[ParlTrack]

I voted in favour of mobilising the European Union Solidarity to provide EUR 683.7 million to Croatia and 7 million to Poland, in response to natural disasters that took place in these countries in the course of 2020. In addition, the same fund shall provide EUR 8.5 million to Croatia, 15.5 million to Germany, 4.5 million to Greece, 26.6 million to Hungary, 23.3 million to Ireland, 37.5 million to Portugal and 16.8 million to Spain for the payment of advances with regard to the COVID-19 health emergency.

2020/11/23

I voted in favour of this resolution as it increases the budget dedicated to the assistance to Member States in the event of major natural disasters and health emergencies by EUR 734 596 756 million, both in commitments and payment appropriations.

2020/11/23

Homelessness must be addressed at once, especially during the pandemic. I voted in favour of this resolution as it is based on petition 0546/2020 and several other petitions raising concerns over the situation of more than 4 million homeless European citizens. As this figure has risen to over 70 million, I believe there is an urgent need to address this issue.

2020/11/23

. ‒ While lead in the environment remains highly problematic and efforts must be made to significantly decrease it, the presumption of innocence should never be removed. Furthermore, the reality of micro island states in the Mediterranean show that a one-size fits all definition of wetlands does not make sense.

2020/11/24

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report as it supports the current package introduced by the European Commission to ease some financial service rules due to the Covid-19 pandemic in order to make it easier for companies to be able to raise capital during difficult economic times.

2020/11/25

. ‒ I voted in favour of this own-initiative report because I feel that European policymakers must come up with new, avant-guard proposals to concretely overcome the challenges of today. One such challenge is the interlinking between industry and production and sustainable development. The COVID-19 crisis has revealed the fragility of our economies, which, teetering on the brink, could be brought down by any sudden shocks. Additionally, it has highlighted that patterns of production and consumption are in need of an overhaul. This report ensures a good balance between recognising the aspects of the single market that must change to suit a sustainable way of life, and consumer interests.

2020/11/25

. ‒ I voted in favour of this own-initiative report as it is important to ensure that products are safe for sure, but also that consumers are given the most accurate information in order for them to make informed choices. The INI report provides a set of overarching guidelines for the Commission, particularly in view of the revision of the General Product Safety Directive.

2020/11/25

The protection of all journalists in the EU is fundamental. I voted in favour, since it is important to take stock of the challenges that citizens face when it comes to obtaining information regarding important decisions that effect them. Be it hate speech, to disinformation, to the impartiality of journalists – all such challenges must be addressed to ensure that we have a strong media throughout the EU so that citizens are able to take informed, accurate decisions autonomously.

2020/11/25

I voted in favour of this own initiative report on a new industrial strategy as I believe that it is time to set out a concrete plan with regard to digital and environmental transitions needed in the industrial sector. As this report takes this into consideration, while also calling for high protection of workers’ rights, I voted in favour of the report.

2020/11/25

I voted in favour of this resolution as it recognises the need to strengthen the EU’s internal resilience and develop new partnerships while strengthening old partnerships on a global level, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a coordinated foreign policy response is effective, I believe more action must be taken to ensure that such a coordinated policy is strengthened.

2020/11/25

Ensuring a stronger implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals in line with the EU’s development and cooperation policy is a must. Development cooperation can have a very strong and long-lasting effect on ensuring peaceful sustainable development. For this reason, I voted in favour of this report.

2020/11/25

I believe that voting should become more universal with the voting age reduced to all those that are 16 years of age by election date. Furthermore, political parties must have a balanced number of candidates from all genders. I voted in favour because I believe that European Parliament elections should be given more weight when deciding the European Commission’s composition, while maintaining one seat per Member State.

2020/11/25

The United Kingdom’s exit from the European Union affects many different sectors of EU policy. One such sector is the trade sector, specifically in reference to the trade of dual-use items between the EU and the United Kingdom. Council Regulation (EC) No 428/2009 states that the export of dual-use items from the European Union to the UK will, after Brexit, require an export authorisation. Therefore, the Commission has decided to include the UK in Annex IIa of the regulation and therefore control exports to the UK under the Union General Export Authorisation EU001. As this will facilitate trade between the EU and the UK, I voted in favour of this report.

2020/11/26

I believe that Personal Protective Equipment as well as all medical devices must always be exempt of VAT, most of all during a pandemic. I voted in favour of this consultation as the current proposal aims at enabling Member States to temporarily exempt the supply of COVID-19 vaccines and in vitro diagnostic medical devices such as testing kits (as well as services closely linked to such vaccines and such devices) from VAT.

2020/11/26

This is yet another example of the political takeover of the judiciary and the systemic collapse of the rule of law in Poland. It is unfathomable that the Polish Constitutional Tribunal’s composition makes it unable to uphold the Polish Constitution. Furthermore, the resolution notes that the Polish ruling ‘puts women’s health and life at risk’ and ‘fails to protect the inherent and inalienable dignity of women.’ It is for these reasons that I voted in favour.

2020/11/26

I voted in favour of this amendment because it extends the scope of the application of the Bonn MARPOL amendment and extends the scope of application of the agreement to air pollution from ships. As this will contribute to aiding the effects of combatting pollution in our oceans I believe this will be a positive contribution to European lawmaking.

2021/01/19

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report as it makes a number of recommendations on how to better the European Union’s activities in relation to the European Year of Cultural Heritage. The report takes stock of the achievements during the 2018 Year of Cultural Heritage, the same year in which Valletta was the European Capital of Culture, and notes how to achieve a stronger legacy for the European Year.

2021/01/20

While neutrality clauses within different Member States’ constitutions should be respected, as also mentioned in the report itself, I do believe that it is important for the European Union to continue becoming a global leader.

2021/01/20

I voted in favour of this report as while I complete respect and believe in the neutrality clause within Malta’s constitution, I do believe that the Europe Union should take a number of measures which ensure that the region is equipped with a complimentary common security and defence policy due to the region’s global position in the world.

2021/01/20

This vote is the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs’ annual report on the situation of human rights and democracy across the world. I voted in favour of this report as I believe it is of paramount importance not only to take stock of how to improve human rights and democracy within the European Union, but that it is also important to take stock of human rights outside of the EU. Such reports are important because firstly they help us identify those who are being the most marginalised and oppressed in our societies, such as minorities, but they also help us look towards areas of the world that may not be as evident to us within Europe.

2021/01/20

I voted in favour of this amendment, which is the second amendment to Regulation (EU) 223/2014 (the FEAD Regulation) in relation to COVID-19, as it is clear that many of the most vulnerable and most deprived in our Member States need more funding in order to mitigate the effects of the pandemic. While everyone is indeed suffering at this time, people who fall severely below the poverty line are now suffering more than ever before. For this reason, I believe that we must have additional measures to protect such vulnerable people.

2021/01/20

I voted in favour of this report, which aims to promote stock recovery above the maximum sustainable yield and to enhance the marine environment. I believe that marine biodiversity is an important part of our ecosystem and thus marine life should be protected.

2021/01/21

I voted in favour of this report which was penned by my Maltese S&D colleague, MEP Agius Saliba, as I firmly believe that now more than ever do we need to ensure that our workers are protected and safeguarded from harmful work practices, such as rampant overworking and no distinction between work and leisure time. As a socialist and progressive, I firmly believe that workers rights must update themselves to reflect the reality of our time- and thus, as our work is increasingly shifting to an online platform- I believe it is essential that our legislation reflect this.

2021/01/21

. – I have voted in favour of this report on the legislative proposal to amend the Directive on administrative cooperation in the field of taxation (DAC 7) because I believe in more transparency on tax matters. This Directive will enable Member States to automatically exchange information on income generated by sellers on digital platforms through the extension of EU tax transparency rules to these platforms. This will allow for better detection of tax evasion and will reduce administrative burdens for digital platforms who currently have to cater to the different reporting needs of different Member States. However, I have voted against the committee block amendments because they contain a number of provisions which I consider disproportionate to the aims pursued by this Directive and which call for harmonisation which does not take into account the specificities of Member States.

2021/03/10

. – The report in question is an own initiative report coming from the Committee on Legal Affairs which focuses on a mandatory framework which ensures that undertakings identify, assess, prevent, cease, mitigate, monitor, communicate, account for, address and remedy the potential or actual impacts on human rights, the environment, and good governance that their own activities and those of their value chains and business relationships may cause, as a continuous and ongoing process.I voted in favour of this proposal as it makes robust and ambitious calls in this regard, which look at the entire value chain inside and outside of the European Union to ensure that human rights and due diligence are adhered to.

2021/03/10

. – People with disabilities should be entitled to the exact same rights as anyone else at their workplace, no questions asked. I am glad to see that the S&D’s priorities have been included in the final report, especially those on working conditions, diversity quotas, pay gaps and the post-2020 disability strategy – which is why I had no problems in voting in favour of this report. I believe that by breaking down both employment and societal barriers for people with disabilities, we can truly edge towards a more equitable and fair Europe.

2021/03/10

. – I voted against this report as I do not believe that the general principles of the report adhered to the needs of small—scale fishermen within the fishing industry.Firstly, as a Maltese Member of European Parliament, I could never be in favour of measures that are financially disproportionate on small administrations such as Malta. Additionally, as a Member of the European Parliament who is obliged to defend the rights of small-scale fishermen, I can never accept concepts such as real-time vessel monitoring or electronic logbooks which would create a huge, disproportionate burden on such small entities.While I believe in clear rules to ensure the sustainability of our seas, it is not right to create policies which only look at the needs of large scale fishermen or big fisheries companies. For this reason, I voted against this proposal and the Parliaments position to go ahead with trilogues.

2021/03/10

. – I have voted in favour of the annual report on the activities of the EO, and I fully agree with the S&D group’s stand to commend the EO on her ambitious work carried out during 2019, especially in calling for more transparency throughout the institutions and for being a frontrunner when it comes to flagging up signs of maladministration. I agree with the welcoming of the EO's initiatives to keep the public informed on its actions, ensuring better scrutiny and accountability in this regard – especially with the advances made in improving online communication and providing an easy-to-access database for the general public. Overall, I am pleased with the work done by Emily O'Reilly and encourage her to keep it up throughout the next year.

2021/03/10

. – I voted in favour of this own initiative report because of the importance for the European Parliament of adopting a common position on this file, especially in the delicate times that we are facing. By means of this report the European Parliament is expressing its view on the Commission Communication concerning the Annual Sustainable Growth Strategy 2021 which this year has a clear focus on the EU’s recovery from the current crisis and the European Semester as the framework to implement the Recovery and Resilience Facility. The adoption of this report has been controversial during this mandate, but it is now more important than ever for Parliament to reinforce its role in this process. With regard to the specific amendments to this own initiative report, I have voted in favour of changes which emphasise the need for more action in order to accelerate the fight against this pandemic at EU level by overcoming the barriers arising from patents and intellectual property rights. I have also voted in favour of changes which highlight the need for more action for the protection of sectors of our societies which have become even more vulnerable in view of this pandemic, such as violence against women and an increase in domestic violence.

2021/03/11

. – I voted in favour of this own initiative report by the Employment and Social Affairs Committee as it acts as the European Parliaments opinion on the Employment and Social Aspects within the annual sustainable growth strategy. This year’s strategy continues the work done last year regarding the European Green Deal and competitive sustainability.In this report the Commission and Council are called upon to respect and implement the European Pillar of Social Rights, which is a key tool in the empowerment of the vulnerable and protection of working class families. For this reason, I voted in favour of the report.

2021/03/11

. – I voted in favour of the MR calling for solidarity with the Syrian people, 10 years after the start of their struggle for democratic aspirations. Too many lives have been lost and the economic and social situation in the country is catastrophic. Which is why I agree with the provisions for aiding the humanitarian situation and calling for foreign powers not to interfere, in the hope for a peaceful solution to be achieved soon enough.

2021/03/11

. – As the S&D negotiator for this resolution, I voted in favour because I believe it is imperative that the European Union sends a clear and strong signal to conservative authoritarian governments, such as the Polish and Hungarian governments, that continue to abuse the rights of LGBTIQ+ citizens. The European Union’s motto is ‘united in diversity’ and, as a Member of the European Parliament, I stand strong in defending that value and all values of peace, tolerance and human rights, and will continue to do so in all my political decisions.

2021/03/11

. – Children are the future of Europe, and for that reason it is imperative that they are protected. I voted in favour of this resolution specifically because of this. Additionally, I particularly content to see a clear reference to the need to protect LGBTI children and children from rainbow families due to the precarious legal position rainbow families find themselves in across the European Union.

2021/03/11

Marine litter is one of the most pressing issues of today as, every year, millions and millions of tonnes of litter end up polluting our oceans and posing huge environmental, economic and health risks to us all. I voted in favour of this report at it looks at the specific impact marine litter and tackling marine litter could have on the fisheries sector within the European Union, and as the fisheries sector is so important to Malta, I could not ignore the need to take action in this regard.

2021/03/25

We have a climate emergency and it is important that all levels of government work to combat this crisis. It is for this reason that I believe there should be a link between cohesion policy and regional environmental strategies in the fight against climate change.

2021/03/25

. ‒ I voted in favour of putting the Digital Green certificate proposal to a debate in the European Parliament, as I believe that this topic is crucial for European citizens at the moment who are gravely feeling the effects of a lack of freedom of movement due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Freedom of movement must start again in a safe way the earliest possible to safeguard people’s jobs and to incentivise businesses to invest once more.

2021/03/25

. ‒ I voted in favour of his report, which concerns the implementation of the Defence Procurement Directive and the Defence Transfers Directive as I believe that it is important to take stock of the implementation of these directives between Member States as part of the implementation of the 2009 defence package.The defence package is an ambitious package adopted by the Juncker Commission following numerous terrorist attacks which hit various parts of the European Union, which ensures greater cooperation between Member States to combat such eventualities. The report in question notes that it is imperative to ensure increased transparency and access to more consistent and higher-quality data while empowering regulators with the tools needed to proactively address abuse.

2021/03/25

I voted in favour of this resolution because I believe that strong rule of law is the backbone for a strong society. The administrative and legislative changes introduced by the Maltese Government within the past year have shown this, with Malta getting closer to justice being served on previously stagnant high-level criminal cases involving assassinations and murders of lawyers and journalists.This resolution follows up on the implementation of the Rule of Law Regulation and encourages the Commission to ensure its implementation in every Member State. For me this is especially important due to places where systematic rule of law violations are leading to the oppression of vulnerable people and minorities.

2021/03/25

Stregthening the Ambient air Quality Directive is something that will always find my backing. It is important for citizens to know the quality of the air they are breathing, irrespective of where they are in the European Union.

2021/03/25

I voted in favour of this report as it acts as the European Parliament’s opinion to the European Commission formulation of an EU-Africa Strategy. As an MEP I believe that our relations with the African continent must be based on green transformation and energy, while also welcoming the Digital Transformation our planet has undertaken.By working with the African continent to incentivise sustainable growth and Jobs the EU can empower the African continent to find peace between conflict nations and areas. The report looks into these areas and makes clear calls for a need to also focus on good governance. This is especially important because only by helping ensure such stability in Africa will Europe be able to start addressing the real root of migration, and combat human trafficking.

2021/03/25

The COVID-19 pandemic has been hard on all of us. In particular on the tourism sector, as freedom of movement across the European Union has been halted due to COVID-19 restrictions across EU Member States. It is imperative that as decision-makers, we ensure that the tourism sector is given a huge boost in the coming times in order to combat the harsh aftershocks relating to the pandemic. However, the tourism sector also has an opportunity to move into the future with a more sustainable mindset and also restructure itself in a way where sustainability comes first in order to help contribute to the achievement of the Green Deal targets. The report in question from the Transport committee reflects this, and for this reason I voted in favour of this report.

2021/03/25

The European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation is one of the toughest Data Protection Regulations in the world, and is so because it strictly protects the data of European Citizens and their data rights. The GDPR’s implementation is crucial as it improves the protection of European data subjects’ rights and clarifies what companies that process personal data must do to safeguard these rights. All companies and organisations that deal with data relating to EU citizens must comply with GDPR and it is imperative that the European Commission takes stock of its implementation by all EU Member States, for this reason I voted in favour of this report.

2021/03/25

I voted in favour of this recommendation because I believe that Europe has to equip itself for this post-Brexit world through diplomatic relations and through the negotiations of agreements such as this one which will split the commitments contained in EU’s agricultural, fish and industrial tariff-rate quotas between the EU-27 and the UK.

2021/04/26

I voted in favour of this resolution because the conclusion of the FLEGT Voluntary Agreement with Honduras is an opportunity to not only leave a mark in relation to the exports of timber related products but also to see progress in the area of human and environmental rights in Honduras.

2021/04/26

In today’s world, connectivity is more important than ever. And one of the most essential ways in which we all connect is through road transportation. However, if not properly regulated, road transport can be the cause of multiple issues such as accidents and injuries. This is why the EU has developed a transport policy oriented towards safety and security, through common standards and rules. It is important to ensure that the implementation of the Roadworthiness Package is implemented fully and effectively to make sure the safety of our citizens is put on the forefront of EU policy. For this reason I voted in favour of this Implementation report.

2021/04/26

Given the great contributions that Horizon Europe has provided towards funding research and development programmes, it was necessary to vote in favour of this report, noting the increased amount of funds made available to the health and environmental sectors ‒ two topics which I am also very vocal about in my work in the ENVI Committee.

2021/04/27

. ‒ The European Institute of Technology is essential in order to promote innovation among all players in our economies, especially SMEs and start-ups. For an innovation wave to be truly inclusive of all corners of society, we must ensure that these entities are an integral part of this process. This is why I voted in favour of the provisional agreement.

2021/04/27

. ‒ Transparency is a key element in strengthening the EU’s democratic legitimacy. We should be held accountable to our citizens through facilitated access to information and documents about our activities. While I wanted the agreement to go further and make sure that the transparency register is mandatory for all institutions, including Members of the European Parliament, I voted in favour because it is a small step in the right direction.

2021/04/27

I voted in favour of this own initiative report because it deplores the distortion of competition on the European market between fossil energies, which benefit from more favourable tax treatment, and clean alternative fuels from renewable sources. Clean alternative fuels ensure that our planet survives for longer, and that citizens’ health and wellbeing is put first. The own-initiative report calls on the Commission to address this situation by proposing a number of solutions to mitigate the current challenges brought about by this market distortion.

2021/04/27

Given the circumstances after the vote on Brexit and the resulting agreement between the UK and the EU, I felt that the agreement was a balanced one which protects the interests of consumers, businesses and the environment for both parties.

2021/04/27

. ‒ I did not vote in favour of this report as I am not in favour of the text which is currently on the table. I believe that the current Article 51(4) being proposed would create a shift in responsibility which results in an unequal playing field between different ICCAT Cooperating Non-Contracting Parties.

2021/04/28

I voted in favour of the introduction of Digital Green Certificates because this will help the EU’s freedom of movement recover. This Certificate is not a passport. In the Schengen area, you can travel freely from one city, region or country to another and this will remain unchanged. The Certificate, which would indicate if a person has been vaccinated, or tested negative for COVID-19 or tests positive for antibodies, helps facilitate travel between Member States. The end of COVID-19 certification is scheduled for this time next year, when by then, hopefully, herd immunity for the virus would have been achieved in Europe.

2021/04/28

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a lot of challenges for all of us in our daily lives. One of the main challenges being connectivity. As EU citizens we have a number of passenger rights often relating to cancellations, rescheduling or rebookings, aside from a number of specific rights regarding delays and the rights of people with disabilities. These rights ensure some of the strongest consumer protections in the world. The recast of the rail passengers rights regulation builds upon this and strengthens the current provisions which are on the table to help consumers empower themselves as buyers of travel services. As I believe that citizens should have the power of strong consumer rights safeguards, I voted in favour of the second reading of this regulation.

2021/04/29

I have no objections with the compromise reached between the Parliament and Council on this file, which is why I voted in favour of maintaining the agreed text, and against any amendments which would have led to a rejection in the agreement.

2021/04/29

I voted in favour of the JMR denouncing the Russian Government on a number of issues, particularly the maltreatment of imprisoned activist Alexei Navalny; an act which is absolutely unacceptable against a person opposing a government.

2021/04/29

I voted in favour of the JMR on the occasion of the fifth anniversary of the signing of the Peace Agreement in Colombia – a testament of the EU’s commitment to peace and global order. At the same time it is necessary for us to condemn any form of violence which unfortunately continues to plague certain regions of the country, particularly against human rights defenders.

2021/04/29

This resolution encourages Member States to scale up production of critical COVID-19 test kits and to ensure access to free—of—charge testing, thereby taking particular account of the position of lower- and middle—income citizens, together with citizens living in border regions. As it is essential to ensure that everyone across Europe has access to affordable COVID testing, no matter their geographical or socio—economic situation, I voted in favour of this resolution.

2021/04/29

I voted in favour of MEP Alametsa’s report on EU—India relations as I believe that as a Union it is our duty to build and maintain amicable relationships with world economic powers such as India – whilst ensuring that the economic, social and political stability in the region are given priority by our strategic partners. That being said, I felt it necessary to vote against amendments which were out of scope and implied that the EU should not interfere in other countries’ businesses on global issues.

2021/04/29

. – The Pericles programme is an exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting. While not all of the European Union has adopted the euro as their own official currency, it is still important for there to be an exchange of information between Member States who have and those who have not in order to ensure the same level of protection of the euro across the EU. For this reason, I voted in favour of this recommendation.

2021/05/18

. – I voted in favour of this recommendation because I believe that Europe has to equip itself for this post-Brexit world through diplomatic relations and through negotiating agreements such as this one, which will split the commitments contained in the EU’s agricultural, fish and industrial tariff-rate quotas between the EU-27 and the UK.

2021/05/18

. – I voted in favour of this agreement as it clarifies the relevant provisions of the Air Transport Agreement between the EU and the United States, signed on 25 and 30 April 2007 and abolishes the time limitations applicable to wet lease contracts between EU, Icelandic, Norwegian and US air carriers.

2021/05/18

. – I have voted in favour of this report in view of the need for adjustments to the current applicable VAT exemptions to cater for the realities brought about by the COVID 19 pandemic. Flexibility is needed in these sensitive times and any unnecessary burdens should be lifted if negative implications are limited.

2021/05/18

. – The provision of assistance to workers suffering from the consequences of major structural changes in world trade patterns is essential to ensure that globalisation is coupled with a fair transition which protects those who are left behind in the process. Given the realities being faced in Estonia in relation to redundancies in different ancillary sectors attributed to tourism located in the NUTS level 2 region of Eesti and following the Commission’s assessment on the merits of this case, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/05/18

. – The European Union should stand together in solidarity in times of difficulty faced by specific regions or globally such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Mobilising funds from the European Union Solidarity Fund to Greece and France in relation to the regional national disasters which occurred between August and October 2020 and to 19 Member States and three accession countries in view of the COVID-19 pandemic is an expression of that solidarity. I have therefore voted in favour of this report.

2021/05/18

. – I have voted in favour of this report because I support a comprehensive Union response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In this regard I believe we should use all tools at our disposal including through the Union Budget and the Financial Regulation to combat this pandemic and work towards our recovery from this crisis.

2021/05/18

. – The realities surrounding the digital piracy of sport event broadcasts are leading to a situation whereby revenues from such events cannot be used to finance activities which might be beneficial for the public in general such as income from taxation for states. It is therefore time to call on the Commission to adjust the current legal framework to provide for effective protection of live sports events.

2021/05/18

. – I voted in favour of this report as it recognises the need for the European Green deal to include a stronger external dimension which supports various partner countries in their effort to also combat climate change. This is because assisting external partners will help protect the vulnerable populations which live in these areas which are greatly affected by climate change and will also contribute to the global fight against climate change.

2021/05/18

. – Artificial intelligence and related technologies in the field of education, culture and the audiovisual sector are sensitive area, as they have potential impact on fundamental rights and thus, ethical principles should be observed in their development, deployment and use. This report addresses that, and for this reason, I vote in favour of it.

2021/05/19

. – I voted in favour of the second reading of the Creative Europe Programme as the programme is a key tool to empower creatives all across Europe in the audiovisual and performance sectors. I was particularly pleased to note that through this the European Commission will confirm its intention to launch a class for proposals for multi-annual operating grants to which the European Youth Orchestra and other similar entities can apply in order to assist with the functioning of such entities.

2021/05/19

. – Coming from a small island nation, the prospect of having an efficient and sustainable connection to the mainland European electricity grid is one of the main points which I am vocal about in the ITRE committee. I believe every European citizen, irrespective of the region they are living in, has the right to a highly energy-efficient climate-neutral and renewable-based system, be able to breathe clean air, and that nobody is left behind in this energy transition. This is why I voted in favour of this Own Initiative Report.

2021/05/19

. – In order to achieve the Paris Agreement Climate objectives by 2050, the decarbonisation of all economic sectors is imperative, including in the energy sector. We must however, ensure that all regions in the Union are assured of security of supply. Energy must be supplied all year-round and in a manner which is affordable for all. All this while recognising the difficulties that certain regions or countries may face during this transition, as a Union we must consider each specific circumstance and strive to have these realities catered for.

2021/05/19

. – The degeneration of human rights and the rule of law in Turkey, which remains a key strategic partner in our neighbourhood, has certainly been worrying. I therefore agree with the rapporteur’s assessment on the situation, hence my decision to vote in favour of this report, and against any amendments which were not part of the compromises reached in the AFET Committee.

2021/05/19

. – The report applauds Montenegro’s progress in accession negotiations with the EU, whilst encouraging the country to continue delivering on its EU reform agenda, in particular in the area of the rule of law. Therefore, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/05/19

. – The own initiative report initiated by the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs aims at taking stock of all of the various barriers which workers across the EU face when it comes to working in different countries across the EU. The report makes a number of recommendations, including a call on the Commission to examine protection gaps to ensure decent working and living conditions for mobile workers and to analyse negative developments related to labour mobility. As I believe that all citizens, including Maltese citizens, should be able to benefit from equal and strong protections, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/05/19

. – The HIVpandemic remains a global crisis, and there is a clear need for action in a number of areas, in particular in the area of International Development. I voted in favour of this resolution, as it calls on a renewed EU commitment to the global HIV/AIDS response, with ambition, accountability and resources.

2021/05/19

. – The European Union has a moral obligation to set the standard on the current climate and environmental crisis that we’re facing. Access to justice on environmental issues is a key tool for citizens to keep a check and seek judicial remedies against decisions which might lead to environmental degradation. I have therefore voted in favour of this report, which seeks to tackle the gaps in the Aarhus Regulation with a view to addressing the recommendations made by the Aarhus Convention Compliance Committee for full compliance of the EU with all requirements of the Aarhus Convention.

2021/05/20

. – I voted in favour of this MR as it condemns in the strongest possible terms the baseless and arbitrary sanctions imposed by the Chinese authorities, which amount to an attack on freedom of speech, on academic freedom and on the international commitment to and understanding of universal human rights.

2021/05/20

. – Effective democratic oversight and parliamentary scrutiny needs to be ensured with regard to the implementation of the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF Regulation). It is therefore essential that the European Commission keeps the European Parliament informed on the status of assessment of the national recovery and resilience plans and maintains a constant dialogue in this regard to ensure transparency and democratic accountability. I have therefore voted in favour of this resolution, which calls on the Commission to fulfil its duties in this regard.

2021/05/20

. – I voted in favour of this resolution as it makes a number of recommendations to the European Commission in light of any amendment to the current regulation governing the European Union’s Fundamental Rights Agency. The report recommends a number of measures to strengthen the Agency’s mandate and workings, and amongst other things states that it should be clear that the FRA’s mandate encompasses the area of police and judicial cooperation in criminal matters.

2021/05/20

. – I have voted in favour of this own initiative report because I believe it is high time for the EU to improve its existing legislation in relation to the prevention of environmental damage through the reduction of existing risks and to a more ambitious approach towards the precautionary and the polluter pays principle. We need to ensure that whilst there is no discrimination between business with regard to responsibilities which need to be assumed, taxpayers are ultimately not the ones bearing the brunt in this area.

2021/05/20

. – I voted in favour of this own—initiative report as I believe that it is important for the EU to come up with new ideas for legal labour migration due to the current labour shortages in various sectors of the EU labour market. This report takes stock of the current framework and legislation in place and denotes that there are limited options in this regard due to a lack of legislation in the field.

2021/05/20

. – A fully functioning digital single market is imperative to ensure the full and proper functioning of the European Union’s Single Market. As EU decision makers we must ensure the full potential of new technologies. This own initiative report tabled by the Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection deals with this issue. I voted in favour of this report as it recommends the removal of unjustified national barriers, by establishing legal clarity for consumers and businesses, benefiting for European citizens and strengthening competition.

2021/05/20

. – I abstained on this vote because the text negotiated at first reading goes beyond the purpose of the consequential amendments agreed upon in light of the recently implemented Interoperability Package in reference to the legislations involving police and judicial cooperation. The changes at hand include changes to the time-periods of convictions, which was not the purpose nor intention of the changes proposed. As this is not the correct practice of European Law making, I abstained on this vote.

2021/06/07

. – I abstained on this vote because the text negotiated at first reading goes beyond the purpose of the consequential amendments agreed upon in light of the recently implemented Interoperability Package in reference to the legislations involving borders and visas. The changes at hand include changes to the time-periods of convictions, which was not the purpose nor intention of the changes proposed. As this is not the correct practice of European Law making, I abstained on this vote.

2021/06/07

. – The provision of assistance to workers suffering from the consequences of major structural changes in world trade patterns is essential to ensure that globalisation is coupled with a fair transition, which protects those who are left behind in the process. Given the realities being faced in Germany following the redundancies in four subsidiaries of the company GMH Guss Gmbh in the NUTS level 2 regions of Dusseldorf and Arnsberg, and following the Commission’s assessment on the merits of the case, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/06/07

. – The provision of assistance to workers suffering from the consequences of major structural changes in world trade patterns is essential to ensure that globalisation is coupled with a fair transition, which protects those who are left behind in the process. Given the realities being faced in Belgium following the redundancies in the company Swissport Belgium and following the Commission’s assessment on the merits of the case, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/06/07

. – The provision of assistance to workers suffering from the consequences of major structural changes in world trade patterns is essential to ensure that globalisation is coupled with a fair transition, which protects those who are left behind in the process. Given the realities being faced in the Netherlands following the redundancies in the company KLM Royal Dutch Airlines located in the NUTS level 2 region of Noord-Holland and following the Commission’s assessment on the merits of the case, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/06/07

. – The provision of assistance to workers suffering from the consequences of major structural changes in world trade patterns is essential to ensure that globalisation is coupled with a fair transition, which protects those who are left behind in the process. Given the realities being faced in Finland following the redundancies in the company Finnair Oyj and one subcontractor located in the NUTS level 2 region of Helsinki-Uusimaa and following the Commission’s assessment on the merits of the case, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/06/07

. – I abstained on this vote because the text negotiated at first reading goes beyond the purpose of the consequential amendments agreed upon in light of the recently implemented Interoperability Package in reference to the legislation involving the European Criminal Records Information System for Third Country Nationals (ECRIS-TCN). The changes at hand include changes to the time-periods of convictions, which was not the purpose nor the intention of the changes proposed. As this is not the correct practice of European Law making, I abstained on this vote.

2021/06/08

. – I voted in favour of the introduction of the COVID-19 Certificates because this will help the EU’s freedom of movement recover. This Certificate is not a passport. I voted in favour of this report as it sets out the Parliament’s position on the reaction of a trust framework digital infrastructure where all Member States should be able to verify the authenticity, validity and integrity of the certificates. In the Schengen area, you can travel freely from one city, region or country to another and this will remain unchanged. In the negotiations on this legislation, the Parliament assured that a clear reference was made to the fact that the certificates are not travel documents and have no value as such. Persons are entitled to exercise free movement rights even without a certificate. The Certificate, which would indicate if a person has been vaccinated, or tested negative for COVID-19 or tests positive for antibodies, helps facilitate travel between Member States. The end of COVID-19 certification is scheduled for this time next year, when by then, hopefully, herd immunity for the virus would have been achieved in Europe.

2021/06/08

. – I voted in favour of the introduction of COVID-19 Certificates because this will help the EU’s freedom of movement recover. This Certificate is not a passport. I voted in favour of this report as it sets out the Parliament’s position on the reaction of a trust framework digital infrastructure where all Member States should be able to verify the authenticity, validity and integrity of the certificates. In the Schengen Area, only EU citizens benefit from freedom of movement across the Member States. However, residing third country nationals have the right to travel freely from one city, region or country to another for 90 days within a period of 180 days, the same amount of time stipulated for tourists, and this will remain unchanged. The Certificate, which would indicate if a person has been vaccinated, or tested negative for COVID-19 or tests positive for antibodies, helps facilitate travel between Member States within these periods of travel. The end of COVID-19 certification is scheduled for this time next year, when by then, hopefully, herd immunity for the virus would have been achieved in Europe.

2021/06/08

. – I voted in favour of the Annual Competition report 2020 because it contains a number of important messages and priorities for the future of Europe and its legislation, which are in line with my beliefs. For example, the report calls for flexibility in competition rules during times of crisis but at the same time having safeguards with regard to the type of companies we are directing funds towards, such as, for example, the need to avoid exploitation of funds by financially unhealthy companies. Another important message is the call on the Commission to establish a legal framework for a mandatory human rights and an environmental due diligence instrument.

2021/06/08

. – I had no problems in voting in favour of implementing this impactful tool for cohesion policy. Achieving gender equality across all sectors is something on which I have been working on and advocating for quite some time, and I believe that this will help target gender equality gaps in employment, research & innovation, as well as continue to support more budding female entrepreneurs.

2021/06/08

. – We are living in an unprecedented time in human history whereby we have a climate and ecological emergency, the result of which is, amongst others, the risk of extinction of one in every eight species of flora and fauna. Moreover, recent reports warn that the alarming degradation of ecosystems and human beings’ current relationship with nature is increasing the risk of pandemics. I believe that in the face of these challenges we need to start making small changes, which can already reap great results. I have therefore voted in favour of this report, which calls for humanity to change its interaction with nature, starting by limiting human activities that lead to the transformation and destruction of ecosystems.

2021/06/08

. – I welcome the EU’s further collaboration with the UN with particular reference to the UN Security Council, with the UN General Assembly and with the Human Rights Council. This will help our Union to expand its diplomacy toolbox, especially on issues on which I work on in the ENVI and LIBE committees, such as climate diplomacy and the rule of law. This is why I voted in favour of this recommendation.

2021/06/09

. – The need to update the Statute of the European Ombudsman has been long overdue and I welcome the fact that this report seeks to strengthen the capacity and the autonomy of this body in exercising its duties. The report also seeks to enhance the tools, which are necessary for this body to be able to carry out its functions effectively. This is the case for example with regard to the strengthening of access to classified information held by EU institutions. The report also proposes to extend the competences of this body to inquiries related to harassment, whistleblowing and conflicts of interests, which will now be included in the Ombudsman’s annual report. I believe that this body plays an essential role in holding the EU institutions and their bodies accountable in the exercise of their duties and therefore I have wholeheartedly voted in favour of this report.

2021/06/09

. – I voted in favour of this resolution as I do not believe that someone who is involved in the negotiations revolving around the EU budget and EU funding, such as a Prime Minister, can do so impartially when they are a beneficiary owner or control conglomerates which receive large EU subsidies. Prime Minister Babiš must sell his business interests, stop receiving public subsidies or step down from public office in order to ensure the impartiality of EU funding.

2021/06/09

. – The global devastating consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic require a global strategy for vaccines, diagnostics, treatments and equipment production and distribution. We need to face these unprecedented times with unprecedented action. An essential part of a global vaccine strategy should be the lifting of patents for COVID-19 vaccines in the form of a temporary TRIPS waiver in the WTO. This will help to boost global production, to tackle bottlenecks in the supply chain, to facilitate the sharing of technology and information and to invest in increased production. For the reasons outlined above, I have voted in favour of this resolution.

2021/06/09

. – Research has shown that imidacloprid has adverse effects on invertebrates, bees and aquatic ecosystems. It has also shown that there are other chemicals used for disinfecting fish that cause less harm. I have therefore voted in favour of this objection to the Commission’s application for the establishment of a maximum residue limit for imidacloprid in Salmonidae used for fish farming as a treatment for lice and fleas.

2021/06/09

. – I have voted in favour of this objection to the extension of the approval period of Flumioxazine given that the extension of a specific approval period by one year for this pesticide could lead to unacceptable risks to the environment, food safety and human health. Studies have shown that there are several concerns in relation to the toxicity of this substance in particular with regard to its endocrine disrupting properties.

2021/06/09

. – The COVID pandemic has shown how vital digitalisation and connectivity are in our society today, proving they are instrumental for business and economic activity to keep on flourishing, when conventional methods are unavailable. In light of this reliance on digital means, we must not let our guard down when it comes to threats in cyberspace, which may prove detrimental to our Union’s security should it be successfully infiltrated. This is why I voted in favour of the Motion for Resolution.

2021/06/10

. – I voted in favour of this resolution because I truly believe that a strong rule of law is the backbone for a strong and democratic society. This resolution calls on the European Commission to implement the EU’s most recent legislations regarding Rule of Law conditionality in Member States, which are highly problematic in terms of Rule of Law - and refuse to better themselves or the situation for their citizens. It is entirely unacceptable that Member States of the European Union refuse to implement administrative and legislative changes into their system in order to ensure that they are complying to fundamental human rights and basic democratic principles. By way of example, the administrative and legislative changes introduced by the Maltese Government within the past year have shown how it is indeed possible for a Member State to take stock of issues pointed out by the EU and address them for the better of the country. Unfortunately, this is not the case with Hungary and Poland, and for this reason I voted in favour of this resolution.

2021/06/10

. – The recovery and resilience facility is a crucial EU instrument to help Member States to mitigate the economic and social impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the true value of its significance will lie in the manner in which it is going to be implemented and the rigidity with which the Commission is going to make sure that the funds given are going to address our long-term challenges such as the just, green and digital transitions. The motion for a resolution calls on the Commission to step up its efforts in this regard. It also calls for transparency in its approval process for the national recovery and resilience plans of the Member States and for the respect of the right to information of the European Parliament. For all these reasons, I have voted in favour of this resolution.

2021/06/10

. – Since the ratification of the Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement with Cuba in 2017, there has been a positive development in interinstitutional relations between the EU and Cuba. Even though we are concerned with the situation of the San Isidro movement activist among others, a suspension of this agreement would be detrimental to EU-Cuba relations and would thus eliminate any possible screening of the situation on ground, as well as limit support to activists on the island. This is why I decided to vote against the final JMR tabled by the EPP, Renew and ECR.

2021/06/10

. – I voted wholeheartedly in favour of this resolution calling for the immediate and unconditional release of Raman Pratasevich and his partner Sofia Sapiega as well all other political prisoners in Belarus. In light of the incident in Vilnius on 23 May, we must assess the consequences of abductions from an intercepted civilian plane, not only on international air transport and aviation safety but also on overall security in Europe and, above all, the safety of Belarusian citizens exiled or seeking shelter or asylum in EU Member States.

2021/06/10

. – In light of the worsening security situation in Afghanistan, with increasing assassinations of Afghan activists, media workers, educators, doctors, judges and government officials, and the particular deterioration of womens’ and minority rights in the country, I voted in favour of this JMR.

2021/06/10

. – With almost one and a half million citizens requesting an end to the use of cages in EU animal farming and for the setting of minimum standards and the promotion of animal welfare, the European Parliament has the duty and the responsibility to follow suit and approve this resolution in the framework of the European Citizens’ Initiative. As we have seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, animal health is intrinsically linked to human health and, therefore, it is essential to move to the phasing-out of any practices that negatively impact the health of our animals. For all these reasons, I have voted in favour of this resolution.

2021/06/10

. – The role of Euranet Plus as an independent radio network, which aims at addressing the information gap between the EU and its citizens, is crucial to increase our Union’s democratic legitimacy. Its content reaches more than 15 million listeners every day and the exposure to the information about the European Union right from the source might be the only way these citizens are engaging with EU—related issues in different policy areas. For this reason, I have voted in favour of this resolution, which calls for the current core funding for Euranet Plus to be renewed.

2021/06/10

. – I have voted in favour of this codification procedure because, as concluded by the Consultative Working Party of the legal services, the codification proposal is a straightforward codification of existing texts without any changes in their substance. As long as the necessary safeguards are in place with regard to substantive changes, bringing together scattered pieces of legislation in one comprehensive codified text is important in the context of simplification of legislation and better law making for our citizens.

2021/06/23

. – The need to update the Statute of the European Ombudsman has been long overdue and I welcome the fact that this report seeks to strengthen the capacity and the autonomy of this body in exercising its duties. The report also seeks to enhance the tools necessary for this body to be able to carry out its functions effectively. This is the case for example with regard to the strengthening of access to classified information held by EU institutions. The report also proposes to extend the competences of this body to inquiries related to harassment, whistle blowing and conflicts of interests, which will now be included in the Ombudsman’s annual report. I believe that this body plays an essential role in holding the EU institutions and their bodies accountable in the exercise of their duties and therefore I have wholeheartedly voted in favour of this report.

2021/06/23

. – I voted in favour of this recommendation because I believe that Europe has to equip itself for this post-Brexit world through diplomatic relations and the negotiation of agreements such as this one, which will split the commitments contained in the EU’s agricultural, fish and industrial tariff-rate quotas between the EU-27 and the UK.

2021/06/23

. – I voted in favour of this recommendation because I believe that Europe has to equip itself for this post-Brexit world through diplomatic relations and the negotiation of agreements such as this one, which will split the commitments contained in the EU’s agricultural, fish and industrial tariff-rate quotas between the EU-27 and the UK.

2021/06/23

. – I voted in favour of this recommendation because I believe that Europe has to equip itself for this post-Brexit world through diplomatic relations and the negotiation of agreements such as this one, which will split the commitments contained in the EU’s agricultural, fish and industrial tariff-rate quotas between the EU-27 and the UK.

2021/06/23

. – The European Climate law is a historic achievement through which the EU will become the first carbon neutral continent by 2050. Through this law we have managed to increase our climate ambition on emissions reduction by at least 55% by 2030. The EU has once again positioned itself as a global leader in the fight against climate change through this law and it will now be the duty of each and every one of us to see that words are now translated into action and that we obtain concrete results for the benefit of the future of generations to come. I therefore voted in favour of this historic law which will pave the way towards real impact in the fight against the climate emergency that we are experiencing.

2021/06/24

. – I have voted in favour of this report because it aims at encouraging investments supporting the transition towards a climate-neutral economy by the public sector authorities. We need to take a holistic approach when it comes to providing the right incentives in our transition towards green solutions. The facility also caters for support to those regions most vulnerable to the changes envisaged in the green transition. Our climate targets can never be met if we have entire sectors and regions falling behind in the process. Concrete action to ensure a just transition is crucial for effective implementation of our climate goals. Public authorities should also have their just transition instrument and this facility will provide for the opportunity for them to contribute to the Just Transition in the context of investments required for the recovery process from this pandemic.

2021/06/24

. – Having the necessary legislative tools in place to be able to implement and enforce legislation is essential to ensure compliance with EU law. I have therefore voted in favour of this report, which seeks to amend the Official Controls Regulation 2017/625 by introducing provisions which would make it possible to implement and enforce Article 118 of Regulation 2019/6 on veterinary medicinal products. This provision relates to an obligation on third-country operators exporting animals and products of animal origin to the EU to respect the prohibition against using antimicrobials for growth promotion and yield increase. In order to achieve concrete impact in this field, it is crucial that the relevant standards being applied are not adhered to inside the EU but that animals and products of animal origin are also meeting the same requirements at the point of entry into the EU.

2021/06/24

. – I voted in favour of this report as it is reflective of the European Commission’s 2020 report on Rule of Law in the European Union. In this report, within the country chapter relating to Malta, the European Commission noted the unprecedented reforms by the Robert Abela administration. It states that ‘significant reforms of the Maltese justice system have recently been unanimously adopted by Parliament. In particular, reforms of the system of judicial appointments and of disciplinary proceedings aim at improving the checks and balances by limiting the role of the Prime Minister and Parliament.’In the Parliament’s reaction to the European Commission’s annual report, the Parliament took note of the most recent developments on rule of law and urged the European Commission to broaden the scope of the application of rule of law to include Fundamental Rights and, more importantly, to crack down on countries like Poland and Hungary who are severely breaching the fundamental rights of minorities such as the LGBTIQ community.

2021/06/24

. – I voted in favour of this non-binding report because I firmly believe that sexual health education should be based on science, that contraceptives should be accessible and affordable for all, that every couple should have access to all possible methods to conceive children, that no one should be forced to terminate a pregnancy against their will, that women have the right to the best maternal care, that transgender persons deserve quality healthcare, and that intersex infants should not be forced to undergo genital mutilation.Regardless if one agrees or disagrees with reproductive rights such as safe and legal abortion, it is clear that the Matic report highlighted some seriously important issues within sexual health which are clearly on Malta’s priority list- such as access for couples to affordable IVF and the protection of intersex and transgender people.I am not ready to turn a blind eye and ignore people of different opinions, especially those who are in desperate need of better sexual reproductive health services.

2021/06/24

. – I have always been vocal on the issue of women’s empowerment, especially on issues relating to bodily autonomy, stressing that this is the decade of gender equality and women’s rights. This is why I voted in favour of this resolution.

2021/06/24

. – I voted in favour of this report because I believe in the importance of having constant consideration of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality, which are fundamental guiding principles for the European Union. With regard to the subsidiarity principle, I believe that we need to strengthen cooperation with national parliaments and push for a stronger European debate in this regard. I believe that the basis for observance of the subsidiarity and proportionality principles lies in the respect for national competences and that EU legislation needs to be adapted to citizens’ needs when transposed and implemented at the level of the Member States. I have therefore abstained from voting on the amendments, which seek to remove references to this need for adaptation of laws and respect for national competences.

2021/06/24

. – I voted in favour of the report supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s European integration. Notwithstanding this, I agree with calls for BiH to deliver on the much awaited judicial, electoral, institutional and constitutional reforms, especially on provisions to protect women, LGBTIQ+ people, children and the Roma minority.

2021/06/24

. – New emerging technologies are making it easier for child sexual abuse to be easily accessible and widespread. This is entirely unacceptable. We must utilise all of the tools at our disposal, and invest in new tech in order to combat this phenomenon.However, the European Union’s high level of data protection can sometimes create obstacles for law enforcement when it comes down to cracking down on such abuse. In order to ensure that the European Union’s high level of data protection is maintained, while ensuring that the police still have the tools to combat such abuse, derogations must be put in place. These derogations must be on certain obligations laid down in the EUs ePrivacy Directive with the objective of enabling providers with specific technologies for the process of processing data in order to detect online child sexual abuse, report the abuse and remove it from their servers.This regulation focused on the creation of such a derogation. For this reason, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/07/06

. – I have voted in favour of this report because this relates to a necessary annual technical adjustment, which aims at entering the surplus of the financial year 2020, amounting to EUR 1.768.6 million, in the 2021 budget. It is essential that we dedicate any unused money, also from the surplus, to assist those sectors and citizens financially, which were most vulnerable to the effects of the pandemic.

2021/07/06

. – I voted in favour of this report, which gives consent to the Council’s position on amendments to the Regulation regarding the establishment of the European Union Agency for Fundamental rights. These amendments came about following external evaluations made by independent entities throughout the years, which assessed the effectiveness of the agency in achieving its goals. The amendments in question relate to the alignment of certain provisions of the agency’s founding regulation with the common approach relating to the decentralisation of EU agencies. The amendments in question also seek to clarify the scope of the regulation in terms of oversight of the agency on all issues relating to police and judicial cooperation in criminal matters.

2021/07/06

. – During this plenary session, we were called to vote upon the Internal Security Fund package. One which focuses on the border and visas component of the fund which seeks to promote a uniform and high level of control and protection of the external borders of the European Union, including through the processing of Schengen visas; and a second which focuses on empowering police forces to prevent cross border, serious and organised crime. The Fund package seeks to put in place funding in order to tackle targeted crime such as organised crime, cross border crime and terrorism, which affects multiple States across the EU. The attacks over the past years have proven to us that we need to ensure better information exchange between various police and judicial authorities and this package ensures this. For this reason, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/07/06

. – I voted in favour of this report as it supports the second reading of the 2021-2027 European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund, which provides support for developing innovative projects aimed at ensuring that aquatic and maritime resources are sustainably used. This will lead to food security through the supply of seafood products, the growth of a sustainable blue economy, and healthy, safe and sustainably managed seas and oceans. The Fund is a financial tool of EUR 6 billion which supports the common fisheries policy and will benefit the Maltese fisheries sector among others.

2021/07/06

. – The COVID-19 pandemic has made it clear that there are a number of shortcomings with EU trade policy that need to be addressed. This report is the Parliament’s response to the conclusions from the trade policy review announced earlier this year. I voted in favour of this report because it manages to address the key weaknesses that need to be tackled, such as the need for immediate action to strengthen supply chains and the need to mainstream the EU’s Green Deal into trade policy. The report also calls for greater enforceability of sustainable development commitments in trade agreements, for example through a sanctions-based approach. It provides for a comprehensive approach to tackle the challenges that have been faced throughout the pandemic and future-proof the EU.

2021/07/06

. – I voted in favour of this report because it seeks to remedy the predicament by which the Commission had no workable tool for promoting and ensuring the uniform application of the EU VAT legislation. It will now be able to do so through the adoption of implementing measures under a new committee, set up under the Comitology Regulation, which will follow the examination procedure.

2021/07/06

. – Monitoring the effectiveness of the rules of procedure is instrumental as we strive to improve the functioning of the European Parliament. I believe that the amendments made through this report are necessary and will bring about positive changes in our work. I particularly welcome the new rule on the composition of the committees’ and delegations’ bureaux as this will substantially improve the gender balance within the European Parliament. For these reasons, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/07/06

. – It is in the interest of the European Parliament to seize the opportunity provided through its annual report on the financial activities of the European Investment Bank (EIB) to seek to influence its policies and priorities. The EIB has an instrumental role to play with regard to investment in sustainable economic growth and in the EU’s recovery from the pandemic. The report sets out ambitious recommendations for the EIB, in particular with regard to environmental and climate aspects, such as the need for the EIB to uphold its commitment to align all of its operations with the objectives of the Paris Agreement as soon as possible. For all these reasons, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/07/06

. – This annual report is an important tool with which the European Parliament exercises its scrutiny powers over the European Investment Bank (EIB). This year’s report calls for increased transparency and accountability, in particular in relation to funds administered through financial intermediaries. It also delves into the EIB’s activities beyond the EU and criticises the fact that the European Court of Auditors has limited powers in relation to auditing the EIB’s activities. Maintaining a high standard of accountability and transparency is instrumental, especially with regard to the environmental and human rights impacts of its operations. For these reasons, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/07/06

. – I have voted in favour of this objection because the measure proposed exceeds the implementing powers provided for in the basic act in view of the fact that the authorisation of the import of these GMOs could lead to risks to food safety and human health. Such authorisation could also undermine the EU’s commitments under the UN sustainable development goals.

2021/07/06

. – I have voted in favour of this objection because the measure proposed exceeds the implementing powers provided for in the basic act in view of the fact that the authorisation of the import of these GMOs could lead to risks to food safety and human health. Such authorisation could also undermine the EU’s commitments under the UN sustainable development goals.

2021/07/06

. – I have voted in favour of this objection because the measure proposed exceeds the implementing powers provided for in the basic act in view of the fact that the authorisation of the import of these GMOs could lead to risks to food safety and human health. Such authorisation could also undermine the EU’s commitments under the UN sustainable development goals.

2021/07/06

. – I have voted in favour of this objection because the measure proposed exceeds the implementing powers provided for in the basic act in view of the fact that the authorisation of the import of these GMOs could lead to risks to food safety and human health. Such authorisation could also undermine the EU’s commitments under the UN sustainable development goals.

2021/07/06

. – This report provides an annual opportunity for the Parliament to contribute to the protection of EU funds against fraud and other irregularities by putting forward its recommendations on how we can improve the practices in place. Tackling all forms of corruption and fraud with a view to protecting the EU’s budget and rule of law requires continuous monitoring and an ongoing commitment. With regard to this year’s report, I particularly welcome the new OLAF regulation, which seeks to reinforce its powers to tackle fraud. Whilst I agree with the spirit of this report, I have reservations with regard to the way in which a number of Member States, including Malta, were singled out with regard to the failure to nominate candidates for the College of European Prosecutors. The Maltese Authorities communicated the reasons behind the delays in appointing the last of three prosecutors and the call for applications was launched in a timely manner. Therefore singling out Malta in this context was unnecessary and disproportionate to the aims pursued. For this reason, while wholeheartedly welcoming the report, and what it aims to achieve, I have abstained in my final vote on this report.

2021/07/06

. – I fully support the political agreement reached on the Connecting Europe Facility within the 2021-2027 multiannual financial framework (MFF), especially since this will lead to more investments in the transport, energy and digital sectors – which are all key elements in reaching our climate ambitions by 2050. Therefore, I voted in favour of this report. It is imperative to combat the climate and ecological emergencies that we are facing with all our strength.

2021/07/06

. – I voted in favour of this recommendation which aims at allowing the selling of a part of the assets of the ECSC in liquidation for the period 2021-2027 with a view to providing an annual allocation from the Research Programme of the Research Fund for Coal and Steel of EUR 111 million per year. This annual allocation is instrumental as it supports breakthrough technologies leading to near zero-carbon steel-making by 2030 and it also supports research projects related to infrastructures in line with the Just Transition mechanism. Protecting the most vulnerable in our green transition is a key priority and the allocation of funds to support this priority should be encouraged and enhanced.

2021/07/07

. – I voted in favour of this report because it seeks to render the ECSC portfolio more resilient by expanding the scope of investments to be done in other asset classes and by using other investment techniques, which will not exclusively rely on fixed income securities. It aims at allowing the selling of a part of the assets of the ECSC in liquidation for the period 2021-2027 with a view to providing an annual allocation from the research programme of the Research Fund for Coal and Steel of EUR 111 million per year. This annual allocation is instrumental as it supports breakthrough technologies leading to near zero-carbon steel-making by 2030 and it also supports research projects related to infrastructures in line with the Just Transition mechanism. Protecting the most vulnerable in our green transition is a key priority and the allocation of funds to support this priority should be encouraged and enhanced.

2021/07/07

. – The Visa Information System (VIS) is an important central IT system, which allows all Schengen States to exchange information regarding visas. VIS processes data and decisions relating to applications for short-stay visas to visit, or to transit through, the Schengen Area.I voted in favour of this report as it adopts the second reading of the revamped VIS regulation – both from the accessing side and from the processing side. The revamp of the regulation provides for easier access to information for the relevant authorities, but with the values of proportionality in place.

2021/07/07

. – The Visa Information System is an important central IT system, which allows all Schengen States to exchange information regarding Visas. VIS processes data and decisions relating to applications for short—stay visas to visit, or to transit through, the Schengen Area.I voted in favour of this report as it adopts the second reading of the revamped VIS regulation, both from the accessing side and from the processing side. The revamp of the regulation provides for easier access to information for the relevant authorities, but with the values of proportionality in place.

2021/07/07

. – This report aims at strengthening the EU’s engagement with its citizens, which is an instrumental element of the EU’s democratic legitimacy. Apart from the existing tools available for citizens in this regard, the report seeks to suggest new instruments for citizens’ dialogue with the aim of enhancing their influence and contribution in the Union’s activities and policy-making. One example is the Conference on the Future of Europe, which is another opportunity for valuable dialogue with European citizens on the most salient topics for the EU. For all these reasons, I have voted in favour of the report.

2021/07/07

. – The report focuses on the EU forging a stronger relationship with the United States through enhanced cooperation with NATO. Due to Malta not being a member of the NATO alliance, as well as retaining a clause on military neutrality in our Constitution, I abstained on the final vote. All things being considered, I fully support further cooperation with our transatlantic partners and look forward to better economic and trade collaboration in the future.

2021/07/07

. – This report relates to Regulation 2020/2092 on the protection of the Union’s budget in case of generalised deficiencies as regards the rule of law in Member States. The Commission has presented guidelines for the application of the regulation and the report highlights important elements in this regard namely that the Commission should respect the timeframe envisaged for the application of the regulation and has a legal obligation to implement the regulation immediately. The report also highlights the fact that the regulation is clear enough not to require any guidelines for its application and that such guidelines should not include deviations from the provisions of the regulation. For all these reasons, I have voted in favour of this report.

2021/07/07

. – I voted in favour of this report as it takes stock of the various elements, which allow the Schengen area to function properly, and ways in which we can improve when it comes to such functioning. Over the past year and earlier, freedom of movement across the Schengen area has been challenged, due to the Covid19 pandemic. Internal border controls enacted by Member States have been implemented in order to support the public health measures needed in place in order to limit the spread of Covid19 and to protect citizens’ health. Introducing internal border controls are a right under EU law as long as they are necessary, proportionate and temporary in nature. It is important to recognise the ways in which the Schengen area has been challenged throughout the last year in order to understand how we can better prepare ourselves for challenges of the future.

2021/07/07

. – The pandemic has shown that the EU needs more tools to strengthen its resilience against future crisis and pandemics. During the course of the pandemic, it became very clear that one of the tools to enhance resilience was to extend the mandate of the European Medicines Agency. I have therefore voted in favour of this report, which will strengthen its capacity to support the role of healthcare professionals and the synergies between EU agencies. The report also seeks to provide EMA with new tools such as in relation to the creation of a European medicines supply database in order to avoid possible shortages of medicines in the future. Other proposed inclusions in its mandate are clinical trials for the development of vaccines and treatments and increased dissemination of information in this regard. Through the adoption of this report, the EU will take an important step forward in its path leading towards the materialisation of the European Health Union.

2021/07/08

. – This report relates to the Parliament’s response to the Commission’s proposal for the 8th Environment Action Programme (EAP) (2021-2030). I have voted in favour of this report because it seeks to ensure that the transition towards a sustainable wellbeing economy is carried out in a socially fair and inclusive way, contributing to the European Pillar of Social Rights and addressing and reducing social inequalities. It also focuses on biodiversity protection and the building of resilience to climate change. The report also prioritises the pursuit of zero pollution and the need to achieve non-toxic and toxic free circular economy and calls for the Commission to set binding targets for the significant reduction of the Union’s material and consumption footprints. It also seeks to introduce a new framework to monitor progress on these objectives in order to ensure effective follow-up action and implementation.

2021/07/08

. – By means of this report, the European Parliament has the opportunity to deliver its views to the Commission in light of its expected publication of the legislative proposal on the review of the effectiveness of the economic governance framework. Parliament’s report goes in the right direction in this regard, given that it calls for a review of the Stability and Growth Pact with a view to ending the era of austerity. It also calls for a move towards a framework of sustainable investments and adequate paths of debt reduction. For these reasons I have voted in favour of this report.

2021/07/08

. – We have witnessed a significant deterioration in the situation in this Latin American country ever since protests erupted in 2018. By voting in favour of this resolution, I felt I would be sending a message of support to the Nicaraguan people, whilst condemning the authorities’ use of force against democratic opposition leaders.

2021/07/08

. – The way in which members of the opposition HDP party have been systematically targeted and repressed by the Turkish authorities is extremely disturbing, particularly since Turkey is one of the EU’s trading partners as well as an aspiring EU accession candidate. The detention of HDP co-chairs is particularly appalling. This is why I voted in favour of this resolution.

2021/07/08

. – The Antarctica and Southern Ocean are home to ecosystems and biodiversity with great scientific value. It is, therefore, instrumental to spare no effort in ensuring their rapid and effective protection. I have voted in favour of this report because it seeks to strengthen global efforts to establish two new marine protected areas in the eastern Antarctic and the Weddell Sea in the Antarctic Ocean.

2021/07/08

. – LGBTIQ rights are human rights and thus European rights. Every human being across the world should be able to love who they are, and be with who they love. This is a European value. The current legislation being implemented in Hungary is abhorrent and as a defender of human rights, democracy and rule of law it is imperative that the European Union does its utmost to protect the citizens of Hungary from such abusive legislation. As the draftsperson of this resolution, I was in constant contact with the brave and strong LGBTIQ activists in Hungary, who made it clear that everything we were calling for was indeed necessary. Alongside my colleagues in this resolution, I have called on the European Commission to take serious action against Hungary for this anti—LGBTIQ legislation and to make it clear that such oppressive Russian—styled legislation is not acceptable or welcome – not in Europe, and not anywhere.

2021/07/08

I have voted in favour of this report because I believe that it is necessary to extend the term of protection of plant variety intellectual property rights in cases of technical difficulties in breeding, due to complex genetic backgrounds or due to the slow or technically complicated reproduction of the species. This additional protection already exists for a number of species and it is now necessary to extend it for the species asparagus, and the species groups flower bulbs, woody small fruits and woody ornamentals.

2021/09/13

The resolution comes as consequence of a number of petitions which were tabled to the Petitions committee regarding discrimination faced by LGBTIQ persons across the European Union. The Petitions tackle a number of issues, namely that equal rights for rainbow families must be guaranteed across the European Union through the mutual recognition of parenthood. Other issues of course include the Hungarian laws on LGBTIQ persons and the Polish LGBTI-free zones. I voted in favour of this resolution as it has a number of key political messages: first, it welcomes the EU’s LGBTIQ strategy. Secondly, it harshly condemns the council for stalling the equality directive, and calls on the Commission to take action on the Coman Hamilton case now that the ECJ has taken a ruling. Finally, the resolution calls on the commission to correctly apply EU anti-discrimination legislation to Hungary and Poland while condemning the current anti-LGBT laws in Hungary and the establishment of anti-LGBT zones in Poland.

2021/09/13

This is a single vote based on an own initiative report in TRAN which points out that inland waterway transport connectivity needs to increase. It proposes green and sustainable ways to do so, and calls for this plan to factor in safety issues. Additionally it looks into ways of how this can be done due to the fact that 75% of inland waterway navigation takes place across the borders of the different EU Member States (with rivers which often separate countries). While such a report does not affect my Member State, Malta, I voted in favour of this report in order to ensure Europe remains connected and easy to travel through.

2021/09/14

I voted in favour of this report as I believe in ensuring that policies which we decide and vote on in Brussels and Strasbourg, reach out to all Europeans, regardless of where they live. This is especially true for those citizens living in far-off islands or dependencies outside geographical Europe. We must not forget that they are European citizens and that the decisions we make affect them too, so their needs must be taken into consideration.

2021/09/14

I voted in favour of this report, which advocates for a stronger and more ambitious form of cooperation with partner countries in the Atlantic Ocean. Indeed, we should join forces and maximise opportunities for mutual benefit, with the aim of keeping the oceans free of socio-political disputes and safeguarding biodiversity and ecosystems.

2021/09/14

I voted in favour of this report concerning draft amending budget No 1/2021, as submitted by the European Commission, which aims to make funds available to cover the pre-financing needs of the Brexit Adjustment Reserve. The Brexit Adjustment Reserve is an essential tool for addressing the economic and social challenges faced by the Member States and affected sectors which are closely linked to the UK’s economy and trade. The mobilisation of funds allocated to the Brexit Adjustment Reserve is therefore an important part of the solidarity which Europe must show to support these regions.

2021/09/15

I voted in favour of this report as I believe that it is essential that the EU and the UK remain connected post-Brexit. Prior to Brexit, both the UK and EU would rely on Regulation 2020/2222 vis-à-vis safety features relating to infrastructure connecting the UK to the continent. On 10 November 2020, France notified the Commission of its decision to enter into negotiations with the UK regarding the Channel Fixed Link (which currently serves Eurostar International Limited, DB Cargo UK and GB Railfreight), in order to allow rail undertakings established in the UK to use the cross-border infrastructure without obtaining a licence under Directive 2012/34/EU from a Union licensing authority as established in Article 14 of Regulation 2020/2222. This report is the Parliament’s approval of such an act.

2021/09/15

Having the necessary legislative tools in place to implement and enforce legislation is essential to ensure compliance with EU law. I therefore voted in favour of this report, which seeks to amend the Official Controls Regulation 2017/625 by introducing provisions which would make it possible to implement and enforce Article 118 of Regulation 2019/6 on veterinary medicinal products. This provision places an obligation on third-country operators exporting animals and products of animal origin to the EU to respect the prohibition against using antimicrobials for growth promotion and yield increase. In order to achieve a concrete impact in this field, it is crucial that the relevant standards applied are not only adhered to inside the EU but that animals and products of animal origin are also meeting the same requirements at the point of entry into the EU.

2021/09/15

This is the final agreement on the Blue Card Directive, after it was held up in trilogues for 5 years because Member States wanted to retain their national schemes as complimentary schemes. Currently, the EU loses over EUR 74 billion in revenue due to a lack of third-country national workers in key sectors of employment. It is essential that we start to tackle this, as I believe this is the first step to facilitate the more streamlined and integrated entry of highly qualified third-country nationals into the EU. Therefore, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/09/15

. ‒ The COVID-19 pandemic has put the spotlight on the need for the European Union to equip itself with the necessary resources and tools to make itself resilient to future health crisis and beyond. It is therefore necessary to reinforce the mandates of the existing EU agencies and bodies such as the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) which are at the forefront of our fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and any future health crisis. I therefore voted in favour of this report, also because I believe the ECDC needs to be better equipped to continue working to ensure that the present pandemic is adequately addressed at Union and Member State level. For these reasons, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/09/15

. ‒ The COVID-19 pandemic has put the spotlight on the need for the European Union to equip itself with the necessary resources and tools to make itself resilient to future health crisis and beyond. I therefore believe that it is essential to build a stronger and more comprehensive legal framework which can put the EU in a better position to prepare and respond to future health crisis such as the recent pandemic, from which we can draw a lot of lessons. This is the precise intention behind the legislative proposal put forward by the Commission on serious cross-border threats to health and the corresponding report which Parliament has voted on. For the afore-mentioned reasons, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/09/15

. ‒ This report is based on the bilateral agreement between Cabo Verde and the EU which allows for visa facilitation vis-a-vis short-stay visas. Short-stay visas are exempt from nationals of Cabo Verde (alongside other nationals from different countries listed in the Annex of the Schengen Code). The EU and Cabo Verde have updated the rules in order to facilitate this agreement further. I voted in favour of this report as it makes the fee for a visa 75% less expensive and multiple entry visas are now allowed.

2021/09/15

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report as it aligns the Data Protection Law Enforcement Directive (the LED) with current data protection GDPR rules. As this is necessary to ensure a high level of data protection in the European Union, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/09/15

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report as it aligns the European Investigative Order Directive with current data protection GDPR rules. As this is necessary to ensure a high level of data protection in the European Union, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/09/15

I believe that the commitment to apply the One Health approach to combat anti-microbial resistance is the way forward if we want to achieve equal protection for human, animal and environmental health. However, as also stated by the WHO, one sector alone will not solve the challenges in this area. Moreover, I believe that stronger scientific evidence should be in place to justify the approach being proposed in the objection which will lead to increased restriction of antimicrobials for animals and substantial consequences for both livestock farmers and animal health. For these reasons, I have voted against the objection.

2021/09/15

China is a key global player and one of the largest economies in the world, as well as a manufacturing and exporting hub. Therefore, it is imperative that the EU continues to collaborate with China in the face of common threats and challenges, as well as securing trade deals which continue to foster stronger economic relations. We cannot underestimate and ignore the serious human rights violations going in in Xinjiang province, as well as the crackdown on pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macau, which is why I voted in favour of this report where we call for Chinese authorities to respect human rights and fundamental liberties in its territory, whilst keeping the door open for cooperation in trade, as well as in climate ambitions.

2021/09/15

Russia remains an important player in the geopolitical field of our European neighbourhood, and we cannot ignore its actions altogether, as they can ultimately influence and affect EU Member States, especially those at the border. While noting that we should keep an open dialogue with Russia and cooperate on certain trade issues, it goes without saying that the Human Rights record of the Putin Government is far from spotless, especially when it comes to fundamental rights and the rights of LGBTIQ individuals, who have been persistently persecuted in certain regions of the Federation. Whilst being on the fence as to whether or not we should discontinue our cooperation when it comes to the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, I voted in favour of this report as I agreed with most of its content.

2021/09/15

Employment matters are a semi-shared competence by the EU and Member States, so in light of this the Council recently adopted Employment Guidelines which according to Art 121 of the TFEU must be in line with the EU’s broader economic guidelines.In its report, Parliament states that these guidelines should strengthen decent working conditions on teleworking, the right to disconnect, as well as parental and care related leave. Additionally, the report calls for the full involvement of the Parliament in the drafting of the Employment Guidelines. For this reason, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/09/15

This own initiative report aims to address issues related to employment matters in the fisheries sector, in particular with regard to the generational turnover of workers. This is because we need young fishermen in light of the fact that currently 12% of the population depends on fisheries as a source of their income.The report calls on more training for fisheries and aquaculture, and more awareness raising of how important this sector is. The report also recognises that a lack of recognition of qualifications is stopping this sector from growing. For this reason I voted in favour of this report.

2021/09/15

It is high time for the European Union to transition to innovation that does not involve the use of animals in research, regulatory testing and education. In line with the principle of a one health approach we can no longer accept situations whereby finding treatments for human health conditions depends on animals being used and tested in labs. We now have many more options for testing which does not involve animals yet further efforts must be made for such methods to infiltrate all scientific research areas. In the meantime, and as in line with the call being made in this resolution, I believe that we must insist on the use of non-animal testing models where these are available. For these reasons and beyond, I have voted in favour of this resolution.

2021/09/15

Combatting gender based violence is of ultimate importance. This is because globally, an estimated 736 million women—almost one in three—have been subjected to intimate partner violence, non-partner sexual violence, or both at some point in their lives.It is essentially to ensure that no one is attacked or faced violence because of their gender- no matter who they are, or where they are. By adding gender based violence to the list of crimes listed under article 83.1 of the TFEU, this ensures that the crime of gender based violence is tackled in the various directives which establish minimum rules concerning the definition of criminal offences and sanctions in the areas of particularly serious crime with a cross-border dimension resulting from the nature or impact of such offences or from a special need to combat them on a common basis.These areas of crime include: terrorism, trafficking in human beings and sexual exploitation of women and children, illicit drug trafficking, illicit arms trafficking, money laundering, corruption, counterfeiting of means of payment, computer crime and organised crime.

2021/09/16

Although I am in favour of many aspects of this report, there are some parts which I find concerning or unjustified. Whilst I am in support of initiatives which strengthen the exchange of tax information, one should recall Member States’ tax sovereignty which should not be encroached upon. Any change in direction on taxation should take into account the specific realities of small countries and peripheral regions and a one-size-fits-all approach should be avoided. Also, the double reference in this report to Malta and its compliance with tax transparency requirements fails to take into account or refer to the efforts being made by the Maltese authorities to address the recommendations made in the Global Forum report. This leads to an inaccurate and misleading account of the current situation pertaining in Malta. For all these reasons, I have abstained in my vote on this report.

2021/09/16

With the Taliban taking over control in Afghanistan after 20 years of military occupation, we must ensure that the rights of all those living in the country, regardless of their gender, race, ethnicity, religion or sexual orientation are respected to the fullest and that each person lives in peace without any threats of persecution. The recent events show a worrying downward trend in women’s rights especially, which is why I voted in favour of this joint motion for a resolution where we expressed our concern on a these topics.

2021/09/16

The current situation in Lebanon is extremely alarming and deeply concerning due to the political, economic, social, financial and health crisis, and the state of institutional breakdown. The political deadlock has brought the country to its knees, and it is regretful that the political elite of the country insist on staying in power. This is why I voted in favour of this joint motion for a resolution, where we expressed our concern about the situation, in the hope of a reform in the political situation of this important Middle Eastern Partner.

2021/09/16

I voted in favour of this resolution as it focuses on how the situation is deteriorating due to initiatives such as the new Lex TVN bill adopted by the Sejm and the acquisition of Polska Press Group by a state-controlled oil company. It is essential that we protect this important pillar of democracy – the press – and this is why I voted in favour of this resolution.

2021/09/16

I have voted in favour of this report because we need to strengthen the democratic legitimacy of the European Union and we therefore need to equip ourselves with the necessary tools to reinforce the transparency and integrity of our Union. The setting up of a new EU ethics body is essential in this regard, as it will provide for better implementation of ethical standards across the Union and will therefore lead to an increase in the trust of our citizens in the work that we are doing in the different institutions.

2021/09/16

. – The European Union has a moral obligation to set the standard on the current climate and environmental crisis that we are facing. Access to justice on environmental issues is a key tool for citizens to keep a check and seek judicial remedies against decisions, which might lead to environmental degradation. I have therefore voted in favour of this report, which seeks to tackle the gaps in the Aarhus Regulation with a view to addressing the recommendations made by the Aarhus Convention Compliance Committee for full compliance of the EU with all requirements of the Aarhus Convention.

2021/10/05

. – Greenland is one of the EU’s longest-standing partners and, as a consequence of this, has a comprehensive partnership agreement regarding fisheries with the Union. The partnership forms part of the protocols negotiated following Greenland’s departure from the European Economic Community in 1985, which is to be renewed every 6 years. The agreement provides for a number of tentative fishing opportunities and quota exchanges with Norway and the Faroe Islands and act as an important tool for the facilitation of fishing in the area. The renewed protocol takes into consideration shortcomings from the previous protocol and works to better the current agreement in order for it to be more scientifically accurate. Accordingly, the new agreement and protocol will enable 12 EU vessels to make use of fishing opportunities in Greenland’s waters for eight species: cod, pelagic redfish, demersal redfish, Greenland halibut, northern prawn, grenadier, capelin and Atlantic mackerel. The agreement provides for financial compensation from the EU of EUR 16 521 754, of which EUR 2 931 000 is earmarked for support for and the development of Greenland’s fisheries sector. For this reason I voted in favour of this report.

2021/10/05

. – I voted in favour of this resolution as it takes stock of the current agreement between the EU and Greenland, which mainly governs fisheries within the area between Greenland and Denmark. The renewed protocol takes into consideration shortcomings in the previous protocol and works to better the current agreement in order for it to be more scientifically accurate. Accordingly, the new agreement and protocol will enable 12 EU vessels to make use of fishing opportunities in Greenland’s waters for eight species: cod, pelagic redfish, demersal redfish, Greenland halibut, northern prawn, grenadier, capelin and Atlantic mackerel. The agreement provides for financial compensation from the EU of EUR 16 521 754, of which EUR 2 931 000 is earmarked for support for and the development of Greenland’s fisheries sector.

2021/10/05

. – The Canary Islands have been subject to a number of duties and tariffs on the imports of a number of industrial products. These have been ‘temporarily suspended’ in an attempt to boost the competitiveness of local businesses by decreasing their running costs and thus increasing employment. This is especially important given the disastrous effects COVID-19 has had on the Canarian economy, which has slumped by 20%. This suspension is due to expire in December 2021; however, the Spanish Government has requested to prolong it on the grounds of the constraints faced by the Canaries, particularly due to their small size and market fragmentation, which make them bear higher production and transportation costs compared with regions on the mainland. As this will not impact the EU’s financial expenditure, I had no problem in voting in favour of this report.

2021/10/05

. – I voted in favour of this report focusing on biodiversity having both an internal and external dimension. An agreement was found with the ENVI committee to ensure respect of both committee competences, while ensuring synergies and consistencies of content between the European Parliament resolution of 9 June 2021 on ‘the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030: Bringing nature back into our lives’ and this DEVE file.

2021/10/05

. – Artificial Intelligence developments over the last years have resulted in huge changes for society. While much of our lives have become more accessible and efficient, AI also brings with it a number of challenges to the human population. Some Member States have been utilising AI technology for the purpose of policing and judicial services- however, such introduction of AI in these fields may come with heavy risks to fundamental rights should these issues not be addressed from the onset. I voted in favour of this report as it calls on the Commission and the Member States to be cautious on specific aspects of AI within the Police and Judiciary, such as the risks associated with predictive policing and facial recognition. Both these technologies risk putting the fundamental rights of persons at risk, due to the fact that both technologies are not advanced enough to work equally on all persons, as well as ensuring that all bias is eradicated from the systems being used.

2021/10/05

. – This report calls for intimate partner violence to be identified as a form of gender-based violence and a violation of women’s fundamental rights. In this regard, I fully support the call being made in this report for the Istanbul Convention to be ratified by all Member States and by the EU because we need to have all tools in place to provide for the protection of women and children across the EU. Further cooperation between Member States and more comprehensive EU legislation in this area is also necessary to enhance the protection of victims’ rights. For all these reasons and beyond, I voted in favour of this report.I abstained, however, on an amendment calling on Member States not to recognise parental alienation syndrome in their judicial practice and law and to discourage or prohibit its use in court proceedings. The reason behind my abstention is that whilst I recognise that this has many times been a result of gender stereotypes and a symptom of a culture that denigrates women’s voices, I believe that courts should have the discretion to assess each case on to its merit and the specific circumstances pertaining to it.

2021/10/05

. – I voted in favour of this resolution as it acts as the European Parliament’s official response to the European Commission’s new approach to Road Safety for the years 2021-2030 and the EU Road Safety Policy Framework 2021-2030. Both these approaches are a result of the Valletta declaration of March 2017, which recognised the need for the EU to step up its game when it comes to combatting road traffic accidents. In the EU, nearly 1 million crashes occur per year. In 2019 only, there were 23 000 deaths and 12 000 serious injuries. The resolution recognises this and thus welcomes the robust strategy, which aims at decreasing the number of accidents and ultimately, citizens’ deaths.

2021/10/05

. – I have voted in favour of this objection to the extension of the approval periods for active substances chlorotoluron and difenoconazole because I believe that this is not in line with the safety criteria laid down in Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 and that there is not sufficient scientific evidence proving that those substances can be used safely or that they are urgently needed for food production requirements in the EU.

2021/10/05

. – I have voted against both Objections B9-0476/2021 and B9-0477/2021 to this taxonomy delegated act because they are motivated inter alia by reasons related to the non-appliance of the principle of technological neutrality and by the fact that the Commission did not address or answer the question of nuclear energy or gas. The Commission has already informed that a second delegated act will be issued later this year, which will specifically deal with energy generation from nuclear and gas. Therefore, the complete picture remains to be seen in the coming months.

2021/10/05

. – The report focuses mostly on fostering stronger transatlantic relations with the US after last year’s election outcome, particularly when it comes to trade partnerships and of areas of common interest, with the ultimate aim of contributing to global stability. For these reasons, I had no problem in voting in favour of this report, ensuring that the EU’s relations with the US remain as strong and amicable as ever, for the benefit of both parties.

2021/10/06

. – The report is a political evaluation of the EU Trust Funds (EUTFs) established since 2014 and extended until December 2021, as well as the Facility for Refugees in Turkey (FRT), both of which have been posing challenges with respect to the democratic accountability, the role of the European Parliament and also the integrity of the EU budget. Upon reviewing this report, I found no issues with it and therefore voted in favour.

2021/10/06

. – This report addressed the changing nature of warfare and focuses on the capabilities at the EU disposal when it comes to cyber defence. In the last years, there has been a significant rise in cyber attacks to disrupt critical infrastructure such as energy, transportation or healthcare and cyber-enabled foreign interferences. CSDP missions and operations have also been targeted. EU capability development assessments show that there is a need to overcome the EU current capability gaps in the area of ICT technologies, cyber warfare and AI. In light of this, I decided to vote in favour of this report.

2021/10/06

. – This report reaffirms that the Arctic is of strategic and political importance to the EU, as an Arctic stakeholder and global actor, and underlines the EU’s commitment to being a responsible actor, seeking the long-term sustainable and peaceful development of the region by fully cooperating with international partners. Meanwhile, to safeguard the ecosystems of this relatively unspoilt region, and to ensure that it is a haven for peace and stability, we must continue advocating for international cooperation between regional partners. I therefore voted in favour of this report.

2021/10/06

. – I voted in favour of this non-legislative report as I believe that it is important to take stock of the issues facing various minorities often – including persons with disabilities. It highlights a number of key principles that need to be taken into account both at an EU and national level, such as the need for all Member States to ratify the optional protocol of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the need for an intersectional approach to all policies in order to ensure no one is left behind. As a politician, I have always advocated for universal design in all policy and legislation that governs our lives – be it social policy, health policy, infrastructure policy or justice and civil liberties. We must all have an equal opportunity to grow in our society, and our physical or mental differences should not pose as obstacles to do so.

2021/10/06

. – I have voted in favour of this year’s annual report on the Banking Union, which assesses the state of play and functioning of its three pillars, namely the Single Supervisory Mechanism, the Single Resolution Mechanism and the European Deposit Insurance Scheme. I believe that the Banking Union has played a crucial role in the Union’s resilience against the impact of financial and economic crisis realities after what we have experienced in 2008. The way the EU has responded to the current crisis brought about by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is an important testament to that. As a socialist, I greatly value a well-regulated banking sector in the EU which can rise up to the challenges in times of crisis by securing financial stability and providing the necessary guarantees for the peace of mind of retail depositors.

2021/10/07

. – This report aims at proposing to reform the EU policies on harmful tax practices, through EU legislation as well as through a reform of the Code of Conduct on Business taxation. Whilst I agree with the need for adoption and strengthening of existing measures for combating harmful tax practices in line with international norms, I do not believe that the only way forward in this regard lies in the full harmonisation of Member States’ tax practices.Moreover, when referring to ‘adequate tax levels’, the report does not seem to give the required attention to the realities of smaller open economies at the periphery. There is rather the assumption that what is adequate for larger economies with bigger markets, economies of scale and cheaper costs of financing, can also apply for such smaller economies. For all these reasons, and beyond, I have voted against this report.

2021/10/07

. – One year on from the uprisings in Minsk, which followed the disputed presidential elections won by Europe’s last dictator, Aleksander Lukashenko, the situation in our neighbouring country does not seem to have budged. Political persecution, widespread corruption and the suppression of freedom of speech are still the norm. As a European Union which champions human rights, freedom of speech, and above all, democracy, we need to continue monitoring the situation closely and offer Belarussians hope for a better future. This is why I voted in favour of this resolution.

2021/10/07

. – The conflict in Tigray has now turned into a humanitarian crisis, with 91% of the population in desperate need of aid. There are multiple and severe reports of alleged gross violations of human rights, humanitarian law and refugee law perpetrated by all parties to the conflict, which, for a European Union which preaches the values of democracy, freedom of association and fundamental rights, is unacceptable. This is why I voted in favour of this resolution.

2021/10/07

. – I voted in favour of this report which aims at introducing common rules for the activity of managers and purchasers of non-performing loans (NPLs); as things currently stand, there is no uniformity between Member States on this issue. In the meantime, the development of an efficient secondary market for non-performing loans must go hand in hand with all possible efforts on the part of creditors to enable the debtor in difficulty to return to pay their own bonds.

2021/10/19

. – I have voted in favour of this report which provides for the European parliament’s position for next year’s EU budget because it provides for a strong social dimension with regard to the ongoing recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic which will still shape the priorities for next year. The loss in employments and the challenges faced by companies especially SMEs in view of the negative impact of the pandemic on our economies and societies have characterised next year’s budget. We must therefore provide the necessary support through EU funding to help millions of Europeans get back on their feet. We need to steer away from austerity measures, which have not worked in past financial crises. We also need to resist attempt at cutting funds from social and recovery spending from the EU budget as this is at the heart of our priorities as socialists and progressives.

2021/10/20

. – Ahead of the COP26 Conference in Glasgow, which I will have the privilege to attend as a part of the European Parliament Delegation, we must stress that the limit of 1.5°C temperature rise is within reach and is paramount if we are to avert the catastrophic impacts of climate change. This needs to be implemented on a global scale. However, in doing so we will bring about numerous co-benefits for the environment, the economy, the society and public health. For these reasons, and beyond, I have voted in favour of this resolution.

2021/10/21

. – Whilst I am in favour of the main rationale behind this resolution, which is that of increasing transparency to fight against money laundering and tax avoidance, I have abstained on the final vote for this resolution in view of reservations about specific parts of the text. In particular, the resolution calls for the introduction of a minimum effective corporate tax rate and the removal of unanimity under the Treaties for taxation matters. I believe that such an approach does not take into account the specific realities of different Member States, in particular smaller open economies at the periphery, which will have to bear the brunt of disproportionate burdens through a one-size-fits-all approach. One cannot assume that what is adequate for larger economies with bigger markets, economies of scale and cheaper costs of financing can also apply to smaller economies.

2021/10/21

. – The deterioration of rule of law in Poland has reached a worrying peak. It was already clear to the EU that the current PiS government in Poland has fringed away from EU values when it allowed the establishment of the so-called ‘LGBT Free Zones’. However, the latest developments regarding the illegitimate ‘constitutional tribunal’ in Poland, which ruled out the primacy of EU Law on 7 October 2021 on a request coming from the Polish Prime Minister himself, takes the situation a step too far. As a firm believer in the Rule of Law, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/10/21

. – This report concerns the revision of the energy and environmental State aid guidelines, which enable Member States to support projects for environmental protection, climate protection and energy generation, subject to certain conditions. I believe that such guidelines are important tools to achieve our targets in the Green Deal and in the ‘fit for 55’ package, as they enable Member States to meet their climate and energy goals and, at the same time, protect their taxpayers without unnecessary distortions of competition in the single market. For all these reasons, I voted in favour of the report.

2021/10/21

. – I voted against granting discharge for the European Border and Coast Guard because I did not feel comfortable granting discharge to the agency when there are so many questions up in the air regarding fundamental rights. The European Border and Coast Guard is an essential tool in the fight against trafficking in human beings. However, it is bound by fundamental rights and as an agency must ensure that the agency itself and its workers are fully compliant with fundamental rights obligations as enshrined in the Charter and in international law.The EBCG has been in the spotlight recently with regards to alleged fundamental rights breaches and has shown very little progress when it comes to addressing these issues. As with all agencies, I will not vote in favour of granting discharge to agencies where there are serious concerns regarding fundamental human rights with little resolve.

2021/10/21

. – Through a gradual process and through the compromises reached for this common agricultural policy (CAP) we are seeing a move towards a fairer and more progressive policy, which is also leading to more sustainable and economic development for farmers and rural communities. Social conditionality is one of the key features of the compromises achieved as it provides for a strong social dimension into the sectorial provisions of this policy especially in terms of health and safety at work. The measures agreed upon through the compromises reached are also a good step towards achieving the targets set out in the Green Deal. However, much more needs to be done and a clear effort by Member States has to be seen with regard to coherence between the strategic plans, the Farm to Fork Strategy and the Biodiversity Strategy.

2021/11/23

. – The increased intensity and frequency of extreme weather conditions is having devastating effects on rural areas and all our citizens and therefore action is needed to address these realities in this sector. This requires the common agricultural policy (CAP) to remain truly common and for challenges to be addressed in accordance with the rules set at European level in order to safeguard a level playing field in this sector. Therefore, I highly welcome fact that such commonality has been safeguarded in the compromises achieved on this report. The increased focus on transparency is also an important win for the European Parliament, as this will lead for further accountability by Member States who will be given access to the EU data-mining tool to look into risks linked to projects and circumvention of EU rules. For these reasons and beyond, I have voted in favour of this report.

2021/11/23

. – The impact of the pandemic on the farming sector and on food supply chains have rendered more urgent the need to increase the resilience of this sector through better crisis management systems. This is true in particular for agricultural product markets, protection for the integrity of the common market in products and empowerment of farmers through the producer organisations and interbranch organisations to which they belong. Transparency in agricultural products markets is also crucial not only for the farming sector but also to safeguard the interests of consumers. In particular, this is needed in areas relating to surveillance and monitoring, providing early warning and information on volatility or market disturbance threats to operators in the agri-food supply chain and to public authorities. These are some of the key concrete measures that this report is seeking to address in order to move towards a more resilient and more transparent agricultural sector. For these reasons, I have voted in favour of this report.

2021/11/23

. – The report seeks to update the annexes to the Insolvency Proceedings Regulation (2015/848) in order to include new administrative information received from Member States. In particular, some Member States, such as the Netherlands, Italy, Lithuania, Cyprus, Poland, Germany, Hungary and Austria, have communicated changes in their domestic insolvency law. Ensuring that EU laws are constantly updated to reflect the different realities across Europe is a key contributor to the quality of our legislation and part of the bigger exercise and ambition for better law making. For these reasons, I have voted in favour of this report.

2021/11/23

. – Reliable and quality statistics are essential to the ability of policymakers, businesses and the general-public to take informed decisions. For this reason, I have voted in favour of a report which seeks to introduce changes to Regulation (EU) 2018/1091 on Integrated Farm Statistics, which requires Member States to carry out integrated farm surveys in 2020, 2023 and 2026. With the adoption of the new multiannual financial framework (MFF) and the political agreement on the CAP files the Commission is seeking to introduce changes to this Regulation to introduce a technical alignment with the budgetary sources, as agreed under the MFF ceilings; a technical alignment to the ad hoc provisions of the Horizontal Regulation and the deletion of the UK and its financing. The proposed changes ensure that such statistics lead to high quality data which meets users’ needs efficiently and effectively.

2021/11/23

. – Providing high-quality information about the features, risks and costs of an investment product is essential to safeguard the interests of consumers, as this leads to greater potential for comparability and context on performance scenarios. These objectives are at the heart of the proposed changes to Regulation No 1286/2014 requiring manufacturers of packaged retail and insurance-based investment products (PRIPPs) to comply with a uniform set of product disclosure requirements and to provide retail investors with a key information document (KID) on each investment product and to compare them. For these reasons, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/11/23

. – Providing high-quality information about the features, risks and costs of an investment product is essential to safeguard the interests of consumers, as this leads to greater potential for comparability and context on performance scenarios. These objectives are at the heart of the proposed changes to Regulation No 1286/2014 requiring manufacturers of packaged retail and insurance based investment products (PRIPPs) to comply with a uniform set of product disclosure requirements and provide retail investors with a key information document (KID) on each investment product and to compare them. Undertakings for collective investment in transferable securities (UCITS) qualify as a PRIIP and, therefore, have to comply with this information requirement too. For these reasons, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/11/23

. – Further accountability with regard to the way EU funds are spent is an important contributor to the democratic legitimacy of the European Union. This can be achieved through increased transparency reporting on EU spending. This is precisely the objective behind this report, which asks for the establishment of an integrated and interoperable electronic information and monitoring system in order to ensure accountability and guard against misuse, corruption and conflicts of interest. For these reasons, I voted in favour of this report.

2021/11/23

. – The joint text on the draft general budget for the financial year 2022 provides for an ambitious EU budget with the interests of citizens at its heart. It ensures support for social recovery through programmes such as the Single Market programme, Erasmus+ and Creative Europe. It also invests in a greener and more sustainable future through programmes such Horizon Europe and LIFE. Most importantly, it promotes solidarity and EU values through programmes such as Rights and Values and RescEU. Finally, it ensures that, through this expenditure, we are concretely contributing to the European recovery and to the achievement of the EU’s twin goal for a socially just green and digital transition. For these reasons, I have voted in favour of this report.

2021/11/24

. – Draft Amending Budget No 5/2021 is crucial in terms of its function, namely to provide for continued support to the most vulnerable of the refugees in Turkey as a consequence of the Syria crisis. With this in mind, I have voted in favour of this report, which will mobilise additional funding for financing the urgent humanitarian support to refugees in Turkey. However, as indicated in the European Parliament’s position set out in this report, under the current circumstances, the Union budget cannot be the sole source of funding for the continued support to refugees.

2021/11/24

. – The European Union has a moral obligation to assist third countries dealing with humanitarian crisis and with major challenges in addressing the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through Draft Amending Budget No 6/2021 an additional 200 million COVID-19 vaccine doses are being provided to low and lower-middle income countries by the middle of next year. Such funds will also go to the emergency-situation in Afghanistan, including repatriation flight, to the response in Haiti, following the recent earthquake, and to outstanding operations including forest fires. For all these reasons, I have voted in favour of this report.

2021/11/24

. – We are living at a time when the climate and ecological emergencies we are experiencing are no longer questionable and are already leading to significant loss and damage. Efforts must increase to mitigate climate change including in the use of critical raw materials. Furthermore, as a Union we must make sure that our strategy in using such critical raw materials is not only environmental but also just and in full respect of fundamental human rights. An integrated approach throughout the value chain is essential. We must take a holistic and sustainable approach to critical raw materials and this is what this report seeks to achieve.

2021/11/24

. – This report seeks to set the European Parliament’s priorities for the upcoming revision of the Financial Regulation to align it with the MFF package, and bring targeted improvements. At the heart of these priorities are an alignment of the Financial Regulation with the rule of law conditionality, stronger procurement rules and the need to combat conflict of interest. The obligation for companies to respect the European Pillar of Social rights or lose access to EU funding is also an important aspect of the Parliament’s priorities. Finally, we must also better understand the way in which EU spending affects gender equality, climate change and biodiversity. These priorities, put forward by the European Parliament, are seeking to put Europe’s values into actions and, for this reason, I have voted in favour of this report.

2021/11/24

. – The COVID-19 pandemic has forced us to tackle key challenges, which were left on the back burner for far too long. Issues such as equal access and affordability or medicines for all EU citizens, the need to tackle unmet needs, especially in the areas of rare and paediatric diseases, and the need to create new and better incentives to address these challenges are at the heart of the pharmaceutical strategy. The need to support competitiveness, innovation and sustainability of the EU’s pharmaceutical industry, and to make it more resilient to major shocks, is also an important pillar of this Strategy. Most importantly, it puts the needs of the patients and the safety and quality of medicines and treatments at the centre of its priorities. For all these reasons, I have voted in favour of this report.

2021/11/24

. – The COVID—19 pandemic and the restrictions it brought with it has left devastating effects on a number of regions across the European Union. A clear example is the situation in Spain, whereby the shortages of supplies and raw materials, in view of these circumstances, have adversely affected the metal sector in that country. In the Basque region, we saw 491 displaced workers whose activity has ceased, out of which 192 occurred in the course of collective redundancies that were notified to the authorities, in six enterprises. It is therefore important for funds to be mobilised through the European Globalisation Adjustment fund for devastating impacts, which this region is experiencing. For this reason, I have voted in favour of this report.

2021/11/25

. – Europe must continue to grow. Our economy cannot go into decline and, to do so, we must remain open to growth. Figures show that our continent will be the only one shrinking in population in the coming years and that we are losing out on the biggest talent from across the globe to other economies. Without clearly—defined legal pathways for migrant workers we will remain at the losing end. It is with this in mind that we worked on a set of proposals to the European Commission to attract workers to the Union in a simplified and harmonised way.

2021/11/25

. – For many people, Europe means movement. European means the ability to move from one country to another, obtain experiences, and both spread and increase knowledge. This is why facilitating intra-EU mobility is essential for Europeans.In 2019, 17.9 million people from the EU-28 moved to another EU country, 13 million of which were of working age and 78% employed. This shows that Europeans benefit from Europe’s freedom of movement. However, workers find themselves very often in situations where they have to encounter different bureaucratic processes each time they move to different Member States, such as obtaining an A1 or S1 form, etc. This can all be avoided, and we can facilitate the European way of life better through the introduction of a legislative proposal for a European Social Security pass in order to create an EU-wide digital instrument for social security coordination and to safeguard fair labour mobility for mobile workers.I voted in favour of this report, as it is very regrettable that the Commission has not implemented this yet – we demand a European social security pass and we demand it now!

2021/11/25

. – The importance of the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child abduction cannot be stressed enough. It introduces a system of cooperation between the contracting States aimed at prompt settlement of cases of international child abduction, ensuring that the best interests of the child are at all times safeguarded in matters related to their custody. Given the exclusive competence of the EU in this area, by means of this report the Parliament is approving the authorisation for the Member States of the EU to accept the accession of the Philippines to this Convention. Expanding the applicability of this Convention to further countries and regions across the world is of global interest and I have therefore voted in favour of this report.

2021/11/25

. – The importance of the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child abduction cannot be stressed enough. It introduces a system of cooperation between the contracting States aimed at prompt settlement of cases of international child abduction, ensuring that the best interests of the child are at all times safeguarded in matters related to their custody. Given the exclusive competence of the EU in this area, by means of this report the Parliament is approving the authorisation for the Member States of the EU to accept the accession of Jamaica to this Convention. Expanding the applicability of this Convention to further countries and regions across the world is of global interest and I have therefore voted in favour of this report.

2021/11/25

. – The importance of the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child abduction cannot be stressed enough. It introduces a system of cooperation between the contracting States aimed at prompt settlement of cases of international child abduction, ensuring that the best interests of the child are at all times safeguarded in matters related to their custody. Given the exclusive competence of the EU in this area, by means of this report the Parliament is approving the authorisation for the Member States of the EU to accept the accession of Bolivia to this Convention. Expanding the applicability of this Convention to further countries and regions across the world is of global interest and I have therefore voted in favour of this report.

2021/11/25

. – The importance of the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child abduction cannot be stressed enough. It introduces a system of cooperation between the contracting States aimed at prompt settlement of cases of international child abduction, ensuring that the best interests of the child are at all times safeguarded in matters related to their custody. Given the exclusive competence of the EU in this area, by means of this report the Parliament is approving the authorisation for the Member States of the EU to accept the accession of Pakistan to this Convention. Expanding the applicability of this Convention to further countries and regions across the world is of global interest and I have therefore voted in favour of this report.

2021/11/25

. – The importance of the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child abduction cannot be stressed enough. It introduces a system of cooperation between the contracting States aimed at prompt settlement of cases of international child abduction, ensuring that the best interests of the child are at all times safeguarded in matters related to their custody. Given the exclusive competence of the EU in this area, by means of this report the Parliament is approving the authorisation for the Member States of the EU to accept the accession of Tunisia to this Convention. Expanding the applicability of this Convention to further countries and regions across the world is of global interest and I have therefore voted in favour of this report.

2021/11/25

. – EU truck drivers are essential for Europeans, because, without them, many of the products that we commonly share as Europeans would never be able to be shared with us. They are an underrated, but integral, part of the European single market. As workers, they deserve protection. However, they find themselves very often in unsafe situations due to the nature of their job. Many parking areas across the EU road network are unsafe. This is why the EU must do something to create preventative measures to reduce the risk and magnitude of the safety areas within truck parking areas. I voted in favour of this report as it calls on the EU to do so and protect truck drivers across the European Union.

2021/11/25

. – The demographic build-up of the EU is moving towards more urbanised societies, as more and more citizens choose to relocate to cities. As decision makers, we need to ensure that the quality of life of cities’ inhabitants does not start to regress as a result of them becoming more populated.Indeed, cities and regions with a high population density bore the brunt of the COVID pandemic, with higher than average infection and hospitalisation rates, resulting in immense strains on the medical sectors in these areas. As Europe slowly emerges from the pandemic, a way forward to guarantee the best quality of life for city inhabitants must be established, based on the principles of green, innovative and inclusive living.

2022/02/15

. – Coherent national tax schemes and having cooperation between Member States is essential for the functioning of the European single market. We must ensure that SMEs are incentivised to further advance their operations and continue to enrich our economy, and continue our fight against tax abuse. All this must be done while respecting the framework of each Member State’s national competence when it comes to tax competition – so that no country is left at a disadvantage from a resulting reform in tax harmonisation.

2022/02/15

. – Even though this is not a herbicide assistant, there are many issues concerned with this specific GMO e.g. the presence of bt toxins which can increase allergenic properties. In this regard, and in order to take wider health and environmental effects, I voted in favour of the objection.

2022/02/15

. – These genetically modified organisms (GMOs) could potentially lead to risks to food safety and human health. Negative food safety implications for European Union citizens (and livestock) consuming these GMOs could not be excluded if this was to be authorised. In view of this, I voted in favour of the objection.

2022/02/15

. – The European Maritime Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund will ensure that the maritime and aquatic resources are used sustainably, and that the maritime and aquaculture industry has the proper tools to act sustainably. However, it is important that these funds properly cater for all of the industry – from large-scale to small-scale sub-industries. Unfortunately, the European Commission has proposed a delegated act that does not cater for the interests of small-scale fishers. I am therefore glad to vote in favour of an objection to this delegated act, as I believe that what has been proposed by the Commission is not adequate enough to cater for all of the European Union, and is especially not in the interests of the small Maltese fishing industry.

2022/02/15

. – After a two-year pandemic, citizens need to get back their freedom. They need to be able to move freely, socialise and enjoy themselves. Each and every one of us deserves to be able to connect with our loved ones and feel that we are part of a wider society. This is especially imperative for citizens’ mental health and well-being. But in order to do this, we must ensure that rules are in place to protect us. The science is clear: vaccines work, especially if taken in three doses. Amending the EU digital certificate rules to allow for an infinite validity period following a third dose, shows that we are preparing to come to the end of this pandemic, in a way which has been based on science, on community and, now finally, on freedom.

2022/02/15

. – The Covid pandemic has hit the aviation industry particularly hard, owing to governments around the world implementing strict travel restrictions, which brought the industry virtually to a halt two years ago. The industry is slowly but surely recovering, however the financial loss still being faced by airline operators, the aeronautics industry and all those employed within it are still significant. Airbus has applied for a financial contribution from the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, created in order to provide additional assistance to workers suffering from the consequences of major structural changes in world trade patterns, of which this pandemic is surely no exception.I strongly believe that in such difficult times, it is our duty to ensure that while we keep on granting the necessary tools for businesses and employers to minimise the impact on their operations, we must safeguard the needs of our workers, all throughout Europe. This is how we can ensure that nobody is left behind in this pivotal period of economic recovery.

2022/02/15

. – The ECB aided the European Union’s economy by facilitating an environment, which creates employment opportunities throughout the Union, thus passing the baton to national governments to exploit fiscal policy to continue stimulating economic growth in their respective countries. The ECB also plans to promote a gender-based representation across it is organisational hierarchies, as well as aligning its policies to contribute towards a financially and environmentally sustainable future – however this cannot stop here. The ECB must continue to step up its game and ensure that a credible accountability framework is in place.

2022/02/15

. – When the Lisbon Treaty came into force, a strong political message was also made: Animals are sentient beings, and thus EU and Member State policies must reflect this. This was enshrined in the EUs treaty back then, and continues to be valid today. The way that we treat animals speaks a lot about us, especially animals which we utilise as humankind for our benefit- such as farm animals. And while freedoms are often associated with humankind alone, it is important that we ensure animal welfare: Freedom from hunger and thirst, freedom from discomfort, freedom from pain, injury and disease, freedom to express normal behaviour and freedom from fear and distress.My votes on this report reflect this core belief of mine. I do not believe that we should be flagrant when it comes to animal rights, and I believe that certain things need to be rethought when it comes to the way that we utilise animals. To me, activities such as bullfighting or force-feeding are activities that are unnecessary, and often cruel. Animals already give us so much in life, be it nourishment or companionship, the least we can do is ensure dignity and respect for them in return. Given the fact that the amendments to ban force-feeding did not go through, I voted against this report and in favour of the alternative motion for a resolution tabled by The Left Group, which better reflected my beliefs on animal rights and welfare.

2022/02/15

. – European Union Institutions must uphold the highest standards when it comes to public administration. This is because citizens, Member States and their own national institutions look to the European Institutions as lighthouses when it comes to standards for public administration, and thus the institutions must set an example for all. The European Ombudsman’s job is to ensure that the public administration of the institutions are upholding these standards, and thus it is important to keep track of her work over the year.

2022/02/15

. – Coming from an island nation, the exploitation of offshore energy sources is a crucial component of our quest to attain climate neutrality and decarbonisation by the year 2050. The gradual phasing—out of fossil fuels, and the harnessing of clean and competitive renewable energy, while ensuring a stable and sustainable supply chain is a key priority for myself both as member of the S&D Group, and as a Maltese MEP. Apart from the environmental benefit, which will result in a cleaner environment and allow citizens to breathe clean air, investing in offshore renewable energy sources will most definitely benefit coastal communities, by boosting economic activity and opening up the job market in these areas.

2022/02/15

. – When the United Kingdom left the European Union, this was based on Article 50 of the Treaty and Functioning of the European Union. This piece of EU law sets down the measures and criteria of how an EU Member State may request to leave the European Union. However, some aspects of the procedure are not laid down into law and thus, should be examined. This includes: the procedure if an extension is needed for negotiations, transitional arrangements, the framework for future relations and the formal requirements of the notification of the intention to leave the Union amongst others. I believe that these aspects need to be made clearer, for the benefit of EU democracy. This has been made evident following the UK’s departure from the EU.

2022/02/15

. – Value added tax is an essential component of any Government’s tax revenues, which allow them to reinvest these revenues to enhance the welfare of citizens. However, due to inconsistencies and loopholes in Member States’ legislation across the EU, an estimated 134 billion euros in revenues were forgone in 2019 alone, primarily due to exploitation of these inconsistencies for evasion and fraud. Therefore, it is imperative for the EU’s Member States to have in place strong and resilient VAT systems, while ensuring that they are easy to use for businesses. The ultimate aim here is to boost revenues for governments, which in turn will lead to more investments towards the welfare of all Europeans.

2022/02/15

. – The aim of this proposal is to amend Regulation (EU) 2020/1429, extending the reference period until 30 June 2022 and extending the delegation of powers conferred under Regulation (EU) 2020/1429, under the same terms, until 31 December 2023. These rules will provide the possibility for countries to authorise infrastructure companies to either reduce, waive or defer charges for accessing rail infrastructure. In this way, this would help in counteracting those negative impacts of the COVID-19 outbreak on the rail sector. Nevertheless, in view of the evolution of the COVID-19 outbreak, certain measures could not be adopted in time. In this regard, to avoid gaps in the application of the measures that were introduced after the 31st December of 2021, this proposal will cover the period before its entry into force.

2022/02/16

. – Ever since Euromaidan back in 2014 and the subsequent downfall of the Yanukovych Government, Ukraine has looked progressively towards a European future, fostering deeper economic and trade relations with the EU in order to move towards its ultimate goal of attaining EU-member candidate status. On the basis of the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement, which came into force back in 2017, Ukraine has committed to implement reforms in Rule of Law and judiciary independence, as well as fostering a more business-friendly climate to attract investors.The War in Donbass, the pandemic as well as the recent border tension with Russia has left the Ukrainian economy in tatters. We cannot abandon an aspiring EU member state and important trade partner at this delicate time, which is why the Commission has proposed a loan of €1.2bn in Macro financial assistance to help the Ukrainian economy back on its feet.

2022/02/16

. – The European Union prides itself in its standardisation and harmonisation policies which ensure that the products that are put on the EU’s single market are safe for consumers. Toys in particular must have a very high level of safety associated to them, due to the fact that the consumers of toys are some of the most vulnerable in our society- i.e. children. We need to ensure that its regulations are up to date and relevant in today’s day and age in order to ensure that our children are safe when using toy products.

2022/02/16

. – As part of the BECA committee, we met with a large number of scientists, experts and physicians from across the globe to gain broader knowledge of cancer. 40% of cancers in the European Union are preventable and this report is our first step in the fight against it. We need a science-based approach and it is for this reason that I have participated in the formulation of this report and voted wholeheartedly in favour of it both at committee and plenary stage.

2022/02/16

. – The EU prides itself in being a global advocate for peace, both around its neighbourhood and beyond. However, external threats to the Union’s security are a reality, which requires us to remain vigilant.Such a delicate issue requires certainty in decision-making and to remain true to Article 42 TEU it is imperative that decisions of this nature have unanimous backing of all Member States at a Council level, not just a qualified majority, as proposed in the report text.This ensures that any decision taken regarding foreign and security policies in the EU truly respects each Member States’ constitutional requirements. In light of this, I decided to abstain on the final vote.

2022/02/16

. – In face of the multiple external threats in our neighbourhood and beyond, it is imperative for the EU to be prepared to face possible challenges to the security of all Member States. Such critical decisions on common foreign and security policy, including those on defence, must have a unanimous backing from all Member States, in compliance with Article 42 TEU. This ensures a unified position by all Member States, respecting the constitutional requirements of all. The report calls for this to be reduced to a qualified majority vote in Council, which I do not agree with. This is why I decided to abstain on the final vote for this report.

2022/02/16

. – Many countries around the world have seen a backsliding in their state of democracy, with a resulting deterioration in human rights, which has led to the sidelining of ethnic, religious, gender and sexual orientation minorities. As a Union which prides itself on promoting inclusivity and championing human rights and democracy, it is imperative for the EU to take a more proactive and committed approach to ensure that, whoever you are and wherever you live in the world, your human rights are safeguarded, and that one should never be persecuted just for being who they are.

2022/02/16

. – It has been proven time and time again that a society rife with corruption places the protection of human rights at peril. We must should boost our efforts and improve our toolbox to fight corruption and mainstream anti-corruption policies in all its external actions.However, to do so, we must first ensure that our house is as clean as can be, therefore, it is imperative for our internal rules and procedures to be closely aligned with the fundamental values which our Union stands for. In this way, the EU can be a leader in the fight against corruption around the world, thus ensuring that human rights are not compromised.

2022/02/16

. – I believe that a statute for European cross-border associations and non-profit organisations is important not only because associations and NGOs play a significant role in the economy and development of the internal market, but also to empower and engage citizens and minorities with regard to justice, environmental, democratic and other issues that matter to them. To ensure that no associations and NGOs are being discriminated against and that citizens of all backgrounds get the treatment and opportunities they deserve is of great importance in a democracy. Furthermore, I believe this will inspire cross-border cooperation and interaction between European citizens, contributing to the Union’s values. Giving citizens the opportunity to speak up and work for what they believe in, be it the arts, humanitarian assistance, education or science, is essential in fostering a healthy democratic environment, and the role associations play in society is crucial.

2022/02/16

. – Young people deserve to be included in the decisions affecting our societies, however very often they are marginalised from the conversations. I believe that young people need to be empowered, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic as this pandemic has had very strong and severe results on young people. In its essence, two years of their lives have been taken away from them. We have asked young people to comply in order to protect the older and vulnerable generations from the pandemic; however, we have never asked at what cost this has happened.We need to focus more on their needs, and we need to give them their lives back. Young people need to be able to move forward in their lives, they need to reinstate contact with each other and be able to enjoy their youth just as the generations before them. I believe that particular importance must be given to the mental health of young people, and also the exploitation of young persons through, for example, unpaid internships which in my view are absolutely unacceptable.

2022/02/16

. – Workers’ rights are human rights, and thus workers must be protected at the workplace from workplace hazards. Exposure to carcinogens or mutagens, such as asbestos, at work is one such issue. As a Maltese Member of the European Parliament, I believe that ensuring this is of the utmost importance in Europe. We need to ensure that the working environment of workers is up to standard, is dignified and above all does not cause physical or mental harm to workers.

2022/02/17

. – Women across the world continue to be the most marginalised category of persons. This is because women across the world are not afforded many of the same privileges given to men. In parts of the world, women are still seen as the property of men, and are barred from creating independent structures. We need to act together to eradicate this, as no one can be considered to be equal until we are all equal.

2022/02/17

. – The agreement reached significantly improves the provisions of the existing Directive and has a number of positive outcomes resulting in an important step towards a more sustainable and fairer road transport. This provisional agreement is a turning point for the EU road charging legislative framework in which charges will have to be non-discriminatory, green and fair. It makes the user-pays and polluter-pays principles also applicable to road charging, which is totally in line with the European Green Deal objectives.

2022/02/17

This Agreement contains the necessary safeguards with respect to the human rights and fundamental freedoms of individuals, including privacy and data protection. Moreover the Agreement received a positive opinion from the European Data Protection Supervisor which also found that these safeguards are provided for. This coupled with the fact that the ultimate aim of the processing of such personal data is to fight serious crime and terrorism were the reasons for my vote in favour of this Agreement.

2023/01/17

Whilst I do not wish to hinder a UN Convention seeking to strengthen consumer protection in the growing video game sector, I do not consider that the text affords the legal certainty desired. Hence, in line with my vote in favour of an ECJ opinion on the text back in the November plenary, I voted against.

2023/01/17

Europe cannot continue to export its waste challenges to third countries with devastating consequences on their climate, environment and human health. The phase-out of exports of plastic waste being proposed by this report will put an end to the effects which our dumping practices have had on natural habitat, biodiversity, ecosystems and social justice in developing countries. It will also force us to keep our plastic waste in the EU and treat it as the valuable resource that it is in line with a fully functioning circular economy. This report also reduces bureaucratic burdens for facilities and receivers of waste and it improves transparency on waste shipments. It also ensures that any other waste exported outside the EU can only be received by waste facilities that meet the same standards applicable in the EU. For all these reasons and more, I voted in favour of this report.

2023/01/17

A more transparent Europe is a more democratically legitimate Europe. We need to use transparency as a tool to fight tax evasion and aggressive tax planning within and outside our borders. Companies registered but not truly operating in the EU should not be able to benefit from any tax advantages available to honest companies that are truly economically active in Member States. We need to have access to more information on shell companies in order to be in a position to have better detection by national authorities. This is exactly what this report is trying to achieve through the strengthening of minimum substance requirements in order to unshell these companies. For all these reasons, I voted in favour of this report.

2023/01/17

The recent revelations concerning Members and other staff of the European Parliament and their relationship with third country stakeholders have put a greater responsibility on us to be more transparent in our work and to make more space for the scrutiny of our activities. We cannot have a situation whereby the privileges and immunities afforded to us Members of the European Parliament serve as a cushion for wrongdoings. It is therefore in the interest of a more credible European Parliament on matters of corruption, to introduce these amendments to the rules of procedure which will empower EPPO to carry out investigations on persons protected by the Parliamentary immunity and will introduce more tools to strengthen transparency and to fight corruption. For all these reasons, I have voted in favour of this Report.

2023/01/17

Local retail plays a vital role in supporting social cohesion and in the promotion and protection of the specific realities and the diverse nature of different regions in Europe. Coming from a small island, I understand how important it is for policy measures to take into account the challenges of local businesses and small retailers in facing unfair competition and in adjusting to digital transformation. It is therefore important for us to provide the necessary tools to support them in the different phases of their activities from their establishment to the day-to-day running of their business. Local trade plays an essential role in the economic cycle of so many regions around Europe. Encouraging the Commission to develop a proposal to create a European Capital of Local Trade and Retail is a step in the right direction. It is for this reason that I have voted in favour of this Resolution.

2023/01/17

The single market has served as the main protection for consumers within the European Union, it has provided many job opportunities to Europeans all over, and has made the lives of citizens and businesses easier each and every day throughout the last 30 years. A vote against this report would have meant a vote against my socialist values. I have therefore voted in favour of this report.

2023/01/18

Whilst the video games sector has rapidly grown into an important industry in the European Union, we have seen that consumer protection in this sector leaves a lot to be desired. Whilst players are covered by general EU consumer protection laws, new rules which cater for the realities of the sector are required, especially when the consumers in question are vulnerable categories of players such as children.This own-initiative report is therefore a step in the right direction to put the ball in the court of the Commission to come up with specialised rules protecting consumers in this sector.

2023/01/18

The current geopolitical situation has accented the need for Europe to have a solid and effective foreign policy framework, in the face of the many threats that may endanger the stability, peace and security of our Union. It is important that such a position has the full backing of all 27 Member States, thus ensuring that the realities and peculiarities of each Member State are taken into consideration when presenting the EU’s foreign policy agendas. While I agree with the need to have a more unified and effective approach to foreign policy, I believe that the report does not adequately address how this can be done while respecting each Member State’s constitutions – which is why I decided to abstain on the final vote.

2023/01/18

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has brought war to our Union’s doorstep – a reminder that peace and stability in our neighbourhood is not always a given. This requires the EU to have a strong and effective security and defence strategy which has the backing of all Member States. However the provisions included in the text for the EU to act with more strategic autonomy in military capabilities as well as decide security matters in Council by qualified majority voting, may result in some Member States having their concerns washed out. It is for this reason that I decided to abstain on the final vote.

2023/01/18

Defending human rights is one of the EU’s core values, and I am a firm believer that our Union is a global pioneer in not only promoting democracy and rule of law, but also fighting against human rights violations around the world. I believe the text presented by the rapporteur pays homage to these values in an effective manner, which is why I decided to vote in favour of this report in its entirety

2023/01/18

I am a firm believer that justice has to be served, and thus a war of aggression cannot be met with anything but justice. Secondly, this resolution calls for strong backing by the United Nations when it comes to the prosecution of the aggressors in question. I feel that for history not to repeat itself, a tribunal to prosecute the atrocities committed by Russia on Ukraine is a crucial step in the right direction. For these reasons I have voted in favour of this resolution.

2023/01/19

Iran is witnessing one of the most significant civil upheavals in its history. It is crystal clear that Iranians are fed up of being oppressed by the theocratic regime, which has for decades abused religion as a means to violate human rights and treat women as second class human beings. We stand with the people of Iran in their fight towards a free, democratic society which guarantees equality and safety for all citizens, regardless of their gender, sexuality or social status. I therefore voted wholeheartedly in favour of this resolution.

2023/01/19

The scrutiny on the activities of other EU bodies and Institutions is one of the most important tools which is granted by Treaties to the European Parliament in order to exercise democratic control. Amongst the priorities to focus on with regard to the scrutiny of the EIB activities are the need for a better implementation of its transparency policy and to avoid conflicts of interests at Management level. I have voted in favour of this Report because it seeks to reinforce these aspects and other measures to improve the overall functioning of this Institution.

2023/01/19

The events that transpired in the past weeks have severely hampered the credibility of the European Parliament as an Institution but on a larger scale, the decision making process of the entire Union. Fighting corruption within the EU institutions and within institutions in Member States should be at the heart of the European project and we should take all measures necessary to increase accountability and to restore faith in the functioning of our Union. I have voted in favour of this Report because it hits the nail in the head and strongly advocates against illegal lobbying, revolving door situations and conflicts of interests. On the other hand it seeks to promote stronger internal control mechanisms and increased transparency.

2023/01/19

Small-scale fishing is an important industry for the supply of fresh local products to communities. As stated in the Report, whilst this industry preserves local cultural traditions especially in small island states such as Malta, it also has socio-economic importance. As indicated in paragraph 18, the majority of the small-scale fishing sector is dependent on fuel subsidies, which is why I have voted against Amendment 3. Whilst I do not agree with subsidies that directly harm the environment, I do not consider the practices of the small-scale fishing sector as being detrimental to the environment. In this light, I voted in favour of maintaining the fuel-tax exemption and fisheries related subsidies that permit all vessels under 24m to continue with their activities and thus continue to be economically viable. The removal of fuel subsidies would have a huge socio-economic implication for the Maltese fishers especially on the small-scale fishing sector, which is the most sustainable sector of the fishing fleet.

2023/01/19

Harmonisation is an essential tool at the basis of the EU’s internal market but it is also important vis-à-vis our Union’s standing in the international field. We need to use all tools possible to facilitate the interactions with other countries beyond our Union, and in doing this we need to be in line with the most recent technical standards in various areas of activity with the rest of the world. It is for this reason that I have voted in favour of this report which relates to a common set of statistical standards needed for the production of harmonised national accounts data across the world.

2023/02/02

The sustainable exploitation of fishing resources is one of the main objectives of the common fisheries policy, in particular supporting and working for the sustainability of shared stock management with third countries and supporting the improvement of international ocean governance. It is therefore essential that the EU transposes the relevant control, conservation and management measures adopted by the Commission for the Conservation of Southern Bluefin Tuna into the EU legal framework. This is particularly important since it covers decisions by means of which EU vessels, Member States and the European Commission have been legally bound since 2015. It is for this reason that I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/02/02

In light of the current atmosphere surrounding transparency, particularly in the European Parliament, it is indisputable that a vote in favour of transparency cannot be compromised, at all costs. We must tackle the issue of transparency in its entirety, so not only in terms of the MEPs’ disclosure rules, or the transparency register itself, but to also tackle the actual political advertisements being issued and the targeting of these political ads.We cannot aspire to be transparent if disinformation continues to rule what is supposed to be democratic. Disinformation is also a problem that we are facing and a facilitator for such disinformation is indeed a lack of transparency in the political world. This is why I have voted in favour of this file.

2023/02/02

The existing rules on the European Works Councils are not strong enough to ensure that workers’ voices are heard in transnational decision-making. The effects of a globalised world and the changes in the way multinationals are being organised have increased the need to strengthen the legal framework regulating the European Works Councils. Such Councils need stronger rights, better access to justice, deterrent sanctions and trade unions. This is exactly what we’re seeking to do through such a report and it is for this reason that I have voted in favour.

2023/02/02

Ahead of the EU-Ukraine Summit in Brussels on 9 February, it was necessary for the European Parliament to once again reiterate its strong position supporting Ukraine, in favour of peace, and condemning Putin’s act of aggression against a sovereign, European nation. It is paramount for the EU to continue pledging political support, humanitarian assistance, economic support, financial and technical assistance to Ukraine, to ensure a Ukrainian and European victory in this war. I therefore voted in favour of the resolution.

2023/02/02

Recent events have proven the need to have a solid, resilient framework capable of withstanding attacks from malign foreign actors. I believe that extending and amending the mandate of the ING2 Committee will help the EP and the supporting members to take a deeper look into cases of recent foreign interference cases as well as propose reforms which strengthen the transparency, integrity and accountability of not only the EP, but of all EU institutions. For this reason I have voted in favour of this Decision.

2023/02/14

In the past three years we have been witness to an important shift in priorities both in each of our day to day lives but also in terms of policy—making. We have been forced to act swiftly and to recognise the oneness of nature and to see health and the environment as two sides of the same coin. This is why the creation of this health sub-committee is an important step towards our commitment to a European Health Union. There is so much ground to cover in this area – from the shortages that we are witnessing in Europe of antibiotics and paediatric analgesics to the inequalities in access to medicines and in their prices in different Member States. However, it should be clear that the Committee for the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety remains the parent committee responsible for the examination of legislative proposals and for voting on such laws. Notwithstanding, I see the creation of this subcommittee as an important way to show our commitment to the belief that combining forces on health matters will lead to better results. For this reason I have voted in favour of this proposal.

2023/02/14

This is a precautionary report proposed in the eventuality that the UK passes the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill through Westminster – a bill which would unilaterally suspend parts (or all) of the NI Protocol and break its international commitments. This could potentially disrupt the smooth functioning of the internal market and undermine the good faith between the EU and the UK. This report covers the EU’s bases should this point be reached – I therefore had no problems in supporting the final text.

2023/02/14

This agreement highlights the EU’s commitments under the Green Deal, complementing a strong regulatory framework on importing products which do not originate from deforested areas. I therefore voted in favour of giving consent to the partnership agreement, as well as the accompanying resolution.

2023/02/14

In the past year, Member States have been faced with challenging circumstances in terms of security of energy supply and the increase in energy prices in view of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine. It was therefore fundamental for measures to be taken to support Member States in reducing their dependence on Russian fossil fuels especially in view of the disrupted energy markets. The possibility for Member States to amend their national recovery and resilience plans to add a new chapter on REPowerEU is significant because it will include new reforms and investments in energy-related projects financed by additional requests for grants and loans. REPowerEU will contribute towards addressing the increase in bills for EU citizens by addressing energy poverty, facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources and by creating incentives to reduce energy demand. Perhaps most importantly, this chapter is an expression of solidarity between EU Member States, as all of them will be provided with support to adjust their energy systems irrespective of their size and economic situation. It is for these reasons that I voted in favour of this report.

2023/02/14

In the EU, there are an estimated 13.3 million non-national Union citizens of voting age who are entitled to vote and stand as candidates in European and municipal elections, under the same conditions as nationals. This report improves their electoral rights, as well as access to voting. It also aims to increase participation in local and European elections - this is something which I work greatly towards. For these reasons, I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/02/14

The vote on this legislation is a historic one because it is the first report from the ‘Fit for 55’ package to be voted in the European Parliament. It symbolises Parliament’s resolve to put this package, which provides the structure that will take us towards a greener more sustainable future, into concrete action. This legislation is also essential because it will gradually reduce CO2 emissions from cars and vans until their complete decarbonisation by 2035. This is absolutely fundamental not only to mitigate climate change but also for our citizens to have cleaner air and better health. It will also put our European car industry in a leading global position in terms of the goal towards zero-emission mobility. Last but not least, as socialists we have ensured that the transition envisaged in this legislation is one which is just and does not leave anyone behind. For this reason, we have included recommendations for Member States to support those workers who will be the most impacted by this transition. This legislation is one of the tools towards the sustainable but socially just future which I envisage. It is for this reason that I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/02/14

Changes to the ELTIFs Regulation were necessary since it was clear that since its entry into force there was only a small amount of ELTIFs which were launched in the EU. It was therefore necessary to make this investment framework more flexible for fund managers and to strengthen the possibility for retail investors to invest in ELTIF investment vehicles. At the same time, such changes ensure that there are the necessary safeguards to protect investors. For these reasons, I voted in favour of this report.

2023/02/15

Amending the Convention on the Conservation and Management of Pollock Resources in the Central Bering Sea is an important necessity because it will allow the participation of the European Union as a full party to the Convention. It is essential that our Union is active in the international dimension of fisheries policy especially in order to promote the principles and standards of the Common Fisheries policy in this and other international organisations. It is our responsibility to protect the conservation of living resources which are under threat and therefore it is important for the EU to have a seat at the table in such discussions. For these reasons I have voted in favour of this recommendation.

2023/02/15

This file will improve transparency standards and strengthen the capacity of the Ombudsman to act on a wide range of administrative practices. I voted in favour because a vote in favour meant that European citizens would have more tools with which to enhance and encourage transparency and good functioning of the institutions.

2023/02/15

We deplore the political instrumentalisation of this case, where the health of former President Saakashvili is being abused as an arena between the Georgian Dream party and the UNM opposition party, ahead of the upcoming elections. As S&D, we chose to support the EU’s official position on the matter, considering this as a humanitarian issue - we therefore voted in favour of suspending Saakashvili’s prison sentence for the sole reason of receiving medical treatment abroad.

2023/02/15

Out of all EU Member States, there still remains Bulgaria, Lithuania, Latvia, Czech Republic, Hungary and Slovakia who have not ratified this Convention. This is not only concerning but also unacceptable - one cannot become a Member of our Union if one does not subscribe to a legal framework that aspires to protect women against violence, and prevent, prosecute and eliminate violence against women and domestic violence. This Convention recognises that violence against women is indeed a human rights violation - any Member State that disregards this basic fact needs to rectify its situation immediately and the EU’s accession to this Istanbul Convention is the way forward in this regard. For these reasons, I have voted in favour of this Report.

2023/02/15

By means of this strategy, the European Parliament is sending a clear message on what it wants to see in a green industrial plan as a reaction to the Commission proposal which has its limitations in terms of our social industrial future. This resolution is insisting on stronger social conditions including upskilling and reskilling. Our industry needs to be prepared to face the green transition and therefore education is absolutely crucial in making sure nobody is left behind. We cannot have a green transition without a just transition. It is therefore fundamental for an EU green industrial plan to put our social industrial future at the heart of its focus. For these reasons and beyond, I have voted in favour of this resolution.

2023/02/16

Even though one year has passed since the start of Russia’s barbaric act of aggression against Ukraine, our message has remained the same and has never been more clear. We will continue to support Ukraine’s territorial integrity and will seek to ensure that the Kremlin pays for the devastating humanitarian consequences it has unleashed on the Ukrainian people. The EU is Ukraine’s home, and we will not rest until peace is restored, within its internationally recognised borders. I voted in favour of this resolution.

2023/02/16

In the current climate that we are living in, it is more important than ever for the European Parliament to exercise its scrutiny functions on the activities of other institutions. With regard to the European Central Bank, we have seen regular increases in interest rates throughout 2022 as a reaction to the inflation caused by COVID and the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine. In this regard, the report rightfully recalls that the ECB’s primary mandate is to ensure price stability. The introduction of a chapter on climate change in this report is also an important signal in the all-encompassing and cross-sectional nature that comes with this subject. For these reasons and beyond I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/02/16

This resolution proposes a whole structure of measures with the aim of giving cycling the legitimacy it deserves as a mode of transport but also as a policy tool to help us achieve our green ambitions, better health for our citizens, a better standard of living and contributing to our industrial competitiveness at the same time. Perhaps most importantly, it pushes for cycling to be recognised as a fully-fledged mode of transport and asks the Commission to develop a dedicated European cycling strategy with the aim of doubling the number of kilometres cycled by 2030.Indeed, it is truly time to really start seizing the opportunities offered to us by cycling in reaching so many of our most crucial policy objectives. Apart from cycling being a relatively inexpensive way to address many challenges, it also offers valuable economic opportunities. In fact the EU cycling ecosystem provides one million jobs and these can be increased to two million by 2030. Concrete action from the Commission in this area is therefore a necessary and important step in achieving these goals. It is for these reasons and beyond that I have voted in favour of this resolution.

2023/02/16

Our fertilisers have an important role in providing us with food security. The challenges that we are facing as a result of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine have also impacted fertilisers as their production and their cost is largely dependent on natural gas, thus we have seen an impact on global food security and food prices. By means of this resolution and in reaction to the Commission’s communication on the availability and affordability of fertilisers, the European Parliament is seeking to ensure concrete action in strengthening a sustainable EU fertilisers’ production and to reduce our dependence on third countries. The resolution also calls for availability and affordability of fertilisers in the EU and globally. It also seeks to ensure that there is no deterioration in soil fertility. For all these reasons, I have voted in favour of this resolution.

2023/02/16

The European Globalisation Adjustment Fund was set up precisely to support workers who are suffering from the consequences of major structural changes in global trade or of the global financial and economic crisis and to help them reintegrate back into the labour market. Given the 548 workers made redundant in the company TNT Express Worldwide in Liege, Belgium, the rapid mobilisation of funds for this sector following Belgium’s application is of absolute necessity. This is precisely what this Report is seeking to achieve. The COVID—19 pandemic and the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine has fundamentally tested the resilience of many companies across Europe. As a Union, and as socialists we need to be behind our workers as they face these devastating challenges. For these reasons I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/03/14

One of our basic obligations as politicians is to protect our citizens’ health and to put a stop to any measures which can put it at risk. It is therefore clear that I cannot vote to authorize measures seeking to place foods, food ingredients and feed on the market which contain GMOs which could lead to unacceptable risks to food safety, human health and biodiversity. I have therefore voted in favour of the objection to this draft measure.

2023/03/14

This file concerned EU passenger ship safety legislation – something which is crucial particularly for an island like Malta which relies greatly on passenger ships to connect the two main islands of the archipelago. It is imperative that we have specific, detailed and comprehensive texts which bring together the highest possible safety standards in maritime transport. It was also very important for us to have EU rules be in line with international rules as established by the IMO. This directive encouraged this and therefore I voted in favour specifically because not only does this align with the beliefs of my political group, but it also satisfies the needs of my country.

2023/03/14

The European Union has positioned itself as a global leader in the fight against climate change both through the continued adoption of ambitious laws and also through the role it plays in international fora seeking to bring the world on the same page in this fight for our future. We are now turning words into action and Member States are rising up to the occasion through the adoption of higher national emission targets within the sectors covered by the Effort Sharing Regulation which generate about 60% of overall EU greenhouse gas emissions. This will put us on track to meet the EU’s climate goals by 2030. The report also ensures that this increased ambition does not stand in the way of protection of the most vulnerable groups affected by the green transition. As socialists we will never accept a green transition which is not a just transition that leaves no one behind. For all these reasons I have voted in favour of this Report.

2023/03/14

The fight against climate change is the biggest challenge of our lifetimes. The way we deal with it will make or break the future of the only planet we call home. The obstacles in addressing this crisis sometimes feel unmeasurable. Yet we must remember that nature is on our side in this uphill climb and that we can always rely on its inbuilt capacity to be part of the solution.Our soil, trees, plants, biomass and timber are responsible for emitting and absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere. By means of this report we are making sure to capitalise on this potential much more than ever before. More specifically, the amount of CO2 absorbed by these natural carbon sinks will increase to 310 million tonnes by 2030. This will be an important piece of the puzzle in Europe’s journey to meet its target for 55% net emission reductions by 2030. For this reason, I voted in favour of this report.

2023/03/14

Whilst I believe in moving towards more ambition in the energy performance of our buildings, I consider that this report does not provide the necessary flexibility which will ensure the smooth implementation of obligations by Member States and places a disproportionate burden on ordinary citizens. More specifically, this report is seeking to create obligations whilst failing to provide the needed flexibility in cases of buildings which may have particular circumstances, and this makes the targets being set out by the report very difficult to achieve in certain realities pertaining in different Member States.This one-size-fits-all approach is not the way to achieve our climate and environmental targets. If we truly believe in a just transition that leaves no one behind, we should provide incentives for residential owners to gradually improve the energy performance of their buildings rather than placing the burden of the costs for such a transition on homeowners. For all these reasons, I voted against this report.

2023/03/14

The digital age has given rise to a number of challenges which leave consumers vulnerable to infringements of their rights. By means of this report, we are seeking to establish common rules governing the sharing of data generated by the use of connected products or related services to ensure fairness in data sharing contracts and to allow public sector bodies to use data held by enterprises in exceptional cases of necessity.It provides new rules which facilitate the life of consumers seeking to switch between providers of cloud services and other data processing services. It also introduces the necessary safeguards to protect consumers against unlawful international data transfers by cloud service providers. A fundamental aspect of this report is the establishment of a new right for consumers to have access to the data they generate through the use of free of charge connected products. For all these reasons and beyond, I voted in favour of this report.

2023/03/14

This annual report gave great importance to the current affairs of the EU institutions when it comes to transparency. The Ombudsman’s role when it comes to good administration of our institutions needs great enhancement and this report recognised that.The fact that certain matters remain unaddressed such as the undisclosed text messages of the Commission President regarding the purchase of vaccines during the pandemic is unacceptable. Thus I voted in favour of an amendment to this annual report calling on the Commission to live up to the principles of ethics, transparency and accountability towards EU citizens.As one of the few MEPs who has been tirelessly calling for full transparency not only within Parliament but also in the Council, this vote was significantly important for me. The fact that this report addresses the transparency of trilogues and the issue of ‘revolving doors’ policy by former senior EU officials made it all the more important for me to vote in favour.

2023/03/14

This report has called for reformatory steps for the EP, the Commission and the Council with regard to competences, knowledge-sharing, resources, and impact assessments amongst others. I think this is a crucial step for the development of the Union in general, and for the purposes of efficiency as well. Another element of this file which struck me and which convinced me to vote in favour was the fact that it encourages regular monitoring of the impact of EU policies on developing countries - something which, in my view, we do not do enough. While it is imperative for us as a Union to see the implementation of our policies and to analyse the development which they bring forth for our citizens, it is also just as important to determine the role of the EU in the world in this regard. Our policies do not only affect EU citizens but go way beyond that, particularly in third countries whereby we have more impact than we realise. Finally, the implementation of the measures enlisted in this report are also a stepping stone for the fulfilment of our Sustainable Development Goals.

2023/03/14

The UK’s withdrawal from the European Union was a trying time which led to a period of adaptation and required us to look at every aspect of our work and re-establish rules which cater for this new reality. This is especially true with regard to trade with third countries. This Report is seeking to address this situation when it comes to EU agricultural, fish and industrial WTO tariff rate quotas (TRQs) relating to the USA through an Agreement on the TRQs modification in light of BREXIT. By means of this Report, the European Parliament is providing its consent to the conclusion of this Agreement with the US. These negotiations and changes to international agreements are fundamental for the stability and predictability of our future without the UK in it. For this reason, I have voted in favour of this Report.

2023/03/15

Globalisation has brought about a dire need for directives such as this one. The equivalent access for national law enforcement authorities to information available in other Member States not only assists in the efficiency of law enforcement agencies but also in the fight against crime across the Union in general. Having better organised and facilitated Single Points of Contact for the exchange of information is imperative. Crime does not follow working hours - it is there 24/7 and so should be the accessibility of such information. My only concern was the fact that the accuracy of personal data and the forwarding of information to Europol could prove tricky and sensitive. That said, important compromises were obtained on these issues to ensure that the proposal was in line with the GDPR and Europol Regulation hence why I voted in favour.

2023/03/15

This particular report aligns with most of my beliefs and political positions, especially with regard to the central role of human rights, a more streamlined gender balance in the EEAS and the strenghtening of the framework of interinstitutional relations between this Parliament and the EEAS. However, I do not agree with the introduction of qualified majority voting on security and defence, as this does not reflect the foreign policy of all EU Member States. Hence, due to these mixed positions, and due to the diverse nature of this recommendation, I decided to abstain on the final vote.

2023/03/15

The last years have been marked by a series of crises that shook the world to its core. The increased impact of the climate crisis on many regions of the world, the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine have put the economies of Member States under immense pressure with public debts rising across the board. Discussions on future economic governance in the EU are therefore of utmost importance and this is precisely one of the key points which this report is seeking to address. The mentioned crises will require the consistent mobilisation of high levels of public investment notwithstanding the high debt levels. This report seeks to address this by combining public investments and measures to achieve debt sustainability. This is important to keep the economies of the EU resilient against future challenges. For these reasons and beyond, I voted in favour of this report.

2023/03/15

With regard to the annual sustainable growth strategy, I believe that the focus on macroeconomic and environmental targets has to be accompanied by fairness and social rights, which I believe to be equally important if we want to improve the well-being of our citizens in this climate of crises in which we are living.As socialists, we believe that the European Pillar of Social Rights and the Sustainable Development Goals should be our guiding light with regard to the architecture of any reforms and investments made. National recovery and resilience plans need to include a strong social commitment, and any future funding initiative should include principles of social conditionalities, stable and quality jobs, and social and environmental justice. This report includes all of these social priorities; it is for this reason that I voted in favour.

2023/03/15

This report ensures that the European Parliament will closely monitor the full implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement – something that is extremely important both for the protection of EU nationals, as well as of British nationals themselves. Ireland could also be greatly impacted if the Withdrawal Agreement is not fully implemented. Thus, it is important for me as a politician who is part of the Union to ensure that citizens’ rights are safeguarded – in the UK, in Ireland and in Europe at large.This report as adopted also takes into account the recent Windsor Framework, which therefore makes it a timely and updated report that, in my view, I could not vote down. Hence, my vote here is in favour of protecting the integrity and functioning of the EU’s single market and customs union, and ensuring a fair financial settlement, whilst ensuring that the impact on citizens is kept to a minimum.

2023/03/15

This report complimented the one by Zovko, and is also the only report on Armenia in this legislative term. Fortunately, the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA) of March 2021 and the civilian EU CSDP mission that became operational in February 2023 greatly intensified EU-Armenia relations.That said, a sustainable solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is still not yet achieved. As seen in the EU-Azerbaijan relations vote, the ceasefire of 2020 remains to be fully adhered to, given Azerbaijan’s continued military aggressions. Hence, with this vote in favour, my aim is to enhance EU-Armenia relations, but also, more importantly, to ensure that the Armenian population in Nagorno-Karabakh is secure, safe, and has its rights safeguarded.

2023/03/15

In light of the fact that this was the only report on the country of Azerbaijan during this legislative term, it was important for me that my vote matters on this. The text called for better EU-Azerbaijan relations, but not only this – it also called for such relations to be based on the respect of democratic values, fundamental freedoms and human rights.Given my work within the LIBE and AFCO Committees, I know too well the shortcomings of Azerbaijan in this regard, and it was thus crucial that I support this text. The fact that political opposition, civil society and independent media in Azerbaijan remain repressed worries me, and so does the fact that Azerbaijan fails to respect its obligations emanating from the 2020 trilateral statement on a ceasefire following the Armenia-Azerbaijan war.I want my vote in favour of this report to mean one thing: that I call for and greatly emphasise that any sustainable solution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict must address the rights and security of the population of Nagorno-Karabakh.

2023/03/15

This text essentially revives the existing directive by assessing the safety of machines holistically - something which will further ensure the safety of workers and consumers from risks stemming from those machines. At the same time, this text still manages to cater for the latest technological developments whilst still ensuring such protection and safety at the place of work. I fully welcome the transformation of this directive into a regulation as it will ensure that safety rules across all EU Member States will be harmonised, and thus will allow for uniformity and better enforcement. For these reasons, I have voted in favour of this Report.

2023/04/18

The revision of the European Emissions Trading system is one of the most important tools to lead us towards the path to achieving our targets under the EU Climate law. Covering the most polluting industries, it will include within it around half of all greenhouse gas emissions in the European Union. The reduction in the CO2 allowances available on the market and the earlier phase—out of free allowances were important achievements fought for by my political groups to meet the climate crises which is rapidly intensifying.Another crucial aspect of this revision was the success in limiting the potential social impacts of increases in energy prices in the buildings and transport sector while at the same time securing from the Social Climate Fund thus keeping true to the principle of a just transition which should be at the core of any climate policy.For all these reasons, I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/04/18

The revision of the European emissions trading system is one of the most important tools to lead us towards the path to achieving our targets under the EU Climate law. The inclusion of the maritime sector within the scope of the ETS is another step towards ensuring that we have a system which truly covers the most energy-intensive industries in Europe. This is a necessary step to meet the climate emergency which is rapidly intensifying as indicated in the most recent IPCC report on climate change which clearly states that we have a rapidly closing window of opportunity to secure a liveable and sustainable future for all. Notwithstanding, it is important to maintain derogations for insular areas around Europe as is the case for outermost regions. For these reasons, I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/04/18

As much as the European Union is committed to addressing the climate emergency through the adoption of Union laws which focus on reducing emissions, achieving circularity and restoring our environment, unless parallel work is being done on the international front, we cannot successfully tackle the climate crisis. The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism will be an important tool for Europe to address this because it aims to incentivise third countries to increase their climate ambition and to make sure that European and global climate efforts are not penalised by having third countries relocating their production away from Europe to other countries with less climate ambition. For these reasons, I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/04/18

The transition to more ambitious climate and environmental laws has to be sustainable and has to take into account different sectors of societies and their realities. Green targets cannot only be achievable by the rich and we cannot expect vulnerable households and individuals to prioritise the climate and the environment if they are also struggling to finance basic everyday needs. For this reason, our climate policy has to include a social agenda which caters for these realities. It is precisely for this reason that the Social Climate Fund was created. This will be a protective instrument which will provide funding to the most vulnerable citizens to help them to transition to climate neutrality in line with the just transition principle which should be at the heart of our climate policy. For this reason, I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/04/18

Aviation is one of the energy-intensive industries with emissions accounting for 2–3 % of CO2 emissions globally. It is therefore only fair that this sector puts in all necessary efforts to achieve the emission reductions needed to meet the climate emergency that we are facing. Overall the achievements made by my political group were a notable success especially with regard to the phasing out of free allocation of ETS allowances for aviation by 2026 and the efforts to address non-CO2 effects of aviation, which are equally important to the impact of CO2 emissions. For all these reasons, I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/04/18

This Report sheds a light on the different elements needed to further strengthen the relations between the EU and the Council of Europe. One of the cornerstones of this relationship is the EU’s pending accession to the European Convention on Human Rights, which is long overdue. Such accession would give concrete meaning to the EU’s commitment to the protection of fundamental human rights and would further enhance the institutional relations between the EU and the CoE. For these reasons and beyond, I have voted in favour of this Report.

2023/04/18

The discussions on this Own Initiative Report overlapped with ongoing work on the legislative proposal on Carbon Removal Certification Framework (CRCF), which concerns the same topic. Maintaining a balanced approach which does not prejudge the discussions on the legislative proposal was therefore an important priority for this Report. However, a number of aspects which were amongst the key subjects in the discussions on the legislative proposal were included in this Report namely the voluntary use of carbon farming schemes and the possibility to finance carbon farming through private initiatives such as market based solutions. Given that this risks prejudging the discussions on the CRCF, I have voted against this Report.

2023/04/18

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, all of us have been made aware of the importance that digital literacy holds for all our futures - be it young or old. The world has had to adapt as best as it could and it is socially unacceptable to have certain parts of society kept in the dark because of a lack of knowledge.Moreover, irrespective of the pandemic, open, accessible, inclusive, trustworthy and safe eGovernment services can improve public administration for all, be it citizens, businesses, and the public sector itself. As a union, we have been legislating in favour of more digitalisation, more efficiency, and more interoperability. However, this cannot be done at the cost of those who lack the skills or means to participate in the digital environment at large.I voted in favour of this Report because I believe that the responsibility falls on us to ensure that everyone has the skills and the means to participate in digital government. Finally, we must take advantage of these digital capabilities to create more transparency within European governments, to ensure that they can be held accountable, to support the rule of law and to fight any form of corruption within the system.

2023/04/18

This report gives great regard to disinformation campaigns and cyber-threats. It addresses issues such as gender equality, it encourages collaboration with civil society and also tackles issues relating to the climate crisis. In particular, this text highlights the importance of full, equal and meaningful participation of women in civilian CSDP missions, through the implementation of the EU’s Gender Action Plan 2020-2024. These are things which I believe our Union stands for and which we should continue striving for, and for this reason I voted in favour of this report.

2023/04/18

I voted in favour of this text not only because these new rules will make the plenary activities more engaging and democratic, but they will also increase the political profile of the European Parliament. The Rules of Procedure have been in dire need of a shake-up when it comes to question time, the central rostrum, the blue-card procedure and the explanations of votes.I was also happy to vote in favour of this text because the proposals implemented in it follow the recommendations of the focus groups on the EP internal reform. This text also includes some technical adjustments concerning the transparency register and the Ombudsman. In this regard, I would like to see bolder changes to our legislation that go beyond the technical level.

2023/04/19

For the agreement in question to be concluded, it requires consent from the European Parliament. This agreement is the first ever multilateral trade agreement with environmental sustainability at its core, and only the second multilateral agreement reached at the WTO since its inception, following the Trade Facilitation Agreement concluded in 2013. It is also the first UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target to be fully met through a multilateral agreement. This is in line with the EU’s direction towards a more sustainable future in its trade relations and I have therefore voted in favour of this Report.

2023/04/19

By means of this report, we’re taking another step towards our fight against climate change and towards a sustainable future. European consumers will now have peace of mind that the products they are buying are not coming from deforested land or are not leading to forest degradation. Our consumers will now also be assured that these products are not tainted with human rights violations and that they are in compliance with the laws of the country of production. This is also important from a climate justice point of view and it is in line with my socialist belief that we cannot have green ambition with a just transition. For these reasons, I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/04/19

By means of this report we are creating new own resources to ensure the repayment of common debt and the Union’s capacity to create new instruments based on common borrowing and lending in the future and it is for this reason that I have voted in favour of it. In accordance with the principle of universality of the EU budget, I consider that revenues from new taxes or contributions should be channelled through the EU budget and the EU programmes and policies. This is necessary for the reduction of distortions and to have a stronger EU architecture. It would also prevent the situation where new EU priorities and emergency actions are financed at the sacrifice of existing EU programmes and policies.

2023/04/19

Given the inclusion of wording in this report by right-wing parliamentary groups concerning the use of Union funding for the construction of walls and fences against migrants at the external borders of the EU, I have voted against it. Rather than building walls, when it comes to migration we need to find adequate solutions to address the challenges in front of us such as through the quick implementation of the EU Migration and Asylum Pact.

2023/04/19

. – This proposal was the result of long negotiations between the EU and the Commission resulting in the so—called ‘Windsor Framework’ with the aim of putting an end to years of friction on the Northern Ireland Protocol. As socialists, we had fully supported the agreement struck with the UK, and now I want to see it put in place as soon as possible. Hence, I voted in favour and supported the outcome of these negotiations.

2023/05/09

. – This report is essential for the people of Northern Ireland because it puts them on the same level as patients in the rest of the United Kingdom with regard to timeliness and conditions concerning access to all medicines, including novel medicines. European patients in countries and regions which were, and are still, dependent on the UK market with regard to medicines should not bear the brunt of the UK’s exit from the EU. Such temporary solutions are therefore essential to avoid shortages and increased inequalities in these countries. For all these reasons, I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/05/09

. – This report ensures that in the sanitary and phyto—sanitary areas, the people of Northern Ireland will have access to the same food products which are available on the market of the rest of the United Kingdom. It also ensures minimal certification requirements and controls with regard to agri—food retail products moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland for end consumption. Simple procedures for travelling with pets between Northern Ireland and the other three nations of the Kingdom have also been adopted. These new arrangements will be of great benefit for citizens and businesses as they will simplify the processes for the interaction between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. For all these reasons, I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/05/09

. – Given that Moldova is facing significant pressure due to Russia’s destabilisation attempts, and the economic consequences of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, it is imperative that we support this top-up of funds to further support the country’s energy market and minimise negative impacts on the population. This text does exactly that, and hence I voted in favour of this additional money, which will be focused on alleviating the impact of gas prices on the most vulnerable as well as addressing the balance of payments difficulties and longer-term energy capacity.

2023/05/09

. – As a show of continuing support to our fellow Ukrainian counterparts, this proposal will renew the suspension of import duties, quotas and trade defence measures on Ukrainian exports to the EU for another year. As a European Union, we have pledged our unwavering support, and as socialists we have always said that our actions must live up to our words in the support we have committed to assist Ukraine, its people and its economy. For this reason, I have voted in favor of this renewal. While I do recognise that certain constituencies could be affected by this renewal and so I welcome efforts to support them, I still cannot accept the way the Commission has turned a blind eye to the lack of respect towards our common commercial policy by openly allowing certain Member States to flout trade rules.

2023/05/09

. – This agreement with Brazil relates to the adjustment of EU’s tariff rate quotas agreed at the WTO following the withdrawal of the UK. This text introduces changes of volumes that were agreed in the tariff rate quotas concerning poultry, sugar, broken rice, food preparations, fruit juices, animal feeding. Beef and plywood tariff rate quotas have also been adjusted. On this basis and also on the basis of the rapporteur’s recommendation that the Parliament gives its consent to the conclusion of the agreement, I voted in favour.

2023/05/09

. – Methane emissions are 80 times more harmful than CO2 emissions and it is therefore high time for reductions in methane to be achieved in view of the climate emergency. By means of this report we will be able to measure and reduce methane emissions in the energy sector. The production, distribution and use of fossil fuels with potential releases or leaks of methane will now have to comply with the new measures. In line with the EU commitment made at COP26 in 2021, the Commission is also obliged to issue a reduction plan for methane by 2025 for all sectors beyond methane. For all these reasons, I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/05/09

. – This is a consent procedure to the draft Council decision amending Decision (EU) 2019/1754 on the accession of the European Union to the Geneva Act of the Lisbon Agreement on Appellations of Origin and Geographical Indications. I am wholly in favour of strengthening and preserving the priority rights linked to the appellations of origin already registered by the Member States under the Lisbon Agreement. Hence, I voted in favour of this decision which authorises the EU to join the Geneva Act of the Lisbon Agreement and granted consent.

2023/05/09

. – The crises that we have experienced in the last years have given rise to increased financial difficulties for many regions and sectors across the European Union. The European Global Adjustment Fund is a tool to direct funds towards European workers or the self-employed that have been displaced in view of restructuring processes. This was the case for 303 workers displaced by Alu Ibérica in Spain as a result of the liquidation of the company. The significant rise in energy and raw material prices in the last years and the effects of world prices in aluminium in view of production overcapacity in China, were important contributors to this liquidation. The mobilisation of funds towards the reintegration of these workers into the labour market is therefore a natural step to protect Spanish enterprises following the losses that they have suffered and the reduction in competitiveness in view of the current rise in inflation. For all these reasons, I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/05/09

. – Smart and sustainable urban mobility strategies are one of the most important areas of focus at the centre of our climate emergency. We need urban transport systems which are affordable, reliable and emission-free, and here we need to reinforce public transport and its central role in urban mobility. This requires the direction of funds towards improving existing systems and creating new strategies to address shortcomings.We also need smart solutions which render our urban transport systems efficient and reliable and in order to attract more EU citizens to opt for sustainable options in their day—to—day lives. This report puts forward a set of concrete proposals to achieve this vision. For all these reasons, I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/05/09

. – While co—management will aid in the sustainability of fisheries management, one must safeguard the local artisanal small—scale fishers. There needs to be harmonisation across regions sharing the same resource and co—management with neighbouring third parties. This will help in ensuring a fair share of resources between countries exploiting the same stocks.My objective will always be to improve the common fisheries policy and the sustainability of the three pillars – social, economic and environmental – through the involvement of all stakeholders, in particular fishers at local and regional level. It is my view that with the involvement of all stakeholders in the decision making, the management rules will be better implemented and respected, speeding up implementation and conformity. Hence, I had no objection to this report and thus voted in favour.

2023/05/09

. – The Mediterranean Basin is experiencing numerous environmental challenges, such as rising water temperatures and extreme weather events, which require immediate action by the EU. This report looks at how we can use cohesion policy in response to these challenges in coordination and complementary to measures under the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund, the National Recovery and Resilience Plan and other national policies.Most importantly, the report concludes that we need an ambitious macro—regional strategy for the Mediterranean involving citizens and local representatives to better address environmental deterioration, pollution and climate change. For all these reasons, I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/05/09

. – Platforms often feature the relatively strictly regulated and controlled online offers of European media service providers directly alongside uncontrolled and unregulated offers that are not subject to the Directive. This inequality, to the detriment of Union providers, should be eliminated by further developing the Directive so as to render global platform operators accountable to a greater extent.This report reminds the Commission of its duty to use the tools at its disposal, including infringement procedures as need be, to avoid undue delays in the transposition and implementation of the Directive. It points to the detrimental impact such delays by some countries cause to European media services in other countries. These are all matters which greatly align with my beliefs.More so, this text also encourages stronger actions for media independence and the fight against disinformation – something which has been at the top of my agenda, both as a politician and also as an activist. It also talks about inclusion, diversity, gender equality amongst other important topics. Hence, I voted in favour.

2023/05/09

. – The increasing consumption of processed foods by children is leading to the increased incidence of numerous health challenges, such as obesity and diabetes. Studies also show a much stronger relationship between nutrition and brain development and mental wellbeing in children than in adults. As legislators, we have a duty to encourage children to adopt a healthy lifestyle by facilitating their access to nutritious food and this is what the school scheme is all about. Although the scheme has been applicable since 2017, it is now high time that we ensure that it is reaching enough children across the Union especially through the allocation of more funds for this purpose and this is what we are pushing for in this report. For these reasons, I have voted in its favour.

2023/05/09

. – It is no news that the effective participation of European SMEs and other societal stakeholders in international standardisation continues to be a major challenge, due to the limited capabilities such as funding. This text calls on the Commission to increase financial support and ensure that funding programmes are available that can provide substantial, long-term and stable financial support for the involvement of various stakeholders, including SMEs and consumer organisations. As a text, it essentially encompasses that which a socialist politician should support. It also calls on the Commission to carry out a mapping of civil society organisations which have an interest in contributing to the standardisation work at European level. Hence, I voted in favour.

2023/05/09

. – I am in favour of granting discharge to the Commission for 2021, especially in light of the fact that this is the first time it includes a dedicated part concerning the implementation of the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) given its contribution in balancing out the economic challenges following the COVID-19 crisis while at the same time prioritising the green transition in the use of funds. However, delays in the adoption of sectoral regulations in 2021 resulted in the late introduction of new MFF 2021–2027 programmes and in turn to a decreased implementation of commitments. On the other hand, the increased absorption of the European Structural and Investment Funds in 2021 is highly welcomed. Looking to the future, the Commission should continue supporting Member States to strongly and effectively implement the current MFF programmes and the RRF in order to ensure that we reap the expected results in the day to day lives of our citizens as quickly as possible.

2023/05/10

. – This discharge report for the European Parliament contains strong progressive elements concerning institutional transparency, which lies at the heart of the democratic legitimacy of the European Union. This is especially important in view of the recent Qatar scandal which has undermined the trust that our citizens have in our work. We therefore have a duty to restore that trust through concrete measures which make us more accountable and more transparent towards our citizens. The report also includes measures aiming to strengthen workers’ rights and increase efficiency in the way European funds are being used. For all these reasons, I voted in favour of granting discharge to the European Parliament for 2021.

2023/05/10

. – Unfortunately, the Council failed to provide us with the relevant information on the basis of which we can decide on whether or not to grant discharge to this institution. Also, for yet another year, it did not appear for the discharge hearing organised by the CONT Committee. This shows lack of transparency and lack of cooperation between EU institutions; two major pillars in the EU’s democratic legitimacy. For these reasons, I voted in favour of postponing the decision on whether or not to grant discharge to the Council of the European Union.

2023/05/10

. – The Court of Justice has proven pivotal in the shaping of the entire European legal framework. I think that time and time again it has been the main point of reference for us as policymakers, and for national European courts as well, and it is in this light that I voted in favour of this discharge. I also supported civil society’s call for the hearings of the Court of Justice of the European Union to be live-streamed on its website, as it is already the practice of several national and international courts, like the European Court of Human Rights. This, however, should always be in line with the right to a fair hearing and with great caution towards the risks of trials by media.

2023/05/10

. – In light of the grave human rights violations by this organisation which was actually supposed to protect and safeguard those same fundamental rights in the first place, it would have not made sense for us as a European Parliament to grant discharge to FRONTEX. Hence, I voted against the granting of discharge but in favour of the resolution calling for better transparency and complete adherence by the agency in line with every individual’s fundamental rights.

2023/05/10

. – To progress, Serbia must continue domestic reforms and normalise relations with Pristina, but most importantly it must align with EU sanctions against Russia. If not, therw should be a backtracking in negotiations for EU membership and the EU’s financial support should also be withheld accordingly.Hence I voted for a report which calls on the EU to reconsider the extent of financial assistance provided by the EU to Serbia if support for anti-democratic regimes continues. I also fully believe that the accession negotiations with Serbia should advance only if the country aligns with EU sanctions against Russia and makes significant progress on EU-related reforms. It is unacceptable to have any country which aligns with the Kremlin’s agenda as part of our Union.

2023/05/10

. – We have seen substantial improvements in Kosovo in the last few years especially in the areas of reforms, the fight against corruption and organised crime, migration management and in relation to its foreign and security policy. A clear manifestation of this progress is the long-overdue visa liberalisation which will be granted to its citizens as of 1 January 2024. Although further progress needs to be achieved such as in relation to its justice system and media freedom, in light of what has already been achieved so far, I believe that it is time for the EU to reconsider Kosovo’s application for EU membership. This is exactly what we’re doing through this Report and this is why I have voted in favour of it.

2023/05/10

. – In this time of crises where we’re seeing constant rises in interest rates, the EU should take a cautious approach with respect to the sustainability of its budget and specifically the impact of the cost of its debt on the annual budget. In this regard, it is essential for the Council to introduce new own resources in order to ensure the sound management of the EU debt. This is what we’re pushing for through this report and for this reason I have voted in favour.

2023/05/10

. – After 10 years, we have seen a historical moment in our European history. Finally, the EU is standing up to be counted in our fight against violence against women and domestic violence. After 10 years, the European Parliament has delivered on the safety and freedom of women. Europe should have zero tolerance against violence against women. I am a firm believer that when we unite our forces, Europe becomes better, freer and safer for all women, and everyone suffering violence.

2023/05/10

. – After 10 years, we have seen a historical moment in our European history. Finally, the EU is standing up to be counted in our fight against violence against women and domestic violence. After 10 years, the European Parliament has delivered on the safety and freedom of women. Europe should have zero tolerance against violence against women. I am a firm believer that when we unite our forces, Europe becomes better, freer and safer for all women, and everyone suffering violence.

2023/05/10

. – This report seeks to ensure a high level of consumer protection and focuses on the importance of tackling unfair commercial practices, such as dark patterns and early obsolescence. In this light, I felt that, as a socialist, it was my duty to support the text, especially given that consumer protection is one of the main pillars of our political ideology.The report also highlights the need to provide reliable and useful information on products. This is something which I have spoken about many times, as I believe that harmonisation of product information and labelling lies at the heart of a functioning single market and can lead to better access by consumers to information and better prices in view of decreased costs for producers.

2023/05/11

Illum erġajt ivvotajt kontra l-maġġoranza tal-Parlament Ewropew dwar il-proposta li l-fondi ddedikati għall-familji u n-negozji, jispiċċaw jintużaw għall-armi militari. Iva, l-Ukranja għandha dritt tiddefendi lilha nnifisha, iżda ma naqbel qatt li l-fondi għall-irkupru ekonomiku wara l-pandemija li tant huma importanti għall-familji u negozji Maltin u Ewropej, jintużaw minflok għall-irkupru biex jiġu manifatturati u mibgħuta armamenti tal-gwerra. Importanti li l-Ukranja tirbaħ lura l-art li ttieħditilha, imma l-familji u n-negozji Ewropej għaddew minn sfidi kbar għal 3 snin - ma nistgħux ninsewhom.

2023/06/01

This report relates to a piece of legislation which we have long fought for as Socialists and Democrats within the European Parliament. By means of this law we are putting a stop to irresponsible business practices through which many victims have suffered along the years. We will no longer stand for environmental harm and human rights violations in the name of corporate greed. Companies which fail to comply with these rules will now be accountable through sanctions, and CEOs will now be personally responsible for due diligence. For all these reasons, I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/06/01

I voted in favour of this text because it aims at making the agriculture and the agri-food sector more competitive and sustainable. It also strengthens the position of farmers and producer groups. The Socialists and Democrats have also worked hard to ensure that this text takes note of the sustainable characteristics of GI products. On this basis, we support the idea that producers explain their commitment to social and environmental sustainability in reports that are to be made available to consumers on an EU portal. This creates an environment of information and transparency – something which I feel is crucial in the world of agriculture.

2023/06/01

This was an uncontroversial vote which meant that Iceland would be able to fully participate in the activities of the EUAA. It also allows for Iceland’s representation in the Management Board as an observer and without voting rights, and its annual financial contributions to the budget of the agency. I voted in favour of having Iceland join the EUAA Community because I believe it can be of help both to Iceland itself but also to the rest of the Member States in the area of asylum.

2023/06/01

The crises that we have experienced in the last years have given rise to increased financial difficulties for many regions and sectors across the European Union. The European Global Adjustment Fund is a tool to direct funds towards European workers or the self-employed that have been displaced in view of restructuring processes. It is therefore important to continue investing in the best administration of this fund and in creating the necessary tools for it to function in the most efficient way possible. This is why I have voted in favour of the mobilisation of the fund for technical assistance to be provided by the Commission for this purpose.

2023/06/01

One of the important tools which the European Parliament (EP) has at hand in order to ensure the democratic legitimacy of the Union is its scrutiny powers vis-à-vis the activities of other EU institutions. It is therefore essential for cooperation between the EP and such institutions to be systematic and for procedures to be predictable and reliable. This is precisely the aim of the agreed arrangements between the EP and the European Central Bank which are being voted for in this report. For this reason I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/06/01

The Commission’s strategy for sustainable and circular textiles published last year was the first step towards getting fast fashion out of fashion. We want to see textile products being produced responsibly with respect for human and social rights, the environment and animal welfare.By means of this report, we are further reinforcing this by calling for an ambitious approach to be taken by the Commission and the Member States. By 2030, we want to make sure that textile products placed on the market are long-lived and recyclable and produced in a manner which respects social rights and the environment. We are therefore calling on the Commission to ensure that all necessary measures are taken to achieve this 2030 vision. For all these reasons, I have voted in favour of this Report.

2023/06/01

As a political institution, we have always been at the forefront of condemning any form of sexual harassment anywhere. It is unfortunate however that when it comes to the shortcomings in our own home of democracy, we do not show as much ambition and drive. I was glad to see this report on the table in this plenary. It is high time we end sexual harassment at the very heart of European Democracy. This text insists on mandatory anti harassment training for all Members and staff, as well as inclusion of survivor centred specialised support services. We have to equip our personnel with the right knowledge and tools to fight this injustice. We need stronger education, training, and awareness-raising efforts that address sexual harassment. And it is not sufficient to merely implement measures of the sort, it is just as crucial to have checks on our policies, their efficiency and their viability. Hence, external audits of the anti harassment measures in the European Parliament are also key to implement successful policies. On this basis, I voted in favour of this text.

2023/06/01

At a time of great international instability, disinformation should be much further up on our agenda. If we do not ensure better protection of the EU against foreign interference, the situation will only get worse. I have always believed that the media is the fourth pillar in any democracy, including European democracy. Yet this inevitably brings with it risks and foreign interference, just as is the case with any other pillar of democracy. In this context, this text encourages the essential role of media and digital literacy and also the need to educate citizens of all ages, but especially public administrations. Disinformation can only be fought with information. Transparency should go hand in hand with information as well. This text also strengthens the call for a much stronger transparency register – a call I have backed and promoted all throughout my political career. Hence, I voted in favour.

2023/06/01

Thanks to the efforts made by the Socialists and Democrats Group, the annual report on competition policy 2022 puts the vulnerable groups of our societies at the centre of its priorities. It emphasises the need for competition policy to lead to consumer welfare and specifically vulnerable consumers. It sends a clear message that the Commission should use all the tools at hand to fight unfair prices and to prioritise low-income groups when enforcing competition law.For all these reasons I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/06/13

ECI is an important tool for participatory democracy at EU level and can enhance the democratic dimension of the EU by promoting active citizenship. As we are, after all, representatives of European citizens, it is crucial that this Regulation is updated constantly along with the times. This report indeed recommends that regulatory and institutional frameworks and the use of the ECI instrument must be enhanced by improving its visibility, accessibility and legal effectiveness. Given that this report is based on the final proposals of the Conference on the Future of Europe, I have voted in favour of this Report and its important recommendations to improve the use of the ECI instrument as well as its aforementioned visibility, accessibility and legal effectiveness.

2023/06/13

With the power and benefits that Artificial Intelligence (AI) has brought along, also came great concerns and difficulties or grey areas in implementation. This is why I believe that this Act was indeed a landmark and a huge necessity for the European legal framework.From a fundamental rights perspective, we need to ensure prevention of any form of prejudice, discrimination or injustice through the use of AI. In this vote, I voted against the use of AI in ‘real-time’ and ‘post’ RBI, for the purpose of predictive policing, emotion recognition systems in certain areas, social scoring by public and private entities, and biometric categorisation, and also against the scraping of biometric data from CCTV footage or the internet.I believe that this is crucial in order to ensure that the fundamental rights and basic human decency of every citizen in our Union are preserved and respected. I believe that this Act is a step in the right direction and that it will be seeing even further improvements in the future, building on the achievements of the current text to better adapt with the times. For all these reasons, I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/06/14

The European agricultural sector has been considerably impacted by the multitude of crises we have experienced in the last few years. Such crises have brought to light the realisation that we cannot take food security and food autonomy as a given and that the EU is best placed to adopt policies which will ensure food security in the long term. In this regard, we must keep in mind that our agriculture, environment and health are intrinsically linked. Therefore ensuring food security also means reversing the decrease of pollinators and biodiversity loss and the fight against food waste. These are elements which are at the centre of this report, and for these reasons I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/06/14

The European Union has amongst the best education facilities in the world and we should be proud of the talent we are producing. It is our obligation to reward citizens who invest in themselves and who wish to use their talents to contribute to the European job market. However, the situation we have at present is that of graduates facing months and years of unpaid or low-paid traineeships with dismal working conditions and thus having to delay important milestones in their life because of the lack of financial stability experienced. The need to have agreed minimum condition standards which traineeships have to meet in the European Union is urgent. Our graduates deserve a better future than the one we’re offering!

2023/06/14

The composition of the next European Parliament should reflect the demographic realities of Member States using the degressive proportionality system. It was with this in mind that I voted to have eleven members added in the next mandate to reflect current realities.I believe that with future treaty changes, it should be decided that the number of Members of the European Parliament should be set in stone, while degressive proportionality would apply through a pre-set formula, as used in most democracies, while keeping the minimum of members per state at 6, as per the Treaties.Furthermore, we have once again stated that a transnational constituency should be added to the current 27 in line with the electoral law proposed by the European Parliament for the 2024 elections.

2023/06/15

As a socialist and a democrat I cannot stand for the spying on and intimidation of politicians, journalists, lawyers and civil society. As is advocated for in this report, the use of spyware technologies needs to be regulated as we cannot continue to see repeated intrusive and illegal surveillance as was the case in a number of Member States across the Union. The Commission is therefore being called on to present a legislative proposal for the legal use, sale and purchase of spyware. This is the basis on which I have decided to vote in favour.

2023/06/15

Overall, if a lesson has been learnt from the Pandora Papers, but also the wider extent of corruption cases in the past years across the Union, it is that without transparency and accountability the European Union as a whole will continue to suffer from the faults of the powerful few on whom no checks and balances exist.The Pandora Papers have once again proven that the fight against money laundering and tax avoidance will only ever succeed if we increase transparency. Secrecy is the key to prosperity when it comes to complex ownership structures of the hidden financial system of tax avoiders, tax evaders and money-launderers. We need to know who really owns companies and trusts, and their dealings, in order to be able to truly introduce policies that matter, both at EU but also at national levels. For this reason I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/06/15

We have 7 seven years left to implement the 2030 agenda. We can either use the remaining years to make up for the lost time or we can show the rest of the world that we are not ready to practise what we preach.This report calls for a renewed commitment to meet the sustainable development goals in time but it is also a call on the European Commission to come up with a concrete strategy backed up by adequate financing on how this can be done. The Sustainable Development Goals are the only way to fight global injustices and we must spare no efforts in our work to achieve them. For all these reasons I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/06/15

The need to strengthen the regulation of pollutant emissions from industry lies at the heart of the EU’s efforts to address the climate emergency that we are facing. By reducing the release of pollutants into water, soil and air we are reinforcing environmental protection and the protection of human health. By means of this Report we are extending the scope of this regulation to include mining, large-scale battery production and cattle farming. We are also strengthening requirements attached to permit conditions and tightening the rules applicable to breaches with affected persons having access to compensation. For all these reasons I have voted in favour of this Report.

2023/07/11

As a Maltese MEP, I feel it is my duty to ensure that I represent the interests of not only Maltese activists and journalists but also European ones. The work of these individuals is invaluable to the work of the European institutions, and they serve as a check and balance for politicians in general. It is therefore indisputable that journalists, NGOs and human rights defenders have the freedom and commodity to work in an environment which allows them to carry out investigatory work and accurate journalism without the fear of frivolous prosecution or intimidation. It is unacceptable that domestic courts are used as a means to silence by the powerful individuals in a society who could benefit from such silence. Thus, I voted in favour of a broad understanding of the concept of public participation, adequate legal remedies for these journalists and human rights defenders, against forum shopping by the powerful, and an overall protection of journalists and human rights defenders.

2023/07/11

This report is another step towards a future based on sustainable products in line with circular economy principles. Our products need to be more environmentally friendly, durable and with increased repairability. We also need to focus on the presence of substances of concern in products, product energy, resource efficiency and the reduction of products’ carbon and environmental footprints. This is precisely what this report is trying to address and achieve and it also extends the scope of the regulation beyond energy-related products to include a much broader set of products. For all these reasons I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/07/12

The Nature Restoration law is one of the key pillars of the Green Deal. Around the world, our natural environment is in decline at rates which are unprecedented in human history, and the extinction rates of different species is rapidly accelerating. More specifically, 81% of the land and sea of the European Union is in decline and we need to urgently restore nature to prevent the worst impact of biodiversity loss.The restoration of our nature is also a cost-effective way to fight climate change given nature’s innate capacity to absorb CO₂. The restoration of EU wetlands, rivers, forests, grasslands, marine ecosystems, urban environments and the species they host is essential for our food security, climate resilience, health and well-being. Nature restoration also offers many benefits for farmers who are facing the challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss in their day to day work. Food cannot grow on unhealthy soil and therefore the revitalisation of soil is a clear example of the benefits that farmers can experience from this legislation. For all these reasons, I have voted in favour of this report.

2023/07/12

Illum erġajt ivvotajt kontra l-maġġoranza tal-Parlament Ewropew dwar il-proposta li l-fondi ddedikati għall-familji u n-negozji jispiċċaw jintużaw għall-armi militari. Iva, l-Ukrajna għandha d-dritt tiddefendi lilha nnifisha, iżda ma naqbel qatt li l-fondi għall-irkupru ekonomiku ta’ wara l-pandemija li tant huma importanti għall-familji u n-negozji Maltin u Ewropej jintużaw minflok għall-irkupru biex jiġu manifatturati u mibgħuta armamenti tal-gwerra. Importanti li l-Ukrajna tirbaħ lura l-art li ttieħditilha, imma l-familji u n-negozji Ewropej għaddew minn sfidi kbar għal tliet snin - ma nistgħux ninsewhom.

2023/07/13

The majority of the proposed recommendations in this final report correspond to the 15 Points Plan as proposed by our SD Group. Therefore, the recommendations contained in the ING2 committee final report introduce a stronger integrity culture within the EP. Having said that, this should only be the first step. The work has only just started, albeit at a good pace, there is much more for us to do. The work being done in the AFCO Committee at the moment, particularly that on the Rules of Procedure, is a prime example of the measures yet to be introduced in alignment with the above recommendations. As a socialist, and as a politician who believes that transparency should be at the root of all our endeavors as representatives of the citizens, I voted in favour of these recommendations.

2023/07/13

At a time when transparency and political integrity is under great threat, a vote in favour of this report is a duty. This report highlights the urgency with which Europe needs to act on its democratic legitimacy. We do not give visibility to our work simply by posting pictures on social media. People care what is happening behind closed doors because that is where the decisions on their day-to-day lives are being taken.Transparency will allow us to strengthen the EU’s credibility and legitimacy in the eyes of its citizens. Something which the Union as a whole needs also to enhance the involvement of European citizens in the Union’s work. This also will enable citizens to effectively exercise their right to scrutinise the EU’s work, to follow and give input to the decision-making process within the EU.I also voted in favour of amendments which indicate our disappointment at the Commission and the manner in which it handled the Covid-19 vaccines matter. The lack of transparency in this case brought shame on the European institutions. The Commission should therefore lead by example.

2023/07/13

I voted in favour of this directive in order to give protection to victims of trafficking and to improve coordination among police forces and justice in the European Union to combat these criminal networks. I am very shocked by the numerous barbarian forms of human exploitation still taking place in this world in 2024, but also in the EU. However, I strongly regret that, for the first time, the notion of ‘surrogacy’ was included in EU legislation, as if it was all wrong, rather than just stating that anyone forced to do anything is unacceptable. In addition, I did not share the views expressed in the recitals of this directive about sex work, as it does not reflect the situation nor the protection needed for sex workers in Europe. For sure we should fight against prostitution networks around Europe, with mostly women and girls as victims, but not putting at risk sex workers in the EU.

2024/04/23

I voted in favour of the deal reached by the EP and the Council on combating violence against women and domestic violence as it is an upmost priority to put an end to gender based violence all over Europe. It is sadly taking place too often, in all spheres of our society and at all levels. The #MeToo Movement has been a wake-up call to politicians to act swiftly in this sphere. Nevertheless, I am deeply saddened that the Council, and especially Member States like France, Germany and Malta among others, blocked the inclusion of the non-consensual sex act as a criminal offence: it is a shame! Let’s hope that all those Member States will make sure to include such wording in their national legislation when transposing this directive into national law.

2024/04/24

376 Written explanations of Cyrus ENGERER

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