cover the implementation of the programmes or actions; This would include a role for the ECJ in relation to EU funds. It will mitigate the disruptive effect of the withdrawal on existing agreements and decisions, allowing an orderly budget implementation.
EU-Russia Agreement on cooperation in science and technology (A8-0188/2019 - Christian Ehler)
. – The current Agreement expired on 20 February 2019. The Commission presented a proposal, which aims at renewal of the S&T Cooperation Agreement between EU and Russia for the next 5-years period, without any changes to the initial text. According to the initial agreement, cooperation may be pursued in the following activities: environment and climate research; health research; agriculture, forestry and fisheries research; industrial and production technologies; materials research and metrology; non-nuclear research; transportation; ICT; social sciences research and training and mobility of scientists.Since the current agreement has already expired, the Commission asked the Parliament whether the fast-track procedure could be applied. On the request of Fianna Fail’s group ALDE there was an additional unnecessary and politicised citation that was introduced at the very last minute that does not belong in a scientific cooperation agreement. The citation refers to a Declaration by the High Representative Federica Mogherini condemning Russia in actions it has taken unilaterally. Whilst the points touched upon by Mogherini in the declaration were valid, the citation referencing it should not belong in a scientific cooperation agreement. We abstained on this file.
Objection pursuant to Rule 105(3): Deployment and operational use of cooperative intelligent transport systems (B8-0239/2019)
. – Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS) technology allows vehicles to interact directly with each other and road infrastructure. The Commission has proposed a delegated act to harmonise EU-wide deployment of C-ITS services. It lays down how C-ITS stations are to be placed on the market and put in service.We voted in favour of the objection to the delegated act as it is not the role of the European Commission to find solutions for the business industry or to push certain technologies onto Member States. It is the role of the Member States to decide how they wish to use C-ITS technology, if at all. It is not the role of a delegated act by the European Commission.
European Border and Coast Guard (A8-0076/2019 - Roberta Metsola)
. – This is a proposal to expand the hugely problematic European Border and Coast Guard agency. Sinn Féin have been consistent in our opposition to the further expansion of this agency. This proposal aims to increase the number of staff of the agency by 10 000, and has earmarked 11.3 billion euros for it between 2021-2027, making it the largest agency in the EU! In addition, this proposal gives executive powers to the agency to initiate operations in Member States without their consent. These extra executive powers come with very little accountability as the agency is opaque by design, which is something we cannot support. Finally, the proposal aims to continue to use the flawed externalisation model that offloads the responsibility of border management to third countries. It is for all of these reasons I voted against this proposal.
Visa Code (A8-0434/2018 - Juan Fernando López Aguilar)
. – I voted against this proposal. This is clearly another attempt by the EU to externalise migration and the Member States’ humanitarian obligation to help those who are most vulnerable. Under these proposals, visa successful applications for nationals of third country nationals would be contingent on the individual having valid travel medical insurance which rules out many of those who want to move to a Member State to improve their lives. There is also a critical shortcoming of the file where it recommends third countries, including those with abhorrent human rights records, will have a role in identifying persons who moved to the EU for return to their country of origin. This is an absolutely regressive proposal, I therefore voted against.
Conservation and control measures applicable in the Regulatory Area of the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organisation (A8-0017/2019 - Ricardo Serrão Santos)
. – Conservation of fishery resources and protection of marine ecosystems through technical measures. This file amalgamates all the existing measures (over 30) relating to technical measures being taken by fishermen in relation to reducing unwanted catches while also protecting juvenile stocks, prohibited species and the marine environment.The measures include specifications for design and use of fishing gears, and measures to minimize the impact of fishing on the marine ecosystem and environment.This file also implements the cessation of Electric pulse fishing after 30 June 2021. It is a new technology we are concerned with, especially around any possible long term impact this method of fishing has on ecosystems and stocks, therefore we support this cessation until reliable scientific evidence emerges that dispels concerns. The file also supports Member States being able to take regionalised measures to manage their sea basins and fisheries through joint recommendations. For these reasons I voted in favour.
Rules facilitating the use of financial and other information (A8-0442/2018 - Emil Radev)
. – I voted in favour of this report. This proposal will improve the ability of states to tackle financial crimes such as money laundering and tax avoidance by increasing the effectiveness of the already existing cooperation between the relevant authorities in Member States by making relevant information such as bank account details available when necessary as part of criminal investigations.
European Cybersecurity Industrial, Technology and Research Competence Centre and Network of National Coordination Centres (A8-0084/2019 - Julia Reda)
. – I voted against this file which is on the establishment of a European Cybersecurity Industrial, Technology and Research Competence Centre. The need for Member States to continuously improve cyber security has been made clear by incidents such as the ‘wannacry’ attack which affected over 150 countries. The biggest threat posed by cyber-attacks is from criminal attacks such as ‘wannacry’. Despite this the EU has insisted on including military Cyber capacities in the cyber security regulation this weakens the impact these competence centres will have as the needs of businesses and government infrastructure are best served through a holistic approach to cyber security which builds resilience in systems and networks at the human and technical level, these needs will not be served by allowing the EU budget to be used to finance military cyber technologies.
Connecting Europe Facility (A8-0409/2018 - Henna Virkkunen, Marian-Jean Marinescu, Pavel Telička)
. – I voted against the outcome of trilogues on the Connecting Europe Facility, as EU transport & energy funding which should rightfully be used for the benefit of citizens, will now be diverted toward dual use projects to be abused by military forces. Now every project which receives funding can be expected to fulfil military requirements, and create a network for the smooth transportation of troops and weapons across the EU. This fundamentally undermines Ireland’s neutrality - it is unacceptable for transport and energy funding to subsidise the mass weapons industry in Europe. Unfortunately, the CEF will also continue to fund projects which are associated with fossil fuels. Amendments by Sinn Fein MEPs calling for EU transport funding for the Western Rail Corridor, and the west of Ireland that were included in the final Parliament report, were subsequently removed in trilogue negotiations. This further proves that the Irish government, as represented by the Council at trilogue negotiations, has an absolute disregard for the West of Ireland and the infrastructure it needs.
Tackling the dissemination of terrorist content online (A8-0193/2019 - Daniel Dalton)
. – I abstained from this vote. This proposal aims to put measures in place to deal with online material that aims to incite the commission of terrorist offences. While I support removing such content from the internet, there are several problematic aspects to this report. The first is the use of automated filters. Sinn Féin are against the use of upload filters and see them as an attack on freedom of expression.I am also concerned at how the concept of terrorism is defined in this case. I can be defined very broadly, and because it relies on a ‘competent authority’, is open to abuse by Member States. Moreover, there are real concerns at the length of time given to remove terrorist content. The proposals stipulates that content must be removed within 1 hour of its removal being ordered. This would apply universally, even to SMEs, and is completely unrealistic.While there are significant problems with the proposal, I recognise the necessity to combat the proliferation of online material which is geared towards inciting terrorist attacks on innocent civilians. It is for this reason I choose to abstain rather than vote against.
Community statistics on migration and international protection (A8-0395/2018 - Cecilia Wikström)
. – We voted in favour of this proposal. This will improve the collection of statistics to take into account recent developments in migration patterns since the regulation was adopted in 2007. Statistics collected will now include a gender aspect, as well as collecting statistics on returns, unaccompanied minors and first-time asylum applications. This will enable more precise data and give a more accurate picture of the implementation of asylum and migration law, as well as monitoring the protection of the fundamental rights of those most vulnerable. We therefore voted in favour.
EU Accession to the Geneva Act on Appellations of Origin and Geographical Indications (A8-0187/2019 - Virginie Rozière)
. – We voted in favour. This is about Parliamentʼs consent to the Geneva Act, which updates the Lisbon Agreement on geographical indications, to allow the EU accede to it. It means that all EU geographical indications can be included on the international register of the World Intellectual Property Office (WIPO) and listed in trade agreements. Member States still determine their list of geographical indications to include in the international register, so their competences are not affected.
Action of the Union following its accession to the Geneva Act of the Lisbon Agreement on Appellations of Origin and Geographical Indications (A8-0036/2019 - Virginie Rozière)
. – We voted in favour. This is about Parliamentʼs consent to the Geneva Act, which updates the Lisbon Agreement on geographical indications, to allow the EU accede to it. It means that all EU geographical indications can be included in the international register of the World Intellectual Property Office (WIPO) and listed in trade agreements. Member States still determine their list of geographical indications to be included in the international register, so Member State competences are not affected.
EU-Philippines Agreement on certain aspects of air services (A8-0191/2019 - Jozo Radoš)
. – We voted against this agreement, which furthers the creation of a single liberalised aviation market in the EU. The agreement will do away with the system whereby Member States organise bilateral air transport agreements with the Philippines. As a result of a court ruling in 2003, the EU is able to conclude aviation agreements with third countries. The idea of this proposal is to replace ten existing bilateral agreements with an EU agreement. However, the agreement itself is not available to read.Member States should be allowed to control which third-country airlines fly in their domestic market and conclude bilateral agreements if they wish. We voted against this agreement, as its real aim is to further the creation of a single EU aviation market, so as to promote competitiveness, and the content of the agreement is suspiciously secret and lacking in transparency.
International Agreement on olive oil and table olives (A8-0186/2019 - Eleonora Forenza)
. – We voted in favour of this decision. This International Agreement on Olive Oil and Table Olives is the successor to a 2005 agreement of the same name which aims to foster cooperation and coordination for developing olive growing and encourage research and technology transfer. The agreement, as before, allows the EU to contribute actively with regard to the international cooperation in this sector. We have no reason to object.
Protection of persons reporting on breaches of Union law (A8-0398/2018 - Virginie Rozière)
. – We voted in favour of this legislation. The numerous scandals revealed over the last years, such as Edward Snowden, LuxLeaks and the Panama Papers, the consequences on the whistle-blowers’ lives. It has demonstrated the necessity to ensure strong protection and safeguards in the EU for ordinary citizens who have revealed illegal practices or abuses of law.The purpose of this Directive is to create a climate of trust that enables whistle-blowers to report observed or suspected breaches of law and threats to the public interest and to enhance the exercise of freedom of expression and the freedom of the media enshrined in Article 11 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.The proposal will guarantee a level of protection for whistle-blowers who report breaches of EU law by setting new EU-wide standards. The new law will also establish safe channels for reporting both within an organisation and to public authorities. In Ireland, we have the Protected Discloses Act so we may be ahead of some other countries on this issue, though we see it as important that such basic rules become commonplace in the whole EU.
Cross-border distribution of collective investment undertakings (Directive) (A8-0430/2018 - Wolf Klinz)
. – We voted against this report amending the existing Directive regulating the cross-border distribution of collective investment undertakings. These collective investment undertakings, or mutual funds, are created to pool investors’ capital and to invest that capital collectively through a portfolio of financial instruments. The current UCITS Directive introduced a European retail investment fund product and provides for investor protection, while the AIF Managers Directive (AIFMD) introduced a framework for the authorisation and supervision of managers of alternative funds for professional investors.This proposal is to amend the existing Directive in a way that reduces ‘burdensome’ regulations on marketing and pre-marketing of UCITS funds and AIFs. The proposed Directive aims to deregulate mutual funds as part of the Capital Markets Union and remove restrictions to the free movement of units and shares of collective investment undertakings across the EU. Even though this is not a very substantial proposal, it affects a significant financial sector. We are opposed to the general concept of the Capital Markets Union and have voted against all attempts to remove cross-border barriers to the funds industry and to complex financial products.
Cross-border distribution of collective investment undertakings (Regulation) (A8-0431/2018 - Wolf Klinz)
. – We abstained on this Regulation, which amends the existing Regulation regulating the cross-border distribution of collective investment undertakings. These collective investment undertakings, or mutual funds, are created to pool investors’ capital and to invest that capital collectively through a portfolio of financial instruments (stocks, bonds or other securities). This proposal is to amend all of the specific AIF Regulations accompanying the AIFMD, including Regulations on European venture capital funds (EuVECA – Regulation No 345/2013), European social entrepreneurship funds (EuSEF – Regulation No 346/2013), and European Long-Term Investment Funds (ELTIF – Regulation 2015/760), as well as undertakings for collective investment in transferable securities (UCITS).While the accompanying proposed amendments to the UCITS and AIFM Directives aim to remove any barriers to cross-border distribution of mutual funds in the EU, this proposed Regulation is largely focused on setting down rules that funds should adhere to when they are engaging in marketing and pre-marketing funds across borders, including notifying the relevant competent authorities. As a result, we abstained rather than voting against.The outcome is mixed, with some improvement s for financial stability but many missed opportunities where the outcome favours the financial industry.
Capital Requirements (Regulation) (A8-0242/2018 - Peter Simon)
. – We abstained on this vote. The Capital Requirements Directive (CRD) and Regulation (CRR) were introduced in response to the financial crisis and resulting bank bailouts. They require banks to set aside a certain amount of their own capital that cannot be used for lending in order to provide a buffer in case of a shock.The revision to the Regulation, called CRR II, implements a new instrument that was agreed at Financial Stability Board called Total Loss Absorbing Capacity (TLAC). TLAC will be binding for global systemic banks (G-SIIs) and aims to facilitate their resolvability in case of failure without taxpayers’ involvement. Banks will need to issue a specific class of debt, which can be bailed-in more easily in case the institute needs to be resolved. The second most substantial requirement introduced by the CRR II is a binding Leverage Ratio, which limits the total balance sheet to the equity a bank is required to hold. We strongly argued this ratio needed to be 5 per cent instead of the Commission’s proposed 3%.The outcome is mixed, with some improvement s for financial stability but many missed opportunities where the outcome favours the financial industry.
Capital Requirements (Directive) (A8-0243/2018 - Peter Simon)
. – We abstained on this vote to revise the Capital Requirements Directive (CRD). It requires banks to set aside a certain amount of their own capital that cannot be used for lending in order to provide a buffer in case of a shock.The revision to CRD updates the list of entities that can be exempted from capital requirements. It removes certain national discretions with regard to capital requirements and introduces a new concept called capital guidance. It streamlines reporting requirements for banks. Partly due to Brexit, it requires from third country subsidiaries that operate in different EU Member States to set up an intermediate parent undertaking company in the EU. Remuneration and governance rules are being revised to make them more enforceablePositive outcomes include new anti-money laundering provisions and restrictions on pay and dividends in case of breaches of the capital requirements. The Council’s attempts to introduce new loopholes for bankers’ bonus caps were defeated. But these are not significant enough to warrant voting in favour, when this revision should have been used as an opportunity to force banks to hold enough capital that would make their activities safer for the economy and society.
Loss-absorbing and recapitalisation capacity for credit institutions and investment firms (Regulation) (A8-0216/2018 - Gunnar Hökmark)
. – We abstained on this proposal, part of the banking package proposed by the Commission in November 2016. It is the less substantial proposal in the broader package aiming to amend the Bank Recovery and Resolution Directive (BRRD) (from 2014), which was set up supposedly to prevent future taxpayer funded bailouts being necessary. It is a single vote, the outcome of trilogues.This proposal amends the existing Single Resolution Mechanism Regulation (SRMR), which was adopted in 2014 and basically applies the same amendments to the BRRD to other non-bank credit institutions and investment firms. The BRRD amendment provides new powers to the Single Resolution Board that is responsible for resolution planning of the largest EU banks (banks under the direct supervision of the SSM and all cross-border groups); this file is a technical adaptation to the changes that are proposed to the BRRD. As we are abstaining on the more substantial part of the package, we are abstaining on this proposal also.
Loss-absorbing and recapitalisation capacity of credit institutions and investment firms (Directive) (A8-0218/2018 - Gunnar Hökmark)
. – We abstained on this proposal, part of the broader banking package aiming to amend the Bank Recovery and Resolution Directive (from 2014), which was set up supposedly to prevent future taxpayer funded bailouts being necessary. This proposal amends the existing BRRD which was transposed by Member States by the end of 2014. It was supposed to ensure no future taxpayer funded bailouts in the EU but has already proven to be full of loopholes.The main BRRD tool to avoid bailouts in the case of resolution is the bail-in tool. Under the current BRRD at least 8% of all liabilities need to be bailed-in before any assistance from the Single Resolution Fund can be provided. The current proposal tries to change this by requiring that a certain amount of liabilities that banks issue (‘minimum requirements for eligible liabilities and own funds’ – MREL) is subordinated to all other liabilities.I am in principle against these tools and would have preferred to increase simply the core equity requirements of banks (through a higher leverage ratio) instead of introducing rather complex new instruments (MREL and TLAC). The package does not sufficiently ensure financial stability so we abstained.
Sovereign bond-backed securities (A8-0180/2019 - Jonás Fernández)
. – I voted against this proposal to create sovereign bond—backed securities (SBBS). SBBS aim to provide a broader set of so—called ‘safe assets’ in order to encourage banks to diversify their portfolio. SBBS will be a new class of securities backed by a diversified pool of national government bonds. With SBBS the sovereign bank nexus (domestic banks holding mainly sovereign bonds of their home country) is meant to be reduced as banks should diversify their portfolio of sovereign bonds. Some see the proposal as a first step towards debt mutualisation, based on a concept developed by economists in 2011 called European safe bonds (ESBies). The current proposal does however not entail joint liability among Member States nor joint issuance.It does, however, promote the same securitised instruments behind the last financial crisis, and serious economists have expressed extreme doubts that it will achieve its stated aim of reducing the sovereign-bank nexus (the ‘doom loop’). It is linked to the ECB capital key, which is politicised and benefits the northern countries, and in times of crisis it is unlikely that SBBS will remain a safe asset.
European Supervisory Authorities and financial markets (A8-0013/2019 - Othmar Karas, Pervenche Berès)
. – I abstained on this proposal to grant further powers to the European Supervisor Authorities to accompany the deepening of the Capital Markets Union (CMU). I am in favour of strengthening the powers of the ESAs; however, heavy lobbying by the Council and the financial lobby resulted in a weaker than ideal outcome.The expansion of powers of the EU’s supervisory authorities to accompany the deepening of the CMU is absolutely necessary. Many Member States in the Council were opposed to granting new powers to the ESAs, particularly Ireland, Luxembourg, Denmark and Sweden. In the case of Ireland and Luxembourg, the opposition was based largely on the fact that their massive funds industry thrives on light-touch or no regulation at all. It is this secrecy and lack of supervision that allows the mis-selling of financial products and money-laundering to thrive.I welcome the boost in powers for the ESAs, but the outcome of the negotiations is far from ideal and could have been much more ambitious. We don’t just need to increase supervision; we need to reduce the massive volume of trade of complex financial products that takes place in the shadows, threatening the stability of our entire economy.
Markets in financial instruments and taking-up and pursuit of the business of Insurance and Reinsurance (Solvency II) (A8-0012/2019 - Othmar Karas, Pervenche Berès)
. – I abstained on this proposal to grant further powers to the European Supervisor Authorities to accompany the deepening of the Capital Markets Union (CMU). I am in favour of strengthening the powers of the ESAs; however, heavy lobbying by the Council and the financial lobby resulted in a weaker than ideal outcome.The expansion of powers of the EU’s supervisory authorities to accompany the deepening of the CMU is absolutely necessary. Many Member States in the Council were opposed to granting new powers to the ESAs, particularly Ireland, Luxembourg, Denmark and Sweden. In the case of Ireland and Luxembourg, the opposition was based largely on the fact that their massive funds industry thrives on light-touch or no regulation at all. It is this secrecy and lack of supervision that allows the mis-selling of financial products and money-laundering to thrive.I welcome the boost in powers for the ESAs, but the outcome of the negotiations is far from ideal and could have been much more ambitious. We don’t just need to increase supervision; we need to reduce the massive volume of trade of complex financial products that takes place in the shadows, threatening the stability of our entire economy.
Prudential supervision of investment firms (Directive) (A8-0295/2018 - Markus Ferber)
. – I voted against this report. The directive and regulation on the supervision of investment firms were negotiated as a package. There were several positive and negative elements included. My view is that the negative aspects outweigh the positives, which justifies a vote against.Some of the positives included: the European Banking Authority was tasked with producing a report on ESG risks and may issue guidelines based on the findings of the report; a reference to gender-neutral remuneration policy was retained; and there was no variable remuneration (bonuses) allowed for firms that benefited from extraordinary public support.The main negative points relate to remuneration. Council wanted a bonus cap, but it was removed in the trilogues; Member States can impose one if they want. Another negative is that the rules on pay deferral introduced by the Parliament were watered down. This package will do very little to rein in the risky behaviour of major investors, so I voted against.
Prudential requirements of investment firms (Regulation) (A8-0296/2018 - Markus Ferber)
. – I voted against this report. The directive and regulation on the supervision of investment firms were negotiated as a package. There were several positive and negative elements included. My view is that the negative aspects outweigh the positives, which justifies a vote against.Some of the positives included: the EBA was tasked with producing a report on ESG risks and may issue guidelines based on the findings of the report; a reference to gender-neutral remuneration policy was retained; and there was no variable remuneration (bonuses) allowed for firms that benefited from extraordinary public support.The main negative points relate to remuneration. Council wanted a bonus cap, but it was removed in trilogues; Member States can impose one if they want. Another negative is that the rules on pay deferral introduced by the Parliament were watered down. This package will do very little to rein in the risky behaviour of major investors, so I voted against.
Transparent and predictable working conditions in the European Union (A8-0355/2018 - Enrique Calvet Chambon)
. – The objective of this report is to promote secure and predictable employment, improving living and working conditions, providing workers’ access to information on working conditions, and improving working conditions for all workers – notably those in new and non-standard employment. This is particularly important in light of the rapid growth of unpredictable, non—standard, ‘flexible’, on-demand (zero-hour) and other forms of precarious work. Ensuring all workers, regardless of working conditions, have access to information about their labour relationship, remuneration and basic rights and obligations is vital.Unfortunately, while the committee’s text was quite progressive, the outcome from trilogue negotiations removed most of the good elements, including an inclusive definition of ‘worker’ and the definitions around working time, meaning precarious and the bogus self-employed could fall outside of the scope. Numerous exceptions have been inserted, including emergency services (firemen, police, armed forces) and public servants, and workers won’t be required to receive global information on their working conditions, in writing, at the moment the work relation begins. Nonetheless, there are still some increased protections for workers. Given the mixed outcome, and the fact we were prevented from voting on amendments to improve the text, I abstained on the final vote.
European Labour Authority (A8-0391/2018 - Jeroen Lenaers)
. – The European Labour Authority (ELA) is a new agency to support the application and enforcement of EU law in labour mobility and social security coordination. For years, complaints have been raised regarding national authorities’ non-compliance or divergent application of the rules regulating the free movement of workers, resulting in discriminating practices, and ELA is supposed to help eliminate these.From the outset, however, the focus of the ELA has been on increasing labour mobility, rather than tackling abuses. Proposals to give ELA stronger powers were also defeated, leaving it as largely just a facilitator between national authorities. It is unclear what real added value ELA actually brings that isn’t already present elsewhere. Another major problem is that the social partners (e.g. trade unions) have been almost entirely excluded from the management of ELA (contrast this with all other labour agencies, which have a full tripartite structure with social partner representation from each Member State, with voting rights). ELA could play a positive (if somewhat limited) role in fighting social dumping and facilitating greater worker rights in cross-border situations, but the final outcome is highly unsatisfactory. I therefore abstained on the vote.
Conservation of fishery resources and protection of marine ecosystems through technical measures (A8-0381/2017 - Gabriel Mato)
. – This file amalgamates all the existing measures (over 30) relating to technical measures being taken by fishermen in relation to reducing unwanted catches while also protecting juvenile stocks, prohibited species and the marine environment. The measures include specifications for design and use of fishing gears, and measures to minimise the impact of fishing on the marine ecosystem and environment.This file also implements the cessation of electric pulse fishing after 30 June 2021. It is a new technology we are concerned with, especially around any possible long—term impact this method of fishing has on ecosystems and stocks, therefore we support this cessation until reliable scientific evidence emerges that dispels concerns. The file also supports Member States being able to take regionalised measures to manage their sea basins and fisheries through joint recommendations. For these reasons, I voted in favour.
Regulation on European business statistics (A8-0094/2018 - Janusz Lewandowski)
. – We abstained on this report. This proposal is for a new framework regulation (FRIBS), which aims to integrate statistical requirements and legal acts for business statistics by streamlining and simplifying them.We had an issue with the negotiated text, as ‘working conditions’ were mentioned merely in the context of requirements for ‘the coordination of economic policies within the Union and the euro area and the provision of information to economic agents within the single market’ as opposed to coordination for the purpose of addressing and improving workers’ rights and conditions.However, we did not vote against the proposal as the report references some positive points, with recitals supporting the introduction of harmonised statistics regarding climate change and resource efficiency, and European statistics relating to persons and households, to contribute to achieving the targets of the European Pillar of Social Rights.
OLAF investigations and cooperation with the European Public Prosecutor's Office (A8-0179/2019 - Ingeborg Gräßle)
. – We voted against this proposal because Sinn Féin opposes the creation of a European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) as it would constitute a greater centralisation of judicial autonomy in the EU at the expense of Member States’ judicial structures. We are concerned that the revision of the OLAF Regulation, in order to adapt the functioning of the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) to the establishment of the EPPO, as provided for in this proposal, will undermine OLAF’s independence. Furthermore, the report fails to address adequately the EPPO’s impact on OLAF in terms of the knock-on effect for non-participating Member States such as Ireland. For these reasons, we voted against the proposal.
Establishing the instrument for financial support for customs control equipment (A8-0460/2018 - Jiří Pospíšil)
. – This proposal addresses the provision of financial support for improving IT systems used for customs controls. However, the proposal supports dual operability, which raises a number of questions and concerns. It also supports a significant increase in the EU budget being sought for this programme, entailing an increase of Member State contributions to 1.3% of GDP under the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), which is an unacceptable increase in the cost to the Irish taxpayer. We voted against.
Establishing the 'Customs' programme for cooperation in the field of customs (A8-0464/2018 - Maria Grapini)
. – The general objective of the new programme is to support the customs union and customs authorities. However, the budget recommended for its financial envelope is EUR 843 million for the new 2021-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework, up from EUR 536 million in the current (2014-2020) MFF. The proposal also supports raising the MFF to 1.3% of GDP. Given the cost to the Irish taxpayer that this entails, combined with the fact that the programme will not be used to cover costs relating to Brexit, we could not support it.
Marketing and use of explosives precursors (A8-0473/2018 - Andrejs Mamikins)
. – We voted in favour of this technical proposal, which will close existing gaps to reduce the possibility of accessing potentially dangerous substances such as hydrogen peroxide and nitric acid. The proposal respects subsidiarity, as Member States can still chose to grant controlled access to these substances for legitimate and intended use through national licensing.
Common framework for European statistics relating to persons and households (A8-0247/2017 - Tamás Meszerics)
. – This proposed regulation establishes a common, flexible framework for the collection of European statistics relating to persons and households (IESS), based on data at individual level collected from samples, and encompassing seven surveys currently carried out by the European Statistical System (ESS).While social and employment goals have some prominence in the EU agenda, the social statistics on persons and households – which are fundamental to developing and monitoring appropriate policies in this field – are still collected on the basis of numerous separate field-specific regulations. This regulation will help make the data collection more efficient and the statistical output more relevant, in order to support policy making in general and social policy in particular.Overall, this final text represents an improvement on the original Commission proposal, and presents a more coherent framework for data collection across EU Member States. We therefore voted in favour.
Interoperability between EU information systems in the field of borders and visa (A8-0347/2018 - Jeroen Lenaers)
. – Ostensibly intended to help authorities combat terrorism or identity fraud, this proposal is a further unnecessary, disproportionate and frightening expansion of EU data-trawling systems, and a dangerous attack on privacy and fundamental rights. It is a disturbing case of creating an Orwellian mass-surveillance mechanism, capturing private data not only of third-country nationals but also of EU Member States’ citizens.The European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS), the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights, and the Article 29 Working Group (now the European Data Protection Board) have expressed serious concerns about the scope and action of this proposal, which have been ignored. It does away with several vital data-protection and privacy safeguards, and blurs the boundaries between terrorists, criminals and foreigners by creating a mega-database on millions of people, easily searchable by local authorities and easily open to abuse.The European Parliament had advocated a ‘cascade’ approach, whereby a check by police or at a border would be done only in national databases in the first instance, and other databases would be accessed only where there was a specific need to do so. This approach was rejected, and the result is a massive, unjustifiable data-trawling operation. We therefore voted against the proposal.
Interoperability between EU information systems in the field of police and judicial cooperation, asylum and migration (A8-0348/2018 - Nuno Melo)
. – Ostensibly intended to help authorities combat terrorism or identity fraud, this proposal is a further unnecessary, disproportionate and frightening expansion of EU data-trawling systems, and a dangerous attack on privacy and fundamental rights. It is a disturbing case of creating an Orwellian mass-surveillance mechanism, capturing private data not only of third-country nationals but also of EU Member States’ citizens.The European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS), the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights, and the Article 29 Working Group (now the European Data Protection Board) have expressed serious concerns about the scope and action of this proposal, which have been ignored. It does away with several vital data-protection and privacy safeguards, and blurs the boundaries between terrorists, criminals and foreigners by creating a mega-database on millions of people, easily searchable by local authorities and easily open to abuse.The European Parliament had advocated a ‘cascade’ approach, whereby a check by police or at a border would be done only in national databases in the first instance, and other databases would be accessed only where there was a specific need to do so. This approach was rejected, and the result is a massive, unjustifiable data-trawling operation. We therefore voted against the proposal.
European network of immigration liaison officers (A8-0040/2019 - Cécile Kashetu Kyenge)
. – I voted against this proposal. This recast of the role of the European Network of Immigration Officers is essentially another attempt by the Commission to externalise migration policy as throughout the body of this text, it strengthens the role of ‘returns’ as a main policy instrument to reduce the number of people fleeing persecution to the EU. Any positive efforts to protect the fundamental rights of migrants and refugees were removed by the European Council at negotiations. This is an incredibly regressive proposal, I therefore voted against.
Type-approval requirements for motor vehicles as regards general safety (A8-0151/2019 - Róża Gräfin von Thun und Hohenstein)
. – I voted against this proposal. This proposal would place additional compulsory requirements on vehicles manufactured in the EU. This report would enforce all new cars to have additional compulsory technologies, such as an event (accident) data recorder, and additional technologies to monitor the actions of the driver. This proposal is backed up by the car manufacturing industry, who welcome that this legislation will hike up the price of cars. Owning a car and motor insurance is already extremely expensive in Ireland, and this technology will further add to the cost. Unfortunately due to the lack of public transport in rural regions, many people have no alternative to car transport. The fact that it will not be possible to turn off the event data recorder raises serious concerns regarding the use of the data collected. I am not satisfied that this legislation would sufficiently safeguard this data. Such data in the hands of car manufacturers could be manipulated and used for business and marketing purposes.
Request for the waiver of the immunity of Georgios Epitideios (A8-0185/2019 - Angel Dzhambazki)
. – We voted in favour of this immunity waiver, which concerned Greek Golden Dawn MEP Georgios Epitideios. The case concerns the joint violation of a court ruling handed down against him and two other MEPs. In 2015, an Athens court issued an order requiring the removal of cameras from the ground floor of the building where their offices are located. The order also required them to remove two 3 x 5 metre banners, one with a campaign slogan on it. The case had originally been brought by the occupants of the building in line with their rights as residents.Hearings with the MEPs and relevant representatives from Greece did not find any motive of political interference in the case and confirmed the findings of the investigators. We therefore voted in favour.
Request for the waiver of the immunity of Lampros Fountoulis (A8-0183/2019 - Angel Dzhambazki)
. – We voted in favour of this immunity waiver, which concerned Greek Golden Dawn MEP Lampros Fountoulis. The case concerns the joint violation of a court ruling handed down against him and two other MEPs. In 2015, an Athens court issued an order requiring the removal of cameras from the ground floor of the building where their offices are located. The order also required them to remove two 3 x 5metre banners, one with a campaign slogan on it. The case had originally been brought by the occupants of the building in line with their rights as residents.Hearings with the MEPs and relevant representatives from Greece did not find any motive of political interference in the case and confirmed the findings of the investigators. We therefore voted in favour.
Request for the waiver of the immunity of Eleftherios Synadinos (A8-0184/2019 - Angel Dzhambazki)
. – We voted in favour of this immunity waiver, which concerned Greek Golden Dawn MEP Eleftherios Synadinos. The case concerns the joint violation of a court ruling handed down against him and two other MEPs. In 2015, an Athens court issued an order requiring the removal of cameras from the ground floor of the building where their offices are located. The order also required them to remove two 3 x 5metre banners, one with a campaign slogan on it. The case had originally been brought by the occupants of the building in line with their rights as residents.Hearings with the MEPs and relevant representatives from Greece did not find any motive of political interference in the case and confirmed the findings of the investigators. We therefore voted in favour.
Listing the third countries whose nationals must be in possession of visas when crossing the external borders and those whose nationals are exempt from that requirement, as regards the UK's withdrawal from the EU (A8-0047/2019 - Sergei Stanishev)
. – We voted in favour of this report. Throughout the inter-institutional negotiations, Sinn Féin highlighted the absolute requirement to have a visa regime in place for British citizens, including those who identify as such in the north of Ireland, in a Brexit no-deal scenario. This proposal will ensure that British citizens in the North will not require a visa when travelling to the EU. Sinn Féin argued that this matter was too important to be rejected on account of the description of Gibraltar as a colony, and we supported initial efforts by the European Parliament to find alternative language with a view to reaching a swift agreement, but this was not possible and the report was in danger of falling. It is disappointing that neither of the unionist MEPs voted, given that, if the report failed to pass, its failure would contribute to a further hardening of the border and be to the detriment of thousands of citizens in the north of Ireland. We therefore voted in favour of the report.
Guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (A8-0177/2019 - Miroslavs Mitrofanovs)
. – We voted against. This Commission proposal suggests maintaining the 2018 guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States for 2019. The Employment Committee accepted this recommendation, without seeking amendments. The 2018 guidelines contained a nice enough wish-list of recommendations such as adapted workplaces for people with disabilities, wage transparency, access to healthcare and education, and a number of other reforms.However, these suggestions are all firmly couched in terms of structural reforms and competitiveness, deregulation, raising pension ages, and so on. Any goodwill the guidelines might contain is therefore severely constrained by the austerity objectives favoured by the European Semester, making them incoherent at best.
Waste management (B8-0231/2019)
. – We voted in favour of this motion for a resolution, which was drafted by the Petitions Committee (PETI) in response to having received more than 60 petitions raising concerns about waste management across the EU, in particular from Belgium, Bulgaria, Greece, Italy, Poland, Slovakia, Spain and the United Kingdom.The resolution, among other points, acknowledges the numerous petitions submitted on the failure of Member States to implement waste legislation, which leads to various health and environmental problems. The resolution also supports funds being directed towards prevention, reuse, separate collection and recycling plans and projects. The final text could have been more ambitious and does not add much to the adopted legislation on the matter, but it still remains positive, so we voted in favour.
Enforcement requirements and specific rules for posting drivers in the road transport sector (A8-0206/2018 - Merja Kyllönen)
. – I voted against this report. Due to the highly mobile nature of drivers in the road transport sector, applying posting can impose particular administrative burden and difficulties for Irish hauliers. A shorter posting period would disproportionately affect Irish hauliers who need to travel through many countries in order to reach central Europe, due to Ireland’s peripheral location.The measures adopted in this report would particularly affect Irish hauliers and those operating in peripheral Member States. I believe that national legislation often deals best in preventing letterbox companies that operate to undermine social conditions in central Member States, rather than a one-fit-all EU-wide approach.
Daily and weekly driving times, minimum breaks and rest periods and positioning by means of tachographs (A8-0205/2018 - Wim van de Camp)
. – I voted against this report. The file forbids drivers from having flexibility about where they can sleep, and would ban parking areas, which do have the required facilities for drivers from being used during rest periods. The file did not set out a legislative framework that would fit all Member States or address the infrastructural differences in Member States. The report ultimately designates the European Commission as the authority to oversee driving and rest times in the road haulage sector, and removes powers from individual Member States.
Adapting to development in the road transport sector (A8-0204/2018 - Ismail Ertug)
. – I voted against this report. This regulation aims to limit how long cabotage operations can take place in a host Member State and to establish a cooling—off period until the next cabotage operation takes place in the same host Member State.The measures adopted do not acknowledge the time required for peripheral Member States to carry out international transport and cabotage operations. The long cooling—off period from carrying out the next cabotage operation will negatively affect Irish hauliers, who operate on a North-South basis.The restrictions on cabotage operations, coupled with the threat of Brexit, causes difficulties for Irish hauliers.
Common rules for the internal market for natural gas (A8-0143/2018 - Jerzy Buzek)
. – We voted against this proposal because it represents the Commission expanding its control over the internal gas market to cover aspects of the gas network in third countries. While certain third countries have state-led companies that may not represent the type of state-led investment we would support, we oppose the expansion of regulations that are designed to push a liberalised economic model on third countries. This is essentially an attempt by the Commission to further its vision for energy security by reducing the involvement of state-controlled operators by not allowing the same company to both transmit and distribute gas.
European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (A8-0176/2019 - Gabriel Mato)
. – This report is one of the most significant proposals to come from the Committee on Fisheries (PECH Committee) in this parliamentary term. It establishes the new European Maritime Fisheries Fund (EMFF) and its intended budget for 2021-2027, given that the existing EMFF concludes next year.The sector in Ireland has an estimated 2 017 registered fishing vessels, 285 aquaculture production units and 163 seafood processors. There are 14 638 people working in the sector around the Irish coast, in direct and indirect employment, and the Irish seafood industry contributed EUR 1.15 billion to the national gross domestic product, Ireland’s exports being worth EUR 66 million. The new EMFF will indeed bolster these businesses.Many of Sinn Féin’s amendments, to grant compensation for fishermen for dangerous sea conditions, to support investments to improve health and safety on board vessels and to provide special funding for the Irish islands, were passed, along with support for actions and measures to rid seas and oceans of all types of waste and to support the protection and restoration of marine and coastal biodiversity and ecosystems under the new EMFF. As the diversification of this fund is important for Ireland, we voted in favour of the report.
Multiannual plan for the fisheries exploiting demersal stocks in the western Mediterranean Sea (A8-0005/2019 - Clara Eugenia Aguilera García)
. – We abstained in this vote. Excluding the current quota system is an ideal scenario for many fishermen but the Mediterranean Sea is one of the most vulnerable and overfished waters in Europe. Excluding such a system in the Mediterranean creates an unfair situation for fishermen in Ireland who have to abide by quotas for setting fishing opportunities.We consider it positive that the Committee mandate and the trilogue outcome ensure that fishing resources are conserved in a way that fits with the socioeconomic realities of the fleets by adapting the fishing effort regime accordingly, but this fact was not sufficient to warrant a vote in favour.
Strengthening the security of identity cards and of residence documents issued to Union citizens (A8-0436/2018 - Gérard Deprez)
. – This report proposed the harmonisation of the security of national ID cards. There were several problems with this proposal, but some of the most important issues were around the possibility that children aged between 6 and 12 could be fingerprinted, while for children over the age of 12 it would be mandatory. While the collection of biometric data of young children is deplorable, there was a late change in the proposal to allow Member States to use that data for purposes outside of making ID cards. This widespread collection of biometric data is wide open to potential abuse by Member States and is a breach of privacy and data protection. Therefore, I had to vote against this proposal.
Road infrastructure safety management (A8-0008/2019 - Daniela Aiuto)
. – The stated objective of the legislative proposal is to improve road infrastructure safety management. The proposed revision of the existing legislation proposed to extend the scope of the Directive beyond the trans-European transport network (TEN-T) to motorways and primary roads outside the network as well as all roads outside urban areas that are built using EU funds.This report will enable the Commission to establish common European standards for road markings and road signs by 2020 and methodological guidelines for network-wide road assessments and inspections of high-risk sections. It also makes it possible for road users to voluntarily report on their road safety concerns to ease the identification of potential hazards to road safety.I voted against this report as managing road safety is an issue which can be handled competently at national state level, and the Commission having the power to direct the road signs of Member States is just an unnecessary power grab aimed at creating a single European transport area.
Pan-European Personal Pension Product (A8-0278/2018 - Sophia in 't Veld)
. – I voted against this report. The pan-European personal pension product report aims to create a new product that will facilitate the privatisation of public pensions and create new opportunities for profiting from them for investors as part of the capital markets union. It also lacks a capital guarantee which means that in a worst-case scenario a person could end up contributing more to their pension through personal savings in their work life than they ever end up receiving. I voted in favour of an amendment from GUE/NGL rejecting the Commission proposal, and against the outcome of trilogues.
Work-life balance for parents and carers (A8-0270/2018 - David Casa)
. – This legislation is meant to introduce, or reinforce, measures to address the under-representation of women in employment - and thus the gender pay gap, the gender pension gap, and the higher risk of female poverty, and so on - by setting minimum standards for parental, paternity and carers’ leave.We welcomed the directive, although remain critical of the exclusion of maternity leave, which would result in a more global and coherent approach. This text, which is the outcome of trilogue negotiations, improves slightly on the current situation, but it is a very long way from the Parliament’s original position, which was much more progressive.Attempts to strengthen the text in several ways, by seeking higher payment rates for all types of leave, ensuring a 4-month non-transferrable period for paternity leave, and increasing carers’ leave to 12 days per year, failed, and the Council continued to play a negative blocking role throughout negotiations.However, the outcome contains a non-regression clause to prevent more progressive leave policies in some Member States from being scaled back to these minimum standards, and the final text is a modest improvement on the status quo. We therefore voted in favour.
Protection of the Union's budget in case of generalised deficiencies as regards the rule of law in the Member States (A8-0469/2018 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial, Petri Sarvamaa)
. – We voted against this file because it gives the Commission power to effectively sanction Member States based on ill-defined criteria on sensitive constitutional issues related to the rule-of-law. It lacks a sufficiently precise criteria and corresponding measures in order to ensure politically neutral application. The text also goes beyond the initial scope of judicial independence to cover any financial risks to the EU budget, including the proper functioning of the market economy, thereby respecting competition and market forces in the Union.
European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) (A8-0461/2018 - Verónica Lope Fontagné)
. – The European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) is the most important fund for employment and social inclusion policies. This vote is on the same text that we supported in plenary in January, and is simply to adopt Parliament’s first reading of the report.The report itself improves the Commission’s proposed text on several key issues, putting a stronger focus on social inclusion, inclusion of migrants, eradication of poverty (particularly child poverty), quality—job creation and high—quality working conditions. It includes higher co-financing rates, which will help frontload programmes in Member States; it focusses strongly on shared management, meaning Member States are responsible for implementing programmes at national level, rather than the Commission; and there is a stronger inclusion of social partners and civil society in cross-border partnerships.Unfortunately, the report does not challenge the link to InvestEU or the European Semester, but this is more connected to social reforms and social scoreboard indicators than economic reforms. Despite these issues, the report is an improvement on the Commission proposal and the status quo. We therefore voted in favour.
Computerising the movement and surveillance of excise goods (A8-0010/2019 - Kay Swinburne)
. – We voted in favour of this report, a technical file outlining the arrangements for computerising the movement and surveillance of excise duty on excise goods. It is a technical addition to a proposed directive laying down the general arrangement for excise duty as regards the automation of the procedure for movements of excise goods which have been released for consumption in the territory of one Member State and that are moved to the territory of another Member State in order to be delivered for commercial purposes.
Re-use of public sector information (A8-0438/2018 - Neoklis Sylikiotis)
. – I voted in favour of this report. The availability of high quality public data such as maps, statistics, and legal data is a valuable resource for the development of the digital economy, particularly the production of data based services. This review of existing EU legislation on the use of public data will allow for more efficient uses of public data, while protecting sensitive data related to public enterprises.
Multiannual recovery plan for Mediterranean swordfish (A8-0389/2018 - Marco Affronte)
. – I voted in favour of this recovery plan as the status of Mediterranean swordfish has been seriously overfished for decades, and the high proportion of juvenile swordfish being caught in fishing nets and the long term impact this has on the stock´s numbers will be detrimental unless such a plan is implemented.The International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tuna (ICCAT), which is an inter-governmental fishery organisation responsible for the conservation of tunas, has the authority to adopt compulsory decisions (‘Recommendations’) for fisheries conservation and management in its area of competence. These acts are binding for the contracting parties, as the EU is a member, these recommendations must be enacted into EU law as soon as possible.The purpose of this recovery plan is to transpose ICCAT Recommendations into EU law to allow the Union to comply with its international obligations and to provide operators with legal certainty, regarding rules and obligations. This Recommendation defines a 15-year recovery plan, which I can support.
Minimum level of training of seafarers (A8-0007/2019 - Dominique Riquet)
. – I voted in favour of this report on the minimum level of training for seafarers. The proposal aims to simplify the framework on seafarers’ training and certification to keep the EU rules aligned with the international framework (STCW Convention), to increase effectiveness in the recognition of the training systems and certificates of third countries, and to increase legal clarity regarding the mutual recognition of seafarers’ certificates issued by Member States. The file will make it easier to recognise the qualifications of seafarers.
Adjustment of annual pre-financing for the years 2021 to 2023 (A8-0181/2019 - Mirosław Piotrowski)
. – I voted against this report and the European Commission’s proposal to lower the threshold for annual rates of pre-financing to 1%. It is clear that reducing this threshold to the absolute bare minimum will strip operational programmes that are starting up of resources and negatively affect these programmes in their implementation. This has the potential to reduce the quality of the work the projects perform and add unnecessary delays to the completion of the project. The approach of the European Commission and the right wing of the European Parliament has only evaluated these projects in terms of their costs, rather than being concerned about the actual operation and benefits such projects bring. I therefore voted against.
Temporary reintroduction of border control at internal borders (A8-0356/2018 - Tanja Fajon)
. – The Commission proposed to extend the period of time it allowed Member States to erect internal borders by amending the relevant articles within the Schengen Borders Code. While we recognise the strong concerns Member States may have around issues like security and secondary migration, we do not agree that Member States should be allowed to flout the current provision of the SBC or to completely disregard the current legal framework. While there will be amendments to articles within the SBC, the amendments will put additional measures in place to ensure that Member States do not abuse a loophole within the regulation to keep internal border checks in perpetuity. This report stipulates that internal borders can be erected in extenuating circumstances, but these will not last longer than one year. Furthermore, states were switching between different extenuating circumstances to keep the checks there indefinitely; this report closes that loophole. Freedom of movement is one of the positive attributes of the EU, and it should be protected. Therefore, we voted in favour of this report.
Motion for a resolution pursuant to Rule 108(6) seeking an opinion from the Court of Justice relating to the EU accession to the Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (B8-0232/2019)
. – We voted in favour of this resolution calling for the Court of Justice of the European Union to decide on the validity of the procedure the European Council has adopted for the signing of the Istanbul Convention. In May 2017, the Council adopted a decision on the signing of the Istanbul Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence. Among other protections, this Convention recognises violence against women as a human rights violation. Accession has been blocked in Council, with some Member States arguing that the convention puts forward a ‘gender ideology’ among other misogynistic attempts to narrow and block negotiations. In order to move forward, the Council decided to split the accession instruments in two. Splitting accession instruments like this not only reduces overall protection – since legal documents should always be read as a whole for interpretive purposes – but it also creates the possibility that one half may continue to be blocked going forward. Sinn Féin believes that this Convention must be signed and ratified without undue delay and without reducing the overall protections it offers. We therefore voted in favour.
Tax treatment of pension products, including the pan-European Personal Pension Product (A8-0481/2018 - Sophia in 't Veld)
. – We voted against this report, which was an own—initiative report to state the Parliament’s position in response to a recommendation from the Commission on the tax treatment of pan—European personal pension product (PEPPs). Parliament’s report in response to the Commission proposal calls on Member States to provide tax incentives for PEPPs including for people who have accrued their PEPP in one Member State and then moved to another. As we are opposed to the underlying instrument, and tax harmonisation in general, we voted against.
Listing the third countries whose nationals must be in possession of visas when crossing the external borders and those whose nationals are exempt from that requirement (Kosovo) (A8-0261/2016 - Tanja Fajon)
. – We voted in favour of the proposal to amend the regulation on third countries whose nationals need a visa to enter the EU, specifically in relation to Kosovo. From 2012, they have been required to reach 95 benchmarks set out by the Commission, and they have met these requirements. It is a positive proposal that progresses the issue of visa liberalisation to end the isolation of Kosovo, as the EU has done already for other states and regions in the Western Balkans. Visa liberalisation will undermine the ability of criminals profiting from irregular immigration, but also mitigates feelings of isolation and second-class citizenship among Kosovar people, and keeps alive their hopes of accession to the EU. For these reasons we voted in favour.
Quality of water intended for human consumption (A8-0288/2018 - Michel Dantin)
. – We voted against the closure of first reading of this report. This is the Directive is where the Commission chose to address the Right2Water petition, which made very clear and straightforward demands on the human right to water. Interinstitutional negotiations did not take place because the Council was slow in reaching its general approach so MEPs were asked to lock in this report for the next term, or else it would lapse.The Directive itself is a technical one that deals with the parameters for chemicals and microbiological substances in the drinking water. Regarding the technical aspects, we welcome the new risk management approach and the revision of the parameters. However, we favour stricter parameters for PFAS and lead among others, and better control systems for emerging substances of concern. The Parliament significantly weakened the already poor provisions from the Commission’s proposal on access to water and so we cannot endorse this report as the legislative answer to the Right2Water petition. We prefer that this report lapses and that we start afresh with better provisions on the human right to water.
Increasing the efficiency of restructuring, insolvency and discharge procedures (A8-0269/2018 - Angelika Niebler)
. – We abstained on this report on the outcome of interinstitutional negotiations on a proposal relating to business insolvency including its impact on workers. The report is not related to personal insolvency. We am not in favour of the EU-wide harmonisation of insolvency law relating to either personal or company insolvency. This proposal was not aimed at harmonising the different insolvency frameworks in the Member States. It aimed instead to lay down some minimum standards on issues such as the possible length of insolvency procedures and safeguards to avoid damaging the rights of affected parties, including workers. The Parliament’s position was quite strong on minimum standards for workers affected by companies entering into insolvency but the Council watered this down significantly in negotiations. We did not vote in favour of the outcome of negotiations because the Parliament’s position was far better. However, on the basis that the agreement provides some new, albeit limited, protections for workers we abstained.
Exercise of copyright and related rights applicable to certain online transmissions and retransmissions of television and radio programmes (A8-0378/2017 - Pavel Svoboda)
. – We voted in favour of this report which is aimed at reducing instances of geo-blocking on online transmissions in the EU. the main objective is to extend the country of origin principle in place for linear content (TV channels) to non-linear (on-demand services such as iPlayer and Netflix, TV catch up/replay, podcasts and webcasting). This means that instead of broadcasters obtaining authorisation in the territories of right-holders, they do so in their country-of-origin. In order to make this possible and ensure that there is still a clearing process for licences, rights are to be managed by collective rights management societies, which are the norm for the linear sector as well as the music sector. Reducing geo-blocking is important to ensure access to content for those speaking minority language, and has particular importance for the island of Ireland. We are hugely disappointed that Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil’s political groups reduced the scope of this Directive so that it now only applies to news and current affairs shows, meaning geo-blocking will still apply for 80% of broadcasts.
Establishing the Creative Europe programme (2021 to 2027) (A8-0156/2019 - Silvia Costa)
. – Creative Europe is the European Commission’s framework programme for support to the culture and audio-visual sectors. The programme was approved by the European Parliament on November 2013 and adopted by the EU Council on December 2013. It came into force on 1 January 2014. It took over from the previous Culture Programme and MEDIA programme. The main objective of Creative Europe is to safeguard, develop and promote European cultural and linguistic diversity and to promote Europe’s cultural heritage.This report will make up the 2021-27 programme.The report itself is quite positive, supports increased and easier mobility for artists and performers, increased funding for audio-visual works and therefore we voted in favour.
'Erasmus': the Union programme for education, training, youth and sport (A8-0111/2019 - Milan Zver)
. – We voted in favour of this report. Erasmus is likely the best known EU programme with more than nine million people have taken part in the programme over the last 30 years alone. The programme currently covers 33 countries and is open to partner countries across the world.Among some of the new proposals is increased financial support for actions dealing with vocational training and adult educationA new Chapter dedicated to the participation of people with fewer opportunities, people with disabilities and special needs.Projects financed under Erasmus + should serve the goals of the Paris agreement on climate change.Special support is also given to language training and e-learning opportunities and therefore, we voted in favour.
Establishment of a framework to facilitate sustainable investment (A8-0175/2019 - Bas Eickhout, Sirpa Pietikäinen)
. – We abstained on this report, the most important proposal as part of the ‘sustainable finance’ package aimed at diverting investment away from fossil fuels. This ‘taxonomy’ report defines the technical detail of a financial product or practice that can be defined as ‘sustainable’ or not, and as meeting environmental, social and governance objectives or not. It is a vitally important proposal but was significantly weakened at committee level by the EPP, ECR and ALDE.The right-wing groups ensured that the final text does not include criteria for economic activities with a negative environmental impact, which is key if we are to have fully informed investors and promote the capital shift. No disclosure requirements are included for investee companies, and the text does not include an ambitious review clause, covering other sustainability objectives, in particular social objectives. While we strongly support the proposal to rank all economic activities by their environmental performance and believe this proposal was a crucial opportunity for us to do so, we did not vote in favour of the report due to the damaging influence of the right-wing groups, who dramatically weakened its potential. This was a missed opportunity to shift finance away from fossil fuels.
Estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2020 – Section I – European Parliament (A8-0182/2019 - Vladimír Maňka)
. – We voted against the report on Parliament’s budget for 2020 due to the fact that it is not sufficiently critical of overall increase in the proposed budget. While we welcome the ongoing progress in terms of reducing the budget as a percentage of Heading V, the expenditure continues to rise. We recognise that the main cause of the expenditure increase is the result of two thirds of the expenditures in the budget estimates being index-bound and therefore adjusted according to staff regulations, statue for members, sector specific indexation or inflation. Despite this, we believe that the report should criticise the role high wages in driving up costs and highlight the burden they place on the budget of the Parliament.
Emergency situation in Venezuela (RC-B8-0225/2019, B8-0225/2019, B8-0226/2019, B8-0227/2019, B8-0228/2019, B8-0229/2019)
. – This joint motion for resolution constitutes further open interference in Venezuela’s political institutions and brazen disregard for international law. The resolution recognises Juan Guaidó as ‘interim president’ of Venezuela, accuses elected President Nicolás Maduro of ‘usurping’ power, calls on all EU Member States to recognise Guaidó, and his representatives, and calls for further sanctions, which can only harm the Venezuelan economy and people.Only the Venezuelan people can decide their President, and that can only be done by presidential elections. Nicolás Maduro was democratically re-elected by the Venezuelan people in May 2018 and will serve his second term from 2019-2025. Regrettably the main opposition group refused to participate in this election and to democratically put their political programme to the people. Declaring Guaidó ‘president’ of Venezuela is an attack on democracy and amounts to recognition of an undemocratic coup.This is a particularly difficult and challenging period for the citizens of Venezuela and there is currently deep political polarisation. Venezuela’s current difficulties are best addressed and resolved through peaceful dialogue, such as that proposed by Mexico and Uruguay. Resolutions like this only further add to the instability, and deepen the crisis, in Venezuela. I therefore voted against this resolution.
Situation of rule of law and fight against corruption in the EU, specifically in Malta and Slovakia (B8-0230/2019)
. – I abstained on this resolution, which is the outcome of work done by the Rule of Law Monitoring Group (ROLMG) since June 2018. The ROLMG is a working group attached to LIBE. It has a general mandate to monitor rule of law and fight corruption within the EU, with a specific focus on Malta and Slovakia. It was set up following the murders of journalists Daphne Caruana Galizia in Malta and Ján Kuciak and his partner Martina Kušnírová.I fully support the calls for Malta and Slovakia to ensure independent investigations into these murders and that the rule of law is upheld, including through the independence of the judiciary in their respective states. However, several aspects of the resolution infringed on the national sovereignty of Member States, including a demand that Malta undertake constitutional reforms. There was also a call to increase Europol’s budget, which I oppose. The resolution called on Europol and Frontex to conduct a threat assessment of the consequences of EU investor citizenship and residence schemes, and I do not believe these agencies are the appropriate bodies to carry out such an assessment. As a result of these concerns I did not vote in favour but abstained.
Recent developments on the Dieselgate scandal (B8-0222/2019, RC-B8-0223/2019, B8-0223/2019, B8-0224/2019)
. – I voted in favour of this joint motion for a resolution, which was signed by all political groups with the exception of the conservatives (PPE and ECR). The resolution highlights the lack of engagement by the Council and Member States in open procedures following the Dieselgate scandal and condemns the obstructive behaviour from the Commission on access to information. It also calls on the Commission, the Council and the Member States to commit to work on pending actions on open cases.
Decision establishing a European Peace Facility (A8-0157/2019 - Hilde Vautmans)
. – I voted against this report. The Commission is proposing to create a so called European peace facility to fund EU military missions from 2021 to 2027. All Member States would have to contribute to this fund regardless of whether or not they participate in EU military missions.This proposal is an effort by the EU to increase its role as a military force and to undermine Member State control over defence policy by increasing the ease with which the EU can deploy troops on military missions.Alongside the increased military cooperation that the EU has introduced through PESCO, and the proposed EUR 13 billion EU defence fund for the development of military hardware, this proposed peace fund is part of the EU’s militarisation agenda.
Resources for the specific allocation for the Youth Employment Initiative (A8-0085/2019 - Iskra Mihaylova)
. – The Youth Employment Initiative supports young people who are not in education, employment or training, including the long-term unemployed and those not registered as job-seekers. It ensures that, in those parts of Europe facing the greatest challenges, young people can receive targeted support. Generally, the YEI funds the provision of apprenticeships, traineeships, job placements and further education courses leading to a qualification.This is a report on the Commission proposal to increase funding to the YEI, but needs to amend the Common Provisions Regulation (CPR) first. This is a positive move, therefore I voted in favour.
General arrangements for excise duty (A8-0117/2019 - Miguel Viegas)
Products eligible for exemption from or a reduction in dock dues (A8-0112/2019 - Iskra Mihaylova)
. – I voted in favour of the continuation of this exemption. This will update the list of products of which the French overseas territories can apply docking fees. This means that these territories can apply a tax to imports arriving from the EU. Normally this would be contrary to the single market but an exception is necessary to protect indigenous industry. The outmost regions of the EU, such as Guadeloupe and Réunion, face many challenges. These include the small size of local market, access to raw materials and energy and transport time of raw materials. As a result, industry is small and unemployment is very high.Without the ability to tax imports, local industry would collapse completely, as they could never compete with the ability of larger countries to produce and ship products at a very cheap price. I hope the continuation of these measures will go some way to ensuring a viable economic future for these territories.
Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (A8-0173/2019 - Pier Antonio Panzeri, Cristian Dan Preda, Frank Engel, Charles Goerens)
. – I voted against this report on the European Commission’s proposal to create a new financial instrument for EU external action in the next EU budget. This proposal would combine existing development and aid funding instruments into one single financial instrument with less democratic oversight of how Member States contributions are spent.The proposed instrument would also allow the EU to use money from development funds to support military spending projects. This will weaken development projects and endanger stability in the developing world. Sinn Fein oppose any efforts to use EU funds to finance military projects either within or outside the EU.
Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA III) (A8-0174/2019 - José Ignacio Salafranca Sánchez-Neyra, Knut Fleckenstein)
. – I abstained on this vote. Pre-accession aid has been used to finance many important projects in areas such as legal and political reforms in candidate countries for EU membership. However as part of the next budget, the European Commission is proposing that pre accession aid be managed by the EU’s external action service. This will mean that pre-accession aid will no longer just be used to assist countries who want to meet the criteria for EU membership, but would also be awarded with the EU’s broader foreign policy strategies in mind.Aid to prospective Member States should not designed with strategic foreign policy goals in mind, which could undermine the ability of pre-accession aid serving its purpose of ensuring that candidate countries meet the cohesion criteria for EU membership.
Framework for the recovery and resolution of central counterparties (A8-0015/2018 - Babette Winter, Kay Swinburne)
. – I abstained on this report on a common EU framework for the resolution of central counterparties (CCPs), which carry out ‘clearing’ between trading parties, especially in the derivatives market. The report includes several positives that aim to enhance financial stability. There is agreement that the losses in case of collapse will be borne by the CCP sector. It clarifies when the competent authorities can intervene, and how, to recover or resolve a CCP. It states that stress tests of the CCPs must be held regularly, though the majority rejected the proposal from the rapporteur to have common EU supervision for CCPs.While I support the principle of establishing a framework to resolve CCPs in a way that limits their potential collapse from causing a broader financial collapse, I am critical of the Commission’s drive to concentrate such a huge amount of transactions through the CCPs, causing new risks of too-big-to-fail concentration. The proposal aims to promote the widespread use of complex instruments such as derivatives instead of limiting their use. As a result, I abstained.
European Crowdfunding Service Providers (ECSP) for business (A8-0364/2018 - Ashley Fox)
. – I voted against this report, which is part of a package on Crowdfunding Service Providers. This proposal aims to deregulate the cross-border activities of Crowdfunding Service Providers. The proposal is part of the Capital Markets Union, a project I am strongly opposed to as it aims to deregulate finance further across the EU.
Markets in financial instruments (A8-0362/2018 - Caroline Nagtegaal)
. – I voted against this report, which is part of a package on Crowdfunding Service Providers. This proposal aims to deregulate the cross-border activities of Crowdfunding Service Providers. The proposal is part of the Capital Markets Union, a project I am strongly opposed to as it aims to deregulate finance further across the EU.
European Regional Development Fund and Cohesion Fund (A8-0094/2019 - Andrea Cozzolino)
. – I voted to abstain on this report. This report proposes to modernise cohesion policy as a means to simplify its rules and accessibility. There were several positive features of the text, including a commitment which ensures that regional airports and outermost regions would still meet the criteria for receiving European Regional Development funding, as well as having several environmental elements, including low—cost carbon generation and net zero emissions. However, there are serious references throughout this report to improving the security and safety of public spaces, which should have never become an objective of cohesion policy. The use of European funding to pursue an agenda of securitisation and is a waste of public funding. European funding should always be progressively applied to help the lives of citizens – for that reason, I could not endorse this report and abstained.
Emission performance standards for new passenger cars and for new light commercial vehicles (A8-0287/2018 - Miriam Dalli)
. – I voted in favour of this provisional agreement and Commission statement on the new legislation on emissions performance standards for new passenger vehicles and new light commercial vehicles. I am satisfied with the outcome from interinstitutional negotiations on this file, in spite of a political compromise bringing down ambition on the 2030 emissions reduction target.The 2030 target for performance standards for new cars is that they must emit 37.5% less emissions and 31% for new vans, with intermediate targets. While it is disappointing that the Council brought down the Parliament’s ambition on this file, the outcome is still a much needed improvement to the Commission’s proposal, which was only a 30% reduction by 2030 for cars. This new law now also demands that the full life-cycle of emissions from cars should be assessed, not just in the laboratory. Emissions performance standards are an important tool in directly regulating dirty industries and are one of many tools we must use to combat climate change.
Reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment (A8-0317/2018 - Frédérique Ries)
. – I voted in favour of this provisional agreement, which is the outcome from very intense negotiations over the past year. Sinn Fein is satisfied with the final outcome. It introduces bans on certain single-use plastic products, consumption reduction obligations, marking requirements, extended producer responsibility measures, product design requirements and awareness—raising measures on certain single use plastic products.In spite of the European Parliament making big concessions at the negotiations with the Council, the outcome is still positive and will help in reducing the impact of plastic on the environment. I particularly welcome the ban on all oxobiodegradable plastic products, which is an achievement of the Parliament. Sinn Fein is also committed to approaching the plastics crisis more broadly and seeks to effect systemic change in the plastics economy. So while welcoming this Directive, Sinn Fein is also critical of the Commission’s proposal which does not go near far enough to effectively change the plastics economy into a sustainable one.
EU fertilising products (A8-0270/2017 - Mihai Ţurcanu)
. – I voted in favour of this legislation, as I believe it is a fair compromise between protecting human health and ensuring farmers have access to the products they need at an affordable price.This legislation will allow the EU ‘CE’ mark to be applied to a wider range of fertilisers; particularly those produced from organic materials or recycled bio-waste. This means that producers can sell these products in all EU countries, removing barriers trade barriers and benefiting to the EU circular economy.I am particularly pleased that the inter-institutional agreement has revised the proposed levels of Cadmium from 20mg to 60mg. This revision will open up a wider range of suppliers for fertilizers than previously proposed. I had grave concerns that a 20mg would limit the amount of viable suppliers to such an extent that these fertilizers would sharply rise in price for our farmers. The agreed 60mg limit was the best option as it is still under what is believed to be a level causing risk to our food chain.
Protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to carcinogens or mutagens at work (A8-0382/2018 - Laura Agea)
. – 53% of work-related deaths in the EU are attributable to cancer caused by exposure to carcinogenic substances at work – more than 100 000 deaths a year. In May 2016, the European Commission made several proposals to change the Carcinogens and Mutagens Directive to reduce exposure of workers to key cancer-causing chemicals.This proposal introduces new limits for inhalation exposure for a further five substances: Cadmium, Beryllium, Arsenic, Formaldehyde; and 4,4'-Methylene-bis(2-chloroaniline) (MOCA).These substances are used in wide range of sectors, including: building and construction, manufacturing of leather and fur, pulp, paper and paper products, textile, wood and wood products, pathology departments and autopsy rooms, nickel-cadmium battery manufacture, mechanical plating, zinc and copper smelting, foundries, laboratories, glass, electronics, chemicals, and plastics and recycling.The proposals include medical surveillance of exposure (including biomonitoring); evidence-based, proportionate and measurable exposure limits; possibly widening the scope to include hazardous medicines, including cytotoxins; more flexible rules for small businesses.The proposal also sets transition periods for a number of these substances, in order to assist companies adjust to the new rules.This is an important piece of legislation that will help save hundreds of thousands of workers’ lives. I therefore voted in favour.
Common rules for certain types of combined transport of goods between Member States (A8-0259/2018 - Daniela Aiuto)
. – I abstained on this Report, which is aimed at cutting emissions from the transport sector by incentivising a shift from road freight to lower emission transport modes, such as inland waterways, maritime and rail. Given Ireland’s lack of rail freight and inland waterways infrastructure, this Directive will have limited applicability to us, however the rules will still have implications for Irish access to the international road haulage market. As with other files related to the road transport sector, a one-size-fits-all approach often has an unequal effect on Ireland, particularly given Britain’s impending exit from the European Union. Rules requiring drivers to accompany freight on non-road legs, and disallowing non-EU routes to be counted towards combined transport for the incentives, could both have severe implications for Ireland post-Brexit. This could mean routes in the North of Ireland being discounted, or drivers being obliged to stay on long sea journeys to France. Therefore, despite the positive aim of reducing carbon emissions, I abstained on the final vote.
Disclosure of income tax information by certain undertakings and branches (A8-0227/2017 - Hugues Bayet, Evelyn Regner)
. – I voted in favour of this report to close the first reading of the European Parliament’s report on the proposal for public country-by-country reporting. CBCR is one of the most important tax transparency measures ever to be put forward and will require multinationals to publish their income and how much taxes they have paid on a country-by-country basis. I have been critical of two main aspects of the text – namely that the threshold at which CBCR will apply is set for companies with an annual turnover of EUR 750 million or more, while I believe it should apply to companies with an annual turnover of more than EUR 40 million. I also oppose the insertion of a secrecy clause that will allow companies to omit disclosures in one or more jurisdiction if they can justify it to the national competent authority on the grounds of ‘commercial sensitivity’. Despite this, I support the Parliament’s position on this crucial proposal because it makes very significant improvements to the Commission’s proposal. This vote took place in the context of Member States, including Ireland, blocking the more progressive aspects of the proposal in the Council.
Common provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund Plus, the Cohesion Fund, and the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund and financial rules for those (A8-0043/2019 - Andrey Novakov, Constanze Krehl)
. – I voted in favour of this proposal, which lays down the rules for the EU’s cohesion policy for the next seven years. This report is on the Commission’s proposals to establish common rules for the various structural funds (Cohesion Fund, EMFF, AMIF, ISF, ERDF, ESF+ and BMVI). The regulation is a basis for the synergy between the Structural Funds, whose main objective is to furnish support to less developed regions to strengthen the economic and social cohesion in the EU.There is no indication that funds will be diverted for purposes other than social cohesion and investment for less developed regions. I therefore voted in favour.
Objection pursuant to Rule 105(3): Instrument for financial support for external borders and visa (B8-0215/2019)
. – These two delegated acts were aimed at inserting a new action into both the AMIF and ISF funds that would enable the financing of ‘controlled centres’. This concept of closed centres was invented by Heads of State in June 2018, for example those in Member States of first entry where asylum processing takes place.It is argued that officials can ‘quickly differentiate between refugees in need of protection and economic migrants who would potentially face return to their countries of origin’. Sinn Féin believes that these are nothing more than de facto detention centres and the process would be a violation of current EU law.These Resolutions object to two delegated acts that were aimed at the financing of ‘controlled centres’ in the AMIF and ISF. I voted against because of my opposition to the concept of ‘controlled centres’.
Objection pursuant to Rule 105(3): Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (B8-0214/2019)
. – These two delegated acts were aimed at inserting a new action into both the AMIF and ISF funds that would enable the financing of ‘controlled centres’. This concept of closed centres was invented by Heads of State in June 2018, for example those in Member States of first entry where asylum processing takes place.It is argued that officials can ‘quickly differentiate between refugees in need of protection and economic migrants who would potentially face return to their countries of origin’. Sinn Féin believes that these are nothing more than de facto detention centres and the process would be a violation of current EU law.These Resolutions object to two delegated acts that were aimed at the financing of ‘controlled centres’ in the AMIF and ISF. I voted against because of my opposition to the concept of ‘controlled centres’.
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: Genetically modified soybean MON 87751 (MON-87751-7) (B8-0216/2019)
. – I supported this GM objection for the same reasons as always. Sinn Féin (and a majority of Members of the European Parliament) is against the Commission authorising the placement of genetically modified products on the market. The Commission continues to exceed its implementing powers, and this whole authorisation procedure goes against the precautionary principle and poses serious threats to human and animal health and the environment.
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: Genetically modified maize 1507 x NK603 (DAS-Ø15Ø7-1 x MON-ØØ6Ø3-6) (B8-0217/2019)
. – I supported this GM objection for the same reasons as always. Sinn Féin (and a majority of Members of the European Parliament) is against the Commission authorising the placement of genetically modified products on the market. The Commission continues to exceed its implementing powers, and this whole authorisation procedure goes against the precautionary principle and poses serious threats to human and animal health and the environment.
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: Certain uses of bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) (Grupa Azoty Zakłady Azotowe Kędzierzyn S.A.) (B8-0219/2019)
. – I supported this objection. Phthalates are plasticisers – additives that increase the plasticity or fluidity of a material. This type, DEHP, was recently added to a list of substances of very high concern under the REACH Regulation because of its classification as toxic to reproduction and hazardous properties. The Commission exceeds its implementing powers with the authorisation of this substance, which is very dangerous to human health, especially towards pregnant woman, new-borns and children. For these reasons, I voted in favour of this objection.
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: Certain uses of chromium trioxide (B8-0221/2019)
. – I supported this objection. The Commission is exceeding its competences by proposing to grant an authorisation for chromium trioxide, which is listed as a substance of very high concern under the REACH Regulation because of its classification as carcinogenic (category 1A) and mutagenic (category 1B). The whole process of the authorisation is not in line with the REACH regulation and the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)’s Committee for Risk Assessment mentions more than 50 cases of cancer related to this substance. For these reasons, I voted in favour of this objection.
Post-Arab Spring: way forward for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region (A8-0077/2019 - Brando Benifei)
. – We abstained on this vote. Since the Arab Spring the situation in several countries in North Africa and the Middle East has worsened, with ongoing war in Syria and Libya and government oppression in Egypt illustrating the many challenges facing the region. EU Member States have played a direct role in worsening the human rights situations in several countries in the region. The disastrous military intervention led by France and the UK in Libya, and continuing sale of arms to Turkey and Saudi Arabia, who use these arms in wars in Syria and Yemen respectively, have all contributed to the various humanitarian crises in the region.This report however views EU intervention, including possible military intervention, as the solution to the challenges facing the region despite EU Member States directly contributing to many of these problems in the first place.The problems created by the failed imperialist interventions of EU Member States, will not be solved by the same states intervening again under the banner of the EU. Member States should focus on promoting long—term development in the region and should end all arms sales to countries involved in conflicts in the region.
Request for the waiver of the immunity of Jørn Dohrmann (A8-0178/2019 - Evelyn Regner)
. – We voted in favour of waiving the immunity of Danish MEP Jørn Dohrmann. Mr Dohrmann is charged with causing almost EUR 2 000 worth of damage to the camera of a journalist. The journalist was standing 195 m from his house while filming footage for a documentary. He was initially charged with unlawfully photographing persons on private property, but the charges had to be dropped, as the requisite element of intent could not be proven.The journalist and his employer are now seeking compensation. Since Dohrmann is denying the charge, the matter cannot be settled out of court. Therefore his immunity must be waived.Since the alleged actions do not relate to opinions expressed or votes cast in the line of duty, Rules 7 and 8 cannot be invoked. Therefore we voted to waive the immunity.
Representative actions for the protection of the collective interests of consumers (A8-0447/2018 - Geoffroy Didier)
. – This report concerned an update to rules allowing citizens to bring cross-border collective suits, taking into account inefficiencies related to the vulnerability of consumers related to the Dieselgate scandal.Under the new directive Member States must designate a qualified entity, such as a consumer protection body, that may initiate a European-wide collective action. These qualified representative entities pursue actions on behalf of consumers and can enter pleas for redress or injunction. Courts must first decide whether there is a ʻbroad public impactʼ. Punitive damages are prohibited, but a ʻloser paysʼ principle is introduced. The losing party also has to inform all consumers potentially concerned when they might be affected by a successful action.Right-wing business interests and Fine Gaelʼs political group have tried to block this legislation at every turn, including by refusing to allow the presentation of the report onto the committee agenda.Sinn Féin supports the right to collective action and we currently have a bill going through the Dáil to provide for this possibility at national level. We therefore voted in favour.
Protocol to the EU-Israel Euro-Mediterranean Agreement (accession of Croatia) (A8-0164/2019 - Cristian Dan Preda)
. – We voted against this report. The EU-Israel agreement grants the Israeli state preferential treatment from the EU in a number of areas of trade, including the trade in dual-use and military goods.The ongoing human rights abuse against Palestinians and the illegal occupation of Palestinian territory by Israel have been condemned by the UN and various human rights organisations. As long as these human rights abuses continue, Israel should not receive any preferential treatment from the EU and EU Member States should immediately end all arms exports to Israel.
Discontinuing seasonal changes of time (A8-0169/2019 - Marita Ulvskog)
. – We voted against this report. This directive undermines the sovereignty of EU Member States, which should be allowed to adjust their seasonal time changes as they wish. Control over seasonal time change should not be an EU competency. This could lead to two different time zones on the island of Ireland, due to Brexit.
Common rules for the internal market for electricity (A8-0044/2018 - Jerzy Buzek)
. – We voted against this agreement, the outcome of interinstitutional negotiations. This directive is part of a single liberalisation package, ʻClean Energy for All Europeansʼ. The Commissionʼs proposal is pursuing the idea that only an open and fully liberalised market can deliver affordable energy prices for consumers, and emphasises the need for a fully competitive electricity market – this idea has not changed in the final agreement. Although there is some mention of energy poverty, the provisions are in no way substantial enough for us to support it; the final agreement requires each Member State to define the concept of a vulnerable customer, which may refer to energy poverty. There is a chapter on consumer empowerment and protection, e.g. the right to switch supplier, basic contractual rights and transparent billing information, which is welcome, but not enough to guarantee the right to energy. Although the directive is about price setting for energy, the provisional agreement explicitly states that vulnerable groups should not be protected through public intervention on energy prices.
Internal market for electricity (A8-0042/2018 - Jerzy Buzek)
. – We voted against this agreement on the regulation on the internal market for electricity, and also in the vote on Commission statements. The regulation is part of the ʻClean Energy for All Europeansʼ liberalisation package. The European Commission maintains that this will bring stricter and harmonised rules for capacity mechanisms, reconciling the EU objectives of security of supply and emission reduction, and enhanced regional coordination, which will improve market functioning and competitiveness while making the system more stable. The package provides for the creation of new EU-level entities to promote operation and facilitate integration; a simplification in the rules facilitating trade within each bidding zone; and poor rules around capacity mechanisms (emission limits are insufficient). Capacity mechanisms, which are different for Member States, are now split in two (before and after the entry into force of the regulation), with different emission limits. The split grandfathers the older capacity mechanism, which equates to continued support for coal-powered electricity plants. There is a new article in the final agreement on just transition, which Sinn Fein supports, but the article does not go further in ensuring funds to be drawn down for regions in need of just transition. Overall, we reject the liberalisation package.
European Union Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators (A8-0040/2018 - Morten Helveg Petersen)
. – We voted against this final agreement on the EU Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators. The main tasks of ACER are to issue opinions and recommendations addressed to transmission system operators, to national regulatory authorities (NRAs) and to the Commission, the EP and the Council; to monitor European internal markets for gas and electricity; and to adopt individual decisions on technical issues and on cross-border issues if the Member States cannot reach agreement. Its mission is to complement and coordinate the work of national energy regulators at EU level and to work towards the completion of the single EU energy market for electricity and natural gas. In 2016, the Commission presented a recast of the regulation as part of the liberalisation agenda in the ʻClean Energy Packageʼ, together with new electricity market rules and a regulation on risk preparedness. Through these reforms, the Agency is to play a bigger role in decision-making processes linked to bidding zones, adequacy assessment, guidelines and network codes. The main intention behind this EU agencyʼs additional powers in monitoring EU energy markets is to expand its control, with the aim of having a single, competitive, liberalised EU energy market.
Risk-preparedness in the electricity sector (A8-0039/2018 - Flavio Zanonato)
. – We voted against this agreement on the risk-preparedness in the electricity sector. It is part of the revised Third Energy Package, which aims to improve the functioning of the internal electricity market and implement the key objectives of the Energy Union, which Sinn Fein opposes. The purpose of this Regulation is to ensure that Member States put in place appropriate tools to prevent, prepare for and manage electricity crisis situations (extreme weather, cyber-attacks, fuel shortages). There are cross-border effects because of the integrated electricity market. Currently, Member States prevent, manage and prepare for crises in their national framework. The agreement sees the European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity (ENTSO-E) in charge of drafting the methodologies for regional crisis scenarios (approved by ACER) and then identifies relevant crisis scenarios for each region. This equates to a bureaucratic web of EU agencies in creating a methodology, and removing powers from the national regulators to EU agencies. Sinn Fein believes in cooperation of energy sectors, particularly for risk-preparedness, but not in the hands of EU agencies that are part of a strategy to further liberalise the EU energy market.
Labelling of tyres with respect to fuel efficiency and other essential parameters (A8-0086/2019 - Michał Boni)
. – I voted against this report, which will repeal the current Tyre Labelling Regulation while also incorporating some provisions from the general energy-labelling framework, updated in 2017. From the start, the conservative (EPP) lead negotiator downgraded the Commission proposal in many aspects, with the support of liberals and conservative groups (ALDE and ECR). For instance, the Commission introduced the obligation for suppliers and distributors to show the label for a specific type of tyre in any visual advertisement, including on the internet. However, right-wing groups quickly deleted this from the draft text. Several other issues remained misleading and problematic for consumers. All progressive attempts to improve the final text were voted down, and the final result was worse than the Commission proposal itself. For these reasons, I voted against the adoption of this report.
Copyright in the Digital Single Market (A8-0245/2018 - Axel Voss)
. – We voted against the provisional agreement to this file and in favour of an amendment calling for amendments to be allowed to be tabled. The JURI Committee, who has lead this file, had its mandate on this file completely overturned in July last year at the first full vote of MEPs. Despite this, the final text returned to MEPs this time has reverted back with pretty much the same issues.In order to ensure fair remuneration of artists, Sinn Féin favours a licencing system, which should oblige large platforms, such as YouTube or Soundcloud to conclude agreements with right holders for the use of their content. Sites like these, where singers, musicians and other artists upload their content, often make huge profits off the backs of their work with very little going to the creators themselves. Irish artists are seriously undervalued, and we need a system that ensures fair compensation for their creations, as well as protecting the fundamental rights of internet users.From the very beginning, Sinn Féin has sought to explicitly exclude the use of upload filters and other methods of monitoring and restricting internet users’ rights through this legislation. We voted in favour of amendments seeking to ban such technologies, and have been consistently critical of any move towards a situation where internet platforms would be under a general monitoring obligation in order to comply with copyright rules. Since the final text rolled back on protections from last summer’s vote, as well as having issues with Articles related to data mining and the link tax, we could not support the text as presented.
Contracts for the supply of digital content and digital services (A8-0375/2017 - Evelyne Gebhardt, Axel Voss)
. – This report is aimed at protecting consumers who purchase digital services. This is a full harmonisation Directive, which means that while consumers from some countries who had zero legislation will experience significantly better protections, others may experience slightly less. There are exceptions to this though.The legislation provides that within the first two years of the contract, any non-conformity discovered by the consumer is considered to have been present at the time of sale. Member States are free to legislate for a period for longer than two years if they wish. Within the first year, there is a burden of proof for the seller to prove misuse by the consumer if they refute the claim. For the second year, that burden of proof is transferred to the consumer. It also deals with the right of a consumer to updates, including security updates, to keep the digital content in conformity for the contractual period of time or that which they may reasonably expect. Remedies including right to conformity free of charge and right to terminate the contract with exchange of the price are provided for. Since this file is aimed at providing protection in a fast-growing new marketplace where consumers are often unprotected, I voted in favour.
Contracts for the sale of goods (A8-0043/2018 - Pascal Arimont)
. – We voted in favour of this report as it essentially proposes to eliminate existing legal obstacles to cross border e-commerce with regards to consumer rights on online and offline trades of goods. It includes measures to set out clearly an increase in consumer rights and transparency, as to increase consumer protection and confidence when trading and purchasing cross border in other Member States. It also outlines that the burden of proof for non-conformity of standards for goods caused by production is on the trader, and not on the consumer. As this proposal underlines consumer protections, we voted in favour.
Fishing in the GFCM (General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean) Agreement area (A8-0381/2018 - Linnéa Engström)
. – I voted in favour of this report as it seeks to transpose into EU legislation conservation and management measures that would include monitoring, control and surveillance actions to fight illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. These measures concern the European hake and the deep-water rose shrimp in the Strait of Sicily, the turbot in the Black Sea, the blackspot seabream in the Alboran Sea and the red coral.This measure involved establishing a closure period of at least two months during the spawning season and a fishing restricted area in Adriatic, individual daily and/or annual catch limits and designated ports for landings.
Special rules regarding maximum length in case of cabs (A8-0042/2019 - Karima Delli)
. – We voted in favour on this report on advancing the creation of more aerodynamic cabins of trucks. The objective of the proposal is to revise Council Directive 96/53/EC, which establishes the maximum weights and dimensions of certain road vehicles, to allow for cabins of a greater length to be produced. The derogation from maximum length restrictions was granted for the rear of vehicles, for the mounting of aerodynamic devices, and for the front of vehicles to allow for a more rounded and aerodynamic shape of cabs of trucks.
Low carbon benchmarks and positive carbon impact benchmarks (A8-0483/2018 - Neena Gill)
. – I voted in favour of this report, which was on the outcome of inter-institutional negotiations on establishing two new benchmarks for financial products as part of the sustainable finance package. The proposal introduces a regulatory framework that lays down minimum requirements for EU climate transition and EU Paris-aligned benchmarks and states that it is of particular importance that such benchmarks should not significantly harm other environmental, social and governance (ESG) objectives. The Council weakened the ECON committee’s report in the negotiations. However, the final outcome is still an improvement on the Commission’s initial proposal. The creation of these two benchmarks using a common methodology across the EU will be a significant step forward for transparency on sustainability of financial products, and will be an important tool in preventing greenwashing by financial institutions, which are currently able to market financial products as ‘green’ without any standardised or transparent requirements on their actual exposure to the fossil fuels industry.
Specific provisions for the European territorial cooperation goal (Interreg) (A8-0470/2018 - Pascal Arimont)
. – My colleague Martina Anderson is the shadow rapporteur of this file, and this is the second time it has come to a European Parliament plenary sitting. Due to the work of team Sinn Féin, there is a strong acknowledgement in this report of the unique and special circumstances of the north of Ireland and the absolute requirement to ensure that Peace and Interreg funding streams are protected post—Brexit. European funding has helped protect the continuous development of the peace process, and this report fully acknowledges the importance of European funding as a means of safeguarding areas of north-south co—operation as set out under the Good Friday Agreement. I therefore voted in favour.
Fundamental rights of people of African descent (B8-0212/2019)
. – I voted in favour of this excellent resolution. I am grateful to my political group, GUE/NGL, for taking the initiative to bring this resolution to plenary, marking the first time the European Parliament is voting on a robust resolution on the specific form of structural racism experienced by people of African descent in Europe, on Afrophobia, and on fundamental rights. It has been a key demand of the European Network Against Racism, and I am delighted to endorse it by voting in favour of this important resolution. Some of its main points include: recognising the links between colonialism and current structural racism in Europe; encouraging Member States and the European institutions to formally mark both the UN International Decade for People of African Descent and to take effective measures for the implementation of the programme of activities; calls on the Member States to declassify their colonial archives; calls on the Member States to develop national anti-racism strategies looking at all policy areas.
Report on financial crimes, tax evasion and tax avoidance (A8-0170/2019 - Jeppe Kofod, Luděk Niedermayer)
. – I abstained on this report, which was the final report of the special committee on financial crimes, tax evasion and tax avoidance. I supported many of the proposals in the report, including its call for increased tax transparency through the swift implementation of public country-by-country reporting for multinationals, and its call for the creation of a global tax governance body under the auspices of the UN. I support the report’s call on Member States, including Ireland, to fully implement the Anti-Money Laundering Directive if they have so far failed to do so.I did not vote in favour of the final vote on the report because I opposed several elements of the report that infringe on the economic sovereignty of Member States. I oppose the CCCTB and digital tax being implemented at the EU level and believe a fundamental shift in taxation such as this must be decided at an international level. The report calls for an end to the unanimity principle in votes in the EU Council on taxation matters, which I am strongly opposed to. As a result, I could not vote in favour of the report, so I abstained.
EU-Switzerland Institutional Framework Agreement (A8-0147/2019 - Doru-Claudian Frunzulică)
. – I abstained on this vote. The close political and economic ties between the EU and Switzerland have resulted in close cooperation in a number of areas, and I hope this will continue. This new framework agreement, however, is and attempt by the EU to interfere with Swiss domestic employment policy and prioritises Switzerland’s involvement in EU military missions over other more important aspects of cooperation. For these reasons, I could not support the final vote.
Discharge 2017: EU general budget - Commission and executive agencies (A8-0110/2019 - Inés Ayala Sender)
. – I voted against the decision and in favour of the resolution because the European Court of Auditors (ECA) concluded that the revenue for 2017 underlying these accounts was legal and regular in all material respects. The resolution highlights these shortcomings but ultimately grants the discharge. Payments underlying the accounts indicate that a significant part of the 2017 expenditure audited was not materially affected by error and that the level of irregularities in EU spending has continued to decrease, reaching an all-time low level of 2.4% in 2017. However, this is still above the threshold of 2%. Payments continue to be affected by errors because the control and supervision system is only partially effective. The main reason to vote against the discharge is that the ECA did not examine the level of error for spending under Heading 3 ‘Security and citizenship’ and Heading 4 ‘Global Europe’.
Discharge 2017: EU general budget - 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th EDFs (A8-0107/2019 - Marco Valli)
Discharge 2017: EU general budget - European Parliament (A8-0108/2019 - Claudia Schmidt)
. – I voted to abstain on the decision and in favour of the resolution because the overall evidence from the ECA indicates that while the spending on ‘administration’ is not affected by a material level of error, in the nine quantified errors, the estimated level of error in heading 5 on administration is 0.5 % (up from 0.2 % in 2016). Furthermore, of the eight transactions by Parliament that it examined, the ECA found weaknesses in three transactions related to procurement procedure – namely compliance with contract selection criteria, full compliance with the framework contract, and the criterion to select a travel agency – and in one transaction related to the reimbursement of expenses of visitors groups.
Discharge 2017: EU general budget - Court of Auditors (A8-0097/2019 - Arndt Kohn)
. – I voted in favour of this report granting discharge of the budget to the Court of Auditors. An independent external auditor audits the annual accounts of the Court of Auditors in order to apply the same principles of transparency and accountability that the Court applies to its auditees. There have been no irregularities and we support the work of the agency.
Discharge 2017: EU general budget - European Economic and Social Committee (A8-0100/2019 - Arndt Kohn)
. – I voted in favour of this report granting discharge of the budget to the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC). The report praises the high level of implementation of the EESC budget (i.e. they actually spend the money they are granted on progressive projects). Some issues around gender equality in the agency are noted in the report, including that there has been an improvement since the previous year. The GUE Group in the Committee on Budgetary Control (CONT) called for timing of the EESC’s reports to be issued before Parliament’s position has been adopted. There have been no irregularities and we support the work of the agency.
Discharge 2017: EU general budget - Committee of the Regions (A8-0101/2019 - Arndt Kohn)
. – I voted in favour of granting the Committee of the Regions discharge as there were no financial irregularities. The resolution critically engaged with the failures of the Committee, including its failure to meet its publication target, shortcomings in terms of the representation of women in the workplace and protocols/mechanisms to deal with harassment. I therefore voted in favour.
Discharge 2017: EU general budget - European Ombudsman (A8-0099/2019 - Arndt Kohn)
Discharge 2017: EU general budget - European Data Protection Supervisor (A8-0116/2019 - Arndt Kohn)
. – I voted in favour of granting the European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) discharge as there were no irregularities with its spending for 2017. The resolution also notes the improvements that the EDPS has made in terms of issuing a code of conduct, reducing the phenomenon of revolving doors and a commitment to a high level of transparency to reduce conflicts of interest.
Discharge 2017: Performance, financial management and control of EU agencies (A8-0140/2019 - Petri Sarvamaa)
Discharge 2017: Translation Centre for the Bodies of the European Union (CdT) (A8-0122/2019 - Petri Sarvamaa)
Discharge 2017: European Asylum Support Office (EASO) (A8-0123/2019 - Petri Sarvamaa)
. – We voted against granting the EASO discharge for the financial year ending in 2017. Although corrective measures have been taken in recent times, in 2017 there were significant shortcomings in EASO’s capacity to manage its finances in an efficient and compliant manner. The Court of Auditors had found there to be, in 2017, material and systemic instances of non-compliance in respect of payments, abuses in relation to public procurement and recruitment procedures and persistently inadequate internal control systems.
Discharge 2017: European Banking Authority (EBA) (A8-0124/2019 - Petri Sarvamaa)
. – We voted in favour of this report granting discharge for the budget of the European Banking Authority. The EBA is the one of the three main supervisors of the European System of Financial Supervision, along with the EIOPA and ESMA. There are some deficiencies in the agency’s work in financial supervision but this is often due to a lack of resources and a failure by Member States to cooperate with it. There have been no irregularities reported, and we support the work of the agency so we voted in favour.
Discharge 2017: European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) (A8-0150/2019 - Petri Sarvamaa)
. – We voted in favour of this discharge. The European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) was established to contribute to and strengthen the promotion of gender equality – including gender mainstreaming in all EU policies and the resulting national policies – and the fight against discrimination on the basis of sex, as well as to raise EU citizens’ awareness of gender equality.
Discharge 2017: European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) (A8-0137/2019 - Petri Sarvamaa)
. – We voted in favour of this report granting discharge of the budget to the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA). The EIOPA is the one of the three main supervisors of the European System of Financial Supervision, along with the EBA and ESMA. There are some deficiencies with the agency’s work in financial supervision but this is often due to a lack of resources and a failure by Member States to cooperate with it. There have been no irregularities reported, and we support the work of the agency so we voted in favour.
Discharge 2017: European Union Agency for Railways (ERA) (A8-0158/2019 - Petri Sarvamaa)
. – We abstained on this discharge and voted against the resolution. In 2016 we voted against the establishment of this agency in the first place. The agency moves the railway sector towards a direction that we oppose. The setting up of the agency emphasised the creation of a single, liberalised railway sector, which encourages competition and privatisation, while granting further authoritative powers solely to the ERA.
Discharge 2017: European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) (A8-0141/2019 - Petri Sarvamaa)
. – We voted in favour of this report granting discharge of the budget to the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA). The ESMA is the one of the three main supervisors of the European System of Financial Supervision, along with the EBA and EIOPA. There are some deficiencies with the agency’s work in financial supervision but this is often due to a lack of resources and a failure by Member States to cooperate with it. There have been no irregularities reported, and we support the work of the agency so we voted in favour.
Discharge 2017: Euratom Supply Agency (ESA) (A8-0132/2019 - Petri Sarvamaa)
. – We voted against this discharge. While the accounts are in order, we are opposed to nuclear energy and Euratom has the sole purpose of purpose of creating a specialist market for nuclear power in Europe, developing nuclear energy and distributing it to its Member States while selling the surplus to third countries.
Discharge 2017: European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions (Eurofound) (A8-0143/2019 - Petri Sarvamaa)
Discharge 2017: European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) (A8-0153/2019 - Petri Sarvamaa)
Discharge 2017: Clean Sky 2 Joint Undertaking (A8-0095/2019 - Martina Dlabajová)
. – Clean Sky 2 Joint Undertaking (CSJU) is a public-private partnership between the European Commission and the European aeronautics industry that is on the way to achieving its environmental performance targets.As there were no special irregularities which would justify a postponement, we voted in favour of the discharge. However, due to our opposition to public-private partnerships, we voted against the resolution.
Discharge 2017: Electronic Components and Systems for European Leadership Joint undertaking (ECSEL) (A8-0102/2019 - Martina Dlabajová)
. – We voted against the decision and the resolution due to the fact that the European Court of Auditors (ECA) has been unable to verify that payments made by the electronics public-private research project, Electronic Components and Systems for European Leadership (ECSEL), complied with EU rules. The payments in question were made for projects originally funded under Framework Programme 7, which ended in 2013 and preceded Horizon 2020, the EU’s current research funding programme. The resolution does not mention this issue, therefore we voted against both the discharge decision and resolution.
Discharge 2017: ITER and the Development of Fusion Energy Joint Undertaking (A8-0126/2019 - Martina Dlabajová)
. – I voted against this discharge, and in favour of the resolution, which is critical of the Joint Undertaking’s overspend and expresses concern over further cost increases and delays in project implementation. The European Court of Auditors expressed concern over the risk of further cost increases and delays in project implementation compared to proposed baseline.
Discharge 2017: Shift2Rail Joint Undertaking (A8-0163/2019 - Martina Dlabajová)
. – The Shift2Rail Joint Undertaking aims to achieve a Single European Railway Area (SERA); to enhance competitiveness of the European railway system and to sustain the leadership of the European rail industry on the global market.As there were no special irregularities which would justify a postponement, I voted in favour of the discharge. However due to my opposition to public-private partnerships, I voted against the resolution.
Fisheries Partnership Agreement between Côte d’Ivoire and the EU (2018-2024) (A8-0030/2019 - João Ferreira)
. – The EU may make promises of investment in the local fisheries sector and of help to modernise the fleet of developing countries but, generally speaking, EU Fisheries Partnership Agreements with these nations are always heavily skewed in favour of EU fleets. The EU uses its weight to gain exploitative agreements with regard to valuable fish stocks, disproportionately serving the economic interests of wealthy fishing corporations that want access to such stocks: this is a neo-colonial approach.However, instead of voting against these agreements, we abstained, as Côte d’Ivoire has emerged within the last decade from a horrible civil war, and it also has one of the highest infant mortality rates in the world. In that context, we welcome the parts of the agreement concerned with improving scientific knowledge about the marine environment and improving indigenous fishing operations, with a view to improving national food security, which is undoubtedly important for Côte d’Ivoire citizens.
Fisheries Partnership Agreement between Côte d’Ivoire and the EU (2018-2024) (resolution) (A8-0034/2019 - João Ferreira)
. – The EU may make promises of investments in the local fisheries sector and of helping to modernise the fleets of developing countries, but, generally speaking, EU Fisheries Partnership Agreements with these nations are always heavily skewed in favour of EU fleets, meaning that the EU uses its heavy weight to gain exploitative agreements with regard to valuable fish stocks. This disproportionally serves the economic interests of wealthy fishing corporations that want access to lucrative commercial fish stocks, which is a neo-colonial approach.However, instead of voting against, we abstained, as Côte dʼIvoire has recently emerged within the last decade from a horrible civil war and it also has one of the highest infant mortality rates in the world. In this context we welcome parts of this agreement that go towards improving scientific knowledge about the marine environment and improving indigenous fishing operations, thus helping to improve national food security, something that is undoubtedly important for citizens.
Motion for a resolution pursuant to Rule 108(6) seeking an opinion from the Court of Justice on the compatibility with the Treaties of the proposed EU-Morocco Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement (B8-0100/2019)
. – We supported this resolution, as it instructs the European Parliament to seek a legal opinion from the Court of Justice of the European Union regarding the Fisheries Partnership Agreement with Morocco in order to contest the Commissionʼs and the European External Action Serviceʼs unsubstantiated claims that the people of Western Sahara – a territory illegally occupied by Morocco – were properly consulted and approved of the agreement, whereby their nationʼs resources would be likely to be exploited by neo-colonial interests to the detriment of their nation.
EU-Morocco Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement (A8-0027/2019 - Alain Cadec)
. – The European Court of Justice has noted that this fisheries agreement is applicable to ʻwaters under the sovereignty or jurisdictionʼ of the Kingdom of Morocco. However, in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, the waters over which the coastal State is entitled to exercise sovereignty or jurisdiction are limited to waters adjacent to and under its sea territory or its exclusive economic zone.Bearing this in mind, the territory of Western Sahara is not part of the territory of the Kingdom of Morocco; the waters adjacent to the territory of Western Sahara do not fall within the Moroccan fishing zone covered by this agreement, as Western Sahara is illegally occupied by Morocco.Sinn Féin supports Western Saharaʼs struggle for self-determination and we oppose any economic agreement between the EU and Morocco that compromises the resources of the Saharawi people and their exploitation under Moroccoʼs illegal occupation. For these reasons we voted against this agreement.
Agreement to prevent unregulated high seas fisheries in the Central Arctic Ocean (A8-0016/2019 - Norica Nicolai)
. – In July 2015 Canada, Denmark, Norway, Russia and the USA adopted the Declaration Concerning the Prevention of Unregulated High Seas Fishing in the Central Arctic Ocean. Due to climate change, the polar ice caps have been melting at an alarming rate, meaning that the Arctic Sea is becoming more open to commercial fishing interests and will attract unregulated corporate fishing.The objective of this agreement is, as the name suggests, to prevent unregulated fishing and apply management measures as part of a long-term strategy to ensure the conservation and potential use of fish stocks, albeit sustainably, should science prove this to be possible. With this in mind it is crucial to safeguard the Arcticʼs marine environment, and it is therefore important to put in place a multilateral structure to fight and prevent illegal, under-reported and unregulated fishing by multinational corporate interests which already are exploiting Irish fish stocks. For these reasons we voted in favour of this agreement.
Protocol to the EU-Mexico Economic Partnership, Political Coordination and Cooperation Agreement (accession of Croatia) (A8-0066/2019 - Inmaculada Rodríguez-Piñero Fernández)
. – We abstained on this vote on whether to allow Croatia to accede to the Economic Partnership, Political Coordination and Cooperation Agreement between the EU and Mexico.The agreement itself dates back to 1997 (it came into force in 2000) and entails commitments from both parties to opening up trade in services and goods, investment protection, public procurement, financial services, and technical regulations, as well as to dialogue not only on economic and political matters, but also on drug trafficking and money laundering. The agreement itself is very dated, with both parties agreeing to cooperate on issues such as mining and energy – to promote exploration, exploitation and profitable use of mining and promote investment in this field.Relations between the EU and Mexico are now governed by an FTA, agreed last year (but yet to be approved by the EP). Since it is Croatiaʼs right to accede to this agreement if it so wishes, we did not vote against. However, we disagree with many of the ambitions in the original agreement and also disagree with elements of the FTA, which was a continuation of those commitments. Therefore we abstained.
EU Anti-Fraud Programme (A8-0064/2019 - José Ignacio Salafranca Sánchez-Neyra)
. – We voted in favour of this file because the Commission’s proposal will further the fight against fraud.The proposal streamlines the budgetary management of three already existing instruments; Hercule III, the Anti-Fraud Information System (AFIS) and the Irregularity Management System (IMS). The Hercule programmes protect the EU’s financial interests by supporting action to combat irregularities, fraud and corruption affecting the EU budget. They are administered by the European Anti-Fraud Office, OLAF. AFIS is a collection of applications facilitating the exchange of anti-fraud information between OLAF and competent administrations. Like AFIS, the Irregularity Management System (IMS) facilitates the sharing of information. The IMS contains details of fraud and irregularities in the use of funds managed by the Commission and the national authorities.
Multiannual plan for stocks fished in the Western Waters and adjacent waters, and for fisheries exploiting those stocks (A8-0310/2018 - Alain Cadec)
. – This file will not only permit fishing above sustainable levels by multinational fishing operators but does nothing to ensure the social and economic sustainability of the coastal communities (including decision making). There is also the aspect of this legislation over-facilitating the Commission’s capacity to make its own unilateral delegated and execution acts, which flies in the face of Irish sovereignty over its own marine territory and which Sinn Féin opposes. For this reason I voted against this file.
Union Civil Protection Mechanism (A8-0180/2018 - Elisabetta Gardini)
. – I voted in favour of this report. The EU’s current Civil Protection Mechanism, established in 2001, is based on a voluntary system, which the EU coordinates with voluntary contributions. The EU has no reserve capacity to assist overwhelmed Member States at times of emergency, such as landslides and forest fires. I was satisfied with this report, since the references conflating terrorist attacks and migrant issues with natural disasters were removed through the negotiations. My concerns about subsidiarity issues with this new programme were allayed, with the addition on Member State controls on all Commission competences, leaving the Commission with a coordination role with Member States checks and balances. The agreement develops a European reserve of capacities to respond to disasters, such as firefighting planes, to assist Member States. It also aims to increase prevention and preparedness to natural disasters across the EU.
Minimum requirements for water reuse (A8-0044/2019 - Simona Bonafè)
. – We voted in favour of this report. It establishes the need for a regulation to lay down harmonised criteria at EU level for the reuse of urban waste water, increasing safety and increased uptake of reclamation activities. The regulation establishes that the reclamation facility operator will be in charge of providing a risk management plan for the recovery of reclaimed water under the strict control of the competent authority, which can provide a more accurate and independent assessment of the entire water supply chain. During the negotiations, the Sinn Féin team managed to strengthen the role of public authorities in controlling the safe requirements of the risk management plan, being very rigorous in delivering permits to the different non-compliant actors of the reused water supply chain and the conditions under which such permits could be revoked. The report also allows the possibility of MS to expand the scope of this regulation beyond agricultural irrigation to include uses for public and environmental purposes, as long as a high level of environmental protection is ensured. For these reasons, we voted in favour of this report.
Approval and market surveillance of agricultural and forestry vehicles (A8-0318/2018 - Nicola Danti)
. – I voted in favour of this report. This report dealt with the Regulation of type-approval for agricultural and forestry vehicles. The basis of the report was to ask for an amendment to the regulation to extend the period of the Commission’s permission to adopt delegated acts. We support the extension of the period by 5 years. It will have no impact on Irish tractor manufactures and the amendments by the Commission will ensure accuracy for the prescribed period. This legal certainty is important for the sector, as it will facilitate farmers getting access to a wide range of new farm machinery.
Programme for single market, competitiveness of enterprises and European statistics (A8-0052/2019 - Nicola Danti)
. – I voted against this file because it focuses too much on increasing competitiveness in the single market at the expense of social protections.While the programme aims to provide some necessary elements for the functioning of the single market and data collection, the programme will also lead to the further deepening of the single market along the lines outlined in the Single Market Strategy (2016). Sinn Féin opposes this approach because it focused on increasing competitiveness in the European single market, at the expense of secure jobs, workers’ rights and environmental protection. It calls on Member States to refrain from implementing taxation and trade laws that may discriminate against businesses from other Member States (promoting harmonisation of trade and tax laws at EU level). All of these criticism hold true for this new programme. Furthermore, the proposal also endorses the Capital Markets Union, which Sinn Féin opposes.
Roma integration strategies (B8-0098/2019)
. – I voted in favour of this motion for resolution. The resolution came as a result of recommendations given on an earlier report in 2017 with regards the post-2020 Strategic EU Framework for National Roma Inclusion Strategies (NRIS) and stepping up the fight against anti-Gypsyism. It recognises the failings of the current framework to improve the economic prospects and social inclusion of the Roma across the EU. It calls on Member States and the Commission to implement a bottom—up strategy for Roma inclusion which addresses intersectional discrimination and has a strong gender dimension and a child-centred approach. The motion comes at a time when the Roma community in Ireland are subject to discrimination, and it is in line with Sinn Féin’s efforts to tackle racism aimed towards, but not limited to, the Roma community.
Implementation of the Treaty provisions related to EU Citizenship (A8-0041/2019 - Maite Pagazaurtundúa Ruiz)
. – I voted against this report. A critical failure of the report was the fact that it argued that EU rights derived from citizenship should be linked exclusively to residency in a Member State, which would mean that citizens in the north of Ireland who have the right to identity as Irish citizens would be completely stripped of all their EU rights post-Brexit. Furthermore, there are dire recommendations throughout this report, such as to establish EU citizenship as an equivalent to national citizenship through the creation of a common EU identity and development of EU curricula in national education systems, which would essentially be a tool of propaganda to extol the so called ‘values’ of the European Union. Sinn Féin will continue to fight against all efforts to create an EU identity at the expense of our Irish identity.
Implementation of the Treaty provisions concerning enhanced cooperation (A8-0038/2019 - Alain Lamassoure)
. – I voted against this file. This report is clearly part of an effort to make the process of European integration much easier and much faster, potentially against the wishes of Member States and their people. It makes the recommendation that all future efforts for enhanced co-operation should be made in council by quality majority voting (QMV), meaning that so called ‘core EU countries’ can use this to drive European integration forward. It also recommends the establishment of an inter-parliamentary conference as a thinly veiled attempt to normalise defence and foreign policy as an EU competency. Sinn Féin will continue to resist all attempts to dismantle Irish sovereignty.
Implementation of the Treaty provisions on Parliament’s power of political control over the Commission (A8-0033/2019 - Mercedes Bresso)
. – We voted against this report. Although it claims to cover Parliament’s political control over the Commission, it actually recommends that the unelected Commission become the ‘executive’ of the European Union, and that the Commission should have further Member State competencies in economic and monetary policies. The language of the report is weak and it essentially reduces the role of Parliament as a directly elected European institution to that of a glorified regulator of the Commission.
Implementation of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union in the EU institutional framework (A8-0051/2019 - Barbara Spinelli)
. – We voted in favour of this report, which contains a detailed and analytical criticism of the failure of the European institutions adequately to apply the European Charter of Fundamental Rights throughout the European Union framework. The Charter is much broader in scope and depth than the European Convention on Human Rights, and this report has been written with complete respect for the sovereignty and autonomy of Member States. It recommends that the Charter, including its social rights, be applied and integrated into all EU legislative and decision-making processes, including in respect of EU agencies, funds, trade policies and growth surveys. It also recommends that the European Council improve the transparency of its decision making, in line with the recommendations from the European Ombudsman.
Regulations and general conditions governing the performance of the Ombudsman’s duties (Statute of the European Ombudsman) (A8-0050/2019 - Paulo Rangel)
. – The European Ombudsman is elected by the European Parliament and can receive complaints from any citizen of the Union or any natural or legal person residing in the Union concerning maladministration in EU institutions, bodies, offices or agencies. An independent and impartial Ombudsman is important in terms of trying to ensure transparency and accountability of the EU institutions.In order for this to work, the Ombudsman must have a proper legal basis. We supported this report because it puts the office of the Ombudsman on a sounder legal footing and provides for a more strategic approach to be taken.
A comprehensive European industrial policy on artificial intelligence and robotics (A8-0019/2019 - Ashley Fox)
. – This report concerns a broad strategy relating to the EU’s industrial policy on artificial intelligence and robotics. Whilst the report states that the EU should not allow funding for weaponised systems – and we fundamentally support that – there were worrying aspects about the potential misuse of algorithms, and questionable public data collection. The text also sets a precedent on support for facilitating the Commission being able to decide on what is fake news or not, or how, ethically, to deal with behavioural analytics and the governance of big data.The fact that Ireland should have to adapt its policies regarding public data collection in this context is an unwelcome erosion of Irish sovereignty, hence we voted against.
Sustainable use of pesticides (A8-0045/2019 - Jytte Guteland)
. – We voted in favour of this report. This implementation report on the sustainable use of pesticides analyses the current implementation of Directive 2009/128/EC on the sustainable use of pesticides, which is in force since November 2009.It highlights the shortcomings in the design and in the quality of Member States’ National Action Plans and in the implementation of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) measures. IPM is a key element of the Directive and it is therefore of particular concern that MS have not yet set clear targets and ensured their implementation. The report points out that further effort on both EU and national levels are needed to ensure effective implementation of the Directive and also recognises the continuous and potentially irreversible effects pesticides have on biodiversity and insects. This is a cross-cutting issue that, in addition to having a great impact on agricultural production and the environment, affects human and animal health. Therefore, we voted in favour.
Implementation of the cross-border Healthcare Directive (A8-0046/2019 - Ivo Belet)
. – I voted in favour of this report. It is an own-initiative implementing report that analyses the current shortcomings in the implementation of the 2011 Cross-Border Healthcare Directive. The main purpose of the Directive is to establish an EU framework and set of rights to ensure the access of EU citizens to care abroad, with the intention to facilitate closer cooperation in a number of areas of medicine and healthcare such as eHealth and rare disease treatment. This report makes recommendations for its improvement and calls on Member States to transpose the Directive correctly in order to ensure the highest level of quality and secure easily accessible cross-border healthcare for patients.
Amendments to Parliament's Rules of Procedure (A8-0462/2018 - Richard Corbett)
. – We voted to abstain on this report. While the report recommends an increase in the transparency particularly regarding lobbyists, these recommendations are neither strong or comprehensive enough, and do not set it as a requirement for all lobbyists to be on a transparency register and for these meetings to be declared by all MEPs. Furthermore, it is reprehensible that the European Parliament held a secret vote on recommendations to increase the transparency of meetings with lobbyists. The report also endangers the independence of national delegations in the European Parliament, requiring them to submit written declarations to their European Group stating that they share the same political affinity. This would elevate the European group’s concerns above that of the national delegations. Sinn Féin resists all attempts to reduce the independence and autonomy of national delegations. Sinn Féin policy is informed by our membership, and not by our European political group.
Union Customs Code: inclusion of the municipality of Campione d'Italia and the Italian waters of Lake Lugano in the customs territory of the Union (A8-0368/2018 - Jasenko Selimovic)
. – We voted in favour. This is a technical file regarding modifications to the Union Customs Code. Italy has requested the exclave of Campione d’Italia and territorial waters in Lake Lugano to be included in the EU customs territory, which were historically excluded because of their geographical location within Switzerland. Italy no longer sees this as necessary, and not including these territories in the EU customs territory would mean Switzerland can include them in their customs territory.We voted in favour on the basis that we have no reason to oppose the Italian request.
Rules on direct payments and support for rural development in respect of the years 2019 and 2020 (A8-0018/2019 - Czesław Adam Siekierski)
. – We voted in favour of this report in order to provide certainty and continuity in the granting of support to European farmers in the years 2019 and 2020.The report adapts two legislative acts of the common agricultural policy (CAP) to ensure a smooth passage to the next programming period. These amendments include a new degressivity (reduction) schedule for phasing out payments to some areas facing natural constraints and the use of European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) technical assistance, at the initiative of the Commission, for actions preparing the implementation of the future CAP.In relation to direct payments, some of the provisions in the current Direct Payment Regulation did not cover calendar year 2020 since expenditure relating to calendar year 2020 is made in the financial year 2021, which is the first year of the new Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2021-2027. This planning shortfall necessitated the amendments presented in the Siekierski report.The amendments also carry through the ability to transfer between the CAP pillars up until the new MFF. In the absence of an amendment of Regulation (EU) No 1307/2013, some Member States would face disruptive financial implications as regards direct payments in the calendar year 2020.
Accession of the Dominican Republic to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (A8-0451/2018 - Mary Honeyball)
. – This report concerns the accession of the Dominican Republic to the Hague Convention on International Child Abduction.This Convention sets out the system of cooperation between contracting Member States for settling cases of international child abduction, by establishing competence courts, applicable jurisdiction and systems of return. It is important that countries accede to the 1980 Convention in order to ensure a comprehensive legal framework to protect children’s interests.Therefore, I voted in favour.
Accession of Ecuador and Ukraine to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (A8-0452/2018 - Mary Honeyball)
. – This report concerns the accession of Ecuador and Ukraine to the Hague Convention on International Child Abduction.This Convention sets out the system of cooperation between contracting Member States for settling cases of international child abduction, by establishing the competence of courts, applicable jurisdiction and systems of return. It is important that countries accede to the 1980 Convention in order to ensure a comprehensive legal framework to protect children’s interests.Therefore, I voted in favour.
Accession of Honduras to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (A8-0457/2018 - Mary Honeyball)
. – This report concerns the accession of Honduras to the Hague Convention on International Child Abduction.This Convention sets out the system of cooperation between contracting Member States for settling cases of international child abduction, by establishing the competence of courts, applicable jurisdiction and systems of return. It is important that countries accede to the 1980 Convention in order to ensure a comprehensive legal framework to protect children’s interests.Therefore, I voted in favour.
Accession of Belarus and Uzbekistan to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (A8-0458/2018 - Mary Honeyball)
. – This report concerns the accession of Belarus and Uzbekistan to the Hague Convention on International Child Abduction.This Convention sets out the system of cooperation between contracting Member States for settling cases of international child abduction, by establishing the competence of courts, applicable jurisdiction and systems of return. It is important that countries accede to the 1980 Convention in order to ensure a comprehensive legal framework to protect children’s interests.Therefore, I voted in favour.
Association of the Overseas Countries and Territories with the European Union including relations between the EU, Greenland and Denmark (A8-0480/2018 - Maurice Ponga)
. – There are currently 25 Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) associated with EU Member States, but not part of the customs union or internal market, meaning that EU legislation does not apply. The Overseas Association Decision (OAD) outlines the special relationship that most of these OCT’s have with the EU, including funding under the European Development Fund (EDF). Greenland currently has a separate arrangement – the Greenland Decision – funded from the EU budget.After Brexit, the number of OCTs will drop to 13. The Commission has therefore proposed a new OAD as a unified framework for all OCTs, with a single financial instrument that is part of the upcoming European budget for 2021-2027. It would also merge with the Greenland Decision, creating a unified regime for all remaining OCTs.This report improves on the Commission proposal by calling specifically for funding to go towards good governance, protecting biodiversity, combating climate change, gender balance and tackling youth unemployment, amongst other things.I therefore voted in favour of the report.
Annual report 2017 on the protection of the European Union’s financial interests- fight against fraud (A8-0003/2019 - Marian-Jean Marinescu)
. – The majority of the report is positive and reflects the importance of fighting fraud. It recognises the need to ensure that lower reported levels of irregularities reflect genuine decreases in fraud and not deficiencies in terms of detection. It highlights the need for greater transparency, particularly the disclosure of information on beneficial ownership by beneficiaries and financial intermediaries. I agree with its criticism of the fact that the Commission no longer deems it necessary to publish the anti-corruption reports and its condemnation of the revolving doors problem. I support its call for the Commission to develop a corruption index and its recognition of the positive role of whistleblowers and investigative journalists.Despite these positive elements, however, the report welcomes the Commission’s 2016 VAT Action Plan, which calls for a single EU VAT area. Sinn Féin opposes certain elements of the 2016 VAT action plan. The report also states that all Member States should join the European Public Prosecutor’s Office and welcomes the fact that the EU budget include appropriations for the EPPO. Sinn Féin opposes the EPPO as it would constitute a greater centralisation of judicial autonomy in the EU at the expense of Member States’ judicial structures.For these reasons I voted to abstain.
Implementation and functioning of the .eu top level domain name (A8-0394/2018 - Fredrick Federley)
. – Whilst this proposal lays out the general principles and details including revocation of .eu Top Level Domain name, there were a number of significant concerns regarding the provisional agreement that the legislation could facilitate political censorship by shutting down websites where it is unjustified and also intrusion into private individual data. For this reason, we abstained.
Harmonisation of gross national income at market prices (GNI Regulation) (A8-0009/2018 - Roberto Gualtieri)
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: genetically modified oilseed rapes Ms8, Rf3 and Ms8 × Rf3 (B8-0073/2019)
. – I voted in favour of this objection, which concerns the renewal of the authorisation placing feed containing or consisting of GM oilseed rapes Ms8, Rf3 and Ms8 × Rf3 on the market. As per usual, Sinn Féin opposes the Commission’s implementing decisions on GM authorisations, as they exceed their implementing powers. These authorisations will lead to unacceptable risks to food safety, human and animal health and the environment. For these reasons, I supported the objection.
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: genetically modified maize 5307 (SYN-Ø53Ø7-1) (B8-0074/2019)
. – I voted in favour of this objection, which concerns the renewal of the authorisation placing products containing, consisting of, or produced from GM maize 5307 (SYN-Ø53Ø7-1) on the market. As per usual, Sinn Féin opposes the Commission’s implementing decisions on GM authorisations, as they exceed their implementing powers. These authorisations will lead to unacceptable risks to food safety, human and animal health and the environment. For these reasons, I supported the objection.
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: genetically modified maize MON 87403 (MON-874Ø3-1) (B8-0075/2019)
. – I voted in favour of this objection, which concerns the renewal of the authorisation placing products containing, consisting of, or produced from GM maize MON 87403 (MON-874Ø3-1) on the market. As per usual, Sinn Féin opposes the Commission’s implementing decisions on GM authorisations, as they exceed their implementing powers. These authorisations will lead to unacceptable risks to food safety, human and animal health and the environment. For these reasons, I supported the objection.
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: genetically modified cotton GHB614 × LLCotton25 × MON 15985 (B8-0076/2019)
. – I voted in favour of this objection, which concerns the renewal of the authorisation placing products containing, consisting of, or produced from GM cotton GHB614 × LLCotton25 × MON 15985 on the market. As per usual, Sinn Féin opposes the Commission’s implementing decisions on GM authorisations, as they exceed their implementing powers. These authorisations will lead to unacceptable risks to food safety, human and animal health and the environment. For these reasons, I supported the objection.
Situation in Venezuela (B8-0082/2019, B8-0083/2019, B8-0084/2019, B8-0085/2019, B8-0086/2019, B8-0087/2019)
. – This joint motion for a resolution constitutes open interference in Venezuela’s political institutions and brazen disregard for international law.The resolution declares Juan Guaidó as the President of Venezuela, accuses the elected President Nicolás Maduro of ‘usurping’ power, and calls on the EU and its Member States to recognise Guaidó, and his representatives.Only the Venezuelan people can decide their President, and that can only be done by Presidential elections. Nicolás Maduro was democratically re-elected by the Venezuelan people in May 2018 and will serve his second term from 2019-2025. Regrettably, the main opposition group refused to participate in this election and to democratically put their political programme to the people.Declaring Guaidó the President of Venezuela is an attack on democracy in the country and amounts to recognition of an undemocratic coup. This is a particularly difficult and challenging period for the citizens of Venezuela and there is currently deep political polarisation. Venezuela’s current difficulties are best addressed and resolved through peaceful dialogue, such as that proposed by Mexico and Uruguay.Resolutions like this can only further add to the instability, and deepen the crisis, in Venezuela. I therefore voted against this resolution.
Annual report on competition policy (A8-0474/2018 - Michel Reimon)
. – I abstained on this report from a Greens rapporteur. It includes many good points that I agree with, highlighting current cases of mergers and acquisitions, such as Monsanto and Bayer, and the resulting problems of high market concentration in food supply chains. It highlights ongoing action by the Commission in several anti-cartel and anti-trust cases, and calls for an end to state subsidies for the fossil fuels industry, which I support.There were some points that I disagreed with, such as fully supporting the EU’s state aid rules, and calling for more power for the Parliament on taxation matters in relation to the Council. As a result of the inclusion of these latter points in the report, I did not vote in favour but abstained.
Nuclear decommissioning assistance programme of the Ignalina nuclear power plant in Lithuania (A8-0413/2018 - Rebecca Harms)
Annual report on the control of the financial activities of the European Investment Bank for 2017 (A8-0479/2018 - Georgi Pirinski)
Cross-border restitution claims of works of art and cultural goods looted in armed conflicts and wars (A8-0465/2018 - Pavel Svoboda)
. – This was a non-legislative report following up on resolutions from 1995, 1996 and 2003, which made requests of the Commission to facilitate better cross border restitution of looted cultural goods.The majority of such looted goods originate from colonisation and the Second World War, with a particular emphasis on Jewish property confiscated by the Nazis. Although there have been many aims at international level to deal with this issue (Hague Convention, UNESCO Convention, UNIDROIT Convention and Washington Conference), there still remain many issues. According to global estimates 80-90% of global antiquities are of illicit origin and are creating a lucrative black market.The Report itself does not call for any new jurisdiction, nor for the adoption of EU-wide rules, but rather follow-up to previous resolutions and for the Commission to undertake a study on the matter. There are calls encouraging MS to list and digitise cultural objects, to place an onus on market professionals to create transaction registers and establish ADR mechanisms. I support these aims, and I therefore voted in favour.
Cross-border conversions, mergers and divisions (A8-0002/2019 - Evelyn Regner)
. – This vote concerned a decision on whether to mandate the Parliament to enter into inter-institutional negotiations on a Directive regarding cross-border conversions, mergers and divisions. The mandate, as voted at Committee stage, has incorporated a great many progressive amendments which contain important rights for employees in the case of cross-border mergers/divisions/conversions. This includes the right to information and consultation, rights for worker representatives, safeguards on their entitlements, board-level worker participation rights for undertakings with more than 50 employees, collective agreements maintaining their applicability across borders, increased transparency regarding turnover and taxing measures with regard to staff, and improved definitions of artificial arrangements which would lead to evasion or circumvention of companies’ obligations.Since it has been a progressive outcome, I supported the mandate to progress this file.
Establishing a multi-annual plan for the fisheries exploiting demersal stocks in the western Mediterranean Sea (A8-0005/2019 - Clara Eugenia Aguilera García)
Protection of the Union's budget in case of generalised deficiencies as regards the rule of law in the Member States (A8-0469/2018 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial, Petri Sarvamaa)
. – We voted against the file because it gives the Commission power to effectively sanction Member States based on ill-defined criteria on sensitive constitutional issues related to the rule-of-law.This gives the Commission the power to say that the rule of law has been compromised which is a significant expansion of the Commission’s powers. The possible measures can take the form of suspension, reduction and restriction of Member States’ access to EU funding. The proposal gives examples of things that could indicate a ‘general deficiency’ and examples of what constitutes ‘affecting the principles of sound financial management or the protection of the financial interests of’ the EU. It does not offer an exhaustive list, and as it is written, leaves substantial scope for interpretation. Much more precise criteria and corresponding measures would needed in order to ensure politically neutral application.In a resolution the EP stated that ‘final beneficiaries of the Union budget can in no way be affected by breaches of rules for which they are not responsible’. This is only safeguarded by the proposal stating that in the event funding from the EU is stopped the MS is still legally responsible to pay all planned recipients.
Establishing the Fiscalis programme for cooperation in the field of taxation (A8-0421/2018 - Sven Giegold)
. – We voted in favour of this report. Fiscalis 2020 is a programme under the MFF running from 2014-2020, and this is necessary new legislation to extend it beyond 2020 for the next MFF term. The programme is useful and aims at developing cooperation, and sharing information and expertise between tax administrations. The Commission proposal is a general proposal for the extension of the programme, and particularly the further development of cooperation in IT systems.The report inserts a much stronger focus on the use of the Fiscalis programme being used to combat corporate tax evasion, tax avoidance and money laundering. As the programme already exists and serves a good function, we voted for its renewal. It also very importantly calls for developing countries to be able to gain access to this information if they suspect illicit financial flows, at no cost to them.
Establishing the Rights and Values programme (A8-0468/2018 - Bodil Valero)
. – Despite having positive language and ideas, this Commission proposal would have serious consequences on national sovereignty, enabling the Commission to further interfere and involve itself in the internal affairs of Member States. We agree with the need to develop support given to civil society organisations, NGOs and the community/voluntary sector, yet despite the usage of positive language and ideas the proposal is primarily aimed at the promotion of Union values’ and acts as a tool for compliance. The Rights and Values Programme would enable the use of sanctions and gives the Commission the ability to not only transfer any non-committed funds to support other actions but also, under amendment 73, the ability to transfer resources allocated to a MS under shared-management to the programme. As we maintain serious concerns in this regard, we voted against.
European Instrument for Nuclear Safety complementing the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (A8-0448/2018 - Vladimir Urutchev)
. – We voted in favour of this report as it addresses the dangers around nuclear energy and disasters nuclear fission energy has been responsible for.The report itself is clear in that it does not promote or endorse nuclear energy inside or outside the EU. Instead the emphasis of this report was on addressing and improving nuclear safety standards, radiation protection, and good civil response facilities for nuclear and radiation disasters.
Combating late payment in commercial transactions (A8-0456/2018 - Lara Comi)
. – This was an implementation report of the Late Payment Directive from 2011. The Directive itself was put in place particularly to protect SMEs who face financial pressure when cash flow is affected. Rules under its terms set 30 days for payments from public authorities and 60 days for payments from enterprises. It also legislates for compensation fees in case payments are made too late.The Committee Report has been written following a series of hearings in Committee and a study by the Commission. While the Commission’s experience appears to have been positive, it seems that only one in four SMEs were familiar with the Directive and one in five saw a positive change in on-time payments because of the legislation. Sinn Féin believes that there needs to be a better implementation of these rules and greater awareness in the business community about the financial pressures faced by smaller actors who bear the brunt of late payments. For these reasons, I voted in favour.
Differentiated integration (A8-0402/2018 - Pascal Durand)
. – I voted against this report on differentiated integration. It is the clear intention of this report to use the process of differentiated integration to pursue an ‘ever closer’ European Union, which fundamentally oversteps the mark and respect for the sovereignty and autonomy of Member States. It takes no critical approach in referencing efforts to enhance security and defence policy at a European level and blazingly trumpets the successes of constructing a European Defence Union. Sinn Féin will continue to fight all efforts to militarise the European Union, which breaches Ireland’s long-standing principle of military neutrality.
Ombudsman’s strategic inquiry OI/2/2017 on the transparency of legislative discussions in the preparatory bodies of the Council of the EU (A8-0420/2018 - Jo Leinen, Yana Toom)
. – I voted against this report. The findings of the Ombudsman’s strategic inquiry receive my full support, particularity recommendations to increase the transparency of the European Council and its preparatory bodies at Coreper and Working Group level, and its strong condemnation of the Council’s misuse of the LIMITE confidentiality marking. However, it is clear that progressive nuances of this report were used as a smokescreen to push a regressive and dangerous agenda, whereby the current institutional structure would be reformed to ensure that the European Commission, as an unelected body, would assume the executive functions of a government, clearly as an attempt to centralise decision-making in Brussels in the pursuit of a federalised European Union. I also had significant concerns on the report’s endorsement of qualified majority voting in the majority of Council decisions, which are far outside the scope of the Ombudsman’s recommendations. QMV for the majority of decisions would reduce the accountability and the unanimity of Council decisions, which presents the potential for Member States to be overruled in decisions that affect them.
Closure of the accounts for the European Asylum Support Office (EASO) for the financial year 2016 (B8-0052/2019)
. – This is a technical decision concerning the closing of the accounts of the European Asylum Support Office (EASO) since the 2016 discharge was rejected by Parliament.On 18 April 2018, Parliament decided to postpone discharge to EASO for the financial year 2016. The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) started an investigation into the former directorship of the EASO. The investigation uncovered a range of wrongdoings at the asylum agency, from breaches of procurement rules to harassment of staff members, and recommended disciplinary action against its former boss.In its second report, adopted on 27 September 2018, the Committee on Budgetary Control considered that Parliament’s concerns had been addressed sufficiently to warrant granting the new ad interim Executive Director of EASO discharge in respect of the implementation of the agency’s budget for the financial year 2016. For these reasons, we voted in favour of closing these accounts.
Motion for a resolution pursuant to Rule 108(6) seeking an opinion from the Court of Justice on the compatibility with the Treaties of the proposed EU-Morocco Agreement on the amendment of Protocols 1 and 4 to the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement (B8-0051/2019)
. – We voted in favour of this motion, and were, in fact, among the co-signatories of the request that it be added to Parliament’s agenda. We do not accept that the consultation process carried out by the EU in relation to this deal amounted to the consent of the people of Western Sahara.The Court of Justice had requested that consent to be sought, and we believe the Court should also approve the methodology of the consent process used, given the numerous concerns raised. We note that a total of 93 organisations representing the people of Western Sahara have made it clear they do not support the process that was carried out – this is in addition to the Polisario Front, which was not consulted despite being the recognised representative of the Sahrawi people.
EU-Morocco Agreement on the amendment of Protocols 1 and 4 to the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement (Resolution) (A8-0478/2018 - Marietje Schaake)
. – We voted against this resolution on the basis that we do not believe the text reflects the facts. The text includes the following (paragraph 8): ‘Stresses, as stated in the Commission report, that all reasonable and feasible steps have been taken to inquire about the consent of the population concerned, through these inclusive consultations.’We do not believe that all reasonable and feasible steps were taken to gain the consent of Western Sahara. We note that a total of 93 organisations representing the people of Western Sahara have made it clear they do not support the process that was carried out – this is in addition to the Polisario Front, which was not consulted despite being the recognised representative of the Sahrawi people.It would be more appropriate for the Court of Justice of the European Union to decide whether ‘all feasible steps have been taken’, given the controversy surrounding the consent process.
EU-Morocco Agreement on the amendment of Protocols 1 and 4 to the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement (A8-0471/2018 - Marietje Schaake)
. – We voted against this agreement. We believe it would be imprudent to sign any agreement where its legality is in question. In order for this deal to be legally sound, the EU would have needed to carry out a process that ensured the people of Western Sahara consented to being part of the agreement. The EU did carry out a process of consultation, but we do not believe its methodology was sufficient to satisfy the intention of the Court of Justice judge who demanded it. Therefore, we cannot support the signing of this agreement, given the legal uncertainty.We note that a total of 93 organisations representing the people of Western Sahara have made it clear they do not support the process that was carried out – this is in addition to the Polisario Front, which was not consulted despite being the recognised representative of the Sahrawi people.
EU-China Agreement in connection with the WTO dispute settlement proceedings DS492 - Measures affecting tariff concessions on certain poultry meat products (A8-0472/2018 - Iuliu Winkler)
. – We abstained on this vote due our dissatisfaction with the terms of the agreement between China and the EU. This agreement came about after a World Trade Organisation ruling on whether China was entitled to a tariff rate quota (TRQ) for poultry. We acknowledge that the EU must now give China a TRQ for poultry to comply with the decision of the WTO. However, the EU negotiated this deal without putting in place any measures to improve animal welfare standards in China.China’s low level of ambition with regard to animal welfare standards is well documented. This fact should have made it a priority for EU negotiators to secure an agreement on welfare improvements before granting any TRQ. The EU signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Brazil in 2013 concerning animal welfare, and Thailand has been one of the main beneficiaries of EU technical cooperation in the field of animal welfare. We therefore urge that the EU engage with China, as a matter of urgency, to put in place better animal welfare standards for exports to the EU.
European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) (A8-0445/2018 - Maria Arena)
. – This file updates the rules for mobilising the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF). The EGF is an emergency ‘solidarity fund’, financing measures such as training and job search in the context of unexpected and significant job losses provoked by globalisation or economic crisis, with co-financing at a flat rate of 60%. Applications must meet a series of eligibility criteria, including a minimum threshold of workers dismissed.The Commission proposed including unexpected major restructuring events (transition to low-carbon economy, digitalisation, automation), lowering the redundancies threshold from 500 to 250 workers but shortening the reference period, and simplifying the application procedure.This report renames the Fund, restores the longer reference period for the threshold, includes NEETs, increases co-financing to 70%, and includes the possibility of supporting socio-economic redeployment in depressed areas with unemployment at or above 10%.The EGF is a mere palliative to the impacts of globalisation and the market, but it does fund useful reskilling, job hunting, and other services, and the proposed changes would make the Fund more accessible to workers and more depressed regions. Two successful amendments also included Brexit as an ‘unexpected major restructuring event’ which the Fund could be used for.I therefore voted in favour.
European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) (A8-0461/2018 - Verónica Lope Fontagné)
. – The European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) is the most important fund for employment and social inclusion policies. It replaces the old European Social Fund (ESF), and now incorporates the ESF, the Youth Employment Initiative (YEI), the Fund for European Aid to the Most Deprived (FEAD), the Employment and Social Innovation (EaSI) programme, and the Programme for the Union’s action in the field of health (the Health Programme).This report improves the Commission’s proposed text on several key issues, putting a stronger focus on social inclusion, inclusion of migrants, eradication of poverty (particularly child poverty), quality job creation and high quality working conditions. It includes higher co-financing rates for FEAD, which will help frontload programmes in Member States, focuses strongly on shared management, meaning Member States are responsible for implementing programmes at national level, rather than the Commission, and there is a stronger inclusion of social partners and civil society in cross-border partnerships.Unfortunately, the report retains reference to the European Semester, this is more connected to social reforms and social scoreboard indicators than economic reforms.Despite these issues, the report is an improvement on the Commission proposal and the status quo. I therefore voted in favour of this report.
Specific provisions for the European territorial cooperation goal (Interreg) (A8-0470/2018 - Pascal Arimont)
. – I voted in favour of this file as there are many progressive elements to it. The report condemns the Commission’s proposals to cut funding to Structural Funds such as Interreg, and also reiterates the important point that cohesion policy should be pursued at an EU level in full respect to the subsidiarity of Member States. Most importantly, this report reaffirms the EU’s commitments to maintaining Peace and Interreg funding streams for the north of Ireland post Brexit.
Apportionment of tariff rate quotas included in the WTO schedule of the Union following the UK's withdrawal from the EU (A8-0361/2018 - Godelieve Quisthoudt-Rowohl)
. – I voted in favour of this report. I am pleased that the final outcome lays the basis for a fair division of tariff rate quotas (TRQs) between the EU and the US post-Brexit. The EU currently has an agreement to accept 230 000 tonnes of sheep meat from New Zealand at a fixed tariff. Although this is an agreement between New Zealand and the EU, the vast majority of this TRQ is consumed on British markets. According to the methodology used, this, and other TRQs will be divided according to usage share over a three—year reference period, regardless of underfill.Sinn Féin’s concern was to limit the scope of negotiations, since the legal basis used to trigger these discussions at WTO level could have broadened the scope to make additional concessions. We also fought to limit the power of the Commission to amend these TRQs through delegated acts. Although the division has already been laid out in the Annex to the Regulation, further changes may be necessary due to the urgency of negotiations and the fact that not all eventualities have been taken into account, including the trading status of the North of Ireland.
Union’s authorisation procedure for pesticides (A8-0475/2018 - Norbert Lins, Bart Staes)
. – We voted in favour of this Report. As the rapporteur for the AGRI Opinion to this Regulation, I am pleased that the final outcome lays the basis for a fair division of TRQs between the EU and US post-Brexit. The EU currently has an agreement to accept 230,000 tonnes of sheep meat from NZ at a fixed tariff. Although this is an agreement between NZ and the EU, the vast majority of this TRQ is consumed on British markets. According to the methodology used, this, and other TRQs will be divided according to usage share over a three year reference period, regardless of underfill. Sinn Féin’s concern was to limit the scope of negotiations, since the legal basis used to trigger these discussions at WTO level could have broadened the scope to make additional concessions. We also fought to limit the power of the Commission to amend these TRQs through delegated acts. Although the division has already been laid out in the Annex to the Regulation, further changes may be necessary due to the urgency of negotiations and the fact that not all eventualities have been taken into account, including the trading status of the North of Ireland.
Establishing a dedicated financial programme for decommissioning of nuclear facilities and management of radioactive waste (A8-0441/2018 - Peter Kouroumbashev)
. – We voted in favour of this proposal as it aims to provide financial support to Bulgaria and Slovakia in decommissioning a small number of nuclear power plants.There were also a number of key amendments that were incorporated into the file itself focussed on protecting workers and the environment, which included sharing knowledge and best practices on nuclear decommissioning and radioactive waste management to protect the public, workers and the environment.
Implementation report on the trade pillar of the Association Agreement with Central America (A8-0459/2018 - Reimer Böge)
. – The European Union Central American Association Agreement (EU-CAAA) is a Free Trade Agreement between the European Union and the Central American Common Market. It relies on three complementary and equally important pillars: political dialogue, cooperation, and trade.As the association agreement is still to be formally ratified by some of EU Member States, neither the political dialogue nor the cooperation pillars have been applied - only the trade pillar, which creates a free trade area between the EU and Central America.This Report was initially quite technical, containing very little that was political and ignoring the serious negative impacts of the implementation of the trade pillar on human rights and national economies in Central American countries. The GUE/NGL, S&Ds and Greens groups had a number of amendments included, improving the report by making reference to human rights issues and a stronger emphasis on climate change and the sustainable development goals.As a result, the report has a number of positive elements, while still lacking a proper critique of the negative effects of the trade pillar. We therefore abstained on this report.
Establishing the InvestEU Programme (A8-0482/2018 - José Manuel Fernandes, Roberto Gualtieri)
. – The InvestEU fund, unlike EFSI, will be on the EU budget rather than an off budget instrument. It will be directly allocated 15 billion over the course of the next MFF. The InvestEU fund will allow for 5 percent to be transferred from structural funds into the InvestEU instrument.We voted against the establishment of the fund because this form of investment seeks to mobilise private investment to fill ‘investment gaps’ across Europe which are really the result of national governments lack of political will to engage in public investment. The form of investment InvestEU represents is a detrimental alternative to real public investment as it ends up socialising losses and risk while privatising profits. InvestEU will be used to further a privatisation agenda.EFSI has been continuously criticised for failing to achieve an equitable geographic disbursement, favouring wealthier countries and more developed regions.It was also criticised for engaging in projects that would have attracted investment regardless and therefore failing the additionally principle to which it was supposed to adhere.The funds also continue to support fossil-fuel projects.For these reasons we voted against the establishment of InvestEU.
EU Emergency Travel Document (A8-0433/2018 - Kinga Gál)
. – Parliament calls for the Commission to make a proposal for a new, more secure format for an EU emergency travel document (EU ETD) for unrepresented citizens outside the EU whose passport has been stolen, lost, destroyed or is temporarily unavailable – in order to guarantee their safe return home. The report recognised the fundamental right to consular representation of unrepresented citizens under the same conditions as nationals, enshrined in Article 46 of the Charter for Fundamental Rights. This file does not take away from the rights of the Irish Government and DFA in terms of our consulates/embassies – but provides for an emergency document to return home, when a citizen’s own consular protection is not available in that third country. Therefore, we voted in favour.
Euratom Research and Training programme 2021- 2025 (A8-0406/2018 - Miapetra Kumpula-Natri)
. – The proposal for the Euratom research and training programme deals with various programmes for nuclear research, training and energy in Europe.While the aim of this programme is supposed to be enhancing nuclear safety technologies and developing solutions for management of radioactive waste, it has been expanded and enhanced to a wide range of programmes related to nuclear technologies. For these reasons, and because it is not critical of the many dangers associated with nuclear fission energy, we voted against.
European Central Bank Annual report 2017 (A8-0424/2018 - Gabriel Mato)
. – This annual report includes many important comments on specific current transparency, governance and policy issues in the ECB that Sinn Féin supports.However, there are many problematic elements, including a call which insists on all Member States joining the Euro and the Banking Union; a call for the sale of non-performing loans and the development of a secondary market to facilitate this; and a call for continued structural reforms within the framework of the Stability and Growth Pack.Although many amendments put forward by Sinn Féin were successfully incorporated into the report at committee level, the report still supports the status quo on economic governance. For these reasons, we voted against.
Banking Union - Annual report 2018 (A8-0419/2018 - Nils Torvalds)
. – This report takes stock of the progress on the three pillars of the Banking Union: the Single Supervision Mechanism (SSM), the Single Resolution Mechanism (SRM) and the European Deposit Insurance Scheme (EDIS) and points out several shortcomings in supervision, particularly relating to the prevalence of money laundering in the EU banking system.However, it fails to note the extreme bias used by the SSM in carrying out its stress tests; and it fails to call for the ‘precautionary recapitalisation’ clause of the Bank Recovery and Resolution Directive (BRRD) to be scrapped (a call which is actually in the law in the original BRRD when it was supposed to end two years ago). This is the loophole through which public bailouts have continued.It does not take a strong enough stance calling for the progression of the EDIS. For these reasons, we voted against.
Implementation of the EU-Colombia and Peru Trade Agreement (A8-0446/2018 - Santiago Fisas Ayxelà)
. – Sinn Féin is opposed to the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the EU and Colombia and Peru, its agenda of economic liberalisation and its white-washing of ongoing human rights abuses. The FTA has helped undermine democracy, social rights, transparency, the environment, and the rights of indigenous people, workers and trade unions. It has damaged the economies of Colombia and Peru, leading to increased trade deficits, and the destruction of local industry. Investment is concentrated in export-oriented industries like mining, coal, gas, and agribusiness, such as palm oil. These industries are also closely associated with serious human rights and environmental abuses.In Colombia, this is endangering the fragile peace process. Over 300 community activists have been murdered since the process began, and far right paramilitaries operate with impunity. A ‘human rights clause’ in the FTA has achieved basically nothing.Despite these serious problems, this report presents an optimistic analysis of the FTA. Sinn Féin and other MEPs proposed some amendments raising concerns about the serious human rights situation, the increasing threat to the peace process, and the worsening economic and environmental impacts, but these were rejected.I therefore voted against the report.
Situation of fundamental rights in the European Union in 2017 (A8-0466/2018 - Josep-Maria Terricabras)
. – This report, which is in reference to the situation of fundamental rights within the EU included improvements with regard to asylum and migration, particularly in terms of the vulnerability of LGBT+ and women asylum seekers. The report referenced a number of fundamental rights issues, including the need to combat racism, discrimination and the role of the Fundamental Rights Agency in this regard, alongside the need for advancements toward full gender equality. The file does not however, go far enough in highlighting other key current rights-based issues - including no reference to the situation of political prisoners in Catalonia. Therefore, I abstained.
Establishing, as part of the Integrated Border Management Fund, the instrument for financial support for customs control equipment (A8-0460/2018 - Jiří Pospíšil)
. – Whilst financial support for customs controls and improved IT systems is desirable for the Member States, especially for Ireland to deal with potential outcomes of Brexit, Sinn Féin had concerns about the massive increase in the EU budget being sought for this programme. For this reason we could not support it.
Conclusion of the EU-Albania status agreement on actions carried out by the European Border and Coast Guard Agency in Albania (A8-0463/2018 - Bodil Valero)
. – The Frontex Regulation ((EU) 2016/1624) on the European Border and Coast Guard sets out a number of possibilities for cooperation with third countries. It explicitly provides that the Agency may coordinate operational cooperation between Member States and third countries regarding the management of external borders. The Agreement includes a provision that ʻThe teams shall be allowed to assist Albania in identifying the persons to be readmitted to Albania, in line with the Agreement on the readmission of persons residing without authorisationʼ. The deployment of Frontex outside the EU (i.e. in Albania) is another step towards enhanced cooperation, return and readmission to third countries to reinforce ‘migration management’, and therefore we voted against.
Protocol to the EU-Kyrgyzstan Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (accession of Croatia) (A8-0443/2018 - Cristian Dan Preda)
. – We voted in favour of this technical amendment to allow for Croatiaʼs EU membership.The Partnership and Cooperation Agreement has been in force since 1999. This vote did not make any change to the existing agreement, but simply updated the text to reflect Croatiaʼs membership of the EU. Sinn Féin believes that it is Croatiaʼs sovereign right to decide whether or not to accede to this agreement.
EU-Kyrgyzstan comprehensive agreement (A8-0450/2018 - Cristian Dan Preda)
. – We voted in favour of this report on the EU Kyrgyzstan Partnership and Cooperation Agreement. Kyrgyzstan is one of the poorest countries in Central Asia and has had an association agreement with the EU since 1999; negotiations on a new agreement began in 2017. This report highlights concerns about issues such as media freedom in Kyrgyzstan, while also stating that no new agreement can be introduced without the approval of each Member State and the EU Parliament.
Autonomous driving in European transport (A8-0425/2018 - Wim van de Camp)
. – We voted against this report. While autonomous cars could have substantial benefits, this report proposes to take away funding from crucial EU structural funds, such as agriculture, maritime and the Cohesion fund, and the Connecting Europe Facility, so that Member States and the industry can invest in self-driving cars. Sinn Fein does not believe the EU should subsidise private industry, and opposes the diverting money from EU structural funds.
Use of vehicles hired without drivers for the carriage of goods by road (A8-0193/2018 - Cláudia Monteiro de Aguiar)
. – We voted against this report. This report concerns Member States allowing hauliers to hire and use vehicles in other Member States. This proposal would remove the possibility of Member States to restrict the use of hired vehicles for goods operations in their country. It proposes to keep only the possibility to restrict the use of goods vehicles that are above six tonnes. Every Member State shall allow the use of any vehicle hired by another Member State, allowing use of the hired vehicle for at least four months each year.The report would remove the competency of Member States to restrict haulier’s use of hired vehicles and could lead to breaches on tax. The report also makes no effort to comment on the right of the driver to information on the vehicle hired, and its leasing arrangements.
Temporary withdrawal of preferences in certain agreements concluded between the EU and certain third countries (A8-0330/2018 - Christofer Fjellner)
. – This Regulation streamlines the procedure to be undertaken when temporarily withdrawing trade preferences. The new generation of trade deals often include what are known as safeguard mechanisms, so that in the instance that increased imports brought about by trade liberalisation takes place in such large quantities so as to cause serious threat to domestic products, they can be suspended.Sinn Féin supports the inclusion of these clauses to give protection to sensitive agricultural products.The Regulation set up a process of monitoring, initiation, investigation, suspension and reporting. There are far greater powers of oversight here than in the existing system. Furthermore, there are greater powers of intervention for the Parliament, national governments and affected sectors. The system of monitoring and reporting on sensitive products is also way above anything happening already for the sector. Despite this, we had major concerns about the fact that injury to trigger a suspension must be to a Union industry as a whole, thereby setting a very high threshold for injury from the point of view of Irish sectors. Since this was a big step forward from a previously vague process that had typically been dealt with through Joint Statements to trade agreements, we abstained.
Establishing the 'Customs' programme for cooperation in the field of customs (A8-0464/2018 - Maria Grapini)
. – I had concerns over the application of this programme, including its links to the Integrated Border Management Fund, which is used for the control of persons by EU border agencies. The amended text also states that the programme shall not be used to cover costs related to Brexit in this area. For these reasons I could not support it.
Amendment of the European Investment Bank Statute (A8-0476/2018 - Danuta Maria Hübner)
. – I voted against this report. This report recommends a simultaneous amendment to the statute of the European Investment Bank in preparation for the British exit from the European Union; however, it endorses an unnecessary increase in bureaucracy at the EIB, increasing the number of alternate directors from 19 to at least 28 without detailing a convincing reason or role for these new positions. Furthermore, this report also endorses an increase in the amount of capital that the EIB holds from Member States. In a time where our country faces the uncertainty of Brexit, struggling to recover from a decade of austerity, we cannot possibly endorse a future increase of Irish taxpayers’ money to be hidden away in the capital reserves of the EIB.
Gender mainstreaming in the European Parliament (A8-0429/2018 - Angelika Mlinar)
. – I voted in favour of this report. Gender mainstreaming is the process of assessing the implications for women and men of any planned action, including legislation, policies or programmes, in all areas and at all levels. The report concerns carrying out gender mainstreaming in the European Parliament and the legislation it passes. Gender mainstreaming is an important tool to advance gender equality. The report calls for the improvement of gender balance in staff and management in the EP, and for the representation of all gender identities and LGBTIQ in policy. It calls for the inclusion of gender mainstreaming in the EU budget, sanctions against misogynistic speech in the plenary, and for insertion into the rules of procedure against hate speech and discriminatory language. It calls for mandatory training for MEPs and staff to prevent sexual harassment. It urges political parties to have balanced gender representation in their candidates for the EU elections.
European Joint Undertaking for ITER and the Development of Fusion Energy (A8-0393/2018 - Marian-Jean Marinescu)
EU guidelines and the mandate of the EU Special Envoy on the promotion of freedom of religion or belief outside the EU (A8-0449/2018 - Andrzej Grzyb)
. – We abstained on this vote. The right to freedom of religion and belief is an important one, and Sinn Féin believes that it should promoted and protected by the international community at the UN level.By creating a special envoy on one right the EU risks promoting a hierarchy of rights while also duplicating existing human rights frameworks. Rather the role of the envoy is another aspect of the EU’s efforts to increase its role in foreign policy and international relationships at the expense of Member States’ sovereignty.
Gender equality and taxation policies in the EU (A8-0416/2018 - Marisa Matias, Ernest Urtasun)
. – I voted favour of this positive own-initiative report, which highlights the direct and indirect ways that women are disadvantaged by tax systems in the EU. It calls for women to be treated individuals for tax purposes rather than as part of a family unit, which is proven to be the most effective way to end discrimination against women through taxation.
Expedited settlement of commercial disputes (A8-0396/2018 - Tadeusz Zwiefka)
. – This non-binding report looks at ways to shorten the waiting times for commercial entities in the settlement of disputes. While the settlement of disputes is arguably too long at 3-4 years, there are many more issues at play in this report. The report discusses how the development jurisprudence in some EU countries is not as rich as in others and that companies should not fall victim to this, or as they put it, expose a party to substantial economic risks of a foreign law. However, National Courts are also EU courts, under the EU treaties and national constitutional law. They apply EU law in accordance with rule of law procedures and are sovereign to develop their own jurisprudence in all areas. Sinn Féin does not see any need to establish a European Commercial Court and further disagrees with connotations in the report which would encourage forum shopping. For these reasons I voted against.
Establishing the space programme of the Union and the European Union Agency for the Space Programme (A8-0405/2018 - Massimiliano Salini)
. – Whilst innovation and research are important, the sheer cost of this programme and its increase from 11.4 billion to 16 billion is a colossal sum when the funds could be used instead for progressive social programmes and tackling poverty. There was also the significant concern that this programme could be used to further the aggressive militarisation agenda and weaponise space under the guise of security and defence. For these reasons we voted against this file.
Establishing the Digital Europe programme for the period 2021-2027 (A8-0408/2018 - Angelika Mlinar)
. – We voted against this file because we do not believe the budget planned makes best use of such a large amount of funds. The budget of 9.2 billion is designed to meet the following objectives: high performance computing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, advanced digital skills and best use of digital capacity. In my opinion, the most valuable component is the training of citizens to occupy jobs where digital skills are required, however this receives less than 10% of the planned funding for the programme. The remaining funds, over 8 billion, are excessive considering Horizon, a programme with significant overlap, receive over EUR 80 billion in funding annually. The EU MFF is under severe pressure due to increasing priorities. We would like to see planned funding for the CAP and Cohesion protected before we consider creating new budget lines for technology. We are confident that Europe will be able to remain at the forefront of world digitalisation solely through the research and innovation that emerges from Horizon 2020. We would like to see a focus on digital skills in the workforce funded through other programmes.
US-EU Agreement on cooperation in the regulation of civil aviation safety (A8-0432/2018 - Theresa Griffin)
. – We voted against this report. The agreement aims to increase regulatory alignment between the US and the EU in aviation standards. However, this could result in driving EU safety standards downwards, and neither should the EU be dictating its rules on to third countries. The report as a whole aims towards a single liberalised aviation market. We oppose this as allowing third-party companies in the domestic market should be the decision for each individual Member State. The report says it will create greater cooperation on safety standards, but the agreement is largely secretive and does not disclose exactly how this would occur.
Adequacy of the protection of personal data afforded by Japan (B8-0561/2018)
. – We voted in favour of this resolution which responded to Parliament’s consent to the EU-Japan free trade agreement (JEFTA) voted earlier in the week. Earlier this year the European Parliament’s Civil Liberties Committee sent a delegation of MEPs to assess the data protection rules in place in Japan, considering that JEFTA affords the EU and Japanese systems as ‘equivalent’ for the purposes of trade. The resolution highlights the many areas where the two systems are far from equivalent, including that in Japan there is a distinction between ‘personal data’ and ‘personal information’, the former not having as much protection. Additionally, that penalties for data breaches in Japan are not nearly dissuasive enough. The Commission has already committed to evaluating the situation after a certain period of time, but this resolution lays down the parameters of such an evaluation. Since JEFTA poses many difficulties with regard to the protection of EU citizens’ data, we voted in favour of this resolution.
Conflict of interest and the protection of the EU budget in the Czech Republic (RC-B8-0582/2018, B8-0582/2018, B8-0583/2018, B8-0584/2018, B8-0585/2018)
. – Due to the direct applicability of Article 61(1) of the Financial Regulation on conflicts of interest, the resolution calls for a zero tolerance policy to a politician with a conflict of interest regarding EU funding.Andrej Babiš, Prime Minister of the Czech Republic, and a billionaire, is being investigated for fraud related to funding from EU structural funds for SMEs and his ongoing conflict of interests related to his involvement in the Agrofert conglomerate.Stork Nest is a subsidiary of the Agrofert Conglomerate, which was used as a vehicle to illegally access EU funds for SMEs. More generally, the Czech PM has an ongoing conflict of interest as the Agrofert Group takes part in projects subsidised by the Rural Development Programme of the Czech Republic, which in turn is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development. Companies belonging to the Agrofert Group have received significant sums from the European Structural and Investment Funds during the 2014-2020 period, ranging from EUR 42 million in 2013 to EUR 82 million in 2017. This is despite the fact that Agrofert posts profits of hundreds of millions each year.In 2017 Mr Babiš transferred his shares in the Agrofert company and in the Agrofert group to two private trust funds. However, he remains the sole settlor and sole beneficiary of both trusts. As the beneficial owner of the Agrofert conglomerate Babiš is in breach of Czech and EU law.For these reasons, we voted in favour of the resolution.
Activities of the European Ombudsman in 2017 (A8-0411/2018 - Eleonora Evi)
. – On the Activities of the European Ombudsman in 2017, we voted in favour.The mandate of the European Ombudsman is described in Article 228 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, allowing the office to receive complaints concerning instances of maladministration in the activities of the Union institutions, bodies, offices or agencies, with the exception of the Court of Justice of the European Union acting in its judicial role.Maladministration is defined as ‘poor or failed administration, which occurs if an institution fails to act in accordance with the law, fails to respect the principles of good administration, or violates human rights’.The report approves the 2017 report of activities presented by the European Ombudsman and congratulates her for her work. It notes with great concern that inquiries relating to transparency and accountability, including on access to information and documents, continued to account for the greatest proportion of cases handled by the Ombudsman.As we are supportive of the Ombudsman’s work and what she has done so far with regard to highlighting the lack of transparency in a number of different cases, we voted in favour of this report.
Deliberations of the Committee on Petitions 2017 (A8-0404/2018 - Cecilia Wikström)
. – We voted in favour of this report.The 2017 Annual Report gives an overview of the work of the Committee on Petitions. The Committee’s work programme is mainly established by EU citizens and residents as they exercise their right to petition Parliament and share their concerns over various EU policies and legislation.The Annual Report aims to give a view of the work done by the Committee on Petitions. It provides statistics on the number of petitions received, and closed by the Committee, the countries concerned and the matters raised. This report also covers other aspects such as relations with other EU institutions and national and regional authorities.The report focuses on the activities of 2017. According to the statistics, the European Parliament received 1 271 petitions in 2017. This represents a decrease by 19% compared to 2016 when Parliament received 1 569 petitions. However, users of the petitions web portal have the possibility to support petitions. In 2016, 6 132 users acted as supporters. In 2017, 15 540 users of the portal supported one or several petitions. These numbers show an increase of 153%.As we support the Committee for Petitions, we voted in favour of this report.
Draft amending budget No 6/2018: Reduction of payment and commitment appropriations (own resources) (A8-0399/2018 - Siegfried Mureşan)
. – Each year technical budgetary adjustments have to be done in terms of both expenditure and revenue. Expenditure adjustments are the result of the differences between what has been committed and what has actually been spent. While revenue can change as a result of forecasting.The DAB 6 adjusts the budget at the end of the period. In this case, the Draft amending budget No 6/2018 decreases the commitment and payment appropriations of budget lines by EUR 48.7 million and EUR 44.7 million respectively, in heading 1a ‘Competitiveness for growth and jobs and heading 2 ‘Sustainable growth – natural resources’.On the revenue side, the DAB 6 makes a revision of the forecast of traditional own resources (i.e. customs duties and sugar sector levies), value-added tax (VAT) and gross national income (GNI) bases, and of the budgeting of the relevant UK corrections and their financing, which all affect the distribution of own resources contributions from Member States to the Union budget.As this was a procedural file with no irregularities, we voted in favour.
Mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument to finance immediate budgetary measures to address the on-going challenges of migration, refugee inflows and security threats (A8-0455/2018 - Daniele Viotti)
. – We voted against mobilising the Flexibility Instrument to reinforce heading 3 (Security and citizenship) by EUR 985 629 138. This funding is intended under heading 3 to be used for migration, refugees and security.This would constitute substantial reinforcements, particularly in terms of Asylum, Migration, and Integration Fund. The AMIF needs to be radically reformed with integration and safe passage as core aims before we will support any increase to its funding.
Mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide for the payment of advances in the EU general budget for 2019 (A8-0453/2018 - Lefteris Christoforou)
. – The current proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council is not linked to a specific disaster. Instead, it aims at entering into the general budget of the Union for 2019 the amount of EUR 50 million in commitment and payment appropriations for the payment of advances in a timely and efficient way in the event of a disaster occurring next year.This is the direct result of a new provision in the 2014 Amending Regulation 2 (Art. 4a), which aims at speeding up the disbursement of aid to affected countries through the payment of an advance before the final award decision has been taken, thus enhancing the Fund’s effectiveness.For this reason I voted in favour of the mobilisation.
New general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2019 - all sections
. – In terms of commitment appropriations (including special instruments), the total expenditure proposed in the second draft budget (DB) 2019 is EUR 165 605.6 million, corresponding to 1.00% of GNI, that is EUR 4 909.2 million more than in 2018 (+ 3.1%). For payment appropriations (including special instruments), the requested total expenditure is EUR 148 198.9 million, corresponding to 0.90% of GNI. This is an increase of EUR 3 431.0 million compared to 2018 (+ 2.4%). The budget has increased in size but remained relatively stable in terms of GNI contributions.While there are a number of funds and instruments in the EU budget that I oppose, the main reason I voted against is that The 2019 budget represent the first budget with a dedicated line for defence. While the EDIDP was previously received funding as a preparatory action, 2019 marks its full inclusion in the budget with 245 million allocated.
New general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2019 (A8-0454/2018 - Daniele Viotti, Paul Rübig)
. – I oppose the resolution welcoming of the increase in funding levels to the budget. Furthermore, it welcomed the reinforcement to the EEAS budget line on Strategic Communication Capacity to fight ‘disinformation’.While the rapporteur regretted it orally, the resolution fails to mention the extra 19 million of reserve which was added to Frontex without informing the EP officially.It is a positive that the resolution recognises that the budget ‘does not entirely meet the real need for a sustainable, coherent and efficient Union budget’, however, it fails to mention that this could be addressed by redeploying funding to socially beneficial programmes.For these reason, I decided to vote against the resolution.
EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (A8-0366/2018 - Pedro Silva Pereira)
. – The EU and Japan have been negotiating a free trade agreement since 2013. It is being heralded as the ‘most important bilateral trade agreement ever concluded by the EU’ as it will cover a third of world GDP and 40% of world trade. It gained further significance following the withdrawal of the US from TPP. There are a number of glaring issues with the agreement: no legal recognition for the precautionary principle; the TSD chapter is not fully enforceable; a negative list has been set for the protection of public services rather than comprehensive protection; the liberalisation of trade in financial services is not compatible with the post-crisis regulatory framework; there are currently plans to establish an investment protection court; no transparency during negotiations; whaling has not ended in waters around Japan; data protection systems have been recognised as ‘equivalent’, meaning there will be unhindered data flows, and there are no social or environmental conditions to the agreement. For these reasons, we voted against.
EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (resolution) (A8-0367/2018 - Pedro Silva Pereira)
. – The EU and Japan have been negotiating a free trade agreement since 2013. It is being heralded as the ‘most important bilateral trade agreement ever concluded by the EU’ as it will cover a third of world GDP and 40% of world trade. It gained further significance following the withdrawal of the US from TPP. There are a number of glaring issues with the agreement: no legal recognition for the precautionary principle; the TSD chapter is not fully enforceable; a negative list has been set for the protection of public services rather than comprehensive protection; the liberalisation of trade in financial services is not compatible with the post-crisis regulatory framework; there are currently plans to establish an investment protection court; no transparency during negotiations; whaling has not ended in waters around Japan; data protection systems have been recognised as ‘equivalent’, meaning there will be unhindered data flows, and there are no social or environmental conditions to the agreement. For these reasons, we voted against.
EU-Japan Strategic Partnership Agreement (A8-0383/2018 - Alojz Peterle)
. – This vote related to an accompanying Strategic Partnership Agreement to the Economic Agreement. This Agreement contains broad political commitments for both parties to defend human rights and cooperate on diplomatic, economic, cultural and security issues. The resolution contains a series of platitudes referring to the two parties’ positions as global economic and political leaders. There are statements there lauding Japan for its ‘military restraint’ over the last few decades, however, at the same time, the resolution is full of commitments to cooperate more closely on security issues, including welcoming the Mission of Japan to NATO. Although there are some good elements in the Resolution, in terms of drawing attention to Japan’s use of the death penalty, whaling practices, illegal logging, failure to implement ILO treaties and large animal-testing cosmetics market, the sheer hypocrisy of some of the statements, as well as repeated references to security cooperation, meant we could not support the final text.
EU-Japan Strategic Partnership Agreement (resolution) (A8-0385/2018 - Alojz Peterle)
. – This vote related to an accompanying Strategic Partnership Agreement to the Economic Agreement. This Agreement contains broad political commitments for both parties to defend human rights and cooperate on diplomatic, economic, cultural and security issues. The resolution contains a series of platitudes referring to the two parties’ positions as global economic and political leaders. There are statements there lauding Japan for its ‘military restraint’ over the last few decades, however, at the same time, the resolution is full of commitments to cooperate more closely on security issues, including welcoming the Mission of Japan to NATO. Although there are some good elements in the Resolution, in terms of drawing attention to Japan’s use of the death penalty, whaling practices, illegal logging, failure to implement ILO treaties and large animal-testing cosmetics market, the sheer hypocrisy of some of the statements, as well as repeated references to security cooperation, meant we could not support the final text.
EU-Jordan Euro-Mediterranean Aviation Agreement (accession of Croatia) (A8-0371/2018 - Keith Taylor)
Establishing Horizon Europe – laying down its rules for participation and dissemination (A8-0401/2018 - Dan Nica)
. – Horizon Europe is the new framework programme for 2021-2027, designed for maximum impact in the context of the evolving nature of research and innovation, with an architecture designed for enhanced coherence and performance. It is based in three-pillar structure, with each pillar interconnected with the others and complemented by underpinning activities, to strengthen the European Research Area.I voted against this report. The Commission budget proposal is of 94 100 000 000 in current prices for the specific programme Horizon Europe with an addition for the Programme establishing the European defence Fund. I did not feel this increase and the Programme establishing the European Defence Fund would be in Irelands interest and therefore I voted against the report.
Programme implementing Horizon Europe (A8-0410/2018 - Christian Ehler)
. – Horizon Europe is the new framework programme for 2021-2027, designed for maximum impact in the context of the evolving nature of research and innovation, with an architecture designed for enhanced coherence and performance. It is based in three-pillar structure, with each pillar interconnected with the others and complemented by underpinning activities, to strengthen the European Research Area.The Commission budget proposal is of 94 100 000 000 in current prices for the specific programme Horizon Europe with an addition for the Programme establishing the European Defence Fund.For the reason of the increased budget and the money being spent on the European Defence Fund programme, I voted against the report.
Single Market package (RC-B8-0557/2018, B8-0557/2018, B8-0558/2018, B8-0559/2018, B8-0560/2018)
. – I voted against the Joint Motion For Resolution because of the evident prioritising of EU legislation over Member State rules. The JMR espouses a view that Member State rules should be eliminated if they are viewed as running counter to the Single Market. I think the acceptance of such a view would give the European Commission the green light to strike down any national law that it views as blocking 100% seamless integration of Member States. This view is reflected in the wording of the JMR, when it urges the Commission to make use of instruments to take action against national rules. Member States put rules in place to protect the national interest for legitimate reasons, therefore I reject any further interference by the European Commission on the authority of a Member State to do so. I think further interference in national law would fly in the face of the principle of subsidiarity. I acknowledge a desire for seamlessness but this must be achieved through working with Member States to avoid the disproportionate impacts that a deepening of the Single Market could bring about. It is naive to suggest the deeper the Single Market, the greater the prosperity.
Findings and recommendations of the Special Committee on Terrorism (A8-0374/2018 - Monika Hohlmeier, Helga Stevens)
. – I voted against this file.Counter-terrorism is an important concern for all Member States. However, this report does not address fully the multifaceted nature of the terrorist threat in European Member States. This Committee was supposed to evaluate the executives of existing EU counter-terrorism legislation, yet this is missing from the report. The report also fails to address the impact of austerity measures on the effectiveness of community policing and counter-radicalisation measures.The report consistently attempts to conflate counter-terrorism and immigration policy, ignoring the fact that refugees are often fleeing from the same extremist groups that threaten Member States. The report also ignores the serious threat from far-right extremists despite the alarming rise in far-right violence across Europe.
Annual report on the implementation of the Common Foreign and Security Policy (A8-0392/2018 - David McAllister)
. – I voted against this file, which calls for the EU to develop military structures to give the EU ‘hard power’ to use in international relationships. It also calls for the introduction of qualified majority voting in the council. This is a further effort to undermine the sovereignty of national governments and would allow larger Member States to decide the foreign policy of other Member States.The report also calls for increased militarisation of the EU through both the development of European military structures and deepening EU cooperation with NATO. It makes no allowances for the neutrality of Member States, such as Ireland.
Annual report on the implementation of the Common Security and Defence Policy (A8-0375/2018 - Ioan Mircea Paşcu)
. – I voted against this report, which endorses the militarisation of the EU. It calls for Member States to spend 2% of their GDP on defence in line with NATO recommendations, greater EU involvement in national defence policy and more EU military missions paid for out of the EU budget.This report is not only calling for further militarisation via PESCO and the creation of other EU military structures – it also calls for the EU to increase the amount of EU money available for this, meaning that Member States such as Ireland will be contributing financially to military missions, even if we do not participate in them.
Annual report on human rights and democracy in the world 2017 and the European Union’s policy on the matter (A8-0373/2018 - Petras Auštrevičius)
. – I abstained on this report. While there are some good elements within this report, there are issues around strengthening branches of the EEAS, along with references calling for the appointment of an EU envoy with responsibility for regulating and monitoring the internet.There is also the Annex section that only highlights the European Parliament resolutions on oppression of prisoners of conscience, but does not have the same focus on human rights defenders, especially those who were not included as it was not possible to table amendments to this Annex.
Establishing the European Defence Fund (A8-0412/2018 - Zdzisław Krasnodębski)
. – We fundamentally oppose any funding for spending on military research, armaments and any subsidies that can be used to facilitate an aspiring pan—European military—industrial complex. For Ireland to participate in this is a contravention of our longstanding tradition of military neutrality. For these reasons we voted against this file.
Establishing the Connecting Europe Facility (A8-0409/2018 - Henna Virkkunen, Marian-Jean Marinescu, Pavel Telička)
. – I voted against this report, as EU transport and energy funding which should rightfully be used for the benefit of citizens, will now be diverted toward dual-use projects to be abused by military forces. Now every project which receives funding can be expected to fulfil military requirements, and create a network for the smooth transportation of troops and weapons across the EU. This fundamentally undermines Ireland’s neutrality – it is unacceptable for transport and energy funding to subsidise the mass weapons industry in Europe. Unfortunately, the CEF will also continue to fund projects which are associated with fossil fuels.However, I welcome that amendments by my colleague Matt Carthy MEP calling for EU transport funding for the west of Ireland were included in the final Parliament report. The entire European Parliament recognised the need to prioritise funding for rail infrastructure on the West of Ireland. For far too long successive Irish Governments have ignored rural Ireland and deprived the region of transport resources. The support for the amendments brings us one step closing to making the Western Rail Corridor a reality.
EU-Ukraine Association Agreement (A8-0369/2018 - Michael Gahler)
Education in the digital era: challenges, opportunities and lessons for EU policy design (A8-0400/2018 - Yana Toom)
. – Regarding Yana Toomʼs report, on education in the digital era, we voted in favour.We voted in favour of this report because it recognised the growing gap between menʼs and women’s participation in the digital sector with respect to education, career pathways and entrepreneurship and stressed that ensuring a gender-balanced approach to the promotion of information and communications technology (ICT) and digital careers is key.The report also recommended that Member States develop digital literacy programmes in Europe’s minority and regional languages and introduce language technology training and tools in their school, university and vocational college curricula.For those reasons, we voted in favour.
Coordination of social security systems (A8-0386/2018 - Guillaume Balas)
. – This report updates the regulation coordinating social security systems across the EU, including cross-border health and unemployment insurance. It advocates the coordination, rather than harmonisation, of national systems, and generally respects the principle of subsidiarity.The report:- provides greater protection for posted workers, and prevents the retroactive approval of unlawful posting;- asks EU countries to provide access to health insurance to economically inactive EU citizens ;- calls for faster processing of ʻhabitual residencyʼ determinations, to allow greater certainty;- allows cross-border and frontier workers to choose where to apply for unemployment benefits; - and allows greater aggregation and transfer of unemployment benefits to other EU countries for up to half a year.This vote was on whether to send the matter on to negotiations with the Commission and Council or to refer it back to committee. While we have serious reservations about some changes, particularly unemployment insurance, there is a serious risk that referring the matter back to committee would open it up to right-wing amendments that would make it worse.We therefore voted in favour of moving forward, though with the reservations mentioned. Sinn Féin will watch this matter closely as negotiations continue.
Establishing a European Labour Authority (A8-0391/2018 - Jeroen Lenaers)
. – The Commission has proposed a European Labour Authority (ELA) to facilitate access to relevant information for individuals and employers, support cooperation between Member States in the cross-border enforcement of relevant laws, and facilitate solutions to cross-border disputes between national authorities.Three main areas of concern emerged in committee:- a proposal – later dropped – giving ELA binding dispute settlement powers;- cross-border inspections to combat abusive practices. This will be voluntary, in line with ILO conventions and national law and practice;- our Group also proposed a full tripartite structure (along the lines of other agencies), with social partner representatives (trade unions + employersʼ organisations) from each Member State. The compromise is six European-level social partners (e.g. ETUC and BusinessEurope) equally representing unions and employers.This vote was on whether to move on to negotiations with the Commission and Council or refer the matter back to committee. We are generally supportive of ELA, although the diminished role for the social partners is a problem. ELA will mainly play a facilitating role between national authorities, although its current shape is unsatisfactory, and referring the matter back to committee would open it up for right-wing amendments. We therefore abstained.
Establishing a Programme for the Environment and Climate Action (LIFE) (A8-0397/2018 - Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy)
. – I voted in favour of this report, which sets out the new LIFE programme financial envelope as part of the 2021-2027 multiannual financial framework (MFF). LIFE is the EU’s financial instrument supporting environmental, nature conservation and climate action projects throughout the EU and aims, among other objectives, to contribute to the EU’s commitments under the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and the Convention on Biological Diversity.While it could have been a more ambitious report, as the overall climate expenditure target of the Programme was not as far-reaching as it should have been, the new LIFE programme enhances the possibilities for sub-national governments to participate in the Life programme and tries to increase the role of civil society. It also includes resource efficiency, chemicals and noise in the scope of the LIFE programme as well as addressing waste-management issues.
Protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to carcinogens or mutagens at work (A8-0142/2018 - Claude Rolin)
. – 53% of work-related deaths in the EU are attributable to cancer caused by exposure to carcinogenic substances at work – more than 100 000 deaths a year. The Commission proposes changing the Carcinogens and Mutagens Directive (2004/37/EC) to reduce exposure of workers to 13 key cancer-causing chemicals.Under the revised directive:- Employers must identify and assess risks to workers and prevent exposure;- Less hazardous substances should be substituted where possible;- Exposure to diesel engine exhaust emissions is included, and an occupational exposure limit set at 0.05 mg/m3, on the basis of elemental carbon;- Member States are encouraged to ensure that, as well as penalties, causes and possible solutions are identified, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises;- Social partners are encouraged to conclude social dialogue agreements providing guidance and tools to support the effective implementation of the employers’ obligations;- Member States shall communicate to the Commission the national law and practices that ensure that the competent authorities have sufficient trained staff and resources necessary to carry out proper and effective implementation.This is an important piece of legislation that will save hundreds of thousands of workers’ lives. We therefore voted in favour.
Transparency and sustainability of the EU risk assessment in the food chain (A8-0417/2018 - Renate Sommer)
. – The Transparency and sustainability of the EU risk assessment in the food chain report follows the European Citizens Initiative on glyphosate, the Monsanto Papers about ghost-writing of studies, influence of science and national authorities, and specifically the concerns voiced regarding the studies to be used in the evaluation of pesticides, which was highlighted with the Monsanto-glyphosate scandal.In order to address these concerns, the Commission proposed to strengthen transparency in the risk assessment process and to provide additional guarantees in terms of reliability, objectivity and independence of the studies used by EFSA in risk assessments.It’s been a very controversial report from the start. The most conservative Members have tabled many amendments with the aim of delaying the publication of studies and proposing the appointment of members of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) from the agrochemical industry. However, the result was a positive one, which will hopefully end the secrecy around industry data used by the EU for granting market approvals and ensure more transparency in future independent scientific scrutiny of EU food safety decisions, which many of our constituents have been calling for. For all these reasons, I voted in favour of this report.
European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop) (A8-0273/2017 - Anne Sander)
. – This is a revision of the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop) Founding Regulation. Over the years, Cedefop has broadened the scope of its activities to cover skills and qualifications. On the basis of Cedefop’s data and analyses, in June 2016 the Commission launched ‘A New Skills Agenda for Europe’ to help the 70 million EU citizens who do not have adequate reading, writing, arithmetical and digital skills, and stated its intent to draw on Cedefop’s expertise and skills in this. To maintain good relations among stakeholders and ensure that Cedefop’s remit is not undermined, the agency’s precise role needed clarification.The Commission proposal updates the objectives and tasks of Cedefop and aligns certain provisions with the Common Approach on Decentralised Agencies. The report encourages Cedefop to better match competences and qualifications with evolving demand and increasing labour mobility, including by updating and prioritising its mandate and tasks to reflect better its current activities. It stresses the need to avoid a duplication of activities with the EU agencies EU-OSHA and Eurofound, as well as with the European Commission. I therefore voted in favour.
European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA) (A8-0274/2017 - Czesław Hoc)
. – This is a revision of the Regulation establishing the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA). The proposed revision of the founding regulation updates EU-OSHA’s objectives and tasks; creates the opportunity to provide for anti-fraud measures, conflict of interest policy, evaluation and review and the establishment of a headquarters agreement; harmonises the programming and reporting provisions; and updates the terminology.The EMPL report includes a clarification of the scope and role of the agencies, including the provision of research-based policy proposals in the field of health and safety of workers; relations with third countries and international organisations; avoiding duplication with other Union tripartite agencies while promoting cooperation; and ensuring a tripartite, gender balanced, Management Board, appointed from the Member States, plus the participation of three independent experts appointed by the European Parliament, and observer status for Eurofound, Cedefop and the European Training Foundation.I therefore voted in favour.
European Foundation for the improvement of living and working conditions (Eurofound) (A8-0275/2017 - Enrique Calvet Chambon)
. – This is a revision of the Founding Regulation of the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions (Eurofound), which dates from 1975.The Commission proposal aims to clarify and update Eurofound’s role, mandate, Management Board and Director appointment processes and terminology. The report from the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs does likewise, underlining the importance of Eurofound’s data being available to the general public. It stresses the need to avoid duplication with other EU agencies, while facilitating cooperation with them and with EU institutions and Member State and international bodies. It also calls for the establishment of a Brussels liaison office, and for observer status representation at Management Board meetings for third-country European Economic Area states. We therefore voted in favour.
Complementing EU type-approval legislation with regard to the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the Union (A8-0359/2018 - Marlene Mizzi)
. – We voted in favour of this report on type approval following Brexit. Type approval is the testing of vehicles to ensure they meet European standards for emissions and safety. With Brexit, type approval registered in the UK will no longer be an EU approved standard. The proposal allows manufacturers to get EU27 approval instead of their current UK approval, without the bureaucracy of having to repeat the tests. EU authorities will have the right to ask for further documentation on the tests done by UK services in future, as they will be outside EU type approval. The proposal will get rid of legal uncertainty for car manufacturers and owners with regard to their type approval post Brexit.
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: maximum residue levels for acetamiprid in certain products (B8-0556/2018)
. – We voted in favour of an objection to the Commission proposal to increase the maximum residue levels (MRLs) for acetamiprid.Acetamiprid is a ‘systemic’ insecticide, which means that it is sprayed onto plants which then absorb the chemicals and distribute them throughout the plant, in the tissue, pollen and nectar. Acetamiprid and other systemic insecticides thus kill insects in two different ways: insects die when they come into contact with the pesticide, when they are sprayed with it, for example, and also when they ingest parts of plants which have been exposed to the pesticide.On this basis, we voted in favour of the objection, given the effects of acetamiprid, and neonicotinoids in general, on public health and the environment.
Military mobility (A8-0372/2018 - Tunne Kelam)
. – I voted against this report on military mobility. The aim of the report is to create a military Schengen to facilitate smooth transport of troops and equipment and reduce administrative burdens. EUR 6.5 billion of the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) will go towards military mobility, and the report welcomes the change of the CEF from civilian funding to instead contribute to military mobility. The report aims to amplify civil-military cooperation and the militarisation of the EU. It enforces the merger of the EU and NATO. It calls for greater collaboration between Member States to achieve military mobility projects. As this report completely undermines the neutrality of Member States, I opposed it.
New European Agenda for Culture (A8-0388/2018 - Giorgos Grammatikakis)
. – On the Own Initiative Report on a New European Agenda for Culture, we voted against this report.Whilst the report is good in terms of calling for better supports for artists and assisting them in mobility, there are still many negatives.The report fails to recognise the negative impact that austerity measures has had on the cultural sector and the priorities it set out would not help nurture the sector in Member States and therefore, we voted against.
Application of the Euro 5 step to the type-approval of two- or three- wheel vehicles and quadricycles (A8-0346/2018 - Daniel Dalton)
. – I voted against this report. This report deals with the implementation of Euro 5 emission standards on L-category vehicles which include two-wheel and three-wheel vehicles and quads. Euro 5 is an emission standard that restricts pollutant emissions from diesel and petrol vehicles. It will apply to all vehicles from 2020. A study carried out looked at the effect having these standards apply to two/three-wheel vehicles and quads would have. It found that it would be difficult to have these standards apply by 2020 to the sector and recommended that it should get an extension. I support extending the deadline for these vehicles to 2022, as recommended in the Commission proposal. However instead the report pushes the deadline to 2024. I believe this report is unambitious and working to serve the industry rather than the environment. For these reasons, I voted against.
Accession of Samoa to the EU-Pacific States Interim Partnership Agreement (A8-0376/2018 - David Martin)
. – I voted against this agreement as I do not believe the text sufficiently presented all the facts. Samoa is listed on the Council of the European Union’s black list of countries which are labelled as not cooperative tax jurisdictions. This fact was omitted from the text and therefore the text did not make it possible for a fully informed decision to be made on whether the agreement should be validated by Parliament. In the event that the information had been detailed, I would hold reservations about approving any trade agreement with a country that aids international tax avoidance.
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2018/003 EL/Attica publishing (A8-0377/2018 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial)
. – I voted in favour of this file in order for funds to be released from the EGF for the 550 workers made redundant in May this year in the Attica region of Greece. The 550 workers were made redundant in the publishing sector. The Attica region accounts for a large proportion of unemployment and long-term unemployment in Greece where unemployment still remains high. The application meets the conditions set out in point (b) of Article 4(1) of the EGF Regulation. Therefore, Greece is entitled to a financial contribution of EUR 2 308 500, which represents 60% of the total cost of EUR 3 847 500. I agree with the rationale put forward by Greece that claims the redundancies were linked to the global financial and economic crisis, more particularly its effects on the Greek economy including a decline in per capita real GDP, rising unemployment, decreasing salaries and reduced household income. This has already had a significant adverse effect on the local economy. The impact of the layoffs is linked to the difficulties of re-employment due to the scarcity of jobs.
Temporary reintroduction of border control at internal borders (A8-0356/2018 - Tanja Fajon)
. – I voted in favour of the report aimed at challenging the Commission’s attempts to reintroduce border controls for indefinite periods of time. The report states the reintroduction of border controls is a last resort and requires a time limit. The file provides for Member States to give precedence to alternative measures, and highlights that any derogation from the fundamental principle of free movement of persons should be interpreted strictly, alongside the need for Member States to submit a risk assessment concerning the Commission’s intended aim to prolong controls.
Common rules for the operation of air services (A8-0150/2018 - Claudia Țapardel)
. – I voted against this report. The amendment to the report is to reduce restrictions on ‘wet-leasing’. Wet-leasing is an arrangement where one airline (the lessor) provides an aircraft, complete crew, maintenance, fuel, airport fees and insurance to another airline (the lessee). Wet-leasing is traditionally arranged during peak seasonal periods. Following an agreement with the US on wet-leasing, this amendment looks to align this regulation with the agreement to allow flexibility for wet-leasing with third countries. The amendment will remove restrictions on wet-leasing in this legislation so that wet-leasing with third countries can instead be arranged through individual air transport agreements with third countries. This would have major repercussions for the aviation market in Europe. It would lead to opening the air market up to unrestricted wet-leasing with third countries, and allow wet-leasing to become a permanent feature in airline business models. Increased wet-leasing would contribute to lower quality of services, less passenger rights and lower social standards for workers. For Member States with nationalised air services, this change in regulation would be a particular threat.
The Cum Ex Scandal: financial crime and the loopholes in the current legal framework (B8-0518/2018, B8-0519/2018, B8-0520/2018, B8-0521/2018, B8-0525/2018, RC-B8-0551/2018, B8-0551/2018, B8-0552/2018)
. – I voted in favour of this resolution, which was proposed by GUE/NGL, the Greens and the Socialists and Democrats. The cum-ex scandal is the largest tax fraud case in history and involves bankers and lawyers stealing EUR 55 billion from the public treasuries of 11 Member States. A criminal investigation is going on in Germany. The scheme is based on a series of at least three transactions including short-selling in the run-up to dividend day. Cum-ex deals are characterised by banks and stockbrokers rapidly trading shares with (‘cum’) and without (‘ex’) dividend rights, with the aim of being able to conceal the identity of the actual owner. The scheme allows both parties to claim tax rebates on capital gains tax that had only been paid once. The resolution condemns the fraud and points out it has the characteristics of criminality. It calls for an inquiry by the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) and European Banking Authority (EBA) to identify the shortcomings of local financial supervision in the Member States affected. It makes several demands on the Commission and the financial supervisory authorities for investigation and sanctions.
Role of the German Youth Welfare Office (Jugendamt) in cross-border family disputes (B8-0546/2018)
. – The European Parliament’s Petitions Committee have received numerous complaints over the past decade on the German Youth Welfare Office in cross-border family disputes, particularly based on discrimination in language and nationality. The Motion for a Resolution (MR) rightly condemns any discrimination in this regard. The European Court of Human Rights have found the Jugendamt to be in breach of Article 8 (ECHR), and Article 41 Convention on Human Rights previously. However, the MR intrusively increases the power of the Commission over this competency of the Member States; therefore, we abstained on this file.
WTO: the way forward (A8-0379/2018 - Bernd Lange, Paul Rübig)
. – This report was written in response to the current crisis facing the WTO. The US has been blocking the appointment of judges to the WTO’s appellate body for years now, thus starving the WTO of one of its primary and most useful functions. The WTO has also been unable to conclude a new development round since Doha 2001. The resolution is balanced in terms of the increasing need to change the power structures to accommodate developing countries, and the need to use WTO structures to push further environmental, labour, and gender equality goals. Plurilateral action on many of these issues is much needed. That said, there was an undue emphasis in the report on pushing for liberal market structures through WTO engagements, including on procurement, IP, investment protection and PPPs. For these reasons, we abstained.
2018 Report on Serbia (A8-0331/2018 - David McAllister)
. – We abstained on this report concerning Serbia’s progress towards EU membership. The report highlights outstanding reforms required for Serbia to meet the cohesion criteria to join the EU. It furthermore calls for Serbia to align its national foreign policy with the EU. We do not believe that the EU should dictate the foreign policy of any sovereign state, especially non-Member States. If Serbia decides to join the EU in the future, it will be its decision alone regarding participation in the EU’s foreign policy.
2018 Report on Kosovo (A8-0332/2018 - Igor Šoltes)
. – We abstained on this report concerning Kosovo’s progress towards EU membership. It recognises the challenges facing Kosovo reaching EU membership, such as the need for recognition of Kosovo’s independence by all EU Member States and also the widespread poverty and unemployment currently in Kosovo. The report attempts to influence the foreign policy of Kosovo by calling for increased alignment with EU foreign policy. I do not believe that the EU should dictate the foreign policy of any sovereign state, especially non-Member States. If Kosovo decides to join the EU in the future, it will be their decision alone regarding participation in the EU’s foreign policy.
2018 Report on the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (A8-0341/2018 - Ivo Vajgl)
. – We abstained on this report concerning progress by the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYRM) towards EU membership. The report highlights progress made in a number of areas, such as the settlement of the name dispute with Greece. However, the report mentions the FYRM’s progress towards NATO membership several times and conflates this with progress towards EU membership. Security and defence is a Member State competency and should have no relevance regarding EU membership.
2018 Report on Albania (A8-0334/2018 - Knut Fleckenstein)
. – We abstained on this report concerning Albania’s progress towards EU membership. EU membership is a question for Albanian to decide on the basis of its national needs, yet this report views EU enlargement as a goal to be pursued regardless of the needs or wishes of potential member states. The report welcomes the cooperation between Albania and Frontex, with no recognition of the negative impact of EU external border policies on the migration crisis.
2018 Report on Montenegro (A8-0339/2018 - Charles Tannock)
. – I abstained in this report concerning Montenegro’s progress towards EU membership. This report suggests that membership for Montenegro is a possibility in the next few years, however such a short time frame may be unrealistic. The report calls for Montenegro to cooperate with Frontex and to align their national foreign policy with the EU. This report does not recognise the negative impact EU external border policies on the migration crisis. Furthermore, I do not believe that the EU should dictate the foreign policy of any sovereign state, especially non-Member States. If Montenegro decides to join the EU in the future, it will be there decision alone regarding participation in the EU’s foreign policy.
Defence of academic freedom in the EU's external action (A8-0403/2018 - Wajid Khan)
. – We voted in favour of this report. The report highlights the importance of academic freedom and the fact that academia is becoming increasingly vulnerable to interference from multinational corporations or repression from political forces. An example of this is the closure of the Central European University in Hungary for political reasons.
Eurojust and Albania Cooperation Agreement (A8-0275/2018 - Laura Ferrara)
. – This report was for the approval of exchange of personal data between Eurojust and Albania, as well as their cooperation.Such co-operation agreements can be adopted via 1) the pre-Lisbon procedure whereby the Council approves them through implementing measures, after consulting the European Parliament, or 2) the new Eurojust Regulation procedure expected to be adopted in plenary soon (Voss report). Under this second procedure, the EP will have a stronger role via a veto power.Despite the fact that the Lisbon Treaty entered into force in 2009, providing a stronger role for the EP over such agreements, previous agreements, including the present one with Albania, have been adopted pursuant to the pre-Lisbon procedure. This is possible since the pre-Lisbon instrument has not yet been amended.We therefore abstained on the basis that we support a stronger role for the European Parliament than the procedure used, in order to strengthen transparency and accountability. The procedure for the approval of this agreement was rushed through, thus assisting it to be approved prior to the entry into force of the new Regulation.
Protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data by the Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies and free movement of such data (A8-0313/2017 - Cornelia Ernst)
. – This is a proposal initiated to align EU institutions with GDPR and its ‘sister’ directive on data protection for law enforcement agencies. The proposal aims to ensure that the EU institutions are held to a higher standard in terms of data protection, including better transparency regarding rules on transmission of personal data. It also seeks to remove any potential for EU institutions/agencies/bodies/offices to restrict data subject’s rights by way of internal rules, to develop the publicly accessible register of processing activities and to strengthen role of the EP in developing the appointment of the European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) for independent monitoring, amongst other developments.There is still potential for agencies to adopt special rules on data protection. However, the regulation includes principles and rules which must be drawn upon, applicable to all these agencies, when they exercise their activities for the purposes of the prevention, detection, investigation or prosecution of criminal offences.The agreement is undoubtedly an improvement in the data protection rules applicable to the EU institutions, including at the highest level of management, and assists in ensuring all EU institutions and bodies are bound by European human rights standards. Therefore, we voted in favour.
Single Digital Gateway (A8-0054/2018 - Marlene Mizzi)
. – We voted against this regulation to establish the ‘Your Europe’ platform. There are many benefits to setting up a one-stop-shop for EU citizens and businesses moving across borders, given the complexities related to figuring out a new administrative system. Having a portal where all information is provided, including links to necessary documentation and a run-down of national procedures, is a valuable tool for citizens.While recognising the important role the provision of e-Government services can play in people’s lives, the present regulation seeks to place the European Commission as an intermediary in many procedures related to national administration. We completely disagree with a system which would require a national body to notify the European Commission every time they made a request to a citizen for more information to verify a document because of, for instance, a suspicion of fraud. Additionally, the Commission has the ability to disconnect a Member State from the so-called ‘technical system’ because of a perceived under-quality of reporting in solving citizens’ problems. The execution of the administrative procedures detailed in this regulation are a national competence and are not answerable to the Commission.
Listing the third countries whose nationals must be in possession of visas when crossing the external borders and those whose nationals are exempt from that requirement (Kosovo) (A8-0261/2016 - Tanja Fajon)
. – This vote comes following the request of the far-right groups to challenge and oppose the mandate to begin inter-institutional negotiations.Annex II of Regulation 539/2001 contains a list of third countries whose citizens are not required to possess a visa when crossing EU borders for a maximum 90-day duration, in any 180-day period. This report proposes adding Kosovo on that list.In September 2016, the report was adopted. However, the mandate to enter into negotiations was rejected since the country did not fulfil all necessary criteria.On 30th August 2018, the mandate was voted again due to the Commission’s positive report concerning the fulfilment of these criteria. Kosovo has made significant progress. It agreed and ratified the agreement on borders with Montenegro and improved measures against corruption and organised crime.Further to this, Kosovo has complied with some of the strictest criteria compared to all other countries on the list. For these reasons I voted in favour of the report.
July 2018 fires at Mati in the Attica Region, Greece and the EU response
. – This resolution expresses a show of solidarity with Greece, which was hit by a number of wildfires in July 2018 this year, responsible for an enormous loss of life and damage. It also pays tribute to the emergency services and the victims. I voted in favour of amendment 5, tabled by my group which highlights the negative impact of austerity measures on Greece’s civil protection operational capacities that the Troika imposed on Greece. The resolution also references the fact that the heat wave this year, which aggravated the wildfires in Greece and abroad, is linked to climate change and urges the Commission and the Member States to set targets and implement climate policies that will meet the commitments made under the Paris COP 21 agreement. I voted in favour of this resolution in solidarity with the Greek people.
The threat of demolition of Khan al-Ahmar and other Bedouin villages
. – The threat of demolition of Khan al-Ahmar and other Bedouin villagesI voted in favour of this motion which highlights the ongoing violations of international law committed by Israel as part of the occupation of Palestinian territories. Specifically Israel’s demolition of Bedouin villages in order to build illegal settlements.Israeli demolitions and the ongoing occupation threaten the viability of a two state solution and violate international law and must be condemned by the international community
A European Strategy for Plastics in a circular economy (A8-0262/2018 - Mark Demesmaeker)
. – I voted in favour of a European Strategy for Plastics in a circular economy. The report calls for several measures that go beyond the European Commission’s proposals, such as banning microplastics in cosmetics, personal care products, detergents, and cleaning products by 2020 and completely banning oxo-degradable plastics by 2020, as this type of plastic does not safely biodegrade and therefore fails to deliver a proven environmental benefit. Sinn Fein MEPs submitted many amendments to make this report as ambitious as possible and most of them were included, so the overall report is very satisfactory for us.
Options to address the interface between chemical, product and waste legislation (B8-0363/2018)
. – I voted in favour of this motion for resolution, which was co-sponsored by all groups. It comes in connection to an oral question on a (non-legislative) Commission proposal to address the interface between chemical, product and waste legislation, which aimed to identify the best approaches to deal with chemical and harmful components in waste within the promotion of the Circular Economy Action Plan. It enhances some safeguards to prevent hazardous chemicals from entering the material cycle and recommends a strict application of the waste hierarchy as essential for recycling and for a sound development of a functioning secondary raw materials market.
A European One Health Action Plan against Antimicrobial Resistance (A8-0257/2018 - Karin Kadenbach)
. – We voted in favour of this non-legislative own-initiative report. The report deals with anti-microbial resistance (AMR), which is responsible for an estimated number of deaths of between 25 000 and 37 000 per year and EUR 1.5 billion in extra healthcare costs every year in the EU alone, and it is on the rise. This is due to factors such as excessive and inappropriate use of antibiotics in humans, veterinary overuse in livestock, and poor hygiene conditions in healthcare settings or in the food chain. The report addressed these issues comprehensively. It is very balanced overall and contains all important elements of this crucial topic. Our colleague Matt Carthy authored the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee’s Opinion to this report, so many of our proposals have been included in the final outcome.
Europe on the Move: an agenda for the future of mobility in the EU (A8-0241/2018 - István Ujhelyi)
. – We voted in favour of this report regarding the future of mobility in the EU. The report focuses on decarbonising transport, improving safety and promoting greener technologies. It stresses the importance of maintaining workers’ rights, data protection and consumer protection in the collaborative economy. It supports development of sustainable batteries, and recycling in the EU for future low- and zero-emission vehicles. It stresses the need for the transport sector to abide by the Paris Agreement. Sinn Féin supports reducing the emissions of the transport sector in line with the Paris Agreement.
Implementation of the Plant Protection Products Regulation (A8-0268/2018 - Pavel Poc)
. – We voted in favour of this report. The implementation report on the Plant Protection Products (PPP) Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 aims to analyse the application of the PPP Regulation since its entry into force on 14 June 2011. The report tackles several concerns, such as the inefficiency of the approval, the authorisation and the enforcement of the Regulation and the lack of transparency in the evaluations and on the different stages. Moreover, the concept and agricultural practice of the integrated pest management (IPM) is neither reflected nor incentivised. Therefore, the report captures many deficiencies in the implementation of the regulation, which needed to be highlighted as a basis for future action, and therefore we voted in favour.
Dual quality of products in the Single Market (A8-0267/2018 - Olga Sehnalová)
. – We voted in favour of this report because it is an important initial step in tackling the issue of dual quality of products within the EU. Sinn Féin does not believe that some citizens, mainly in Eastern Europe, should be treated as second-class citizens by being offered only products of less quality or using cheap replacements. It is especially troubling that many of these products do not give the consumer any indication of such variations, in comparison to the composition of the same product in Western Europe.This reports calls for measures to minimise the problem such as data sharing between Member States, extending the mandate of the JRC to work on a methodology for comparing non-food products, and setting up guidelines on product transparency. Finally, the report calls for the establishment of a specialised directorate, under an existing EU agency, to carry out checks in factories and conduct audits. Sinn Féin is committed to tackling inequality however it may arise.
Nominal quantities for placing on the Union market of single distilled shochu (A8-0255/2018 - Adina-Ioana Vălean)
. – We voted in favour of this report, which aims at implementing provisions of the EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement regarding the export to the EU of single distilled shochu, a spirit drink produced by pot still and bottled in Japan. Single distilled shochu is traditionally sold in bottles that correspond to quantities of 720 ml and 1800 ml. As these sizes are not currently among the bottle sizes permitted in the EU, the proposal provides for a derogation from EU rules concerning bottle sizes, thereby allowing the import of single distilled shochu in its traditional bottling.
Amendment to the US-EU Memorandum of Cooperation (deployment of air traffic management systems) (A8-0214/2018 - Rolandas Paksas)
. – We voted against this report to amend the US-EU Memorandum of Cooperation. The amendment would widen the focus of the agreement in a major way, seeking, for example, the interconnection of military aircraft to the air traffic management system through military datalink. Sinn Fein strongly opposes any attempts by the EU to use taxpayers’ money for military expenditure.
Copyright in the Digital Single Market (A8-0245/2018 - Axel Voss)
. – As legislation struggles to keep up with an ever-changing online environment, it is important that we continue to scrutinise all rules which attempt to restrict the way we use the internet. It is also important that we ensure creators and artists do not fall victim to this new public space. Sinn Féin believes that the original wording proposed by the Commission, allowing for the use of upload filters to police copyright infringements on online platforms, represented a clear violation of the right to freedom of expression.During the vote we supported amendments excluding the use of such technologies. We also voted in favour of progressive amendments to protect internet users, while also ensuring that creator rights do not suffer exploitation. The text adopted on Article 13 calls for online content sharing services to conclude fair and appropriate licensing agreements with right-holders.I ultimately voted against this report, however, based on the outcome of Article 11, which poses a danger to the fight against fake news and creates a layering of rights which will make sharing of online content more difficult. Additionally, because of a significant widening of the scope of instances where text and data mining is possible.
Controls on cash entering or leaving the Union (A8-0394/2017 - Mady Delvaux, Juan Fernando López Aguilar)
. – I voted in favour of this report, which was adopting the outcome of interinstitutional negotiations.This is a proposal to strengthen the existing Regulation on cash controls adopted in 2005 to tighten controls on people entering or leaving the EU with EUR 10 000 or more in cash or precious commodities, and on unaccompanied cash sent through postal parcels or in freight consignments. The proposal extends the definition of ‘cash’ to gold and other high-value commodities, as well as prepaid payment cards which are not linked to a financial account and which are currently not covered by the standard customs declaration. The case of unaccompanied cash is also included in the proposal. It aims at ensuring a uniform application of controls, through implementing powers conferred on the Commission regarding criteria on risk management, rules for exchange of information, templates for communication and the system for data exchange, as well as the provision of information by Member States to the Commission. This is a positive proposal aimed at tackling money-laundering and tax evasion, which I support.
Countering money laundering by criminal law (A8-0405/2017 - Ignazio Corrao)
. – We voted in favour of this report, which was adopting the outcome of inter-institutional negotiations. The proposed Directive seeks to counter money laundering by means of criminal law. The current legal framework of the Union is neither comprehensive nor sufficiently coherent to be fully effective. There are significant differences between Member States regarding the definition of money laundering and the level of sanctions. The objective of the proposal was to update the existing EU legislation and ensure the implementation of international obligations in this area (i.e. the Warsaw Convention of 2005 and the recommendations from the Financial Action Task Force). The agreement reached by the European Parliament and the Council brings the EU framework in line with the international standards.
The situation in Hungary (A8-0250/2018 - Judith Sargentini)
. – This resolution condemns the Hungarian government for ongoing serious breaches of fundamental rights, and requests the European Council consider whether action should be taken.In recent years, Hungary’s governing Fidesz party – which sits in the same Group as Fine Gael in Europe – has repeatedly attacked migrants, asylum seekers, working women, Jews, Roma, LGBTI people, civil liberties, freedom of expression and association, the rule of law and judiciary, academic and press freedom, and numerous NGOs.While we are wary of the EU imposing itself on sovereign countries, the seriousness of the human rights abuses merits serious condemnation. We also do not believe the EU institutions are the best protectors of human rights – indeed, the EU’s ‘Fortress Europe’ agenda has contributed to the suffering and deaths of thousands of asylum seekers.There is, however, currently no international actor that can put as much pressure on the Orbán government as the EU.There are also further safeguards at European Council and European Parliament level before any action can be taken, so I am satisfied this report is important in highlighting the Orbán government’s gross violations of human rights and social justice.We therefore voted in favour of the resolution.
State of EU-US relations (A8-0251/2018 - Elmar Brok)
. – We voted against this report based on fundamental issues with the way future funding would be spent. It calls for the strengthening of the European Defence Union and increased militarisation, welcomes PESCO and its focus on military mobility; stresses welcomes PESCO and that PESCO is of common interest to both the EU and NATO, and that there should be a consolidation of an EU pillar in NATO referencing national constitutions. The principles and objectives that underpin these parts of this report violates every aspect of Ireland’s neutrality and our constitution which asserts this. To add, this report does not address the following issues in the US such as the Trump administration’s indifference to the significant rise of racism, xenophobia and white supremacist sentiments and shows of force, increased attacks on members of the LGBTI community and ethnic & religious minorities, the abolition of many national environmental standards, cutting funds to organisations that provide women and girls with family planning and sexual and reproductive health and rights services, and the criminalisation of refugees. For these reasons we voted against.
State of EU-China relations (A8-0252/2018 - Bas Belder)
. – We abstained on this report because it had many elements that we support but also several that concern us. The report comprehensively outlines the current state of the EU’s relationship with China and lays out a vision for the future of this relationship. There are strong sections in the report, calling on on China to respect human rights in Xinjiang province and Tibet, and to respect human rights more generally across the country, which we fully support. We also support calls for China’s ongoing commitment to the fight against climate change, and anti-dumping. But, in my view, the report goes too far in trying to dictate policy to both China and EU Member States. It expresses concerns over the success of China’s Belt and Road initiative, calls on China to take specific actions in the WTO, calls for the promotion of an EU-China investment agreement without addressing any concerns over such an agreement, and calls on its own Member States to stop dealing independently with China and to deal with China with only ‘one voice’. These factors led us to not vote in favour of the report but to abstain instead.
Structural and financial barriers in the access to culture (A8-0169/2018 - Bogdan Andrzej Zdrojewski)
. – Although this report had many positive aspects, we voted against it as it sought to encourage the mainstreaming of a ‘European Student Card’, a project which Sinn Féin opposes.The report also calls on Member States to increase spending in the Cultural Sector. Sinn Féin believes that the Irish Government should spend more in this sector, but it is not the place of the European Union to interfere with Member States’ budgets.
Proportionality test before adoption of new regulation of professions (A8-0395/2017 - Andreas Schwab)
. – We voted against this report, which would introduce a ‘proportionality test’ to restrict Member States from regulating professions. The regulation of professions is a national competence and should remain so. The test that is being proposed here has been devised to be so restrictive that it will be next to impossible for Member States to propose new measures where necessary in the public interest. The test makes it possible for other countries and the European Commission to oppose another country’s national measures based on 1) whether existing rules are perceived to be sufficient, 2) appropriateness, 3) impact on free movement, 4) possibility for less restrictive means, 5) combined effect with existing measures, 6) necessity in the public interest.It is clear that the aim of the Directive is to reduce the amount of regulated professions and make it harder to introduce regulations, even where this might be in the public interest. No sectors have been excluded from the scope of this Directive, even those in the healthcare sector. Since this would be a massive restriction on the right of governments to regulate in the public interest, we voted against the report.
Use of vehicles hired without drivers for the carriage of goods by road (A8-0193/2018 - Cláudia Monteiro de Aguiar)
. – This report concerns Member States allowing hauliers to hire and use vehicles in other Member States. This proposal would remove the possibility of Member States to regulate the use of hired vehicles for goods operations in their country. It proposes to keep only the possibility to restrict the use of goods vehicles that are above six tonnes, and limiting the time of use of the hired vehicle to four months. The report’s removal of this competency from Member States and promotion of liberalisation could lead to breaches on tax. The report also makes no effort to comment on the right of the driver to information on the vehicle hired, and its leasing arrangements. The report focuses on opening the market, without any effort to address the problems this would indefinitely cause.We therefore voted against the report.
Decision to enter into interinstitutional negotiations: Enforcement requirements and specific rules for posting drivers in the road transport sector (A8-0206/2018 - Merja Kyllönen)
. – I voted against the TRAN Committee mandate to enter into inter-institutional negotiations at this point in the legislative procedure. By objecting to the TRAN Committee mandate, the report will be voted on in the July plenary in the European Parliament where amendments can be submitted by MEPs and then afterwards the report will go to negotiations between the European Parliament, Commission and Council.Sinn Fein believes that legislative reports should be brought to plenary sessions at the European Parliament to ensure that the elected voices of the people get the utmost chance to engage with legislation, before entering inter-institutional negotiations.In order to ensure democratic scrutiny of this file before it entered inter-institutional negotiations, I voted against a mandate for Trilogue until the full plenary had been given a chance to debate and submit amendments as necessary.
Decision to enter into interinstitutional negotiations: Amending Regulation (EC) No 561/2006 as regards on minimum requirements on maximum daily and weekly driving times, minimum breaks and daily and weekly rest periods and Regulation (EU) 165/2014 as regards positioning by means of tachographs (A8-0205/2018 - Wim van de Camp)
. – I voted against the TRAN Committee mandate to enter into inter-institutional negotiations at this point in the legislative procedure. By objecting to the TRAN Committee mandate, the report will be voted on in the July plenary in the European Parliament where amendments can be submitted by MEPs and then afterwards the report will go to negotiations between the European Parliament, Commission and Council.Sinn Fein believes that legislative reports should be brought to plenary sessions at the European Parliament to ensure that the elected voices of the people get the utmost chance to engage with legislation, before entering inter-institutional negotiations.In order to ensure democratic scrutiny of this file before it entered inter-institutional negotiations, I voted against a mandate for Trilogue until the full plenary had been given a chance to debate and submit amendments as necessary.
Decision to enter into interinstitutional negotiations Amending Regulation (EC) No 1071/2009 and Regulation (EC) No 1072/2009 with a view to adapting them to developments in the sector (A8-0204/2018 - Ismail Ertug)
. – I voted against the TRAN Committee mandate to enter into inter-institutional negotiations at this point in the legislative procedure. By objecting to the TRAN Committee mandate, the report will be voted on in the July plenary in the European Parliament where amendments can be submitted by MEPs and then afterwards the report will go to negotiations between the European Parliament, Commission and Council.Sinn Fein believes that legislative reports should be brought to plenary sessions at the European Parliament to ensure that the elected voices of the people get the utmost chance to engage with legislation, before entering inter-institutional negotiations.In order to ensure democratic scrutiny of this file before it entered inter-institutional negotiations, I voted against a mandate for Trilogue until the full plenary had been given a chance to debate and submit amendments as necessary.
Objection to Commission delegated regulation amending delegated regulation (EU) 2017/118 establishing fisheries conservation measures for the protection of the marine environment in the North Sea (B8-0299/2018)
. – We voted in favour of the objection. The European Commission sought to adopt a delegated act for the North Sea that could allow electric pulse fishing in some areas in the Channel/North Sea off the Belgian coast. One measure included allowing ‘alternative seabed-impacting fishing gear’, which could have given the green light to the highly controversial practice of electric pulse fishing inside a protected area. Pulse trawl fishing is something Irish coastal communities have been very vocal against; electric fishing has been banned in many parts of the world already.
Negotiations for a new EU-ACP Partnership Agreement (B8-0274/2018)
. – I voted in favour of this resolution, which is the Parliament’s input into the Commission’s negotiations with the African, Caribbean and Pacific states for a new EU-ACP partnership agreement that will replace the problematic Cotonou Agreement.The resolution is good in that it calls for anti-poverty measures and meeting the UN Sustainable Development Goals to be the key goal of the agreement, while criticising the Commission’s current text on migration.Importantly, the resolution also questions the role of economic partnership agreements between the EU and ACP states, which have often been exploitative.I voted in favour of amendments urging the Commission to promote transparency, and combating tax avoidance. I voted against an amendment from the EPP that states that the existing Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) between the EU and ACP states are a means for development, as this is inaccurate and damaging. The EPAs should not be incorporated into this general development partnership agreement.
Monitoring the application of EU law 2016 (A8-0197/2018 - Kostas Chrysogonos)
. – I voted against this report, which takes stock of the application and transposition of EU law in the Member States. In general there were a number of good elements in the report, including an in—depth look at how EU laws were failing to address issues such as the gender pay gap, gender and LGBT discrimination in practice. There were also strong calls for the European Social Pillar to be delivered through legislation, as well as references to the fact that many Member States are discarding their obligations with regard to asylum and migration.Unfortunately, the final text that was voted on included a paragraph criticising discrimination practiced on the basis of the official languages of a Member State in schools and public administration. The report viewed this as an obstacle to free movement. In Ireland, it is vital that the Irish language continues to be promoted in our public institutions. This means the continuation of certain language obligations with regard to members of the Gardaí, teachers and other sectors of our public administration. It is inappropriate for a Parliamentary Report to include calls that will in practice have far reaching consequences for the protection of national and minority languages.
Composition of the European Parliament (A8-0207/2018 - Danuta Maria Hübner, Pedro Silva Pereira)
. – We voted against this recommendation. This recommendation was in relation to the draft council decision on the composition of the European Parliament for the period 2019-2024. The major theme of this recommendation focused on the new distribution of MEP seats after Brexit. Much like our position on the European Parliament Report of 7 February 2018, we were against this recommendation as it advocates that the south of Ireland would be allocated 13 MEP seats in the next European Parliamentary term. Whilst an increase of seats in the south of Ireland is to be welcomed, in real terms, since the north will be losing three seats, it means that the island of Ireland will lose a seat in the European Parliament. This represents a diminution of citizens’ rights caused by Brexit through a reduction of democratic representation. Sinn Féin believes that the north must retain its voice in the European Parliament post-Brexit, and the Taoiseach has a responsibility to ensure that these seats are allocated to the north of Ireland. Sinn Féin believes that Brexit cannot mean a reduction of representation in the European Parliament for any citizen in the island of Ireland. Therefore we voted against this recommendation.
Insolvency proceedings: updated annexes to the Regulation (A8-0174/2018 - Tadeusz Zwiefka)
. – I voted in favour of this report. It is a technical proposal to amend the annex of the regulation on insolvency proceedings in order to incorporate several updates from Member States. Portugal, Croatia, Latvia and Bulgaria have all notified the Council about recent changes they have made in their domestic laws, introducing new types of insolvency proceedings or practitioners. This report updates the existing regulation in order to take these changes into account.The underlying regulation does not apply to Ireland, which has applied to be exempt from the common insolvency framework. The report clarifies this in the text, so I voted in favour as it is a purely technical update that respects Ireland’s exemption.
EU-Iceland Agreement on supplementary rules for external borders and visas for 2014-2020 (A8-0196/2018 - Anders Primdahl Vistisen)
. – I abstained on this report. Although I have taken into consideration the positive human rights record and policing methods within Iceland, I have concerns with regard to the Internal Security Fund and a number of other measures included in these agreements. The report calls for countries to ensure a high and uniform level of control at the external borders, including by tackling illegal immigration. It also calls for supplementary rules for external borders and visas and robust levels of law enforcement at borders. The measures discussed here and language used completely dehumanise the very dangerous situation refugees and migrants face when they present themselves at border. Amnesty International have called on Iceland to accept more refugees, including through resettlement and relocation programs, and it is vital that those countries, by virtue of the Internal Security Fund, are not enabling the lowering or ignoring of human rights, which includes treatment of refugees and asylum seekers.
EU-Switzerland Agreement on supplementary rules for external borders and visas for 2014-2020 (A8-0195/2018 - Claude Moraes)
. – We abstained on this report. Although we have taken into consideration the positive human rights record and policing methods in the Swiss Confederation, we have concerns with regard to the Internal Security Fund and a number of other measures included in these agreements.The report calls for countries to ensure a high and uniform level of control at the external borders, including by tackling illegal immigration. It also calls for supplementary rules for external borders and visas and for robust law enforcement at borders. The measures discussed here and language used completely dehumanise the very dangerous situation that refugees and migrants face when they present themselves at a border.European countries should be focusing on resettlement and relocation programmes, and it is vital that these countries are not, by virtue of the Internal Security Fund, enabling human rights to be eroded or ignored, including in the treatment of refugees and asylum seekers.
Implementation of the remaining provisions of the Schengen acquis relating to the Schengen Information System in Bulgaria and Romania (A8-0192/2018 - Monica Macovei)
. – We voted against this report, which advocates lifting the remaining restrictions concerning the use of the Schengen Information System (SIS) by Bulgaria and Romania. These SIS alerts are for the purposes of refusing entry or stay. We take issue with cooperation on ‘law-enforcement and border control’ in so far as the treatment of refugees, asylum-seekers and migrants is concerned, with the use of forced returns and entry bans.Amnesty International’s 2017/18 report in respect of Bulgaria highlights how summary detentions, pushbacks and abuses at the border continue, in spite of European efforts to prevent this type of treatment. The necessary services are not being provided to migrants and refugees, including unaccompanied children, and migrants are often subjected to a climate of xenophobia and intolerance.There have been reports, again, of excessive use of force by border police, and of theft. Human rights organisations have documented numerous allegations of ill-treatment of refugees and asylum-seekers, as well as substandard conditions in detention facilities, concerns about the summary return of persons to Turkey, and the use of physical force. A similar report by Amnesty International on Romania referenced overcrowding in prisons and poor conditions in detention centres, as well as failures to uphold the fundamental rights of minorities.
Cohesion policy and the circular economy (A8-0184/2018 - Davor Škrlec)
. – We voted against this report. Whilst there is a sturdy commitment in this report to the protection of the environment in line with international agreements such as the Paris agreement, the reduction of waste, and the offsetting of the rural decline, we could not endorse this report due to several recommendations which clearly over step the line in terms of the EU’s competences.To the critical detriment of the report, it recommends an ‘appropriate EU-level taxation as part of the own resources of the next multi-annual financial framework’ which is something that Sinn Féin is categorically opposed to. Sinn Féin believes that we all have a responsibility for the planet, the protection of the environment, and to use our natural resources in a sensible, and sustainable way. While there are many actions that we believe can and should be taken at EU level to combat climate change, we do not support EU-level taxation.
Further macro-financial assistance to Ukraine (A8-0183/2018 - Jarosław Wałęsa)
. – This is the fourth time the European Commission has requested the Parliament’s ‘urgent’ consent to macro-financial assistance to Ukraine since 2014. Approval of this loan would bring the debt faced by Ukraine with regard to the EU to EUR 3.4bn. Sinn Féin has in the past been critical of this process of increasing debt and imposing IMF economic reform conditionality on loans which do not guarantee sustainable development.On this occasion we have further concerns about Ukraine’s failure to take anti-corruption measures that were a conditionality on previous loan packages. In fact, failure to take such measures resulted in the last tranche of funding behind withheld on the previous round. There are ongoing issues in Ukraine involving politicians at the highest levels, as well as the harassment of anti-corruption campaigners. It is vital that these issues are resolved before further assistance is given.
Negotiations on the modernisation of the EU-Chile Association Agreement (A8-0158/2018 - Charles Tannock)
. – We voted against this report, which concerns the EU association agreement with Chile. There are many areas in which international cooperation is needed, such as on climate change, human rights, and development. This report unfortunately represents a continuation of the EU’s push for neoliberal trade deals: it calls for ‘free and open trade’ and welcomes the possibility of free-trade agreements between the EU and Mercosur, and other such agreements.The report also calls for the EU further to emphasise anti-migrant and military policies as part of the association agreement, increasing, for example, EU military cooperation with Chile.
EU-NATO relations (A8-0188/2018 - Ioan Mircea Paşcu)
. – I voted against this report which calls for a further militarisation of the EU through more military cooperation with NATO. This report calls on the EU to increase its role in global militarism and ensuring that EU policies complement NATO efforts.This report seeks to make the EU a military union; it highlights ways in which the European Defence Fund and Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) can be used to increase the EU’s military presence in NATO missions.The report also calls for data—sharing between the EU and NATO, ignoring the right to privacy of EU citizens, particularly citizens of non—NATO Member States such as Ireland.
Cyber defence (A8-0189/2018 - Urmas Paet)
. – I voted against this report which calls for the EU to develop offensive cyber—capabilities which would give the EU the ability to engage in cyber—attacks. This goes far beyond defensive measures and would see the EU acting aggressively towards non-Member States.The report calls for cyber—defence measures to be coordinated at an EU level without first assessing whether or not national cyber—defence measures would benefit from this coordination.This is an effort to use the legitimate concerns around cybersecurity to advance the militarisation of Europe instead of actually addressing the challenges posed by cyber—attacks. The recommendations in this report will only increase militarisation, they will not make the EU any safer.
State of play of recreational fisheries in the EU (A8-0191/2018 - Norica Nicolai)
. – We voted in favour of this text. Sinn Féin tabled amendments that passed in committee and which highlighted the need to protect artisanal small-scale fishermen to ensure their survival and generational replacement in the face of any expansion of recreational activity. The development of recreational fishing activities must not mean a reduction in professional fishing opportunities or a sharing of scarce resources between professional and recreational activities.The text goes to great lengths to create a fair definition of recreational fisheries and to draw a distinction between recreational fisheries and semi-substance fishing. This difference is important if we want to avoid IUU fishing hiding under recreational fisheries.The report calls for financing for the development of recreational fisheries in the tourism sector and for a common database of fishery resources to be made accessible to researchers and used through the EMFF.From an environmental perspective as well, the text acknowledges the impact that recreational fisheries can have on freshwater ecosystems in terms of possible contamination of non-indigenous species in waterways frequented by anglers.
Clearing obligation, reporting requirements and risk-mitigation techniques for OTC derivatives and trade repositories (A8-0181/2018 - Werner Langen)
. – We voted against this report, and against the Commission’s proposal.The European Market Infrastructures Regulation (EMIR) was enacted in 2012 and aimed to address systemic risks on the derivatives market in the wake of the financial crisis of 2007-2008. Unregulated trade in OTC derivatives was at the heart of the global financial crisis. The Commission proposed a review of EMIR on 4 May 2017 as part of its Regulatory Fitness and Performance (REFIT) programme.The Commission’s proposal aimed to simplify the requirements of EMIR for those engaged in trading in and clearing derivatives.The Commission proposal is an attempt to deregulate the derivatives market in the name of reducing the administrative burden and costs for market participants. The rapporteur’s approach was to take this even further by including the demands of the industry for more exemptions and fewer reporting requirements, and for weaker obligations when it comes to the clearing of derivatives. The impact of these changes will be to make the financial system in the EU less stable and more vulnerable to a future crisis caused by loosely regulated trade in derivatives.
Common rules in the field of civil aviation and European Union Aviation Safety Agency (A8-0364/2016 - Marian-Jean Marinescu)
. – The proposal is a review of European Aviation Safety Agency’s framework regulation, which dictates its remit, future implementation, management and funding.The new proposal would introduce risk and performance rules and close safety gaps in cyber security. The report calls for clear safety regulations for civil unmanned aircraft (civil drones) specifically the need for mandatory registration for higher risk civil drone operations, for the aircraft to have a registration number on it to indicate the owner, and to protect privacy. It calls for drones to be forbidden in military, airport, nuclear and chemical plant areas.However, the proposal includes pooling of aviation inspectors and experts across Member States and granting extra responsibilities to the European Aviation Safety Agency. The report focuses on harmonisation and liberalisation of the sector. As we do not wish to remove powers from national aviation authorities regardless of the reports good points, we chose to abstain on the report.
CO2 emissions from and fuel consumption of new heavy-duty vehicles (A8-0010/2018 - Damiano Zoffoli)
. – We voted in favour of the agreement at Trilogue and the Commission statement. The agreement attempts to certify, monitor and record CO2 emission and fuel consumption figures, as is being done for cars and vans, by establishing a mandatory EU wide system for monitoring and reporting of CO2 emissions and fuel consumption from heavy duty vehicles (HDVs) by manufacturers. The Commission is proposing establishing a software for obtaining comparable figures for heavy vehicles, a ‘certification regulation’ and, aims to set CO2 targets for this sector. The agreement also makes certain data reported under the Regulation publically available via a register managed by the European Environment Agency. The Commission has agreed to come forward with a proposal on heavy-duty vehicle CO2 standards this year, which is also promised in the Commission statements.
Modernisation of education in the EU (A8-0173/2018 - Krystyna Łybacka)
. – I voted in favour of this non-legislative report on the Modernisation of Education in the EU. This report includes recommendations from the Culture and Education Committee to the European Commission following the release of their Communication on higher education, school development and quality teaching. The report calls for the development of quality education by encouraging cooperation between Member States and facilitating the exchange of information and experiences to consider innovative and improving measures, where appropriate. The report contains a number of recommendations on how to improve the quality of education in Member States, whilst that education is a Member State competency.For these reasons, I voted in favour in the report.
Towards a sustainable and competitive European aquaculture sector (A8-0186/2018 - Carlos Iturgaiz)
. – On this file, I abstained. I agreed with parts of the report that stated that responsible and sustainable aquaculture has a role in contributing to long-term food security alongside growth and employment and the socio-economic benefits that this entails in rural coastal areas.However, I had concerns about the references to culling and reviewing the conservational status of certain animal species that are protected; hence, we abstained instead of voting in favour.
Odometer manipulation in motor vehicles: revision of the EU legal framework (A8-0155/2018 - Ismail Ertug)
. – We voted in favour of this report to create an EU legal framework to prevent odometer manipulation in motor vehicles.30-50% of all cars in cross-border trade are affected by odometer fraud, which threatens safety and adds additional cost to consumers.The report aims to create legal, technical and operational barriers to odometer manipulation. It calls for odometer data to be collected at NCTs, and maintenance visits at garages. It calls for this data on mileage to be available cross—border so if someone buys a car in another EU country they will have a safeguard that the odometer has not been tampered with. The report calls for Member States to use EUCARIS (European CAR and driving license Information System), an already existing database, which can be used for a cost—effective exchange of odometer readings.Any data collected will follow the rules of European data protection, and only be practiced for preventing odometer manipulation and with the highest level of cyber—protection.Considering that the data will only focus on odometers, which is a problem in predominantly cross—border purchases, we voted in favour of the report.
Union Civil Protection Mechanism (A8-0180/2018 - Elisabetta Gardini)
. – We abstained on this report. The Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM) was established in 2001 to improve the EU response to natural and man—made disasters inside and outside Europe. It intervenes in different kind of emergencies: wildfires, floods, marine pollution, earthquakes, hurricanes and industrial accidents. Any country in the world, the UN and other relevant international organisations can request assistance through the mechanism. However, the UCPM still relies on a voluntary system of mutual assistance and on capacities offered by the Member States, which has proven to be a limitation for the forest fires of 2017, and so the Commission has proposed to amend it.The report focuses particularly on prevention and response to man-made disasters, industrial pollution and natural disasters and aims to simplify and strengthen the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism. While we support the intentions behind the report there is still an issue with subsidiarity, conferring a strategic coordination role to the Commission. This allows the Commission to decide on deployment and retaining operational command and control of operations. Sinn Féin supports coordinated action for assistance during disasters, but the Commission must not be handed additional strategic powers.
Connecting Europe facility after 2020 (RC-B8-0242/2018, B8-0242/2018, B8-0243/2018, B8-0245/2018, B8-0246/2018, B8-0247/2018)
. – We voted against this motion which welcomes the creation of an EU defence union, claiming it would have a beneficial impact on infrastructure, and calls on the Commission to use EU transport and energy funding on defence infrastructure. We voted against this report as we believe EU funding should be spent on citizens alone, not on promoting the militarisation of Europe.We instead supported the GUE/NGL alternative motion which calls for funding allocation for transport projects that are sustainable for the climate and environment. Sinn Féin believes EU transport policy should be used to strengthen the infrastructure of peripheral regions and address missing transport links.
Situation in Nicaragua (RC-B8-0244/2018, B8-0244/2018, B8-0248/2018, B8-0249/2018, B8-0250/2018, B8-0251/2018, B8-0252/2018, B8-0253/2018)
. – We voted against the joint motion for resolution because it does not reflect a balanced analysis of the situation in Nicaragua. The resolution levels blame firmly at the Government for the loss of life in recent weeks. The protests began as a rejection of proposed cuts of 5% to pensions, as required due to the difficult economic situation the country is undergoing. The Government responded to the wishes of the protestors by scrapping the proposed cuts, but the protests have continued. The resolution ignores the murder of police officers, looting of business and confrontational element to the protests, where homemade arms are visible.It further ignores the efforts of the Government to resolve the dispute through mediation and the establishment of a witness commission, to investigate police overreaction. Sinn Féin defends the right of the Nicaraguan people to peaceful protest and calls for an immediate end to aggression on both sides. Sinn Féin wishes to see justice for the victims and for the Government to ensure the freedom of the press is protected in all cases. On this basis, Sinn Féin supported the draft motion for resolution, put forward by the GUE/NGL group, as a more accurate reflection of the situation.
Gender equality and women's empowerment: transforming the lives of girls and women through EU external relations 2016-2020 (A8-0167/2018 - Linda McAvan, Dubravka Šuica)
. – We voted in favour of this report which discusses how EU external relations can advance gender equality and female empowerment. The report calls for advancement of the Gender Action Plan II, encourages DG TRADE to implement gender mainstreaming in any trade deals, welcomes the EU-UN global gender initiative to address female genital mutilation, early forced marriage and human trafficking, calls for support for sexual and reproductive health and rights, and improve the implementation of the EU LGBTIQ+ Guidelines.We note parts of the report aim to promote female participation in the EU military which we oppose – we do not believe participation in any military is the correct way to achieve female empowerment. However, as the report was predominantly progressive, we voted in favour.
Implementation of the EU Youth Strategy (A8-0162/2018 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial)
. – We voted to abstain on the Implementation of the EU Youth Strategy report as despite recognising that youth NEET remains a significant problem in Europe, and notes as such the Youth Strategy has fallen short of its objectives, the report also claims the EU Youth Strategy has had a substantial positive impact without adequately supporting this claim. Furthermore the report revived the idea of an e-card which we oppose.Positives include the report’s criticism of austerity, lack of clear benchmarking, highlighting short-comings at the national level, and ongoing inequality despite economic growth.Ultimately, we could not vote in favour of the report as it portrayed the EU Youth Strategy in an overly positive light without sufficient evidence.
Implementation of the Ecodesign Directive (A8-0165/2018 - Frédérique Ries)
. – We voted in favour of this report. This is an implementation INI report that enhances the evolution from energy savings to resource efficiency according to the principles of circular economy, and so it broadens the scope of the directive. The report acknowledges that the Ecodesign Directive has being a successful instrument for the improvement of energy efficiency and recommends that the Commission includes more product groups. The report recommends improvements to market surveillance. It tries to ensure consistency and convergence between Ecodesign regulations and horizontal regulations such as Union legislation on chemicals and waste, and to increase synergies with Green Public Procurement and the EU Ecolabel. The report requests that the general public needs to have clear information about the benefits of Ecodesign.
Responding to petitions on tackling precariousness and the abusive use of fixed-term contracts (B8-0238/2018)
. – This resolution is a response to numerous petitions received by the European Parliament about the growth of precariousness of work across Europe, and a hearing the issue was held in the Petitions Committee last November.Overall, it is a good resolution, highlighting and criticising the significant growth of precariousness, the often gendered nature of this work, and in particular the serious abuse of fixed-term contracts. It calls on the Commission and Member States to work together with all social partners – particularly trade unions – to combat all forms of precarious employment, including zero hour contracts.On a number of points the resolution is overly supportive of the idea that EU law and European Court of Justice jurisprudence – if fully implemented – would solve these problems. EU law, however, contains numerous shortcomings and problems concerning workers’ rights. This was only a minor part of what was a generally good text, however.We therefore voted in favour of the resolution.
Mobilisation of the EU Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Greece, Spain, France and Portugal (A8-0175/2018 - José Manuel Fernandes)
. – We voted in favour of this report as it seeks to provide assistance to Greece, Spain, France and Portugal. Regions in these countries have been struck with severe natural disasters and this report will mobilise the European Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to those regions. The report highlights the extent of the damage caused to the various regions mentioned and clearly shows the need for the mobilisation of the fund. The proposed mobilisation requires an amendment to the 2018 budget and a draft amending budget (N°1/2018), aiming at increasing budget line 13 06 01 by EUR 97 646 105 both in commitment and payment appropriations. Sinn Féin welcomes this report as it shows solidarity to those affected by these disasters and aims at helping people recover in the aftermath of the natural disasters.
Draft amending budget No 1/2018 accompanying the proposal to mobilise the EU Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Greece, Spain, France and Portugal (C8-0181/2018)
. – We voted in favour of this report as it seeks to approve the amendment to the 2018 budget relating the mobilisation of European Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Greece, Spain, France and Portugal. The mobilisation of the fund for this purpose shows solidarity with the victims of these natural disasters and Sinn Féin is fully in favour of it.
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2018/000 TA 2018 - Technical assistance at the initiative of the Commission (A8-0172/2018 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial)
. – We voted in favour of this report to mobilise EUR 350 000 from the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund to provide technical assistance to the Commission. The technical assistance provided entails data gathering and monitoring to eventually create EGF websites; along with technical assistance to Member States. This would mean greater ease of access for Member States seeking to apply. We support the continued work to standardise application procedures for the fund and thus increase the speed at which the relief for workers can be accessed. The report underlines liaising between the fund and those at national, regional and local level; we welcome this increase in synergies. The fund itself helps those affected negatively by globalisation and Sinn Féin welcomes the increase in ease of access and availability to the fund.
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: genetically modified maize GA21 (MON-ØØØ21-9) (D056125) (B8-0232/2018)
. – We voted in favour of this objection. This is the latest objection brought forward by the European Parliament to the Commission’s GMO authorisation, again on the grounds that the implementing powers in the basic act are being exceeded. The genetically modified crop in question confers tolerance to glyphosate and would consequently be exposed to higher dosages of the chemical. This would influence the composition of plants and have adverse effects on biodiversity and soil quality, not to mention on human and animal health, while also paving the way for vast monocultures. Sinn Féin opposes the current authorisation procedure because it is non-democratic, a point also criticised by President Juncker, and supports the ongoing objections through the European Parliament.
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: genetically modified maize 1507 × 59122 × MON 810 × NK603, and genetically modified maize combining two or three of the single events 1507, 59122, MON 810 and NK603 (D056123) (B8-0233/2018)
. – We voted in favour of this objection. This is the latest objection to have been brought forward by the European Parliament to the Commission’s GMO authorisation, again on the grounds that the implementing powers in the basic act are being exceeded. The genetically modified crop in question confers tolerance to glyphosate and would consequently be exposed to higher dosages of the chemical. This would influence the composition of plants and have adverse effects on biodiversity and soil quality, not to mention on human and animal health, while also paving the way for vast monocultures. Sinn Féin opposes the current authorisation procedure because it is non-democratic, a point also criticised by President Juncker, and supports the ongoing objections through the European Parliament.
Conformity of fisheries products with access criteria to the EU market (A8-0156/2018 - Linnéa Engström)
. – We voted to abstain.Positive elements include the call for a limit on access to the market for those guilty of illegal fishing, and requiring third countries (with which the EU has trade relations) to ratify and implement effectively key international fishery instruments. It is not fair or justifiable that the sale of Irish seafood products, especially domestically, should be negatively impacted by imported products from producers and suppliers who do not respect or conform to the same rules as Irish fishermen.However, the report also calls for a more centralised controls regulation and increased sanction capacity; and for the extension of the European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA)’s powers. This goes against regionalisation and the decentralisation of responsibilities to Member States. We oppose any further centralisation of powers to institutions in this regard, as it is at the expense of Irish decision making.
The future of food and farming (A8-0178/2018 - Herbert Dorfmann)
. – We voted in favour of this report because, although it has many glaring failures, it would be unwise to block its adoption, given that it contains some elements that would improve the lives of farmers. The report calls for a move away from the current system of historic entitlements: such a move would improve the situation of young farmers and reduce inequality between farmers in the EU.The report recognises the need for a strong budget in the face of current challenges to the sector, such as trade deals and Brexit. On that basis, it calls for the current budget allocation to be at least maintained. The report contains other positives such as proposals to deal with generation renewal and a new architecture framework.However, it is disappointing that the report was not more ambitious. The measures proposed only scratch the surface when looking at inequality between farmers and the challenges faced by young farmers. It is clear the rapporteur did not wish to have a radical impact on the status quo. Sinn Fein believes that tweaking an unjust system will not deliver sufficient change in the short to medium term.
Interpretation and implementation of the Interinstitutional Agreement on Better Law-Making (A8-0170/2018 - Pavel Svoboda, Richard Corbett)
. – We abstained on this report, which takes stock of the implementation of the Interinstitutional Agreement (IIA) on better law-making, which was adopted in April 2016. There are several positive elements of the report, such as strong calls for increased transparency and traceability in the decision-making processes of the EU institutions, including reaffirming the right of public access to documents, and for better impact assessments that include examining the social and environmental impact of proposals. However, it also promotes aspects of the IIA that we are critical of, such as the annual burden survey (which is often used to cut workers’ rights and environmental standards in the name of ‘cutting red tape’) and the promotion of secondary legislation – giving the Commission power to adopt delegated regulations that have minimal democratic oversight. Due to the inclusion of these negative aspects we could not fully support the report, and abstained.
2021-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework and own resources (B8-0239/2018, B8-0240/2018, B8-0241/2018)
. – We voted against the joint resolution of EPP, S&D, ALDE and the Greens as the resolution supports a larger MFF in financial terms to the one proposed by the Commission and supports expanded and new EU own resources. It also failed to oppose the unprecedented Militarisation of the EU that this MFF proposal entails.We voted against the GUE/NGL resolution despite it containing many points we support, such as its rejection of the European Defence Fund and cuts to socially beneficial programmes such as CAP and Cohesion. This was due to the fact that the resolution calls in a number of paragraphs for both a substantially increased budget and new own resources.
Recommendation to the Council, the Commission and the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative on Libya (A8-0159/2018 - Pier Antonio Panzeri)
. – We voted against this report which calls for continued cooperation between the EU and Libya to prevent refugees from reaching Europe. It calls for more EU military involvement with a focus on preventing refugees from fleeing conflict, rather than on saving lives.The report makes no mention of the disastrous impact of EU and US intervention in Libya in creating the current crisis.It also supports cooperation with the Libyan Coast Guard despite their clear evidence of human rights abuses.
Annual Report on the functioning of the Schengen area (A8-0160/2018 - Carlos Coelho)
. – I voted against this report. Whilst there was some positive elements of the text, such as a commitment to the principle of non-refoulement, the need for a search and rescue operation and the fact that detention is never in the best interest of a child, the overwhelming body of the report was regressive. This report contains worrying sentiments, such as the control of ‘irregular migration’, in addition to the enhancement of return policies and EU co-operation with third countries, which demonstrates a clear intention to stem the flow of refugees and migration into the EU.None of these issues are arguably related to the actual subject of the report, and it additionally recommends the introduction of biometric search capacities, which is a fundamental offence to freedom of movement. It is clear that any attempt which intends to stem the flows of refugees and migrants is counterproductive and morally wrong.
Minimum standards on the rights, support and protection of victims of crime (A8-0168/2018 - Teresa Jiménez-Becerril Barrio, Angelika Mlinar)
. – I voted in favour of this report because it makes a progressive approach to helping the victims of violence and recommends that criminal justice systems should be centred around the victim, so as to ensure the empowerment of victims. It is clear that when victims of violence deal with criminal justice systems whist they are empowered, the chances that they are repeatedly victimised or intimidated are mitigated – as indeed is the trauma from having to relive past experiences.The report strongly recommends that all Member States fully transpose the directive for establishing the minimum standards of rights, support and protection of victims of crime. It also recommends that victim support services should be set up throughout the EU, that there should be accessibility to women’s shelters and centres free at the point of need, and it urges all Member States to fully ratify and implement the Istanbul Convention. Sinn Féin has consistently called for the ratification of the Istanbul Convention, as we have a responsibility to face up to the scale of the problem of violence, particularity violence towards women, in our society.
Annual report on the implementation of the Common Commercial Policy (A8-0166/2018 - Tokia Saïfi)
. – I voted against this report, which was an appraisal of the European Commission’s Trade Policy two years on from its Trade for All strategy.The Trade for All strategy made numerous commitments related to transparency which have yet to be realised, meanwhile there has been a significant intensification of negotiations with limited to little debate. Sinn Féin is highly critical of Agreements such as TiSA and Mercosur, as well as the inclusion of proposals for a Multilateral Investment Court in a number of other agreements. This report gives political support to a number of agreements which have yet to be debated or ratified by national parliaments, as well calling for the speeding up of other negotiations.The report speaks against any form of protection for national sectors, even those the most vulnerable to competition. It also incorrectly labels the CCP as a value-based policy, despite it being the opposite of that for developing countries and when it comes to the pushing for the protection of human rights with others.
Fishing mortality ranges and safeguard levels for certain herring stocks in the Baltic Sea (A8-0149/2018 - Alain Cadec)
Statistics of goods transport by inland waterways (codification) (A8-0154/2018 - Lidia Joanna Geringer de Oedenberg)
EU-Switzerland Agreement on the cumulation of origin between the EU, Switzerland, Norway and Turkey in the framework of the Generalised System of Preferences (A8-0151/2018 - Tiziana Beghin)
. – This agreement provides the legal basis for changes brought in by the reform of the General System of Preferences (GSP) in 2010 for Switzerland. The reform replaced the former system of certificates of origin (by Form A) by a new registered exporters (REX) system. The new system cuts out a lot of paperwork and agencies.It also provides the legal basis for the new system of cumulation of origin whereby GSP countries incorporate materials from destination countries in their final products in order to benefit from increased preferential terms when exporting.The new system is actually already in place, having been negotiated over an exchange of letters a few years ago; however, this report gives consent to the proper legal tool for application.Since this Report regularises structures already in place for the simplification of procedures for GSP countries, I voted in favour.
EU-Norway Agreement on the cumulation of origin between the EU, Switzerland, Norway and Turkey in the framework of the Generalised System of Preferences (A8-0152/2018 - Tiziana Beghin)
. – This agreement provides the legal basis for changes brought in by the reform of the General System of Preferences (GSP) in 2010 for Norway. The reform replaced the former system of certificates of origin (by Form A) by a new registered exporters (REX) system. The new system cuts out a lot of paperwork and agencies.It also provides the legal basis for the new system of cumulation of origin whereby GSP countries incorporate materials from destination countries in their final products in order to benefit from increased preferential terms when exporting.The new system is actually already in place, having been negotiated over an exchange of letters a few years ago, however this Report gives consent to the proper legal tool for application.Since this Report regularises structures already in place for the simplification of procedures for GSP countries, we voted in favour.
EU-Norway Agreement on administrative cooperation, combating fraud and recovery of claims in the field of Value Added Tax (A8-0147/2018 - Miguel Viegas)
. – We voted in favour of this report to approve the Commission’s agreement with Norway on administrative cooperation between the EU and Norway when it comes to combating fraud through VAT. We support administrative cooperation such as the automatic exchange of information and cooperation between the Financial Intelligence Units among EU Member States in the area of tax evasion and potential financial crime, including in the field of VAT, and this agreement extends a similar agreement to the EU and Norway, which is part of the European Economic Area.
Optimisation of the value chain in the EU fishing sector (A8-0163/2018 - Clara Eugenia Aguilera García)
. – We voted in favour of this file as it calls for better added value to fish products and more influence to fish producer organisations in the supply chains. It also references better promotion of local seafood products in order to boost domestic consumption, which would advance a circular economy.The report also acknowledges the unsecure and uncertain conditions that fishermen work in and calls for fairer quotas and stricter and more accurate labelling, especially with regard to protected designations of origin and protected geographical indications in the coastal areas.
Implementation of CAP young farmers’ tools in the EU after the 2013 reform (A8-0157/2018 - Nicola Caputo)
. – We voted in favour of this report because it has a number of positive elements that, if implemented, could be beneficial for young farmers. The report highlights the challenges faced by young farmers such as access to land. This major issue is the result of problems in the transition of land from old farmers to young. The report calls for increased support in helping farmers to develop farm succession plans and it suggests a re-examination of the farmer retirement scheme.The report is also critical of farm entitlements, as the system of buying and selling of those entitlements creates a market to the detriment of young farmers. It is unfortunate that the report put forward loans as an answer to the plight of young farmers when starting out, and it fails to examine why young people may be dissuaded from entering the sector, for reasons such as unprofitability. Sinn Féin believes a holistic approach must be taken when dealing with the challenges faced by young farmers. This approach would include examinations into why entering the sector is undesirable, the inability to gain entitlements and the reasons why older farmers are reluctant to pass on entitlements.
Multiannual plan for demersal stocks in the North Sea and the fisheries exploiting those stocks (A8-0263/2017 - Ulrike Rodust)
. – We voted against this file as we shared the concerns of Irish fishermen and NGOs about its content. From an environmental stance, it contains elements that are contrary to United Nation Sustainable Development Goal 14, which emphasises the need to address the impact of overfishing and marine pollution and to safeguard and conserve for sustainable use of the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development. It also expresses concern for the future existence of small-scale fisheries.We also voted against this file because the European Commission failed to respond to Sinn Féin requests for information for fishermen and for clarification on whether this Regulation and its replacement would also apply to Irish waters and whether it is intended to be exercised anywhere other than the North Sea and adjacent waters, as the provisional agreement states that the scope of the provisions of the plan relating to targets and safeguards for stocks that are mainly exploited in the North Sea should be extended for those areas outside the North Sea.
Posting of workers in the framework of the provision of services (A8-0319/2017 - Elisabeth Morin-Chartier, Agnes Jongerius)
. – A posted worker is one who remains attached to the labour market rules of their previous Member State, isn’t deemed to be integrated into the labour market of a host Member State, and therefore is not ensured the same rights and conditions as local workers.This is an obvious mechanism for exploitation, and this revision of the Posting of Workers Directive has not turned it into a clear instrument for social protection of posted workers. It will also certainly not solve the wider issue of social dumping in Europe.While some important issues, including subcontracting and road transport workers, were not included in the revision, this is nevertheless an improvement of the existing directive.The balance has been slightly shifted in favour of better conditions for posted workers which in some Member States could mean a smaller wage gap and less room for exploitation by companies.Key wins included a new definition on remuneration, so that all of the host country’s rules on remuneration, as set by law or collective agreements, should apply to posted workers, and the extension of sectoral and local collective agreements to posted workers.I therefore voted in favour of the updated directive.
Management, conservation and control measures applicable in the Convention Area of the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (A8-0377/2017 - Linnéa Engström)
. – I voted in favour of the transposition of Conservation and Management Measures (CMM) from the South Pacific covering a range of matters from illegal fishing to measures to protecting biodiversity, these are significant issues in the South Pacific which has suffered greatly from illegal, unregulated fishing and damage to marine biodiversity.
Sustainable finance (A8-0164/2018 - Molly Scott Cato)
. – I voted in favour of this very positive (non-legislative) report, which contains a lot of cutting-edge thinking on changing practices in the banking and finance sectors to develop ‘sustainable finance’, focused mainly on combating climate change but also at ensuring other environmental and social factors are brought to the forefront of decision-making processes on investment by banks, funds and financial instruments.The report acknowledges and praises the moves by financial institutions to date to divest from coal, and urges divestment from other fossil fuels. It calls for the introduction of a green finance mark in the EU, and makes a comprehensive and ambitious set of proposals to change every sector of finance to ensure it considers sustainability – in the ECB’s asset purchasing programmes, capital adequacy requirements, green bonds and many more areas - to actively promote good environmental and social governance in this sector.
The 2017 EU Justice Scoreboard (A8-0161/2018 - Jytte Guteland)
. – The EU Justice Scoreboard is an annual exercise, which gives an overview of the independence, quality and efficiency of national justice systems. The Report being voted on today gives an opinion on the data gathered by the Commission and provides ways to improve the gathering of that data.Positive aspects include calls for justice systems to deal with case backlogs, the need for more focus on mediation and ADR, gender balance in the judiciary, the need for increased use of ICT and access to justice for vulnerable groups. This time there is also a section on the need for legal aid for applicants below the poverty threshold as well as the need for the Commission to start collecting data on collective redress procedures.Sinn Féin is currently engaged in pushing for reforms such as collective redress schemes at national level. It is vital that the justice system remains open for as many applicants and citizens as possible, and since this Report echoed that call, I voted in favour.
Protocol to the EU-Uzbekistan Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (accession of Croatia) (A8-0104/2018 - Jozo Radoš)
. – I voted in favour of this report, which was a technical measure to update the text of the Protocol to the EU-Uzbekistan Partnership and Cooperation Agreement to account for Croatia’s membership of the EU.The Partnership and Cooperation Agreement was adopted in 2011 before Croatia was an EU Member State. This vote was a technical revision to take Croatia’s EU membership into account.
EU-Korea Framework Agreement (accession of Croatia) (A8-0120/2018 - Tokia Saïfi)
Subjecting the new psychoactive substance ADB-CHMINACA to control measures (A8-0133/2018 - Maite Pagazaurtundúa Ruiz)
. – I voted in favour of implementing control measures on ADB-CHMINACA. This decision aims at preventing this harmful substance from being sold to consumers. Legal highs are lethal, toxic and, in some cases, more potent than drugs such as cocaine and have throughout Ireland and Europe caused deaths, destroyed families, and have caused severe illness and psychosis. Legal highs are used most commonly by people who are the victims of homelessness, young people in care, or prisoners, and Sinn Féin cannot stand by and allow these substances and their manufactures to exploit the most vulnerable in our societies.
Subjecting the new psychoactive substance CUMYL-4CN-BINACA to control measures (A8-0134/2018 - Maite Pagazaurtundúa Ruiz)
. – We voted in favour of implementing control measures on CUMYL-4CN-BINACA. This decision aims at preventing this harmful substance being sold to consumers. Legal highs are lethal, toxic and, in some cases, more potent than drugs such as cocaine, and throughout Ireland and Europe they have caused deaths, destroyed families and caused severe illness and psychosis. Legal highs are used most commonly by people who are the victims of homelessness, young people in care, and prisoners. Sinn Féin cannot stand by and allow the most vulnerable in our societies to be exploited through these substances and their manufacture.
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2017/010 BE/Caterpillar (A8-0148/2018 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial)
. – We voted in favour of this report to release funds and assist redundant workers’ reintegration into the workforce after they were let go by Caterpillar or their suppliers in Brussels.Recent changes in global trade patterns, a decrease in the cost of Chinese steel, lower labour costs in Asia and the fragility of Caterpillar’s market in Europe (it is dependent on public-private partnership investments in infrastructure, which have been greatly reduced) has meant that Caterpillar has relocated a number of its European factories to East Asia in order to be closer to their markets over there. This has led to the closure of its factory in Gosselies, next to Charleroi, Hainaut region, Belgium and 5 of its suppliers leaving 2 287 workers redundant. This region has already been hit with high levels of unemployment, deprivation and deindustrialisation.We voted in favour of this report because, while Sinn Féin does not in any way see the EGF as a solution to or compensation for destructive global trade patterns in their current form, it makes sense to use it to alleviate the suffering caused in regions which have suffered because of those patterns.
Annual report 2016 on the protection of EU’s financial interests - Fight against fraud (A8-0135/2018 - Gilles Pargneaux)
. – I voted to abstain on this report. There were a number of positive elements in terms of the need to improve the means of detecting fraud and to fight corruption. However, in its analysis on VAT fraud, the report welcomed the Commission’s proposal of moving to a single VAT area in the EU. This runs contrary to Sinn Féin’s position that Member States should have full autonomy on deciding and implementing taxation policies. While this is an important issue, due to the fact that the vast majority of the report was positive I abstained.
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: genetically modified sugar beet H7-1 (B8-0220/2018)
. – We voted in favour of this objection. This is the latest objection brought forward by the European Parliament against the Commission’s GMO authorisation, objected on the same grounds of exceeding the implementing powers in the basic act. The genetically modified crop in question confers tolerance to glyphosate and would consequently be exposed to higher dosages of the chemical. This would influence the composition of plants and have adverse effects on biodiversity and soil quality, not to mention on human and animal health, while also paving the way for vast monocultures. There is also a lack of scientific evidence from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) on the chemical residues and the composition of the plants. Sinn Féin opposes the current authorisation procedure due to it being non-democratic decision-making.
Annual report on the control of the financial activities of the European Investment Bank for 2016 (A8-0139/2018 - Marco Valli)
. – I voted in favour of this report due to its critical stance on transparency and accountability in the EIB. I support its calls for transparency of all operations and disclosure of all operational information on signed operations through the scoreboard of indicators. I support the view that there exists a lack of accountability in the EIB and a need to find ways to address it; such as the need for the Court of Auditors to step up its evaluations of EIB operations. Furthermore, it importantly notes the conflicts of interests to arising from a ‘revolving door’ policy between EIB top management and the private sector.This report also highlights key areas of oversight by EIB on environmental issues; such as the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline, and questions the overall cost-effectiveness of some of the banks operating activities. It calls on the EIB to foster financing of projects in alignment with its climate strategy and the Paris Agreement.For these reasons I voted in favour of the report.
Presidential elections in Venezuela (B8-0225/2018)
. – We voted against this resolution for two reasons. First, the resolution assumes that the outcome of a democratic process is illegitimate before a vote has even taken place. Sinn Féin believes the Venezuelan people are entitled to this opportunity to vote without EU interference. The resolution refuses to recognise the election, insists new elections occur on EU terms, calls for expanded EU sanctions against Venezuelan ministers, and demands Venezuela’s economic problems be ‘fixed’ using neoliberal agreements with the likes of the IMF and World Bank.Sinn Féin wishes to see a free and fair election take place in Venezuela, and for an end the recent crises. This should include maximum participation by opposition parties in the process and the opportunity for international election observation missions.Venezuela faces major economic and political challenges, where no side is blameless, and where more dialogue is necessary. This resolution was proposed at the last moment, and is intended to be a political statement. Sinn Féin does not support the EU delivering political messages, such as contained in this resolution, deliberately intended to influence the outcome of an election. It is imperative that the Venezuelan people are given the opportunity to decide for themselves, through democratic participation, whether the conditions for the vote are reasonable.
Cohesion policy and thematic objective ‘promoting sustainable transport and removing bottlenecks in key network infrastructures’ (A8-0136/2018 - Andrey Novakov)
. – I voted against this report. Its aim is to promote sustainable transport, however it aims to do this by praising public-private partnerships, and calling for the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) to serve as a platform for public-private partnerships. It calls for a fair balance between public and private investors in the sharing of profit and losses. The report calls for public guarantees for private investment, which Sinn Féin opposes. Its references to infrastructure and transport policy do not adhere to the climate objectives of the Paris Agreement. For these reasons I voted against the report.
Protection of children in migration (B8-0218/2018)
. – I voted in favour of this resolution as it acknowledges that the failure of Member States to install family reunification or guardianship programmes has resulted in children being exposed to trafficking, violence and exploitation. It highlights problems of access to education, accommodation and healthcare for children, as well as attesting that the vulnerability of each child is different, and must be accounted for. Sinn Féin is completely committed to the defence and promotion of children’s rights. We believe that in the context of migration and asylum that children should be treated first and foremost as children. Children’s interests must be defended, and Sinn Féin is committed to ensuring that children are protected from violence, abuse and exploitation.
A global ban on animal testing for cosmetics (B8-0217/2018)
. – I voted in favour of this resolution. This resolution recognises that, while the EU ban on animal testing in the cosmetics industry is an important step, there exists a wide loophole to avoid these welfare standards by way of imports. The resolution acknowledges the need for global action in this area, given that 80% of countries still allow animal testing in cosmetics. It holds that the EU should make sure that no product placed on the market has been tested on animals in a non-EU country. This resolution gives momentum for diplomatic drive to encourage the launch of an international convention within the UN framework, calling for a global ban to be in effect before 2023.
Current situation and future prospects for the sheep and goat sectors in the EU (A8-0064/2018 - Esther Herranz García)
. – We voted in favour of this report aimed at addressing problems faced by the sheep and goat sector. This sector is categorised by high economic vulnerabilities and is coming under increasing strain from decreasing consumption, along with the threat of competition from New Zealand and Australian imports. The UK’s departure will have a marked impact on Ireland’s sheep-farming sector, given that Ireland exports 80% of its production, of which 63% is sold on French and UK markets.The report calls for measures to strengthen the sector including voluntary coupled aid and other measures in the new CAP. It further calls for support to be maintained for young farmers and for measures to increase farmers’ bargaining position in the food chain.Furthermore, the report supports establishing an environmental payment to acknowledge the contribution made by sheep and goats to maintaining grassland areas by grazing.Sinn Féin does not believe it is appropriate to open up the Habitats Directive and reiterates that it is a landmark piece of environmental legislation that is fit for purpose but often suffers from insufficient implementation. Sinn Fein calls for the full implementation of this directive as a key effort to protect our biodiversity.
Media pluralism and media freedom in the European Union (A8-0144/2018 - Barbara Spinelli)
. – We voted in favour of this report as it focuses on the protection of freedom of opinion as an important attribute for a democratic and free society. The report notes the issues of fake news, cyberbullying and revenge porn as growing concerns, and seeks to ensure that any remedial action is adopted in specified, explicit and legitimate circumstances under strict judicial oversight. It also notes with extreme concern the rising trend of violence against journalists, especially with the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia in October last year.Sinn Féin has called for an independent, international investigation into this assassination. We believe that media and journalists should be free to investigate and report without fear of violence, and we condemn any attempt to violently coerce or threaten journalists as a method of censorship.
Common system of value added tax, with regard to the obligation to respect a minimum standard rate (A8-0124/2018 - Roberto Gualtieri)
. – I voted against this report, which proposes to extend the current system of a common minimum VAT rate in the EU of 15%. I voted against because I oppose the EU setting common tax rates as Member States should have the power to do this, and because VAT is a flat tax on consumption which penalises those on lower incomes. Member States should have the flexibility to set tax rates, exempt items from VAT if they choose and vary the VAT rates on certain goods.
Prevention of the use of the financial system for the purposes of money laundering or terrorist financing (A8-0056/2017 - Krišjānis Kariņš, Judith Sargentini)
. – I voted in favour of this report, which agreed to the outcome of inter-institutional negotiations on the fifth anti-money laundering directive (AMLD).While the strong position adopted by Parliament on this file last year was weakened during the negotiations with the Commission and Council, the outcome is still a significant step forward from the fourth AMLD.The remaining loopholes, particularly that registers of beneficial owners of trusts will not be made public but only available if a ‘legitimate interest’ has not been proven, are a major problem with the outcome, but the fact that the beneficial ownership registries will need to be made publically available is a really significant step forward that has been welcomed by the development, anti-corruption and tax justice sectors. On that basis I voted in favour.
Approval and market surveillance of motor vehicles and their trailers, and of systems, components and separate technical units intended for such vehicles (A8-0048/2017 - Daniel Dalton)
. – This file deals with market surveillance of car industries following the Volkswagen scandal.I voted against this report as this is a competency of the Member States and the EU should not be governing over the surveillance of car industries in respective Member States. The file proposes that Member States and the Commission should be guarantors in double surveillance. It calls for complete harmonisation on regulation on car industries throughout the EU. It would allow for police systems to inform registration and manufacturing data on vehicles across Member States via the Commission. The report would lead to a handover of further competences to the Commission such as tests, inspections or other forms of market surveillance which would need a system of European inspectors in order to carry them out, and increase the idea of a federalised EU state.
Organic production and labelling of organic products (A8-0311/2015 - Martin Häusling)
. – I voted in favour of the report for a number of reasons. It contains new and positive rules for the marketing of organic products. It aims to address the lack of organic material for reproduction in the EU, as this scarcity has resulted in farmers using non-organic material. In order to combat this, the report calls for the establishment of a database. A website would be created, free of charge, for each Member State to include an inventory of organic reproductive material, organic animals and organic aquaculture juveniles. The use of non-organic plant reproductive material will be phased out over 15 years, if the database shows that the EU has sufficient resources to do so.On pesticides, there is a variety of views whether thresholds for contamination should be implemented. The report does not set a threshold for pesticides residue in organic produce. Some are calling for a very low level or zero tolerance of residue. Having engaged with organic farmers in Ireland, Sinn Féin is satisfied that the current rules at national level are sufficient. However, Sinn Féin agrees that a review should take place in four years to ensure the presence of pesticides in organic produce is not prevalent.
Guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (A8-0140/2018 - Miroslavs Mitrofanovs)
. – I voted against this report.The report made a number of positive recommendations and had a good wish list of possible changes to the workplace environment, such as adapted workplaces for people with disabilities, wage transparency, access to healthcare and a number of other reforms. These were all qualified, however, as being recommended within the constraints of budgetary and market conditions. This severely limits any impact that these measures could have. I do not feel that this went far enough.The report also contained a number of recommendations which will have a very negative impact on the economic and social conditions of working people throughout the EU. It states that the reduction of the tax burden on labour should be gradual while calling for more deregulation on businesses. Moreover, the report calls for a strong emphasis on structural reforms and competitiveness which Sinn Féin is completely opposed to. Finally the report calls for pension reforms and a possible raising of the age at which citizens qualify for pensions, which is an unfair burden to place on our population.Overall I felt that the negative aspects in this report far outweighed the positives and that I could not support it or abstain in the vote.
Estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2019 – Section I – European Parliament (A8-0146/2018 - Paul Rübig)
. – I abstained on this file.Two thirds of the expenditure in the budget estimates are index-bound and therefore adjusted according to the Staff Regulations, Statute for Members, sector specific indexation or inflation.I abstained because while the motion for resolution rightly highlights the progress in terms of the percentage of Heading V, the motion fails to criticise the increase in expenditure.
Protection of investigative journalists in Europe: the case of Slovak journalist Ján Kuciak and Martina Kušnírová (B8-0186/2018)
. – I voted in favour of this resolution which condemns the murder of investigative journalist Ján Kuciak and his partner Martina Kušnírová in their home earlier this year in Slovakia. Ján Kuciak had been investigating cases of corruption and tax fraud in business and politics and was one of the journalists that examined the Panama Papers. The report calls for a full and independent investigation into the murders and calls for better protections for journalists and whistle-blowers across the EU.
A European values instrument to support civil society organisations which promote democracy, rule of law and fundamental values within the European Union (B8-0189/2018)
. – We voted in favour of this resolution as it notes that an active, well-developed civil society in the European Union is the best way to protect against the erosion of human rights, as well as principles of non-discrimination, tolerance and equality. Civil society organisations often find it difficult to secure funding, and this new instrument would provide targeted financial support to civil society organisations that work to protect human rights. Sinn Féin supports civil society organisations that are committed progressive change, and ones that defend the principles of equality, justice and freedom.
The violation of human rights and the rule of law in the case of two Greek soldiers arrested and detained in Turkey (B8-0194/2018, B8-0196/2018)
. – This is a joint motion concerning the arrest and continued detention of two Greek soldiers by the Turkish authorities.The two soldiers were arrested on 1 March in a forested area on the Greece-Turkey border that is a major crossing-point for migrants, refugees and traffickers. Greece asserts that they were on a regular patrol tour of the border.In the past, similar situations have been dealt with then and there by the Greek and Turkish authorities, however, on 4 March, a Turkish court ruled that the soldiers, who are currently being held in maximum security detention, would continue to be detained pending charge and trial.Despite being accused of illegally entering Turkey, the detained soldiers are yet to be actually charged with any offence, well over a month since their arrest.The resolution calls on Turkey to comply with international human rights norms, to promptly carry out the necessary legal proceedings, and, in the spirit of international law and good neighbourly relations, to return the soldiers back to Greece.We therefore voted in favour of the resolution.
Implementation of the Treaty provisions concerning national Parliaments (A8-0127/2018 - Paulo Rangel)
. – This report aims to assess the strengths and weaknesses of existing mechanisms for national parliaments to participate in the European political process eight years after the Lisbon Treaty.The report acknowledges that a lack of transparency in the EU processes has undermined faith in national governments, as well as the ‘recurrent complaint’ that national parliaments have been losing power over budgetary matters due to the ‘European Semester’.It suggests some improvements, such as better and more timely access to documents, greater consultation with national parliaments, and extending the eight-week period during which national parliaments can issue reasoned opinions, but it dismisses the viability of the ‘red card’ procedure to give national parliaments a veto over EU legislation.Overall, however, the report is incredibly federalist in content and intent, and it focuses overwhelmingly on how to reform and further integrate national parliaments into an ever more federal EU framework and ‘European demos’.The report is also openly supportive of the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP), which Sinn Féin opposes.We therefore voted against the report.
Annual Report on Competition Policy (A8-0049/2018 - Ramon Tremosa i Balcells)
. – We voted against this report. There were a lot of positive elements in the report, particularly relating to state aid tax cases, Google antitrust issues and more, but there is also a call for the deepening of the Economic and Monetary Union within the framework of the Stability and Growth Pact, and a general call for the further liberalisation of sectors of the single market that have not yet been totally liberalised and privatised, i.e. transport, which we are strongly opposed to.
Vaccine hesitancy and drop in vaccination rates in Europe (B8-0188/2018, B8-0195/2018)
. – We voted in favour. This resolution is in the context of increasing numbers of parents and patients choosing to delay or refuse vaccines, with data showing a significant drop in vaccine use across Europe. The consequences are a return of paediatric diseases such as measles, which has seen a surge in Europe lately, having previously been considered eradicated.The resolution recognises the potential role of vaccines in combatting AMR, calls for a fully comprehensive EU Action Plan dealing with vaccine hesitancy, stresses the independence of research programmes and that researchers must declare conflicts of interests.
Implementation of the European Protection Order Directive (A8-0065/2018 - Soraya Post, Teresa Jiménez-Becerril Barrio)
. – We voted in favour of this report as European Protection Orders protect persons against people and acts that may endanger their lives. There is particularly a gender-based approach to this report and it includes a petition to Member States to protect people from gender-based violence and to ratify the Istanbul Convention – which Sinn Féin has repeatedly called for in Ireland. Whilst Ireland is exempt from European Protection Orders, and while there has not been an extensive assessment of the use of European Protection Orders throughout Member States, the aim to encourage cooperation between European nations to develop a gender-based approach to supporting victims of violence cannot be ignored.
Implementation of the Bologna Process – state of play and follow-up (B8-0190/2018)
. – On the motion for a resolution on the Bologna Process, we abstained.The Bologna Process is a collective effort of public authorities, universities, teachers and students, together with stakeholder associations, employers, quality assurance agencies, international organisations, and institutions, including the Commission. We welcome the resolution’s calls for Member States to increase their education budgets in order to guarantee that public higher education is free and accessible to all, with a view to fostering lifelong learning, and to provide concrete opportunities for access to and completion of higher education for students with disabilities and from disadvantaged backgrounds.However, there was an undue focus on competitiveness throughout the report, which contributes to an increasing effort to commodify education in the EU. For this reason, we voted against.
Fixing the period for the ninth election of representatives to the European Parliament by direct universal suffrage (A8-0145/2018 - Danuta Maria Hübner)
. – This is a straightforward report to endorse the dates for the next European election, as informally proposed by the CoP in January and now officially proposed by the Council.The dates for the next election would ‘normally’ be set for the period Thursday, 6 June, until Sunday, 9 June 2019. However, the proposal is now to hold the election instead between 23 and 26 May 2019 (more or less as happened last time) in order to minimise clashes with national public holidays.This is well within the parameters foreseen by Article 11(2) of the Electoral Act, which stipulates that elections not be more than two months before or one month after the period normally applicable.This was an urgent procedure, as the new dates must be determined at least one year before the end of the term, giving Member States time to get their affairs in order.I therefore voted in favour of this report.
Council of Europe Convention on the Prevention of Terrorism (A8-0131/2018 - Helga Stevens)
. – We voted against this recommendation as the Convention and its additional protocol make no reference to problems of socio-economic inclusion. The Convention is limited by the fact that it justifies further efforts to securitise the European Union, which is a singular and one-dimensional approach to combating terrorism. The texts make no allowance for progressive and sustainable methods to tackle poverty or address the lack of investment in education and social work.Furthermore, we have significant concerns over the Convention and additional protocol’s penalisation of travelling abroad ‘for the purposes of terrorism’. This approach makes a weak causal link between intent and actual behaviour that causes harm, it relies on the difficult-to-prove notion of ‘intent’ and it is unfit for purpose.
Council of Europe Convention on the Prevention of Terrorism (Additional Protocol) (A8-0132/2018 - Helga Stevens)
. – We voted against this recommendation as the Convention and its additional protocol make no reference to problems of socio-economic inclusion. The Convention is limited by the fact that it justifies further efforts to securitise the European Union, which is a singular and one-dimensional approach to combating terrorism. The texts make no allowance for progressive and sustainable methods to tackle poverty or address the lack of investment in education and social work.Furthermore, we have significant concerns over the Convention and additional protocol’s penalisation of travelling abroad ‘for the purposes of terrorism’. This approach makes a weak causal link between intent and actual behaviour that causes harm, it relies on the difficult-to-prove notion of ‘intent’ and it is unfit for purpose.
Packaging and packaging waste (A8-0029/2017 - Simona Bonafè)
. – We voted in favour of this provisional agreement. This is the conclusion of this revision of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive as part of the Circular Economy Package.The agreement from negotiations includes: modifying the targets for the recycling of all packaging waste (70% by 2030) and the material-specific targets; making extended producer responsibility schemes mandatory for all packaging by end-2024; requiring the Commission to consider, by end-2020, strengthening essential requirements for extended producer responsibility schemes and, by end-2024, setting quantitative targets on packaging reuse and reviewing targets for packaging waste recycling.
End-of-life vehicles, waste batteries and accumulators and waste electrical and electronic equipment (A8-0013/2017 - Simona Bonafè)
. – We voted in favour of this provisional agreement from inter-institutional negotiations. This revision is part of the Circular Economy package and amends three directives.The main changes proposed are in relation to the establishment of a common methodology for collection and processing of statistical data as regards recycling and recovery targets contained in the three directives. The agreement highlights the need for a more circular economy and listing possible policy instruments to promote a transition; it requires the Commission to review the Directive on End-of-Life Vehicles by 2020.
Waste (A8-0034/2017 - Simona Bonafè)
. – We voted in favour of this provisional agreement and on the related Commission statements.The agreed text introduces a target for recycling of municipal waste in 2025 and 2035 and the related calculation methods. It also clarifies the definition of waste and food waste. It has a section on marine litter, obliging Member States to identify key sources of marine litter and to reduce it – also allowing Member States to adopt national restrictions. It lays out minimum requirements for all extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes and endorses their use, and it requires financial contributions paid by producers to EPR schemes to be modulated on the basis of the costs of treating their products at the end of their life. It is intended to strengthen the implementation of the waste hierarchy, for instance, by broadening the scope of measures required from Member States on waste prevention, including on food waste, by introducing provisions to avoid the contamination of secondary raw materials, and by further specifying requirements related to waste prevention programmes.The Commission statement states it is committed to the full implementation of the Circular Economy action plan and lays out the policy framework.
Landfill of waste (A8-0031/2017 - Simona Bonafè)
. – We voted in favour of this provisional agreement. The main elements of the agreement are: the postponement, until 2035, of the deadline for reaching the target to reduce the share of municipal waste landfilled to 10%, while further specifying the method used to calculate this share; and the requirement of the Commission to consider, by end-2024, setting a quantitative per capita target on landfilling.
Procedural rules in the field of environmental reporting (A8-0253/2017 - Francesc Gambús)
. – I voted in favour. This is a technical proposal on standardised reporting in the area of environment. As part of the Better Regulation agenda, the Commission’s proposal aims to completely remove the obsolete SRD (Standardised Reporting Directive)-based reporting obligations in order to ensure legal certainty and transparency and EU legislation that is fit for purpose. The original obligations from the SRD have no legal effect anymore. It was voted alongside the waste and circular economy files to ensure legal interlinks are solved in a consistent manner.
Integrity policy of the Commission, in particular the appointment of the Secretary-General of the European Commission (B8-0214/2018)
. – I voted in favour of this Resolution, which criticises the shady procedures used by certain personalities in the European Commission to elevate Martin Selmayr to the position of Secretary-General. On 31 January, the post of Deputy Secretary-General of the European Commission was published. 10 days were given to apply for the post. Selmayr and one other applied, the other candidate pulled out prior to the interview stage. During the same meeting as the announcement of Selmayr’s appointment to Deputy Sec-Gen, the then Sec-Gen announced his retirement. Selmayr was then transferred to the position of Sec-Gen.Selmayr and Juncker had been aware of the Sec-Gen’s intention to retire at that meeting (he had informed them two years previously) but had told nobody. The appointment was not placed on the agenda of the meeting, and no Commissioners were informed in advance of the procedure.Sinn Féin has called on Selmayr to step down until such time as a review has been conducted. We have also called for public acknowledgement by the Commission that there has been a violation of Staff Regulations on multiple occasions along this process and for the suspension of a number of other appointments until there has been a resolution. The Commission needs to urgently restore trust in the institution.
Progress on UN Global compacts for safe, orderly and regular migration and on refugees (B8-0184/2018)
. – I voted in favour of this resolution as it includes the needs for a human rights and people-centred approach to migration and asylum. It demands that all migrants and refugees should be stakeholders in their own future, embedded within a wider call for the acknowledgement of the global responsibility that every nation has to people who are migrating. It also observes that children who are migrating or seeking asylum, are first and foremost children, who need to be protected from exploitation. Sinn Féin supports an end to the Fortress Europe approach, and agrees for all nations to take on their fair share of responsibility for facilitating migration and offering sanctuary to asylum seekers.
Implementation of the EU external financing instruments: mid-term review 2017 and the future post-2020 architecture (A8-0112/2018 - Marietje Schaake)
. – I voted against this report.The report has a clear message that the EU should develop and promote a common foreign policy.Furthermore, the language intentionally blurs the lines between development goals and security goals.It criticises the independent nature of the various instruments.Whilst I welcomed the calls for greater accountability, transparency and public oversight, fundamentally the thrust of the report is to increase the powers of the Commission, at the expense of the Member States, with regards to foreign policy.The call for new funds in the next MFF was another cause for voting against this report.
Annual reports 2015-2016 on subsidiarity and proportionality (A8-0141/2018 - Mady Delvaux)
. – I voted against this report, which notes a sharp increase in the number of reasoned opinions being submitted by national Parliaments: an increase of 713% from 2015—2016. It makes a comment directed to the Commission in terms of the quality of IAs to rectify these problems. Despite noting this increase, however, the report makes no recommendations. In fact, in the explanatory statement, the Rapporteur states that she believes that there is ‘little to be gained from complicating the existing system’. While not saying we need more complications, I believe an increase of 713% warrants at least a few recommendations.I voted against because the entire tone of the report, I believe, seeks to dictate the manner in which national elected officials ought to engage with European Legislation. It is directive, rather than conciliatory, and implies somewhat that the increase of reasoned opinions is due to an un-European vision of national parliaments rather than regulatory over-reach by the European Commission or a lack of quality in pre-legislation procedures.
Discharge 2016: EU general budget - 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th EDFs (A8-0123/2018 - Barbara Kappel)
Discharge 2016: EU general budget - European Council and Council (A8-0116/2018 - Ingeborg Gräßle)
Discharge 2016: EU general budget - Court of Auditors (A8-0089/2018 - Ingeborg Gräßle)
. – I voted in favour of both the discharge and resolution.There were no irregularities which would justify a postponementThe resolution takes special note of the continuing severe gender imbalance, the need for greater protection for whistle-blowers, and reiterates calls for greater democratic accountability in European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) negotiations and future investigations.
Discharge 2016: EU general budget - European Economic and Social Committee (A8-0097/2018 - Ingeborg Gräßle)
Discharge 2016: EU general budget - Committee of the Regions (A8-0117/2018 - Ingeborg Gräßle)
. – I voted in favour of this discharge for the Committee of the Regions (CoR). The CoR is an advisory body composed of locally and regionally elected representatives from all 28 Member States of the EU. Through this body, local and regional representatives are afforded an important voice in order to share their opinions and concerns on EU legislation that directly impacts regions and cities.I also voted for several amendments highlighting an unresolved whistleblowing matter.There were no significant irregularities which would justify postponement, however, so I voted in favour of the discharge.
Discharge 2016: EU general budget - European External Action Service (A8-0128/2018 - Marco Valli)
Discharge 2016: EU general budget - European Ombudsman (A8-0100/2018 - Ingeborg Gräßle)
. – I voted in favour of both the discharge and resolution.The resolution highlighted the ‘revolving door’ nature prevalent in the European institutions.The report also expresses the need to establish an independent disclosure, advice body to further protect whistle-blowers.For these reasons I voted in favour of both.
Discharge 2016: EU general budget - European Data Protection Supervisor (A8-0099/2018 - Ingeborg Gräßle)
. – I voted in favour of both the discharge and resolution.The Court of Auditors concluded that the payments as a whole for the year ended on 31 December 2016 for administrative and other expenditure of the European Data Protection Supervisor were free from material error and that the examined supervisory and control systems for administrative and other expenditure were effective. This represents significant improvement in the area of internal control from the previous year.
Discharge 2016: Office of the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (BEREC) (A8-0069/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: Translation Centre for the Bodies of the European Union (CdT) (A8-0106/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop) (A8-0068/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) (A8-0085/2018 - Bart Staes)
. – I voted in favour of the discharge and the resolution.The ECDC works in partnership with national health protection bodies across Europe to strengthen and develop continent-wide disease surveillance and early warning systems.The resolution notes the resource constraints and this effect on the ECDC’s work programme. It finds that the transactions for financial year 2016 were all legal and regular in all material respects so there is no reason to justify a postponement.
Discharge 2016: European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) (A8-0086/2018 - Bart Staes)
. – I voted in favour of the discharge and the resolution. ECHA is the driving force among regulatory authorities in implementing the EU’s chemicals legislation. ECHA helps companies to comply with the legislation, advances the safe use of chemicals, provides information on chemicals and addresses chemicals of concern.There were no irregularities which would justify a postponement.
Discharge 2016: European Environment Agency (EEA) (A8-0090/2018 - Bart Staes)
. – I voted in favour of the discharge and the resolution. Its main mission is to provide the EU with objective, reliable and comparable information on the basis of which to conduct environment policy, assess environmental impacts and inform the public about the state of the environment.There were no irregularities which would justify a postponement.
Discharge 2016: European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) (A8-0091/2018 - Indrek Tarand)
. – I voted in favour of the discharge and the resolution. EFSA provides independent scientific advice and communicates on existing and emerging risks associated with the food chain.There were no irregularities which would justify a postponement this year.Last year I abstained on the discharge and voted in favour of the resolution, which was critical of EFSA regarding conflicts of interest and for not implementing decent measures on revolving-doors recruitment policies. It has since brought in new measures on conflicts of interest, transparency and democracy.
Discharge 2016: European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) (A8-0087/2018 - Bart Staes)
. – The European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) established to contribute to and strengthen the promotion of gender equality, including gender mainstreaming in all EU policies and the resulting national policies, & the fight against discrimination based on sex, as well as to raise EU citizens’ awareness of gender equality.I voted in favour of the discharge; there was no irregularities to justify a postponement.
Discharge 2016: European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) (A8-0088/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) (A8-0096/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Medicines Agency (EMA) (A8-0103/2018 - Bart Staes)
. – I voted against the discharge and in favour of the resolution.The reason for voting against the discharge this year is because some of the Court of Auditor’s comments from the 2014 discharge are still not marked as completed. This is particularly in relation to the evaluation of the weaknesses in management control and the dissemination of appropriate pharmacovigilance information to the Member States and to the general public. The rapporteur calls on the Agency to complete the corrective actions as soon as possible in 2018 and to report to the discharge authority on their implementation and so it is appropriate to postpone the discharge.
Discharge 2016: European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) (A8-0081/2018 - Bart Staes)
. – I voted in favour of this report. There were no outstanding irregularities and indeed there were very positive moves towards developing a strong whistle-blower policy, support for work life balances, protection against harassment and an anti-fraud policy. Sinn Féin demands an increase in transparency of all European institutions.
Discharge 2016: European Union Agency for Network and Information Security (ENISA) (A8-0114/2018 - Bart Staes)
. – I voted in favour of the resolution but against the decision as a whole. Although there are no irregularities in the report, there are questions regarding the agency’s commitment to promoting transparency, accountability and integrity especially in managing effectively its conflicts of interest and developing an adequate whistleblowing policy.
Discharge 2016: European Union Agency for Railways (ERA) (A8-0079/2018 - Bart Staes)
. – I abstained on this discharge. In a previous plenary in 2016 I voted against the establishment of this agency. The agency moves the railway sector towards a direction that I oppose. The setting up of the agency emphasised the creation of a single, liberalised railway sector, with the aim of encouraging competition and privatisation, while granting further authoritative powers solely to the European Railway Agency. I did not vote against, as the discharge itself is about the current functionality of the agency, including its accounts, which are in order. Although as I was opposed to the establishment of this agency from the outset, I abstained on granting the discharge.
Discharge 2016: European Training Foundation (ETF) (A8-0080/2018 - Bart Staes)
. – I voted in favour of this discharge. The European Training Foundation is a European Union agency that helps transition and developing countries harness the potential of their human capital. The report notes that targets were met for all Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and there were no irregularities that could justify the postponement.
Discharge 2016: European Agency for the operational management of large-scale IT systems in the area of freedom, security and justice (eu-LISA) (A8-0111/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA) (A8-0084/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions (Eurofound) (A8-0092/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: EU Judicial Cooperation Unit (Eurojust) (A8-0113/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Police Office (Europol) (A8-0109/2018 - Bart Staes)
. – I voted in favour of this report. Although the representation of women throughout the agency is poor, the Resolution is committed to adopting a sustainable and ongoing process to remedy the lack of representation of women in the European Police office. Sinn Féin is committed to increasing women’s participation at all levels of the workplace, and in all industries.
Discharge 2016: European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) (A8-0093/2018 - Bart Staes)
. – I voted in favour of this report as there are no points to justify a postponement in its funding. There are concerns over the representation of women in the agency amongst the senior management of the agency, however at other levels of the agency there is close to a 50/50 balance between women and men. Sinn Féin is committed to ensuring and increase in women’s participation at all levels of the workplace, and in all industries.
Discharge 2016: European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) (A8-0108/2018 - Bart Staes)
. – I voted against this report as Sinn Féin fundamentally disagrees with the methodology and use of funds in Frontex, especially in their response to the refugee crises in the Mediterranean. The report also noted an irregularity of payments for the period of January to October 2016. The European Union should not have any border force that is intent on turning Europe into a fortress.
Discharge 2016: European GNSS Agency (GSA) (A8-0082/2018 - Bart Staes)
. – The European Global Navigation Satellite System Agency focuses on space technology. The agency has had a range of instances such as not replying to a questionnaire sent by MEPs during the 2015 discharge process, and ongoing issues through the Court of Auditors regarding insurance coverage, the validation of the accounting system, the business continuity plan and high turnover of staff. One of the tenderers of a framework contract has launched legal proceedings against the agency at the European Court of Justice. The agency also has not established a whistleblowing policy.I voting against granting the discharge but in favour of the resolution which was critical and took into account all the elements of concern with the agency.
Discharge 2016: Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking (BBI) (A8-0071/2018 - Brian Hayes)
. – I voted in favour of the discharge and the resolution. Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking (BBI JU) is a public-private partnership aiming at increasing investment in the development of a sustainable bio-based industry sector in Europe. The BBI JU’s mission is to implement, under Horizon 2020 rules, the Strategic Innovation and Research Agenda (SIRA) developed by the industry and validated by the European Commission.There were no irregularities which would justify a postponement.
Discharge 2016: Clean Sky 2 Joint Undertaking (A8-0070/2018 - Brian Hayes)
. – I voted in favour of the discharge and the resolution.Clean Sky 2 Joint Undertaking (CSJU) is a successful public-private partnership between the European Commission and the European aeronautics industry that is on the way to achieving its environmental performance targets.There were no special irregularities which would justify a postponement.
Discharge 2016: ECSEL Joint Undertaking (A8-0072/2018 - Brian Hayes)
. – The public-private partnership for Electronic Components and Systems for European leadership carries out research on electronic components and technologies. The agency’s aim is to increase the EU’s competition in the global industry of electronic components and systems. The agency aims to align strategies with Member States to attract private investment.Furthermore, in 2012 the JU was informed of the insolvency of two of its beneficiaries but did not attempt to recover the payments until four years later in 2016, resulting in 230k funding, and EU taxpayers money being lost. Notes also that in 2016 the JU did not correctly apply procedures regarding internal registering of declarations of conflict of interest, despite having guidelines adopted.I voted against granting the discharge.
Discharge 2016: Innovative Medicines Initiative 2 Joint Undertaking (IMI) (A8-0075/2018 - Brian Hayes)
. – I voted in favour of the discharge and the resolution. The IMI 2 JU supports collaborative research to improve the entire development process and make it more efficient, giving patients faster access to better and safer medicines.There were no special irregularities which would justify a postponement.
Discharge 2016: SESAR Joint Undertaking (A8-0077/2018 - Brian Hayes)
. – The Single European Sky Air Traffic Management Research (SESAR) programme aims to modernise air traffic management, with a focus on developing safe and environment-friendly air transport. The accounts are in order, and statements issued have clarified their reliability and legality.I voted in favour of granting the discharge and the resolution.
Discharge 2016: Shift2Rail Joint Undertaking (S2R) (A8-0076/2018 - Brian Hayes)
. – The Shift2Rail Joint Undertaking aims to achieve a Single European Railway Area (SERA); to enhance competitiveness of the European railway system and to sustain the leadership of the European rail industry on the global market.During the procedure for the procurement of services the JU set an unwisely maximum contract budget which was not based on a cost estimation process therefore calling into question the cost-effectiveness of their service contracts. Furthermore, the JU ignored checks by the Research Executive Agency which noted the weak financial viability of some of their beneficiaries.I voted against granting the discharge.
EU-Lebanon Agreement for scientific and technological cooperation: participation of Lebanon in the Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA) (A8-0352/2017 - Sofia Sakorafa)
. – The Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA) is a Horizon 2020 project, to use research to tackle the issues of water management and food production in the Mediterranean area. The members of PRIMA consists of EU Member States mostly from the Mediterranean area, Croatia, Cyprus, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Slovenia, and Spain but also non-EU Mediterranean countries, Israel, Tunisia, Turkey, Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon and Morocco. Project funding includes contribution by member countries of PRIMA, along with EU contribution under Horizon 2020. The report affirms the region’s right to safe and clean drinking water. The initiative hopes to bring new ideas to and create sustainable agriculture production, with a commitment to social and environment friendly implementation.While we support this project, we strongly oppose Israel’s involvement in it – or in any other Horizon 2020 funded schemes – due to its appalling human rights abuses and occupation of Palestine. Israel’s ongoing theft of Palestinian water, and denial of safe drinking water to the citizens of Gaza, makes its involvement particularly outrageous.However, this vote concludes the Commission’s agreement with Lebanon on its PRIMA participation. Therefore, I voted in favour.
EU-Mauritius Fisheries Partnership Agreement: fishing opportunities and financial contribution (A8-0053/2018 - Norica Nicolai)
. – On the Protocol setting out the fishing opportunities and the financial contribution provided for by the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Mauritius, we abstainedThe new Protocol shall provide a total financial contribution of EUR 2 300 000 for the entire period (2017-2021)Whilst we support funding being used to promote sectorial development in third countries, Mauritian fishermen have however consistently said in the past number of years that their catch has declined drastically and blame overfishing by European vessels, they have also claimed before no local fishermen received any form of financial help in the small-scale industry in relation to EU FPAs. FPAs with developing nations are often exploitative to the advantage of the EU and difficult to support.
EU-Norway Agreement concerning additional trade preferences in agricultural products (A8-0126/2018 - Tiziana Beghin)
. – We voted in favour of this report which comes following a review of the agricultural products subject to tariffs and TRQs between the EU and Norway. This review happens regularly, every two years, and is due to an exemption to normal free movement of goods principle in operation between these two partners under the EEA Agreement.For this round, changes have been made to a total of 36 products. The main changes are an increase in the TRQs for beef, poultry, cheese, flowers, lettuce and corn entering Norway. Duty free access has also been agreed for a list of berries, cider, seaweed, quinoa, live horses and livers.On the EU side, there have been increases in poultry, flowers and sheep/goat meat TRQs.Since Norway (as a member of the EEA) is subject to the same food safety, SPS and other such food production restrictions as EU producers and farmers, we have in the past supported adjustments such as this. The TRQ modifications are modest, however for every zero rate TRQ added from the Norwegian side, this saves exporters a hefty tariff which went up by 429% in 2012.For these reasons, we voted in favour.
A European strategy for the promotion of protein crops (A8-0121/2018 - Jean-Paul Denanot)
. – We voted in favour of the report because of the need for a European Protein Plan. The report wants to rectify the situation where the EU is importing huge amounts of protein for animal feed from Latin America. This is adding to mass deforestation, ecological problems and a huge loss of biodiversity. The report is also in favour of increasing EU soya and biofuel production. Both would reduce our dependence on external imports. Sinn Fein believes the EU should be self-sufficient using sustainable practices. The report supports a move away from input intensive monocultures and a move towards agro-ecological systems including local and GMO-free production. In terms of the CAP, the report suggests pillar II can be used to support cultivation through a voluntary coupled payment, and greenings measures to deliver on biodiversity.
Inclusion of greenhouse gas emissions and removals from land use, land use change and forestry into the 2030 climate and energy framework (A8-0262/2017 - Norbert Lins)
. – I voted in favour of the provisional agreement. It relates to a legislative proposal for a regulation to include LULUCF GHG emissions into the 2030 climate and energy framework (2021-2030), as this sector was previously excluded from EU climate action. It introduces binding commitments to reduce GHG emissions in forestry and land-use for all Member States.The main issue in the trilogues was the introduction of a flexibility on the accounting of managed forests for Member States where these represent an important carbon sink. However, this ‘managed forest land’ flexibility mechanism can only be activated if the EU collectively meets the ‘no-debit’ rule, so that the integrity 30% emission reduction target for the non-ETS sector is maintained. I welcome that the Parliament also gained the use of delegated acts for determining the forests reference levels and obtained the inclusion of wetlands. The inclusion of wetlands starts on a voluntary basis and becomes mandatory for 2026-2030 period. There were also some areas for unclear derogations which have been closed in trilogues and so I am satisfied on the final outcome of negotiations.
Binding annual greenhouse gas emission reductions to meet commitments under the Paris Agreement (A8-0208/2017 - Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy)
. – We voted against this agreement, which is the result of inter-institutional negotiations. As part of the Low Carbon Economy Package, this proposal would put in place a binding Regulation, known as the ESR (Effort Sharing Regulation), with targets for each Member State to reduce GHG emission in the non-ETS sector. This would implement EU commitments under the Paris agreement. Ireland would be given a 30% GHG reduction target by 2030 compared to 2005 levels.While we agree with the objectives, there are some issues that are not satisfactory, especially in that it lacks ambition. Firstly, it is unacceptable that the GHG reduction trajectory will only commence from August 2019. Furthermore, the recitals quote the Market Stability Reserve. We voted against the agreement in order to be able to amend it and ensure a more robust Regulation that produces the desired outcome of reduced GHG emissions from the non-ETS sector.
Statute and funding of European political parties and European political foundations (A8-0373/2017 - Mercedes Bresso, Rainer Wieland)
. – This report is a first reading with a provisional agreement on draft legislation that will grant EU funding to registered European political parties and foundations. Sinn Féin is opposed to this idea, and we therefore voted against the report.The provisional agreement as tabled will give the lion’s share of funding to the larger European political parties (such as the S&Ds and the EPP) and their foundations and think tanks, at the expense of smaller European political parties. A number of amendments were tabled to try mitigate this, and to make the text slightly less unfair. We would have supported some of these changes, but they were not put to the vote.
Energy performance of buildings (A8-0314/2017 - Bendt Bendtsen)
. – We abstained on this provisional agreement, which is the result of interinstitutional negotiations.As part of the clean energy package, in November 2016 the EC presented a proposal for a revision of the EPBD (Energy Performance of Buildings Directive), which sets out EU targets for energy efficiency. The Commission proposal was a moderate review of the directive and was met with a more ambitious report from Parliament.The elements that were debated in the negotiations related to renovation strategy and financing, electro-mobility, smartness indicators, and inspections. We were disappointed that energy poverty elements were watered down in the agreement, lacking any concrete measures, and that the Council is of the opinion that addressing energy poverty is a matter strictly for social policy. Sinn Fein believes that addressing energy poverty must be central to, and integrated into, all energy policy. Despite this lack of focus, we do welcome the positive steps taken, such as electro-mobility requirements.
Implementation of the 7th Environment Action Programme (A8-0059/2018 - Daciana Octavia Sârbu)
. – We voted in favour of this report. The seventh environment action programme (EAP) was adopted in 2013 for seven years and lays out priority objectives to guide EU environmental policy until 2020. The ENVI Committee decided to draw up an implementation report to evaluate progress and make recommendations for the eighth EAP. The report is critical of the implementation of the seventh EAP and points to shortcomings, particularly in relation to how objectives are projected to be missed.Some merits lie in its call on the Union and Member States to abandon environmentally harmful subsidies, its emphasis on the need to improve research in certain areas in particular, and its call on Member States to redouble efforts to implement air quality legislation.
Gender equality in the media sector in the EU (A8-0031/2018 - Michaela Šojdrová)
. – The report highlights the need for women’s participation and access in the media and the need for a balanced and non-stereotypical portrayal of women on screen. The report highlights that while 68% of media graduates are women, only 40% are employed in the sector.The report calls for equal representation of women in decision-making in the media, including using gender quotas to incentivise this. The report recommends guidelines on gender equality in order to promote a positive portrayal of women in advertising, news, reporting, production and broadcasting. The report addresses the growing levels of harassment faced by women in the media – with over half having experienced sexual abuse.We voted in favour of the report.
Empowering women and girls through the digital sector (B8-0183/2018)
. – We voted in favour of this report, which focuses on empowering women and girls to take an active role in the ICT sector.The resolution highlights the gender gap in ICT and STEM fields and the need to rectify this by focusing on female entrepreneurs and start-ups. The resolution calls for early education in ICT and promotion of STEM subjects aimed at girls. It highlights the role that the internet can play in campaigns and in boosting the visibility of female role models, and the need to support women’s networks online. The resolution calls for lifelong learning training and schemes, to allow older women to access the benefits from digitalisation and e-skills. The resolution addresses the fact that women are often victims of harassment online, with death threats to women online increasing, and invites Member States to review their criminal law to ensure that new forms of digital violence are defined and acknowledged.
Implementation of the Development Cooperation Instrument, the Humanitarian Aid Instrument and the European Development Fund (A8-0118/2018 - Enrique Guerrero Salom)
. – The report carried out a review of the EU’s external financing instruments relating to external aid and development funds. The report makes a number of suggestions regarding the new MFF and the direction of these three bodies.There are a lot of positive recommendations in this report which Sinn Féin would support. The report stresses that development aid should be used in accordance with its original purpose, with due regard to aid/development effectiveness principles. It also stresses that the EU’s development policy should remain independent of the EU’s short—term internal interests, guaranteeing that the EU fulfils its development pledges, in particular that development funds should not be used by the EU as a means to stop migration flows or as a security mechanism for the EU.The report also calls for the integration of climate policy in relation to recent climate change accords, such as the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, into development policy. Finally, the report warns against over-reliance on trust funds to implement development policy, which would mark an improvement in the efficiency of the Union’s actions.
Enhancing developing countries' debt sustainability (A8-0129/2018 - Charles Goerens)
. – I voted in favour of this report, which aims to reduce the level of indebtedness among developing countries.High levels of debt have a negative effect on human development and reduce governments’ abilities to reduce poverty levels. The measures called for in this report, such as debt restructuring, measures to tackle tax avoidance and the prioritisation of development, will help ensure that countries avoid unsustainable debt and that global poverty can be more effectively addressed.
Strengthening economic, social and territorial cohesion in the EU (A8-0138/2018 - Marc Joulaud)
. – This report focuses on a number of key points in the 7th Cohesion Report of October 2017, which provides an impact assessment of the evolution of cohesion policy in light of national policies and other EU policies.These points cover the current state of economic development, social inclusion, sustainable development, improving institutions, national policies and cohesion, and the impact of cohesion policy.The 7th Cohesion Report shows that regional disparities are narrowing again, but unevenly, while unemployment rates have not reverted to pre-crisis levels. It also emphasises the need for tailored approaches to the various regions and territories, identifies pockets of poverty, the risk of territorial fragmentation and the widening of intraregional disparities, and highlights the generalised impact of globalisation, migration, climate change, energy transition and pollution.A number of progressive amendments were included in the text, including reinforcing the importance of cohesion policy, social and economic development to social peace and sustainability. I therefore voted in favour of the report.
Monitoring and reporting of CO2 emissions from and fuel consumption of new heavy-duty vehicles (A8-0010/2018 - Damiano Zoffoli)
. – We voted in favour on this vote as to whether or not to enter into interinstitutional negotiations according to rule 69c. The regulation establishes a mandatory monitoring and reporting system for all EU countries for heavy—duty vehicles and applies to new vehicles registered in the EU. The aim of this system is to ensure the accuracy of CO2 emissions reporting and monitoring and provide the basis for setting and enforcing standards on carbon emissions in the future.Anything but mandatory monitoring and verified reporting is lining us up for another Dieselgate. The final step in this process will be for the Commission to set ambitious CO2 emission targets for heavy—duty vehicles in the first quarter of 2018 for adoption before the end of the current electoral term. We will have to have a decent means of monitoring emissions from heavy—duty vehicles in order to set CO2 targets that will make a difference. For this reason, we voted to confirm the mandate to start negotiations as there is no good reason to delay and possibly weaken the report.
Establishing a centralised system for the identification of Member States holding conviction information on third country nationals and stateless persons (TCN) to supplement and support the European Criminal Records Information System (ECRIS-TCN system) (A8-0018/2018 - Daniel Dalton)
. – We voted in favour of upholding the mandate for establishing a centralised system for the identification of Member States holding conviction information on third country nationals and stateless persons (TCN) to supplement and support the European Criminal Records Information System. There have been some progressive amendments included in the file and it should now progress to the next stage of negotiations.
Guarantee Fund for external actions (A8-0132/2017 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial)
. – We voted against this file as development cooperation policies should not be conditioned by any migration control policy.A number of reservations we had included the reference within the text which stated by 30 June 2019 the Commission shall submit to the European Parliament and to the Council an independent external evaluation of the advantages and disadvantages of entrusting the financial management of the assets of the Fund and of the European Fund for Sustainable Development to the Commission, the EIB, or a combination of the two.
EU guarantee to the European Investment Bank against losses under financing operations supporting investment projects outside the Union (A8-0135/2017 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial)
. – We do not support development cooperation policies being conditional on refugee controls, or the use of the phrase in this text ‘building socio-economic resilience’ when referring to migrants, refugees and countries of origin and transit, as it is deliberate language in this context designed to give the impression that the European Union is committed to its humanitarian responsibilities to refugees. However we abstained rather than vote against for the following reasons:– The text supports development of micro and small and medium—sized enterprises;– It supports investment and rural development projects for water sanitation – i.e. drinking—water treatment, wastewater disposal and renewable energy, and social and economic infrastructure improvement;– It calls for EIB financing operations to support the public sector, including municipalities and public—sector entities – e.g. facilities for children, sanitation services and school education;– It also references support for the United Nations sustainable development and respect for human, labour and social rights.
Annual report on the financial activities of the European Investment Bank (A8-0013/2018 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial)
. – We abstained on this report which examined the activities of the European Investment Bank throughout 2016. It contained some positive elements such as calling for increased accountability and transparency of the EIB’s financial activities, and calling for the EIB to ensure human rights, social and environmental standards were enforced in countries and projects that are recipients of EIB funding. However, the report also endorses the existing right-wing economic framework of the EU, including promoting ‘competitiveness’ and the Europe 2020 strategy. It also failed to make strong enough criticism of the misuse of EIB funds or funding of problematic projects such as polluting industries.
Current human rights situation in Turkey (B8-0079/2018, RC-B8-0082/2018, B8-0082/2018, B8-0084/2018, B8-0091/2018, B8-0092/2018, B8-0095/2018, B8-0097/2018, B8-0103/2018)
. – We abstained on this motion as, while it highlights human rights issues in Turkey, the motion also condemned the Kurds for resisting Turkish aggression.There are serious human rights abuses in Turkey such as the repression of political opposition, LGBTQ activists, and the ongoing repression of the Kurds, as such it is unfortunate that this resolution failed to unilaterally denounce Turkish aggression. This resolution which comes less than three week since the Turkish Government began its military campaign against Kurds in Northern Syria, in this context of illegal military action by the Turkish state, the motion’s language condemning the Kurds is counterproductive and contributes nothing to promoting human rights and democracy in Turkey.In the face of Turkey’s illegal military action, European politicians ought to unequivocally condemn the Turkish Government and support the rights of the Kurdish people.
Situation in Venezuela (RC-B8-0078/2018, B8-0078/2018, B8-0080/2018, B8-0081/2018, B8-0083/2018, B8-0087/2018, B8-0094/2018)
. – While we agree with the joint resolution that the Venezuelan Government and opposition must find a peaceful and democratic solution to the crisis in the country, we voted against this resolution.The Venezuelan Government and opposition have been involved in ongoing negotiations in the Dominican Republic to reach a national consensus to prevent a return to violence and to find a peaceful democratic way forward.The spirit of this resolution – drafted by right—wing parties in the European Parliament – runs contrary to that approach, and risks damaging negotiations. It calls for expanding the sanctions imposed by the EU in January against leading members of the Venezuelan Government.Sanctions won’t foster the normalisation and stabilisation Venezuela needs, and this kind of unilateral action only heightens tensions unnecessarily. The resolution also clearly takes the side of the Venezuelan opposition on issues that are still the subject of negotiations, such as the upcoming presidential elections.Venezuela currently faces significant economic and political challenges, due to both internal conflict and external interference. While the scale and causes of these difficulties are contested, it is clear that further confrontation will not help.This joint resolution does more harm than good. We therefore voted against it.
Situation of UNRWA (RC-B8-0085/2018, B8-0085/2018, B8-0086/2018, B8-0088/2018, B8-0089/2018, B8-0090/2018, B8-0093/2018)
. – We voted in favour of the joint motion for resolution on the situation of UNRWA. UNRWA undertakes vitally important work providing support and resources to over 5 million refugees in Palestine, Syria, Jordan and Lebanon. It is important that the EU and other countries support the programme and ensure that it is adequately resourced to continue its projects.
Summer-time arrangements (B8-0070/2018, B8-0071/2018)
. – We voted in favour of this resolution in light of numerous studies which have highlighted the negative consequences of daylight saving time (DST).We believe that the removal of DST would have positive effects on many sectors including workers and those involved in the agricultural sector as well as reducing the rates of road traffic accidents. The marginal energy savings brought about by DST do not stand up to the increased hardships it causes to many sectors of society and the economic hindrances it brings about.Sinn Féin believes it was wrong of the EU to compel Member States into introducing DST with the Directive 2000/84/EC and while we support this change believe that, ultimately, powers over these issues should remain a sovereign matter.
Composition of the European Parliament (A8-0007/2018 - Danuta Maria Hübner, Pedro Silva Pereira)
. – This report proposes a new composition for the European Parliament for the period 2019-2024. It proposes to reallocate some seats that will be lost with Brexit, and to create a so-called ‘joint constituency’, electing MEPs from an EU-wide ‘transnational list’. Transnational lists are an awful idea: they remove accountability, favour larger Member States, and will make MEPs less accessible. I welcome the fact that the Parliament vote rejected them.I also welcome the two extra seats allocated to the south of Ireland, but this is not good enough. It would result in Ireland going, in real terms, from 14 to 13 seats, unless three seats are kept for the North. The report fell short of this, but Sinn Féin secured a reference to citizens’ rights under the Good Friday Agreement. This leaves the door open for seats in the North. The report will now go to the European Council – the Taoiseach needs to act. Ireland previously had a smaller population and more representation. There is an opportunity to address that imbalance and to ensure the north retains its voice in Europe, but this report doesn’t do this. In the interests of Ireland, I therefore voted against the report.
Revision of the Framework Agreement on relations between the European Parliament and the European Commission (A8-0006/2018 - Esteban González Pons)
. – This report supported the European Commission’s amendments to the framework agreement on relations between Parliament and the Commission, notably in areas concerning the participation of Commissioners in Parliament elections. It advocated the ‘Spitzenkandidaten’ or ‘lead candidate’ system, where political groups in Parliament nominate their candidate for European Commission President, and the group that comes out on top – with or without a majority – then gets the job.I am deeply sceptical that the Spitzenkandidat system will do anything for democratic accountability in the EU. What we need is real reform of the EU rather than arguments about who gets the top job. We need a real engagement with citizens. The report also proposed removing the obligation for Commissioners running for the European Parliament to take unpaid leave during an election campaign. The Commission has introduced a Code of Conduct to address some potential problems in the relations between the Parliament and Commission. However, there are still significant outstanding issues with regards to impartiality, transparency, conflicts of interests, and the independence of the Commission, as well as the cooling-off period for former commissioners before they take up significant roles elsewhere. I therefore voted against this report.
Automated data exchange with regard to vehicle registration data in Portugal (A8-0017/2018 - Ignazio Corrao)
. – We voted against the report on automated data exchange with regard to vehicle registration data in Portugal. This report is a component of a wider package of measures across the E.U. This case specifically deals with automated data exchange, which means bulk data transmission, in contrast to targeted exchange of personal data. It also follows a unilateral ‘enforcement’ narrative of always collecting and exchanging more personal data, whereas the Commission and the Member States should provide an in-depth analysis and evaluation of the current instruments and practices, in order to demonstrate their necessity.
Protection and non-discrimination with regard to minorities in the EU Member States (B8-0064/2018)
. – This was a very positive resolution that acknowledged petitioners to the EU Petitions Committee are concerned about the lack of a comprehensive EU response and protection when it comes to their linguistic and other minority rights, rights which are enshrined in the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights and among the general principles of EU law, as stated by the European Court of Justice.
Objection to a delegated act: Adding Sri Lanka, Trinidad and Tobago and Tunisia to the list of high-risk third countries (B8-0074/2018)
. – We voted in favour of this objection to the Commission’s proposed delegated regulation on the list of high-risk third countries under the Anti Money Laundering Directive.The Commission’s new methodology in determining the jurisdictions that should be on this list is an improvement but the proposed timeframe for carrying out its assessment is far too long. The Commission proposes that it is Priority 1 list assessment process will be completed by the end of this year, but its Priority 2 list won’t be completed until 2025. this objection calls for the timeframe to be shortened, and for the Priority 2 list to be developed by the end of 2020 instead of the Commission’s proposed 2025.We are also in favour of removing Tunisia from the regulation due to recent progress it has made in anti-money laundering efforts. The Financial Action Task Force has now removed Tunisia from its list of high-risk third countries, and we recognise that Tunisia is facing special challenges in undergoing its transition to democracy.
Zero tolerance for female genital mutilation (B8-0068/2018)
. – We voted in favour of this report calling for zero tolerance for female genital mutilation. It calls on the Commission to mainstream the prevention of female genital mutilation into all sectors. The report recognises the severe physical, psychological and emotional consequences female genital mutilation has on girls and women for the rest of their lives. It points out that, under the Istanbul Convention, Member States have an obligation to criminalise female genital mutilation. The report calls for targeted training on detection, investigation and prosecution of female genital mutilation. The report encourages preventative action in refugee camps and highlights the need to protect asylum seekers who are at risk of suffering female genital mutilation.As we believe that eradicating female genital mutilation is a priority, we voted in favour of the report.
Request for waiver of the immunity of Steeve Briois (A8-0011/2018 - Evelyn Regner)
. – We voted in favour of this immunity waiver. The case concerns a Front National MEP, who in 2015 posted a short text on his Facebook profile denouncing moves by the opposition against the instalment of a Christmas crib within the premises of the local town hall.A number of comments were posted under the post which attacked and insulted member of the opposition, who then requested the post to be removed. It was however left up in the public domain.This opposition member is now looking to take a civil suit for the crime of public insult directed at an individual, publishable under French law.If his immunity is waived the police will seek to interview him possibly as an ‘assisting witness’ to the insult. While we agree with the right to free speech and have some concerns about the precedent this may set in requiring public official to police third party comments on social media, there must be a balance here in terms of not inciting hatred in a public domain and also allowing the police to question the MEP concerned in order to further the case.
EU-Brazil Agreement for scientific and technological cooperation (A8-0004/2018 - Angelo Ciocca)
. – We voted in favour of this agreement for cooperation in the fields of research and science between the EU & Brazil. The agreement allows for reciprocal participation in research and development entities, joint research projects and organisation of seminars. Brazil carries out research on agriculture, tropical and infectious diseases, renewable energy, biofuels, and information technologies. Among third-countries Brazil is the 6th most active country under FP7, and 5th under Horizon 2020. Therefore we voted in favour.
Setting up a special committee on the Union’s authorisation procedure for pesticides, its responsibilities, numerical strength and term of office (B8-0077/2018)
. – We voted in favour of this report, setting up a special committee to look into the EU’s authorisation procedures for pesticides. Following difficulties and procedural anomalies with the way the glyphosate authorisation process was handled, we believe that it is necessary to take a closer look at the way these decisions are taken, involving multiple EU bodies. The committee’s jurisdiction will look at the authorisation procedure for all pesticides, given concerns regarding transparency, the approval criteria, and the application of the precautionary principle in general. The special committee will present to Parliament a final report containing factual findings and recommendations concerning the measures and initiatives to be taken after a period of nine months. Sinn Fein has been vocal on the lack of scrutiny regarding these authorisation procedures before, especially in relation to conflicts of interests, lack of veritable scientific evidence and independence from the industry. Therefore, we welcome the establishment of this special committee and look forward to the final report it will produce.
Geo-blocking and other forms of discrimination based on customers' nationality, place of residence or place of establishment (A8-0172/2017 - Róża Gräfin von Thun und Hohenstein)
. – I voted in favour of this file, which seeks to restrict geo-blocking for online retailers.I had some concerns that the final text would be overly complex for small businesses to comply with, however the legislation contains safeguards so that there are no obligations for businesses to treat or actually provide services so long as they do not re-route consumers without valid justification. Consumers will no longer be discriminated against based on their country of residence.While the scope for the current legislation excludes audio-visual content or anything subject to copyright, so will not affect television or other transmissions/broadcasts, there is however a review clause which calls on the Commission to look at the possibility of eliminating geo-blocking for this area in two years. Sinn Féin welcomes this inclusion which would hopefully tackle some of the issues on the island of Ireland, particularly with regard to sports broadcasting.
Cost-effective emission reductions and low-carbon investments (A8-0003/2017 - Julie Girling)
. – We voted against this report. Sinn Fein does not see the proposals in this Directive as effective ways of addressing climate change and reducing emissions. The result will be further marketisation of climate change measures, the protection of large industries, and pollution permits within a pay to pollute system. In this vote, the plenary is asked whether to endorse the result of nine months of negotiations. Despite laborious trilogues, the final result still upholds the same ideology and does not sufficiently revise the system to the extent that we can support it. Moreover, some of the final issues dealt with the setting up of an Innovation Fund and a Modernisation Fund, which constitute derogations from the caps on ETS rather than supports. The Commission’s statement makes reference to increasing the linear reduction factor for ETS, new legislative measures on maritime emissions, guidance for just transition in coal and carbon-intensive regions and consideration of carbon capture and use technologies. These, however, are only slight improvements to a flawed system.
European Central Bank Annual Report for 2016 (A8-0383/2017 - Jonás Fernández)
. – We voted against this report. The annual report on the ECB includes some positive points such as calling for monetary policies to remain pro-growth until full employment has been reached, and calling for the swift adoption of the European Deposit Insurance Scheme, which we support. However, it is dominated by endorsements of the damaging and pro-austerity Economic and Monetary Union architecture. It calls for the deepening of the EMU and the Capital Markets Union, which aims to promote shadow banking in the EU, which we strongly oppose.
Accelerating clean energy innovation (A8-0005/2018 - Jerzy Buzek)
. – I voted against this report. It unashamedly advocates the liberalisation of the EU energy market in order to facilitate more innovation in the energy sector, notably by removing obstacles to free price formation and phasing out energy subsidies. It welcomes the Commission Communication on ‘Accelerating Clean Energy Innovation’, which places the private sector in the driving seat of investment in clean energy, advocating the neoliberal approach to clean energy solutions: aiming to create a competitive market for renewable energy. While the report does contain some important elements, such as on energy efficiency, energy poverty, democratic involvement of EU citizens, and community-driven energy systems, it still advocates the same market-based approach to clean energy overall, focusing primarily on the role of the private sector in the transition.
Marrakesh Treaty: facilitating the access to published works for persons who are blind, visually impaired, or otherwise print disabled (A8-0400/2017 - Max Andersson)
. – We voted in favour of this report, which allows the Council to conclude the Marrakesh Treaty, facilitating access to published works for persons who are blind, visually impaired, or otherwise print disabled. The simplified cross-border exchange of these works means that there is greater access to different languages and format types, hopefully making these more available to those who need them, along with more diversity in the works that can be accessed.We support any measures which ease access to these kinds of works for persons with disabilities.
Jurisdiction, recognition and enforcement of decisions in matrimonial matters and matters of parental responsibility, and international child abduction (A8-0388/2017 - Tadeusz Zwiefka)
. – We voted in favour of this report, which addresses gaps in the current legislative framework that have arisen during implementation. The proposal deals with judicial cooperation between Member States in cross-border cases involving parental custody and child abduction. The main changes are all positive, in that the regulation now extends to refugee children, who have been internationally displaced. Mediation is now recognised and encouraged as a method of resolving cross-border disputes, and domestic or gender-based violence is mentioned as a ground for jurisdiction to take protective measures for children. National courts will still be permitted to apply their own laws. For these reasons we voted in favour.
Implementation of the Youth Employment Initiative in the Member States (A8-0406/2017 - Romana Tomc)
. – We voted in favour of this report, which addresses the Youth Employment Initiative (YEI) and its implementation. Highlighting areas in which the YEI has failed in its implementation, the report offers a number of possible improvements to the initiative. It addresses problems such as insufficient data, national governments using the fund to supplement their own programmes, the lack of focus on young people with disabilities, misuse and waste of funds, and uneven distribution across Member States.Although we were opposed to the establishment of an EU hotline, we felt that this proposal did not outweigh the positive aspects of the report. While we agree that young people should have a mechanism to report exploitation, we believe that Member States should be responsible for it. Nevertheless, we felt we could vote in favour of the report.The report highlights the importance of the YEI, despite the criticism of its implementation, and the spirit is in line with improving the initiative, rather than abolishing it or reducing its scope. For that reason we voted in favour.
Implementation of the Professional Qualifications Directive and the need for reform in professional services (A8-0401/2017 - Nicola Danti)
. – We abstained in the vote on this report as it contained aspects which are both very positive and very negative, in different sections. The report highlights the need for regulated professions as a means of safeguarding public safety, health and the environment, as well as a guarantee for high-quality jobs, which should not be evaluated in solely economic terms. It criticises the Commission’s ‘restrictiveness indicator’ but does not go as far as it could and should in that regard. Parts of the report reinforce quantitative and qualitative assessments and minimum standards as well as a non-discriminatory aspect.The report also stresses, however, that EU regulations must adapt to market needs, and it calls for an EU regulatory framework which transfers too much authority to the European level. For these reasons we abstained in the final vote.
Control of exports, transfer, brokering, technical assistance and transit of dual-use items (A8-0390/2017 - Klaus Buchner)
. – We voted in favour of this proposal to regulate the export of items that can be used for civil and military purposes – dual-use items. The regulation contains a list of items that require a licence before export. These licences are provided at national level after an assessment of the nature and potential uses of the item and the situation in the country of destination.Changes in this recast include expanding the provision for items that cover cyber surveillance. Also, for the first time, a human rights dimension is introduced – restricting dual-use items (within the realm of cyber surveillance) which may directly or indirectly impact on human rights. Previously, the emphasis was purely on non-proliferation.With regard to cyber surveillance, national agencies should not grant export licences for dual-use items to countries where serious violations of human rights have been identified by the UN, the Council of Europe or the EU. We welcome this added protection in respect of situations involving potential or ongoing human rights violations, therefore we voted in favour.
Promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources (A8-0392/2017 - José Blanco López)
. – We abstained on this report. The Commission is proposing a new binding target of 27% renewable energy in overall energy needs by 2030, and the report aims to make this target more ambitious. The report deals with biofuels, calling for a cap on first-generation biofuels (taking into consideration the greenhouse gas emissions related to indirect land-use change) and increasing the minimum share of advanced biofuels. Sinn Féin’s position on renewable energy is to ensure diversified renewable energy sources, favouring advanced biofuels over crop-based biofuels and supporting high sustainability criteria in all cases. Sinn Féin is also in favour of supporting a much more ambitious target for renewable energy than the Commission’s proposal.Unfortunately, the report deals with developing an EU market for renewable energy rather than ensuring long-term climate goals and ending energy poverty. However, RED II is at least a development from RED I, which is already in place, and the report aims for more ambition in greening our energy. Sinn Féin is of the opinion that national binding targets in relation to renewable energy are imperative, not just an overall EU target. For these reasons we abstained on the report.
Energy efficiency (A8-0391/2017 - Miroslav Poche)
. – I voted in favour of this report, which is a recast of the Energy Efficiency Directive. It includes a 30% binding EU target for energy efficiency, an increase from the indicative 27% target. It calls for member States to ensure that energy suppliers and distributors increase their energy savings by 1.5% per year. Sinn Fein agrees that energy efficiency is one of the most cost effective methods of decarbonising the economy and it is an important part in reaching 2030 energy and climate goals. There are other positive elements in this report dealing with improving the provision of information on the heating and cooling consumption, to strengthen consumers' rights and transparency in metering and billing of thermal energy, and the consideration of energy poverty.
Governance of the Energy Union (A8-0402/2017 - Michèle Rivasi, Claude Turmes)
. – I voted against this report. The Commission's proposal is to establish the necessary legislative foundation for reliable and transparent governance which would ensure the achievement of the objectives and targets of the Energy Union, with the Commission as its supervisor. Sinn Fein opposes the European Energy Union as it leaves member states tied up in a political process with the Commission, disregards the principle of subsidiarity and aims for a fully integrated and liberalised European energy market. The aim of the Energy Union is to have an integrated continent-wide energy system based on competition. The consequences of this liberalized internal market of energy will not be much different from how it is in other sectors: the monopolist concentration of the sector at European level, the upper hand to the energy oligopolies (be it fossil or renewables-based) and harming consumers, especially the more vulnerable.
Implementation of EU macro-regional strategies (A8-0389/2017 - Andrea Cozzolino)
. – Every two years, the European Commission publishes a report to assess the implementation of macro-regional strategies (MRS). These are one of the European Union’s main instruments for promoting territorial cooperation and ensuring a coordinated approach, enhancing social, economic and territorial cohesion through the use of structural funds. Currently, there are four MRS (Baltic, Danube, Adriatic-Ionian and Alpine) bringing together 19 Member States and a further 8 third countries.The report considers MRS to be invaluable for cross-border, cross-sector and multilevel cooperation. It also highlights some problems concerning commitment, ownership, resources and governance, and argues that implementation must be made more visible, result-oriented, and efficiently coordinated, with clearer funding commitments.A number of progressive amendments were also accepted into the text, on issues including: involving regional and local authorities, public sector participation, rapid adaptation for emergencies and refugees, the environment, sustainable tourism, and the importance of effective exchange of information and best practice.We therefore voted in favour of the report.
Conservation of fishery resources and protection of marine ecosystems through technical measures (A8-0381/2017 - Gabriel Mato)
. – I abstained on this report, as it sought to give the European Commission the power to adopt delegated acts even in the absence of Member State joint recommendations – even those submitted that are deemed not to be compatible. I also had concerns over what can interpreted as potential further derogations for what are supposed to be trial periods for innovative equipment – in this context, I am referring to electric pulse trawl fishing which had previously been banned in the EU and is still banned on other non-EU countries. There were also references to existing control regulation that a Member State could be penalised by the European Commission for ‘non—compliance’ in fisheries, the result being potential reductions in quotas.However, there was still a better balance between industry and environmental concerns compare to previous reports, and that is the correct approach. We tabled a number of amendments that fishermen should be incentivised to fish more sustainably, and also not be penalised in terms of tonnage for fitting their vessels to improve health and safety standards.
International ocean governance: an agenda for the future of our oceans in the context of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (A8-0399/2017 - José Inácio Faria)
. – I voted in favour of this report. It stresses the need for international collaboration in tackling the threat climate change poses to the world’s oceans. It provides suggestions for implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goal 14 regarding sustainable oceans at EU level, dealing with water acidification, shipping emissions and marine litter among others. It encourages the Commission to uphold UNCLOS as the international ocean governance framework and to develop partnerships with key players in order to achieve better international ocean governance.
Women, gender equality and climate justice (A8-0403/2017 - Linnéa Engström)
. – I voted in favour of this report. This report emphasises that women are particularly susceptible to the negative implications of climate change. It calls for the Commission to consider the social and environmental impact of its trade and foreign development policies, including their impact on women, and that trade agreements must consider these elements to ensure sustainable development and to apply sanctions in the event of non-compliance. The report calls for gender balance in those leading the discussions on climate change, such as UNFCCC, particularly increased participation of rural and indigenous women. It asks Member States to prioritise the impact on women when carrying out policies to tackle climate change. The report asks for the issue of climate-migration to be placed on the international political agenda. Considering the positive approach of this report, I voted in favour.
Enforcement of the Directive 2006/123/EC on services in the internal market, laying down a notification procedure for authorisation schemes and requirements related to services, and amending Directive 2006/123/EC and Regulation (EU) No 1024/2012 on administrative cooperation through the Internal Market Information System (A8-0396/2017 - Sergio Gutiérrez Prieto)
. – We voted against the proposal by the Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection to enter into institutional negotiations.In January of this year, the Commission proposed reforms to the current notification procedure in the Services Directive because of its low compliance rates. The existing situation requires Member States to notify the Commission of legislative changes they adopt that may affect freedom of establishment and the free movement of services. The Commission’s proposal, however, requires that draft legislation be submitted, according to the notification procedure, at least three months before its intended date of adoption. The effects of this are significant as they can leave national legislative procedure at a standstill.Furthermore, the Commission’s proposal could stall the procedure with the alert mechanism, and could restrain a Member State from adopting legislation. Sinn Féin opposes giving the Commission powers that would interfere with national legislative procedures. For this reason we voted against the mandate to enter into trilogues.
Situation in Afghanistan (RC-B8-0678/2017, B8-0678/2017, B8-0679/2017, B8-0680/2017, B8-0681/2017, B8-0682/2017, B8-0683/2017, B8-0684/2017)
. – I voted against this motion. The situation in Afghanistan is the result of decades of imperialist adventures in the country. This motion made no mention of the disastrous effect the US led NATO intervention has had on Afghanistan, or the US administration’s failure to prepare for an eventual withdrawal of troops.Afghanistan is definitely not a safe country, it is the most droned bombed country in the world, the US drone campaign is a policy of extra judicial executions which worsens the security situation and forces thousands of ordinary Afghanis to flee their homes. Despite the total lack of personal security in Afghanistan this report still failed to condemn the EU-Afghanistan re-admission agreement.
Situation of the Rohingya people (RC-B8-0668/2017, B8-0668/2017, B8-0669/2017, B8-0670/2017, B8-0671/2017, B8-0672/2017, B8-0673/2017, B8-0674/2017)
. – We voted in favour of this motion which highlights the ongoing ethnic cleansing of the Rohingya people in Myanmar, the motion calls for stronger international action to help the refugees and to address the causes of the current crisis such as the lack of rights and persistent discrimination experienced by the Rohingya in Myanmar.Strong international action and condemnation of the Myanmar government is urgently needed to address the ongoing ethnic cleansing of the Rohingya.
Implementation of the directive on combating the sexual abuse and sexual exploitation of children and child pornography (A8-0368/2017 - Anna Maria Corazza Bildt)
. – We voted in favour of this implementation report. The reports assesses to which extent Member States have transposed the Directive on Combating the sexual abuse and sexual exploitation of children and child pornography into legislation. The overall conclusion is that, despite the Member States’ major efforts to introduce appropriate legislation, there is still considerable work to do for the Directive to reach its full potential. It is vitally important that steps are taken to ensure the safety of young people online and to combat the exploitation of children.
Deliberations of the Committee on Petitions 2016 (A8-0387/2017 - Notis Marias)
. – We voted in favour of the 2016 Annual Report which is intended to give an overview of the work of the Committee on Petitions. The Committee’s work programme is being established by EU citizens and residents as they exercise their right to petition Parliament and share their concerns over various EU policies and legislation.The Annual Report aims to give a precise and full view of the work done by the Committee on Petitions. It provides statistics on the number of petitions received, dealt with and closed by the Committee, the countries concerned and the matters raised. This report also covers other aspects such as relations with other EU institutions and with national and regional authorities.Elements included in the report are:Highlighting the vital role that the Committee on Petitions has to play as a contact point where EU citizens and residents can submit their complaints concerning infringements and shortcomings in the application of EU law in the Member States, and any gaps and inconsistencies in EU legislation and stresses the need to guarantee in full that the issues raised will be treated promptly, exhaustively, impartially and fairly by the institutions.
A European Strategy for Low-Emission Mobility (A8-0356/2017 - Bas Eickhout)
. – We voted in favour of this report. The report aims for low-emissions throughout the transport industry, particularly road transport, in the context of achieving the climate goals of the Paris Agreement.The report aims to increase digitalisation in the industry, and providing incentives for non fossil fuel based transport.The file promotes use of natural gas and green biogas. The report contains reference to EFSI, such as not allowing CEF to fund EFSI and asks that using EFSI to fund CEF eligible projects should be avoided, which we support.Therefore, we voted in favour.
State of play of negotiations with the United Kingdom (B8-0676/2017, B8-0677/2017)
. – Even though we voted in favour of this resolution, there are still too many contradictions and ambiguities in the British Government position. These contradictions need to be clarified and ambiguities removed in the legal text to be drawn up over the coming weeks and months.The only way to ensure that there is no hardening of the border with regard to rights, rules or physical infrastructure is for the north of Ireland to have a special status within the EU, within the single market and customs union, and with the Charter of Fundamental Rights and the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice continuing to apply.The EU and the Irish Government need to be extremely vigilant in the coming months to ensure that there is no attempt by the British Government to backtrack on commitments given or to water down the provisions of the Good Friday Agreement in any way.
Objection to an implementing act: use of phosphoric acid – phosphates – di – tri – and polyphosphates (E 338-452) in frozen vertical meat spits (B8-0666/2017)
. – We voted in favour of this objection. Sinn Féin has always been dedicated to prioritising the interests of consumers over all financial interests, especially as regards food safety. The current situation is that phosphates are not allowed for use in processed meat. However, the practice is widespread due to many derogations and a loophole exempting ‘frozen vertical meat spits’. The Food Additives Regulation lays down criteria which must be satisfied before chemicals can be used in food, and the use of phosphates in kebab meat does not currently satisfy these criteria. At present, there is inconclusive scientific evidence regarding their safety and an ongoing re-evaluation by EFSA. As such, the premature authorisation of their use is against the precautionary principle. Moreover, phosphates enhance the flavour of meat and retain water, adding to the weight, which leads to concerns over fraud. Thus, objecting to the Commission’s proposal is the only rational step to take until the science is clear and there is absolutely no health risk to the consumer.
Draft recommendation following the inquiry on money laundering, tax avoidance and tax evasion (B8-0660/2017)
. – We abstained on this report. It contains many positive elements that strengthen Parliament’s position on combating tax dodging and money laundering. The recommendation calls for enhanced public registries for companies and beneficial owners and public country-by-country reporting to go beyond the limitations of the OECD BEPS measures; it calls for beneficial owners to be identified if they directly or indirectly own at least one share in an entity; it calls on Member States to implement dissuasive and proportionate sanctions against the enablers of illegal tax or money-laundering schemes; and calls for a UN global summit and tax body to deal with these issues. Unfortunately, many important provisions that were included in the PANA report adopted by committee in October were deleted by an alliance of conservative groups. There were also several aspects which I am concerned would infringe on tax sovereignty, including calling for tax issues to be dealt with by qualified majority voting instead of unanimity in the Council; calls for a harmonised minimum tax rate in the EU and for the rapid implementation of the CCCTB. We abstained due to these concerns.
Annual report on the implementation of the Common Security and Defence Policy (A8-0351/2017 - Michael Gahler)
. – We voted against this report, which aims to further EU militarisation: it calls for increased military spending and the further development of EU funds for military spending. It also calls for the creation of permanent EU pooled military units and the creation of a military free travel area in Europe. This report shows that the EU is not a union based on peace and cooperation, but is increasingly becoming a military alliance which assists the efforts of large NATO members and diverts public money with a view to funding projects for the European arms industry.
Annual report on the implementation of the Common Foreign and Security Policy (A8-0350/2017 - David McAllister)
. – I voted against this report, which calls on the EU to become a strong global actor through the development of strategic partnerships with non-EU countries. The primary aim of this is for the EU to counter the influence of various regional powers. By prioritising strategic concerns, the EU is undermining the efforts made by the EU and Member States to promote peace and security in countries outside the EU. This report also calls for stronger cooperation between the EU and NATO on foreign policy, but such cooperation will only further militarisation and contribute to global insecurity.
Annual report on human rights and democracy in the world 2016 and the EU policy on the matter (A8-0365/2017 - Godelieve Quisthoudt-Rowohl)
. – I abstained on this report. While the report highlights many important human rights issues, its main aim is to increase the EU’s role as an international power. It calls on the EU to use common security and defence missions under the pretence of human rights protection.I am fully supportive of the international human rights protection system that currently exists through the UN; there is no reason for the EU to attempt to replicate already existing international human rights structures.
Hong Kong, 20 years after handover (A8-0382/2017 - Alyn Smith)
. – I voted against this file; the framework for the handover of Hong Kong was agreed between the UK and the People’s Republic of China 20 years ago. This report does not show sufficient respect for the internationally agreed ‘One country, two systems’ agreement on Hong Kong. The report also fails to mention several areas of concern in Hong Kong, namely the high levels of inequality despite Hong Kong’s financial success, Hong Kong’s role in global tax avoidance systems and the abuse of foreign domestic workers in Hong Kong.
Sustainable management of external fishing fleets (A8-0374/2017 - Linnéa Engström)
Amendments to various Regulations in the field of agriculture and rural development (A8-0380/2017 - Albert Deß)
. – I voted in favour of this report, which makes changes to the four basic CAP Acts. The changes in some instances are small changes to address problems that have arisen over the first two years of implementation of the last CAP reform. In other instances, the changes should go towards simplifying procedures and the mountain of red tape that has built up around payments systems. I welcome the changes to the Young Farmer schemes which will allow farmers to benefit from funds for a full five years, as well as the easing of the definition of permanent grassland. Expanding the sectors that may set up producer organisations is also a welcome development, though should not be seen as fully addressing the issue of unfair trading practices in the food supply chain. Although I am cautious about the inclusion of more private financial instruments, I supported the majority of changes here, so voted in favour.
EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS): continuing current limitations of scope for aviation activities and preparing to implement a global market-based measure from 2021 (A8-0258/2017 - Julie Girling)
. – I voted against this provisional agreement. Sinn Féin has always been opposed to the EU ETS and its revisions because of the further marketisation of climate change measures, how it protects large industries, and how the free allowances developed into a system of pollution permits. In this instance, the plenary is being asked whether to endorse the outcome of a year of trilogues, for the revision of the system for 2021-2030. The Commissions’ proposal includes two new elements: an innovation fund, to extend support for low-carbon innovative technologies, and a modernisation fund to promote the renewal of energy infrastructure and support the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in Member States with a GDPs lower than the EU average. These funds are more or less derogations and aim to set the EU up for energy harmonisation. This, plus our rejection of the ETS system overall, led to me vote against the provisional agreement.
Extension of the duration of the European Fund for Strategic Investments (A8-0198/2017 - Udo Bullmann, José Manuel Fernandes)
. – We voted against this measure to extend the duration of the EFSI.The EFSI was established in 2015 for an initial period of three years with the aim of mobilising at least EUR 315bn in investments.This legislative proposal aims not only to extend the investment period of the so-called Juncker Plan until the end of the current Multiannual Financial Framework (2020), but also to extend its financial capacity (from EUR 5bn to EUR 7,5bn) and raise the focus on additionality. The Commission’s quantitative objective is to provide at least EUR 500bn investments by 2020.We opposed EFSI from the outset, calling instead for a truly Public Investment Plan. EFSI has been nothing more than a guarantee fund for Private Investors that ordinarily finance purely private projects.The EFSI is not delivering social projects on any meaningful scale and is no more than a private financing stream facilitated through existing commercial banks for companies to access cheap credit.The EFSI could be used in a manner that benefits the ordinary people of Europe. Public investment needs to be prioritised particularly following the devastating years of the most recent recession.This is the strategy and position that I will continue to advocate for.
Rules on the exercise of copyright and related rights applicable to certain online transmissions of broadcasting organisations and retransmissions of television and radio programmes (A8-0378/2017 - Tiemo Wölken)
. – We rejected the call to enter into inter-institutional negotiations on this file. Our reasons for refusing permission to move this file to the next stage was that there are many issues that the Committee failed to address at the first stage. This includes the fact that technology neutrality has not been protected and the scope for collective management has been reduced. In addition, there has not been enough protections included for creators over service providers. Finally, the protection for national minorities has been reduced massively, to only give protection for news and current affairs programmes. Sinn Féin believes that minority language users must have access to everyday content. For these reasons we voted against.
Request for the defence of the privileges and immunities of Eleonora Forenza (A8-0398/2017 - Gilles Lebreton)
. – We voted to uphold the immunity of MEP Eleonora Forenza. Ms Forenza was arrested and detained at a peaceful protest against the G20 Summit in Hamburg over the summer.There are no charges or legal proceedings against Ms Forenza, but formalities on parliamentary immunities required this vote to take place. Questions on the legality of her arrest and detention aside, Human Rights and the Freedom of demonstrate peacefully must be upheld for all citizens.
Request for the waiver of the immunity of Ingeborg Gräßle (A8-0397/2017 - Jean-Marie Cavada)
. – We voted to waive the immunity of Ms Gräßle. The MEP in question was involved in a road traffic accident, in which she ran a red light. She cannot appear in court to give a statement on the incident until her immunity has been waived. As the incident is not connected to her functions as an MEP, and in order to allow the justice system to deal with this incident, we voted to waive the immunity.
Customs duties on imports of certain products originating in the USA (A8-0331/2017 - Jiří Maštálka)
. – This was a technical file including the codification of existing legislation. The facts date back to the Byrd Amendment (Continued Dumping and Subsidy Offset Act of 2000), adopted by the US in 2000. This legislation allows for the distribution of anti-dumping duties to companies that complain. The WTO found this piece of legislation illegal in 2003, however not steps were taken to rescind the Act. Therefore the European Commission imposed retaliatory measures, along with 8 other WTO members. The codification today does not make any changes to the content of the legislation for retaliatory measures, it merely codifies the terms. For these reasons, I voted in favour.
EU-USA Air Transport Agreement (A8-0376/2017 - Theresa Griffin)
. – This vote is to give consent to the EU-USA Air Transport Agreement - this is an agreement which is already provisionally applied since 2010, however the ratification by Member States and consent process by the European Parliament is still ongoing.The agreement aims to increase competitiveness and liberalise the aviation market, by allowing US airlines to provide services, to the EU and vice versa, without restrictions, including easing regulations on foreign ownership of airlines.The file contains no emphasis on maintaining standards in workers’ rights and does not address the differences between EU and US standards. Increasingly the agreement’s aim is to create a neoliberal and pro-market approach to the sector.The agreement enhances privatisation and will lead to further cost-cutting airlines, which often cut back on workers’ rights to offer cheap flights and encourage competitiveness in the sector.Therefore we voted against the report.
EU-Switzerland agreement on the linking of their greenhouse gas emissions trading systems (A8-0386/2017 - Christofer Fjellner)
. – We abstained on this vote. This file pertains to the agreement on the revision of the emissions trading system phase IV, linking the EU ETS with the ETS of Switzerland. The agreements sets out the institutional framework as well as the key objectives and principles for linking the two systems. Sinn Féin does not endorse the EU ETS system as an effective way forward on climate action, as it commodifies pollution and benefits the biggest polluters. However, it is an issue for Switzerland to decide whether they want to merge their system with that of the EU’s – as it stands, there are no major consequences of linking the two systems as they are already more or less aligned. For this reason we abstained.
EU-Kazakhstan Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (Consent) (A8-0325/2017 - Liisa Jaakonsaari)
. – I voted against this vote giving Parliament’s consent to the Commission’s proposed Enhanced Partnership Agreement with Kazakhstan. It is wholly inappropriate for the EU increase cooperation with any country with severe human rights issues. Kazakhstan is ranked as one of the least free countries in the world. The Agreement is focused on trade liberalisation, security cooperation, visa and remittance agreements between the EU and Kazakhstan. The EU’s insistence on liberalising trade with as many countries as possible will have negative consequences for ordinary people in Europe and around the world, while an increased role for the EU in international security will weaken UN structures and contribute to further EU militarisation.
EU-Kazakhstan Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (Resolution) (A8-0335/2017 - Liisa Jaakonsaari)
. – We voted against this resolution, as it calls for the EU to create an enhanced partnership with Kazakhstan. The report did not take a strong stance on the human rights issue in Kazakhstan, one of the least free contries in the world. The references in the report to serious human rights abuses and the lack of democracy should be enough to rule out any preferential treatment for Kazakhstan.The report also calls on the EU to play a stonger role in the internal politics of Kazakhstan and in Central Asian regional politics. The EU is supposed to be a union of European states focusing on areas of common interest. This report is part of a wider EU policy of developing a stronger common European foreign policy and giving the EU a stronger role as an international actor: that is not why the EU was created.
EU Citizenship Report 2017: Strengthening Citizens' Rights in a Union of Democratic Change (A8-0385/2017 - Beatriz Becerra Basterrechea)
. – Every three years the Commission publishes a report analysing the situation of citizens’ rights in the EU and laying out its future priorities in this area. Whilst this report contained some positives such as highlighting the negative effects of austerity, calling for more equality and transparency, this reports also contained many negatives as well.The report calls for more visibility of political parties at the European level and supports the possibility of introducing an European identity card; it promotes the introduction of a transnational list as a positive contribution to fostering the notion of EU citizenship and its support the nomination of Europe—wide candidates for the post of Commission President by European political parties.The report also underlines the need for a ‘clearly—defined EU policy to tackle ‘anti—European propaganda and false information’; this suggests that the report wishes to prohibit criticism, which we are completely against.
Towards a digital trade strategy (A8-0384/2017 - Marietje Schaake)
. – We voted against this non-legislative report from the International Trade Committee. The report ultimately is calling for the EU to lead the process of regulating the digital economy through its trade agreements. While this in itself can be dangerous since concessions made during trade negotiations often lead to adoption of the lowest standards and a race to the bottom, there were many other negative elements in this report. This includes calling for the EU to continue efforts to increase opportunities and protections for foreign investors, which is a nod to the Commission’s plans to establish a multilateral investment court. Sinn Féin completely opposes plans for this court, which we believe will breach the Constitution of Ireland. There was also a lot of emphasis on the economic importance of data transfers and calls for the Commission to urgently launch TiSA negotiations. For these reasons we voted against.
Mobilisation of the Contingency margin in 2017 (A8-0372/2017 - Jens Geier)
. – I voted against this report. In 2017, EUR 1.9bn was accessed for this contingency and was spent under headings 3 and 4 – Security & Citizenship and Global Europe. These funds were offset against unused funds in the other headings. This led to a reduction in funds this year under heading 5 (Administration) but transferred into Heading 3 (Security & Citizenship).I believe it is worrying to allow the Council this contingency to allow them to spend these funds in the area of ‘Security’, therefore I voted against.
Draft amending Budget No 6/2017: Reduction of payment and commitment appropriations in line with updated forecasts of expenditure and update of revenue (own resources and fines) (A8-0379/2017 - Jens Geier)
. – I voted against this report. Annually, the Commission releases a draft amending budget in which unused funds from that present year’s budget are returned to Member States. 2017 will be the year that the greatest amount of unused funds will be returned, meaning Member States simply are not applying for and drawing down available funding for very necessary projects in their countries. These funds are then deducted from the Member States’ contributions for the following year. Nearly EUR 10bn will be returned.Structural funds and cohesion funds are the main two not being utilised and these are extremely important to Ireland. We certainly welcome the funds being returned to Ireland. However in many instances European funding is matched by Irish Government funding, therefore post-austerity, investment in rebuilding public services is being totally neglected.
Mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide for the payment of advances in the general budget 2018 (A8-0371/2017 - Inese Vaidere)
. – I voted in favour of this measure. This report allows for the mobilisation of an advance amount of EUR 50m to the European Union Solidarity Fund to allow for the timely allocation of resources in the event of disasters in Member States. Given that emergencies, natural or otherwise, cannot be anticipated and generally it is those who are already in poverty when disasters happen who suffer most, it is important to have immediate funding readily available.
Mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument to finance immediate budgetary measures to address the on-going challenges of migration, refugee inflows and security threats (A8-0370/2017 - Siegfried Mureşan)
. – I voted against this report. This file concerns a request by the Council to immediately mobilise funding to address the on-going challenges of migration, refugee inflows and security threats. By allowing this, it has the effect of increasing current ceilings and so sets a precedent for future ceilings in such areas also. It is a technical report which complements the 2018 EU Budgetary Conciliation agreement which will add EUR 20m to the already committed EUR 837.2m. Whilst we have obvious concerns for the welfare and care of refugees and the life-endangering journeys they are undertaking to seek safety, we do not have confidence in the current administration to direct monies to where the priorities are. There is far too much emphasis on security in this current Parliament’s narrative. With this worry there, I could not support this measure.
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2017/003 GR/Attica retail (A8-0367/2017 - Marie-Pierre Vieu)
. – I voted in favour of this report. It supports EUR 2 949 150 being made available to 725 workers who were made redundant from 9 different retail enterprises across Greece. These enterprises closed due to the austerity policies enforced on Greece which led to a drop in disposable income and living standards. The application fell within the scope of the eligibility criteria. I was happy to support.
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2017/005 FI/Retail (A8-0366/2017 - Răzvan Popa)
2018 budgetary procedure (A8-0359/2017 - Siegfried Mureşan, Richard Ashworth)
. – I voted against this report. The Inter-institutional agreement following the conciliation period to implement a budget for 2018 was agreed on Saturday 18 November 2017. Before summer, the Commission draft proposal suggested the highest payment appropriations for a number of years of 8%. A more modest increase in commitment appropriations was also proposed. The Council at that stage proposed cuts in PAs and CAs. The Parliament adopted a position in October proposing the highest budget for the EU since 2014.The fact remains that current EU budgets simply do not go far enough in terms of social responsibility for us to support them. Not enough of an impact is made on ordinary people’s lives from the funding that is provided from an EU aspect. This has to change. Member States are currently not drawing down and implementing funding particularly in the area of Cohesion policy. This money is being returned to Member States when so many social projects could be financed.The budget for 2018 stands at EUR 160 113.5 million in CAs and EUR 144 681 million in PAs. The conciliation basically took little notice of Parliament’s request for an increased budget which could have led to more social projects being financed, therefore I could not support it.
Request for the waiver of the immunity of Ana Gomes (A8-0363/2017 - Laura Ferrara)
. – I voted in favour of this file which upheld the immunity of Ms Gomes MEP. The case concerns a statements Ms Gomes made about the dismantling of a shipyard in favour of a newly formed company, which led to the layoff of over 600 workers. As part of this dismantling, a ferry worth EUR 50m was sold for EUR 8.75m, then resold 5 months later for EUR 17m. Judicial searches and investigations are ongoing into both affairs at the request of the Attorney General since the privatisation concerned an important naval shipyard.Ms Gomes is being accused of defamation for making allegations of corruption. Following the law for these cases, legal opinion has found that Ms Gomes made these remarks in her capacity as an MEP, and as Vice-Chair of the Committee of Inquiry into Money laundering, tax avoidance and tax evasion. Since the remarks are closely connected to her work, I voted to uphold the immunity.
Changes to the resources for economic, social and territorial cohesion and to the resources for the investment for growth and jobs goal and for the European territorial cooperation goal (A8-0358/2017 - Iskra Mihaylova)
. – This legislative proposal carries out a number of technical changes to the Common Provisions Regulation (CPR) in order to take into account the most recent statistical data available and to bring the figures in that regulation into line with the outcome of various financial decisions that have already been taken.The proposal contains technical modifications to the figures in the CPR in order to reflect various decisions already taken to update or adjust cohesion programme funding. These changes are the result either of purely technical calculations that the Commission must carry out under the provisions of the CPR, or of changes to the MFF which Parliament has already consented to. It also includes ensuring that necessary funds are available to the continue the functioning of the Youth Employment Initiative.I therefore voted in favour of this report.
EU-Egypt Agreement for scientific and technological cooperation: participation of Egypt in the Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA) (A8-0353/2017 - Sofia Sakorafa)
. – The Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA) is a Horizon 2020 project, to use research to tackle the issues of water management and food production in the Mediterranean area. The members of PRIMA consist of EU Member States mostly deriving from the Mediterranean area – Croatia, Cyprus, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Slovenia, and Spain – but also non-EU Mediterranean countries: Israel, Tunisia, Turkey, Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon and Morocco. Project funding includes contributions by member countries of PRIMA, along with the EU contribution under Horizon 2020. The report affirms the region’s right to safe and clean drinking water. The initiative hopes to bring new ideas to and create sustainable agriculture production, with a commitment to social and environment friendly implementation.While I support this project, I strongly oppose Israel’s involvement in it - or in any other Horizon 2020 funded schemes - due to its appalling human rights abuses and occupation of Palestine. Israel’s ongoing theft of Palestinian water, and denial of safe drinking water to the citizens of Gaza, makes its involvement particularly outrageous.However, this vote concludes the Commission’s agreement with Egypt on its PRIMA participation. Therefore I voted in favour.
EU-Algeria Agreement for scientific and technological cooperation: participation of Algeria in the Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA) (A8-0354/2017 - Sofia Sakorafa)
. – The Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA) is a Horizon 2020 project, to use research to tackle the issues of water management and food production in the Mediterranean area. The members of PRIMA consists of EU Member States mostly deriving from the Mediterranean area – Croatia, Cyprus, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Slovenia, and Spain – but also non-EU Mediterranean countries: Israel, Tunisia, Turkey, Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon and Morocco. Project funding includes contributions by member countries of PRIMA, along with an EU contribution under Horizon 2020. The report affirms the region’s right to safe and clean drinking water. The initiative hopes to bring new ideas to and create sustainable agriculture production, with a commitment to social and environment friendly implementation.While I support this project, I strongly oppose Israel’s involvement in it – or in any other Horizon 2020 funded schemes – due to its appalling human rights abuses and occupation of Palestine. Israel’s ongoing theft of Palestinian water, and denial of safe drinking water to the citizens of Gaza, makes its involvement particularly outrageous. However, this vote concludes the Commission’s agreement with Algeria on its PRIMA participation. Therefore I voted in favour.
EU-Jordan Agreement for scientific and technological cooperation: participation of Jordan in the Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA) (A8-0355/2017 - Sofia Sakorafa)
. – The Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA) is a Horizon 2020 project, to use research to tackle the issues of water management and food production in the Mediterranean area. The members of PRIMA consists of EU Member States mostly deriving from the Mediterranean area – Croatia, Cyprus, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Slovenia, and Spain – but also non-EU Mediterranean countries: Israel, Tunisia, Turkey, Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon and Morocco. Project funding includes contributions by member countries of PRIMA, along with an EU contribution under Horizon 2020. The report affirms the region’s right to safe and clean drinking water. The initiative hopes to bring new ideas to and create sustainable agriculture production, with a commitment to social and environment friendly implementation.While I support this project, I strongly oppose Israel’s involvement in it – or in any other Horizon 2020 funded schemes – due to its appalling human rights abuses and occupation of Palestine. Israel’s ongoing theft of Palestinian water, and denial of safe drinking water to the citizens of Gaza, makes its involvement particularly outrageous. However, this vote concludes the Commission’s agreement with Jordan on its PRIMA participation. Therefore I voted in favour.
Accession of Chile, Iceland and Bahamas to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (A8-0364/2017 - Angel Dzhambazki)
. – This report endorses a Council decision to authorise Member States to accept the accession of Chile, Iceland and Bahamas to the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction.The Convention is a multilateral treaty with the purpose of ensuring the immediate return of children wrongfully taken or retained internationally (usually by one parent or guardian) to their home country, where domestic custody proceedings can take place.A ruling of the ECJ in 2014 that found that the EU now has exclusive external competence in the field, although the Convention does not allow for international organisations - such as the EU - to be partners to the Convention themselves.These Council decisions are therefore necessary to allow Member States to accept the accession of the relevant countries to the Convention, bringing the Convention into force between the entire EU and that country, and we therefore voted in favour of the report.
Accession of Panama, Uruguay, Colombia and El Salvador to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (A8-0362/2017 - Angel Dzhambazki)
. – This report endorses a Council decision to authorise Member States to accept the accession of Panama, Uruguay, Colombia and El Salvador to the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction.The Convention is a multilateral treaty with the purpose of ensuring the immediate return of children wrongfully taken or retained internationally (usually by one parent or guardian) to their home country, where domestic custody proceedings can take place.A ruling of the ECJ in 2014 that found that the EU now has exclusive external competence in the field, although the Convention does not allow for international organisations - such as the EU - to be partners to the Convention themselves.These Council decisions are therefore necessary to allow Member States to accept the accession of the relevant countries to the Convention, bringing the Convention into force between the entire EU and that country, and we therefore voted in favour of the report.
Accession of San Marino to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (A8-0360/2017 - Angel Dzhambazki)
. – This report endorses a Council decision to authorise Member States to accept the accession of San Marino to the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction.The Convention is a multilateral treaty with the purpose of ensuring the immediate return of children wrongfully taken or retained internationally (usually by one parent or guardian) to their home country, where domestic custody proceedings can take place.A ruling of the ECJ in 2014 that found that the EU now has exclusive external competence in the field, although the Convention does not allow for international organisations - such as the EU - to be partners to the Convention themselves.These Council decisions are therefore necessary to allow Member States to accept the accession of the relevant countries to the Convention, bringing the Convention into force between the entire EU and that country, and we therefore voted in favour of the report.
Accession of Georgia and South Africa to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (A8-0361/2017 - Angel Dzhambazki)
. – This report endorses a Council decision to authorise Member States to accept the accession of Georgia and South Africa to the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction.The Convention is a multilateral treaty with the purpose of ensuring the immediate return of children wrongfully taken or retained internationally (usually by one parent or guardian) to their home country, where domestic custody proceedings can take place.A ruling of the ECJ in 2014 that found that the EU now has exclusive external competence in the field, although the Convention does not allow for international organisations - such as the EU - to be partners to the Convention themselves.These Council decisions are therefore necessary to allow Member States to accept the accession of the relevant countries to the Convention, bringing the Convention into force between the entire EU and that country, and we therefore voted in favour of the report.
Transitional arrangements for mitigating the impact of the introduction of IFRS 9 (A8-0255/2017 - Peter Simon)
. – We voted against this report, which is part of a banking reform package and is about introducing a new accounting standard for banks that will make it more difficult for them to disguise their true levels of capital. We supported the approach proposed by the Single Supervisor and the European Banking Authority in favour of a ‘static’ approach (which makes it easier for supervisors to monitor and compare capital levels), and a shorter transitional period of three years instead of five.Unfortunately, thanks to the ‘dynamic’ approach advocated by the restored grand coalition of the EPP and S&D, banks will now be able to cherry pick the standard that suits them best. The outcome of the interinstitutional negotiations is essentially that the implementation of IFRS 9 will be, de facto, delayed by another five years. Our view is that it would surely be better to implement this standard now, during an economic recovery, than to kick the can down the road to an inevitable future downturn. For this reason, we voted against the report.
Instrument contributing to stability and peace (A8-0261/2017 - Arnaud Danjean)
. – We voted against this proposed amendment to the Instrument Contributing to Stability and Peace. The purpose of the proposal was to create a new EUR 100 million budget to provide military funding as part of European development programmes.This budget is to be used in undefined ‘exceptional circumstances’ and would see military spending as part of EU development policy. This is an inappropriate use of development funds, as it does nothing to alleviate poverty or help those most at risk of poverty. A development policy that effectively serves the needs of people in developing countries needs to be focused on disarmament, poverty alleviation and non-proliferation of weapons.
Ranking of unsecured debt instruments in insolvency hierarchy (A8-0302/2017 - Gunnar Hökmark)
. – We voted against this report, which is part of a bigger package on risk reduction measures in the banking sector. This report proposes an amendment to the Bank Recovery and Resolution Directive or BRRD. The BRRD proposes a harmonised national insolvency ranking of unsecured debt instruments to facilitate banks’ issuance of certain loss absorbing debt instruments. This proposal aims to fast-track one aspect of the reform of the BRRD in order to allow banks to issue the new class of debt and hence to ensure that they have sufficient liabilities in times of crisis which can be bailed-in quickly.GUE/NGL proposed important amendments saying all debt instruments issued by banks must be clearly subordinated to other liabilities e.g. from deposits and other debts that banks may have. This would ensure legal certainty for bail-in and improve financial stability. Another key amendment was that these debt instruments should not be sold to retail customers in order to prevent mis-selling and abuse. These key amendments were not supported, and due to their importance we voted against the report.
Value added tax obligations for supplies of services and distance sales of goods (A8-0307/2017 - Cătălin Sorin Ivan)
. – We abstained on this vote. This is part of a VAT package proposed by the Commission in 2016. The ‘destination’ principle has been applied to transactions for telecommunications, broadcasting and electronically supplied services since 2015. This means that VAT needs to be paid in the state where the consumer lives through the mini-one-stop-shop (MOSS) portal. This proposal is to extend the use of this portal beyond these sectors. The ECON report makes only small amendments to the Commission’s proposal. The main change is that it while it supports the Commission’s proposal that online platforms are held liable for the collection of VAT in supplies of services, they should also be liable when the online platform is acting as an intermediary with a third country and there is a risk VAT may not be paid. While the proposal was not in and of itself controversial, it endorses the promotion of VAT by EU Member States, which is a regressive tax that unfairly burdens lower-income households. As a result we abstained.
Situation in Yemen (RC-B8-0649/2017, B8-0649/2017, B8-0650/2017, B8-0651/2017, B8-0652/2017, B8-0653/2017, B8-0654/2017, B8-0655/2017, B8-0656/2017)
. – I voted in favour of this resolution which condemns the ongoing war in Yemen. This joint resolution condemns the role European weapons sales to Saudi Arabia have played in prolonging the war and creating the humanitarian crisis in Yemen. It calls on Member States to stop arms sales to all participants in the conflict, in line with the EU’s common position on arms exports. It also condemns violations of international law such as indiscriminate shelling and the use of targeted drone strikes to carry out summary executions without due process.By voting in favour of this resolution I hope that European nations can help to apply pressure on the governments and arms companies whose actions are prolonging the conflict.
Implementation of the European Disability Strategy (A8-0339/2017 - Helga Stevens)
. – I voted in favour of this report. The report proposes to strengthen the protections of people with disabilities and ensure they enjoy the full rights of EU citizens in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCPRD) and the European Disability Strategy 2010-2020 (EDS).This is a very comprehensive report which reflects a wide vision on disability issues and takes a strategic analysis of implementing the principles of the UNCPRD and the EDS.By voting in favour of this report it is hoped that pressure can be put on the EU institutions to implement previously agreed standards and safeguards in the area of rights for people with disabilities.
EU-New Zealand Partnership Agreement on Relations and Cooperation (Consent) (A8-0327/2017 - Charles Tannock)
EU-New Zealand Partnership Agreement on Relations and Cooperation (Resolution) (A8-0333/2017 - Charles Tannock)
Activities of the European Ombudsman in 2016 (A8-0328/2017 - Marlene Mizzi)
. – I voted in favour. The report approves the 2016 report of activities presented by the European Ombudsman and congratulates her for her work. It notes that the Ombudsman’s office has achieved the second highest rate of compliance with its decisions and/or recommendations so far and recommends that the Ombudsman stay alert, identify reasons for non-compliance with its recommendations and inform Parliament of any recurrent cases of non-compliance on the part of the EU administration.
Environmental Implementation Review (EIR) (B8-0590/2017)
. – I voted against this motion for a resolution. The Environmental Implementation Review (EIR) is a two-yearly cycle of analysis, dialogue and collaboration, with publication of country reports and discussions between the European Commission, EU Member States and stakeholders. It aims to address the causes of implementation gaps and find solutions. The resolution acknowledges both the high standards of EU environmental legislation and its implementation gaps and welcomes the EIR as a way of improving implementation. While I accept the EIR process, the resolution contains some paragraphs that I do not support, such as encouraging stronger links with the European Semester and advocating market instruments by Member States, such as a fiscal policy based on the ‘polluter pays’ principle. There is also a call for the Commission to propose EU—level environmental inspections.
Combating inequalities as a lever to boost job creation and growth (A8-0340/2017 - Javi López)
. – I abstained in this vote. This report recognises the negative impact social inequalities have on society, particularly their impact on economic growth. The report recognises that inequalities are a problem; however, it ignores the role of EU austerity in worsening these inequalities.The report recommends greater EU action to tackle inequality as part of further integration, but there is no mention of addressing the existing EU austerity policies which have worsened inequality across Europe.
Period for adopting delegated acts (A8-0332/2017 - Gesine Meissner)
. – I voted in favour of this file which extends the period under which the Commission can adopt delegated acts for Directive 2010/40/EU on the deployment of Intelligent Transport Systems in the field of road transport. Delegated acts concern the provision of an EU-wide e-call, road-safety related minimum traffic information, information on safe and secure parking spaces for trucks and commercial vehicles, and EU-wide real time traffic information.
Eastern Partnership: November 2017 Summit (A8-0308/2017 - Laima Liucija Andrikienė, Knut Fleckenstein)
. – I voted against this report on Parliament’s recommendations to the Council and the Commission on the Eastern Partnership. This report calls for a stronger EU presence in the Eastern Partnership countries: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia and Ukraine.It calls for further economic integration through free trade agreements between the EU and Eastern Partnership countries and for a stronger EU security presence in the region through the deployment of common security and defence policy missions.The report mentions the need for unresolved conflicts to be addressed and condemns Russia’s activities in the region, particularly in Georgia and Ukraine, and propaganda activities. The report rightly raises concerns about the situation in east Ukraine; however the report fails to mention the serious human rights issues in Ukraine, such as the repression of journalists, the use of arbitrary detention and the banning of legitimate political parties.
Action Plan for nature, people and the economy (B8-0589/2017)
. – As shadow of this motion for a resolution, I voted in favour. The Commission adopted the Action Plan for Nature, People and the Economy to improve the implementation of the Nature Directives. The resolution welcomes the Action Plan, though points to its shortcomings. It states that more effort is needed to reach biodiversity targets and calls for involvement of all actors to improve implementation. I am in favour of the implementation improvements laid out in the Action Plan, including strengthening investment, improving guidance and knowledge connecting nature protection to socio-economic activities, building political ownership at all levels and raising awareness about benefits of protecting nature.
The situation of the rule of law and democracy in Poland (B8-0594/2017, B8-0595/2017)
. – This resolution condemns the Polish government for ongoing breaches of fundamental rights and the rule of law. In recent years, the governing Law and Justice (PiS) party has overseen fundamental rights abuses, including attacks on migrants, women’s rights, freedom of expression and assembly, and judicial independence.The Polish government has placed NGO and civil society funding under government control, ignored European Court of Justice rulings, and encouraged the growth of far-right organisations, while engaging in an escalating war of rhetoric with the EU.This resolution calls for compliance proceedings to be initiated against the Polish government. While I do not believe the institutions of the European Union are the best protectors of human rights, there is currently no international actor that can put as much pressure on the Polish government as the EU.There are parts of the resolution that I do not agree with, and I am wary the EU Institutions should not unduly encroach on the sovereignty of nations, but balancing this against the safeguards in the compliance process and the seriousness of the human rights abuses taking place, I considered the situation in Poland to justify supporting this motion, and therefore voted in favour of the resolution.
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2017/004 IT/Almaviva (A8-0346/2017 - Daniele Viotti)
. – We voted in favour of this file. 1 646 employees were made redundant in a call centre in Rome. Over EUR 3 million is being released to support their redundancies. 8 different measures are included to cover a range of difficulties these former employees will face. These are (i) individual orientation, (ii) job search assistance, (iii) training, retraining and vocational training, (iv) reemployment vouchers, (v) support towards entrepreneurship, (vi) contribution to business start-up, (vii) reimbursement of expenses for carers of dependent persons, and (viii) reimbursement of mobility costs.
Saving lives: boosting car safety in the EU (A8-0330/2017 - Dieter-Lebrecht Koch)
. – There are many good proposals in the report, including those that promote safety for vulnerable road users such as cyclists and pedestrians. The report also deals with vehicle safety, seatbelt reminder systems, improved fire safety rules and testing requirements for blood alcohol levels.Sinn Féin takes a very strict approach to car safety, including zero tolerance on drink-driving and driving under the influence of drugs. Motor vehicles become lethal weapons if operated under the influence of alcohol or drugs and drink driving is the main contributing factor to single vehicle collisions and is a factor in more than one third of all fatal crashes.However as road rules are a national competence, the legislation governing safety should be developed at national level. Therefore we abstained on the final vote.
Territorial typologies (A8-0231/2017 - Iskra Mihaylova)
. – This report is a technical proposal to complement the establishment of a common classification of territorial units (NUTS) with the necessary elements to take into account developments in territorial classifications for statistical purposes.It proposes establishing a legal recognition of territorial typologies for the purposes of statistics, including core definitions and statistical criteria, and to ensure a harmonised application and use of these typologies at an EU level.Such definitions are already in use by the European Statistical System, but are not formally recognised. This report would change that, making the statistical data more useful. We therefore voted in favour of the report.
Recognition of professional qualifications in inland navigation (A8-0338/2016 - Gesine Meissner)
. – We voted in favour of this file, which deals with recognising professional qualifications on inland navigation. It aims to tackle obstacles to labour mobility, by recognising certificates of qualification, service record books and logbooks. While the new rules will take into account the different characteristics of Member States, it will not apply to Ireland since there are no waterways in Ireland that meet the criteria to fall within the scope of this legislation.
Cooperation between national authorities responsible for the enforcement of consumer protection laws (A8-0077/2017 - Olga Sehnalová)
. – We voted in favour of this report. As part of the e-commerce package, the Commission introduced a legislative proposal for a new revised Regulation on cooperation between national authorities responsible for the enforcement of consumer protection laws. The purpose of the revision of the CPC Regulation is to clarify rules and give more powers to national authorities in order to improve enforcement of consumer rights, especially in relation to unlawful online practices. It aims to improve the coordination of Member State’s market monitoring activates and alert mechanisms to enable the detection of infringement earlier. The revision aims to address the consumer protection challenges of the Digital Single Market, with e-commerce posing different types of infringement and on a scale that differs from traditional shopping. The CPC Regulation remains largely intact, introducing new minimum investigation powers for national authorities and a procedure in the case of ‘widespread infringement’ in order to investigate and enforce consumer law of online infringements.
Deployment of cohesion policy instruments by regions to address demographic change (A8-0329/2017 - Iratxe García Pérez)
. – We voted in favour of this report, which proposes the use of cohesion policy instruments by regions to address the challenges of demographic change.The report identifies territories subject to significant demographic change, and the social impacts that flow from these changes, including the loss of infrastructure, housing, and services, population movement (for example, young people), as well as the growth of more precarious work in these regions.It highlights the importance of cohesion policy to help coordinate EU instruments to ensure a more comprehensive approach to the challenges posed, and the further and more targeted application of structural funds in this regard, including at a range of local, regional and national levels.Importantly, the report has incorporated a youth and gender dimension into its analysis and response to demographic change, as well as prioritising the reception, integration and return of migrants and refugees. We therefore voted in favour of this report.
Implementation of the Environmental Liability Directive (A8-0297/2017 - Laura Ferrara)
. – The Environmental Liability Directive (ELD) was intended to create a common framework for the prevention of the remedying of environmental damage based on the polluter pays principle and this report calls for it to be revised immediately. The report acknowledges the piece-meal implementation of this Directive and its limitations. For example, incidents are only defined as serious if they give rise to deaths or serious injuries, making environmental consequences alone insufficient. The annex is also incomplete leaving loopholes for certain sectors. The report calls for the immediate review of the Directive, introducing more comprehensive definitions of ‘environmental damage’ among others. It also calls for the widening of the scope to include liability for air damage and the introduction of a mandatory financial security, which could take the form of mandatory environmental liability insurance for operators.
Respect for private life and the protection of personal data in electronic communications and repealing Directive 2002/58/EC (Regulation on Privacy and Electronic Communications) (A8-0324/2017 - Marju Lauristin)
. – We voted in favour of maintaining the mandate of this file to enter trilogue negotiations. EPrivacy is the adaptation of the EU’s data protection rules to electronic communications. It affects everyone who uses a phone or the internet, and an incredible number of businesses are involved. This file is important in protecting the confidentiality of the personal data on phones and computers. It protects against the data mining of WhatsApp messages, emails, Facebook and twitter posts.
Combating sexual harassment and abuse in the EU (RC-B8-0576/2017, B8-0576/2017, B8-0577/2017, B8-0578/2017, B8-0579/2017, B8-0580/2017, B8-0581/2017, B8-0582/2017)
. – We voted in favour of the Joint Motion for Resolution on Combatting sexual harassment and abuse in the EU.The Joint Motion for Resolution condemns the tolerance of sexual harassment and violence and reiterates that is a serious crime, which should be identified as such under the Lisbon Treaty. The report insists on the effective implementation of existing regulation to address sexual harassment and violence against women. It welcomes the #MeToo movement, which gave women a space to speak openly about the abuse they face in the workplace and on a daily basis. The report highlights the role of men in combatting change on this issue, by challenging inappropriate behaviour and language. It addresses the stigma around reporting sexual assault, the frequent use of social media to further abuse women and girls, and calls on Member States to ratify the Istanbul Convention. In reference to the cases of sexual harassment and violence within the EU institutions, it calls for these cases to be thoroughly examined. The report calls for mandatory training for all staff and MEPs on respect and dignity at work to ensure a zero tolerance approach, to set up an institutional network of confidential counsellors and adopt internal rules to protect whistle-blowers.
Negotiating mandate for trade negotiations with Australia (A8-0311/2017 - Daniel Caspary)
. – I voted against this Resolution which pre-empts the official opening of trade negotiations with New Zealand. The Commission’s own impact assessment has predicted that increased market access in agriculture by this deal will negatively affect rural employment of small farmers in the EU. I am opposed to the Commission’s new generation of trade deals with threaten public services, rural jobs and primary sectors. It is disappointing that Fine Gael supported the opening of negotiations just two years after the end of milk quotas and barely a year since the last emergency aid package for the dairy sector had to be triggered. Sinn Féin have called for the exclusion of sensitive sectors from this agreement, which was included in the final text.
Negotiating mandate for trade negotiations with New Zealand (A8-0312/2017 - Daniel Caspary)
. – I voted against this Resolution which pre-empts the official opening of trade negotiations with New Zealand. The Commission’s own impact assessment has predicted that increased market access in agriculture by this deal will negatively affect rural employment of small farmers in the EU. I am opposed to the Commission’s new generation of trade deals which threaten public services, rural jobs and primary sectors. It is disappointing that Fine Gael supported the opening of negotiations just two years after the end of milk quotas and barely a year since the last emergency aid package for the dairy sector had to be triggered. Sinn Féin have called for the exclusion of sensitive sectors from this agreement, which was included in the final text.
Monitoring the application of EU law 2015 (A8-0265/2017 - Kostas Chrysogonos)
. – This is an annual report taking account of the application of EU law in the Member States. While the report usually takes stock of how the application of EU law is necessary to ensure citizens can realise their rights, this year the rapporteur took the opportunity to talk about instances where the application of EU law prevents citizens from realising their rights. There were many good paragraphs discussing the fact that the implementation of austerity policies actually worsen citizens’ rights, the fact that economic adjustment programmes run counter to the values expressed in the Treaties and the Charter of Fundamental Rights, and cases where EU imposed austerity measures have meant the judiciary and administration in some countries cannot ensure the proper application of EU law because of underfunding.I could not support the final vote however, because of the passing of an amendment tabled by the PPE calling for increased sanctions on Member States for incorrect implementation. For these reasons I abstained.
General budget of the European Union for 2018 - all sections (A8-0299/2017 - Siegfried Mureşan, Richard Ashworth)
. – I voted to abstain on this report. There were some progressive aspects to it. Increased funding for the Youth Employment Initiative, a support fund for young farmers, Erasmus + and the EU Programme for Employment and Social Innovation. Overall, there was an increase of EUR 2.3 billion on last year’s budget and all proposed Council cuts were reversed.Worryingly, however, there were too many references towards security in the budget with increases in funding towards security measures also put forward in it. I do not accept this position and believe it is a Member State’s competence to protect the security of its citizens. The EU project was founded to promote peace and harmony. Diverting more funding under Heading 3 has the potential to bring us towards a more militarised Europe. Therefore, despite the progressive measures and taking into account the concerns I had, I abstained on the overall report.
Discharge 2015: EU general budget - European Council and Council (A8-0291/2017 - Bart Staes)
. – We voted in favour of this resolution which proposed not to grant the discharge of the 2015 EU general budget which has been the position of Parliament for many years now. There is a distinct problem in the area of transparency and looking after citizens’ interests. The report is reiterating the transparency and accountability all EU institutions ought to give to the citizens, including the Council and the European Council. It underlines the Parliament’s role in respect of the budget discharge. It calls once more for the budget of the European Council and the Council to be separated. Several pending issues are highlighted, namely on the building policy, the lack of public whistle-blowing rules and more generally the lack of cooperation with the Parliament, failing to provide answers to Parliament’s questions.
Protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to carcinogens or mutagens (A8-0064/2017 - Marita Ulvskog)
. – This report was about adding additional dangerous substances to the EU directive in order to bring EU policy into line with best practice and to provide greater protection to workers from exposure to reprotoxic substances which pose a risk to reproductive health for both men and women. This legislation will provide greater safety for the 2-3 million workers in Europe who work with reprotoxic substances.
Establishing an Entry/Exit System (EES) to register entry and exit data of third country nationals crossing the EU external borders (A8-0057/2017 - Agustín Díaz de Mera García Consuegra)
. – We voted against this file. The Entry/Exit System was initially a component of the smart borders package proposed in 2013 and dropped after serious concerns raised by Parliament. Departing from its supposed initial purpose of facilitating border crossing of external Schengen borders for third country nationals, the new instrument is fulfilling multiple additional tasks relating to migration management and law enforcement. Under this proposal, data on each person would be retained for a five-year period, which is an infringement on the privacy of individuals.
Amendment of the Schengen Borders Code as regards the use of the Entry/Exit System (A8-0059/2017 - Agustín Díaz de Mera García Consuegra)
. – We voted against this file. It outlines how the Entry/Exit System should work on a practical basis. It calls for some changes to the current protocol at borders in order for Entry/Exit System regulations to be implemented. As we are opposed to the implementation of an Entry/Exit System, we are also opposed to this file, which outlines measures to implement the Entry/Exit System.
Fundamental rights aspects in Roma integration in the EU: fighting anti-Gypsyism (A8-0294/2017 - Soraya Post)
. – We voted in favour of this report, which addresses systemic (and, unfortunately, increasing) anti-Gypsy racism and related discrimination across Europe.The report criticises the EU institutions for not taking into account everyday Roma reality, and of maintaining anti-Gypsyism through the acquis and policies of the EU.Instead of advocating Roma ‘inclusion’ or ‘integration’, the report stresses the importance of ensuring access to, and full enjoyment of, fundamental rights without impediment, discrimination or indeed assimilation.Some other positive elements of this report include: calling for active and meaningful participation of Roma as key to combating anti-Gypsyism, including in the running, monitoring and evaluation of programmes and projects; calling for a truth and reconciliation commission acknowledging the persecution of Roma through the centuries; condemning the unequal treatment of Roma in some Member States, and calling for guaranteed fundamental rights for all; calling for action against hate speech and the denial of a Roma holocaust; deploring the denial of freedom of movement and Roma statelessness; condemning forced sterilisations, unlawful removals of Roma children, school segregation and over-policing of Roma communities; and highlighting the disproportionate impact on Roma women. We therefore voted in favour of this report.
EU-Morocco Euro-Mediterranean Aviation Agreement (A8-0303/2017 - Dominique Riquet)
. – I voted against this report. The report deals with an aviation agreement between EU Member States and Morocco. The agreement follows the Barcelona Process of improving Euro-Mediterranean relations, and the Commission’s 2005 action plan to advance aviation relations. The agreement is to be implemented in stages, with the aim of opening the aviation market to increased competiveness.However, the file fails to provide clear legal certainty. The European Court of Justice recently passed down a ruling on the EU-Morocco Association Agreement related to the liberalisation of agricultural goods, which states that Morocco and the Western Sahara must be dealt with as two distinct, separate territories. However, this agreement provides no clarification to this issue and under its current form it would include the Western Sahara under the scope of the Moroccan national aviation area, namely the two international airports of Dakhla and Laayoune in the Western Sahara, and leads to worries as to the safety of the agreement. For these reasons of desiring safety and legal clarity, I voted against.
Authorising France to apply a reduced rate of certain indirect taxes on ‘traditional’ rum produced in Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Martinique and Réunion (A8-0304/2017 - Iskra Mihaylova)
. – The objective of this report is to authorise France to increase the quota for ‘traditional’ rum produced in France’s ‘outermost regions’ Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Martinique and Réunion that is subject to lower excise duties. The economies of these regions rely heavily on the sugar industry and associated industries, particularly rum production.The existing quota for 2016 was used up well before the end of the year, and without an increase to the quota, producers will be required to pay a higher duty on all products sold after that point. This will cause significant and lasting harm to local producers, and to the vulnerable economies of these regions. While alcohol from these areas makes up only a very small part of alcohol consumption in France, let alone the EU, these exports to France constitute a significant part of the economy of these territories. The aim of the quota increase is therefore to protect existing jobs, economic growth and investment in the sugar-cane and rum traditional sector in these isolated and economically vulnerable regions. I therefore voted in favour of this report.
Subjecting furanylfentanyl to control measures (A8-0309/2017 - Michał Boni)
. – I voted in favour of subjecting furanylfentanyl to control measures. Furanylfentanyl is a synthetic opioid structurally similar to fentanyl, a controlled substance widely used in medicine as an adjunct to general anaesthesia during surgery and for pain management. The bulk of production takes place in China and is sold online in small and wholesale amounts as a ‘research chemical’, typically as a powder and as ready-to-use nasal sprays. It produces effects like heroin but overdoses are much more complicated to treat as furanylfentayl is adulterated with a variety of toxic substances. This psychoactive substance has been available in the European Union since at least June 2015 and has been detected in 16 Member States. Twenty-three deaths associated with furanylfentanyl have been reported by five Member States, in addition to 11 acute non-fatal poisonings.
CE marked fertilising products (A8-0270/2017 - Mihai Ţurcanu)
. – I abstained on this report dealing with the alignment of the current CE certification system on fertilisers with the circular economy. The report dealt with the use of recycled materials for producing fertilisers, thus reducing the dependence on imported nutrients from countries outside the EU. It also established EU-wide quality, safety and environmental criteria for CE market fertilisers and rules for the provision of clearer labelling requirements to inform farmers. I abstained on the final vote however because of the decrease of the cadmium limits for fertilisers within the scope of the legislation.
Information exchange on, and an early warning system and risk assessment procedure for, new psychoactive substances (A8-0359/2016 - Michał Boni)
. – I voted in favour of this file. It recognises how legal highs can be manufactured at speed and in diverse ways and as a result, recognises the need for enhanced monitoring and early warning systems in order to develop responses to combat the threat of legal highs. Vulnerable groups, especially young people, are exposed to the risks of psychoactive substances. There is a need for the assessment of the impact of the development, manufacture and distribution of new substances on society.
Common Fisheries Policy: implementation of the landing obligation (A8-0285/2017 - Alain Cadec)
. – I voted against this file. This was an amendment to Article 15(6) of the basic regulation of the Common Fisheries Policy to facilitate the implementation of specific discard plans, otherwise known as landing obligations, to accommodate a number of the multiannual plans. However, supporting this would entail enhancing powers of the European Commission via delegated acts.In theory the European Parliament and the Council may revoke this empowerment as they assert its a temporary measure. Nevertheless there were no economic, environmental or social impact assessments conducted as it was claimed that none were required, and there were no formal consultations with stakeholders. For these reasons, combined with granting the European Commission powers, powers which have had a detrimental impact on Irish fishermen, we voted against this file.
Renewing the approval of the active substance glyphosate (Objection pursuant to Rule 106) (B8-0567/2017)
. – This issue came back to Parliament for vote following the deadlock in Council last year over whether to re-authorise glyphosate. Conflicting science between the IARC, EFSA and ECHA, as well as anomalies in the EFSA procedure have lead to a great deal of uncertainty over the safety of this product. The refusal of Monsanto to attend a hearing in the European Parliament to explain properly the inclusion of ghost-written studies, and the publication of concerning data related to an ongoing legal suit has not assisted in resolving this issue.I believe that glyphosate should be banned for use in public parks, playgrounds and gardens as well as for pre-harvest use. For professional use in agriculture, I believe that it should be subject to a strict regulations and a licensing system, until such time as a conclusive case has been made on its safety. As the amendments adopted during the vote did not reflect this position, I abstained on the final vote. The Council will make the final decision on this matter.
Authorisation of genetically modified maize 1507 (Objection pursuant to Rule 106) (B8-0568/2017)
. – Pioneer Overseas Corporation and Dow AgroSciences Ltd jointly submitted to the Commission an application for renewal of the authorisation for the placing on the market of food and feed containing, consisting of, or produced from genetically modified maize 1507. As with previous objections, this one opposes the draft measures on the ground that it exceeds the implementing powers provided for in the basic act. There is the same democratic legitimacy problem with the authorisation procedure. Moreover, the residues from spraying with the complementary herbicides were not assessed.
Authorisation of genetically modified soybean 305423 x 40-3-2 (Objection pursuant to Rule 106) (B8-0570/2017)
. – Pioneer Overseas Corporation submitted an application for the placing on the market of foods, food ingredients, and feed containing, consisting of, or produced from 305423 × 40-3-2 soybean to the national competent authority of the Netherlands.As with previous objections, this one opposes the draft measures on the ground that it exceeds the implementing powers provided for in the basic act. There is the same democratic legitimacy problem with the authorisation procedure. Moreover, the residues from spraying with the complementary herbicides were not assessed.
Authorisation of genetically modified oilseed rapes MON 88302 x Ms8 x Rf3 (Objection pursuant to Rule 106) (B8-0569/2017)
. – Monsanto Europe S.A. and Bayer CropScience N.V. submitted an application for the placing on the market of foods, food ingredients and feed containing, consisting of, or produced from genetically modified oilseed rape MON 88302 × Ms8 × Rf3 to the national competent authority of the Netherlands.As with previous objections, this one opposes the draft measures on the ground that it exceeds the implementing powers provided for in the basic act. There is the same democratic legitimacy problem with the authorisation procedure. Moreover, the residues from spraying with the complementary herbicides were not assessed.
Draft amending budget No 5/2017: financing for the European Fund for Sustainable Development and increasing the Emergency Aid Reserve (A8-0301/2017 - Jens Geier)
. – I voted against this file. Sinn Féin fully support extending funding from a humanitarian aspect to third countries or otherwise to deal with emergency crises. The EUR 275 million proposed through this action however has a security element to it under the auspices of the Internal Security Fund. Sinn Féin does not support this and therefore voted against this report.
Mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument to provide the financing for the European Fund for Sustainable Development (A8-0298/2017 - Jens Geier)
. – I voted against this file. Sinn Féin fully support extending funding from a humanitarian aspect to third Countries or otherwise to deal with emergency crises. The EUR 275 million proposed through this action however has a security element to it under the auspices of the EFSD. This report mentioned that the additional funding will be used towards the needs of a proactive and sustainable external policy. Sinn Féin do not see the current policy as being proactive considering the distinct security element attached to it. I therefore voted against this report.
Reflection paper on the future of EU finances (B8-0565/2017)
. – I voted against this motion for resolution. I believe that EU finances certainly need an overhaul and structural reform. This reform however needs to be in the interest of people. This resolution came from a purely neo-liberal ideology. It calls for incentives for Member States to fulfil previous Treaty objectives. Sinn Féin voted against these Treaties. Calls for pooling of EU resources which is an inevitable step towards a future fiscal union. In the White Paper, five scenarios were presented. I believe there should have been a sixth option which would advocate a Social Europe. Any discussion / engagement towards future funding needs to critically involve and engage the people of Europe. From my point of view, increases in current own resources or introducing new own resources on people would be an indirect tax on already hard pressed taxpayers. The introduction of any tax on corporates or business should remain the competency of Ireland and the other European Member States.
Legitimate measures to protect whistle-blowers acting in the public interest (A8-0295/2017 - Virginie Rozière)
. – I voted in favour of this report dealing with ensuring the protection of people who make disclosures. Current legal frameworks in the Member States do not adequately protect people who blow the whistle, and this non-legislative report puts forward progressive proposals about how to ensure legal certainty with respect to their rights. The report highlights the right of the public to be informed of wrongdoings and the need for proper follow-through when corruption and other acts against the public interest have been exposed.
Minimum income policies as a tool for fighting poverty (A8-0292/2017 - Laura Agea)
. – I voted in favour of this report which highlights the impact austerity and tax avoidance has on public spending, and the need for increased social policies such as basic income to guarantee people a minimum standard of living. The report points to the shortfalls in current welfare policies in Europe, and the particular difficulty marginalised groups such as homeless people and asylum seekers have in accessing welfare programmes. While the report is focused on the minimum income this does not mean it focuses on policies such as universal basic income, it also highlights decent employment, tackling tax avoidance and the inadequacy of existing welfare payments in some Member States as issues affecting minimum income.This reports outlines a broad and comprehensive response to alleviating poverty through public spending and tax justice, therefore I voted in favour.
Enhanced cooperation: European Public Prosecutor's Office (A8-0290/2017 - Barbara Matera)
. – I voted against this file as it calls for the establishment of a European Public Prosecutor’s Office to protect the Union’s financial interests. This competency is currently in the hands of Member States. Sinn Féin opposed this file on the grounds that it would hand this competency over to the EU, diluting principles of sovereignty.
Prison systems and conditions (A8-0251/2017 - Joëlle Bergeron)
. – I voted to support this own-initiative report, which emphasised heavily the importance of maintaining and strengthening human rights.While the report acknowledged the national competency of Member States with regard to prison systems, it highlighted the need for the EU to play a more active role in monitoring and promoting human rights conditions in prisons.Many prisons across the EU have incredibly substandard conditions, both for inmates and for prison staff, as well as lacking sufficient reintegration programmes and sufficient prisoners’ rights.The report encourages the adoption of the good practices being implemented in some countries, such as in Scandinavia, which focus on alternative punishments, medical and social care, and on reintegration into society.The resolution also highlights the medical needs of prisoners, and importantly it is the first EU text that openly condemns the inhumane policy of dispersal which is used by the Spanish and French states against Basque political prisoners, keeping them in prisons that are hundreds of miles from their families and loved ones.Overall, this was quite a good report, and I therefore voted in favour.
Agreement establishing the EU-LAC International Foundation (A8-0279/2017 - Javier Couso Permuy)
. – We voted in favour of this recommendation.The proposal concerned authorisation for conclusion of the Agreement establishing the EU-LAC international foundation on behalf of the EU.Establishing the Foundation as an international organisation will improve its capacity to obtain funding from its member countries, many of which are unable to make financial contributions to it while it remains established under German civil law. By acquiring the status of an international organisation, the Foundation will also be able to reduce certain costs, benefit from privileges and immunities under international law and make better use of its financial and human resources.Establishing the Foundation as an international body does not create any extra expenses, but simply allows it to function more effectively.
Schengen acquis provisions relating to the Visa Information System in Bulgaria and Romania (A8-0286/2017 - Agustín Díaz de Mera García Consuegra)
Automated data exchange with regard to vehicle registration data in the Czech Republic (A8-0288/2017 - Maria Grapini)
Automated data exchange with regard to dactyloscopic data in Portugal (A8-0289/2017 - Jaromír Štětina)
Automated data exchange with regard to dactyloscopic data in Greece (A8-0287/2017 - Claude Moraes)
Safety rules and standards for passenger ships (A8-0167/2017 - Daniela Aiuto)
. – This report concerns amending an existing directive on safety rules and standards for passenger ships to make its implementation more efficient and bring clarity to Member States on the directive. The review of the directive was carried out in consultation with Member States and stakeholders. The directive includes new and existing passenger ships of steel and equivalent material (aluminium) and high-speed craft that provide domestic services. Safety rules include technical requirements for vessel construction, stability, machinery, electrics, fire safety and life-saving equipment for passenger ships. The revised directive will exclude all passenger ships below 24 metres (250 passengers or less), which will remain within safety regulations of the Member States. It also excludes off-shore service vessels which transport workers to offshore installations (windfarms). As the aim of this directive is to ensure that passenger ships take the necessary actions to maintain a high standard of passenger safety, we voted in favour.
Registration of persons sailing on board passenger ships operating to or from ports of the Member States (A8-0168/2017 - Izaskun Bilbao Barandica)
. – This report is connected to the evaluation of existing regulations regarding safety rules and standards for passenger ships. To speed up search and rescue efforts in a case of emergency, it proposes to simplify transmission of information on passengers. New rules require names of passengers on ships, with details of contact number, national and relevant medical information as optional, to be communicated to national authorities before a ship’s departure. The information is only exchanged between the shipping company and competent national authorities (navy, coastguard) to aid search and rescue. The information is deleted immediately after the voyage. The aim is to allow digitalisation to improve security for sea passengers and their data, therefore I voted in favour.
System of inspections for the safe operation of ro-ro ferry and high-speed passenger craft in regular service (A8-0165/2017 - Dominique Riquet)
. – This is a technical file, connected to the evaluation of existing regulations on passenger ship safety. This file focuses on ro—ro ferry and high-speed passenger craft, which, as they travel at a higher speed and have increased risk, require more specific regulation, and inspection at regular intervals. In addition, the file calls for a check on working conditions of the crew, as this influences the ability to carry out correct safety measures. The report proposes to limit the Commission’s power to adopt delegated acts to a five-year period. Therefore, I voted in favour.
Objection to an implementing measure: scientific criteria for the determination of endocrine disrupting properties (B8-0542/2017)
. – I voted in favour of this objection. Endocrine disruptors are substances that interfere with the functioning of hormones, with potentially harmful effects on health. This objection opposes the implementing act proposing the scientific criteria for the identification of endocrine disrupters for plant protection products (PPPs). The PPP Regulation bans the use of endocrine disrupting chemicals (ECDs) in PPPs on the market. According to this Regulation, the Commission should have presented the scientific criteria for the determination of ECD properties in 2013. The scientific criteria for EDCs however are complex because this has economic repercussions. The legal opinion sought by the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety was that the Commission is indeed exceeding its powers.Sinn Féin is in favour of ECDs being subject to scientific criteria only, and not socio-economic criteria, opposing the decision the Commission made to carry out an impact assessment.
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: draft Commission implementing decision authorising the placing on the market of products containing, consisting of, or produced from genetically modified soybean FG72 x A5547-127 pursuant to Regulation (EC) No1829/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council on genetically modified food and feed (B8-0540/2017)
. – I voted in favour of this objection.In 2013, two companies submitted to the national competent authority of the Netherlands an application for the placing on the market of foods, food ingredients and feed containing, consisting of, or produced from GM soybean FG72 x A5547-127. This measure applies for 10 years. This soybean is a stacked GMO tolerant to glyphosate-based herbicides, isoxaflutole and glufosinate ammonium-based herbicides.The objection opposes the draft measures on the ground that it exceeds the implementing powers provided for in the basic act. The risk assessment conducted by EFSA on both soybeans does not identify knowledge gaps and uncertainties and fails to assess toxicity, impact on immune system and the reproductive system. The objection reprimands the Commission authorisation procedure, stating it is inappropriate and contrary to the precautionary principle to continue to propose authorising new GMO varieties.
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: draft Commission implementing decision authorising the placing on the market of products containing, consisting of, or produced from genetically modified soybean DAS-44406-6, pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council on genetically modified food and feed (B8-0541/2017)
. – This soybean is tolerant to glyphosate-based herbicides, (2,4-D) and glufosinate ammonium-based herbicides.The objection opposes the draft measures on the grounds that it exceeds the implementing powers provided for in the basic act. The risk assessment conducted by EFSA on both soybeans does not identify knowledge gaps and uncertainties and fails to assess toxicity and the impact on immune system and the reproductive system. The objection reprimands the Commission authorisation procedure, stating that it is inappropriate and contrary to the precautionary principle to continue to propose authorising new GMO varieties.
Ending child marriage (B8-0535/2017)
. – I voted in favour of this resolution, which highlights that, at the moment, 1 in 3 girls in developing countries is married before turning 18, and 1 in 9 before the age of 15. The Resolution calls for action through the Sustainable Development Goals, UN fora, Istanbul Convention and EU Action Plan on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment. It raises the need for procedures to be put in place to protect children who have been forced into marriage including by helping them back to education, women’s shelters, legal counselling and psychological support.I voted in favour of this resolution, which calls for an end to these practices.
2017 UN Climate Change Conference in Bonn, Germany (COP23) (B8-0534/2017)
. – I voted in favour of this resolution. It is a year since the EU ratified the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, and this upcoming conference will take place in Bonn in November to discuss the implementing and financing commitments to reach the Paris goals. The draft resolution voted in ENVI acknowledges some positive improvements reflecting the main challenges of the next COP 23. It supports developing countries in their transition to low-carbon society and calls on more resolve in spite of the indication of the US to withdraw from the Paris agreement. There is an emphasis on the growing role of non-state actors, civil society and NGOs given the indication of the US to withdraw from the Paris Agreement.
State of play of negotiations with the United Kingdom (B8-0538/2017, B8-0539/2017)
. – We voted in favour of this joint resolution on Brexit, which indicates a growing support for special status for the north within the EU, and a reaffirmation of the importance of protecting the Good Friday Agreement in all its parts. This support has been achieved as a result of intense lobbying by myself and the Sinn Féin team in the European Parliament.It is crucially important that the Good Friday Agreement is fully protected. We welcome the European Parliament’s vote reaffirming its commitment to this. This means ensuring the consent of the people of Ireland is required to alter the constitutional position of the north. It also means being in the single market and the customs union. This can be achieved through the north of Ireland staying in the EU or Irish unity.This resolution is also balanced with regard to citizens’ rights and in recognising that the needs of the north of Ireland are different to those of Britain. The refusal of the British Government to bring forward proposals to ensure there is no EU frontier across Ireland and to safeguard the Good Friday and other Agreements means there is no basis to progress onto other topics.
Restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (A8-0205/2017 - Adina-Ioana Vălean)
. – I voted in favour of this report. This is a technical file that updates the scope and related wording of the Restriction of the Use of Hazardous Substances II Directive (RoHS2), regarding the use of certain hazardous substances in electric and electronic equipment (EEE) that entered into force in 2011. The Commission’s legislative proposal aims to increase legal certainty without addressing the whole functioning of RoHS2. The proposal aims to address scope problems of RoHS2 by using a broader definition of EEE to include ‘new-in-scope’ EEE which would otherwise fall outside of the Directive. Secondary market operations for new-in-scope EEE would now be allowed, aligning this Directive with the circular economy package. It also amends the rules on exemptions, setting a maximum validity period for exemptions.
Management, conservation and control measures applicable in the ICCAT Convention area (A8-0173/2017 - Gabriel Mato)
Women’s economic empowerment in the private and public sectors in the EU (A8-0271/2017 - Anna Hedh)
. – This report focuses on women’s economic empowerment as an essential aspect in order to achieve gender equality. It underlines that women’s economic independence and participation in the labour market will benefit society as a whole. It calls on the Member States and the Commission to implement concrete policies to enable women’s participation in economic decision-making and to ensure equal pay for equal work, and work of equal value. It discusses the need to address both the gender pay gap and gender pension gap. The report calls for a better work-life balance and share of unpaid work between men and women. The report calls for measures that enforce pay transparency for private companies and takes note of the negative impact of austerity on women, the negative impact of privatisation of public services on women, and addressing the deep-rooted unequal gender power relations that gives rise to discrimination and violence. The report addresses the power structures that also interact with gender discrimination such as race, disability, age and gender identity. For these reasons I voted in favour.
Addressing shrinking civil society space in developing countries (A8-0283/2017 - Teresa Jiménez-Becerril Barrio)
. – I voted against this report. In the context of continuous government crackdowns on civil society in countries around the world, this report aims to guarantee that civil society organisations (CSOs) can thrive and continue to foster democracy and the wellbeing of peoples. The report acknowledges that an increasing number of governments are clamping down on civil society organisations, including in the EU and its close allies.While I fully support the aim of this report, I cannot support its proposed methods. The report calls to tackle this phenomenon through trade and security policies (para 16), and advocates a unified and consistent approach in the EU’s relationship with third countries. It refers to public-private partnership as a path to reach the SDGs and advocates more funding for long term support to third countries which is strengthening the concept of EU foreign policy.There are elements in this report that I commend: the request for a mandatory and legally enforceable human rights due diligence, the call for Member States to engage more at the UN to hold corporations accountable for involvement in human rights violations, the condemnation of government clampdowns on civil society organisation. However, the report is advocating a top-heavy EU approach calling for more harmonisation.
The fight against cybercrime (A8-0272/2017 - Elissavet Vozemberg-Vrionidi)
EU political relations with ASEAN (A8-0243/2017 - Reinhard Bütikofer)
. – We voted against this motion due to its over emphasis on issues relating to the Common foreign and security policy.There were some positive aspects of this report relating to human rights and development issues in ASEAN countries which we fully support. References to free trade deals and European security policy, however, meant that we could not vote in favour. Sinn Féin does not support the current aggressive trade strategy being employed by the Commission, which threatens public services, the environment, workers’ rights and principles of sovereignty and democracy.
Accessibility requirements for products and services (A8-0188/2017 - Morten Løkkegaard)
. – The committee responsible for this report on the European Accessibility Act is the Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO) Committee, which amended the Commission text. The IMCO text is market-orientated, looking after the interests of business and not doing enough to guarantee genuine accessibility for people with disabilities.With our Group, GUE/NGL, we tabled amendments to strengthen the report. We supported amendments to include transport services and tourism accommodation within the directive, including ticketing machines, transport services, tourism websites and accessibility rooms available in accommodation. We supported proposals to include the built environment, entrances to buildings and buildings in the scope of the directive. We voted in favour of a number of amendments that would refocus the content of the report on ensuring accessibility for people with disabilities.However, not enough of the progressive amendments to the report passed in plenary, and as the directive remained weak and business-orientated, we abstained on the overall vote.
EU-Chile Agreement on trade in organic products (A8-0257/2017 - Inmaculada Rodríguez-Piñero Fernández)
. – We voted against this report about trade between the EU and Chile on organics. This file would see a list of products from both partners recognised as equivalent for reasons of being labelled as organic. Chilean products will be able to carry the EU organic logo despite not adhering to the same rules for certification as EU products. Under the equivalence regime, they may be marketed as organic without additional controls or certification.Not only is this unfair to producers, but transcontinental trade is not, in any way, compatible with the values and principles of organic production which include short circuits of production, low GHG emissions and limited shelf lives.
Protocol to the EU-Chile Association Agreement (accession of Croatia) (A8-0277/2017 - Inmaculada Rodríguez-Piñero Fernández)
Modernisation of the trade pillar of the EU-Chile Association Agreement (A8-0267/2017 - Inmaculada Rodríguez-Piñero Fernández)
. – We voted against this report. The Commission is currently looking to ‘modernise’ the existing FTA pillar of the 2002 EU-Chile Association Agreement. This is an own-initiative report to give the recommendations before the commencement of negotiations.While the outcome of the resolution has been surprisingly progressive in terms of strong paragraphs on sustainable development, indigenous rights, public services, the environment, and respect for labour and human rights agreements as well as gender equality, the inclusion of an Investment Court System (ICS) means we cannot support it. The resolution calls directly, in a number of paragraphs, for the inclusion of an ICS, lauding this as the solution to all problems associated with investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS). It also calls for the Commission to work towards the creation of a multilateral investment court – something we are completely against.
Extension of the European statistical programme to 2020 (A8-0158/2017 - Roberto Gualtieri)
. – I voted in favour of this report. It is a significant improvement on the Commission text and I am in favour of the collection of high quality and reliable statistics across the EU. The report calls for collection of statistics that examine gender disparities, the impact of globalisation, and crucially, to distinguish consistently between full-time and part-time employment. It also inserts that statistics must be used for the goal of reaching the UN SDGs and the Paris climate goals.
European venture capital funds and European social entrepreneurship funds (A8-0120/2017 - Sirpa Pietikäinen)
. – I abstained on this report, which amends the Commission proposal that aims to loosen requirements for entry of investors into the two types of funds named in the title, VCFs and SEFs. This is part of the promotion of private finance for funding in the capital markets union project and the VCFs at least are part of the shadow banking system.I abstained (instead of voting against) as the report aims to retain significant aspects of the existing features of the funds regarding regulation and entry requirements that the Commission wants to loosen, and it also aims to lower the entry requirement for SEFs from EUR 100 000 to EUR 50 000 which will actually have a practical positive impact on the social and solidarity economy, which often struggles to gain access to funding.
Multi-annual plan for demersal stocks in the North Sea and the fisheries exploiting those stocks (A8-0263/2017 - Ulrike Rodust)
. – We abstained on this report. We do not support the current CFP or delegating more influence to the European Commission, when comes to fisheries we support regionalisation and a balance between the small scale industry and the environment.We believe that large scale industrialised fishing has had a detrimental impact on stocks and the environment which is why we did not vote against the file, but abstained.
Establishing an instrument contributing to stability and peace (A8-0261/2017 - Arnaud Danjean)
. – We voted against this report. On 5 July 2016, the Commission published a legislative proposal to help strengthen the security and defence capabilities of the partner countries with the Instrument for Stability. As part of the EU’s new generation of instruments for financing external action, the instrument contributing to stability and peace focuses on crisis response, crisis preparedness, conflict prevention and peace-building. Its aim is to enable the EU to finance out of its own budget both training activities and the supply of equipment to the security forces of third countries.When it comes to budgetary repercussions the follow-up to this initiative will be considered during discussions on the post-2020 MFF and the mid-term review of EU external funding instruments, which is being prepared for December 2017.I am opposed to the Common Security and Defence Policy of the EU and any kind of financing of the EU external actions as a part of the EU foreign policy, so I voted against.
Transparency, accountability and integrity in the EU institutions (A8-0133/2017 - Sven Giegold)
. – This report aims to address the fact that powerful lobbies have privileged access to the decision-making process in the European Union, and therefore exert much greater influence than ordinary citizens, by enhancing the integrity and transparency of EU institutions, granting citizens more access to information and ensuring independent oversight against conflicts of interests.The report argues that the growing distance between the EU and its citizens is to a large extent due to the huge imbalance between the influence of powerful business interests and that of citizens in the EU decision-making process.To narrow this distance, the report contains a long list of proposals to enhance transparency, accountability and integrity and to set the highest possible standards in these areas. It is the most far-reaching report to be adopted in committee and it is been a long fight to reach this point as conservative political Groups have opposed many of these measures.The original draft report included very ambitious standards and innovations, including an independent ethics committee, obligatory legislative footprint and cooling-off period for former MEPs. These three proposals were watered-down or abandoned during negotiation, but the final report remains a step forward, and we therefore voted in favour.
The future of the Erasmus+ programme (B8-0495/2017)
. – We abstained on this report. Erasmus+ is the EU programme in the fields of education, training, youth and sport for the period 2014—2020. Education, training, youth and sport can make a major contribution to help tackle socio-economic changes, the key challenges that Europe will be facing until the end of the decade and to support the implementation of the European policy agenda for growth, jobs, equity and social inclusion. 2017 is the year of the 30th anniversary of Erasmus programmes. The CULT committee decided to table an oral question, accompanied with a Resolution, in order to underline the future challenges that the programme will encounter post 2020.The text refers to the Erasmus+ Programme and education in general, as tools to increase the competitiveness of European economy and to enhance the employability of the participants. It also suggests the establishment of stronger links between education and training and the business community. The Erasmus Programme itself promotes a Student Loan Guarantee Facility, which would indebt students before graduation and therefore we abstained.
Multilateral Agreement on the establishment of a European Common Aviation Area (ECAA) (A8-0260/2017 - Roberts Zīle)
. – We voted in favour of this report. This file concerns the establishment of a European Common Aviation Area with Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Macedonia, Iceland, Montenegro, Norway, Romania, Serbia, and Kosovo. These states will have access to the EU aviation market, after ongoing the transitional period. A condition of this agreement includes the states aligning with the standards of the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), by applying uniform application of safety rules, and also on air traffic management. The agreement contains specific protocols accommodating for specific needs of each country joining the ECAA. The agreement was entered into in 2006 and this report now concerns receiving the consent of the European Parliament. Since 2006, the agreement has led to substantial economic benefits for air travellers and the aviation industry, with passenger numbers and number of carriers between the EU and the Western Balkans states increasing significantly. Bulgaria, Croatia and Romania have also become Member States since the initial signing of the agreement. Therefore, we voted in favour.
Subjecting acryloylfentanyl to control measures (A8-0284/2017 - Brice Hortefeux)
. – We voted in favour of this file, which is subjecting acryloylfentanyl to control measures and is not subject to particular political controversy.Acryloylfentanyl has been available in the EU since April 2016 and has been detected in six Member States. Forty-seven deaths associated with the substance have been reported by three Member States, together with 20 acute intoxications.
EU political relations with India (A8-0242/2017 - Cristian Dan Preda)
. – We voted against this report. There are and will continue to be strong links between India and different European nations.However, this report goes beyond acknowledging existing links between Europe and India. There is a strong securocrat focus to this report with calls for greater cooperation between the EU and India in areas such as defence, security, and migration.Overall the report’s focus is on EU geopolitical aims and strengthening links with India in this regard. We do not support attempts by the EU to further militarise its international relations policies, we oppose all attempts to give the EU a greater role in directing Member States’ foreign policy.
Mobilisation of the EU Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Italy (A8-0280/2017 - Giovanni La Via)
. – We voted in favour of this report. This related to supporting regions of Italy which were affected by earthquakes in August 2016 and January 2017. The EU Solidarity Fund will contribute to much needed regeneration and building works that can commence in communities across the regions which suffered so much destruction.
Draft amending budget No 4/2017 accompanying the proposal to mobilise the EU Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Italy (A8-0281/2017 - Jens Geier)
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2017/002 FI Microsoft 2 (A8-0278/2017 - Petri Sarvamaa)
. – We voted in favour of this application for the mobilisation of the EU Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) in order to provide assistance to 1 248 employees employed directly and through sub-contractors in Finland who have been made redundant by Nokia as a result of the company’s decision to move their operations elsewhere. The EGF provides assistance for retraining and job-search activities for employees laid off in large-scale retrenchments arising from globalisation.
EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS): continuing current limitations of scope for aviation activities and preparing to implement a global market-based measure from 2021 (A8-0258/2017 - Julie Girling)
. – We abstained on this report. The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) adopted a global Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), under which aircraft operators that are in excess of baseline emissions will be required to purchase offsets in order to achieve carbon neutrality from international civil aviation from 2021. The scheme is developed to achieve sustainable growth for aviation and halving CO2 emissions by 2050, compared to 2005 levels. It is also not a very robust scheme, covering only 25% of aviation international’s emissions, and it allows unregulated growth until 2020. Like in the Emissions Trading Scheme, by purchasing offsets there is a commercialisation of emissions rather than a limit on them, which we don’t support as it has proven ineffective at reducing emissions. However, since it is a small step forward in a sector where not much progress is being made in relation to cutting emissions, we did not vote against but abstained.
Uniform format for residence permits for third country nationals (A8-0065/2017 - Jussi Halla-aho)
. – We voted in favour of this technical report on redesigning the EU residence visa format for third country nationals so that it contains more security features to prevent forgery.The uniform format for residence permits which is currently used dates from the late 1990s and the latest update took place in 2008.The new format contains additional security features to combat forgery but does not entail more obligations or more data to be given by the third country nationals who benefit from a residence permit.
Objection pursuant to Rule 105: Commission delegated regulation of 2 June 2017 supplementing Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards the specific compositional and information requirements for total diet replacement for weight control (B8-0497/2017)
. – We voted against this objection. Total diet replacement products are formulated for overweight or obese adults who want to achieve weight reduction. The Commission is empowered to adopt specific compositional and labelling requirements applicable to TDR for weight control products. This delegated regulation updates the existing rules, particularly in relation to the energy content.The draft measure is objected on the grounds that the Commission’s delegated act will fail to ensure a high level of public health and consumer safety by failing to take into account what impact the new compositional requirements will have on the acceptability and palatability of the TDR products, together with possible impacts caused by restricting information to consumers (because there cannot be a health claim on these products). These products should clearly not be actively marketed with claims likely to attract the general population, as they have a very limited energy content. We support the regulation so voted against the objection.
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: draft Commission implementing decision authorising the placing on the market of products containing, consisting of, or produced from genetically modified soybean DAS- 68416-4 (B8-0498/2017)
. – We voted in favour of this objection. The draft measure provides that an authorisation should be granted to products containing, consisting of, or produced from genetically modified soybean. This is a standard GM objection, based on Rule 106 grounds. It lambasts the GM authorisation procedure as in earlier objections, stating that it is inappropriate and contrary to the precautionary principle to continue to propose authorising new GMO varieties. This resolution was adopted unanimously in committee.
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: draft Commission implementing Regulation amending Commission implementing Regulation (EU) 2016/6 as regards feed and food subjected to special conditions governing the import of feed and food originating in or consigned from Japan following the accident at the Fukushima nuclear power station (B8-0502/2017)
. – We voted in favour of this objection. The Commission’s draft implementing regulation strips back checks on food and feed coming from prefectures in Japan around Fukushima without making known the analysis on which the proposal is based. It deletes certain foodstuffs from Annex II meaning there is no longer a requirement to sample and analyse those products on entry into the Union and no explanation is given for why these food and feed items are safe enough to import. This is a 106 objection stating that the draft implementing regulation exceeds implementing powers provided for in the regulation, that it is not consistent with union law and asks the Commission to withdraw it and submit a new draft to the committee. It calls for emergency measures pending the drafting of the new proposal. Since the data became available, the MFR calls for the analysis on which the proposal was based to be made public and a thorough up-date on the radiological situation in Japan since 2011.
Draft amending budget No 3/2017: budgetary resources of the Youth Employment Initiative; establishment plans of ACER and SESAR2 (A8-0282/2017 - Jens Geier)
. – We voted in favour of this and were happy to support the releasing of an extra EUR 500 m towards reducing youth unemployment across Europe through new measures. Sinn Fein has supported the Youth Employment Initiative but criticised the amount of funds involved as being inadequate. This is part of an additional EUR 1.2 billion committed over the years 2017-2020. In Ireland, youth unemployment remains almost double the overall representative figure so any progressive measures to reduce this are welcome. It is now the responsibility of Member States to draw down this funding and use it in an effective way.
Arms export: implementation of Common Position 2008/944/CFSP (A8-0264/2017 - Bodil Valero)
. – We abstained on this report. The report’s stated purpose of limiting arms sales is an important area that all Member States need to take action on.However, this report calls for action within the framework of the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy.We abstained due to the fact that while we fully support the aim of limiting arms sales, this report also seeks to give the EU a greater role in controlling the foreign policy of individual Member States.
EU political relations with Latin America (A8-0268/2017 - Javi López)
. – We voted against in this report as it supports expanding further exploitative free trade deals between the EU and Latin America, while also promoting the view that the EU should aim to exert more political influence in Latin America so as to protect their geopolitical power.The report condemns the democratically—elected government of Venezuela while making no reference to the role of the US sanctions against Venezuela, its concerted destabilisation attempts against the government there, and its support for the violent Venezuelan opposition. It also calls for the EU to try to use relations with Cuba to force Cuba to adopt reforms favoured by the EU.
Corruption and human rights in third countries (A8-0246/2017 - Petras Auštrevičius)
Request for the waiver of the immunity of Marie-Christine Boutonnet (A8-0259/2017 - Heidi Hautala)
. – I voted in favour of this report which requests that immunity be waived for a French Front National MEP. French police searched the FN Headquarters in February 2016 and seized a number of documents belonging to the treasurer. Subsequently a judicial investigation and European Parliament investigation were launched. The waiver would allow these investigations to continue.The allegations are that 16 MEPs are using Parliament funds to employ 20 Assistants who are actually working for the national party. This has been ascertained due to their names appearing in national hierarchical plans, working from the FN headquarters, not having contact with MEPs and other documents. As the legal conditions for upholding the waiver have been met, I voted in favour.
EU-Iceland Agreement on the protection of geographical indications for agricultural products and foodstuffs (A8-0254/2017 - David Borrelli)
. – I voted in favour of this report. This agreement merely gives EU produce with geographical indicators (such as Brie, Champagne, Feta, Armagh Bramley Applies, Connemara Hill Lamb, Waterford Blaa) the same protection in Iceland as they have in the EU, and vice versa. This means that products are protected from imitation to preserve local production methods distinguishing natural features.
EU-Iceland Agreement concerning additional trade preferences in agricultural products (A8-0256/2017 - David Borrelli)
. – I voted in favour. The European Free Trade Area rules ensure free movement of goods between the EU and Iceland, with the exception of agricultural and fisheries products which are subject to tariff rate quotas (TRQs) via a separate agreement reached in 2015. Under this agreement, TRQs are to be reviewed every 2 years, which is what is happening here. The new TRQs were agreed in an exchange of letters, which is why the text could not be amended.As a member of the EEA, Iceland already implements all EU legislation on foodstuffs, veterinary matters and other feed and food chain issues (authorisation, labelling and traceability).
The functioning of franchising in the retail sector (A8-0199/2017 - Dennis de Jong)
. – I abstained on this report, which describes the current state of the franchising business model in the EU, proposing improvements for the Commission and Member States to put into action.Overall, it is a good report as it calls on the Commission and Member States to better defend the interests of franchisees: by promoting franchisee associations, calling for better pre-contractual information, calling for a public consultation on unfair practices in the sector, calling for the introduction of guidelines on franchising contracts, and calling on Member States to develop contact points to better receive complaints from the sector. However, due to aspects of the report which implied that more economic powers should be transferred to the Commission from Member States, I did not vote in favour but abstained.
A Space Strategy for Europe (A8-0250/2017 - Constanze Krehl)
. – I voted against this report. The report has a strong emphasis on security and defence. The report calls for the Commission to analyse synergies between EU space programmes and the EU Common Security and Defence Policy. The report ‘recognises the growing significance of space and space-based technologies in security and defence operations, particularly in communications, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, including border and maritime surveillance’. The report also asks for an increased space budget in the upcoming MFF review. Therefore, considering the defence and budgetary aspects, I voted against this report.
Academic further and distance education as part of the European lifelong learning strategy (A8-0252/2017 - Milan Zver)
. – I voted in favour of this report. The report says that distance education is a method of teaching which offers flexibility in learning through the use of emerging technologies, not as a replacement to on-campus education, but as an alternative for learners who are unable to participate in on-campus education. What is more, the report describes academic further education as education at an academic institution which is often pursued parallel to a full-time job, generally building on professional experience and usually requiring a university degree.Academic further and distance education are considered important tools in providing educational opportunities for all without discrimination by country, region, class, age or gender. The report states that the enhancement of academic further and distance education should be part of the effort for continuous improvement of the quality of education by the EU.
Repeal of obsolete regulations with regard to inland waterway and road haulage sectors (A8-0228/2017 - Karima Delli)
. – I voted in favour of this report. This report aims to repeal obsolete regulation in the sector of inland waterways and road haulage. Regulation (EEC) No 1101/89 on reducing over-capacity on inland waterway fleets ceases to apply due to more recent legislation. Regulation (EC) No 2888/2000 distributed permits granted by Switzerland to heavy goods vehicles, which has no longer been necessary since 2005. Regulation (EC) No 685/2001 lays down rules between EU and Bulgaria and Romania concerning passage of goods via road, which is no longer necessary since Bulgaria and Romania joined the EU. Therefore, for the purpose of clarity in EU law, I voted in favour.
Promotion of internet connectivity in local communities (A8-0181/2017 - Carlos Zorrinho)
. – I voted in favour of this file. This file aims to promote internet connectivity in local communities by funding free Wi-Fi hotspots in public spheres, including outdoor public spaces and building, libraries, transport hubs, and local SMEs. Importantly, the rollout of the scheme will be allocated on a ‘first—come, first—served basis’, but with a provision to prioritise rural areas, especially those that do not currently have an adequate level of connectivity. This is a positive report that will give rural areas the opportunity to avail themselves of internet connectivity funding. Therefore, I voted in favour.
Measures to safeguard the security of gas supply (A8-0310/2016 - Jerzy Buzek)
. – I voted against this report. While this file is supposedly to deal with a shortage of gas supply, in case of any future crises, the report would give undue power to the Commission. The report promotes a harmonised EU energy market. It aims to liberalise the market and provide alternatives in Member States, such as Ireland, which are dependent on a single supplier.While the file aims to identify ‘protected customers’ such as households, it also includes some businesses which use gas for ‘industrial use’, which could be prioritised over households. Member States would take part in risk assessments and ways to coordinate supply on a cross—border nature. Regional risk assessments would be peer-reviewed and approved by the Commission.The Commission would have a large role in this intention to prevent a supply crisis, including Member States being required to notify the Commission of any change, conclusion or amendment of supply contracts. The Commission would have all the information to oversee the internal gas market and its functioning. As this report pushes for extra powers for the Commission and creation of a more harmonised and liberalised integrated internal EU energy market, I voted against.
EU accession to the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (A8-0266/2017 - Christine Revault d'Allonnes Bonnefoy, Anna Maria Corazza Bildt)
. – This report deals with the EU’s accession to the Istanbul Convention of the Council of Europe on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence. It has been signed by the EU, and by all Member States, but many Member States, including the Irish state, have yet to ratify the Convention. The Convention recognises violence against women as a human rights violation. By joining the Convention, the EU reaffirms its commitment to tackling this issue.The report urges Member States to speed up ratification of the Istanbul Convention, for Member States to allocate resources to prevent and combat gender-based violence, to compensate victims and provide training for professionals dealing with the victims of violence. The report also calls for a change in attitude and behaviours, and to combat sexism and stereotyped gender roles, including in the sphere of advertising and media. It calls for measures to address new forms of crime such as revenge pornography, sex-extortion, grooming, and to protect victims. The paper also places emphasis on the responsibility of Member States to provide proper sex education and access to information. Overall, this is a very progressive and important report and I voted in favour.
Impact of international trade and EU’s trade policies on global value chains (A8-0269/2017 - Maria Arena)
. – I voted in favour of this very good report, which focuses on inequitable distribution of the benefits of trade and calls for enshrining social and environmental chapters, and increased transparency and accountability, in agreements and global value chains (GVCs). It identifies the risk of companies operating in the EU being involved through GVCs in human and labour rights abuses, environmental damage and tax fraud.It calls for the Commission to promote mandatory supply chain due diligence and transparency requirements, building on the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, within the WTO. It also calls for the Commission to promote within the WTO minimum health and safety standards, recognising in particular workers’ right to establish safety committees, a social protection floor and respect for ILO labour standards, and the right to collective bargaining.
2016 Report on Turkey (A8-0234/2017 - Kati Piri)
. – We abstained on this vote, while we fully support the cessation of membership negotiations in light of the ongoing human-rights abuses in Turkey.We did not vote in favour as there were aspects of the report which supported Turkey’s role as a strategic partner in stopping refugees from entering Europe, and a call for the continuation of the readmission agreement despite the ongoing human-rights violations in Turkey.We also could not support those aspects of the report which condemn the Kurdish people. The Turkish state has a long history of violence against the Kurdish population, pre-dating the current crisis which has again seen widespread repression of Kurds. In the light of this oppression it is wholly inappropriate to attempt to apportion blame to the Kurdish people for the current situation in Turkey.
Setting up a special committee on terrorism, its responsibilities, numerical strength and term of office (B8-0477/2017)
. – This vote was on a resolution to create a new temporary special committee on combatting terrorism. We voted against it, as a special European Parliament terrorism committee will do little to counter the threats facing Europe.The Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs Committee and the Security and Defence Subcommittee already have a counter-terror remit. A specific terrorism committee would also open the way to greater EU militarisation and the creation of a ‘Fortress Europe’.Instead of more anti-terror laws taking away civil liberties, the existing frameworks and laws should be used more efficiently in order to combat terror. In particular, the most efficient and productive way to deal with threats is through national authorities cooperating and collaborating, under strict human-rights and accountability frameworks and with properly resourced public services.The EU was founded to protect civil rights and prevent the spread of conflict, and we will now work with progressive MEPs to ensure that this committee does nothing to erode the ordinary citizen’s civil liberties in the name of fighting terror.
European Fund for Sustainable Development (EFSD) and establishing the EFSD Guarantee and the EFSD Guarantee Fund (A8-0170/2017 - Eduard Kukan, Doru-Claudian Frunzulică, Eider Gardiazabal Rubial)
. – This report is a proposal is to establish a new financial instrument, following the Juncker plan model, in order to try to generate private funding in addition to EU funds. It claims it is for ‘sustainable development’ in developing countries, but in reality it also proposes to link or further integrate the EU’s external aid with ‘migration control’. We voted against as we strongly believe development aid needs to be entirely separate from migration and security measures.
Permitted uses of certain works and other protected subject-matter for the benefit of persons who are blind, visually impaired or otherwise print disabled (A8-0097/2017 - Max Andersson)
. – I voted in favour of this report because it ensures access to special works for those who are blind, visually impaired or have any other visual disability/impairment. Access to these works are essential for those who need them; any alterations made to the work are to make it more user-friendly, are only done when and if necessary, and should be permitted for use to benefit those mentioned above.
Cross-border exchange of accessible format copies of certain works and other protected subject-matter for the benefit of persons who are blind, visually impaired or otherwise print disabled (A8-0102/2017 - Max Andersson)
. – I voted in favour of this report as it also helps those who are blind, visually impaired or otherwise print disabled to have greater access to works that will benefit them. The cross-border exchange of these works means that there is greater access to different languages and format types and this will hopefully result in greater availability for those who need them, along with more diversity in the works that can be accessed.
Double taxation dispute resolution mechanisms in the EU (A8-0225/2017 - Michael Theurer)
. – I voted against this report, which aims to speed up and harmonise the process of resolving disputes over double taxation that arise under double taxation treaties (i.e., where a company is taxed twice on the same income in two countries that have a double taxation treaty in place). Its goal is to remove ‘barriers’ for investment and deepen the integration of the Single Market. It sets very short timelines for dispute resolution, halving the time frames in the Commission proposal. I tabled amendments aimed at improving transparency, which try to ensure that the final decisions of the dispute resolution bodies are published in their entirety, but these were not supported by a majority. Because of this lack of transparency, and because I believe the short time frames called for by the report may be unworkable, I voted against.
EU action for sustainability (A8-0239/2017 - Seb Dance)
. – I voted in favour of this report. The EU aims to be a frontrunner for the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and their associated targets for 2030. The EU’s response includes two streams: mainstreaming the SDGs in European policy framework and current Commission priorities, and launching reflection on further developing a longer-term vision and the focus on sectoral policies after 2020.This report focuses largely on improving the sustainability of today’s farming and husbandry methods and brings to light its connection with loss of biodiversity and the production of greenhouse gases. The report aims to better SDGs across all policy areas and touches on issues ranging from culture to biofuels to gender equality. Despite attempts from the ECR and EPP Groups to significantly reduce the impact of this report, it is positive overall and leads Europe towards a more sustainable direction.
Promoting cohesion and development in the outermost regions of the EU (A8-0226/2017 - Younous Omarjee)
. – I voted in favour of a report on promoting cohesion and development in the outermost regions of the EU. The outermost regions have a specific status giving to the Union the legal capacity to adapt its policies, programmes and law to these regions. This report assesses how EU policies can be tailored to suit the Outermost Regions. It calls for the promotion of sustainable farming by supporting important production (e.g. bananas and sugar) in times of crises. The report also calls for increased sustainable small-scale fishing in the regions, as well as providing necessary adjustments in all areas for ORs to have access to EU funding streams.
Agreement to amend the Montreal Protocol on substances that deplete the ozone layer, adopted in Kigali (A8-0237/2017 - Kateřina Konečná)
. – I voted in favour of this recommendation on this draft Council decision. The Kigali Amendment adds hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) to the list of substances regulated by the Montreal Protocol and amends the applicable articles in the Protocol accordingly. HFCs were brought in as alternatives to chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which have been the main subject of the Montreal Protocol. While the Montreal Protocol significantly reduced CFCs, the side effect of this was the increasing use of HFCs. This amendment aims to curb rising HFC levels and gives a number of targets to be reached. This amendment updates this important protocol and is an important step in tackling climate change.
Convention on long-range transboundary air pollution to abate acidification, eutrophication and ground-level ozone (A8-0241/2017 - Adina-Ioana Vălean)
. – I voted in favour of this recommendation of this draft Council decision. This vote gives consent to the Council to accept, on behalf of the EU, an amendment to the Gothenburg Protocol to the 1979 Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution (LRATP). This Protocol aims to reduce acidification, eutrophication and ground-level ozone by setting emissions ceilings for certain compounds. Some of the technical annexes of this protocol were revised in 2012 with updated sets of emission limit values. It also includes emission reduction commitments for fine particulate matter. It aims to reduce particulate matter, including black carbon, otherwise known as soot. To make these reduction targets binding, the amendments have to be ratified by Parties to the Convention. The report was adopted in the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI) by an overwhelming majority.
Conclusion of the EU-Cuba Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement (Consent) (A8-0232/2017 - Elena Valenciano)
. – From 1996 until last year, relations between the EU and Cuba were governed by the EU’s ‘Common position’, which imposed a state of exception on Cuba under the pretext of defending ‘human rights and democracy’, and mirrored US attempts to undermine the Cuban Government and system. This policy was not only unjust, it was also a total failure. It had no impact on Cuban politics, and despite its self-imposed restrictions the EU as a whole has become Cuba’s main customer and main supplier. There is also now a worldwide consensus on the need to lift restrictions on Cuba, and in recent years the US itself has begun to build renewed relations with Cuba.Between 2014 and 2016, a Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement (PDCA) was negotiated between the EU and Cuba that defines the principles and objectives of the developing EU / Cuba relationship.This vote was to a consent motion to validate the decision of the Commission and the Council, and to make the implementation of the Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement possible. I therefore voted in favour of this motion.
Conclusion of the EU-Cuba Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement (Resolution) (A8-0233/2017 - Elena Valenciano)
. –From 1996 until last year, relations between the EU and Cuba were governed by the EU’s ‘Common position’, which imposed a state of exception on Cuba under the pretext of defending ‘human rights and democracy’, and mirrored US attempts to undermine the Cuban Government and system. This policy was not only unjust, it was also a total failure. Between 2014 and 2016, a Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement (PDCA) was negotiated between the EU and Cuba that defines the principles and objectives of the developing EU / Cuba relationshipWhile I voted in favour of the official consent motion, I could not support this report, which is an ‘own initiative report’ and does not affect the new agreement. I vote against it because it amounts to blatant interference in Cuba’s sovereignty and self-determination, much like the former ‘Common position’ did.The resolution was originally quite good, and focused on the positive, collaborative aspects of the new agreement, but it was amended by right-wing MEPs determined to interfere in Cuba’s self-determination and self-governance. I therefore voted against this report.
Fight against fraud to the Union's financial interests by means of criminal law (A8-0230/2017 - Ingeborg Gräßle, Juan Fernando López Aguilar)
. – This file was a recommendation on adopting a directive fighting fraud to the Union’s financial interests by using criminal law. According to a 2010 Commission report, suspected fraud amounts to approximately EUR 600 million per year on the revenue and expenditure side, despite the existing legal framework. It can be assumed that the actual amount is much higher, and action on this is indeed needed.The Commission sees this directive as a tool to defend taxpayers’ money in the most efficient way, making use of all possibilities offered by the EU Treaties, and has complained about the variety of rules and consequently often diverging levels of protection within Member States’ national legal systems.However, this directive is intended to provide a single framework that a future European Public Prosecutor’s Office would operate within, and it therefore represents a significant development in the creation of a European area of criminal justice. I am opposed to an EPPO, and this directive is there clearly encroaching on Member States’ competencies and sovereignty. I therefore voted in favour of an amendment that rejected the recommended directive.
HIV, TB and HCV epidemics in Europe on the rise (B8-0436/2017)
. – I voted in favour of this resolution which calls on the Commission and Member States to develop a comprehensive EU Policy Framework addressing HIV/AIDS, TB and Viral Hepatitis. It calls for resource mobilisation to ensure the level of spending is adequate. The approach it advocates is community-focused through multi-sectoral cooperation, ensuring that services arrive to the affected populations. It also calls for more investment in research and cross-border co-operation. Overall, this is a good motion for a resolution, especially because it is patient-focused and aims to have greater access to preventive measures, testing and treatment for HIV/AIDS, TB and Hepatitis C.
Preparation of the Commission Work Programme for 2018 (RC-B8-0434/2017, B8-0434/2017, B8-0435/2017, B8-0450/2017, B8-0451/2017, B8-0454/2017, B8-0455/2017, B8-0456/2017)
. – I voted against the joint motion on the Commission Work Programme tabled by the conservative and liberal groups (EPP, ECR and ALDE) and in favour of progressive amendments to the resolution. The conservative resolution endorses the Commission’s approach of developing plans for the deepening and completion of the Economic and Monetary Union based on permanent austerity, and its new drive to dismantle the limited financial regulation that was enacted after the crisis. In addition to endorsing the failed economics of permanent austerity, the conservatives also promote militarisation of the EU and measures that violate the human rights of refugees.
2018 Budget - Mandate for the trilogue (A8-0249/2017 - Siegfried Mureşan)
. – I voted to abstain on this report. The EU budget contributes to many important funding streams for community groups, NGOs and public services throughout Member States. We acknowledge that the EU budget lines are vital in supporting these. That said, there are also many flaws in the spending of the budget with not enough concentration towards people and so we are highly critical of this spending when it could be concentrated so much more appropriately. We will work towards delivering a fairer and more targeted budget for 2018 which insulates us against Brexit and maintains priority lines for Ireland.
Towards an EU strategy for international cultural relations (A8-0220/2017 - Elmar Brok, Silvia Costa)
. – Broadly speaking, this report has many positive aspects. It takes into account that culture rights are human rights and respects them in general.However, this report asks the EU to closely collaborate with all those ‘states that share its goals and values and are prepared to act in their support’ and stresses that ‘this is particularly important in order to establish a legitimate and stable action for the EU to be recognised as a “global player”’. As Sinn Féin does not support a common EU Foreign Policy we voted against this own-initiative report.We should not undermine the fact that reports such as this one can sometimes use language that is endorsing a common security policy – this is a Member State competency and not a European one and therefore we voted against.
Recommendation to the Council on the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly (A8-0216/2017 - Andrey Kovatchev)
. – I abstained on this vote. While some important global human rights issue were highlighted the recommendation did not highlight any human rights abuses carried out by Western states or their allies. I find it unacceptable that particular political groups would use the selective highlighting of human rights issue to score political points.Furthermore this recommendation called for a greater role for the EU as an institution within the UN. As all EU Member States are UN members this would represent a greater surrendering of sovereignty to the EU.
Building an ambitious EU industrial strategy as a strategic priority for growth, employment and innovation in Europe (RC-B8-0440/2017, B8-0439/2017, B8-0440/2017, B8-0445/2017, B8-0446/2017, B8-0447/2017, B8-0448/2017, B8-0449/2017)
. – I voted against this motion as it was heavily focused on entrepreneurship, the single market and expressed opposition to ‘costly’ regulation as well as supporting a Commission lead strategy. This commitment to the economic status quo ignores the hard lessons which should have been learnt from the crisis of neoliberal economics, and will not benefit ordinary Europeans. The motion also supported free trade between the global north and the global south while ignoring the unbalanced and unequitable nature of this trade relationship.
EU-Kosovo Framework Agreement on the general principles for the participation of Kosovo in Union programmes (A8-0207/2017 - Ulrike Lunacek)
. – We voted in favour of this motion. The dire economic situation in Kosovo has severe negative implications for ordinary Kosovars. Allowing Kosovo to participate in EU framework programmes does not change Kosovo’s current relations with EU Member States or other Balkan States, but it will benefit the lives of ordinary Kosovars.
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2017/001 ES/Castilla y León mining (A8-0248/2017 - Monika Vana)
. – We voted in favour of this report. 339 Spanish miners were made redundant in January 2017 as a result of reduced demand, which can be attributed to lower prices due to imports from other countries. 125 NEET (not in employment, education or training) places will be funded from this assistance for former employees under 30. Ireland has benefited from this funding in previous years. We were happy to give our support.
European standards for the 21st century (A8-0213/2017 - Marlene Mizzi)
. – I voted in favour of this own-initiative single-vote report by the Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO) that addresses European standards on products in the EU. Standards in this case are voluntary technical requirements to implement legal norms towards health, safety and the environment. The report aims to enhance the transparency of the standardisation process. The report is inclusive to all stakeholders with a particular focus on SMEs and societal stakeholders. The report aims to provide sufficient funds for SMEs and those less represented in the standardisation process. The report expresses concern about the different quality of testing institutions and the need to create transparency for consumers in this regard.
Towards a pan-European covered bonds framework (A8-0235/2017 - Bernd Lucke)
. – I voted against this report regarding covered bonds, which are a financial instrument. A covered bond is a derivative, a security created from public sector loans or mortgage loans where the security is backed by a separate group of loans. This own-initiative report is a response to the Commission’s capital markets union initiative which aims at developing capital markets (as opposed to traditional banking) in the EU by harmonising national frameworks for securities and other financial instruments.We are opposed to the entire capital markets union project as it promotes the high-risk instruments that caused the financial crisis. Covered bonds have developed in each state based on specific characteristics of the market in that state.There is a good aspect of this report, which criticises the Commission’s proposal for mandatory harmonisation as it may lead to unintended consequences. But it is also aimed at promoting these instruments, which justifies a vote against. The report calls for these debt instruments to be rebranded as ‘European Secured Notes’, which would clearly create the perception of low risk in the market.
The role of fisheries-related tourism in the diversification of fisheries (A8-0221/2017 - Renata Briano)
. – We voted in favour of this report, as it focuses on the importance of diversification in the context of fisheries and tourism-related activities. It acknowledges the pivotal role that small-scale, traditional and artisanal fisheries have in local and peripheral communities and also the role that environmentally unique areas – i.e. Natura 2000 reserves – have in attracting tourism, which can be utilised by facilitating dual licensing of small-scale local fishermen in chartering vessels and operating excursions for tourism-related activities.The report also calls on the Commission and the Council to recognise the role played by women in the fishing tourism sector, and in the sustainable development of areas that depend on fishing, with the aim of guaranteeing their participation on equal terms.It also addresses the marginalisation of the industry at local level, not to mention the integral role of fisheries in peripheral coastal regions and the need for traditional fisheries communities to be given incentives and support to enable them to diversify in order to address their decline.
Limitation periods for traffic accidents (A8-0206/2017 - Pavel Svoboda)
. – I voted against this report which comes as part of a European movement towards a European Area of Justice. While Sinn Féin supports reports on the mutual recognition of certain legal documents, this report went much further. It proposes a common European limitation period of four years for road traffic accidents. Although the rule would only apply to cross-border accidents to begin with, the report recommends countries adopting it across the board. The report does not take into consideration the legitimate reasons for differing limitation periods in different countries. These include differing ways of assessing liability, whether a right to litigate is extinguished or just lapses after a limitation period, as well as the different systems of compensation.Ireland will have an opt-out on this rule should the Commission decide to legislate.
Common minimum standards of civil procedure (A8-0210/2017 - Emil Radev)
. – I voted against this resolution, which calls for the creation of a Union Code of Civil Procedure. The report propagates a common civil justice system in the interests of business and economic growth, while completely ignoring the plurality of legal traditions existing in the EU. While some parts of the report try to spin the aim of ensuring equal access to the courts, it also self-asserts itself to be the ‘first step for convergence of national regulations concerning civil procedure’. It puts forward harmonised procedures which would directly contradict Irish common law precedent, including on the likelihood of success rules and service of documents.Rules on access to courts and the right to a fair trial are protected and enforced under the European Convention of Human Rights, the Charter of Fundamental Rights, as well as in national legislation and precedent. This report is part of the move towards a European Area of Justice, which Ireland has an opt-out on.
Macro-financial assistance to Moldova (A8-0185/2017 - Sorin Moisă)
. – I voted against this report, which was a proposal for the EU to give EUR 100 million to Moldova, 60% as loans and 40% as grants. Moldova is in a deep economic crisis, but it is also led by a government deeply affected by corruption. The report makes calls for the Commission to ensure the funds are not absorbed by corruption and money laundering by the oligarchy, but there are no guarantees in place to ensure this is the case. The report’s written justification also claims the EU should support the current Moldovan Government ahead of the 2018 elections, which amounts to political interference.
Disclosure of income tax information by certain undertakings and branches (A8-0227/2017 - Hugues Bayet, Evelyn Regner)
. – I abstained on this report on public country-by-country reporting (CBCR). This was a very important proposal regarding corporate tax transparency, which Sinn Féin are strongly in favour of. We have campaigned for this measure to be introduced, which is aimed at ending secrecy for large multinationals and making country—by—country financial reporting mandatory and public for these companies. The report originally proposed by the rapporteurs had been praised by anti-tax avoidance groups and development agencies.As a result of the public fury at multinationals, MEPs had worked to significantly improve the Commission’s proposal on CBCR by proposing that companies must report this financial information for each jurisdiction they operate in globally – not only EU or (future) blacklisted jurisdictions.Unfortunately, liberals and conservatives introduced a number of amendments aiming to limit disclosure for certain countries which will significantly weaken transparency, as multinationals will just shift profits to these jurisdictions where they don’t have to report their turnover, profit and tax figures in full so long as they claim this is due to ‘commercial sensitivity’. This loophole undermines the entire proposal, which caused me to abstain on the vote.
Introduction of temporary autonomous trade measures for Ukraine (A8-0193/2017 - Jarosław Wałęsa)
. – This report proposes to extend trade preferences to Ukraine beyond the existing Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) which has been provisionally applied since 1 January 2016. The DCFTA has yet to be ratified by all EU countries, and it has been rejected in a non-binding referendum in the Netherlands. The proposal aims to give additional generous trade preferences to Ukraine despite the political and corruption problems there. The Commission submitted no impact assessment on the possible effects of those measure on the Ukrainian economy and on the affected sectors in the EU, nor did it submit a report on the use of the enormous loans granted to Ukraine. For these reasons I voted against.
Draft amending budget n° 2 to the General budget 2017 entering the surplus of the financial year 2016 (A8-0229/2017 - Jens Geier)
A longer lifetime for products: benefits for consumers and companies (A8-0214/2017 - Pascal Durand)
. – I voted in favour of this own-initiative single-vote report by the Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO) that addresses how a longer and guaranteed lifetime of products would be beneficial to both consumers and companies. The report brings attention to the fact that consumer confidence in product robustness is extremely low, with some products deliberately designed to fault after a short period of time. The report contains positive aspects such as the need for product repair as an option rather than consumers’ continually having to repurchase, the potential for products to be leased from the supplier rather than bought, and notes the environmental benefits created from products with a longer lifetime.
Addressing human rights violations in the context of war crimes, and crimes against humanity, including genocide (A8-0222/2017 - Cristian Dan Preda)
. – This report looks at how to deal with both the prosecution and prevention of the crime of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes. It focuses on the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the Rome Statute on the crime of aggression, as well as measures such as the ‘Responsibility to Protect’ doctrine.While there are many good aspects to the report, and I fully support action to prevent serious human rights violations, the report is problematic in several important aspects. For example, it supports and promotes increased EU military action under the Common Security and Defence Policy, and promotes the ‘Responsibility to Protect’ doctrine, which has been used to provide dubious justification for military intervention, for example in Libya.It also uncritically promotes the use of sanctions, which – unless they are targeted – disproportionately hurt ordinary people and the vulnerable the most, and makes no mention of war crimes carried out by western powers or their allies. These and other problems with the report mean that – while I support Europe and the international community working harder to prevent war crimes, genocide and other crimes against humanity – I could not vote for the report. I therefore abstained.
Working conditions and precarious employment (A8-0224/2017 - Neoklis Sylikiotis)
. – I voted in favour of this report which addresses zero-hour contracts, bogus self-employment, involuntary part-time employment and failure to ensure decent living standards/rights in the workplace. Overall it is a good report that focuses on some current shortcomings in the workplace that need to be tackled.
Request for the waiver of the immunity of Marine Le Pen
. – I voted in favour of this waiver of immunity for current leader of Front National, Marine Le Pen. On 3 May 2015 Ms Le Pen appeared on a TV broadcast and accused the Mayor and MP for Nice of financing Islamic organisations, charging mosques nominal rent, illegally funding mosques, having a religious-community ‘honeypot’, being an accomplice of jihadis, providing resources and assistance to Islamic fundamentalism and as a result being complicit in spreading and recruiting the same.Although there were some questions surrounding the speed at which this report came through Committee, Ms Le Pen had been invited and declined appearing before the committee on two occasions, as per the rules of procedure. Since her actions cannot be seen to be connected to her parliamentary duties I believe that French prosecutors should be allowed to open an investigation against her.
Humanitarian situation in Yemen (RC-B8-0407/2017, B8-0407/2017, B8-0408/2017, B8-0409/2017, B8-0410/2017, B8-0411/2017, B8-0412/2017, B8-0413/2017)
. – We voted in favour of this motion which highlights the humanitarian crisis and human-rights violations caused by the ongoing war in Yemen. The motion highlights the worsening humanitarian situation caused by the conflict, including the blockading of Yemen’s ports, and also highlights the EU’s arms embargo on Saudi Arabia.Human-rights violations by all sides, including the use of child soldiers and the bombing of civilian areas are condemned. The motion also recognises that any long-term solution to the conflict has to be led by the Yemeni peoples, and calls on all sides to respect international human-rights standards.It is regrettable that this resolution did not go further and condemn the increasing incidence of US drone strikes and the role played by European arms exporters in fuelling conflict in Yemen.
Binding annual greenhouse gas emission reductions to meet commitments under the Paris Agreement (A8-0208/2017 - Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy)
. – We voted in favour of this report which sets out flexibilities for the non-ETS sector (transport, agriculture, construction) with regard to greenhouse gas emission reduction targets. While nothing in the report should prevent these sectors from achieving the targets set out in the Paris Agreement independently, flexibilities concerning the way land is used should set EU countries on track to a low-carbon economy.
Request for the waiver of the immunity of Rolandas Paksas (Rule 150)
Request for the waiver of the immunity of Mylène Troszczynski (Rule 150)
. – I voted in favour of this waiver of immunity for Mylène Troszczynski of Front National. Ms Troszczynski posted a photo on Twitter of a woman wearing the full veil queuing outside a Family Allowances Fund Office with a caption saying that wearing the full veil is prohibited by law. The photo had been forged from a photo in London. This waiver will allow French prosecutors to begin charging her for incitement to racial hatred.
Request for the waiver of the immunity of Jean-Marie Le Pen (Rule 150)
. – I voted in favour of this waiver of immunity for Jean-Marie Le Pen, founder of Front National in France. In 2009 Mr Le Pen went on a French Radio Programme and stated that 90% of incidents reported in the media were caused by immigrants.French Public Prosecutors are seeking to launch a criminal investigation into public incitement to racial hatred.
Objection to Commission Delegated Regulation amending Delegated Regulation (EU) No 639/2014 as regards the control measures relating to the cultivation of hemp and certain provisions on payments (B8-0395/2017)
. – I abstained on this vote which was an objection to the Commission’s Delegated act on Greening. While Sinn Féin supported proposals to ban pesticides on Ecological Focus Areas, I completely disagreed with the manner in which Commissioner Hogan presented this review of Greening. Commissioner Hogan has made a habit of amending CAP in this way, completely side-lining the AGRI Committee and the normal legislative process. It is unacceptable that 14 empowerments were bundled into one Delegated Regulation and that Parliament’s right of scrutiny is null since it simply has to either accept or reject the bundle. For these reasons I abstained on the final vote.
The need for an EU strategy to end and prevent the gender pension gap (A8-0197/2017 - Constance Le Grip)
. – We abstained on this report, which aims to create a strategy to end the gender pension gap. The report is vague, lacks detail and promotes a problematic method of restructuring the pension system.It contains some good points, including recognising that the gender pension gap is the product of underlying causes such as the pay gap, the structuring of the pension system which favours length of work, and gender inequalities in the labour market when it comes to pay, career advancement, opportunities to work full time and the right to pension, as well as the right of migrant women to a pension. Negative elements, however, include proposing a wholesale move towards self-funded schemes as a way to reduce the gap, as well as amendments pointing towards raising the age of retirement. These are developments that we strongly oppose.Amendments passed in plenary, such as dulling-down the statistics on the gender pension gap, weakened the report even further. As we could not support these elements, we abstained in the vote.
2016 Report on Serbia (A8-0063/2017 - David McAllister)
. – We abstained in this vote, the report refers to Serbia’s progress towards membership of the EU, which is an issue for the Serbian people to decide. The report notes Serbia’s progress towards this such as the achievement of the Maastricht criteria for budget deficit and progress on judicial reforms, and relations with Kosovo, however the report highlights the need for further protection of minority rights and for Serbia to further open its economy to the market and criticises Serbia’s relations with Russia while calling for Serbia to align with European defence policy. For these reason I abstained as I do not believe that the EU has the right to undermine sovereignty economic through forced market liberalisation or encouraging alignment with any particular foreign policy.
2016 Report on Kosovo (A8-0062/2017 - Ulrike Lunacek)
. – We abstained in this vote. The continued promotion of peace and reconciliation in Kosovo is of vital importance to maintaining peace in the region. The report notes the severe economic problems in Kosovo and the polarisation of politics and urges greater cooperation between the Serb and Albanian communities. It condemns Serbian provocation while calling for the protection of the civil liberties of Kosovo Serbs. However, the report calls for Kosovo to align with the EU Common Defence and Security Policy, and as a delegation we are opposed to the EU’s militarisation. For this reason we abstained in the final vote.
2016 Report on the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (A8-0055/2017 - Ivo Vajgl)
. – We abstained in this vote, the name dispute between the Republic of Macedonia and Greece is not properly addressed. The report incorrectly dismisses the name issue as being a bilateral issue between Greece and Macedonia, this is contrary to UN resolutions on the subject. Beyond this the report calls for greater integration along ‘EU-Atlantic path’. The report notes the reforms made in civil governance and highlights the need for further reforms.
Situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (RC-B8-0397/2017, B8-0397/2017, B8-0398/2017, B8-0399/2017, B8-0400/2017, B8-0401/2017, B8-0402/2017)
. – We voted in favour of this Resolution which strongly regrets the fact that no progress has been made to call elections in Congo despite an agreement last winter to do so. The Resolution calls on the government to respect its duty to protect and promote fundamental freedoms, including the release of those unlawfully detained. It calls for the delivery of aid by humanitarian organisations and for an independent committee of inquiry to be set up under the UN to ensure perpetrators of violence, rapes and massacres are held to account. We voted in favour of a split amendment to remove the words ‘fully intervene’ with regard to the current UN mission since these words do not capture the fact that this mission is mandated with purely peace-keeping duties.
State of play of the implementation of the Sustainability Compact in Bangladesh (B8-0396/2017)
. – We abstained on this motion for a resolution. The Sustainability Compact is due to end in Spring 2018 and the Commission wants to extend it. The Compact was established in July 2013 for continuous improvements in labour rights and factory safety in the Ready-Made Garment and Knitwear Industry in Bangladesh. It contains short and long-term commitments on labour rights, business conduct and health and safety. While the Compact has had some effect on safety and health at work, the situation in Bangladesh regarding labour rights has not improved substantially, for example, the arrests of trade union leaders.Compromise amendments at the INTA committee significantly diluted the call for binding legislation on due diligence that was passed in the Resolution of March 2017 on the Garment Sector Flagship initiative. The latest resolution rolls back on this call and even refers to ‘voluntary initiatives’, completely backtracking on the March resolution. To remedy this, and put this resolution back in line with the previous one, GUE, EFDD and the Greens proposed an amendment reaffirming the need for binding legislation and recognising the failure of previous voluntary initiatives. Given that this amendment did not pass, we abstained on the resolution as a whole.
Statelessness in South and South East Asia (A8-0182/2017 - Amjad Bashir)
. – I voted in favour of this report, which is on stateless people in South and Southeast Asia, with emphasis on the Rohingya, but also covering other stateless peoples. The report focuses on the need for the EU to use its relations with ASEAN countries to promote human rights protections, in line with the sustainable development goals, and to improve co-ordination on this issue in South/Southeast Asia. It contains many good points, such as the gendered role of statelessness, which adversely effects women, and the need for comprehensive case—by—case responses.
Cross-border mergers and divisions (A8-0190/2017 - Enrico Gasbarra)
. – We abstained in this vote, which set out Parliament’s position on the update of the Cross-Border Mergers Directive. Some progressive elements did make it into the report, including a couple of references to safeguarding workers’ rights and protections, and preventing undertakings from using the directive with the aim of transferring their registered office for wrongful fiscal, social or legal reasons. However, many other elements have been deleted by an EPP-ECR-ALDE alliance, leaving behind a very neoliberal report. There are calls for fast-track procedures for corporations, increased mobility of companies for competitiveness and numerous references to reducing ‘obstacles’ for companies, exemptions from procedural requirements, all making the progressive elements left behind seem fairly moot.
Participation of the Union in the Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA) (A8-0112/2017 - Sofia Sakorafa)
. – We voted in favour of the report. The Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA) is a research project, under the implementation of Horizon 2020, to tackle the issues of water management and food production in the Mediterranean area. The members of PRIMA consists of EU Member States mostly deriving from the Mediterranean area, Croatia, Cyprus, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Slovenia, and Spain but also non-EU Mediterranean countries, Israel, Tunisia, Turkey, Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon and Morocco. Project funding includes contribution by member countries of PRIMA, along with EU contribution under Horizon 2020.While we support this project, we strongly oppose Israel’s involvement in it – or in any other Horizon 2020 funded schemes – due to its appalling human rights abuses and occupation of Palestine. Israel’s ongoing theft of Palestinian water, and denial of safe drinking water to the citizens of Gaza, makes its involvement particularly outrageous.However, the overall report was very positive, affirming the right to safe and clean drinking water throughout the region. The initiative hopes to bring new ideas to and create sustainable agriculture production, with a commitment to social and environment friendly implementation. We therefore voted in favour.
Energy efficiency labelling (A8-0213/2016 - Dario Tamburrano)
. – We voted in favour of the report. This report aims to bring clarity to consumers regarding the energy efficiency of products such as fridges, washing machines, dish washers and more. The energy labelling will inform consumers of how environmentally friendly a product is before purchasing. The current energy efficiency labelling consists of a scale from A to A++++, with A being the lowest level, this labelling is confusing and meaningless to consumers. The report proposes to rescale the labelling to a simple A-G format. As this is a positive development, we voted in favour.
European Capitals of Culture for the years 2020 to 2033 (A8-0061/2017 - Santiago Fisas Ayxelà)
. – On the European Capital of Cultures for the years 2020 to 2033, we voted in favour of the provisional agreement.The European Capital of Culture is a city designated by the European Union for a period of one calendar year during which it organises a series of cultural events.Each year the EC publishes an evaluation report on the outcomes of the European Capitals of Culture of the previous year. For the Capitals post—2019, the cities themselves will carry out their own evaluation and send it to the Commission by the end of the year following that of the title.A new framework for the initiative, post 2019, was adopted by the European Parliament and Council in April 2014. It includes the chronological list of Member States that can host the title from 2020 until 2033.The report is aiming to continue the programme further on till the year 2033.
Assessment of Horizon 2020 implementation (A8-0209/2017 - Soledad Cabezón Ruiz)
. – We voted against this report. The report is an assessment of the implementation of Horizon 2020, a funding programme for research and development. The report assesses the development of the project and plans for the next stage of the project, Framework Programme 9.We have been strong supporters of Horizon 2020 and the research funding it provides. However, the assessment of the report contains an article aiming for a separate budget for defence research within the next phase of Horizon 2020, excluded from civilian research. We are entirely opposed to any escalation towards EU militarisation, and do not believe the EU should have a budget solely towards defence research.I support the benefits of the research funding provided by Horizon 2020, but do not favour giving funding towards defence research, and certainly not its own budget within Horizon 2020. Therefore, we voted against the report.
Status of fish stocks and socio-economic situation of the fishing sector in the Mediterranean (A8-0179/2017 - Marco Affronte)
. – We supported this file as it supported improving and safeguarding small-scale and artisanal fisheries and emphasising that there is a need for a definition of what small-scale, artisanal and traditional fisheries actually entails whilst also referring to their socio-economic role in their own communities. It also highlighted the importance of food sovereignty, traceability of products, the involvement of workers and fishermen organisations in the sector’s policies and the protection of fishers.From an environmental perspective it calls for better long-term management of resources, the use of more selective fishing gear therefore reducing non-targeted species, the creation of biological recovery periods based on the biological characteristics of the various species, and closure of some areas that could be nursery zones.
Request for the waiver of the immunity of Béla Kovács (A8-0203/2017 - Heidi Hautala)
. – I voted in favour of this waiver of immunity. Mr Kovács is accused of forging documents to commit budget fraud in relation to three fictitious traineeship contracts. He forged signatures and documentation in order to divert public money into his own account.This waiver means he will now face criminal charges for the deliberate misappropriation of funds in his home country of Hungary.
Rates of value added tax applied to books, newspapers and periodicals (A8-0189/2017 - Tom Vandenkendelaere)
. – I abstained on this vote. It is a simple proposal to align the VAT rate on e-publications to the same rate as that of print publications, as the current system is discriminatory against e-publications. There is nothing wrong with that per se but it’s amending the broader VAT Directive which is definitely problematic as it reduces tax-setting rights from Member States. For this reason I did not vote in favour of the report but abstained.
Internet connectivity for growth, competitiveness and cohesion: European gigabit society and 5G (A8-0184/2017 - Michał Boni)
. – I abstained on this report. The report promotes internet connectivity but with the aim of increasing ‘growth’ by promoting competiveness for business. The report is market-orientated in its intent. There is no sufficient strategy as to how to tackle the digital divide and ensure that connectivity reaches rural communities, considering the mistakes of the EU’s previous implementation of 4G. Furthermore, the report does not stress technological neutrality, therefore the freedom of companies to use the technologies available as suitable to their specific needs and requirements. However, as we support improved internet connectivity, I did not vote against but abstained due to some of the problems outlined above.
Protection of vulnerable adults (A8-0152/2017 - Joëlle Bergeron)
. – I voted in favour of this report which criticises the low ratification rate by Member States of the Hague Convention which contains protections for vulnerable adults. Among the calls are for rules that would enable the recognition and enforcement of decisions between Member States for the protection of vulnerable adults. The file is related to cross-border and freedom of movement issues for these individuals, and will go a long way to ensuring fair protection.
Introduction of temporary autonomous trade measures for Ukraine (A8-0193/2017 - Jarosław Wałęsa)
. – I voted against this report, which proposes to deepen the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area with Ukraine, which has been provisionally applied since last year though not yet ratified by all EU Member States, despite the fact there has been no impact assessment and no acknowledgement of corruption in Ukraine.
Uniform format for visas (A8-0028/2016 - Sylvia-Yvonne Kaufmann)
. – This report supports the introduction of a new uniform format for visas in the EU. The current uniform format is over 20 years old, out of date, and therefore is no longer secure. Under the existing Schengen arrangements, Ireland and Britain have the ability to opt in to have access to the security features.A similar ‘hybrid’ regulation was initially proposed for the new system; however, the Commission’s Legal Service has determined that the proposed changes constitute a development of the Schengen acquis , meaning that this kind of opt-in is not possible for the new format.A compromise position was eventually reached that would allow Ireland and Britain to access the relevant security information for use in national visa stickers systems. I therefore voted in favour of this report.
Multiannual Framework for the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights for 2018-2022 (A8-0177/2017 - Angelika Mlinar)
. – The EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) was established in 2007 to provide relevant EU organisations with assistance and advice on fundamental rights issues. The thematic areas of activity for the Agency are determined every five years through a Multiannual Framework (MAF), with annual programmes determined by the Management Board within these parameters. The current MAF expires at the end of this year.In the draft MAF for 2018-2022, the Council refused to propose that police and judicial cooperation in criminal matters be covered, thereby preventing the FRA from covering fundamental rights in these areas. Both the Management Board of the FRA, and the European Parliament, supported inclusion of these matters in the scope, but rather than block the adoption of the new MAF, which would prevent the FRA from functioning past the end of the year, it was decided to propose a joint motion for resolution clearly stating the Parliament’s position in favour of including these areas.I therefore voted in favour of this report, as well as the joint resolution.
Multiannual Framework for the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights for 2018-2022 (B8-0384/2017)
. – The EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) was established in 2007 to provide relevant EU organisations with assistance and advice on fundamental rights issues. The thematic areas of activity for the Agency are determined every five years through a Multiannual Framework (MAF), with annual programmes determined by the Management Board within these parameters. The current MAF expires at the end of this year. In the draft MAF for 2018-2022, the Council refused to propose that police and judicial cooperation in criminal matters be covered, thereby preventing the FRA from covering fundamental rights in these areas.Both the Management Board of the FRA, and the European Parliament, supported inclusion of these matters in the scope, but rather than block the adoption of the new MAF, which would prevent the FRA from functioning past the end of the year, it was decided instead by most political Groups to propose this joint motion for resolution clearly stating Parliament’s position in favour of including police and judicial cooperation in criminal matters in the coming MAF. This is a clear expression of opposition to the Council’s refusal to include these in the coming MAF.I therefore voted in favour of this resolution.
Digitising European industry (A8-0183/2017 - Reinhard Bütikofer)
. – We voted in favour of this report, which discusses the digitalisation of European industries. The report promotes the digitalisation of industries, and making use of available technologies. It stresses benefits such as improved efficiency and productivity. While promoting digitalisation the report has a heavy focus on workers’ rights, and on the need to encourage digitalisation in a way that is compatible with existing concerns in the labour market. Digitalisation can produce beneficial working conditions and enhance a desirable work-life balance. The report contains a strong call to take into account workers’ interests in the development of any strategy to address technological changes by the EU. The report speaks of the need to monitor any disruption that digitalisation may have on the workforce, and to listen to the response of trade unions.
The new European Consensus on Development - our world, our dignity, our future (B8-0387/2017, B8-0390/2017)
. – The Consensus on Development is an inter-institutional document intended to guide the work of the three institutions in the field of development policies. The text from 2005 is currently being updated; however, the Committee text and some Member States disgracefully used the opportunity to link development aid and policies to reduce poverty to migration control, security objectives and foreign policy needs. For these reasons we abstained on the Committee text and voted in favour of an alternative text and amendments which state clearly that there can be NO conditionality between development assistance and migration issues. Unfortunately the EPP and Fine Gael’s text prevailed.
Resilience as a strategic priority of the EU external action (B8-0381/2017)
. – I voted against this resolution, which emphasises the complex nature of resilience in development policy. It includes positive provisions for gender, policies controlled by third-country governments, and the need to comply with international humanitarian law. However the resolution supports the European Union’s foreign and security policy, which Sinn Féin opposes as it violates Irish neutrality. I believe that development policies need to be entirely separate from defence and security policies.
Combating anti-semitism (B8-0383/2017, B8-0388/2017)
. – Sinn Féin is totally opposed to anti-Semitism and all other forms of racism and discrimination, and is concerned about the increase in anti-Semitic attacks in recent years. However, while we welcome the willingness to combat anti-Semitism that inspired this resolution, it also called for the adoption of a ‘working definition of anti-Semitism’ that is nebulous and problematic.In the lead-up to the vote, we received numerous emails from Jewish civil society organisations expressing their concerns with the definition, asking us to vote against it. We also received a legal opinion which pointed out that the definition could be interpreted in a way that would wrongly label legitimate criticism of Israel as “anti-Semitic”, and would actually make it more difficult to combat anti-Semitism successfully.There must be absolutely no acceptance of anti-Semitic abuse in our society or any other, and Sinn Féin will continue to actively oppose it, along with all forms of discrimination, racism and intolerance. However, legitimate criticism of Israel, and its ongoing breaches of international human rights law against the Palestinians, is not anti-Semitic, and must not be treated as such. We therefore abstained on this resolution.
High-level UN Conference to support the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 14 (UN Ocean Conference) (B8-0382/2017)
. – I voted in favour of this positive report that address fundamental issues when it comes to human activities on the oceans. It references overfishing as a serious threat to marine ecosystems, biodiversity, food security and the socio-economic sustainability of coastal communities.It also addresses the rising problems of climate change and ocean acidification. For people who are unfamiliar with ocean acidification it is the process by which emissions of carbon dioxide threaten to alter the very chemistry of the world’s oceans and has had a devastating impact. The Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia, the world’s largest coral reef, has suffered greatly from ocean acidification as it has caused coral bleaching which means that that the rest of world’s coral reefs are shrinking as they die.The resolution also emphasises the need for an ecosystem-based and precautionary approach to global fisheries management.However in the context of Sustainable Development Goal 14, there are significant aspects missing, such as fossil fuel and mineral prospecting and extraction, and references to small-scale, artisanal fisheries and the coastal communities, and I supported amendments to address these issues.
Agreement between the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway on an EEA Financial Mechanism 2014-2021 (A8-0072/2017 - David Borrelli)
. – I voted in favour of this report, which was under the Parliament’s consent procedure. This report concerns the consent to be given for the Council to adopt a decision concluding the agreements and additional protocols to establish mechanisms for the alleviation of economic and social disparities within the European Economic Area (EEA). A new mechanism for the financial contributions of the EEA EFTA States and a new Norwegian financial mechanism should be established, to deal with youth unemployment among other social issues.
The right funding mix for Europe’s regions: balancing financial instruments and grants in EU cohesion policy (A8-0139/2017 - Andrey Novakov)
. – The initial intention behind this report was to provide an in-depth analysis of what would be a good, balanced mix of support instruments in cohesion policy. EU cohesion funding has evolved over the years to include both grant-based assistance and financial instruments. The latter provide support in the form of microcredits, loans, guarantees, equity and venture capital.Unfortunately, the report focuses heavily on promoting the role of financial instruments, including mechanisms such as Public Private Partnerships and the European Fund for Strategic Investments, in future cohesion policy. While the report does acknowledge the central role of grants and public policy, the heavy emphasis throughout on financial instruments meant that we could not support it. We therefore abstained on the vote.
Future perspectives for technical assistance in cohesion policy (A8-0180/2017 - Ruža Tomašić)
. – This report evaluates the role of technical assistance in cohesion policy – the support and capacity-building activities necessary to help implement and monitor projects funded under that policy. In the context of the European structural and investment funds (ESI funds), technical assistance supports, among other measures, institutional strengthening and administrative capacity-building for the effective management of the funds, reducing excessive procedural complications, providing assistance for those Member States experiencing difficulties in implementing cohesion policy, and increasing information and transparency in monitoring cohesion-policy implementation.The procedures around cohesion policy are frequently too complicated, with bureaucratic burdens often replicated at several levels, causing unnecessary difficulties for the organisations carrying out the funded activities. We welcome the increased focus on removing these burdens, and therefore we voted in favour of this report.
Cross-border portability of online content services in the internal market (A8-0378/2016 - Jean-Marie Cavada)
. – We voted in favour of this Regulation aimed at allowing consumers who pay for online content services to access this content when they cross borders. In practice, if you have an online music, games, film, entertainment or sports subscription in your Member State of residence, this Regulation will allow you to use it when you travel temporarily to another Member State. Although we had some concerns about the way content providers were to be able to determine consumers’ locations, we were happy with the inclusion of a paragraph that this data be immediately and irreversibly destroyed after verification. As Sinn Féin supports consumers being able to access content without undue restrictions such as geo-blocking, I voted in favour.
Implementation of the EU-Korea Free Trade Agreement (A8-0123/2017 - Adam Szejnfeld)
. – We voted against this report as we oppose elements of the Free Trade Agreement between the EU and South Korea, which promotes neoliberalism and undermines workers’ rights and public services for both parties.We voted in favour of amendments tabled by the GUE/NGL Group and the Greens which aimed to improve the text with regard, for example, to calling for the removal of references to an investor-state dispute mechanism (ISDS) and to the Trade in Services Agreement (TiSA), another international agreement which will be damaging for ordinary people. We also voted in favour of amendments calling for an end to repression against trade unionists in Korea.
Achieving the two-state solution in the Middle East (RC-B8-0345/2017, B8-0345/2017, B8-0346/2017, B8-0347/2017, B8-0348/2017, B8-0352/2017, B8-0354/2017)
. – This resolution on the two-state solution in the Palestine-Israel conflict is badly imbalanced. It contains some positive elements (which Sinn Féin fought to have included) but we cannot ignore its pro-Israel bias. It frames the situation as an ordinary conflict, treating Israelis and Palestinians as equal actors, ignoring the role of the Occupation.It acknowledges Israel’s breaches of international law, illegal settlements and demolitions of Palestinian houses. But it ignores the daily repression and violence against Palestinians by the Israeli state and armed Israeli colonial settlers, and instead criticises Palestinian violence only. In other words, it blames the victim.The resolution also calls on EU Member States to ‘refrain from unilateral initiatives’. This could mean recognising the State of Palestine, supporting the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) campaign, or even the recent French initiative. It effectively calls for Member States to hand over their foreign policy to the EU – something we cannot support. The resolution rightly criticises Israeli actions, and calls for renewed peace talks, but it is still too biased towards Israel, so we abstained.Sinn Féin will nonetheless continue to fight for a lasting – and just – peace settlement in the Middle East.
Road transport in the European Union (B8-0290/2017)
. – We voted against this report.The report favours increasing competitiveness in the road transport sector, and pushes for the harmonisation of road transport across the EU, thus preventing transport operators from adhering to national authorities’ legislation. A section on workers’ conditions does little to help workers and unrealistically claims that their main concern is a need for EU harmonisation.The report seeks to give companies greater freedom to operate cross-border, with little mention of the need for regulation. It also pushes the Commission to enforce the digitalisation of the road transport sector in the Member States. Other negative points include harmonising road tolls and advancing the standing of the European Traffic Police Network.For these reasons, we voted against the report.
Dadaab refugee camp (RC-B8-0300/2017, B8-0300/2017, B8-0332/2017, B8-0334/2017, B8-0336/2017, B8-0339/2017)
. – I abstained on this resolution. The Kenyan Government is keen to close the Dabaab refugee camp but a court ruling deemed closure unconstitutional. The Kenyan Government believes it is a ‘launchpad for various Al-Shabaab terrorist attacks.’ I welcome the statement that relocation of the refugees is necessary and Member States have obligations. I welcome it emphasises the impact of climate change and how funds from ODA and EFD must be spent on ‘economic, human and social development’, not on security issues.However, the resolution contains militaristic undertones. There is a constant underlining of border control and security issues. While some split votes aim to delete the provisions calling for EU intervention, there remains a call for the EU and its Member States to bring stability to the country. It also calls for the EU Training Mission to Somalia to work closely with AMISOM and the Somali authorities improve border management. The report’s interventionist tone fails to condemn ‘voluntary’ repatriation in past years, and the Kenyan Government’s attempt to close the camp on ‘security’ grounds. This resolution does not properly address the rights of refugees.
Making relocation happen (B8-0340/2017, B8-0343/2017, B8-0344/2017)
. – We voted in favour of this resolution, which urges EU Member States to act quickly to relocate and resettle migrants and refugees, particularly out of Italy and Greece, where many of them are currently.So far, only a small proportion of the 160 000 people deemed eligible for relocation have been resettled. This includes thousands of unaccompanied minors and other vulnerable people who are being kept in refugee camps that are unsuitable and unsafe. The resolution calls for their urgent relocation and resettlement, while also calling for the number eligible to be increased in order to meet the needs of the thousands of refugees currently left in limbo.
Implementation of the Council's LGBTI Guidelines, particularly in relation to the persecution of (perceived) homosexual men in Chechnya, Russia (B8-0349/2017, B8-0349/2017, B8-0350/2017, B8-0351/2017, B8-0353/2017, B8-0355/2017, B8-0356/2017)
. – We voted in favour of the joint resolution, further supported by the majority of the political Groups in the House. The report is a positive initiative to assist the situation in Chechnya, and to protect the lives of LGBTI+ citizens living in the region. The report stresses the need to protect the human rights of LGBTI+ people, and the need for Russian authorities to investigate the situation.
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2016/008 FI/Nokia Network Systems (A8-0196/2017 - Petri Sarvamaa)
. – We voted in favour of this report. Under the European Globalisation Fund (EGF) Finland is entitled to a financial contribution of EUR 2 641 800 due to this application.Finland submitted the application for a financial contribution from the EGF in November 2016 in the wake of 945 workers from Nokia Networks being made redundant. The EGF aims to provide support for workers made redundant and self-employed persons whose activity has ceased as a result of major structural changes in world trade patterns due to globalisation, as a result of a continuation of the global financial and economic crisis, or as a result of a new global financial and economic crisis, and to assist them with their reintegration into the labour market.
Annual report 2014 on subsidiarity and proportionality (A8-0114/2017 - Sajjad Karim)
. – This Report is an annual exercise on Institutional efforts towards subsidiarity and proportionality.The report makes good suggestions such as obliging the Commission to conduct systematic proportionality assessments, guidelines to facilitate more participation by national parliaments, extending the deadline for reasoned opinions from national parliaments in certain circumstances, ensuring that any reasoned opinions received are properly taken into account by the Institutions, more thorough explanations by the Commission of why EU legislation rather than national is pursued.The report also rightly criticises unsatisfactory analyses of subsidiarity and inadequate impact assessments on many occasions by the Commission.Despite these good elements, the report welcomes statements by some national parliaments that more Europe not less Europe is the way forward. As Sinn Féin disagrees with this statement and completely opposes its inclusion in a report while debates are ongoing on the Future of Europe are ongoing, we abstained on the final vote.
FinTech: the influence of technology on the future of the financial sector (A8-0176/2017 - Cora van Nieuwenhuizen)
. – We voted against this report. FinTech is an industry of companies that use new technology to compete with traditional financial institutions and intermediaries in the provision of financial services. This report focuses on the need to enforce competitiveness in a globalised economy.There are serious problems in the report in that it disregards the risks to consumers. FinTech companies in the future are likely to request full access to the data of payment transactions of consumers; the experience of technology firms such as Google shows that customers agree to such conditions because they want to maintain their access to these services. This report provides no real protections for personal data and it barely mentions regulation of the industry.
Automated data exchange with regard to vehicle registration data in Croatia (A8-0171/2017 - Claude Moraes)
. – This report is a follow—up on the so-called ‘Prüm Decision’ of June 2008 that increased cross—border cooperation in combating terrorism and cross—border crime. Its focus in this regard is greater collection and automatic exchange of data concerning vehicle registration data in Croatia.This approach is part of an ‘enforcement’ narrative of security, that focuses on collecting ever more data, without any proper evaluation of whether its needed, proportional to the protection of privacy and civil liberties, or even effective.We therefore voted against this report, as it is an unbalanced encroachment on the civil liberties and privacy of ordinary citizens.
Objection to a delegated act: Identifying high-risk third countries with strategic deficiencies (B8-0294/2017)
. – We voted in favour of this objection. This is the second objection by the European Parliament in recent months to the Commission’s proposal for a list (a blacklist) of high—risk third countries that will be used in the implementation of the Anti—Money Laundering Directive. The list is supposed to identify secrecy havens and tax havens but it is so weak that none of the notorious tax havens like Panama, Cayman Islands etc are on it.Under the AMLD any kind of operation with a blacklisted jurisdiction will require enhanced customer due diligence for obliged entities. This represents an important tool to keep records and information on the financial operations and incomes derived from countries outside the EU with deficiencies in transparency.The Commission revised its proposal very slightly from the last time it was rejected by removing Guyana and adding Ethiopia. As the Commission’s proposal is totally unsatisfactory, we voted in favour of objecting to it.
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: GMO cotton GHB119 (B8-0293/2017)
. – I voted in favour of this objection. The objection is made pursuant to rule 106 (2) and (3) of the Rules of Procedure.Firstly, that the Commission’s draft implementing decision is exceeding the implementing powers provided for in the basic act. Secondly, the implementing decision is not consistent with Union law as it is not compatible with the aims of the Regulation, which are to ensure a high level of protection of human life and health, animal health and welfare, environment and consumer interests.There are serious flaws in the current authorisation process for GMOs, including concerns about gaps in comparative assessment, missing/insufficient data and contradicting independent research. The objections call on the Commission to withdraw these draft implementing decisions and suspend any implementing decision regarding GMO applications until the shortcomings of the authorisation procedure are addressed.
Genetically modified maize DAS-40278-9 (B8-0292/2017)
. – I voted in favour of this objection. The objection is made pursuant to rule 106 (2) and (3) of the Rules of Procedure.Firstly, the Commission’s draft implementing decision is exceeding the implementing powers provided for in the basic act. Secondly, the implementing decision is not consistent with Union law as it is not compatible with the aim of the Regulation, which are to ensure a high level of protection of human life and health, animal health and welfare, environment and consumer interests.There are serious flaws in the current authorisation process of GMOs, including concerns about gaps in comparative assessment, missing/insufficient data and contradicting independent research. The objections call on the Commission to withdraw these draft implementing decisions and suspend any implementing decision regarding GMO applications until the shortcomings of the authorisation procedure are addressed.
Situation in Hungary (B8-0295/2017, B8-0296/2017)
. – This resolution condemns the Hungarian Government for its ongoing serious breaches of fundamental rights. Over the past few years, the governing Fidesz party – which is in the same Group as Fine Gael – has repeatedly attacked migrants and asylum seekers, pregnant working women, Roma, LGBTI community, civil liberties, freedom of expression and association, the rule of law and the judiciary, academic and press freedom, and NGOs.The actions of the Hungarian Government have become increasingly outrageous, and this resolution calls for compliance proceedings to be initiated. While I do not believe the institutions of the European Union are the best protectors of human rights, there is currently no international actor that can put as much pressure on the Orbán government as the EU can.There are parts of the resolution that I did not agree with, but balancing these against the safeguards in the compliance process as well as the extreme seriousness of the human rights abuses taking place, I considered the situation in Hungary to be serious enough to justify supporting this motion. I therefore voted in favour of the resolution, in order to send a strong message in support of human rights and social justice.
European Qualifications Framework for lifelong learning (B8-0298/2017)
. – I voted in favour of this report. The aim of a European Qualifications Framework is to improve the transparency, comparability and transferability of qualifications in the EU and has not been fully realised. As part of its New Skills Agenda, the Commission is proposing to revise the system through a new Council Recommendation; consequently the Employment and Social Affairs Committee tabled an oral question to the Commission and drafted this accompanying resolution setting out its priorities. This will improve workers’ ability to move across borders in the EU if they choose, and have their skills recognised.
Protocol to the EU-Mongolia Framework Agreement on Partnership and Cooperation (accession of Croatia) (A8-0074/2017 - Helmut Scholz)
. – We voted in favour of this report allowing the accession of Croatia to the EU—Mongolia Framework Agreement. Despite some problems (mostly in terms of trade and economic relations), the EU-Mongolia Agreement is broadly positive, including references to human rights, the environment and climate change, and encouraging Mongolia’s regional integration with Chinese and Russian projects. As we voted in favour of the full Agreement earlier this year, we therefore voted in favour of this technical file concerning Croatia’s accession to the Agreement.
EU-Bosnia and Herzegovina Stabilisation and Association Agreement (accession of Croatia) (A8-0169/2017 - Cristian Dan Preda)
. – I voted in favour of this recommendation. This is a technical file that will allow the conclusion of the Protocol to the Stabilisation and Association Agreement between the European Communities and their Member States and Bosnia & Herzegovina, in taking account of the accession of Croatia to the EU. The accession of Croatia to the SAA has to be agreed by the conclusion of a protocol to the SAA by the Council.
EU-Norway Agreement on supplementary rules in relation to the instrument for financial support for external borders and visa (A8-0174/2017 - Tomáš Zdechovský)
. – I abstained on this vote, which grants Norway, as an ‘associated country’ to the EU, access to the borders and visas component of the ‘Internal Security Fund’ (ISF) within Schengen, increasing border surveillance and associated data collection systems in that regard and granting the Commission the ability to determine the amount of Norway’s contribution to the ISF.While Sinn Féin respects the right of independent States to choose to join Schengen, this aspect of Schengen is concerned primarily with ‘security’ issues that have a negative impact on civil liberties and freedoms. I therefore abstained on the vote.
EU accession to the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) (A8-0187/2017 - Fernando Ruas)
. – I voted in favour of this report. It is a simple proposal for the EU to join the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC). The ICAC is not a hugely significant body but it shares information and builds international cooperation in the global textile industry. It does not have a role in setting market prices or in intervening in market mechanisms.
EU eGovernment action plan 2016-2020 (A8-0178/2017 - Sabine Verheyen)
. – In April, the Commission published the eGovernment Action Plan 2016-2020, a follow-on to the previous 2011-2015 Plan. This vote was about putting forward Parliament’s recommendations on that initiative.The issue is that the Action Plan, and even more so Parliament’s Report, see eGovernment policies happening at EU level as the best way forward. It stresses that any work carried out on the electronic interconnection of Member States in the internal market must follow a common European template and that the Commission should be responsible for devising this ‘single digital gateway’. I do not believe that the Commission should be able to decide on how public administration is organised, therefore I voted against.The report further pushes public-private partnerships to advance this eGovernment strategy and promotes a ‘once only principle’, which would see citizens having to only enter information once. This information would then be stored and reused for other applications. Considering the massive hacking of various Institutions and bodies last week, this could have data protection ramifications.
Annual report 2015 on the protection of EU's financial interests - Fight against fraud (A8-0159/2017 - Julia Pitera)
. – I voted in favour of this report. This initiative report assesses the current state of affairs in the EU from 2015 onwards on the protection of the EU’s financial interests and in particular, the fight against fraud, specifically relating to VAT, corruption, fraud and irregularities. It calls on Member States to implement effective anti-fraud strategies and measures, and urges the Commission to help Member States do this by providing technical assistance.
Resource efficiency: reducing food waste, improving food safety (A8-0175/2017 - Biljana Borzan)
. – We voted in favour of this report. This is an own-initiative report following up on the Commission’s circular economy action plan, and we warmly welcome the call to reduce food waste on all fronts. The report builds on what was adopted in the circular economy package in March by introducing specific points on food waste including: a definition of ‘food waste’, promoting ‘food sharing’ and donation, calling for a specific food waste hierarchy, and calling on EU countries to achieve non-binding food waste reductions.
Evaluation of external aspects of customs performance and management as a tool to facilitate trade and fight illicit trade (A8-0162/2017 - Tiziana Beghin)
. – I abstained on this report. The report calls for harmonisation of controls at all points of entry into the Customs Union, and for increased surveillance and security measures.There are 277 roads crossing the border in Ireland. During the conflict in Ireland cross-border smuggling was a daily occurrence. Among the achievements of the Good Friday Agreement was that it dramatically reduced this.I am in favour of defending the integrity of the Customs Union. However, I abstained because of the possibility that EU Customs posts will be located on the Irish border following Brexit. Bringing back customs posts on the Irish border will be unworkable, and increased surveillance and security will be a direct threat to the peace process. The integrity of the customs union demands that a solution be found which keeps the north of Ireland in the EU, and in the customs union. The only way to achieve this – short of a united Ireland – is through a designated special status within the EU.
Minamata Convention on Mercury (A8-0067/2017 - Stefan Eck)
. – I voted in favour. The Minamata Convention addresses the life cycle of mercury and is the main international framework for cooperation and measures to control and limit the use and emissions of mercury, in order to protect human health and the environment from its adverse effects. It has not yet been transposed into EU law. On 14th March 2017, the Parliament adopted the first reading with an overwhelming vote in favour, and so the ratification of this Convention needs to be finalised. This vote was asking the Parliament to consent the conclusion of the Minamata Convention.
Hybrid mismatches with third countries (A8-0134/2017 - Olle Ludvigsson)
. – I voted in favour of this report. The Commission proposal is an amendment to the Anti Tax Avoidance Directive which extends rules against hybrid mismatches (a tax avoidance mechanism used by associated enterprises that exploits legal differences between different jurisdictions) from those within the EU to cover situations where one entity is in the EU and the other is in a third country. There are some problems in the Commission’s proposal that may result in the creation of new loopholes, which this report addresses. I’m in favour of taking action at the Irish, EU and international levels to tackle tax avoidance, so I supported this report.
Agreement on Operational and Strategic Cooperation between Denmark and Europol (A8-0164/2017 - Agustín Díaz de Mera García Consuegra)
. – This report proposes a new arrangement to ensure operational cooperation between Denmark and Europol. This is a result of the Danish people voting in a 2015 referendum against a more flexible ‘opt-in’ Europol mechanism.As a result of the referendum, and this new arrangement, from 1 May, Denmark with cooperate with Europol on an intergovernmental basis, rather than under the overarching supranational affiliation of the Europol Regulation.This means that Denmark will maintain its own accountability and sovereignty, control over the personal data it shares with Europol and its own law enforcement policies.I therefore voted in favour of this report.
Annual report on the control of the financial activities of the European Investment Bank for 2015 (A8-0161/2017 - Nedzhmi Ali)
. – We abstained on this report. There are a lot of issues raised in the report about problems with disclosure, practices in awarding funds and failure to implement previous recommendations by the EP. We agree with many of the criticisms of the EIB in the report but not the discharge; to endorse the criticism we should not vote against.
Structural Reform Support Programme for 2017-2020 (A8-0374/2016 - Lambert van Nistelrooij, Constanze Krehl)
. – I voted in favour of two proposals to reject the Commission’s proposal and voted against the proposal in the final vote. The Structural Reform Programme demonstrates the Commissions tendency to use funds allocated for cohesion (ESIF), for other purposes and is set up to facilitate austerity measures being implemented in EU Member States.
European Year of Cultural Heritage (A8-0340/2016 - Mircea Diaconu)
. – For this report I voted in favour of the provisional agreement and the European Parliament and council statement.Cultural heritage became an EU priority with the ‘European Agenda for Culture’ in 2007. In 2014, the Council highlighted the social and economic benefits of heritage policies in its ‘Conclusions on cultural heritage as a strategic resource for a sustainable Europe’. In response, in July 2014 the European Commission adopted the Communication ‘Towards an integrated approach to cultural heritage for Europe’. The communication states that the sector is at a ‘crossroads’ due to reduced public budgets, falling participation in traditional cultural activities, diversifying potential audiences due to urbanisation, globalisation, and technological change. It also highlighted opportunities for EU countries and stakeholders to work more closely across borders to ensure that cultural heritage contributes more to sustainable growth and jobs. In November 2014, EU Culture Ministers adopted Council Conclusions on participatory governance of cultural heritage, inviting the Commission to propose a European Year of Cultural Heritage. The European Parliament resolution of 8 September 2015 invited the Commission ‘to designate, preferably for 2018, a European Year of Cultural Heritage.’
Union programme to support specific activities in the field of financial reporting and auditing (A8-0291/2016 - Theodor Dumitru Stolojan)
. – I abstained on this report. We are in favour of continuing co-financing the European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) and the ECON report is an improvement on the Commission proposal, but the reason for abstaining is because we believe EFRAG must be transformed into a public body not a private association as it currently is.
Union programme to enhance the involvement of consumers in financial services policy making (A8-0008/2017 - Philippe Lamberts)
. – I voted in favour of this report, and I was the shadow on this file. it is a report authorising the continuing co-financing of Better Finance and Finance Watch from 2017-2020. I am in favour of continuing providing funding to these organisations, which produce valuable critical analysis of EU financial regulation. The report improves the Commission proposal by including stronger protection for the independence from the Commission of the two organisations.
Discharge 2015: EU general budget - European Commission and executive agencies (A8-0150/2017 - Joachim Zeller)
. – I abstained on voting in favour of granting this discharge. The Commission is ultimately responsible for the execution of the European Union’s budget. The discharge aims to verify whether implementation of the budget was in accordance with compliance and performance of the rules set down. We recognise the unquestionable benefit of EU funding for Ireland, however increased monitoring, oversight and transparency of budget distribution would ensure better standards. I therefore decided to abstain on this discharge.
Discharge 2015: Court of Auditors' special reports in the context of the 2015 Commission discharge (A8-0160/2017 - Joachim Zeller)
. – I voted against the granting of this discharge. We had concerns with some of the language contained in this report which described high-interest-bearing finance loaned to Member States as ‘assistance’. There was little acknowledgement of the suffering inflicted on European Union citizens by economic and banking decisions carried out over which ordinary citizens had no control.
Discharge 2015: EU general budget - 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th EDFs (A8-0125/2017 - Younous Omarjee)
. – I abstained on this discharge. I believe the European Union lacks coherence in the implementation of its policies, and that efforts, particularly for the implementation of the European Development Fund, are mitigated.I believe that the Overseas Countries and Territories, which are also beneficiaries of the EDF, have a legal status and different realities than the ACP countries. Therefore I believe it is essential, in particular to ensure a better effectiveness of the EDF, to move towards the setting up of a specific instrument for them. On this basis, I voted to abstain.
Discharge 2015: EU general budget - European Parliament (A8-0153/2017 - Dennis de Jong)
Discharge 2015: EU general budget - European Council and Council (A8-0131/2017 - Bart Staes)
. – I voted in favour of postponing the granting of the discharge on the EU general budget – Council and European Council and therefore voting in favour of the resolution. I and Sinn Féin have continuously stated that there remain transparency issues in relation to the financial management of the institutions. Our view is that Parliament is not in the position without the cooperation of the Council to make an informed decision on granting discharge.
Discharge 2015: EU general budget - European Court of Justice (A8-0136/2017 - Benedek Jávor)
. – I voted in favour of voting for this discharge. The report calls for further improvements in the areas of transparency and accountability, underlines the need to strengthen gender balance in particular in management positions, and reiterates its request for the enhancement of measures to avoid situations of conflict of interest. There were no special irregularities which would justify a postponement.
Discharge 2015: EU general budget - European Court of Auditors (A8-0151/2017 - Benedek Jávor)
. – I voted in favour of granting this discharge. I agree with the use of a mandatory transparency register as a reference instrument for their interaction with the relevant parties. There were many good aspects to this report calling for a special report on conflicts of interests in all agencies and also to equate the gender imbalance. It also called for the submission of declarations of interests, instead of declarations of the absence of conflicts of interests, as self-evaluation of conflicts of interests as this is a conflict of interests in itself. There were no special irregularities which would justify a postponement.
Discharge 2015: EU general budget - Committee of the Regions (A8-0141/2017 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2015: EU general budget - European Data Protection Supervisor (A8-0140/2017 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2015: Performance, financial management and control of EU agencies (A8-0149/2017 - Inés Ayala Sender)
. – I supported this file. It calls for the improvement of democratic accountability, transparency; prevention of conflicts of interests. At the moment in several agencies members of the management boards have published declarations of absence of conflict of interest instead of a declaration of interest. It is not for the management board or for the executives to declare themselves free of conflicts of interest, such must be verified independently.It also emphasises the protection of whistle-blowers’ whether it is from reprisals etc. and the training of employees on their duties and rights, it also stresses the need for immediate action on the agencies whose records staff show an unsatisfactory gender balance; underlines the need to reinforce public procurement and make further progresses towards preventing, detecting, deterring fraud and other regularities.
Discharge 2015: Translation Centre for the Bodies of the European Union (CdT) (A8-0075/2017 - Inés Ayala Sender)
Discharge 2015: European Banking Authority (EBA) (A8-0079/2017 - Inés Ayala Sender)
Discharge 2015: European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) (A8-0098/2017 - Inés Ayala Sender)
. – I abstained on the discharge and voted in favour of the resolution. Special mention is made to EFSA for lack of financial and legal resources. This situation is furthermore aggravated by the staff reduction imposed in particular on EFSA and may seriously compromise the capacity of this agency to fulfil its responsibilities.I supported amendments from the Greens which call on rectifying the failures from last year. This shows that these failures have not been addressed over the past year. For this reason I abstained on the discharge and voted in favour of the resolution.
Discharge 2015: European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) (A8-0101/2017 - Inés Ayala Sender)
. – I voted in favour of granting this discharge. The report stated it had received assurance that the annual accounts of the Authority for the financial year 2015 were reliable and that the underlying transactions were legal and regular. There were no special irregularities which would justify a postponement.
Discharge 2015: European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) (A8-0127/2017 - Inés Ayala Sender)
Discharge 2015: European Medicines Agency (EMA) (A8-0084/2017 - Inés Ayala Sender)
. – We abstained on the discharge and voted in favour of the resolution. Special mention is made to EMA for lack of financial and legal resources by the rapporteur. GUE MEPs voted against this report in committee and it is indeed a very weak report. Despite the 2015 reform, the Agency’s conflict of interests policy remains flexible and the revolving doors for experts receiving grants from the private sector have not been prohibited. We supported the resolution to remedy these issues.
Discharge 2015: European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) (A8-0099/2017 - Inés Ayala Sender)
Discharge 2015: European Network and Information Security Agency (ENISA) (A8-0115/2017 - Inés Ayala Sender)
Discharge 2015: European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) (A8-0124/2017 - Inés Ayala Sender)
Discharge 2015: European Agency for the operational management of large-scale IT systems in the area of freedom, security and justice (eu-LISA) (A8-0105/2017 - Inés Ayala Sender)
. – I voted in favour of the granting of this discharge which was concerned with the European Agency for the operational management of large-scale IT systems in the area of freedom, security and justice (eu-LISA).While there was some concern over poor contracting practices and the lack of a whistleblower policy, there were no special irregularities which would justify a postponement.
Discharge 2015: European Union's Judicial Cooperation Unit (Eurojust) (A8-0129/2017 - Inés Ayala Sender)
Discharge 2015: European Police Office (Europol) (A8-0107/2017 - Inés Ayala Sender)
. – I voted in favour of the granting of this discharge which was concerned with the European Police Office (Europol)There was concern over the use of a controversial private database that linking individuals with terrorism without proper investigation or evidence, and I voted for this practice to be reviewed.Overall, however, there were no special irregularities which would justify a postponement.
Discharge 2015: European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) (A8-0146/2017 - Inés Ayala Sender)
Discharge 2015: European Agency for the Management of Operational Cooperation at the External Borders of the Member States of the European Union (Frontex) (A8-0137/2017 - Inés Ayala Sender)
. – I voted in favour of the granting of this discharge which was concerned with the European Agency for the Management of Operational Cooperation at the External Borders of the Member States of the European Union (Frontex).The report noted the lack of quantitative objectives for Frontex operations, as well as concerns over transparency and conflict of interest policies within the agency, however, overall, there were no special irregularities which would justify a postponement.
Discharge 2015: ITER Joint Undertaking (A8-0108/2017 - Miroslav Poche)
. – We voted against this report. The discharge on ITER has two RCV amendments from the Greens making note of problems in the budget and contribution to ITER. The vote against the discharge is because this Joint Undertaking is the world’s largest scientific partnership aiming to demonstrate fusion as a viable and sustainable source of energy and we do not support this.
Management of fishing fleets in the outermost regions (A8-0138/2017 - Ulrike Rodust)
. – We voted in favour of this report, as the outermost regions are some of the most isolated and peripheral regions in the world and yet they fall under the same EU fishery regulation and its constraints.We supported the amendment as the majority of the vessels are small-scale, exceeding 40 years old on average. This constitutes a danger for fishermen’s safety and the economical and sociocultural sustainability of the sector, hence the need for modernisation of the fleet to meet health and safety standards.This report acknowledges all the above.
EU flagship initiative on the garment sector (A8-0080/2017 - Lola Sánchez Caldentey)
. – We voted in favour.After the Rana Plaza garment factory tragedy in Bangladesh in 2013 (this week saw the fourth anniversary), the Commission pledged to table an EU-wide flagship initiative to boost responsible management of the garment industry. It has not been launched to date. This own-initiative report is a motion for resolution calling on the Commission to put forward a legislative proposal, which would focus on introducing mandatory due diligence for the supply chains in the industry.The report makes reference to upholding workers’ rights, notably the right of association, and the promotion of decent working conditions. While welcoming national initiatives (all voluntary), it particularly calls for the Commission to extend corporate social responsibility and binding due diligence initiatives beyond existing frameworks, ensuring the highest standards for workers. Other positive points in this report include calls for increased consumer information, the use of ecological and sustainably managed raw materials, and the inclusion of binding human rights clauses in all international agreements.
State of play of farmland concentration in the EU: how to facilitate the access to land for farmers (A8-0119/2017 - Maria Noichl)
. – We voted in favour of this report which takes stock of the state of farmland concentration in the EU, and offers practical solutions to some problems. The report identifies the small-farm structure as the best way of ensuring a responsible relationship with the land and sustainable land management.In Ireland over the past few months we have seen many farmers targeted by vulture funds, whose only interest is securing assets at the expense of livelihoods, jobs and entire ways of life. The report today calls on national governments to take measures to avoid speculative land transactions, and recognises the need to curb the rise in farmland prices and rents. This is an area in which our own Government is completely failing.
Annual report on the financial activities of the European Investment Bank (A8-0121/2017 - Georgios Kyrtsos)
. – We voted against this report. The report was improved in the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs and contains some good points, but the key problem is its endorsement of the promotion of the use of the European Investment Bank, with the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), to privatise the EU budget.
Implementation of the Mining Waste Directive (A8-0071/2017 - György Hölvényi)
. – We voted in favour of this report.The Directive on the management of waste from the extractive industries 2006 was adopted after two major accidents involving hazardous extractive waste. It was to be transposed by 1 May 2008, however it was revealed to be only partially or incorrectly transposed in many cases. This was due to implementation problems.This report tackles these implementation problems in various ways, aiming to increase the safety of mining waste facilities. It recommends that transposition of the Directive is completed as soon as possible with general guidance, concrete sector-specific guidelines and unscheduled on-the-spot inspections to facilitate the process. The report stresses the involvement of local communities and guarantees transparency. It also reiterates the call for a complete ban on the use of cyanide mining technologies in the EU as soon as possible.
Wholesale roaming markets (A8-0372/2016 - Miapetra Kumpula-Natri)
. – I supported this file which will reduce, with the intention of removing, roaming charges for millions of people across the EU. In particular due to the partition of Ireland the issue of roaming charges causes a lot of difficulty on a daily basis, so for them this is a significant moment. Undoubtedly, we all have been waiting expectantly for this momentous occasion to take place.However, I did have concerns on this report in relation to the possibility that mobile phone operators in countries that are net recipients of tourist flows will pass the extra costs which will arise due to seasonal increase in pressure on the networks on to domestic consumers.However, in spite of this I supported the report as it is a positive victory for citizens over large telecoms companies.
Third countries whose nationals are subject to or exempt from a visa requirement: Ukraine (A8-0274/2016 - Mariya Gabriel)
. – This proposal from the European Commission aims to grant short-term visa waivers to Ukraine citizens entering the EU for short visits.This means that Ukrainian citizens holding biometric passports will be able to enter EU Member States (except Britain and Ireland) without a visa, for a period of maximum 90 days in any 180 period.While all of the relevant criteria are considered to be filled, in addition to the usual suspension mechanism, the report also proposes an ongoing monitoring mechanism, to ensure that the necessary criteria remain met, and to monitor the situation with regard to organised crime, corruption and rule of law issues in the Ukraine.We therefore voted in favour of this report.
European Solidarity Corps (B8-0238/2017)
. – We voted in favour of this OQ as it facilitates the start of the process during which we can debate the merits of the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) and it also seeks clarification on a range of issues.This OQ will deliver further clarification on a number of important issues relating to the format, functioning, financing, cost effectiveness and long-term sustainability of the ESC, which are unclear.More specifically Commission is asked to ensure that:There will be a clear distinction between volunteering and employment;The launch of the ESC will not compromise the financial sustainability of other European programmes, such as Erasmus + and Youth Guarantee;The ESC will coexist and not replace or duplicate existing initiatives such as European Voluntary Service;The ESC will reach out to all young people, in particular those in more vulnerable situation.We have some reservations about the ESC. However, we will raise them when the time comes when this file comes through committee and plenary in the future.
Adequacy of the protection afforded by the EU-US privacy Shield (B8-0235/2017, B8-0244/2017)
. – While we felt the JmR did not go far enough, I was happy to support it as it rightly criticised the mendacious attempts by the Commission and US administration to create a more encompassing system than the struck-down Safe Harbour agreement.The thrust of the resolution is highly critical of the EU attitude and deference to the US in relation to data law and paves the way for looking at data issues in more encompassing and analytical fashion. Therefore, we supported the JmR.
Negotiations with the United Kingdom following its notification that it intends to withdraw from the European Union (RC-B8-0237/2017, B8-0237/2017, B8-0241/2017, B8-0242/2017, B8-0243/2017)
. – The focus on human rights and social rights is an important starting point for the negotiations between the EU and Britain.I welcome the fact that the resolution is unambiguous in its support for the Good Friday Agreement in all its parts, including all of the benefits and protections it offers. Equally important is that the resolution says that the EU should do everything possible to avoid a hardening of the border.I remain critical of many aspects of the EU. But the resolutions call for a broad public debate on the future of the EU should be the beginning of a significant change of direction for the EU.
Ratification and accession to the 2010 Protocol to the Hazardous and Noxious Substances Convention with the exception of aspects related to judicial cooperation in civil matters (A8-0076/2017 - Pavel Svoboda)
. – This Convention sets up a compensatory system for any person suffering damage in connection with the carriage of hazardous and noxious substances at sea. The compensatory pot is funded by those receiving HNS in each State Party. Though signed in 1996, the Convention never entered into force as State Parties ratified it. Thus in 2010 the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) adopted a Protocol attempting to remove practical issues for ratification. With regard to the EU, one of these ‘practical issues’ was that the EU could not sign it because of the division of competences. Therefore one aspect of the Decision you vote on today authorises the Member States to ratify the Convention on behalf of the EU. This means that Ireland will now have to go through ratification processes at national level. Since Sinn Féin agrees with international Conventions being signed at national, rather than supranational level, I voted in favour.
Ratification and accession to the 2010 Protocol to the Hazardous and Noxious Substances Convention with regard to aspects related to judicial cooperation in civil matters (A8-0078/2017 - Pavel Svoboda)
. – This Convention sets up a compensatory system for any person suffering damage in connection with the carriage of hazardous and noxious substances at sea. The compensatory pot is funded by those receiving HNS in each State Party. Though signed in 1996, the Convention never entered into force as State Parties ratified it. Thus in 2010 the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) adopted a Protocol attempting to remove practical issues for ratification. Another one of those practical issues was the overlap between this Convention and the Brussels I Regulation, which governs mutual recognition and enforcement of judgements in the EU. This Decision clarifies the delineation of jurisdiction between these two pieces of legislation thereby removing any legal ambiguities. I therefore voted in favour.
Application of the provisions of the Schengen acquis relating to the Schengen Information System in Croatia (A8-0073/2017 - Nuno Melo)
. – This legislative resolution follows on from the Commission giving the green light to integrating Croatia into the Schengen Information System. At first, Croatia will only be able to operate this system for the purpose of law enforcement cooperation, ‘normalising’ Croatia’s participation in the relevant European policies.Obviously, entry into Schengen also includes the negative aspects of that system which Sinn Féin opposes. This includes increased data collection and information exchange for border management and security issues that impinge on ordinary citizens’ civil liberties.However, Sinn Féin does not oppose sovereign States who meet the criteria and wish to join Schengen from doing so, I therefore voted in favour.
Medical devices (A8-0068/2017 - Glenis Willmott)
. – I supported this report, voting against the amendment to reject it tabled by the far-right. This Regulation replaces the previous Medical Devices framework, addressing weaknesses while still maintaining and strengthening the current approval system. It introduces special procedures for certain high risk medical devices, manufacturers’ liability, post-market surveillance, higher standards in controlling the use certain substances and strengthens provisions on the powers of Notified Bodies. This report comes to light in the wake of various medical device scandals across Europe and aims to strengthen the framework to ensure greater protection for patients across the EU. It means that patients can have confidence in their medical care. It ensures clear rules regarding the roles and obligations of all actors operating on the market.
In vitro diagnostic medical devices (A8-0069/2017 - Peter Liese)
. – I voted in support of this report, by voting against the amendment to reject it. This report follows a proposal for a new Regulation, replacing the existing Directive on IVD with the aim to address the inconsistencies in Member States interpretation of current rules. This will increase the protection of public health and safety, improve transparency concerning the information patients receive and strengthen the rules of traceability. A number of device scandals in Europe exposed the weaknesses of the framework and this report fills in the gaps to make a more robust protection system. It obliges Notified Bodies to carry out unannounced inspections and strengthens the provisions on the designation, organisation, monitoring and expertise of Notified Bodies. The report introduces special procedures for certain high risk devices, manufacturers’ liability, genetic counselling, and post-market surveillance among other measures that strive for further protection of patients from fraud and fault. Overall, this report is a positive step for welfare of patients across Europe.
Multiannual financial framework for 2014-2020 (Resolution) (A8-0117/2017 - Jan Olbrycht, Isabelle Thomas)
. – I voted against this resolution on Multiannual financial framework for 2014-2020. This resolution was to allow flexibility in the EU annual budgets procedure to fund new needs that arise whilst also allowing increased funds to some existing ceilings in order to avoid unpaid bills. There were limited good measures from a societal point of view contained within this report such as acknowledging more funding may be needed for the youth employment initiative if the downward trend in youth employment reverses and too many negative measures with no resonance provided towards the disenchantment of European citizens towards the Union. This resolution could have served to provide a sea change of priorities by putting people first and winning back the support of people towards the European Union. It didn’t do that and on that basis, I voted against it.
Mobilisation of the Contingency Margin (A8-0104/2017 - Jan Olbrycht, Isabelle Thomas)
Estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2018 – Section I – European Parliament (A8-0156/2017 - Richard Ashworth)
. – Whilst we support cutting unnecessary expenditure especially with regard to the bloated bureaucracy, I abstained instead of voting against as there are some positive elements with regard to expenditure that would be adversely affected such as the graduate programme for young people, language services and interpretation.
Draft Amending Budget No 1/2017 accompanying the proposal to mobilise the EU Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to the United Kingdom, Cyprus and Portugal (A8-0155/2017 - Jens Geier)
. – The file related to the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund for an amount of EUR 71 524 810 in relation to the floods that occurred in Britain during December 2015 to January 2016, drought and fires in Cyprus between October 2015 and June 2016 and fires on the Portuguese island of Madeira in August 2016.I always vote in favour of EUSF funding to MS who have suffered because of major natural disasters and express European solidarity to disaster-stricken regions within Europe.
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2017/000 TA 2017 - Technical assistance at the initiative of the Commission (A8-0157/2017 - Victor Negrescu)
. – In accordance with Article 11(1) of the EGF Regulation, a maximum of 0.5% of the annual maximum amount of the EGF may be made available each year for technical assistance at the initiative of the Commission. This request is to release 0.18%.As a result the EGF working group met to discuss the release of this funding for technical reasons to the Commission some weeks back. The funding is requested to help with monitoring and data gathering.Given that the proposals for what is to be proposed are quite good I voted in favour of releasing the funding.
Mobilisation of the EU Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to the United Kingdom, Cyprus and Portugal (A8-0154/2017 - José Manuel Fernandes)
. – During December 2015 and January 2016, 11 regions in Britain were affected by heavy rainfall and strong winds, which led to flooding and infrastructure damage. From October 2015 to June 2016, Cyprus suffered from very low precipitation combined with extremely high temperatures, leading to severe drought with important crop failure, forest and vegetation fires and scarcity of water. Between 8 and 13 August 2016, the Portuguese island of Madeira suffered from large wild fires, burning an area of 6 000 hectares. They led to the destruction of essential public infrastructure, public buildings, private homes, businesses and damages in agriculture.As all regions fell under the criteria for solidarity funding and I voted in favour of releasing EUSF funding to those who have suffered.
Automated data exchange with regard to dactyloscopic data in Latvia (A8-0089/2017 - Claude Moraes)
. – This report is a follow-up on the so-called Prüm Decision of June 2008 that increased cross-border cooperation in combatting terrorism and cross-border crime. Its focus in this regard is greater collection and automatic exchange of data concerning vehicles registered in Latvia.This approach is part of an ‘enforcement’ narrative of security, that focuses on collecting ever more data, without any proper evaluation of whether its needed, proportional to the protection of privacy and civil liberties, or even effective.I therefore voted against this report, as it is an unbalanced encroachment on the civil liberties and privacy of ordinary citizens.
Automated data exchange with regard to DNA data in Slovakia, Portugal, Latvia, Lithuania, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Cyprus, Poland, Sweden, Malta and Belgium (A8-0091/2017 - Judith Sargentini)
. – This report is a follow-up on the so-called ‘Prüm Decision’ of June 2008 that increased cross-border cooperation in combating terrorism and cross-border crime. Its focus in this regard is greater collection and automatic exchange of DNA data in Slovakia, Portugal, Latvia, Lithuania, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Cyprus, Poland, Sweden, Malta and Belgium.This approach is part of an ‘enforcement’ narrative of security, that focuses on collecting ever more data, without any proper evaluation of whether it is needed, proportional to the protection of privacy and civil liberties, or even effective.I therefore voted against this report, as it is an unbalanced encroachment on the civil liberties and privacy of ordinary citizens.
Automated data exchange with regard to dactyloscopic data in Slovakia, Bulgaria, France, Czech Republic, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Hungary, Cyprus, Estonia, Malta, Romania and Finland (A8-0092/2017 - Tomáš Zdechovský)
. – This report is a follow-up on the so-called ‘Prüm Decision’ of June 2008 that increased cross-border cooperation in combatting terrorism and cross-border crime. Its focus in this regard is greater collection and automatic exchange of dactyloscopic data in Slovakia, Bulgaria, France, Czech Republic, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Hungary, Cyprus, Estonia, Malta, Romania and Finland.This approach is part of an ‘enforcement’ narrative of security, that focuses on collecting ever more data, without any proper evaluation of whether its needed, proportional to the protection of privacy and civil liberties, or even effective.I therefore voted against this report, as it is an unbalanced encroachment on the civil liberties and privacy of ordinary citizens.
Automatic exchange of data concerning vehicles registered in Finland, Slovenia, Romania, Poland, Sweden, Lithuania, Bulgaria, Slovakia and Hungary (A8-0095/2017 - Filiz Hyusmenova)
. – This report is a follow-up on the so-called ‘Prüm Decision’ of June 2008 that increased cross-border cooperation in combatting terrorism and cross-border crime. Its focus in this regard is greater collection and automatic exchange of data concerning vehicles registered in Finland, Slovenia, Romania, Poland, Sweden, Lithuania, Bulgaria, Slovakia and Hungary.This approach is part of an ‘enforcement’ narrative of security, that focuses on collecting ever more data, without any proper evaluation of whether its needed, proportional to the protection of privacy and civil liberties, or even effective.I therefore voted against this report, as it is an unbalanced encroachment on the civil liberties and privacy of ordinary citizens.
Automated data exchange with regard to vehicle registration data in Malta, Cyprus and Estonia (A8-0090/2017 - Maria Grapini)
. – This report is a follow-up on the so-called ‘Prüm Decision’ of June 2008 that increased cross-border cooperation in combatting terrorism and cross-border crime. Its focus in this regard is greater collection and automatic exchange of vehicle registration data with Malta, Cyprus and Estonia.This approach is part of an ‘enforcement’ narrative of security, that focuses on collecting ever more data, without any proper evaluation of whether its needed, proportional to the protection of privacy and civil liberties, or even effective.I therefore voted against this report, as it is an unbalanced encroachment on the civil liberties and privacy of ordinary citizens.
Genetically modified maize Bt11 × 59122 × MIR604 × 1507 × GA21 (B8-0236/2017)
. – My colleague Lynn Boylan shadowed this objection, which calls on the Commission to withdraw its authorisation for this substance. Based on a request by Syngenta (a multinational agribusiness producing agrochemicals and seeds), the Commission decided in March 2016 to authorise products containing, consisting of, or produced from GM maize, including twenty sub-combinations of it. Out of the 20 products to be authorised, only a few have been tested for safety and some have not even been created yet. The resolution accompanying the objection argues that the Commission’s implementing decision to authorise is not consistent with Union law and that it is not compatible with the Union aims, i.e. to protect human life and health. This Decision further runs contrary to the principles of general food law, given that some of the varieties approved have not even been created.
Addressing refugee and migrant movements: the role of EU External Action (A8-0045/2017 - Elena Valenciano, Agustín Díaz de Mera García Consuegra)
. – This is a joint initiative report coming from both the Foreign Affairs and Development committees, and it is therefore quite contradictory in nature.On the one hand, it contains several good points on recognising and increasing the rights of refugees, highlighting EU obligations under international law, recognising the important role of NGOs and civil society in delivering urgent aid, and – importantly – criticising the tendency to make all EU policies conditional on greater cooperation on border control.However, the report also supports NATO missions in the Mediterranean and the Common Defence and Security Policy, presents false information about the arrival of refugees, promotes greater externalisation of border controls, welcomes the evolution of Frontex/the European Border and Coast Guard, promotes greater intervention in third countries, and overall promotes the reinforcement of a general ‘Fortress Europe’ approach.As these are all red line issues which we cannot support, we voted against this report.
Characteristics for fishing vessels (A8-0376/2016 - Werner Kuhn)
. – On the Wuhn report for the Committee on Fisheries, I abstained.I authored and tabled a plenary amendment calling for statement to the annex of this file calling for expansion of the characteristics of vessels. We had issues with the insertion in the text by the Commission [of wording giving it] the ability to adopt delegated acts ‘for an indeterminate period of time’, whilst Parliament’s amendments dilute this and give a specified amount of ‘five years from the date of entry into force of this Regulation’ and [state that the Commission shall] ‘draw up a report in respect of the delegation of power not later than nine months before the end of the five-year period. The delegation of power shall be tacitly extended for periods of an identical duration, unless the European Parliament or the Council opposes such extension not later than three months before the end of each period’.There is also an issue with the text as it is calling for rules determining the characteristics of fishing vessels to be in line with the standards of the CFP. This implies that the CFP is a positive aspect and does not require reform, contrary to what ordinary fishermen believe, especially regarding ITQS.
Approval and market surveillance of motor vehicles and their trailers, and of systems, components and separate technical units intended for such vehicles (A8-0048/2017 - Daniel Dalton)
. – The Committee proposal purports giving more power to the Commission while also creating an Agency to oversee emissions testing and surveillance; however, the Commission proposal gives itself even more powers. It would have been preferable for Member States to have the power and the Commission some oversight and an administrative role. As this choice was not offered, I could not support the report.A better system for testing cars is needed. The current system, which was last revised in 2007, does not work. Even before the diesel scandal broke, the Commission was aware that the system was not properly functioning.However, my main issue is with the Commission having a role in the affairs of Member States in the creation of further agencies to do the Commission’s bidding, even to the point I disagree with their aims to put Commission taskforces on the roads of Member States to investigate. The Commission or an agency acting on behalf of the EU should not have this power, and elements of the report seek to give this power.I support addressing this issue and increasing environmental protection at national level, not the Commission or an agency, therefore I had to abstain.
Palm oil and deforestation of rainforests (A8-0066/2017 - Kateřina Konečná)
. – I voted in favour of this report. Palm oil is the world’s most widely used oil and has become the cause of widespread devastation of rainforests in Malaysia and Indonesia in particular. As the third largest market of palm oil, the EU has a role to play in the prevention of further ecological destruction. With 73% of global deforestation coming from the clearing of land for agricultural commodities, 40% of which is caused by conversion to large-scale monocultural oil palm plantations, it is absolutely necessary to recognise the role that increasing global demand has in the rush for more biofuel and raw materials.In essence, this report aims to make sustainable an industry that is currently causing unprecedented environmental damage. It calls for a mandatory single certification scheme to be put in place to ensure palm oil and palm oil products entering the EU market meet minimum sustainability criteria which are outlined in the report. It calls for information campaigns to inform consumers of the consequences of sustainable palm oil production and calls on the Commission to present a concrete action plan to reduce the impact of European consumption and investment on deforestation in third countries.
Women and their roles in rural areas (A8-0058/2017 - Marijana Petir, Maria Lidia Senra Rodríguez)
. – I voted in favour of this report, which draws attention to the precarious situation of women in rural/farming communities. It addresses gender pension gaps, access to land issues, access to public services, equality of access to CAP and ERDF instruments, the fact that most women are not registered as co-owners of farms despite contributing considerable hours of labour, as well as a lack of professional status/social protection for women on farms. I further voted in favour of paragraphs calling for gender budgeting in the CAP, as well as the need for an EU Directive on violence against women.
Request for the waiver of the immunity of Marine Le Pen (A8-0047/2017 - Laura Ferrara)
. – I voted in favour of this motion to waive the immunity of French Front National (FN) MEP Marine Le Pen.In December 2015 Le Pen posted graphic images of hostages taken by Daesh on Twitter with the caption ‘This is Daesh!’ The tweet was in response to a comparison made between FN and Daesh on a television broadcast that morning. French authorities subsequently opened a judicial investigation on the basis of three Articles in the French Criminal Code dealing with dissemination of violent images likely to undermine human dignity.In such cases Parliament is to apply the following law: ‘Members of the European Parliament shall not be subject to any form of inquiry, detention or legal proceedings in respect of opinions expressed or votes cast by them in the performance of their duties’.The question to ask was: while making this statement, was she acting beyond the precincts of that institution (her role as an MEP), giving rise to a prosecution? The posting of these images for her own political gain, an act prosecutable by the French Criminal Code, goes beyond her institution. I voted in favour of the waiver so that French Courts can decide further.
EU-Lebanon Euro-Mediterranean Agreement (accession of Croatia) (A8-0027/2017 - Ramona Nicole Mănescu)
. – I abstained on this report. There were some positive aspects of this file but there were concerns on the issues of trade liberalisation regarding EU trade policy, noting previous examples of TTIP, CETA, etc., which have been shown to be detrimental for workers, consumer protection, multinational corporate dominance in a number of sectors, etc.A vote in favour would have been an endorsement of the agreement between the EU and Lebanon and EU neo-liberalism.
EU-Liechtenstein Agreement on supplementary rules in relation to the instrument for financial support for external borders and visa (A8-0025/2017 - Josef Weidenholzer)
Information exchange mechanism with regard to intergovernmental agreements and non-binding instruments in the field of energy (A8-0305/2016 - Zdzisław Krasnodębski)
. – We voted against this report, and the Commission proposal including committee amendments. We disagree with the third energy package which this file endorses, but more so, we completely disagree with giving the Commission the power to scrutinise Member States’ energy deals. This is a complete undermining of the autonomy and sovereignty of Member States.The idea of the Commission positioning itself between Member States and any energy deals they seek to make, to make sure they comply with the third energy package is anathema to our party’s political position. Furthermore, as the rapporteur and the Committee’s proposals were more severe than the Commission proposal, we opposed them also.The idea behind the Commission proposal is to enhance the internal market and to limit national competences and is a de facto endorsement of the third energy therefore we voted against the report.
Obligations in the field of visa reciprocity (B8-0173/2017)
. – We voted in favour of this resolution on visa reciprocity with the US. The US has agreed a visa waiver agreement with the EU, but has only partially implemented it. Despite the deadline being long past, the European Commission has not taken any action, but insists that it is still ‘negotiating’. This resolution calls on the Commission to suspend the agreement if isn’t implemented rapidly. We therefore voted in favour.
Options for improving access to medicines (A8-0040/2017 - Soledad Cabezón Ruiz)
. – We supported this report which calls on the Commission and the Council to explore new measures to control medicines prices, such as horizontal scanning and coordinating joint procurements, and to increase cooperation between the Member States regarding price-setting procedures, in order to share information about prices, reimbursement, negotiation agreements and good practices and to avoid unnecessary administrative requirements and delays.We also supported the elements of the report which called for the transparency of the cost of development and clinical trials in order to set a fair price; the highlighting of rare diseases and the promotion of relevant research; and to ensure that safe and affordable medicines are available for citizens.The report is comprehensive and will be a good reference point in relation to Member States adhering to Article 35 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights on ‘Health protection’.While a number of the recommendations called on the Commission to be more involved, none breached subsidiarity and the Member State competence for health. Therefore we supported the report, which will hopefully lead to Member States getting their act together on ensuring access to affordable medicine.
Implementation of the Creative Europe programme (A8-0030/2017 - Silvia Costa)
. – Creative Europe is the European Union's financial support programme for the creative, cultural and audiovisual sectors in Europe. The Regulation establishing the Creative Europe Programme entered into force on 1 January 2014 and the programme will be implemented from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2020.In general, the report highlights the very important role of the Creative Europe Programme for the creative, cultural and audiovisual sectors in Europe. Hence it calls for its continuation and improvement over the period 2021-2028, with an increased budget.Cultural policies in EU are fundamentally important and need financing. I therefore voted in favour of the report.
Implementation of the Europe for Citizens programme (A8-0017/2017 - María Teresa Giménez Barbat)
. – I abstained on this report. The Europe for Citizens (EfC) Programme was initially established for the period 2007-2013 with the purpose of enhancing citizen support to European integration and promoting ‘European Citizenship’. The EfC Programme is open to stakeholders promoting European citizenship and integration, in particular local and regional authorities and organisations, twinning committees, European public policy research organisations (think tanks), civil society organisations as well as cultural, youth, educational and research organisations. It provides EU financial support for a wide variety of projects and activities.Regarding the focus and objectives of the programme, the text highlights the importance of the projects focused on issues such as diversity, migration, refugees, preventing radicalisation, fostering social inclusion, intercultural dialogue, addressing financial problems and identifying European cultural legacy. It also calls for the participation of people with special needs and of marginalised and disenfranchised people, including migrants, refugees and asylum seekers. Within the ‘European Remembrance’ strand, the report promotes the development of a future-oriented, plural and transcultural European identity that is open to outside influences.Like many Commission proposals, the EfC could be viewed as laying the groundwork for creating an EU identity as a precursor for a Federal Europe, and therefore I abstained.
Common Commercial Policy in the context of wildlife sustainability imperatives (A8-0012/2017 - Emma McClarkin)
. – A recent surge in the illegal trade in wildlife, and a request from the Commission to reflect on best ways to achieve coherence between the CCP and environmental policy are behind this non-legislative report.The report puts the illegal wildlife trade industry valued at between EUR 8-20 billion annually and draws attention to the many dangers, with regard to preserving biodiversity, environmental sustainability and endangered animals, of the sector. Although the report is good in highlighting problems with the industry, there are no new calls for legislation, merely implementation of existing frameworks and information sharing of best practices.Our problem with the report is that there are several paragraphs commending the Commission’s Free Trade agenda. While it is true that Sustainable Development Chapters were included in TTIP negotiating rounds, leaked documents have shown them to be thoroughly lacking. The same is true for CETA. Why would we commend the Commission for what turned out to be a box-ticking exercise? This repeated language is an attempt to sneak neo-liberal formulae on FTAs into otherwise sound reports. As I do not agree with commending the Commission for the negotiation of agreements that threaten the environment and sustainability, I had to vote against.
Combating terrorism (A8-0228/2016 - Monika Hohlmeier)
. – We voted against this report, which states that it is fighting terrorism but is dominated by a security-driven approach and was rushed through without any proper debate with civil society, academia or experts.International human rights organisations, including Amnesty International, the European Network Against Racism, European Digital Rights, the Fundamental Rights European Experts Group, Human Rights Watch, the International Commission of Jurists and the Open Society Foundations all opposed this report. They have expressed concern over the lack of transparency in adopting the directive and are worried that its overly broad language threatens severely to damage democracy and free expression.We share their concerns that this directive could lead to the criminalisation of public protests and other peaceful acts, to the suppression of freedom of political expression and to other unjustified limitations on human rights. The directive is also at risk of being disproportionately applied in a way that discriminates against specific ethnic and religious communities.This sort of out-of-control ‘anti-terrorism’ legislation is massively undercutting our civil liberties and the rule of law in our democracies, with little or no effect on actual terrorist activity. For these reasons we voted against the report.
Reinforcement of checks against relevant databases at external borders (A8-0218/2016 - Monica Macovei)
. – We voted against this regulation, which calls for data collection and database checks on all EU citizens and third—country nationals crossing EU external borders, on the basis that this will help prevent terrorism. It is a huge data-trawling operation, without any evidence that such an infringement of civil liberties of ordinary citizens will make Europe a safer place. The Commission did not even make an impact assessment to justify the regulation before pushing it through.It is an attack on the civil liberties of EU citizens and residents, is invasive and unnecessary, and simply won’t work.Europe should be working to prevent terrorism through better use of existing data, better cooperation between Member States’ police and public prosecutors and by promoting conflict resolution instead of building Fortress Europe on the remains of ordinary people’s civil liberties and treating everyone as a potential criminal.
Possible evolutions of and adjustments to the current institutional set-up of the European Union (A8-0390/2016 - Guy Verhofstadt)
. – We voted against this report. This report is billed as being the answer to the problems of the EU and viewed as proposing the future shape of the European Union for the decades ahead. However, it does nothing of the sort. All it proposes is a one—dimensional federalist view.We disagreed with almost every element of this report from its calls for ‘ever-closer’ union, to usurpation of Member States competencies, to tax harmonisation, to the establishment of a European CIA, to ramping up EU defence and security measures.Furthermore, the report is pervasive with the idea that the problems of the EU, economically and socially, can be cured by the federalisation project. The report blames everyone except the EU institutions for existing problems in Member States. It blames the Member States continuously without referencing the continuous neo-liberal policies of the EU in conjunction with its austerity policies as one of the main reasons for social and economic challenges.Overall, We voted against this report.
Improving the functioning of the European Union building on the potential of the Lisbon Treaty (A8-0386/2016 - Mercedes Bresso, Elmar Brok)
. –We voted against this report. The Brok/Bresso report was the second strand in a triumvirate of reports aimed at improving the functioning of the European Union building on the potential of the Lisbon Treaty.As with the Verhofstadt report, this report also pushed the federalisation line. However, in some regards it went even further. It called for an EU Minister for Finance, deepening of EMU, further consolidation of fiscal powers by the EU, tax convergence, harmonisation of further Member State competences, expansion of CFSD policy and roadmap to EU army, making the Commission the government of Europe, etc…As we disagreed with the vast majority of this report we voted against it.
Budgetary capacity for the Eurozone (A8-0038/2017 - Reimer Böge, Pervenche Berès)
. – We voted against this resolution and signed an alternative motion for resolution.In our view the proposal to introduce a budgetary capacity in the Euro area will not solve the structural imbalances in the Economic and Monetary Union, which require a fundamental change in the orientation of its economic policies and governance addressing the root causes of the euro crisis – particularly the contribution of macroeconomic imbalances towards private and public indebtedness.In the alternative motion we signed, we oppose the establishment of the foreseen Eurozone Treasury since it will imply further concentration of power in supranational entities and the Treasury will be embedded in the framework of the Fiscal Compact and may contribute to the enforcement of demand hampering structural reforms and thus undermine democratic sovereignty and contribute to the imposition of austerity.
Civil Law Rules on Robotics (A8-0005/2017 - Mady Delvaux)
. – With the advent of robotics, artificial intelligence and autonomous systems, more and more the question arises: ‘who is liable when a robot malfunctions and causes damage?’Therefore I support this report as a thoughtful response to developments in artificial intelligence, calling for legislation on civil law aspect of robotics, including definition of a ‘smart robot’ as one which has autonomy through the use of sensors and/or interconnectivity with the environment, which has at least a minor physical support, which adapts its behaviour and actions to the environment and which cannot be defined as having ‘life’ in the biological sense.
European Cloud Initiative (A8-0006/2017 - Jerzy Buzek)
. – Matt Carthy (GUE/NGL), in writing. ‒ I abstained on this vote. The European Cloud Initiative is designed to help science, industry and public authorities in Europe access world-class data infrastructures and cloud-based services as they become the decisive factors for success in the digital economy. The report stands for the creation of the European Open Science Cloud, EOSC, based on the sharing of open data and on developing a trusted, open environment for the community, the scientific and academic worlds, but also industry, SMEs, startups, public administration and citizens, for storing, sharing and re-using scientific data and results. This report also stands for the data protection abiding under the EU legislation and the Charter of Fundamental Rights, namely the rights of data protection, privacy, liberty and security, which cannot be secured when saving data in EU clouds outside the EU.The report is quite a good proposal and it is the first step for the development of the European Open Science Cloud Initiative. However, this report also states that EOSC is a key for the development of the Digital Single Market and to the need to construct Public Private Partnerships for the creation of European Data Infrastructures. The report had a lot of positive elements, but since it crossed some red line issues for me, I had to abstain.
Investing in jobs and growth - maximising the contribution of European Structural and Investment Funds (A8-0385/2016 - Lambert van Nistelrooij)
. – This report addresses the need to maximise the contribution of European Structural and Investment (ESI) Funds towards creating jobs and growth. The report makes a number of positive recommendations for the future of cohesion policy, such as including experiences on a local and regional level and solidarity for cohesion policy design.However the report clearly lends its support to the European Semester, to the Country Specific Recommendations (CSRs) and ‘structural reforms’ (in other words, austerity) in Member States, as well as the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI). I therefore abstained on this report.
Aviation Strategy for Europe (A8-0021/2017 - Pavel Telička)
. – I voted against this report which sets out the Parliament’s priorities for an aviation strategy for Europe. The main theme of the report called for further liberalisation of the aviation sector and the need to get rid of the ‘surplus of loss-making airports’. In Ireland, our regional airports are vital to maintain regional connectivity. Links such as those to and from the Aran Islands are crucial for rural populations and their importance ought not be diminished.The report was also lacking in that it only referenced the appalling labour conditions in this sector when addressing non-EU carriers. I voted for amendments aimed at strengthening the report such as those addressing health and safety issues, respect for ILO Conventions, and programmes threatening the viability of smaller regional airports. However, the necessary majority was not reached to better this report.
Delayed implementation of ESI Funds operational programmes - impact on cohesion policy and the way forward (B8-0149/2017)
. – This resolution criticises the delayed implementation of ESI Funds operational programmes for the 2014-2020 period, which is undermining the delivery and objectives of cohesion policy. In 2017 there is already a 24% decrease in payment appropriations compared to 2016. The resolution calls on the Commission to take several measures to improve the situation, including providing greater technical assistance services, simpler rules, and a ‘cohesion acceleration plan’.My Group helped remove sections linking ESI Funds to ‘structural reforms’ (austerity policies), however there were still a number of references to financial instruments and the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), which I voted against.Overall, however, the resolution made a valuable contribution on the need for improved implementation of operational programmes to support cohesion policy. I therefore voted in favour of this motion.
EU-Canada Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (A8-0009/2017 - Artis Pabriks)
. – I voted against CETA as I believe the contents of this agreement pose massive threats to our democracy, our legislative autonomy, our sovereignty and some of our most prized regulatory standards.The Investment Court System and the chapter on regulatory cooperation would hand unacceptable power to multinational corporations to dictate the policies of elected governments on a range of issues of public interest. They would also give power to an unaccountable international court to call Irish-made laws into question.For these reasons, and the fact that the ICS will infringe the Irish Constitution, I voted against.
EU-Canada Strategic Partnership Agreement (A8-0028/2017 - Charles Tannock)
. – I voted against this report which set out the parameters of a strategic partnership agreement with Canada. I agreed with many of the aims of the report, which commits both parties to advancing democratic principles such as human rights and fundamental freedoms. Sinn Féin welcomes the commitment of both parties to combat harmful tax practices and the global threats of climate change. I also welcome that the agreement draws attention to the need for both parties to deal with the illicit trade of small arms and light weapons, organised crime, drugs and human trafficking and money laundering. However I could not support the agreement as it contained an endorsement of the recently concluded CETA agreement, as well as a commitment on both parties to improve the effectiveness of NATO and CSDP missions. Sinn Féin believes that these elements compromise Ireland’s status as a neutral state.
EU-Mongolia Framework Agreement on Partnership and Cooperation (A8-0382/2016 - Helmut Scholz)
. – I voted in favour of this report giving its consent to the conclusion of the EU-Mongolia framework agreement.The resolution underlines Mongolia’s ‘constructive role’ in the region and its ‘rather exceptional established democratic credentials’ and therefore pledges for stronger relations and support to Mongolia.It does, however, point out clearly the remaining challenges in terms of Human rights and rule of law.The resolution is exceptionally positive about the ‘legitimate’ right of Mongolia to look for other economic and political alliances and cooperation (other than the EU) and even ‘encourages’ its regional integration into Chinese and Russian projects (China Belt and Silk Road, Eurasian Union). Furthermore, the resolution includes references to climate change and environmental challenges, meaning tackling extractive industries and so on.Some concerns, however, would be that is quite heavily concerned with the economic issues and trade. For instance, it calls two sides to further engage in a dialogue on bilateral and multilateral trade and trade-related issues with a view to strengthening bilateral trade relations and advancing the multilateral trade system, in compliance with WTO rules.However, in light of its positive elements, I voted in favour.
EU-Mongolia Framework Agreement on Partnership and Cooperation (Resolution) (A8-0383/2016 - Helmut Scholz)
. – I voted in favour of this report giving its consent to the conclusion of the EU-Mongolia framework agreement.The resolution underlines Mongolia’s ‘constructive role’ in the region and its ‘rather exceptional established democratic credentials’ and therefore pledges for stronger relations and support to Mongolia.It does, however, point out clearly the remaining challenges in terms of Human rights and rule of law.The resolution is exceptionally positive about the ‘legitimate’ right of Mongolia to look for other economic and political alliances and cooperation (other than the EU) and even ‘encourages’ its regional integration into Chinese and Russian projects (China Belt and Silk Road, Eurasian Union). Furthermore, the resolution includes references to climate change and environmental challenges, meaning tackling extractive industries and so on.Some concerns, however, would be that is quite heavily concerned with the economic issues and trade. For instance, it calls two sides to further engage in a dialogue on bilateral and multilateral trade and trade-related issues with a view to strengthening bilateral trade relations and advancing the multilateral trade system, in compliance with WTO rules.However, in light of its positive elements, I voted in favour.
Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft (Product Coverage Annex) (A8-0007/2017 - Inmaculada Rodríguez-Piñero Fernández)
. – I voted in favour of this technical report. In 1979 the Plurilateral Agreement on trade in Civil Aircraft was adopted at WTO level as part of the Tokyo round. This agreement eliminated import duties on all aircraft, excluding military aircraft, in particular civil aircraft engines and their parts and components. The Annex to the agreement lists all the products that are accorded duty-free treatment according to the Harmonised Commodity Description and Coding System. However since then this system has been revised. This vote was to amend the annex to this agreement by Protocol so that the international nomenclature code, which is arranged in six-digit codes allowing all participating countries to classify traded goods on a common basis, can be used.
Cost-effective emission reductions and low-carbon investments (A8-0003/2017)
. – I voted against this directive.The directive seeks to further the marketisation of climate change/environmental protection measures. So far such an approach has only succeeded in protecting large industries by allowing them to obtain permits to continue polluting or ‘free allocation allowances’.Originally, free allowances, attributed for a limited time, had the aim to help and compensate the diversified costs among MS, mainly in the energy sector. These costs were considered a key factor in global industrial costs and were seen as important to put all sectors on an equal footing. However, over time these allowances were abused and it became a pay to pollute system.The parts of this directive and amendments we support aim to strengthen environmental consistency, obtaining a Linear Reduction Factor (LFR), cancellation of a larger amount of free allocations put aside in these years. In order to have a compromise report which fully respects long term environmental goals, the most exposed sectors to carbon leakage will benefit from funds or temporary free allowances to modernise and reduce their energy costs.
Objection pursuant to rule 105(3): Regulatory technical standards for the application of position limits to commodity derivatives (B8-0139/2017, B8-0147/2017, B8-0148/2017)
. – I voted in favour of the motions to object to the Commission's regulatory technical standards (RTS) due to my serious concerns about speculation on food and its impact on rising food prices and worsening food poverty.My group, GUE/NGL initiated the process of objecting to the Commission's RTS, and the Greens and Socialists & Democrats also lodged objections.I am concerned about the role of excessive speculation on food commodities that has driven price spikes in essential food in recent years. The poorest communities in the world are hit hardest.The Markets in Financial Instruments Directive 2 passed in January 2014 introduced some measures to tackle excessive speculation but the Commission’s proposed RTS would significantly weaken the rules.
2016 Report on Albania (A8-0023/2017 - Knut Fleckenstein)
. – I don’t agree that candidates for EU membership should be obliged to align themselves to the foreign affairs positions of the EU. Nor do I agree with some of the demands of the EU in relation to economic restructuring.However, I support this report on the grounds that Albania is entitled to be a member of the as long as this is the will of the people and as long as it meets all the Copenhagen criteria. I voted in favour.
2016 Report on Bosnia and Herzegovina (A8-0026/2017 - Cristian Dan Preda)
. – I abstained on the file as I had a number of concerns; the notion of the concept of and differentiation between constituent people and citizens was problematic. Citizens may have a right to vote, but not all of them can be elected - only representatives of three constituent peoples (Serbs, Bosniaks, Croats), as only they are protected by Dayton Constitutional Framework. This is clearly contrary to the judgments of the European Court of Human Rights in the case Sejdic-Finci in which this system was contested.The references to both – all citizens and constituent peoples – is redundant, and it can be interpreted as ethnic preferential treatment when the country is already very much divided by ethnic lines. Neither the Commission's report nor the recommendation of the European Parliament contributes to the solution of the problems in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
European Semester for Economic Policy Coordination: Annual Growth Survey 2017 (A8-0039/2017 - Gunnar Hökmark)
. – I voted against this report. The report evaluates and endorses the existing economic governance framework in the EU, which I am fundamentally opposed to as it promotes failed austerity policies. The economic governance framework and the Economic and Monetary Union have served to implement cuts in public investment, labour income and public welfare, and promoted the privatisation of public assets, liberalisation and deregulation of markets, demand-hampering structural reforms and the loss of social and labour rights.While this report welcomes the Commission's statement on a positive fiscal stance (which suggests Member States should expand their fiscal stimulus as austerity is causing negative economic effects), it also demands that any stimulus measures must comply with the Stability and Growth Pact.
European Semester for Economic Policy Coordination: employment and social aspects in the Annual Growth Survey 2017 (A8-0037/2017 - Yana Toom)
. – This report advocates tackling employment, social and economic issues through the framework of the European Semester. The draft report makes a good diagnosis of the social and economic situation in most of the Member States, in terms of unemployment, poverty and social exclusion, recognising the failure of EU policies and highlighting some of the existing strategies to counteract these problems.The report blames the Member States continuously without referencing the continuous, neo-liberal policies of the EU in conjunction with its austerity policies as one of the main reasons for social and economic challenges. Yet it proposes that the answer to these problems is to reinforce the concept of the European Semester and the country-specific recommendations with some ‘social washing’ to legitimize it, while congratulating the Commission on other initiatives such as the extension of the EFSI.I voted against this report because I believe that in order to overcome anaemic growth and social depression, we cannot just mask the European Semester with socially-oriented intentions, but must propose another policy that breaks with the failed, existing austerity policies.
Banking Union - Annual Report 2016 (A8-0019/2017 - Danuta Maria Hübner)
. – We voted against this report. The annual report aims to take stock of the progress and impact of implementing the Banking Union package of legislation. The report is divided in three sections based on the three pillars of the Banking Union – supervision, resolution, and deposit insurance.This report endorses the development of the Banking Union to date and calls for its completion; refuses to acknowledge the failure of the Banking Union to deal with too-big-to-fail or end taxpayer-funded bailouts; and includes several calls for the relaxation or roll-back of some of the post-crisis financial regulation.In recent months, we have seen the first real test of the new rules on bank recovery and resolution in the Italian banking crisis. And – we have to admit – the stated goal of the Banking Union of ending pubic bailouts and solving the too-big-to-fail problem, has failed spectacularly. Italy makes it clear for the world to see that taxpayer—funded bailouts can continue under these weak and loophole-ridden rules.We need rules that truly prevent taxpayer-funded bailouts and we need to finally step up and address the too-big-to-fail problem by Bank Structural Reform that separates commercial and investment banking.
EU-Cook Islands sustainable fisheries partnership agreement (Resolution) (A8-0015/2017 - João Ferreira)
. – I abstained instead of voting in favour in the final vote on this file due to legal action in the Cook Islands seeking a judicial review; Crown Law had requested the review application be struck out, but that was rejected by the High Court. The matter will now be heard before a full court hearing in March. I believe that the vote on this file should not have taken place before the court case.The legal case has been filed on behalf the traditional leaders who have accused the government of reneging on a commitment to establish 93 km exclusive zones around all islands that would be closed to foreign fishing vessels. This could be interpreted as the Cook Islands authorities placing the interests of foreign commercial fishing operators ahead of the indigenous people; authorities had insisted that the agreement would benefit the fishing industry but people are not convinced.
Control of the Register and composition of the Commission's expert groups (A8-0002/2017 - Dennis de Jong)
. – We voted in favour of this report, which addresses the shortcomings of the Commission’s recent May 2016 reforms to the establishment of expert groups. The issue lies in the fact that at present industry ‘experts’ outnumber academia, consumer groups and trade unions by 4:1 in these groups – particularly so when it comes to financial legislation. This means that at the very early stages of policy formulation there is a hugely disproportionate influence from corporate interests. However, the Commission’s reform experts now have to be registered on the transparency register and must submit a conflict of interest report. On the other side, even if there is a conflict of interest, this person can still be an expert. There are also no meaningful rules on the disclosure of what is said in these meetings, and worst of all, still no rules on balanced composition of expert panels. The fact that the Commission adopted these reforms without waiting for the Ombudsman’s recommendations also calls for criticism.
The role of whistleblowers in the protection of EU´s financial interests (A8-0004/2017 - Dennis de Jong)
. – We voted in favour of this report on whistleblower protection. This report specifically focuses on protection for whistleblowers who report corruption and fraud that directly involves EU funds.The report recognises the importance of whistleblowers for the correct use of EU funds and deplores the fact that the Commission has failed to submit any legislative proposals aimed at establishing a minimum level of protection for whistleblowers. It calls on the Commission to submit a legislative proposal before the end of 2017 protecting whistleblowers as part of the prevention of, and fight against, fraud affecting EU funds.This initiative relating to EU funds came in response to the ‘Trade Secrets Directive’ adopted last year. The Trade Secrets Directive reduced the rights of whistleblowers to the benefit of those of big corporations. The law on protecting trade secrets is vague in how it defines trade secrets and the protection of whistleblowers and investigative journalists is not regulated. When it comes to fraud involving European funds, the interests of whistleblowers should be given prime importance.
List of third States and organisations with which Europol shall conclude agreements (A8-0035/2017 - Agustín Díaz de Mera García Consuegra)
. –This report proposes a new arrangement to ensure operational cooperation between Denmark and Europol. This is a result of the Danish people voting in a 2015 referendum against a more flexible ‘opt-in’ Europol mechanism.As a result of the referendum, and this new arrangement, from 1 May Denmark will cooperate with Europol on an intergovernmental basis, rather than under the overarching supranational affiliation of the Europol Regulation.This means that Denmark will maintain its own accountability and sovereignty, control over the personal data it shares with Europol and its own law enforcement policies.I therefore voted in favour of this report.
Subjecting the new psychoactive substance methyl 2-[[1-(cyclohexylmethyl)-1H-indole-3-carbonyl]amino]-3,3-dimethylbutanoate (MDMB-CHMICA) to control measures (A8-0024/2017 - Lorenzo Fontana)
. – Sinn Féin have been at the forefront of calling on Member States to legislate as efficiently as possible to prevent these substances from gaining a foothold in the illicit market. The objective of this proposal is to call upon the Member States to subject MDMB-CHMICA to control measures and criminal penalties as provided under their legislation by virtue of their obligations under the 1971 United Nations Convention on Psychotropic Substances.The high potency of MDMB-CHMICA and the highly variable amounts of the compound in ‘legal high’ products constitute a high risk of acute toxicity. Eight Member States have reported a total of 28 deaths and 25 acute intoxications associated with MDMB-CHMICA. For these reasons I voted in favour of this report
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2016/005 NL/Drenthe Overijssel Retail (A8-0036/2017 - Nedzhmi Ali)
. – We voted in favour of this report.The retail sector in the Netherlands has taken a severe hit in recent years with 5200 retail shops having gone bankrupt since the start of the crisis. Recently the larger department stores have started to be affected. From the start of 2015 until March 2016, the regions concerned in this EGF application, Drenth and Overijssel, have seen an increase of 3461 in the number of unemployment benefit recipients from the retail sector.The proposed EGF application was quite good and the majority of the targeted workers are quite young, so hopefully they can be catered for and helped to develop personally and to acquire some new professional skills in order to find employment in another sector of their choice.We have our concerns and issues with the EGF, but we never like to see workers suffer, therefore we voted in favour of the report.
Revision of the European Consensus on Development (A8-0020/2017 - Bogdan Brunon Wenta, Norbert Neuser)
. – This INI Report aim to stress Parliament’s position on the future European Consensus on Development.We voted in favour of the report due to the many positive elements contained within, tackling inequalities, together with poverty reduction, as recognised in the Sustainable Development Goals, being a key target of EU development policies. We also supported that the report recognises that hunger and poverty are not accidents, but the result of social and economic injustice and inequality at all levels. We were also very glad to see the report state its opposition to any attempts to link aid with border control, management of migratory flows or readmission agreements.There were some negatives, such as the call for blending and public-private partnerships and the linking of security elements.Overall, the report contained some very important Parliament positions on development issues, especially gender equality, on not linking aid in any way with border control, management of migratory flows or readmission agreements, on development finance and on requirements for the private sector on human rights—related issues, even calling for binding measures in this regard. Therefore, we voted in favour.
Promoting gender equality in mental health and clinical research (A8-0380/2016 - Beatriz Becerra Basterrechea)
. – This own initiative report by the Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality highlighted that sex and gender matter in health at all levels and impact differently on women and men’s health, access to health and health-care. However, research and practice still fail to take adequate account of differences between women and men in terms of health, illness and treatment. The main message is that there is an urgent need of improving gender equality in mental health and clinical research.The report took a strong position for the ratification of the Istanbul Convention, on how women are dramatically underrepresented in biomedical research, despite making up over half of the EU population; it also highlighted that mental health and wellbeing are heavily gendered and influenced by many factors such as socioeconomic factors, income disparities and discrimination, and it argued for measures against female genital mutilation. Therefore, I voted in favour of this report.
Priorities for the 61th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (A8-0018/2017 - Constance Le Grip, Maria Arena)
. – The Commission on the Status of Women will hold its 61st session in March 2017, and in order to contribute to the debates the FEMM Committee has drafted this proposal for a European Parliament recommendation to the Council on the EU priorities for this 61st session.Overall, this was a strong but concise report which had many positives, and therefore we voted in favour of it.Some of the important points included general conditions for empowering women and girls through access to education, combating all forms of violence against women, promoting decent work and full employment, ensuring universal access to sexual and reproductive health care and reproductive rights, enhancing women’s economic empowerment and overcoming barriers on the labour market, policies on equal pay for equal work, new investments in social care, support for an ILO convention to address gender-based violence at the workplace.The strongest part of the report was its focus on reinforcing the need to combat violence against women, including sexual violence, and to abolish child labour, combating land grabbing and the importance of land and an inalienable right for peasant and indigenous women.
EU-Kosovo Stabilisation and Association Agreement: procedures for its application (A8-0361/2016 - Adam Szejnfeld)
. – I abstained on this report. The proposal is technical and empowers the Commission with implementing powers to implement aspects of the EU-Kosovo Agreement that was signed in 2015.The actual Agreement (note – not this report) says that certain agricultural and fishery products originating in Kosovo may be imported into the EU at a reduced customs duty, within the limits of tariff quotas. This report proposes to confer implementing powers on the Commission regarding managing, reviewing and assessing these quotas.I am in favour of normalisation of relations between the EU and an independent Kosovo. However, Sinn Féin abstained on the vote on the Agreement in 2016 over a number of concerns on the content including the fact that it forces Kosovo to abide by EU laws on competition, for example. As I abstained on the Agreement, it was appropriate for me to abstain on this report.
Imports of textile products from certain third countries not covered by specific Union import rules (A8-0311/2016 - Hannu Takkula)
. – I voted against this report. It is a proposal to amend a regulation that lays down the common rules for imports of textile products from Belarus and North Korea, both of which are not covered by bilateral agreements or rules.The proposal is to abolish the autonomous quotas on import of textiles and clothing originating in Belarus. It won’t have a significant impact on the EU textile industry, but politically it is a concession aimed to improve relations between the EU and Belarus.The Committee on International Trade (INTA) is claiming that Belarus is making big step forward on human rights with the release of political prisoners, but there are still many human rights concerns, including the death penalty. I voted against the report on the grounds of the country’s poor human rights record.
Conclusion of the Agreement continuing the International Science and Technology Center (A8-0363/2016 - Elmar Brok)
. – I voted in favour of this report which gives consent to conclusion of the agreement on continuing the International Science and Technology Centre. This centre was founded in 1994 by the USA, Japan, Russia and the European Atomic Energy Community and European Economic Community with the aim to reduce the risks related to the proliferation of the weapons from ex-Soviet countries.The centre had gradually developed into a field of cooperation between countries in order to promote improvement of international mechanisms for the prevention of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and to develop such innovative systems that would ensure security on the one hand and economic growth for the whole continent on the other.The aim of the report is to allow that the centre continue its activities, after the Russian Federation withdrew from the agreement in 2010, a decision in force from 2015. Since the centre’s main aim is the prevention of proliferation of WMD and promotion of security, I have voted in favour of the report.
Objection to a delegated act: Identifying high-risk third countries with strategic deficiencies (B8-0001/2017)
. – I voted in favour of this resolution, which was a proposal to object to the delegated act that came from my GUE/NGL colleagues during the one-month scrutiny period, and was supported by most of the other political groups.The reason behind the objection is based on a number of deficiencies in the Commission’s delegated act but in particular the fact that the Commission is proposing to continue relying on an ineffective external mutual-evaluation process run the Financial Action Task Force instead of carrying out its own assessments on deficiencies and risk relating to money laundering in non-EU countries. For example, Panama and other secrecy and tax haven jurisdictions are fine, according to this evaluation process. I want to see a more ambitious proposal from the Commission which is why I supported the Parliament’s objection.
Logistics in the EU and multimodal transport in the new TEN-T corridors (A8-0384/2016 - Inés Ayala Sender)
. – This report highlights the need for an improved EU strategy on freight logistics, taking into account environmental challenges, encouraging improved work conditions to attract young workers to the sector, and promoting a greater use of multimodal infrastructure, new technologies and statistics gathering.It also acknowledges some of the challenges faced in cross-border regions, and while it focuses a lot on the ‘core’ transport corridors in Europe, it highlights the need to further develop ‘non-core’ corridors as well, in order to promote more balanced development.While many parts of the report are therefore positive, it focuses heavily on increased competition as a ‘fix-all’ solution to complex problems. It calls for EU Member States to remove national ‘regulatory barriers’ to greater free market competition as quickly as possible, and calls on the Commission to take legal action against countries that don’t. I therefore abstained on the report.
A European Pillar of Social Rights (A8-0391/2016 - Maria João Rodrigues)
. – I voted in favour of this report as I feel it is important that Parliament has a contribution of a strong social and equality-based report to the Commission consultation on the European pillar of social rights (EPSR), to influence the direction of the EPSR.I have always called for the EU to be more ambitious and for a social and caring Europe. The EPSR, if carried out correctly can be this.By voting for this report it is my hope that through the contributions made by Parliament, social partners and civil society that the EPSR can be aligned so as to guarantee social rights in the manner that citizens deserve, and in a manner that will combat poverty, income inequality and other serious social injustices.The EPSR provides a great chance for the EU to move in a new direction, to prove it has the capability to change post in how the union works post-Brexit. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance that the European Union does not let European citizens down and that it seizes the opportunity which the EPSR presents.Therefore, I voted in favour of this report.
Tackling the challenges of the EU Customs Code (UCC) implementation (B8-0024/2017)
. – I abstained in the vote on the motion for a resolution on tackling the challenges of the EU Customs Code (UCC) implementation.While I agree that the UCC is in need of updating, and anomalies and faults have to be corrected, there were a few points in the motion for a resolution which I did not agree with.I agree that an independent impact assessment should be carried out, by 2021, to ensure that the regulatory framework of EU customs policy, including the new UCC, is effective, proportionate and fit for purpose both for Member States and for trade operators. However, I abstained on the final vote because of point 2, which calls for the Commission to take a proactive approach in the development of interposable IT systems for health certificates. I believe this to be an issue of subsidiarity, as health is a Member State competence. Furthermore, the reference to the digital single market raises none of the concerns that Member States and citizens have about it, painting it instead in a glowing light.
Major interpellations (2)
Israel's involvement in projects financed under Horizon 2020 PDF (105 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Follow-up to the Brazilian meat imports scandal PDF (195 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Written questions (163)
Data protection ruling in Ireland PDF (38 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Local authorities PDF (38 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Retail PDF (37 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Brexit contingency plans for motor insurance on the island of Ireland PDF (40 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Bycatch reduction plans and timeframe for STECF evaluation PDF (38 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Implementation and monitoring of bycatch reduction plans PDF (37 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Irish Green, Low-Carbon, Agri-environment Scheme payments PDF (38 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Muintearas, An Togra Oideachas Gaeltachta PDF (41 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Tree felling in the Toon Valley PDF (39 KB) DOC (19 KB)
The dumping of waste water into Cork lower harbour PDF (36 KB) DOC (17 KB)
GLAS payments made by the DAFM PDF (37 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Irish Government and Apple Inc. PDF (39 KB) DOC (18 KB)
The Commission's methodology for tracking environmental spending PDF (100 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Gender-responsive budgeting PDF (103 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Enabling conditionality PDF (98 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Compensation for the owners of fishing vessels falsely certified as stable prior to purchase PDF (5 KB) DOC (18 KB)
A no-deal Brexit and its implications for fisheries PDF (5 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Gender-responsive budgeting PDF (104 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Sign language rights PDF (101 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Violation of judicial independence in Spain and Article 47 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights - violation of Articles 6 and 47-49 of the EU Charter and of Directive 2016/343 PDF (107 KB) DOC (20 KB)
European funding and support for clean sustainable energy innovation and commercial use PDF (5 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Eel Management Plan in Ireland PDF (6 KB) DOC (18 KB)
European Year of Cultural Heritage PDF (5 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Lyme disease PDF (5 KB) DOC (18 KB)
InvestEU Fund PDF (100 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Right to freedom of movement in the European Union PDF (195 KB) DOC (19 KB)
EU trade with Israeli settlements PDF (101 KB) DOC (18 KB)
EU regulations, island fishing and heritage licensing PDF (100 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Israeli massacre of Palestinian protesters PDF (103 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Valentia Island Ferry PDF (6 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Multiannual Plan for the North Sea and its implications for Ireland PDF (101 KB) DOC (18 KB)
VAT rate on provision of locum GPs PDF (101 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Freedom of expression under threat in Spain PDF (198 KB) DOC (21 KB)
Reduction in US funding for UNRWA PDF (104 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Ireland: Economic value of fish stocks PDF (4 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Regulation of recreational fisheries PDF (4 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Provision of special education PDF (5 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Electric pulse trawl fishing PDF (4 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Cork flood relief project PDF (5 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Equal Status Acts PDF (116 KB) DOC (20 KB)
Fear campaign launched against the Turkish-Cypriot newspaper Afrika PDF (103 KB) DOC (17 KB)
VP/HR - Italian arms exports to Saudi Arabia PDF (98 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Affordable access to medicines PDF (103 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Performance of the Irish economy PDF (104 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Pension crisis in Ireland PDF (99 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Irish participation in PESCO PDF (99 KB) DOC (18 KB)
European Voluntary Service PDF (6 KB) DOC (18 KB)
European Capital of Culture 2023 PDF (116 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Wastewater treatment PDF (102 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Spain: threat to arrest 712 democratically elected Catalan mayors PDF (197 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Irish public services PDF (98 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Irish PSC PDF (5 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Irish Cement PDF (97 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Housing policy in Ireland PDF (6 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Anti-regional language discrimination PDF (6 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Registration and identification of horses in Ireland PDF (102 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Registration and identification of horses in Ireland PDF (102 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Harvesting of kelp in the vicinity of Natura 2020 sites PDF (5 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Delays affecting the LEADER rural development programme PDF (100 KB) DOC (17 KB)
LAW-TRAIN, Horizon 2020 funding and human rights abuses in Israel PDF (104 KB) DOC (18 KB)
24-hour cardiac care cover in the South-East of Ireland PDF (102 KB) DOC (16 KB)
24-hour cardiac care hospital cover for the South-East of Ireland PDF (102 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Irish direct provision ruling PDF (99 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Language in the EU PDF (5 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Factory fishing vessels PDF (5 KB) DOC (15 KB)
European Health Insurance Card PDF (96 KB) DOC (17 KB)
European Schools PDF (5 KB) DOC (15 KB)
The Shannon LNG Terminal PDF (101 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Cannabidiol for the treatment of Dravet Syndrome PDF (5 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Transposition of Directive 2004/38/EC in British Law PDF (100 KB) DOC (16 KB)
FLAG programme PDF (5 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Volunteer groups and VAT PDF (103 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Volunteer groups PDF (5 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Hazardous waste PDF (99 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Homelessness crisis PDF (4 KB) DOC (15 KB)
SACs PDF (4 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Language rights PDF (96 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Regularisation of undocumented migrants PDF (4 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Whale and dolphin sanctuary PDF (5 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Language rights PDF (99 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Direct provision PDF (5 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Competition laws PDF (100 KB) DOC (16 KB)
LEADER Programme PDF (96 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Cooperative and social enterprises PDF (4 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Parliamentary Questions PDF (4 KB) DOC (15 KB)
EU budget PDF (96 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Investigating Irish multinational tax deals PDF (4 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Jose Manuel Barroso and Goldman Sachs PDF (193 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Computer literacy PDF (5 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Maintenance grants for students PDF (4 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Legal aid for companies PDF (98 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Letterbox practices PDF (101 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Rent certainty PDF (100 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Intellectual property PDF (5 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Gearagh woodland in County Cork, Ireland PDF (103 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Long-term residential care PDF (99 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Irish small and medium-sized enterprises PDF (102 KB) DOC (15 KB)
European Youth Orchestra PDF (5 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Motor insurance PDF (100 KB) DOC (15 KB)
European Patent Office PDF (5 KB) DOC (15 KB)
European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) PDF (96 KB) DOC (15 KB)
LEADER programme PDF (5 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Compliance of EU-Turkey deal with the non-refoulement principle PDF (193 KB) DOC (26 KB)
Baltic Multiannual Plan PDF (100 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Basic Payment Scheme - Department of Agriculture PDF (5 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Passenger boat regulations PDF (6 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Maximum sustainable yield (MSY) PDF (103 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Proposed European Border and Coast Guard (EBCG) and Complaints Mechanism in respect of violation of human rights PDF (105 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Special procurement and tendering PDF (103 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Education PDF (97 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Shannon LNG Terminal PDF (101 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Privacy of EU Facebook users PDF (105 KB) DOC (26 KB)
Use of funding from the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund PDF (5 KB) DOC (22 KB)
Ireland and tuna fisheries PDF (104 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Right to vote in national elections in another Member State PDF (102 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Syria PDF (19 KB) DOC (26 KB)
Lough Derg PDF (5 KB) DOC (27 KB)
VP/HR - Human rights violations against the Kurdish people by Turkish forces PDF (101 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Increase in the price of fertilisers PDF (4 KB) DOC (22 KB)
Organic fertiliser PDF (5 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Participation of Palestinian universities in EU funding programmes PDF (6 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Language discrimination in Spain PDF (102 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Clarification and accessibility to scientific data to promote sustainable fisheries practices PDF (103 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Disputes regarding shared fish stocks PDF (5 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Lead pipes PDF (5 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Pulmonary hypertension PDF (5 KB) DOC (23 KB)
VP/HR - Israeli military training in the occupied Palestinian territory PDF (102 KB) DOC (25 KB)
SEUPB and the Irish Language PDF (103 KB) DOC (23 KB)
EMFF PDF (100 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Mental health PDF (97 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Process for demonstrating a sustainable eel fishery PDF (103 KB) DOC (23 KB)
The LEADER programme and Islands of Ireland. PDF (5 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Decision of the Irish Management Authority for Leader PDF (99 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Airplay of national music on radio stations PDF (6 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Mental Health PDF (5 KB) DOC (23 KB)
End of the common position on Cuba PDF (195 KB) DOC (27 KB)
Selection committee for the Leader initiative PDF (5 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Irish language derogation PDF (4 KB) DOC (22 KB)
Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions Movement and the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership PDF (100 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Publicly funded health services in the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) PDF (99 KB) DOC (24 KB)
PEACE IV PDF (5 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Restrictions on the export of eels outside the EU PDF (100 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Public transport PDF (5 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Mountain farming and land eligibility criteria PDF (5 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Grey dune habitat Ireland PDF (102 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Housing crisis in Ireland PDF (5 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Homelessness PDF (6 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Irish neutrality PDF (101 KB) DOC (23 KB)
European Union jobs PDF (5 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Ongoing case between the United States and Microsoft PDF (105 KB) DOC (25 KB)
European Directive as regards information to the general public on medicinal products PDF (6 KB) DOC (25 KB)
EU Home Affairs policies 2015-2020 PDF (5 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Rural development programme and Leader funding PDF (4 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Rural development programme for 2014-2020 PDF (4 KB) DOC (22 KB)
Dignity for asylum seekers living in Direct Provision PDF (101 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Establishment of a Directorate for Disability Inclusion PDF (102 KB) DOC (25 KB)
LEADER programme Ireland PDF (100 KB) DOC (24 KB)
LEADER PDF (101 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Veterinary medicine prices PDF (5 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Broadband in rural areas PDF (5 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Impact on Irish farmers of land being specially designated for hen harriers PDF (6 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Transport fees at the European Schools in Brussels PDF (104 KB) DOC (26 KB)
Irish interpreters and translators PDF (5 KB) DOC (23 KB)
Written declarations (3)
Amendments (1136)
Amendment 1 #
2019/2001(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
- having regard to Article 41(2) of the Treaty on European Union,
Amendment 9 #
2019/2001(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 1
Subheading 1
Budget 2020: bridge to the future Europe – Investing in citizens, innovation and securityshared prosperity, and the environment
Amendment 21 #
2019/2001(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Considers, therefore, that the EU budget for next year should define clear political priorities and enable the Union to further invest in innovation and research capacities for future solutions, boost competitiveness anenable the Union to further invest in research and development, promote shared economic gprowthsperity, ensure a safe, secure and peaceful Europe, strengthen citizens’ work and living conditionworkers' rights, and bolster the Union in its fight against environmental challenges and climate change;
Amendment 28 #
2019/2001(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 2
Subheading 2
Innovation and research for future solutions: supporting economic growth and compet: moving to a circular economy that works for all citivzeness
Amendment 53 #
2019/2001(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7 a. Recalls that peace and stability are core values that are supported by the budget of the European Union; highlights the important contribution the Union has made to peace and reconciliation in Ireland, in particular through its support for the Good Friday agreement and funding for PEACE and INTERREG programmes; underlines the need for continued European Regional Development Funds for Ireland, north and south, post-Brexit;
Amendment 54 #
2019/2001(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 b (new)
Paragraph 7 b (new)
7 b. Insists on the Unions commitment to peace and calls upon the Member States to agree upon a ban on the use of the EU budget to finance or guarantee any research programmes or dual technological development projects with military applicability;
Amendment 55 #
2019/2001(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
Amendment 62 #
2019/2001(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Requests additional financial resources to meet future demand for Erasmus+, the primary programme for education, training, youth and sport in Europe, also taking into account its external dimension; recalls that Parliament requested that the financial envelope for this programme be tripled in the next MFF; calls for cooperation to be strengthened between education and research; calls for a greater emphasis on quality traineeships, apprenticeships and increased participation by young Europeans in the policy-making processes;
Amendment 76 #
2019/2001(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Reiterates that social cohesion in Europe must contribute to sustainable solutions to long-term structural demographic change; emphasises the need for financial resourcesrecalls the detrimental role played by austerity policies in weakening Member States ability to provide their ageing populations in Europe with adequate support in terms of access to mobility, healthcare and public services;
Amendment 88 #
2019/2001(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12 a. Notes the importance of inclusion for migrants and refugees and how providing them equal access to education, training, apprenticeships in their new state of residence, along with access to the unique culture in their new state of residence helps them to feel welcome, integrate and resettle.
Amendment 38 #
2018/2774(RSP)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18 a. Recommends that the Commission promote research and awareness with a view to the prevention of Lyme disease;
Amendment 40 #
2018/2774(RSP)
Paragraph 18 b (new)
18 b. Calls on the Commission and Member States to research the increase of the tick population and the elimination of tick population by environmentally friendly means;
Amendment 41 #
2018/2774(RSP)
Paragraph 18 c (new)
18 c. Recognises that the rise in number of persons affected with Lyme disease is as a consequence of climate change, due to migrating ticks.
Amendment 42 #
2018/2774(RSP)
Paragraph 18 d (new)
18 d. Urges Member States to cooperate with each other with a view to prevention, through exchange of information, knowledge and best practice.
Amendment 6 #
2018/2166(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Notes the Erasmus programme needs to do more to be accessible to marginalised groups, in particular, persons with disabilities and special education requirements, persons who are geographically disadvantaged, early school leavers, persons belonging to a minority, those at a socio-economic disadvantage etc.;
Amendment 10 #
2018/2166(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Notes that any EU supported internship or apprenticeship programme must have proper monitoring and controls, including pre-placement checks and consultation with trade unions where a collective agreement exists, to prevent displacement of paid work and to ensure the internship or apprenticeship is genuinely beneficial to those taking part;
Amendment 11 #
2018/2166(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
Amendment 16 #
2018/2166(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Deplores the fact that the Student Loan Guarantee Facility was launched in February 2015 after signature of the delegation agreement with the European Investment Fund (EIF) in December 2014;
Amendment 17 #
2018/2166(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3 b. Notes with disappointment that students may have to take out bank loans in order to take part in Erasmus+ programmes;
Amendment 18 #
2018/2166(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 c (new)
Paragraph 3 c (new)
3 c. Highlights that indebtedness has a negative impact on personal development and on sound integration in the labour market and that inclusive and widely available grants must be provided so that no student is excluded on account of insufficient income;
Amendment 27 #
2018/2161(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Insists on the need for the EIB to reflect the wording of Article 4.2 third indent of Regulation 1049/2001 in its Transparency Policy and to remove the presumption of non-disclosure related to information and documents collected and generated during inspections, investigations and audits, including after these have been closed;
Amendment 6 #
2018/2091(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the priorities for the New Agenda and the sector-specific approach are welcome; whereas support should be given to all cultural and creative sectors,should foster social cohesion, dialogue and mutual understanding, integration; whereas equal and tailor made support should be given to all cultural and creative sectors; whereas sectorial approaches are adequate for sector specific challenges and cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue should be maintained as cross- cutting priorities; whereas culture is a public good, cultural and creative sectors shall be supported with ambitious policy frameworks, adequate public financing and an enabling environment; whereas the New European Agenda for Culture should aim at preserving, expanding and disseminating a vibrant and diverse cultural scene fostering the participation of all;
Amendment 29 #
2018/2091(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas culture can plays an important role in social cohesion and integration and whereas the special call for migrants’ integration in the Creative Europe programme has proved to be efficient but oversubscribs it strengthens socialisation and integration processes through the participation of minorities, disadvantaged groups, marginalised communities, migrants and refugees, in cultural and social life; whereas programmes such as Creative Europe can play a role in ensuring the participation in civic and cultural life although they have proved to be under funded;
Amendment 35 #
2018/2091(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas cultural awareness and expression has been recognised at EU level in the revised recommendation on Key Competences for Lifelong Learning; whereas arts and humanities should be fully engaged in education systems so to contribute to shaping a Europe that is collaborative, creative and mobilized to promote sustainability, integration and civic cohesion;
Amendment 48 #
2018/2091(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Recognises that cultural initiatives, including the 2018 European Year of Cultural Heritage, represents an opportunity to increase awareness of the unique strength and diversity of EU culture and the vital role it plays in our societies and economies, in creating a sense of belonging, in promoting active citizenship and in defining ourthe fundamental values and identityof freedom, diversity, equality, solidarity and social justice;
Amendment 92 #
2018/2091(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. PCalls for the guarantee of the right of creative and artistic workers to fair remuneration, contractual agreements and working conditions; points to the project-based, precarious and atypical employment of cultural workers andin Europe; therefore calls on the Member States to adopt comprehensive measures in order to improve the contractual conditions of artists and creators across the EU, with respect to collective representation, social security and direct and indirect taxation; calls for security systems across the Union to fully take into account the specificities of non-standard forms of employment
Amendment 102 #
2018/2091(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Notes that according to the 2017 Eurobarometer 36 % of Europeans did not participate in any cultural activity within the previous year and calls on the Commission and Member States, therefore, to increase reaching out to new audiences and enhance active participation to cultural sector by strengthening the links between culture, education, innovation and research;
Amendment 117 #
2018/2091(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Notes that democratic principles and European valueswith concern that violation of artistic freedom by silencing or intimidating artists is on the rise in Europe; recalls in this respect that freedom of expression is a key component of creativity and cultural production as it ensures that artistic works reflect diversity and richness of society; Notes that democratic principles and European values, such as freedom, social justice, inclusion, equality and non-discrimination, democracy, human rights, the rule of law, tolerance and solidarity, are increasingly challenged due to growing polarisation both within Europe and globally; calls on the Commission and the Member States, therefore, to develop a strategic approach for the protection of cultural rights, of freedom of artistic expression and media pluralism, as well as the right to freely and actively participate in cultural life; calls for a close monitoring of cultural rights at European level;
Amendment 148 #
2018/2091(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to guarantee that enoughincreased financial and policy resources within EU funding instruments are allocated to artistic and creative projects and research on the basis of their intrinsic value of artistic and creative projects;
Amendment 150 #
2018/2091(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to ensure that equality, transparency and diversification criteria drive the allocation of financial and non- financial resources to the cultural sector; calls therefore to adopt a tailored approach to each sector, recognising that financial instruments such as guarantees, loans and equity arcan, under certain circumstances, be appropriate for profit-generating projects, but that grants are vital when considering the cultural ecosystem as a whole, valuing intangible assets correctly and supporting innovative artistic and cultural practices;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that Parliament's reading of the 2019 Budget fully does not fully reflects the political priorities adopted by an overwhelming majority in its abovementioned resolutions of 15 March 2018 on general guidelines and of 5 July 2018 on a mandate for the trilogue; recalls that at the core of those priorities are: sustainable growth, innovation, competitiveness, security, the fight against climate change and the transition to renewable energy and migration, and a particular focus on young people;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Stresses the need for a renewed focus on and resources for combatting plastic pollution in the oceans and Union waters;
Amendment 5 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that the Union fisheries sector is largely concentrated in certain regions which rely heavily on fishing, and that fishing, particularly local inshore fishing, contributes to the socialo-economic and cultural fabric of many coastal, peripheral and outermost regions;
Amendment 12 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Points out that Europe's citizens expect the Union to strain every sinew to ensure economic growth and foster job creation; recalls that meeting those expectations requires investments in research and innovation, education, infrastructure, SMEs and employment, particularly among the young people of Europe, and that any failure in that regard will foster disillusionment with the European ideal; expresses wonderment that the Council yet again proposes cuts to the very programmes that are designed to make the Union economy more competitive and innovative; stresses moreover that many of these programmes, for example Horizon 2020, are heavily oversubscribed, which constitutes a poor use resources and means that many excellent projects do not receive funding; highlights also the fact that programmes such as Erasmus +, Horizon 2020 and the Programme for the Competitiveness of Enterprises and small and medium-sized enterprises (COSME) provide a vivid demonstration of the advantages of working together across the Union and help create a feeling of European belonging; decides therefore to reinforce considerably Erasmus + and to strengthen programmes that contribute to growth and job creation, including Horizon 2020, the components of the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) that are not related to defence spending or furthering our reliance on fossil fuels, and COSME;
Amendment 12 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Notes that the European Maritime & Fisheries Fund in the Multiannual Financial Framework 2021-2027 when compared to the Multiannual Financial Framework 2014-2020 is comparatively 13 % lower in constant figures which indicates a significant cut that will have a detrimental impact on fishermen and their local communities, particularly on FLAGs;
Amendment 18 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Highlights that youth unemployment remains unacceptably high in certain Member States and that the situation of young people in NEET (not in education, employment or training) situations and the long-term unemployed is particularly worrying; stresses that young people are the most at risk of poverty and social and economic exclusion; decides therefore to reinforce the Youth Employment Initiative (YEI) beyond the level proposed by the Commission; stresses that such reinforcement should in no way be seen as a frontloading of the YEI allocation endorsed in the context of the MFF mid-term revision; and urges for making this initiative anemployment plan linked to a social and environmental public plan for Europewhich engages to the Member States to increase the level of absorptionof the funding and create more quality youth employment;
Amendment 20 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Stresses the importance of thefairer monitoring of fishing activities, one of the pillars of the CFP; takes the view that this activity must continue to receive EU funding without negatively impacting funding for progressive programmes and that Member States must step up their efforts to make use of the resources in question;
Amendment 23 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Stresses the importance of maintaining the current level of financing for the European Fisheries Control Agency, so that it can properly carry out its inspection and surveillance tasks in the fisheries sector; calls for the role of the EFCA be enhanced, so that the objectives of the CFP can be achieved and the EFCA itself can step up its activities in the areas of the governance of fishing fleets and the supervision of monitoring proceduresfull sharing of information between SFPAs for the quotas for Member State flagged vessels when they are to conduct fishing activities in a different Member State´s waters to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing;
Amendment 28 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9 a. Calls for the scope of the European Maritime Fisheries Fund to be extended so that it would facilitate the introduction of the principle of a capped Single Boat Payment scheme;
Amendment 30 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Takes the view that Brexit must not be used as a pretext for reducing funding; considers that the European Union must find the resources needed to fund the CFPEuropean Maritime & Fisheries Fund properly.
Amendment 32 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10 a. Stresses the negative impact a "hard" Brexit would have on the trade of seafood products; notes that the sea route for Irish seafood exports to reach mainland Europe takes 26 hours, whereas the landbridge to Europe via Britain takes 12 hours; notes that the landbridge that facilitates Irish exports reaching Union markets in a timely fashion would be adversely impacted due to the implementation of trade controls and barriers; stresses the importance of using financial resources to assist in alleviating the bureaucratic and regulatory impact this would have to maintain market stability and safeguard enterprises, fish producers and processers;
Amendment 41 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Insists that in the light of recent security concerns across the Union, funding under Heading 3 should also pay particular attention to measures which will lead to enhancing security of Union citizens; decides for this reason to reinforce agencies in the field of Justice and Home Affairs which, due to increased workload and additional tasks, have been facing shortage of staff and funding in the past years;highlights the need for reflection on the causes of a lack of economic security for the European population, and its links to the lack of social protection, precarious labour conditions, and inequalities which drive social conflicts.
Amendment 43 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Reiterates that part of the solution to the migratory and refugee crisis as well as to the security concerns of Union citizens lies in addressing the root causes of migration and devoting sufficient financial means to external instruments that aim at tackling issues such as poverty, lack of employment, education and economic opportunities, instability, conflict and climate change; is of the opinion that is of the Uopinion should make optimal use of financial means under Heading 4 wthat Member States should recognize their responsibility for a number ongoing conflicts, and economic exploitation, as well as ending the unethichal proved to be insufficient to equally address all external challengesactice of externalising EU borders to third countries in order to allow for the optimal use of financial means under Heading 4;
Amendment 48 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Regrets that Parliament has not been duly involved in the discussions on the extension of the Facility for Refugees in Turkey (FRT); reiterates its longstanding position that new initiatives must not be financed to the detriment of existing Union external projects; maintains, while recalling its support for the continuation of the FRT, that, given the stretched situation under Heading 4 to respond to external challenges, including migration, the Union budget should contribute to the financing of the second tranche in the same proportion as for the first one, i.e. EUR 1 billion, while the Member States should contribute EUR 2 billion to its financing, provided Turkey complies the Human Rights;
Amendment 49 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12 a. Recalls to the Council and to the Commission that would be more efficient to apply the austerity criteria, to all those wasteful administrative expenses, the unjustified building policy, or the travel expenses of MEPS, in order to bring the EU institutions practices closer to the citizens living standards; the limiting of higher wage scales is required to avoid cuts to staff numbers, which are needed to carry out the important role of the EU;
Amendment 57 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
Amendment 61 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21 a. Raises the necessity of the implementation of a programme for providing economic and social security by establishing a policy of investment aligned with the needs of the working classes; an employment policy based on economic security and social protection and a more sustainable environment;
Amendment 68 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
Amendment 77 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. Reiterates its long-standing conviction that the Heading 3 ceiling has proven vastly insufficient to adequately fund the internal dimension of essential challenges related on the one hand to internal security, and on the other hand to migrationto migration, a lack of funding has been further compounded by the fundamentally flawed approach to migration at the European level;
Amendment 80 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Expects the pressure on some Member States’ migration and asylum systems, as well as on their borders, to remain high in 2019, and is of the opinion that additional funding is needed in the field of migration, also in view of any future, unpredictable needs in this area; reinforcIs of the opinion that additional funding is needed in the field of migration, in order to address the root causes offorced migration that is the result of poverty, climate change and war; calls for a recognition of the EU’s role in these causes of migration; urges the reinforece of the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund as regards supporting legal migration to the Unionmigrant population at risk, safe route and rescue operation policy, and promoting the effective integration of third-country nationals and enhancing fair and effective return strategies, in particular to support Member States in improving integration measures for migrants, especially children and unaccompanied minors;
Amendment 95 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 42
Paragraph 42
42. Believes that promoting peace, security and justice in developing countries are paramount in addressing the root causes of forced migration and corresponding humanitarian challenges in the Southern Neighbourhood; underlines the importance of supporting good governance, democracy, the rule of law and vibrant civil society to effectively combat poverty over the long-term, and address the challenges of the climate change in developing countries; decides therefore to increase resources for the Development and Cooperation Instrument (DCI) and the Southern part of the European Neighbourhood Instrument (ENI) under its various strands, to reflect also the considerable stress under which ENI will continue to be in 2019;
Amendment 140 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 64
Paragraph 64
Amendment 152 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 66 a (new)
Paragraph 66 a (new)
66 a. Observes that a policy of limiting the higher wage scales and other similar expenses might prevent the need for any cuts to staff numbers;
Amendment 160 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 78
Paragraph 78
Amendment 162 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 79
Paragraph 79
Amendment 164 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 80
Paragraph 80
80. Restores the 28 posts + 5 more and related appropriations cut by the Council as it is a moderate staff increase that is justified by the EEAS’s significant new responsibilities, in particular those connected to Brexit (creation of a new Union delegation in London and a new unit in the headquarters), and the adoption of a number of initiatives in the field of security and defence in recent monthsrecalls the importance of the EEAS role in third countries where human rights defenders are at risk.
Amendment 1 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Regrets that the EU has no explicit competence regarding minority issues, but recalls complementing thate minority rights are guaranteedprotection under the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union;
Amendment 8 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Stresses that the EU has a duty to protect minorities and to guarantee their rights; notes that Article 2 of the Lisbon Treaty frames ‘minority protection’ as one of the fundamental values of the EU; further notes that Articles 21 - on non- discrimination - and 22 - on cultural, religious and linguistic diversity - of the Charter of Fundamental Rights acquired legally binding form in the Lisbon Treaty; regrets that there is not at present a comprehensive EU approach on how to address issues in minority protection policy;
Amendment 13 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that, in line with Welcomes the 20the additional protocolnniversary onf the rights of minorities to the European Convention on Human Rights, nentry into force of the Framework Convention for the Protection of National mMinorities are to be considered as groups of persons who reside on the territory of a state, maintain longstanding ties wind the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages, the that state, display distinctive ethnic, cultural, religious or linguistic characteristics, are sufficiently representative, and are motivated by a concern to preserve their common identitywo key treaties of the Council of Europe on minorities rights;
Amendment 21 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Welcomes the development of international standards for resolving national and regional minority issues through a number of legal instruments, such as the Council of Europe Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities and the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages; calls on the Member States to incorporate these standards into their legal systems and to guarantee that persons belonging to a national or regional minority are not discriminated against; and to accelerate all the procedures aiming at the validation of the signatures of the Minority Safe Pack Initiative;1a _________________ 1a 1a • EU Recommendation for the protection and promotion of cultural and linguistic diversity • Funding programmes for small linguistic communities, •The creation of a Language Diversity Centre • The objectives of EU’s regional development funds to include the protection of national minorities and the promotion of cultural and linguistic diversity • Research about the added value of minorities to our societies and Europe • Approximating equality for stateless minorities e.g. Roma • A single European copyright law, so that services and broadcast can be enjoyed in the mother tongue • Freedom of service and reception of audio-visual content in the minority regions • Block exemption of regional (state) support for minority culture, media and cultural heritage conservation.
Amendment 22 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Expresses concern over the fact that multiple forms of discrimination and the segregation of Roma children in education remain a structural and deep- rooted phenomenon in several Member States, contributing to the social exclusion of Roma and reducing their chances of integration in the education system, the labour market and in society as a whole; recalls that the issue of Roma segregation has been subject of a number of recommendations from the Commission and therefore calls on the governments to follow those recommendations and implement effective measures;
Amendment 24 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Calls on the European Commission to establish a common EU framework for regional or minority languages, similar to the EU Framework for National Roma Integration Strategies, to encourage the Member States to develop strategies to improve the participation and representation of minorities in the political, cultural, social and economic life of the societies in which they live;
Amendment 80 #
2018/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H b (new)
Recital H b (new)
Hb. J. whereas the rise of xenophobic violence and hate speech in the European Union, often promoted by far-right forces, affects and specifically targets people belonging to minorities;
Amendment 97 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Recalls that the European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (Council of Europe) Recommendation 7 stipulates that language discrimination is a form of both direct and indirect racism;
Amendment 98 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 b (new)
Paragraph 8 b (new)
8b. Advises that the Donostia Protocol, launched in December 2016, with input from language NGOs from across Europe is a useful standard-setting tool for the protection and promotion of regional or minority languages aimed at ensuring that speakers of European lesser used languages are empowered to live their lives in their language;
Amendment 99 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 c (new)
Paragraph 8 c (new)
8c. Calls on the EU to develop an EU Directive or Regulation that works to substantively promote and protect Europe’s regional or minority languages;
Amendment 100 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 d (new)
Paragraph 8 d (new)
8d. In addition to legislation, calls on the EU to establish a European Languages Commissioner or Ombudsperson who acts to ensure the language rights of regional or minority language speakers;
Amendment 101 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 e (new)
Paragraph 8 e (new)
8e. Calls on those Member States that are yet to ratify the ECRML and FCNM, an obligation under the Copenhagen criteria, to ratify these Treaties immediately;
Amendment 102 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 f (new)
Paragraph 8 f (new)
8f. Calls on the EU to formally link ECRML and FCNM violation and lack of implementation as grounds to trigger the EU infringement proceedings mechanism;
Amendment 103 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 g (new)
Paragraph 8 g (new)
8g. Calls on the EU to ensure that violation of Article 21, discrimination on the grounds of language, of the Charter of Fundamental Rights, acts to trigger infringement proceedings;
Amendment 104 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 h (new)
Paragraph 8 h (new)
8h. Calls on the EU to include ‘language’ as a ground for discrimination under Article 10 of the TFEU;
Amendment 105 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 i (new)
Paragraph 8 i (new)
8i. Insists that the EU recognises language discrimination as a violation of human rights which undermines European values; calls on the Fundamental Rights Agency to start dealing in its work programme with anti- regional or minority language discrimination;
Amendment 106 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 j (new)
Paragraph 8 j (new)
8j. Calls of the EU Establish a European Framework Strategy for regional or minority languages similar to the Roma Framework Strategy.
Amendment 107 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 k (new)
Paragraph 8 k (new)
8k. Expresses deep concern on the rise of extremism and xenophobia in Europe, in this context, the protection of European minorities’ rights must be considered a priority;
Amendment 108 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 l (new)
Paragraph 8 l (new)
8l. Highlights that the protection of minorities as part of the world’s cultural and linguistic diversity, is essential to stability, democracy and peace in Europe;
Amendment 109 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 m (new)
Paragraph 8 m (new)
8m. Recalls that mother-tongue education is essential for upholding language rights; encourages the Member States, therefore, to ensure that persons belonging to regional ethnic minorities have adequate opportunities to learn their languages and even to receive education in these languages at all levels of education in the territories in which they live;
Amendment 110 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 n (new)
Paragraph 8 n (new)
8n. Calls on the Member States to provide funding for the development of special curricula, methodologies and textbooks to ensure effective teaching in minority languages and of special teaching methodologies for official languages for children with minority language backgrounds;
Amendment 111 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 o (new)
Paragraph 8 o (new)
8o. Recalls that the media should reflect the plurality of the population and respect the principle of non- discrimination and that state regulation of broadcast media should in no way restrict minority rights;
Amendment 112 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 p (new)
Paragraph 8 p (new)
8p. Welcomes the success of the Minority Safe Pack Initiative, as referred in art 11(4) TUE, supported by 1,215,789 European citizens asking the EU a legislative framework for protecting minority rights through 9 legislatives acts;
Amendment 113 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 q (new)
Paragraph 8 q (new)
8q. Urges the Commission to present the legislative proposals in accordance with the Minority Safepack initiative, without undue delay, when the certificate of validity of the signatures sent by Member States has been received;
Amendment 114 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 r (new)
Paragraph 8 r (new)
8r. Recalls that human rights are universal and that no minority should suffer discrimination; emphasises that minority rights are an inalienable part of the principle of the rule of law; notes that there is a higher risk of violation of rights of minorities when the rule of law is not respected;
Amendment 115 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 s (new)
Paragraph 8 s (new)
8s. Believes that the EU infringement procedure under article 7 (TEU) should be used in case of a clear risk of a serious and persistent breach of the values set out in article2 (TEU) by a Member States;
Amendment 116 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 t (new)
Paragraph 8 t (new)
8t. Stresses that the protection and strengthening of cultural heritage related to national minorities in the Member States – a key component of the cultural identity of communities, groups and individuals – plays a crucial role in social cohesion;
Amendment 117 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 u (new)
Paragraph 8 u (new)
8u. Considers that Member States should consistently uphold the rights of minorities and periodically assess whether those rights are being respected;
Amendment 118 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 v (new)
Paragraph 8 v (new)
8v. Deplores the fact that persons belonging to minorities still encounter obstacles in ensuring respect for their fundamental rights and remain victims of hate speech and hate crimes;
Amendment 119 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 w (new)
Paragraph 8 w (new)
8w. Emphasises the role of the EU institutions in raising awareness of the issues related to the protection of minorities and encouraging and supporting the Member States in promoting cultural diversity and tolerance, especially through education;
Amendment 120 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 x (new)
Paragraph 8 x (new)
8x. Stresses that the development of any cultural heritage policy should be inclusive, community based and participatory, involving consultation and dialogue with the minority communities concerned;
Amendment 121 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 y (new)
Paragraph 8 y (new)
8y. Notes that the EU lacks effective tools to monitor respect for minority rights; calls for effective EU-wide monitoring of the situation of autochthonous and linguistic minorities; considers that the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights should carryout enhanced monitoring of discrimination against national minorities in Member States;
Amendment 122 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 z (new)
Paragraph 8 z (new)
8z. Encourages the Member States to ensure that the right to use a minority language is upheld and to protect linguistic diversity within the Union in accordance with the EU Treaties;
Amendment 123 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a a (new)
Paragraph 8 a a (new)
8aa. Believes that linguistic rights must be respected in communities where there is more than one official language, without limiting the rights of one compared with another, in line with the constitutional order of each Member State;
Amendment 124 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph null (new)
Paragraph null (new)
Calls on the Commission to strengthen the promotion of the teaching and use of regional and minority languages, as a potential way of tackling language discrimination in the EU;
Amendment 125 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph null (new)
Paragraph null (new)
Encourages the Commission to take more resolute steps to combat LGBTI discrimination and homophobia, including concrete legislative measures, while respecting the competences of Member States; recommends monitoring LGBTI rights and providing clear and accessible information on the recognition of cross-border rights for LGBTI persons and their families in the EU; considers that Member States should duly invest in providing targeted education at different stages in order to prevent bullying and combat homophobia in a structured manner;
Amendment 126 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph null (new)
Paragraph null (new)
Condemns the instances of discrimination, segregation, hate speech, hate crime and social exclusion experienced by Roma people; condemns the continuous discrimination against Roma people in access to housing, health care, education and the labour market; recalls that all European citizens should receive equal assistance and protection regardless of their ethnic origin;
Amendment 127 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph null (new)
Paragraph null (new)
Calls on the Commission and the Member States to collect reliable and comparable data on equality in consultation with minority representatives in order to measure inequalities and discrimination;
Amendment 128 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph null (new)
Paragraph null (new)
Calls on the Member States to exchange good practice and to apply tried and tested solutions in addressing the problems faced by minorities throughout the European Union;
Amendment 129 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph null (new)
Paragraph null (new)
Insists on the importance of pursuing equality policies that enable all ethnic, cultural and religious minorities to enjoy their fundamental rights uncontested;
Amendment 130 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph null (new)
Paragraph null (new)
Urges the Member States to give proper consideration to minority rights, to ensure the right to use a minority language and to protect linguistic diversity within the Union; calls on the Commission to strengthen its plan to promote the teaching and use of regional languages, as a potential way of tackling language discrimination in the EU;
Amendment 131 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a i (new)
Paragraph 8 a i (new)
Amendment 132 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a j (new)
Paragraph 8 a j (new)
8aj. Calls on the Commission and Member States to invest in the development of qualitative teaching material in minority languages for all educational levels; recognizes that it is vital for providers of regional and minority language education to have access to up-to-date and high-quality;
Amendment 133 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a k (new)
Paragraph 8 a k (new)
8ak. Calls on Member States promote stable relationships between countries, especially in border regions where more than one language is spoken;
Amendment 134 #
2018/2036(INI)
Asks the Commission and Member States to develop an international reward system which stimulates teachers to become proficient in teaching in a multilingual classroom; The European Union should create a framework in which teachers are stimulated to undertake activities that expand their expertise in teaching (in)a regional or minority language;
Amendment 135 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph null (new)
Paragraph null (new)
Asks the EU and Member States to raise awareness for multilingualism throughout Europe;
Amendment 136 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph null (new)
Paragraph null (new)
Encourages Member States to ratify the ECRML and to adopt the corresponding measures that come with it. This is in line with the recommendation made in NPLD’s Roadmap to Linguistic Diversity (2015).
Amendment 137 #
2018/2036(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a o (new)
Paragraph 8 a o (new)
8ao. Encourages Member States to provide a continuous learning line for minority languages from pre-primary education to third-level education; calls on the EU to collaborate with Member States to facilitate the continuation of minority language learning throughout all educational levels.
Amendment 4 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas lost andit is estimated that 80% of marine debris is plastic and that discarded or lost fishing gear constitutes the bulkis one of the many sources of marine plastic litter;
Amendment 10 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas the majority of marine litter is of land-based origin1b and thus solutions to tackling marine plastic cannot be isolated from the overall plastics strategy; __________________ 1b Report: ´Plastics in the Marine Environment´, June 2016
Amendment 11 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A b (new)
Recital A b (new)
Ab. whereas eight million metric tons1aa of plastic waste enter the oceans from land each year; __________________ 1aaReport: ‘A global inventory of small floating plastic debris´, 8 December 2015
Amendment 12 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A c (new)
Recital A c (new)
Ac. whereas 94%1ac of the plastic that enters the ocean ends up on the sea floor; __________________ 1ac Report: ´Plastics in the Marine Environment´, June 2016
Amendment 24 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas discarded plastic releasparticles into the water absorb toxic compounds thatand are then ingested and that can poison and kill fish, turtles, marine mammals and seabirds;by fish, turtles, marine mammals and birds, thereby adversely affecting their health and human health by entering the food chain; whereas it is estimated that 90% of seabirds in Europe and 73% of deep sea fish1a have ingested plastic in their stomachs; __________________ 1aReport: ‘Frequency of Microplastics in Mesopelagic Fishes from the Northwest Atlantic´, 19 February 2018
Amendment 38 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas on 16 January 2018 Parliament adopted a resolution on international ocean governance: an agenda for the future of our oceans in the context of the 2030 SDGs1 which called for high ambition in the Strategy on Plastics and insisted on binding measures in order to adequately tackle the problem of marine litter at source; __________________ 1 Texts adopted, P8_TA(2018)0004.
Amendment 39 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. whereas many fishermen, anglers, grassroots and community organisations currently carry out and participate in clean ups with no financial assistances and are invaluable actors in tackling the plastic problem and highlighting its gravity; whereas local fishermen are stewards of the seas and are important actors in tackling marine plastics through fishing-for-litter schemes and should be encouraged to avail of financial assistance for environmental protection and protecting local fish stocks;
Amendment 44 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital D b (new)
Recital D b (new)
Db. whereas plastics have an adverse impact on seafood quality and safety; Recognizes that data and knowledge gaps exist for risks of small microplastics and nanoplastics in seafood, and consider applying risk analysis approaches;
Amendment 49 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
Ea. whereas there is considerable consumer-confusion related to plastic terminology, particularly around biodegradable, bioplastic and bio-based plastics, and that education on plastics and clear information from plastic producers is critical to delivering on the plastics strategy;
Amendment 50 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital E b (new)
Recital E b (new)
Eb. whereas the European Commission has proposed a non-binding target of reducing marine litter by 30% by 2020 for the ten most common types of litter found on beaches, as well as for fishing gear found at sea; Whereas voluntary measures are insufficient in tackling the current crisis in marine plastics;
Amendment 51 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital E c (new)
Recital E c (new)
Ec. whereas the occurrence and impacts of microplastics in fisheries and aquaculture need to be comprehensively studied;
Amendment 54 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to implementntroduce a port reception scheme for end-of-life nets and to use the recommendations of the Best Practice Framework for the Management of Fishing Gear, liaising closely with the fishing sector to fight ghost fishing; invites the Commission to assess the environmental impact and the viability of using biodegradable fishing nets;
Amendment 64 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Stresses that tackling marine litter requires a whole series of interlinked and ambitious multilevel actions and that reduction in overall plastic use must be the priority of the plastics strategy;
Amendment 74 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to support the use of innovative fishing gear by encouraging fishermen to ‘trade in’ old nets and to adapt existing nets with net trackers and sensors linked to smart phone apps, radio frequency identification chips and vessel ‘creepers’ so that skippers can keep more accurate track of their nets and retrieve them if necessary; acknowledges the role that technology can play as one of many actions in tackling marine plastics;
Amendment 79 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Calls on the Commission and Member States to incentivize and assist fishermen and manufacturers to diversify away from using synthetic or plastic gears to use gears that are sustainably sourced and made exclusively from natural materials and fibres; Emphasizing the role cottage industries play in the circular economy, notes the traditional and historical role that the production and maintenance of non-synthetic gears has in fields such as net mending;
Amendment 88 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to establish and implement an EU-wide mandatory digital reporting system for gear lost by individual fishing vessels in support of recovery action, using data from regional databases, to share information on the Global Ghost Gear Initiative data portal and to develop SafeSeaNet into a user- friendly, EU-wide system, allowing fishermen to signal lost gear;
Amendment 90 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Notes the difficulties associated to identifying all sources of marine litter as well as the necessity for reliable data for identifying sources and pathways for marine litter; Calls on the Commission and Member States to enhance data collection in the area of marine plastics, plastic products placed on the market, and the chemical additives used in plastic products that can hinder recycling;
Amendment 105 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Calls on the Commission and Member States to acknowledge and differentiate in policy and regulation that fishermen who tend to be smaller scale not only have a high social and economic value within the circular economy, particularly in their communities, but also have a lower environmental impact in comparison with industrial fisheries, merchant shipping such as heavy freight and oil, and passenger ships such as ocean liners and cruise liners; Recognizes responsibilities of contributors to microplastic contamination from industry, sewage, transport, etc.
Amendment 109 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Calls on the Commission and Member States to ban the use of microplastics in their expected legislative measures and not simply restrict their use as microplastics have been scientifically proven to be not only detrimental to fish stocks, biodiversity and its natural processes and interactions, but also human health;
Amendment 114 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. Calls on the Commission and Member States to facilitate and promote cost-effective and well-targeted monitoring of microplastics in the environment, biota and seafood products (market sampling)and promote capacity building and implementation of best practices in monitoring and the review of microplastics contamination of seafood and microplastics contamination effects on fish resources;
Amendment 118 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 c (new)
Paragraph 4 c (new)
4c. Calls on the Commission and Member States to adopt food safety risk analysis frameworks to evaluate hazards and risks to consumers of seafood contaminated with microplastics and to determine decisions and measures to ensure effective consumer protection and viable seafood trade;
Amendment 119 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 e (new)
Paragraph 4 e (new)
4e. Calls on the Commission and Member States to develop and promote the most appropriate approaches for monitoring microplastic contamination levels in commercial fish resources and the impacts of microplastic contamination on fish and fisheries products; Strengthening and harmonizing analytical methods used for detection and quantification of microplastics and nanoplastics, and ensure appropriate risk based interpretation of results;
Amendment 120 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 f (new)
Paragraph 4 f (new)
4f. Stresses the urgent need to communicate actively and adequately about hazards and risk management of microplastic contamination of seafood to the general public, food safety and consumer protection authorities, fisheries and aquaculture agencies as well as to the seafood industry;
Amendment 121 #
2018/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 g (new)
Paragraph 4 g (new)
4g. Calls for cooperation between Member States, national and regional authorities, industry and stakeholders concerned with effects of microplastic and nanoplastic contamination and pollution impacts in fisheries, aquaculture and seafood supply chains;
Amendment 72 #
2018/2028(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Recommends that in order to raise the profile of language technologies in Europe, the Commission should allocate the area of multilingualism to the portfolio of a Commissioner, given the importance of linguistic diversity for the future of Europe; calls for a Commissioner to be tasked with ensuring the delivery of linguistic diversity and equality throughout Europe;
Amendment 17 #
2018/2024(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. CommendNotes the role of the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) in reducing the investment gap in the EU; calls for reinforcement of the social dimension of EFSI deployment such as in education and training, developing the creative and cultural industries, innovation in healthcare and medicine, and social services, social housing and childcare, and environmental protection and infrastructure; regrets that the EFSI does not ensure that funds will be invested in countries with the greatest needs; reiterates its longstanding position that any new initiatives within the MFF must be financed by new appropriations and not to the detriment of the existing programmes; reiterates also that the cuts made to Horizon 2020 and CEF to finance the extension of EFSI should be reversed in the 2019 budget;
Amendment 25 #
2018/2024(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Notes the commitment to a renewed EU defence agendaOpposes in all regards the unprecedented militarization of the EU, namely through the agreement on the European Defence Industrial Development Programme (EDIDP), as a first stage of the European Defence Fund; believes that this shared commitment will contribute to achieving economies of scale and greater coordination among Member States and businesses, allowing the EU to retain its strategic arecalls that Article 41 (2) of the Treaty on European Union (TEU) prohibits ‘expenditure arising from operations having military or defence implications’ from being charged to the EU budget; urges disarmament, conflict resolutionomy, and become a genuine world playerthe promotion of peace and stability;
Amendment 31 #
2018/2024(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Remains committed to the fight against unemployment and against youth unemployment in particular; believes in this respect that the YEI should be further strengthened, in spite of the complexities involved in reprogramming YEI and ESF programmes in case of modifications of the YEI envelope; recognizes that youth unemployment has not been adequately addressed across the EU with youth unemployment still higher than 2007 levels, particularly in the eurozone area;
Amendment 33 #
2018/2024(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 – point 1 (new)
Paragraph 5 – point 1 (new)
(1) Stresses the importance of inclusivity and calls for sign language interpretation to be brought into the European Parliament's plenary;
Amendment 34 #
2018/2024(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Stresses the importance of inclusion for migrants and refugees and how providing them equal access to education, training, apprenticeships in their new state of residence, along with access to the unique culture in their new state of residence, helps them to feel welcome, integrate and resettle;
Amendment 35 #
2018/2024(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Recognises the social value of both natural and cultural heritage and the benefit of harnessing their potential as an economic driver;
Amendment 36 #
2018/2024(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
5c. Calls for a greater emphasis on quality traineeships, apprenticeships and increased participation by young Europeans in the policy-making processes;
Amendment 37 #
2018/2024(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 d (new)
Paragraph 5 d (new)
5d. Highlights the importance of having proper monitoring and controls for any EU-supported internship programme. This must include pre- placement checks and consultation with trade unions where a collective agreement exists, to prevent displacement of paid work and ensure meaningful employment-enhancing training;
Amendment 38 #
2018/2024(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 e (new)
Paragraph 5 e (new)
5e. Stresses the importance of addressing social exclusion and including persons from disadvantaged backgrounds to ensure they have full and equal access to both culture and education;
Amendment 43 #
2018/2024(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10 a. Calls on the Commission to address the systematic overestimation of climate spending highlighted by the European Court of Auditors 2016 special report1a ; recognizes that continue overestimation can be addressed to a significant extent by moving away from the Commission's customized categorization framework for activities and adopting the categorization framework used by the OECD- Development Assistance Committee; _________________ 1a Spending at least one euro in every five from the EU budget on climate action: ambitious work underway, but at serious risk of falling short, 2016 pp 22-24
Amendment 6 #
2018/2012(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Is aware that there is a huge demand for people with skills in IT across the different regions, while there is a skills mismatch from those dismissed by Ericsson and labour market requirements; acknowledges thatis, concerned however by the fact that such lay-offs many people with the same skills are being made redundant at the same time, in the same geographical areasfurther compound the unemployment situation that the regions in question have been facing since the onset of the economic and financial crisis and of the Ericsson deployment in Asia;
Amendment 10 #
2018/2012(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Recalls the diversity of employees, both blue- and white-collar, affected by the redundancies; and is concerned that some workers face a labour market with rather low demand in traditional manufacturing industries; acknowledges the opportunities for these workers in the public or private sector service industries, which would require major retraining efforts; underlines further that globalisation adjustment funds would have a stronger long-term impact if they strengthened large-scale public investment plans ;
Amendment 11 #
2018/2012(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Stresses that a serious policy of preventing and pre-empting restructurings should be given priority over any use of the EGF; is convinced that a coherent Union-wide strategy would reduce the risk of relocation and create an environment conducive to the return of industrial production to the Union; stresses also the importance of a genuine industrial policy at Union level to bring about sustainable and inclusive growth;
Amendment 12 #
2018/2012(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Notes that the application relates to 2388 workers made redundant by Ericsson, of whom 900 will be targeted by the proposed measures; points to the fact that more than 30 % of this group are in the age category of 55–64 years with skills specific to the telecoms hardware industry, which are outdated for the current job market, and they are therefore in a disadvantaged position to return to it and in a risk of long- term unemployment; welcomes, therefore, the "Measures for Disadvantaged Groups" focus of the project ;
Amendment 17 #
2018/2012(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. AcknowledgesWelcomes the fact that the coordinated package of personalised services has been drawn up in consultation with the targeted beneficiaries and their representatives as well as local public actors; points out that strong social dialogue based on mutual trust and shared responsibility is the best tool with which to seek consensual solutions and common outlooks when predicting, preventing and managing restructuring processes; stresses that that could help prevent job losses and, therefore, new EGF cases;
Amendment 19 #
2018/2012(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10 a. Points out that the coordinated package of personalised services benefiting from the EGF should be targeted, in terms of its design, to initiatives conducive to employment, to the upskilling of workers and to making the most of their employment history so as to reach out to the business community, including cooperatives, and should be coordinated with existing Union programmes, including the European Social Fund;
Amendment 5 #
2018/2005(INI)
Draft opinion
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
– having regard to the UNESCO Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property and the 1995 UNIDROIT Convention on Stolen or Illegally Exported Cultural Objects;
Amendment 14 #
2018/2005(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the EU has the right to adopt policies on trade in cultural and audiovisual services with the aim of protecting and promoting the diversity of cultural expressions as well as cultural heritage;
Amendment 36 #
2018/2005(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
Ea. whereas the European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018 also includes the fight against illicit trade in cultural goods;
Amendment 38 #
2018/2005(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital E b (new)
Recital E b (new)
Eb. whereas the harnessing globalisation in trade aspects concerning cultural goods implies strict compliance with all international conventions on the protection of the cultural heritage in particular with the provisions of the 1954 Hague Convention, the 1970 UNESCO Convention and the Convention of the UNIDROIT of 1995;
Amendment 23 #
2018/0304(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6 a (new)
Recital 6 a (new)
(6a) Whereas shark fishing is not currently monitored as a fishery and therefore accurate stock assessments have not been completed. The precautionary principle should be applied and that a protective accidental bycatch for immediate alive release be written into regulations until a scientifically reliable ICES stock assessment of sharks, particularly in Union waters has been presented to the Council and Commission.
Amendment 25 #
2018/0304(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9 a (new)
Recital 9 a (new)
(9a) Considers that all Union legislation must not permit the act of shark finning, especially the partial or full removal of fins from living sharks and other elasmobranch species.
Amendment 26 #
2018/0304(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9 b (new)
Recital 9 b (new)
Amendment 27 #
2018/0304(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9 c (new)
Recital 9 c (new)
(9c) Notes that current regulation highlights the "at risk" status of elasmobranch species such as sharks and rays, and according to findings by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, that shark populations and hence marine ecosystems are seriously threatened.
Amendment 28 #
2018/0304(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9 d (new)
Recital 9 d (new)
(9d) Notes that under Union regulation, special permits can be issued by Member States to allow sharks to be processed at sea and that control and enforcement measures to prevent IUU fishing in this context has been inadequate.
Amendment 29 #
2018/0304(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9 e (new)
Recital 9 e (new)
(9e) Notes the necessity for the implementation of the Scientific, Technical and Economic committee for Fisheries (STECF) recommendations for the end to the act of shark finning at sea, or the storage of removed fins, and that all elasmobranch species caught should be landed with all their fins naturally attached.
Amendment 31 #
2018/0304(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 10
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 10
(10) ‘EFCA’ is the European Fisheries Control Agency as established by Council Regulation (EC) 768/200512 ; ‘Shark finning´ is the partial or full removal or slicing of fins off living sharks. _________________ 12 Council Regulation (EC) No 768/2005 of 26 April 2005 establishing a Community Fisheries Control Agency and amending Regulation (EEC) No 2847/93 establishing a control system applicable to the common fisheries policy (OJ L 128, 21.5.2005, p.1).
Amendment 49 #
2018/0304(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – title
Article 12 – title
Conservation and management of sharks and elasmobranch species
Amendment 50 #
2018/0304(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 12 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) prohibit the removal of shark fins on-boardpartial and full removal of fins of living shark and elasmobranch species by vessels at sea;
Amendment 51 #
2018/0304(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 2
Article 12 – paragraph 2
2. Without prejudice to paragraph 1, in order to facilitate on-board storage, fins of non-living shark fins may be partially sliced through and folded against the carcass.
Amendment 52 #
2018/0304(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 4
Article 12 – paragraph 4
4. In fisheries that are not directed at sharks, each Member State shall encouragesure that every vessel entitled to fly its flag to releases sharks alive, and especially juveniles, that are not intended for use as food or subsistence.
Amendment 53 #
2018/0304(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 5 – introductory part
Article 12 – paragraph 5 – introductory part
5. Member States shall, where possible:
Amendment 54 #
2018/0304(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 5 – point a
Article 12 – paragraph 5 – point a
(a) undertake research to identify ways to make fishing gear more selective for the protection of sharks and elasmobranch species;
Amendment 55 #
2018/0304(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 5 – point b
Article 12 – paragraph 5 – point b
(b) conduct research on key biological and ecological parameters, life-history, behavioural traits and migration patterns, as well as on the identification of potential mapping, pupping and nursery grounds of key shark and elasmobranch species.
Amendment 86 #
2018/0304(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 27 – paragraph 1
Article 27 – paragraph 1
1. Subject to Article 28(1) and (2) of this Regulation every fishing vessel shall at all times in the Regulatory Area carry at least onetwo independent and impartial observers.
Amendment 88 #
2018/0304(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 27 – paragraph 3 – point e a (new)
Article 27 – paragraph 3 – point e a (new)
(ea) monitor the processing and storage facilities;
Amendment 90 #
2018/0304(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 27 – paragraph 4
Article 27 – paragraph 4
4. Each vessel shall provide to the observers food and accommodation of a standard no less than that provided to the crew.
Amendment 91 #
2018/0304(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 27 – paragraph 5
Article 27 – paragraph 5
5. The master shall extend such co- operation and assistance as mayshall be required to enable the observer to carry out his duties. Such cooperation shall include providing the observer with such access as mayshall be required to the catch retained onboard, including such catch as the vessel may or shall intend to discard.
Amendment 97 #
2018/0304(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 32 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 32 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Each Member State shall ensure that for an inspection, at sea or on land, conducted under the Scheme, its inspectors:
Amendment 100 #
2018/0304(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 32 – paragraph 1 – point g – point ii a (new)
Article 32 – paragraph 1 – point g – point ii a (new)
(iia) where the inspector estimates that there is an issue with gears and other technical equipment on-board;
Amendment 48 #
2018/0254(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4
Article 4
Amendment 8 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) In its conclusions of 19 October 2017, the European Council reaffirmed the need to pursue a comprehensive, pragmatic and resolute approach to migration management that aims to restore control of external borders and reduce irregular arrivals andand reduce the number of deaths at sea, and should be based on a flexible and coordinated use of all available Union and Member State instruments. The European Council further called to ensure significantly enhanced returns through actions at both EU and Member States level, such as effective readmission agreements and arrangements.
Amendment 14 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20
Recital 20
Amendment 17 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 22
Recital 22
Amendment 20 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 24
Recital 24
Amendment 21 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 25
Recital 25
Amendment 25 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 32
Recital 32
(32) A Member State may be deemed not to be compliant with the relevant Union acquis, including as regards the use of operating support under this Fund, if it has failed to fulfil its obligations under the Treaties in the area of asylum and return, if there is a clear risk of a serious breach by the Member State of the Union’s values when implementing the acquis on asylum and return or if an evaluation report under the Schengen or the European Union Agency for Asylum evaluation and monitoring mechanism has identified deficiencies in the relevant area.
Amendment 26 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 33
Recital 33
(33) The Fund should reflect the need for increased transparency, flexibility and simplification while respecting requirements in terms of predictability, and ensuring a fair and transparent distribution of resources to meet the policy and specific objectives laid down in this Regulation.
Amendment 27 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 34
Recital 34
(34) This Regulation should establish the initial amounts to Member States consisting of a fixed amount and an amount calculated on the basis of criteria laid down in Annex I, which reflect the needs and pressure experienced by different Member States in the areas of asylum, integration and returlegal migration.
Amendment 29 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 35
Recital 35
(35) These initial amounts should form a basis for Member States’ long-term investments. To take account of changes in migration flows and to address needs in the management of asylum and reception systems and integration of legally staying third-country nationals, and counter irregular migration through efficient and sustainable return policy, an additional amount should be allocated to the Member States at mid-term taking into account the absorption rates. This amount should be based on the latest available statistical data as set out in Annex I to reflect the changes in the baseline situation of Member States.
Amendment 31 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 40
Recital 40
(40) The Fund should contribute to supporting operating costs related to asylum and return and enable Member States to maintain capabilities which are crucial for that service for the Union as a whole. Such support consists of full reimbursement of specific costs related to the objectives under the Fund and should form an integral part of the Member States’ programmes.
Amendment 34 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c
Amendment 37 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 (new)
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 (new)
A reasonable minimum percentage of funding shall be allocated to civil society organizations and local authorities.
Amendment 38 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 1
Article 12 – paragraph 1
1. The contribution from the Union budget shall not exceed 7580 % of the total eligible expenditure of a project. Member States are encouraged to provide matching funds for activities supported by the fund.
Amendment 39 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 7
Article 13 – paragraph 7
7. Member States shall in particular pursue the actions eligible for higher co- financing as listed in Annex IV. In the event of unforeseen or new circumstances or in order to ensure the effective implementation of funding, the Commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 32 to amend the list of actions eligible for higher co-financing as listed in Annex IV.
Amendment 41 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 4
Article 17 – paragraph 4
Amendment 42 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 18 – paragraph 6
Article 18 – paragraph 6
Amendment 43 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 25
Article 25
Amendment 45 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 30 – paragraph 1
Article 30 – paragraph 1
1. By 15 February 2023 and by the same date of each subsequent year up to and including 2031, Member States shall submit to the Commission the annual performance report as referred to in Article 36(6) of Regulation (EU)…/2021 [Common Provisions Regulation]. The report submitted in 2023 shall cover the implementation of the programme in the period to 30 June 2022. Member States shall publish these reports on the dedicated website of the Managing Authority as stipulated in Article 44 of the Common Provision Regulation. The Commission shall make annual performance reports available on a dedicated webpage.
Amendment 47 #
Amendment 48 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – point 1 – point b – indent 2
Annex I – point 1 – point b – indent 2
– 350 % for legal migration and integration;
Amendment 49 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – point 1 – point b – indent 3
Annex I – point 1 – point b – indent 3
Amendment 51 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – point 4
Annex I – point 4
Amendment 53 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – point 3 – point b
Annex II – point 3 – point b
Amendment 54 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – point 3 – point d
Annex II – point 3 – point d
Amendment 55 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex III – point 1 – point a
Annex III – point 1 – point a
(a) the establishment and development of national strategies in asylum, legal migration, and integration, return and irregular migration;
Amendment 57 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex III – point 1 – point f
Annex III – point 1 – point f
(f) actions aimed at enhancing awareness of asylum, integration, legal migration and return policies among stakeholders and the general public;
Amendment 61 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex V – part 3
Annex V – part 3
Amendment 62 #
2018/0248(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex VIII – part 3
Annex VIII – part 3
Amendment 142 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) With 1.8% of EU GDP, down from 2.2% in 2009, infrastructure investment activities in the Union in 2016 were about 20% below investment rates before the global financial crisis. Thus, while a recovery in investment-to-GDP ratios in the Union can be observed, it remains below what might be expected in a strong recovery period and is insufficient to compensate years of underinvestment. According to the most recent data on national accounts, there no indication of a significant surge in investment since the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) was launched, while growth is unevenly distributed among Member States and mainly export led. More importantly, the current investment levels and forecasts do not cover the Union’s structural investment needs in the face of technological change and global competitiveness, including for innovation, skills, infrastructure, small and medium- sized enterprises ('SMEs') and the need to address key societal challenges such as sustainability or population ageing. Consequently, continued support is necessary to address market failures and sub-optimal investment situations to reduce the investment gap in targeted sectors to achieve the Union's policy objectives.
Amendment 146 #
2018/0229(COD)
(1a) Acknowledges that one of the main barrier to business investment is the lack of demand resulting from austerity measures, that provoked a sharp drop in workers’ disposable income and in public consumption and investment; believes that only an increase in workers’ income and ambitious public investment will be able to avoid risks of continued weak growth, or even recession, and continuing high unemployment rates; urges to an immediate reverse of the austerity measures, repeal the budget deficit and public debt limits and create a broad public investment plan;
Amendment 151 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) In the last years, the Union has adopted ambitious strategies to complete the Single Market and to stimulate sustainable growth and jobs, such as the Capital Markets Union, the Digital Single Market Strategy, the Clean Energy for all Europeans package, the Union Action Plan for the Circular Economy, the Low- Emission Mobility Strategy, the Defence and the Space Strategy for Europe with limited results in tackling regional and social inequalities. The InvestEU Fund should exploit and reinforce synergies between those mutually reinforcing strategies through providing support to investment and access to financing.
Amendment 157 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) At Union level, the European Semester of economic policy coordination is the framework to identify national reform priorities and monitor their implementation. Member States develop their own national multiannual investment strategies in support of those reform priorities. The strategies should be presented alongside the yearly National Reform Programmes as a way to outline and coordinate priority investment projects to be supported by national or Union funding, or by both. Theyse strategies should also serve to use Union funding in a coherent manner and to maximise the added value of the financial support to be received notably from the European Structural and Investment Funds, the European Investment Stabilisation Function and the InvestEU Fund, where relevant.
Amendment 159 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) The InvestEU Fund should contribute to improving the competitiveness of the Union, including in the field of innovation and digitisation, the sustainability of the Union's economic growth, the social resilience and inclusiveness and the integration of the Union capital markets, including solutions addressing their fragmentation and diversifying sources of financing for the Union enterprisbe geared to social, economic and territorial cohesion and be capable of helping to increase aggregate demand and carry out investment in public infrastructure, which may subsequently leverage and boost private investment. Only a plan of this nature can be effective in reviving growth, fighting unemployment and combating inequalities. To that end, it should supportfavour projects that are technically and economically viable by providing a framework for the use of debt, risk sharing and equity instruments underpinned by a guarantee from the Union's budget and by contributions from implementing partners. It should be demand-driven while support under the InvestEU Fund should at the same time focus on contributing to meeting policy objectives of the Union. and to encourage social and regional cohesion through the creation of quality jobs and the broadening and improvement of the productive base of Member States, especially those facing severe economic imbalances, suffering from austerity measures and undergoing violent structural adjustments;
Amendment 177 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The InvestEU Fund should support investments in tangible and intangible assets, including cultural heritage and tourism to foster growth, investment and employment, and thereby contributing to improved well-being and fairer income distribution in the Union. Intervention through the InvestEU Fund should complement Union support delivered through grants.
Amendment 179 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6 a (new)
Recital 6 a (new)
(6a) Additionality, a key feature of the EFSI, should be strengthened in the InvestEU selection criteria. In particular, operations should only be eligible if they address clearly identified market failures or sub-optimal investment situations. InvestEU should not support public- private in infrastructure, given that these are in general more expensive for taxpayers and consumers.
Amendment 206 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) Low infrastructure investment rates in the Union during the financial crisis along with recessive economic policies and further cuts to public investments, undermined the Union's ability to boost sustainable growth, competitiveness and convergence. Sizeable investments in the European infrastructure are fundamental to meet the Union's social standards for employment, inequalities and sustainability targets, including the 2030 energy and climate targets as well as the Paris Agreement goals. Accordingly, support from the InvestEU Fund should target investments into transport, insularity, energy, including energy efficiency and renewable energy, environmental, climate action, maritime and digital infrastructure. To ensure the maximum public control and transparency on those targets, the process should embody maximum transparency and accountability standards. To maximise the impact and the value added of Union financing support, it is appropriate to promote a streamlined investment process enabling visibility of the project pipeline and consistency across relevant Union programmes. Bearing in mind security threats, investment projects receiving Union support should take into account principles for the protection of citizens in public spaces. This should be complementary to the efforts made by other Union funds such as the European Regional Development Fund providing support for security components of investments in public spaces, transport, energy and other critical infrastructure.
Amendment 217 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a crucial role in the Union. However, they face challenges when accessing finance because of their perceived high risk and lack of sufficient collateral. Additional challenges arise from SMEs' needthe need of SMEs and social economy enterprises, to stay competitive by engaging in digitisation, internationalisation and innovation activities and skilling up their workforce. Moreover, compared to larger enterprises, they have access to a more limited set of financing sources: they typically do not issue bonds, have only limited access to stock exchanges or large institutional investors. The challenge in accessing finance is even greater for those SMEs whose activities focus on intangible assets. SMEs in the Union rely heavily on banks and debt financing in the form of bank overdrafts, bank loans or leasing. Supporting SMEs that face the above challenges and providing more diversified sources of funding is necessary for increasing the ability of SMEs to finance their creation, growth and development, withstand economic downturns, and for making the economy and the financial system more resilient during economic downturn or shocks. This is also complementary to the initiatives alread and capable of creating quality uandertaken in the context of the Capital Markets Union long-term jobs and social prosperity. Particular attention should be paid to social enterprises. The InvestEU Fund should provide an opportunity to focus on specific, more targeted financial products.
Amendment 227 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
Amendment 237 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20
Recital 20
Amendment 252 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 24
Recital 24
(24) The EU guarantee underpinning the InvestEU Fund should be implemented indirectly by the Commission relying on implementing partners with outreach to final recipients. A guarantee agreement allocating guarantee capacity from the InvestEU Fund should be concluded by the Commission with each implementing partner, to support its financing and investment operations meeting the InvestEU Fund objectives and eligibility criteria. TIn order to improve transparency, efficiency, accountability and ensure the appropriate use of the EU guarantee, the InvestEU Fund should be provided with a specific governance structure to ensure the appropriate use of the EU guarantee, completely separate from that of the EIB Group.
Amendment 273 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 27
Recital 27
Amendment 281 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 29
Recital 29
(29) In selecting implementing partners for the deployment of the InvestEU Fund, the Commission should consider the counterpart's capacity to fulfil the objectives of the InvestEU Fund and contribute its own resources, in order to ensure adequate geographical coverage and diversification, to avoid disproportionate benefit to larger Member States with more developed capital markets to crowd-in private investors and to provide sufficient risk diversification as well as new solutions to address market failures and sub-optimal investment situations. Given its role under the Treaties, its capacity to operate in all Member States and the existing experience under the current financial instruments and the EFSI, the European Investment Bank (‘EIB’) Group should remain a privileged implementing partner under the InvestEU Fund's EU compartment. In addition to the EIB Group, national promotional banks or institutions should be able to offer a complementary financial product range given that their experience and capabilities at regional level could be beneficial for the maximisation of the impact of public funds on the territory of the Union. Moreover, it should be possible to have other international financial institutions as implementing partners, in particular when they present a comparative advantage in terms of specific expertise and experience in certain Member States. It should also be possible for other entities fulfilling the criteria laid down in the Financial Regulation to act as implementing partners.
Amendment 293 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 30
Recital 30
(30) In order to ensure that interventions under the EU compartment of the InvestEU Fund focus on market failures and sub-optimal investment situations at Union level, but, at the same time, satisfy the objectives of best possible geographic outreach, and avoid disproportionate benefit to larger Member States with more developed capital markets, the EU guarantee should be allocated to implementing partners, which alone or together with other implementing partners, can cover at least three Member States. However, it is expected that around 75 % of the EU guarantee under the EU compartment would be allocated to implementing partner or partners that can offer financial products under the InvestEU Fund in all Member States.
Amendment 300 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 31
Recital 31
Amendment 311 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 36
Recital 36
(36) In order to ensure a wide geographic outreach of the advisory services across the Union and to successfully leverage local knowledge about the InvestEU Fund, a local presence in each Member State and in regions of the InvestEU Advisory Hub should be ensured, where needed, taking into account existing support schemes, with a view to provide tangible, proactive, tailor-made assistance on the ground.
Amendment 317 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 40
Recital 40
(40) A solid monitoring framework, based on output, outcome and impact indicators should be implemented to track progress towards the Union's objectives. In order to ensure accountability to European citizens, the Commission should report annually to the European Parliament and, the Council and the Member-States on the progress, impact and operations of the InvestEU Programme. As a result an Annual Report will have to be produced and be accessible to all Member States as they are the initial stakeholders.
Amendment 320 #
2018/0229(COD)
(45a) The investments under InvestEU should be safe and maintain sound financial management, therefore anti- fraud policies should be ensured and further enhanced. Special provisions should be defined to exclude off-shore companies and companies based in “non- cooperating” countries. Cooperation with the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) and the European Court of Auditors should be ensured to that end.
Amendment 325 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1
This Regulation establishes the InvestEU Fund providing for an EU guarantee for financing and investment operations carried out by the implementing partners in support of the Union’s internal policies.
Amendment 341 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 7
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 7
(7) 'implementing partner' means the eligible counterpart such as a financial institution or other intermediarybeing the European Investment Bank (EIB) Group, or national promotional banks or institutions with whom the Commission signs a guarantee agreement and/or an agreement to implement the InvestEU Advisory Hub;
Amendment 349 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 12
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 12
Amendment 351 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 15
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 15
Amendment 356 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) the competitiveness of the Unsocial and regional cohesion, including innovation and digitisation;
Amendment 371 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point d
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point d
(d) the integration of the Union capital markets and the strengthening of the Single Market, including solutions addressing the fragmentation of the Union capital markets,addressing diversifying sources of financing for Union enterprises and promoting sustainable finance.
Amendment 375 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c
(c) to increase the access to and the availability of finance for SMEs and, in duly justified cases, for small mid-cap companies;
Amendment 380 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point d
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point d
(d) to increase the access to and the availability of microfinance and finance tofor SMEs, social enterprises, support financing and investment operations related to social investment and skills and develop and consolidate social investment markets, in the areas referred to in point (d) of Article 7(1).
Amendment 389 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
The EIB shall report annually to the European Parliament on the functioning of the guarantee.
Amendment 392 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
An additional amount of the EU guarantee may be provided for the purposes of the Member State compartment referred to in point (b) of Article 8(1), subject to the allocation by Member States, pursuant to [Article 10(1)] of Regulation [[CPR] number]28 and Article [75(1)] of Regulation [[CAP plan] number]29 , of the corresponding amounts. The InvestEU programme shall aim at covering the highest risk tranche for the projects that are financed with an additional amount.
Amendment 409 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) sustainable infrastructure policy window: comprises sustainable investment in the areas of transport, energy, digital connectivity, cultural heritage supply and processing of raw materials, space, oceans and water, waste, nature and other environment infrastructure, equipment, mobile assets and deployment of innovative technologies that contribute to the environmental or social sustainability objectives of the Union, or to both, or meet the environmental or social sustainability standards of the Union;
Amendment 419 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point d
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point d
(d) social investment and skills policy window: comprises microfinance, social enterprise finance and social economy and gender equality and active participation of women and vulnerable groups; skills, education, training and related services; social infrastructure (including social and student housing); social innovation; health and long-term care; inclusion and accessibility; cultural activities with a social goal; integration of vulnerable people, including third country nationals.
Amendment 424 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
Article 7 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
Financing and investment operations under the sustainable infrastructure policy window referred to in point (a) of paragraph (1) shall be subject to climate, environmental and social sustainability proofing with a view to minimise detrimental impacts and maximise benefits on climate, environment and social dimension. For that purpose, promoters requesting financing shall provide adequate information based on guidance to be developed by the Commission and avoiding any operations involving intensive fossil fuel infrastructures. Projects below a certain size defined in the guidance shall be excluded from the proofing.
Amendment 450 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8
Article 8
Amendment 472 #
Amendment 540 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 12 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Amendment 542 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 3
Article 12 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 3
Amendment 546 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – point d
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – point d
(d) achieves geographical diversification by Member State and by region;
Amendment 561 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 5
Article 14 – paragraph 5
Amendment 606 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 18
Article 18
Amendment 670 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2
Article 19 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2
Conclusions of the Investment Committee approving the support of the EU guarantee to a financing or investment operation shall be publicly accessible and shall include the rationale for the approval. The publication shall not contain commercially sensitive informat, the criteria applied and the scoreboard of indicators. Particular focus should be given to compliance with the additionality criterion.
Amendment 678 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 4
Article 19 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 4
Twice a year, the conclusions of the Investment Committee rejecting the use of the EU guarantee shall be transmitted to the European Parliament and to the Council,, the criteria applied and the scoreboard indicators related to the Investment Committee shall submit to the European Parliament, the Council and the Member States participating in the InvestEU, a list of all the conclusions as well as the scoreboards relating to all those decisions, that submission shall be subject to strict confidentiality requirements.
Amendment 705 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 20 – paragraph 6
Article 20 – paragraph 6
6. The InvestEU Advisory Hub shall have local presence, where necessary. It shall be established in particular in on each Member States orand in regions that face difficulties in developing projects under the InvestEU Fund. The InvestEU Advisory Hub shall assist in the transfer of knowledge to the regional and local level with a view to building up regional and local capacity and expertise for support referred to in paragraph 1 and to implement and accommodate small projects. The Commission shall sign separate agreement with the financial institutions or other intermediaries, with a view to designating them as Advisory Hub partners and charging them with the implementation of the InvestEU Advisory Hub on the ground. The Advisory hub shall have local presence to all participating Member-States and regions, especially when difficulties occur in developing projects under the InvestEU fund.
Amendment 733 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 23 – paragraph 2
Article 23 – paragraph 2
2. By 30 September 2025, the Commission shall carry out an interim evaluation on the InvestEU Programme, in particular on the use of the EU guarantee. In particular, the evaluation shall demonstrate how the inclusion of the implementing partners has contributed to the achievements of the InvestEU programme targets, as well as EU policy goals, especially with regard to geographical and sectoral balance of the supported financing and investment operations.
Amendment 748 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point a
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) up to EUR 11 5000 000 000 for objectives referred to in point (a) of Article 3(2);
Amendment 752 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point b
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) up to EUR 11 25000 000 000 for objectives referred to in point (b) of Article 3(2);
Amendment 756 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point c
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point c
(c) up to EUR 11 25000 000 000 for objectives referred to in point (c) of Article 3(2);
Amendment 808 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point 12
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point 12
Amendment 809 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point 13 – introductory part
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point 13 – introductory part
13. Space, in particular through the development of the space sector with an exclusive focus on civil applications in line with Space Strategy objectives:
Amendment 810 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point 13 – point d
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point 13 – point d
(d) to foster Union's autonomy for safe and secure access to space, including dual use aspects.
Amendment 811 #
2018/0229(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex III – point 2 – point 2.1 a (new)
Annex III – point 2 – point 2.1 a (new)
2.1a Number of regions covered by projects;
Amendment 17 #
2018/0228(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a – point i
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a – point i
(i) to contribute to the development of projects of common interest relating to efficient and interconnected networks and infrastructure for smart, sustainable, inclusive, safe and secure mobility that is accessible to persons with disabilities, and which satisfy public acceptance criteria, including stakeholder mappings and feasibility studies;
Amendment 19 #
2018/0228(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a – point ii
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a – point ii
Amendment 22 #
2018/0228(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point a – point i
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point a – point i
(i) EUR 12,830,000,000 from the European Strategic Investment cluster, which in real terms represents a decrease of 8% in comparison to the 2014-2020 MFF;
Amendment 23 #
2018/0228(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point a – point ii
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point a – point ii
(ii) EUR 11,285,493,000 transferred from the Cohesion Fund to be spent in line with this Regulation exclusively in Member States eligible for funding from the Cohesion Fund, which in real terms represents a decrease of 13% in comparison with the 2014-2020 MFF;
Amendment 26 #
2018/0228(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point a – point iii
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point a – point iii
(iii) EUR 6,500,000,000 from the Defence cluster for the specificwill be redirected to civilian purposes in line with the objectives referred to in Article 3(2)(a)(ii). As in Article 41 (2) of the Treaty on European Union (TEU) ‘expenditure arising from operations having military or defence implications’ is prohibited from being charged to the EU budget;
Amendment 32 #
2018/0228(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 5 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Given the nature of the future relationship between Britain and the EU is not yet agreed, the Programme shall prepare mitigation measures to ensure the connectivity of the countries most affected by Brexit
Amendment 38 #
2018/0228(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) innovation, safety, interoperability and accessibility aspects particularly for persons with disabilities;
Amendment 40 #
2018/0228(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 13 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Positive discrimination shall apply to the award of grants for projects located in peripheral regions to prevent further isolation from centres of economic activity. Regional authorities and local government structures shall be consulted for the definition of core and comprehensive networks, and to identify where EU transport funding is most required.
Amendment 17 #
2018/0225(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Annex I – paragraph 5 a (new)
Annex I – paragraph 5 a (new)
The Strategic Planning will promote human rights and ensure EU funding in no way supports third countries that violate human rights. The human rights record of Horizon associate countries will be taken into consideration during the Strategic Planning process to ensure that institutions and enterprises in associate countries that continue to violate human rights are not eligible for Horizon funding. The Strategic Planning will take direction from the European Parliament and the Commission in assessing the human rights record of associate countries.
Amendment 19 #
2018/0225(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Annex I – part II – point 2 – point 2.1 – paragraph 5
Annex I – part II – point 2 – point 2.1 – paragraph 5
Security research is part of the wider comprehensive EU response to security threats. It contributes to the capability development process by enabling the future availability of technologies and applications to fill capability gaps identified by policy-makers and practitioners. Already, funding to research through the EU's framework programme has represented around 50% of total public funding for security research in the EU. Full use will be made of available instruments, including the European space programme (Galileo and EGNOS, Copernicus, Space Situational Awareness and Governmental Satellite Communications). Synergies are sought with the activities supported by EU- funded defence research and duplication of funding is avoided. Cross-border collaboration contributes to developing a European single security market and improving industrial performance, underpinning the EU's autonomy.
Amendment 20 #
2018/0225(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Annex I – part II – point 2 – point 2.2 – point 2.2.1 – paragraph 1
Annex I – part II – point 2 – point 2.2 – point 2.2.1 – paragraph 1
Trust in democracy and political institutions seems to be receding. Disenchantment with politics is increasingly articulated by anti- establishment and populist parties and a resurgent nativism. This is compounded by socio-economic inequalities, high migration flows and security concernsas well as a perceived democratic deficits at national and EU level. Responding to present and future challenges requires new thinking on how democratic institutions at all levels must adapt in a context of greater diversity, global economic competition, rapid technological advancements and digitisation, with citizens' experience of democratic discourses and institutions being crucial.
Amendment 21 #
2018/0225(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Annex I – part II – point 6 – point 6.2 – point 6.2.2 – paragraph 2 – point 2 – indent 7
Annex I – part II – point 6 – point 6.2 – point 6.2.2 – paragraph 2 – point 2 – indent 7
Amendment 27 #
2018/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) It is the Union's objective to strengthen its scientific and technological bases and encourage its competitiveness, including in its industry, while promoting all research and innovation activities to deliver on the Union's strategic priorities, which ultimately aim at promoting peace, the Union's values and the well-being of its peoples, as well as promoting human rights internationally.
Amendment 31 #
2018/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) The Programme should support research and innovation in an integrated manner, respecting all relevant provisions of the World Trade Organisation. The concept of research, including experimental development should be used in accordance with the Frascati Manual developed by the OECD, whereas the concept of innovation should be used in accordance with the Oslo Manual developed by the OECD and Eurostat, following a broad approach that covers social innovation. The OECD definitions regarding Technological Readiness Level (TRL) should continue, as in the previous Framework Programme Horizon 2020, to be taken into account in the classification of technological research, product development and demonstration activities, and the definition of types of action available in calls for proposals. In principle grants should not be awarded for actions where activities go above TRL 8. The work programme for a given call under the pillar 'Global Challenges and Industrial Competitiveness' could allow grants for large-scale product validation and market replication.
Amendment 32 #
2018/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 25
Recital 25
(25) The Programme should promote and integrate cooperation with third countries and international organisations and initiatives based on common interest, mutual benefit and global commitments to implement the UN SDGs. International cooperation should aim to strengthen the Union's research and innovation excellence, attractiveness and economic and industrial competitiveness, to tackle global challenges, as embodied in the UN SDGs, and to support the Union's external policies. An approach of general opening for international participation and targeted international cooperation actions should be followed, including through appropriate eligibility for funding of entities established in low to middle income countries. At the same time, association of third countries to the Programme should be promoted. Human rights will be promoted by excluding third countries that violate human rights from Horizon funding and Horizon associate country status.
Amendment 34 #
2018/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 29
Recital 29
Amendment 34 #
2018/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) It is the Union's objective to strengthen its scientific and technological bases and encourage its competitiveness, including in its industry, while promoting all research and innovation activities to deliver on the Union's strategic priorities, which ultimately aim at promoting peace, the Union's values and the well-being of its peoples.
Amendment 35 #
2018/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 40
Recital 40
(40) In line with the objectives of international cooperation as set out in Articles 180 and 186 TFEU, the participation of legal entities established in third countries and of international organisations should be promoted. The implementation of the Programme should be in conformity with the measures adopted in accordance with Articles 75 and 215 TFEU and should be in compliance with international law. For actions related to Union strategic assets, interests, autonomy or security, the participation to specific actions of the Programme may be limited to entities established in Member States only, or to entities established in specified associated or other third countries in addition to Member States. The Union will continue to promote human rights in Horizon associate countries by excluding institutions and enterprises in third countries that violate human rights from Horizon funding.
Amendment 36 #
2018/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) To deliver scientific, economic, cultural and societal impact in pursuit of this general objective, the Union should invest in research and innovation through Horizon Europe - a Fframework Programme for Research and Innovation 2021-2027 (the ‘Programme’) to support the creation and diffusion of high-quality knowledge and technologies, to strengthen the impact of research and innovation in developing, supporting and implementing Union policies, to support the uptake of innovative solutions in industry andwhilst achieving the goal of establishing a more inclusive, educated, creative and secure and sustainable society, to address global challenges and promote industrial and SME’s competitiveness; to foster all forms of innovation, including breakthrough innovation, and strengthen market deployment of innovative solutions; and optimise the delivery of such investment for increased impact within a strengthened European Research Area.
Amendment 37 #
2018/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 3 – point b
Article 1 – paragraph 3 – point b
Amendment 39 #
2018/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5
Article 5
Amendment 40 #
2018/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1
Article 9 – paragraph 1
1. The financial envelope for the implementation of the Framework Programme for the period 2021 – 2027 shall be EUR 94 1120 000 000 000 in current2018 prices (EUR 135 248 000 000 in current prices) for the specific programme referred to in Article 1(3)(a) and, in addition, the amount for the specific programme referred to in Article 1(3)(b), as laid down in Regulation…. establishing the European Defence Fund.
Amendment 41 #
2018/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 1 – point d – paragraph 1 – point iii a (new)
Article 12 – paragraph 1 – point d – paragraph 1 – point iii a (new)
(iiia) demonstrate respect and commitment to human rights.
Amendment 45 #
2018/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8 a (new)
Recital 8 a (new)
(8a) European Universities and Institutes of Technology play fundamental role within the fields of the humanities, sciences and technologies by fulfilling and promoting excellence, in both training and research.
Amendment 46 #
2018/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex IV – point 16
Annex IV – point 16
Amendment 51 #
2018/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
Amendment 93 #
2018/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 3 – point f a (new)
Article 7 – paragraph 3 – point f a (new)
(fa) promote sustainable territorial innovations and ecosystems in order to ensure positive effects on the territories and citizens of the Union.
Amendment 157 #
2018/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – point 2 – paragraph 4 – point d – introductory part
Annex I – point 2 – paragraph 4 – point d – introductory part
(d) Cluster 'Climate, Energy and Mobility': Fighting climate change by better understanding its causes, evolution, risks, impacts and opportunities, and by making the energy and transport sectors more climate and environment-friendly, more efficient and competitive, smarter, safer and more resilient; enabling sustainable cultural heritage: researching into strategies and tools necessary for its safeguard whilst providing a better response to changing environment and more frequent extreme climatic events.
Amendment 161 #
2018/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – point 2 – paragraph 4 – point d – paragraph 1
Annex I – point 2 – paragraph 4 – point d – paragraph 1
Areas of intervention: Climate science and solutions; Energy supply; Energy systems and grids; Buildings and industrial facilities in energy transition; Communities and cities; Industrial competitiveness in transport; Clean transport and mobility; Smart mobility; Energy storage; Cultural heritage.
Amendment 37 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
1. Member States shall reducensure the amount of direct payments to be granted to a farmer pursuant to this Chapter for a given calendar year does not exceeding EUR 650 000 as follows:
Amendment 39 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point a
Amendment 41 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point b
Amendment 42 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point c
Amendment 44 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point d
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point d
Amendment 46 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Article 15 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Amendment 47 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point a
Article 15 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point a
Amendment 48 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point b
Article 15 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point b
Amendment 49 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Article 15 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Amendment 50 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 20 – paragraph 5
Article 20 – paragraph 5
5. For the purposes of paragraph 4, Member States shall ensure that, for claim year 20261 at the latest, all payment entitlements have a value of at least 75100% of the average planned unit amount for the basic income support for claim year 2026 as laid down in the CAP Strategic Plan transmitted1 in accordance with Article 106 (1) for the Member State or for the territories as defined in accordance with Article 18(2).
Amendment 51 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 20 – paragraph 6 – subparagraph 1
Article 20 – paragraph 6 – subparagraph 1
Member States shall finance the increases in the value of payment entitlements needed to comply with paragraphs 4 and 5 by using any possible product resulting from the application of paragraph 3, and, where necessary, by reducing the difference between the unit value of payment entitlements determined in accordance with paragraph 1 and the average planned unit amount for the basic income support for claim year 2026 as laid down in the CAP Strategic Plan transmitted in accordance with Article 106 (1) for the Member State or for the territories as defined in accordance with Article 18(2).
Amendment 54 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) In accordance with Articles 120 and 121 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union ('the Treaty'), Member States are required to conduct their economic policies with a view to contributing to the achievement of the objectives of the Union, as defined in Article 3 of the Treaty on European Union, and in the context of the broad guidelines that the Council formulates. The coordination of thecertain economic policies of the Member States is therefore a matter of common concern.
Amendment 61 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) The economic and financial crisis has shown that developing sound and resilient economies and financial systems built one vulnerability of European economies and financial systems. The depth and duration of the subsequent recession, as well as the asymmetry of the current recovery, demonstrate the need for economic reform in order to build strong economic and social structures helpsin Member States to respond more efficiently to. This should allow economies to withstand shocks and recover more swiftly from them. The implementation of structural reforms is among the Union’s policy priorities because such reforms seek to set the recovery on a sustainable path, unlock the growth potential, strengthen the adjustment capacity and support the process of upward convergence. Pursuing structural reforms can also contribute to strengthening economic and social cohesion, boosting productivity and investment and creating good conditions for sustainable growth and employment in the Union.
Amendment 64 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
Amendment 69 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The degree of implementation of structural reforms in the Member States is still not sufficient across the Union. Experience with the implementation of the economic policy coordination mechanism underapproach to economic governance represented by the European Semester showhas that, id limited success. In general, the implementation of structural reforms has been slow and uneven and that national reform efforts. Reform programmes designed at the national level should be reinforced and incentivised.
Amendment 74 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) The Commission's Communication of 6 December 201720 , part of a package of initiatives to deepen the Economic and Monetary Union, proposed to create a reform delivery tool and a convergence facility as new budgetary instruments. The objective of such instruments was to strengthen resilience of domestic economies and unleash positive spillover effects across Member States by providing incentives for the implementation of structural reforms that contribute to those objectives and are essential for the stability ofreforms. The European Parliament is of the opinion that modification is needed to the economic architecture of the Eurozone, and paving the way to set the conditions of a real convergence in the field of investment, employment rate and income and wealth distribution at social and territory level. A Monetary Union in a single market, without an internal distribution mechanism, will only intensify the Eeconomic and Monetary Uniondivergence between core and peripheries. __________________ 20 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the European Council, the Council and the European Central Bank, new budgetary instruments for a stable euro area within the Union framework, COM(2017) 822 final
Amendment 78 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) Against that background, it is necessary to strengthen the current framework for the provision of support to Member States by offering direct financial support, alongside technical support. To that end, a new Reform Support Programme ('the Programme') should be established to provide effective incentives to step up the implementation of structural reforms in the Member States. The Programme should be comprehensive and should also benefit from the experience gained by the Commission and the Member States from the use of the other instruments and programmes. The Programme should also continue the actions and the mode of operation of the SRSP, since they have been proven very useful, and have been appreciated by Member States, for strengthening the administrative capacity of national authorities in various policy domains. The Programme should also include targeted support for reforms in Member States whose currency is not the euro and which have taken demonstrable steps towards adopting the single currency within a given time-frame.
Amendment 86 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) The Programme's overall objective is the enhancement of cohesion, competitivenesseconomic cooperation, productivity, growth, and employment. For that purpose, it should provide financial incentives for addressing challenges of a structural nature, and should help to strengthen the administrative capacity of the Member States insofar as their institutions and economic and social sectors are concerned.
Amendment 98 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
Amendment 103 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) With regard to the reform delivery tool, it is necessary to identify the types of reforms that should be eligible for financial support. To ensure their contribution to the objectives of the Programme, the eligible reforms should be those addressing the challenges identified inas the context of the European Semester of economic policy coordination, including those proposed to address the country-specific recommendationmost important by national governments of the Member States.
Amendment 122 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 22
Recital 22
(22) It is necessary to establish a process for the submission of proposals for reform commitments by the Member States, and the content thereof. With a view to ensuring the expediency of procedures, a Member State should submit the proposal for reform commitments together with its national reform programme, but in the form of a separate annex, which may also be submitted at a different point in time. While participation in the Programme is voluntary, Member States experiencing excessive imbalances should be particularly encouraged to come forward with reform proposals under the reform delivery tool, which address the problems that led to such excessive imbalanwhose economies have been damaged by recessive economic policy that were imposed through the conditionality of financial assistance programmes should be given additional support for the implementation of growth-enhancing reforms and the strengthening of social services.
Amendment 125 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23
Recital 23
(23) In order to ensure the ownership of and a focus on relevant reforms, the Member States should identify thprioritise reform commitments in response to challenges identified in the context of the European Semester (including those challenges identified in country specific recommendations)aimed at reducing inequality, strengthening labour laws and economic security for citizens, and increasing sustainability and propose a detailed set of measures for their implementation, which should contain appropriate milestones and targets and a timetable for implementation over a maximum period of three years. Close cooperation between the Commission and the Member States should be sought and achieved throughout the process.
Amendment 135 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 24
Recital 24
(24) The Commission should assess the nature and the importance of the reform commitments proposed by the Member States and should determine the amount to be allocated on the basis of transparent criteria. To that effect, it should take into account the substantive elements provided by the Member States and assess whether the reform commitments proposed by the Member States are expected to effectively address challenges identified in the context of the European Semester, whether they represent a comprehensive reform package, whether they are expected to strengthen the performance and resilience of the national economy and whether their implementation is expected to have a lasting impact in the Member State where relevant by strengthening the institutional and administrative capacity of the Member State concerned. In addition, the Commission should assess whether the internal arrangements proposed by the Member States, including the proposed milestones and targets, and the related indicators, are expected to ensure effective implementation of the reform commitments during a maximum period of three years.
Amendment 144 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 25
Recital 25
(25) Appropriate guidelines should be set out, as an annex to this Regulation, to serve as a basis for the Commission to assess - in a transparent and equitable manner - the proposals for reform commitments put forward by the Member States and to determine the financial contribution in conformity with the objectives and any other relevant requirements laid down in this Regulation. In the interest of transparency and efficiency, a rating system for the assessment of the proposals for reform commitments should be established to that effect. This rating system will provide for the possibility of a broad spectrum of economic policies within the Programme. This is necessary in order to ensure that The Programme does not restrict the Member States' ability to implement economic policies and reform agendas that reflect the democratic mandate of their national governments.
Amendment 145 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 26
Recital 26
Amendment 150 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 27
Recital 27
(27) For the purpose of simplification, the determination of the financial contribution should follow simple criteria. The financial contribution should be the total maximum indicative amount if the reform commitments proposed by the Member State fully meet the criteria for assessment, and should be half the maximum indicative amount if the reform commitments proposed by the Member State meet those criteria only in a satisfactory manner. No financial contribution should be awarded to the Member State if the proposal for reform commitments does not satisfactorily address the assessment criteria.
Amendment 153 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 28
Recital 28
(28) To foster the stability of the reform commitments, a Member State should have the possibility to amend the reform commitments only once within the period of implementation, where objective circumstances justify such a course of actionor in the event of a change of government at national level with a democratic mandate for different economic policies or reform agenda.
Amendment 156 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 31
Recital 31
(31) For the purpose of sound financial management, specific rules should be laid down for budget commitments, payments, suspension, cancellation and recovery of funds. Payments should be based on a positive assessment by the Commission of the implementation of the reform commitments by the Member State. Suspension and cancellation of the financial contribution should be possible when the reform commitments have not been implemented in a satisfactory manner by the Member State. To ensure a sustainable impact of the reforms after they are implemented, a reasonable period defining the durability of the reforms after the payment of the financial contribution should be established. A period of five years should be considered to be a reasonable minimum to be applied. Appropriate contradictory procedures should be established to ensure that the decision by the Commission in relation to suspension, cancellation and recovery of amounts paid respects the right of Member States to provide observations.
Amendment 159 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 33
Recital 33
(33) The technical support instrument under the Programme should continue to support, the implementation of reforms undertaken at the initiative of the Member States, reforms in the context of economic governance processes or actions related to the implementation of Union law, and reforms in relation to the implementation prioritise assistance to countries who have experienced an exacerbated recession due to the harmful economic conditionality of economic adjustment programmes. It should also provide technical support for the preparation and implementation of reforms to be undertaken under the other Programme instruments.
Amendment 160 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 37
Recital 37
Amendment 177 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 2
2. ‘financial support’ means a financial contribution to a Member State for the purpose of the implementation of structural reforms identified in the context of the European Semester process in accordance with Article 2-a of Council Regulation (EC) No 1466/9728 , and for the purpose of implementation of reforms that are relevant for preparation for participation in the euro area; __________________ 28 Council Regulation (EC) No 1466/97 of 7 July 1997 on the strengthening of the surveillance of budgetary positions and the surveillance and coordination of economic policies (OJ L 209, 2.8.1997, p. 1)reforms, including reforms that are relevant for preparation for participation in the euro area;
Amendment 181 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 6 a (new)
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 6 a (new)
6a. "Real convergence and acceptable conditions of integration in the Eurozone". The EU assumes the commitment of addressing the necessary reforms to prepare the conditions of having an economic area conceived for an optimal integration of all the old and new Member States. This implies that the EU is obliged to give steps in the way of implementing policy for a real convergence. In other words, economic and employment policies to tackle first the lower levels of unemployment or investment in peripheral countries, due to the privileges enjoyed by the countries with external surplus, and the implementation of an internal redistributive and automatic mechanisms for off-setting the single market trends, which creates divergences within the Eurozone.
Amendment 192 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) to contribute to addressing national reform challenges of a structural nature aimed at improving the performance of the national economies and at promoting resilient economic and social structures in the Member States, thereby contributing to cohesion, ecompetitivenessnomic cooperation and efficiency, productivity, growth and employment; and
Amendment 195 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) as regards the reform delivery tool, the Programme shall provide Member States with financial incentives with a view to achieving the milestones and targets of the structural reforms as set out in the reform commitments entered into by Member States with the Commissionproposed to the Commission by the Member States.
Amendment 210 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
The general and the specific objectives set out in Articles 4 and 5 shall refer to policy areas related to cohesion, ecompetitivenessnomic cooperation and efficiency, productivity, research and innovation, smart, sustainable, and inclusive growth, jobs and investment, and in particular to one or more of the following:
Amendment 213 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) public financial and asset management, budget process, debt management and revenue administration and policies aimed at combating tax evasion;
Amendment 220 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point c
(c) fairer business environment, including for small and medium-sized enterprises, re- industrialisation, private sector development, product and service markets,sustainable development, public investment, public participation in enterprises, nationalization and privatisation processes, trade and foreign direct investment, competition andfair trade, public procurement, sustainable sectoral development and support for research and innovation and digitisation;
Amendment 223 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point d
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point d
(d) education and training, democratic labour market policies for protecting workers and quality of work and employment conditions, including social dialogue, for the creation of jobs, digital skills, the fight against poverty, the promotion of social inclusion, social security and social welfare systems, public health and healthcare systems, as well as cohesion, asylum, migra reception and border policiesintegration;
Amendment 229 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point e
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point e
(e) policies for implementing climate action, mobility, promoting energy and resource efficiency, renewable energy sources, achieving energy diversification and ensuring energy securitytransition away from hydro- carbons, and for the agricultural sector, fisheries and the sustainable development of rural areas; and
Amendment 232 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1
Article 7 – paragraph 1
Amendment 233 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 2
Article 7 – paragraph 2
Amendment 234 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Article 7 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Amendment 266 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 1
Article 8 – paragraph 1
Amendment 275 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1
Article 9 – paragraph 1
Amendment 282 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 2
Article 10 – paragraph 2
2. For a period of twenty months from the date of application of this Regulation, the Commission shall make available for allocation EUR 11 000 000 000, which represents 50% of the overall envelope referred to in point (a) of Article 7(2). Each Member State may propose to receive up to the full amount of the maximum financial contribution, referred to in Article 9, to fulfil reform commitments proposed in accordance with Article 11.
Amendment 284 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 3
Article 10 – paragraph 3
3. For the period starting after the end of the period referred to in paragraph 2, the Commission shall make available for allocation EUR 11 000 000 000, which represent the remaining 50% of the overall envelope for the reform delivery tool referred to in point (a) of Article 7(2), plus the amount that has not been allocated in accordance with paragraph 2, on the basis of calls organised and published under the reform delivery tool. The first call shall be for allocating EUR 11 000 000 000.
Amendment 288 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 1
Article 11 – paragraph 1
1. A Member State wishing to receive support under the reform delivery tool shall submit a proposal for reform commitments to the Commission. That proposal shall set out a detailed set of measures for the implementation of structural reforms in response to challenges identified in the European Semester procesreforms and shall contain milestones, targets and a timetable for the implementation of the reforms over a maximum period of three years.
Amendment 298 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 3 – point a
Article 11 – paragraph 3 – point a
(a) the nature and importance of the structural reform proposed in the context of the challenges identified in European Semester;
Amendment 313 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 7 – point a – point 1 – introductory part
Article 11 – paragraph 7 – point a – point 1 – introductory part
(i). are expected to effectively address challenges identified in the context of the European Semester, namely:
Amendment 316 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 7 – point a – point 1 – indent 1
Article 11 – paragraph 7 – point a – point 1 – indent 1
Amendment 321 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 7 – point a – point 1 – indent 2
Article 11 – paragraph 7 – point a – point 1 – indent 2
Amendment 354 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 1
Article 14 – paragraph 1
Amendment 359 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 7
Article 15 – paragraph 7
Amendment 372 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 18 – paragraph 1 – point e
Article 18 – paragraph 1 – point e
(e) organisation of local operational support in areas such as asylum, and migration and border control;
Amendment 378 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 2 – point c
Article 19 – paragraph 2 – point c
(c) the implementation of growth- sustaining reforms in the context of economic governance processes, in particular the country-specific recommendations issued in the context of the European Semester or actions related to the implementation of Union law;
Amendment 391 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 25 – paragraph 1
Article 25 – paragraph 1
Structural reforms eligible for financing under the convergence facility shall be reforms that help eligible Members States in their preparation to join the euro area. Those reforms shall be aimed at addressing challenges identified for having a stronger public administration and policy with means to overcome economic recessions and low level of employment or investment. At the same time, the EU will develop a new architecture for avoiding the contextfailures of the European Semester of economic policy coordinationzone, as it is not underpinned by an internal redistributive mechanism nor a basis for a real convergence among the Member States.
Amendment 397 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 28 – paragraph 1
Article 28 – paragraph 1
1. The Commission shall adopt a decision pursuant to Article 12(1), which shall set out the same elements referred to in that Article, in relation to reform commitments to be implemented by the eligible Member State, which are important for preparation for participation in the euro area. That decision shall also refer to the formal letter from the government of the Member State concerned to the Commission stating its clear commitment to join the euro area within a reasonable and defined timeframe and presenting a credible time-bound roadmap, after consultation with the Commission, for implementing concrete measures to prepare for successful participation in the euro area, including steps to ensure full alignment of its national legislation with the requirements under Union law (including the Banking Union).
Amendment 404 #
2018/0213(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 35 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Article 35 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Amendment 20 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) Support under the EMFF should be used to address market failures orsafeguard and promote small- scale fisheries, FLAGs, coastal communities including the islands and outermost regions, prioritising addressing sub- optimal investment situationin these regions and address market failures, in a proportionate manner, and should not duplicate or crowd out private financing or distort competition in the internal market. Support should have a clear European added value with due regard to the community objectives of the Common Fisheries Policy.
Amendment 24 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) The EMFF should be based on four priorities: fostering sustainable fisheries and the conservation of marine biological resources; contributing to food security in the Union through competitive and sustainable aquaculture and markets; enabling the growth of a sustainable blue economy and fostering prosperous coastal communities including the islands and outermost regions; strengthening international ocean governance and enabling safe, secure, clean and sustainably managed seas and oceans. Those priorities should be pursued through shared, direct and indirect management.
Amendment 27 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) The EMFF should contribute to the achievement of the environmental objectives of the Union with due regard to social cohesion. This contribution should be tracked through the application of Union environmental markers and reported regularly in the context of evaluations and annual performance reports.
Amendment 29 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18
Recital 18
(18) Fisheries are vital to the livelihood and cultural heritage of many coastal communities, islands and outermost regions in the Union, in particular where small-scale coastal and inshore fishing plays an important role. With the average age in many fishing communities being over 50, generational renewal and diversification of activities remain a challenge.
Amendment 30 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20
Recital 20
(20) Support from the EMFF should aim to achieve and maintain sustainable fishing based on the maximum sustainable yield (MSY) and to minimise the negative impacts of unsustainable and harmful fishing activities on the marine ecosystem. That support should include innovation and investments in low-impact, climate resilient and low-carbon fishing practices and techniques.
Amendment 31 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) The landing obligation is one of the main challenges of the CFP. It has implied significant changes in fishing practices for the sector, sometimes with an important financial and socio-economic cost. It should therefore be possible for the EMFF to enable aid for temporary cessation of fishing activities in certain fisheries, particularly those affected by choke species, support innovation and investments that contribute to the implementation of the landing obligation, with a higher aid intensity rate than the one that applies to other operations, like investments in selective fishing gears, in the improvement of port infrastructures and in the marketing of unwanted catches. It should also grant a maximum aid intensity rate of 100% to the design, development, monitoring, evaluation and management of transparent systems for exchanging fishing opportunities between Member States ('quota swaps'), in order to mitigate the 'choke species' effect caused by the landing obligation.
Amendment 33 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 28
Recital 28
(28) Small-scale coastal fishing is carried out by fishing vessels below 12 metres and not using towed fishing gears. That sector represents nearly 75% of all fishing vessels registered in the Union and nearly half of all employment in the fishery sector. Operators from small-scale coastal fisheries are particularly dependant on healthy fish stocks for their main source of income. The EMFF should therefore give them a preferential treatment through a 100% aid intensity rate, including for temporary cessation of fishing activities due to conditions where it is unsafe to conduct fishing operations at sea or in the event of an unforeseen closure of a fishery, supporting operations related to control and enforcement, with the aim of encouraging sustainable fishing practices. In addition, certain areas of support should be reserved for small-scale fishing in fleet segment where the fishing capacity is balanced with the available fishing opportunities, i.e. support for the acquisition of a second- hand vessel and for engine replacement or modernisation. Furthermore, Member States should include in their programme an action plan for small-scale coastal fishing, which should be monitored on the basis of indicators for which milestones and targets should be set.
Amendment 35 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 32
Recital 32
(32) It should be possible for the EMFF to support the promotion and the sustainable development of aquaculture, including freshwater aquaculture and closed containment systems, for the farming of aquatic animals and plants for the production of food and other raw material. Complex administrative procedures in some Member States remain in place, such as difficult access to space and burdensome licensing procedures, which make it difficult for the sector to improve the image and competitiveness of farmed products. Support should be consistent with the multiannual national strategic plans for aquaculture developed on the basis of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013. In particular, support for environmental sustainability, productive investments, innovation, acquisition of professional skills, improvement of working conditions, compensatory measures providing critical land and nature management services should be eligible. Public health actions, aquaculture stock insurance schemes and animal health and welfare actions should also be eligible. However, in the case of productive investments support should be provided only through financial instruments and through InvestEU, which offer a higher leverage on markets and are therefore more relevant than grants to address the financing challenges of the sector.
Amendment 36 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 35
Recital 35
(35) Job creation in coastal regions relies on a locally driven development of a sustainable blue economy that revives the social fabric of those regions, including the islands and outermost regions. Ocean industries and services are likely to outperform the growth of the global economy and make an important contribution to employment and growth by 2030. To be sustainable, blue growth depends on innovation and investment in new maritime businesses and in the bio- economy, including sustainable tourism models, ocean-based renewable energy, innovative high-end shipbuilding and new port service, which can create jobs and at the same time enhance local development. Whilst public investment in the sustainable blue economy should be mainstreamed throughout the Union budget, the EMFF should specifically concentrate on enabling conditions for the development of the sustainable blue economy and on removing bottlenecks to facilitate investment and the development of new markets and technologies or services. Support for the development of the sustainable blue economy should be delivered through shared, direct and indirect management.
Amendment 37 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 36
Recital 36
(36) The development of a sustainable blue economy strongly relies on partnerships between local stakeholders that contribute to the vitality and sustainability of the populations of coastal, island and inland communities and economies. The EMFF should provide tools to foster such partnerships. For that purpose, support for community-led local development (CLLD) should be available under shared management. That approach should boost economic diversification in a local context through the development of coastal and inland fisheries, aquaculture and a sustainable blue economy. CLLD strategies should ensure that local communities better exploit and benefit from the opportunities offered by the sustainable blue economy, capitalising on and strengthening environmental, cultural, social and human resources. Every local partnership should therefore reflect the main focus of its strategy by ensuring a balanced involvement and representation of all relevant stakeholders from the local sustainable blue economy.
Amendment 40 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 42
Recital 42
(42) With regard to security and defence, improved border protection and maritime security are essential. Under the European Union Maritime Security Strategy adopted by the Council of the European Union on 24 June 2014 and its Action Plan adopted on 16 December 2014, information sharing and the European Border and Coast Guard cooperation between the European Fisheries Control Agency, the European Maritime Safety Agency and the European Border and Coast Guard Agency are key to deliver on those objectives. The EMFF should therefore support maritime surveillance and coastguard cooperation under botharch and rescue operations, the EMFF should therefore support shared and direct management, including by purchasing items for multipurpose maritimthese operations. It should also allow the relevant agencies to implement support in the field of maritime surveillance and security througto improve search iandi rect managementscue operations.
Amendment 101 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) As a global ocean actor andwith the largest maritime area in the world when including the Outermost Regions and Overseas Countries and Territories, the Union has become the world's fifth largest producer of seafood, the Union has a strong responsibility to protect, conserve and sustainably use the oceans and their resources. Preserving seas and oceans is indeed vital for a rapidly growing world population. It is also of socio-economic interest for the Union: a sustainable blue economy boosts investments, jobs and growth, fosters research and innovation and contributes to energy security through ocean energy. Moreover, safe and secure seas and oceans are essential for an efficient border control and for the global fight against maritime crime, thereby addressing citizens' security concerns.
Amendment 106 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) Support under the EMFF should be used to address market failures orsafeguard and promote small- scale and island fisheries, FLAGs, coastal communities including the islands and outermost regions, prioritising addressing sub- optimal investment situations, in ain these regions and address market failures, in proportionate manner, and should not duplicate or crowd out private financing or distort competition in the internal market. Support should have a clear European added value with due regard to the community objectives of the Common Fisheries Policy.
Amendment 117 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) The multiannual financial framework set out in Regulation (EU) xx/xx6 provides that the Union budget must continue to support fisheries and maritime policies. The EMFF budget should amount, in current prices, to EUR 6 140 000 000. EMFF resources should be split between shared, direct and indirect management. EUR 5 311 000 000 should be allocated to support under shared management and EUR 829 000 000 to support under directretain the same level as in the period 2014 - 2020 where and indirect managementcrease is not possible. In order to ensure stability in particular with regard to the achievement of the objectives of the CFP, the definition of national allocations under shared management for the 2021- 2027 programming period should be based on the EMFF 2014-2020 shares. Specific amounts should be reserved for the outermost regions, control and, enforcement and collection and processing of data for fisheries management and scientific purposes, while amounts for permanent cessation, and extraordinary cessation of fishing activities should be capped. For operations located in the outermost regions, the co-financing rate at 85% should not be decreased. _________________ 6 OJ C […], […], p. […].
Amendment 137 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) The EMFF should be based on four priorities: fostering sustainable fisheries and the conservation of marine biological resources; contributing to food security in the Union through competitive and sustainable aquaculture and markets; enabling the growth of a sustainable blue economy and fostering prosperous coastal communities including the islands and outermost regions; strengthening international ocean governance and enabling safe, secure, clean and sustainably managed seas and oceans. Those priorities should be pursued through shared, direct and indirect management.
Amendment 159 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) The EMFF should contribute to the achievement of the socio-economic, human rights and environmental objectives of the Union with due regard to regional and social cohesion. This contribution should be tracked through the application of Union socio-economic, environmental markers and reported regularly in the context of evaluations and annual performance reports.
Amendment 173 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18
Recital 18
(18) Fisheries are vital to the livelihood and cultural heritage of many coastal communities, islands and outermost regions in the Union, in particular where small-scale coastal and inshore fishing plays an important role. With the average age in many fishing communities being over 50, generational renewal and diversification of activities remain a challenge.
Amendment 177 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) The EMFF should aim to achieve the environmental, economic, social and employment objectives of the CFP, as defined in Article 2 of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013. Such support should ensure that fishing activities are environmentally sustainable in the long-term and managed in a way that is consistent with the objectives of achieving economic, social and employment benefits, and of contributing to the availability of food supplies. In this regard fisheries dependent small offshore islands need to be especially recognised and supported in order to enable them to survive and prosper.
Amendment 187 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20
Recital 20
(20) Support from the EMFF should aim to achieve and maintain sustainable fishing based on the maximum sustainable yield (MSY) and to minimise the negative impacts of unsustainable and harmful fishing activities on the marine ecosystem. That support should include innovation and investments in low-impact, climate resilient and low-carbon fishing practices and techniques.
Amendment 188 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) The landing obligation is one of the main challenges of the CFP. It has implied significant changes in fishing practices for the sector, sometimes with an important financial and socio-economic cost. It should therefore be possible for the EMFF to enable aid for cessation of fishing activities in certain fisheries, particularly those affected by choke species, support innovation and investments that contribute to the implementation of the landing obligation, with a higher aid intensity rate than the one that applies to other operations, like investments in selective fishing gears, in the improvement of port infrastructures and in the marketing of unwanted catches. It should also grant a maximum aid intensity rate of 100% to the design, development, monitoring, evaluation and management of transparent systems for exchanging fishing opportunities between Member States ('quota swaps'), inand for providing small- scale fishers with no quota adequate quota uplift to enable them to survive and prospering order to mitigate the 'choke species' effect caused by the landing obligation.
Amendment 220 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 27
Recital 27
(27) Given the high level of unpredictability of fishing activities, exceptional circumstances may cause significant economic losses to fishers. In order to mitigate those consequences, it should be possible for the EMFF to support a compensation for the unforeseen and extraordinary cessation of fishing activities caused by the implementation of certain conservation measures, i.e. multiannual plans, targets for the conservation and sustainable exploitation of stocks, measures to adapt the fishing capacity of fishing vessels to available fishing opportunities and technical measures, by the implementation of emergency measures, by the interruption, due to reasons of force majeure, of the application of a sustainable fisheries partnership agreement, by prolonged unsafe weather conditions at sea, a natural disaster or by an environmental incident. Support should be granted only if the impact on fishers of such circumstances is significant, i.e. if the commercial activities of the vessel concerned are stopped during at least 90 consecutive days andor if the economic losses resulting from the cessation amount to more than 30% of the average annual turnover of the business concerned during a specified period of time. The specificities of eel fisheries should be taken into account in the conditions for granting such support.
Amendment 234 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 28
Recital 28
(28) Small-scale coastal fishing is carried out by fishing vessels below 12 metres and not using towed fishing gears. That sector represents nearly 75% of all fishing vessels registered in the Union and nearly half of all employment in the fishery sector. Operators from small-scale coastal fisheries are particularly dependant on healthy fish stocks for their main source of income. The EMFF should therefore give them a preferential treatment through a 100% aid intensity rate, including for operations related to control and enforcement, with the aim of encouraging sustainable fishing practices. In addition, certain areas of support should be reserved for small-scale fishing in fleet segment where the fishing capacity is balanced with the available fishing opportunities, i.e. support for the acquisition of a second- hand vessel and for engine replacement or modernisation. Furthermore, Member States should include in their programme an action plan for small-scale coastal fishing, including setting up co- management structures for inshore fishing areas, which should be monitored on the basis of indicators for which milestones and targets should be set.
Amendment 241 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 29
Recital 29
(29) The outermost regions, as outlined in the Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee, the Committee of the Regions and the European Investment Bank of 24 October 2017 entitled 'A stronger and renewed strategic partnership with the EU's outermost regions'10 , face specific challenges linked to their remoteness, topography and climate as referred to in Article 349 of the Treaty and also have specific assets on which to develop a sustainable blue economy, the EMFF should also be able to take into account the specific constraints recognized in Article 349 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. Therefore, for each outermost region, an action plan for the development of sustainable blue economy sectors, including the sustainable exploitation of fisheries and aquaculture, should be attached to the programme of the concerned Member States and a financial allocation should be reserved to support the implementation of those action plans. It should also be possible for the EMFF to support a compensation of the additional costs the outermost regions face due to their location and insularityfixed disadvantages. That support should be capped as a percentage of this overall financial allocation. In addition, a higher aid intensity rate than the one that applies to other operations should be applied in the outermost regions. _________________ 10 COM(2017) 623
Amendment 249 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 29 a (new)
Recital 29 a (new)
(29a) In order to maintain the competitiveness of certain fishery and aquaculture products originating in the outermost regions of the Union compared to similar products from other regions of the Union, the latter introduced in 1992 to offset the additional costs in the fisheries sector. These measures were set for the period2007-2013 by Regulation (EC) No 791/2007 and are continued by Regulation508/2014 in force for the period 2014-2020. It is necessary to maintain the support granted to offset the additional costs of fishing, rearing, processing and disposal of certain fishery and aquaculture products from the outermost regions of the Union from January 1, 20201, so that compensation helps to maintain the economic viability of operators in these regions.
Amendment 250 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 29 b (new)
Recital 29 b (new)
(29b) In view of the differences in the flow conditions prevailing in the outermost regions, as well as fluctuations in catches, stocks and market demand, it is appropriate to leave it to the Member States concerned to determine the eligible for compensation, the corresponding maximum quantities and the amount of the compensation, within the limits of the overall allocation allocated to each Member State.
Amendment 252 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 29 c (new)
Recital 29 c (new)
(29c) Member States should be allowed to vary the list and quantities of fishery products concerned and the amount of the compensation within the limits of the overall allocation allocated to them. Similarly, they should be allowed to adapt their compensation schemes if the situation changes so that it can be justified.
Amendment 253 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 29 d (new)
Recital 29 d (new)
(29d) Member States should set the amount of the compensation at a level which adequately offsets the additional costs incurred as a result of the disadvantages of the outermost regions. To avoid overcompensation, the amounts involved should be proportional to the additional costs that the aid is intended to offset. To this end, account should also be taken of other types of public intervention affecting the level of incremental costs.
Amendment 277 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 33
Recital 33
(33) Food security relies on efficient and well-organised markets, which improve the transparency, stability, quality and diversity of the supply chain, as well as consumer information. For that purpose, it should be possible for the EMFF to support the marketing of fishery and aquaculture products, in line with the objectives of Regulation (EU) No 1379/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council ('CMO Regulation') 15 . In particular, support should be available for the creation of producer organisations including, fishing cooperatives, small-scale producers, the implementation of production and marketing plans, the promotion of new market outlets and the development and dissemination of market intelligence. _________________ 15 Regulation (EU) No 1379/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the common organisation of the markets in fishery and aquaculture products, amending Council Regulations (EC) No 1184/2006 and (EC) No 1224/2009 and repealing Council Regulation (EC) No 104/2000 (OJ L 354, 28.12.2013, p. 1).
Amendment 369 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point 15 a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point 15 a (new)
(15 a) ´unforeseen cessation´ means when a small scale fisher is restricted from conducting fishing operations due to unsafe weather conditions,
Amendment 372 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point 15 b (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point 15 b (new)
(15b) Co-management: “fisheries co- management” is a partnership arrangement between government and the representatives of a defined group of fishers to share the responsibility and authority for the management of activities that impact on fishery resources and the wider aquatic ecosystem in a designated area where they fish (e.g. a protected area, inshore fishing zone etc.), ideally on a parity basis through a co-management committee. The decisions of the co- management committee are advised by scientists in consultation with other stakeholders.
Amendment 395 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point 3
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point 3
(3) Enabling the growth of a sustainable blue economy and fostering prosperous coastal and island communities;
Amendment 401 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 a (new)
Article 4 a (new)
Article 4 a Outermost Regions All the provisions of this Regulation must take into account the specific constraints recognized in Article 349 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.
Amendment 428 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 2 – point c
Article 6 – paragraph 2 – point c
(c) EUR 131 072 900 000 for Guadeloupe, French Guiyana, Martinique, Mayotte, Réeunion and Saint- Martin .
Amendment 435 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 3
Article 6 – paragraph 3
3. The compensation referred to in Article 21 shall not exceed 50% of each of the allocations referred to in points (a), (b) and (c) of paragraph 2annually: (a) EUR 6 450 000 for the Azores and Madeira; (b) EUR 8 700 000 for the Canary Islands; (c) EUR 12 350 000 for the outermost French regions referred to in Article 349 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.
Amendment 447 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 6
Article 6 – paragraph 6
6. In accordance with Articles 30 to 32 of Regulation (EU) No [Regulation laying down Common Provisions], the EMFF may support technical assistance for the effective administration and use of this Fund at the initiative of a Member State. A 20% cap shall apply to administrative costs borne by state and semi-state bodies to prevent over-absorption of funding.
Amendment 464 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 3 – point c a (new)
Article 9 – paragraph 3 – point c a (new)
(c a) analysis of social and economic disparities between fleet segments, with particular attention to the situation of small-scale fleets.
Amendment 497 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 3 – point a (new)
Article 11 – paragraph 3 – point a (new)
(a) For the fishery and aquaculture products listed in Annex I to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, to which Articles 107, 108 and 109 of that Treaty apply, the Commission may authorize, in accordance with Article 108 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, in the outermost regions referred to in Article 349 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, operating aid in the sectors of production, processing and the marketing of fishery and aquaculture products, aimed at alleviating the specific constraints on these regions linked to their remoteness, their insularity and their outermost region characteristics. Member States may grant additional financing for the implementation of the compensation plans referred to in Article 21. In this case, Member States shall notify to the Commission the State aid which it may approve in accordance with this Regulation, as part of these plans. State aid notified in this way is considered to be notified within the meaning of the first sentence of Article 108 (3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.
Amendment 595 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – title
Article 15 – title
15 Action plan for small-scale coastal, offshore, inshore and island fishing
Amendment 596 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
1. Member States shall prepare as part of their programme, and in due collaboration with the small-scale coastal, inshore, offshore and island fishing sectors, an action plan for small-scale coastal, inshore and offshore fishing which shall set out a strategy for the development of profitable and sustainable small-scale coastal fishing. This strategy shall be structured along the following sections, where applicable:
Amendment 600 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) adjustment and management of fishing capacity, while ensuring that the small-scale fishing fleet benefits from a fair share of the fishing rights;
Amendment 604 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point c
(c) reinforcement of the value chain of the sector and promotion of marketing strategies for the products obtained by the sector, including through the establishment of POs;
Amendment 625 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 2
Article 15 – paragraph 2
2. The action plan shall take into account the FAO voluntary guidelines for securing sustainable small-scale fisheries, notably the criteria towards economic, social and environmental sustainability (Guiding principle number 10) and, where appropriate, the regional plan olf action for small-scale fisheries from the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean.
Amendment 632 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 16 – title
Article 16 – title
16 Investments in small-scale coastal and island fishing vessels
Amendment 666 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 16 – paragraph 4
Article 16 – paragraph 4
4. No support shall be granted under this Article, if the assessment on the balance between fishing capacity and fishing opportunities in the latest report referred to in Article 22(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 for the fleet segment to which the vessels concerned belong, has not been prepared on the basis of the biological, economic and vessel use indicators set out in the common guidelines referred to in that Regulation. Furthermore, for any new investment, a guarantee of access to fishing rights (i.e. quotas) shall be ensured.
Amendment 672 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 2 – point a – point i (new)
Article 17 – paragraph 2 – point a – point i (new)
i) By way of derogation from Article 13 (a), in the outermost regions, the aid referred to in paragraph 1 may be granted to anchored fish aggregating devices only if such devices contribute to sustainable and selective fishing.
Amendment 701 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 18 – title
Article 18 – title
18 Unforeseen and Extraordinary cessation of fishing activities
Amendment 702 #
2018/0210(COD)
1. The EMFF mayshall support a compensation for the unforeseen and extraordinary cessation of fishing activities caused by:
Amendment 718 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 18 – paragraph 1 – point d
Article 18 – paragraph 1 – point d
(d) prolonged unsafe weather conditions at sea that impacts a certain fishery, an official weather warning by the national meteorological service of a Member State must be announced and in place, natural disasters or environmental incidents, as formally recognised by the competent authorities of the relevant Member State.
Amendment 891 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Title 2 – chapter 4 – title
Title 2 – chapter 4 – title
Priority 3: Enabling the growth of a sustainable blue economy and fostering prosperous coastal and island communities
Amendment 900 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 26 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. By way of derogation from Article 13 (h), in the outermost French regions, the aid referred to in paragraph 1 may be granted for the construction of new ports, new landing sites or new auction halls only if infrastructure contribute to sustainable and selective fishing.
Amendment 957 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Title 3 – chapter 3 – title
Title 3 – chapter 3 – title
Priority 3: Enabling the growth of a sustainable blue economy and fostering prosperous coastal and island communities
Amendment 993 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 54 a (new)
Article 54 a (new)
Article 54 a Review of POSEI and the Outermost Regions Before the end of the year 2023 the Commission shall present a report on the application of all the provisions of these Regulations specifically concerning the Outermost Regions, with appropriate proposals. The Commission is examining the possibility of creating a Distance and Insularity Option Program (POSEI) for maritime affairs and fisheries.
Amendment 996 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – column 1 – row 4
Annex I – column 1 – row 4
Enabling the growth of a sustainable blue economy and fostering prosperous coastal and island communities
Amendment 1015 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex III – row 6
Annex III – row 6
5 Operations located in the remote GreekIrish 85% Islands, Greek Islands and in the Croatian islands of Dugi islands of Dugi Otok, Vis, Mljet and Lastovo
Amendment 1016 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex III – row 11 – line 10
Annex III – row 11 – line 10
10 Article 18 100% Unforeseen and Extraordinary cessation of fishing activities
Amendment 1022 #
2018/0210(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex IV – row 7
Annex IV – row 7
Article 18 1.2 40% 40% Extraordinary cessation of fishing activitiesUnforeseen and Applies where an official Extraordinary cessation weather warning has been of fishing activities announced and put in place by the national meteorological service of the Member State due to sea conditions in the affected fisheries areas being unsafe for a prolonged period of time
Amendment 70 #
2018/0196(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1
Article 10 – paragraph 1
Amendment 71 #
2018/0196(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1
Article 10 – paragraph 1
1. Member States may allocate, in the Partnership Agreement or in the request for an amendment of a programme, the amount of ERDF, the ESF+, the Cohesion Fund and the EMFF to be contributed to InvestEU and delivered through budgetary guarantees. The amount to be contributed to InvestEU shall not exceed 5 % of the total allocation of each Fund, except in duly justified cases. Such contributions shall not constitute transfers of resources under Article 21.
Amendment 72 #
2018/0196(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 7
Article 10 – paragraph 7
7. Resources generated by or attributable to the amounts contributed to InvestEU and delivered through budgetary guarantees shall be made available to the Member State and shall be used either for support under the same objective or objectives in the form of financial instruments or transferred back to the original Fund.
Amendment 114 #
2018/0196(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 21
Article 21
Amendment 191 #
2018/0193(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009 has been amended by Regulation (EU) 2015/812 of the Parliament and Council31 in order to align certain of its provisions to the landing obligation set in Article 15 of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013. In order to allow the proper control of the landing obligation and deter illegal, underreported and unregulated fishing, it is necessary to equip, on the basis of a risk assessment, a certain percentage of fishing vessels should be equipped with continuous recording electronic monitoring devices including Close Circuit Televisions (CCTV) but mandatory for all vessels above 65 metres. CCTV data may be supplemented by data from other electronic monitoring devices. Data from these devices, including from CCTV, will provide Member State officials with means to control compliance with the landing obligation at sea. The CCTV footage should only concern the gears and the parts of the vessels where fishery products are brought on board, handled and stored. Footage from CCTVs should be recorded locally and should be made available exclusively to Member States officials or Union inspectors upon requests in particular in the context of inspections, investigations or audits. __________________ 31Regulation (EU) 2015/812 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2015 amending Council Regulations (EC) No 850/98, (EC) No 2187/2005, (EC) No 1967/2006, (EC) No 1098/2007, (EC) No 254/2002, (EC) No 2347/2002 and (EC) No 1224/2009, and Regulations (EU) No 1379/2013 and (EU) No 1380/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council, as regards the landing obligation, and repealing Council Regulation (EC) No 1434/98 (OJ L 133, 29.5.2015, p. 1).
Amendment 210 #
2018/0193(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18
Recital 18
(18) For vessels of 12 metres' length or more, it is important that the information in the logbook is made more accurate and includes data on the catches by haul or by operation, as this will enhance the effectiveness of controls. In the case of vessels less than 12 metres' length, the obligations pertaining to the completion and submission of the logbook should be simplified and masters should only be required to submit the information contained in logbook once, beforewithin 24 hours of arrival at port.
Amendment 216 #
2018/0193(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) Prior landing notification allows a better control by officials of the compliance with the rules on catch registration and fishing activities. To improve compliance with the rules on catch registration, the provisions on prior notifications should apply to all vessels above 128 metres and not only to fishing vessels targeting stocks under multiannual plans. Member States should be entitled to set a shorter period of prior notification for vessels flying their flag which operate exclusively within its territorial waters, as long as this does not impair their ability to inspect vessels upon arrival.
Amendment 218 #
2018/0193(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 26
Recital 26
(26) Provisions on fishing capacity should be updated to refer to Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013. The parameters of Gross Tonnage and engine power should be revised to allow for improvement of vessel stability, safety and working conditions for fishing operators taking into account the importance of not increasing fishing capacity.
Amendment 292 #
2018/0193(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 6
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 6
Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009
Article 9 – paragraph 3
Article 9 – paragraph 3
3. By way of derogation from paragraph 2, masters of Union fishing vessels below 12 metres’ length overall may carry on board a mobile device which allows the vessel to be automatically located and identified by a vessel monitoring system through recording and transmitting vessel position data at regular intervals. In case the device is not within reach of a mobile network, the vessel position data shall be recorded during that period of time and shall be transmitted as soon as the vessel is in reach of such network and at the latest before entering port and/or verified as soon as possible after entering port by the competent authorities.
Amendment 366 #
2018/0193(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 12
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 12
Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009
Article 15 – paragraph 2
Article 15 – paragraph 2
2. Masters of Union catching vessels of less than 12 metres’ length overall shall submit by electronic means the information referred to in Article 14, to the competent authority of their flag Member State after the last fishing operatis soon has been completed and before entering portpossible, and no later than 24 hours after docking.
Amendment 415 #
2018/0193(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 18
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 18
Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009
Article 19 a – paragraph 1
Article 19 a – paragraph 1
1. Union fishing vessels shall only be authorised to land in ports outside Union waters if they have notified by electronic means the competent authorities of their flag Member State at least 3 day24 hours before the estimated time of arrival at port of the information listed in paragraph 3 and the flag Member State has not denied the authorisation to land within this period of time.
Amendment 422 #
2018/0193(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 18
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 18
Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009
Article 19 a – paragraph 4
Article 19 a – paragraph 4
4. Where, on the basis of the analysis of the information submitted and other information available, there are reasonable grounds to believe that the fishing vessel is not complying with the rules of the common fisheries policy, the competent authorities of the flag Member State shall request the cooperation of the third country where the vessel intends to land, its quota share and remaining quota of that and its producer organisation in view of a possible inspection. For this purpose the flag Member State may require the fishing vessel to land in a different port, or delay the time of arrival at port or of landing.
Amendment 461 #
2018/0193(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 23
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 23
Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009
Article 25 a – paragraph 1
Article 25 a – paragraph 1
1. Member States shall ensure effective control of the landing obligation. For this purpose it is mandatory for all vessels above 65 metres, with a minimum percentage of fishing vessels under that length fishing for species subject to the landing obligation and flying their flag established in accordance with paragraph 2, shall be equipped with continuously recording Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) systems incorporating data storage.
Amendment 465 #
2018/0193(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 23
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 23
Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009
Article 25 a – paragraph 2
Article 25 a – paragraph 2
2. The percentage of fishing vessels under 65 metres referred to in paragraph 1 shall be established for different risk categories in specific control and inspection programmes adopted pursuant to Article 95. Those programmes shall also determine the risk categories and the types of fishing vessels included in such categories.
Amendment 710 #
2018/0193(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 69
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 69
Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009
Article 90 – paragraph 2 – point c a (new)
Article 90 – paragraph 2 – point c a (new)
(ca) not complying with instructions received from officials to reroute to a requested port in the event that there is suspicion of a serious infringement being committed;
Amendment 747 #
2018/0193(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 69
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 69
Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009
Article 91b–point 10 a (new)
Article 91b–point 10 a (new)
(10a) temporary or indefinite suspension of a flagged fishing vessel´s fishing rights in the territorial waters of a non-flagged Member State;
Amendment 823 #
2018/0193(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point a
Regulation (EC) No 768/2005
Article 3 – point e
Article 3 – point e
(e) to assist Member States and the Commission in harmonising the application of the common fisheries policy and real time shared access to individual fishing vessel and producers quota shares;
Amendment 830 #
2018/0193(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point 5
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point 5
Regulation (EC) No 1005/2008
Article 11 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 11 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. May instruct that the fishing vessel, provided that it is over 80 metres, immediately reroute to a port that the official has requested;
Amendment 831 #
2018/0193(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point 8
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point 8
Regulation (EC) No 1005/2008
Article 14 – paragraph 2
Article 14 – paragraph 2
2. In order to import fishery products constituting one single consignment and which have been processed in a third country or at sea, the importer shall submit to the authorities of the Member State of importation a statement established by the processing plant in that third country or its flagged vessel and endorsed by its competent authorities in accordance with the form in Annex IV:
Amendment 832 #
2018/0193(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point 8
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point 8
(b) indicating that the processed products have been processed in that third country or its flagged vessel from catches accompanied by catch certificate(s) validated by the flag State; and
Amendment 833 #
2018/0193(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point 8
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point 8
Regulation (EC) No 1005/2008
Article 14 – paragraph 2 – point d
Article 14 – paragraph 2 – point d
Amendment 834 #
2018/0193(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point 9
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point 9
Regulation (EC) No 1005/2008
Article 16 – paragraph 1
Article 16 – paragraph 1
1. The importer of fishery products into the Union shall submit the catch certificate, as established in Article 12(4), together with its transport details as specified in appendix of Annex II, the statement of the processing plant and processing vessel as established in Article 14(2) and other information as required in Articles 12, 14, and 17, electronically via CATCH to the competent authorities of the Member State in which the product is intended to be imported. The catch certificate together with its transport details, the statement of the processing plant and processing vessel and other information as required in Articles 12 and 14 have to be submitted at least three working days before the estimated time of arrival at the place of entry into the territory of the Union. The deadline of three working days may be adapted according to the type of fishery product, the distance to the place of entry into the territory of the Union or the transport means used. Those competent authorities shall, on the basis of risk management, check all submitted documents, in particular the catch certificate in the light of the information provided in the notification received from the flag State in accordance with Articles 20 and 22.
Amendment 837 #
2018/0193(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – paragraph 1
Annex I – paragraph 1
Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009
Annex III – table
Annex III – table
ANNEX III ANNEX III POINTS TO BE ASSIGNED TO UNION FISHING LICENCE HOLDERS OR UNION MASTERS FOR SERIOUS INFRINGEMENTS1 __________________ 1 For fishing vessels 80 metres or above in length that have committed serious infringements the points incurred shall be twofold.
Amendment 101 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) On 16 September 2016 in Bratislava, leaders of twenty-seven Member States stressed their determination to provide better opportunities for youth. In the Rome Declaration signed on 25 March 2017, leaders of twenty-seven Member States and of the European Council, the European Parliament and the European Commission pledged to work towards a Union where young people receive the best education and training and can work, learn, exchange, study and find jobs across the Union; a Union which preserves our cultural heritage and promotes solidarity, democracy and cultural diversity.
Amendment 105 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The mid-term evaluation report of the 2014-2020 Erasmus+ programme confirmed that the creation of a single programme on education, training, youth and sport resulted in significant simplification, rationalisation and synergies in the management of the Programme while further improvements are necessary to further consolidate the efficiency gains of the 2014-2020 Programme. In the consultations for the mid-term evaluation and on the future Programme, Member States and stakeholders made a strong call for continuity in the Programme's scope, architecture and delivery mechanisms, while calling for a number of improvements, such as making the Programme more inclusive and manageable for smaller beneficiaries and smaller projects.. They also expressed their full support for keeping the Programme integrated and underpinned by the lifelong learning paradigm. The European Parliament, in its Resolution of 2 February 2017 on the implementation of Erasmus+, welcomed the integrated structure of the programme and called on the Commission to exploit fully the lifelong learning dimension of the programme by fostering and encouraging cross-sectoral cooperation in the future programme. Member States and stakeholders also highlighted the need to keep a strong international dimension in the Programme and to extend it to other sectors of education and training.
Amendment 106 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) The open public consultation on Union funding in the areas of values and mobility confirmed these key findings and emphasised the need to make the future programme a more inclusive programme and to continue to focus priorities on modernising education and training systems as well as strengthening priorities on fostering European identity,fostering active citizenship and participation in democratic life.
Amendment 109 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) In its Communication on 'A modern budget for a Union that protects, empowers and defends - the multiannual financial framework for 2021-2027'26 adopted on 2 May 2018, the Commission called for a stronger “youth” focus in the next financial framework, notably by more than doubling the size of the 2014-2020 Erasmus+ Programme, one of the Union’s most visible success stories. In its resolution of 14 March 2018 on the next multiannual financial framework, the European Parliament called for the Programme’s budget to be tripled on order to maintain its success, achieve its goals including increased inclusiveness, as well as reduce its shortcomings and barriers to participation. The focus of the new Programme should be on inclusiveness, and to reach more young people with fewer opportunities. This should allow more young people to move to another country to learn or work.
Amendment 110 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) In its Communication on 'A modern budget for a Union that protects, empowers and defends - the multiannual financial framework for 2021-2027'26 adopted on 2 May 2018, the Commission called for a stronger “youth” focus in the next financial framework, notably by more than doubling the size of the 2014-2020 Erasmus+ Programme, one of the Union’s most visible success stories. The focus of the new Programme should be on inclusiveness, and to reach more young people with fewer opportunities and promoting the overall personal development of young people as active citizens in diverse and democratic societies. This should allow more young people to move to another country to live, learn or work. _________________ 26 COM(2018) 321 final. COM(2018) 321 final.
Amendment 111 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) In its Communication on 'A modern budget for a Union that protects, empowers and defends - the multiannual financial framework for 2021-2027'26 adopted on 2 May 2018, the Commission called for a stronger “youth” focus in the next financial framework, notably by more than doubling the size of the 2014-2020 Erasmus+ Programme, one of the Union’s most visible success stories. The focus of the new Programme should be on inclusiveness, and to reach more young people with fewer opportunities and promoting the overall personal development of young people as active citizens in diverse and democratic societies. This should allow more young people to move to another country to learn or work. _________________ 26 COM(2018) 321 final.
Amendment 123 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10 a (new)
Recital 10 a (new)
(10a) The Programme is essential to promoting lifelong learning and this dimension should be encouraged by means of cross-sectoral cooperation as well as greater interaction among different forms of education. In this context, large-scale policy projects should be promoted and provided with sufficient funding and national agencies should have greater flexibility.
Amendment 131 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) The Programme should be coherent with the new European Union youth strategy30 , the framework for European cooperation in the youth field for 2019- 2027, based on the Commission's Communication of 22 May 2018 on 'Engaging, connecting and empowering young people: a new EU Youth Strategy'31, including as regards the strategy’s aspirations to support quality youth work and non-formal learning. This entails attention for mobility, capacity-building, innovation and recognition of youth work and non-formal learning within the context of the 2012 Council Recommendation on the validation of non-formal and informal learning. This also calls for the promotion of quality tools and systems that should be used in the training of youth workers and that correspond to the changing circumstances of young people’s lives. These should be embedded in a broader quality approach to empower youth organisations. _________________ 30 [Reference - to be adopted by the Council by the end of 2018]. 31 COM(2018) 269 final.
Amendment 132 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) The Programme should be coherent with the new European Union youth strategy30, the framework for European cooperation in the youth field for 2019- 2027, based on the Commission's Communication of 22 May 2018 on 'Engaging, connecting and empowering young people: a new EU Youth Strategy'’31, including the strategy’s aspirations to support quality youth work and non- formal and informal learning. This entails attention to mobility, inclusiveness, capacity-building, innovation and recognition of youth work and non-formal or informal learning within the context of the 2012 Council Recommendation on the validation of non-formal and informal learning. This also calls for the promotion of quality tools and systems that should be used in the training of youth workers and that correspond to the changing circumstances of young people’s lives. These should be embedded in a broader quality approach to empower youth organisations. _________________ 30 [Reference - to be adopted by the Council by the end of 2018]. 31 COM(2018) 269 final. COM(2018) 269 final.
Amendment 139 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) The Programme should contribute to strengthening the Union's innovation capacity notably by supporting mobility and cooperation activities that foster the development of competences in forward- looking study fields or disciplines such as science, technology, engineering and mathematics, climate change, the environment, clean energy, artificial intelligence, robotics, data analysis and arts/design, to help people develop knowledge, skills and competences needed for the future. To this end, particular measures should address women and girls, who are still under-represented in these disciplines in some countries.
Amendment 146 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) Synergies with Horizon Europe should ensure that combined resources from the Programme and the Horizon Europe Programme33 are used to support activities dedicated to strengthening and modernising European higher education institutions. Horizon Europe will, where appropriate, complement the Programme's support for the European Universities initiative, in particular its research dimension as part of developing new joint and integrated long term and sustainable strategies on education, research and innovation. Synergies with Horizon Europe will help to foster the integration of education and research in higher education institutions. The programming of synergies should be coherent and synchronised in all relevant programmes. The simplified procedures for application should be applied for beneficiaries at the implementation level.
Amendment 152 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) The Programme should be more inclusive by improving its outreach to those with fewer opportunities, including through more flexible learning mobility formats, and by fostering participation ofmobility formats, simplified administrative procedures, targeting of beneficiary organisations working with groups under-represented in Erasmus+, youth-friendly and clear information and communication about the programme and by fostering and supporting the participation of local organisations and small organisations, in particular newcomers, youth organisations, volunteer-based and community-based grassroots organisations that work directly with disadvantaged learners of all ages. Virtual formats, such as virtual cooperation, blended and virtual mobility, should be promoted to reach more participants, in particular those with fewer opportunities and those for whom moving physically to a country other than their country of residence would be an obstacllearners with fewer opportunities of all ages, and organisations working with and supporting people from marginalised groups, such as people with an ethnic minority background, people with disabilities and LGBTI people. Virtual formats, such as virtual cooperation, blended and virtual mobility, should be promoted to reach more participants and complement the mobility experience.
Amendment 153 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) The Programme should be more inclusive by improving its outreach to those with fewer opportunities, including throughoffering more flexible learning mobility formats, and by fostering the participation of small organisations, in particular newcomers and community-based grassroots organisations that work directly with disadvantaged learners of all ages. Virtual formats, such as virtual cooperation, blended and virtual mobility, should be promoted to reach more participants, in particular those with fewer opportunities and those for whom moving physically to a country other than their country of residence would be an obstacle. , and strengthening cooperation and dialogue with social partners, national and local authorities and civil society. To that end, an EU-wide strategy on fostering inclusiveness should be developed, including a specific methodology and specific measures to reach people with fewer opportunities and assist their participation in the Programme. Such a strategy should be further adjusted to national and local contexts and implemented by national agencies together with relevant stakeholders.
Amendment 155 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) The Programme should be more inclusive by improving its outreach to those with fewer opportunities, including through more flexible learning mobility formats, and by fostering participation of small organisations, in particular newcomers and community-based grassroots organisations that work directly with disadvantaged learners of all ages. Virtual formats, such as virtual cooperation, blended and virtual mobility, should be promoted to reach more participants, in particular those with fewer opportunities and those for whom moving physically to a country other than their country of residence would be an obstacle. Non-discriminatory and barrier-free access to the Programme should be ensured for people with disabilities. To that end, adequate funding, suitable educational and social supports, and enhanced structural support is vital to increase the Programme outreach.
Amendment 164 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16 a (new)
Recital 16 a (new)
(16a) The Programme should put greater emphasis on bilingual or multilingual inclusive and high-quality early school education as a means of enhancing children’s long-term educational potential from early years and preventing social and economic inequalities. The mobility of early education and pre-school staff should be promoted with the aim of strengthening the educational mission of pre-schools and improving the teaching of children.
Amendment 167 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16 a (new)
Recital 16 a (new)
(16a) Virtual formats, such as virtual cooperation, blended and virtual mobility, can be promoted to reach more participants, in particular those whose participation in transnational activities is limited or strongly impeded. Such virtual formats should be viewed as an enhancement to, rather than a replacement for, physical mobility.
Amendment 171 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16 b (new)
Recital 16 b (new)
(16b) Non-discriminatory and barrier- free access to the Programme should be ensured for people with disabilities. To that end, adequate funding and enhanced structural support is necessary to increase the Programme outreach.
Amendment 172 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16 c (new)
Recital 16 c (new)
(16c) With a view to enhancing outreach, inclusion and the quality of learning mobility, experienced non-profit mobility providers should benefit from a simplified application procedure, such as accreditation by complying with quality charters, in order to support the participation in the Programme of institutions and organisations with limited resources and capacities.
Amendment 173 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16 d (new)
Recital 16 d (new)
(16d) The Programme should put greater emphasis on inclusive and high- quality early school education as a means of enhancing children’s long-term educational potential from early years and preventing social and economic inequalities. The mobility of early education and pre-school staff should be promoted with the aim of strengthening the educational mission of pre-schools and improving the teaching of children.
Amendment 174 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16 e (new)
Recital 16 e (new)
(16e) Online tools and platforms connected with the Programme should be optimised and synchronised in order to create a single information point for all stakeholders and Programme beneficiaries.
Amendment 175 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16 f (new)
Recital 16 f (new)
(16f) The Programme should ensure the meaningful participation of the representatives of programme beneficiaries, including civil society, in the governance, implementation and evaluation of the Programme actions. Good governance and partnership with key stakeholders contributes to the effective and efficient implementation of the Programme's actions and activities.
Amendment 176 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16 g (new)
Recital 16 g (new)
(16g) The Programme should provide structural support to key Union-level networks and European non- governmental organisations whose activities relate to and contribute to the Programme objectives.
Amendment 177 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
Amendment 187 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18
Recital 18
(18) The international dimension of the Programme should be boosted aiming at offering a greater number of opportunities for mobility, cooperation and policy dialogue with third countries not associated to the Programme, including with regional and sub-state governments. Building on the successful implementation of international higher education and youth activities under the predecessor programmes in the fields of education, training and youth, the international mobility activities should be extended to other sectors, such as in vocational education and training.
Amendment 189 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18 a (new)
Recital 18 a (new)
(18a) The Programme should ensure quality mobility experiences based on the principles laid down in the European Quality Charter for Mobility (2006/961/EC), where the quality of the practical provisions such as information, preparation, support and recognition of experience and qualifications, as well as clear learning plans and learning outcomes drawn up in advance, have a definitive impact on the advantages of the mobility experiences. In addition, authorities and organisations involved in this process can improve its value by adequate planning and suitable evaluation.
Amendment 191 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20
Recital 20
(20) The Programme should reinforce existing learning mobility opportunities, notably in those sectors where the Programme could have the biggest efficiency gains, to broaden its reach and meet the high unmet demand. This should be done notably by increasing and facilitating mobility activities for higher education students, school pupils and learners in vocational education and training. Mobility of low-skilled adult learnerunder- represented groups, especially young people not in formal education and learners in vocational education and training, as well as school pupils. Higher education students could continue to be targeted at the existing high level. Mobility of learners with fewer opportunities should be embedded in partnerships for cooperation. Mobility opportunities for youth participating in non-formal or informal learning activities should also be fundamentally extended to reach more young people, especially newcomers, those with fewer opportunities and hard-to-reach population groups. Mobility of staff in education, training, youth and sport should also be reinforced, considering its leverage effect. In line with the vision of a true European Education Area, the Programme should also boost mobility and exchanges and promote student participation in educational and cultural activities by supporting digitalisation of processes, such as the European Student Card. This initiative can be an important step in making mobility for all a reality first by enabling higher education institutions to send and receive more exchange students while still enhancing quality in student mobility and also by facilitating students' access to various services (library, transport, accommodation) before arriving at the institution abroad.
Amendment 199 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20 a (new)
Recital 20 a (new)
(20a) The Programme should strengthen inclusivity and quality in VET in order to ensure its vital role in providing equal opportunities and social inclusion for all citizens. To this end, the Programme should address VET sector-specific issues in relation to Programme participation, such as high-quality mobility partnerships, sector-specific language training and competence recognition and/or certification.
Amendment 200 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20 a (new)
Recital 20 a (new)
(20a) The Programme should pay more attention to building a supportive environment for teachers and educational personnel and to the social dimension of teaching and learning of exchange students. Additional financial support and sufficient continuous professional development opportunities should be provided for school and academic staff and researchers who teach international students.
Amendment 201 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20 b (new)
Recital 20 b (new)
(20b) VET institutions should be further encouraged to apply for the VET Charter in order to benchmark their quality and attractiveness. Partnerships and networks between employers and VET providers should be strengthened.
Amendment 202 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20 c (new)
Recital 20 c (new)
(20c) The Programme should support and encourage the mobility of teachers and educational staff at all levels as an important factor in fostering their ongoing learning, enhanced working practice and overall professional development. To this end, teachers and educational staff should benefit from the same financial support regardless of sending countries, flexible work arrangements as well as the possibility to incorporate periods abroad into their work programmes and regular workloads.
Amendment 213 #
2018/0191(COD)
(22) The Programme should offer young people more opportunities to discover Europe through learning experiences abroad. Eighteen year oldsYoung people, in particular those with fewer opportunities, should be given the chance to have a first-time, short-term individual or group experience travelling throughout Europe in the frame of an informal educational activity aimed at fostering their sense of belonging to the European Union discovering its diversity and the variety of youth participation and discovering its cultural diversity. The Programme should identify bodies, including civil society organisations and youth organisations, in charge of reaching out and selecting the participants and support activities to foster the learning dimension of the experience. Preparation and debriefing seminars, providing language training, intercultural skills and stimulating reflection should be an integral part of the travelling experience. Those seminars should be organised by the responsible sending or receiving organisations. Those organisations should also be involved in the selection of participants and serve as a point of contact for the traveller for the duration of the journey. The Programme should also link with the European Capitals of Culture, the European Youth Capitals, the European Volunteering Capitals and European Green Capitals as a key component of the experience.
Amendment 215 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 22
Recital 22
(22) The Programme should offer young people more opportunities to discover Europe through learning experiences abroad. Eighteen year oldsYoung people, in particular those with fewer opportunities, should be given the chance to have a first-time, short- term individual or group travel experience travelling throughoutin Europe in the frame of an informal educational activity aimed at fostering their sense of belonging to the European Union and discovering its cultural diversity. Actions proposed within this framework should have a strong learning component enabling the validation of the competences and skills acquired during the mobility periods, and an inclusive character tailored to the needs of all participants. It should also integrate the European Capitals of Culture, the European Youth Capitals, the European Volunteering Capitals and European Green Capitals as a key component of the learning and traveling experience. The Pprogramme should identify bodies in charge of reaching out and selecting the participants and support activities to foster the learning dimension of the experience.
Amendment 223 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23
Recital 23
(23) The Programme should also enhance the learning of languages, including minority and unofficial languages, as well as national sign languages, in particular through widened use of accessible online tools, as e-learning offers additional advantages for language learning in terms of access and flexibility. The online tools and portals must be fully accessible in line with Directive (EU) 2016/2102 on the accessibility of the websites and mobile applications of public sector bodies.
Amendment 225 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23
Recital 23
(23) The Programme should also enhance the learning of languages, in particular throughcluding on-site language courses and widened use of online tools, as e-learning offers additional advantages for language learning in terms of access and flexibility. The Erasmus Online Linguistic Support should be tailored to the specific needs of participants of the Programme and open to everybody.
Amendment 230 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23 a (new)
Recital 23 a (new)
(23a) The Programme should make use of language technologies such as automatic translation technologies within all key actions, with the aim of facilitating exchanges between authorities and improving intercultural dialogue, especially in written and audiovisual expression. Reinforced synergies with Horizon Europe and the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) could help develop the use of language technologies under the Programme.
Amendment 231 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23 a (new)
Recital 23 a (new)
(23a) Minority and lesser used languages and linguistic diversity should make up a core part of the programme where these languages are spoken.
Amendment 232 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 24
Recital 24
(24) The Programme should support measures that enhance the cooperation between institutions and organisations active in education, training, youth and sport, recognising their fundamental role in equipping individuals with the knowledge, skills and competences needed in a changing world as well as to adequately fulfil the potential for innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship, in particular within the digital economy. To this end, effective cooperation between all relevant stakeholders at all levels of the Programme’s implementation should be ensured.
Amendment 238 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 26
Recital 26
(26) The 2010 Bruges Communiqué called for support of vocational excellence for smart and sustainable growth. The 2017 Communication on Strengthening Innovation in Europe's Regions points to linking vocational education and training to innovation systems, as part of smart specialisation strategies at regional level. The Programme should provide the means to respond to these calls and support the development of transnational platforms of Centres of vocational excellence closely integrated in local and regional strategies for sustainable development, social inclusion, growth, innovation and competitiveness. These centres of excellence should act as drivers of quality vocational skills in a context of sectorial challenges, while supporting overall structural changes and socio-economic policies in the Union.
Amendment 247 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 28
Recital 28
(28) The Programme should contribute to facilitating transparency and automatic recognition of skills and, competences, qualifications, and diplomas as well as the transfer of credits or units of learning outcomes, to foster quality assurance and to support validation of non-formal and informal learning, skills management and guidance. In this regard, the Programme should also provide support to contact points and networks at national and Union level that facilitate cross-European exchanges as well as the development of flexible learning pathways between different fields of education, training and youth and across formal and non-formal settings.
Amendment 251 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 29 a (new)
Recital 29 a (new)
(29a) The Programme should put special emphasis on the validation and recognition of education and training periods abroad, including for secondary school education. In this regard, the budget allocation and concrete grants should be linked to quality assessment procedures, to a description of the learning outcomes, and to the full application of the Council Recommendation on European Framework for Quality and Effective Apprenticeships.
Amendment 252 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 29 a (new)
Recital 29 a (new)
(29a) Stresses that any EU-supported internship or apprenticeship programme must have proper monitoring and controls, including pre-placement checks and consultation with trade unions where a collective agreement exists, to prevent displacement of paid work and ensure meaningful employment-enhancing training.
Amendment 258 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 30
Recital 30
(30) As a way to ensure cooperation with other Union instruments and support to other policies of the Union, mobility opportunities should be offered to people in various sectors of activity, such as the public sector, agriculture and enterprise, to have a learning experience abroad allowing them, at any stage of their life, to grow and develop professionally but also personally, in particular by developing an awareness of their European identity and an understanding of European cultural diversity. The Programme should offer an entry point for Union transnational mobility schemes with a strong learning dimension, simplifying the offer of such schemes for beneficiaries and those taking part in these activities. The scaling-up of Erasmus projects should be facilitated; specific measures should be put in place to help promoters of Erasmus projects to apply for grants or develop synergies through the support of the European Structural and Investment Funds and the programmes relating to migration, security, justice and citizenship, health and culture.
Amendment 259 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 31
Recital 31
Amendment 268 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 32 b (new)
Recital 32 b (new)
(32b) Given the legal obligation of the European Union to eliminate inequalities and promote equality between men and women through all its activities established by Article 8 TFEU, this Programme should contribute to mainstreaming gender in the Union's policies. Relevant actions should be identified during the Programme's preparation and implementation and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review process. Improvements are especially needed regarding the gender balance of participants from third countries.
Amendment 271 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 33 a (new)
Recital 33 a (new)
(33a) Considering that the EU and all the Member States have ratified the UN CRPD, including its Article 9 on accessibility and its Article 24 on education, special attention should be given to ensuring that the activities supported by the Programme are accessible to all young people, notably people with fewer opportunities, including persons with disabilities. Furthermore, reasonable accommodation must be provided if required to promote the social inclusion and the participation of young people with fewer opportunities, as well as to take into account the constraints imposed by the remoteness of a number of rural areas and of the outermost regions of the Union and the Overseas Countries and Territories. Similarly, the participating countries should endeavour to adopt all appropriate measures to remove legal and administrative obstacles to the proper functioning of the Programme. This should resolve, where possible, and without prejudice to the Schengen acquis and Union law on the entry and residence of third-country nationals, administrative issues that create difficulties in obtaining visas, residence permits and access to support services, as well as the issuing of a European Health Insurance Card in the case of cross-border activities within the European Union.
Amendment 291 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 42
Recital 42
(42) Appropriate outreach, publicity and dissemination of the opportunities and results of the actions supported by the Programme should be ensured at European, national and local level. The outreach, publicity and dissemination activities should rely on all the implementing bodies of the Programme, including, when relevantapplicable, with the support of other keyrelevant stakeholders.
Amendment 294 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 44
Recital 44
(44) In order to ensure efficient, and effective implementation of this Regulation, the Programme should make maximum use of delivery mechanisms already in place. The implementation of the Programme should therefore be entrusted to the Commission, and to national agencies, which should ensure consistent and coherent application of the Programme rules across the EU countries and proper outreach to and cooperation with all target groups across the wide spectrum of stakeholders. Where feasible, and in order to maximise efficiency, the national agenciesy should be the same as the one designated for the management of the predecessor programme. The scope of the ex- ante compliance assessment should be limited to the requirements that are new and specific to the Programme, unless justified, such as in case of serious shortcomings or under-performance on the part of the national agency concerned.
Amendment 300 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 46
Recital 46
(46) Member States should endeavour to adopt all appropriate measures to remove legal and administrative obstacles to the proper functioning of the Programme. This includes exempting study grants from taxation and social levies, as well as resolving, where possible, and without prejudice to Union law on the entry and residence of third-country nationals issues that create difficulties in obtaining visas and residence permits. In line with Directive (EU) 2016/801 of the European Parliament and of the Council39, Member States are encouraged to establish fast- track admission procedures. _________________ 39 Directive (EU) 2016/801 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 May 2016 on the conditions of entry and residence of third-country nationals for the purposes of research, studies, training, voluntary service, pupil exchange schemes or educational projects and au pairing (OJ L 132, 21.5.2016, p. 21).
Amendment 306 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 49
Recital 49
(49) In order to simplify requirements for beneficiaries, simplified grants in the form of lump-sums, unit-costs and flat-rate funding should be used to the maximum possible extent. The simplified grants to support the mobility actions of the Programme, as defined by the Commission, should take into accountbe regularly reviewed and adjusted to the living and subsistence costs of the host country and regions. The Commission and national agencies of the sending countries should have the possibility to adjust these simplified grants on the basis of objective criteria, in particular to ensure access to people with fewer opportunities. In accordance with national law, Member States should also be encouraged to exempt those grants from any taxes and social levies. The same exemption should apply to public or private entities awarding such financial support to the individuals concerned.
Amendment 308 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 49 a (new)
Recital 49 a (new)
(49a) It is important to ensure equality of opportunity for persons that may be physically or geographically disadvantaged, or who may belong to a minority, so that they enjoy full and fair access to the Programme. This is of paramount importance to the Programme’s success in achieving full inclusivity.
Amendment 309 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 51
Recital 51
(51) It is necessary to ensure the complementarity of the actions carried out within the Programme with activities undertaken by the Member States and with other Union activities, with emphasis on sharing knowledge and fostering national and local developments. These activities include in particular those in the fields of education, culture and the media, youth and solidarity, employment and social inclusion, research and innovation, industry and enterprise, agriculture and rural development with a focus on young farmers, cohesion, regional policy and international cooperation and development.
Amendment 310 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 51 a (new)
Recital 51 a (new)
(51a) The Programme will recognise the importance of safeguarding both natural and cultural heritage and will harness the educational potential of these amenities.
Amendment 316 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 55
Recital 55
(55) This Regulation respects the fundamental rights and observes the principles recognised in particular by the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union and the UN Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities. In particular, this Regulation seeks to ensure full respect for the right to equality between men and women and the right to non-discrimination based on sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation, and to promote the application of Articles 21 and 23 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.
Amendment 317 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1
(1) 'lifelong learning' means learning in all its forms (formal, non-formal and informal learning) taking place at all stages in life, including early childhood education and care, general education, vocational education and training, higher education, and adult education, and resulting in an improvement in knowledge, skills and attitudes or participation in society, sensitivity to global and local environmental and social issues, in a personal, civic, cultural, social and/or employment-related perspective, including the provision of counselling and guidance services;
Amendment 321 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 2
(2) '‘learning mobility' means moving physically to a country other than the country of residence, in order to undertake study, training or non-formal or informal learning; It mayis fully accessible, inclusive and adequately funded and shall be accompanied by measures such as language support, including for national sign languages, and training and/or be complemented by accessible online learning of and virtual cooperation regarding all EU spoken and signed languages. In some specific cases, it may take the form of learning through the use of accessible information technology and accessible communications tools;
Amendment 322 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 2
(2) 'learning mobility' means moving physically to a country other than the country of residence, in order to undertake study, training or non-formal or informal learning;, including teaching or professional development activities. It may be accompanied by measures such as language support and training and/or be complemented by online learning and virtual cooperation. In some specific cases, it may take the form of learning through the use of information technology and communications tools; tools, but not to the exclusion of physical mobility.
Amendment 327 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 4
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 4
(4) 'informal learning' means learning resulting from daily activities and experiences which is not organised or structured in terms of objectives, time or learning support. It may be unintentional from the learner's perspective and it should provide a learning outcome beneficial for the learner;
Amendment 337 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 8
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 8
(8) ‘staff’ means any person who, on either a professional or a voluntary basis, is involved in education at all levels, training or non- formal learning, and may include professors, teachers, trainers, school leaders, youth workers, sport coaches, non- educational staff and other practitioners involved in promoting learning;
Amendment 345 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 11
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 11
(11) ‘adult education’ means any form of non-vocational education for adults after initial education, whether of a formal, non- formal or informal nature; The main objectives of adult education are the promotion of social inclusion, active citizenship, personal development and well-being, along with the transfer of knowledge, competences and skills;
Amendment 375 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 25
(25) ‘people with fewer opportunities’ means people facing obstacles that prevent them from having effective who need additional support due to their disadvantage compared to their peers because of various obstaccless to opportunities under the Programme for, for example disability, health problems, educational difficulties, cultural differences, economic, social, cultural, and geographical or health reasons, a migrant background or for reasons such as disability abstacles, including people from marginalised communities or at risk of facing discrimination based on any of the grounds educational difficulties;nshrined in Article 21 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.
Amendment 384 #
2018/0191(COD)
(26a) ‘social inclusion’ means the process of enabling people with fewer opportunities to participate in the Programme or/and addressing issues of inclusion and diversity that ultimately benefit people with fewer opportunities;
Amendment 389 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 27 b (new)
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 27 b (new)
(27b) ‘reasonable accommodation’ means necessary and appropriate modification and adjustments not imposing a disproportionate or undue burden, where needed in a particular case, to ensure for persons with disabilities the enjoyment or exercise on an equal basis with others of all human rights and fundamental freedoms;
Amendment 391 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 27 c (new)
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 27 c (new)
(27c) ‘mobility providers’ means non- profit organisations which offer support services to schools, universities or VET providers for the organisation of mobility projects.
Amendment 429 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point e
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point e
(e) language learning opportunities, including those supporting mobility activities., and including minority and unofficial languages, as well as national sign languages;
Amendment 447 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point c
(c) partnerships for innovation, especially sustainable and green innovation to strengthen Europe’s sustainable innovation capacity;
Amendment 450 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
(ca) partnerships for social inclusion and cohesion and reduction of poverty;
Amendment 462 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point d
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point d
(d) measures that contribute to the high-qualitative and inclusivy and socially more inclusive and environmentally sustainable implementation of the Programme;
Amendment 475 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 1 – point d a (new)
Article 8 – paragraph 1 – point d a (new)
(da) intergenerational exchange activities between youth and older persons;
Amendment 489 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point c
(c) policy dialogue, support and cooperation with relevant key stakeholders, including Union-wide networks, European non- governmental organisations, and international organisations in the field of youth, the EU Youth dialogue as well as structural support to the European Youth Forum and other European youth organisations;
Amendment 506 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 12 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) not for profit and grassroots sport events aiming at further developing the European dimension of sport.
Amendment 512 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Chapter 4 a (new)
Chapter 4 a (new)
CHAPTER V SOCIAL INCLUSION 1. The increased participation of people with fewer opportunities shall be a priority in order to ensure wide outreach, to foster inclusiveness and to contribute to achieving the Programme’s goals. In this context, a Union-wide strategy on enhancing the Programme’s inclusiveness shall be developed, setting common goals, indicating possible measures and guidelines to achieve them, outlining structural and financial support available, as well as monitoring and evaluation tools. The national agencies may further adjust this strategy to national and local contexts and shall implement it. The European Commission shall monitor the implementation of such a strategy. 2. The strategy referred to in paragraph 1 shall give particular attention to the following elements: (a) enhanced cooperation and dialogue with social partners, national and local authorities and civil society; (b) the optimisation of the potential of participating organisations by facilitating their participation in the Programme; (c) adapting the level of financial support for the mobility of individuals to meet the needs of people with fewer opportunities, in line with the living and subsistence costs of the host country or region; (d) collection of qualitative and quantitative data on the Programme’s inclusiveness; (e) cooperation with other Union instruments including the European Social Fund+ and support for other Union policies; (f) dissemination and awareness- raising of the Programme in the most user-friendly way to targeted groups; (g) support to contact points for beneficiaries and organisations working with them; (h) portability of social grants, and provision of pre-financing options and structural aid for the disabled; (i) preparation initiatives for the mobility experience. 3. Grants for mobility actions for people with fewer opportunities shall cover their total cost of participation in the Programme.
Amendment 573 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 14 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. The levels of financial support, such as grants, travel or administrative lump sums, flat rates and unit costs, shall be regularly revised and adjusted to the living and subsistence costs of the host country or region as well as travelling conditions.
Amendment 575 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 3 b (new)
Article 14 – paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. To support the inclusion of those who face additional barriers and require special needs assistance, a dedicated budget to cover the costs of such assistance will be provided, separate from the main project budget.
Amendment 581 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 6 a (new)
Article 14 – paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. The funds for the learning mobility of individuals referred to in Article 4 shall be adjusted to the cost of living in the host Member States or regions.
Amendment 584 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 15 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Staff such as teachers, professors or researchers working on the same project shall be remunerated equally and their living costs shall be adjusted to reality, based on host regions (reviewed annually or bi-annually and based on updated Eurostat figures).
Amendment 602 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 18 – paragraph 2
Article 18 – paragraph 2
2. When implementing the Programme, inter alia in the selection of participants and the award of grants, the Commission and the Member States shall ensure that efforts are made to promote social inclusion and improve outreach to people with fewer opportunities. The cost of measures to facilitate inclusion cannot by itself justify the rejection of a project application. Furthermore, participants who declare that they fall into the category of “people with fewer opportunities” shall not be obliged to prove their support needs, as this would create barriers to their equal participation.
Amendment 604 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 18 – paragraph 2
Article 18 – paragraph 2
2. When implementing the Programme, inter alia in the selection of participants and the award of grants, the Commission and the Member States shall ensure that efforts are made to promote social inclusion and improve outreach to people with fewer opportunities. Additional support shall be provided to allow barrier-free access to all activities for people with fewer opportunities to prepare them culturally, socially, and linguistically for their mobility experiences.
Amendment 609 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 18 – paragraph 5
Article 18 – paragraph 5
5. To improve access to people with fewer opportunities and ensure the smooth implementation of the Programme, the Commission may adjust or may authorise the national agencies referred to in Article 23 to adjust, on the basis of objective criteria, the grants to support mobility actions of the Programme, for example by providing pre-financing.
Amendment 616 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 20 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 20 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. There shall be an overseeing body to monitor the participation of the three groups who have been previously marginalised by the programme. This body will report to the European Parliament on an annual or bi-annual basis. These groups are: – People with disabilities and special education requirements – Marginalised communities, such as persons who are geographically disadvantaged, early school leavers, people in informal education and people with ethnic status or belonging to a minority – People at socio-economic disadvantage
Amendment 623 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 21 – paragraph 5
Article 21 – paragraph 5
5. The Commission shall communicate the conclusions of the evaluations accompanied by its observationsubmit evaluation reports to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions.
Amendment 629 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 22 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. All Programme documents shall be available in all the official and co- official languages of the European Union in order to ensure equal opportunities.
Amendment 630 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 1 b (new)
Article 22 – paragraph 1 b (new)
1b. The national agency shall provide adequate support to ensure that projects are easily accessible and contribute to the qualitative and inclusive implementation of the Programme.
Amendment 638 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 23 – paragraph 2
Article 23 – paragraph 2
2. The Member States shall take all necessary and appropriate measures to remove any legal and administrative obstacles to the proper functioning of the Programme, including, where possible, measures aimed at resolving issues that give rise to difficulties in obtaining visas, residence permits and other legal difficulties that could prevent young people’s access to the programme.
Amendment 647 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 24 – paragraph 7 b (new)
Article 24 – paragraph 7 b (new)
7b. The national agency shall regularly consult the beneficiaries of the Programme (individuals and organisations) with a view to improving the Programme’s implementation.
Amendment 652 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 25 – paragraph 7
Article 25 – paragraph 7
7. Regular meetings shall be organised with the network of national agencies in order to ensure coherent implementation of the Programme across all Member States and all third countries referred to in Article 17. The representatives of beneficiaries, including civil society and external experts, shall be invited to participate in these meetings as observers.
Amendment 677 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 1
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 1
(1) High quality and inclusive learning mobility for people from diverse backgrounds, including people with fewer opportunities
Amendment 679 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – paragraph 2 – point 3
Annex I – paragraph 2 – point 3
(3) Number of people taking part in mobility activities under the Programme, accompanied by a description of the measures taken to achieve full inclusion of the participants
Amendment 35 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 5 a (new)
Recital 5 a (new)
(5 a) In Union waters in the North West Atlantic, 73% of deep sea fish have been contaminated by marine litter illustrating the threat posed by plastics to marine ecosystems,
Amendment 39 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) To focus efforts where they are most needed, this Directive should only cover the most commonly found single-use plastics products, which are estimated to represent around 86% of the single-use plastics found, in counts, on beaches in the Union, and also fishing gear. The transition to a circular economy will necessitate a reduction in the overall use of single use plastic.
Amendment 47 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) With regard to single-use plastic products for which there are no readily available suitable and more sustainable alternatives at present, Member States should, in line with the polluter pays principle, also introduce extended producer responsibility schemes to cover the costs of waste management and clean-up of litter as well as the costs of awareness-raising measures to prevent and reduce such litter.
Amendment 53 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) The large portion of plastic stemming from abandoned, lost and discarded fishing gear containing plastic in marine litter indicates that the existing legal requirements46 do not provide sufficient incentives to return such fishing gear to shore for collection and treatment. The indirect fee system envisaged under Union law on port reception facilities for the delivery of waste from ships takes away the incentive for ships to discharge their waste at sea, and ensures a right of delivery. That system should, however, be supplemented by further financial incentives for fishermen to bring their fishing gear waste, as well as lost or discarded fishing gear found at sea, on shore to avoid any potential increase in the indirect waste fee to be paid. As plastic components of fishing gear have a high recycling potential, Member States should, in line with the polluter pays principle, introduce extended producer responsibility for fishing gear containing plastic to facilitate separate collection of waste fishing gear and to finance sound waste management of such fishing gear, in particular recycling. _________________ 46 Council Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009, Directive 2000/59/EC and Directive 2008/98/EC.
Amendment 59 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 17 a (new)
Recital 17 a (new)
(17 a) Whilst the fishers themselves and artisanal makers of fish gear containing plastic should not be covered by the extended producers responsibility there should be consideration for supporting the introduction of sustainably sourced fish gear containing no plastic as an alternative.
Amendment 64 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 22
Recital 22
(22) Pursuant to paragraph 22 of the Interinstitutional Agreement between the European Parliament, the Council of the European Union and the European Commission on Better Law-Making of 13 April 201648 , the Commission should carry out an evaluation of this Directive. That evaluation should be based on experience gathered and data collected during the implementation of this Directive and data collected under Directive 2008/56/EC or Directive 2008/98/EC. The evaluation should provide the basis for an assessment of possible further measures and an assessment whether, in view of monitoring of marine litter in the Union, the Annex listing single-use plastic products needs to be reviewed. The evaluation should also consider whether scientific and technical progress that has taken place in the meantime, including the development of biodegradable materials and the development of criteria or a standard for biodegradability of plastics in the marine environment, as foreseen in the European Plastics Strategy, allows the setting of a standard for biodegradation of certain single-use plastic products in the marine environment. That standard would include a standard to test if, as a result of physical and biological decomposition in the marine environment, plastics would fully decompose into carbon dioxide (CO2), biomass and water within a timescale short enough for the plastics not to be harmful for marine life and not lead to an accumulation of plastics in the environment. If that is the case, single-use plastic products that meet such a standard could be exempted from the prohibition on placing on the market. While the European Strategy for Plastics already envisages action in this area, it also recognises the challenges in relation to determining a regulatory framework for plastics with biodegradable properties due to different marine conditions across seas in order to expand the list of single use plastic items. There should be no consideration of biodegradability in reviewing the annex. _________________ 48 OJ L 123, 12.5.2016, p. 1.
Amendment 69 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1
The objective of this Directive is to prevent and significantly reduce the impact of certain plastic productplastics on the environment, in particular the aquatic environment, and on human health, as well as to promote the transition to a circular economy with innovative business models,through a reduction in productsion and materials, thus also contributing to the efficient functioning of the inconsumption of single use plastics, with sustainable business models, products and maternial markets.
Amendment 72 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 1
(1) 'plastic' means a material consisting of a polymer within the meaning of Article 3(5) of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006, to which additives or other substances may have been added, and which can function as a main structural component of final products, with the exception of natural polymers that have not been chemically modified;
Amendment 77 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 10
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 10
(10) 'producer' means any natural or legal person that, manufactures, processes, treats, sells or imports single-use plastic products or fishing gear containing plastic as understood in Article 8(1) of Directive 2008/98. A producer may be qualified as such irrespective of the selling technique used, including distance contracts within the meaning of Directive 2011/83/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 201150 , places on the market single-use plastic products and fishing gear containing plastic except persons carrying out fishing activities as defined in Article 4(28) of Regulation (EC) No 1380/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council51 ; _________________ 50 Directive 2011/83/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2011 on consumer rights, amending Council Directive 93/13/EEC and Directive 1999/44/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council and repealing Council Directive 85/577/EEC and Directive 97/7/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 304, 22.11.2011, p. 64–88). 51 Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the Common Fisheries Policy, amending Council Regulations (EC) No 1954/2003 and (EC) No 1224/2009 and repealing Council Regulations (EC) No 2371/2002 and (EC) No 639/2004 and Council Decision 2004/585/EC (OJ L 354, 28.12.2013, p.22).
Amendment 78 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Member States shall take the necessary measures to achieve a significant50% reduction in the consumption of the single-use plastic products listed in Part A of the Annex on their territory by … [six year2025 and an 80% reduction by 2030. Member States shall establish a baseline by [18 months after the end- date for transposition of this Directive]. Member States shall adopt plans for the achievement of these reductions, including the measures taken.
Amendment 84 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Those measures mayshall include national consumption reduction targets, measures ensuring that reusable alternatives to those products are made available at the point of sale to the final consumer, economic instruments such as ensuring that single- use plastic products are not provided free of charge at the point of sale to the final consumer and may include other measures. Those measures may vary depending on the environmental impact of the products referred to in the first subparagraph.
Amendment 85 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 a (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 a (new)
Member States shall also take the necessary measures to achieve a 35% reduction by 2025 and a 60% reduction by 2030 in the consumption of the products listed in Part F of the Annex, with baseline as above.
Amendment 86 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 4 – paragraph 2
Article 4 – paragraph 2
2. The Commission mayshall adopt an implementing act laying down the methodology for the calculation and verification of the significant reduction targets in the consumption of the single-use plastic products referred to in paragraph 1 by ...[12 months before the end date for transposition of this Directive]. That implementing act shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in Article 16(2).
Amendment 89 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 5 – paragraph 1
Article 5 – paragraph 1
Member States shall prohibit the placing on market of the single-use plastic products listed in Part B of the Annex. Given that products other than those covered by this Directive are significant contributors to marine litter, the Member State will be empowered to apply to those products the same measures applicable to the items listed in Part B of the Annex. The Member State shall inform the Commission of the adoption of these measures, including their rationale, scientific evidence in support and details on their practical implementation and enforcement.
Amendment 117 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point b a (new)
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point b a (new)
(b a) information on the extended producer responsibility schemes established by Member States for the purposes of Article 8, including i) the quantity of the products placed in the market and the waste flows resulting from those;(ii) the financial contribution paid by producers of products per unit sold or per tonne of product placed on the market; (ii) the financial contribution paid by producers of products per unit sold or per tonne of product placed on the market; (iii) and the extent to which the scheme(s) reduce the amount of plastic in residual waste.
Amendment 120 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 15 – paragraph 3 – introductory part
Article 15 – paragraph 3 – introductory part
3. That report shall also indicate whether:indicate whether the Annex listing single-use plastic products needs to be reviewed to include other single-use plastic items.
Amendment 121 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 15 – paragraph 3 – point a
Article 15 – paragraph 3 – point a
Amendment 122 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 15 – paragraph 3 – point b
Article 15 – paragraph 3 – point b
Amendment 124 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 15 – paragraph 3 – point c
Article 15 – paragraph 3 – point c
Amendment 125 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 15 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 15 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Any review shall not consider criteria or standards for the biodegradability or disintegration in the marine environment of single-use plastic products.
Amendment 129 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex I – part A – indent 2
Annex I – part A – indent 2
— Cups for beverages and their lids
Amendment 131 #
2018/0172(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex I – part B – indent 3
Annex I – part B – indent 3
— Plates, bowls and other similar items with the same function
Amendment 132 #
Amendment 133 #
Amendment 136 #
Amendment 137 #
Amendment 139 #
Amendment 140 #
Amendment 178 #
2018/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 3
Article 3 – paragraph 3
3. The plan shall take into account the characteristics of each fishery and regionalisation when implementing the ecosystem-based approach to fisheries management in order to ensure that negative impacts of fishing activities on the marine ecosystem are minimised. It shall be coherent with Union environmental legislation, in particular with the objective of achieving good environmental status by 2020 as set out in Article 1(1) of Directive 2008/56/EC and the objectives set out in Articles 4 and 5 of Directive 2009/147/EC and Articles 6 and 12 of Council Directive 92/43/EEC.
Amendment 203 #
2018/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 3
Article 5 – paragraph 3
3. In accordance with Article 9(5) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013, the management of mixed fisheries with regard to stocks referred to in Article 1(4) of this Regulation shall take into account the difficulty of operators fishing all stocks at MSY at the same time, especially in situations where this may leads to a premature closure of the fishery which would necessitate supports for fishers affected.
Amendment 245 #
2018/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1
Article 15 – paragraph 1
1. The power to adopt delegated acts ismay be conferred on the Commission subject to the conditions laid down in this Article.
Amendment 247 #
2018/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 2
Article 15 – paragraph 2
2. The delegation of power referred to in Articles 1(1), 8 and 10 shallmay be conferred on the Commission for a period of five years from the date of the entry into force of this Regulation. The Commission shall draw up a report in respect of the delegation of power not later than nine months before the end of the five-year period. The delegation of power shallmay be tacitly extended for periods of an identical duration, unless the European Parliament or the Council opposes such extension not later than three months before the end of each period.
Amendment 18 #
2018/0064(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) For these purposes, the Authority should cooperate with other relevant Union initiatives and networks, in particular the European Network of Public Employment Services (PES)54 , the European Enterprise Network55 , the Border Focal Point56 and SOLVIT57 , as well as with relevant national services such as the bodies to promote equal treatment and to support Union workers and members of their family, designated by Member States under Directive 2014/54/EU, and national contact points designated under Directive 2011/24/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council58 to provide information on healthcare. The Authority should also explore synergies with the proposed European services e-card59 , notably with regard to those cases in which Member States opt for the submission of declarations regarding posted workers through the e-card platform. The Authority should replace the Commission in managing the European network of employment services (‘EURES’) European Coordination Office established pursuant to Regulation (EU) No 2016/589, including the definition of user needs and business requirements for the effectiveness of the EURES portal and related IT services, but excluding the IT provision, and the operation and development of the IT infrastructure, which will continue to be ensured by the Commission. _________________ 54 Decision No 573/2014/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 May 2014 on enhanced cooperation between Public Employment Services (PES) (OJ L 159, 28.5.2014, p. 32). 55 European Enterprise Network, https://een.ec.europa.eu/ 56 Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament, Boosting growth and cohesion in EU border regions, COM(2017) 534. 57 Commission Recommendation of 17 September 2013 on the principles governing SOLVIT (OJ L 249, 19.9.2011, p. 10). 58 Directive 2011/24/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 March 2011 on the application of patients’ rights in cross-border healthcare (OJ L 88, 4.4.2011, p. 45). 59COM(2016) 824 final and COM(2016) 823 final.
Amendment 19 #
2018/0064(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) In order to keep track of emerging trends, challenges, or loopholes in the areas of labour mobility and social security coordination, the Authority should develop an analytical and risk assessment capacity. This should involve carrying out labour market analyses and studies, as well as peer reviews. The authority should monitor potential imbalances in terms of skills and cross-border labour flows, including their possible impact on territorial cohesion. The Authority should also support the risk assessment referred to in Article 10 of Directive 2014/67/EU. The Authority should ensure synergies and complementarity with other Union Agencies or services or networks. This should include close collaboration with Eurofound on labour market analyses and seeking input from SOLVIT and similar services on recurring problems encountered by individuals and businesses in the exercise of their rights in the areas under the scope of the Authority. The Authority should also facilitate and streamline data collection activities provided for by the relevant Union laws within its scope. This does not entail the creation of new reporting obligations for Member States.
Amendment 20 #
2018/0064(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20
Recital 20
(20) TWhether the Authority is established as a new European agency or is incorporated within an existing agency, the agency of the Authority should be governed and operated in line with the principles of the Joint Statement of the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on decentralised agencies of 19 July 2012.
Amendment 22 #
2018/0064(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 22
Recital 22
(22) Without prejudice to the powers of the Commission, the Management Board and the Executive Director should be independent in the performance of their duties and act in the public good by representing labour's interests.
Amendment 26 #
2018/0064(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 30
Recital 30
(30) Within the framework of their respective competences, the Authority should coopeThe Authority should be either directly incorporated with other agencies of the Union, in particularin an existing European agency, such as those established in the area of employment and social policy, building on their expertise and maximising synergieor cooperate closely with other agencies of the Union in order to ensure synergies are maximised and duplication is avoided in order to achieve financial savings: the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions (Eurofound), the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop), the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA), and the European Training Foundation (ETF), as well as, as regards the fight against organised crime and trafficking in human beings, with the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) and European Union Agency for Criminal Justice Cooperation (Eurojust).
Amendment 28 #
2018/0064(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1
1. This Regulation establishes the European Labour Authority (‘the Authority’). The European Labour Authority may constitute a new European agency or be incorporated into an existing agency if it is likely to reduce duplication and achieve financial savings.
Amendment 31 #
2018/0064(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point e
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point e
(e) support Member States with capacity-building regarding the promotion of high standard working conditions and job security, and the effective enforcement of relevant Union law, in accordance with Article 12;
Amendment 38 #
2018/0064(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1
Article 15 – paragraph 1
The Authority shall establish cooperation arrangements with other decentralised Union agencies where appropriateEurofound, Cedefop, EU-OSHA and the ETF in order to ensure that all duplications are avoided.
Amendment 51 #
2017/2286(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. BelieveReiterates its views that the 2019 EU budget must primarily answer to the challenges the EU youth is facing;
Amendment 58 #
2017/2286(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. WelcomeRecalls the fact that, at the strong request of Parliament, the result of the conciliation on the 2018 EU budget was to increase the originally proposed specific allocation for the Youth Employment Initiative (YEI) by EUR 116.7 million of fresh appropriations, bringing its total amount to EUR 350 million in 2018; expects the 2019 budget to demonstrate great ambition to fight youth unemployment; underlines that the 2019 budget should reflect the ambition to enhance the fight of youth unemployment; insists on the emergency to boost financing of all programs enhancing the creation of long- term quality jobs, in particular those promoting youth integration, complementing Member States efforts to guarantee a diversified labour qualification instead of precocious specialisation, as the means to increase resilience and enable societal adaptation while struggling demographic regression and sectorial qualified labour short comes.
Amendment 65 #
2017/2286(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. BelievStresses that, in the light of the celebration of its 30th anniversary, Erasmus+ remains the leading multicultural-service learning programme to fostering youth mobility and inculcate key, supporting community-based research as a model approach to advocate solidarity and promote social justice among other European values in young people, together with the EU’s culture programmes; believeinsists that the 2019 Erasmus+ budget should be sufficient to answer, while complying to all objectives set up in its program, should have its budget sufficiently reinforced to the extent of enabling a positively answer to all eligible demands;
Amendment 76 #
2017/2286(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Insists on the Unions commitment to peace and calls upon the Member States to agree upon a ban on the use of the EU budget to finance or guarantee any research programs or dual technological development projects with military applicability;
Amendment 88 #
2017/2286(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
Amendment 95 #
2017/2286(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8 a. Emphasises EU commitment to peace building and to conflict resolution, in particular in such a challenging period; calls upon the Member States, the Council and the Commission to commit to a European Convention to ban investment, development and implementation of Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems, and to develop all efforts to support and develop the creation of such a worldwide Convention.
Amendment 100 #
2017/2286(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Expects the negotiations on the 2019 budget to lead to realistic operational and administrative funding of the EU agencies, enabling them to accomplish their growing tasks of fighting organised crime, terrorism and border management; ostering social integration, promotion and compliance of human rights and solidarity; strengthening the rule of law and justice, good governance, democratic decision- making, control and accountability practices, for and with both private and public sectors; supporting the pooling of excellence, creating and reinforcing synergies in education, research, innovation and training; strongly enhancing sustainability, responsibility, efficiency and control, in particular in sectors such as health, food and environment; sustaining and nurturing the expansion of our cultural and creative sectors, increasing their sustainability and resilience by improving, e.g., artists working conditions; insists that the agencies role is fundamental in ensuring and guaranteeing the pursuit of the EU citizen public interest, in producing "public goods", in particular in all non- market driven sectors, for the safeguard of the intangible public assets.
Amendment 111 #
2017/2286(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10 a. Considers the Union must do its utmost to support the EU and its Member States in reaching their climate goals as laid out in the Paris Agreement, in particular enhancing the support to renewable energy transition to lower emissions source; recalls the importance of ensuring sufficient biodiversity funding, in particular by increasing the allocations to programmes such as LIFE +;
Amendment 124 #
2017/2286(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11 a. Insists on the need to reinforce support to the Union programs which foster growth and creation of long-term quality jobs, in particular for the youth, complementing Member States efforts to guarantee a diversified labour qualification instead of precocious specialisation, as the means to increase resilience and enable societal adaptation while struggling demographic regression, sectorial qualified labour short comes and welfare systems sustainability; the consideration of specific tailor-made measures might prove useful to attend specific sectors and/or regions specially affected or that have become much more vulnerable.
Amendment 125 #
2017/2286(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 b (new)
Paragraph 11 b (new)
11 b. Recalls the significant increase on an ageing population in need of special and dedicated care, in particular the elderly; calls upon the Commission to step up with further support measures to address the demographic challenges and reiterates its support to initiatives such as "villages for person’s with dementia", where due care is provided for since early stage.
Amendment 126 #
2017/2286(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. BelievStresses that gender-related discrimination, notably on the labour market, is not only incompatible with the values of the EU, but also constitutes a serious impediment to economic growth; expects as it disempowers women from engaging in meaningful employment: the gender pay gap, lack of services and the fact that women disproportionately bear the burden of impoverishment constitutes a serious impediment to economic growth; underlines, the key contribution of women’s empowerment in achieving more inclusive, equitable, peaceful and sustainable growth societies; reiterates that the 2019 budget toshould support further investment in helping to secure better access to the labour market for women, for instance through infrastructure which supports the reconciliation of private and professional lives; which are required to address the gender inequality.
Amendment 134 #
2017/2286(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13 a. Recalls the important contribution the Union has made to encouraging peace and reconciliation in Ireland, in particular through PEACE and INTERREG programmes, which are targeted at Northern Ireland and border counties in the south; notes that the result of the UK referendum might create grave problems for the peace process, and undermines the integrity of the peace process and the Good Friday Agreement; calls on the Commission and the Member States to continue its support for the peace process through the continued funding of the PEACE and associated programmes;
Amendment 138 #
2017/2286(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 b (new)
Paragraph 13 b (new)
13 b. Considers that regionalisation and socio-economic objectives need to play a greater role under the Common Fisheries Policy, broadening the scope of the European Maritime & Fisheries Fund; calls upon the commission to facilitate the access and simplify the procedures for funding, also for parties as the Fisheries Local Action Groups, social enterprises and cooperatives; expresses particular concern regarding the potential adverse impact the United Kingdom´s withdrawal from the European Union will have on fisheries, particularly for neighbouring coastal Member States such as Ireland;
Amendment 5 #
2017/2279(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Stresses the importance of equality of opportunity for persons that may be physically or geographically disadvantaged to ensure they have equal access to both culture and education;
Amendment 7 #
2017/2279(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1 b. Recognises the importance of safeguarding both natural and cultural heritage and harnessing their potential as an economic driver;
Amendment 13 #
2017/2279(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Underlines the importance of equal access to education, training and cultural activities in delivering genuine convergence and reducing disparities and socioeconomic inequalities among European regions;
Amendment 19 #
2017/2279(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Stresses the importance of addressing social exclusion and including persons from disadvantaged backgrounds to ensure they have full and equal access to both culture and education;
Amendment 21 #
2017/2279(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3 b. Notes the importance of inclusion for migrants and refugees and how offering them equal access to education, training, apprenticeships in their new state of residence, along with the unique culture of their new state of residence helps them feel welcome and to integrate and settle;
Amendment 31 #
2017/2131(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Draws attention to the fact that the segregmultiple forms of daily discrimination of Roma children in education in Hungary remains a widespread and deep-rooted phenomenon, which contributes to the social exclusion of Roma, reducing their chances of integration in the education system, labour market and in society;
Amendment 53 #
2017/2131(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Stresses that media freedom and pluralism are fundamental rights enshrined in Article 11 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights and constitute essential foundations of democratic societies;
Amendment 62 #
2017/2131(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. NoteRegrets that the pro-government news website 888.hu recently published a black list of journalists working for foreign media, who are described as foreign propagandists for Soros, and that this clearly runs counter to the principle of media freedom;
Amendment 33 #
2017/2120(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J a (new)
Recital J a (new)
Amendment 68 #
2017/2120(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Highlights the need to protect the artisanal fleet and ensure its survival and generational replacement in the face of the expansion of recreational activity linked to recreational ports and seasonal tourism;
Amendment 84 #
2017/2120(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the Commission to ensure that all the necessary data on recreational fisheries are collected in order to provide a complete evaluation of fish stocks; cautions that without such a comprehensive evaluation, the multiannual plans might not achieve the objectives of the CFP;highlights the importance of the EMFF in helping to develop scientific capacity in the Member States, through their universities and public institutes, guaranteeing full and reliable assessments of maritime resources for both recreational and non-recreational fishing activities;
Amendment 102 #
2017/2120(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Points out that, outside the context of normal management of fishery resources based on substantive scientific data, the development of recreational fishing activities must not mean a reduction in professional fishing opportunities or a sharing of scarce resources between professional and recreational activities, especially in the case of small-scale and artisanal fishing;
Amendment 135 #
2017/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital AA a (new)
Recital AA a (new)
AA a. whereas aquaculture including that of aquatic plants and algae, should be subject to comprehensive licensing procedures including mandatory public consultations and environmental impact assessments.
Amendment 144 #
2017/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital AB a (new)
Recital AB a (new)
AB a. whereas sustainable aquaculture owned and managed by the community can socio-economically benefit coastal peripheral regions and play a positive role in the blue economy.
Amendment 146 #
2017/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital AB b (new)
Recital AB b (new)
AB b. Stresses that that the use of chemicals, antibiotics and other substances in aquaculture that pose risks to the ecosystems should be forbidden in line with the precautionary principle.
Amendment 149 #
2017/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital AB c (new)
Recital AB c (new)
AB c. whereas off-shore fish farming should take place only in the most sheltered and safe locations in consultation with local stakeholders, with an emphasis on minimising the dangers of escape of stocks on the coastal environment and ecosystems.
Amendment 158 #
2017/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Current fish based feed depends on fish meal and oil from catch fisheries, thus increasing the pressure on wild fish populations. The sourcing of fish based feed should be sustainably sourced and not have a negative impact on the environment.
Amendment 180 #
2017/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Public Participation in decision- making and access to justice in environmental matters as stated in the Arhus Convention and Directive 2003/35/EC on public participation are key-principles of the EU and should be upheld. In this regard the EU should support the adoption of aquaculture methods which reduce the impact on the environment such as RAS systems otherwise known as closed containment systems which would be a positive step forward in reducing said impact, especially in the context of eliminating escapes which play a significant role in the genetic cross contamination of wild fish stocks.
Amendment 189 #
2017/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8 a. Recognises the potential of aquaculture and the complementary processing and exports of fish products as an indigenous industry for employment and economic benefit, especially for rural coastal and island communities;
Amendment 194 #
Amendment 223 #
2017/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Suggests establishing a simplified or ‘fast-track’n efficient and comprehensive licensing system, whereby the competent administration grants a provisional certificate permitting those operators who meet strict predefined criteria to commencauthorise their activities; these criteria could be based on applicants’ history orand on the fact that they have put forward a pioneering aquaculture project in terms of innovation or sustainability, or on the establishment of reserved aquaculture easement zones where uses that are incompatible with aquaculture are defined in adv that are in strict environmental compliance;
Amendment 226 #
2017/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 – subparagraph 1 (new)
Paragraph 12 – subparagraph 1 (new)
Expresses concern at the lack of regulatory and environmental oversight that facilities large-scale industrial aquaculture producers to not fulfil their public and environmental obligations especially in individual Member States; Stresses that full licenses should not be permitted in the absence of public consultations and environmental impact assessments; Calls for public consultations and environmental impact assessments to be mandatory in the process of all licensing.
Amendment 6 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Emphasises the importance of promoting the development of transferable skills through the Erasmus+ programme that enhance intercultural understanding and active participation in diverse societies;
Amendment 11 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Recalls the need to support teachers and educational practitioners to integrate into their teaching information about EU rights and citizenship;stresses, in this context, the need to further promote and develop online platforms such as School Education Gateway, Teacher Academy, and Open Educational Europe in order that education professionals can access innovative multi- lingual teaching materials, including those adapted for students with special needs, which help them to inspire and motivate students in EU-learning;
Amendment 12 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3 b. Underlines the role of mobility in the personal development of young people by enhancing learning and cultural exchange, thereby improving understanding of active citizenship and its practise;encourages the Member States to support EU programmes promoting mobility;
Amendment 22 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Welcomes the Commission’s intention to enhance citizens’ political engagement in the democratic life of the EU; encourages the promotion of democratic participation by intensifying citizens’ dialogue, enhancing citizens’ understanding of the role of EU legislation in their daily lives, and underlining their right to vote in local and European elections; invites the Commission to exploit, in this regard, social media and digital tools with a special emphasis on increasing participation of young people and under-represented groups;
Amendment 24 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Recalls the importance of extending and deepening structured dialogue with Citizens concerning their rights, thereby identifying the obstacles citizens encounter in exercising these rights, and improving the monitoring of EU programmes and initiatives in this area;
Amendment 28 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Emphasises the need to ensure that citizens with disabilities and vulnerable citizens can fully enjoy the rights and opportunities granted by EU citizenship; encourages all EU countries to implement an EU Disability Card in order to facilitate the mobility of persons with disabilities in the EU; stresses the need to improve the accessibility of EU websites for persons with disabilities;
Amendment 40 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10 a. Encourages the Commission to continue its support for action and initiatives which promote citizens' rights and active citizenship;highlights the fact that new initiatives in this field should be complementary to the existing ones and not affect current programme budgets;
Amendment 42 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10 c (new)
Paragraph 10 c (new)
10 c. Underlines the importance of exchange and dissemination of best practices to foster knowledge of EU citizens' rights and their involvement in civic and political life across the EU;
Amendment 44 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10 e (new)
Paragraph 10 e (new)
10 e. Supports the production and dissemination of press and multimedia productions in all official EU languages, with a focus on enhancing EU Citizens' awareness of their rights and strengthening their ability to enforce these rights effectively;
Amendment 44 #
2017/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. WelcomesTakes note of the discussion about the next MFF as an possible opportunity to prepare the ground for a strongerdeeper reflection for a new Europe through one of its most tangible instruments, the Union budget; believes that the next MFF should be embedded in a broader strategy and narrative for the future of Europe;
Amendment 53 #
2017/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Stresses the importance of addressing social exclusion and including persons from disadvantaged backgrounds to ensure they have full and equal access to both culture and education;
Amendment 56 #
2017/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Stresses the importance of equality of opportunity for persons that may be physically or geographically disadvantaged to ensure they have equal access to both culture and education;
Amendment 58 #
2017/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
5c. Notes the importance of inclusion for migrants and refugees and how providing them equal access to education, training, apprenticeships in their new state of residence, along with access to the unique culture in their new state of residence helps them to feel welcome, integrate and resettle;
Amendment 59 #
2017/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 d (new)
Paragraph 5 d (new)
5d. Regrets the lack of investment for addressing Youth Unemployment, even though addressing this issue has been laid out as a priority by the Council;
Amendment 61 #
2017/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 e (new)
Paragraph 5 e (new)
5e. Recognises the importance of safeguarding both natural and cultural heritage and harnessing their potential as economic drivers.
Amendment 62 #
2017/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 f (new)
Paragraph 5 f (new)
5f. Calls for a greater emphasis on quality traineeships and apprenticeships and increased participation by young Europeans in the policy-making processes;
Amendment 63 #
2017/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 g (new)
Paragraph 5 g (new)
5g. Stresses that any EU supported internship programme must have proper monitoring and controls, including pre- placement checks and consultation with trade unions where a collective agreement exists, to prevent displacement of paid work and ensure meaningful employment enhancing training;
Amendment 64 #
2017/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Is convinced that the next MFF shoulThe next MFF should enhance, improve and build upon the Union’s well- established social oriented convergence policies and priorities, which aim atreinforcing the promotingon of peace, democracy and human rights, at boosting welfare, long- term and sustainable economic growth, high-quality jobs, sustainable development and innovation, and at fostering economic, social and territorial cohesion as well as enhancing solidarity between Member States and citizens; considers that these pillars are prerequisites for a properly functioning single market and Economic and Monetary Union as well as for reinforcing Europe’s positionthe Union as well as for the role of Europe as a Global Partner in the world; trusts that they are more relevant than ever for Europe’s future endeavours;
Amendment 64 #
2017/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 h (new)
Paragraph 5 h (new)
5h. Calls for more of an emphasis on Community Employment Schemes which are based on structured accredited training, notes that community employment schemes can help slow down the “brain drain”;
Amendment 86 #
2017/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. StressReiterates that the next MFF provides an opportunity for the UnionMember States to demonstrate that it stands togethere solidarity that is embedded in the Union and its ablecapacity to address political developments such as Brexit, the rise of nationalistextremist right-wing movements ands well as changes in global leadership; underlines thatstresses its full commitment to the respect of rule of law and democracy and calls upon all stake holders and civil society to commit to an inclusive, progressive and collaborative process to duly, fully and timely address the current societal, political, environmental and economical challenges; divisions and self- centredness are not an answer to globcal issues and to citizens’ concern, regional, national nor global issues; considers that the Brexit negotiations, and in particular, show that the benefits of being a Union memberthe commitment to the rule of law and democracy, the full respect of the framework of the commitments previously assumed, as within the Good Friday Agreement, remain as a key reference that the benefits of an inclusive, progressive and collaborative process greatly outweigh the costs of contributing to its budgetless harmonious solutions;
Amendment 112 #
2017/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Believes that Europe should offer prospects to the younger generation as well as to the future-oriented undertakings that make the EU more successful in the global arena; is determined to substantially scale up, among others, two of its flagship programmes, namely the Research Framework Programme and Erasmus+, which cannot satisfy the very high demand involving top quality applications with their current means; calls also for progress to be made in thestands firm in its support to substantially increase the resources to fight against youth unemployment and in support for micro, small and medium-sized, as well as, social enterprises by equipping the successor programmes of the Youth Employment Initiative and the programme for the Competitiveness of Enterprises and Small and medium-sized enterprises (COSME) with greater financial means;
Amendment 130 #
2017/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
Amendment 204 #
2017/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. Approves the overall architecture of the MFF special instruments, notably the Flexibility Instrument, the Emergency Aid Reserve, the EU Solidarity Fund, the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF), and points to their extensive mobilisation under the current MFF; calls for improvementsa substantial increase to be made to their financial envelopes and operating provisions;
Amendment 329 #
2017/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 16
Subheading 16
A stronger, more equitable1a and sustainable economy __________________ 1a In spite of the joint declaration attached to the 2014-2020 MFF on gender mainstreaming, there has been little progress in this field and no clear gender equality strategy with specific objectives, concrete targets and allocations, has emerged from the MFF 2014-2020. An iconic reference underlining the potential in which the overall financial framework of the Union may contribute to increase gender equality and ensure gender mainstreaming is of the utmost importance, in the context of this report.
Amendment 344 #
2017/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 68
Paragraph 68
68. Believes that tThe next MFF should see a greater concentration of budgetary resources in areas that demonstrate a clear European added value and stimulate economic growth, competitiveness andconvergent economic and sustainable green growth, quality and long-term employment; stresses, in this context, the importance of research and innovation in creating a sustainable, world-leading, knowledge- based economy, and regrets that, due to the lack of adequate financing, only a small proportion of high-quality projects in this field has received EU funding under the current MFF;
Amendment 351 #
2017/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 69 a (new)
Paragraph 69 a (new)
69a. Notes that the next MFF must support the EU and its member states in reaching their climate goals as laid out in the Paris Agreement; stresses that EU funds should support the renewable energy transition to lower emissions source; stresses the importance of guaranteeing biodiversity funding, through programmes such as the LIFE Programme and ensuring its continuation in the next MFF;
Amendment 362 #
2017/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 70 a (new)
Paragraph 70 a (new)
70a. Insists on the Union’s commitment to peace and calls upon the Member States to agree upon a ban on the use of the EU budget to finance or guarantee any dual technological development projects with military applicability;
Amendment 465 #
2017/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 79 a (new)
Paragraph 79 a (new)
79a. Underlines socio-economic objectives and increased regionalization to be central tenets of the new Common Fisheries Policy, without prejudice to environmental sustainability; this shall include broadening the scope of the European Maritime & Fisheries Fund, easier access to financing, the simplification of application procedures for funding mechanisms and relevant programs in particular for Fisheries Local Action Groups and cooperatives, within the context of Member States' operational programs to reduce administrative burdens and associated costs;
Amendment 494 #
2017/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 81 a (new)
Paragraph 81 a (new)
81a. Recalls the important contribution that the European Union has made to encouraging peace and reconciliation in Ireland, in particular through PEACE and INTERREG programmes, which are targeted at Northern Ireland and border counties in the south; recalls that the result of the UK referendum might create grave problems for the peace process, and undermines the integrity of the peace process and the Good Friday Agreement; calls on the Commission to continue its support for the peace process through the continued funding of the PEACE and associated programmes;
Amendment 554 #
2017/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 84 a (new)
Paragraph 84 a (new)
84a. Underlines the need to step up with support measures to address the demographic challenges, in particular, the significant increase on an ageing population in need of special and dedicated care, in particular the elderly; reiterates its support to initiatives such as "villages for person’s with dementia" where due care is provided for since early stage.
Amendment 573 #
2017/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 85 a (new)
Paragraph 85 a (new)
85a. Recognises the importance of addressing public health threats at a global as well as EU level, notes the importance of robust health programmes to tackle transnational public health issues; calls for a safeguarding of funding for research and development for rare diseases; calls for increased funding for tackling anti-microbial resistance across the EU.
Amendment 612 #
2017/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 88 a (new)
Paragraph 88 a (new)
88a. Expresses its dedication to the pursuit of peace; calls upon the Member States, the Council and the Commission to commit to a European Convention to ban investment, development and implementation of Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems, and to develop all efforts to support and develop the creation of a worldwide Convention;
Amendment 623 #
2017/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 90
Paragraph 90
Amendment 639 #
2017/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 91
Paragraph 91
91. Believes that a new heading dedicated to ‘Secuolidarity, peace and stability for all’ would be a demonstration ofreflect the priority given by the Union toand its commitment to overcome thise emerging policychallenges as reiterating its political responsibility, acknowledge its specificity, and achieve consistency between its internal and external dimensions;
Amendment 649 #
2017/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 93
Paragraph 93
Amendment 4 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that Parliament's reading of the 2018 Budget fully reflects the political priorities adopted by an overwhelming majority in its abovementioned resolutions of 15 March 2017 on general guidelines and of 5 July 2017 on a mandate for the trilogue; recallinsists that long-term jobs, growth and security ar, sustainability and solidarity should be at the core of thosee Union priorities;
Amendment 6 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Stresses that the Union budget should give priority to policies of real convergence, integration and cohesion, based on social progress and solidarity, safeguarding and promoting the creation of decent, quality and stable jobs, prioritising the sustainable use of natural resources and the protection of the environment; insists that the Union budget has proven to be scarce despite its potential to become a key resource in tackling crises and responding to measures which were not anticipated during the negotiation of the MFF 2014- 2020, such as the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), the migration and refugee humanitarian challenges or geopolitical tensions in Europe's neighbourhood causing a number of serious challenges and emergencies, while within the Union the pace of economic recovery and the continuous sluggishness of both public and private investment levels led to an investment gap and the aggravation of inequalities between the Member States, its regions and its citizens;
Amendment 12 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Recalls the announcement of Commissioner Malmstrom and that the Commission has expressed the intention to conclude before the end of 2017 the negotiations for freetrade agreements between the Union and its Member States with Japan, with MERCOSUR, with Mexico, and with Chile, and that the Commission wants to propose still in 2017 ratification of the FTAs with Singapore and with Vietnam; points out that this would mean a dramatic reduction of own resources income for the Union’s budget in 2018 and the coming years; underlines the urgent need for a thorough reorganisation of the Union budget and its structure in the context of thereview of the next MFF and with regard to the trade policy agenda, and calls on the Commission to take the initiative vis- à - vis the Council and Parliament;
Amendment 16 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Stresses the need to immediately put an end to the austeritarian policies trend, both at national and Union level; insists on a new strategy for the Union, to enable a social Europe, a path for decent, quality, long-term employment, to enlarge social protection and ensure health and education coverage to all, based upon social cohesion, integrative communities and robust public sectors, guaranteeing the highest levels of living one path that pays heed to the development needs of each region, each Member State, in particular the least developed ones, favouring real convergence between regions, Member States and enhancing all efforts to efficiently reduce the current economic and social gaps;
Amendment 38 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8 a. Rejects any use of the Union budget to finance a militarist EU program; recalls that EU funds, including research grants from the Commission, cannot fund military projects; stresses that the concept of dual-use technology shall not be used as a loop-hole to fund projects with a de facto military aim such as drones for high-tech warfare and security surveillance; insists in an alternative set of programmes that support a more social Europe reinforcing sustainable development, strengthened, environment-friendly internal demand based on progressive wages, full employment with rights, social welfare, eradicating poverty and social exclusion and improved social and economic cohesion;
Amendment 41 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Underlines that Heading 3 has been largely mobilised in recent years to address challenges arising from the migratory and refugee crisis and that such actions should continue for as long as needed; insists however that in the light of recent security concerns across the Union, funding under that heading should also pay particular attention to measures which will lead to enhancing security of Union citizens; decides for this reason to reinforce agencies in the field of Justice and Home Affairs which due to increased workload and additional tasks, have been facing shortage of staff and funding in the past years;
Amendment 49 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10 a. Is highly concerned with the raise of instability and insists on the need to a whole new approach, on the need to rebalance the Union's approach to peace and security, sustainable development and human rights; calls upon the Commission and the Member States to connect and boost efforts towards further sustaining peace and conflict prevention; recalls the worldwide inspiration brought by the Good Friday Agreement while acknowledging the unprecedented challenges and pressures on the aftermath of the United Kingdom 2017 Referendum; calls upon the Commission and the Member States to enhance their support to reconciliation and to guarantee the Union's commitment to secure additional support to Peace funding in the 2018 Budget to secure peace, stability and reconciliation in Ireland;
Amendment 69 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19 a. Insists that in order to achieve sustainable growth, decent, quality and long-term job creation in the Union, boosting investments in research, innovation, education, infrastructure and MSMEs are key; insists in this respect in the need to further reinforce to Horizon 2020, Erasmus+ and the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) as these programmes contribute directly to reaching these goals; reiterates the need to increase the appropriations to COSME, but also to workers organisations; points in particular to the need to further reinforce MSMEs in the fields of green research and applied technologies, which can become an important source of job creation in the Union; highlights that such measures if accompanied with a set of robust policies and investments to reinforce the public sector in health, education and transport sectors could be the trigger to finally reduce the investment gap, decrease disparities among regions and Member States and thus contributing to the prosperity of the Union;
Amendment 71 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
Amendment 82 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)
Paragraph 22 a (new)
22 a. Stresses the need to strengthen the European Cohesion policy in times of deepening regional, economic and social disparities, and proposes therefore to reverse all the cuts proposed by the Council on the lines related to the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF);
Amendment 83 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23 a. Insists on criticizing and denouncing the EFSI as it failed in bridging the investment gap across the Union; insists that instead a major and more ambitious public investment plan should have been implemented across the territories of the Union to help implement strategic, structural investments which would provide a high level of added value to the economy, the public sector, the environment and society;
Amendment 85 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Underlines that part of the solution to address youth unemployment lies in adequately supporting young people in rural areas and insists on enhancing the "greening" of CAP as it has the potential to foster growth and jobs in particular through supporting innovative sustainable projects while safeguarding biodiversity; proposes therefore an increase of EUR 50 million above the level of the DB for payments for young farmers;
Amendment 89 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 a (new)
Paragraph 27 a (new)
27 a. Stresses that the Union climate policy is failing as the recorded decrease in CO2 emissions is resulting from a decrease in economic activity rather than Union policy; notes that the ETS cannot bring reductions in CO2 emission as one Member State's reduction in emission quota is off-set by another Member State's increase in quota; believes that the Union budget must prioritise initiatives that will facilitate a real greening of the economy;
Amendment 98 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
Amendment 164 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 61
Paragraph 61
61. Notes that the level of estimates for 2018 corresponds to 18,88 %, which is lower than that achieved in 2017 (19,25 %) and the lowest part of Heading 5 in the past fifteen years; insists nevertheless that the drive for the lowest expenditure possible for the Parliament shouldn't come at the cost of a reduced Parliament's capacity for its ordinary legislative work;
Amendment 4 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that in its resolution of 15 March 2017, Parliament confirmed that growth, jobs, sustainability and secuolidarity are the core issues and main priorities for the 2018 EU budget;
Amendment 15 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Believes that in general terms the Commission proposal corresponds to Parliament’s view that the 2018 EU budget must enable the EU to continue to generate growth and jobs while ensuring the securitysocial integration of its citizens;
Amendment 18 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Welcomes the decision of the Commission to already include in the draft budget the results of the mid-term revision of the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2014-2020; is convinced that while the formal adoption is still blocked in the Council,notes its formal adoption by the Council and highlights that the proposal of the Commission sends a strong signal about the importance of thise MFF revision, and the need for increased flexibility in the EU budget that cshould enablimprove the Union to effectivelycapacityto respond to new emergencies and finance its political priorities; underlines that the European Parliament acted swiftly to grant its consent to the revised MFF Regulation, and expects that the Council will finalise without any further delay the adoption of the MFF revisfollowing the UK elections on 8 June 2017; furthermore, stresses the need for specific measures to ensure support for the regions, most notably Ireland, which will be particularly affected in the case of a negotiated exit from the Union, following the UK elections on 8 June 2017invocation by the United Kingdom of Article 50 of the Treaty of Lisbon, in accordance with the expressed will of its citizens;
Amendment 24 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Reiterates its firm conviction that in order to achieve sustainable growth and, decent, quality and long-term job creation in the EU, boosting investments in research, innovation, infrastructure, education and SMEs are key; welcomes in this respect the proposed reinforcements to Horizon 2020, the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) and Erasmus+ as these programmes will contribute directly to reaching these goals; regrets, however, thatdeeply disagrees with the proposed allocation for COSME, is even lower in comparison with the 2017 budget and; points to the need to further reinforce SMEs, which are the main source of job creation in the EU and have a crucial role in; highlights that such measures if accompanied with a set of robust policies and investments to reinforce the public sector could be the trigger to finally reducinge the investment gap and, decrease disparities among regions and Member States and thus contributing to the prosperity of the EU;
Amendment 32 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Recalls the decision taken by the Parliament within the 2017 Parliament budget procedure, which establishes the creation of an 'interpretation in International Sign Language' service, for all plenary debates and calls upon the administration to implement this decision with no further delay;
Amendment 42 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Recalls that the European Court of Auditors on its Special Reports n. 19/2016 and n. 5/2015 came to the conclusion that the Union financial instruments, EFSI included, under shared management were overcapitalised, struggled to control cost/fees, attract private capital and re-use financial support; furthermore, according to European Court of Auditors and on the basis of the EIB provided data and estimates, the current guarantee is sufficient for a further period of operation of the IIW, recommending instead to the sole consideration of an increase of the EU guarantee for the SMEW, as this would reduce the fragmentation between EFSI and other financial instruments;
Amendment 44 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
Amendment 66 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. WelcomesTakes note of the fact that the draft budget 2018 includes an additional allocation for the Youth Employment Initiative (YEI), responding thus to Parliament’s previous calls for the continuation of the programme; notes, in parallel, the proposal for draft amending budget 3/2017 that integrates the provision of EUR 500 million in commitments for YEI, as agreed upon by Parliament and the Council in the 2017 budgetary conciliation; is convinced that whilehighlights, however, that the proposed amounts alone willre by far not be sufficient to effectively tackle youth unemployment, YEI will continue and calls upon the Commission and the Council to significantly reinforce its appropriations; underlines that only a robust YEI has the potential to contribute to the Union’s priority objective of growth and jobsdecent, quality and long term job creation and qualification; underlines that YEI canshould be further reinforced, improved and in order for it to become more efficient;
Amendment 82 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Stresses that in 2018, cohesion policy programmes are expected to catch- up and reach cruising speed and; while emphasiseszing Parliament’s commitment to ensuring adequate appropriations for these programmes; is, however preoccupi, deeply concerned by the unacceptable delays in the implementation of operational programmes at national level; calls on Member States to ensure that the designation of managing, auditing and certifying authorities is concluded and implementation is accelerated;
Amendment 94 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Reiterates that whisustainable growth and jobs shoulddecent, quality and long-term job creation remain the underlying priority of the EU budget, obtaining sustainable progress in these fields will be impossible if the citizens feel unsafe or insecurecitizens and the EU budget should further enhance a sustainable progress in these fields; emphasises, moreover, that the unprecedented mobilisation of special instruments has shown that the EU budget was not initially designed to address the magnitude of the migration and refugee crisisunprecedented demands to try to tackle the successive financial, economic and social crises, and therefore to effectively and substantially overcome the investment gap, contribute to real convergence by reducing the development disparities between regions, Member States and existing economic, social and regional discrepancies', enhance territorial cohesion, ensure migration and refugees' integration while guaranteeing a solid humanitarian and development aid solidarity; believes that moving to a post- crisis approach is premature given the volatility of the situation in the EU Neighbourhood and the terrorist threatsafeguarding expectations within the EU; questions therefore the proposed cuts in Heading 3 compared to the 2017 Budget, in particular in AMIF, which do not seem to be in line with the EU pledge to deal in an efficient manner with the migration and refugee crisis, enforce security and tackle terrorism and radicalisationsolidarity and peace;
Amendment 99 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Amendment 110 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Welcomes the increase proposed for the eastern component of the European Neighbourhood Instrument responding to Parliament’s previous calls; is convinced that in order to counter the activities of an increasingly aggressive Russian Federation, the EU’s support, especially for the countries that have signed Association Agreements, is essential;
Amendment 123 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Notes that the draft budget 2018 leaves very limited margins or no margin under the MFF ceilings throughout Headings 1a, 1b, 3, 4 and 5; considers this as a logical consequence of the significant new initiatives taken since 2014 (EFSI, migration-related proposals, and lately defence research and the European Solidarity Corps), which have been squeezed within the MFF ceilings agreed in 2013; recalls that the MFF, in particular, once its revision is finalised by the Council, provides for flexibility provisions which, albeit limited, should be used to their fullest in order to maintain the level of ambition of successful programmes and tackle the new challenges; expresses Parliament’s intention to further mobilise such flexibility provisions as part of the amending process;
Amendment 124 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14 a. Insists that the Union budget should not finance initiatives which could be to the detriment of existing Union social policies and programs, in particular, reiterates its commitment to financing initiatives which can actively promote peace, integration and cohesion objectives in the Union; recalls that, while respecting provisions enshrined in the Treaties, strengthened cooperation in the the EU and its Members States should by no means undermine the commitment to peace, to sustainable development and to neutrality;
Amendment 125 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
Amendment 131 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Is surprised, however, that COSMEdismayed with the Commission's proposal to reduce commitment and payment appropriations have been reduced, respectively by 2.9 % and 31.3 %, althoughto COSME, despite support to SMEs isbeing identified as one of the top priorities of the EU; expresses its intention to further reinforce this programme in the 2018 budget;
Amendment 133 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17 a. Highlights that the social and solidarity economy (SSE) represents today over 2 million enterprises, 180 000 are cooperatives; underlines that the SSE sector employs over 4 and a half million people in the EU and generates over 10 % of the EU GNI; calls for further support and simplification of the access to financing to SSEs, in particular by widening the scope of existing programs and financial instruments at EU and Member States' level, while calling for concrete new measures to further promote and expand cooperatives and social enterprises model economy, as this remains under-represented and under- financed when compared to other enterprise models, despite its importance in terms of share of GNI and employment in the Union; reiterates the role of the SSEs in strengthening sustainable, smart growth, in the creation of decent and sustainable jobs, in cohesion and social integration, and that it should be further supported and made accessible, while underlining that the SSE sector remains an important provider of social, health, educational, environmental, energy production and distribution services.
Amendment 135 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Reiterates, regarding the extension of the EFSI, that Parliament opposes any further cuts to the CEF, and takes the view that the additional EUR 1.1 billion allocated to the EU guarantee should be taken only from unallocated margins (for an amount of EUR 650 billion) and expected net positive income (for an amount of EUR 450 billion); recalls that the CEF envelope (ICT strand) also integrates the new Wifi4EU initiative; insists on keeping the commitment to invest EUR 120mio in Wifi4EU initiative between 2017 and 2019;
Amendment 151 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. WelcomeRejects the proposed scaling-up of the preparatory action on defence research and the presentation by the Commission of a legislative proposal for a defence industry development programme; recalls its earlier position that new initiatives in this area should be financed by additional funds and not beare of the strict competence of the Member States and should in no way be financed by the EU BUDG and at the expense or being detrimental to existing EU programmes;
Amendment 163 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Notes that the Commission has left a EUR 713.5 million margin under the ceilings of Heading 2; points to the fact that increased volatility of agricultural markets, as was the case with the dairy sector crisis in the past, might envisage recourse to this margin; calls on the Commission to ensure that the margin left under the ceilings is sufficient to address any crises that may arise; calls on the Commission to develop all efforts and come forward with permanent tools to counter price volatility, unfair trading practices and falling farm incomes, which would in turn mean less need and resources for crisis management;
Amendment 169 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Notes the proposed EUR 3 473.1 million in commitment appropriations for Heading 3; stresses the need to adopt a human rights-based approach on migration; condemns the increasing focus on returns, detention and externalisation of border control in EU policies, that are jeopardising human rights; reiterates its commitment to the principle of solidarity among Member States in financing the efforts needed to adequately provide for migrants and refugees; emphasises the need for joint, comprehensive and sustainable solutions to the current migration and refugeehumanitarian crisis, and to addressing safety and security concerocial integration concerns of all EU citizens; welcomes, therefore, the Commission’s proposal for an additional EUR 800 million dedicated to tackling these issues;
Amendment 174 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Is of the opinion that the importance and urgency of these issues is not in line with the significant decreases in commitment (-18.9 %) and payment appropriations (-21.7 %) proposed for Heading 3 compared with the 2017 budget, notably on the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF), and the Internal Security Fund (ISF) and the Justice programme; considerJustice programme; welcomes the role played by instruments such as the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF) in providing support to Member States to respond to the needs of migrants, asylum- seekers and refugees, and calls for adequate budgeting for these funds; insists that those cuts proposed by the Commission are not fully justifiable givendespite the delays in implementation of the agreed measures and the delays in the adoption of the new legal proposals bearing in mind the urgent demands for humanitarian aid; calls therefore on the Commission to ensure that adequate budgetary resources are provided for and that any additional needs will be swiftly addressed;
Amendment 177 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
Amendment 195 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36 a (new)
Paragraph 36 a (new)
36 a. Insists that priority needs to be given to investment in the EU Neighbourhood in order to support efforts to tackle economic recovery, enhancing and stabilising the transition to democracy in countries in the Southern Neighbourhood, which need also financial and humanitarian support in coping with the numbers of migrants and refugees reaching these countries driven by the hope to reach the European Union; points out that many countries in the Eastern Neighbourhood continue to struggle with unfinished transformation processes and potential conflicts, and that the situation in the region continues to be fragile, which gives support for the immediate implementation of the Minsk agreement utmost importance for the EU's Eastern Neighbourhood; reiterates that those countries which are implementing association agreements with the EU will be bound to fail both economically and socially without adequate financial grants and technical EU support in facilitating political and economic reforms, but stresses that such support should apply as long as those countries meet the eligibility criteria, especially as regards the rule of law, the pursuit of an inclusive economic development, the fight against corruption, and strengthening of democratic institutions;
Amendment 210 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 42 a (new)
Paragraph 42 a (new)
42 a. Recalls the decision taken by the Parliament within the 2017 EP budget procedure, which establishes the creation of an interpretation in International Sign language Service, for all plenary debates and calls upon the Administration to implement this decision without further delay;
Amendment 211 #
Amendment 212 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 43 a (new)
Paragraph 43 a (new)
43 a. Recalls the commitment by Parliament, the Council and the Commission to ensure and be consistent with the principle of the unity of the Union budget also on what regards the future integration of all Other Special Instruments in the EU budget; it furthermore insists on the closing of all ad-hoc financial instruments which have been created above and outside the EU Budget, with respect to the prerogatives of the budgetary authority;
Amendment 213 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 43 b (new)
Paragraph 43 b (new)
43 b. Stresses the need to further increase, in particular, the payment appropriations for the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGAF) for EUR 25 000 000 is insufficient; furthermore, insists that the current parameters of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund are unfairly prohibitive on smaller Member States; suggests that the criteria for eligibility be flexible in this regard as redundancies and closures have the ability to affect smaller regions to a greater extent than others;
Amendment 214 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 43 c (new)
Paragraph 43 c (new)
43 c. Highlights the importance of the European Union Solidarity Fund (EUSF) which was set up to respond to major natural disasters and express European solidarity to disaster-stricken regions within Europe and takes note of the proposed increase in commitment and payment appropriations for the EUSF; calls upon the Commission to assess without delay if a further increase will be necessary bearing in mind, in particular, the earthquakes' in Italy and the fires in Portugal, which have had a dramatic and substantial impact on human life in particularly deprived regions; calls for the adaptation of the rules for mobilizing this fund, to allow a more flexible and timely mobilization, covering a wider range of disasters with significant impacts and reducing the time between the disaster and the availability of funds.
Amendment 217 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 44 a (new)
Paragraph 44 a (new)
44 a. Opposes the proposal of the Commission to increase the Preparatory Action for Defence and Security, while underlining that the mentioned research window under the post-2020 MFF needs additional funding; insists this initiative should not be financed at the expense of the existing research funds and by the EU Budget.
Amendment 223 #
2017/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 46
Paragraph 46
46. Reiterates its conviction that the European agencies active in the Justice and Home Affairs field must be provided with the necessary operational expenditure and staffing levels to allow them to achieve the additional tasks and responsibilities they have been given in recent years; welcomes, in this regard, the substantial staff increases proposed for the European Coast and Border Guard Agency (Frontex) and the European Asylum Support Office (EASO), which it considers a minimum to ensure that theseis agenciesy can effectively perform theirits operations; requests the Commission to reassess whether the proposed operational funding (-23.6 % compared to 2017) and staffing levels (-4) for Eurojust will indeed allow this agency to fulfil in an effective manner its key role in the promotion of judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters, including in the fields of drug policy and crime prevention;
Amendment 38 #
2017/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Calls upon the Commission to reinforce the health and well-being of young people when revising the EU youth strategy 2018, with particular attention to the timely implementation of the Action Plan of Childhood Obesity and of the Action Plan on Youth Drinking and on Heavy Episodic Drinking;
Amendment 39 #
2017/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5 b. Calls on the EU and its Member States to protect regional Minority and Lessor Used Languages, linguistic diversity and to reject linguistic discrimination while integrating the SDGs in the European policy framework and current and future Commission priorities;
Amendment 42 #
2017/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
5 c. Believes that cultural diversity and the protection of natural heritage should be promoted across the European policy framework, including through education;
Amendment 16 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 a (new)
Citation 5 a (new)
- having regard to the Five Presidents' Report which refers that euro "requires solidarity in times of crisis and respect for commonly agreed rules from all members",
Amendment 17 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 b (new)
Citation 5 b (new)
- having regard to the European Court of Auditors reports 18/2015 of 26 January 2016 on financial assistance provided to countries in difficulties and 17/2017 of 16 November 2017 on the Commission intervention in the Greek financial crisis,
Amendment 27 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the introduction of the euro is one of the European project’s most significant political achievedevelopments and a cornerstone of EMU constructionthe EMU, there remains no clear route towards real convergence, social inclusion, and a cooperative and complementary economy within the EU. The detrimental impact of the EMU is further exacerbated by the monetary policy of the ECB and the economic restrictions of the Growth and Stability Pact;
Amendment 34 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the financial and economic crisis has revealed the weaknesses of the euro architecture, highlighting the need for the swift completion of the EMUreform of the economic architecture, in order to off-set the external imbalances within the Eurozone, and correct the internal divergences, which creates a structured disadvantage for the countries on the European periphery;
Amendment 39 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the financial and economic crisis has revealed the weaknesses of the euro architecture, highlighting the need for the swift completion and urgent democratisation of the EMU;
Amendment 41 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
B a. whereas the current EU economic governance framework proved inadequate to prevent and deal in a sufficient and timely way with the economic and financial crisis since 2010, leaving the space for IMF’s austerity-oriented policies, which resulted in further inequalities, unemployment and poverty in the countries following adjustment programmes;
Amendment 54 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas membership of a common currency area requires common rules and obligations, as well as common tools to respond to symmetric and asymmetric shocks and for the promotion of solidarity and socioeconomic upward convergence; whereas risk reduction and risk sharing should go hand in hand in deepening and enforcing democratic accountability of the EMU;
Amendment 55 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas membership of a common currency area requires common rules and obligations, as well as common tools to respond to symmetric and asymmetric shocks and for the promotion of solidarity and socioeconomic upward real convergence; whereas risk reduction and risk sharing should go hand in hand in deepening the EMU in terms of investment, unemployment rate or income and wealth distribution;
Amendment 63 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the creation of the European Financial Stability Facility (EFSF) and its later transformation into the European Stability Mechanism (ESM) have represented, despite its intergovernmental nature, an important step towards the creation of a European crisis management mechanism, trying to helping to respond to the weaknesses of the EMU and providing financial assistance to several European countries affected by the crisis;
Amendment 66 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
D a. whereas the European Court of Auditors' reports on financial crisis and assistance have underlined in many cases delays and insufficient results of the proposed measures, presenting valuable recommendations;
Amendment 83 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas in the short term, the ESM reform should contribute in particular to the banking union, providing a proper common financial backstop for the Single Resolution Fund (SRF), witfinancial sustainability of the banking sector, ensuring the social function of credit, preventingany socialisation of losses, making sure shareholders and big creditors are not bail-out at the expense of taxpayers; this might imply the asset conversion of banks into public ownership. The ESF shoutld prejudice to the need to establish a European Deposit Insurance Scheme (EDIS)ovide financing to endowing a financial basis for a European Deposit Insurance Scheme (EDIS), or make punctual public interventions possible in order to recover valuable assets and protecting useful employment;
Amendment 85 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas in the short term, the ESM reform should contribute in particular to the banking union, providing a proper common financial backstop for the Single Resolution Fund (SRF), without prejudice to the need to establish a fully insured European Deposit Insurance Scheme (EDIS) as proposed by the European Commission proposal (2015)586 on 24 November 2015;
Amendment 96 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the Commission’s proposal of 6 December 2017 for a Council Regulation on the establishment of the European Monetary Fund and considers it a useful contribution to the ongoing debate on the future of Europe, the completion of the EMU and the ESM reform, in a way that the EU economic governance is more democratic and efficient;
Amendment 109 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Highlights that the proper functioning of an EMU depends on the existence of an institution serving as a ‘lender of last resort’; acknowledgnotes, in this context, the positivecontroversial contribution of the ESM, despite its intergovernmental nature, towards addressing the weaknesses of the institutional setting of the EMU, namely by providing financial assistance to several Member States affected by the financial crisis and the Great Recession, subject to recessive fiscal measures, cuts to wages and public services resulting in severe socio- economic conditions, increasing unemployment, poverty and inequalities;
Amendment 110 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Highlights that the proper functioning of an EMU depends on the existence of an institution serving as a ‘lender of last resort’; acknowledges, in this context, the positive contribution of the ESM, despite its intergovernmental nature, towards addressing the weaknesses of the institutional setting of the EMU, namely by providing financial assideplores that the ECB is not allowed to play this role, giving priority, for instance, to several Member States affected by the financial crisis and the Great Recessionfinance the private financial sector instead the public sector;
Amendment 123 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Recalls its previous positions in favour of the incorporation of the ESM into the EU legal framework, which would make it a fully-fledged EU body, subject to democratic accountability and transparency rules; insists that this incorporation should continue to be understood as part of the EMU completion project; believes that such an integration wshould allow for management in accordance with the Community method, ensure the full consistency of fiscal rules and obligations, facilitate economic and fiscal policy coordination away from restrictive fiscal policies, and enhance democratic legitimacy and accountability through the European Parliament;
Amendment 141 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes that the Commission’s proposal has generated a lively discussion on its political, financial and legal implications, and that discussions continue on a number of important issues; stresses, however, that this debate on the long-term vision of the ESM’s institutional setting should not delay the steps urgently required to strengthen and enforce democratic accountability of the EMU and its capacity to promote financial stability and respond to economic shocks, alongside inclusive growth, economic, social and regional cohesion; calls, therefore, for a meaningful ESM reform in the short term by means of a revision of the ESM Treaty, without prejudice to more ambitious developments in the future;
Amendment 148 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Underlines that the primary mission of the new ESF should continue to be to provide transitional financial assistance to Member States in need, on the basis of the agreed adjustment programmes; stresses that the ESF must have adequate firepower for that purpose; opposes, therefore, any attempt to turn the reformed ESM into an instrument for banks only, or to reduce its financial capacity to support Member Statf intervening in the private banking sector, and having an appropriate European Deposit Insurance Scheme or an equivalent system to coordinate the existing national deposit insurance schemes; stresses that the ESF must have adequate firepower for that purpose; opposes, therefore, any attempt to turn the reformed ESM into an instrument to protect the interest of private banks, or for delivering the financial support to Member States to rescue private banks, overloading the productive classes with higher and more regressive taxes, or cutting public expenditure for social policies and public services; recalls that financial assistance provided to Member States under the new ESF has to be complemented by other fiscal capacity tools, including precautionary instruments, to promote economic and financial stabilisation, to promote investment and upward socioeconomic convergence in the euro area;
Amendment 149 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Underlines that the primary mission of the new ESF should continue to be to provide transitional financial assistance to Member States in need, on the basis of the agreed adjustment programmes based on lessons learned by austerity measures imposed to member states by Troika and IMF; stresses that the ESF must have adequate firepower for that purpose; opposes, therefore, any attempt to turn the reformed ESM into an instrument for banks only, or to reduce its financial capacity to support Member States; recalls that financial assistance provided to Member States under the new ESF has to be complemented by other fiscal capacity tools, including precautionary instruments, to promote economic and financial stabilisation, public investment and upward socioeconomic convergence in the euro area as part of a new more sustainable inclusive and democratic economic governance framework;
Amendment 167 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Believes that the reformed ESM should play a more prominent role in the management of financial assistance programmes, alongside the Commission and in close cooperation with the ECB, ensuring that the EU institutional framework has more autonomy whenever needed, without prejudice to appropriate partnerships with other institutions, namely the International Monetary Fund;
Amendment 172 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
Amendment 176 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Stresses that evaluation of the financial assistance requests made by the ESF, as well as its decision-making on the design of the adjustment programmes, in cooperation with other institutions, should in no way replace, duplicate or overlap the normal macroeconomic and fiscal surveillance provided for in the EU’s financial rules and regulations, which must remain the Commission’s exclusive competence; the evaluation should take into consideration reports and opinions being produced by the European Parliament, respective National Parliaments and the European Economic and Social Committee;
Amendment 183 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8 a. The EMF should report regularly to the European Parliament as well as to national parliaments on its undertaking activities, with a view to achieving greater democratic control;
Amendment 188 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Highlights the need for an efficient, balanced and democratic decision-making procedure in the reformed ESM, particularly in the case of urgent situations where inclusive dialogue with all interested parties and with respect to national particularities, transparency, accountability and simplicity will be ensured;
Amendment 197 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Calls for a swift ESM reform that also redefines its role, functions and financial tools, so that the new ESF can offer adequate liquidity support in case of resolution and serve as a financial backstop for the SRF, without recessive and austerity policies conditionality; calls for the SRF to be made operational as soon as possible and, in any case, before 2024;
Amendment 198 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Calls for a swift ESM reform that also redefines its role, functions and financial tools, so that the new ESF can offer liquidity support in case of resolution and serve as a financial backstop for the SRF; calls for the SRF to be made operational as soon as implementation of an coordinated Deposit Insurance Scheme, and to address any banking crisis in a manner which protects ordinary citizens and ensures that those resposnsible and, in any case, before 2024for triggering such crises do not benefit from the subsequent policy responses;
Amendment 213 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
Amendment 220 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Underlines the risks arising from the delay in completing the banking union; welcomes, in this context, the European Council’s commitment to a common backstop for the SRF and recalls the need also to establish the EDISa fully-insured EDIS, as proposed by the European Commission in its (2015)586 proposal of 24 November 2015;
Amendment 231 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Invites the ESM to establish a protocol for a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with the European Parliament, with immediate effect, to further promote institutional dialogue, consultation and enhance the ESM’s transparency, accountability and democratic legitimacy in line with the further deepening of interinstitutional cooperation on the economic governance of the euro area;
Amendment 235 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12 a. Calls for the increasing role of the national parliaments in all stages of the EMF activities, well beyond addressing their observations, asking questions and simply exchanging of views with the EMF Managing Director in relation to the progress made regarding the implementation of the financial stability support programs;
Amendment 237 #
2017/0333R(APP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 b (new)
Paragraph 12 b (new)
12 b. Denounces the Council proposal that the Managing Director shall hold confidential oral discussions behind closed doors with the Chair and Vice- Chairs of the competent Committees of the European Parliament concerning its tasks, including social impact assessment, the implementation of financial stability support and the provision of credit lines or setting of guarantees in support of the SRB; calls therefore this dialogue to kick- off to the European Parliament, enforcing democratic accountability and transparency;
Amendment 15 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) This Regulation aims to make the European citizens’ initiative more accessible, less burdensome and easier to use for organisers and supporters, in order to achieve the full potential of the European citizens’ initiative as a tool to submit proposals for a legal act of the Union, to foster debate and citizen participation at Union level, and to bring the Union closer to its citizens.
Amendment 20 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) In accordance with Article 11(4) of the TEU an initiative invitobliging the European Commission, within the framework of its powers, to submit any appropriate proposal on matters where citizens consider that a legal act of the Union is required to implement the Treaties, is to be taken by not less than one million citizens of the Union who are nationals of a significant number of Member States.
Amendment 69 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2
Article 6 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2
If one or more of the requirements set out in points (a) to (e) are not met, the Commission, after informing the European Parliament on its reasoning, shall refuse to register the initiative, without prejudice to paragraphs 4 and 5.
Amendment 72 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
Where it considers that the requirements laid down in paragraph 3 (a), (b), (d) and (e) are met but that the requirement laid down in paragraph 3(c) is not met, the Commission shall, within one month of the submission of the request, inform the group of organisers and the European Parliament of its assessment and of the reasons thereof.
Amendment 95 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 8 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
All statements of support shall be collected within a period not exceeding 128 months from a date chosen by the group of organisers (the ‘collection period’), without prejudice to Article 11(6). That date must be not later than three months from the registration of the initiative in accordance with Article 6.
Amendment 117 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Article 15 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Within five months after the publication of the initiative in accordance with Article 14(1), and after the public hearing referred to in Article 14(2), the Commission shall set out in a communication its legal and political conclusions on the initiative, the action it intends to take, if any, and its reasons for taking or not taking action.
Amendment 32 #
2017/0125(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Title 1
Title 1
rejects the Proposal for a REGULATION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL establishing the European Defence Industrial Development Programme aiming at supporting the competitiveness and innovative capacity of the EU defence industry
Amendment 2 #
2016/2323(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1
Citation 1
— having regard to Articles 174 to 178 and 314 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,
Amendment 23 #
2016/2323(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the important rolUnderlines the potential transformative role which can be played by the EU budget in delivering concrete answers to the challenges the EU is facing; stresses that jobs, economic growth, migration, securthe Union Budget shall be used in such a way to give priority to policies of real integration and cohesion, based on social progress and solidarity, safeguarding and promoting decent, quality and stackling populism are the main concerns at EU level andble job creation, sustainable use of natural resources, protection of the environment which are the main concerns at EU level; the EU budget remains part of the solution to these issues, however underlines that the EUnion budget remains part of the solution to these issuehas proven to be scarce despite its potential to become an important resource in addressing the recent crises and responding to the needs which were not anticipated during the negotiation of the MFF 2014-2020, such as the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), the migration and humanitarian crisis, geopolitical tensions in Europe's neighbourhood causing a number of serious challenges and emergencies, while within the EU the pace of economic recovery and a continuous lowering of both public and private investment levels below its potential led to an investment gap and the aggravation of inequalities between EU Member States, its regions and its citizens; underlines that a strong EU budget will benefit Member States and EU citizens alike; expects that the Commission will put forward a draft 2018 budget that enables the EU to continue to generate prosperity and, ensure the safetywellbeing and safekeeping of its citizens;
Amendment 45 #
2016/2323(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
Amendment 69 #
2016/2323(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Highlights that the social and solidarity economy (SSE) represents today over 2 million enterprises, 180 000 are cooperatives; underlines that the SSE sector employs over 4 and a half million people in the EU and generates over 10 % of the EU GNI; urges for further support and simplification of the access to financing to SSEs, in particular by widening the scope of existing programs and financial instruments at EU and Member States' level, while calling for concrete new measures to further promote and expand cooperatives and social enterprises model economy, as this remains under-represented and under- financed when compared to other enterprise models, despite its importance in terms of share of GNI and employment in the Union; reiterates the role of the SSEs in strengthening sustainable, smart growth, in the creation of decent and sustainable jobs, in cohesion and integration, and that it should be further supported and made accessible, while underlining that the SSE sector remains an important provider of social, health, educational, environmental, energy production and distribution services.
Amendment 72 #
2016/2323(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses that investments in research and innovation represent a pre- condition for achieving genuine competitiveness in the EU; regrets the fact that, as a result of an alarmsmart, sustainable and green growth in the EU; regrets the fact that, subordinating most of EU research funding to an allegiance of strict market ruled schemes' as had as a result an alarmingly lack of financial support in research and innovation, the acute reduction of grants has had a particular detrimental impact on public research centers and universities, in particular to those which are not based on the wealthier EU Member States'; reiterates its conviction that scarce resources are often met with correspondingly low success rate of applications, fewer; calls, therefore, for the enhancement of the resources made available to research and innovation dissociated from loan's schemes, in order to ensure the boost of high- quality projects in the field of research and innovation which are receiving EU funding; calls in this respect for an adequatincrease in the level of appropriations to be ensured for Horizon 2020;
Amendment 87 #
2016/2323(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. RecogniStresses the fact that SMEmicro, small and medium sized enterprises remain the backbone of the European economy, and will continue to play a decisive role in creating jobs and growth across the EU; there are over 21 million SMEs in Europe which supply 85% of EU's jobs representing one fifth of the world trade; calls in this respect for COSME appropriations to be maintained at least at the level approved for 2017increased, taking into account the success of this programme;
Amendment 96 #
2016/2323(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Underlines the important role and potential ofTakes the view that the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) in reducing the investment gap in Europe, and recognises the positive results achieved so far; welcomes also the Commission proposal for extending the EFSI until 2020, which will serve to further improve its functioning, especially as regards the additionality principle and the geographical balance, has fallen short vis-à-vis its objectives; is deeply concerned with the fact that while mobilizing a considerable amount of EU funding, it did not effectively contribute to reducing disparities among regions and Member States, nor to the investment gap in the Union and it failed to address the geographical and sectorial imbalances detected; furthermore, it is concerned with its potential to induce rent seeking and asset stripping by private investors at the expense of the Union budget via public-private partnerships, the privatization of profits and the socialization of losses and sparely contributing to additional investment; it deeply regrets that its unsatisfactory performance in effectively tackling and promoting a public funded instrument which was designed as to highly improve accessibility to funding for SMEs and SSEs; it is also concerned that via the EFSI, the European Investment Bank acquired too much levy over the Union budget, while displaying a poor track record in terms of sectorial and regional distribution of investments and the support of SMEs; takes note of the Commission proposal for extending the EFSI until 2020, while insisting on the urgent need to review its current regulatory framework; reiterates it call for a meaningful public investment programme in support of the real economy, which should be based on solidarity and territorial cohesion;
Amendment 137 #
2016/2323(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Strongly supports regional policy as one of the main investment instruments of the EU budget that enables economic, social and territorial cohesion; underlines that this policy generates growth and jobs in all Member States; stresses the need to increase the appropriations for the Cohesion Fund and the Structural Funds, paying particular attention to employment with rights, equal rights and opportunities, and the fight to eradicate poverty; stresses the need to endow Member States with the tools to help their citizens find a way out of the crisis; stresses in this regard the special need to invest in areas such as education and mobility, research and innovation, and micro-, small and medium-sized enterprises, in order to boost the creation of employment – in particular youth employment; is concerned, however, about the unacceptable delays in implementation of operational programmes at EU level; calls on the Commission and the Member States to cooperate in order to ensure that the designation of managing and certifying authorities is concluded and implementation accelerates;
Amendment 147 #
2016/2323(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11 a. Recalls the previous problems entailed by the lack of payment appropriations for the LIFE programme, which impeded and delayed its proper implementation; underlines that the Union ratified the COP 21 agreement and calls on the Commission to dedicate part of EU's financial resources to respect its international commitments; notes that the EU budget is expected to allocate 19,2 % of expenditure to this aim; strongly encourages the Commission to pursue this track so to apply the 20 % target, in line with the Commission's commitment to mainstream climate action in the current MFF;
Amendment 150 #
2016/2323(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 b (new)
Paragraph 11 b (new)
11 b. Emphasises that the implementation of the "new" CFP entails a paradigm shift in fisheries management both for Member States and for fishermen and recalls, in this regard, the on-going difficulties encountered in this sector; calls therefore on the Commission to ensure the increase of appropriations to a level adequate to deal with the future challenges;
Amendment 178 #
2016/2323(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Welcomes the role played by instruments such as the Internal Security Fund (ISF) andStresses the need to adopt a comprehensive and human rights-based approach linking migration with development and guaranteeing the integration of migrant workers and asylum seekers and refugees; notes the role played by instruments such as the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF) in addressing the effects of the migratory and refugeehumanitarian crisis, and calls for adequate budgeting in the coming years for theseis funds; welcomes also the role of EU agencies in the area of justice and home affairs, such as Europol and the European Border and Coast Guard,is area and calls, in this context, for their mandate to be executed through adequate budgeting and staffing; is convinced that the EU needs to invest more in strengthening its borders, enhancing cooperation between law enforcement agencies, fighting terrorism and radicalisation and ensuring sound return operations;
Amendment 185 #
2016/2323(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Strongly supports initiatives in the field of defence research with the aim of encouraging better cooperation between Member States; recallsReiterates its conviction that the Union budget should not finance initiatives which could be to the detriment of existing Union policies and programs, in particular, reiterates its commitment to financing initiatives which can actively promote peace, integration and cohesion objectives in the Union; is convinced that, while respecting provisions enshrined in the Treaties, strengthened cooperith an already underfinanced Union budget, additional efforts for operations, administrative costs, preparatory actions and pilot projects in relation into the field of defence is needcommon security and defence policy should be sole financed, in order to meet the security challenges that the EU is facing, which are generated by prolonged instability in the EU neighbourhood and uncertainty regardf they so decide, by the Member States and not by the Union budget; recalls that, while respecting provisions enshrined in the Treaties, strengthened cooperation in the the EU and its Members States should by no means underminge the commitment of certain EU partners towards NATO objectives; to peace, to sustainable development and to neutrality;
Amendment 200 #
2016/2323(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Reaffirms its conviction that in order to tackle the root causes ofHighlights the need to ensure and guarantee that human, civil rights and liberties, social protection, including protection for the most vulnerable, healthcare, social and financial benefits are implemented in full compliance with international law, in particular UN Human Rights Charter and Convention relation to the Refugee Status, the Convention of the Rights of the Child, the Geneva Convention, the Cartagena Declaration on Refugees, the Council of Europe's Recommendations on Refugees and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU; reaffirms its conviction that in order to tackle the migratory and refugeehumanitarian crisis, the EU needs to step up its role through investments in the countries of origin of the refugees and migrants; notes thatrecalls that the primary objective of the Union's development policy must remain the reduction of poverty; underlines the key role of investments in infrastructure, housing, education, medical services and support for SMEs are part of the solution to tackle the ; welcomes therefore coherent and coordinated initiatives' within a framework to promot causes of migration; welcomes theree and reinforce investments in public services and capacity building in Africa and the neighborhood countries which reinforce the External Investment Plan as a coherent and coordinated framework to promote investments in Africa and the Neighbourhood countriesrule of law, good governance and the role of civil society stakeholders; considers that a sustainable management of the humanitarian crisis on the long term demands the inclusion of all the emergency funds within the EU budget, allowing for a better accountability of all EU's actions in this field;
Amendment 253 #
2016/2323(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23 a. Reiterates its conviction that in order to offset the weak economic recovery, the new latent crisis trends and the increased disparities among regions and Member States in the EU, it is necessary to provide a rupture to the current neo-liberal and austerity policies; underlines the need to increment solidarity and the redistributive role of the EU BUDG, while acknowledging that this can only be possible in a context in which Member States implement concrete measures towards more progressive tax systems, while effectively tackling their current regressive character; reiterates its position that an adequate increase of the Union's budget is necessary to ensure the adequate level of resources with particular emphasis on the programs and projects aimed at boosting growth and decent employment, eradicating poverty, investing in smart, sustainable, green development; underlines that contributions to this increase should result from an increase in the payments made by Member States with the highest GNI and the highest per capita income, correcting the current biased and unfair systems of contribution keys; furthermore, it reiterates that it is imperative to increase support to Member States, especially those facing economic recession, for investment in infrastructure, social facilities, research, innovation and development; considers that the contributions to the EU Budget from the Member States should not be accounted when calculating Member States' structural deficits;
Amendment 265 #
2016/2323(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 a (new)
Paragraph 24 a (new)
24 a. Emphasises that peace and stability are core values that need to be maintained by the Union; considers that the Good Friday Agreement, which has proven vital to peace and reconciliation in the island of Ireland, must be protected; underlines the need for specific measures to ensure support for the regions which will be particularly affected in the case of a negotiated exit from the Union following the invocation by the United Kingdom of Article 50 of the Treaty of Lisbon, in accordance with the expressed will of its citizens;
Amendment 6 #
2016/2242(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
D a. Highlights the potential role that the Youth Employment Initiative can have, in particular Member States which have been affected to a much higher degree by the Economic, Financial and Social crises since 2007; it underlines the need to reinforce this programme and to develop further complementary measures both at EU level and National levels which will aim to boost integration and cohesion whilst also reinforcing gender parity and ensuring access to training programmes initiated to develop new technological labour challenges.
Amendment 216 #
2016/2240(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Calls for the setting-up of an emergency response mechanism to the destruction of cultural and natural heritage, building on the experience of the UN’s Blue Helmets for Culture task force initiative, in close and structured cooperation with UNESCO and with the technological support of Copernicus – the European Earth Observation Programme;
Amendment 236 #
2016/2240(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 a (new)
Paragraph 25 a (new)
25a. Calls for the setting up of an EU connectivity initiative to assist youths that are at a geographical disadvantage, in order to participate more actively;
Amendment 268 #
2016/2240(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. Highlights the important role of culture in EU external policy as a soft power tool and as an engine for socio- economic development; while recognizing that a cultural diplomacy policy with third countries is a Member State competency and not an EU competency;
Amendment 5 #
2016/2224(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Is of the opinion that since the effectiveness of the whistle-blowing environment is affected by cultural values, implementing an identical mechanism in all Member States may result in dysfunctional behaviour and needless costs, and that any measures taken should therefore be tailored to fit national contextTakes note that the Commission, in its EU Anti-Corruption report, stated that EU Member States have in place most of the necessary anti-corruption legal instruments and institutions, however, the results they deliver are not satisfactory across the EU and their capacity and efficiency should be improved; calls, therefore, on the Member States to enforce anti-corruption rules and, at the same time, to properly implement European and international standards and guidelines concerning whistle-blowers' protection in their national laws; insists that whistle-blowers play an essential role in helping Member States and EU institutions and bodies to deter and prevent any breaches of the principle of integrity and misuse of power that threaten public health and safety, financial integrity, human rights, the environment and the rule of law at European and national levels, and undermine the trust of citizens in democratic institutions and processes; notes that whistle-blowers often disclose scandals affecting several Member States; stresses, however, therefore that existing cultural differences do not detract from the need for legal protection of whistle-blowers in Member States;
Amendment 42 #
2016/2224(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Amendment 68 #
2016/2142(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Acknowledges that online and open education is changing the way that education is resourced, delivered and taken up, making inclusion, personal fulfilment and occupational choice and switching possible for everyone by providing guaranteed educational opportunities throughout life;
Amendment 84 #
2016/2142(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses that academic institutions must prepare students for uncertainty and provide them with tools such asfuture occupational requirements, some of which are as yet unknown, and provide them with 'how to' tools for independent learning and entrepreneurial and adaptabilityproblem- solving skills to explore their own pathways;
Amendment 118 #
2016/2142(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Perceives the ever-advancing quality of education as crucial for the EU’s efforts to ensure social cohesion, competitiveness and sustainabled growth;
Amendment 153 #
2016/2142(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Recognises the role of the smart specialisation strategy (RIS3) in developing key regional potential based on the needs of the labour marksociety;
Amendment 166 #
2016/2142(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Highlights the fact that only one quarter of schoolchildren in Europe are taught by digitally confident teachers, which is a major obstacle preventing the flourishing of new methods of teaching; calls therefore on schools to provide stronger support trough IT and media literacy training for teachers and school leaders;
Amendment 174 #
2016/2142(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Acknowledges the costs of quality education and tailor-made learning; stresses that, for funding to be used successfully, how the education sector is structured - from generously resourced early-childhood learning and school, non- school and cultural education to higher education and further training - is of considerable importance and that there must be greater financial and practical involvement of industry and business, too, in vocational training;
Amendment 189 #
2016/2142(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Advocates the creation of a user- friendly online platform as a one-stop-shop where education professionals and learners can facilitate the exchange of best practice;
Amendment 196 #
2016/2142(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. Recommends the corroboration of lifelong learning efforts with a European Digitalisation Strategy within education; recommends that the copyright exceptions for education and research in the projected copyright directive (Articles 3 and 4) also be systematically applied to further education and distance education;
Amendment 203 #
2016/2142(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Highlights the importance of stepping up European efforts to make the Lifelong Learning Strategy a reality for all; by providing a guaranteed entitlement under employment law to further education in the form of a range of learning opportunities that can also be pursued for personal fulfilment and for switching occupations;
Amendment 213 #
2016/2142(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. Calls on Member States to ensure a holistic approach to education and to provide students with authentic learning opportunities that develop their aspirations and individual self-realisation and the skills needed to survive, and play a role, in a global economy and a democratic society;
Amendment 217 #
2016/2142(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34
Paragraph 34
34. Urges academic institutions to anticipatebecome pioneers changes in society and the labour market, and to adapt their way of workingenable students to develop tools and skills accordingly;
Amendment 226 #
2016/2142(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36
Paragraph 36
36. Highlights the importance of specialised teacher training for distance learningacademic further and distance learning, so to meet the needs of their students;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2118(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3a (new)
Citation 3a (new)
– having regard to the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament of 30 June 2016 on the technical adjustment of the financial framework for 2017 in line with movements in GNI (COM(2016) 311);
Amendment 2 #
2016/2118(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas having examined roughly all possibilities for financing additional and unforeseen commitment needs, the Commission proposed in its Draft Budget to mobilise the Contingency Margin, estimated in an absolute amount of EUR 4 496,8 million for 20171a, for an amount of EUR 1 164,4 million, so as to complement the commitment appropriations related to expenditure in heading 3 in the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2017, over and above the commitment ceiling of EUR 2 578 million in current prices; ____________________ 1a Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament of 30 June 2016 on the technical adjustment of the financial framework for 2017 in line with movements in GNI (COM(2016) 311)
Amendment 3 #
2016/2118(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1a (new)
Paragraph 1a (new)
1 a (new) Recalls that the mobilisation of the Contingency Margin is a last resort instrument and that its mobilisation is to be made as soon as possible to complement the estimated need of new appropriations, in particular in Heading 1a and 1b; expresses serious concerns, in particular, over the delays in the implementation of EU programmes under shared management and which pave the way for an important accumulation of payment requests towards the end of the current MFF; recalls the Commission’s conclusion that, according to the present forecasts, updated payment needs until 2020 can only be accommodated with the current ceilings if the Global Margin for Payments is fully used (and, as a precautionary measure, removed of its annual caps) and if payments for special instruments are counted over and above the ceilings; calls, therefore, for a definitive and unequivocal settlement of the latter issue as part of the MFF revision;
Amendment 949 #
2016/2114(REG)
Parliament's Rules of Procedure
Rule 34 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 3 a (new)
Rule 34 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 3 a (new)
Intergroups shall be required to publish information on support that they receive, whether financial or in-kind. Intergroups and all unofficial groupings shall be required to keep a list of their members (Members of the European Parliament and third parties). Such lists shall be published on the European Parliament website and updated at least twice a year. In order to operate in the European Parliament, all intergroups and unofficial groupings which involve non- parliamentary third parties shall also be required to register on the Union Transparency Register.
Amendment 1030 #
2016/2114(REG)
Parliament's Rules of Procedure
Rule 115 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
Rule 115 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
Members shall only meet interest representatives (lobbyists) who have registered in the Transparency Register, with the exception of local citizens from their constituencies.
Amendment 1205 #
2016/2114(REG)
Parliament's Rules of Procedure
Annex I – Article 4 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point c a (new)
Annex I – Article 4 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point c a (new)
(ca) Members are banned from having remunerated positions with companies or other organisations involved in influencing the Parliament.
Amendment 1210 #
2016/2114(REG)
Parliament's Rules of Procedure
Annex I – Article 4 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 – introductory part
Annex I – Article 4 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 – introductory part
Amendment 1233 #
2016/2114(REG)
Parliament's Rules of Procedure
Annex I – Article 6 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Annex I – Article 6 – paragraph 1 a (new)
The Parliament shall introduce a two year cooling-off period for Members taking any paid work involving EU lobbying, or any other paid work which involved a possible conflict of interests with their former work as a Member of the European Parliament .
Amendment 1 #
2016/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
C a. whereas, since 2007, the Caterpillar Group, amongst other companies of the sector, has established plants in emerging economies in Asia and Latin America whilst other were closing down in Europe; whereas the Union has done nothing but exacerbate dumping ;
Amendment 5 #
2016/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes that in recent years Union trade in construction machinery has undergone serious disruptions, due to declining public and private investment in infrastructure forced by austerity policies resulting in a dramatic loss of market share for European producers, coupled with significant increase of steel prices in Europe; points out that this decline in competitiveness has led to the and delocalisations, in particular to Asian countries;
Amendment 13 #
2016/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7 a. Welcomes the extension of the access to the EGF for NEETs; notes however that this access is currently limited by the EGF Regulation until 31 December 2017; calls for the revision of the EGF Regulation, in the framework of the revision of the Multiannual Financial Framework, in order to enable the access of NEETs to continue after 2017;
Amendment 20 #
2016/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9 a. Calls on the Member States to prepare, together with the social partners, strategies to anticipate the projected labour market changes and to protect Union jobs and skills, especially when negotiating trade agreements in order to ensure fair competition rules and common measures against economic, social and environmental dumping ; recalls its call for a proper revision of the Union's trade defence instruments ;
Amendment 23 #
2016/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10 a. Calls on the Commission to revise the rules on state aid in order to enable state intervention to enhance socially and environmentally beneficial projects, and to help SMEs and industries in difficulties by contributing to reconstructing their production capacities, which have been heavily hit by the global financial and economic crisis;
Amendment 8 #
2016/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Takes note ofHighlights the large investment gap in Europe, which the Commission estimates at a minimum of EUR 200-300 billion a year; , highlightsunderlines, in particular, against this backdrop, the markethigh needs in Europe for high-risk financing, for instancean increase of public and private financing, in the fields of R&D, energy and ICT; is concerned by the fact that the most recent data on national accounts do not indicate any surge in investment since the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) was launched and the risks which are associated with inducing rent seeking and asset stripping by private investors at the expense of the Union budget by the prioritization of public private partnerships; is highly concerned with the high risk of privatization of profits while there is a socialization of losses, leading to risks of continued subdued growth and continuingthe aggravation of high unemployment rates; stresses that closing this investment gap is key to reviving growth, fighting unemployment and attaining long-term EU policy objectives;
Amendment 19 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Notes that persons from rural areas face a distinct disadvantage when trying to access education and calls therefore for better connectivity, infrastructure and accessibility to be implemented;
Amendment 21 #
2016/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Emphasises that EFSI was launched to help resolve difficulties and remove obstacles to financing as well as to implement strategic, transformative and productive investments that; underlines the urgency to review this instrument in such a way to give priority to policies of real integration and cohesion, based on social progress and solidarity, safeguarding and promoting decent, quality and stable job creation, sustainable use of natural resources, protection of the environment, which provide a high level of added value to the economy, the environment and society;
Amendment 52 #
2016/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Recalls that the purpose of EFSI is to ensure additionality by helping to address market failures or suboptimal investment situations and, by supporting operations which while ensuring the Union’s core commitments to territorial cohesion and social integration, to growth and creation of jobs in particular to youth, could not have been carried out under existing Union financial instruments;
Amendment 67 #
2016/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Recalls that the projects supported by EFSI, while striving to create employment, sustainable growth, economic, territorial and social cohesion,should effectively improve territorial, social and economic convergence of Member States and regions within the Union, in particular promoting the creation of employment, sustainable growth in poorer and peripheral regions, and are considered to provide additionality if they carry a risk corresponding to EIB special activities, as defined in Article 16 of the EIB Statute and by the credit risk policy guidelines of the EIB; underlines that EIB projects carrying a risk lower than the minimum risk under EIB special activities may also be supported by EFSI only if use of the EU guarantee is required to ensure additionality;
Amendment 243 #
2016/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Recalls that as a result of their know-how, NPBs are necessary for the success of EFSI, as they are close to the local markets; finds that synergies have so far not been exploited to the requisite extent ; observes a risk of local institutions being crowded out by the EIB; calls for the EIB to ensure in particular the enhancement and support of existing public banking structures’, to actively facilitate the exchange of good practices among these institutions and to strengthen their development; recognises that EFSI and the EIB are increasingly willing to take more junior/subordinated tranches with the NPBs and urges them to continue to do so; invites the EIB to discuss whether it would be useful to incorporate NPB expertise into the SB;
Amendment 269 #
2016/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 a (new)
Paragraph 27 a (new)
27a. Underlines that EFSI, in particular in view of its review should effectively improve social and economic convergence of Member States and regions within the Union, in particular by enhancing the support to micro-SMEs; calls in particular for the EIB, in the framework of the EIF to present and implement the new products foreseen under the SMEW to accelerate the implementation of its mandate in InnovFin, COSME and RCR, as established in the regulatory framework of the EFSI, in particular the SMES Equity Product, the uncapped guarantees for riskier loans to innovative SMEs and small mid-caps, and last but not least, the uncapped guarantees for the EU programme for Employment and Social Innovation EaSI, which is to foster access to micro-finance for vulnerable groups, micro-enterprises and social enterprises
Amendment 270 #
2016/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 b (new)
Paragraph 27 b (new)
Amendment 366 #
2016/2064(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 48
Paragraph 48
48. Expresses concern that the direct support given to financial intermediaries, which are then responsible for the allocation of EU financing, might lead to situations in which the end beneficiary is not aware of benefitting from EFSI financing and calls for solutions to be found to improve EFSI’s visibility; invitecalls, therefore, the EIB to include in EFSI contracts a notspecific clause making it clear to the project promoter that the financing received has been made possible by the EFSI/EU budget;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2051(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Calls upon the Member States to consider the possibility of transferring the Union budget surplus to Union social impact programmes, which can have a positive impact on social cohesion and territorial integration in the Union and its neighbourhood, such as Erasmus +, MEDIA, Horizon 2020, fighting youth unemployment but also Humanitarian Aid, Aid to development, Peace building processes; recalls that exceptional times, require exceptional measures;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1
Citation 1
— having regard to Articles 174 to 178 and 314 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,
Amendment 5 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. NotStresses that budget 2017 has to be considered in the wider context of the mid- term revision of the multiannual financial framework (MFF);
Amendment 6 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Reiterates its firm conviction that, in this particular current context, initiatives such as the suspension of the ESI funds by the European Commission, as foreseen by Article 23(15) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 (Common Provisions Regulation - CPR), are not only unfair and disproportionate, but also legally unsustainable;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1 b. Calls instead for the establishment of emergency plans to support the economies of countries in which the troika has intervened, which shall provide added financial resources to implement investment policies in order to reach social and economical convergence, while establishing the necessary exceptions to the functioning of the single market and common policies;
Amendment 8 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 c (new)
Paragraph 1 c (new)
1 c. Stresses that the Union budget should be used in such a way to give priority to policies of real convergence, integration and cohesion, based on social progress and solidarity, safeguarding and promoting decent, quality and stable job creation, sustainable use of natural resources and protection of the environment; underlines that the Union budget has proven to be scarce despite its potential to become an important resource in tackling recent crises and responding to needs which were not anticipated during the negotiation of the MFF 2014- 2020, such as the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), the migration and refugee crisis or geopolitical tensions in Europe's neighbourhood causing a number of serious challenges and emergencies, while within the Union the pace of economic recovery and a continuous lowering of both public and private investment levels below its potential led to an investment gap and the aggravation of inequalities between Member States, its regions and its citizens;
Amendment 9 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 d (new)
Paragraph 1 d (new)
1 d. Reiterates its conviction whereas in order to offset the weak economic recovery, the new latent crisis trends and the increased divergence in the Union it is necessary to provide an adequate increase to the Union's budget to ensure the adequate level of resources in next year's budget with particular emphasis on the programs and projects aimed at boosting growth and decent employment, eradicating poverty, investing in smart, sustainable, green growth, development and humanitarian aid; underlines that contributions to this increase should result from an increase in the payments made by Member States with the highest GNI and the highest per capita income, correcting the current biased and unfair system of contribution keys; reiterates that it is imperative to increase support to Member States, especially those facing economic recession, for investment in infrastructure, social facilities, research, innovation and development;
Amendment 12 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Emphasis that peace and stability are core values that need to be maintained by the Union; considers that the Good Friday agreement which has proven vital to peace and reconciliation must be protected; underlines the need for specific measures and programs to ensure support for any region which might be affected in case of a negotiated exit from the Union upon the invocation of Article 50 of the Treaty of Lisbon, in accordance with the expressed will of its citizens;
Amendment 20 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Recalls that whilst Parliament has supported the Commission’s actions in the tackling of the migration and refugees crisis, it has always insisted that this challenge not take precedence over other important Union policies, for example in the field of jobs and growth; notes that the Heading 3 ceiling is vastly insufficient to provide for appropriate funding for the internal dimension of the migration and refugee crisis as well as priority programmes, such as culturein particular in the creation of decent and quality employment and the development of enterprises and entrepreneurship for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth across the Union; notes that the Heading 3 ceiling is vastly insufficient to provide for appropriate funding for the internal dimension of the migration and refugee crisis and insists on the need for adopting a comprehensive and human rights-based approach linking migration with development and guaranteeing the integration of migrant workers and asylum seekers and refugees, as well as priority programmes, such as public health, consumer protection, culture and dialogue with the citizens and civil society stakeholders programmes;
Amendment 35 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Reiterates its conviction that the Union budget should find ways of financing new initiatives which are not to the detriment of existing Union programmes and policies and is disappointed thatreiterates its objection to the proposal of financing the Preparatory Action for defence research, which will amount to EUR 80 million in the next three years will be squeezed under the current budget of the MFF; is convinced that with an already underfinanced Union budget, additional efforts for operations, administrative costs, preparatory actions and pilot projects in relation to the common security and defence policy also need additional financial means by the Member Statesshould be sole financed, if they so decide, by the Member States and not by the Union budget; considers that the current MFF mid-term review/revision should be used by the Member States in that respect;
Amendment 66 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Disapproves of Council's proposed cuts of EUR 3 million in commitments and, more importantly, EUR 199 million in payments under subheading 1b, including on support lines; calls on the Council to explain how these cuts are compatible with its objective of providing “necessary appropriations enabling the smooth implementation of the new programmes in the fourth year of the multiannual financial framework 2014-2020”; notes that the cuts in payments go further than the already significant cuts proposed by the Commission, who suggested a decrease by -23,5 % compared to the 2016 EU budgetunderlines the negative impact caused by the delays in the implementation of the Union programs, to local, regional and national communities, in particular those which are facing social, financial and economic constraints; notes that the cuts in payments go further than the already significant cuts proposed by the Commission, who suggested a decrease by -23,5 % compared to the 2016 EU budget; highlights the fact that the Union austerity policies have created downward pressure on real wages in Member States and that this will prolong the economic and social crisis; believes the Union budget should be used to underpin efforts to increase real wages as well as to fight social dumping in the Member States;
Amendment 71 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 b (new)
Paragraph 17 b (new)
17 b. Recalls that cohesion policy represents the main Union investment policy and its legal objective of reducing disparities between European regions by strengthening economic, social and territorial cohesion;
Amendment 125 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32 c (new)
Paragraph 32 c (new)
32 c. Rejects any use of the Union budget to finance a militarist Union program; defends the need for an alternative set of programmes that support a more social Europe reinforcing sustainable development, strengthened, environment-friendly internal demand based on progressive wages, full employment with rights, social welfare, eradicating poverty and social exclusion and improved social and economic cohesion;
Amendment 127 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32 e (new)
Paragraph 32 e (new)
32 e. Expresses its deep concern at the high number of allegations of inhumane treatment and reception conditions of refugees and asylum-seekers within the refugee and asylum reception centres, in particular those receiving Union financial support and the lack of adequate protection of unaccompanied minors all along the route to a safe place and calls for a thorough investigation of the 10 000 missing children as reported by EUROPOL; calls for a thorough investigation of all measures and projects in particular those which have been benefiting from Union financial support, and which are being implemented with the support of the Member States in the field of migration, asylum and border management, to check their compliance with European and international law, in particular the UN Human Rights Charter, the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, the Convention on the Rights of the Child , the European Convention on Human Rights and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU;
Amendment 137 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36 a (new)
Paragraph 36 a (new)
36 a. Highlights the need to ensure and guarantee that human, civil rights and liberties, social protection, including protection for the most vulnerable, healthcare, social and financial benefits are implemented in full compliance with international law, in particular in particular the UN Human Rights Charter, the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, the Convention on the Rights of the Child , the European Convention on Human Rights and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU; stresses the importance of enhanced financing for resettlement schemes and relocation procedures, notably under the Asylum, Migration and Immigration Fund (AMIF), in order to achieve a solidarity based approach to European asylum and migration policy as safe and legal ways are the only way to prevent and reduce irregular migration; underlines the need to create possibilities within the Union budget, eventually through the creation of new financial instruments, to develop resettlement areas and safe zones on the African continent and in the Middle East, in cooperation with the African Union, the Arab League and UNHCR; points out that this should not preclude the Union of assuming its fair share of responsibility towards hosting refugees in Europe;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Recalls that, in the previous EGF case involving Mory-Ducros1a, the so- called Social Plan was cancelled by the French State Council on the 8th of December 2015 and that the main shareholder of Mory-Ducros, Arcole Industries, was convicted of unfair dismissals; recalls, therefore, the concerns of the trade unions blaming the main shareholder for intentional under- investment in MoryGlobal, noticing meanwhile that the France lent more than 17 million EUR to Mory-Ducros; expresses its full support to the workers now appealing in the trade Courts for additional compensations ; _____________ 1aDecision (EU) 2015/738 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 29 April 2015 on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (application EGF/2014/017 FR/Mory-Ducros, from France) (OJ L 117, 8.5.2015, p. 47).
Amendment 9 #
2016/2043(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Notes that the coordinated package of personalised services has been drawn up in consultation with the representatives of the targeted beneficiaries and the social partners; notes however that the so-called Social Plan was not supported by all trade unions; denounces the lack of commitment, responsibility and financial contribution of the main shareholder;
Amendment 31 #
2016/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital P
Recital P
P. whereas fisheries-related tourism activities are carried out by professionmostly small- scale fishermen seeking to diversify their sources of income, promote, and enhance the status of, their profession and the socio- cultural heritage, and improve the sustainable use of aquatic ecosystems, aims which they sometimes pursue by carrying tourists on fishing boats; whereas while these fishing activities plainly involve a tourism element and a recreational purpose, they are not covered by any clear- cut standard-setting definition;
Amendment 34 #
2016/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Q
Recital Q
Q. whereas the term ‘fishing tours’ (called ‘pescaturismo’ in Italian) denotes tourist/recreational fishing activities carried out by professional fishermen who take tourists on board their vessels in order to show them the fisheries worlddenotes recreational fishing and other related activities conducted by fishermen and crew members in collaboration with persons on board their vessels to participate in activities related to marine tourism;
Amendment 37 #
2016/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital S
Recital S
S. whereas recreational fishing is an activity carried out solely for recreational and/or competitive sporting purposes, in which living aquatic resources are exploited, but catches may not, under any circumstances, be sold; whereas member states are prevented from opening a recreational fishery for a stock in the absence of a national quota for the stock in question; whereas although the intention is not to make a profit, recreational fishing is included among the tourist activities that generate a parallel economy which can be managed by professional fishermen through services, facilities, and infrastructure offered to recreational fishermen;
Amendment 64 #
2016/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital AI
Recital AI
AI. whereas the Cetara Tuna Festival (‘La sagra del tonno di Cetara’) and similar events frequently held in Italy during July and August in order to disseminate knowledge of small-scale fishing, fishermen’s way of life, and regional musical and food and wine culture have played a vital role in maintaining and promoting the tourist industry in neighbouring towns and areas; notes that there needs to be a concerted effort by member states to invest and promote such initiatives in their own regions as an environmentally and socio-economic sustainable community-based alternative to large-scale industrialized fishing in order to benefit the local regions and coastal communities concerned;
Amendment 67 #
2016/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital AJ
Recital AJ
AJ. whereas in Spain ‘Turismo marinero – Costa del Sol’ and other specialised agencies have been set up to promote the traditional fishing industry and help local people to develop and publicise fisheries-related tourist activities; whereas the Costa del Sol agency organises cooking courses on boats used by local fishermen, tours to observe fish species, and recreational fishing activities; whereas another option available is guided tours of the ‘Bioparc’, an open-air museum designed specially for children, where they can learn something about marine biology, traditional fishing practices, and local culture; notes that the emulation of such initiatives and sharing of expertise in this area between member states would be beneficial to coastal and rural communities particularly in peripheral regions;
Amendment 133 #
2016/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Calls for Member States to invest and promote such initiatives in their own regions as an environmentally and socio- economic sustainable community-based alternative to non-local intrusive large- scale industrialized fishing in order to benefit the local regions and coastal communities concerned;
Amendment 140 #
2016/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15a. Calls upon national authorities and agencies to work more closely with tourism agencies and to accord a high priority to diversifying the blue economy with particular reference to marine tourism and its complementary sectors, notes this would also include the integration of sea angling, where relevant, into tourism packages and marketing campaigns, particularly for the islands and coastal areas; Emphasizes that licensing duel use of fishing vessels both regarding commercial small-scale and artisanal fishing, and marine tourism including tourism angling, and their conversion grant-aided, should be considered a priority;
Amendment 145 #
2016/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Considers it necessary to encourage funding for measures of the type described under the EMFF, the ERDF, the ESF and the Cohesion Fund, the research framework programme, the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), etc.; Emphasizes that marine tourism depends upon an integrated strategy providing tourists with comprehensive and accessible ´packages´ but that it also depends on capital investment in developing infrastructure that will allow tourists to safely and conveniently access the ocean itself;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2025(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Recalls the importance of networking and exchange of information on the EGF, supports, therefore, the funding of the Expert Group of Contact Persons of the EGF as well as other networking activities among the Member States including this year's networking seminars for practitioners on the implementation of the EGF; supports also all initiatives encompassing enhanced participation and consultation of local authorities managing daily the EGF supported measures; underlines the need for evaluating the outcomes of technical assistance measures in order to ensure best value for Union money invested;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2025(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Is of the opinion that SFC2014 could also be used to allow the Commission to gather detailed data on the impact of EGF funding, namely in the case of re- employment rates of the redundant workers who have benefited from EGF funding; insists on having better evaluation of the type and quality of jobs found and on the medium and long-term trend as regards the rate of reintegration achieved through EGF interventions;
Amendment 8 #
2016/2025(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 – Indent 1
Paragraph 6 – Indent 1
- the budget for monitoring and evaluation be used to assess the longer term impact on EGF beneficiaries as well as, the effectiveness and efficiency of deploying support on the ground as well as a deeper analysis on economic mutations causing the dismissals of EGF beneficiaries.
Amendment 12 #
2016/2025(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Asks the Commission to include a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the EGF support to young people up to the age of 25 who are not in employment, education or training (NEETs) in order to assess whether there is a need to maintain this measure after December 2017and to extend this measure after December 2017, in a permanent and sustainable way by proposing a new EGF regulation, especially in view of the implementation of the Youth Guarantee and the ongoing youth unemployment crisis;
Amendment 14 #
2016/2025(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Asks the Member States and all the institutions involved to defend the wider use of the derogation for the eligibility thresholds also favoring SMEs, the extension of the reference periods as well as the possibility to include redundant workers offering related services to redundant workers of the referent company, thus contributing to a more efficient and valuable use of the EGF budget;
Amendment 27 #
2016/2024(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Expresses concern at the impact the EFSI will have on research and innovation projects considering the fact that 500 million is to be taken from Horizon 2020 over the next 5 years; notes that investments in education, training, cultural and creative industries should form part of the general objectives of the European Fund for Strategic Investments as they are a key factor for social inclusion which at a later stage will translate into investment decisions and economic growth;
Amendment 44 #
2016/2024(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Points out that austerity measures destroying public services are jeopardising the possibility for education and training systems to contribute to economic recovery and that lifelong learning must be a high priority in order to fight poverty and inequalities;
Amendment 45 #
2016/2024(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6b. Stresses the importance of cultural and linguistic diversity amongst Member States and calls on the Commission to ensure that this diversity is safeguarded, enhanced and promoted;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2022(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes that the manufacture of commercial vehicles is no longer dominated by European and North American manufacturers, due to newly emerging Asian truck manufacturers; points out that the heavy truck production in the Union decreased in 2014, as well as exports of heavy commercial vehicles, buses and coaches (a decrease of EUR 6.3 billion, or - 11 %) while overall imports of commercial vehicles into the Union increased (+ 10 %); notes that the truck industry has found it difficult to embrace major transformation and the need to adjust while becoming ever more global; notes that the Swedish authorities argue that the partial relocation of the Volvo Umeå plant is driven by the need to increase efficiency and decrease cost to meet existing and expected global competition, as part of Volvo´s optimisation programwere in deed compelled to act as a consequence of Volvo’s optimisation program; considers more generally that the trend of companies in this sector launching optimisation and cost saving measures while at the same time investing aggressively in Asia is a consequence of a deficient Union policy to safeguard jobs, production and know-how on its territory, at the expenses of Union taxpayers;
Amendment 6 #
2016/2022(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Calls on the Member States to prepare, together with the social partners, strategies to anticipate the projected labour market changes and to protect Union jobs and skills on the basis of comprehensive trade impact assessments made by the Commission for each trade agreement;
Amendment 15 #
2016/2022(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14a. Reminds the Commission of its responsibility and obligation to provide in due time detailed information confirming that the proposed job search allowance does not substitute the obligation of the Member State with regard to active labour market or social protection measures and a detailed analysis showing the complementarity of these EGF measures;
Amendment 6 #
2016/2013(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Welcomes the extension of the access to the EGF for NEETs; notes however that this access is currently limited by the EGF Regulation until 31 December 2017; calls for the revision of the EGF Regulation, in the framework of the revision of the Multiannual Financial Framework, in order to enable the access of NEETs to continue after 2017, especially if the mid-term evaluation of the EGF demonstrates the need to further include the support for NEETs;
Amendment 9 #
2016/2013(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Asks the Commission to further detail, in future proposals, the sectors in which the workers are likely to find employment and if the training on offer is aligned to the future economic prospects and labour market needs in the regions concerned by the dismissals, especially considering that this EGF application related to Saint- Gobain Group redundancies in a deindustrialised zone is the second one to be submitted to the Parliament within the past 12 months ;
Amendment 10 #
2016/2013(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Reiterates that assistance from the EGF must not replace actions which are the responsibility of companies by virtue of national law or collective agreements nor measures for restructuring companies or sectors;
Amendment 796 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 a (new)
Paragraph 30 a (new)
30 a. Calls on the governments of the Member States to condemn practices which, by means of linguistic discrimination or enforced or concealed assimilation, have in the past been – or are now – directed against the identity and language use of endangered linguistic communities or their cultural institutions;
Amendment 801 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 b (new)
Paragraph 30 b (new)
30 b. In the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities (FCNM) adopted by Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe in 1994, calls on the European Commission to elaborate a European level Directive in order to tackle language discrimination, as there are Directives on how to tackle racism and xenophobia;
Amendment 806 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 c (new)
Paragraph 30 c (new)
30 c. Calls on the European Commission to strengthen its plan to promote the teaching and use of regional languages, as a potential way to tackle language discrimination in the EU;
Amendment 10 #
2016/2004(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the 2017 budget will be affected byhave to be increased in order to properly address the ongoing refugee crisis;
Amendment 12 #
2016/2004(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
B a. whereas in order to offset the weak economic recovery, the new latent crisis trends and the increased divergence in the EU it is necessary to provide an adequate increase to the Union's budget to ensure the adequate level of resources in next year's budget with particular emphasis on the programs and projects aimed at boosting growth and decent employment, eradicating poverty, investing in smart, sustainable, green growth and development; underlines that contributions to this increase should result from an increase in the payments made by Member States with the highest GNI and the highest per capita income, correcting the current biased and unfair system of contribution keys; reiterates that it is imperative to increase support to Member States, especially those facing economic recession, for investment in infrastructure, social facilities, research, innovation and development;
Amendment 21 #
2016/2004(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. NoteHighlights that the Union budget has proven to be a crucialBudget should be used in such a way to give priority to policies of real convergence, integration and cohesion, based on social progress and solidarity, safeguarding and promoting decent, quality and stable job creation, sustainable use of natural resources and protection of the environment; stresses that the Union budget has proven to be scarce despite its potential to become an important resource in tackling recent crises and responding to needs that hadwere not been anticipated during the negotiation of the MFF 2014-2020, such as the migration and refugee crisis or geopolitical tensions in the European neighbourhood producing a number of serious emergencies, while in the Union a continuous lowering of investment levels has ledpublic and private investment levels led to an increase of inequalities as well as to an investment gap;
Amendment 32 #
2016/2004(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Underlines that the capacity of the Union budget to tackle these crises arises so far principally from the use of all means available agreed upon in the MFF negotiations, and particularly the use of special instruments such as the flexibility instrument; recalls Parliament’s decisive role in shaping those instruments during the MFF negotiations; highlights, however, that if the crises continue to worsen even the full activation of the existing flexibility provisions will beis already insufficient to address the problems; in this context, invites the Council to reconsider its position on the question of budgeting the MFF special instruments so as to alleviate the constraints weighing on the Union budget and to propose a new budget line to adequately respond to the refugee crisis; reiterates in that connection its long- standing position that the payment appropriations for the special instruments (the flexibility instrument, the EU Solidarity Fund, the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund and the Emergency Aid Reserve) should be calculated over and above the MFF ceilings, as is the case for commitments; expects these issues to be resolvedconsiders that a thorough revision of the MFF should be taken as an opportunity to better address shortcoming key issues and the upcoming crisis within the Budget of the Union, to secure a reasonable level of flexibility and to establish higher ceilings for most demanded EU programmes Budget lines, with an emphasis on social development;
Amendment 39 #
2016/2004(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes the Commission’s European Economic Forecast (Autumn 2015), which indicates a modestlow recovery; stresses, however, that this recovery remains worryingly weak and too slow for a prompt return to full employment to be achieved, with long- term and very long-term unemployment on the rise, notably in the Union's poorest regions and among the youth; regrets the persistence and the aggravation of the disparities in terms of economic development between the European regions and between the European countries, as well as the deepening of the gap between the poorest and the richest Europeans; notes, furthermore, the appearance of new challenges, such as the slowdown in emerging market economies and global trade, with particular pressure arising from volatility on Chinese markets, the need to tackle the refugee crisis, and persisting geopolitical tensions;
Amendment 76 #
2016/2004(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Highlights the fact that the Union has had to face numerous crises in recent years; recalls that a solution has still not been found for the Europe-wide migrant and refugee crisis, which escalated in 2015 with a sudden and massive increase in the numbers of refugees and migrants travelling to the Union to seek asylum, which has further impacted on the internal crisis; underlines that the Union budget should be used as part of a European solution to overcome these emergencies; calls on the commission to Draft a mechanism to strongly sanction Member States that violate the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the principles of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union;
Amendment 90 #
2016/2004(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8 a. Stresses that further efforts to increase investment should be made, in particular by developing new financial instruments based upon a new European public investment plan financed by new own resources on the basis of a more harmonised and progressive tax regime;
Amendment 103 #
2016/2004(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Considers the European Youth Initiative (YEI), in particular, to be a fundamental contribution to the Union’s priority objective for jobs and growth, and therefore reiterates its commitment to continued funding for this programme with a view to scaling it up and thereby offering a greater number of young people the prospect of effectively entering the labour market by receiving a good quality offer of employment, continued education or apprenticeship; recalls the commitment made by the three institutions to ‘ensure appropriate funding via an Amending Budget in 2016, by making use of all available means provided for in the MFF, and primarily of the Global Margin for Commitments’; notes that the figures for implementation indicate full success in terms of absorption capacity; deeply regrets that during the negotiations of the EU Budget 2016 the YEI financing got halted after the very first year of its implementation while youth unemployment remains at its highest rates in the EU; calls on the Commission to present its evaluation of the YEI at the latest by the end of April 2016, and at all events in time for the inclusion of a prolongation of the programme in the EU budget 2017, while also laying the groundwork for the search for a permanent source of funding for the YEI as part of the revision of the MFF;
Amendment 110 #
2016/2004(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Is alarmed by increasing poverty, particularly among children; recalls its report advocating the establishment of a child guarantee in order to lift children out of poverty, provide for an environment suitable for their personal development and avoid their being socially excludedsion7 ; considers education, childcare, health services, housing and security to be basic needs to which every European child has the right; __________________ 7 Texts adopted, P8_TA(2015)0403.
Amendment 120 #
2016/2004(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Acknowledges the mobilisation of significant budgetary means spread over 2015 and 2016 to address the migration and refugee, crisis both internally within the Union and externally in refugees’ countries of origin; stresses, however, that they are insufficient and that substantial additional financial means are urgently required to address this crisis, as the increase in numbers of refugees and migrants cannot be considered a temporary phenomenon; highlights that longer-term solutions should be sought, not only in the annual budgetary procedure, but also in the upcoming interim revision of the MFF;
Amendment 134 #
2016/2004(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Notes the setting-up of the Union Regional Trust Fund in Response to the Syrian Crisis and of the Emergency Trust Fund for stability and addressing the root causes of irregular migration and displacement of people in Africa; urges the Member States to stand by their promises and contribute to these funds; underlines that the Member States have reconfirmed their commitment, at the informal meeting of EU Heads of State or Government held to discuss migration on 23 September 2015, the European Council of 15 October 2015, and the Valletta summit of 11-12 November 2015; stresses, however, that further financial efforts will be needed to provide humanitarian assistance along the transit routes and to manage the challenges posed by increasing numbers of refugees; reminds that the above funds were created in response to the lack of flexibility and funding in the EU budget; insists that the actions undertaken to tackle the migration and refugee problem should not come at the cost of the EU´s development policies in other areas; considers that a sustainable management of the migration crisis on the long term demands the inclusion of the emergency funds within the EU budget, allowing for a better accountability of all EU's actions in this field;
Amendment 145 #
2016/2004(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Welcomes the principle and objectives ofHighlights the need to ensure and guarantee that human, civil rights and liberties, social protection, including protection for the most vulnerable, healthcare, social and financial benefits are implemented in full compliance with international law, in particular UN Human Rights Charter and Convention relation to the Refugee Status, the Convention of the Rights of the Child, the Geneva Convention, the Cartagena Declaration on Refugees, the Council of Europe's Recommendations on Refugees and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU; within this framework, acknowledges the EUR 3 billion Refugee Facility for Turkey, and calls on each Member State to take on its share, but raises the question of how the Union contribution should be made available within the respective ceilings of the Union budget for 2016 and 2017; deplores the fact that Parliament was not properly involved in either the setting- up of the facility or the mobilisation of the Union’s contribution, as shown by the Commission’s announcement of its intention to finance the Union contribution by redeployment from the recently adopted Union budget for 2016 and by pre-empting the margins of the 2017 budget; considers these actions to be clear infringements of Parliament’s rights as an arm of the budgetary authority; is deeply concerned with the allegations of mistreatment in the Turkish refugee detention facilities; calls for a thorough investigation of these events and calls for an enhancement of the synergies with the local and national authorities as well as with the international organizations operating on the field to guarantee the adequate support and assistance both to refugees and to all those applying for the refugee status, to prevent the EU from being accused of complicity in violations of basic Human Rights;
Amendment 150 #
2016/2004(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13 a. Expresses concern at the allegations regarding mistreatment of refugees within the refugee centres which are receiving EU financial support in particular in some Member States. Given recent revelations on missing children, the actions of some Member States and the quality of refugee facilities including Ireland's Direct Provision Centres and the Reception Centre at Lampedusa, calls for a thorough investigation into the management of the humanitarian crisis to ensure its compliance with international law, in particular the UN Human Rights Charter and Convention relation to the Refugee Status, the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Geneva Convention, the Cartagena Declaration on Refugees, the Council of Europe's Recommendations on Refugees and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU.
Amendment 174 #
2016/2004(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Welcomes the Commission’s efforts in developing the ‘EU Budget Focused on Results’ strategy; stresses that particular attention should be paid to the performance of financial instruments under the Union funding programmes; believes, furthermore, that, apart from the Union institutions, considerable responsibility also lies with the Member States, given the fact that 80 % of the budget is under ‘shared management’; calls on the Member States, therefore, to do their utmost to guarantee sound financial management and the reduction of errors, and to avoid any delays in the implementation of programmes under their responsibility; calls on all Member States to promote and set in place concrete measures to actively fight against corruption in public contracts;
Amendment 183 #
2016/2004(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Confirms its support for the ITER research programme and is committed to securing appropriate financing for it; is concerned, however, that further delays and additional costs may arise regarding this programme, as well as at the related potential repercussions for the Union budget; regrets, therefore, that it was unable to assess the level of the 2016 ITER appropriations against the updated payment plan and schedule; expects this revised plan to be included in the preparation of the draft budget for 2017; calls for a proper accountability mechanism that will offer a clear overview of the amount in financial resources provided for the international project and will evaluate the efficiency of their use; calls on the Commission and the Member states to launch a program for the development of new revolutionary clean and renewable energies with the same approximate level of financing;
Amendment 4 #
2016/0374(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) In line with the Commission's Digital Single Market Strategy8 and in order to keep abreast of technological progress in a digital economy, Member States should be enabled to align the VAT rates for electronically supplied publications with lower VAT rates for publications on any means of physical support. _________________ 8in order to stimulate innovation, creation, investment and the production of new content, and in order to facilitate digital learning, knowledge transfer and the access to, and promotion of, culture in the digital environment, Member States should be enabled to align the VAT rates for electronically supplied publications with lower VAT rates for publications on any means of physical support. Revenue raised by aligning the electronic and physical VAT rates should be reinvested to ensure the growth of the sector. _________________ 8 COM(2015) 0192 final COM(2015) 0192 final
Amendment 443 #
2016/0282(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 36 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 3
Article 36 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 3
The information on recipients of Union’s funds implemented under direct implementation shall be published on an internet site of the Union institutionsin the Financial Transparency System, no later than 30 June of the year following the financial year in which the funds were legally commdispersed. (This amendment applies throughout the text. Adopting it will necessitated. corresponding changes throughout.)
Amendment 444 #
2016/0282(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 36 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point c
Article 36 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point c
(c) the amount legally committed; consistent with specific programme databases, it should bpaid to the recipient; (This amendment applies throughout the texplicitly mentioned in the article. Basing the data on annual payment rathert. Adopting it will necessitate corresponding changes throughout.) Or. en (In order to ensure that the Financial Transparency System is up to date, complete and thran on multiple year commitments would increasesparency on amounts effectively disbursed to the different beneficiaries.)
Amendment 471 #
2016/0282(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 54 – paragraph 3
Article 54 – paragraph 3
Amendment 498 #
2016/0282(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 73 – paragraph 6 – subparagraph 3
Article 73 – paragraph 6 – subparagraph 3
Where the authorising officer by delegation implements financial audits of beneficiaries as ex-post controls, the related audit rules shall be clear, consistent and transparent, and shall respect the rights of both the Commission and the auditees. (Civil society organisations experience inconsistency in the application of financial rules not centralised trainiinclude timeframes and they shall be made available to beneficiaries when signing the grant agreement. Audit rules shall respect the rights of both the Commission and the auditees and allow for appeal. (This amendment applies throughout the text. Adopting it will necessitate corresponding changes should be available to staff involved. Also transparency on the different steps, duration and timeframe of audit procedures should be improved and should bethroughout.) Or. en only from one DG to the other, but also within the same DG. Common guidelines and communicated at the signature of the contract)
Amendment 501 #
2016/0282(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 73 – paragraph 7 – subparagraph 2 – point a
Article 73 – paragraph 7 – subparagraph 2 – point a
(a) that the authorising officers by sub- delegation and their staff receive regularly updated and appropriate information and training concerning the control standards and the methods and techniques available for that purpose; (Civil society organisations experience inconsistency in the application of financial rules not centralised trainings should be available to staff involved. Also transparency on the basis of common guidelines; (This amendment applies throughout the text. Adopting it will necessitate corresponding changes throughout.) Or. en only from one DG to the other, but also within the same DG. Common guidelines and steps, duration and timeframe of audit procedures should be improved and should be communicated at the signature onf the differentcontract)
Amendment 523 #
2016/0282(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 121 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point e – point ii
Article 121 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point e – point ii
(ii) the achievement of resuloutputs measured by reference to the previously set milestones or through performance indicators; (There seems to be a confusion between results and outputs to be measured. The examples provided in the explanatory text seem more to refer to outputs/ e.g. a conference, a festival, a prototype. Result is a wider concept that should be avoided. A strictly result based approach environments or with a vulnerable or discriminated public, or cannot be measured on a short(This amendment applies throughout the text. Adopting it will necessitate corresponding changes throughout.) Or. en is not always possible for many civil society organisations that operate in difficult time basis.)
Amendment 540 #
2016/0282(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 126 – paragraph 4 – point c
Article 126 – paragraph 4 – point c
(c) the duration of the partnership may not exceed fourive years save in duly justified cases; (This maximum duration is more consistent with the MFF duration as proposed by theamendment applies throughout the text. Adopting it will necessitate corresponding changes throughout.) Or. en European Parliament)
Amendment 544 #
2016/0282(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 127 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 2
Article 127 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 2
In case of financing referred to in point (e) of Article 121(1) the authorising officer responsible may reduce the contribution proportionally if the resuloutputs have been achieved poorly, partially or late or the conditions have not been fulfilled. (There seems to be confusion between results and outputs to be measured. The ex. provided seem more to refer to outputs/ e.g. a conference, a festival, a prototype. Result is a wider concept that should be avoided. A strictly result based approach is not always possible for many civil society organisations that operate in difficult environments, or cannot be measuredOr. en on a short time basis.)
Amendment 568 #
2016/0282(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 174 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point b
Article 174 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point b
(b) the functioning of a body which has an objective forming part of, and supporting, a Union policypursues an aim of general public interest an objective forming part of, and contributing to the development, implementation and evaluation of a general public interest policy within the Union ('operating grants'). (The wording in the current financial regulation is preferable as it allows covering more possibilities. Also paragraph b) in its current form is more restrictive than a))is amendment applies throughout the text. Adopting it will necessitate corresponding changes throughout.) Or. en
Amendment 54 #
2016/0276(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 5 a (new)
Citation 5 a (new)
Having regard to the opinion n. 2/2016 of the European Court of Auditors of 13 December 2016,
Amendment 79 #
2016/0276(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3 a (new)
Recital 3 a (new)
(3 a) The European Court of Auditors on its Special Reports n. 19/2016 and n. 5/2015 came to the conclusion that the Union financial instruments, EFSI included, under shared management were overcapitalised, struggled to control cost/fees, attract private capital and re-use financial support; furthermore, according to European Court of Auditors and on the basis of the EIB provided data and estimates, the current guarantee is sufficient for a further period of operation of the IIW, recommending instead to the sole consideration of an increase of the EU guarantee for the SMEW, as this would reduce the fragmentation between EFSI and other financial instruments.
Amendment 196 #
2016/0276(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) In line with the exceptional market demand for SME financing under the EFSI which is expected to continue, the EFSI SME Window should be enhanced. Particular attention should be paid to social enterprises and cooperatives, including through the development, promotion and deployment of new instruments, in particular the EIF.
Amendment 202 #
2016/0276(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) The EIB and the EIF should ensure that the final beneficiaries, including SMEs, social enterprises and cooperatives, are informed of the existence of EFSI support, so as to enhance the visibility of the EU guarantee granted under Regulation (EU) 2015/1017.
Amendment 451 #
2016/0276(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 10 – point a
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 10 – point a
Regulation (EU) No 2015/1017
Article 18 – paragraph 6
Article 18 – paragraph 6
6. By 30 June 2018 and 30 June 2020, the Commission shall submit to the European Parliament and the Council a report containing an independent evaluation of the application of this Regulation.; , containing in particular information on existing financial instruments, with targeted sectors and beneficiaries; the mention of the overlaps between the Union instruments and the EFSI; the scope for reducing the fragmentation of Union financial instruments; detailed reporting on risk management and on the contingent liabilities for the Union budget;
Amendment 44 #
2016/0275(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) In order to allow the ELM to respond to potential upcoming challenges and Union priorities, as well as to provide a strategic response addressing root causes of migration, the maximum ceiling for the EIB financing operations under the EU guarantee should be increased to EUR 32 300 000 000 by releasing the optional additional amount of EUR 3 000 000 000. Under the general mandate, the amount of EUR 1 42 500 000 000 should be earmarked for projects in the public sector directed to refugees and host communities in crisis affected areas.
Amendment 64 #
2016/0275(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Decision No 466/2014/EU
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 – point a
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 – point a
(a) a maximum amount of EUR 30 000 000 000 under a general mandate, of which an amount of up to EUR 1 42 500 000 000 is earmarked for projects in the public sector directed to refugees and host communities; (This amendment applies through the text)
Amendment 74 #
2016/0275(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point b
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point b
Decision No 466/2014/EU
Article 3 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 1
Article 3 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 1
To ensure that private sector investments have the greatest development impact, the EIB shall endeavour to strengthensure that the local private sector, including cooperatives and social enterprises, in beneficiary countries is strengthened through support to local investment as provided for in point (a) of paragraph 1. EIB financing operations supporting the general objectives set out in paragraph 1 shall endeavour to also enhance its support to investment projects run by SMEs from the recipient country and from the Union. In order to effectively monitor the use of funds for the benefit of the SMEs concerned, the EIB shall establish and maintain adequate contractual provisions imposing standard reporting obligations on both the financial intermediaries and the beneficiaries;
Amendment 79 #
2016/0275(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point c
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point c
Decision No 466/2014/EU
Article 3 – paragraph 8 – subparagraph 2 – point b
Article 3 – paragraph 8 – subparagraph 2 – point b
(b) the public sector, including municipalities and public sector entities, in terms of infrastructure and services, in particular for health care with special facilities for children, for sanitation services and school education, to address significantly increased needs.;
Amendment 118 #
2016/0275(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Annex I – point B – point ii
Annex I – point B – point ii
Decision No 466/2014/EU
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point B – point ii
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point B – point ii
(ii) Eastern Europe, Southern Caucasus and Russia: EUR 63 0084 000 000;
Amendment 125 #
2016/0275(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Annex I – point C – point ii
Annex I – point C – point ii
Decision No 466/2014/EU
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point C – point ii
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point C – point ii
(ii) Asia: EUR 12 0404 000 000;
Amendment 129 #
2016/0275(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Annex I – point C a (new)
Annex I – point C a (new)
Decision No 466/2014/EU
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point C a (new)
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point C a (new)
Ca. Sub-Saharan Africa: EUR 2 000 000 000
Amendment 133 #
2016/0275(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Annex II – point D – paragraph 1
Annex II – point D – paragraph 1
Decision No 466/2014/EU
Annex II – point D – paragraph 1
Annex II – point D – paragraph 1
Southern Africa
Amendment 136 #
2016/0275(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Annex III – point D – paragraph 1
Annex III – point D – paragraph 1
Decision No 466/2014/EU
Annex III – point D – paragraph 1
Annex III – point D – paragraph 1
Amendment 23 #
2016/0186(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 5 a (new)
Recital 5 a (new)
(5 a) The expert panel, established to carry out the selection and monitoring procedures, should require each candidate city to publish a comprehensive breakdown of the costs associated with their bid in order to ensure transparency and accountability.
Amendment 24 #
2016/0186(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 5 b (new)
Recital 5 b (new)
(5 b) Should a candidate city rent property for the purposes of the bid, it should be required to publish the names of the property's owner or owners in order to ensure transparency and accountability.
Amendment 146 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 9 a (new)
Recital 9 a (new)
(9a) Commercial communication for foods and beverages containing nutrients and substances with a nutritional or physiological effect, excessive intakes of which in the overall diet are not recommended, in particular fat, saturated fat, trans-fatty acids, salt or sodium and sugars shall be prohibited between 06:00 and 23:00. To identify such foods, the WHO Regional Office for Europe's nutrient profile model applies.
Amendment 202 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 18 a (new)
Recital 18 a (new)
(18a) A broadcaster with a headquarters in one Member State, but that broadcasts content in a second Member State, and sells separate advertising targeting audiences in the second Member State, should be subject to the same statutory obligations regarding content and advertising as would a broadcaster headquartered and operating in the second Member State.
Amendment 204 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 18 b (new)
Recital 18 b (new)
(18b) Broadcasters should promote the production and distribution of national and European works by ensuring that their catalogues contain a minimum share of national and European works and that those are given enough prominence.
Amendment 205 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 18 c (new)
Recital 18 c (new)
(18c) Broadcasters should promote linguistic diversity and promote the production of linguistically diverse works.
Amendment 233 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) Providers of on-demand audiovisual media services should promote the production and distribution of national and European works by ensuring that their catalogues contain a minimum share of national and European works and that those are given enough prominence.
Amendment 237 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 21 a (new)
Recital 21 a (new)
Amendment 345 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 40 a (new)
Recital 40 a (new)
(40a) Member States shall also require broadcasters under its jurisdiction to broadcast major political and sporting events that are considered to be of importance to society. Such events shall be accessible to persons with disabilities.
Amendment 399 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point e b (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point e b (new)
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point f b (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point f b (new)
(eb) The following point is inserted: ‘(fb) 'access service' means an add-on feature of the audiovisual media service that improves the accessibility of the programmes for people with functional limitations, including persons with disabilities. Access services include subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing (SDH), audio description, spoken subtitles or audio subtitles and sign language interpretation;’
Amendment 650 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 11 – point a a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 11 – point a a (new)
Directive 2010/13/EU
Article 9 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 9 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Amendment 5 #
2016/0145(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 8 a (new)
Citation 8 a (new)
- having regard to its previous resolutions, in particular its resolution of 22 November 2012 on small-scale coastal fishing, artisanal fishing and the reform of the common fisheries policy.
Amendment 7 #
2016/0145(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) Therefore, account should be taken of the International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, signed in London on 23 June 1969 (1969 Convention) , and the International Convention for the Safety of Fishing Vessels, signed in Torremolinos on 2 April 1977, both drawn up under the aegis of the International Maritime Organization (IMO)and the United Nations Convention on Fishing and Conservation of the Living Resources of the High Seas, signed in Geneva on 29 April 1958.
Amendment 9 #
2016/0145(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6 a (new)
Recital 6 a (new)
(6 a) For larger fishing vessels exceeding that length, a greater expansion of vessel characterisation to include cargo and fuel capacity, processing ability and output is desirable.
Amendment 10 #
2016/0145(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) In order to adapt certain requirements to technical progress, the power to adopt acts in accordance with Article 290 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union should be delegated to the Commission in respect of the adoption of the necessary amendments in relation to the determination of the continuous engine power. It is of particular importance that the Commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work, including at expert level, and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the Interinstitutional Agreement on Better Law-Making of [date]t is of particular importance that the Commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work, including at expert level. In particular, to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts, the European Parliament and the Council receive all documents at the same time as Member States' experts, and theirat MEPs and experts systematically have access to meetings of Commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts,
Amendment 11 #
2016/0145(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8 a (new)
Recital 8 a (new)
(8 a) The European Parliament resolution of 22 November 2012 on small- scale coastal fishing, artisanal fishing and the reform of the common fisheries policy calls for a legal definition regarding the characteristics of large-scale and small- scale fisheries in order to legally distinguish them from one another. That definition would need to encompass, in addition to vessel size attributes such as vessel length, variables relating to their local operational range, their social role in coastal communities, ecological impact, fishing capacity and the economics of the enterprise.
Amendment 230 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2 a (new)
Recital 2 a (new)
(2 a) Despite islands also being recognised as part of the guiding principles of the CFP as set out under Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council17a, national agencies have not adopted the required measures to date. Emphasizes that island specific measures are written into all EU programmes and legislation relating to technical measures, fisheries and the marine, in consultation with island stakeholders. _________________ 17a OJ L354, 28.12.2013, p.22.
Amendment 234 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) The framework should cover the taking and landing of fisheries resources as well as the operation of fishing gears and the interaction of fishing activities with marine ecosystems and also take into account socio-economic dynamics.
Amendment 237 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) Technical measures where relevant should apply to recreational fisheries which can have a significant impact on the marine environment, stocks of fish and shellfishother species.
Amendment 240 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6 a (new)
Recital 6 a (new)
(6 a) Technical measures where relevant should also apply to certain aquacultural activities, such as mechanical harvesting of kelp and seaweed, which can have a significant impact on the marine and coastal environment, stocks of fish and other species.
Amendment 244 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7 a (new)
Recital 7 a (new)
(7 a) The enforcement and implementation of technical measures, operational programmes and where relevant, the issuing of licenses, restrictions on the construction and operation of vessels and certain gears, should not be prejudicial to achieving better health and safety standards for vessels conducting fishing operations and fishing activities.
Amendment 246 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) Technical measures should specifically provide protection for juveniles and spawning aggregations of fish through the use of selective fishing gears and avoidance measures. Technical measures should also minimise and eliminate where possible, the impacts of fishing gears on the marine ecosystem and in particular on sensitive species and habitats. Incentives and rewards should be granted to encourage fishers to use gears and practices which have low impact on the environment. They should also contribute to having in place management measures for the purposes of complying with obligations under Council Directive 92/43/EEC19 , Directive 2009/147/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council20 and Directive 2008/56/EC. _________________ 19 Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora OJ L 206, 22.7.1992, p.7. 20 Directive 2009/147/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 November 2009 on the conservation of wild birds OJ L 20, 26.1.2010, p..
Amendment 257 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9 a (new)
Recital 9 a (new)
(9 a) Member States should make the broadest possible use of the available measures in Regulation (EU) 508/2014 to support fishermen in implementing technical measures and ensure that the socio-economic objectives of the Common Fisheries Policy are taken into account.
Amendment 260 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 11 a (new)
Recital 11 a (new)
(11 a) In the absence of scientific advice and evidence, including environmental impact assessments, of sustainability and a nondetrimental impact on species, non- targeted species and the habitats concerned, certain destructive fishing gears or methods, including aquacultural and algacultural mechanical gears and methods, such as explosives, poisons, stupefying substances, electricity, pneumatic hammers or other percussive instruments; towed devices and grabs for harvesting red coral or other type of corals and other species and certain spear-guns, should be prohibited.
Amendment 267 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) In order to provide continued protection for sensitive marine habitats located off the coasts of Ireland, the United Kingdom and around the Azores, Madeira and the Canary Islands existing restrictions on the use of demersalcertain fishing gears should be maintained unless conclusive scientific evidence and advice suggests otherwise.
Amendment 274 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 25
Recital 25
(25) Member States in conjunction withlose cooperation with relevant Advisory Councils and stakeholders can develop joint recommendations for appropriate technical measures that deviate from the baselines in accordance with the regionalisation process set out in the CFP.
Amendment 280 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 26 a (new)
Recital 26 a (new)
(26 a) Stresses the need for a framework for the establishment of co-managed areas within each countries six-mile territorial limit (including baseline) to allow the establishment of sustainable inshore fisheries management areas. Emphasises that close cooperation between fishers, fishery managers, academics and agencies along with the use of new technologies will be essential for success.
Amendment 284 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 29
Recital 29
(29) In developing joint recommendations to amend or establish new closed or restricted areas in multiannual plans to protect juveniles and spawning aggregations, regional groups of Member States should define the specifications, extent, duration, gear restrictions, exemptions where appropriate, and control and monitoring arrangements in their joint recommendations.
Amendment 288 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 31
Recital 31
(31) The creation of real-time closures in conjunction with moving-on provisions as an additional measure for the protection of juveniles or spawning aggregations should be allowed as an option to be developed under joint recommendations. The conditions for the establishment and lifting of such areas, including exemptions where appropriate, as well as the control and monitoring arrangements should be defined in the relevant joint recommendations.
Amendment 291 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 32
Recital 32
(32) On the basis of scientific assessment of the impacts of innovative gears, duly evaluated by the STECF, including for the risks of occurrence of bad practices that lead to unselective fishing and suggesting the means to prevent them, the use of such or extension to the use of novel gears, such as the electric pulse trawl could be included as an option in joint recommendations from regional groups of Member States. The use of innovative fishing gears should not be permitted where scientific assessment indicates that their use will lead to negative impacts on sensitive habitats and non- target species.
Amendment 295 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 33
Recital 33
(33) In order to minimisze and where possible, eliminate the bycatches of sensitive species and impacts of fishing gears on sensitive habitats, regional groups of Member States should develop additional mitigation measures to reduce the impacts of fishing on sensitive species and habitats. Where scientific evidence shows that there is a serious threat to the conservation status of such species and habitats then Member States should introduce additional restrictions on the construction and operation of certain fishing gears and freezer factory vessels, otherwise known as super-trawlers, or even the introduction of a total prohibition on their use in that region to safeguard the marine environment, local fish stocks and the local coastal communities concerned. In particular such provisions could be applied to the use of driftnets which in certain areas has resulted in significant catches of cetaceans and seabirds.
Amendment 296 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 33
Recital 33
(33) In order to minimise the bycatches of sensitive species and impacts of fishing gears on sensitive habitats, regional groups of Member States should develop additional mitigation measures to reduce the impacts of fishing on sensitive species and habitats. Where scientific evidence shows that there is a serious threat to the conservation status of such species and habitats then Member States should introduce additional restrictions on the construction and operation of certain fishing gears or even the introduction of a total prohibition on their use in that region. In particular such provisions could be applied to the use of driftnets which in certain areas has resulted in significant catches of cetaceans and seabirds. Appropriate level of consultations with directly concerned fishers should be ensured.
Amendment 303 #
2016/0074(COD)
(37) Where available scientific advice indicates that immediate action is required to protect marine species, the Commission should be ablesubject to a transitional period and consultations with the Member States and stakeholders concerned, the Commission can in duly justified cases to adopt immediately applicable delegated acts establishing technical measures to alleviate such threats, in addition to or by way of derogation to this Regulation or technical measures otherwise fixed in accordance with Union law. Those measures should be designed in particular to address unexpected changes in stock patterns as a result of high or low levels of recruitment of juveniles into a stock, to provide protection for spawning fish or shellfish when stocks are at very low levels or other changes in the conservation status of fish stocks which may threaten the status of a stock. They could include restrictions on the use of towed or static gears or on fishing activities in certain areas or during certain periods.
Amendment 306 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 38
Recital 38
(38) The power to adopt acts in accordance with Article 290 of the Treaty should be delegated to the Commission to update the list of fish and, shellfish and other species for which directed fishing is prohibited; to update the list of sensitive areas where fishing should be restricted; to adopt technical measures as part of multiannual plans; and to adopt technical measures as part of temporary discard plans. It is of particular importance that the Commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work, including at expert level. The Commission, when preparing and drawing up delegated acts, should ensure a simultaneous, timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the European Parliament and to the Council.
Amendment 308 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 43 a (new)
Recital 43 a (new)
(43 a) As at present the United Kingdom currently shares its waters with the European Union, particularly Ireland, the United Kingdom’s exit from the European Union will mean the waters and shared- management of stocks concerned will require a multi-lateral approach and close cooperation between Ireland, United Kingdom and the European Union. To that end encourages the European Commission to engage with the governments of Ireland and the United Kingdom on future regulation and agreements that will affect both waters and fleets as Ireland must not bear the brunt of Member State and Third Country fleets displaced from UK waters.
Amendment 327 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c
(c) ensure, including using appropriate incentives and rewards, that the environmental impacts of fishing on marine habitats are minimised and where possible eliminated such that they do not represent a threat to the conservation status of those habitats;
Amendment 362 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 a (new)
Article 4 a (new)
Article 4 a Socio-economic objectives In order to take into account the socio- economic objectives of Article 2 (5)( c),( f) and (i) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013,when adopting and implementing technical and conservation measures, Member State shall make extensive use of the measures in Articles 38, 39 and 40 of Regulation (EU) N°508/2014.
Amendment 471 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 2
Article 13 – paragraph 2
2. Where the best available scientific advice recommends an amendment of the list of areas in Annex II, including the addition of new areas, the Commission shall be empowered to adopt such amendments by means of delegated acts, pursuant to the procedure laid down in Article 11(2) and 11(3) of Regulation (EU) 1380/2013. When adopting such amendments, the Commission shall provide a full mapping of the vulnerable area and give particular attention to the mitigation of negative effects of the displacement of fishing activity to other sensitive areas.
Amendment 499 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 18 – paragraph 2
Article 18 – paragraph 2
2. In accordance with the procedure set out in Article 18 of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013, in close cooperation with relevant Advisory Councils, Member States may submit joint recommendations defining appropriate technical measures at the regional level that deviate from the measures set out in paragraph 1.
Amendment 512 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 4 – point c
Article 19 – paragraph 4 – point c
(c) provide incentives to fishing vessels deploying selective fishing gear or using fishing techniques with reduced environmental impact including through the allocation of fishing opportunities and using the support foreseen in Article 4a.
Amendment 533 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 23 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 23 – paragraph 1 a (new)
In the case where only one Member State is affected by any such provisions, based on the best available scientific data, alleviating measures shall be provided.
Amendment 536 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 24 – paragraph 1
Article 24 – paragraph 1
1. When Member States submit joint recommendations in accordance with Article 19 to allow for the use or extend the use of innovative fishing gears including the pulse trawl as described in Part E of Annex V within a specific sea basin, they shall provide an prior-assessment and post- assessment ofn the likely impacts of using such gears on the targeted and non-targeted species and on sensitive species and habitats.
Amendment 538 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 24 – paragraph 2
Article 24 – paragraph 2
2. Those assessments shall be evaluated by the STECF, including for the risks of occurrence of bad practices that lead to unselective fishing and suggesting the means to prevent them.
Amendment 549 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 25 – paragraph 1 – indent 4 a (new)
Article 25 – paragraph 1 – indent 4 a (new)
- specify the measures to address the social and economic impact on parties concerned conducting fishing activities and operations where it is foreseen that there will be a total prohibition on the use of certain fishing gears within a region.
Amendment 551 #
2016/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 25 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 25 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Member States shall ensure that the fishers directly concerned by these measures are appropriately consulted.
Amendment 9 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. whereas the social, economic, environmental, migratory and terrorist crises faced by the EU provide all the more grounds for a substantial revision of the MFF, which, as it stands, has demonstrated its limitations as regards effectively addressing recent crises and the EU's new political priorities;
Amendment 15 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Considers, in this respect, that while a review aims at assessing and evaluating the functioning of the MFF against its implementation, new economic conditions and other new developments, and as such could maintain the legislative status quo, a revision implies a modification of the MFF Regulation, which also includes (besides the legislative provisions) the MFF ceilings, on a basis of due respect for Article 312 TFEU and the limitations on the scope of the MFF revision laid down in the last sentence of Article 2 of the MFF Regulation; recalls that this article stipulates that the pre- allocated national envelopes shall not be reduced through a revision; stresses in this context that Article 323 TFEU requires that the financial means to fulfil the Union’s legal obligations in respect of third parties are being ensuredpoints to the principle of budget unity as the sole guarantee of genuinely democratic decision-taking and oversight in connection with expenditure; stresses therefore that revision of the MFF cannot result in a reduction of envelopes for heading 1b on cohesion policy, for heading 2 on rural development and the EMFF, or for jointly managed programmes under headings 3 and 4, i.e. AMIF, ISF or the Emergency Trust Fund for Africa; stresses in this context that Article 323 TFEU requires that the financial means to fulfil the Union’s legal obligations in respect of third parties are being ensured; takes the view accordingly that the fact that, for most spending items, envelopes cannot be reduced and the imperative for the EU to honour its commitments in other sectors make it all- important to raise ceilings;
Amendment 28 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Calls on the Council to apply the qualified-majority rule provided for by Article 312(2) TFEU for revision of the MFF;
Amendment 31 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 – introductory part
Paragraph 5 – introductory part
5. Considers that a review of the MFF in 2016 should take stock of a number of serious crises and new political initiatives, together with their respective budgetary consequences, which were not anticipated at the time of the MFF’s adoption; notes, inter alia, the migration and refugee crisis, external emergencies, internal security issues, the crisis in agriculture, the funding of the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), the persistent high level of unemployment, especially among young people, and the payment crisis in the EU budget; observes that, in order to finance the additional pressing needs, an unprecedented recourse to the MFF’s flexibility mechanisms and special instruments was deemed necessary, as the MFF ceilings proved to be too tight in some headings; considers that, over the past two years, the MFF has essentially been pushed to its limits; considers that an upward revision of MFF ceilings is warranted by the fact that flexibility instruments and margins have been fully utilised;
Amendment 43 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses that the conflicts in Syria, the Middle East and several regions in Africa have had humanitarian, security and migratory consequences on an unprecedented scale; recalls that the EU has been directly impacted, with more than one million refugees reaching Europe in 2015 alone and more expected in the coming years; recalls that this crisis led to a major financial response on the EU’s part and hence, which, albeit insufficient by any standard, has had a significant impact on the EU budget, notably on headings 3 (Security and Citizenship) and 4 (Global Europe);
Amendment 52 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Stresses that significant budgetary means have been deployed to tackle the root causes of the refugee and migration crisis by Points out that migration/refugee- related actions are inforcing specific EU programmes under Heading 4; recalls the reallocations in favour of migration/refugee-related actionssufficient by any standard despite the reallocation of EUR 170 million to them in the course of 2015, as well as the approval in 2016 of an additional EUR 130 million under Heading 4 for migration/refugee-related activities, together withfor them and the reshuffling of EUR 430 million under the Instrument for Pre- accession Assistance, the Development Cooperation Instrument and the European Neighbourhood Instrument; recalls, furthermore, that in order to address the external dimension of the migration and refugee crisis the Commission has made various additional proposals having an impact on the EU budget, such as those for the establishment of EU trust funds (the Madad Trust Fund and the Emergency Trust Fund for Africa, with an estimated initial budgetary impact of EUR 570 million and EUR 405 million respectively), as well as of the Refugee Facility for Turkey, for which EUR 1 billion is to be funded from the EU budget, not counting possible additional funding; stresses, however, that further pressure on the Union budget mightwill arise from other planned actions announced by the Commission such as the ‘London pledge’ or from events such as the EU- Turkey summit of 18 March 2016; is concerned, however, that owing to the magnitude of the problems the EU is facing further actions might still be required; points out in addition that migration/refugee-related actions must not be overly outsourced to non-EU countries and that it is the duty of the EU to mount its own response too;
Amendment 59 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Calls for an immigration clause to be established so as to exclude Member State spending on migrant reception and integration from excessive-deficit calculations;
Amendment 62 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 b (new)
Paragraph 10 b (new)
10b. Calls for stepped-up EU budget support for Member States bearing the brunt of migration flows, such as Greece and Italy;
Amendment 66 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Recalls that, since the global economic and financial crisis, the EU has suffered from low levels of investment; notes in particular that in 2014 total investment was 15 % below the 2007 level, which corresponds to an investment drop of EUR 430 billion; considers that the austerity measures imposed and weak investment have slowsed economic recovery and hasve had direct repercussions onin terms of growth, jobs, increased poverty, a fresh upsurge in inequalities, disparities between EU regions and Member States, and competitiveness;
Amendment 75 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Underlines that, in response to this pressing problem,Notes that the new Commission in 2014 proposed an investment plan for Europe and the establishment of EFSI, with the aim of mobilising EUR 315 billion in new investment in the real economy; notes that the guarantee provided by the Union for EFSI is covered by a Guarantee Fund of EUR 8 billion constituted in the EU budget;
Amendment 87 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Stresses that youth unemployment remains dramatically highhas reached an extremely worrying level and represents one of the most pressing and serious problems that the EU is currently facing; highlights the fact that 4.4 million young persons under 25 were unemployed across the Union in February 2016 and that this corresponds to a proportion of over 40 % in several Member States and over 60% in several EU regions;
Amendment 95 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Underlines the fact that the EU budget makes a signin insufficaient contribution to the fight against unemployment, especially throug and that both the European Social Fund and the Youth Employment Initiative (YEI), though they are positive actions, are not sufficient; stresses also that, despite the initial delays in the designation of national authorities and the implementation of the YEI, the current figures indicate full absorption capacity; notes that an evaluation of this initiative will soon be concluded, and expects that the necessary adjustments will be introduced to ensure its successful implementation; calls for the establishment of new programmes with a view to giving substance to a genuinely social Europe;
Amendment 103 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Is particularly concerned, however, at the lack of new commitment appropriations for the YEI as of 2016, given that its entire original envelope was frontloaded in 2014- 2015 (Article 15 of the MFF Regulation); stresses that in supporting this frontloading Parliament never intended that the initiative should be terminated after only two years of funding and that other MFF mechanisms, such as the Global Margin for Commitments, were put in place with the purpose of ensuring its continuation; also notes the frontloading of appropriations, on the basis of the same article, for Erasmus + (EUR 150 million), this being another EU programme that makes a major contribution to improving the employability of young people, which was fully implemented in the first two years of this period;
Amendment 108 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Recalls the recent terrorist attacks in France and Belgium and the increased threat levels in other Member States, which call for more coordinated and reinforced action at EU level; underlines that the Union already has the Internal Security Fund as an appropriate instrument and has several agencies operating in this field; considers that more European action, and therefore funding, will be needed in this area to provide an adequate response to this threat, mainly taking measures in order to halting any economic and trade relationship with all those economic players who trade with the so-called Daesh, sanctioning those companies or States which take advantage of the armament selling or the purchasing of oil and gas at low price;
Amendment 119 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Recalls the various crises that European farmers have faced since the beginning of the current MFF, most notably the dairy sector crisis and the long- term negative effects on European farmers of the losses caused by the Russian embargo on agricultural products, free- trade agreements with many non-EU countries and the financialisation of global agricultural trade; highlights the budgetary impact of the emergency measures taken in response to these crises, involving EUR 500 million in the budget 2016 and EUR 300 million in 2015; underlines the persistent situation of crisis in the agricultural sector in several Member States, and calls for European agricultural programmes for small and medium-sized farmers to be stepped up;
Amendment 128 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Calls for an early response to be made to the impact of the abolition of sugar quotas in 2017, which is likely to undermine the sugar cane sector in the outermost regions, and for provision to be made for support measures for small- scale sugar cane planters in those regions;
Amendment 165 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Urges the Commission, when preparing its legislative proposal, to take into consideration the following demands of Parliament regarding changes to the MFF Regulation, with respect both to the figures and to the raising of ceilings and to several provisions relating to the functioning of the MFF which need to be applicable already for the current MFF;
Amendment 167 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28 a (new)
Paragraph 28 a (new)
28a. Points out that the specific envelopes for regions and Member States initially provided for under the MFF must simply be complementary and in no way result in a reduction in funding granted to regions and Member States in line with the criteria laid down in cohesion policy regulations; calls for any reduction in envelopes to be rectified as part of this mid-term revision;
Amendment 169 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28 b (new)
Paragraph 28 b (new)
28b. Calls for stepped-up budget support for all Member States carrying out excessive-deficit reduction programmes;
Amendment 170 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28 c (new)
Paragraph 28 c (new)
28c. Calls for the investment clause to be revised so that national and regional investments which co-financed ESI funds are excluded from the calculation of national deficits under the Stability and Growth Pact;
Amendment 189 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Strongly supports the continuation of the Youth Employment Initiative (YEI), as a means of ensuring an urgent response in the fight against youth unemployment, following the necessary adjustments brought about by the ongoing evaluation; considers that this can only be achieved through the provision of an adequate level of commitment appropriations for the YEI for the remaining years of the current MFF; in order to increase the utilisation rate of this funding, very low in those less developed regions, which need in a larger extent this sort of budgetary line; points out the necessity of making easier the anticipation of available funds at the outset of the programs; notes that this should entail an upwards revision of the ceilings of Subheading 1b, as no margins are available;
Amendment 199 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. Considers that the magnitude of the migration and refugee crisis goes to show that additional needs with significant budgetary consequences may be expected to arise in the coming years; underlines, moreover, that the need for internal security in the EU and the fight against terrorism are expected also to necessitate additional funding to back up reinforced action at EU level; is of the firm opinion that, even with the mobilisation of the small margins available under Heading 3 (Security and Citizenship) and existing flexibility provisions, the resources available will not be sufficient to tackle the increased needs under this heading; calls, therefore, for significant reinforcements for the AMIF and the Internal Security Fund, as well as for the Union agencies operating in the field, as well as other initiatives that can be undertaken; considers that an upward revision of the ceilings under Heading 3 is required;
Amendment 203 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Expects that concerted action to effectively respond to the external dimension of the migration and refugee crisis will intensify over the coming years, and will be accompanied by increased requests for funding under Heading 4 (Global Europe); which entails implementing solutions in origin, persecuting those practices which promoting directly or indirectly the Daesh and those who are taking advantage of human traffic, guaranteeing a safe mobility for the people under refugee status, and setting the resources needed in order to provide a worthy social integration during the period of stay for this population in Europe; underlines that such requests for additional funding should not be deployed to the detriment of the EU’s existing external action, including its development policy; calls, therefore, for a significant reinforcement of appropriations under this heading;
Amendment 300 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 49
Paragraph 49
Amendment 303 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 51
Paragraph 51
Amendment 321 #
2015/2353(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 54
Paragraph 54
54. Calls for the introduction of one or several new own resources, ideally with a clear link to European policies that create added value, through progressive tax figures, reinforcing the fiscal capacity to tackle the financial, economic and environmental crisis along cycles; notes that a large number of possible new own resources have already been discussed by the High Level Group, and eagerly awaits its recommendations;
Amendment 14 #
2015/2329(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Requests the Commission and the Education, Audiovisual and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA) to assess the impact that a number of budgetary arrangements have had on applicants and potential eligible applicants; deeply regrets that a lack of financial capacity continues to be one of the main obstacles for potential applicants; deeply regrets the delay on the part of the Commission, to try to address the under-representation of micro operators among funded organizations and certain sectors in the programme;
Amendment 2 #
2015/2328(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. RDeeply regrets that a lack of financial capacity continues to be one of the main obstacles for potential applicants; encouragesdeeply regrets the delay on the part of the Commission, the Education, Audiovisual and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA) and the Creative Europe national Desks to try to address the under-representation of micro cultural operators among funded organiszations and certain sectors in the Culture sub-programme; highlights, that despite the implementation of the strategic investment plan already in November 2014, which was conceived in such a way to partially address this problem, through the now so-called SMEW new products, in particular the uncapped guarantees which are to foster access to microfinance for vulnerable groups, micro-enterprises and social enterprises, have only recently been developed and contemplated for implementation on the second half of EFSIs initial investment period; deeply regrets the current lack of data to properly assess their impact;
Amendment 5 #
2015/2328(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Looks forward to seeing the initial resultsRegrets the delay on the implementation of the Financial Guarantee Facility launched in 2016; by easing the access of SMEs and microbusinesses to loans, and calls for its preliminary results and assessment to be made available already by the end of the first trimester of 2017; underlines that easing the access of SMEs and microbusinesses to loans will only fulfil providing the additionality criterion if properly and duly complemented with the necessary grants; expects this new market instrument to help the cultural and creative sectors, which account for 4.4 % of the EU’s GDP and 3.8 % of its workforce, realise their full potential as a promising source of growth and jobs and as drivers of competitiveness, cultural diversity and cross-border cooperation; regrets, however, that the Facility will most probably only work in those countries where a similar instrument is already in place;
Amendment 17 #
2015/2328(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas Creative Europe haswill proved to be a successful programme in terms of its objectives if those objectives are not geared one-sidedly to economic effects and parameters and instead place more emphasis on the specific features of culture and its contribution to democratic dialogue and the discussion on values and future developments looking beyond economic success;
Amendment 25 #
2015/2328(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the Creative Europe Programme,’s sub-programmes are seriously underfinanced in pvarticular, its Culture Sub-programme, ious ways, since the focus on networks, marketing and dis seriously underfinancedmination and a fresh audience and new recipients is insufficient;
Amendment 83 #
2015/2328(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Urges the Member States to increase the Creative Europe budget in line with the ambitions of the programme, accepting that the values of cultural production cannot be gauged in terms of economic figures alone;
Amendment 88 #
2015/2328(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Asks the Commission to enhance the programme’s consistency with all relevant EU policies and other funding sources and thereby to take due account of the particular creative processes and creativity of cultural production, which produce aesthetic discoveries and communicative innovations for society now and in the future;
Amendment 99 #
2015/2328(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Asks the Commission to strike a better balance, in both sub-programmes and in the guidelines for evaluators, between the artistic and creative component and the managerial and innovative aspects, especially ofin relation to both the projects funded and, in particular, CCI;
Amendment 180 #
2015/2328(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Underlines the success and significance of the European Capital of Culture scheme, and calls for better use of the know-how of capitals of culture for the development ofcultural dialogue and democratic exchange in the development of cities, including long-term support for the local cultural scene in cities;
Amendment 194 #
2015/2328(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. Asks the Commission to guarantee a geographic and sectoral balance in the Guarantee Facility, evaluate its impact, in particular on small cultural enterprises, cultural mediators and networkers, and examine possibilities as regards the development of synergies with EFSI and other programmes;
Amendment 21 #
2015/2320(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Highlights that further efforts should be made in overcoming the migrant and asylum seekers crisis; considers, in particular, that within the specific measures being taken to help Member States in their efforts to foster the settlement and integration of the migrant communities, the enhancement and facilitation of the possibilities for the migrants, benefitting from international protection, to set-up micro-enterprises, social enterprises and SMEs beyond ensuring them access to the labour market, would help on the EU objectives of a higher degree of local,
Amendment 4 #
2015/2295(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Notes that the EU-Korea agreement could have negatively affected PWAI by exempting repaired goods from customs duties on re-entry; therefore, calls on the Commission to ensure that Union trade policy does not impact negatively on the Union labour market;
Amendment 5 #
2015/2295(BUD)
6. Agrees that the pre-existing difficult situation in the area, combined with the cumulative effect of three major closures in the MRO sector within a short period, and the fact that no employers in this sector remain in Ireland may justifyies a derogation from the threshold of 500 redundancies set out in article 4(1) of the EGF regulation; reiterates, in this regard, its recommendation to the Commission to either clarify the derogation criterialower the threshold set out in Article 4(1) of the EGF Regulation, or lower the threshold of 500 workers being made redundant;
Amendment 9 #
2015/2295(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Calls on the Commission to bear in mind, in view of the upcoming EGF revision, that EGFs should ensure new and sustainable employment opportunities for the beneficiaries;
Amendment 6 #
2015/2284(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Believes that the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) is a valuable instrument through which the EU expresses its solidarity with workers and which should continue to operate outside the MFFoperate within the MFF in order to enhance transparency, unity and coherence of EU budget;
Amendment 7 #
2015/2284(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Believes that the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) is a valuable instrument through which the EU expresses its solidarity with workers and which should continue to operate outside the MFFunderlines that it is not meant in any way to be an ‘opt-out’ clause for companies to not ensure due diligence to workers’ rights; nor a tool to compensate austerity cuts in domestic labour measures;
Amendment 15 #
2015/2284(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that, between 2007 and 2014, 134 funding applications for a total amount of EUR 561.1 million were submitted by 20 Member States to provide support to 122 121 workers; takes the view that the valuable and efficient development of the EGF since 2007 is unfortunately also due to massive increased loss of jobs as a result of major structural changes in world trade patterns and the economic and financial crisis, worsened by the austerity policies promoted by the EU’s economic governance;
Amendment 31 #
2015/2284(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. WelcomNotes the fact that nearly 50% of workers who received financial assistance under applications dealt with in 2013-2014 are now back in employment; emphasises, however, that the EGF should provide funding for sectors likely to face problems in the future; therefore calls on the Commission to give more clear-cut indications regarding the sectors in which workers are likely to find employment and the question whether the training offer is suited to the economic outlook and labour market needs in the regions affected by redundancies as well as to the needs and competences of beneficiaries ; insists on having better evaluation of the type and quality of jobs found and on the medium and long-term trend as regards the rate of reintegration achieved through EGF interventions
Amendment 41 #
2015/2284(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Stresses the need for greater coordination with the ESF and the ERDF, and proposes that applications for EGF funding should be submitted by the authorities that manage the Structural Funds in each Member State, provided that regional managing authorities are granted sufficient staff, training and financial support to ensure such an extension of their competencies;
Amendment 45 #
2015/2284(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
5c. Calls on the Commission to lower the threshold for EGF eligibility, which currently stands at 500 redundancies, in order to make sure that employees of smaller companies in sectors that are directly hurt by the effects of globalisation are assisted;
Amendment 49 #
2015/2284(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. BStrongly believes that more widespread use of the derogation from the eligibility thresholds, particularly to benefit SMEs, extension of the reference periods and the possibility of classifying workers who provide related services and who are made redundant as workers made redundant by the company claiming assistance would make for more efficient and valuable use of the EGF budget;
Amendment 53 #
2015/2284(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls on the Commission to step up communication with the Member States on the forms of assistance available under the EGF in order to increase the use made of this fund; which will require a substantial increase in its funding and a rise in the rate of EU co-financing considering on the other hand the continued austerity policies developed and recent trade deals that will worsen labour perspective;
Amendment 61 #
2015/2284(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Takes the view that the derogation relating to persons who are neither in employment nor in education or training (NEET) should be extended beyond 2017; calls therefore for the revision of the EGF Regulation, in the framework of the revision of the MFF, in order to enable the access to NEETs to continue;
Amendment 63 #
2015/2284(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Calls on the Commission to carry out sector-specific studies on the impact of globalisation and, on the basis of the findings, make proposals to encourage companies to anticipate changes in their industries and to prepare their workers before making them redundthus avoiding relocations and layoff plants.
Amendment 1 #
2015/2212(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 a (new)
Citation 6 a (new)
– having regard to its Resolution of 17 September 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/000 TA 2014 – Technical assistance at the initiative of the Commission)3a, _____________ 3a Texts adopted P8_TA(2014)0016
Amendment 2 #
2015/2212(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. whereas the Parliament in its Resolution of 17 September 2014 has expressed the need to extend access to EGF support to young people up to the age of 25 who are not in employment, education or training (NEETs) in equal numbers to workers receiving support in regions with high youth unemployment, if it is demonstrated in the mid-term evaluation that there is a need to maintain this measure after December 2017; and to accordingly review the MFF in order to enable such a change to take place in a more sustainable manner; whereas the Parliament also underlined that the mid- term evaluation to be launched in current 2015 should also take into account the long-term impact of the crisis and globalisation on SMEs and therefore evaluate the possibility of lowering the criteria of 500 workers being made redundant set up in Article 4 of the EGF Regulation;
Amendment 1 #
2015/2209(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 a (new)
Citation 6 a (new)
– having regard to its Resolution of 17 September 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/000 TA 2014 – Technical assistance at the initiative of the Commission)1a, ______________ 1a Texts adopted P8_TA(2014)0016
Amendment 3 #
2015/2209(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. whereas the Parliament in its Resolution of 17 September 2014 has expressed the need to extend access to EGF support to young people up to the age of 25 who are not in employment, education or training (NEETs) in equal numbers to workers receiving support in regions with high youth unemployment, if it is demonstrated in the mid-term evaluation that there is a need to maintain this measure after December 2017; and accordingly to review the MFF in order to enable such a change to take place in a more sustainable manner; whereas the Parliament also underlined that the mid- term evaluation to be launched in current 2015 should also take into account the long-term impact of the crisis and globalisation on SMEs and therefore evaluate the possibility of lowering the criteria of 500 workers being made redundant set up in Article 4 of the EGF Regulation;
Amendment 1 #
2015/2208(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 a (new)
Citation 6 a (new)
– having regard to its Resolution of 17 September 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/000 TA 2014 – Technical assistance at the initiative of the Commission)3a, ______________ 3a Texts adopted, P8_TA(2014)0016
Amendment 2 #
2015/2208(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. whereas the Parliament in its Resolution of 17 September 2014 has expressed the need to extend access to EGF support to young people up to the age of 25 who are not in employment, education or training (NEETs) in equal numbers to workers receiving support in regions with high youth unemployment, if it is demonstrated in the mid-term evaluation that there is a need to maintain this measure after December 2017; and accordingly to review the multiannual financial framework in order to enable such a change to take place in a more sustainable manner; whereas the Parliament also underlined that the mid- term evaluation to be launched in current 2015 should also take into account the long-term impact of the crisis and globalisation on SMEs and therefore evaluate the possibility of lowering the criteria of 500 workers being made redundant set up in Article 4 of the EGF Regulation;
Amendment 23 #
2015/2155(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a. Stresses that the Court of Auditors report adopted on 11.07.2014 states that the potential saving for the EU budget would be about 114 million EUR per year if the European Parliament centralised its activities; reiterates the call on Parliament and the Council to address, in order to create long term savings, the need for a roadmap to a single seat, as stated by Parliament in several previous resolutions;
Amendment 1 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
- having regard to Articles 174 to 178 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union;
Amendment 1 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Points out how important it is that the EU budget reflectprioritise the stated policy objectives for employment, social development, businesses and entrepreneurship; stresemphasises that fisheries and maritime affairs are also areas where jobs arkey sectors especially in peripheral Member States where job creation and investment in the created and growth is generated andlevant declining rural and coastal communities needs to be prioritised as the sectors contribute actively to regional development and natural-resource management;
Amendment 3 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that Parliament's reading of the 2016 budget fully reflects the political priorities adopted by an overwhelming majority in its abovementioned resolutions of 11 March 2015 on general guidelines and of 8 July 2015 on a mandate for the trilogue; recalls that those consist in internal and external solidarity, in particular an effective tackling of the migration and refugee crisis, as well as in boosting competitiveness throughthe creation of decent and quality employment, in particular by prioritising the 3 axes: employment, enterprises and entrepreneurship (the “three Es”);
Amendment 7 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Highlights that the Union is currently facing a number of serious emergencies, notably the unprecedented migration and refugee crisis; is convinced that the necessary financial resourca comprehensive and human rights-based approach linking migration with development and guaranteeing the integration of migrant workers and asylum seekers and refugees needs to be deployedcarried out in conjunction with the deployment of the necessary financial resources in the Union budget, in order to match the political challenges and allow the Union to deliver and effectively respond to those crises, as a matter of utmost urgency and priority; considers that extraordinary times require extraordinary measures and that a strong political commitment is needed to secure fresh appropriations for this purpose;
Amendment 11 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Rejects any use of the Union budget to finance a militarist and securitarian Union; underlines the need for alternative policies which support sustainable development, strengthened environment- friendly internal demand based on progressive wages, full employment with rights, social welfare, eradicating poverty and social exclusion and improved social and economic cohesion;
Amendment 16 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Acknowledges that a lot more effort needs to be undertaken to address the shortcomings in the Union economy by boosting competitiveness, growth and quality jobs; emphasises the key role played by micro, small and, medium-sized and social enterprises in this regard; reinforces therefore the COSME programme by EUR 16,5 million; decides also to propose new commitments in 2016 for the continuation of the Youth Employment Initiative (YEI), whose entire financial envelope was frontloaded in the years 2014-2015; acknowledges the significant contribution of this programme to the fight against unemployment and is determined to ensure that the necessary appropriations are made available in order to prevent a funding gap in its implementation; adopts, therefore, a EUR 473,2 million increase for 2016, corresponding to the original instalment that was foreseen for the YEI on a yearly basis;
Amendment 19 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Reiterates its conviction that the Union budget should not finance new initiatives to the detriment of existing Union programmes and policies and disregard political commitments already made; while fully confirming itsacknowledges the large political and financial support to the launching of European Fund for Strategic Investment (EFSI), and intends to deliver on the commitment that it made during the EFSI negotiations, namely to minimise to the maximum the impact on Horizon 2020 and the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) in the frame of the annual budgetary procedure; proposes, therefore, to fully offset the cuts of these two programmes - due to the provisioning of the EFSI Guarantee Fund - in 2016 (EUR 1 326 million), in order to allow them to fully accomplish the objectives agreed only two years ago with the adoption of their respective legal bases;
Amendment 20 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Acknowledges that a lot more effort needs to be undertaken to address the shortcomings in the Union economy, in particular ensuring adequate levels of financing to the SME sector in particular, in spite of the state capitalisation of several credit institutions from the outset of the economic crisis; believes that public Banking Structures, especially innovative ones, can now play a crucial role in the Member States' economic recovery, in particular as these focus on the regional economy, on cooperation between constituent banks, and on sustainable and local lending to the SME sector; believes that such structures, due to their specific organisation, objectives and proximity to the potential beneficiaries, in particular to SMEs, which can be furthermore enhanced within the framework of the EFSI, can now offer added stability and promote regional development in recovering economies and should be further supported;
Amendment 28 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Concludes that, for the purpose of adequately financing these pressing needs, and considering the very tight MFF margins in 2016, all means available in the MFF Regulation in terms of flexibility, including the full mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument, will need to be deployed; expects that the Council will share this approach and that an agreement will easily be reached in conciliation, allowing the Union to rise to the occasion and effectively respond to the challenges ahead; insists that to attain the Union objectives of smart, green-sustainable inclusive growth, to boost quality job creation while enhancing the levels of social, health, environmental protection, economic, social and territorial cohesion in the Union the process of the MFF 2014-2020 review/revision needs to be launched next year;
Amendment 34 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. NoteDeeply regrets that, again this year, Heading 1a is severely affected by the Council's cuts with a reduction of EUR 140,9 million in commitments and EUR 435,4 million in payments as compared to the DB; highlights that around half of these cuts are targeted at Horizon 2020, which results in a further reduction for this programme in 2016 after that part of its appropriations have been redeployed to EFSI;
Amendment 35 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Underlines that, for the sake of a coherent approach, several cuts applied by the Council on the ground of a low absorption capacity on many Heading 1a programmes in June 2015 have now to be reversed due the strong acceleration in these programmes' implementation in September 2015, in particular programmes which support education, research, training and culture, especially those dedicated to the youth; notes that this is a general trend, in line with the life cycle of these programmes; decides therefore to restore the DB level on the lines cut by the Council both in commitments and in payments;
Amendment 37 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15a. Highlights that the Union austerity policies have created a downward pressure on real wages in Member States and that this will prolong impact of the economic and social crisis; underlines that the Union budget shall be used to underpin efforts to increase real wages as well as to fight social dumping in the Member States;
Amendment 42 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Confirms itsTakes note of the support for the ITER programme and isthe committedments to securinge its appropriate financing; is concerned, however, about possible further delays and additional costs of this programme as well as the related potential repercussions on the Union budget; deeply regrets, therefore, that it was unable to assess the level of the 2016 ITER appropriations against the updated payment plan and schedule, which is only due to be presented in the ITER Council in November 2015; expects, however, that this revised plan will provide sufficient evidence that Parliament's recommendations, as set out in the relevant 2013 discharge resolution8 , have been properly taken into account and that financial soundness and spending efficiency will be ensured; intends to raise this matter in the 2016 budgetary conciliation; __________________ 8 European Parliament resolution of 29 April 2015 with observations forming an integral part of the decision on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget for the Joint Undertaking for ITER and the Development of Fusion Energy for the financial year 2013 (Texts adopted, P8_TA(2015)0168).
Amendment 46 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Disapproves of Council's proposed cuts of EUR 3,1 million in commitments and, more importantly, EUR 220,1 million in payments under subheading 1b, including on completion lines; calls on the Council to explain how these cuts are compatible with the objective, on the one hand, of reducing the backlog of outstanding payment claims for the 2007-2013 cohesion programmes to around EUR 2 billion by the end of 2016 and, on the other hand, of avoiding negative repercussions and unnecessary delays for the implementation of the 2014- 2020 programmes; recalls that according to Article 310 TFEU, the revenue and expenditure shown in the Union budget shall be in balance; underlines the negative impact caused by the delays in payments to local, regional and national authorities, in particular those which are facing social, financial and economic constraints;
Amendment 47 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Recalls that cohesion policy represents the main Union investment policy and its legal objective of reducing disparities between European regions by strengthening economic, social and territorial cohesion;
Amendment 48 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 b (new)
Paragraph 20 b (new)
20b. Expresses its disapproval for the institutionalisation of the principles of macroeconomic conditionality and performance reserve and the link between cohesion policy and Structural Funds on the one hand and Stability and Growth Pact, package of economic governance and any economic agreement of Member States, on the other; believes that the assumptions underlying them are undeniably different and their objectives diametrically opposed; emphasises that the purpose of cohesion policy should not be to impose stringent macroeconomic and financial conditions necessitating austerity measures or to penalise Member States and regions; stresses that cohesion policy is designed to ensure balanced growth and eliminate inequalities with a view to achieving genuine convergence; indicates that funding for European regions cannot be suspended for non- compliance by Member States with macroeconomic conditions and suspending funding for Member States in difficulties will make the situation worse;
Amendment 50 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Insists on the need to improve the active management of payments by the Commission while accelerating the calls for proposals and in particular increasing the pre-financing available; believes that the postponement of such measures will aggravate discrepancies and jeopardise the objectives of smart, sustainable and inclusive growth, quality job creation, economic, social and territorial cohesion; recalls in this respect the conclusions of the 6th Cohesion Report, in particular that regional disparities in the Union widened dramatically during the period 2008-2011, and insists that the cohesion policy needs to be significantly increased;
Amendment 54 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 b (new)
Paragraph 22 b (new)
22b. Recalls that the Student Loan Guarantee Facility should be implemented on favourable terms for students, regardless of their social background and that this additional and innovative tool for learning mobility should neither replace any current, nor impede the development of any future grant or loan system supporting student mobility at local, national or Union level;
Amendment 55 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 c (new)
Paragraph 22 c (new)
22c. Underlines that instruments such as the ESF, the ERDF, the Cohesion Fund or the Youth Employment Initiative are crucial to support the creation of quality and sustainable jobs, to ensure investment for targeted social and cohesion policies, to foster convergence and narrow the development gap while reducing social, economic, local, regional and national disparities; recalls the need to enhance the fight against poverty, unemployment, social exclusion and inequalities (income) through instruments such as the Aid to the most Deprived and Fruit and Milk for Schools; insists, therefore, on the need to increase the proposed payment appropriations to the bare minimum needed in this subheading;
Amendment 58 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 a (new)
Paragraph 25 a (new)
25a. Calls on the Commission to deliver before November 2015 a first assessment on the implementation of cross- compliance and revisions to standards of Good Agricultural and Environmental Conditions and whether any additional environmental benefit has been delivered through the restructuring and the greening of CAP;
Amendment 59 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 b (new)
Paragraph 25 b (new)
25b. Insists on the need for added support to small farms as these keep many direct jobs in rural areas and are necessary to maintain the occupied territory and care; insists on the prioritisation of the promotion and advertisement of local markets and activities which raise awareness of their contribution to local economies; calls on the Commission and the Member States to prioritise public policies which phase out the causes that provoke price volatility of agricultural products, which occurs more frequently and has adverse effects on farmers' incomes;
Amendment 72 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. Considers it also a priority to reinforce the Europe for Citizens' programme with EUR 1,5 million as well as modifying the budget nomenclature of the Europe for Citizens programme by dedicating a separate line to the implementation of the ECI; recalls in particular the need to reinforce the support of its bottom-up actions; points out that the present level of funding is still far too low as this programme is vital to civic participation in the democratic process in Europe;
Amendment 74 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35 a (new)
Paragraph 35 a (new)
35a. Believes that the Union budget can be instrumental in reaching out to people in need and insists that a budgetary shift away from military and security spending and towards a civil and development oriented foreign policy is needed in order to reduce long-term military spending; reiterates its position that funds under this heading must be committed to a peaceful and civil foreign policy, which ensures that the Union's commitments to poverty eradication, sustainable development, MDGs, arms-control, NPT-regime, and nuclear disarmament are upheld; notes that this demonstrates a high level of solidarity with third countries while insisting on the need to adopt a comprehensive and human rights-based approach linking migration with development and guaranteeing the integration of migrant workers and asylum seekers and refugees; recalls the need to implement further measures to enhance an endogenous development to boost a sound mutually beneficial relationship and promoting European fundamental values;
Amendment 78 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38
Paragraph 38
38. Calls for these extra appropriations to be used in particular to increase the funding for the Union Regional Trust Fund in Response to the Syrian Crisis and for the Emergency Trust Fund for stability and addressing root causes of irregular migration and displaced persons in Africa, as well as for immediate assistance via the UNHCR and the World Food Programme; reiterates the need to adopt a comprehensive and human rights-based approach linking migration with development and guaranteeing the integration of migrant workers and asylum seekers and refugees while supporting a new political and budgetary commitment towards countries of origin and transit; calls on the individual Member States to bring additional contributions to the Trust Funds and to the UN agencies without further delay; notes that the pipeline of projects potentially funded by the Trust Funds further weakens the Council’s case for an alleged lack of absorption capacity in Heading 4;
Amendment 79 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 39
Paragraph 39
39. Reinforces by EUR 40 million the budget line for support for the peace process and financial assistance to Palestine and to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA); notunderlines that UNRWA plays an effective role in supporting the growing number of Palestinian refugees suffering directly from the Syrian crisis, which poses an additional burden on the agency; is deeply concerned about the funding gaps faced by UNRWA and calls for those additional appropriations to be channelled to its General Fund in support of basic education, social and health services;
Amendment 82 #
2015/2132(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 44 a (new)
Paragraph 44 a (new)
44a. Recommends that, while complying with the best management and accountability criteria, Union institutions must ensure that third contract parties conform with labour law provisions, in particular the fundamental right of workers to negotiate and agree on working conditions and wages with their employer, therefore the institutions should as far as possible make use of airlines which recognise trade unions and which have a good repute with respect to workers' rights;
Amendment 6 #
2015/2129(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that the fight against the sexual abuse of children needs a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach; insists, for that reason, that measures such as awareness raising, training and education for authorities, for parents, teachers, children and minors are just as essential in the fight against these crimes as assistance to victims, investigation of crimes and prosecution of offenders;
Amendment 32 #
2015/2129(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
Amendment 35 #
2015/2129(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Calls on Commission and Member States to promote and support public policies, agencies, strategies and tools aimed at raising children's and young people's awareness on over-sexualisation by supporting approaches and structures such as: Safer Internet Centres and helplines, and involving children and minors as well as parents in the conception of tools and messages;
Amendment 38 #
2015/2129(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3 b. Emphasizes the role of parents in the prevention of sexual exploitation of children and minors, by setting guidelines, monitoring children's and minors internet and social media use and informing their children and minors on the dangers of child pornography;
Amendment 39 #
2015/2129(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 c (new)
Paragraph 3 c (new)
3 c. Notes that the use of new technologies and the Internet is increasing and changing very rapidly and that children as well as minors are often exposed to new technologies;
Amendment 40 #
2015/2129(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 d (new)
Paragraph 3 d (new)
3 d. Encourages the European Commission and Member States to facilitate access to public funds for NGOs to carry out prevention and educational activities regarding the sexual exploitation of children and minors online and child pornography, and to give to this matter greater public attention;
Amendment 43 #
2015/2129(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Reminds that sexual exploitation of children and minors starts before the spread of the network, therefore recalls that the online sexual exploitation of children and minors is a constantly evolving frightening phenomenon which parallels developments in technology; underlines that peer-to-peer and Darknet networks provide a high degree of anonymity and are therefore used for exchanging child sexual abuse material;
Amendment 46 #
2015/2129(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Recommends the European Commission and Member States to investigate the impact of the readily accessible online child pornography on children and minors, as a part of prevention in line with Article 23 of the Directive;
Amendment 47 #
2015/2129(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4 b. Encourage the media and advertising sectors to safeguard the dignity and innocence of children and minors in their productions, through co- regulatory mechanisms, internal codes of conduct and other voluntary action;
Amendment 53 #
2015/2129(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Recommends that blacklists of websites containing child pornography be prepared by national authorities and communicated to Internet service providers in order to remove the harmful or illegal contents; recommends also the sharing of such blacklists of websites among the Member States through enhanced cooperation with Europol and its European Cybercrime Centre, and with Interpol;
Amendment 56 #
2015/2129(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Asks to the Commission to start the consultations for the revision of the e- commerce directive (2000/31/EC) or to evaluate an alternative legislative framework in order to set a proper mechanism to monitor Information society services such as video-sharing platforms which currently do not have editorial responsibility, thus better protecting minors from child pornography and online phishing; reminds the European Commission that restrictions on online content are to be grounded in the law, well-defined, proportionate, legitimate, pursuing a clear aim; recalls therefore any mechanism set by the European Commission to monitor such services as video-sharing platforms should be limited to protect minors from pornography and online phishing;
Amendment 65 #
2015/2129(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Urges the European Commission and Member States to promote initiatives raising awareness of sexual abuse, sexual exploitation of children and minors, especially in connection to the European Day on the Protection of Children against Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse, established by the Council of Europe;
Amendment 66 #
2015/2129(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6 b. Invites the European Commission to take into account the decisions of the Council of Europe, with special regards to the Recommendation of the Parliamentary Assembly (PACE) 2092 (2016) on Fighting the over-sexualisation of children;
Amendment 73 #
2015/2129(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Urges the Member States to make it mandatory for Internet service providers (ISP) to report and remove child sexual abuse material detected in their infrastructure to law enforcement authorities and calls on the ISPs to preserve evidence;
Amendment 87 #
2015/2129(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Urges Member States to introduce in their legislation mandatory background checksExtended Police Clearance Certificate for persons applying or volunteering for activities or jobs relating to children and to systematically exchange information on individuals posing a risk to children;
Amendment 91 #
2015/2129(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Notes that about half of the Member States have chosen to apply – besides measures aimed at the prompt removal of web pages containing child sexual abuse material in accordance with Article 25 (1) – measures which are optional under Article 25 (2) of the Directive to block access to websites containing or disseminating child pornography; notes that removal of the illegal and harmful content is a valid way on combating the sexual exploitation of children, minors and child pornography;
Amendment 102 #
2015/2129(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Calls on the Member States to acceleratework, in cooperation with the internet industry, on the notice and take-down procedures.; with the aim of providing adequate safeguards, in particular to ensure that the interference is limited to what is necessary and proportionate, and include the possibility of judicial redress;
Amendment 9 #
2015/2125(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. Underlines more generally the need to extend access to EGF support to young people up to the age of 25 who are not in employment, education or training (NEETs) in equal numbers to workers receiving support in regions with high youth unemployment, if it is demonstrated in the mid-term evaluation that there is a need to maintain this measure after December 2017, and to accordingly review the MFF in order to enable such a change in a more sustainable manner;
Amendment 10 #
2015/2125(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 b (new)
Paragraph 11 b (new)
11b. Recalls that the Commission mid- term evaluation of the EGF should also take into account the long-term impact of the crisis and globalisation on SMEs such as downstream producers in this case, and therefore evaluate the possibility of lowering the criteria of 500 workers being made redundant set up in Article 4 of the EGF Regulation, as suggested by the European Parliament in its resolution of 17 September 2014 on the mobilisation of European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (application EGF/2014/000 TA 2014 - Technical assistance at the initiative of the Commission)1a; ________________ 1aTexts adopted, P8_TA(2014)0016.
Amendment 18 #
2015/2093(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas risks have been identified where national inspection authorities do not always have access to relevant data to effectively inspect foreign vessels, and that different approaches to controls and sanctions pose problems to Member States when they follow-up with flag states on detected infringements;
Amendment 98 #
2015/2093(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Supports the strengthening ofincreased cooperation between Member States through exchanges between inspectors and the exchange of control methods, data and risk analysiand their respective sea fishery authorities, in particular exchanges between inspectors and shared information on individual quotas of flagged vessels;
Amendment 12 #
2015/2091(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A b (new)
Recital A b (new)
Ab. whereas sustainable and fairer partnership agreements with developing regions, such as West African nations, must prioritise the recovery and maintenance of marine ecosystems and fish stocks, focusing on protecting and nurturing small-scale, artisanal and traditional indigenous fishing;
Amendment 14 #
2015/2091(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A d (new)
Recital A d (new)
Ad. whereas current and upcoming agreements that allow EU and other international vessels to catch small pelagic stocks jeopardises the food security of local small fishermen and coastal communities in developing countries;
Amendment 32 #
2015/2091(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
Ea. whereas the EU must be vigilant about the fish landed in its harbours to counter industrial IUU (Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing) fishing;
Amendment 48 #
2015/2091(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. WelcomAcknowledges the inclusion in the basic regulation on the CFP3 , for the first time, of a chapter dedicatedreferring to the external dimension, including minimum conditions for bilateral agreements, an explicit reference to common standards both inside and outside EU waters and a statement that measures must be based on the best available scientific advice; __________________ 3 Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013. Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013.
Amendment 56 #
2015/2091(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Insists on the importance of sustainable fishing and restricted industrial fishing, in the EU and abroad, as the only way to secure a future for coastal communities and the marine system, the employment generated by fishing, and the contribution of fishing to food security;
Amendment 66 #
2015/2091(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Emphasises that all aspects of the external dimension of the CFP must be predicated on equitableensure and be focused on an equal relationships between the EU and its partners globally, specifically developing nations, be they bilateral (sustainable fishing partnership agreements) or multilateral (RFMOs), with a view to developing native fishing industries and the local social economies, challenging and eliminating IUU (Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing) fishing by commercial and industrial vessels who are primarily responsible for over-exploited stocks and economic losses;
Amendment 72 #
2015/2091(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Emphasises that external activities, agreements and projects supported by the EU must be conducted in a fully participatory and transparent manner;
Amendment 109 #
2015/2091(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Calls for fairer and sustainable fishing partnership agreements that protects the livelihoods of fishing communities and their social economies;
Amendment 41 #
2015/2090(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas the new Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) acknowledges the importance of fishing-dependent coastal and island regions, and some of the main objectives of the CFP are to ensure an adequate standard of living for those who depend on fishing activities, to contribute to the attainment of such a standard in the context of coastal fishing, and to promote sustainable coastal fishing while taking into account socio- economic factors, should also emphasise the importance of training and health and safety at sea for fishermen;
Amendment 42 #
2015/2090(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I a (new)
Recital I a (new)
I a. whereas the lack of an interdepartmental approach where the Union's institutions have overlapping responsibilities in the field of safety at sea in fishing is grave cause for concern;
Amendment 43 #
2015/2090(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I b (new)
Recital I b (new)
I b. whereas the necessity of having Union minimum standards on training, certification and watchkeeping for fishermen and vessel personnel is vital;
Amendment 65 #
2015/2090(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O
Recital O
O. whereas the economic crisis is also making itself felt in the fisheries sector, diversification and innovation are necessary in order to increase employment, to take advantage of new possibilities such as blue and green development, and to prevent the marginalisation of fisheries in developing and peripheral regions;
Amendment 71 #
2015/2090(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital T
Recital T
T. whereas in the fisheries sector, more than in other sectors, the environment and the economy go hand in hand; whereasnce the blue development of the economy should be focused on the social economy, sustainable and environmentally friendly projects and activities aimed at predeveloping coastal communities and conserving the maritime environment and biodiversity as a whole;
Amendment 87 #
2015/2090(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Calls on the Commission to propose a suitable definition of coastal, small-scale coastal and traditional fishing that will be based more on the socio-economic characteristics and specificities of a specific region than on the dimensions and power of, and that legally differentiates them from large-scale and industrial fishing vessels;
Amendment 157 #
2015/2090(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Calls on the Commission and Member States to guarantee access to data on seas and oceansall marine and ecological data with a view to promoting transparency, innovation and development;
Amendment 180 #
2015/2090(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17 a. Calls on the Commission to speed up the process of transposition of the social partners' agreement on implementation of the Work in Fishing Convention, 2007 of the International Labour Organization into an appropriate EU legislative instrument.
Amendment 181 #
2015/2090(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 b (new)
Paragraph 17 b (new)
17 b. Calls for a proposal for the transposition of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Fishing Vessel Personnel, 1995 of the International Maritime Organization into an EU directive.
Amendment 1 #
2015/2076(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 8 (new)
Citation 8 (new)
– having regard to its Resolution of 17 September 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/000 TA 2014 – Technical assistance at the initiative of the Commission)1 , __________________________________ Texts adopted, P8_TA(2014)0016.
Amendment 16 #
2015/2076(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Underlines the need to extend access to EGF support to young people up to the age of 25 who are not in employment, education or training (NEETs) in equal numbers to workers receiving support in regions with high youth unemployment, if it is demonstrated in the mid-term evaluation that there is a need to maintain this measure after December 2017; and accordingly to review the MFF in order to enable such a change to take place in a more sustainable manner;
Amendment 20 #
2015/2076(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Underlines that the mid-term evaluation to be launched in current 2015 should also take into account the long- term impact of the crisis and globalisation on SMEs and therefore evaluate the possibility of lowering the criteria of 500 workers being made redundant set up in Article 4 of the EGF Regulation, as suggested by the European Parliament in its abovementioned Resolution of 17 September 2014. __________________________________
Amendment 1 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 a (new)
Citation 6 a (new)
- having regard to the 2013 Social Investment package;
Amendment 2 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 b (new)
Citation 6 b (new)
- having regard to articles 174 to 178 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union;
Amendment 2 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Draft opinion
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereasexpresses concern at the impact the EFSI will have on research and innovation projects considering the fact that 500 million is to be taken from Horizon 2020 over the next 5 years; investments in education, training, cultural and creative industries should form part of the general objectives of the European Fund for Strategic Investments as they are a key factor for social inclusion which at a later stage will translate into investment decisions and economic growth;
Amendment 3 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that, in its resolution of 11 March 2015, Parliament placed the creation of decent and quality employment and the development of enterprises and entrepreneurship for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth across the Union (the ‘three Es'), together with internal and external solidarity within a secure Europe, at the centre of its priorities for the 2016 budget; reiterates Parliament's attachment to respecting legal as well as political commitments and its call on the institutions to deliver on their promises;
Amendment 4 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. WelcomesTakes note of the fact that the Commission Draft General Budget of the European Union for the financial year 2016 reinforces those priorities and proposes to step up EU support for investment, knowledge, decent jobs and growth- orientated programmes, and in particular for an emblematic mobility programme such as Erasmus+; is not satisfied that, in addition to duly expected increases throughout Heading 3 (Security and Citizenship) and Heading 4 (Global Europe), the Commission is not duly taking up the challenge of responding to new developments such as thethe humanitarian criseis in Ukraine, Syria and the Mediterranean by responding to the EU's and Member States' needs in the area of security and migration and by demonstrating strong political will in the field of external actionadopting a comprehensive and human rights-based approach linking migration with development and guaranteeing the integration of migrant workers and asylum seekers and refugees;
Amendment 13 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. WelcomesTakes note of the inclusion of the European Fund for Strategic Investment (EFSI) in the Draft Budget for 2016 and, in particular, the mobilisation of the Global Margin for Commitments to cover part of the expenditure needed, instead of relying only on the cuts to Horizon 2020 and the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF); stresses that the deal struck by the co-legislators further reduces those cuts by EUR 1 billion overall, sparing in particular fundamental research; expects the final agreement to be reflected as soon as possible in the 2016 budget on the basis of an amending letter aiming at minimising to the maximum extent the impact of theavoiding reductions on these two programmes; points out, however, that the cuts remain significant and commits to further offsetting them through a reinforcement of Horizon 2020 and the CEF in the context of the budgetary procedure, in order to allow these programmes to fully accomplish the objectives agreed only two years ago as a result of the negotiations on their respective legal bases;
Amendment 15 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. RDeeply regrets that the programme for the competitiveness of enterprises and micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (COSME) is the only new programme of the 2014-2020 MFF undergoing a nominal cut in commitment appropriations from 2015 to 2016, together with Horizon 2020 under the Commission's initial proposal; highlights the very negative signal such a decrease would give at a time when SMEs and social enterprises' potential as innovators and quality job creators is badly needed in order to stimulate EU recovery and reduce investment gaps; recalls that promoting entrepreneurship, improving the competitiveness and access to markets of Union enterprises, and improving access to finance for SMEs and social enterprises are priorities clearly shared by all the institutions, which have been the justification for frontloading and reinforcing COSME appropriations over the past two years, taking into account the programme's high rates of implementation; intends, therefore, to ensure that this programme evolves positively in 2016;
Amendment 19 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Reiterates its concerns about the funding of the Youth Employment Initiative (YEI) as a key tool for the fight against youth unemployment in the Union, which is a top priority for all European decision-makers; notes that, owing to the frontloading of the YEI top-up allocation in 2014 and 2015, no new commitments are proposed in 2016; recalls that the MFF has provided for a global margin for commitments to be made available over and above the ceilings as of 2016 for policy objectives related to growth and employment, in particular youth employment; recalls that, consequently, the Regulation on the European Social Fund has provided that the resources for the YEI may be revised upwards for the years 2016 to 2020 in the framework of the budgetary procedure; callurges, therefore, for the Youth Employment Initiative to be continued, in particular by making use of anythe flexibility provision contained in the MFF;
Amendment 20 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Is deeply concerned at the slower-than- planned take-off of new programmes under the 2014-2020 MFF period owing to the late approval of the legal bases and of the operational programmes as well as to the shortages of payment appropriations in 2014 and 2015, due to the payment backlog of the 2007-2013 EU programs; underlines the negative impact caused by the delays in payments to local, regional and national authorities, in particular those which are facing social, financial and economic constraints; undertakes to examine whether the requested commitment and payment appropriations will in fact enable those new programmes to reach cruising speed; urges the Commission and the Member States to take all necessary measures in order to make good the delays in their implementation;
Amendment 21 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Stresses the importance of cultural and linguistic diversity amongst Member States and calls on the Commission to ensure that this diversity is safeguarded, enhanced and promoted;
Amendment 22 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Notes that the EU Draft Budget for 2016 amounts to EUR 153.5 billion in commitment appropriations (including EUR 4.5 billion reprogrammed from 2014) and EUR 143.5 billion in payment appropriations; points out that, disregarding the effect of the reprogramming in 2015 and 2016, this corresponds to an increase of +2.4% in commitments and +1.6% in payments as compared to the 2015 budget; stresses that these are overall moderateinsufficient increases following the path set by the MFF;
Amendment 29 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Recalls that payment shortages, largely due to insufficient payment ceilings and under-budgeting, reached unprecedented heights in 2014 and remain acute in 2015; fears that this continues to penalise the beneficiaries and to jeopardise the proper implementation of the new 2014-2020 MFF programmes; while supporting active management of payments by the Commission, is deeply concerned at the postponement of calls for proposals, at the reduction of pre-financing and at late payments which will aggravate discrepancies and jeopardise the objectives of smart, sustainable and inclusive growth, quality job creation, economic, social and territorial cohesion;
Amendment 30 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Stresses the current high level of youth unemployment and asks for strong budget commitments to address this problem; criticises the inadequacy of the Youth Employment Initiative to deal with the scale of the youth unemployment crisis in the EU.
Amendment 31 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. WelcomesTakes note of the fact that the EU Draft Budget reflects the joint statement on a payment plan 2015-2016 agreed between Parliament, the Council and the Commission following the shared diagnosis and commitment entered into by the three institutions to reduce this backlog; recalls that, according to article 310 TFEU, the revenue and expenditure shown in the EU budget shall be in balance; according to the Commission's estimations, the payment appropriations requested in the Draft Budget would bring the backlog of unpaid bills down to EUR 2 billion for the cohesion programmes 2007- 2013, and would also reduce the abnormal backlog in other headings; undertakes to fully support the Commission proposal and expects the Council to respect its commitments in this regard;
Amendment 39 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 b (new)
Paragraph 16 b (new)
16 b. Recalls that the Student Loan Guarantee Facility should be implemented on favourable terms for students, regardless of their social background and that this additional and innovative tool for learning mobility should neither replace any current, nor impede the development of any future grant or loan system supporting student mobility at local, national or Union level;
Amendment 45 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Takes note of the proposed EUR 50.8 billion in commitments (+3.2% compared to 2015, with the impact of the reprogramming neutralised) and EUR 49.1 billion in payments (-4%) for subheading 1b, leaving a small margin of EUR 15.3 million under the ceiling for commitments; recalls that cohesion policy represents the main EU investment policy and its legal objective of reducing disparities between European regions by strengthening economic, social and territorial cohesion;
Amendment 46 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Highlights the fact that 44% of the proposed 2016 payment appropriations cover outstanding payment claims for previous programming periods, leaving only EUR 26.8 billion in payments for the start-up of the new 2014-2020 cohesion programmes; considers the proposed payment appropriations, therefore, to beunderlines that instruments such as the ESF, the ERDF, the Cohesion Fund or the Youth Employment Initiative are crucial to support the creation of quality and sustainable jobs, to ensure investment for targeted social and cohesion policies, to foster convergence and narrow the development gap while reducing social, economic, local, regional and national disparities; recalls the need to enhance the fight against poverty, unemployment, social exclusion and inequalities (income) through instruments such as the Aid to the most Deprived and Fruit and Milk for Schools; insists, therefore, on the need to increase the proposed payment appropriations to the bare minimum needed in this subheading;
Amendment 48 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Recalls that an amount of EUR 21.6 billion is needed in the 2016 budget to bring down the level of outstanding payment claims for the 2007-2013 cohesion programmes from EUR 24.7 billion at the end of 2014 and EUR 20 billion at the end of 2015 to around EUR 2 billion by the end of 2016, as described in the Commission's assessment annexed to the joint statement on a payment plan 2015-2016; recalls the conclusions of the 6th Cohesion Report, in particular that regional disparities in the EU widened dramatically during the period 2008-2011, and insists that the cohesion policy needs to be significantly increased; urges avoiding a similar ‘abnormal' build-up of unpaid bills in the future;
Amendment 50 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21 a. Highlights that the EU austerity policies have created a downward pressure on real wages in Member States and that this will prolong impact of the economic and social crisis; underlines that the EU budget shall be used to underpin efforts to increase real wages as well as to fight social-dumping in the Member States;
Amendment 51 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 b (new)
Paragraph 21 b (new)
21 b. Expresses its disapproval for the institutionalisation of the principles of macroeconomic conditionality and performance reserve and the link between cohesion policy and Structural Funds on the one hand and Stability and Growth Pact, package of economic governance and any economic agreement of Member States, on the other; the assumptions underlying them are undeniably different and their objectives diametrically opposed; emphasises that the purpose of cohesion policy should not be to impose stringent macroeconomic and financial conditions necessitating austerity measures or to penalise Member States and regions; stresses that cohesion policy is designed to ensure balanced growth and eliminate inequalities with a view to achieving genuine convergence; indicates that funding for European regions cannot be suspended for non-compliance by Member States with macroeconomic conditions and suspending funding for Member States in difficulties will make the situation worse;
Amendment 54 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)
Paragraph 22 a (new)
22 a. Urges the Commission, to put forward specific measures to enhance support to sustainable development, stronger, environment-friendly domestic demand based on quality employment, social well-being, eradication of poverty and social exclusion, fostering economic and social cohesion, ensuring the EU budget is used to supplement action taken by Member States;
Amendment 56 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Takes note of the proposed EUR 63.1 billion in commitments (-0.1% compared to 2015, with the impact of the reprogramming neutralised) and EUR 55.9 billion in payments (-0.2%) for Heading 2, leaving a margin of 1.2 billion under the ceiling for commitments and a margin of 1.1 billion under the sub-ceiling for the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund; points out that the financial discipline mechanism is applied only in order to establish the reserve for crises in the agricultural sector; awaits the Commission's Letter of Amendment, expected in October, which should be based on updated information on the EAGF funding; emphasises that transfers between the two pillars of the CAP result in an overall increase in the amount available for rural development; calls on the Commission to deliver before September 2015 a first assessment on the implementation of cross-compliance and revisions to standards of Good Agricultural and Environmental Conditions and whether any additional environmental benefit has been delivered through the restructuring and the greening of CAP;
Amendment 59 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Reiterates its backing for the enhancement of the EU's means and the development of a culture of fair burden- sharingincreased sharing of responsibility in the areas of asylum, migration and the management of external bordersintegration, and therefore praises the increases in commitment appropriations for the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund and for the Internal Security Fund; welcomes the Commission proposal to mobilise the Flexibility Instrument with EUR 124 million in order to respond to the current humanitarian crisis in the Mediterranean; queries if the proposed funding will be sufficient to allow for the full-financing of an adequate relocation mechanism and resettlement programme in the Union that responds to the current needs;
Amendment 66 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Recalls also the strong support consistently given by the European Parliament to adequate funding for culture and media programmes; welcomes, therefore, the increase for the Creative Europe Programme, including multimedia actions, compared with the 2015 budget; also supports the proposed increase in ‘Europe for Citizens', and recalls in particular the need to reinforce the support of its bottom-up actions; points out that the present level of funding is still far too low as this programme is vital to civic participation in the democratic process in Europe; takes the view that the European Citizens' Initiative (ECI) is a central instrument for participatory democracy in the EU and calls for its visibility and accessibility to be improved;
Amendment 67 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. WelcomesTakes note of the overall increased financing for Heading 4, reaching EUR 8.9 billion in commitment appropriations (+5.6% compared with the 2015 budget), while leaving a margin of EUR 261.3 million below the ceiling; notes that this demonstrates a high level of solidarity with third countries; believes that the EU budget is instrumental in reaching out to peoplbelieves that the EU budget can be instrumental in reaching out to people in need and insists that a budgetary shift away from military and security spending and towards a civil and development oriented foreign policy is needed in order to reduce long-term military spending; reiterates its position that funds under this heading must be committed to a peaceful and civil foreign policy, which ensures that the Union's commitments to poverty eradication, sustainable development, MDGs, arms- control, NPT-regime, and nuclear disarmament are upheld; notes that this demonstrates a high level of solidarity with third countries while insisting on the need to adopt a comprehensive and human rights-based approach linking migration with development and guaranteeing the integration of migrant workers and asylum seekers and refugees; recalls the need to implement further measures to enhance ian need and inendogenous development to boost a sound mutually beneficial relationship and promoting European fundamental values; is satisfied that the economic and social difficulties encountered by the EU over the past years have not detracted from the attention paid to the rest of the world;
Amendment 70 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Welcomes the increase in payment appropriations requested by the Commission across all programmes under Heading 4 (+28.5% up to EUR 9.5 billion), whereby payments exceed commitments especially in the areas of development, humanitarian aid and EU assistance to Palestine and to UNRWA; believes that such increases are fully justified by the need to redress the effects of the dramatic payment shortages encountered in that heading in 2014 and 2015, which have led the Commission to decrease pre-financings and postpone legal commitments; recalldeeply regrets that EUR 1.7 million in interest for late payments had to be paid in 2015 under Heading 4; expects the gap between commitments and payments to be progressively reduced and the backlog of unpaid bills to be brought back to a normal level; stresses that such a move is indispensable for the financial sustainability of the vulnerable beneficiaries and for the EU to act as a reliable partner vis-à-vis international organisations;
Amendment 72 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. Believes that external financing instruments should provide tools to address, in a multifaceted manner and alongside their respective objectives, the root causes of those internal securitye humanitarian and migration challenges which are at the core of next year's budget, with particular reference to the southern and eastern borders of the Union and more generally to conflict- stricken areas; points, in particular, to the Development Cooperation Instrument and the European Neighbourhood Instrument but also to policies which are unfortunately undergoing more moderate increases such as humanitarian aid, the Instrument contributing to Stability and Peace, Common Foreign and Security Policy and the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights; calls on the Commission to clearly identify areas which can help in coping with those topical challenges and where potential reinforcements can be efficiently absorbed;
Amendment 83 #
2015/2074(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40
Paragraph 40
40. Recalls that, with programmes expected to reach full swing, with the integration of new major initiatives in the areas of investment and migration, with the opportunity to settle issues of the past such as payments and special instruments, and with the first activation of new MFF provisions such as the global margin for commitments, the 2016 budgetary procedure will be a test case for the assessment of the current MFF, which will culminate in the process of; insists that to attain the Union objectives of smart, green-sustainable inclusive growth, to boost quality job creation while enhancing the levels of social, health, environmental protection, economic, social and territorial cohesion in the Union the process of the MFF 2014-2020 review/revision needs to be launched next year;
Amendment 10 #
2015/2039(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas valuable efforts of this intergovernmental initiative, carried out in close cooperation with academia, have been made to provide a common European response to serious problems in many countries met the opposition of a big part of the university community; whereas a lot of mobilisations took place all around Europe against the reforms linked to the Bologna Process and the liberalisation of higher education; whereas these reforms were unable to provide a common European response to serious problems in many countries especially concerning the access to higher education and the struggle against youth unemployment;
Amendment 15 #
2015/2039(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas an assessment is needed of the progress and the failures made over the past 15 years that takes into account both the success story, in terms of intra-regional cooperation, and the persistent problems encountered and the uneven achievements of the stated goals;
Amendment 30 #
2015/2039(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses the important role of the Bologna Process in the creation of a Europe of KnowledgeIs aware of the role the Bologna Process has in the creation of a Europe of Knowledge; however highlights the need for consultation within the higher education community (teachers, students and non-teaching workers) in order to understand the opposition to reforms linked with the Bologna Process and to build a new strategy on higher education guaranteeing public education that is free and accessible to all and that responds to the needs of society;
Amendment 33 #
2015/2039(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
Amendment 41 #
2015/2039(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
Amendment 46 #
2015/2039(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Highlights the importance of preserving the diversity of teaching, including the diversity of languages; urges the Member States to freeze the inscription fees especially in this period of crisis, to massively increase the student grants, and to ensure that these grants are easily accessible;
Amendment 105 #
2015/2039(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19a. Expresses concern for the impact the EFSI will have on higher education and research considering the fact that 500 million euros is to be taken from Horizon 2020 over the next 5 years; proposes that any profit that might be generated over and above the guarantee fund is reimbursed to the budget line of programmes like Horizon 2020 that will inevitably be affected by the investment plan; calls for a mechanism to be put in place to ensure that these programmes that were funded under Horizon 2020 and that have now lost funding will be given particular priority if and when applying to the EFSI for the purpose of research and development;
Amendment 107 #
2015/2039(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Calls for more flexible learning paths that promotinclude joint degree programmes and interdisciplinary studies, and that support innovation, creativity, vocational education and training (VET), dual education, and entrepreneurship in higher education, and calls for the potential offered by new technologies and digitalisation to be explored;
Amendment 115 #
2015/2039(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Calls on HEIs, public administrations, social partners and enterprises to lead an on-going dialogue facilitating and enhancing employability; however is totally opposed to the involvement of firms in the administration councils of universities and in the implementation of school programmes including through the ECTS system; reiterates the fact that education needs to be a public service that is accessible to all;
Amendment 116 #
2015/2039(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Notes that the dialogue between public administrations and enterprises did not reduce the problem of youth unemployment and in a lot of cases created even more problems; points out that these practices led to a lack of investment from Member States in higher education leading to the privatisation of big sectors of education and research and to the submission of different school curricula to private interest;
Amendment 15 #
2015/2012(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Considers that for 2016 priority should be given to the reinforcement of parliamentary work, in particular by strengthening theenhancing the capacity of the Parliament's legislative work while strengthening its proposal capacity as well as its capacity to scrutinise the executive, and the reinforcement of Parliament's security of buildings and cybersecurity;.
Amendment 19 #
2015/2012(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Considers that the structural and organisational reforms aimed at achieving greater efficiency, environmental sustainability, and effectiveness should continue through the thorough examination of possible synergies and savings; underlines that this process should be lead without endangering Parliament's legislative excellence, its budgetary powers and powers of scrutiny, orand the quality of working conditions for the Members, assistants, and staff;
Amendment 42 #
2015/2012(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Considers that in order to consolidate the role of the Parliament, the administrative capacity of the secretariats of the specialised parliamentary committees should, where it has not yet been done, be reinforced accordingly, essentially by means of redeployand where possible by means of redeployment; welcomes the several platforms where information is made available for the work of Members; considers it necessary, however, to rationalise those platforms by strengthening the synergies in the work of the different communication channels of the Parliament;
Amendment 54 #
2015/2012(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Emphasises that in the current context the highest priority should be given to the security of the Parliament's premises; underlines that the Parliament will need to take all the necessarysecurity of the Parliament's premises requires special measures to reinforce the security inside and outside its premises, as well as cyber- security, while remaining an «open-house» for European citizens;
Amendment 70 #
2015/2012(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. StExpresses thatits concerns regarding the implementation of the 5 % staff reduction target, as decided in the framework of the Agreement on the 2014- 2020 MFF, should while the Parliament needs to enhance its working capacity in particular taking into accountinue in 2016; welcomes the proposal of the increase in its legislative competencies and the need to strengthen its proposal capacity and its capacity to scrutinise the executive; calls on the Secretary- General to make a proposal with a view to finding alternative possible savings; welcomes the proposal of the Bureau not to extend the staffing reductions to staff of the political groups, which is fully in line with its abovementioned resolutions on the 2014 and 2015 budgets;
Amendment 4 #
2015/2008(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas in a period of deep economic crisis and increased divergence in the EU it is necessary to provide a significant increase in the Community budget to ensure the adequate level of resources in next year's budget to secure the EU political priorities with particular emphasis on the programs and projects aimed at boosting growth and decent employment, eradicating poverty, investing in smart, sustainable, green development; underlines that contributions to this increase should result from an increase in the payments made by Member States with the highest GNI and the highest per capita income, correcting the current biased and unfair system of contribution keys; reiterates that it is imperative to increase support to Member States, especially those already facing economic recession, for investment in infrastructure, social facilities, research, innovation and development;
Amendment 13 #
2015/2008(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the EU budget cannot accomplish its mission if its soundness and credibility are put in question; whereas it is imperative that all commitments forming part of the Multiannual Financial Framework 2014-2020 are respected in full, and that a number of problems that have accumulated over the past years, such asin particular the situation of unpaid invoices at year- end, are resolved without any delayend, which amounted to EUR 24.7bl in December 2014, are resolved without any delay; recalls that according to article 310 TEUF, the revenue and expenditure shown in the EU budget shall be in balance;
Amendment 24 #
2015/2008(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Highlights the indisputable potential and added value of the EU budget could have in the creation of employment and the development of enterprises and entrepreneurship across the Union; acknowledgunderlines that a wide range of EU programmes, in particular the Youth Employment Initiative, including Horizon 2020, COSME and Erasmus+, could contribute directly to the attainment of the objectives; expects that the Commission will place such programmes and instruments at the heart of the Draft Budget 2016, in order to ensure that they are endowed with the necessary resources;
Amendment 28 #
2015/2008(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Considers that a substantial public investment plan is needed, insists that a rupture is needed with the current EU polices if the problems of economic sustainable growth, unemployment, poverty, social exclusion, and (income) inequalities are to be adequately addressed; stresses that a new strategy is needed to set a new path for Europe, a path of full employment, decent jobs, living wages, social and economic cohesion and social protection for all that guarantees the highest living standards; a path that pays heed to the development needs of each Member State, particular the less developed, that promotes real convergence contributing to reduce the development gap between Member States and the existent economic, social and regional disparities;
Amendment 35 #
2015/2008(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Stresses that unemployment is the main urgency for the European Union; considers that the re-launch of Member States' economies and the creation of new jobs require a roll-back EU austerity policies so as to allow Member States to pursue the policy options that best fit their specific situation; believes therefore that the creation of decent jobs and sustainable economic growth should be the main focus of the EU budget;
Amendment 38 #
2015/2008(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses that the European Structural and Investment Funds form the biggest share of expenditure in the EU budget and are instrumental in job creation and competitivenesspromotion of growth; underlines the fact that EU cohesion policy has been instrumental in sustaining public investment in vital economic areas and has achieved tangible results on the ground that can empower Member States and regions to overcome the current crisis, increasing the appropriations for the Cohesion Fund and the Structural Funds, notably the ESF and programmes such as the Progress programme, paying particular attention to employment with rights, equal rights and opportunities, and the fight to eradicate poverty; stresses the need to endow Member-states with the tools to help its citizens to find a way out of the crisis; stresses in this regard the special need to invest in areas such as education and mobility, research and innovation micro, small and medium enterprises, in order to boost the creation of employment – in particular youth employment; calls on the Commission and the Member States to make every effort possible for the swift adoption of the remaining Operational Programmes in the coming months, so as to ensure that implementation will reach cruising speed in 2016;
Amendment 41 #
2015/2008(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Recalls that welfare services and benefits are under pressure in all Member States; underlines that policy decision at EU-level should have no adverse effects on either the availability or quality of welfare services and benefits in the Member States, nor the Member States' ability to finance them; calls therefore on the Commission to present a draft budget that strengthens the Member States' capacity to safeguard their welfare systems;
Amendment 42 #
2015/2008(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Is deeply concerned about the funding of the Youth Employment Initiative in 2016, given the frontloading of the entire financial envelope of the programme in 2014 and 2015; acknowledgunderlines that the fight against youth unemployment needs to be furthersubstantially intensified and that all funding possibilities should be considered for this purpose; recalls that 2016 will be the first year when resources under the Global MFF Margin for commitments will be made available for policy objectives related to growth and employment, in particular youth employment;
Amendment 50 #
2015/2008(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Underlines the significance of cross- border mobility as a means ofat cross-border mobility is not the key solution to high unemployment and insists that the EU budget should support Member States' initiative for job growth, in particular boosting investment and promoting the creation of jobs in regions with high unemployment; emphasises the role of life longlearning and training to enabling Europe to take advantage of the variety of people’s skills while expanding training and job opportunities for all generations; considers that emblematic and successful mobility programmes such as Erasmus+ work to the benefit of both the individuals and the economy and should therefore be exploited to the full;
Amendment 54 #
2015/2008(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Highlights that the EU austerity policy has created a downward pressure on real wages in Member States and that this will prolong the economic and social crisis; believes the budget should be used to underpin efforts to increase real wages as well as to fight social-dumping in the Member States;
Amendment 58 #
2015/2008(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. WelcomesTakes note the Investment Plan presented by, which according to the Commission, which can create the potential to mobilise EUR 315 billion of investments in infrastructures, education and research, as well as SMEs and mid-cap companies; notes that the EU budget is expected to provide the backbone of this investment plan by making available the EUR 8 billion required in commitments and payments for the provisioning of the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI); considers the EU budget contribution as an opportunity to deliver a significant return on the objectives of the programmes concerned (Horizon 2020, Connecting Europe Facility) through a higher leverage effect;
Amendment 67 #
2015/2008(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. HighlightsTakes note of the complementary nature of the proposed Investment Plan and the EU budget and their joint commitment to kick- start the economy and boost job creation; stresses that the EU budget is in itself a major investment tool with a distinctiveparticular role and mission, that has provided tangible results with a clear European added value; is convinced that every effort needs to be deployed in order to ensure democratic control and accountability of the EU investment policies, create synergies not only between the Investment Plan and the EU budget but also with national budgets, in order to bridge the investment gap and maximise the effect of public spending on the real economy, prioritising investment to reduce the gap between the different levels of economic development of the regions and Member States in the EU;
Amendment 85 #
2015/2008(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Highlights that a budgetary shift away from military and security spending and towards a civil and development oriented foreign policy is needed in order to reduce long-term military spending; reiterates its position that funds under heading 4 must be committed to a peaceful and civil foreign policy, which ensures that the European Union becomes a non-violent player in the world; calls on the Commission to prioritise the Union's role as a mediator seeking only civil and peaceful solutions to conflicts whilst ensuring that the Union's commitments to poverty eradication, sustainable development, MDGs, arms-control, NPT- regime, and nuclear disarmament are upheld;
Amendment 87 #
2015/2008(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Notes with concern that Europe, despite being one of the safest places in the world, is faced with new types of risks to its internal security which require a change of the current policies promoting social cohesion and integration while ensuring closer police and judicial cooperation and coordination and at the same time promoting stability and peace in conflict areas; recalls that the current trend towards militarising border control is ineffective and costly as well as in breach of fundamental rights including the right to seek asylum; invites the Commission to propose targeted reinforcements of the relevant programmes and instruments, thus demonstrating the EU’s pledge to tackle these threatchallenges;
Amendment 15 #
2015/2006(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas in February 2015, 4.85 million young people were unemployed in the EU- 28, which is unacceptably high, and although youth unemployment is diminishing – it has decreased by 494 000 compared with February 2014 – this is taking place at too slow a pace; criticises the inadequacy of the Youth Employment Initiative to deal with the scale of the youth unemployment crisis in the EU;
Amendment 18 #
2015/2006(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas in 2012 the International Labour Organisation estimated that the implementation of an effective Youth Guarantee in Europe would require new spending of €21 billion; regrets that the Commission has only committed to €6 billion for the Youth Employment Initiative; recognises and welcomes the fact however that commitments have been made to speed up the delivery of Youth Employment Initiative funds to Member States but calls for even stronger commitments from the European Commission to tackle this serious problem and a properly funded and properly implemented Youth Guarantee;
Amendment 111 #
2015/2006(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Believes that education has a real part to play in developing a culture of innovation in the workforce; Stresses that at all levels of education, even elementary, the teaching of practical entrepreneurship skills and the fostering of motivation and readiness should be provided;
Amendment 157 #
2015/2006(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. CExpresses concern at the impact the EFSI will have on research and innovation projects considering the fact that 500 million is to be taken from Horizon 2020 over the next 5 years; calls on the Commission to useensure that the European Fund for Strategic Investment is used to support entrepreneurship education at national and local level;
Amendment 209 #
2015/2006(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Urges Member States to ensure that our young entrepreneurs have the access to finance that they require and that they are supported at every stage;
Amendment 215 #
2015/2006(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Encourages Member States to provide specific training to teachers to enable them to foster and encourage entrepreneurial skills and to consider including entrepreneurship as part of the education curriculum;
Amendment 1 #
2015/0063(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on the Commission to refer the matter to Pthe national parliament agains if it intends to amend its proposal substantially or replace it with another text;
Amendment 145 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) The EFSI is part of a comprehensive approach to strengthen social, economic and territorial cohesion and to address uncertainty surrounding public and private investments. The strategy has three pillars: mobilising finance for investment,; making investment reach the real economy, in particular in the less developed regions, in urban and rural areas facing social economical and financial constraints, and improving the investment environment in the Union.
Amendment 174 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) The purpose of the EFSI should be to help resolve the difficulties in financing and implementing productive, public- led investments in the Union and to ensure increased access to financing. It is intended that increased access to financing should be of particular benefit to social enterprises, cooperatives, micro, small and medium enterprises. It is also appropriate to extend the benefit of such increased access to financing to mid- cap companies, which are companies having up to 3000 employees. Overcoming Europe's current investment difficulties should contribute to strengthening the Union's economic, social and territorial cohesion.
Amendment 198 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) The EFSI should support strategic investments with high social, environmental, territorial and economic value added, contributing to achieving Union policy objectives, in particular the Union's economic, social and territorial cohesion; particular attention shall be paid to the outermost regions, urban and rural areas facing particular social, economical and financial constraints, areas affected by industrial transition, high unemployment rates, and regions which suffer from severe and permanent natural or demographic impairments, such as, the northernmost regions with very low population density and island, crossborder and mountain regions.
Amendment 222 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) Many social enterprises, cooperatives, micro, small and medium enterprises, as well as mid-cap companies, across the Union require assistance to attract market financing, especially as regards investments that carry a greater degree of risk. The EFSI should help these businesses to overcome capital shortages by allowing the EIB and the European Investment Fund ('EIF') to provide direct and indirect equity injections, as well as to provide guarantees for high-quality securitisation of loans, and other products that are granted in pursuit of the aims of the EFSI.
Amendment 334 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) Decisions on the use of the EFSI support for infrastructure and large mid- cap projects should be made by an Investment Committee. The Investment Committee should be composed of independent experts who are knowledgeable and experienced in the areas of investment projects. The Investment Committee should be accountable to a Steering Board of the EFSI, who should supervise the fulfilment of the EFSI's objectives. The Steering Board of the EFSI should be accountable to the European Parliament and the European Council. To effectively benefit from the experience of the EIF, the EFSI should support funding to the EIF to allow the EIF to undertake individual projects in the areas of small and medium enterprises and small mid-cap companies.
Amendment 498 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 31
Recital 31
(31) Within the Union, there are a significant number of potentially viable projects, in particular in less developed, outermost, remote and transition regions, that are not being financed due to a lack of certainty and transparency with respect to such projects. Often, this is because private investors are not aware of the projects or have insufficient information to make an assessment of the investment risks. The Commission and the EIB, with support from the Member States, should promote the creation of a transparent pipeline of current and future investment projects in the Union suitable for investment. This 'project pipeline' should ensure that information is made publicly available regarding investment projects on a regular and structured basis to ensure that investors have reliable information on which to base their investment decisions.
Amendment 565 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
The purpose of the EFSI shall be to strengthen social, economic and territorial cohesion and to support investments in the Union and to ensure increased access to financing for companies having up to 3000 employees, with a particular focus on small and medium enterprises, through the supply of risk bearing capacity to the EIB ('EFSI Agreement').
Amendment 593 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 2
Article 1 – paragraph 2
2. The EFSI Agreement shall be open to accession by Member States. Subject to the consent of existing contributors, the EFSI Agreement shall also be open to accession by other public third parties, including national promotional banks or public agencies owned or controlled by Member States, and private sector entities.
Amendment 601 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Project covering Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) are eligible to EFSI.
Amendment 646 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point d a (new)
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point d a (new)
(da) the methodology to ensure a balanced and equitable distribution of investments and that adequately address the investment needs in all categories of regions as defined in the Common Provision Regulation (CPR);
Amendment 857 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2
Article 3 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2
The Investment Committee shall be composed of six independent experts and the Managing Director. Independent experts shall have a high level of relevant market experience in project finance and, as well as of public and public-led project investment experience. They shall be appointed by the Steering Board for a renewable fixed term of three years.
Amendment 877 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2 a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2 a (new)
The Steering board of the EFSI is accountable to the European Parliament and to the European Council, who supervise its compliance to EFSI's objectives and EU's social, economic and territorial cohesion objectives, while ensuring the full safeguard of public interest.
Amendment 878 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2 b (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2 b (new)
Amendment 963 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point b
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point b
(b) investment in education and trainingprioritising public-led investments in education and training, social inclusion, fight against poverty, health, research and development, information and communications technology and innovation, cultural industry, innovation, and maritime economy;
Amendment 971 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point b a (new)
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point b a (new)
(ba) investments in sectors with high job creation potential, focusing on long-term and sustainable effects, in particular investments in the social field, including social protection, social care and services and the social economy;
Amendment 972 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point b b (new)
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point b b (new)
(bb) The Steering board shall include social and equality provisions in the guidelines in its operation procedures including its investment policy.
Amendment 992 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point d
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point d
(d) infrastructure projects in the environmental, natural resources, urban development and, social fields and maritime economy;
Amendment 1069 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 4
Article 5 – paragraph 4
4. Provided that all relevant eligibility criteria are fulfilled and that the principle of additionality of EFSI is guaranteed while prioritising public interest, Member States may use European Structural and Investment Funds to contribute to the financing of eligible projects in which the EIB is investing with the support of the EU guarantee.
Amendment 1239 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 10 – paragraph 2 – point b
(b) an assessment of the added value, the mobilisation of public and private sector resources, the estimated and actual outputs, outcomes and impact of EIB financing and investment operations at an aggregated basis; and an evaluation of the impact, accessibility and costs to the citizen, in particular when related to projects involving the development and/or reinforcement of infrastructures and provision of essential services, namely in the areas of social protection, social and care services, social economy, education and training, health, research, development information, communication technology and innovation.
Amendment 1260 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 2 – point f a (new)
Article 10 – paragraph 2 – point f a (new)
(fa) detailed information regarding tax payments resulting from its investment and lending operations under the EFSI;
Amendment 1317 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) the EIB shall publish a comprehensive report on the functioning of the EFSI, in particular with an impact analysis regarding growth and jobs;
Amendment 1335 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 1
Article 13 – paragraph 1
Amendment 1340 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 13 – paragraph 1 a (new)
The EIB shall provide information on its website on the estimated costs of each project, the names of the economic operators involved, information on the return of each project, its compliance with article 5(2) and an evaluation of the impact, accessibility and costs to the citizen, in particular when related to projects, involving the development or reinforcement of infrastructures and provision of essential services, namely in the areas of social protection, social and care services, social economy, education and training, health, research, development information, communication technology and innovation.
Amendment 1351 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 1
Article 14 – paragraph 1
The EU guarantee and the payments and recoveries under it that are attributable to the general budget of the Union shall be audited by the Court of Auditorsexternal audit of the activities undertaken in accordance with the EFSI Regulation is carried out by the European Court of Auditors in accordance with article 287 TFEU.
Amendment 1370 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 16 – paragraph 1
Article 16 – paragraph 1
1. In its financing and investment operations, the EIB shall not support any activities carried out for illegal purposes, including money laundering, financing of terrorism, tax fraud and tax evasion, corruption, or fraud affecting the financial interests of the Union. In particular the EIB shall not participate in any financing or investment operation through a vehicle located in a non-cooperative jurisdiction, in line with its policy towards weakly regulated or non-cooperative jurisdictions based on policies of the Union, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development or the Financial Action Task Force. The EIB shall not cooperate with financial intermediaries having a negative track record in terms of transparency, tax evasion and aggressive tax planning practices, or use other harmful tax practices such as "tax rulings" and abusive transfer pricing.
Amendment 1376 #
2015/0009(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 16 – paragraph 2
Article 16 – paragraph 2
2. In its financing and investment operations, the EIB shall apply the principles and standards set out in Union law on the prevention of the use of the financial system for the purpose of money laundering and termade under the EFSI, through Investment platforms, national and regional promotional banks or other vehicle, the EIB shall make both direct funding and funding via intermediaries contingent upon disclosure of both country by country tax relevant data along the lines of the CRDIV prorvist financing, including a requirement to take reasonable measures to identify the beneficial owners where applicablion for credit institutions, as well as disclosure of beneficial ownership information according to the EU Anti- money Laundering Directive.
Amendment 139 #
2014/2254(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G a (new)
Recital G a (new)
Ga. whereas article 22 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union obliges the Union to "respect cultural, religious and linguistic diversity",
Amendment 148 #
2014/2254(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G b (new)
Recital G b (new)
Gb. whereas fundamental freedoms, human rights and equal opportunities shall be provided for all citizens of the European Union including persons belonging to national and linguistic minorities;
Amendment 402 #
2014/2254(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Deplores the fact that even today people belonging to minorities are still victims of discrimination; calls for more consistency of the European Union in the field of minority protection; strongly believes that all Member States as well as candidate countries shall be bound by the same principles and criteria in order to avoid the application of double standards; Calls therefore, as a part of resolving the so- called Copenhagen dilemma, for the establishment of an effective mechanism to monitor and ensure fundamental and acquired rights of national and linguistic minorities both in candidate countries and in countries already admitted to the European Union;
Amendment 415 #
2014/2254(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Urges the EU and the Member States to take substantive measures to ban discrimination on the grounds of speaking a regional language and/or being a member of a national minority. According to an ELEN report to the UN there have been several cases where EU citizens in some Member States have been beaten and/or humiliated by State employees for using their regional language, thereby transgressing their fundamental human rights;
Amendment 12 #
2014/2253(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Stresses that in its Resolution of 11 September 2013, the European Parliament reminded that the Commission should pay attention to the fact that, with their policies, some Member States and regions are endangering the survival of languages inside their borders, even if those languages are not in danger in the European context, and called on the Commission to consider the administrative and legislative obstacles posed to projects relating to these languages; calls on the Commission in that regard to take into thorough consideration the minority rights perspective while evaluating the application of EU law;
Amendment 1 #
2014/2245(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that in order to contribute efficiently to combating the high levels of youth unemployment, EU cohesion policy needs to be fully in line with the Europe 2020 strategy, and in particular the headline targets for education oftackle education issues, in particular reducing school drop-out rates to below 10 % and increasing the share of young people with a third-level degree or diploma to at least 40 %, and with the benchmark for an average of at least 15 % of adults to participate in lifelong learning; is deeply concerned by the high levels of unemployment in EU Member States, especially in the Southern Europe;
Amendment 20 #
2014/2245(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Would welcomes the Youth Guarantee Scheme as an efficient means of reducing youth unemploymentif it would secure the future of Europe's youth by guaranteeing them real rights to qualified, adequately paid and stable employment and social security, the right to housing, and the establishment of an "autonomy allowance" mechanism in the context of a European minimum wage; calls on Member States to establish strong partnerships with stakeholders and to make full use of the European Social Fund and other structural funds when implementing the scheme and creating an infrastructure therefor;
Amendment 36 #
2014/2240(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Calls for the balanced development and stronger regulation of aquaculture projects so as not to cause degradation in the areas of in the vicinity of aquaculture facilities. Specifically the negative impact on local economies cause by the genetic degradation of wild fish stocks caused by escaped farmed fish, and the degradation in the context of habitat destruction and alteration alongside the chemical, pathogenic and parasitic contamination from large-scale intensive aquaculture on eco-systems.
Amendment 42 #
2014/2240(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on the Commission in close coordination with Member States to assess the financial requirements for blue growth, in particular in terms of data gathering, research and training; suggests that a plan for such financing be drawn up by 2020;
Amendment 47 #
2014/2240(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls on the Commission to earmark funding for innovation and blue growth to finance fundamental research, R&D, training, business start-ups, SMEs, social enterprises, cooperatives, environmental protection and the sale of innovative products and processes;
Amendment 72 #
2014/2240(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls on the Commission to support both higher education and vocational training, as well as lifelong learning programmes; expresses concern at the impact the EFSI will have on research and development considering the fact that 500 million is to be taken from Horizon 2020 over the next 5 years.
Amendment 3 #
2014/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas films are both economic and culturalcultural and economic goods which contribute greatly to the European economy in terms of growth and employment whilst helping shape European identities by reflecting cultural and linguistic diversity, promoting European cultures across borders and facilitating cultural exchange and mutual understanding among citizens;
Amendment 9 #
2014/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas European films are characterised by their quality, originality and diversity but suffer from limited promotion and distribution across the Union whilst facing intensso that European forms of cinematic story-telling arouse too little international competitioninterest;
Amendment 11 #
2014/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the diversity of European films reflecting the richness and strength of Europe’s cultural and linguistic diversity means that the European film market is naturalpermanently fragmented;
Amendment 35 #
2014/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Suggests that the development of cross- border portability of audiovisual services, taking account of the rapid growth of VOD and online transactions across the Union, could be further explored as this would enable viewerswith the creation of a copyright regulated at European level as this would enable viewers and public libraries, media libraries and public institutions involved in safeguarding film heritage to access films regardless of where they are;
Amendment 87 #
2014/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Calls on the Member States to redouble their efforts to improve media literacy, and in particular film literacy, in school curricula and cultural education establishments, and to develop initiatives at national, regional or local level in formal and informal education and training;
Amendment 9 #
2014/2075(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes with satisfaction that EACEA has further streamlined its selection processes and that it executed 96% of its payments within the contractual time limits; recalls that delays in payments directly affect the beneficiaries’ rights thus jeopardising cultural associations and projects, creativity and the cultural civil society´s diversity; encourages the EACEA to further improve its control systems;
Amendment 3 #
2014/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Recalls the need, at the start of the new Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), for swift and effective implementation of the new programmes at both EU and Member State level, in order to allow these programmes to contribute to the economic recovery process; calls for a particularly speedy implementation of the programmes frontloaded to the first years of the MFF, such as Horizon 2020, COSME, Erasmus+ and the Youth Employment Initiative; stresses the fact that these programmes have a leverage effect and a synergetic and catalytic role in relation to national investment policies and growth and job creation; welcomestakes note, in particular, of the swift launch of the 2014-2020 cohesion policy (in terms of partnership agreements already signed, operational programmes agreed and prefinancing disbursed), the aim of which is to while expresses its deep concern for all the delays and the lack of payment appropriations for all these programmes which aim at increasing the support of growth and job creation; furthermore, expresses its deep concerns on what might be the impact of the macroconditionality criteria and the insertion of the performance reserve on the full and timely implementation of these EU policies;
Amendment 6 #
2014/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. SupportsConsiders that both the EU Youth Guarantee and the Youth Employment Initiative as crucialcould become important means to fighting the dramatically high level of youth unemployment; welcomes, if they would be re- structured and allocated an adequate level of resources; takes note of the recent steps taken by the Commission to assist Member States in the prompt programming of measures financed under the Youth Employment Initiative; insists that further measures need to be taken in order to fully and timely implement these programmes so that they can help in alleviating the inumerous situations of social emergency in several Member States;
Amendment 8 #
2014/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Underlines the fact that the promotion of EU jobs and competitivenesssustainable growth requires that the formation of value chains in the EU be boosted and that EU companies, namely the micro, small and medium enterprises be more firmly integrated at all value-chain levels; recalls the fact that such policies should cover undertakings of all sizbe allocated the sufficient financial resources, be conducive to maintaining the production chain in Europe and support sectors with high growth potential, with a specific focus on innovation, skills, entrepreneurship and creativity;
Amendment 11 #
2014/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Stresses the fact that, at a time when many Member States are heavily reliant on a single energy supplier, including six who are entirely dependent on Russia for their natural gas, the promotion and safeguarding of jobs also requires a reduction in the EU’s vulnerability to external energy shocks, as evidenced by the ongoing crisis in Ukraine; welcomes, in this regard, the conclusions of the European Council meeting of 26- 27 June 2014 and expects these conclusions to be complemented no later than October 2014 by ambitious medium- to long-term measures to enhance the EU’s energy security; calls upon the Commission to re-evaluate its approach and to seriously take into consideration the project to construct the South stream as soon as possible, overcoming all the current constraints, and enabling the stream which avoids Ukraine's territory, on the basis of its instability;
Amendment 15 #
2014/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Underlines the fact that the tight 2014- 2020 ceilings in payments remain a crucial problem for the EU budget, having negative effects on economic recovery given that late payments are harmful primarily to direct beneficiaries; recalls the need to ensure, in the light of implementation, the duly, timely, orderly progression of payments so as to concomitantly deliver on both the payments stemming from past commitments and those resulting from prefinancing to promptly launch the new programmes, and to avoid any abnormal shift of outstanding commitments (RAL) onto the 2015 budget; urges, in this connection, the Council to adopt in full draft amending budget no 3/2014, as submitted by the Commission, in order for the EU budget to have maximum impact in terms of investment on the ground;
Amendment 20 #
2014/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Recalls its view that the fiscal situation of Member States can be eased through a new system of own resources to finance the Union budget, integrating taxation of the financial sector, to finance the Union budget and/or the EU Member States that will reduce gross national income (GNI) contributions, thus enabling Member States to meet their consolidation efforts without jeopardising EU funding to support investment in economic recovery and reform measures; underlines, therefore, the importance it attaches to the new high- level group on own resources, which shall ensure the due and full participation of all EP political groups in all stages of the process, should lead to a true reform of EU financing;
Amendment 3 #
2014/2040(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes the modest increase in commitment appropriations for the Erasmus+ programme in comparison to 2014; points out that due to the high implementation rate of and demand for this programme, sufficient payment appropriations are essential to make the additional commitments count and guarantee the programme’s smooth functioning, especially considering that the European Commission wishes to bring up students mobility up to 20% by the end of the decade;
Amendment 5 #
2014/2040(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Recalls concerning the Student Loan Guarantee Facility that has been granted 3.5% of the budget, that it should be done "on favourable terms for students" "regardless of their social background" and that "this additional and innovative tool for learning mobility should neither replace any current, nor impede the development of any future, grant or loan system supporting student mobility at local, national or Union level";
Amendment 7 #
2014/2040(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Considers it regrettable that the Commission has proposed a lower level of commitment appropriations for the Creative Europe Programme than in 2014, despite its important role in supporting the cultural and creative industries; also recalls the European Parliament's first concerns on the merger of the Culture and Media strands and subsequent policy and funding equilibrium issues for subsidised and commercial cultural operators;
Amendment 17 #
2014/2040(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Notes that the Commission's Communication "Taking stock of the Europe 2020 strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth" pays special attention to youth unemployment reaching 59.2% in Greece and 55.7% in Spain and that "the increasing share of young people neither in employment nor in education or training (NEETs), at 13.2% in 2012, is another major source of concern"; points out that therefore, access to knowledge is a prerequisite to employment and growth and that social aspects and reduction of inequalities must be at the core of every policy implemented;
Amendment 18 #
2014/2040(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Points out that austerity measures destroying public services are jeopardising the possibility for education and training systems to contribute to economic recovery and that lifelong learning must be a high priority in order to fight poverty and inequalities;
Amendment 76 #
2014/0138(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18
Recital 18
(18) Vessels carrying out fisheries with small-scale driftnets may need some time to adjust to the new situA total driftnet ban disregards the fishing fleet capacities of individual member states, as it is overcapacity that brings depleted fish stocks. Consideration must be given to the negative conservational and necessitate a phasing-out period. This Regulation should therefore enter into force on 1 January 2015environmental impact of unsustainable driftnet overfishing by large factory vessels.
Amendment 82 #
2014/0138(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18 a (new)
Recital 18 a (new)
(18a) The socio-economic role of sustainable small-scale driftnet fishing in rural and peripheral communities is considered to be of vital importance.
Amendment 104 #
2014/0138(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) to catch any marine biological resource with driftnets as far as large fish processing vessels, otherwise called factory ships, are concerned; and
Amendment 113 #
2014/0138(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) to keep any kind of driftnet on board of fishingthe aforementioned vessels
Amendment 43 #
2013/0436(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Title
Title
Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Council Regulations (EC) No 850/98, (EC) No 2187/2005, (EC) No 1967/2006, (EC) No 1098/2007, No 254/2002, (EC) No 2347/2002 and, (EC) No 1224/2009 and (EU) No 1380/2013 and repealing (EC) No 1434/98 as regards the landing obligation
Amendment 47 #
2013/0436(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1 a (new)
Recital 1 a (new)
(1a) In order to provide for the inclusion of technical conservation measures in the implementation of regional discard plans, Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the Common Fisheries Policy, amending Council Regulations (EC) No 1954/2003 and (EC) No 1224/2009 and repealing Council Regulations (EC) No 2371/2002 and (EC) No 639/2004 and Council Decision 2004/585/EC should be amended.
Amendment 54 #
2013/0436(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) In addition, in order to allow to fish for queen scallop in area VIa with the appropriate mesh size and to ensure legal certainty, provisions relating to an area closure for the protection of juvenile haddock in ICES division VIb should be amended.
Amendment 67 #
2013/0436(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Chapter -1 – Article -1 (new)
Chapter -1 – Article -1 (new)
Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013
Article 15 – paragraph 6
Article 15 – paragraph 6
Chapter -1 Basic Regulation Article -1 Amendments to Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 is amended as follows: In Article 15, paragraph 6 is replaced by the following: "6. Where no multiannual plan, or no management plan in accordance with Article 18 of Regulation (EC) No 1967/2006, is adopted for the fishery in question, the Commission shall be empowered to adopt, in accordance with Article 18 of this Regulation, delegated acts in accordance with Article 46 of this Regulation, laying down on a temporary basis and for a period of no more than three years a specific discard plan containing the specifications referred to in points (a) to (e) of paragraph 5 of this Article and, where necessary, technical measures as described in points (a) to (e) of Article 7(2) of this Regulation, provided that such measures facilitate improved selectivity and the avoidance and reduction, as far as possible, of unwanted catches. Member States may cooperate, in accordance with Article 18 of this Regulation, in the drawing up of such a plan with a view to the Commission adopting such acts or submitting a proposal in accordance with the ordinary legislative procedure."
Amendment 89 #
2013/0436(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1– point 8
Article 1 – paragraph 1– point 8
Regulation (EC) No 850/98
Article 15–paragraph 3
Article 15–paragraph 3
Amendment 122 #
2013/0436(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 19 – subpoint b a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 19 – subpoint b a (new)
Regulation (EC) No 850/98
Article 29d – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 29d – paragraph 4 a (new)
(ba) In Article 29d, the following paragraph is inserted: “4a. By way of derogation from paragraph 1, it shall be permitted to fish for queen scallop (Aequipecten opercularis) provided that: (a). the fishing gear used is specialised otter trawl gear configured to select against fish catches (60 cm low headline); (b) the fishing gear is constructed with a minimum mesh size of 80 mm; (c) no less than 90% of the retained catch by weight is comprised of queen scallop (Aequipecten opercularis).”
Amendment 131 #
2013/0436(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EC) No 2187/2005
Article 2 – point p
Article 2 – point p
Amendment 146 #
2013/0436(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EC) No 1967/2006
Article 2 – point 18
Article 2 – point 18
Amendment 169 #
2013/0436(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009
Article 7 – paragraph 1
Article 7 – paragraph 1
Amendment 185 #
2013/0436(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point d
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point d
Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009
Article 14 – paragraph 4
Article 14 – paragraph 4
Amendment 240 #
2013/0436(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1a (new)
Article 9 – paragraph 1a (new)
1a. By way of derogation from paragraph 1, points (15) and (16) of Article 7 shall enter into force two years after the landing obligation takes effect in each fishery, in line with the stepwise timetable for the entry into force of the landing obligation established in Article 15 of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013, or in other words: - as from 1 January 2017 for the fisheries referred to in Article 15(1)(a) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013; - as from 1 January 2019 for the fisheries and species referred to in Article 15(1)(b) and (c) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013; - as from 1 January 2021 for the fisheries and species referred to in Article 15(1)(d) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013.