Activities of Grace O'SULLIVAN
Plenary speeches (89)
Amazon forest fires (debate)
Situation in Israel and Palestine, including the settlements (debate)
Animal welfare conditions during transport to third countries (debate)
Compatibility between the current EU - Mercosur Free Trade Agreement and the Commission's proposal for a European Green Deal (topical debate)
COP15 to the Convention on Biological Diversity (Kunming 2020) (debate)
Proposed mandate for negotiations for a new partnership with the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (debate)
Coronavirus outbreak, state of play and ensuring a coordinated European response to the health, economic and social impact (debate)
Determination of a clear risk of a serious breach by the Republic of Poland of the rule of law - LGBTI-free zones in Poland within the scope of the Rete Lenford case (debate)
European Climate Law (debate)
Common agricultural policy - support for strategic plans to be drawn up by Member States and financed by the EAGF and by the EAFRD - Common agricultural policy: financing, management and monitoring - Common agricultural policy – amendment of the CMO and other Regulations (debate)
Future Relations between the EU and the UK (continuation of debate)
Measures to promote the recovery of fish stock above MSY (debate)
The state of play of the EU’s COVID-19 Vaccination Strategy (debate)
Safety of the nuclear power plant in Ostrovets (Belarus) (continuation of debate)
Corporate due diligence and corporate accountability (debate)
Fisheries control (debate)
The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement - The outcome of EU-UK negotiations (debate)
Saving the summer tourism season - EU support to the hospitality sector (debate)
The impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations in developing countries (debate)
EU strategy towards Israel-Palestine (debate)
Environment: The Aarhus Regulation (debate)
EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030: Bringing nature back into our lives (debate)
Climate-resilient EU fisheries and aquaculture (debate)
General Union Environment Action Programme to 2030 (debate)
Establishment of Antarctic Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and the conservation of Southern Ocean biodiversity (debate)
Announcement of voting results
Situation in Afghanistan (debate)
The role of development policy in the response to biodiversity loss in developing countries, in the context of the achievement of the 2030 Agenda (debate)
The Right to a Healthy Environment (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Outcome of the COP26 in Glasgow (debate)
Preparation of the European Council meeting of 16-17 December 2021 - The EU's response to the global resurgence of Covid-19 and the new emerging Covid variants (debate)
EU-Russia relations, European security and Russia’s military threat against Ukraine (debate)
The deterioration of the situation of refugees as a consequence of the Russian aggression against Ukraine (debate)
General Union Environment Action Programme to 2030 (debate)
Situation in Afghanistan, in particular the situation of women’s rights (debate)
A sustainable blue economy in the EU: the role of fisheries and aquaculture (short presentation)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Article 17 of the Common Fisheries Policy Regulation (short presentation)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Parliament’s right of initiative (debate)
Implementation and delivery of the Sustainable Development Goals (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Question Time (Commission) Increasing EU ambitions on biodiversity ahead of COP 15
Question Time (Commission) Increasing EU ambitions on biodiversity ahead of COP 15
Objection pursuant to Rule 111(3): Amending the Taxonomy Climate Delegated Act and the Taxonomy Disclosures Delegated Act (debate)
Consequences of drought, fire, and other extreme weather phenomena: increasing EU's efforts to fight climate change (debate)
Momentum for the Ocean: strengthening Ocean Governance and Biodiversity (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Commission implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/1614 of 15 September 2022 determining the existing deep-sea fishing areas and establishing a list of areas where vulnerable marine ecosystems are known to occur or are likely to occur (debate)
Commission implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/1614 of 15 September 2022 determining the existing deep-sea fishing areas and establishing a list of areas where vulnerable marine ecosystems are known to occur or are likely to occur (debate)
A post-2020 Global biodiversity framework and the UN Convention on Biological Diversity COP15 (debate)
Towards equal rights for persons with disabilities (debate)
Prospects for the two-State solution for Israel and Palestine (debate)
Shipments of waste (debate)
Criminalisation of humanitarian assistance, including search and rescue (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
CO2 emission standards for cars and vans (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Deterioration of democracy in Israel and consequences on the occupied territories (debate)
Deaths at sea: a common EU response to save lives and action to ensure safe and legal pathways (debate)
European Citizens’ Initiative "Save bees and farmers! Towards a bee-friendly agriculture for a healthy environment" (debate)
The need for European solidarity in saving lives in the Mediterranean, in particular in Italy (debate)
Keeping people healthy, water drinkable and soil liveable: getting rid of forever pollutants and strengthening EU chemical legislation now (topical debate)
IPCC report on Climate Change: a call for urgent additional action (debate)
Protecting and restoring marine ecosystems for sustainable and resilient fisheries - Agreement of the IGC on Marine Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (High Seas Treaty) (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Implementation and delivery of the Sustainable Development Goals (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Delivering on the Green Deal: risk of compromising the EU path to the green transition and its international commitments (debate)
Ambient air quality and cleaner air for Europe (debate)
The proposed extension of glyphosate in the EU (debate)
Fisheries control (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Composition of political groups
Packaging and packaging waste (debate)
Humanitarian situation in Gaza, the need for the release of hostages and for an immediate humanitarian truce leading to a ceasefire and the prospects for peace and security in the Middle East (debate)
Frontex, building on the fact-finding investigation of the LIBE Working Group for Frontex Scrutiny (debate)
Outcome of the UN Climate Change Conference 2023 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (COP28) (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Recent ecological catastrophe involving plastic pellet losses and its impact on micro plastic pollution in the maritime and coastal habitats (debate)
The EU priorities for the 68th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (debate)
EU climate risk assessment, taking urgent action to improve security and resilience in Europe (debate)
The immediate risk of mass starvation in Gaza and the attacks on humanitarian aid deliveries
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Preventing plastic pellet losses to reduce microplastic pollution (debate)
Prohibiting products made with forced labour on the Union market (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Reports (3)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on a General Union Environment Action Programme to 2030
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council laying down conservation and management measures for the Conservation of the Southern Bluefin Tuna
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2019/833 laying down conservation and enforcement measures applicable in the Regulatory Area of the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organisation
Shadow reports (9)
RECOMMENDATION FOR SECOND READING on the Council position at first reading with a view to the adoption of a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on minimum requirements for water reuse
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending the Regulation (EU) 2019/833 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2019 laying down conservation and enforcement measures applicable in the Regulatory Area of the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organisation
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Council Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009, and amending Council Regulations (EC) No 768/2005, (EC) No 1967/2006, (EC) No 1005/2008, and Regulation (EU) No 2016/1139 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards fisheries control
REPORT on the impact on the fishing sector of offshore wind farms and other renewable energy systems
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council laying down conservation and management measures applicable in the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Convention Area and amending Council Regulation (EC) No 520/2007
REPORT on Toward a sustainable blue economy in the EU: the role of the fisheries and aquaculture sectors
REPORT on co-management of fisheries in the EU and the contribution of the fisheries sector for the implementation of management measures
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on packaging and packaging waste, amending Regulation (EU) 2019/1020 and Directive (EU) 2019/904, and repealing Directive 94/62/EC
REPORT on the impact of illegal fishing on food security – the role of the European Union
Shadow opinions (12)
OPINION on the draft Council decision on the conclusion of the Free Trade Agreement between the European Union and the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam
OPINION on the draft Council decision on the conclusion of the Free Trade Agreement between the European Union and the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam
OPINION on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA) for the financial year 2018
OPINION on Recommendations on the negotiations for a new partnership with the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
OPINION on a new approach to the Atlantic maritime strategy
OPINION on a Farm to Fork Strategy for a fair, healthy and environmentally friendly food system
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the Brexit Adjustment Reserve
OPINION on a European strategy for offshore renewable energy
Opinion on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council laying down rules for the exercise of the Union's rights in the implementation and enforcement of the Agreement on the withdrawal of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland from the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community and of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community, of the one part, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, of the other part.
OPINION on the implementation report on the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement
OPINION on the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Directive 2009/18/EC establishing the fundamental principles governing the investigation of accidents in the maritime transport sector
OPINION on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA) for the financial year 2022
Institutional motions (22)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation at the USA-Mexican border
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Egypt
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION On Uganda, notably the proposed bill to impose capital punishment of homosexual acts
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on children’s rights on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the PRC national security law for Hong Kong and the need for the EU to defend Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the declaration of the EU as an LGBTIQ Freedom Zone
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/621 of 15 April 2021 amending Regulation (EU) No 37/2010 to classify the substance imidacloprid as regards its maximum residue limit in foodstuffs of animal origin
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the systematic repression in Belarus and its consequences for European security following the abductions from an EU civilian plane intercepted by the Belarusian authorities
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the establishment of Antarctic Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and the conservation of Southern Ocean biodiversity
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Afghanistan
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION The state law relating to abortion in Texas, USA
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the state law relating to abortion in Texas, USA
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the first anniversary of the de facto abortion ban in Poland
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Afghanistan, in particular the situation of women’s rights
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation of indigenous and environmental defenders in Brazil, including the killing of Dom Phillips and Bruno Pereira
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on momentum for the ocean: strengthening ocean governance and biodiversity
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the prospects for the two-state solution for Israel and Palestine
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on suspicions of corruption from Qatar and the broader need for transparency and accountability in the European institutions
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION the storming of the Brazilian democratic institutions
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the need for EU action on search and rescue in the Mediterranean
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the despicable terrorist attacks by Hamas against Israel, Israel’s right to defend itself in line with humanitarian and international law and the humanitarian situation in Gaza
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION The immediate risk of mass starvation in Gaza and the attacks on humanitarian aid deliveries
Oral questions (9)
LGBTI-free zones in Poland within the scope of the Rete Lenford case
Imminent threat to the rule of law and democracy in Bulgaria
Breaches of EU law and of the rights of LGBTIQ citizens in Hungary as a result of the adopted legal changes in the Hungarian Parliament
An EU Commissioner for Animal Welfare
An EU Commissioner for Animal Welfare
Legal protection for rainbow families exercising free movement, in particular the Baby Sara case
Prohibiting chick and duckling killing in EU law
How to tackle the biggest cause of death in the EU? Towards an EU Cardiovascular Health Plan
Promised revision of the EU animal welfare legislation and the animal welfare-related European Citizens’ Initiatives
Written explanations (191)
Specific measures to mobilise investments in the health care systems of the Member States and in other sectors of their economies in response to the COVID-19 outbreak (Coronavirus Response Investment Initiative)
People are suffering and consumed with worry. Internationally, containment and isolation measures will have positive results in terms of flattening the curve on the spread of Covid-19, but we must continue with these measures and be prepared for tough times ahead of us.The actions already underway need to be matched with a mobilisation of investment in healthcare systems throughout the European Union.Compassion should, of course, be at the heart of all decisions we take. The most vulnerable should be prioritised. We’ve witnessed the suffering of refugees on the Greek borders. Behind closed doors people are suffering too. I am particularly concerned at the plight of asylum seekers and others living in large group residences, where we are hearing of wholly inadequate responses in terms of social distancing and self-isolation.These are unsettling times and we’re witnessing a new world being born in tragic circumstances, but we must give European citizens hope and confidence in our ability as parliamentarians to act in their best interests with dedication and kindness.
General budget of the European Union for the financial year 2021 - all sections (A9-0206/2020 - Pierre Larrouturou, Olivier Chastel)
I was happy to support the Resolution on the Annual budget 2021. The European Parliament’s reading for the 2021 budget reflects the EP priorities as set out in its July 2020 resolution concerning the volume and the priorities among them being Climate, Biodiversity and Gender issues. Therefore, the EP reading is certainly the most ambitious, progressive and Climate-friendly ever.
Programme for the Union's action in the field of health for the period 2021-2027 (“EU4Health Programme”) (A9-0196/2020 - Cristian-Silviu Buşoi)
Along with my colleagues in the Greens/EFA Group, I was pleased to vote in favour of the EU Health Action Programme 2021–2027 (EU4Health). The pandemic we are living through shows us how important it is to invest in healthcare.This programme will fund various actions in the field of public health based on three general objectives: (i) protecting people in the EU from serious cross-border health threats and improving crisis management capacity; (ii) making medicines, medical devices and other crisis-relevant products available and affordable and supporting innovation; and (iii) strengthening health systems and the healthcare workforce, including by investing in public health, for instance through health promotion and disease prevention programmes and improving access to healthcare.I am glad that the Greens/EFA Group played an active role in successfully amending the final text to include key provisions with regard to prevention, health inequalities, stress tests, health determinants and access to sexual and reproductive health services, as well as the adoption of indicators for harmful alcohol use and environmental pollution.
InvestEU Programme (A9-203/2020 - José Manuel Fernandes, Irene Tinagli)
It is regretful that the revision of the InvestEU programme to help with the negative consequences of the COVID—19 crisis was not seized as an opportunity to better align InvestEU with the objectives of the Green Deal and the EU’s climate commitments. The Greens/EFA put forward amendments that would improve the text to include better language on climate and gender which ultimately were not supported. Therefore, I could not support the final text of this file that was presented in the plenary session and accordingly voted against it.
The impact of Covid-19 measures on democracy, fundamental rights and rule of law (B9-0343/2020)
This resolution takes into account national measures to tackle COVID-19. I, along with my Green/EFA colleagues, voted in favour of this resolution because it stated that national emergency measures should be necessary, proportionate and time-limited. Freedom of media should be respected and disinformation challenged. Additionally, the resolution also called for the continued right to education as well as protection for vulnerable groups.
Objection pursuant to Rule 112: Lead in gunshot in or around wetlands (B9-0364/2020)
. ‒ I voted against the objection to the ban on lead in gunshot over wetlands. Lead is a non-threshold poison, meaning no level of exposure is safe for humans or animals. Lead in shot is the single biggest source of lead emissions into the environment and around one million waterbirds die a slow and painful death from lead poisoning every year. This is unnecessary given that safe and affordable alternatives to lead shot exist.Under the African Eurasian Migratory Waterbird Agreement (AEWA) there is an international legal obligation for the EU and its Member States to ban lead shot in wetlands, in place since 1999. This ban is therefore long overdue. My colleagues in the Greens/EFA Group in the European Parliament have advocated for the implementation of this obligation for many years, knowing the importance of banning lead as part of the green vision for a non-toxic environment. This was an important vote for the protection of vulnerable wildlife at a time when we find ourselves in the midst of a biodiversity emergency.
Strengthening media freedom: the protection of journalists in Europe, hate speech, disinformation and the role of platforms (A9-0205/2020 - Magdalena Adamowicz)
I was happy to support this important own-initiative report, which analyses the situation of media freedom in the EU. It includes progressive language and strong wording concerning investigative journalists and whistle-blowers and their crucial role in holding power to account and as watchdogs in society. It also echoes the importance of ensuring the safety of journalists, as well as the right to be informed and have access to information, and the transparency of media ownership.I welcome several demands included in this report, such as the need for an ambitious EU media action plan and an EU strategy on media literacy, as well as an anti-SLAPP Directive, a rapid-response mechanism for journalists requesting protection, and increased EU funding for media literacy programmes.And importantly, there are several specific paragraphs on female journalists and gender equality in the media sector, stressing that women should be granted additional safeguards due to the multiple discrimination they might experience, and that they should be able to hold creative and decision-making positions, which would enable to contribute to the reduction of gender stereotypes.
Situation of Fundamental Rights in the European Union - Annual Report for the years 2018-2019 (A9-0226/2020 - Clare Daly)
I was happy to vote in favour of the report on the Situation of Fundamental Rights in the EU for the years 2018 - 2019. The aim of this report is to call attention to the areas where fundamental rights are being overlooked or threatened in the EU. It contains progressive and constructive calls for improvement in important areas such as gender equality; media freedom; the rights of refugees, asylum seekers and migrants; and prison conditions.I am pleased that through the amendments process at the committee stage, the Greens/EFA Group successfully reinforced wording on freedom of assembly, investigative journalism and whistle-blowing; rule of law including the independence of judiciary; data protection; prison conditions in the EU; equal treatment and anti-racism including structural racism; sexual health and reproductive rights; and the concerns about shrinking space for civil society.Fundamental rights are not guaranteed in the EU or anywhere in the world and violations of such rights should always be called out.
Elimination of customs duties on certain products (A9-0217/2020 - Bernd Lange)
It has been the position of the Greens/EFA not to support favourable trade deals with non-signatories of the Paris Agreement, which requires all parties to combat climate change and adapt to its effects. For the time being, the United States has not committed to this most fundamental promise to our planet and to future generations. I hope to see this change under the next administration, however I believe this principle should be upheld as long as the US remains out of the agreement. For this reason I have abstained on this report.In addition, it is regrettable that the Commission has moved to strike this ‘mini trade deal’ with the United States without any consultation of those citizens most impacted by the decision. Our small-scale fishers, coastal communities and hospitality sector have suffered greatly from the impact of COVID-19. This decision to reduce tariffs on US lobster threatens the market for high-quality European lobster, which supports the livelihoods of families across the Eastern Atlantic, Mediterranean and Black Sea.
Abortion rights in Poland (B9-0373/2020)
I voted in favour of this resolution, which condemns the systemic degradation of the rule of law in Poland, emphasises the illegitimacy of the Constitutional Tribunal and strongly condemns the denial of access to abortion and the violation of fundamental rights.My colleagues Sylwia Spurek and Terry Reintke managed to incorporate important Green demands in order to produce a comprehensive final text, including calls for the expansion of the current Article 7 procedure and for the Commission to address the latest developments in the context of the procedure, for unimpeded access to abortion care and all sexual and reproductive health care services, for inclusive language on rights of LGBTI+ persons, and for condemnation of excessive violence employed by law enforcement against protestors.
European Year of Rail (2021) (A9-0191/2020 - Anna Deparnay-Grunenberg)
I was happy to vote in favour of the report that will make 2021 the European Year of Rail. The aim of this report is to ensure that rail will be promoted within the European Union with the aim of kick-starting a ‘renaissance of rail’. I am pleased that the Greens/EFA Group successfully strengthened the scope of the report through their rapporteurship. As part of the year of rail’s activities, investments in infrastructure and night trains are to be encouraged, and the Commission should launch a study on rail connectivity index which will help guide such investments. Rail travel is one of the most environmentally friendly and energy-efficient modes of transport and support for it will be crucial if we are to achieve the modal shift targets that can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and pollution from the transport sector.
MFF, Rule of Law Conditionality and Own Resources (B9-0428/2020, B9-0429/2020)
. ‒ This joint resolution from the Greens/EFA, PPE, S&D and Renew Europe Groups took stock of the momentous agreements reached at EU-level this year. These include an unprecedented EUR 1.8 trillion package consisting of the long-term budget coupled with the EUR 750 billion Recovery Instrument, and a new Rule of Law Regulation. The resolution welcomes these achievements, while also making important comments on the December European Council conclusions. I was pleased to join my colleagues voting in favour of this resolution.
Implementation of the Dublin III Regulation (A9-0245/2020 - Fabienne Keller)
The Dublin Regulation sets the criteria to determine a Member State responsible for every asylum application lodged in the EU. This Report stresses the issues with the Dublin regulation and calls for better implementation of existing provisions, coupled with stronger political will to ensure relocation of asylum applicants. Along with Greens/EFA colleagues, I voted in favour of this report.
Implementation of the Return Directive (A9-0238/2020 - Tineke Strik)
EU Strategy on adaptation to climate change (B9-0422/2020)
I voted in favour of this resolution, which presents the Parliament’s position on the upcoming EU Strategy on Adaptation to Climate Change, due to be published by the European Commission as part of the European Green Deal in 2021. The resolution stresses the need for a renewed focus on adaptation to come in parallel with ambitious mitigation measures in line with our obligation under the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to 1.5°C. In particular, I welcome the call for adaptation to be taken into account when building new, and renovating existing, infrastructure and in spatial planning. The clear focus on ecosystems—based solutions and green infrastructure, especially in cities, is also welcome as this can simultaneously contribute to climate mitigation, adaptation, protection of biodiversity and combating pollution. I am glad that the Greens/EFA Group managed to strengthen the text by co—tabling a successful amendment that calls for binding and quantifiable goals both at EU and MS level to be included in the upcoming Strategy.
Implementation of the Common Security and Defence Policy - annual report 2020 (A9-0265/2020 - Sven Mikser)
Measures to promote the recovery of fish stock above MSY (A9-0264/2020 - Caroline Roose)
I am delighted to support this own initiative report, which provides vital proposals for the better protection of the marine environment and more productive fish stocks. The European Union urgently needs to expand the scientific assessment of exploited fish stocks, provide more transparency in Council negotiations on fishing quotas, and establish coherent marine protected areas for 30% of EU waters.
Decent and affordable housing for all (A9-0247/2020 - Kim Van Sparrentak)
700 000 people will sleep rough in Europe tonight. In Ireland, 8000 people are without a home today. I support this report as it says this does not have to be the case. Everyone deserves decent and affordable housing. The crux of the report is that we must recognise housing as a fundamental right under EU law, end homelessness in the EU by 2030 and bring together our national strategies through the establishment of an EU framework for national homelessness strategies. The report sends a strong message that Member States must do more.
The gender perspective in the COVID-19 crisis and post-crisis period (A9-0229/2020 - Frances Fitzgerald)
I was pleased to vote in favour of this report on the gender aspect of the COVID-19 crisis. It defines the ways in which the pandemic will have a significant and long-term impact with a disproportionate effect on women and girls, in particular those who face multiple forms of discrimination. Our plans for recovering from this crisis must take into account gender equality, including intersectionality, sustainability and the wellbeing of all.
Establishing the Recovery and Resilience Facility (A9-0214/2020 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial, Siegfried Mureşan, Dragoș Pîslaru)
The establishment of the Recovery and Resilience Facility is seminal in our path to a green COVID recovery. This agreement aims to support reforms and investments by Member States to mitigate the economic and social consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and make EU economies more sustainable. I was happy to support the green wins that came through in the negotiations such as ensuring there is a climate-focus to spending. In total, the RRF will make €672.5 billion available (€312.5 billion in grants and €360 billion in loans) for Member States to invest and rebuild after the COVID crisis. These finds will be essential in ensuring that the transition from a fossil fuel based economy to a green economy.
New Circular Economy Action Plan: see Minutes (A9-0008/2021 - Jan Huitema)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report outlining Parliament’s position towards the New Circular Economy Action Plan, one of the many initiatives proposed by the European Commission as part of the European Green Deal. The New Circular Economy Action Plan includes broad measures concerning product design, sustainable consumption and waste exports, as well as specific measures for key value chains such as electronics, batteries, plastics, textiles, construction and buildings, and food. I am pleased that the report includes a call for a binding target to significantly reduce the EU material and consumption footprint by 2030, as pushed by the Greens/EFA group. Other welcome aspects are the call to ensure the circular economy is toxic-free and the Commission come out with a proposal for an inclusive and comprehensive legal instrument on the ‘right to repair’.
A WTO-compatible EU carbon border adjustment mechanism (A9-0019/2021 - Yannick Jadot)
A Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) would apply a similar carbon price to both EU production and imports, a necessary step to tackle GHG emissions embedded in international trade. The Greens/EFA worked with all the political groups to define the principles on which such a carbon levy should be built. In the ENVI Committee, all major political groups supported the phasing—out of the current free allocation of emissions allowances for polluting industries under the Emissions Trading Scheme in parallel with the introduction of a CBAM. Disappointingly, these groups did not keep the same position for the final vote in plenary and so there is no clear call in this report for the crucially important phasing—out of free allowances. Instead, a slim majority of the Parliament voted to weaken the environmental integrity and WTO compatibility of a CBAM, two criteria which are necessary for its existence and proper functioning. For this reason, I abstained on this report along with my Greens/EFA colleagues. While we support the introduction of a CBAM, it must be done in such a way that results in real incentives for industry to decarbonise. This report does not do that.
Corporate due diligence and corporate accountability (A9-0018/2021 - Lara Wolters)
I was happy to vote in favour of this report. In this report, the European Parliament clearly states its support for European rules requiring companies to identify and remedy risks to human rights, health, the environment or good governance arising from their activities throughout their supply chain. The legislative initiative also proposes to increase transparency and introduce a civil liability mechanism and legal remedies for victims.In addition, the European Parliament calls for complementary measures such as the prohibition of the importation of products related to severe human rights violations such as forced labour or child labour. It is a long-standing demand of the Greens/EFA group that the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights are taken up in binding EU legislation to ensure human rights and sustainability are fully integrated into companies’ business. I believe that companies should be held liable for any damage caused to peoples’ rights, health, and the environment. They should also remedy any harm they have caused.
Fisheries control (A9-0016/2021 - Clara Aguilera)
After working for months on this file, I was disappointed in the end to have to vote against it. The Greens/EFA Group significantly improved this file in Committee and Plenary in terms of better traceability for seafood, better vessel monitoring and action against ghost fishing gear in the seas and oceans. However, ultimately I could not support the expansion of margins of tolerance, which lower our standards in fully documented fisheries and could lead to massive underreporting of catch.
Declaration of the EU as an LGBTIQ Freedom Zone (B9-0166/2021, B9-0167/2021)
I was proud to join my Greens/EFA colleagues in co-signing and supporting this resolution to declare the EU an LGBTIQ Freedom Zone. This resolution confirms our commitment to fight for the safety, empowerment and equal rights of the LGBTIQ community in all Member States. That means protection from injustice and equal access to services and opportunities. The EU should be a welcoming place for people of all gender identities and sexual orientations. With this resolution, we call on the Commission and Member States to do more to fight the discrimination and harassment of the LGBTIQ community.
Implementation report on the road safety aspects of the Roadworthiness Package (A9-0028/2021 - Benoît Lutgen)
I voted in favour of this report because it sends an important signal to the Commission on the need to ensure vehicles on EU roads are not a hazard to people. Concretely, I am pleased the report calls for, among other things: a tightening of the periodic testing regime for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles; an extension of such inspections to cover two- and three-wheeled vehicles and light trailers; ensuring that proper standardised emissions-testing is covered in the new regulatory framework.
The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (A9-0128/2021 - Andreas Schieder, Christophe Hansen)
I voted in favour of granting consent to the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement. It is time to build the strongest possible relationship with the UK based on common values and a level playing field ensuring the absence of any kind of dumping and lowering of standards. We never wanted to see the UK leave the European Union, but now it is time to ensure this new relationship develops while protecting the Good Friday Agreement and the Withdrawal Agreement.
Soil protection (B9-0221/2021)
Together with my Greens/EFA colleagues, I voted in favour of this resolution on soil protection which calls on the Commission to design a comprehensive EU legal framework for the protection of soil. Given that national measures to protect soil have failed to deliver, and considering the inherent transboundary effects of soil degradation, an EU-wide legal framework is required.The lack of such a framework for protecting Europe’s land and soil resources has been identified by the European Environment Agency as a key gap with regard to adequate protection of the environment. Comprehensive legal frameworks already exist in the EU for the protection of air and water, so it makes sense to also have one for soil. I was glad that the resolution’s level of ambition was not diluted by attempts from the PPE Group to delete the word ‘legal’ in this resolution. Doing so would have hollowed out the message that binding EU action is urgently needed to protect soil and combat soil degradation.
Digital Green Certificate - Union citizens (C9-0104/2021 - Juan Fernando López Aguilar)
I voted in support of efforts to ensure freedom of movement during the COVID-19 pandemic through EU-wide recognition of national vaccination and test certificates. As we continue to suffer the impact of the pandemic, the EU COVID-19 Certificate is designed to make travelling and visiting loved ones easier and safer. With the support of the Greens/EFA Group, the measures ensure that personal data is protected, EU citizens cannot be discriminated against on the basis of being vaccinated or not, and Member States must ensure access to COVID testing facilities for all citizens. This is just one tool in our efforts to tackle the pandemic, ultimately we must ensure vaccination is available and accessible to all and in the most timely manner.
Rail passengers' rights and obligations (A9-0045/2021 - Bogusław Liberadzki)
I voted in favour of amendments to the trilogue agreement on rail passenger rights because the proposed deal does not protect or advance passenger rights enough. The amendments, which were tabled by my Greens/EFA colleagues, aimed to improve the situation for those with reduced mobility; to improve the possibility for compensation for passengers in the event of significant delays; and to reduce the scope of the ‘force majeure’ clause whereby too many exemptions to the requirement to provide compensation would have been provided to railway companies. I am disappointed that a majority of MEPs in the Parliament did not stand up for passenger rights by approving the agreement as presented and not voting in favour of the amendments.
European Defence Fund (A9-0120/2021 - Zdzisław Krasnodębski)
I supported the motion for rejection of the Council’s position for the European Defence Fund. I share my group’s concern over allocating €7.9 Bn. to a European Defence Fund without adequate parliamentary oversight or transparency. That is why I supported amendments that would allow for better ethics check, control, exclusion within the EDF. European security and defence policy should be human-rights based, transparent, and accountable to the Parliament.
Just Transition Fund (A9-0135/2020 - Manolis Kefalogiannis)
. – The European Green Deal, and our Climate Law obligation to become the first climate neutral continent by 2050, means EU Member States have to make big changes to reduce their emissions. The Just Transition Fund is an essential part of this ambition. It was created to assist Member States in their transition to a sustainable economy and energy system, especially those countries most dependent on climate-polluting fossil fuels like coal. The money will be used to alleviate the social and economic impacts resulting from the transition towards a climate-neutral economy, through a wide range of activities directed mainly at diversifying economic activity and helping people to adapt to a changing labour market. Ireland is set to receive €77 million from the fund. I was pleased to join my colleagues in voting in favour of the Just Transition Fund agreement.
Mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Greece and France in relation to natural disasters and to Albania, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czechia, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Montenegro, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Spain in relation to a public health emergency (A9-0157/2021 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial)
. – Along with the vast majority of MEPs, I voted to approve this budgetary transfer of money from the EU Solidarity Fund to Ireland and a number of other Member States. Ireland will receive a little under EUR 20.5 million from the fund to assist with the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic. The Solidarity Fund is usually triggered to provide quick support to Member States in the aftermath of a natural disaster. This is the first time it is being used to respond to a public health emergency. It is a great example of the benefits of solidarity among Member States.
The impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations in developing countries (A9-0115/2021 - Mónica Silvana González)
. – Unfortunately, I abstained on this report following the successful attempts by my colleagues in the EPP Group to remove language on providing channels for safe migration for climate-displaced persons. The amendments in question also refused to recognise climate-induced migration as a legal base for international protection. The climate crisis affects vulnerable populations first and foremost. Europe should and must express solidarity with concrete actions.
The effects of climate change on human rights and the role of environmental defenders on this matter (A9-0039/2021 - María Soraya Rodríguez Ramos)
. – The Commission and Member States must develop a human-rights-based approach to climate change that places the notions of climate justice, non-discrimination, gender-equality and universality at the heart of climate strategies and diplomacy. Among its many ambitious and specific demands, this progressive report calls on the EU to support recognition of the right of a healthy environment at the global level and pushes for ecocide to be considered an international crime by the International Criminal Court. Importantly, it also stresses the need to ensure the consent of indigenous peoples and local communities for any project that may affect their land, territories and natural assets. I was glad that the ambition of the report was increased by amendments tabled by the Greens/EFA group and I was happy to vote in favour of the final text.
Accelerating progress and tackling inequalities towards ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 (B9-0263/2021)
. – I was happy to vote in favour of this report, which calls on the Commission and the Member States to work with partner countries to instate compulsory comprehensive sexual education in their national education plans in order to prevent the spread of AIDS, while also calling for universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights, and access to HIV services. The resolution also calls for a temporary waiver on intellectual property rights for Covid-19 vaccines, equipment and treatments, which I was also happy to support.
Environment: The Aarhus Regulation (A9-0152/2021 - Christian Doleschal)
. – A revision of the 2006 EU Aarhus Regulation is necessary to bring the EU into compliance with the Aarhus Convention, an international agreement which lays down three important rights related to environmental matters: access to information, public participation in decision-making and access to justice. Together with my Green/EFA colleagues, I voted in favour of Parliament’s position, which broadens the scope of the regulation in order to bring it into compliance with the Aarhus Convention. In particular, I welcome the expansion of the right of access to justice for individuals (a right that the 2006 regulation limited to NGOs only) and the wider scope of decisions that can be challenged (including State aid decisions). While this report could have gone further in ensuring that access to justice in environmental matters is a smoother and less cumbersome process, the final text is balanced and progressive.
Data Protection Commissioner v Facebook Ireland Limited, Maximillian Schrems (“Schrems II”) - Case C-311/18 (B9-0267/2021)
. – I supported this motion as it addresses the general lack of enforcement of the GDPR by the Irish DPC. There have been virtually no fines or investigations by the DPC into the big tech companies in Ireland (where they are based). Tech companies should not get a free rein when it comes to Data Protection in Ireland and Ireland as a country needs to ensure that people's personal data is adequately being protected. By calling for infringement procedures against Ireland, we want to show that we are not soft when it comes to personal privacy and big tech.
Liability of companies for environmental damage (A9-0112/2021 - Antonius Manders)
. – I voted in favour of this positive report that calls on the Commission to (1) extend the scope of the Environmental Crime Directive to take into account new types and patterns of environmental crime, and (2) transform the Environmental Liability Directive into a fully harmonised regulation that is aligned with the Paris Agreement. The report rightly acknowledges the intrinsic value of the environment and ecosystems, and their right to effective protection. I also welcome the call to the Commission to study the relevance of ecocide to EU law and EU diplomacy.
Digital future of Europe: digital single market and use of AI for European consumers (A9-0149/2021 - Deirdre Clune)
. – I voted to abstain on this file as I felt that the report could be improved by removing references that can be interpreted as calls to privatisation of public services, as well as the less ambitious targets highlighted therein. The language on avoiding the fragmentation of the digital single market, and removing any existing unjustified barriers and unnecessary administrative requirements, support innovation and equal access to investment opportunities, like the general tone of the report heavily prioritises a certain category of stakeholder and could not be in line with the needs of a socially equitable Europe.
EU Digital COVID Certificate - Union citizens (C9-0104/2021 - Juan Fernando López Aguilar)
I welcome the agreement to ensure freedom of movement in the pandemic by providing a common EU tool ensuring the mutual recognition of national COVID-19-related certificates. The EU Digital COVID Certificate shall not become in any circumstance precondition for exercising free movement rights, and equal weight shall be granted to any of the certificates issued under the umbrella of the COVID-19 Certificate, in order to avoid any possible discrimination based on vaccination status. Member States shall also guarantee equal opportunities to all, by ensuring universal, accessible, timely COVID-19 testing possibilities. The system will have high standards of data protection. The technical approach taken - a public-key infrastructure - ensures that no personal data has to flow across the EU, but only resides on the certificate itself, and in the patient file of the doctor or the testing or vaccination centre. No tracing of where a certificate is shown will therefore be possible. In the event that Member States decide, on the basis of a well-defined national framework, to introduce certificates for purposes other than the ones foreseen in these Regulations, they shall employ this newly EU framework including all the safeguards provided therein.
EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030: Bringing nature back into our lives (A9-0179/2021 - César Luena)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the EU 2030 Biodiversity Strategy, which lays down the Parliament’s position on a very wide range of issues affecting biodiversity. I am glad that the final report maintained most elements of the balanced and progressive text that was adopted by the ENVI Committee and that attempts to weaken the wording by other groups were unsuccessful. The final text shows that a strong majority in the Parliament is serious about meeting the enormous challenge of halting biodiversity loss. We are in the midst of a severe biodiversity crisis, with one in eight species now threatened with extinction. We have far exceeded our planetary boundary when it comes to biodiversity loss and we simply cannot afford to lose any more nature. In Ireland, one third of our 98 native bee species are at risk of extinction while a quarter of native Irish birds are red listed, indicating the highest level of concern for their continued survival. Key to this report was the call for a binding EU Biodiversity Law that would serve as an overarching governance framework for action on biodiversity, similar to the EU Climate Law for climate change.
Meeting the Global Covid-19 challenge: effects of waiver of the WTO TRIPS agreement on Covid-19 vaccines, treatment, equipment and increasing production and manufacturing capacity in developing countries (RC-B9-0306/2021, B9-0306/2021, B9-0307/2021, B9-0308/2021, B9-0309/2021, B9-0310/2021, B9-0311/2021)
I was happy to vote in favour of this joint motion for a resolution, which expresses clear support for a temporary lifting of intellectual property rights on COVID-19 vaccines and other related medical products. A key part of the resolution was the adoption of a Greens/EFA amendment calling for a TRIPS waiver on intellectual property rights (IPRs) with a broad scope beyond patents and vaccines. The amendment also asks for revisiting the global framework for intellectual property rights for future pandemics and calls on the Commission to support such a position and start proactive text-based negotiations at the TRIPS Council level. This amendment was carried by one vote, and I was disappointed that not all of my Irish colleagues supported it. In some developing countries vaccination rates are at a mere 1%. Equity of distribution is vital in this health crisis, and a temporary waiver of intellectual property rights on COVID vaccines is essential in the fight to achieve global vaccine justice. No one is safe until we are all safe.
Objection pursuant to Rule 112(2) and (3): Maximum residue limit for imidacloprid (B9-0313/2021)
I tabled - and voted in favour of - this Objection, which calls on the Commission to block the use of the toxic neonicotinoid imidacloprid in EU salmon farms. The pesticide is already banned in the EU for certain agricultural uses on land, and has been linked to disastrous biodiversity loss. There is mounting evidence that the use of this neonicotinoid has a devastating impact on rivers and waterways and is linked to collapses of fish stocks. Despite this, the European Commission is proposing to establish a Maximum Residue Level for Imidacloprid, which will clear the way for the pesticide’s use in EU aquaculture as a treatment for sea lice.
European Climate Law (Jytte Guteland - A9-0162/2020)
. ‒ I voted against the EU Climate Law for the simple reason that it is not aligned with the commitment in the Paris Agreement to keep global temperature rise to well below 2 degrees and do everything possible to keep it at 1.5 degrees. The 2030 target for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction in this law is set at net minus 55% compared to 1990 levels. The ‘net’ nature of the agreed 2030 target means that the real GHG emissions reduction target in this law is 52.8%. We know that if we want to stay within the Paris Agreement, we must reduce emissions by 65%.Climate scientists are clear in their message that this decade, 2020-2030, is crucial for climate action if we are to avoid catastrophic and irreversible climate breakdown and the Greens/EFA fought hard throughout negotiations to inject this sense of urgency and responsible ambition into the EU Climate Law. The Greens/EFA Group will continue to fight for high ambition in the Fit for 2030 package, with the aim of ensuring that all EU law is in line with the Paris Agreement.
Public sector loan facility under the Just Transition Mechanism (A9-0195/2020 - Johan Van Overtveldt, Henrike Hahn)
I was happy to support this file. The public sector loan facility under the Just Transition Mechanism will be greener and will support local municipalities to implement projects of better quality and higher impact, fully in line with the objectives of the Green Deal. It will also provide the right incentives for green projects and proper monitoring. I support priority being given to projects located in less-developed regions, to projects contributing to climate objectives and to public entities that have adopted a decarbonisation plans.
Official controls on animals and products of animal origin in order to ensure compliance with the prohibition of certain uses of antimicrobials (A9-0195/2021 - Pascal Canfin)
Antimicrobial resistance is a top threat to global public and animal health. For this reason, the EU rightly has strict rules against the use of antimicrobials for growth promotion in farmed animals. I voted in favour of this technical proposal to ensure that the same rules prohibiting the use of antimicrobials are applied to animals and animal products imported to the EU from third countries. It is right that the EU uses its influence as a major trading block to encourage third countries to stop misusing antimicrobials in agriculture.
Sexual and reproductive health and rights in the EU, in the frame of women’s health (A9-0169/2021 - Predrag Fred Matić)
I voted in favour of this progressive and comprehensive report containing strong language in support of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) in the EU. I am glad that a majority of the Parliament supported this report, reaffirming SRHR as human rights which are intrinsically linked with gender equality and combating sexual and gender-based violence. The report addresses a wide whole range of SRHR issues from sexuality education, contraception, abortion and fertility services and takes an intersectional perspective, stressing the fact that women belonging to marginalised groups face even more obstacles to access sexual and reproductive healthcare. I voted against the two counter-motions tabled by the ECR and EPP that removed many important aspects of this report, including the call on Member States to ensure safe and legal access to abortion and to provide period products free of charge for those who need them.
European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (A9-0222/2021 - Gabriel Mato)
I voted against the interinstitutional agreement on the new European Maritime Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF). Our coastal communities and fisheries are in dire need of support for the sustainable transition under the European Green Deal. The EMFAF is intended for that purpose, and yet this agreement is unlikely to provide the vital support to fishers or to marine protection efforts. A recent report from the European Court of Auditors found that only 6% of funding from the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund is used for conservation measures, while much more goes towards environmentally harmful activities. The EMFAF is likely to maintain those harmful subsidies to already profitable industrial fisheries and aquaculture and lacks any binding spending targets on climate and biodiversity. Unfortunately, the Fund constitutes a missed opportunity to support sustainable fisheries, will provide less support to small-scale fishers and is unlikely to contribute to the protection of vulnerable marine ecosystems.
Connecting Europe Facility (A9-0219/2021 - Henna Virkkunen, Marian-Jean Marinescu, Dominique Riquet)
. ‒ I tabled and voted in favour of this rejection amendment because the Connecting Europe Facility should not finance investments in new fossil gas infrastructure, airports, roads and military mobility, as these are at odds with climate goals and commitments and related objectives on health and the environment. Co-legislators should have returned to the negotiation table and agree on an infrastructure financing facility fully aligned with climate goals, the Paris Agreement and sustainability objectives.
General Union Environment Action Programme to 2030 (A9-0203/2021 - Grace O'Sullivan)
I voted in favour of the final report on the General Union Environment Action Programme to 2030 (8th EAP), for which I was rapporteur. The 8th EAP will serve as the EU’s framework programme for environment policy during this most critical decade for climate and biodiversity action. I voted in favour of maintaining the report adopted in the ENVI Committee in its entirety, including in favour of keeping concrete deadlines for phasing out fossil fuel subsidies and other environmentally harmful subsidies. This report had strong language on the need for rapid and far reaching systemic change, including by laying down the objective for the EU to advance towards a sustainable well-being economy where the wellbeing of people and planet is put at the heart of policy and decision making and where economic progress is assessed by measuring more than just GDP growth.
Establishment of Antarctic Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and the conservation of Southern Ocean biodiversity (B9-0369/2021)
On this 60th anniversary of the Antarctic Treaty’s entry into force, I was delighted to table this Resolution, which will provide an important boost to international efforts to establish over 3 million square kilometres of Marine Protected Area in Antarctic waters – potentially the greatest act of marine protection in human history. With the passing of this Resolution by a significant majority, the European Institutions are not united behind this goal at the next meeting of the Commission on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR). The Antarctic Ocean is a significant region for marine biodiversity and a vast carbon sink. It is now more threatened by climate change and human activity than ever before, and deserves strong international protection.
Breaches of EU law and of the rights of LGBTIQ citizens in Hungary as a result of the adopted legal changes in the Hungarian Parliament (B9-0412/2021, B9-0413/2021)
On 15 June 2021, the Hungarian Parliament voted in favour of amendments proposed by Fidesz MPs that severely restrict freedom of speech and children’s rights. The Law prohibits the ‘portrayal and promotion of gender identity different from sex assigned at birth, the change of sex and homosexuality’ in schools, in television programmes and in publicly available advertisements on any platforms for persons aged under 18, even for educational purposes; the Law disqualifies such content from being considered as a public service announcement or social responsibility advertisement even if intended for adults; the Law introduces amendments to the Child Protection Act, the Family Protection Act, the Act on Business Advertising Activity, the Media Act and the Public Education Act.I consider this Law to be in breach of EU law and of the rights of LGBTIQ citizens in Hungary, in particular the freedom to provide services and freedom of movement of goods as set out in the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, the Audiovisual Media Services Directive and E-commerce Directive in conjunction with the Charter of Fundamental Rights. Therefore I voted in favour of the resolution ‘Breaches of EU law and of the rights of LGBTIQ citizens in Hungary as a result of the legal changes adopted in the Hungarian Parliament’.
LGBTIQ rights in the EU (B9-0431/2021)
As a proud member of the LGBTI Intergroup, I was happy to vote in favour of this resolution, which calls on the EU and its Member States to overcome the discrimination that LGBTIQ+ persons suffer and to remove the obstacles rainbow families face when exercising the fundamental right to freedom of movement within the EU.
A new approach to the Atlantic maritime strategy (A9-0243/2021 - Younous Omarjee)
As shadow rapporteur on this file in the PECH Committee, I was happy to support this report on the updated Atlantic maritime strategy. As an Atlantic nation, it is in Ireland’s interests to build on our close ties with our Atlantic neighbours, especially in the aftermath of Brexit. Ireland is a proud member of the Atlantic Maritime Committee, which it currently chairs. Of particular interest to us is the development of maritime shipping links with the European mainland, the integration of ports into the European Green Deal, and a broad campaign of ocean literacy and education for Irish youth.
Extension of validity of safety certificates and licences of railway undertakings operating in the Channel tunnel (C9-0314/2021)
This legislation extends the validity of safety certificates and licences for operators in the Channel Tunnel while we await the conclusion of negotiations between France and the United Kingdom necessitated by Brexit. I voted in favour because it is important to ensure the smooth and safe functioning of a crucial transport link and to provide clarity and certainty to operators and, ultimately, passengers.
Brexit Adjustment Reserve (A9-0178/2021 - Pascal Arimont)
I was pleased to see the final agreement on the Brexit Adjustment Reserve (BAR) pass through the European Parliament with an overwhelming majority. The BAR will provide support to the Member States most affected by Brexit, and Ireland will gain a little over EUR 1 billion from this fund. I am glad that this money will now flow quickly to where it’s needed, and will not just help us to cover the administrative costs associated with Brexit, but will also be used to support businesses and communities which have been heavily affected, such as the small-scale fishing community.
Objection pursuant to Rule 111(3): Criteria for the designation of antimicrobials to be reserved for the treatment of certain infections in humans (B9-0424/2021)
I voted in favour of this objection to a delegated act establishing criteria for reserving certain antimicrobials for human use because I am concerned that it will not serve the interests of human health nor those of individual animal health. It is the view of the Greens/EFA Group that the current basic regulation unduly opposes the interests of human medicine against those of veterinary medicine. Instead, we should build a bridge between them by reserving highest-priority critically-important antimicrobials for human use, while allowing their use as a last resort also for the treatment of individual animals. My specific reasons for objecting to the delegated act are as follows: (1) it sets the bar for the designation of human reserve antimicrobials unduly high; (2) it leaves important issues undefined; (3) it gives undue consideration to animal health concerns in its criteria; and (4) it significantly deviates from the WHO criteria for the designation of (highest-priority) critically-important antimicrobials for human use and the WHO guidelines on use of medically-important antimicrobials in food-producing animals. I am concerned that the delegated act as it stands will not result in a meaningful list of reserve antibiotics for human use.
Identifying gender-based violence as a new area of crime listed in Article 83(1) TFEU (A9-0249/2021 - Malin Björk, Diana Riba i Giner)
This crucial vote proved that there is a definitive majority in the Parliament calling for gender-based violence to be considered a serious crime under Article 83(1) TFEU. I was proud to join my Greens/EFA colleagues voting in favour of this progressive report, which covers a broad spectrum from violence against LGBTIQ+ people to that related to sexual and reproductive rights. Gender-based violence has been greatly exasperated during the pandemic, with reports of violence and pressure on emergency services rising across Europe. With this report we are a step closer to holistic, EU-level legislation on gender-based violence.
Proposal on the setting-up of a delegation to the EU-UK Parliamentary Assembly, and defining its numerical strength (B9-0479/2021)
The role of development policy in the response to biodiversity loss in developing countries, in the context of the achievement of the 2030 Agenda (A9-0258/2021 - Michèle Rivasi)
. ‒ Biodiversity protection is critical to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). I voted in favour of this report which expresses alarm at the fact that loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services is undermining progress in approximately 80% of the assessed targets for the SDGs. The report rightly calls for biodiversity mainstreaming in the EU’s external policies, including its trade agreement with third countries and has a strong focus on the need to recognise and respect the rights of indigenous peoples and local communities when implementing biodiversity protection and conservation measures. I was glad that attempts by the EPP and ECR groups to water down the ambitious, progressive wording in this report were not successful.
EU Road Safety Policy Framework 2021-2030 – Recommendations on next steps towards "Vision Zero" (A9-0211/2021 - Elena Kountoura)
I was pleased to vote on this important report regarding road safety in the EU, the first in more than 10 years. Every year around 22 700 people still lose their lives on EU roads and around 120 000 are seriously injured, figures that are completely unacceptable. Unfortunately progress in reducing EU fatality rates has stagnated in recent years, but many of the report’s recommendations will help save lives and should be implemented without delay. These include: pursuing modal shift strategies and the repurposing of public spaces away from individual motorised transport towards sustainable, safer and healthier transport modes; and a call for maximum default speed limits of 30km/h in residential areas and areas with high numbers of vulnerable road users.
Rebuilding fish stocks in the Mediterranean (A9-0225/2021 - Raffaele Stancanelli)
. ‒ The Mediterranean Sea is the most overfished basin in the European Union and little to no progress has been made to the improve the situation in recent years. Unfortunately this report did not go far enough to address the dire situation with regard to sustainable management, biodiversity protection and implementation of already existing measures in the common fisheries policy (CFP). In addition, concerns we had about the possibility of fisheries funding going to the border control agency Frontex were not addressed by the report.
The Arctic: opportunities, concerns and security challenges (A9-0239/2021 - Anna Fotyga)
As a key regulator of our climate and a vulnerable place of unique biodiversity, the protection of the Arctic from human encroachment is vital. I abstained in the vote on this report on the region which, despite good language achieved by our Group on protection of the environment, ultimately focused excessively on confrontational language on defence, security and exploitation. The Arctic must not become an area of resource extraction and geopolitical conflict if we are to peacefully combat the current climate crisis and protect life in the region.
EU transparency in the development, purchase and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines (B9-0519/2021, B9-0520/2021)
I was happy to vote in favour of this resolution, initiated by my Green colleagues in the Petitions Committee following important petitions received by many EU citizens. It calls on the Commission to ensure full transparency by publishing non—redacted versions of the advance purchase agreements and the purchase agreement without further delay. The resolution also requests the Commission to disclose all details of public interest regarding future COVID—19 vaccine contracts and compliance with these contracts, as well as contracts for other purchased COVID—19 technologies, as a precondition for future negotiations with pharmaceutical companies.
UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow, the UK (COP26) (B9-0521/2021)
I was happy to vote in favour of this resolution which sets out the EP’s mandate for the COP 26 negotiations in Glasgow. While in some areas it does not go as far as we in the Greens/EFA would have wanted, we can be pleased particularly that it calls for quick phasing out of subsidies for fossil fuels ‘by 2025 at the latest’ and urges the member states to step up climate finance in this crucial decade, our last chance to try and stick to 1.5 degrees warming.
The Rule of law crisis in Poland and the primacy of EU law (B9-0532/2021, B9-0533/2021, B9-0539/2021)
. ‒ I wholeheartedly supported the Resolution on ‘The Rule of law crisis in Poland and the primacy of EU law’ alongside my colleagues in the Greens/EFA. The actions of the Polish government are a direct attack on the EU’s democratic constitutional order. The decision of the illegitimate ‘Constitutional Tribunal’ of 7 October 2021 completely undermines the primacy of EU law as one of its cornerstone principles in accordance with well-established case-law of the CJEU. For years, the Polish government has tried to erode the rights of minorities, members of the LGBTIQ community, and the rule of law. Accordingly, I support the call for the European Commission to launch infringement procedures against Poland immediately as well as to trigger the procedure provided for in Article 6(1) of the Rule of Law Conditionality Regulation for Poland. EU funds must not be allowed to be spent in any Member State that does not uphold the fundamental democratic values of the European Community.
A European strategy for critical raw materials (A9-0280/2021 - Hildegard Bentele)
The EU is one of the largest importers of raw materials, which is an issue which must be addressed. While CRM play a crucial role in the production of batteries and other technologies needed in the energy transition, this cannot come as a severe consequence to the environment and for local communities. I was happy to support the ban on mining in Natura 2000 areas and also the recognition that that CRM sourcing/mining can lead to biodiversity loss or the contamination of air, soil and water, and potential conflicts with local communities. Although amendments were passed which weakened this ban, there was good language in the text which called for the enforcement of the rights of local communities to full participation in permit procedures for new mining projects and to ensure that local communities have the right of recourse to effective redress mechanisms as well as promoting a circular economy approach throughout the value chain. Therefore, I abstained from supporting the final report.
Multilateral negotiations in view of the 12th WTO Ministerial Conference in Geneva, 30 November to 3 December 2021 (B9-0550/2021)
I was pleased to vote in favour of this resolution on the 12th WTO Ministerial Conference, after an important amendment from my Greens/EFA colleague Sara Matthieu was passed. The amendment, calling on the Commission to support a TRIPS waiver on COVID-19 vaccines, was carried by just five votes. Vaccines should be regarded as a universal common good, and we must do everything we can to increase the vaccination rate of the world’s poorest countries.
Digital Markets Act (A9-0332/2021 - Andreas Schwab)
. ‒ I was happy to support this file, which regulates online gatekeepers. The DMA will regulate how companies are allowed to sell their services online. Currently, if you do not play by the Gatekeepers’ rules, you are excluded from selling your products online. Consumers have very little say in how the market is operated. This needs to change so that we have a fairer and more competitive market. The internal market rules must have consumer interests at heart. We need to protect online consumers and not play into the hands of big tech companies.
Equality between women and men in the European Union in 2018-2020 (A9-0315/2021 - Sandra Pereira)
. ‒ This is an important report from the Women’s Rights and Gender Equality (FEMM) Committee taking stock of the situation of equality (or inequality) between men and women in the EU between 2018 and 2020. It highlights particularly startling figures on rising cases of gender-based violence since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the situation of the gender pay gap and denounces anti-gender and anti-feminist movements attacking women’s rights across Europe. I was pleased to vote in favour, calling on the Commission and Member States to do more to make gender equality a priority in policymaking.
Implementation of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (A9-0321/2021 - Seán Kelly)
I was glad to support the Implementation Report on the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive which was aimed at listing out what was needed in the revision of the EPBD. There was good language in this report on energy poverty and green infrastructure and I was happy to see that the Commission took on board some of this language in its EPBD proposal.
Challenges and prospects for multilateral weapons of mass destruction arms control and disarmament regimes (A9-0324/2021 - Sven Mikser)
The European Union and its Member States can and should play a leading role in nuclear disarmament and arms control. I voted against this report, however, as it fails to support the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) which entered force earlier this year.The TPNW calls for unilateral disarmament, yet still the EU Council refuses to adopt a position while NATO countries continue to oppose it. Ireland is a proud party to the TPNW, and I am heartened to hear of the new German Government’s decision to become an observer. Unfortunately, this report represents a missed opportunity and a step back for global nuclear disarmament and arms control.
MeToo and harassment – the consequences for the EU institutions (B9-0587/2021)
I voted in favour of this resolution because I believe the EU institutions must lead by example and adopt a zero—tolerance approach to harassment. One of the measures I believe would be very important would be to require all Members of the European Parliament to undergo mandatory harassment prevention training.
Situation at the Ukrainian border and in Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine (B9-0593/2021, B9-0594/2021, B9-0595/2021, B9-0596/2021, B9-0597/2021, B9-0598/2021)
While I believe that the EU must act in solidarity with Ukraine and stand up to Russia’s increasing of tensions in the region, I cannot support language which calls for an expansion of military provisions that would effectively lead to a military build up along the Russian and Ukrainian border. I support the imposition of financial and economic sanctions but cannot support provisions which call for increased NATO cooperation with the EU given that there are several EU Member States that have a strict policy of neutrality. Therefore, I abstained from the final vote.
Digital Services Act (A9-0356/2021 - Christel Schaldemose)
I was happy to support my group in voting for the Digital Services Act. The Parliament voted for a ban of surveillance advertising for minors and for all online advertising based on sensitive data like political or religious affiliation, sexual orientation or ethnic origin. This will help protect citizens’ right to privacy online. I believe that the vote struck a good balance between privacy, anonymity, users’ rights and law enforcement. As a result of the votes, online platforms must ensure that users who declined to be tracked could still have alternative options to access the services, meaning that they cannot oblige users to be tracked to view posts on their platforms. Unfortunately, an amendment to get platforms to inform media organizations of content moderation decisions based on their terms and conditions, and give them a chance to challenge those decisions, did not make it through. However, we did manage to pass an amendment to ensure online platforms must respect the freedom and pluralism of media. Platforms will also be obliged to share their data sets if requested by NGOs which will to more transparency across the internet. This vote will lead to a fairer internet with less power in the hands of tech giants. The DSA is the EU’s answer to the fact that a few large online platforms (such as Meta, Google, Apple, Amazon and Microsoft) control the digital ecosystem and I hope that this new, rights-based standard will be become the global benchmark for digital rights.
Protection of animals during transport (Recommendation) (B9-0057/2022)
I voted in favour of the Committee of Inquiry on the Protection of Animals during Transport (ANIT)’s recommendations to the Council and the Commission ahead of an upcoming revision of legislation concerning the welfare of animals during transport. While the final text is not as ambitious as the committee report, it is a step in the right direction in many areas. The Parliament calls for shorter journey times, a centralised system for approval of sea vessels and better cooperation among Member States, among other recommendations. It is unacceptable that current EU legislation aiming to protect animals during transport (Regulation 1/2005) is insufficient, inefficient and is systematically breached. The revision of this piece of legislation must ensure long-overdue improvements in animal welfare standards across the EU.
Activities of the European Ombudsman – annual report 2020 (A9-0342/2021 - Eleonora Evi)
I voted in favour of this report which expresses the Parliament’s strong support for the work of the EU Ombudsman. The report, which was led by a Greens/EFA Rapporteur, draws attention to several cases relating to transparency and procedural shortcomings in the EU institutions in 2020. By opening inquiries in cases of procedural shortcomings, the Ombudsman plays an important role in holding the EU Institutions to account. I was glad that attempts by the EPP Group to water down the call for transparency around negotiations between the European Commission and pharmaceutical companies were defeated, and that the report voted in the PETI Committee was maintained.
A European strategy for offshore renewable energy (A9-0339/2021 - Morten Petersen)
Increasing our offshore renewable energy will help the EU meet its climate obligations and would lead to job creation. Therefore, I was happy to vote in favour of the INI on the EU’s Offshore Renewable Strategy. The report contains some very positive elements, notably on several key issues such as biodiversity, Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP), offshore hybrids, banning the burial of waste blades and floating wind turbines. We need to maintain our ambition levels to ensure that we are equipped to make offshore wind a viable energy source that will bring us into the green transition while also adopting an ecosystem-based approach that respects and preserves the maritime environment.
Human rights and democracy in the world – annual report 2021 (A9-0353/2021 - María Soraya Rodríguez Ramos)
. – I voted in favour of this report. Lengthy negotiations turned this good initial report into a solid and comprehensive document on the global picture of human rights and what the EU should do to further them. I was glad to see that many of the amendments tabled by the Greens/EFA group were accepted, including strong, actionable language on transparency, protection of human rights defenders and citizen’s privacy is present throughout.
Objection pursuant to Rule 111(3): Union list of projects of common interest for the trans-European energy infrastructure (B9-0137/2022)
. ‒ I voted with my group, the Greens/EFA, in favour of this objection, which aimed to reject the PCI (Projects of Common Interest) list. This list is a selection of energy infrastructure projects – such as electricity lines, gas pipelines, LNG terminals or smart grid projects – eligible for EU funding and faster permitting procedures. We voted to reject this PCI list as it contains many gas infrastructure projects that would lock us into a fossil fuel future. Now is the time when we should focus funding on renewables and energy efficiency, and alleviate our dependency on energy imports. Unfortunately, the objection was unsuccessful.
Foreign interference in all democratic processes in the EU (A9-0022/2022 - Sandra Kalniete)
. ‒ This report was based on one and a half years of work by Parliament’s Special Committee on Foreign Interference in all Democratic Processes in the European Union, including Disinformation (INGE), set up to examine foreign interference in EU democratic processes. The report makes recommendations for how we can tackle the harmful effects of interference and disinformation on elections, social media, public institutions, cybersecurity, etc. The recommendations include setting up a sanctions regime against disinformation. Our Group was also particularly pleased with the strong wording on tackling disinformation and hate speech on issues related to gender, LGBTIQ+ people, minorities and refugees.
General Union Environment Action Programme to 2030 (A9-0203/2021 - Grace O'Sullivan)
I voted in favour of the final agreement reached between Parliament and the Council on the EU’s 8th Environment Action Programme. As the Parliament’s Rapporteur for this legislation, I was very glad that this Environment Action Programme to 2030 includes a commitments to ending environmentally harmful subsidies, advancing towards a Wellbeing Economy, setting a reduction target for consumption footprint and improving how EU laws are made by ensuring the cost of inaction is taken into account when measuring the impact of new EU legislation. The legislation recognises the need for far-reaching systemic change and includes the overall goal of bringing the EU back within the planetary boundaries.
Gender mainstreaming in the European Parliament – annual report 2020 (A9-0021/2022 - Irène Tolleret, Gwendoline Delbos-Corfield)
I was happy to vote in favour of this annual report from the FEMM Committee, which both assesses Parliament’s functioning regarding gender equality and makes recommendations for improvement. The report explores five different areas, both at the administrative and political levels, namely: opportunities to enter Parliament; opportunities to influence parliament’s working procedures; prominence of the gender perspective in parliamentary activities; delivering legislation with a gender perspective; and gender equality and diversity in the symbolic function of Parliament. I was glad to see ambition in this report, including provisions to call for zipped lists in the electoral law and calls to recognise maternity, paternity, and parental leave for members.
EU Gender Action Plan III (A9-0025/2022 - Chrysoula Zacharopoulou)
I voted in favour of this report, which outlines Parliament’s reaction to the EU Gender Action Plan III, the Commission’s plan to improve gender equality throughout the EU’s external action as part of its goal of a Feminist Foreign Policy. In particular, I welcome the strong language in this report on the importance of promoting sexual and reproductive health and rights and the need to recognise intersectional discrimination.
Rule of law and the consequences of the ECJ ruling (B9-0134/2022, B9-0135/2022, B9-0136/2022)
I voted in favour of this resolution, which welcomes the European Court of Justice’s recent judgement dismissing the actions by Hungary and Poland against the Rule of Law Conditionality Regulation. We call on the European Commission to protect the EU budget from violations of rule of law and to immediately apply the rule of law conditionality mechanism by notifying the Member States concerned in writing. The Commission must fulfil its duties as the guardian of the EU Treaties and act on the ongoing violations of the principles of the rule of law in some EU Member States.
Batteries and waste batteries (A9-0031/2022 - Simona Bonafè)
I was happy to vote in favour of this progressive report from the ENVI Committee that further strengthened the already very good proposal from the European Commission to revise EU rules concerning batteries. Some of the key improvements made by the Parliament include: expanding the scope of the Regulation so that rules apply to all batteries; laying down a right to repair (for the first time in a legislative act); ensuring due diligence conditions along the entire battery supply chain; and increasing the recycling rates of substances like lithium. I am glad that the attempts by the EPP, ECR and ID groups to dilute the ambition of the report did not succeed and that the Parliament will now enter interinstitutional negotiations with a strong mandate.
A sustainable blue economy in the EU: the role of fisheries and aquaculture (A9-0089/2022 - Isabel Carvalhais)
This report marks a significant step forward for the European Parliament’s position on bottom trawling, deep-sea mining, small-scale fisheries and ocean conservation in general, which is needed to align the ‘blue economy’ with the ambitions of the European Green Deal.On bottom trawling, we succeeded in including key language on tackling ‘the detrimental impacts on the climate, seabed integrity, fish populations and sensitive species (as by-catch) of fishing techniques such as bottom-contacting gear, drift nets, demersal seines or fish-aggregating devices, including by limiting their use’. Due to the intense carbon emissions of bottom trawling, we also managed to insert language on using ‘carbon-rich marine habitats’ as a basis for establishing new marine protected areas (MPAs). However, I was dismayed that many MEPs are still unwilling to establish MPAs that are effectively protected.
Discharge 2020: EU general budget - Commission and executive agencies (A9-0127/2022 - Olivier Chastel)
. ‒ I voted for this resolution, which is critical about some major inefficiencies and lack of action on the part of the Commission regarding the management of the EU budget in 2020. The resolution rightly demands that the Commission acts decisively in cases where rule of law is being breached by Member States and points out how ineffective the Commission is in fighting conflicts of interests, misuse of EU funds, and the growing oligarch structures drawing on EU funds in some Member States. The resolution also clearly demands the Commission sets up a system that will allow the general public to see the final beneficiaries of EU funds, an important step in improving transparency.Regrettably, the PPE Group, supported by ECR and ID, took advantage of this resolution to push for inaccurate and damaging language about Palestinian textbooks inciting hatred, allegations that have been disproved but that continue to draw the EU’s attention away from the real oppression Palestinians are suffering every day under Israeli occupation. I voted to remove this wording but it was unfortunately unsuccessful. I also voted in favour of amendments condemning Horizon 2020 funds going to entities complicit in developing illegal Israeli settlements.
The impact of the war against Ukraine on women (B9-0219/2022)
Along with my group I voted in favour of this resolution from the FEMM Committee, which details the myriad and appalling ways that Putin’s war in Ukraine is affecting women, and their specific needs as a result. It highlights incidences of gender—based violence and discrimination, including trafficking, and the horrifying reports of the use of rape as a weapon of war. The European Parliament strongly condemns these abhorrent acts, and calls for access to gender—based violence support services, and for sexual and reproductive health and rights to be upheld, for all women and girls fleeing Ukraine.
Revision of the EU Emissions Trading System (A9-0162/2022 - Peter Liese)
Around 40% of the EU’s greenhouse gas emissions fall under the rules of the Emissions Trading System, making it one of the EU’s core instruments in reducing emissions and fighting climate change. By forcing big polluters, like factories and power stations, to buy greenhouse gas certificates to match their emissions, the ETS is the EU’s framework to significantly reduce industrial emissions. It is therefore critical that the revision of the ETS is ambitious and reflects the urgency of the need to limit global warming to 1.5C. It is also imperative that major polluters play their part and pay their fair share for the emissions they produce. I voted against the final text of the ETS revision after an alliance of EPP, ECR and ID voted to weaken key provisions, including the deadline by when major polluters can no longer emit GHGs for free. In doing so, I was part of an alliance of progressive groups that insisted on renegotiating the text at committee level rather than rubber-stamping a text that had been significantly watered down by groups that are failing to treat climate change as the emergency this Parliament has declared it to be.
Revision of the EU Emissions Trading System for aviation (A9-0155/2022 - Sunčana Glavak)
I was pleased to vote in favour of this proposed legislation because it includes some important changes to the existing Emissions Trading System for aviation. Some of the most important proposed changes are: the extension of scope to all departing flights, and the possibility to cover all arriving flights in future; a Monitoring, Reporting and Verification scheme for the non-CO2 impact of aviation given its significant contribution to the global warming impact of aviation; and the phase out of free allowances for aviation from 2025. Aviation is one of the hardest sectors to decarbonise but has long been exempted from the changes necessary to reduce its environmental impact. I’m pleased that these proposals will start to change this, although more needs to be done.
Land use, land use change and forestry (LULUCF) (A9-0161/2022 - Ville Niinistö)
I voted in favour of this revision of the EU’s rules related to the role that land use, land use change and forestry (LULUCF) play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Our land help decrease our emissions by acting as a carbon sink that draws CO2 back down from the atmosphere, but it can also be a source of greenhouse gas emissions. This revision of the LULUCF sets new emissions removal targets by the EU’s carbon sinks. While this may be challenging for many Member States, it is important to increase the EU’s natural sink targets because the EU is going in the wrong direction: Due primarily to record high harvests in the EU’s forests and intensive agricultural practices, the EU’s natural sink is shrinking and forest biodiversity is declining. The revision brings existing LULUCF rules in line with the EU’s 2030 legally binding obligation to reduce emissions by net 55%, as enshrined in the EU Climate Law. The strong emphasis on the need for new LULUCF rules to work in tandem with our biodiversity goals is reflective of the files rapporteur, my Greens/EFA colleague MEP Ville Niinistö.
The EU’s Foreign, Security and Defence Policy after the Russian invasion of Ukraine (A9-0164/2022 - David McAllister, Nathalie Loiseau)
In solidarity with Ukraine and Ukrainians facing the onslaught of the Russian invasion, I supported this resolution. The resolution contains strong wording of support for the Ukrainian people and the ways in which EU foreign policy can react to this crisis. However, the Resolution is not without fault. I do not support language equating EU and NATO policies, nor do I support the increased militarisation of the EU and implications that we should make it easier for arms manufacturers to obtain easy access to public funding while many continue to fuel bloodshed in other parts of the world such as Yemen and Palestine. I supported amendments to improve the text in this regard.
Global threats to abortion rights: the possible overturn of abortion rights in the US by the Supreme Court (B9-0289/2022, B9-0292/2022, B9-0299/2022)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this progressive resolution on global threats to abortion rights. The resolution condemns the backsliding in women’s rights and sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) taking place globally, including in the US and in some EU Member States. The resolution also rightly details how bans and other restrictions on abortion disproportionately affect the most vulnerable and marginalised women. As a Parliament, I believe it is important that we take a strong stance on promoting and defending SRHR globally.
A new trade instrument to ban products made by forced labour (B9-0291/2022)
I voted in favour of this resolution calling for the Commission to ban products made or transported with forced labour from the EU market. The resolution states that a trade instrument blocking products at the border would be the most effective way to achieve this, and would be complementary to the future Due Diligence directive as it would help address cases where due diligence efforts have proven ineffective or are unlikely to deliver such as in cases of state-imposed forced labour. In such a globalised world, it is important that the EU use its power as a major trading block to stand up against exploitation and forced labour in third countries, while also adopting measures to tackle forced labour within the EU.
Revision of the EU Emissions Trading System (A9-0162/2022 - Peter Liese)
I voted in favour of this revision of the Emissions Trading System because the text is an improvement to the text that failed to be adopted in the last plenary session and it goes further than what the Commission has proposed. Regarding the overall ambition, the text means 100 million tonnes more CO2 reduction by 2030 compared with the Commission’s proposal. Furthermore, the deadline for ending free pollution permits for industry (‘free allowances’) is set at 2032, which is also an improvement on the Commission’s proposal. These improvements would not have been possible without pressure from the Greens.Nonetheless, the text only ensures the very minimum level of climate protection by keeping the Paris Agreement’s upper limit of 2C of warming within reach. We can and must do better: the Greens/EFA Group will continue to push for increased climate ambition to try and keep EU emissions within the limit of 1.5C of warming, as we committed to doing at COP27 in Glasgow.
Social Climate Fund (A9-0157/2022 - David Casa, Esther de Lange)
My group and I were pleased to vote in favour of Parliament’s position on the Social Climate Fund (SCF) – a real European fund for a just transition! The SCF will help to fund things like sustainable public transport infrastructure and the energy efficiency renovation of homes. We are glad that the extension of the ETS II will only concern commercial buildings and commercial vehicles, and are pleased with the progressive text we have so far on the SCF. This includes a clear definition of energy and mobility poverty, more detailed social climate plans and a larger share of the Fund dedicated to structural investments in line with the relevant taxonomy criteria. These investments will help to ensure a real strategy to effectively try to lift the households who need the most support out of poverty.
Carbon border adjustment mechanism (A9-0160/2022 - Mohammed Chahim)
I voted in favour of Parliament’s mandate for negotiations on the carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM), the EU’s first legislative instrument designed to tackle carbon leakage by placing a levy on imports from non-EU countries with lower environmental rules. The CBAM is a way for the EU to encourage third countries to increase their ambition when it comes to decarbonising industry. An important success in the text is that, from 2030, the CBAM will cover all sectors that fall under the Emissions Trading System. While the Greens pushed for much more ambition in negotiations, we voted in favour of the text because it represents an important building block of the European Green Deal.
Candidate status of Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova and Georgia (RC-B9-0331/2022, B9-0331/2022, B9-0332/2022, B9-0333/2022, B9-0334/2022, B9-0335/2022, B9-0336/2022)
I welcomed the approval of candidate status of Ukraine and Moldova for membership of the European Union by the Parliament. Unfortunately, however, the same decision was not granted to Georgia, which has been partially occupied by Russia since 2008. We look forward to welcoming these two countries into our European family with the benefits it brings. This membership process is also the EU’s strongest tool to encourage our friends and neighbours to align with EU values and principles and gives us the opportunity to aid them in anti-corruption and human rights initiatives.
Implementation and delivery of the Sustainable Development Goals (A9-0174/2022 - Barry Andrews, Petros Kokkalis)
I was happy to vote in favour of this report calling on the Commission to adopt a high-level EU 2030 Agenda Implementation Strategy. With only eight years to go to achieve the SDGs, and with the EU on track to meet only 15% of our SDG targets, a renewed political impetus is needed to ensure that the SDGs are put back at the top of the political agenda. This report outlines how the EU must improve its implementation of the SDGs by taking a whole of government approach and establishing robust governance, monitoring and financing structures as well as through strengthened multilateral cooperation. This text adopted will serve as the mandate for the European Parliament’s Delegation to this year’s High Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development. I will represent Greens/EFA Group on this Delegation and will push the EU to take on board the report’s recommendations.
Objection pursuant to Rule 111(3): Amending the Taxonomy Climate Delegated Act and the Taxonomy Disclosures Delegated Act (B9-0338/2022)
I voted in favour of this objection to the inclusion of gas and nuclear in the EU Taxonomy Regulation. The Taxonomy was supposed to be a science-based tool to encourage private investment in sustainable activities, given that the transition to a low-carbon and ecologically resilient economy will require large amounts of private funding. Instead, the Commission bowed to heavy political and industrial lobbying and proposed that gas and nuclear infrastructure get the EU’s green investment label, thus undermining the scientific basis for the Taxonomy. I am deeply disappointed that a majority of MEPs did not veto such institutionalised greenwashing and I welcome the announcement by the governments of Austria and Luxembourg after the vote that they will challenge the decision in the courts.
National vetoes to undermine the global tax deal (RC-B9-0339/2022, B9-0339/2022, B9-0340/2022, B9-0341/2022, B9-0342/2022, B9-0343/2022, B9-0344/2022)
I voted in favour of this resolution which sends a strong message to Hungary, where Victor Orbán is using the national veto at Council level to hold up implementation of the OECD/G20 global tax deal on a minimum corporation tax rate. Hungary had already agreed to the deal at previous Council meetings, but is now vetoing its final adoption. Orbán’s anti-democratic regime is blackmailing and holding the rest of the EU hostage, while all other Member States are ready and waiting to implement this historic global agreement. Further, the resolution calls on the Commission and Council not to approve Hungary’s national Recovery and Resilience Plan (thereby withholding access to the Recovery and Resilience Fund) until it has complied with the recommended measures to address its deficiencies in terms of rule of law, judicial independence, press freedom and corruption.
Deforestation Regulation (A9-0219/2022 - Christophe Hansen)
I was very happy to vote in favour of this new law to halt and reverse global deforestation and forest degradation driven by EU consumption. The EU is one of the main importers of commodities that are the main drivers of global deforestation, so this new regulation is critical in addressing the environmental concerns surrounding our consumption footprint.In particular, I am pleased that the Parliament’s position widens the scope to include financial institutions despite efforts by ECR and EPP not to include banks in this regulation. I also welcome the review after two years to possibly include other biodiversity-rich ecosystems such as savannahs, wetlands and mangroves.
Energy efficiency (recast) (A9-0221/2022 - Niels Fuglsang)
I was pleased to approve the European Parliament’s position on this important Fit for 55 package proposal, as it is the key piece of legislation for energy savings across the EU. In particular, I am pleased that the Parliament improved the Commission’s proposal and has opted for, among other things, a higher overall EU energy efficiency target and binding national targets, as well as the application of the energy efficiency first principle when it comes to major investment and policy decisions.
Adequate minimum wages in the European Union (A9-0325/2021 - Dennis Radtke, Agnes Jongerius)
I was pleased to vote in favour of this important new piece of EU legislation that should bring many benefits to workers across the EU. I am particularly pleased that the directive will oblige Member States to factor the rising cost of living into the calculation of minimum wage levels and to ensure that wages are sufficient to combat in-work poverty and ensure that workers can afford a decent standard of living. This will benefit most workers at the bottom of the labour market working for low wages and protect them from poverty, particularly when there are increases in the cost of living. Around two thirds of Member States are expected to gradually increase their minimum wage levels.
Renewable Energy Directive (A9-0208/2022 - Markus Pieper)
Ramping up renewable energy production is essential for achieving climate targets, the EU’s geopolitical independence, and spurring green jobs and development. The revision of the Renewable Energy Directive (RED) sets higher shares of renewables in various sectors: transport, heating and cooling, buildings and industry with a mix of binding/voluntary targets. As Greens, we were instrumental in increasing the EU target to ‘at least 45%’ as well as overcoming attempts to include fossil- or nuclear- based fuels, which would have watered down the entire directive. The Commission proposal has been improved throughout, including with wording on pushing for the phase out of fossil fuels in low-temperature industrial heat applications by 2027, which is key to incentivising renewable electrification, industrial heat pumps and e-boilers in a sector that consumes roughly 8% of the overall consumption of fossil gas. On eliminating incentives for the burning of primary woody biomass for energy, whilst still a step in the right direction, the level of ambition was below what is needed for climate and biodiversity. The Green group voted in favour to ensure that it would not be rejected altogether, and so that the issue remains on the table in upcoming negotiations with Member States.
The new European Bauhaus (A9-0213/2022 - Christian Ehler, Marcos Ros Sempere)
I was pleased to vote in favour of the INI on the New European Bauhaus, which seeks to harness the power of design and community for our transition to a greener future. From rooftop gardens, to circular building materials and community festivals, NEB projects so far have shown us the power of grassroots activity. Next we need a clear funding plan from the Commission, and greater communication so the NEB can reach and involve people from all across Europe, in all kinds of regions, cities and rural areas.
Radio Equipment Directive: common charger for electronic devices (A9-0129/2022 - Alex Agius Saliba)
I was pleased to join my colleagues voting in favour of this directive for a common charger - a crucial piece of legislation to cut down on electronic waste. Thanks to this final vote, in a couple of years, all mobile phones, tablets and cameras sold in the EU will use the same USB Type-C charger. This means people will be able to use the same charger for all of their devices; with laptops to be included in 2026. It is a great step forward for the environment as it will reduce e-waste in Europe by up to 1 000 tonnes every year. It will also cut costs for consumers. The Parliament was successful in amending the legislation so that consumers will have the choice to buy a new device and its cable separately.
Amending Annexes IV and V to Regulation (EU) 2019/1021 on persistent organic pollutants (A9-0092/2022 - Martin Hojsík)
I voted in favour of this agreement to adopt stricter limits on harmful chemicals in waste. Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are harmful chemicals that are no longer permitted in new products but can still be found in waste and can therefore pose a threat to human health and the environment. POPs have been linked to abnormalities in a number of wildlife species, while they have also been linked with adverse health effects in people, including reproductive, developmental, behavioural, neurologic, endocrine, and immunologic disorders. These new EU rules mean that waste containing high levels of POPs must be destroyed or incinerated and cannot be recycled. This helps to ensure the EU’s compliance with the Stockholm Convention on POPs and represents an important step towards a non-toxic circular economy, where toxic substances are removed from the entire value chain, including the waste chain.While I welcome the fact that this agreement sets stronger limits of POPs in waste as well as the commitment to lower them further in future through a review process, the Greens/EFA Group would have preferred to go further with these restrictions to achieve a non-toxic circular economy faster.
The EU’s response to the increase in energy prices in Europe (RC-B9-0416/2022, B9-0416/2022, B9-0417/2022, B9-0418/2022, B9-0419/2022, B9-0420/2022, B9-0421/2022, B9-0422/2022)
. ‒ I voted against this resolution as it fails to provide adequate social protections for EU citizens or the long-term vision necessary for the EU to reach energy security and independence.I am strongly in favour of a windfall tax on the profits of energy providers – and there is scope to extend this tax to other sectors profiting unjustly from the current crisis in order to safeguard European households and invest massively in renewables. Parliament did not support the Greens/EFA amendment calling for such a tax, or on banning evictions and disconnections or increasing minimum wages in line with the cost of living. We are calling for an EU Solidarity Fund that has the potential to ensure funding for these green investments, speeding-up the energy transition and achieving energy autonomy. This resolution also puts fossil fuel subsidies front and centre – a short-sighted solution that threatens to undermine the Green Deal and the regulatory and environmental progress made thus far, while also locking us into fossil fuel dependency. A lack of social protections and the emphasis on financing new fossil fuel projects in Europe make this resolution a misguided response to the energy crisis.
The death of Mahsa Amini and the repression of women's rights protesters in Iran (B9-0425/2022, RC-B9-0434/2022, B9-0434/2022, B9-0435/2022, B9-0436/2022, B9-0439/2022, B9-0442/2022, B9-0455/2022)
I wholeheartedly support this resolution condemning the death of Mahsa Jina Amini and of those victims of the subsequent brutal crackdown by the Iranian security forces. Through this resolution, the Parliament implores Iran to end the indiscriminate violence against peaceful protestors and human rights defenders, while ensuring internet access remains available to all Iranians. Iranian women are justified in their protest against the compulsory hijab and continual violations of their human rights. The resolution condemns the morality police and other practices that deprive women of their rightful autonomy, and reminds that respect for human rights must be a core tenet for progression in EU-Iran relations moving forward.
Momentum for the Ocean: strengthening Ocean Governance and Biodiversity (B9-0426/2022)
Delighted to see this Resolution pass with the strong support of the European Parliament, which I negotiated on behalf of the Greens/EFA Group. This Resolution sets out a strong Parliament position on Ocean Governance ahead of upcoming COP15 and COP27 events, as well as establishing a democratic mandate for ambitious ocean protection measures going forward.Our key demands in negotiations were a ban on oil and gas drilling in the Arctic, support for a global network of Marine Protected Areas covering 30% of the world’s oceans, and limitations on bottom-trawling gear in vulnerable marine ecosystems.
Discharge 2020: European Border and Coast Guard Agency (A9-0235/2022 - Tomáš Zdechovský)
I voted to refuse discharge for Frontex, due to serious misconduct of this EU agency. Despite repeated reports of human rights abuses, illegal pushbacks of migrants and troubling harassment in the workplace, Frontex continues to receive more public funding than any single EU agency. A recent OLAF report also revealed the Agency was responsible for covering up evidence of illegal behaviour. Frontex completely lacks democratic oversight and with refusing this discharge we call for immediate reform of the Border and Coast Guard Agency and a reassessment of its budget and activities. Frontex’s statement following the vote was not satisfactory, and failed to address its own human rights abuses against some of the most vulnerable people in the European Union.
Sustainable maritime fuels (FuelEU Maritime Initiative) (A9-0233/2022 - Jörgen Warborn)
Unfortunately, the text agreed on sustainable maritime fuels fails to meet the level of ambition required on greenhouse gas emissions targets, on targets for renewable fuels of non-biological origin and on scope, which is why I voted against it. With this low level of ambition, we have failed to ensure shipping industry cleans up its act at the required pace and level, a position that even some in the shipping industry share. This will put us back decades.
Deployment of alternative fuels infrastructure (A9-0234/2022 - Ismail Ertug)
I’m glad to have voted in favour of the European Parliament’s position on the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation proposal, which will help reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions from the transport sector. I am pleased that the proposal is ambitious on electric charging infrastructure rollout, particularly in road transport and associated consumer and safety provisions. I am, however, disappointed that the proposal still foresees a role for LNG, a fossil fuel with no place in our future transport system, as well as the incorrect application of hydrogen. I hope for an ambitious agreement after trilogues.
Growing hate crimes against LGBTIQ people across Europe in light of the recent homophobic murder in Slovakia (B9-0476/2022, B9-0477/2022)
I voted in favour of this important resolution addressing the rise in LGBTIQ+ hate crimes across the EU, paying particular attention to the deadly attack that took place during Bratislava Pride when two people were killed. The Parliament calls on the Commission and the Member States to do better when it comes to tackling disinformation, hate speech and hate campaigns against the LGBTIQ+ community, which plant the seeds for discrimination in our societies. We need awareness-raising, greater support for civil society, better methods for dealing with LGBTIQ+ hate crimes and hate speech, and to secure equal rights for LGBTIQ+ people across Europe, including Slovakia and including legal recognition of same-sex couples.
UN Climate Change Conference 2022 in Sharm-el-Sheikh, Egypt (COP27) (B9-0461/2022)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this resolution, which sets out the mandate for the European Parliament’s Delegation to COP27 in Egypt in November 2022. As the resolution makes clear, there is a widening gap between the ambition laid down in the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to 1.5C and the targets and policies countries have set to achieve this. Urgent climate action must be taken in this critical decade before 2030 and so I welcome the call on countries to revisit and strengthen their 2030 climate targets. I also strongly agree with the emphasis in this resolution on climate justice and the need for supportive global action in areas especially vulnerable to climate change impacts such as coastal areas and islands, and where adaptive capacity is limited. Finally, it is right that the Parliament expresses concern about the marginalisation of civil society at the COP in Egypt and the barriers to protests and civil society participation and calls on the Egyptian authorities to use the momentum from COP27 to improve the human rights situation in the country and to uphold fundamental freedoms throughout and beyond COP27.
Conclusion of an agreement under GATS on the modification of schedules of specific commitments (A9-0257/2022 - Bernd Lange)
Together with my Greens/EFA colleagues, I voted against this agreement on the cross-border provision of services for several reasons. First, certain provisions in the agreement weaken a government’s right to regulate. For example, the need for authorisation requirements to be ‘objective and impartial’ could prevent legitimate policy objectives, such as the economic empowerment of disadvantaged communities. Furthermore, the agreement is not a very inclusive one, given that it is supported by only 70 out of 160 WTO members. We are concerned that this process sets a dangerous precedent for other on-going WTO negotiations which are being pushed by large high-income countries, but for which there is no consensus among WTO membership. Finally, my vote against this agreement also took into consideration the position of the European Federation of Public Service Unions, which called on MEPs to reject it.
Protocol to the Euro-Mediterranean Interim Association Agreement: participation of the Palestinian Authority of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip in Union programmes (A9-0253/2022 - Manu Pineda)
I was delighted to vote in favour of the European Parliament giving consent to the participation of Palestine in European Union programmes. This agreement has been provisionally in place, pending consent of the European Parliament to fully enter into force, and I was delighted to see it pass with a broad majority.
Recognising the Russian Federation as a state sponsor of terrorism (RC-B9-0482/2022, B9-0482/2022, B9-0483/2022, B9-0485/2022, B9-0486/2022, B9-0487/2022)
I welcomed this vote condemning the terrorist acts of Russia in Ukraine. Putin’s Russia continues to terrorise an entire nation as we speak. Solidarity with the people of Ukraine and condemnation of Russia’s horrific atrocities is massively important. However, even more important now is getting actual help to Ukraine in concrete terms of funding, debt forgiveness and humanitarian aid. ‘State Sponsor of Terrorism’ is an American term that does not exist in EU or international law. It is even more significant to me that we voted this week for an EUR 18 billion package and a fundamental shift in how EU funding is granted to Ukraine.
'Macro-Financial Assistance+' instrument for providing support to Ukraine for 2023 (C9-0373/2022)
Concrete help for Ukraine in the face of invasion is vital. This measure aims to plug some of the gap in Ukraine’s balance of payments, including €18bn in favourable loans to help Ukraine pay for basic services and payroll. Importantly it also changes the EU’s processes so that financial support to Ukraine is more efficient and long-term, rather than a piecemeal donation here and there. It is also now vital that we are not just adding to Ukraine’s long-term debt in an unsustainable manner, but supporting her institutions and people.
Outcome of the modernisation of the Energy Charter Treaty (RC-B9-0498/2022, B9-0498/2022, B9-0502/2022, B9-0510/2022, B9-0513/2022, B9-0536/2022)
I voted in favour of this resolution calling on the Commission to immediately initiate the process towards a coordinated exit of the EU from the Energy Charter Treaty. The Energy Charter Treaty is an international agreement to which the EU and all Member States are party. The Treaty contains outdated investment protection provisions including an ISDS (investor-state dispute settlement) mechanism which allows private companies to sue governments that introduce environmental or public health regulations that may be seen as harming a company’s profits. In practice, this means that fossil fuel projects enjoy strong legal protection, which can make it costly and difficult for Member States to implement climate policies. Despite efforts to modernise the Treaty, it remains problematic. The Greens have long called for the end of the Energy Charter Treaty and this resolution was spearheaded by my Greens/EFA Group, with my colleague MEP Anna Cavazzini leading negotiations on this historic call by the European Parliament.
Assessment of Hungary's compliance with the rule of law conditions under the Conditionality Regulation and state of play of the Hungarian RRP (B9-0511/2022)
With this resolution the Parliament welcomed the triggering of the Rule of Law Conditionality Mechanism against Hungary, and called on the Commission to keep up the pressure against Orbán’s government. With my Greens/EFA colleagues we call for freezing of EU money to Hungary, as we cannot be sure the EU’s budget is protected while the corruption, and attacks on rule of law and democracy, continue.
Protection of livestock farming and large carnivores in Europe (RC-B9-0503/2022, B9-0503/2022, B9-0504/2022, B9-0509/2022, B9-0514/2022, B9-0518/2022, B9-0519/2022, B9-0520/2022)
I voted against this resolution because it calls on the Commission to remove the protection status of some wild animals in Europe. The final text undermines the protection of Europe’s large carnivores such as wolves, bears and lynxes, and contains a call to downgrade the conservation status of the wolf under the Bern Convention. The Greens/EFA Group negotiated a draft text that constructively focussed on implementing measures to achieve co-existence between protected wildlife and farm animals, and to ensure that farmers are supported and compensated. However, the EPP Group tabled amendments which instead focus on weakening the legal protection status of wolves and other wildlife, an unacceptable call in the midst of a biodiversity crisis.
Situation of human rights in the context of the FIFA world cup in Qatar (B9-0539/2022, B9-0541/2022, B9-0542/2022, B9-0543/2022, B9-0537/2022, RC-B9-0538/2022, B9-0538/2022)
I voted in favour of this resolution. I support the call for a comprehensive compensation fund for victims of human rights violations in Qatar in the lead up and during the FIFA World Cup. The Qatari government should compensate all victims of wage abuse, including the families of workers who died during the construction of world cup infrastructure. I also support the language deploring the reports of abuses to the LGBTQ+ community by Qatari state forces and calling out rampant, systemic and deep-rooted corruption within FIFA.
A long-term vision for the EU's rural areas (A9-0269/2022 - Isabel Carvalhais)
This own-initiative report on a long-term vision for the EU’s rural areas was the Parliament’s response to a Commission communication. It sets out priorities on how best to support rural areas and tackle the specific social and economic problems faced by these regions. The Parliament’s report contains a lot of good text, including on the European Green Deal as an opportunity for rural areas, and on women’s rights and workers’ rights, including migrant workers. For these reasons I was in favour of the final report. However, I was very disappointed to see that language remained in the text about amending the large carnivores’ protection status, which I do not support.
Renewable Energy, Energy Performance of Buildings and Energy Efficiency Directives: amendments (REPowerEU) (A9-0283/2022 - Markus Pieper)
Given the energy and climate crisis, it is important that we move quicker in rolling out renewable energy. While I support many elements of the approved text, I abstained on the final vote on this proposal because the text was weakened on a very crucial point, namely the role of biomass combustion plants in ‘renewables acceleration areas’– areas that a Member State has prioritised as particularly suitable for the accelerated installation of renewable energy projects. At committee stage, it was agreed that biomass combustion plants would not be eligible as renewable energy projects in these ‘renewable acceleration areas’ because of the high environmental and air pollution costs associated with such plants, and because they will squeeze out more environmentally—sound projects in wind, solar and geothermal energy. I hope that in the negotiations with Member States we will see a more ambitious deal when it comes to such aspects.
Prospects for the two-State solution for Israel and Palestine (RC-B9-0552/2022, B9-0552/2022, B9-0553/2022, B9-0554/2022, B9-0555/2022, B9-0556/2022, B9-0557/2022)
I welcome the fact that the resolution calls for the immediate end of Israel’s illegal policy of settlement expansion, as well as the practice of administrative detentions of Palestinians and the demolition of their homes. Nonetheless, I believe it does not go far enough in terms of addressing the lack of accountability and impunity for Israel’s ongoing violations of international law. Given the importance of supporting a swift and negotiated end to this conflict, I supported the negotiated text, albeit with serious reservations.
Suspicions of corruption from Qatar and the broader need for transparency and accountability in the European institutions (B9-0580/2022, RC-B9-0581/2022, B9-0581/2022, B9-0582/2022, B9-0583/2022, B9-0584/2022, B9-0585/2022, B9-0587/2022)
In the wake of shocking revelations about corruption in the European Parliament, this resolution was an important first step to improving transparency and accountability in this House. It calls for tightening the obligations to register lobby meetings, and for the establishment of an independent ethics body, among other measures. I was pleased that all of the Greens/EFA amendments passed, which greatly strengthened the text for example regarding whistleblower protection and preventing the ‘revolving doors’ phenomenon. There is no time to lose in strengthening the Parliament’s safeguards against corruption, and it is a positive sign that this resolution was approved by a vast majority of MEPs (541).
Implementation of the common foreign and security policy - annual report 2022 (A9-0292/2022 - David McAllister)
I abstained on this non-binding annual report by the Parliament on the EU’s common foreign and security policy. While I support language in the report urging the UK to ensure implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol and calling on the new Israeli government to actively and credibly show its commitment to the two-state solution, I do not support the report’s calls for the EU to achieve a genuine military and defence union or for the swift adoption of the Mercosur Trade Agreement. Furthermore, I am not in favour of switching as soon as possible to qualified majority voting for decisions in all areas of the CFSP, given the challenges this may pose for Ireland’s neutrality.
Implementation of the common security and defence policy - annual report 2022 (A9-0296/2022 - Tom Vandenkendelaere)
I abstained on this non-binding annual report by Parliament on the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy. While I support some of the language in the report, for example the call for more investment in regional and global arms control, non-proliferation and disarmament, as well as more transparency on arms exports, I do not support the call on the EU to switch from unanimity to qualified majority voting for Council decisions with military implications as I believe this would not be in line with Ireland’s position as a neutral country.
Small-scale fisheries situation in the EU and future perspectives (A9-0291/2022 - João Pimenta Lopes)
I abstained on this non-binding report by the European Parliament on the situation of small-scale fisheries in the EU. Although the report correctly calls for more supports for small-scale fisheries in the EU, I do not agree that the definition of small-scale fisheries should be altered, potentially diverting small-scale fisheries funding to larger vessels and more destructive fishing practices. We call for the full implementation of Article 17 of the Common Fisheries Policy and better funding and fishing opportunities for low impact fisheries.
CO2 emission standards for cars and vans (A9-0150/2022 - Jan Huitema)
I was pleased to vote in favour of this law that will see the first regional phase-out of the internal combustion engine for passenger cars and vans. As of 2035, these will no longer be sold on EU markets. Electricity is the most efficient fuel source for these vehicles and by setting this deadline we give a clear signal to industry that electrification is the way to go. The benefits for people and planet in terms of reduced air pollution and emissions are enormous given road transport’s huge contribution to both.
An EU strategy to boost industrial competitiveness, trade and quality jobs (B9-0085/2023, B9-0086/2023, B9-0087/2023, B9-0088/2023, B9-0089/2023, B9-0090/2023, B9-0091/2023, B9-0104/2023, B9-0105/2023, RC-B9-0107/2023, B9-0107/2023, B9-0108/2023, B9-0110/2023, B9-0111/2023, B9-0115/2023)
I was happy to support this motion alongside my Greens/EFA colleagues which calls for the EU to strengthen its own industrial and trade resources in order to boost its industrial competiveness. The call for a new European Sovereignty Fund would be essential in supporting the growth of European industry as well as the implementation of the European Green Deal. In particular, I supported the call for increased funding in cross-border energy infrastructure, that would avoid lock-in effects on fossil fuels, as well as funding in renewable energy production and energy efficiency, thereby strengthening the path towards the European Green Deal’s implementation. The EU’s industrial plan must be aligned with our climate goals if we are to become climate neutral by 2050.
Following up on measures requested by Parliament to strengthen the integrity of European institutions (RC-B9-0147/2023, B9-0147/2023, B9-0150/2023, B9-0152/2023, B9-0153/2023, B9-0154/2023)
I was pleased to vote with the vast majority of MEPs who supported this resolution calling for various measures to be introduced to improve the transparency and integrity of the European Parliament. In the wake of recent scandals, it is crucial that we take action to prevent corruption and rebuild trust in the EU institutions. Firstly, we must insist that existing rules are fully implemented and complied with, such as the public recording of meetings. In addition, we need to improve protection for whistleblowers and the declarations of financial interests, and to establish an independent and effective ethics body. We call on the Commission to come forward with a proposal for such a body as soon as possible.
Establishment of an independent EU Ethics Body (B9-0151/2023, RC-B9-0144/2023, B9-0144/2023, B9-0145/2023, B9-0146/2023, B9-0148/2023, B9-0149/2023)
The establishment of the body is essential in the EU institutions as it would demonstrate the importance that all institutions attach to high ethical standards for their members. If citizens are to keep faith in the EU and its institutions, then the EU must adhere to the highest possible levels of integrity and transparency. An independent EU ethics body would strengthen trust in the EU and ensure a level of oversight that would combat corruption. Therefore I supported this motion.
One year of Russia’s invasion and war of aggression against Ukraine (RC-B9-0123/2023, B9-0123/2023, B9-0126/2023, B9-0131/2023, B9-0132/2023, B9-0134/2023, B9-0139/2023)
Together with the Greens/EFA Group, I voted in support of this resolution which marks one year since the brutal invasion of Ukraine by the Putin regime. The EU must maintain solidarity with the people of Ukraine as the war carries on. I strongly support Ukraine’s candidature for EU membership, while noting that the terms of accession must be met in full. I could not, however, support the language calling for ‘all types’ of weapons ‘without exception’ being sent to the conflict. I do not agree that all weapons types, including nuclear and cluster munitions, should ever be considered for modern conflict. The EU should continue its role as a leader in nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament as well as continue to implement the terms of the Dublin Convention on Cluster Munitions.
Developing an EU cycling strategy (B9-0102/2023)
I was pleased to vote in favour of the European Parliament’s first resolution on cycling. While cycling is a cheap, sustainable, efficient and healthy way to travel and carry goods, it has long been ignored in EU transport policy. This is why the resolution calls for the first ever EU cycling strategy. This will be the first step in ensuring that cycling is taken seriously at EU level as a transport mode that can deliver huge benefits in terms of mobility, jobs, health, environmental goals and more.
Availability of fertilisers in the EU (B9-0101/2023)
I had a number of concerns in relation to this motion for resolution. Greens/EFA group is concerned by the calls for increased spending for energy intensive and soil-damaging synthetic fertilisers. Furthermore, the resolution calls for amendments to the Nitrates Directive which will only increase levels of water pollution across the EU. The current framework under the Nitrates Directive is already insufficient in relation to reducing water pollution. We believe that this would send the wrong message to Member States and therefore, I could not support this resolution.
Revision of the EU Emissions Trading System (A9-0162/2022 - Peter Liese)
I voted in favour of the revision of the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), which is one of the European Union’s core instruments to protect the climate. The ETS ensures that the biggest polluters have to buy greenhouse certificates to match their emissions. The current version of the ETS was not sufficiently restrictive, and did not adequately lower overall CO2 emissions from industry. Though this ETS revision was not ambitious as I had hoped, I believe that this agreement will help us further decarbonise our economies and put us on track to achieve our climate obligations. Crucially, this agreement will finally put an end to ‘free allowances’, which permit industries to pollute for free and which completely contradict the polluter pays principle.
Monitoring, reporting and verification of greenhouse gas emissions from maritime transport (A9-0134/2023 - Peter Liese)
Carbon border adjustment mechanism (A9-0160/2022 - Mohammed Chahim)
I was happy to vote with the vast majority of MEPs to support the adoption of the regulation on the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). This new regulation will complement the EU Emissions Trading System by pricing the emissions of the most carbon-intensive imported goods. Therefore, in addition to the efforts made to decarbonise our own European industries, we are also encouraging other countries to reduce their carbon footprints, while avoiding carbon leakage.
Social Climate Fund (A9-0157/2022 - David Casa, Esther de Lange)
As I believe climate action must go hand in hand with social justice, I support the creation of a Social Climate Fund. It was important to create this fund in order to mitigate the expected increase in energy prices linked to the new Emissions Trading System for buildings and road transport. However, it must be acknowledged that the amount allocated to the Social Climate Fund is not sufficient to fully attain this goal. I therefore call on Member States to ensure that all of the funds received are used to support the most vulnerable households from rising energy prices, both with direct income support and with structural investments like deep retrofitting and affordable public transport to lift people out of energy and mobility poverty.
Revision of the EU Emissions Trading System for aviation (A9-0155/2022 - Sunčana Glavak)
Together with the Greens/EFA, I was happy to vote in favour of the revision of the EU Trading System (ETS) for aviation. Thus far, the scope of the current ETS for aviation was not broad enough to fully reflect the climate impact of aviation, as it only covered intra-EU flights. This is why I support the extension of the scope to international flights if no action is taken at a global level before 2025. Thanks to this piece of legislation, the aviation sector will be held accountable for its CO2 emissions, but also non-CO2 emissions, which can be even more detrimental to the environment.
Amendments to Parliament’s Rules of Procedure concerning question time, the central rostrum, the blue-card procedure, the explanations of votes, the transparency register and the Ombudsman (A9-0072/2023 - Gabriele Bischoff)
I was happy to vote in favour of the Bischoff report, which I believe will change Parliament’s Rules of Procedure for the better, as well as making plenary debates more interactive. Furthermore, I welcome the technical alignment of the Rules to the Interinstitutional Agreement on the transparency register, which will foster more transparency within Parliament. I also support the changes in the procedure to elect the Ombudsman, which will promote transparency and prevent irregularities in the electoral process.
Combating discrimination in the EU - the long-awaited horizontal anti-discrimination directive (B9-0201/2023, B9-0202/2023)
I was pleased to join a broad majority of my colleagues voting in favour of this resolution. I deplore the position of the Member States blocking the adoption of the Horizontal anti-discrimination Directive, as it is a crucially important piece of legislation. This directive would allow all EU citizens protection against discrimination on the grounds of age, disability, religion or belief and sexual orientation beyond the labour market. Together with a majority of MEPs I called on the Council to intensify efforts to unblock this much needed Horizontal anti-discrimination Directive.
Application of Union tariff rate quotas and other import quotas to certain products transferred to Northern Ireland (A9-0164/2023 - Seán Kelly)
I was pleased these changes passed with large majorities in the European Parliament, confirming the desire for quick implementation of the Windsor Framework agreement. Now that these practical challenges are overcome, the EU—UK relationship can move past this milestone into a new era of cooperation.
Specific rules relating to medicinal products for human use intended to be placed on the market of Northern Ireland (A9-0167/2023 - Pascal Canfin)
I was pleased these changes passed with large majorities in the European Parliament, confirming the desire for quick implementation of the Windsor Framework agreement. Now that these practical challenges are overcome, the EU—UK relationship can move past this milestone into a new era of cooperation.
Specific rules relating to the entry into Northern Ireland from other parts of the United Kingdom of certain consignments of retail goods, plants for planting, seed potatoes, machinery and certain vehicles operated for agricultural or forestry purposes, as well as non-commercial movements of certain pet animals into Northern Ireland (A9-0168/2023 - Pascal Canfin, Martin Hlaváček)
I was pleased these changes passed with large majorities in the European Parliament, confirming the desire for quick implementation of the Windsor Framework agreement. Now that these practical challenges are overcome, the EU-UK relationship can move past this milestone into a new era of cooperation.
Methane emissions reduction in the energy sector (A9-0162/2023 - Pascal Canfin, Jutta Paulus)
Together with my Greens/EFA colleagues, I was happy to vote in favour of this regulation, which will finally regulate methane emissions in the energy sector. The European Parliament voted for an ambitious piece of legislation that will cut down no less than 75% of the total methane emissions in the energy sector. The adoption of this regulation is a key step in our fight against climate change, as methane is about 80 times more potent than CO2 at warming our atmosphere – making it one of the most harmful gases to our environment.
New EU Urban Mobility Framework (A9-0108/2023 - Andrey Novakov)
I was pleased to join the broad majority of my colleagues voting in favour of the adoption of this report.As a member of the Greens/EFA, I fully support the switch from a car—centred urban planning to pedestrian- and cycle—friendly urban frameworks. I was happy to support this report, as it recognises the benefits of cycling and active mobility, as well as their role in achieving climate neutrality. However, I would have wished for the report to further emphasise the importance of micro-mobility in urban planning.
Discharge 2021: European Border and Coast Guard Agency (A9-0142/2023 - Ramona Strugariu)
I have a number of concerns over the practices of the European Border and Coast Guard Agency. In addition to the internal mismanagement of the agency, my biggest concern revolves around the lack of observation of human rights. Indeed, as revealed by OLAF in 2022, the operatives of the agency have persistently committed violations on human rights. FRONTEX must take measures to hold its officers accountable, and cease illegal pushbacks immediately.
Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence – EU accession: institutions and public administration of the Union (A9-0169/2023 - Łukasz Kohut, Arba Kokalari)
Along with my Greens/EFA colleagues, I was proud to vote in favour of the EU’s ratification of the Istanbul Convention. This is something our group in the Parliament has pushed for many years. One in three women has experienced some kind of gender-based violence since the age of 15: eliminating this violence must be a priority for the European Union. The long-awaited full accession to the Istanbul Convention is a major step in the EU’s fight against gender-based violence and discrimination. This tool puts in place much-needed legally binding standards to address violence against women and domestic violence.
Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence - EU accession: judicial cooperation in criminal matters, asylum and non-refoulement (A9-0170/2023 - Łukasz Kohut, Arba Kokalari)
Along with my Greens/EFA colleagues, I was proud to vote in favour of the EU’s ratification of the Istanbul Convention. This is something our group in Parliament has pushed for many years. One in three women has experienced some kind of gender-based violence since the age of 15: eliminating this violence must be a priority for the European Union. The long-awaited full accession to the Istanbul Convention is a major step in the EU’s fight against gender-based violence and discrimination. This tool puts in place much-needed legally binding standards to address violence against women and domestic violence.
Empowering consumers for the green transition (A9-0099/2023 - Biljana Borzan)
I was happy to vote in favour of this report, as today, Parliament took a firm stance against greenwashing. Indeed, the new labelling requirements that we voted in favour of will ensure manufacturers produce higher quality products that last longer, and can be more easily repaired. It introduces a much-need ‘right to repair’ for European consumers. Moreover, Parliament is also clamping down on unsubstantiated green claims: companies will no longer be able to mislead customers in this way.
Roadmap on a Social Europe: two years after Porto (B9-0235/2023, B9-0236/2023)
Together with my Greens/EFA colleagues, I was happy to vote in favour of this resolution. As a member of the Greens/EFA Group, I believe that the Porto Forum was an important place to put forward ambitious social policies. Indeed, this forum can help us ensure that the green transition is also fair to all. In that regard, I welcome the measures in favour of green and affordable social housing, as well as the proposal for a European action plan for social protection.
Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence (A9-0184/2023 - Lara Wolters)
I was happy to vote in favour of this report on the EP’s position on the Corporate Sustainability and Due Diligence Directive. It gives a strong and progressive mandate to the rapporteur to take with her to trilogue negotiations with the Council. This decisive piece of legislation will ensure that human rights and sustainability are fully integrated into companies’ business policies and activities. Through this directive, the European Union will be able to hold companies accountable when they infringe on human rights or harm the environment in their value chains. This directive will make the European Union a leading norm-setter for human rights protection.
EU Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles (A9-0176/2023 - Delara Burkhardt)
As I believe we must urgently tackle the harmful environmental effects of fast fashion, I happily voted in favour of this report. The textile industry’s environmental footprint goes way beyond our planetary boundaries. Textiles should be sustainable, circular and fair: we must immediately reduce our material and consumption footprints if we are to respect our 2050 climate commitments.
Sexual harassment in the EU and MeToo evaluation (A9-0178/2023 - Michal Šimečka)
More should be done to tackle sexual harassment in the European Union and within its institutions. Everyone should be able to live their lives and go to work without fear of harassment or violence. As I support the introduction of better reporting procedures and support for victims within the European Parliament, I was happy to vote in favour of this report.
Foreign interference in all democratic processes in the European Union, including disinformation (A9-0187/2023 - Sandra Kalniete)
The European Union needs to properly address any interference in European democratic processes, including and especially regarding disinformation. That is why, whilst I did not fully agree with some of the language used in this report, I voted in favour of its adoption. The structural shortcomings facilitating manipulation through online platforms must be tackled by the European Union.
Artificial Intelligence Act (A9-0188/2023 - Brando Benifei, Dragoş Tudorache)
Together with the wide majority of my colleagues, I was happy to vote in favour of the Artificial Intelligence Act, the first ever legislation to regulate artificial intelligence (AI). This report will improve protections for not only fundamental rights, but also societal justice and the environment – which I consider to be major developments in the field of AI.
Ensuring food security and the long-term resilience of EU agriculture (A9-0185/2023 - Marlene Mortler)
Together with my Greens/EFA colleagues, I opposed the adoption of this report which aims to reverse progress on climate action and halting biodiversity loss. This text threatens our long-term food security by opening the door to the circumvention of environmental regulations which underpin our agricultural systems. Contrary to the rapporteur, I believe that to secure the long-term resilience of EU agriculture, we need to put in place strong regulations to protect our environment.
Quality traineeships in the EU (A9-0186/2023 - Monica Semedo)
Nobody can afford to work for free! Together with my Greens/EFA colleagues, I voted in favour of this report to ensure that all trainees are taking part in a quality traineeship. That means that traineeships should be decently paid and have a strong learning component to them, and that, later on, they should be recognised as working experience.
EU Day for the victims of the global climate crisis (B9-0296/2023)
Implementation and delivery of the Sustainable Development Goals (A9-0213/2023 - Udo Bullmann, Petros Kokkalis)
The European Union has less than seven years to reach the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) it pledged to attain. As we are still lagging behind our commitments, I was happy to vote in favour of this report, which makes concrete recommendations on how the European Union can achieve all of the SDGs by 2030. In addition, in line with the rapporteurs, I firmly believe that the SDGs must be achieved in a social and climate-just way. Social and climate justice must go hand in hand!
Deployment of alternative fuels infrastructure (A9-0234/2022 - Petar Vitanov)
I was pleased to vote in favour of the revision to this law, which will put binding targets on Member States for the deployment of electric recharging points. While there are some elements we are less happy about, we are also happy that the Parliament secured requirements on the rail sector in order to move away from diesel-powered trains.
Sustainable maritime fuels (FuelEU Maritime Initiative) (A9-0233/2022 - Jörgen Warborn)
I was pleased to vote in favour of the first law of its kind in the EU when it comes to the maritime sector, which will require ships to progressively switch to more sustainable fuels over the coming decades. The sector is a difficult one to decarbonise and this law begins the long process of weaning ships off their dependence on fossil fuels.
Nature restoration (A9-0220/2023 - César Luena)
I voted against the rejection amendment and in favour of the Nature Restoration Law. While it was extremely disappointing to see some severe weakening of the Commission’s proposal, I am nonetheless very glad that a majority of MEPs voted to adopt a position of the Parliament after severe attacks on the law and a real possibility of it not being adopted. At a time when 81% of the EU’s eco-systems are in either a ‘poor’ or ‘bad’ state, a new EU Nature Restoration Law will be a vital tool to help us reverse this trend and reach our international obligations, in particular the UN Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
Relations with the Palestinian Authority (A9-0226/2023 - Evin Incir)
I supported this important resolution, which is the European Parliament’s first report on EU relations with the Palestinian Authority (PA). It addresses the PA’s deficiencies in the field of democracy, governance, human rights and the rule of law, while contextualising the PA’s role and competences in the reality of Israel’s occupation and de facto annexation of the occupied Palestinian territories (oPt). Despite attempts to undermine the negotiated text, the final report acknowledges that Israel’s occupation deprives the PA of key competences that are at the core of statehood, and that this is not only a flagrant violation of international law, but also a major obstacle to the achievement of the two-state solution.
Financial activities of the European Investment Bank – annual report 2022 (A9-0210/2023 - Stefan Berger)
I welcomed this annual report from the ECON Committee assessing the performance of the European Investment Bank for 2022, as well as the CONT Committee report on the same subject.Both reports contained a lot of positive wording, including strong language on the EIB’s role in financing for climate change measures and social infrastructure, support for Ukraine and development finance outside the EU, as well as reiterating long-standing calls for improvements to the Bank’s governance and accountability.However, I am not in favour of calls for mobilising the EIB to invest in the defence industry. Despite this wording, I decided to vote in favour of the final text of both reports. As the report states, the annual investment gap to reach the EU’s climate goals is €1 trillion. It’s crucial the EIB retains its role as the EU’s ‘climate bank’.
The need for EU action on search and rescue in the Mediterranean (B9-0339/2023, B9-0340/2023, B9-0342/2023)
I co-signed and voted in favour of this important resolution following the recent Pylos shipwreck, which led to the loss of several hundred lives in the Mediterranean, the world’s deadliest migration route. Our Greens/EFA Group has long called for an EU-led search and rescue mission in the Med, and for an end to the criminalisation of those who provide assistance to people in need.EU Member states need to urgently assume their responsibilities to prevent people dying in the Mediterranean. The EU has a humanitarian responsibility and a moral duty to rescue people in danger, and needs to urgently establish, coordinate and fund a state-led EU Search and Rescue mission to ensure that lives are no longer lost at sea. The criminalisation of NGOs saving lives must also end.
Protection of workers from asbestos (A9-0160/2023 - Véronique Trillet-Lenoir)
I voted in favour of this important law that concerns the protection of workers from asbestos in the EU. This recast would lower the occupational exposure limit value to better protect workers – this determines how much asbestos per cubic metre is allowed in a workplace without dedicated protection measures. The current occupational exposure limit is very high and outdated and leaves workers at risk of health complications due to asbestos exposure. I voted in favour of this recast to introduce better protection for workers’ health, and I am pleased to have seen it pass in Parliament.
Ensuring European transportation works for women (A9-0239/2023 - Elżbieta Katarzyna Łukacijewska)
I voted in favour of this report that calls for the introduction of more concrete measures to ensure the safety, availability, accessibility, and affordability of transport services, as well as employment opportunities and working conditions, for women and for people facing intersectional discrimination in the transport sector.This report is a crucial step in ensuring gender parity in the EU and equal opportunities for employment, along with equal treatment for all in the transport sector. This report passed in Parliament.
Harmonising the rights of autistic persons (B9-0390/2023)
I voted in favour of this resolution on harmonising the rights of autistic persons in the EU. This resolution calls for including people with autism under the benefits of the new European Disability Card, and ensuring that autistic persons enjoy equal access to both physical and psychological healthcare throughout the EU.The text also outlines ways to make employment more accessible and inclusive for people with autism, and highlights problems with diagnosis in some Member States. I am pleased to have seen this resolution pass in the European Parliament.
European green bonds (A9-0156/2022 - Paul Tang)
I abstained in the vote on the European Green Bond Regulation, along with my colleagues from the Greens/EFA Group. The regulation seeks to set out the minimum requirements a bond must meet in order to be considered green. This regulation should create strict rules on how companies and governments could use European green bonds to finance large scale investments while following strict sustainability requirements. However, this regulation would only introduce a voluntary standard, and so bonds could be marketed as ‘green’ without complying with the provisions of the regulation. I regret that this final outcome does not seek to scale up the environmental ambition of the EU green bond market sufficiently, and that the transparency requirements were watered down from Parliament’s position. For these reasons, I chose to abstain.
Urban wastewater treatment (A9-0276/2023 - Nils Torvalds)
I voted in favour of the recast of the Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive, which introduces a new requirement to remove micro-pollutants from water. This revision introduces a polluter pays principle for the pharma and cosmetics industry, who are responsible for 92% of the micro-pollutants found in water. While Greens/EFA wanted industry to fully cover the costs of removing micro-pollutants, a majority of groups unfortunately voted to reduce this obligation to 80% of the cost, with Member States obliged to cover the rest. I welcome provisions on the right to sanitation and the requirement for wastewater treatment plants to be climate neutral by 2040, while also acknowledging that the latter provision is weaker than it could have been. Overall, the text adopted by the Parliament is a big improvement to the status quo and will ensure stronger protection of the health of citizens and the environment.
Russiagate: allegations of Russian interference in the democratic processes of the European Union (RC-B9-0124/2024)
I voted in favour of this report on allegations of Russian interference in the democratic processes of the European Union. Of particular concern are Russia’s efforts to undermine European democracy by providing specific narratives to far-right political parties in Europe, causing divisions amongst citizens. This is a matter of extreme gravity and we must not be complacent.
Establishing the Ukraine Facility (A9-0286/2023 - Michael Gahler, Eider Gardiazabal Rubial)
The European Parliament voted overwhelmingly in favour of this new facility for Ukraine as part of the mid-term review of the EU’s long-term budget, the MFF. The financial support will be of vital help to the Ukrainian people and the Ukrainian economy as they suffer the ongoing Russian war of aggression.
Shipments of waste (A9-0290/2022 - Pernille Weiss)
I was happy to vote in favour of this report, which included a commitment to banning the export of plastic waste to third countries, a demand that our group put forward and gained cross-party support. The final deal includes a ban to non-OECD countries under specific conditions, and active scrutiny by the Commission in the implementation process.
Nature restoration (A9-0220/2023 - César Luena)
I was very happy to vote in favour of the deal reached between Member States, MEPs and the European Commission on the Nature Restoration Law. This piece of legislation aims to restore the majority of Europe’s degraded ecosystems by 2050. It will help bring back nature, protect people from extreme weather events, and secure food production in Europe. While it is not perfect, I welcome this landmark decision and hope that in the steps to come, all actors involved can work together to develop a plan that delivers for all.
Protection of the environment through criminal law (A9-0087/2023 - Antonius Manders)
I was pleased to vote in favour of this revised law on the protection of the environment through criminal law, which represents a major milestone in investigating environmental crimes and sentencing offenders. The text broadens the list of environmental offences and will allow for stricter sanctioning of damages, such as those comparable to ecocide, like events of widespread pollution.
Financial activities of the European Investment Bank - annual report 2023 (A9-0031/2024 - David Cormand)
This report contained excellent language on the role of the European Investment Bank (EIB) as the EU’s ‘climate bank’, with calls for increased ambition in the bank’s climate and transport policy, as well as positive points on improving the bank’s due diligence considerations, and transparency in its operations.I voted in favour of the final text of this report, despite the fact that an amendment (which I voted against) inserted wording calling for the EIB to reform its eligibility list so that it could finance ammunition and military equipment that go beyond dual-use application. Aside from this sentence, which I do not support, I was in favour of the text overall.
Data collection and sharing relating to short-term accommodation rental services (A9-0270/2023 - Kim Van Sparrentak)
I was pleased to vote in favour of this report on short-term rental accommodation. This new law will mean that platforms such as Airbnb are obliged to share their data with authorities, in a regular and harmonised way. This is a first step in tackling the negative side effects that we have seen with the growth of short-term accommodation services throughout the EU.
Ecodesign Regulation (A9-0218/2023 - Alessandra Moretti)
I am delighted to have voted in favour of the ecodesign regulation. This regulation will serve as an ambitious and achievable framework to make more sustainable products the norm.The improved text also considers other factors like the environmental impact of materials throughout the product’s lifecycle, rather than solely focusing on energy consumption.Furthermore, new products will have a digital product passport, containing information on a product’s origin, composition and repair capabilities. Advances like this are essential in our pursuit of carbon neutrality.
Preventing plastic pellet losses to reduce microplastic pollution (A9-0148/2024 - João Albuquerque)
Along with my group, I voted in favour of the prevention of plastic pellet losses to reduce microplastic pollution. This new regulation recognises that plastic pellet losses are both detrimental to the environment and potentially harmful to human health. The text broadens the scope of the Commission proposal, with the introduction of marine transport and the labelling of plastic pellets. Minimising plastic pellet losses will also contribute to our EU nature restoration goals.
Prohibiting products made with forced labour on the Union market (A9-0306/2023 - Samira Rafaela, Maria-Manuel Leitão-Marques)
This was an important vote on a new law prohibiting products made with forced labour in the Union market. It is estimated that 50 million people are living in modern slavery at any given time. Of this figure, 27 million are trapped in forced labour. This is an issue that the Greens/EFA have been fighting against for years, and we are glad that the final agreement will also address cases of state-imposed forced labour. With this regulation, we are finally taking steps to eradicate modern slavery products coming into the EU market.
Amendments to Parliament’s Rules of Procedure concerning the training on preventing conflict and harassment in the workplace and on good office management (A9-0163/2024 - Gabriele Bischoff)
I was happy to vote in favour of amendments to Parliament’s Rules of Procedure concerning the training on preventing conflict and harassment in the workplace. This training will now be mandatory for every MEP. If an MEP does not partake in the training within the first six months of their mandate, they may not be elected as office holders of Parliament. I fully support these changes; everyone should be able to come to work and expect a sense of safety and respect. As MEPs, it is our responsibility to ensure a safe environment, where everyone is well versed on the impact of workplace harassment.
Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence (A9-0184/2023 - Lara Wolters)
After long negotiations, I am delighted that we could pass this historic vote on the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). For the first time, in accordance with UN guiding principles, it will now be mandatory for businesses operating in the EU to adhere to environmental and human rights due diligence in their value chains. This directive is a huge step forward in combating modern slavery and the millions of people that are affected by it every day. The CSDDD also fosters engagement from companies in the fight against climate change.
European Disability Card and European Parking Card for persons with disabilities (A9-0003/2024 - Lucia Ďuriš Nicholsonová)
I voted in favour of establishing the European Disability Card and the European Parking Card for persons with disabilities. We welcome the introduction of these cards as a step forward in combatting discrimination, and in ensuring people with disabilities in the EU are able to exercise their right to freedom of movement. It is also positive that the scope will extend to Third Country Nationals resident in a Member State.
Combating violence against women and domestic violence (A9-0234/2023 - Evin Incir, Frances Fitzgerald)
I voted in favour of this agreement on a first ever piece of EU-level legislation on combating violence against women and domestic violence. This directive constitutes a real step forward in tackling gender-based violence, including protecting victims of female genital mutilation, forced marriage and cyber harassment. The file does establish clear minimum standards, which will protect and enhance the lives of millions of women across EU Member States. However, the work is not complete: it is important that we strive to do more to prevent gender-based violence in our society.
Major interpellations (1)
Implementation and enforcement of EU environmental law
Written questions (95)
The illegal detention in Ireland of US veterans Ken Mayers and Tarak Kauff
Coca-Cola fined for LGBTI campaign in Hungary
Shipping pollutants and remedies: Commission response to Parliament’s demands
Compliance of the Irish Government’s draft planning Bill with the Aarhus Convention
Development of a unified EU brain health strategy
Green Deal compatibility criteria for Projects of Common Interest
CRII and CRII+ in the light of the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities
Access to clinical trial information and transparency in the vaccine strategy
TEN-E revision, TYNDP and 5th PCI list
Recovery of the European eel
EU position on the Intergovernmental Conference on marine biodiversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ)
Mass arrest of LGBTI activists in Poland
Subsidising Estonia's oil shale industry with co-firing biomass does not merit state aid
Protection of shortfin mako sharks in the framework of International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas
Prosecution of NGOs in Greece
Demolition and confiscation of EU-funded aid projects in the West Bank
Management and monitoring plans for the Natura 2000 marine sites
Crackdown on reproductive rights in Poland amid the ongoing crisis of the rule of law
Senegalese fishing licences and foreign vessels
New strains of COVID-19 and the need to put a final stop to mink farming in the EU
New evidence of push‑backs at the Croatian border – will the Commission now finally start to react?
Food safety risks of imported meat from stolen and unidentified horses from Argentina
Twinning projects with Israel
Breach of the Birds Directive in Malta
Measures necessary to rebuild cod and whiting stocks in the Celtic Sea
State of play of the Commission’s response to ‘LGBT-free zones’ in Poland
Support for small offshore islands in Ireland following European Maritime Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund negotiations
The urgent need to make tackling wildlife crime a priority for the upcoming 2022‑2025 European multidisciplinary platform against criminal threats (EMPACT) policy cycle
Providing support to tackle India’s COVID-19 public health emergency
Animal abuse and breaches of Directive 2010/63/EU at Vivotecnia, Spain
Costs of nuclear power stations and risks for the energy systems reliant on them
Safety of nuclear power installations
EU strategy on the Israel-Palestine conflict
The snail’s pace progress of EU justice in ending discrimination against lettori in Italian universities
Discrimination against LGBTI people in Hungary goes against the principles and rules of EU funding
Increasing the supply of COVID-19 vaccines to Palestine
Sustainability impact assessment on the trade agreement between the EU and Mercosur
LGBTIQ inclusion in ESF+ project selection
Use of neonicotinoids such as imidacloprid in finfish farming and the impact on human health and the marine environment
So-called LGBT-free zones in Poland violate the principle of non-discrimination in EU cohesion policy
Violence against LGBTIQ persons during Tbilisi Pride and the ineffective response from the Georgian authorities
EU web accessibility for persons with disabilities
The Irish bottom mussel fishery and voisinage arrangements for vessels registered in Northern Ireland in the context of the EU‑UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement
EU data on shortfin mako shark discards in the framework of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT)
Mass slaughter of dolphins and whales in the Faroe Islands and the role of Danish authorities
New Implementing Protocol to the EU-Gabon Fisheries Partnership (2021-2026): concerns for marine ecosystems and coastal communities in Gabon
Israel’s decision to designate six Palestinian human rights NGOs as terrorist organisations
Protection against discrimination on the basis of age
Bottom trawling in the EU’s marine protected areas
Commission recommendation on the prevention of harmful practices
EU/Council of Europe project to implement the Pan‑European Action Plan for Sturgeons
Implementation and enforcement of EU environmental law
Pushbacks and the deterioration of migration
EU funding for the Libyan Coast Guard
Revision of the Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive
Local employment services and EU procurement laws
The expansion of illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem and related settler violence
Bycatches of dolphins in the bay of Biscay
Seismic research for oil exploration in Hellenic trench threatens marine mammals and sea turtles
EU action tackling China’s distant‑water fleet, which is involved in human rights abuses, illegal fishing and bottom trawling
Imports from Israeli settlements
Ukrainian refugees with disabilities
The illegal fishing activities of China’s fleet in foreign countries: the role of EU sustainable fisheries partnership agreements in ensuring transparency and a level playing field
EU memorandum of understanding with Egypt and Israel on natural gas, and the absence of a territorial clause
Inclusion of detailed rules on fish transport in the upcoming review of Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005
Access to EU funding for LGBTI organisations in Ukraine in the context of Russia’s invasion
Human rights violations against Maasai communities living in the Loliondo division of Ngorongoro district in Tanzania
Conservation of shortfin mako sharks in the South Atlantic within the framework of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT)
Availability of financing facilities for small-scale producer organisations
Transparency on uranium deliveries
Israeli parliamentary elections of 1 November 2022
Compensation following the demolition of EU-funded structures
Status and timeline on preventing the export of hazardous chemicals that are banned in the EU
Overfishing of non-quota species in inshore waters in Ireland
Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotropin (PMSG) production
Order to remove Palestinian flags by new Israeli security minister
Next steps for the Energy Charter Treaty
Commission participation in the ICJ advisory opinion on the legal status of Israel’s occupation and its consequences
Single-Use Plastics Directive and extended producer responsibility
Deep-sea mining in the EU
Transfer of power advancing annexation of the West Bank by Israel
EU fishing industry exporting shark fins to California
Illegal expulsions by Greece
The right of persons with disabilities to participate in the electoral process
Monitoring the effective enforcement of bottom trawling rules in the Mediterranean
Article 17 of the CFP Regulation as a tool to support the energy transition of EU fisheries
Remedial action to recover severely overexploited fish stocks in the EU
Commission, where is the promised animal welfare legislation?
Action to end overfishing in the North-East Atlantic, the Mediterranean and the Black Sea
France and Spain’s struggle to comply with Habitats Directive and the common fisheries policy to avoid by-catches of protected species by fishing vessels
Human rights and the EU-Israel Association Agreement
The movement of non-native honeybees into Ireland
Israel’s disregard for international law and the provisional measures of the International Court of Justice
Environmental compliance discrepancies in Ballymore Eustace – seeking clarification
Rights for persons with disabilities when travelling by air
Amendments (642)
Amendment 4 #
2023/2049(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 a (new)
Citation 5 a (new)
– having regard to the 2020 report by the Scientific, Technical and Economic Committee for Fisheries (STECF) on criteria and indicators to incorporate sustainability aspects for seafood products (STECF-20-05),
Amendment 6 #
2023/2049(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 b (new)
Citation 5 b (new)
– having regard to the 2021 Special Eurobarometer Report 515 titled 'EU Consumer Habits Regarding Fishery and Aquaculture Products',
Amendment 14 #
2023/2049(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas more than three-quarter of respondents to the 2021 Special Eurobarometer 515 consider that the date of catch or production should be mentioned on the label for all fishery and aquaculture products;
Amendment 26 #
2023/2049(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Is of the opinion that POs have a key role in helping to achieve the objectives of the CFP, which is why they need to be further supported; notes that more must be done to promote the set-up, consolidation and financing of POs across the EU, particularly in Member States where primary production has largely remained fragmented (aquaculture, small- scale fisheries); considers that strong PO presence is crucial for enhancing the prosperity of coastal communities and, for the protection of the marine environment, and for strengthening the position of fishers in the supply chain;
Amendment 36 #
2023/2049(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Urges Member States to provide the appropriate administrative and financial support to set up and operate small-scale coastal fisheries POs, and provide specific criteria for their recognition;
Amendment 45 #
2023/2049(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Calls on Member States to verify the democratic functioning and governance structure of POs as well as checking the rules on admission of new members or withdrawal of membership, as required by the CMO regulation;
Amendment 50 #
2023/2049(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Urges Member States to improve consistency in the support for POs by national authorities and reduce to the greatest extent possible existing gaps and differences across the EU; asks the Commission to continue its support to Member States in this regard;
Amendment 73 #
2023/2049(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Amendment 74 #
2023/2049(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 b (new)
Paragraph 12 b (new)
12b. Highlights that the STECF proposed to improve consumer information through the CMO by including more detailed information on the catch area and fishing gear for fishery products and on the production system for aquaculture products;
Amendment 75 #
2023/2049(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 c (new)
Paragraph 12 c (new)
12c. Calls for providing mandatory information on the date of catch for all fishery products and the production method for all aquaculture products;
Amendment 80 #
2023/2049(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Notes that there are no data indicating that consumers confuse fisheries and aquaculture products, on one hand, and plant-based alternatives to fisheries products on the other; notes that producers of plant-based alternatives clearly label their products as 'vegetarian' or 'vegan'; considers that there is no need to put in place restrictions to the use of fisheries-related terms for plant-based alternatives, as long as they are clearly labelled as such;
Amendment 82 #
2023/2049(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 b (new)
Paragraph 13 b (new)
13b. Notes that EU consumers consume more fisheries products than what the European Waters can sustainably provide, notes that it leads to a dependance of the EU to imports from third countries, considers that the EU should aim at reducing the consumption of imported fisheries products and encourage the consumption of EU sustainable fisheries products;
Amendment 3 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 13 a (new)
Citation 13 a (new)
– having regard to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, in particular Sustainable Development Goal 14 “Life Below Water: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development”,
Amendment 3 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 13 a (new)
Citation 13 a (new)
– having regard to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, in particular Sustainable Development Goal 14 “Life Below Water: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development”,
Amendment 15 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
B a. whereas IUU fishing has a significant impact on marine ecosystems and on the sustainability of fish stocks;
Amendment 15 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
B a. whereas IUU fishing has a significant impact on marine ecosystems and on the sustainability of fish stocks;
Amendment 17 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B b (new)
Recital B b (new)
B b. whereas IUU fishing is strongly linked to incidences of forced labour, labour rights abuses and human trafficking;
Amendment 17 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B b (new)
Recital B b (new)
B b. whereas IUU fishing is strongly linked to incidences of forced labour, labour rights abuses and human trafficking;
Amendment 18 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B c (new)
Recital B c (new)
B c. whereas IUU fishing has a disproportionate impact on the food security and livelihoods of coastal communities in developing countries;
Amendment 18 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B c (new)
Recital B c (new)
B c. whereas IUU fishing has a disproportionate impact on the food security and livelihoods of coastal communities in developing countries;
Amendment 19 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B d (new)
Recital B d (new)
B d. whereas transparency on beneficial ownership of companies is key to investigating and prosecuting environmental offences, notably in IUU fishing;
Amendment 19 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B d (new)
Recital B d (new)
B d. whereas transparency on beneficial ownership of companies is key to investigating and prosecuting environmental offences, notably in IUU fishing;
Amendment 21 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the EU wais committed to achieving Sustainable Development Goal target 14.4, which was to end IUU fishing by 2020;
Amendment 21 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the EU wais committed to achieving Sustainable Development Goal target 14.4, which was to end IUU fishing by 2020;
Amendment 28 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas fourive third countries currently have a red card and eight have a yellow card; whereas, however, one major producer of seafood, the People’s Republic of China, has never been subject to a procedure under the IUU Regulation despite considerable evidence of its significant and growing involvement in IUU fishing;
Amendment 28 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas fourive third countries currently have a red card and eight have a yellow card; whereas, however, one major producer of seafood, the People’s Republic of China, has never been subject to a procedure under the IUU Regulation despite considerable evidence of its significant and growing involvement in IUU fishing;
Amendment 35 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas products resulting from illegal fishing pose a risk to the food security of European Union citizensworldwide, and developing countries in particular;
Amendment 35 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas products resulting from illegal fishing pose a risk to the food security of European Union citizensworldwide, and developing countries in particular;
Amendment 47 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Welcomes the 2022 WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies which prohibits harmful fisheries subsidies;
Amendment 47 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Welcomes the 2022 WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies which prohibits harmful fisheries subsidies;
Amendment 49 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1 b. Recognises the potential of Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreements (SFPAs) in the fight against IUU fishing; in this regard, calls for the full enforcement of SFPAs' transparency, exclusivity and non-discrimination clauses; calls on the Commission to improve these Agreements with regard to IUU fishing including requiring the publication of all foreign access agreements and details of vessels with access to partner country waters;
Amendment 49 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1 b. Recognises the potential of Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreements (SFPAs) in the fight against IUU fishing; in this regard, calls for the full enforcement of SFPAs' transparency, exclusivity and non-discrimination clauses; calls on the Commission to improve these Agreements with regard to IUU fishing including requiring the publication of all foreign access agreements and details of vessels with access to partner country waters;
Amendment 64 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Welcomes the recent agreement on the revision of the Fisheries Control Regulation; notes the importance of the introduction of Remote Electronic Monitoring measures in order to tackle IUU fishing in EU waters;
Amendment 64 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Welcomes the recent agreement on the revision of the Fisheries Control Regulation; notes the importance of the introduction of Remote Electronic Monitoring measures in order to tackle IUU fishing in EU waters;
Amendment 68 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Encourages the Commission to continue striving for the consistent application and implementation of import control procedures across the EU, including catch certificate checks, a risk- based approach and verifications, and the initiation of infringement procedures;
Amendment 68 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Encourages the Commission to continue striving for the consistent application and implementation of import control procedures across the EU, including catch certificate checks, a risk- based approach and verifications, and the initiation of infringement procedures;
Amendment 71 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Urges the Commission to ensure that Member States comply with fisheries’ monitoring and control rules when it comes to their fishing fleets, in particular their external fleets;
Amendment 71 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Urges the Commission to ensure that Member States comply with fisheries’ monitoring and control rules when it comes to their fishing fleets, in particular their external fleets;
Amendment 72 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6 b. Calls on the EU to strive for harnessing international agreements against IUU fishing, such as the FAO's Agreement on Port State Measures (PSMA), and to promote measures within RFMOs aiming at, among others, improving controls, tackling flags of convenience and re-flagging, addressing transhipment and reinforcing inspections, as important tools to close IUU loopholes;
Amendment 72 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6 b. Calls on the EU to strive for harnessing international agreements against IUU fishing, such as the FAO's Agreement on Port State Measures (PSMA), and to promote measures within RFMOs aiming at, among others, improving controls, tackling flags of convenience and re-flagging, addressing transhipment and reinforcing inspections, as important tools to close IUU loopholes;
Amendment 75 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7 a. Calls on the Commission to take measures to stop the use of flags of convenience; calls for public access to information on the beneficial ownership of fishing vessels of all flags; calls on the Commission to improve its system for identifying vessels engaged in IUU fishing, as provided for in Implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/1184, so that a vessel’s country of origin can be identified even if its flag state is unclear and so that vessels on which human rights violations have been detected are also included;
Amendment 75 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7 a. Calls on the Commission to take measures to stop the use of flags of convenience; calls for public access to information on the beneficial ownership of fishing vessels of all flags; calls on the Commission to improve its system for identifying vessels engaged in IUU fishing, as provided for in Implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/1184, so that a vessel’s country of origin can be identified even if its flag state is unclear and so that vessels on which human rights violations have been detected are also included;
Amendment 77 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 b (new)
Paragraph 7 b (new)
7 b. Welcomes the revised Fisheries Control Regulation, in particular provisions prohibiting Union operators, including beneficial owners, from owning, operating or managing vessels registered under the flag of countries that have been issued a red card for non- cooperation in combatting IUU fishing;
Amendment 77 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 b (new)
Paragraph 7 b (new)
7 b. Welcomes the revised Fisheries Control Regulation, in particular provisions prohibiting Union operators, including beneficial owners, from owning, operating or managing vessels registered under the flag of countries that have been issued a red card for non- cooperation in combatting IUU fishing;
Amendment 78 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 c (new)
Paragraph 7 c (new)
7 c. Urges Member States to establish and maintain comprehensive databases that collect and record information on beneficial owners of registered vessels;
Amendment 78 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 c (new)
Paragraph 7 c (new)
7 c. Urges Member States to establish and maintain comprehensive databases that collect and record information on beneficial owners of registered vessels;
Amendment 79 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 d (new)
Paragraph 7 d (new)
7 d. Encourages Member states to cooperate with the relevant authorities to ensure the accuracy and accessibility of data collected on the beneficial ownership of vessels in order to facilitate policy formation and the enforcement of the revised Fisheries Control Regulation;
Amendment 79 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 d (new)
Paragraph 7 d (new)
7 d. Encourages Member states to cooperate with the relevant authorities to ensure the accuracy and accessibility of data collected on the beneficial ownership of vessels in order to facilitate policy formation and the enforcement of the revised Fisheries Control Regulation;
Amendment 90 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Urges the Member States to reinforce their control systems for preventing the import and export of illegal fishery products and to take the necessary action;
Amendment 90 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Urges the Member States to reinforce their control systems for preventing the import and export of illegal fishery products and to take the necessary action;
Amendment 117 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18 a. Recalls the EU Biodiversity Strategy target to protect 30% of all EU sea area by 2030 including strict protections for one third of this area; calls on the Commission and Member States to ensure that effective measures are in place ahead of the 2030 date in order to prevent IUU fishing in those areas as a priority;
Amendment 117 #
2023/2027(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18 a. Recalls the EU Biodiversity Strategy target to protect 30% of all EU sea area by 2030 including strict protections for one third of this area; calls on the Commission and Member States to ensure that effective measures are in place ahead of the 2030 date in order to prevent IUU fishing in those areas as a priority;
Amendment 60 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
A a. whereas the global economy is facing multiple shocks due to, inter alia, the Covid-19 pandemic, impacts from the war in Ukraine, high inflation and weak economic growth, an unsustainable debt burden, along with the escalating climate and biodiversity emergency crisis; whereas the impact of those shocks on developing countries is aggravated by an unfair global financial system which is short-term oriented and crisis-prone, and which further exacerbates inequalities; whereas high borrowing costs for developing countries are one symptom of an inequitable international financial and monetary system;
Amendment 75 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A b (new)
Recital A b (new)
A b. whereas, according to the UN, as of November 2022, 37 out of 69 of the world’s poorest countries were either at high risk or already in debt distress; whereas the number of additional people falling into extreme poverty in those countries is estimated to be 175 million by 2030, including 89 million women and girls;
Amendment 85 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A c (new)
Recital A c (new)
A c. whereas the international system does not have the tools to effectively facilitate debt restructurings that sufficiently reduce countries’ debt burdens or to address a systemic debt crisis;
Amendment 91 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A d (new)
Recital A d (new)
A d. whereas the UN’s SDG Stimulus Plan aims to tackle the high cost of debt and rising risks of debt distress, to massively scale up affordable long-term financing for development and to expand contingency financing to countries in need;
Amendment 99 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A e (new)
Recital A e (new)
A e. whereas, in 2021, the EU's collective ODA represented 0.49% of EU Gross National Income (GNI), which remains below the agreed target of 0.7 per cent of donor country gross national income;
Amendment 104 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A f (new)
Recital A f (new)
A f. whereas the European Parliament as well the Council of the European Union and the European Council have, on repeated occasions since the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in 2015, called on the European Commission to adopt an overarching strategy to fully implement the SDGs;
Amendment 106 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A g (new)
Recital A g (new)
A g. whereas Policy Coherence for Sustainable Development (PCSD) is an approach to integrate the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of sustainable development at all stages of the policy-making cycle, in order to foster synergies across policy areas, and identify and reconcile potential trade-offs, as well as address the international spillover effects of EU policies;
Amendment 111 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A h (new)
Recital A h (new)
A h. whereas the 2019 IPBES Global Assessment provides evidence that the current negative trends in biodiversity and ecosystems will undermine progress towards 80% of assessed SDG targets relating to poverty, hunger, health, water, cities, climate, oceans and land; whereas the climate and biodiversity crises are intertwined and need to be addressed in tandem and coherently;
Amendment 119 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A i (new)
Recital A i (new)
A i. whereas the 8th Environment Action Programme requires strengthening environmentally positive incentives as well as phasing out environmentally harmful subsidies, in particular fossil fuel subsidies, at Union, national, regional and local level, without delay;
Amendment 123 #
2023/2010(INI)
A j. whereas ‘Right2Water’ is the first European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) to have met the requirements set out in Regulation (EU) No 211/2011 on the citizens’ initiative and to have been heard by Parliament after receiving the support of almost 1,9 million citizens;
Amendment 125 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A k (new)
Recital A k (new)
Amendment 129 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A l (new)
Recital A l (new)
A l. whereas globally 733 million people still have no access to electricity, and 2.4 billion people still cook using fuels detrimental to their health and the environment; whereas seven out of every ten buildings in the EU are energy inefficient while 11% of the EU population is affected by energy poverty, leading to possible delays in access to basic needs, care, education and healthcare, in particular for children and young people; whereas buildings represent approximately 40% of the EU's energy consumption and 36% of carbon emissions;
Amendment 132 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A m (new)
Recital A m (new)
A m. whereas, according to the NGO 'Global Witness', more than a third of the land and environmental defenders murdered worldwide between 2015 and 2019 belonged to indigenous communities, whose land and water management skills are crucial in combating the climate crisis and biodiversity loss;
Amendment 145 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses its commitment to the 2030 Agenda, especially in light of the new geopolitical landscape and the ongoing climate, biodiversity and health crises; warns against further polarisation in the distribution of wealth and income, which would lead to increased inequality and poverty; highlights, against this backdrop, the importance of the SDGs, which provide a universal compass for people’s prosperity and to protect the planet; recalls that a pledge to leave no one behind lies at the heart of the 2030 Agenda and that the achievementshould be fully operationalised in the implementation of theall SDGs should benefby focusing on issues of equality all countries, people and segments of societynd non- discrimination and addressing the root causes of these issues, with particular attention being paid to those who are most marginalised and vulnerable;
Amendment 169 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes that the implementation process for almost all the SDGs is lagging and that two consecutive years of regression have been recorded for many indicators9[1]; reaffirms the importance of each SDG and highlights the key challenges that persist for sustainable development, particularly in relation to poverty (SDG 1), hunger (SDG 2), health (SDG 3), education (SDG 4), gender equality (SDG 5), climate change (SDG 13), oceans (SDG 14) and biodiversity (SDG 15); underlines the strategic role that SDG 10, on reducing inequality, and SDG 17 on global partnerships can play in the global implementation of the 2030 Agenda; _________________ 9[1] UN Sustainable Development Report 2022, ‘From Crisis to Sustainable Development: the SDGs as Roadmap to 2030 and Beyond’: https://resources.unsdsn.org/2022- sustainable-development-report.
Amendment 213 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Regrets the fact that the Commission has still not presented a comprehensive strategy for achieving the 2030 Agenda given that there are only seven years left to achieve the SDGs and, hence, urgent implementation is required through the definition of specific, quantitative, measurable and time-bound targets and indicators;
Amendment 240 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Stresses Parliament’s important role in promotingthe important role of the European Parliament , national parliaments and regional and local authorities in the SDGs’ implementation through European policies and heightening the goals’ visibility in public discourse; underlines that coordination within and between the EU institutions is essential in order to ensure the EU’s leadership and increase the effectiveness of its efforts to implement the 2030 Agenda;
Amendment 243 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8 a. Stresses that multi-level governance is one of the SDGs' core values and recalls the key role of regions and cities, with the OECD estimating that 65% of the SDGs targets cannot be reached without the coordination or involvement of local and regional authorities;
Amendment 274 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Underlines the importance of enhanced cooperation with partners in the Global South, particularly the African Union and with representatives of local and regional governments and civil society representatives, in order to implement the 2030 Agenda globally;
Amendment 284 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Stresses, in this regard, that the EU and its Member States must avoid negative spillover effects at the expense of the Global South, which occur as a result of their past economic and technological model; advocates cooperation with global partners to turn any negative spillover effects into virtuous circlereiterates in this respect the need to comply with the principle of Policy Coherence for Development and the “Do not harm” principle, with special attention paid to trade, finance, environment and climate change, food security, migration and security; advocates cooperation with global partners; calls for all EU policies to be subject to a mandatory SDG check to provide more insight on and address any negative effects and ensure that change in this area is measurable;
Amendment 288 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12 a. Expresses particular concern about the significant impact of certain mega-projects, including infrastructure projects, extractive industries projects and energy production projects, on the human rights to water and sanitation, notably for indigenous peoples and local communities; recalls that indigenous peoples and local communities play an important role for the sustainable management of natural resources and the conservation of biodiversity; asks the EU and its Member States to recognise and protect indigenous people’s rights to customary ownership and control of their lands and natural resources as set out in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People and ILO Convention No 169, and to comply with the principle of free, prior and informed consent; requests that the Member States which have not yet done so ratify ILO Convention No 169 on Indigenous and Tribal Peoples;
Amendment 316 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Points out that, in order to assess the Member States’ progress on the SDGs, the Eurostat sustainable development indicators must be improved by filling the gaps for some SDGs and; points out, however, that, since they are used to assess the SDGs at national level, they do not reflect reality on the ground; believes, therefore, that NUTS-2-level data should also be used to better measuringe policies’ impact on territories and specific vulnerable groups;
Amendment 337 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Highlights the importance of voluntary local reviews and voluntary subnationRecommends a renewed focus on localizing the SDGs, support for the implementation at all territorial rleviews as a means of further localising the SDGs and therefore advancing their implementationels, facilitating peer learning between regions and cities at global level and encouraging a greater engagement in Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs) and Voluntary Subnational Reviews;
Amendment 361 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17 a. Recalls that ODA remains a major source of finance for the poorest countries, and continues to play a crucial role in achieving the 2030 Agenda; notes with concern that, while being the biggest global ODA provider, the EU and its Member States failed to achieve their collective commitments to provide 0.7% of GNI as ODA and 0.20% as ODA to the least developed countries by 2030; urges the EU and its Member States to meet its ODA commitments and to prioritise allocation of grants and concessional financing based on vulnerabilities;
Amendment 397 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Stresses that adequate financing for the attainment of the SDGs, especially in developing countries, requires a thorough overhaul of the global financial architecture; welcomes in this respect the UN’s SDG Stimulus package and its proposal to reform the global international financial architecture; urges the Commission and the Member States to step up their engagement and jointly work towards the necessary reforms of the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank Group and multilateral development banks in order to adjust these financial institutions’ visions and operating models with a focus on strengthening the fight against poverty and rising inequality and promoting a just and sustainable transition;
Amendment 399 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19 a. Calls on the Commission to track inconsistencies among expenditures, which hinder the EU and third countries’ achievement of the SDGs, notably in the area of agriculture; urgently calls on Member States and the EU to identify and phase out all environmentally harmful subsidies without delay, as required by the General Union Environment Action Programme to 2030;
Amendment 410 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Amendment 416 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Stresses that more than half of the world’s poorest countries face either a debt crisis or a high risk of one; welcomeIs alarmed by the fact that LDCs were already unable to finance the implementation of the SDGs before the Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine and are now even more in need of financial support; Stresses that more than half of the world’s poorest countries face either a debt crisis or a high risk of one; notes with deep concern that according to the United Nations, 25 developing countries paid more than 20 per cent of total government revenue in external debt service in 2022, while sixteen of the most debt-troubled countries today owe more than 30 percent to private creditors[1]; against this background, applauds the UN Secretary- General’s push for a global SDG stimulus package and calls for effective debt relief measures that make use of the full toolset available and include both ‘new lenders’ and private creditors; to offset challenging conditions faced by developing countries and accelerate progress towards the SDGs, including through investments in i.e. renewable energy, universal social protection, decent job creation, healthcare, quality education and sustainable food systems; and calls for effective debt relief measures that make use of the full toolset available and include both ‘new lenders’ and private creditors; reiterates its call for the creation of a multilateral debt workout mechanism, under UN auspices, to address the debt crisis in developing countries and the financing requirements of the Agenda 2030; [1] https://www.undp.org/publications/dfs- building-blocks-out-crisis-uns-sdg- stimulus-plan
Amendment 423 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21 a. Underlines the structural challenges of developing countries in terms of domestic resource mobilisation linked to i.e. illicit financial flows, unsustainable debt burdens, tax abuse by multinationals, etc.; calls on the EU to take the lead to clamp down on tax evasion and tax avoidance practices and to ensure a fair distribution of taxing rights while negotiating tax and investment treaties;
Amendment 430 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Recognises the importance of domestic resources being mobilised in developing countries and draws attention to the fact that this is contingent on an enabling international environment; accordingly, calls on the EU to scale up its cooperation with developing countries on tax matters to enable them to enhance mobilisation of public resources; in particular, calls on the Commission and the Member States to take the initiative and push for the establishment of a UN intergovernmental commission for international cooperation on tax matters, in order to fight illicit financial outflows and close tax havens;
Amendment 432 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)
Paragraph 22 a (new)
22 a. Recognises the role the private sector should play in sustainable finance but stresses the need to combine public and private finance towards public goals; highlights, in this context, that the private sector cannot guarantee either universal access to, nor replace public investments in, critical services such as health, education and social protection, that provide crucial long-term prospects to overcome poverty; calls on the EU and its Member States, in a context where ODA remains a scarce resource, to limit blending operations to those areas where they can add value to the local economy, but to exclude blending finance from essential public services, particularly health, education and social protection, as the monetisation of those sectors could widen already existing inequalities and jeopardise the universal access to those services; more broadly, urges the European Commission and the Member States to prioritise partnerships with LDC domestic enterprises that pursue sustainable and inclusive business models;
Amendment 444 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 b (new)
Paragraph 22 b (new)
22 b. Recalls that developing countries are historically vulnerable to external shocks owing to narrow export bases and less diversified economies; stresses, therefore, that one of the main challenges for developing countries is to climb up the global value chain through economic diversification and to shift from an a export-oriented production model towards development based on domestic and regional markets; to this end, emphasises the crucial role of multilateral fora and institutions to advance those objectives, with the view to harness resilience and to increase national or regional autonomy in the production of essential goods and services;
Amendment 448 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 c (new)
Paragraph 22 c (new)
22 c. New subtitle Sectoral Policies related to the SDGs under review at the 2023 High Level Political Forum
Amendment 449 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 d (new)
Paragraph 22 d (new)
22 d. Regrets that many cases of policy inconsistencies prevail in various EU sectoral areas, notably related to food, energy, trade and taxation policy, with particular worrying negative consequences for developing countries;
Amendment 450 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 e (new)
Paragraph 22 e (new)
Amendment 451 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 f (new)
Paragraph 22 f (new)
22 f. Highlights the potential risks of water grabbing and water pollution associated to EU foreign direct investments in large-scale land acquisitions for agriculture and extractive industries; accordingly, stresses the importance to implement PCD and a fully-fledged Human Right Impact Assessment related to any agricultural and energy investment projects financed by the European Fund for Sustainable Development; stresses equally the need to enact water-related mandatory due diligence and reporting standards for corporations;
Amendment 452 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 g (new)
Paragraph 22 g (new)
22 g. Recognises the importance of improving the supply of drinking water and sanitations an efficient way of pursuing fundamental poverty eradication objectives, as well as promoting social equality, public health, food security and sustainable development; Calls on the Commission to recognise water as a public good and a fundamental value for all EU citizens and not as a commodity; Calls for the EU to support sustainable water management in the agricultural sector, which mobilises over 70 % of water resources, through investing in sustainable irrigation and water storage systems, through optimising and reducing the use of fresh water in agriculture along the whole supply chain, through reducing food waste and through fostering agro- ecology by restoring wetlands, as well as through reducing, where possible, the use of pesticides and fertilisers that pose a risk of water pollution, especially to groundwater;
Amendment 453 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 h (new)
Paragraph 22 h (new)
22 h. Urges the Member States to ensure access to affordable and clean heating and electricity and to avoid people being obliged to choose between eating or heating; Highlights that reducing energy demand through increasing the efficiency of buildings, consumer goods and transport can also contribute to limiting global warming to 1.5C as committed to under the Paris Agreement, while supporting global health, education, poverty, employment and food security goals;
Amendment 454 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 i (new)
Paragraph 22 i (new)
22 i. Highlights that 70% of the EU population live in cities today and this is projected to reach almost 84% in 2050; therefore stresses the importance of sustainable urban development in the EU, including through, inter alia: a modal shift from private cars to more sustainable modes of transport like high quality and affordable public transport, walking and cycling; an ambitious renovation wave to renovate the EU's building stock and thereby reduce energy consumption and emissions, decrease energy bills, create local employment and ensure safer, healthier buildings for people to live in; and the establishment and expansion of green and blue infrastructure in cities which serve to reduce air, water and noise pollution, provide protection from flooding, droughts and heat waves, and provide a refuge for nature as well as recreational amenities for people;
Amendment 455 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 j (new)
Paragraph 22 j (new)
22 j. Stresses the importance to achieve universal access to energy for all in the Global South; insists upon the need to support renewable decentralised solutions, such as small-scale, off-grid and mini-grid energy solutions, to reach all parts of developing countries’ populations, particularly poor and rural populations; calls on the EU to target its efforts, financially and technically, towards these small-scale solutions to energy poverty in remote areas;
Amendment 456 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 k (new)
Paragraph 22 k (new)
22 k. Recognises that the public sector alone will not be able to provide all the financing needs required to expand energy access; underlines, however, that increasing focus on the use of public- private partnerships and attracting funds from private financiers may adversely diminish the financial attractiveness of local renewable energy projects, since such projects are less "bankable" than major, grid-connected projects, which often serve large industries; therefore, underlines that the ultimate responsibility for ensuring access to universal services, especially affordable energy for poor and remote populations, remains that of the state;
Amendment 457 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 l (new)
Paragraph 22 l (new)
22 l. Recalls that the EU energy transition, which will generate a surge of extraction of metals and minerals linked to renewable energy sources and digital economy, represents challenges for developing countries, as mining is a sector linked to severe environmental destruction (including in protected and indigenous territories); freshwater contamination and depletion; human rights abuses (including gender violence); forced displacement; loss of livelihoods; violent conflict; unsafe working conditions; worker exploitation (forced labour, child labour and human trafficking); and illicit financial flows; emphasises accordingly that PCD shall be strictly implemented while a “Just Transition” lens must be applied across the entire renewable energy value chain;
Amendment 458 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 m (new)
Paragraph 22 m (new)
22 m. Takes note of the new Commission’s proposal on Critical Raw Material Act, which aims to ensure the EU's access to a secure, diversified, affordable and sustainable supply of critical raw materials; acknowledges that raw materials may be subject to trade restrictions creating uncertainties regarding the ability of the EU to secure its supply of these materials; recalls however that trade restrictions (such as export taxes) can be a legitimate tool for governments of developing countries for their future industrial development, as a leverage to fight against poverty and for environmental protection; against this background, stresses the right of developing countries to use trade tool, such as export taxes on raw materials, in sofar as it is WTO-compatible, if they deem it appropriate, to fulfil public interests;
Amendment 459 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 n (new)
Paragraph 22 n (new)
22 n. Notes the proposal of the Commission to conclude new Sustainable Investment Facilitation Agreements; stresses that EU hunger for materials should not lead to neo-colonial extractivist relationships; stresses that the EU must aim at negotiating with its partners to develop sustainable trade and cooperation agreements, that uphold the right of each party to regulate (including the ability to limit the exports of raw materials when justified by sustainable development objectives), create added- value for both parties, while ensuring a high level of climate and human rights protection;
Amendment 460 #
2023/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 o (new)
Paragraph 22 o (new)
22 o. Recalls that the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services will undermine progress in approximately 80 % of the assessed targets for the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and calls on the EU to address the root causes of biodiversity loss and to mainstream obligations on conservation, restoration and the sustainable use of resources into broader development policies; recalls that ecological restoration is critical for the implementation of the ‘One Health’ approach; stresses that conservation efforts must not violate human rights, notably those of Indigenous Peoples and local communities; accordingly, calls on the EU to develop conservation programme in consultation with local communities, Indigenous Peoples and women, as well as other marginalised groups to truly contribute to the fight against deforestation and biodiversity loss;
Amendment 13 #
2023/0164(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) In view of the full monitoring cycle of visits to Member States by EMSA to monitor the implementation of this Directive, the Commission should evaluate the implementation of this Directive no later than [tenfive years after its date of entry into force referred to in Article 23)] and report to the European Parliament and the Council thereon. Member States should cooperate with the Commission to gather all the information necessary for the evaluation.
Amendment 15 #
2023/0164(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5
Directive 2009/18/EC
Article 5 – paragraph 1
Article 5 – paragraph 1
1. Each Member State shall ensure that a safety investigation is carried out by the investigation authority referred to in Article 8 after very serious marine casualties or a serious injury:
Amendment 22 #
2023/0164(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5
Directive 2009/18/EC
Article 5 – paragraph 2
Article 5 – paragraph 2
In the case of a fishing vessel of less than 15 metres in length, the investigation authority shall carry out a preliminary assessment of the very serious marine casualty or serious injury to determine whether or not to conduct a safety investigation.
Amendment 27 #
2023/0164(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 8
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 8
Directive 2009/18/EC
Article 8 – paragraph 4 – point i a (new)
Article 8 – paragraph 4 – point i a (new)
(ia) have free access to environmental data and ecological survey records pertaining to the immediate area in the case of severe damage to the environment;
Amendment 2 #
2022/2188(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. Whereas the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union has had a severe impact on the EU fisheries fleet, resulting in loss of quota, decommissioning of vessels, and disruption of long established commercial enterprises and trade;
Amendment 9 #
2022/2188(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the TCA gradually reduces the share of fishing opportunities for the EU fleet in UK waters by 25 % by 2026, a reduction that will affect all segments of the EU fleet, including particular small-scale fishing;
Amendment 15 #
2022/2188(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Amendment 19 #
2022/2188(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Expresses concern that recent agreements on catch limits for shared fish stocks in the Northeast Atlantic and North Sea continue to disregard ‘zero catch’ scientific advice for depleted stocks such as West of Scotland cod, Irish Sea whiting and Celtic Sea Herring;
Amendment 28 #
2022/2188(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls on the Commission to assist Member States in making full use of the funds under the BAR to promote and support the fisheries sector and the coastal communities affected and to compensate for the losses suffered, including particular those suffered by small-scale fisheries;
Amendment 32 #
2022/2188(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Opposes all decisions taken unilaterally that establish fishing opportunities which contravene international law or go against the best scientific advice available and thus call into question the credibility of international agreements and undermine the sustainability of the exploitation of shared resources; urges the Commission to take any necessary and proportionate measures to resolve the dispute or to force the United Kingdom into full compliance;
Amendment 34 #
2022/2188(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Notes that the outcome of the ongoing reform of the Fisheries Control Regulation will have a significant impact on future negotiations between the EU and UK with regard to access and monitoring of fleets; calls on the involved institutions to come to a rapid conclusion to negotiations and subsequent implementation of the reformed Fisheries Control Regulation regime;
Amendment 35 #
2022/2188(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Expresses concern about the licencing of EU vessels and the lack of commitment by the UK to faithfully implement the TCA in this regard; notes that vessels under 12 meters were among the most severely harmed by delays in granting a fishing licence or by declined licences, due to the fact that many of them were not equipped with VMS during the entire period of reference, regrets that the TCA didn’t include specific provisions to protect vessels under 12 meters; urges the Commission to continue its efforts to come to an agreement on the unresolved licencing issues, including the level of access for licenced fishing vessels in the waters of the UK and the Crown Dependencies;
Amendment 39 #
2022/2188(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Notes that the issues regarding the licencing of EU vessels has a stronger impact for small-scale fishers, especially those from the North of France and Normandy, as these vessels are not able to change their fishing area;
Amendment 41 #
2022/2188(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 b (new)
Paragraph 7 b (new)
7b. Expresses concern regarding the impact of the displacement of fishing effort following the implementation of the TCA, especially in the Channel; calls for the Commission to propose a regional management plan in the Channel and the North Sea to mitigate this impact and to avoid overfishing;
Amendment 3 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 8 a (new)
Citation 8 a (new)
— having regard to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) ‘Guidebook for evaluating fisheries co-management effectiveness’,
Amendment 4 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
A a. whereas objective 14.b of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) calls for parties to provide ‘access of small-scale artisanal fishers to marine resources and markets’;
Amendment 17 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas certain Member States and regions have a legal framework for co-management, however, to date, there is no legislation at European level governing the implementation of co-management mechanisms, even if in many of its Member States this system is being used to manage some of their fisheries, applying rules that fit in perfectly with the current Common Fisheries Policy;
Amendment 24 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas traditional management has not had the desired effects onto some extent improvinged stock status and maintaininged employment;
Amendment 32 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas, in all the cases of co- management mentioned above, the change in the role of fishers – from passive subjects who comply with the rules to protagonists in fisheries management that comply with the agreed rules – is fundamental to the success of the initiatives adopted, as they learn to understand the importance of the rules, to defend them and monitor compliance with them, and to manage their fishing methods in an ecosystem-based approach, understanding the importance of their fisheries in the ecosystems;
Amendment 38 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital M
Recital M
M. whereas the White Paper on the Governance of the European Union establishested that Policies should no longer be decided at the top, that the legitimacy of the EU nowwould lies with the participation of its citizens and that the system of functioning of the Union needs to be made more transparent since participation depends on people being able to take part in public debate; for this to happen, the general public needs to be more actively informed about European issues; whereas the White Paper also proposes the involvement of local-government associations in policy development and greater flexibility in the implementation of certain Community policies with a strong territorial impact; whereas the reformed Common Fisheries Policy introduced the concept of regionalisation and expanded the range of Advisory Council to consult stakeholders;
Amendment 42 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O
Recital O
O. whereas co-management, being a participatory and co-responsibility model, is more transparent, proactive and equally democratic, and helps to generate educational synergies regarding the management of common resources and a culture of responsibility, establishing networks of trust and contributing to reducing conflict and overcoming reticence in order to implement innovations in fisheries management;
Amendment 44 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O a (new)
Recital O a (new)
O a. whereas the lack of women’s representation and inclusion in fisheries management hinders sustainability and development;
Amendment 46 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Considers that in all cases of co- management there is a clear potential for improvement in the sustainability of resources at environmental level, maintaining the economic and social benefits of the activity, as social and economic actors are directly involved in decision-making in co- management; notes that such co- governance systems have been found to be more resilient to shocks such as COVID and to reduce conflicts and improve fluidity in decision-making on fisheries management, fostering democratisation, transparency, trust and compliance with regulations;
Amendment 50 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Points out that co-management has been proven to favour consensual decision- making between the administration, the sectorrelevant stakeholders and research bodies, which that shall always act in accordance with the principles of the Common Fisheries Policy and other relevant regulations, applying the precautionary approach in all cases to ensure that resources are exploited in a manner that is fully sustainable on the basis of the maximum sustainable yield of the target species;
Amendment 54 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Notes that there is a continuum of possible co-management arrangements covering various partnership arrangements and degrees of power- sharing;
Amendment 56 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Stresses that, as research bodies are directly involved in co-management systems, improved scientific data collection is ensured; it should be noted that this system makes it possible to generate data and knowledge that cannot otherwise be difficult to obtained, given the close relationship between all the parties involved (administration, industry and researchers – the so-called triple helix), thus developing the capacity of all of them to use this information to generate rapid and effective responses to any issues that may affect fisheries;
Amendment 61 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Amendment 63 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 b (new)
Paragraph 7 b (new)
7 b. Stresses that co-management models can play a key role in the implementation of Article 17 of the CFP, where Member States must use transparent and objective criteria, including those of an environmental, social and economic nature when allocating the fishing opportunities available to them; whereas those criteria may include the impact of fishing on the environment, the history of compliance, the contribution to the local economy and historical catch levels;
Amendment 64 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 c (new)
Paragraph 7 c (new)
7 c. Acknowledges that co- management can be a useful tool to improve the collection of environmental data and ensuring that management measures are adapted to the specificities of individual fisheries leading to greater acceptance and compliance by fishers; stresses the need to use this to improve the availability of data and measures to minimise the impacts of bycatch on sensitive species;
Amendment 65 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 d (new)
Paragraph 7 d (new)
7 d. Notes that third-country nationals employed in EU fisheries are often excluded from decision making processes; stresses that co-management approaches can help include these often marginalised voices with important consequences for working conditions and labour rights;
Amendment 92 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13 a. Notes that small-scale fishers often lack the resources and means available to industrial fisheries to successfully engage in the legislative process, which has historically led to significant inequities in national fisheries policy frameworks;
Amendment 97 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Calls on the Commission to promote, within the rules of the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF), a commitment to co- management models for fisheries with adequate funding;
Amendment 101 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14 a. Notes that the development of a Union framework for co-management is possible, but currently absent, under the current Common Fisheries Policy;
Amendment 103 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Advocates that the newRecommends that any potential future reform of the CFP incorporates co- management, which is defined by the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations) as the resource management process in which the government shares its authority with users, each party being given specific“a partnership arrangement in which the community of local resource users (fishers) and government, with support and assistance as needed from other stakeholders (boat owners, fish traders, fish processors, boat builders, business people, etc.) and external agents (non-governmental organisation, academic and research institutions), share the responsibilitiesy and rights with regard to information and decision-makingauthority for the management of the fishery";
Amendment 105 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15 a. Calls on Member States to support the development of fisheries co- management systems through the immediate implementation of national and legal frameworks, building on best practices observed in other Member States and with the support of the European Commission;
Amendment 106 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 b (new)
Paragraph 15 b (new)
15 b. Notes that the European Union is committed to protecting 30% of the Union’s sea area and strictly protecting 10% of the Union’s sea area; stresses that co-management models provide an opportunity for fishers and coastal communities to engage with and benefit from the design and management of Marine Protected Areas;
Amendment 107 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Notes that global fisheries management is mainly based on a top- down state-centred approach, focused on industrial or large-scale fisheries, economic efficiency, environmental sustainability, and is guided by scientific research in marine biology; considers that this approach would not be validis not always appropriate for small- scale fisheries that need the involvement of the fishing community in fisheries management tools that also need to be based on environmental sustainability and guided by scientific research in marine biology, and that it has not been the best approach with regard to semi- industrial and industrial fisheries globally;
Amendment 111 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16 a. Stresses that the inclusion of scientific research in marine social science is critical in guiding the development of more inclusive and equitable fisheries management approaches and practices;
Amendment 113 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Stresses that the choice of instrument used in the management of fisheries resources is largely up to governments, although experience around the world shows that various forms of partnership between government, industry and fishers strengthen management and produce good results; points out that the 1987 report ‘Our Common Future’, commonly known as the Brundtland Report, already concluded that in order to achieve sustainable development and therefore also sustainable management of natural resources, communities should have greater access to and control over decisionparticipation in the decision-making process affecting theircommon resources, including increased responsibility, always in cooperation with the relevant administrations and organisations (World Commission on Environment and Development, 19879 ); _________________ 9 https://www.un.org/es/ga/president/65/issu es/sustdev.shtml
Amendment 117 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Reiterates that fisheries co- management already exists and has been successful in many of the known cases, and that there are legislative initiatives in this regard, both at local level, such as in Galicia, Catalonia and Andalusia in Spain, and at state level, such as in Portugal, Italy, Sweden, Croatia and the Netherlands; stresses that the lack of standardisation of regulations at European level prevents this system from being applied in other regions and countries;
Amendment 129 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20 a. Stresses that the success of co- management is also determined by the design of participatory structures, where equity, representation and environmental concerns are prioritised and marginalised communities are included;
Amendment 133 #
2022/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21 a. Calls on the Commission and Member States to support small-scale fishers, small-scale producer organisations and co-operatives engaged in co-management processes as a priority, in order to create a level playing field in EU fisheries;
Amendment 41 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 18 a (new)
Citation 18 a (new)
— having regard to the European Court of Auditor’s special report 26/2020 entitled 'Marine environment: EU protection is wide but not deep',
Amendment 42 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 19 a (new)
Citation 19 a (new)
— Having regard to the global launch of the Inner Development Goals Alliance in March 2022 with Costa Rica as its first partner country,
Amendment 57 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the impact of the COVID- 19 pandemic is not yet fully known, but has already led to a significant degree of SDG backsliding globally, including in the EU where the SDG index score declined for the first time; whereas according to the United Nations “Financing for Sustainable Development Report” (2021), the Covid-19 pandemic could lead to a “lost decade” for sustainable development; whereas LDCs have been hit particularly hard because of their dependence on trade as a driver of economic growth, their small domestic markets and low levels of diversification, all of which increase their vulnerability to external shocks;
Amendment 68 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas the European Parliament as well the Council of the European Union and the European Council have, on repeated occasions since the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in 2015, called on the European Commission to adopt an overarching strategy to fully implement the SDGs;
Amendment 74 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B b (new)
Recital B b (new)
Amendment 80 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B c (new)
Recital B c (new)
Bc. whereas the European Parliament as well as national Parliaments also have a responsibility to ensure that sustainable development is mainstreamed within their procedures, in order to break down silos;
Amendment 83 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B d (new)
Recital B d (new)
Bd. whereas the EU high-level multi- stakeholder platform on the implementation of the SDGs, which ran from 2017 to 2019, was set up to support and advise the European Commission and provided a forum for exchange of experience and best practice across sectors and at local, regional, national and EU level, bringing together stakeholders from civil society, non- governmental organisations, the private and corporate sector;
Amendment 86 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B e (new)
Recital B e (new)
Be. whereas the transition to a wellbeing economy, where growth is regenerative, is embedded in the EU’s 8th Environment Action Programme and enshrined in its 2030 and 2050 priority objectives; whereas this transition will require the Union to develop a more holistic approach to policymaking through, inter alia, the use of a summary dashboard that measures economic, social and environmental progress ‘beyond GDP’;
Amendment 89 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B f (new)
Recital B f (new)
Bf. whereas the climate and biodiversity crises are intertwined and need to be addressed in tandem and coherently, taking into account that policies to protect biodiversity and mitigate climate change are not always mutually supportive;
Amendment 90 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B g (new)
Recital B g (new)
Bg. whereas the COVID-19 pandemic has greatly exacerbated the existing debt problems of developing countries, further endangering their efforts at mobilizing sufficient resources to achieve the SDGs; whereas, accordingly, additional efforts in terms of debt relief are urgently needed to avoid widespread defaults in developing countries and to facilitate investments in recovery and the SDGs;
Amendment 92 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B h (new)
Recital B h (new)
Bh. whereas according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Sixth Report of 2022, climate change has reduced food and water security, hindering efforts to meet the SDGs;
Amendment 94 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B i (new)
Recital B i (new)
Bi. whereas oceans are huge reservoirs of biodiversity and the primary regulator of the global climate; whereas their conservation is critical to sustainable development and contributes to poverty eradication, providing sustainable livelihoods and food security for billions of people;
Amendment 122 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Reaffirms its commitment to the 2030 Agenda and the 17 SDGs; stresses that, in the light of the pandemic, the SDGs provide a unique pathway to both ensure a recovery that woulda wellbeing economy, that leaves no one behind and, building back better a more equitable and resilient world;
Amendment 148 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Welcomes the commitment by the President of the Commission to pursue a ‘whole-of-government’ approach towards the EU’s SDG implementation and to mainstream the SDGs across each Commissioner’s portfolio; asserts, however, that such an approach can only be effective with leadership at the highest level; calls therefore on the European Commission and the Commission President to further detail how the ‘whole of government’ approach to the SDGs is being implemented at EU level;
Amendment 157 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Reiterates that to achieve the SDGs, the 2030 Agenda requires a strong level of societal legitimacy and a genuine political reset; recalls that the importance of structured stakeholder engagement and multi-stakeholder partnerships is at the heart of the SDGs; emphasises the immense value of civil society organisations in this regard; deeply regrets that the mandate of the multi-stakeholder platform was not renewed in 2019 and calls for its urgent reinstatement;
Amendment 180 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Is highly concerned that the key provisions of policy coherence for development are acutely lacking in the landmark ‘Fit for 55’ legislative package7 and the Commission’s work in general; _________________ 7 COM(2021)0550.regrets that the lack of an SDG implementation strategy makes it more challenging to achieve policy coherence, due to the lack of clear, measurable and time-bound EU-wide targets for all SDGs to report on; calls for sustainable development to be prioritised and mainstreamed throughout the project cycle (design, implementation, evaluation), through robust impact assessment and for all its dimensions to be systematically considered in impact assessments, disclosure and external reporting requirements;
Amendment 188 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls for the Commission to adopt a new, high-level EU SDG implementation strategy given that there are only eight years left to achieve the 2030 Agenda and, hence, urgent implementation is required through the definition of specific, quantitative, measurable and time-bound targets and indicators;
Amendment 197 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Is of the view that the adoption of the new comprehensive implementation strategy should be preceded by a broad public participatory consultation process; calls on the EU Commission to anticipate the next UN Agenda after 2030 with a roadmap of targets and measures to plan the next sustainable developments goals;
Amendment 208 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Highlights that the European and national Parliaments also have a role to play to ensure that sustainable development is mainstreamed in procedures and that silos are broken down; emphasises the importance of the Parliament’s participation and contribution to the annual HLPF, and the role that an annual SDG implementation report could play in this regard;
Amendment 248 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Recognises the importance of voluntary local reviews and voluntary subnational reviews for the implementation of the SDGs; calls on the Commission to present an inclusive EU voluntary regional review ahead of the 2023 SDG Summit, and every four years thereafter; recalls the importance of national reviews as a way to identify tensions and trade-offs between SDGs and to generate an iterative process of adjusting policies in the light of progress towards targets;
Amendment 257 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Amendment 266 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Underlines that the EU budget is a pivotal tool for implementing the SDGs, due to its size of EUR 1.8 trillion, long- term reach and multinational dimension9 ; urges donors to rapidly scale up ODA to meet commitments which have not yet been delivered on; _________________ 9 Policy Department for Budgetary Affairs, Directorate-General for Internal Policies, for the Committee on Budgetary Control, 'The Sustainable Development Goals in the EU budget', 2021.
Amendment 267 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14a. Underlines the structural challenges of developing countries in terms of domestic resource mobilisation linked to, inter alia, illicit financial flows, unsustainable debt burdens, unbalanced trade agreements as well as tax evasion and aggressive tax planning by multinationals; takes the view that the fulfilment of the 2030 Agenda requires an ambitious plan at international level to increase domestic resource mobilisation to address those issues;
Amendment 269 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 b (new)
Paragraph 14 b (new)
14b. calls on the EU to scale up its cooperation with developing countries on tax matters to enable them to enhance mobilisation of public resources; to this end, calls equally on the EU to, inter alia, take the lead to clamp down on tax evasion and tax avoidance practices, to ensure a fair distribution of taxing rights while negotiating tax and investment treaties, to allow developing countries to tax exports of raw materials insofar as it is WTO-compatible, with a view to enable developing countries to expand their fiscal space to deliver on the SDGs;
Amendment 270 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 c (new)
Paragraph 14 c (new)
14c. Notes with concern that public indebtedness in the global south was already at unprecedented levels before Covid-19, which resulted in an increasing portion of public budget being used to service external debts, thereby affecting the capacity of governments to adequately fund and deliver basic public services; is alarmed that the current crisis has exacerbated these pre-existing debt vulnerabilities; calls for the creation of a multilateral debt handling mechanism, under UN auspices, to address the debt crisis in developing countries and the financing requirements of the 2030 Agenda;
Amendment 271 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 d (new)
Paragraph 14 d (new)
14d. Notes with concern that over the past few years, the level of concessionality of ODA has gradually decreased for developing countries in general and for LDCs in particular, although concessionality is of particular importance for LDCs to prevent unsustainable debt burdens; stresses the need for donors to prioritize grant-based financing, especially to LDCs;
Amendment 275 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Welcomes the Commission’s efforts to track EU budget expenditure on climate, biodiversity, clean air, migration and gender equality10 ; regrets, however, that no progress has been made to track SGDs-related expenditure in its entirety, or to track inconsistencies among expenditures which hinder the EU and third countries’ achievement of the SDGs, notably in the area of agriculture; urgently calls on Member States and the EU to identify and phase out all environmentally harmful subsidies by 2027, including a phase-out of all fossil fuel subsidies by 2025 at the latest; _________________ 10 Policy Department for Budgetary Affairs, Directorate-General for Internal Policies, for the Committee on Budgetary Control, 'Budgetary control of the Sustainable Development Goals in the EU budget – What measures are in place to ensure effective implementation?', 2021.
Amendment 288 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Welcomes efforts made to integrate the SDGs into the European Semester; regrets however that the integration of biodiversity indicators in the European semester is not yet implemented;
Amendment 293 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a. Notes the prominent role attributed to blending mechanisms in EU development policy and the financing of the SDGs at the expense of other aid modalities; stresses that, while blended finance has grown rapidly, there is little evidence of its development impact, as most blended finance currently goes to middle-income countries, with only a small portion going to LDCs; recalls equally that blending raises concerns in terms of debt sustainability; calls, accordingly, on the EU and its Member States to adopt a cautious approach to blended finance and ensure that all finance mobilised through blending meets development effectiveness principles;
Amendment 295 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Underlines that public and private financing must be aligned with the SDGs; urges the Commission to embed the 2030 Agenda in economic and financial policies and legislation; Recalls that the private sector can guarantee neither universal access to, nor replace public investments in, critical services, such as health, education and social protection, which provide crucial long-term prospects for the graduation from poverty; Underlines that public and private financing must be aligned with the SDGs; urges the Commission to embed the 2030 Agenda in economic and financial policies and legislation; calls on the EU and its Member States, in a context where ODA remains a scarce resource, to limit blending operations to those areas where they can add value to the local economy, but to exclude blending finance from essential public services, particularly health, education and social protection, as the monetisation of those sectors could widen already existing inequalities and jeopardise universal access to those services; more broadly, urges the Commission and the Member States to prioritise partnerships with LDC domestic enterprises that pursue sustainable and inclusive business models;
Amendment 322 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 5 a (new)
Subheading 5 a (new)
2022 High Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development
Amendment 325 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Amendment 326 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 b (new)
Paragraph 21 b (new)
21b. Regrets that three of the four 2020 SDG 14 targets ('Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development') have not been met by the EU; regrets furthermore that in 2020 the ECA found that, while a framework was in place to protect the marine environment, the EU’s actions had not restored seas to good environmental status, nor fishing to sustainable levels in all seas; calls on the Commission to implement the findings and recommendations of the ECA report in its upcoming 'Action Plan to conserve fisheries resources and protect marine ecosystems' , as well as in upcoming actions under the Biodiversity Strategy;
Amendment 327 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 c (new)
Paragraph 21 c (new)
21c. Recalls that the climate and biodiversity crises are intertwined and need to be addressed in tandem and coherently; emphasises that legally binding nature restoration targets are urgently needed to address the drastic decline of biodiversity in the EU and achieve SDGs 14 and 15, to help mitigate the climate crisis and to build resilience; regrets, in this regard, the delay of the proposal for an EU nature restoration law and calls for its swift publication;
Amendment 328 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 d (new)
Paragraph 21 d (new)
21d. Underlines the importance of SDG 17 ('strengthen the means of implementation and revitalise the global partnership for sustainable development'); notes, in the framework of global partnerships and capacity building, the innovative role of open source initiatives such as the Inner Development Goals (IDGs)1a, which aim to educate, inspire and empower people to be a positive force for change in society, thereby accelerating progress towards achievement of the SDGs; _________________ 1a http://www.innerdevelopmentgoals.org/
Amendment 332 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Insists that a global political resetsystemic change and intensified multilateral cooperation will be necessary in order for the EU and its partners to make meaningful progress in the coming eight years; recalls that, as the world’s most successful integration project with a track record of successfully championing multilateralism, the EU is uniquely placed to accelerate progress on all SDGs, and notably SDG 17 (partnerships for the goals); calls, therefore, on the EU to assume a leadership role at the 2022 HLPF and the 2023 SDG Summit in defining this political resettaking forward this systemic change;
Amendment 335 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)
Paragraph 22 a (new)
22a. Is alarmed at the fact that the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services will undermine progress in approximately 80 % of the assessed targets for the SDGs; recalls that ecological restoration is critical for the implementation of the ‘One Health’ approach; calls on the EU to address the root causes of biodiversity loss and to mainstream obligations on conservation, restoration and the sustainable use of resources into broader development policies;
Amendment 339 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 b (new)
Paragraph 22 b (new)
22b. Underlines that international law has evolved to embrace new concepts such as “the Common heritage of humanity”, “Sustainable Development”, “Future Generations” but stresses that there is no permanent international mechanism to monitor and address environmental damage and destruction that alters the global commons or ecosystem services;
Amendment 340 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 c (new)
Paragraph 22 c (new)
22c. Calls on the EU and the Member States to support, at the 2022 HLPF and the 2023 SDG Summit, a paradigm shift to include ecocide and the right of future generations in international environmental law;
Amendment 341 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 d (new)
Paragraph 22 d (new)
22d. Recalls that developing countries are historically vulnerable to external shocks owing to narrow export bases and less diversified economies; stresses, therefore, that one of the main challenges for developing countries is to climb up the global value chain through economic diversification and to shift from an a export-oriented production model towards development based on domestic and regional markets; to this end, emphasises the crucial role of multilateral fora and institutions to advance those objectives, with the view to harness resilience and to increase national or regional autonomy in the production of essential goods and services;
Amendment 349 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Stresses the fact that Europe faces its greatest SDG challenges in the areas of sustainable dietfood systems and agriculture, climate and biodiversity (SDGs 2, 12, 13, 14 and 15); calls on the Commission to develop a robust comparative analysis of SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation) and SDG 14 (life below water), as trends cannot be calculated due to insufficient comparable data over the past five years;
Amendment 351 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Amendment 354 #
2022/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 b (new)
Paragraph 23 b (new)
23b. Stresses the fact that at least 85% of all new external actions implemented through the Global Europe - NDICI instrument will be required to incorporate gender as a significant or principal objective as defined by the gender equality policy marker of the OECD Development Assistance Committee, and at least 5 % of these actions should have gender equality and women’s and girls’ rights and empowerment as a principal objective; reiterates that the European External Action Service and the Member States should consider Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights as a priority in the EU programming process, including in joint programming; insists on swift and full implementation of the requirement in the EU's Environment Action Programme to 2030 ('the 8th EAP') that gender is mainstreamed throughout climate and environmental policies, including by incorporating a gender perspective at all stages of the policy-making process;
Amendment 209 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1
Citation 1
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 114 thereof and Article 192(1) thereof in relation to Articles 35 to 51 of this Regulation,
Amendment 215 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) In addition, packaging uses high amounts of virgin materials (40 % of plastics and 50 % of paper use in the Union is for packaging) and represents 36 % of municipal solid waste30. High and constantly growing levels of packaging generated as well as low levels of re-use and poor recycling, present significant barriers to achieving a low-carbon circular economy. For these reasons, this Regulation should establish rules over the entire life-cycle of packaging contributing to the efficient functioning of the internal market by harmonising national measures, while preventing and reducing the adverse impacts of packaging and packaging waste on the environment and human health. By laying measures in line with the hierarchy of waste, it should contribute to the transition to a circular economy. Thus, to prevent divergences hampering the free circulation of packaging, uniform obligations and requirements are to be laid down throughout the internal market based on Article 114 TFEU.To the extent that this Regulation contains specific rules on the management of packaging waste , it is appropriate to base this Regulation, in as far as those specific rules are concerned, on Article 192(1) TFEU. _________________ 30 Eurostat, Packaging waste statistics: https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics- explained/index.php?title=Packaging_wast e_statistics
Amendment 266 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) Packaging should be designed, manufactured and commercialised in such a way as to allow for its re-use or high- quality material recycling, and to minimise its impact on the environment during its entire life-cycle and the life cycle of products, for which it was designed. A general minimum number of rotations to qualify for re-use and conditions for re- use should be established. The Commission should be empowered the power to adopt acts in accordance with Article 290 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union to modify those conditions and to establish a minimum number of rotations for reusable packaging in specific packaging categories.
Amendment 275 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) Taking into consideration the protection of human health and the environment and scientific and technological progress, packaging should be designed and manufactured in a way as to limit the presencto avoid the use of certain heavy metals and other substances of concern in its composition. As stated in the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability, substances of concern are to be minimised and substituted as far as possible, phasing out the most harmful ones for non-essential societal use, in particular in consumer products. Accordingly, substances of concern as constituents of packaging material or of any of the packaging components should be minimised with the objectiveavoided wherever possible, unless their use is essential and no safer materials without such substances are available, to ensure that packaging, as well as materials recycled from packaging, do not have an adverse effect on human health or the environment, throughout their life-cycle.
Amendment 284 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) In line with the Zero Pollution Action Plan44, Union policies should be based on the principle that preventive action should be taken at source. The Commission underlines in the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability that Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council45and Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council46should be reinforced as the cornerstones for regulating chemicals in the Union and that they should be complemented by coherent approaches to assess and manage chemicals in existing sectorial legislation. SAs such,substances in packaging and packaging components are thereforshould berestricted at source and primarilyin this Regulation while maintaining the possibility to addressed themunder Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 in accordance with the rules and procedures laid out under its Title VIII, in order to protect human health and the environment, along all stages of the life cycle of the substance, including the waste stage.Hence, it should be recalled that the provisions of that Regulation apply for adopting or amending restrictions on substances manufactured for use or used in the production of packaging or packaging components as well as on the placing on the market of substances present in packaging or packaging components. Concerning packaging falling within the scope of Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council47, it should be recalled that that Regulation applies to ensure a high level of protection of the consumers of packaged food. _________________ 44 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the European Council, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions Pathway to a Healthy Planet for All EU Action Plan: ‘Towards Zero Pollution for Air, Water and Soil’ COM(2021) 400 final. 45 Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 December 2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH), establishing a European Chemicals Agency, amending Directive 1999/45/EC and repealing Council Regulation (EEC) No 793/93 and Commission Regulation (EC) No 1488/94 as well as Council Directive 76/769/EEC and Commission Directives 91/155/EEC, 93/67/EEC, 93/105/EC and 2000/21/EC (OJ L 396, 30.12.2006, p. 1). 46 Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2008 on classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures, amending and repealing Directives 67/548/EEC and 1999/45/EC, and amending Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 (OJ L 353, 31.12.2008, p. 1). 47 Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 October 2004 on materials and articles intended to come into contact with food and repealing Directives 80/590/EEC and 89/109/EEC (OJ L 338, 13.11.2004, p. 4– 17).
Amendment 287 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) This Regulation should not enable the restriction of substances based on reasons of chemical safety, or for reasons related to food safety, with the exception of the restrictions on lead, cadmium, mercury and hexavalent chromium that were already established on the basis of Directive 94/62/EC and should continue to be addressed under this Regulation, given that such restrictions are addressed under other Union legislationput an end to the use of substances of concern in packaging, unless their use is essential and there are no safer materials without such substances. It should, however also allow for the restriction, primarily for reasons other than chemical or food safety, of substances present in packaging and packaging components or used in their manufacturing processes, which negatively affect the sustainability of packaging, in particular as regards its circularity, especially re-use, sorting or recycling. In order to adopt derogations with regard to essential use and the non-availability of safer materials, 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.
Amendment 292 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20
Recital 20
(20) Designing packaging with the objective of its recycling, once it becomes packaging waste, is one the most efficient measures to improve the packaging circularity and raise packaging recycling rates and the use of recycled content in packaging. Packaging design for recycling criteria have been established for a number of packaging formats under voluntary industry schemes or by some Member States for the purpose of the modulation of extended producer responsibility fees. In order to prevent barriers to the internal market and provide industry with a level playing field, and with the objective to promote the sustainability of packaging, it is important to set mandatory requirements regarding the recyclability of packaging, including a negative list of packaging characteristics, by harmonising the criteria and the methodology for assessing packaging recyclability based on a design for recycling methodology at the Union level. In order to meet the objective set out in the CEAP that, by 2030, all packaging should be recyclable or reusable, in an economically viable manner, packaging recyclability performance grades should be established based on design for recycling criteria for packaging categories as listed in Annex II. However, packaging should comply with them only as of 1 January 2030 in order to give sufficient time to the economic operators to adapt.
Amendment 296 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20 a (new)
Recital 20 a (new)
(20a) In order to establish harmonised rules on packaging design to ensure its recyclability, the power to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 290 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union should be delegated to the Commission to set out detailed criteria for packaging design for recycling per packaging materials and categories. As sorting and recycling technologies can be further developed, 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 to amend the negative list of packaging characteristics.
Amendment 301 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) As design for recycling assessment in itself does not ensure that packaging is recycled in practice, it is necessary to establish a uniform methodology and criteria for assessing the recyclability of packaging in practice based on thensure that state- of-the-art separate collection, sorting and recycling processes and infrastructure are actually available in the Union. Related reporting from Member States and, where relevant, economic operators should support establishing to ensure recyclability “at scale”. Reporting from Member States should provide for monitoring of the recyclability “at scale” thresholds and allow for update, on this basis, of the recyclability performance grades with respect to the specific packaging materials and categories.
Amendment 302 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 22
Recital 22
Amendment 311 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23
Recital 23
Amendment 334 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 28 a (new)
Recital 28 a (new)
(28a) In order to ensure that bio-based raw materials are produced in a sustainable manner, the Commission should assess their production with a view to establishing sustainability criteria as well as targets for the use of bio-based raw materials.
Amendment 351 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 31
Recital 31
(31) In order to ensure uniform conditions for the implementation of the rules on calculating and verifying, per unit of post-consumer plastic waste in packaging, the share of recycled content recovered fromobtained from the recovery of post- consumer plastic waste present and establishing the format for technical documentation, the Commission should be empowered to adopt implementing provisions, in accordance with Article 5 of Regulation (EU) No 182/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council55. _________________ 55 Regulation (EU) No 182/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 February 2011 laying down the rules and general principles concerning mechanisms for control by Member States of the Commission’s exercise of implementing powers (OJ L 55, 28.2.2011, p. 13).
Amendment 369 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 36
Recital 36
(36) For limited packaging applications made of biodegradable plastic polymers, there is a demonstrable environmental benefit of using compostable packaging, which enters composting plants, including anaerobic digestion facilities under controlled conditions. In addition, the biodegradable waste should not lead to the presence of contaminants in the compost. The CEN standard EN 13432 "Packaging - Requirements for packaging recoverable by composting and biodegradation - Test scheme and evaluation criteria for final acceptance of packaging" should be revised with regard to composting times, permissible levels of contamination and other requirements necessary to actually allow these materials to be processed in bio-waste treatment facilities at the same level as in home composting. Furthermore, where appropriate waste collection schemes and waste treatment infrastructures are available in a Member State, there should be a limited flexibility in deciding whether to mandate the use of compostable plastics for lightweight plastic carrier bags on its territory. In order to avoid consumer confusion about the correct disposal route and considering the environmental benefit of circularity of the carbon, all other plastic packaging should go into material recycling and the design of such packaging should ensure that it does not affect the recyclability of other waste streams.
Amendment 391 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 40
Recital 40
(40) Packaging should be designed so as to minimise its volume and weight while maintaining its ability to perform the packaging functions. The manufacturer of packaging should assess the packaging against the performance criteria, as listed in Annex IV of this Regulation. In view of the objective of this Regulation to reduce packaging and packaging waste generation and to improve circularity of packaging across the internal market, it is appropriate to further specify the existing criteria and to make them more stringent. The list of the packaging performance criteria, as listed in the existing harmonised standard EN 13428:200057, should therefore be modified. While marketing and consumer acceptance remain relevant for packaging design, they should not be part of performance criteria justifying on their own additional packaging weight and volume. However, this should not compromise product specifications for craft and industrial products and food and agricultural products that are registered and protected under the EU geographical indication protection scheme, as part of the Union’s objective to protect cultural heritage and traditional know-how.On the other hand, recyclability, the use of recycled content, and re-use may justify additional packaging weight or volume, and should be added to the performance criteria. Packaging with double walls, false bottoms and other characteristics only aimed to increase the perceived product volume should not be placed on the market, as it does not meet the requirement for packaging minimisation. The same rule should apply to superfluous packaging not necessary for ensuring packaging functionality. _________________ 57 Packaging – Requirements specific to manufacturing and composition – Prevention by source reduction.
Amendment 424 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 53
Recital 53
(53) It should be ensured that suppliers of packaging or packaging materials provide the manufacturer with all the information and documentation necessary for the manufacturer to demonstrate the conformity of the packaging and the packaging materials. That information and documentation should be provided in either paper or electronic form.
Amendment 428 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 57
Recital 57
(57) As distributors and importers are close to the marketplace and have an important role in ensuring packaging compliance, they should be involved in market surveillance tasks carried out by the competent national authorities, and should be prepared to participate actively, providing those authorities with all necessary information relating to the productackaging concerned.
Amendment 429 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 58
Recital 58
(58) Any importer or distributor that either places on the market packaging under their own name or trademark, or modifies such a productackaging in such a way that compliance with this Regulation might be affected, should be considered to be the manufacturer and should assume the manufacturer’s obligations.
Amendment 432 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 60
Recital 60
(60) The problem of excessive packaging waste generation cannot be fully addressed by setting obligations on packaging design. For certain packaging types, obligations to reduce the empty space should be set on economic operators in terms of reducing the empty space when using such packaging. In case of grouped, transport and e-commerce single use packaging used for supply of products to final distributors or end user, the empty space ration should not exceed 420 % without prejudice to further requirements. In line with the waste hierarchy, it should be possible for economic operators using sales packaging as e-commerce packaging to be exempted from this obligation.
Amendment 480 #
2022/0396(COD)
(73) In view of the results of the evaluation study on plastic carrier bags62, further measures need to be taken to reduce the consumption of lightweight plastic carrier bags and assess possible substitution effects with very lightweight plastic carrier bags and thicker plastic carrier bags above 50 microns. Substitution effects with paper carrier bags should also be addressed. _________________ 62 Scoping study to assess the feasibility of further EU measures on waste prevention and implementation of the Plastic Bags Directive. Part II, Implementation of the Plastic Bags Directive, Eunomia (2021), published by the Publication Office of the European Union, 2022.
Amendment 501 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 91
Recital 91
(91) To achieve an ambitious and sustained reduction in the overall packaging waste generation, targets should be laid down for the reduction of packaging waste per capita to be achieved by 2030. Meeting a target of 5 % reduction in 2030 compared to 2018 should entail an overall absolute reduction of approximately 19 % on average across the Union in 2030 compared to the 2030 baseline. Member States should reduce packaging waste generation by 10 %, compared to 2018, by 2035; this is estimated to reduce packaging waste by 29 % compared to the 2030 baselinember States should therefore reduce packaging waste generation by 10 % in 2030 compared to 2018. In order to ensure that the reduction efforts continue beyond 2030, a reduction target of 105 % from 2018, which would mean a reduction of 29 % compared to baseline, should be set for 2035 and, for 2040, a reduction target of 1520 % from 2018, which means a reduction of 37 % compared to baseline should be established.
Amendment 509 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 92
Recital 92
(92) Member States may achieve these targets by economic instruments and other measures to provide incentives for the application of the waste hierarchy, including measures to be implemented through extended producer responsibility schemes, and by promoting the setting up and effective operation of systems for re- use and encouraging economic operators to offer the end users further possibilities to refill. Such measures should be adopted in parallel and in addition to other measures under this Regulation aiming at packaging and packaging waste reduction, such as requirements on packaging minimisation, re-use and refill targettargets, refill obligations, volume thresholds and measures to achieve the sustained reduction of consumption of lightweight plastic carrier bags. A Member State may, while observing the general rules laid down in the Treaty and complying with the provisions set out in this Regulation, adopt provisions which go beyond the minimum targets set out in this Regulation.
Amendment 534 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 103
Recital 103
(103) Deposit and return systems should be obligatory for single use plastic beverage bottles and metal beverage containers. Member States might also decide to include other packaging in these systems, in particular single use glass bottles, and in such cases should ensure that deposit and return systems for single- use packaging formats, in particular for single use glass beverage bottles, are equally available for reusable packaging, where technically and economically feasible also accommodate reusable packaging. They should consider establishing deposit and return systems also for reusable packaging. In such situations, a Member State should be allowed, while observing the general rules laid down in the Treaty and complying with the provisions set out in this Regulation, to adopt provisions which go beyond the minimum requirements set out in this Regulation.
Amendment 541 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 107
Recital 107
Amendment 547 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 108
Recital 108
(108) As a specific packaging waste generation prevention measure, Member States should actively encourage the re-use and refill solutions. They should support the establishment of systems for re-use and refill and monitor their functioning and compliance with the hygiene standards. Member States are encouraged to take also other measures, such as setting up deposit and return systems covering reusable packaging formats, using economic incentives or establishing requirements for final distributors to make available a certain percentage of other products than those covered by re-use and refill targets in reusable packaging or through refilltargets and refill obligations provided that such requirements will not result in fragmentation of single market and creation of trade barriers.
Amendment 559 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 119
Recital 119
(119) In order to establish the methodology for assessbe able to assess the requirement of the at scale recyclability, Member States should also report data on recycling rates of packaging waste per packaging material and type, amounts of separately collected packaging waste for each packaging material, amounts of packaging waste placed on the market per material and packaging type, and installed capacities of sorting and recycling. Reporting should be done annually.
Amendment 560 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 121
Recital 121
(121) In order to ensure uniform conditions for the implementation of the reporting obligations, the power to adopt implementing acts in accordance with Article 291 of the Treaty should be delegated to the Commission to establish rules for calculation and verification of data on attainment of the recycling targets, separate collection rates of packaging covered by the deposit and return system, and data necessary for establishing the methodology for recyclability at scale assessment. This implementing act should also include rules for determination of the amount of packaging waste generated as well as lay down the format for reporting of data. It should also establish the methodology for the calculation of the annual consumption of lightweight plastic carrier bags per person and the format for reporting of this data, as this is necessary to support the monitoring and the full implementation of the substantive requirements related to plastic carrier bags, in particular to ensure disaggregated and mandatory reporting on different categories of plastic carrier bags. This implementing act should replace Commission Decisions (EU) 2018/89671and 2005/270/EC72. _________________ 71 Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2018/896 of 19 June 2018 laying down the methodology for the calculation of the annual consumption of lightweight plastic carrier bags and amending Decision 2005/270/EC (OJ L 160, 25.6.2018, p. 6). 72 Commission Decision 2005/270/EC of 22 March 2005 establishing the formats relating to the database system pursuant to Directive 94/62/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on packaging and packaging waste (OJ L 86, 5.4.2005, p. 6).
Amendment 565 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 135
Recital 135
(135) To enhance public trust in packaging placed on the market, in particular as regards compliance with sustainability requirements, the economic operators placing non-compliant packaging on the market or who do not comply with their obligations should be subject to penalties. It is therefore necessary that Member States lay down effective, proportionate and dissuasive penalties in national law for failure to comply with this Regulation. To facilitate more consistent application of penalties, common non- exhaustive criteria should be established for determining the types and levels of penalties to be imposed in case of infringements of this Regulation. These criteria should include, inter alia, the nature and gravity of the infringement and the economic benefits derived from and the environmental damage caused by the infringement, insofar as these can be determined.
Amendment 603 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point f
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point f
(f) tea or coffee bags necessary toincluding soft pad single-serve units that contain a tea or coffee product and that are intended to be used and disposed of together with the product;
Amendment 613 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point g
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point g
(g) rigid coffee or tea system single- serve unit necessary to contain a coffee or tea product and intended to be used and disposed of together with the product;
Amendment 649 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 22
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 22
(22) ‘re-use’ means any operation by which reusable packaging is used again several times for the same purpose for which it was conceived;
Amendment 680 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 31
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 31
(31) ‘design for recycling’ means design of packaging, including individual components of packaging, in order to ensure its recyclabilitythat it is suited for high-quality mechanical recycling with state-of-the-art collection, sorting and recycling processes;
Amendment 683 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 32 a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 32 a (new)
(32a) 'high-quality mechanical recycling’ means any recovery operation, as defined in Article 3, point (17), of Directive 2008/98/EC, that ensures that the distinct quality of the waste material collected is preserved or recovered during that recovery operation, so that it can be subsequently used in the same way and for a similar application, with minimal loss of quantity, quality or function;
Amendment 692 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 32
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 32
(32) ‘recycled at scale’ means that the packaging waste is accepted for recycling by producer responsibility organisations collecteding, sorteding and recycling packaging wasted through installed state- of-the-art infrastructure and processes, in Member States covering at least 75 90% of the Union population, including packaging waste exported from the Union that meets the requirements of Article 47(5) ;
Amendment 727 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 37
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 37
Amendment 761 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 43 a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 43 a (new)
(43a) 'bio-based plastic' means a plastic material that is entirely made from biological resources instead of fossil raw materials;
Amendment 819 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1
Article 5 – paragraph 1
1. Packaging shall be so manufactured that the presence and concentration ofno later than 1 January 2027 they do not contain any substances of concern as constituents of the packaging material or of any of the packaging components is minimised, including with regard to their presence in emissions and any outcomes of waste management, such as secondary raw materials, ashes or other material for final disposal, unless their use is essential and there are no safer alternative substances or materials without substances of concern.
Amendment 832 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 5 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Food packaging containing Bisphenols shall not be placed on the market.
Amendment 840 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 4
Article 5 – paragraph 4
4. Recyclability requirements established in delegated acts adopted pursuant to Article 6(5) shall not restrict the presence of substances in packaging or packaging components for reasons relating primarily to chemical safety. TheyThe Commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 58 to modify this Regulation in order to allow the use of certain substances of concern in certain packaging when found to be essential and where there are no safer alternative substances or materials without substances of concern. Recyclability requirements established in delegated acts adopted pursuant to Article 6(4) shall address, as appropriate, substances of concern that negatively affect the re-use, sorting and recycling of materials in the packaging in which they are present, and shall, as appropriate, identify the specific substances concerned and their associated criteria and limitations. Or. en (Linked to the amendment to paragraph 1 by the same author)
Amendment 851 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 5 – point a
Article 5 – paragraph 5 – point a
(a) lower the sum of concentration levels of lead, cadmium, mercury and hexavalent chromium resulting from substances present in packaging or packaging components referred to in paragraph 2;
Amendment 852 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 5 – point b
Article 5 – paragraph 5 – point b
Amendment 863 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1
Article 6 – paragraph 1
1. All packaging shall be recyclable by 1 January 2030 at the latest.
Amendment 877 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point a
Article 6 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point a
(a) it is designed for high-quality mechanical recycling;
Amendment 903 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Article 6 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Amendment 924 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 3
Article 6 – paragraph 3
Amendment 964 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
Amendment 975 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 2
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 2
The Commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 58 to amend Table 1 of Annex II in order to adapt it to scientific and technical development in material and product design, collection, sorting and recycling infrastructure.
Amendment 977 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 6 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Amendment 984 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 1
Article 6 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 1
From 1 January 2030, packaging shall not be considered recyclable if it corresponds to performance grade C, D and E under the design for recycling criteria established in the delegated act adopted pursuant to paragraph 4 for the packaging category, to which the packaging belongs.
Amendment 1001 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 6 – introductory part
Article 6 – paragraph 6 – introductory part
6. The Commission shall, for each packaging type listed in Table 1 of Annex II, establish the methodology to assess if packaging is recyclable at scale. That methodologyassessment shall be based at least on the following elements:
Amendment 1035 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 8 – subparagraph 1
Article 6 – paragraph 8 – subparagraph 1
Compliance with the requirements set out in paragraphs 2 and 3 shall be demonstrated in the technical documentation concerning the packaging as set out in Annex VII and confirmed by an audit by an independent and accredited third party with appropriate qualifications.
Amendment 1045 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 9
Article 6 – paragraph 9
Amendment 1227 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 4
Article 7 – paragraph 4
4. Paragraphs 1 and 2 shall not apply to compostable plastic packaging that is fully compostable.
Amendment 1237 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 5 a (new)
Article 7 – paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Any claims with regard to recycled content may only be made on packaging if the percentage of recycled content is above the minimum percentage pursuant to paragraphs 1 and 2 and is achieved for the unit of packaging concerned.
Amendment 1345 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 1
Article 8 – paragraph 1
1. By [OP: please insert the date = 24 months from the entry into force of this Regulation], packaging referred to in Article 3(1), points (f) and (g), sticky labels attached to fruit and vegetables and very lightweight plastic carrier bags shall be compostable in industrially controlled conditions in bio-waste treatment facilities. provided as primary packaging for loose food when this helps to prevent food wastage shall be compostable to home composting standards in industrially controlled conditions in bio-waste treatment facilities. Or. en (Linked to the amendment introducing a new Article 8a by the same author.)
Amendment 1397 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 a (new)
Article 8 a (new)
Article8a Refillable packaging By [OP: please insert the date = 24 months from the entry into force of this Regulation], packaging referred to in Article 3(1), points (g) shall be refillable.
Amendment 1398 #
2022/0396(COD)
Amendment 1413 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 2
Article 9 – paragraph 2
2. Packaging not necessary to comply with any of the performance criteria set out in Annex IV and packaging with characteristics that are only aimed to increase the perceived volume of the product, including double walls, false bottoms, and unnecessary layers, shall not be placed on the market, unless the packaging design is subject to geographical indications of origin protected under Union legislation.
Amendment 1440 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 9 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Amendment 1461 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) it has been conceived, designed and placed on the market with the objective to be re-used for refilledmultiple times for the same purpose;
Amendment 1468 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) it has been conceived and designed to accomplish as many trips or rotations as possible in normally predictable conditions of use, with a minimum of 10 rotations;
Amendment 1486 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point h a (new)
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point h a (new)
(ha) it is part of a system for reuse in line with Annex VI, Part A, and subject to a financial incentive to ensure its return.
Amendment 1489 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 10 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. The Commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 58 to modify the conditions in Article 10(1) and to establish a minimum number of rotations for reusable packaging in specific packaging categories.
Amendment 1494 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 10 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Member States may mandate producers to use standardised packaging formats to facilitate reuse.
Amendment 1614 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 9
Article 13 – paragraph 9
9. Manufacturers shall, further to a reasoned request from a national authority, provide all the information and documentation necessary to demonstrate the conformity of the packaging, including the technical documentation in a language, or languages, which can be easily understood by that authority. That information and documentation shall be provided in either paper or electronic form. The relevant documents shall be made available within 10 days of receipt of the request from the national authority. Manufacturers shall cooperate with the national authority on any action taken to remedy any case of non-compliance with the requirements set out in Articles 5 to 10.
Amendment 1665 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 21 – paragraph 1
Article 21 – paragraph 1
1. EWithout prejudice to the requirements in Annex IV, Part I and II, economic operators who supply products to a final distributor or an end user in single use grouped packaging, transport packaging or e-commerce packaging, shall ensure that the empty space ratio is maximum 420 %.
Amendment 1716 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 2
Article 22 – paragraph 2
Amendment 1728 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 3
Article 22 – paragraph 3
Amendment 1755 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 22 – paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Member States, regional or local authorities may adopt restrictions on the use of packaging formats other than those listed in Annex V to reduce packaging waste.
Amendment 1774 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 25 – paragraph -1 (new)
Article 25 – paragraph -1 (new)
-1. The economic operators referred to in Article 26 (2) and (3) shall offer the possibility to end users to use their own containers to take away beverages or food.
Amendment 1778 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 25 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 25 – paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. From 1 January 2030, retailers larger than 400 m2 shall dedicate at least 20 % of their space to refill stations for both food and non-food products.
Amendment 1783 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – title
Article 26 – title
Re-use and refill targetstargets (Horizontal amendment - this amendment applies throughout the whole text)
Amendment 1817 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 26 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) from 1 January 2030, 20 % of those beverages are made available in reusable packaging within a system for re-use or by enabling refill;
Amendment 1826 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 26 – paragraph 2 – point b
(b) from 1 January 2040, 80 % of those beverages are made available in reusable packaging within a system for re-use or by enabling refill.
Amendment 1842 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 3 – introductory part
Article 26 – paragraph 3 – introductory part
3. A final distributor that is conducting its business activity in the HORECA sector and that is making available on the market within the territory of a Member State in sales packaging take- away ready-prepared food, intended for immediate consumption without the need of any further preparation, and typically consumed from the receptacle, shall ensure that:
Amendment 1848 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 3 – point a
Article 26 – paragraph 3 – point a
(a) from 1 January 2030, 10 % of those products are made available in reusable packaging within a system for re-use or by enabling refill;
Amendment 1855 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 3 – point b
Article 26 – paragraph 3 – point b
(b) from 1 January 2040, 40 % of those products are made available in reusable packaging within a system for re-use or by enabling refill.
Amendment 1860 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 26 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Where a final distributor makes non-alcoholic beverages in sales packaging available on the market within the territory of a Member State, it shall ensure that: a) from 1 January 2030, 20 % of those products are made available in reusable packaging within a system for re-use; (b) from 1 January 2040, 75 % of those products are made available in reusable packaging within a system for re-use.
Amendment 1861 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 3 b (new)
Article 26 – paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Where a final distributor makes alcoholic beverages in sales packaging available on the market within the territory of a Member State, it shall ensure that: (a) from 1 January 2030, 20 % of those products are made available in reusable packaging within a system for re-use; (b) from 1 January 2040, 75 % of those products are made available in reusable packaging within a system for re-use.
Amendment 1942 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 7 – introductory part
Article 26 – paragraph 7 – introductory part
7. Economic operators using transport packaging in the form of boxes, pallets, plastic crates, foldable plastic boxes, pails and drums for the conveyance or packaging of products in conditions other than provided for under paragraphs 12 and 13 shall ensure that:
Amendment 1947 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 7 – point a
Article 26 – paragraph 7 – point a
(a) from 1 January 2030, 350 % of such packaging used is reusable packaging within a system for re-use;
Amendment 1962 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 8 – point a
Article 26 – paragraph 8 – point a
(a) from 1 January 2030, 120 % of such packaging used is reusable packaging within a system for re-use;
Amendment 1971 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 8 – point b
Article 26 – paragraph 8 – point b
(b) from 1 January 2040, 580 % of such packaging used is reusable packaging within a system for re-use;
Amendment 1989 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 9 – point a
Article 26 – paragraph 9 – point a
(a) from 1 January 2030, 120 % of such packaging used is reusable packaging within a system for re-use;
Amendment 1998 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 9 – point b
Article 26 – paragraph 9 – point b
(b) from 1 January 2040, 3075 % of such packaging used for transport is reusable packaging within a system for re-use;
Amendment 2014 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 10 – introductory part
Article 26 – paragraph 10 – introductory part
10. Economic operators using grouped packaging in the form of boxes, excluding cardboard, used outside of sales packaging to group a certain number of products to create a stock-keeping unit shall ensure that:
Amendment 2059 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 12 – subparagraph 2
Article 26 – paragraph 12 – subparagraph 2
This obligation applies to pallets, boxes, excluding cardboard, trays, plastic crates, intermediate bulk containers, drums and canisters, of all sizes and materials, including flexible formats.
Amendment 2089 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 13 – subparagraph 2
Article 26 – paragraph 13 – subparagraph 2
This obligation applies to pallets, boxes, excluding cardboard, plastic crates intermediate bulk containers, and drums, of all sizes and materials, including flexible formats.
Amendment 2139 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 16 – point b
Article 26 – paragraph 16 – point b
Amendment 2147 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 16 – point c
Article 26 – paragraph 16 – point c
(c) exemptions for specific packaging formats covered by the targets laid down in paragraphs 2 to 6 of this Article in case of hygiene, or food safety or environmental issues preventing the achievement of those targets.
Amendment 2184 #
Amendment 2185 #
Amendment 2193 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 29 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 29 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Member States shall take measures to achieve a sustained reduction in the consumption of lightweight plastic and paper carrier bags on their territory.
Amendment 2194 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 29 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 29 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
A sustained reduction of lightweight plastic carrier bags is achieved if the annual consumption does not exceed 40 lightweight plastic carrier bags per person, or the equivalent target in weight, by 31 December 2025, and subsequently by 31 December in each year thereafter. A sustained reduction of paper carrier bags is achieved if the annual consumption does not exceed 40 paper carrier bags per person, or the equivalent target in weight, by 31 December 2027, and subsequently by 31 December in each year thereafter.
Amendment 2200 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 29 – paragraph 2
Article 29 – paragraph 2
2. Measures to be taken by Member States to meet the target set out in paragraph 1 may vary depending on the environmental impact of lightweight plastic carrier bags or paper carrier bags when they are manufactured, recycled or disposed of, and their composting properties, durability or specific intended use. Such measures may, by way of derogation from Article 4, include marketing restrictions, provided that they are proportionate and non- discriminatory.
Amendment 2207 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 29 – paragraph 4
Article 29 – paragraph 4
4. Member States may exclude very lightweight plastic carrier bags or paper bags, which are required for hygiene purposes or provided as sales packaging for loose food to prevent food wastage from the obligations set out in paragraph 1.
Amendment 2209 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 29 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 29 – paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Member States shall take measures to require that reusable carrier bags are offered for sale wherever lightweight plastic carrier bags or paper carrier bags are made available.
Amendment 2228 #
Amendment 2235 #
Amendment 2237 #
Amendment 2249 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 38 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 38 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. For the purpose of paragraph 2, Member States shall ensure that customers in restaurants, canteens, bars, cafés and catering services may request to be served tap water for free or for a low service fee.
Amendment 2256 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 38 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 38 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. For the purpose of paragraph 2, Member States shall ensure that single use packaging for take-away shall not be made available at a lower price than reusable packaging at the point of sale of goods or products.
Amendment 2259 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 38 – paragraph 3 b (new)
Article 38 – paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. For the purpose of paragraph 2, Member States shall establish ‘Pay-as- you-throw’ schemes by 1 January 2026 that charge waste producers for residual waste generated.
Amendment 2262 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 38 – paragraph 4
Article 38 – paragraph 4
4. By [OP: Please insert the date = 8 years after the date of entry into force of this Regulation], the Commission shall review the targets laid down in paragraph 1 with the view to the need to strengthen them. To that end, the Commission shall submit a report to the European Parliament and to the Council, accompanied, if the Commission finds it appropriate, by a legislative proposal to strengthen the targets.
Amendment 2285 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 40 – paragraph 3 – introductory part
Article 40 – paragraph 3 – introductory part
3. Providers of online platforms, falling within the scope of Section 4 of Chapter 3 of Regulation (EU) 2022/2065, as well as fulfilment service providers, allowing consumers to conclude distance contracts with producers shall obtain the following information from producers offering packaging to consumers located in the Union prior to allowing them to conclude sales on their platform or use their services:
Amendment 2289 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 40 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 40 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Member States shall ensure that extended producer responsibility schemes for packaging dedicate a minimum of 10% of their budget to finance systems for re-use.
Amendment 2290 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 40 – paragraph 3 b (new)
Article 40 – paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Member States shall ensure that the producers of packaging cover the costs pursuant to the extended producer responsibility provisions in Directives 2008/98/EC and 94/62/EC and, insofar as not already included, cover at least the following costs: (a) the costs of waste collection for those products that are discarded in public collection systems, including the infrastructure and its operation, and the subsequent transport and treatment of that waste; and (b) the costs of cleaning up litter resulting from those products and the subsequent transport and treatment of that litter. The costs to be covered shall be established in a transparent way. The costs of cleaning up litter shall be limited to activities undertaken by public authorities or on their behalf. The calculation methodology shall be developed in a way that allows for the costs of cleaning up litter to be established in a proportionate way on the basis of the packaging formats that are more prone to be littered or not separately collected.
Amendment 2326 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 40 – paragraph 3 – introductory part
Article 40 – paragraph 3 – introductory part
3. Providers of online platforms, falling within the scope of Section 4 of Chapter 3 of Regulation (EU) 2022/2065, as well as fulfilment service providers, allowing consumers to conclude distance contracts with producers shall obtain the following information from producers offering packaging to consumers located in the Union prior to allowing them to conclude sales on their platform or use their services:
Amendment 2328 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 40 – paragraph 3 – introductory part
Article 40 – paragraph 3 – introductory part
3. Providers of online platforms, falling within the scope of Section 4 of Chapter 3 of Regulation (EU) 2022/2065, as well as fulfilment service providers, allowing consumers to conclude distance contracts with producers shall obtain the following information from producers offering packaging to consumers located in the Union prior to allowing them to conclude sales on their platform or use their services:
Amendment 2332 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 40 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 40 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Member States shall ensure that extended producer responsibility schemes for packaging dedicate a minimum of 10% of their budget to finance systems for re-use.
Amendment 2333 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 40 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 40 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Member States shall ensure that extended producer responsibility schemes for packaging dedicate a minimum of 10% of their budget to finance systems for re-use.
Amendment 2334 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 40 – paragraph 3 b (new)
Article 40 – paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Member States shall ensure that the producers of packaging cover the costs pursuant to the extended producer responsibility provisions in Directives 2008/98/EC and 94/62/EC and, insofar as not already included, cover at least the following costs: (a) the costs of waste collection for those products that are discarded in public collection systems, including the infrastructure and its operation, and the subsequent transport and treatment of that waste; and (b) the costs of cleaning up litter resulting from those products and the subsequent transport and treatment of that litter. The costs to be covered shall be established in a transparent way. The costs of cleaning up litter shall be limited to activities undertaken by public authorities or on their behalf. The calculation methodology shall be developed in a way that allows for the costs of cleaning up litter to be established in a proportionate way on the basis of the packaging formats that are more prone to be littered or not separately collected.
Amendment 2714 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex V – row 1
Annex V – row 1
Plastic packaging used at retail level to Collation Single-use group goods sold in bottles, cans, tins, pots, tubs, films, shrink 1. Single-useplastic tubs, and packets designed as convenience wrap 1. plasticgrouped packaging to enable or encourage end users groupedpackaging to purchase more than one product. This packaging excludes grouped packaging necessary to facilitate handling in distribution.
Amendment 2732 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex V – row 5
Annex V – row 5
Shampoo bottles, hand and body Single use For cosmetics, hygiene and toiletry products lotion bottles, 5. hotel miniature of less than 5100 ml for liquid products or less sachets packaging less than 100 g for non-liquid products around miniature bar soap
Amendment 2736 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex V – row 5 a (new)
Annex V – row 5 a (new)
(5a) Single use For suitcases and bags Shrink wrap plastic packaging in airports
Amendment 2738 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex V – row 5 b (new)
Annex V – row 5 b (new)
(5b) Single use Single use plastic wrapping for books, Wrappings plastic CDs, vinyls, packaging
Amendment 2740 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex V – row 5 c (new)
Annex V – row 5 c (new)
(5c) Single use Single use plastic packaging for textiles in Bags, plastic retail, including textiles after dry cleaning casings, packaging wrappings
Amendment 206 #
2022/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1 b (new)
Recital 1 b (new)
(1b) The General Union Environment Action Programme to 2030 (‘the 8th EAP’), the framework for Union action in the field of the environment and climate, aims to accelerate the green transition to a climate-neutral, sustainable, non-toxic, resource-efficient, renewable energy- based, resilient and competitive circular economy in a just, equitable and inclusive way, and to protect, restore and improve the state of the environment by, inter alia, halting and reversing biodiversity loss. It supports and strengthens an integrated policy and implementation approach, building upon the European Green Deal. The 8th EAP recognises that achieving this transition will require systemic change which, according to the EEA, entails a fundamental, transformative and cross-cutting change that implies major shifts and reorientation in system goals, incentives, technologies, social practices and norms, as well as in knowledge systems and governance approach The 2030 biodiversity-related objective of the 8th EAP is protecting, preserving and restoring marine and terrestrial biodiversity and the biodiversity of inland waters inside and outside protected areas by, inter alia, halting and reversing biodiversity loss and improving the state of ecosystems and their functions and the services they provide, and by improving the state of the environment, in particular air, water and soil, as well as combating desertification and soil degradation.
Amendment 207 #
2022/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1 c (new)
Recital 1 c (new)
(1c) The 8th EAP recognises the need to make full use of ecosystem approaches and green infrastructure, including biodiversity-friendly nature based solutions whilst ensuring that their implementation restores biodiversity and enhances ecosystem integrity and connectivity, has clear societal co- benefits, requiring full engagement with, and consent of, indigenous peoples and local communities, and does not replace or undermine measures taken to protect biodiversity or reduce greenhouse gas emissions within the Union;
Amendment 958 #
2022/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1
Article 5 – paragraph 1
1. Member States shall put in place the restoration measures that are necessary to improve to good condition areas of habitat types listed in Annex II which are not in good condition. Such measures shall be in place on at least 350 % of the area of each group of habitat types listed in Annex II that is not in good condition, as quantified in the national restoration plan referred to in Article 12, by 2030, on at least 6075 % by 2040, and on at least 90 100% by 2050.
Amendment 982 #
2022/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2
Article 5 – paragraph 2
2. Member States shall put in place the restoration measures that are necessary to re-establish the habitat types listed in Annex II in areas not covered by those habitat types. Such measures shall be in place on areas representing at least 30 40% of the additional overall surface needed to reach the total favourable reference area of each group of habitat types, as quantified in the national restoration plan referred to in Article 12, by 2030, at least 6075 % of that surface by 2040, and 100 % of that surface by 2050.
Amendment 988 #
2022/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 3
Article 5 – paragraph 3
3. Member States shall put in place the restoration measures for the marine habitats of species listed in Annex III and in Annexes II, IV and V to Directive 92/43/EEC, of species listed in Annex 2 of SPA/BD Protocol to the convention of the Marine Environment and the Coastal Region of the Mediterranean and for the marine habitats of wild birds covered under Directive 2009/147/EC, that are necessary in order to improve the quality and quantity of those habitats, including by re- establishing them, and to enhance connectivity, until sufficient quality and quantity of those habitats is achieved.
Amendment 1004 #
2022/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 5
Article 5 – paragraph 5
5. TWhen implementing the restoration measures referred to in paragraphs 1 and 2 shall consider the need for improved connectivity between the habitat types listed in Annex II and take, Member States shall ensure, including through appropriate and effective complementary measures, that connectivity between the habitat types listed in Annex II and connectivity between the existing protected areas network is improved, taking into account the ecological requirements of the species referred to in paragraph 3 that occur in those habitat types in accordance with Article 10a.
Amendment 1010 #
2022/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 5 a (new)
Article 5 – paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Member States shall ensure a whole-site approach in marine areas subject to restoration and shall prioritise passive restoration measures when implementing measures under paragraphs 1, 2 and 3.
Amendment 1017 #
2022/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 6
Article 5 – paragraph 6
6. Member States shall ensure that the areas that are subject to restoration measures in accordance with paragraphs 1, 2 and 3 show a continuous improvement in the condition of the habitat types listed in Annex II until good condition is reached, and a continuous improvement of the quality of the habitats of the species referred to in paragraph 3 until the sufficient quality of those habitats is reached. Member States shall ensure that areas in which good condition has been reached and in which the sufficient quality of the habitats of the species has been reached do not deteriorate, including by implementing efficient conservation measures in and around the habitats.
Amendment 1020 #
2022/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 6 a (new)
Article 5 – paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Member States shall ensure the continuous, long-term and sustained effects of restoration measures adopted under this Article through effective means, such as spatial conservation measures, including strict protection, contributing to coherent and representative networks of protected areas taking into account the ecological requirements of each restoration area. Appropriate buffer zones shall be created around areas that are subject to restoration measures. Activities in a buffer zone shall be regulated appropriately to protect the area under restoration.
Amendment 1030 #
2022/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 7
Article 5 – paragraph 7
7. Member States shall ensure that areas where the habitat types listed in Annex II occur do not deteriorate, including by implementing efficient conservation measures in and around the habitats.
Amendment 1141 #
2022/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 10 – point a
Article 5 – paragraph 10 – point a
(a) an increase of habitat area in good condition for habitat types listed in Annex II until at least 9100 % is in good condition and until the favourable reference area for each habitat type in each biogeographic region of their territory is reached;
Amendment 1142 #
2022/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 10 – point a a (new)
Article 5 – paragraph 10 – point a a (new)
(aa) an increase of habitat area in good condition for habitat types necessary to achieve good environmental status under the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive 2008/56/EC, until at least 90 % is in good condition and until the favourable reference area for each habitat type in each marine region or subregion of their territory is reached;
Amendment 1146 #
2022/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 10 – point a b (new)
Article 5 – paragraph 10 – point a b (new)
(ab) an increased connectivity between existing protected areas and habitat types listed in Annex II, in accordance with Article 10a(new)
Amendment 1163 #
2022/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1
Article 6 – paragraph 1
1. Member States shall ensure that there is no net loss of urban green and blue spaces, and of urban tree canopy cover by 2030, compared to 2021, in all cities and in towns and suburbs. Notwithstanding the targets in paragraph 2 of this article, Member States shall increase urban biodiversity, measured every three years after 2030, until satisfactory levels are achieved, as set out in accordance with Article 11(3). The Commission shall adopt implementing acts to establish indicator(s) and a method for monitoring urban biodiversity. Those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in Article 21(2). The method referred to in those acts shall provide a standardised approach for collecting data on urban biodiversity and trends referring to it.
Amendment 1184 #
2022/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
Article 6 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
2. Member States shall ensure that there is an increase in the total national area of urban green and blue space in cities and in towns and suburbs of at least 310 % of the total area of cities and of towns and suburbs in 2021, by 2040, and at least 15 % by 2050. In addition Member States shall ensure:
Amendment 1191 #
2022/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 6 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) a minimum of 105 % urban tree canopy cover in all cities and in towns and suburbs by 2050; and , using a mix of resilient species which are suited to the local climatic conditions and selected from the European Forest Types tree species matrix1a, in all cities and in towns and suburbs by 2050; and _________________ 1a https://ies- ows.jrc.ec.europa.eu/efdac/download/Atla s/pdf/European_Forest_Types_tree_speci es_matrix.pdf
Amendment 1212 #
2022/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 2 – point b a (new)
Article 6 – paragraph 2 – point b a (new)
(ba) a net gain of urban blue spaces with a focus on freshwaters that provide the greatest range of ecosystem services and functions
Amendment 1216 #
2022/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 2 – point b b (new)
Article 6 – paragraph 2 – point b b (new)
(bb) that by 2030, 50% of urban green and blue space is designated as protected areas or are recognised as OECMs, ensuring compliance with the criteria laid down in ' Criteria and guidance for protected areas designations'1a. This share shall reach 60% by 2040 and 70% by 2050. Preference shall be given to important areas identified within the urban plans under Article 6 (2a new). _________________ 1a Commission staff working document Criteria and guidance for protected areas designations, SWD(2022) 23 final
Amendment 1219 #
2022/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 6 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. By [insert date 2 years after this regulation enters into force], Member States shall insure that all cities and municipalities in their territory with more than 20.000 inhabitants have adopted urban plans on green and blue space. Within these urban plans, cities and municipalities shall identify hotspots of urban biodiversity, important areas contributing to the mitigation and adaptation to climate change, areas for the further development of such ecosystem services. These plans shall also identify possibilities for accelerating the increase of green and blue space in the most densely populated and economically deprived neighbourhoods, in order to contribute to the just transition. The Commission may, in order to facilitate the fulfilment of this obligation, adopt implementing acts to establish a method to provide Member States with a standardised format for urban plans to be used on their territories. Those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in Article 21(2).
Amendment 2161 #
2022/0195(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 a (new)
Article 19 a (new)
Article 19 a Implementation of measures to restore marine ecosystems 1. Member States, whose national restoration plan include conservation measures under the Common Fisheries Policy that require the submission of joint recommendations, shall submit the said joint recommendations, together with the other Member States having a direct management interest, at the latest six months after the final submission of their national restoration plan referred to in Article 14(6). 2. In the event that the joint recommendation for a measure included in a national restoration plan has not been submitted by in due time, the Commission, by derogation to Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013, shall adopt the intended measures by means of delegated acts in accordance with Article 20.
Amendment 1 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2
Citation 2
— having regard to Articles 3, 4, 13, 38, 43 and 349 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,
Amendment 5 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 a (new)
Citation 10 a (new)
— having regard to the opinion by the European Committee of the Regions of 2 December 2021 on the sustainable blue economy and aquaculture (NAT- VVI/020),
Amendment 14 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 13 a (new)
Citation 13 a (new)
— having regard to the resolution by the European Parliament of 16 January 2018 on 'International ocean governance: an agenda for the future of our oceans in the context of the 2030 SDGs' (2017/2055(INI)),
Amendment 15 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 13 b (new)
Citation 13 b (new)
— having regard to the 7th Environmental Action Programme (EAP) and the concepts enshrined therein, such as the Planetary Boundaries and ecological limits,
Amendment 22 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the blue economy that develops within ecological limits, and hence the fisheries and aquaculture sectors, must respect the environmental, social and economic pillars across the board in order to be considered sustainable;
Amendment 27 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas EU fisheries, aquaculture and coastal communities are already impacted by the effects of climate change;
Amendment 36 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity is fundamental to the health of the oceans, which contain millions of species, and hence to the health and survival of the planet, and hence providing the basis for marine and maritime economic activities;
Amendment 42 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
Ea. whereas significant parts of the oceans and sea floor remain unexplored , in particular the deep sea, and whereas further research is needed to ensure that any activities under the Blue Economy will be fully sustainable;
Amendment 53 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G a (new)
Recital G a (new)
Ga. whereas the health and wellbeing of aquatic animals is linked to the quality of food products, whereas poor animal welfare and husbandry can increase the risk of disease and illness;
Amendment 55 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G b (new)
Recital G b (new)
Amendment 56 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G c (new)
Recital G c (new)
Gc. whereas agriculture on land has a significant impact on marine ecosystems and fisheries, in particular the use of nitrogen-based fertilisers and the eutrophication of aquatic environments;
Amendment 59 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G d (new)
Recital G d (new)
Gd. whereas the 2020 objectives to achieve Good Environmental Status for European Seas and to end overfishing have not been achieved;
Amendment 60 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G e (new)
Recital G e (new)
Ge. whereas bottom-trawling represents the most widespread source of human-induced physical disturbance to global seabed habitats; whereas recent estimates suggest that bottom-trawling may release as much CO2 into the water column as the entire aviation industry into the atmosphere by disturbing seabed sediments that are critical reservoirs for long-term carbon storage, while also contributing to ocean acidification and undermining marine productivity and biodiversity;
Amendment 63 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H a (new)
Recital H a (new)
Ha. whereas the EU is a net importer of fisheries and aquaculture products;
Amendment 70 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas oil and gas exploration, combined with the large-scale exploitation of offshore renewable energy resources, may generate competition, pollution and sea space management conflicts that mainly affect fishing activities, in particular small-scale fisheries and coastal communities; whereas the Paris agreement's goal is to limit global warming to well below 2, preferably to 1.5 degrees Celsius, compared to pre- industrial levels;
Amendment 79 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas a proposal for legally binding nature restoration targets needs to be drawn up under the EU biodiversity strategy for 2030 in line with the objective of protecting 30% of the EU maritime area, of which 10% should be subject to strict conservation measures; whereas these restoration targets must be additional to existing obligations under the relevant EU Directives (such as the Habitats Directive, the Birds Directive, the Water Framework Directive and the Marine Strategy Framework Directive);
Amendment 85 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital M
Recital M
M. whereas it is necessary to have a global vision and framework for the management and conservation of marine resources;
Amendment 90 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital N
Recital N
N. whereas, when it comes to diversifying consumption, access to information about nutritional values, provenance orand place of production is fundamental to consumer behaviour;
Amendment 99 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the Commission's new sustainable EU blue economy strategy; regrets, however, the lack of specific objectives for the different sectors, in particular fisheries and aquaculture; points out that new action planlegislative proposals must always be based on the best available scientific knowledgadvice and on environmental, social and economic impact studieassessments;
Amendment 112 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Emphasises that to remain within planetary boundaries, the sustainable blue economy must develop within ecological limits and foster a healthy marine environment;
Amendment 119 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls on the Commission to establish legally binding instruments to make the blue economy ‘greener’ and to align it with the overall objectives of the European Green Deal and the EU Biodiversity Strategy;
Amendment 128 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses the importance of establishing bilateral partnership arrangements with third countries that enshrine labour standards guaranteeing a safe working environment and decent pay for all those working in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors, as well as other sectors of the blue economy: stresses that bilateral partnership arrangements should always seek to respect the highest environmental sustainability criteria and based on and following the best available scientific advice;
Amendment 137 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Recalls the EU’s commitment to the principle of policy coherence for development; calls for Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreements to be aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and with the EU environmental obligations and Common Fisheries Policy objectives;
Amendment 138 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Notes that the production of fishmeal and fish oil contributes to overfishing in developing countries’ waters; calls for measures to ensure that the supply chain is fair, traceable and free of illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing;
Amendment 139 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
5c. Expresses concern that sectoral support provided by Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreements (SFPAs) often does not directly benefit local fisheries and coastal communities in third countries and, accordingly; calls on the Commission to link SFPAs closely with EU sustainable development programming;
Amendment 142 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Amendment 143 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6b. Calls on the Commission to actively pursue and promote the integration of climate adaptation and mitigation goals in its Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreements' (SFPAs) and in Regional Fisheries Management Organizations' (RFMOs) decision-making;
Amendment 144 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 c (new)
Paragraph 6 c (new)
6c. Calls on the EU and its Member States to step up its efforts to improve global fisheries governance, notably through mechanisms such as the Fisheries Transparency Initiative (FiTI);
Amendment 147 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Recalls that the sustainable management of resources based on the best available scientific knowledgadvice must be a key priority in order to attain the goals on the EU strategic agenda and must also be included in bilateral partnership arrangements;
Amendment 152 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Welcomes the Commission’s commitment to the designation of three vast marine protected areas in the Southern Ocean; regrets that the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR) once again failed to reach agreement on these protected areas in 2021;
Amendment 163 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Calls on Member States to fully utilise the transparent and objective criteria as laid out in Article 17 of the Common Fisheries Policy when allocating fishing opportunities;
Amendment 172 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Notes with concern that the growth of new blue economy activities ismay result ing in to increased competition for space at the expense of more traditional activities, such as fishing; calls, therefore, for a strategy to promote interaction between the different maritime and terrestrial blue economy activities in a way that will benefit them all;
Amendment 174 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. Urges the Commission to support the development of community-led energy production schemes, which allows coastal communities, including fishers, to participate fully in the planning and development of renewable energy production while reinvesting profits back into the local community;
Amendment 176 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Calls for the creation of an EU forum for dialogue that is transparent and ensures participation of and a balance of power between all stakeholders, in a bid to foster intersectoral cooperation, experience sharing and conflict resolution;
Amendment 178 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Urges the Commission and the Member States to take specific actions to boost investment in the fisherifacilitate access to and fully utilise available investment possibilities for sustainable fishing practices and for aquaculture sectorsactivities that meet the relevant criteria for energy and resource consumption and animal welfare, under the new European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF), together with other EU programmes such as the Recovery and Resilience Mechanism;
Amendment 184 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Stresses the need to develop more comprehensive strategies to adapt the fisheries and aquaculture sectors to the fallout from climate change in view of its impact on communities and their livelihoods; stresses the need that all sectors need to contribute to the mitigation of climate change in line with the European Green Deal and the 7th and 8th Environmental Action Programme;
Amendment 188 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Considers that greater job security and, occupational safety and healthy oceans providing better earnings in the fisheries sector are essential if it is to attract newcomers, thereby ensuring its rejuvenation and continued survival;
Amendment 201 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a. Welcomes the Commission’s focus on sustainable and ‘slow’ tourism and the aim to develop support packages (‘Blueprint for Local Green Deals’) to support a green transition for cities and regions; notes the potential for remote islands and coastal communities to play a leading role in this transition;
Amendment 214 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18a. Calls on the Commission and Member States to protect the rights and working conditions of third-country nationals working on EU vessels;
Amendment 219 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 b (new)
Paragraph 18 b (new)
18b. Stresses the need to implement an integrated ecosystem-based approach to all sectors of the blue economy;
Amendment 223 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Warns that the dumping of waste at sea is harmful to the environment, results in heavy economic losses to the fisheries sector and other activities, and affects human health through the entire food chain; welcomes EMFAF decision to provide funding for fishermen to passively recover and collect refuse and lost fishing gear;
Amendment 236 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Notes that diversification of fish species in EU aquaculture, including a focus on low-trophic and non-carnivorous species, is required to improve the sustainability of EU aquaculture;
Amendment 239 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Highlights the potential role of aquaculture, particularly in easing the transition to sustainable food systems, thereby reducing the pressure on marine resources if using feed sources different than wild caught fish, and reversing the loss of biodiversity in the oceans and seas;
Amendment 241 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Notes that the increased use of fishmeal and fish oil in EU aquaculture can threaten the sustainability of wild fish stocks in EU and third country waters;
Amendment 255 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Believes it necessary to promote sustainable aquaculture models that could contribute to the conservation of ecosystems affording protection against the effects of climate change; underlines the importance of differentiating between production and protein-processing aquaculture, particularly when the latter involves practices that put pressure on the sustainability of marine resources in other parts of the world;
Amendment 261 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Calls for the CFP to be applied across the board to all EU fishing fleets, to reduce the impact of their particular activities on habitats, marine ecosystems, other resources and other species, while maintaining stocks above the biomass levels necessary to generatrestoring and maintaining populations of harvested species above levels which can produce the maximum sustainable yields;
Amendment 263 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Highlights the role of the fisheries and aquaculture sectors in energy transition, mitigating and combating climate change, through decarbonisation and through the promotion of activities such as passive marine refuse collection that are conducive to a circular economy;
Amendment 269 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Calls for legally binding EU targets for the recovery and conservation of marine biodiversity and the restoration of degraded ecosystems; calls for 30% of European marine degraded and carbon- rich ecosystems to be restored by 2040 with an intermediate target of 15 % by 2030;
Amendment 276 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 a (new)
Paragraph 27 a (new)
27a. Calls for measures to address the detrimental impacts of bottom-contacting gear on marine ecosystems and EU carbon emissions;
Amendment 277 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 b (new)
Paragraph 27 b (new)
27b. Stresses that the deep sea is home to the greatest diversity of species and ecosystems on Earth, providing critical environmental goods and services, including long-term carbon sequestration, and that it is characterised by environmental conditions that make it highly vulnerable to human disturbance; calls on the Commission and Member States therefore to support an international moratorium on deep seabed mining;
Amendment 278 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 c (new)
Paragraph 27 c (new)
27c. Calls on the Commission and Member States to set concrete deadlines to phase out harmful subsidies and instead direct funding towards sustainable innovation and support for coastal communities, consistent with the objectives of the European Green Deal, the 8th Environment Action Programme, and the Paris Agreement;
Amendment 281 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28 a (new)
Paragraph 28 a (new)
28a. Stresses the need for collaborative, inclusive and cross-sectoral maritime spatial planning;
Amendment 284 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Stresses the need to harmonise data collection on environmental monitoring as well as the monitoring of living ecosystems and fish stocks; stresses that the data collected should be made publicly available and also be factored in so as to regulate the impact of other maritime activities;
Amendment 285 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 a (new)
Paragraph 29 a (new)
29a. Welcomes the Commission’s commitment to review the Maritime Strategy Framework Directive; calls on the Commission, in the event of a revision, to align the Directive with the objectives of the European Green Deal, the Biodiversity Strategy to 2030 and the 8th Environment Action Programme;
Amendment 289 #
2021/2188(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 b (new)
Paragraph 29 b (new)
29b. Highlights the importance of modernising effective control and monitoring measures in EU fisheries, including Remote Electronic Monitoring and electronic logbooks;
Amendment 1 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2
Citation 2
— having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) and in particular Articles 50, 56, 70, 81, 82, 114 and 352 thereof,
Amendment 2 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3
Citation 3
— having regard to the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, and in particular Articles 11, 12, 15, 47, 48 and 54 thereof,
Amendment 4 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 a (new)
Citation 6 a (new)
— having regard to Directive (EU) 2019/1937 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2019 on the protection of persons who report breaches of Union law 2a, _________________ 2a OJ L 305, 26.11.2019, p. 17
Amendment 7 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 a (new)
Citation 14 a (new)
— having regard to its resolution of 13 February 2019 on experiencing backlash in women’s rights and gender equality in the EU 1a, _________________ 1a Texts adopted, P8_TA(2019)0111
Amendment 8 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 23 a (new)
Citation 23 a (new)
— having regard to its resolution of 11 March 2021 on the declaration of the EU as an LGBTIQ Freedom Zone 1b, _________________ 1b Text adopted, P9_TA(2021)0089
Amendment 9 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 23 b (new)
Citation 23 b (new)
— having regard to its resolution of 19 May 2021 on the effects of climate change on human rights and the role of environmental defenders on this matters 1c, _________________ 1c Text adopted: P9_TA(2021)0245
Amendment 11 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 27
Citation 27
— having regard to the Commission communication of 30 September 2020 on the 2020 Rule of Law Report – the rule of law situation in the European Union (COM(2020)0580), and its 27 accompanying country chapters on the rule of law in the Member States(SWD(2020)0300-0326),
Amendment 12 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 27 a (new)
Citation 27 a (new)
— having regard to the Commission communication ‘A Union of Equality: Gender Equality Strategy 2020-2025’,
Amendment 13 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 27 b (new)
Citation 27 b (new)
— having regard to LGBTIQ Equality Strategy (2020-2025) (COM(2020)698),
Amendment 14 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 27 c (new)
Citation 27 c (new)
— having regard to the study entitled “SLAPP in the EU context” of 29 May 2020 by Petra Bárd, Judit Bayer, Ngo Chun Luk and Lina Vosyliute 1d, _________________ 1d https://ec.europa.eu/info/sites/default/files /ad-hoc-literature-review-analysis-key- elements-slapp_en.pdf
Amendment 16 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 32 a (new)
Citation 32 a (new)
— having regard to the info note of the UN Special Rapporteur on the rights to Freedom of Peaceful Assembly and of Association on SLAPPs and FoAA rights,
Amendment 18 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 36 a (new)
Citation 36 a (new)
— having regard to the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights ‘Human Rights Comment: Time to take action against SLAPPs’ issued on 27 October 2020,
Amendment 20 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 36 b (new)
Citation 36 b (new)
Amendment 25 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas independent and quality journalism, ands well as access to pluralistic information are key pillars of democracy; whereas a vibrant civil society is essential for any democracy to thriveand the right to public participation are essential for any democracy to thrive; whereas human rights and environmental defenders have a crucial role to reach the environmental objectives set by the European Union; whereas no one shall be persecuted or harassed in any way for their involvement in activities to protect human rights or the environment; whereas independent journalism, civil society organizations, human rights and environmental defenders play a crucial role in holding power to account and performing their functions as watchdogs for democracy and the rule of law;
Amendment 37 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
A a. Whereas the shrinking space for civil society is an increasingly concerning issue in the Union, and disproportionately affects journalists, academics, NGOs, human rights and environmental defenders who are working on environmental issues, increasingly questioning their role as public watchdogs; whereas in recent years, environmental defenders have been subjected to ever increasing incidences of killings, threats, harassment, intimidation, smear campaigns, criminalisation and judicial harassment;
Amendment 41 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A b (new)
Recital A b (new)
A b. whereas public participation lies at the heart of the very notion of democracy, and can express itself in a variety of behaviours of a natural or legal person directed at engaging on a matter of public interest; whereas public participation could include the exercise of public scrutiny and public information, such as journalistic communications, publications or works, including editorial content, communications, publications or works of a political, scientific, academic, artistic, commentary or satirical nature including when those concerned are, among others, figures open to public scrutiny, in the context of broader interests in open discussion of political issues; whereas public participation include actions and activities resulting from the exercise of the right to freedom of expression and of information, the right to freedom of association and peaceful assembly, the right to good administration and the right to an effective remedy;
Amendment 53 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs) are lawsuits or other legal actions (e.g. injunctions, asset-freezing) based on a variety of legal bases mostly of civil and criminal law, as well as the threats of such actions, with the purpose of preventing reporting on breaches of Union and national law, corruption or other fraudulent practices or of blocking acts of public participation, including investigating and reporting on breaches of Union and national law, corruption or other fraudulent practices, promoting democratic debate or engaging in advocacy or activism including through the exercise of civil liberties such as freedom of association, freedom of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, of information and of assembly ;
Amendment 62 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
B a. whereas targets of SLAPPs can be sued for expressing critical views on the behaviour, or denouncing wrongdoings, of corporates or authorities through publications, leaflets, artworks or other online or offline forms of expression, or in retaliation for their involvement in campaigns, judicial claims, actions or protests; whereas journalists, media outlets, bloggers, civil society organizations, NGOs, rights defenders, whistleblowers, campaigners, academics, demonstrators, activists and artists are bigger targets to SLAPPs; whereas this situation severely undermines democratic public participation;
Amendment 74 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas SLAPPs have become an increasingly widespread practice used against journalists, academics, civil society and NGOspublic watchdogs and other actors engaging in public participation, including journalists, academics, civil society organizations, NGOs and activists, human rights and environmental defenders and whistleblowers , as demonstrated by many cases throughout the Union, such as the chilling case of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, who was reportedly facing 47 civil and criminal defamation lawsuits, (resulting in the freezing of her assets) on the day of her strongly condemned assassination on 16 October 2017, and the lawsuits her heirs continue to face; whereas other illustrative and alarming cases against independent journalists and media include Realtid Media, which was repeatedly threatened with a lawsuit in a different jurisdiction from where the reporting in question took place, and Gazeta Wyborcza, which continues to be sued by a number of public entities and officials on a regular basis, and the Slovenian investigative news outlet Necenzurirano recently hit by a barrage of 39 lawsuits;
Amendment 87 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
C a. whereas according to a recent study on SLAPP in the EU commissioned by the Commission, SLAPPs are increasingly used across the EU to target NGOs, activists and rights defenders, including environmental activists and LGBTQI rights defenders; whereas journalists, human rights defenders and civil society organizations are facing an increasingly hostile environment; whereas examples of SLAPPs include cases in the fields of civil rights, environmental interests, land use rights, urban and suburban development, as well as animal welfare, among others;
Amendment 92 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C b (new)
Recital C b (new)
Amendment 95 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C c (new)
Recital C c (new)
C c. whereas the objective of the SLAPPs is not to bring justice but rather to impose a burden on critical voices by discouraging and silencing them, and to exert a chilling effect on other potential critics; whereas SLAPPs are deliberately initiated with the intent to make the litigation expensive, long-lasting and complicated for the defendants, which include the purpose of intimidating and draining the financial and psychological resources of their targets; whereas SLAPPs not only have a detrimental impact on victims, but also on their families;
Amendment 99 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas SLAPPs within the Union are often cross-border in nature, which results in reporting delays as illustrated in many cases, often relating to cases of human rights and environmental protection, financial fraud and/or corruption, where they constitute a clear attempt to delay publication of information by halting or discrediting the work of individual journalists and publishing entities, hence depriving citizens of their right to information; whereas SLAPPs and SLAPPs threats may be brought against watchdogs within the Union also by claimant established in third countries;
Amendment 105 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
D a. Whereas in recent years online hate speech has become increasingly widespread against journalists, NGOs, academics and civil society organisations, human rights defenders, including those defending women’s rights, gender equality and LGBTQI rights, thus threatening media freedom, freedom of expression and of association, and can have a chilling effect; recalls that online hate speech is often spilled over into reality offline; stresses that hate speech is rooted in social biases and stereotypes, and highlights that they are the result of systemic and social discrimination, including gender, racial and economic discrimination, patriarchal structures and the unequal distribution of power in society, which are reproduced and magnified online and result in more extreme consequences for some individuals and groups in vulnerable situations;
Amendment 121 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Highlights that SLAPPs are a direct attack on the exercise of fundamental rights and freedoms; underlines that fundamental rights and democracy are linked to upholding the rule of law, and that undermining media freedom and public democratic participation, including freedom of expression and of information, media freedom and the rights to peaceful assembly and associpation threatens Union values as enshrined in Article 2 of the TEU; welcomes the fact that the 2020 rule of law report includes SLAPP lawsuits in its assessment of media freedom and pluralism across the Union, and points to concrete measures and best practices in countering them; calls foron the annual report to includeCommission to include in the 2021 and subsequent rule of law reports a thorough assessment of the legal environment for the media, and investigative journalism in particular, and to look more thoroughly at challenges affecting civil society such as the chilling effect on public democratic participation, including as regards SLAPPs targeting NGOs, activists and rights defenders, and include relevant indicators in order to measure progress;
Amendment 134 #
2021/2036(INI)
1 a. Underlines that SLAPPs are, in essence, attempts to abuse the law and the courts to undermine the right of individuals or organisations to engage in public participation by expressing their views on issues of public interest; is deeply concerned about the severe chilling effect on democratic debate and participation that SLAPPs have;
Amendment 137 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1 b. Stresses that public participation is the bedrock on which democracy rests, it ensures public scrutiny and better decision-making by holding power account; points out that public participation can be expressed in a variety of behaviours of a natural or legal person directed at engaging on a matter of public interest which can include the exercise of public scrutiny and public information, including actions and activities resulting from the exercise of the right to freedom of expression and of information, the right to freedom of association and peaceful assembly, the right to good administration and the right to an effective remedy;
Amendment 142 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 c (new)
Paragraph 1 c (new)
1 c. Expresses serious concern about the shrinking space for civil society organisations, and the threat to journalists and human rights defenders, who communicate on important matters within the public interest that are critical of powerful members of society, and the growing use of SLAPPs as a way to silence and intimidate independent media and journalists, civil society organisations, human rights defenders such as women’s and LGBTIQ+ rights defenders, activists such as environmental activists, whistleblowers, academics and artists;
Amendment 143 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 d (new)
Paragraph 1 d (new)
1 d. Recalls that the States’ positive obligation to facilitate the exercise of the rights of freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association includes the duty to establish and maintain a favorable environment for public participation and public watchdogs; stresses the importance that public watchdogs, civil society actors and other actors engaging in public participation are able to operate freely, without fear that they may be subjected to any threats, acts of intimidation or violence;
Amendment 154 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Underlines that SLAPPs cases, or the threat of SLAPPs, runs counter the objective of freedom of establishment and the free movement of services, as it has a ‘chilling effect’ notably on journalists that might exercise self-censorship instead of reporting on matters of public interest occurring in other Member States, risking then to face SLAPPs in different and unknown legal systems;
Amendment 156 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2 b. Considers to this end that, by contributing to the enforcement of Union law, enhancing the legal protection of rights under Union law, safeguarding the effectiveness of Union law, facilitating the enjoyment of internal market freedoms and preserving the effective functioning of national justice systems and of the common space of judicial cooperation, protection from abusive SLAPPs lawsuits would substantively contribute to the proper functioning of the internal market;
Amendment 157 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 c (new)
Paragraph 2 c (new)
2 c. Highlights that although Directive (EU) 2019/1937 (the ‘Whistleblower Directive’) grants a certain level of protection to natural persons who provide confidential advice to whistleblowers, known as ‘facilitators’, such as journalists or any other intermediaries, such protection needs further regulatory clarification, in order to cover circumstances where journalists need protection going beyond the mere risk of reprisals and act independently and outside the scope of the Whistleblower Directive; further emphasizes that legal persons, such as NGOs, are not covered by the Whistleblower Directive;
Amendment 159 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Points out that SLAPPs constitute a misuse of Member States’ justice systems and legal frameworks, especially for successfully addressing ongoing common challenges outlined in the Justice Scoreboard, such as the length of proceedings and the quality of justice systems, as well as caseload administration and case backlogs; recalls that a properly functioning and independent justice system delivers judgements without undue delay, and manages judicial resources so as to maximise efficiency, and that this is only possible where judges and judicial bodies perform their duties with complete independence and in an impartial manner and are not burdened with the handling of claims that are later on dismissed as abusive and lacking in legal merit;
Amendment 164 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses that judicial independence is integral to judicial decision-making and is a requirement resulting from the principle of effective legal protection set out in Article 19 of the TEU; recalls the concerns voiced in the Commission 2020 rule of law report regarding the independence of the judiciary in several Member States and condemns the efforts of the governments of some Member States to weaken the separation of powers and the independence of the judiciary, as well as to use SLAPPs to silence critical voices;
Amendment 166 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Underlines that the current disparity of protection deriving from the multiple sets of rules applicable in the Member States has detrimental consequences for the proper functioning of the common space of judicial cooperation established by Union law; stresses indeed that, in most SLAPPs cases, the cross-border elements are taken advantage of for forum shopping, in order to select the jurisdiction where the likelihood of achieving the desired result is the greatest; insists additionally on the fact that the absence of harmonized protection affects mutual trust and impacts on the recognition and enforcement of judgments between Member States;
Amendment 169 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4 b. Highlights that the purpose of SLAPPs is not to produce a judgment in favour of the claimant, but to use litigation or the threat of litigation to silence or coerce the respondent into acting in a manner which they might not otherwise accept; underlines the great imbalance of power between the parties where one has the resources and capacity to effectively silence the other through litigation techniques which magnify legal costs and the psychological and economic burden of prolonged proceedings; is concerned that the imbalance of power and resources between the parties undermines the right to a fair trial and to an effective remedy, and recalls that SLAPPs represent in essence an abuse of justice systems;
Amendment 171 #
Amendment 172 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
Amendment 188 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses that SLAPPs are often meritless, frivolous or based on exaggerated, often abusive claims, and that they are not initiated for the purposes of obtaining a favourable judicial outcome but rather only to intimidate, harass, tire out, put psychological pressure on or consume the financial resources of journalists, academics, civil society and NGOs, with the ultimate objective of blackmailing and forcing them into silence through the judicial procedure itselfpublic watchdogs and other actors engaging in public participation, including journalists, academics, civil society organizations, NGOs and activists, human rights and environmental defenders, and whistleblowers, with the ultimate objective of blackmailing and forcing them into silence through the judicial procedure itself; stresses that SLAPPs cause not only a financial burden but also bear dire psychological consequences for their targets as well as their family members, aggravated by the fact that the latter may also inherit those abusive proceedings upon the target’s death, as it happened to the husband and sons of Daphne Caruana Galizia; points out that this chilling effect can lead to self-censorship, suppressing participation in democratic life, and also discourages others from similar actions, from entering into these professions or from proceeding with relevant associated activities;
Amendment 214 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Underlines that an imbalance of power between the claimant and the defendant, notably in terms of financial resources, is a common feature of SLAPPs;
Amendment 216 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Stresses, with regard to this problem, that all Member States lack harmonised minimum standards to protect journalists, academics, civil society and NGOspublic watchdogs and other actors engaging in public participation, including journalists, academics, civil society organizations, NGOs and activists, human rights and environmental defenders, and whistleblowers, and to ensure that fundamental rights are upheld in the Member States;
Amendment 236 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Regrets that no Member State has so far enacted targeted legislation to provide protection against SLAPPs; notes however that anti-SLAPP legislation is particularly well-developed in the states of the United States, in Australia and Canada; encourages the Commission to analyse anti- SLAPP best practices currently applied outside the EU, such as the procedures applied to ensure early dismissal of abusive cases including the proportionality tests articulated by Courts, which could provide valuable inspiration for Union legislative and non-legislative measures on the matter; underlines the importance of committing to the most ambitious legislation and best-practices currently in force which would discourage the use of SLAPPs in the Union;
Amendment 246 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Agrees with the numerous civil society organisations, academics, legal practitioners and victims who point to the need for legislative action against the growing problem of SLAPPs; urgently calls, therefore, for the Brussels Ia and Rome II Regulations to be amendmentsed in order to prevent ‘libel tourism’ or ‘forum shopping’; urgently calls for, including the introduction of a uniform choice of law rule for defamation, as well as for; urgently calls the Commission to present proposals for binding Union legislation on harmonised and effective safeguards for victims of SLAPPs across the Union, including through a directive; argues that without such legislative action, SLAPPs will continue to threaten the rule of law and the fundamental rights of freedom of expression, association and information in the Union; is concerned that if measures only address lawsuits regarding infordefamation, actions based on other civil matters or criminal procedures may still be used, at the initiative of claimants based in or outside the EU;
Amendment 256 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11 a. Considers that the Commission shall harmonise the relevant legal rules, and shall give guidance to Member States as to how to upgrade their respective criminal laws in order to reach the objective of deterring SLAPPs across the EU;
Amendment 257 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Affirms that legislative measures at Union level could be based primarily on Article 81 of the TFEU (for cross-border civil lawsuits) and Article 82 of the TFEU (for threats of lawsuits in cross-border cases), and separately on Article 114 of the TFEU to protect public participation in order to ensure the proper functioning of the internal market by exposing corruption and other distortions114 TFEU in order to ensure the proper functioning of the internal market and to protect public participation in a harmonised way across the EU, and should have additional specific legal bases in order to cover the fields that rely, notably, on Articles 19, 50, 56, 192 and, 325 TFEU; asserts that the latterse measure cs should also aim to address attempts to prevent investigation and reporting on breaches of Union law, and should aim to ensure the highest level of protection for victims of SLAPPs, using the same legal base as Directive (EU) 2019/1937 (the ‘Whistleblower Directive’); these legislative measures could be based secondly on Articles 81 and 82 TFEU addressing particularly cross-border civil and criminal lawsuits; considers that certain safeguards, including procedural safeguards, could be harmonized to ensure that they apply not only for cross- border SLAPP cases, but also for domestic cases;
Amendment 266 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Considers that it is essential to adopt a legislative measure protecting the role of journalists, academics, civil society and NGO, including NGOs and activists, human rights and environmental defenders in preventing breaches of Union law and ensuring the proper functioning of the internal market; urges the Commission to present a proposal for legislation that sets out safeguards for persons investigating and reporting on these matters of public interest, including procedural safeguards common to both civil and criminal cases, such as rules on the early dismissal of abusive lawsuits against SLAPP victims or their family members and other actions in court that have the purpose of preventing public participation; insists that such rules should cover sanctions, consideration of abusive motives even if the lawsuit or action is not dismissed, costs and damages;
Amendment 279 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13 a. Considers that the harmonisation of certain procedural aspects, such as the procedure for ensuring early dismissal of abusive cases, the effects of a dismissal decision and the application of penalties, could be beneficial to enhance protection for victims of SLAPPs; calls on the Commission to explore this possibility and to make sure that safeguards, including procedural safeguards, do not only apply to cross-border SLAPP cases, but also to domestic cases;
Amendment 287 #
Amendment 290 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Urges the Commission to present a proposal for a measure that develops judicial cooperation in civil matters so as to address cross-border SLAPP cases by providing for rules on the dismissal of abusive lawsuits and other actions in court that have the purpose of preventing public participation, which should include sanctions, consideration of abusive motives even if the lawsuit or action is not dismissed, costs and damagesharmonised rules on SLAPPs arising from claims of civil law,; calls on the Commission, further, to address questions giving rise to forum shopping and libel tourism in a forthcoming review of the Brussels Ia and Rome II Regulations, with the support from judicial practitioners such as the Hague Conference on Private International Law;
Amendment 298 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Urges the Commission to present a proposal forto address the seriousness of SLAPPs brought through criminal proceedings by calling on member States to adopt measures to ensure that defamation, libel and slander, which constitute criminal offences in most Member States, cannot be used for SLAPPs, including through private prosecution; underlines the calls of the Council of Europe and OSCE for the decriminalisation of defamation; invites and calls on the Commission to address the question of the seriousness of threats of SLAPPs in a legislative proposalrespond to them; notes that defendants often face criminal charges while at the same time being sued for civil liability allegedly arising from the same conduct and invites the Commission to explore the possible introduction of harmonised procedural safeguards against those combined SLAPPs;
Amendment 304 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15 a. Recalls that inherent to and at the very core of the right to a fair trial under Article 47 of the Charter is the concept of equality of arms between parties in criminal proceedings; is concerned that the imbalance of power and resources between parties in SLAPPs cases undermines equality of arms, and thus the right to a fair trial;
Amendment 305 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 b (new)
Paragraph 15 b (new)
15 b. Expresses concern that SLAPPs brought through criminal proceedings often have a big impact on victims and their families;
Amendment 306 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 12
Subheading 12
Amendment 308 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Declares that the protection of legitimate rights arising from Union law must be ensured by Member State courts and cannot be jeopardised, including the rights which are routinely cited in abusive lawsuits; defends at the same time and without prejudice to such protection, that it is necessary to prevent any abusive use of those rights in a manner which is manifestly contrary to the legislators’ intention when conferring them upon natural or legal persons; considers that preventing such abuse is equally necessary for the correct and uniform application of Union law, thereby safeguarding its effectivenessright to access to justice, the right to a fair trial, and the right to have access to a quality and public legal representation, as well as to information and to documentation in a language that the victim can understand, must be ensured by Member State courts and cannot be jeopardised; defends a that it is necessary to prevent any abusive use of justice systems and to ensure judicial independence to guarantee the right to a fair trial; considers that preventing such abuse is equally necessary for the correct and uniform application of Union law, thereby safeguarding its effectiveness; recommends that proportionality tests could be performed by Courts to ensure early dismissal of SLAPP cases; considers, however, that measures such as the remedy of early dismissal of SLAPP cases should not be framed in a manner which denies the claimant the opportunity to state their claim;
Amendment 313 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16 a. Recalls that the claimants of SLAPPs are often companies or powerful individuals, including public authorities, who seek to protect their interests by silencing critical voices; underlines that the interests of the claimant cannot be deemed legitimate where these are considered matters of public interest; emphasises the particularly important role of public watchdogs in safeguarding the public interest and in promoting a culture of public accountability and integrity, and reminds that their main functions include to hold power account, report wrongdoings and inform about matters of public interests;
Amendment 316 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Underlines the urgent need for a robust fund for financially supporting all victims of SLAPPs, including in cases where SLAPPs or the threat of SLAPPs originate from claimants established in a third country; stresses the importance for victims and potential victims of SLAPPs and their families to have easy and accessible information and sensibilisation about these types of cases, legal aid and moral support, both within and outside the judicial process;
Amendment 324 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Considers it necessary to collect data on SLAPP cases and raise awareness about the nature and detrimental effects of SLAPPs; to this end, considers that the EU should establish a priority list of Member States where its protective action in favour of victims of SLAPPs, notably concerning human rights and environmental defenders, should be intensified;
Amendment 330 #
2021/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. WelcomesConsiders that the new anti- SLAPP legislative and non-legislative measures should be complementary with other EU instruments and policies, such as the European Democracy Action Plan, the EU LGBTIQ Equality Strategy 2020- 2025, the EU Gender Equality Strategy, the EU anti-racism action plan, and the Union Strategy to tackle Organised Crime 2021-2025, and calls for efforts to be stepped up efforts in this regard; notes that legislative and soft law measures cannot be effective in Member States where there are concerns about the independence of the judiciary or the fight against corruption; reiterates, in this regard, the critical need for an EU mechanism on democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights as proposed by Parliament, including an annual independent, evidence-based and non-discriminatory review assessing all Member States' compliance with Article 2 TEU;
Amendment 4 #
2021/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Citation 14 a (new)
Citation 14 a (new)
— having regard to the Commission communication of 17 September 2020 ‘Stepping up Europe’s 2030 climate ambition - Investing in a climate neutral future for the benefit of our people’ (COM(2020)0562),
Amendment 5 #
2021/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Citation 14 b (new)
Citation 14 b (new)
— having regard to its resolution of 16 January 2018 on international ocean governance: an agenda for the future of our oceans in the context of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals,
Amendment 6 #
2021/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Citation 14 c (new)
Citation 14 c (new)
— having regard to the Commission communication of 8 July 2020 ‘A hydrogen strategy for a climate-neutral Europe’ (COM(2020)301),
Amendment 7 #
2021/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Citation 14 d (new)
Citation 14 d (new)
— having regard to the Commission communication of 21 November 2011 on ‘Developing a Maritime Strategy for the Atlantic Ocean Area’ (COM(2011)782) and the subsequent Commission communication of 23 July 2020 on ‘A new approach to the Atlantic Maritime Strategy - Atlantic Action Plan 2.0’ (COM(2020)329),
Amendment 13 #
2021/2012(INI)
1a. Recalls the EU’s commitment to achieving net zero greenhouse gases emissions target by 2050 at the latest; stresses that these emissions must be reduced by at least 65% by 2030 compared to 1990 emissions in order for the Union to contribute to limiting global warming to less than 1.5° C by the end of the century, in line with the latest scientific evidence;
Amendment 26 #
2021/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Calls on all Member States to apply an ecosystem-based approach to Maritime Spatial Planning as referred to in Article 1(3) of Directive 2008/56/EC and Article 5(1) of Directive 2014/89/EU with the aim of ensuring the collective pressure of all activities is kept within levels compatible with the achievement of good environmental status while contributing to the sustainable use of marine goods and services;
Amendment 29 #
2021/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2b. Welcomes the Strategy’s aim of providing a long-term framework that promotes sound coexistence between offshore installations and other uses of the sea space, contributes to the protection of the environment and allows for thriving fishing communities;
Amendment 31 #
2021/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 c (new)
Paragraph 2 c (new)
2c. Welcomes the Commission’s commitment in the Strategy to facilitate dialogue on the environmental, economic and social sustainability of offshore renewable energy and to promote a ‘community of practice’ where all stakeholders can exchange views, share experience and work on joint projects; calls on Member States to actively participate in this initiative;
Amendment 37 #
2021/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Calls on the European Commission and Member States to prioritise and facilitate community energy production schemes which allow coastal communities and co-operatives, including fishers, to generate their own electricity and reinvest profits back into the community;
Amendment 42 #
2021/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Underlines that offshore renewable energy could be deployed in marine protected areas if in line with conservation objectives according to the Birds and Habitats Directives and the 2020 Commission guidance on wind energy developments and EU Nature legislation, in order to reduce impact on fisheries;
Amendment 46 #
2021/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Highlights the important potential of renewable hydrogen, including from wind and solar energy, in reaching the Union’s climate neutrality objectives, as recalled by the EU Hydrogen Strategy’s objective of 40 GW of renewables-linked electrolysis capacity by 2030;
Amendment 49 #
2021/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Encourages the Commission and Member States to adopt an ambitious approach to the development of floating offshore windfarms, which have the potential for development in deep water areas, expanding the viable zone for wind energy development while reducing visibility from the shore and the impact during construction;
Amendment 52 #
2021/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Stresses the importance of expanding the development of OFWs in all European seas basins, including the Mediterranean, to achieve the emission reduction goals necessary to mitigate global warming;
Amendment 56 #
2021/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Calls on the Commission and Member States to facilitate training and education in offshore renewables for coastal communities, outermost regions and EU islands as a priority, in order to ensure a just transition for those communities and sectors most affected by climate change;
Amendment 57 #
2021/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6b. Calls on the Commission and Member States to improve cross-border cooperation in Maritime Spatial Planning and offshore development, including with the United Kingdom, the currently largest producer of offshore wind in Europe, in order to find solutions to common problems, integrate electricity grid connection and learn from best practices;
Amendment 2 #
2020/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Calls on the Commission to review the current text and propose a new 2.0adapt the proposed strategy; deplores the fact that the strategy makes virtually no mention of fisheries and aquaculture, even though these industries play a vital role along the whole Atlantic coastline and help to shape our coastal regions;
Amendment 4 #
2020/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Stresses the importance of aligning Commission and Member States efforts to improve ocean health and stewardship and the promotion of the sustainable management of its resources, as outlined in the Galway Statement on Atlantic Ocean Cooperation 2013 and Belém Statement on Atlantic Research and Innovation Cooperation 2017;
Amendment 7 #
2020/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that the only reference to fishing is to ‘fishing-for-litter actions’ and that, however important it is for fishers to take part in the clean-up of the oceans, it is imperative that the socioeconomic and environmental impacts of this sector be taken into account;
Amendment 9 #
2020/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Notes that the issue of marine litter must be tackled first and foremost on land and by reducing waste at its source;
Amendment 11 #
2020/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Stresses the importance of cooperation between the Commission, Atlantic coastal states and agencies on protecting fish stocks, achieving maximum sustainable yield and ending overfishing;
Amendment 13 #
2020/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Welcomes, in the context of the disruption caused by the UK’s withdrawal from the EU, the goal of fostering short- sea shipping links in the Atlantic to better integrate Ireland;
Amendment 14 #
2020/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4 b. Calls on the Commission to make every effort to include the UK and relevant agencies of the UK in the implementation process of the Atlantic Maritime Strategy, building on a history of good cooperation in this area;
Amendment 17 #
2020/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes that, if the strategy is to be truly effective, the role of the regions and local authorities must be strengthened, and above all that of the outermost regions, in particular because they are home to a significant proportion of European biodiversity;
Amendment 23 #
2020/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Welcomes the positive environmental elements of the Atlantic Strategy, including the creation of a network of green ports, focus on renewable energy development and coastal protection measures;
Amendment 25 #
2020/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6 b. Welcomes the reference in the Action Plan to the mapping and preservation of coastal wetlands as part of Goal 6 “Stronger coastal resilience”; calls on the European Commission that these areas have effective management plans;
Amendment 26 #
2020/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 c (new)
Paragraph 6 c (new)
6 c. Recalls, in that regard, that Marine Protected Areas not only protect marine ecosystems but also play a role in climate mitigation and adaptation and contributing to healthy and resilient oceans; reiterates the call of the Commission, in its 2030 biodiversity strategy, to have at least 30 % of sea area in the EU protected, including through fish stock recovery areas as provided for under the CFP, and areas where the most destructive fishing techniques and economic activities are restricted; and a high level of protection for at least 10% of EU waters;
Amendment 28 #
2020/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 d (new)
Paragraph 6 d (new)
6 d. Stresses the importance of cooperation among Atlantic coastal states on research and development in emerging areas of renewable energy such as wave, tidal and floating offshore wind energy;
Amendment 29 #
2020/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 e (new)
Paragraph 6 e (new)
6 e. Regrets that the Action Plan 2.0 and its pillars make no mention of the implementation of the ecosystem approach to marine management as required by the Marine Strategy Framework Directive and that it should apply to all activities that are part of the Blue Economy;
Amendment 33 #
2020/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7 a. Highlights the importance of effective Maritime Spatial Planning and inclusive community engagement in the development of the Blue Economy and the protection of the marine environment;
Amendment 32 #
2020/2260(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas scientific studies have raised concerns about the long-term negative impact that certain techniques used by fisheries, such as bottom- contacting gear and fish aggregating devices, have on animal welfare, stocks, ocean biodiversity and the marine environment;
Amendment 42 #
2020/2260(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A b (new)
Recital A b (new)
Ab. whereas intensive fishing is one of the key drivers behind biodiversity loss at sea;
Amendment 49 #
2020/2260(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A c (new)
Recital A c (new)
Ac. whereas neither the objective to end overfishing nor to achieve Good Environmental Status of EU waters by 2020 has been achieved;
Amendment 54 #
2020/2260(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A d (new)
Recital A d (new)
Ad. whereas the FAO acknowledges in its 2020 report State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture the key role played by fisheries in global food security while recalling that the biggest threat to this contribution is overfishing and that sustainable exploitation of stocks has the potential to increase fisheries productivity;
Amendment 91 #
2020/2260(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that promoting healthy and sustainable diets should privileginclude EU fisheries and low-trophic aquaculture products, as they are an important source of protein and a crucial component of a healthy diet and also highlight the value of the work of fishers and women in the sector, and of aquaculture; recalls the green job creation potential of sustainable aquaculture and fisheries;
Amendment 114 #
2020/2260(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. WelcomAnticipates the Commission’s assessmentreport on the functioning of the CFP, due by 2022, with a focus on the risks triggered by climate change for the well-being and sustainability of species and the objective of reaching Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY);
Amendment 117 #
2020/2260(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Amendment 125 #
2020/2260(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Welcomes the role for the announced new EU Strategic Guidelines on Aquaculture;
Amendment 133 #
2020/2260(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Urges the Commission and Member States to facilitate and encourage low impact, closed-system aquaculture production in order to reduce the effects of aquaculture on wild species and the marine environment;
Amendment 135 #
2020/2260(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. Calls on the Commission and Member States to implement measures to improve water quality, disease control and to limit stocking density in aquaculture production in the interests of human health and animal welfare;
Amendment 139 #
2020/2260(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Requests that the Commission and the Member States improve the labelling of all fisheries products, whether fresh, frozen, processed or from aquaculture, marketed in restaurants and through retailers to allow traceability from the place of origin; stresses that this step will enhance the value of sustainable products and protect consumer rightgood traceability mechanisms, including origin, time and method of production labelling, and high sustainability and fish welfare standards for all products sold on EU markets are essential to ensure transparency for consumers, the sector and the different administrations, and to achieve the targets of the Green Deal and the SDGs; stresses that this step will enhance the value of sustainable products and protect consumer rights; Stresses further that also businesses have a role to play in making sure that fishery products they source are traceable to the point of origin, as well as in providing all the required information to consumers;
Amendment 167 #
2020/2260(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Recalls however that progress still needs to be made for Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreements to become truly sustainable, highlights that these agreements must be in line with best available scientific advice and must neither threaten the small-scale fisheries sector in third countries nor undermine local food security;
Amendment 180 #
2020/2260(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Underlines the importance of EMFAF in sustaining and modernising the sector, favour in line with the objectives of the CFP, favouring small scale vessels and supporting generational renewal, and promoting the active participation of women, associations, including guilds (‘cofradías), producer organisations and the retail sector;
Amendment 186 #
2020/2260(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Stresses the need to improve the monitoring, control and enforcement of the Common Fisheries Policy, including the full implementation the Landing Obligation and the introduction of electronic monitoring of vessels to improve food traceability;
Amendment 188 #
2020/2260(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 b (new)
Paragraph 7 b (new)
7b. Calls on the Commission and Member States to effectively protect at least 30% of the Union’s waters, given the proven benefits of Marine Protected Areas for the reproduction and resilience of fish stocks, the quality and price of fish products, and environmental protection; recalls that the success of MPAs and other protected areas lies in them being accepted and embraced by fishers, coastal communities and other stakeholders; calls on the Commission and on the Member States to consider the need to facilitate the active participation of the fisheries sector, including its artisanal component, the local communities and all relevant stakeholders in the design, management and monitoring of MPAs;
Amendment 192 #
2020/2260(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 c (new)
Paragraph 7 c (new)
7c. Underlines the importance of small-scale coastal fishing and believes that this sector can significantly facilitate transition to sustainable fish stock management; calls on each of the Member States accordingly to increase the percentage of national quotas allocated to this sector;
Amendment 199 #
2020/2260(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Recommends that appropriately funded dedicated campaigns aimed at consumers be launched to bolster fisheducate the public on responsible seafood consumption.
Amendment 205 #
2020/2260(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Calls on the Commission and on Member States to promote in such campaigns also the consumption of lesser known fish species in order to reduce the high fishing pressure on most commercial fish stocks.
Amendment 212 #
2020/2260(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 b (new)
Paragraph 8 b (new)
8b. Calls on the European Commission to give financial support and visibility to projects and initiatives aiming at shortening supply chains, promoting local food systems, sustainable seafood consumption and supporting small-scale fisheries.
Amendment 2 #
2020/2023(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the current negotiation will be of decisive importance for the future of the Member States and the United Kingdom (UK) and, in that context, fishing and, the management of living marine resources and the conservation and restoration of marine ecosystems are essential issues; whereas the fisheries sector directly and indirectly represents hundreds of thousands of jobs, provides a livelihood for many coastal areas and coastal communities, contributes to safe and healthy food for millions of consumers, and promotes a strong environmental model;
Amendment 7 #
2020/2023(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the common fisheries policy (CFP) has for almost 50 years enabled, in all the Member States concerned, the establishment of optimalimproved conditions for the development of fishing and the sustainable management of resources; whereas, therefore, following the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union (EU), an agreement is necessary to guarantee the economic vitality of the fisheries sector, the preservation of species and the protection of biodiversity;
Amendment 8 #
2020/2023(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
B a. whereas Regulation EU 2017/2403 on the Sustainable Management of the External Fishing Fleet marked a major step forward for transparency and accountability in global fisheries which should be reflected in the future agreement;
Amendment 11 #
2020/2023(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the existing historical and, geographical and ecosystemic links between the EU and the UK create a strong interdependence between the parties, both in terms of fishing and aquaculture activities, and in the sectors of processing of and trade in those products, and in terms of protecting shared marine ecosystems; whereas, from that point of view, a lack of agreement would cause immediate and significant damage to the shared marine ecosystems, for all stakeholders involved and ultimately for EU and UK citizens;
Amendment 19 #
2020/2023(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Reminds that both fish and pollution do not know political borders and will continue spreading throughout all sea basins, emphasises that ecosystems are interlinked;
Amendment 25 #
2020/2023(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Recalls that the greatest mutual benefit will be obtained by protecting and restoring all shared ecosystems, by maintaining reciprocal access to water and resources, by defining common, coherent and stable principles and rules, enabling open access of fishing and aquaculture products to markets without causing economic or social tensions through unbalanced competition;
Amendment 26 #
2020/2023(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Notes the importance of the UK national fisheries legislation for UK territorial waters that is being discussed concurrently, with respect to its impact on the shared stocks;
Amendment 34 #
2020/2023(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls for the maintenance of a stable and constant distribution of fishing rights; and stresses the importance of long- term management of resources based on compliance with CFP principles such as maximum sustainable yield (MSY) and, the technical measures and the Marine Strategy Framework Directive which have so far contributed to the improvement of the state of fish stocks for the benefit of the fleets of both EU Member States and the UK;
Amendment 40 #
2020/2023(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Stresses the need for a public database of both EU and UK vessels that will be fishing under a future agreement;
Amendment 43 #
2020/2023(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses the need for adequate consultation mechanisms, a common scientific approach as basis for future decisions for fishing opportunities in all shared sea basins, and guarantees that the UK will continue to contribute to data collection and the scientific assessment of stocks; and urges the parties to continue their active and loyal cooperation in matters of fishing control and the fight against illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing;
Amendment 44 #
2020/0380(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3 a (new)
Recital 3 a (new)
(3 a) The Union is also committed to sustainable fisheries management in line with the objectives of the CFP, including the principle of achieving maximum sustainable yield for all stocks according to the best available scientific advice, ending overfishing, restoring populations of harvested species and protecting the marine environment, as also provided for by numerous international commitments.
Amendment 60 #
2020/0380(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) Prior to the payment of the pre- financing, Member States should notify the Commission of the identity of the bodies designated and of the body to which the pre-financing shall be paid, explain why the specific territorial level was chosen and confirm that the systems’ descriptions have been drawn up, within three months of the entry into force of this Regulation. Member States must ensure that funding is concentrated in the worst affected regions and that the communities concerned are involved in decisions on the use of the Reserve, in particular the small-scale fisheries sector.
Amendment 65 #
2020/0380(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13 a (new)
Recital 13 a (new)
(13 a) In order to address the impact of the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the Union on coastal communities and small-scale fisheries in particular, Member States must allocate a minimum share of pre-financing from the Reserve to the small-scale fisheries sector, taking into account the increased difficulty for this sector to absorb market shocks, quota losses and supply chain disruption.
Amendment 87 #
2020/0380(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph -1 (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph -1 (new)
-1 Member States must ensure that this funding is concentrated in the worst affected regions and that the communities concerned are involved in decisions on the use of these funds, in particular the small-scale fisheries sector.
Amendment 107 #
2020/0380(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 5 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. When designing support measures in the field of fisheries, Member States shall take into account the objectives of the Common Fisheries Policy, making sure those measures contribute to the sustainable management of fish stocks.
Amendment 108 #
2020/0380(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 3 b (new)
Article 5 – paragraph 3 b (new)
3 b. When designing support measures in the field of fisheries, Member States shall endeavour to support fishers most affected by the UK withdrawal from the EU, in particular small-scale fisheries. Members States shall take into account the impact of Brexit on the total activity of fishing enterprises, including enterprises which benefit from increased fishing opportunities of vessels operating under a UK flag following the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the Union.
Amendment 85 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 3 a (new)
Recital 3 a (new)
(3a) The EEA developed a series of annual indicator-based reports, 'environmental indicators reports', for the period 2016-2019 in order to support the monitoring of the thematic priority objectives of the 7th EAP.
Amendment 160 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 9 a (new)
Recital 9 a (new)
(9a) Gross Domestic Product (GDP), by measuring the market value of all goods and services produced within a country in a given year, is an indicator of market economic output rather than economic or social wellbeing. An exclusive focus on GDP growth as a measure of progress therefore has limitations, as it does not take into account health, social relations, environmental impact, or equality. This limitation is widely recognised and was already acknowledged in the 7th EAP, which called for the development and application of alternative indicators that complement and go beyond GDP to monitor the sustainability of economic and social progress.
Amendment 166 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) The 8th EAP should set out thematic priority objectives in areas of climate neutrality, adaption to climate change, protecting and restoring biodiversity, a toxic-free circular economy, the zero pollution ambition and reducing environmental pressures from production and consumption. It should recognise that these thematic priority objectives are inherently interlinked, addressing both drivers and impacts of environmental damage and that a systemic approach is therefore necessary for their achievement. It should furthermore identify the enabling conditions to achieve the long-term and the thematic priority objectives for all actors involved, as well as laying down actions necessary to achieve these conditions.
Amendment 178 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 10 a (new)
Recital 10 a (new)
(10a) Nature based solutions (NbS) are mentioned in a number of EGD strategies including in the Commission's Communication on the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 as well as the EU Strategy on Adaptation to climate change, and a significant portion of the EU budget dedicated to climate action is destined for investment in NbS. However, NbS is not a well-defined term at EU nor international level and therefore risks being too broad and ambiguous, leading to misunderstanding and abuse. Moreover, whilst the Biodiversity Strategy emphasises that 'The fight against biodiversity loss must be underpinned by sound science', there is no established science underpinning the use of NbS due to the lack of a scientifically grounded definition. A clear and robust EU level definition of NbS is therefore needed in order to evaluate whether their utilisation will achieve, and to what extent, progress towards the priority objectives of the 8th EAP (in particular those relating to climate mitigation, climate adaptation and protecting, preserving and restoring biodiversity). As a basic principle, NbS should ensure that biodiversity and ecosystem integrity are not compromised. In addition, an EU-level definition should be accompanied by a positive and a negative list of activities, techniques and approaches that do, and do not, qualify, respectively as NbS, as well as by a clear explanation of what problem(s) NbS are supposed to solve. Finally, clarification is needed on whether NbS can play a role in offsetting, and if so, for what, how much, and through what mechanisms.
Amendment 182 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 10 b (new)
Recital 10 b (new)
(10b) The term ‘ecosystem approach’ is established under the UN Convention on Biological Diversity as a strategy for the integrated management of land, water and living resources that promotes conservation and sustainable use in an equitable way in order to help reach a balance between the three objectives of the Convention (conservation, sustainable use and benefit sharing of biological biodiversity)1a. __________________ 1aDecisions adopted by the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity at its Fifth Meeting (COP5).
Amendment 195 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 11 a (new)
Recital 11 a (new)
(11a) The United Nations Environment Programme and the OECD Global Forum on Environment have highlighted that environmental changes have gender- specific impacts. Therefore, a gender perspective on actions and goals related to the achievement of the priority objectives of the 8th EAP, including gender impact assessments of planned actions and a focus on gender mainstreaming and gender-responsive actions, is necessary in order to ensure that gender inequalities are not perpetuated.
Amendment 220 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 14 a (new)
Recital 14 a (new)
(14a) Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) methodology, audited and validated by the Union's Joint Research Centre in 2019, measures progress against SDGs based on a “distance to target” (i.e. how far is a country or region from achieving a target). A distance to target approach should be applied to indicators used to monitor progress towards the achievement of the 8th EAP priority objectives.
Amendment 223 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 14 b (new)
Recital 14 b (new)
Amendment 288 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
2. The 8th EAP shasll have the following six interlinked thematic priority objectives , to be achieved by 2030 at the latest:
Amendment 300 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) irreversible and gradualswift reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and enhancement of removals by natural and other sinks in the Union to attain the 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target and achieve climate neutrality by 2050 as laid down in Regulation (EU) …/…32 ; __________________ 32 COM/2020/80 final.
Amendment 377 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)
(aa) regularly reviewing the consistency of Union measures and policies, including sectoral legislation, the Union’s external action and the Union budget with the priority objectives set out in Article 2(1) and (2) ; these reviews shall also apply to assessments by the Commission of national or regional plans which relate to the implementation of Union legislation;
Amendment 388 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b – indent 1 aa (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b – indent 1 aa (new)
– assessing the consistency of any draft measure, including but not limited to any legislative and budgetary proposal, with the priority objectives set out in Article 2(1) and (2);
Amendment 390 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b – indent 1 b (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b – indent 1 b (new)
– strengthening the cooperation between the European Commission and the Committee of the Regions, in the framework of the Technical Platform for Cooperation on the Environment and exploring how to improve dialogue and information pooling;
Amendment 392 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b – indent 1 c (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b – indent 1 c (new)
– promoting communication activities at the EU, national, regional and local level, aimed at raising awareness, especially among young people, about the importance and benefits of a sound implementation of environment policy, as well as about its added value to the citizens, businesses and the planet, in order to increase a sense of ownership and the participation of all the relevant stakeholders in the implementation efforts;
Amendment 434 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point d
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point d
(d) mobilising sustainable investments from public and private sources, including of funds and instruments available under the Union budget, via the European Investment Bank and at national level, consistent with the Union's sustainable finance strategy; ensuring that local and regional communities have adequate resources for implementation on the ground;
Amendment 468 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point f b (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point f b (new)
(fb) ensuring the full participation of, and cooperation with, local and regional authorities across all dimensions of environmental policy-making through a collaborative and multi-level governance approach;
Amendment 501 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point h
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point h
(h) making full use of nature based solutions and social innovation;ecosystem approaches, defined under the United Nations Convention on Biological diversity1a and social innovation; __________________ 1aDecisions adopted by the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity at its Fifth Meeting (COP5).
Amendment 507 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point h a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point h a (new)
(ha) establishing an EU-level definition of the term 'nature based solutions';
Amendment 541 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Amendment 546 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 2
Article 3 – paragraph 2
2. Reaching the 8th EAP’s priority objectives will require mobilising broad support by involving citizens, social partners and other stakeholders, and encouragingPublic authorities at all levels shall work with businesses - in particular SMEs - and social partners, civil society, citizens and other stakeholders in implementing the 8thEAP. Achieving the 8th EAP's priority objectives will require cooperation in the development and implementation of strategies, policies or legislation related to the 8th EAP amongst national, regional and local authorities, in urban and rural areas.
Amendment 588 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 4 – paragraph 3 – point g
Article 4 – paragraph 3 – point g
(g) helping civil society, public authorities at national, regional and local level, citizens, social partners and the private sector identify climate and environmental risks and take action to prevent, mitigate and adapt to them, and fostering their engagement in closing knowledge gaps.
Amendment 3 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
- having regard to Regulation (EU) No 1241/2019 on the conservation of fisheries resources and the protection of marine ecosystems through technical measures,
Amendment 5 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
- having regard to Directive 2014/89/EU of 23 July 2014 establishing a framework for maritime spatial planning (Maritime Spatial Planning Directive),
Amendment 6 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 b (new)
Citation 4 b (new)
- having regard to the Council Directive of 12 December 1991 concerning the protection of waters against pollution caused by nitrates from agricultural sources (91/676/EEC), with regard to fertilizer run-off,
Amendment 7 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 c (new)
Citation 4 c (new)
- having regard to the Regulation (EC) 1049/2001 regarding public access to European Parliament, Council and Commission documents and Regulation (EC) 1367/2006 on the application of the provisions of the Aarhus Convention on Access to Information, Public Participation in Decision-making and Access to Justice in Environmental Matters to Community institutions and bodies,
Amendment 10 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 a (new)
Citation 5 a (new)
- having regard to the Farm to Fork Strategy (COM(2020) 381 final),
Amendment 12 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 b (new)
Citation 5 b (new)
- having regard to its Resolution (2017/2055(INI)) on international ocean governance: an agenda for the future of our oceans in the context of the 2030 SDGs,
Amendment 13 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 c (new)
Citation 5 c (new)
- having regard to the 2002 Johannesburg Declaration on Sustainable Development, the Johannesburg Plan of Implementation and to the report “The Future we Want” of the 2012 United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20),
Amendment 15 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 d (new)
Citation 5 d (new)
- having regard to target 11 of the Aichi Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011-2020,
Amendment 17 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 a (new)
Citation 6 a (new)
- having regard to the 2019 IPCC Special Report on the Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate,
Amendment 18 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 7 a (new)
Citation 7 a (new)
- having regard to the Sustainable Development Goal 14 of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, on the conservation and sustainable use of the oceans, seas and marine resources,
Amendment 20 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 8 a (new)
Citation 8 a (new)
- having regard to the 2020 STECF report on monitoring the performance of the CFP,
Amendment 21 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 9 a (new)
Citation 9 a (new)
- having regard to the 2017 Special report of the European Court of Auditors “More efforts needed to implement the Natura 2000 network to its full potential” (No 1/2017),
Amendment 23 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 9 b (new)
Citation 9 b (new)
- having regard to the Ombudsman’s case 640/2019/FP,
Amendment 24 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 9 c (new)
Citation 9 c (new)
- having regard to the EEA report No 3/2015 “Marine protected areas in Europe’s seas: An overview and perspective for the future”,
Amendment 26 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 a (new)
Citation 10 a (new)
- having regard to the European Commission Report assessing Member States’ programmes of measures under the MSFD (COM/2018/562),
Amendment 43 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
D a. whereas overcapacity is one of the key drivers of overfishing in Europe and worldwide, and efforts to reduce capacity have been broadly offset by technological progress in fishing efficiency;
Amendment 53 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
E a. whereas the CFP is not fully implemented yet and some of its measures such as the establishment of Fish Stock Recovery Areas haven’t been used;
Amendment 54 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E b (new)
Recital E b (new)
E b. whereas globally 66% of the marine environment has been altered by human pressure according to IPBES and 34,2% of fish stocks are fished at biologically unsustainable levels according to FAO;
Amendment 61 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H a (new)
Recital H a (new)
H a. whereas healthy habitats, including sandbanks, seagrass meadows and coral reefs, are essential to the restoration of marine ecosystem functioning and to the replenishment of fish stocks and to providing carbon sinks to mitigate climate change;
Amendment 62 #
2019/2162(INI)
H b. whereas well-managed Marine Protected Areas are essential to enhance biodiversity and to preserve natural habitats of other species such as birds.
Amendment 64 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas there is a strong scientific consensus that MPAs are beneficial to fisheries because of their spillover effect and their positive effects on recruitment, for example through the protection of reproduction sites, protection of juveniles and big mother fishes with high reproductive capacities;
Amendment 67 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I a (new)
Recital I a (new)
I a. whereas pollution originating from the land, especially in partially enclosed sea basins, and from other marine activities also have an impact on fish stock recovery;
Amendment 71 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I b (new)
Recital I b (new)
I b. whereas the Ombudsman’s recommendation to proactively make public documents related to the adoption of the TAC regulations was so far not followed by the Council of the EU;
Amendment 86 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Urges the Commission to strengthen the implementation of the ecosystem approach to fisheries management in order to minimise the negative impacts on marine ecosystems, fish stocks and societyf fishing activities and other factors such as climate change on marine ecosystems, fish stocks and society, including by increasingly applying multi- species approaches;
Amendment 101 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Considers that the EU should go beyond current fisheries management practices and promote a transition towards low-impact fisheries in order, not only to preserve fish stocks at current levels but, more importantly, to rebuild fish stocks and restore marine ecosystems;
Amendment 130 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8 a. Considers that this approach should also be applied to the external dimension of the CFP.;
Amendment 131 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 b (new)
Paragraph 8 b (new)
8 b. Urges the Commission to tackle the problem of overcapacity, including by requesting the STECF to implement a methodology that takes into account the ‘technological creep’ (i.e. gradual increase in fishing power) when assessing trends in fishing fleet capacity;
Amendment 132 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 c (new)
Paragraph 8 c (new)
8 c. Demands that the Council proactively makes public all documents related to the adoption of TAC Regulations in line with the Ombudsman’s recommendation and comply with Regulation (EC) 1049/2001 and Regulation (EC) 1367/2006;
Amendment 137 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9 a. Highlights that successful MPAs offer large socio-economic benefits, especially for coastal communities, the fisheries and tourism sector;
Amendment 164 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Calls for MPAs to be established as part of a coherent network of connected areas, including offshore and deep-sea areas, and with a view to ensure balanced geographic distribution and ecological representativity; recalls the requirement to cease fishing with bottom-contacting gear below 400 m in areas where vulnerable marine ecosystems (VMEs) are known to exist or are likely to occur;
Amendment 172 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Urges Member States to set stronger and more effective management plans for the existing MPAs and to put in place stronger control measures to ensure that MPAs are respected, including by involving the fisheries sector, expanding the scope of the Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) such as by transmitting vessel position data close to real-time and strengthening of on-the-spot controls;
Amendment 178 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15 a. Calls on the Commission to start infringement procedures against Member States that are not respecting their obligations regarding the effectiveness of the protection of MPAs;
Amendment 179 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 b (new)
Paragraph 15 b (new)
15 b. Calls on the Commission to take action when Member States fail to agree, within one year of ongoing negotiations (informal and formal), on the adoption of joint recommendations for fisheries management measures in offshore MPAs in line with Article 11 of the CFP, including by proposing its own measures or by taking emergency measures to protect the site as long as an agreement has not been reached;
Amendment 180 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 c (new)
Paragraph 15 c (new)
15 c. Stresses that greater scrutiny over fisheries management measures within Natura 2000 sites, submitted by EU Member States, is necessary in order to ensure that conservation objectives are achieved in line with Article 11 of the Common Fisheries Policy,
Amendment 181 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 d (new)
Paragraph 15 d (new)
15 d. Emphasises that the designation of areas and development of management measures should be based on the best available scientific advice;
Amendment 194 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17 a. Expresses serious concern that 59% of northern Europe's Marine Protected Areas are commercially trawled1a, with average trawling intensity 38% higher than in non-protected areas, suggesting that MPAs do not reduce fishing pressure under current management _________________ 1a"Elevated trawling inside protected areas undermines conservation outcomes in a global fishing hot spot" By Manuel Dureuil, Kristina Boerder, Kirsti A. Burnett, Rainer Froese, Boris Worm, Published in Science 21 Dec 2018 : 1403- 1407
Amendment 196 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Invites the Member States to expand the network of fish stock recovery areas under the CFP, emphasises the need to include the evaluation of designation and success of such areas in the upcoming report on the functioning of the CFP;
Amendment 200 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18 a. Calls on the European Commission and Member States to take a proactive role in the creation of new effectively-managed MPAs in the high seas, both in the framework of RFMOs and the upcoming international legally binding instrument under UNCLOS on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction;
Amendment 213 #
2019/2162(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20 a. Calls on the European Commission to publish a study on the impact of those diverse sources of pollution on the rebuilding fish stocks and on marine ecosystems;
Amendment 4 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 a (new)
Citation 6 a (new)
— having regard to the Commission communication of 8 July 2020 on a Hydrogen Strategy for a Climate-Neutral Europe (COM(2020)301,
Amendment 5 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 b (new)
Citation 6 b (new)
— having regard to the EU biodiversity strategy for 2030, set out in the Commission communication of 20 May 2020 entitled ‘EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 – Bringing nature back into our lives’ (COM(2020)0380),
Amendment 6 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 c (new)
Citation 6 c (new)
— having regard to the Commission communication of 17 September 2020 ‘Stepping up Europe’s 2030 climate ambition – Investing in a climate-neutral future for the benefit of our people’ (COM(2020)0562),
Amendment 7 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 d (new)
Citation 6 d (new)
— having regard to its resolution of 16 January 2018 on international ocean governance: an agenda for the future of our oceans in the context of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals,
Amendment 8 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 e (new)
Citation 6 e (new)
— having regard to the 2019 special report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) on the Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate,
Amendment 9 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 f (new)
Citation 6 f (new)
— having regard to the Paris Agreement reached at the 21st Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP21),
Amendment 10 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 g (new)
Citation 6 g (new)
— having regard to the European Parliament adopted opinion on the European Climate Law1a, _________________ 1a P9_TA(2020)0253
Amendment 23 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas it was agreed in the EU- UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement that EU fishing vessels would continue to have reciprocal access to UK waters and would therefore continue to share the European marine space which currently contains 110 offshore wind farms with more than 5 000 wind turbines;
Amendment 35 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas the Maritime Spatial Planning Directive (2014/89/EU) states that Member States must take into consideration the interactions of activities and uses such as aquaculture, fishing, and installations and infrastructures for the production of energy from renewable sources, as well as submarine cables, and promote the coexistence of relevant activities, and apply an ecosystem-based approach;
Amendment 40 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas around 80 % of all fishing companievessels in the EU are small-scale enterprivessels, with most being family-run businesses that go back generations, operating mainly in coastal waters;
Amendment 42 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H a (new)
Recital H a (new)
H a. whereas the European Union has failed to comply with the legal obligation to end overfishing by 2020;
Amendment 43 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H b (new)
Recital H b (new)
H b. whereas the 2030 EU biodiversity strategy calls for a legally binding objective to protect at least 30 % of the Union’s seas as Marine Protected Areas, and for 10 % of the Union's sea area to be strictly protected where no economic activities should take place; whereas in the remaining 20% of the designated MPAs economic activities could be allowed but only if compatible with both the climate targets of the Union and the conservation objectives, in particular of the area, according to the Birds and Habitats Directives and the 2020 Commission guidance on wind energy developments and EU Nature legislation1a; _________________ 1a Commission notice: Guidance document on wind energy developments and EU nature legislation, C(2020) 7730 final, 18.11.2020
Amendment 44 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas, according to the 2020 EPRS study on the ‘Impact of the use of offshore wind and other marine renewables on European fisheries’, the cumulation of current and future offshore renewable developments has the biggest impact on affects mostly trawling fleets targeting mixed demersal species and crustaceans¸ whereas the composition of fishing effort varied greatly across fleets at individual planning sites; whereas bottom trawling has the biggest impact on the ocean seafloor;
Amendment 49 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I a (new)
Recital I a (new)
I a. whereas the European Parliament demands that the Union’s 2030 target for climate shall be an economy-wide GHG emission reduction of 60 % compared to 1990;
Amendment 55 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Is concerned about the negativepotential long-term impact that offshore wind turbines have in certain cases on ecosystems, fish stocks and biodiversity, and consequently on fisheries as a whole, over their life cycle, from construction through operation and decommissioning; recalls that these impacts can be strongly reduced by taking appropriate and widely applied measures;
Amendment 60 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Recalls the EU’s commitment to achieving net zero greenhouse gases emissions target by 2050 at the latest; stresses that these emissions must be reduced by at least 65% by 2030 compared to 1990 emissions in order for the Union to contribute to limiting global warming to less than 1.5° C by the end of the century, in line with the latest scientific evidence;
Amendment 65 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1 b. Emphasises that renewable energy and energy efficiency are among the key drivers for reaching a net zero-emissions economy; highlights that in order to meet the 2030 renewable energy target, offshore renewable electricity infrastructure capacity and production need to be increased accordingly;
Amendment 66 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 c (new)
Paragraph 1 c (new)
1 c. Highlights that without a rapid phase out of fossil fuels and increase in wind energy production, the realisation of renewable energy goals and limiting global warming to less than 1.5° C by the end of the century would be impossible; recalls that burning fossil fuels have negative impacts on marine life, including fish stocks, due to acidification of seas and oceans;
Amendment 67 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 d (new)
Paragraph 1 d (new)
1 d. Highlights the important potential of renewable hydrogen, including from wind and solar energy, in reaching the Union’s climate neutrality objective;
Amendment 68 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 e (new)
Paragraph 1 e (new)
1 e. Stresses that floating wind farms have the potential to be developed in deep water areas, which expands the viable zone for wind energy development while reducing visibility from shore; calls therefore on the Commission and Member States to support the upscale and commercialisation of sustainable floating offshore wind technology that reduces further the impact on fisheries;
Amendment 69 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 f (new)
Paragraph 1 f (new)
Amendment 72 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that the large-scale roll-out of offshore wind farms (OWFs) risks harm, in certain cases, affecting the physical functioning of the sea basin, in particular sea and air currents, which might contribute to a mixing of the stratified water column and consequently influence the nutrient cycle, wave generation, tidal amplitudes and bedload sediment transport, and the effects of these must be closely monitored, while infrasonic noise from rotating blades could chase fish away from OWFs, and electromagnetic fields from underwater cables, as well as underwater noise from pile driving, could have severe negative impacts on marine life if not mitigated;
Amendment 76 #
2019/2158(INI)
2 a. Notes the importance of implementing best practices in minimising disruption and mitigating damage to local ecosystems in the planning, operational and decommissioning stages of offshore activity;
Amendment 80 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2 b. Notes that the potential negative impact of OFWs on fisheries and the marine environment is much less significant than offshore oil and gas extraction which contribute to global warming while also potentially polluting surrounding waters;
Amendment 87 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses that, if not strategically planned with a long-term perspective, potential artificial reef effects arcould be limited to the operational phase of an offshore wind turbine and that decommissioning may make any benefits temporary;
Amendment 92 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Proposes to assess the combination and integration of OWFs within maritimne protected areas (MPAs) against clearly defined climate, habitat and biodiversity conservation objectives, including those pertaining to fisheries resources, while excluding OWFs in protected areas designated hitherto as well as excluding any economic activity, also OWFs, in strictly protected areas;
Amendment 97 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. States that OWFs can have an impact on fisheries by changing the spatial distribution and abundance of commercially fished marine species as well as through their closure for safety reasons or the imposition of a change in fishing activity or method if regulated accordingly, for example from active to passive;
Amendment 103 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Stresses that the environmental, social and economic impact of OFWs depends on site specific conditions, ecosystems and human activities and that stakeholder collaboration in the design, implementation and management of OFW is key to resolving issues of common interest;
Amendment 105 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses that small-scale fishing enterprisers will be particularly affected byin case of displacement as they may not have the capacity to move to fishing grounds further afield or to change fishing method; recommends therefore the exclusion of large scale vessels above 12 metres from inshore waters in order to mitigate the displacement effect on small-scale fishers;
Amendment 113 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Stresses that, in some cases, insurance for fishing vessels operating in wind farms is very problematic owing to the insufficient indemnity levels offered by fishing vessels’ insurance policies;
Amendment 115 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Points out that any restriction on access to traditional fishing grounds directly affects the livelihoods of EU fishers and dependent jobs ashore, and that it undermines the responsible and sustainable provision of food security;
Amendment 120 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8 a. Stresses that the closure of OWFs to fisheries allows for the restoration of certain species, with knock-on and spill- over benefits for wider ecosystems and fishers;
Amendment 124 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Stresses that overlap analysis of offshore renewables and fisheries suggests a sharp increase in special conflict potential in European waters over the coming years, if not mitigated;
Amendment 136 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Stresses that the decommissioning of offshore wind turbines must neither generate enduring environmental impacts nor pose safety risks to fishing vessels due to any remaining sub-seabed infrastructure; recommends therefore that such areas either remain OWF through repowering or that decommissioned areas be designated as strictly protected areas to mitigate potential safety issues and preserve artificial reefs;
Amendment 145 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Highlights that assessments of the economic and socio-cultural effects of offshore renewables on fisheries are lacking in recent empirical studies; urges the Commission, therefore, to carry out further research looking beyondin addition to environmental impacts in order to assess the possible negative economic and social impacts on fisheries of investments in OWFs;
Amendment 149 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15 a. Calls on the Commission and Member States to improve on cross-border cooperation in Maritime Spatial Planning, including with the United Kingdom, the largest producer of offshore wind in Europe, in order to find solutions to common problems, integrate electricity connections and learn from best practices;
Amendment 154 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Amendment 155 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 b (new)
Paragraph 16 b (new)
16 b. Highlights the importance of community energy production schemes which allow coastal communities and co- operatives, including fishers, to generate their own electricity and reinvest profits back into the community;
Amendment 157 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Stresses that OWFs should only be built if the exclusion ofin the development of OWFs the negative environmental and ecological, as well as economic and socio- cultural impacts is guaranteshould be minimised and where possible mitigated, in line with the objectives of the Blue Economy and the European Green Deal;
Amendment 163 #
2019/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Calls on the Commission to carry out an impact assessment to examine the expected economic, social and environmental consequences of constructing OWF facilities where they are likely to come into conflict with both the fishing sector and the sustainability of marine life, including considerations of the consequences of inaction with regard to climate change;
Amendment 34 #
2019/0246(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2 a (new)
Recital 2 a (new)
(2a) Those high nutrient inputs result inter alia from insufficiently implemented directives such as Directive 91/676/EEC concerning the protection of waters against pollution caused by nitrates from agricultural sources and Directive 2000/60/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a framework for Community action in the field of water policy.
Amendment 36 #
2019/0246(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The declining condition of Eastern Baltic cod (Gadus morhua) has been linked to that situation. According to ICES, the stock suffers from an unsustainably low biomass due to a combination of declining recruitment, environmental factors, low availability of prey species, and changes in the ecosystem leading to a high natural mortality (about three times the fishing mortality), and an excessive fishing mortality given the status of the stock. The biomass of commercial sized cod is presently at the lowest level observed since the 1950s. Moreover, ICES estimates that the spawning stock biomass will remain below the sustainability reference point in the medium-term (2024) even with no fishing at all. In its stock advice for 2020 ICES therefore advises zero catches.
Amendment 37 #
2019/0246(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3 a (new)
Recital 3 a (new)
(3a) Fisheries management in the Baltic Sea also suffers from an imbalance between active fleet segments and available fishing opportunities as set out in the Commission Communication of 7 June 2019 on the State of Play of the Common Fisheries Policy and Consultation on the Fishing Opportunities for 2020.
Amendment 41 #
2019/0246(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) The fishing fleets so far dependent on Eastern Baltic cod do not have the possibility to fish for other stocks as an alternative. It is estimated that offsetting the economic losses caused by the Eastern Baltic cod closure would require additional catches of around 20,000 tonnes in alternative species. However, the Council also agreed severe reductions for other stocks, and notably a reduction of 65% for Western Baltic herring, 60% for Western Baltic cod, 32% for plaice, 27% for herring in the Gulf of Bothnia and 22% for sprat, while not completely following the scientific recommendations.
Amendment 44 #
2019/0246(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) Given the serious condition of the Eastern Baltic cod stock additional measures to control the fisheries catching Eastern Baltic cod should be introduced. The threshold quantity as of which a fishing vessel is required to land its catch in a specific place should be reduced to 2500kg. Moreover, masters of fishing vessels having quotas for cod and fishing in areas where Eastern Baltic cod is present are to ensure that their fishing activity can be monitored at any time by the national competent authorities.
Amendment 46 #
2019/0246(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) ICES issued an analytical assessment of Eastern Baltic cod but was not in a position to provide fishing mortality ranges and various reference points because of a lack of required data. Therefore, data collection is to be improved by ensuring that the observer coverage at sea of vessels catching Eastern Baltic cod is at least 230%.
Amendment 50 #
2019/0246(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18
Recital 18
(18) Given the fragile ecosystem in the Baltic Sea, support for the permanent cessation of fishing activities should not be granted for the retrofitting of fishing vessels for any other activitiesy than commercial fishing, such as recreational fishing, whicht could have a detrimental impact on the ecosystem. Therefore, such support should only be granted for the scrapping of fishing vessels.
Amendment 55 #
2019/0246(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Regulation (EU) 2016/1139
Article 14 – point a
Article 14 – point a
(a) 2500 kilograms of cod;.
Amendment 56 #
2019/0246(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4
Regulation (EU) 2016/1139
Article 14b – paragraph 1
Article 14b – paragraph 1
Union vessels with an allocation of fishing opportunities for cod in ICES subdivisions 22-24 and 24-32 shall be subject to at least 230 % observer coverage at sea..
Amendment 1 #
2019/0226M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 a (new)
Citation 6 a (new)
- having regard to the protocols on the implementation of the Agreements on a Sustainable Fisheries Partnership between the European Union and Morocoo, Mauritania and Guinea-Bissau,
Amendment 2 #
2019/0226M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 b (new)
Citation 6 b (new)
- having regard to Article 31.4 of the Common Fisheries Policy EU 1380/2013,
Amendment 3 #
2019/0226M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 c (new)
Citation 6 c (new)
- having regard to the European Parliament resolution of 12 April 2016 on common rules in respect of application of the external dimension of the CFP, including fisheries agreements (2015/2091(INI)),
Amendment 11 #
2019/0226M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
Ea. whereas the fisheries agreements between the European Union and Mauritania, Morocco and Guinea-Bissau, respectively, give access to the stock of small pelagics that is shared with Senegal;
Amendment 25 #
2019/0226M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Supports the EU strategy of being able to maintain a network of agreements in the region in order to complement actions to promote the sustainability of stocks within regional fisheries organisations (RFOs); underlines the necessity of binding regional rules on the management of small pelagic stocks that are vital to the Senegalese fisheries;
Amendment 29 #
2019/0226M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes the reduction in the fishing opportunities for deep-sea trawlers (black hake) in line with the scientific opinion of the Fishery Committee for the Eastern Central Atlantic (CECAF) in order to reduce mortality; underlines that there is still a possibility for European vessels to overfish black hake by paying a 95€ fee per ton; recommends to modify this provision by replacing it by a quota reduction in order to fight efficiently against illegal fishing;
Amendment 30 #
2019/0226M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Welcomes that the Protocol takes into account sensitive species that are caught as by-catch; stresses the need to further enhance measures to protect the marine ecosystem; emphasises the central role of trained scientific observers in the monitoring of the by-catches;
Amendment 40 #
2019/0226M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 – indent 1
Paragraph 10 – indent 1
- improving monitoring, control and surveillance through the rapid modernisation of the Fisheries Monitoring Centre (FMC) and the training of scientific observers;
Amendment 58 #
2019/0226M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Stresses the need to increase transparency and participation in the management of the sectoral support; urges the Commission to provide regular public reports on the use of the sectoral support; recommends that artisanal fishery representatives to be associated to the work of the Joint Commission and any other forum reporting or evaluating on the impacts of the Protocol;
Amendment 1 #
2019/0090M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 7 a (new)
Citation 7 a (new)
- Having regard to Article 31.4 of the Common Fisheries Policy EU 1380/2013,
Amendment 2 #
2019/0090M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 7 b (new)
Citation 7 b (new)
- - having regard to the European Parliament resolution of 12 April 2016 on common rules in respect of application of the external dimension of the CFP, including fisheries agreements (2015/2091(INI)),
Amendment 11 #
2019/0090M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas, in order for the Guinea- Bissau fisheries sector to develop, basic infrastructure needs to be installed, such as ports, landing sites, storage facilities and processing plants, which are still missing, with the aim to attract landings of fish caught in waters of Guinea-Bissau;
Amendment 31 #
2019/0090M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Considers that aWelcomes the transition in the management of fishing opportunities (from fishing effort management to total allowable catch management) poses a challenge to this Protocol; calls on the Commission to; calls on the Commission to facilitate this challenge and promote, without delay, an appropriate and effective transition, which safeguards the necessary reliability and effectiveness of the ERS and the processing of catch data;
Amendment 39 #
2019/0090M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 – point b
Paragraph 5 – point b
b. construction of key infrastructure for fisheries and related activities, such as ports (both industrial and artisanal), sites for landing, storing and processing fish, markets, distribution and marketing structures, quality analysis laboratories, with the aim to attract landings of the fish caught in waters of Guinea-Bissau;
Amendment 60 #
2019/0090M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9 a. Urges the publication of reports on the actions that have been supported by the sectoral support for greater transparency;
Amendment 63 #
2019/0090M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10 a. Emphasises the importance of the surplus requirement for Union vessels fishing in third country waters;
Amendment 65 #
2019/0090M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11 a. Urges the inclusion of transparency provisions to publish all agreements with states or private entities granting foreign vessels access to Guinea Bissau’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ);
Amendment 67 #
2019/0090M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 b (new)
Paragraph 11 b (new)
11 b. Emphasises the importance that the landings of fish in Guinea Bissau ports contribute to local processing activities and food security, both in terms of species and quality;
Amendment 1 #
2019/0078M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
- having regard to Article 31.4 of the Common Fisheries Policy EU 1380/2013,
Amendment 2 #
2019/0078M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 b (new)
Citation 4 b (new)
- having regard to the European Parliament resolution of 12 April 2016 on common rules in respect of application of the external dimension of the CFP, including fisheries agreements (2015/2091(INI)),
Amendment 3 #
2019/0078M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 c (new)
Citation 4 c (new)
- having regard to the February 2018 Ex-post and Ex-ante evaluation study of the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Cabo Verde,
Amendment 5 #
2019/0078M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas 20% of catches are made up of sharks, for which there is a lack of scientific data;
Amendment 6 #
2019/0078M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the EU-Cape Verde SFPA should promote more effective sustainable development of the Cape Verdean fishing communities and of related industries and activities; whereas the support to be provided under the Protocol has to be consistent with the national development plans and the Blue Growth Action Plan that develops within ecological limits, devised with the United Nations to increase production in, and professionalise, the sector in order to meet the population’s food and employment needs;
Amendment 19 #
2019/0078M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 – introductory part
Paragraph 3 – introductory part
3. Maintains that the EU-Cape Verde SFPA and the Protocol thereto have to be aligned with the national development plans and the Blue Growth Plan for the development of the Cape Verdean fisheries sector that develops within ecological limits, and specifically should:
Amendment 24 #
2019/0078M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 – indent 2
Paragraph 3 – indent 2
- tighten up monitoring, control and surveillance in the Cape Verde EEZ;
Amendment 29 #
2019/0078M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 – indent 5
Paragraph 3 – indent 5
- enable landing quays and ports to be constructed and/or renovated, in particular for the local fisheries, at the port of Mindelo (São Vicente island) for instance;
Amendment 35 #
2019/0078M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 – indent 7 a (new)
Paragraph 3 – indent 7 a (new)
- limit bycatches of sensitive species, such as marine turtles,
Amendment 42 #
2019/0078M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Expresses its content that the Agreement does not concern small pelagics that are of great importance for the local population and for which there is no surplus;
Amendment 43 #
2019/0078M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3 b. Expresses its concern about the possibility of detrimental impacts of fishing activities on the shark population in the Cape Verde EEZ;
Amendment 1 #
2018/0356M(NLE)
Draft opinion
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
- Having regard to Article 28.2.b of the Common Fisheries Policy EU 1380/2013
Amendment 2 #
2018/0356M(NLE)
Draft opinion
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
- Having regard to the European Parliament resolution of 30 May 2018 on the implementation of control measures for establishing the conformity of fisheries products with access criteria to the EU market (2017/2129(INI)),
Amendment 3 #
2018/0356M(NLE)
Draft opinion
Citation 2 c (new)
Citation 2 c (new)
- Having regard to the Commission communication of 14 October 2015 entitled ‘Trade for all: Towards a more responsible trade and investment policy’ (COM(2015)0497)
Amendment 4 #
2018/0356M(NLE)
Draft opinion
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas Vietnam was issued a yellow card in 2017 under the Council Regulation (EC) No 1005/2008 establishing a Community system to prevent, deter and eliminate illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing; whereas this unsustainable practice represents a breach of Article 13.9 of the Trade and Sustainable Development chapter; whereas Vietnam is currently cooperating with the EU on the matter on the basis of 9 recommendations that go with the yellow card and has recently adopted a new framework fishery law together with its implementing decrees;
Amendment 51 #
2018/0356M(NLE)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Is of the opinion that no conflicting signals should be sent to third countries that have been pre-identified under the IUU or the Non-Sustainable Fishing Regulation;
Amendment 53 #
2018/0356M(NLE)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. requests the Commission to conduct regular impact assessments with regard to environmental and climate impacts after three years of implementation of the FTA in order to ensure full compatibility between trade liberalisation and EU’s climate targets; calls for the immediate activation of the amendment procedure in case of incompatibilities with sustainable development and the SDGs; stresses that Vietnam is currently in violation of the specific measures provided by the Agreement under the TSD chapter to fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated fishing (IUU) and that the Commission has issued a yellow card in 2017 in the framework of the EU IUU Regulation; requests that preferential tariffs on fishery products be applied only once the conditions for lifting the yellow cards are met; deplores that while an article of the TSD chapter recalls the importance of responsible and sustainable aquaculture, there is no such an article on responsible and sustainable agriculture, a sector that should benefit strongly from the FTA;
Amendment 56 #
2018/0356M(NLE)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. emphasises the importance of policy coherence of Union initiatives, in particular with regard to trade and environmental activities;
Amendment 57 #
2018/0356M(NLE)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6b. Underlines the importance of a responsible trade policy as an instrument for the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals;