Activities of Alojz PETERLE
Plenary speeches (456)
Composition of Parliament
Establishing Horizon Europe – laying down its rules for participation and dissemination - Programme implementing Horizon Europe (debate) SL
Supplementary protection certificate for medicinal products (debate) SL
Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (debate) SL
Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA III) (debate) SL
Discontinuing seasonal changes of time (debate) SL
Discontinuing seasonal changes of time (debate) SL
Annual strategic report on the implementation and delivery of the Sustainable Development Goals (debate) SL
Debate with the Prime Minister of the Slovak Republic, Peter Pellegrini, on the Future of Europe (debate) SL
Implementation of the cross-border Healthcare Directive (debate) SL
EU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement - EU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (resolution) - EU-Singapore Investment Protection Agreement - EU-Singapore Investment Protection Agreement (resolution) - EU-Singapore Partnership and Cooperation Agreement - EU-Singapore Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (resolution) (debate) SL
The UK’s withdrawal from the EU (debate) SL
Union’s authorisation procedure for pesticides (debate) SL
EU guidelines and the mandate of the EU Special Envoy on the promotion of freedom of religion or belief outside the EU (short presentation) SL
EU-Japan Strategic Partnership Agreement (A8-0383/2018 - Alojz Peterle) (vote) SL
EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement - EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (resolution) - EU-Japan Strategic Partnership Agreement - EU-Japan Strategic Partnership Agreement (resolution) - Adequacy of the protection of personal data afforded by Japan (debate) SL
EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement - EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (resolution) - EU-Japan Strategic Partnership Agreement - EU-Japan Strategic Partnership Agreement (resolution) - Adequacy of the protection of personal data afforded by Japan (debate) SL
Protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to carcinogens or mutagens at work (debate) SL
Transparency and sustainability of the EU risk assessment in the food chain (debate) SL
Lyme disease (Borreliosis) (debate) SL
2018 UN Climate Change Conference in Katowice, Poland (COP24) - 14th meeting of the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP14) (debate) SL
Debate with the Prime Minister of Estonia, Jüri Ratas, on the Future of Europe (debate) SL
A European One Health Action Plan against Antimicrobial Resistance (debate) SL
Debate with the Prime Minister of Greece, Alexis Tsipras, on the Future of Europe (debate)
Common rules in the field of civil aviation and European Union Aviation Safety Agency (debate) SL
EU-Australia Framework Agreement - EU-Australia Framework Agreement (Resolution) (debate) SL
Debate with the Prime Minister of Croatia, Andrej Plenković, on the Future of Europe (debate) SL
Decision adopted on the EU Enlargement Strategy - Western Balkans (debate) SL
Manipulation of scientific research by multinationals in the wake of the emission tests on monkeys and humans by the German car industry (debate) SL
Debate with the Taoiseach of Ireland Leo Varadkar on the Future of Europe (debate)
EU support to the Colombian peace process (debate) SL
Objection to an implementing act: use of phosphoric acid – phosphates – di – tri – and polyphosphates (E 338-452) in frozen vertical meat spits (debate) SL
EU-Kazakhstan Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (Resolution) - EU-Kazakhstan Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (Consent) (debate) SL
The EU-Africa Strategy: a boost for development (debate) SL
Towards an EU strategy for international cultural relations (debate) SL
Major interpellations (debate)
Cross-border portability of online content services in the internal market (debate) SL
Addressing refugee and migrant movements: the role of EU External Action (debate) SL
Implementation of the Common Security and Defence Policy (debate) SL
International Financial Reporting Standards: IFRS 9 (B8-1060/2016)
Situation in Syria (B8-1089/2016, B8-1090/2016)
Implementation of the Food Contact Materials Regulation (A8-0237/2016 - Christel Schaldemose) SL
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: Placing on the market of genetically modified maize Bt11 seeds (B8-1083/2016) SL
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: Placing on the market of genetically modified maize 1507 seeds (B8-1085/2016) SL
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: Renewing the authorisation for genetically modified maize MON 810 seeds (B8-1086/2016) SL
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: Renewing the authorisation for genetically modified maize MON 810 products (B8-1084/2016) SL
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: Placing on the market of genetically modified cotton 281-24-236 × 3006-210-23 × MON 88913 (B8-1088/2016) SL
Need for a European reindustrialisation policy in light of the recent Caterpillar and Alstom cases (RC-B8-1051/2016, B8-1051/2016, B8-1052/2016, B8-1053/2016, B8-1055/2016, B8-1056/2016, B8-1057/2016, B8-1058/2016)
Colombian peace process (debate) SL
Implementation of the Food Contact Materials Regulation (debate) SL
Conclusion on behalf of the EU of the Paris Agreement adopted under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (Giovanni La Via (A8-0280/2016))
The future of ACP-EU relations beyond 2020 (A8-0263/2016 - Norbert Neuser) SL
The future of ACP-EU relations beyond 2020 (debate) SL
Social dumping in the EU (A8-0255/2016 - Guillaume Balas)
Inquiry into emission measurements in the automotive sector (A8-0246/2016 - Pablo Zalba Bidegain, Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy)
Towards a new energy market design (A8-0214/2016 - Werner Langen)
Enhancing the competitiveness of SMEs (A8-0162/2016 - Rosa D'Amato)
71st session of the UN General Assembly (A8-0146/2016 - Andrey Kovatchev) SL
Implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (A8-0203/2016 - Helga Stevens) SL
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: Permitted health claims made on foods (B8-0842/2016) SL
Preparation of the Commission Work Programme 2017 (debate) SL
Participation of Azerbaijan in Union programmes (A8-0210/2016 - Norica Nicolai) SL
High common level of security of network and information systems across the Union (A8-0211/2016 - Andreas Schwab) SL
Energy efficiency labelling (A8-0213/2016 - Dario Tamburrano) SL
Community Fisheries Control Agency (A8-0068/2016 - Alain Cadec) SL
Preparation of the Commission Work Programme 2017 (RC-B8-0885/2016, B8-0885/2016, B8-0886/2016, B8-0892/2016, B8-0893/2016, B8-0894/2016, B8-0895/2016, B8-0896/2016) SL
Emission limits for non-road mobile machinery (A8-0276/2015 - Elisabetta Gardini) SL
Refugees: social inclusion and integration into the labour market (A8-0204/2016 - Brando Benifei) SL
Social and environmental standards, human rights and corporate responsibility (A8-0217/2016 - Eleonora Forenza) SL
A forward-looking and innovative future strategy for trade and investment (A8-0220/2016 - Tiziana Beghin) SL
Approval of the minutes of the previous sitting SL
EU-Palau Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0177/2016 - Mariya Gabriel)
EU-Colombia Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0178/2016 - Mariya Gabriel)
EU-Philippines Framework Agreement on Partnership and Cooperation (consent) (A8-0149/2016 - Elmar Brok)
EU-Philippines Framework Agreement on Partnership and Cooperation (resolution) (A8-0143/2016 - Elmar Brok)
Macro-financial assistance to Tunisia (A8-0187/2016 - Marielle de Sarnez)
Endocrine disruptors: state of play following the Court judgment of 16 December 2015 (RC-B8-0733/2016, B8-0733/2016, B8-0734/2016, B8-0735/2016, B8-0736/2016, B8-0737/2016, B8-0738/2016) SL
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: placing on the market of a genetically modified carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L., line SHD-27531-4) (B8-0731/2016) SL
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: authorisation of GMO maize Bt11 x MIR162 x MIR604 x GA21 (B8-0732/2016) SL
EU-Colombia and Peru Trade Agreement (accession of Croatia) (A8-0155/2016 - Santiago Fisas Ayxelà)
Peace Support Operations - EU engagement with the UN and the African Union (A8-0158/2016 - Geoffrey Van Orden)
Endocrine disruptors: state of play following the Court judgment of 16 December 2015 (debate) SL
Gender equality and empowering women in the digital age (A8-0048/2016 - Terry Reintke) SL
Protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data (A8-0139/2016 - Jan Philipp Albrecht) SL
Processing of personal data for the purposes of crime prevention (A8-0138/2016 - Marju Lauristin) SL
Use of Passenger Name Record data (EU PNR) (A8-0248/2015 - Timothy Kirkhope) SL
2015 Report on Turkey (B8-0442/2016)
2015 Report on Albania (B8-0440/2016)
2015 Report on Bosnia and Herzegovina (B8-0441/2016) SL
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: renewal of the approval of the active substance glyphosate (B8-0439/2016) SL
The EU in a changing global environment - a more connected, contested and complex world (A8-0069/2016 - Sandra Kalniete)
Implementation and review of the EU-Central Asia Strategy (A8-0051/2016 - Tamás Meszerics)
Zika virus outbreak (B8-0449/2016) SL
2015 Report on Bosnia and Herzegovina (debate) SL
Minimum standard rate of VAT (A8-0063/2016 - Peter Simon)
The situation in the Mediterranean and the need for a holistic EU approach to migration (A8-0066/2016 - Roberta Metsola, Kashetu Kyenge)
Veterinary medicinal products (A8-0046/2016 - Françoise Grossetête) SL
Authorisation and supervision of veterinary medicinal products (A8-0035/2016 - Claudiu Ciprian Tănăsescu) SL
Situation in Eritrea (B8-0318/2016, B8-0319/2016, B8-0320/2016, B8-0321/2016, B8-0322/2016, B8-0323/2016, B8-0324/2016) SL
Banking Union - Annual report 2015 (A8-0033/2016 - Roberto Gualtieri) SL
Reduction in the sulphur content of certain liquid fuels (A8-0037/2016 - Laura Ferrara) SL
Trade diversion into the European Union of certain key medicines (A8-0038/2016 - Laura Ferrara) SL
EU-Andorra agreement on the automatic exchange of financial account information (A8-0047/2016 - Miguel Viegas) SL
Procedural safeguards for children suspected or accused in criminal proceedings (A8-0020/2015 - Caterina Chinnici) SL
Interinstitutional agreement on Better law-making (A8-0039/2016 - Danuta Maria Hübner) SL
Tobacco agreement (PMI agreement) (B8-0311/2016, B8-0312/2016, B8-0312/2016, B8-0313/2016, B8-0313/2016, B8-0314/2016, B8-0315/2016, B8-0316/2016, B8-0317/2016) SL
2015 Report on the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (debate) SL
2015 Report on Montenegro (debate) SL
Thalidomide (debate) SL
Animal health (A8-0041/2016 - Jasenko Selimovic) SL
Aid scheme for the supply of fruit and vegetables, bananas and milk in the educational establishments (A8-0006/2016 - Marc Tarabella) SL
Market access to port services and financial transparency of ports (A8-0023/2016 - Knut Fleckenstein) SL
Harmonised indices of consumer prices (A8-0313/2015 - Roberto Gualtieri) SL
Annual report 2014 on the Protection of the EU's financial interests - Fight against fraud (A8-0026/2016 - Benedek Jávor) SL
Tobacco agreement (PMI agreement) (debate) SL
Authorisation for Austria to sign and ratify, and Malta to accede to, the Hague Convention of 15 November 1965 (A8-0018/2016 - Viktor Uspaskich) SL
EU-San Marino agreement on the automatic exchange of financial account information (C8-0370/2015) SL
Accession of Croatia to the Convention on the protection of the financial interests of the Union (A8-0019/2016 - Tomáš Zdechovský) SL
European network of Employment Services, workers' access to mobility services and the further integration of labour markets (A8-0224/2015 - Heinz K. Becker) SL
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2015/007 BE/Hainaut-Namur Glass (A8-0029/2016 - Tomáš Zdechovský) SL
Activities of the European Ombudsman in 2014 (A8-0020/2016 - Soledad Cabezón Ruiz) SL
Introduction of compatible systems for the registration of pet animals across Member States (RC-B8-0251/2016, B8-0251/2016, B8-0252/2016, B8-0253/2016, B8-0254/2016, B8-0256/2016) SL
2015 progress report on Serbia (B8-0166/2016)
European integration process of Kosovo (B8-0167/2016)
Situation in Libya (RC-B8-0146/2016, B8-0146/2016, B8-0169/2016, B8-0170/2016, B8-0177/2016, B8-0178/2016, B8-0179/2016, B8-0180/2016, B8-0181/2016)
Systematic mass murder of religious minorities by ISIS (RC-B8-0149/2016, B8-0149/2016, B8-0154/2016, B8-0156/2016, B8-0157/2016, B8-0159/2016, B8-0161/2016, B8-0162/2016)
Ratification of the Marrakesh Treaty, based on petitions received, notably Petition 924/2011 (B8-0168/2016) SL
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: Authorisation of genetically modified soybean FG72 (B8-0133/2016) SL
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: Authorisation of genetically modified soybean MON 87708 × MON 89788 (B8-0134/2016) SL
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: Authorisation of genetically modified soybean MON 87705 × MON 89788 (B8-0135/2016) SL
Objection pursuant to Rule 106 on emissions from light passenger and commercial vehicles (Euro 6) (B8-0040/2016) SL
Negotiations for the Trade in Services Agreement (TiSA) (A8-0009/2016 - Viviane Reding)
2015 progress report on Serbia (debate) SL
European integration process of Kosovo (debate) SL
Rules governing the movement of persons across borders (Schengen Borders Code) (A8-0359/2015 - Heidi Hautala)
Amendments to the 1998 Protocol to the 1979 Convention on long-range transboundary air pollution on heavy metals (A8-0002/2016 - Giovanni La Via) SL
Amendments to the 1998 Protocol to the 1979 Convention on long-range transboundary air pollution on persistent organic pollutants (A8-0001/2016 - Giovanni La Via) SL
Eurojust and Ukraine Cooperation Agreement (A8-0007/2016 - Sylvia-Yvonne Kaufmann)
Eurojust and Montenegro Cooperation Agreement (A8-0008/2016 - Nathalie Griesbeck)
Establishment of a European Platform to enhance cooperation in the prevention and deterrence of undeclared work (A8-0172/2015 - Georgi Pirinski)
Mid-term review of the EU biodiversity strategy (A8-0003/2016 - Mark Demesmaeker) SL
Commission action to comply with judgment in Case T-521/14 Sweden vs. Commission (obligation to establish criteria for endocrine disruptors) (debate) SL
Mid-term review of the EU biodiversity strategy (debate) SL
Appointment of the members of the Committee of Inquiry on emission measurements in the automotive sector
Association Agreements / Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreements with Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine (RC-B8-0068/2016, B8-0068/2016, B8-0069/2016, B8-0077/2016, B8-0078/2016, B8-0079/2016, B8-0080/2016)
Mutual defence clause (Article 42(7) TEU) (RC-B8-0043/2016, B8-0043/2016, B8-0045/2016, B8-0051/2016, B8-0057/2016, B8-0058/2016, B8-0059/2016, B8-0060/2016)
EU priorities for the UNHRC sessions in 2016 (RC-B8-0050/2016, B8-0050/2016, B8-0052/2016, B8-0056/2016, B8-0063/2016, B8-0064/2016, B8-0065/2016, B8-0066/2016)
Colombian peace process (RC-B8-0041/2016, B8-0041/2016, B8-0042/2016, B8-0053/2016, B8-0054/2016, B8-0055/2016, B8-0061/2016, B8-0062/2016)
Annual report on EU Competition Policy (A8-0368/2015 - Werner Langen)
Colombian peace process (debate) SL
Special report of the European Ombudsman in own-initiative inquiry concerning Frontex (A8-0343/2015 - Roberta Metsola, Ska Keller)
Sustainable urban mobility (A8-0319/2015 - Karima Delli)
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: granting an authorisation for uses of bis(2-ethylhexhyl) phthalate (DEHP) (B8-1228/2015) SL
Prevention of radicalisation and recruitment of European citizens by terrorist organisations (A8-0316/2015 - Rachida Dati)
EU Strategic framework on health and safety at work 2014-2020 (A8-0312/2015 - Ole Christensen) SL
Outcome of the Valletta summit of 11 and 12 November 2015 and of the G20 summit of 15 and 16 November 2015 (debate) SL
Cohesion policy and marginalised communities (A8-0314/2015 - Terry Reintke)
The role of the EU within the UN (A8-0308/2015 - Paavo Väyrynen)
European Semester for economic policy coordination: implementation of 2015 priorities - Steps towards completing the Economic and Monetary Union (debate) SL
Use of genetically modified food and feed (A8-0305/2015 - Giovanni La Via) SL
Novel foods (A8-0046/2014 - James Nicholson) SL
Emissions of certain atmospheric pollutants (A8-0249/2015 - Julie Girling) SL
Conclusions of the European Council meeting of 15 October 2015, in particular the financing of international funds, and of the Leaders' meeting on the Western Balkans route of 25 October 2015, and preparation of the Valletta summit of 11 and 12 November 2015 (debate) SL
Emission measurements in the automotive sector (B8-1075/2015, B8-1075/2015, B8-1076/2015, B8-1077/2015, B8-1078/2015, B8-1079/2015, B8-1080/2015) SL
Mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument for immediate budgetary measures under the European Agenda on Migration (A8-0290/2015 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial) SL
Draft amending budget No 7/2015: Managing the refugee crisis: immediate budgetary measures under the European Agenda on Migration (A8-0289/2015 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial) SL
Towards a new international climate agreement in Paris (A8-0275/2015 - Gilles Pargneaux) SL
The death penalty (B8-0998/2015, B8-0998/2015, B8-0999/2015, B8-1001/2015, B8-1005/2015, B8-1006/2015, B8-1007/2015, B8-1008/2015) SL
Lessons learned from the red mud disaster five years after the accident in Hungary (B8-0989/2015) SL
Renewal of the EU Plan of action on Gender equality and Women's empowerment in development (B8-0988/2015) SL
Equal opportunities and equal treatment of men and women in matters of employment and occupation (A8-0213/2015 - Anna Záborská) SL
Situation in Syria (debate) SL
European small claims procedure and European order for payment procedure (A8-0140/2015 - Lidia Joanna Geringer de Oedenberg) SL
Limitation of emissions of certain pollutants into the air (A8-0160/2015 - Andrzej Grzyb) SL
Caseins and caseinates intended for human consumption (A8-0042/2015 - Giovanni La Via) SL
ILO Forced Labour Convention: judicial cooperation in criminal matters (A8-0226/2015 - Helga Stevens) SL
Subjecting 4-methylamphetamine to control measures (A8-0265/2015 - Michał Boni) SL
Subjecting 5-(2-aminopropyl)indole to control measures (A8-0263/2015 - Teresa Jiménez-Becerril Barrio) SL
Subjecting 25I-NBOMe, AH-7921, MDPV and methoxetamine to control measures (A8-0264/2015 - Teresa Jiménez-Becerril Barrio) SL
Subjecting 4,4'-DMAR and MT-45 to control measures (A8-0262/2015 - Michał Boni) SL
Mobilisation of the EU Solidarity Fund: disasters in Bulgaria and Greece in 2015 (A8-0253/2015 - Andrey Novakov) SL
Possible extension of geographical indication protection of the EU to non-agricultural products (A8-0259/2015 - Virginie Rozière) SL
Role of local authorities in developing countries in development cooperation (A8-0232/2015 - Eleni Theocharous) SL
Role of local authorities in developing countries in development cooperation (debate) SL
Council Decision establishing provisional measures in the area of international protection for the benefit of Italy, Greece and Hungary [COM(2015)0451 - C8-0271/2015 - 2015/0209(NLE)]
UN Sustainable Development summit (25-27 September 2015) and development-related aspects of the COP 21 (debate) SL
Assessment of the 2012 European Year for active ageing and solidarity between generations (A8-0241/2015 - Eduard Kukan) SL
Empowering girls through education in the EU (A8-0206/2015 - Liliana Rodrigues)
Migration and refugees in Europe (RC-B8-0832/2015, B8-0832/2015, B8-0833/2015, B8-0834/2015, B8-0835/2015, B8-0837/2015, B8-0838/2015, B8-0842/2015) SL
The EU's role in the Middle East peace process (RC-B8-0836/2015, B8-0836/2015, B8-0839/2015, B8-0840/2015, B8-0841/2015, B8-0843/2015, B8-0844/2015)
Sustainability of healthcare systems in Europe: future challenges (debate) SL
Cloning of animals kept and reproduced for farming purposes (A8-0216/2015 - Giulia Moi, Renate Sommer) SL
Situation of fundamental rights in the EU (2013-2014) (A8-0230/2015 - Laura Ferrara)
Human rights and technology in third countries (A8-0178/2015 - Marietje Schaake)
Protecting the EU's financial interests: towards performance-based controls of the CAP (A8-0240/2015 - Petri Sarvamaa) SL
Research and innovation in the blue economy to create jobs and growth (A8-0214/2015 - João Ferreira)
Promoting youth entrepreneurship through education and training (A8-0239/2015 - Michaela Šojdrová)
Towards an integrated approach to cultural heritage for Europe (A8-0207/2015 - Mircea Diaconu) SL
Follow up to the European citizens' initiative Right2Water (A8-0228/2015 - Lynn Boylan) SL
Assessment of the 2012 European Year for active ageing and solidarity between generations (debate) SL
Maximum permitted levels of radioactive contamination following a nuclear accident (A8-0176/2015 - Esther Herranz García) SL
Review of the European neighbourhood policy (A8-0194/2015 - Eduard Kukan)
Harmonisation of certain aspects of copyright and related rights (A8-0209/2015 - Julia Reda) SL
Negotiations for the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) (A8-0175/2015 - Bernd Lange) SL
Market stability reserve for the Union greenhouse gas emission trading scheme (A8-0029/2015 - Ivo Belet)
Guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (A8-0205/2015 - Laura Agea) SL
Green employment initiative (A8-0204/2015 - Jean Lambert) SL
Review of the European neighbourhood policy (debate) SL
Negotiations for the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) (debate) SL
Delivering multimodal integrated ticketing in Europe (A8-0183/2015 - Dieter-Lebrecht Koch) SL
The fruit and vegetables sector since the 2007 reform (A8-0170/2015 - Nuno Melo) SL
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance SL
Recent revelations of high-level corruption cases in FIFA (RC-B8-0548/2015, B8-0548/2015, B8-0549/2015, B8-0550/2015, B8-0571/2015, B8-0572/2015, B8-0573/2015, B8-0574/2015)
Conclusion of the Doha amendment to the Kyoto Protocol (A8-0167/2015 - Elisabetta Gardini)
State of EU-Russia relations (A8-0162/2015 - Gabrielius Landsbergis) SL
European energy security strategy (A8-0164/2015 - Algirdas Saudargas)
OLAF Supervisory Committee's annual report 2014 (B8-0539/2015, B8-0539/2015, B8-0540/2015, B8-0541/2015, B8-0542/2015)
Situation in Hungary (RC-B8-0532/2015, B8-0532/2015, B8-0533/2015, B8-0534/2015, B8-0535/2015, B8-0536/2015, B8-0537/2015)
2014 Progress Report on Turkey (B8-0455/2015)
State of EU-Russia relations (debate) SL
EU Strategy for equality between women and men post 2015 (A8-0163/2015 - Maria Noichl)
Situation in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (debate) SL
Situation in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (debate) SL
Japanese whaling activities in the Antarctic (debate) SL
Implementation of the Common Security and Defence Policy - Financing the Common Security and Defence Policy - Security and defence capabilities in Europe (debate) SL
Implementation of the Common Security and Defence Policy - Financing the Common Security and Defence Policy - Security and defence capabilities in Europe (debate) SL
Prevention of the use of the financial system for the purposes of money laundering or terrorist financing - Information accompanying transfers of funds (debate) SL
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance SL
2014 Progress Report on Albania (debate) SL
Armenian genocide 100th anniversary (debate) SL
Annual report from the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy to the European Parliament (A8-0039/2015 - Elmar Brok)
Annual report on human rights and democracy in the world 2013 and the EU policy on the matter (A8-0023/2015 - Pier Antonio Panzeri)
Situation in Venezuela (RC-B8-0236/2015, B8-0236/2015, B8-0237/2015, B8-0238/2015, B8-0243/2015, B8-0244/2015, B8-0245/2015, B8-0246/2015)
2014 Progress report on Montenegro (B8-0211/2015)
2014 Progress report on the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (B8-0212/2015)
2014 Progress report on Serbia (B8-0213/2015)
The European integration process of Kosovo (B8-0214/2015)
European Semester for economic policy coordination: Annual Growth Survey 2015 (A8-0037/2015 - Dariusz Rosati)
Single market governance within the European Semester 2015 (A8-0018/2015 - Ildikó Gáll-Pelcz)
European long-term investment funds (A8-0021/2015 - Alain Lamassoure)
Progress on equality between women and men in the EU in 2013 (A8-0015/2015 - Marc Tarabella) SL
Humanitarian crisis in Iraq and Syria, in particular in the IS context (RC-B8-0136/2015, B8-0136/2015, B8-0137/2015, B8-0138/2015, B8-0139/2015, B8-0140/2015, B8-0141/2015, B8-0142/2015)
Cross-border exchange of information on road safety related traffic offences (A8-0001/2015 - Inés Ayala Sender)
US Senate report on the use of torture by the CIA (B8-0098/2015, RC-B8-0123/2015, B8-0123/2015, B8-0133/2015) SL
Anti-terrorism measures (B8-0100/2015, RC-B8-0122/2015, B8-0122/2015, B8-0124/2015, B8-0125/2015, B8-0126/2015, B8-0127/2015, B8-0132/2015) SL
Country of origin labelling for meat ingredients in processed food (B8-0097/2015)
Programme of activities of the Latvian Presidency (debate) SL
Main aspects and basic choices of the common foreign and security policy and the common security and defence policy (Article 36 TEU) (debate)
The case of the two Italian "Marò" (debate) SL
Scientific examination of questions relating to food (A8-0059/2014 - Giovanni La Via) SL
Dock dues in the French outermost regions (A8-0054/2014 - Iskra Mihaylova)
Motion of censure on the Commission (B8-0249/2014) SL
25th anniversary of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (B8-0285/2014)
Digital single market (RC-B8-0286/2014, B8-0286/2014, B8-0287/2014, B8-0288/2014) SL
Child malnutrition in developing countries (B8-0253/2014)
The powers of the European Central Bank to impose sanctions (A8-0028/2014 - Kay Swinburne)
2014 UN Climate Change Conference - COP 20 in Lima, Peru (1-12 December 2014) (B8-0251/2014) SL
The EU and the global development framework after 2015 (A8-0037/2014 - Davor Ivo Stier) SL
The EU and the global development framework after 2015 (debate) SL
Situation in Ukraine and state of play of EU-Russia relations (RC-B8-0118/2014, B8-0118/2014, B8-0122/2014, B8-0123/2014, B8-0125/2014, B8-0127/2014, B8-0128/2014, B8-0129/2014)
EU response to the Ebola outbreak (RC-B8-0107/2014, B8-0107/2014, B8-0108/2014, B8-0114/2014, B8-0115/2014, B8-0119/2014, B8-0124/2014, B8-0126/2014) SL
Situation in Iraq and Syria and the ISIS offensive including the persecution of minorities (RC-B8-0109/2014, B8-0109/2014, B8-0110/2014, B8-0121/2014, B8-0130/2014, B8-0134/2014, B8-0137/2014, B8-0138/2014)
EU-Ukraine association agreement, with the exception of the treatment of third country nationals legally employed as workers in the territory of the other party (A8-0002/2014 - Jacek Saryusz-Wolski)
EU-Ukraine association agreement, as regards the treatment of third country nationals legally employed as workers in the territory of the other party (A8-0009/2014 - Claude Moraes)
Towards a European constitution
Preparation of the European Council (18-19 June 2009) (debate)
Amendment of Regulation (EC) No 717/2007 (mobile telephone networks) and Directive 2002/21/EC (electronic communications) (debate)
Opening of international negotiations in view of adopting an international treaty for the protection of the Arctic (debate)
Conclusions of the European Council (19-20 March 2009) (debate)
The state of transatlantic relations in the aftermath of the US elections (debate)
Future of the car industry (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Croatia: progress report 2008 - Turkey: progress report 2008 - Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia: progress report 2008 (debate)
Annual Report (2007) on the main aspects and basic choices of the CFSP - European Security Strategy and ESDP - The role of NATO in the security architecture of the EU (debate)
Kosovo (debate)
Framework for Community action to achieve a sustainable use of pesticides - Placing of plant protection products on the market (debate)
Together for Health: A Strategic Approach for the EU 2008-2013 (debate)
Together for Health: A Strategic Approach for the EU 2008-2013 (debate)
Together for Health: A Strategic Approach for the EU 2008-2013 (A6-0350/2008, Alojz Peterle) (vote)
Social package (Second part: Cross-border healthcare) (debate)
Type-approval of hydrogen powered motor vehicles (debate)
Results of the European Council meeting of 19 and 20 June 2008 in Brussels - Slovenian Presidency's term of office (debate)
Preparation of the European Council following the Irish referendum (debate)
Explanations of vote
European Union-Latin America and Caribbean Summit (debate)
Combating cancer in the enlarged EU (debate)
(A6-0503/2007, Cem Özdemir) An EU Strategy for Central Asia (vote)
Kosovo (debate)
An EU Strategy for Central Asia (debate)
Presentation of the programme of the Slovenian Presidency (debate)
Airport charges (debate)
Montenegro - EC/Montenegro: Stabilisation and Association Agreement (debate)
Referendum in Venezuela (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Progress report on Croatia (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
The future of Kosovo and the role of the EU (debate)
Bosnia-Herzegovina (debate)
European Aviation Safety Agency (debate)
Meeting of the European Council of 14 and 15 December 2006 – Activities of the Finnish Presidency
Enlargement strategy and main challenges 2006-2007 – The institutional aspects of the European Union’s capacity to integrate the new Member States (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Enlargement of the euro zone (debate)
Natural disasters: agricultural aspects – Natural disasters: regional development aspects – Natural disasters: environmental aspects – EU Solidarity fund (debate)
A stronger partnership between the European Union and Latin America (debate)
Outlook for Bosnia and Herzegovina (debate)
Common foreign policy perspectives for 2006 – Common foreign and security policy – 2004
European Neighbourhood Policy
25th anniversary of Solidarity and its message for Europe
Dialogue with churches and non-denominational organisations
Situation in Uzbekistan
Situation in Kyrgyzstan and Central Asia
European Council of 4 and 5 November 2004
Statement by Mr Barroso, President-elect of the Commission
Stocktaking of the Prodi Commission
Negotiation of the EU-Japan strategic partnership agreement (debate)
Negotiation of the EU-Japan strategic partnership agreement (A7-0244/2014 - Alojz Peterle)
Honey (A7-0440/2013 - Julie Girling)
Resolution of credit institutions and certain investment firms in the framework of a Single Resolution Mechanism and a Single Bank Resolution Fund (A7-0478/2013 - Elisa Ferreira)
Main aspects and basic choices of the common foreign and security policy and the common security and defence policy (Article 36 TEU) - EU comprehensive approach and coherence of EU external action (debate)
Invasion of Ukraine by Russia (RCB7-0263/2014, B7-0263/2014, B7-0264/2014, B7-0265/2014, B7-0266/2014, B7-0267/2014, B7-0268/2014)
Freedom of movement for workers (A7-0386/2013 - Edit Bauer)
2013 progress report on Turkey (B7-0241/2014)
Production and making available on the market of plant reproductive material (plant reproductive material law) (A7-0112/2014 - Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris)
Genetic resources (A7-0263/2013 - Sandrine Bélier)
Equality between women and men in 2012 (A7-0073/2014 - Inês Cristina Zuber)
2013 progress report on Turkey (debate)
Manufacture, presentation and sale of tobacco and related products (A7-0276/2013 - Linda McAvan)
Sexual exploitation and prostitution and its impact on gender equality (A7-0071/2014 - Mary Honeyball)
Situation in Ukraine (RCB7-0219/2014, B7-0219/2014, B7-0220/2014, B7-0221/2014, B7-0222/2014, B7-0223/2014, B7-0224/2014)
Fundamental rights in the European Union (2012) (A7-0051/2014 - Louis Michel)
Third programme for the Union's action if the field of health (2014-2020) (A7-0224/2012 - Françoise Grossetête)
Promoting development through responsible business practices (A7-0132/2014 - Judith Sargentini)
Situation in Ukraine (debate)
Fund for European aid to the most deprived (A7-0183/2013 - Emer Costello)
Plant breeding (A7-0044/2014 - Marit Paulsen)
2013 progress report on Bosnia and Herzegovina - 2013 progress report on the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia - 2013 progress report on Montenegro (debate)
Reindustrialising Europe to promote competitiveness and sustainability (A7-0464/2013 - Reinhard Bütikofer)
Placing on the market, for cultivation, of a genetically modified maize product (B7-0007/2014)ЍЍ
Honey (A7-0440/2013 - Julie Girling) (vote)
Honey (A7-0440/2013 - Julie Girling)
CO2 emissions from new light commercial vehicles (A7-0168/2013 - Holger Krahmer)
eHealth Action Plan 2012-2020 (A7-0443/2013 - Pilar Ayuso)
Food crisis, fraud in the food chain and the control thereof (A7-0434/2013 - Esther de Lange)
Plastic waste in the environment (A7-0453/2013 - Vittorio Prodi)
Honey (debate)
Honey (debate)
2013 progress report on Albania (B7-0556/2013)
Financing instrument for the promotion of democracy and human rights worldwide (A7-0448/2013 - Alexander Graf Lambsdorff)
EU-China Agreement relating to the modification of concessions in the schedules of Bulgaria and Romania in the course of their accession to the EU (A7-0332/2013 - Helmut Scholz)
Negotiations for an EU-Canada strategic partnership agreement (A7-0407/2013 - Elisabeth Jeggle)
Timing of auctions of greenhouse gas allowances (A7-0046/2013 - Matthias Groote)
CARS 2020: towards a strong, competitive and sustainable European car industry (A7-0391/2013 - Franck Proust)
Sexual and reproductive health and rights (A7-0426/2013 - Edite Estrela)
Outcome of the Vilnius Summit and the future of the Eastern Partnership, in particular as regards Ukraine (debate)
European Semester for economic policy coordination (A7-0322/2013 - Elisa Ferreira)
General Union environment action programme to 2020 (A7-0166/2013 - Gaston Franco)
Annual report from the Council to the European Parliament on the common foreign and security policy in 2012 (A7-0330/2013 - Elmar Brok)
Europski semestar za usklađivanje ekonomske politike (A7-0322/2013 - Elisa Ferreira) HR
Opći akcijski program Unije za okoliš do 2020. (A7-0166/2013 - Gaston Franco) HR
Godišnje izvješće Vijeća Europskom parlamentu o zajedničkoj vanjskoj i sigurnosnoj politici u 2012. (A7-0330/2013 - Elmar Brok) HR
Main aspects and basic choices of the common foreign and security policy and the common security and defence policy (Article 36 TEU) - Annual report from the Council to the European Parliament on the common foreign and security policy in 2012 (debate)
In vitro diagnostic medical devices (A7-0327/2013 - Peter Liese)
Medical devices (A7-0324/2013 - Dagmar Roth-Behrendt)
Sexual and reproductive health and rights (A7-0306/2013 - Edite Estrela)
Recognition of professional qualifications and administrative cooperation through the Internal Market Information System (A7-0038/2013 - Bernadette Vergnaud)
EU-China negotiations for a bilateral investment agreement (B7-0436/2013, B7-0439/2013)
EU-Taiwan trade relations (B7-0435/2013)
Manufacture, presentation and sale of tobacco and related products (debate)
Manufacture, presentation and sale of tobacco and related products (A7-0276/2013 - Linda McAvan)
Gendercide: the missing women? (A7-0245/2013 - Antigoni Papadopoulou)
European Banking Authority and prudential supervision of credit institutions (A7-0393/2012 - Sven Giegold)
Specific tasks for the European Central Bank concerning policies relating to the prudential supervision of credit institutions (A7-0392/2012 - Marianne Thyssen)
Digital agenda for growth, mobility and employment (B7-0385/2013)
Situation in Syria (RCB7-0413/2013, B7-0413/2013, B7-0423/2013, B7-0424/2013, B7-0425/2013, B7-0426/2013, B7-0427/2013, B7-0428/2013)
Situation in Egypt (RCB7-0411/2013, B7-0411/2013, B7-0412/2013, B7-0414/2013, B7-0415/2013, B7-0417/2013, B7-0420/2013)
Fuel quality directive and renewable energy directive (A7-0279/2013 - Corinne Lepage)
Investigations conducted by the European Anti Fraud Office (OLAF) (A7-0225/2013 - Ingeborg Gräßle)
Laws, regulations and administrative provisions relating to undertakings for collective investment in transferable securities (A7-0125/2013 - Sven Giegold)
Timing of auctions of greenhouse gas allowances (A7-0046/2013 - Matthias Groote)
Reforming the structure of the EU banking sector (A7-0231/2013 - Arlene McCarthy)
A broader Transatlantic partnership (debate)
Fight against tax fraud, tax evasion and tax havens (A7-0162/2013 - Mojca Kleva Kekuš)
European Banking Authority and prudential supervision of credit institutions (A7-0393/2012 - Sven Giegold)
Specific tasks for the European Central Bank concerning policies relating to the prudential supervision of credit institutions (A7-0392/2012 - Marianne Thyssen)
Renewable energy in the European internal energy market (A7-0135/2013 - Herbert Reul)
Adequate, safe and sustainable pensions (A7-0137/2013 - Ria Oomen-Ruijten)
Specific tasks for the European Central Bank concerning policies relating to the prudential supervision of credit institutions - European Banking Authority and prudential supervision of credit institutions (debate)
Ship recycling (A7-0132/2013 - Carl Schlyter)
2012 progress report on Turkey (debate)
Timing of auctions of greenhouse gas allowances (A7-0046/2013 - Matthias Groote)
Scheme for greenhouse gas emission allowance trading (A7-0060/2013 - Peter Liese)
Groundhandling services at European Union airports (A7-0364/2012 - Artur Zasada)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Macro-financial assistance to the Kyrgyz Republic (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
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Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
EU trade negotiations with Japan (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Forced abortion scandal in China (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement between the EU and its Member States, Australia, Canada, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Morocco, New Zealand, Singapore, Switzerland and the USA (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
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Explanations of vote
A resource-efficient Europe (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Roaming on public mobile communications networks within the Union (debate)
Situation in Burma (debate)
Explanations of vote
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Enlargement report for Serbia (debate)
Explanations of vote
Explanations of vote
Enlargement report for the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (debate)
Explanations of vote
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Situation in Nigeria (debate)
Explanations of vote
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Accession Treaty : Treaty concerning the accession of the Republic of Croatia - Application of Croatia to become a member of the European Union (debate)
Main aspects of the common foreign and security policy and the common security and defence policy - Situation in Syria and in Camp Ashraf - Report: Albertini - Annual report from the Council to Parliament on the main aspects of CFSP in 2009 - Report: Gualtieri - Development of CSDP following the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty - Report: Muñiz De Urquiza - The EU as a global actor: its role in multilateral organisations (debate)
Cord blood stem cells (debate)
Situation in Kyrgyzstan (debate)
Commission communication on Action against Cancer: European Partnership (debate)
Commission communication on Action against Cancer: European Partnership (debate)
2009 progress report on Croatia - 2009 progress report on the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia - 2009 progress report on Turkey (debate)
Preparation of the European Council to be held on 10 and 11 December 2009 (debate)
Order of business
Political situation in Honduras with a view to the elections on 29 November 2009 (debate)
The institutional aspects of the creation of a European external action service - Creation of a European external action service: State of the negotiations with Member States (debate)
Conclusion of a Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between the EC and the Republic of Tajikistan (debate)
Conclusion of a Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between the EC and the Republic of Tajikistan (debate)
New regulations on visas for Western Balkan countries (Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia) (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Reports (6)
REPORT containing a motion for a non-legislative resolution on the draft Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the Strategic Partnership Agreement between the European Union and its Member States, of the one part, and Japan, of the other part PDF (457 KB) DOC (59 KB)
RECOMMENDATION on the draft Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the Strategic Partnership Agreement between the European Union and its Member States, of the one part, and Japan, of the other part PDF (434 KB) DOC (51 KB)
REPORT Report on 'Together for Health: A Strategic Approach for the EU 2008-2013' PDF (207 KB) DOC (130 KB)
REPORT containing the European Parliament’s recommendation to the Council, the Commission and the European External Action Service on the negotiations of the EU-Japan Strategic Partnership agreement PDF (155 KB) DOC (75 KB)
REPORT Report on the Commission communication on Action Against Cancer: European Partnership PDF (260 KB) DOC (165 KB)
REPORT Recommendation on the proposal for a Council and Commission decision on the conclusion of a Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Tajikistan, of the other part PDF (137 KB) DOC (71 KB)
Shadow reports (2)
REPORT on climate diplomacy PDF (432 KB) DOC (77 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Council Directive 2001/110/EC relating to honey PDF (241 KB) DOC (315 KB)
Opinions (3)
OPINION Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on type-approval of hydrogen powered motor vehicles and amending Directive 2007/46/EC
OPINION Policy challenges and budgetary means of the enlarged Union 2007-2013
OPINION on Special Report No 5/2012 (Discharge 2011) - 'The Common External Relations Information System (CRIS)'
Shadow opinions (1)
OPINION on the draft Council decision on the conclusion of the Agreement between the European Union and Japan for an Economic Partnership
Institutional motions (15)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Lyme disease (Borreliosis) PDF (268 KB) DOC (55 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Belarus PDF (155 KB) DOC (50 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Belarus PDF (151 KB) DOC (51 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Afghanistan PDF (401 KB) DOC (52 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Afghanistan PDF (275 KB) DOC (51 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Belarus PDF (289 KB) DOC (83 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Belarus PDF (264 KB) DOC (65 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on nuclear security and non-proliferation PDF (159 KB) DOC (88 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on nuclear security and non-proliferation PDF (261 KB) DOC (63 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Association Agreements / Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Areas with Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine PDF (166 KB) DOC (94 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the mutual defence clause (Article 42(7) TEU) PDF (150 KB) DOC (76 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the implementation of the Association Agreements / Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreements with Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine PDF (298 KB) DOC (96 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the mutual defence clause (Article 42(7) TEU) PDF (266 KB) DOC (62 KB)
JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Ukraine PDF (150 KB) DOC (81 KB)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Ukraine PDF (251 KB) DOC (72 KB)
Oral questions (16)
EU Pollinators Initiative PDF (45 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Breaches of the rights of children whose parents work in Austria PDF (50 KB) DOC (19 KB)
EU Pollinators Initiative PDF (192 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Lyme disease (borreliosis) PDF (95 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Major interpellation - Violation of fundamental human rights of women in Pakistan PDF (195 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Major interpellation - Differences in declarations, composition and taste of products in central/eastern and western markets of the EU PDF (193 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Commission's answers to written questions PDF (205 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Health risks related to consumption of vegetable oils, in particular palm oils PDF (196 KB) DOC (17 KB)
The EU accession to the Istanbul Convention on preventing and combating violence against women PDF (203 KB) DOC (18 KB)
The EU accession to the Istanbul Convention on preventing and combating violence against women PDF (202 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Health risks related to consumption of vegetable oil, in particular palm oil PDF (196 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Call for a limitation of abusive fees charged for cross-border intra-EU phone calls and SMSs in the upcoming review of the telecoms framework PDF (106 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Cooperation agreement with Philip Morris International (PMI) PDF (195 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Health risks related to the consumption of vegetable oils, and in particular palm oils PDF (197 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Germany's law on minimum wage PDF (199 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Commission's answers to Written Questions PDF DOC
Written explanations (679)
Market surveillance and compliance of products (A8-0277/2018 - Nicola Danti)
. ‒ This proposal aims at strengthening the compliance and enforcement of EU product rules by offering the right incentives to businesses, intensifying compliance checks as well as promoting closer cooperation among enforcement authorities. The proposal seeks also to foster more cooperation among national market surveillance authorities, but also between national market surveillance authorities, customs authorities and the market players, the introduction of a ‘person responsible for compliance information’ and a new set of powers for market surveillance authorities to access information and inspect, prohibit and impose penalties on non-compliant products. The proposed regulation will also set up a Union Product Compliance Network to help national authorities improve investigations and reinforce inspections of ports and external borders. I voted in favour of the report.
Promoting fairness and transparency for business users of online intermediation services (A8-0444/2018 - Christel Schaldemose)
. ‒ The regulation’s proposal aims at improving the functioning of the digital single market to safeguard a fair, predictable, transparent, sustainable and trusted business environment in the online economy for smaller businesses and traders when using online platforms. These new rules will benefit business such as hotels, traders selling online, app developers and other similar companies that rely on search engines for attracting internet traffic to their websites. I voted in favour of the report.
Better enforcement and modernisation of EU consumer protection rules (A8-0029/2019 - Daniel Dalton)
Transparency and sustainability of the EU risk assessment in the food chain (A8-0417/2018 - Pilar Ayuso)
This proposal follows the European Citizens Initiative on glyphosate, and specifically the concerns voiced regarding the studies to be used in the evaluation of pesticides. With this proposal, the commission proposes to strengthen transparency in the risk assessment process and provide additional guarantees in terms of reliability objectivity and independent of studies used by EPSA in risk assessments.
Listing the third countries whose nationals must be in possession of visas when crossing the external borders and those whose nationals are exempt from that requirement, as regards the UK's withdrawal from the EU (A8-0047/2019 - Sergei Stanishev)
I voted in favour of this report, as it outlines a process for entry of nationals who must be in a possession of visas when crossing the external borders of the EU and those who are exempt in light of the withdrawal of the UK. I regret that we have had to vote on matters of this kind due to Brexit, but support such measures to ensure that it occurs in a controlled manner.
Guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (A8-0177/2019 - Miroslavs Mitrofanovs)
Common rules for the internal market for natural gas (A8-0143/2018 - Jerzy Buzek)
The Commissioner’s directive concerning common rules for the internal market in natural gas aims to complete the current directive and to ensure that all gas pipelines entering the EU territory comply with the core principles of EU energy legislation. I voted in favour of this report, which includes key agreements on issues, including amended rules which cover both internal EU gas pipelines as well as all gas pipeline from non-EU countries into the EU.
European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (A8-0176/2019 - Gabriel Mato)
I voted in favour of this report as maritime and fisheries activities are key components of the European economy and should be supported and protected by such funds. While the European Commission proposed a 5% reduction to this fund, the European Parliament has voted to increase the fund by almost 10%. This new fund will continue to support the European fisheries sector in order to move toward more sustainable and innovative and competitive fishing practices.
Multiannual plan for the fisheries exploiting demersal stocks in the western Mediterranean Sea (A8-0005/2019 - Clara Eugenia Aguilera García)
. ‒ The Commission’s proposal aims to address the high level of overfishing in this sub-area of the Mediterranean, ensuring that fishing activities are environmentally sustainable in the long term and managed in a way that secures social, economic and employment interests. This new regulation will replace national management plans to regulate fleets in the Western Mediterranean. I voted in favour of the report as Parliament was able to incorporate amendments reflecting concerns as to how the new regulation could negatively impact the operation of vessels, while also reducing the threat of over-fishing.
Strengthening the security of identity cards and of residence documents issued to Union citizens (A8-0436/2018 - Gérard Deprez)
I voted in favour of this report, which deals with an action plan to strengthen the European response to travel document fraud, aims to provide minimum security standards for identity cards and residence cards issued by Member States. The legislation seeks to address the increasing challenge of fraud based on forged documents and false representation of material facts concerning the conditions attached to the right of residence.
Pan-European Personal Pension Product (A8-0278/2018 - Sophia in 't Veld)
I voted in favour of this report, which lays down uniform rules on the authorisation, manufacturing, distribution and supervision of personal pension products that are distributed in the Union under the designation ‘pan-European Personal Pension Product’ (PEPP). Its main objectives are: to raise more capital and channel it towards European long-term investments in the real economy; to offer enhanced product features so that citizens benefit from a simple, safe and cost-effective personal pension product while being able to choose from different types of PEPP providers; and to encourage PEPP cross-border provision and portability.
Work-life balance for parents and carers (A8-0270/2018 - David Casa)
I voted in favour of this proposal which aims to address the long absence of women from the labour market because of commitments to raise children or to take care of dependent family members. It addresses the implementation of principle of equality between men and women with regard to labour market opportunities and treatment at work. Through adapting and modernising the EU legal framework, the Directive seeks to allow parents and people with caring responsibilities to reconcile better their work and caring duties. The Directive builds on the existing rights and strengthens them in places or introduces new rights and does maintain the level of protection already offered by the EU acquis.
Protection of the Union's budget in case of generalised deficiencies as regards the rule of law in the Member States (A8-0469/2018 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial, Petri Sarvamaa)
I voted in favour of this report which builds upon the Commission proposal and shares the objectives of the Commission with regard to the budget in case of generalised deficiencies as regards the rule of law in Member States. This report proposes to put Parliament and the Council on the same footing in case of a decision on measures, by simultaneously submitting to Council and Parliament a proposal to transfer an amount to a budgetary reserve.
Computerising the movement and surveillance of excise goods (A8-0010/2019 - Kay Swinburne)
Re-use of public sector information (A8-0438/2018 - Neoklis Sylikiotis)
The PSI (Reuse of public sector information) Directive is a step forward in expanding the re-use of public sector information as part of the European data economy. I voted in favour of this report as in aims to encourage public sector bodies to make dynamic data available as early as possible through application programming interfaces and to clarify the recovery of the costs of anonymising personal data as a marginal cost of provision for re-use with full respect of data protection.
Multiannual recovery plan for Mediterranean swordfish (A8-0389/2018 - Marco Affronte)
I voted in favour of this report which proposes a multiannual recovery plan aimed at rebuilding the stock of Mediterranean swordfish. This EU plays a major role in Mediterranean swordfish fisheries and we should therefore be responsible in how our industry goes about fishing swordfish to protect the supply while also facilitating businesses which deal with swordfish.
Minimum level of training of seafarers (A8-0007/2019 - Dominique Riquet)
Temporary reintroduction of border control at internal borders (A8-0356/2018 - Tanja Fajon)
This report aims to update the Schengen Borders Code to adapt the rules for the reintroduction of temporary internal border controls to the current needs as a response to evolving and persistent serious threats to public policy and internal security. I voted against the report because of problematic amendments that changed the structure and content of the proposal. These amendments reduced the timeframe of prolongation of border controls from 1 year to 6 months and from 2 years to one year and exclude the possibility for MS to choose between and combine different procedures with regard to the reintroduction or prolongation of border controls. For these reasons, I could not support the report.
Motion for a resolution pursuant to Rule 108(6) seeking an opinion from the Court of Justice relating to the EU accession to the Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (B8-0232/2019)
Tax treatment of pension products, including the pan-European Personal Pension Product (A8-0481/2018 - Sophia in 't Veld)
I voted in favour of this report which lays down uniform rules on the authorisation, manufacturing, distribution and supervision of personal pension products that are distributed in the Union under the designation ‘pan-European Personal Pension Product’ (PEPP). Its main objectives are: to raise more capital and channel it towards European long-term investments in the real economy; to offer enhanced product features so that citizens benefit from a simple, safe and cost-effective personal pension product while being able to choose from different types of PEPP providers; and to encourage PEPP cross-border provision and portability.
Representative actions for the protection of the collective interests of consumers (A8-0447/2018 - Geoffroy Didier)
I voted in favour of this proposal. The new directive will enable representative actions for national or cross-border infringements of EU law which harm the collective interests of consumers. Only qualified entities will be able to file such representative actions because we have to protect consumers from abusive litigation and prevent financial or other incentives for entities to use these actions.
Protocol to the EU-Israel Euro-Mediterranean Agreement (accession of Croatia) (A8-0164/2019 - Cristian Dan Preda)
I voted in favour. In accordance with the Act of Accession of the Republic of Croatia, Croatia will accede to the international agreements signed or concluded by the European Union and its Member States by means of a protocol to those agreements. This protocol takes account of the accession of Croatia to the European Union.
EU-Uzbekistan comprehensive agreement (A8-0149/2019 - David McAllister)
Discontinuing seasonal changes of time (A8-0169/2019 - Marita Ulvskog)
I voted in favour of this proposal. Seasonal changes of time have many negative effects. They affect not just the internal market, but, more importantly, people and their physical and mental health. Studies show that people in general feel less well due to changes of time, suffering from the disruption of the circadian cycle, increased sleep problems and fatigue. We also have to respect citizens and their request to end seasonal changes of time.
Common rules for the internal market for electricity (A8-0044/2018 - Jerzy Buzek)
I voted in favour of this proposal. This directive introduces fair rules in the market for electricity that will enable fair competition. It will also help us protect the climate and bring the lowest and most competitive prices to consumers. At the same time it ensures security of supply without over-investment.
European Union Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators (A8-0040/2018 - Morten Helveg Petersen)
I voted in favour of this proposal. This directive introduces fair rules in the market for electricity that will enable fair competition. It will also help us protect the climate and bring the lowest and most competitive prices to consumers. At the same time it ensures security of supply without over-investment.
Risk-preparedness in the electricity sector (A8-0039/2018 - Flavio Zanonato)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the proposal. If we want to prevent future electricity crises we need to establish a framework for identifying, assessing, preparing, managing, monitoring, and sharing information on electricity crises. Additionally, a high level of coordination and cooperation amongst all actors, within Member States and across borders, is needed.
Labelling of tyres with respect to fuel efficiency and other essential parameters (A8-0086/2019 - Michał Boni)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this proposal. Energy labelling enables customers to make informed choices based on the energy consumption of energy-related products. Improving the labelling of tyres will give consumers more information on fuel efficiency, safety and noise, allowing them to obtain accurate, relevant and comparable information on those aspects when purchasing tyres. This will also contribute to energy savings and to reducing energy bills.
Copyright in the Digital Single Market (A8-0245/2018 - Axel Voss)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this proposal. The reform of copyright in the digital environment is essential. The current rules are incompatible with the challenges of the modern world and do not provide a sufficient legal basis for a more honest attitude towards authors. Respecting the rights of authors does not compromise the freedom of the Internet, nor the freedom of users, but limits the arbitrary disposal of unprotected copyright content. It is time to give the authors a moral and material acknowledgement. Also in the digital world.
Contracts for the supply of digital content and digital services (A8-0375/2017 - Evelyne Gebhardt, Axel Voss)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this proposal. The proposed directive applies to business-to-consumer contracts for the supply of digital content and digital services. It addresses internal market problems created by diverging national contract rules, or the absence of them and will bring benefits to both, businesses and consumers. It will also help to increase consumer confidence and contribute to the growth of the Digital Single Market.
Contracts for the sale of goods (A8-0043/2018 - Pascal Arimont)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this proposal. The directive refers to certain aspects concerning contracts for the online and other distance sales of goods. It aims to eliminate the existing legal obstacles to cross-border e-commerce. It will help to encourage consumers and sellers to engage into cross-border sales even more.
Fishing in the GFCM (General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean) Agreement area (A8-0381/2018 - Linnéa Engström)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this proposal. The main objectives of the GFCM are to promote the development, conservation, rational management and best utilisation of marine resources in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. This proposal will enable us to transpose a number of measures adopted by the GFMC into Union law. It will help us fight illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. The proposal also establishes a fishing restricted area in the Adriatic Sea.
Alignment of reporting obligations in the field of environment policy (A8-0324/2018 - Adina-Ioana Vălean)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this proposal. This proposal will simplify the environmental legislation, including reporting provisions. It will reduce administrative burden for Member States and Commission. It is also important that stakeholders, including the public, will have access to clear environmental information.
Special rules regarding maximum length in case of cabs (A8-0042/2019 - Karima Delli)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this proposal. The proposal follows the objectives regarding CO2 and reducing the accidents and fatalities in road transport. It advances the date from which on more aerodynamic and safer cabins may be used which is now not possible due to length restrictions. Aerodynamic cabs will bring better energy performance, visibility and safety for drivers as well as other road users.
Low carbon benchmarks and positive carbon impact benchmarks (A8-0483/2018 - Neena Gill)
I voted in favour of the proposal. The aim is to include environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations in the decision making process of investors and asset managers. Benchmarks have an indirect but important impact on investments, therefore we have to make the categories of benchmarks transparent and comparable to enable better decision—making by portfolio managers.
Specific provisions for the European territorial cooperation goal (Interreg) (A8-0470/2018 - Pascal Arimont)
Fundamental rights of people of African descent (B8-0212/2019)
I voted in favour. Member States and the EU have to fight harder against racism, xenophobia and hate crimes against people of African descent. We have to develop anti-racism strategies that will address these problems. Racism is unfortunately on the rise in the recent years. We have to do everything in our power to stop this trend and eradicate racism because it has no place in modern society.
Report on financial crimes, tax evasion and tax avoidance (A8-0170/2019 - Jeppe Kofod, Luděk Niedermayer)
I voted in favour of the report. This report concludes the work of the TAX3 special committee. It draws together around 280 recommendations. It is important to establish European financial police, which will have the authority to investigate cross-border tax and other financial crimes. We should extend the exchange of information between national tax authorities. A phasing—out of the use of EUR 500 notes would also help decrease tax evasion.
EU-Switzerland Institutional Framework Agreement (A8-0147/2019 - Doru-Claudian Frunzulică)
European Fisheries Control Agency (A8-0037/2019 - Lidia Joanna Geringer de Oedenberg)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the proposal. The proposal establishes a cooperation network among the Member States that will allow for the effective control of the fishing industry to avoid the over-exploitation of living marine resources. However, there is a need to work towards effective application of Union inspection procedures.
Computerising the movement and surveillance of excise goods (A8-0010/2019 - Kay Swinburne)
. ‒ I voted in favour, as the report lays down the arrangements for computerising the movement and surveillance of excise goods. I firmly believe that the implementation of this piece of legislation will provide greater control over the goods traded throughout the EU, and it will increase the safety of European citizens. I also believe that it sets the path for a more efficient and common taxation policy within the EU.
Law applicable to the third-party effects of assignments of claims (A8-0261/2018 - Pavel Svoboda)
. ‒ I voted in favour, since the regulation provides clarifications in relation to the third-party effects of assignments of claims. The issue is particular important in cross—border assignments of claims, as the inconsistency in the different conflict-of-laws rules leads to particularly tedious situations of legal uncertainty.
Exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting for the period 2021-2027 (Pericles IV programme) (A8-0069/2019 - Dennis de Jong)
EU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (A8-0053/2019 - David Martin)
I voted in favour. The agreement represents the successful conclusion of ten-year long negotiations between the EU and Singapore. It sets the rules for further investment protection for the European investors in third countries, which will enable companies to trade and invest more easily in Singapore, and allow for further negotiations with South-East Asian countries.
EU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (resolution) (A8-0048/2019 - David Martin)
I voted in favour. The agreement represents the successful conclusion of ten-year long negotiations between the EU and Singapore. It sets the rules for further investment protection for the European investors in third countries, which will enable companies to trade and invest more easily in Singapore, and allow for further negotiations with South-East Asian countries.
EU-Singapore Investment Protection Agreement (A8-0054/2019 - David Martin)
I voted in favour. The agreement represents the successful conclusion of ten-year long negotiations between the EU and Singapore. It sets the rules for further investment protection for the European investors in third countries, which will enable companies to trade and invest more easily in Singapore, and allow for further negotiations with South-East Asian countries.
EU-Singapore Investment Protection Agreement (resolution) (A8-0049/2019 - David Martin)
I voted in favour. The agreement represents the successful conclusion of ten-year long negotiations between the EU and Singapore. It sets the rules for further investment protection for the European investors in third countries, which will enable companies to trade and invest more easily in Singapore, and allow for further negotiations with South-East Asian countries.
EU-Singapore Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (A8-0020/2019 - Antonio López-Istúriz White)
I voted in favour of the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) between the EU and Singapore that sets the foundations for trade and investments. Singapore is the largest economy amongst the ASEAN countries, and it represents a trade partner with whom the EU can secure sustainable growth and jobs in Europe. The agreement also provides a starting point for the rules related to industrial policy, health, environment and social affairs, science and technology, and transport, justice, freedom and security, legal cooperation, money laundering and terrorist financing. The agreement will allow the EU to continue with world trade and secure sustainable growth and jobs in Europe.
EU-Singapore Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (resolution) (A8-0023/2019 - Antonio López-Istúriz White)
I voted in favour of the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) between the EU and Singapore that sets the foundations for trade and investments. Singapore is the largest economy amongst the ASEAN countries, and it represents a trade partner with whom the EU can secure sustainable growth and jobs in Europe. The agreement also provides a starting point for the rules related to industrial policy, health, environment and social affairs, science and technology, and transport, justice, freedom and security, legal cooperation, money laundering and terrorist financing. The agreement will allow the EU to continue with world trade and secure sustainable growth and jobs in Europe.
Treaty establishing the Transport Community (A8-0022/2019 - Karima Delli)
I voted in favour. The treaty outlines a more comprehensive approach to transport policies and transport-related areas. It aims to create a Transport Community in the field of road, rail, inland waterway and maritime transport and to develop the transport network between the EU and the Western Balkans. The Transport Community will allow for the integration of the transport markets on the European continent in terms of management, social policy, public procurement and the environment, for all modes of transport excluding air transport.
2018 Report on Bosnia and Herzegovina (A8-0467/2018 - Cristian Dan Preda)
I voted in favour of the report because I would welcome the accession of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) in the EU, as well as the accession of the other countries in the Western Balkans. It is also true that the BiH authorities’ accession to the European path must be matched by consistent implementation of reforms stemming from the Reform Agenda and translated into concrete results, to the benefit of citizens, regardless of their ethnic and religious affiliation.
Common provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund Plus, the Cohesion Fund, and the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund and financial rules for those (A8-0043/2019 - Andrey Novakov, Constanze Krehl)
I voted in favour of the report. Cohesion policy represents an important tool in efforts to strengthen the EU by means of investments in all EU regions, focusing on innovation, competitiveness, digital transformation and industrial adaptation. The report also stresses the importance of promoting a low-carbon, circular economy and fighting against climate change, which is a crucial step towards a more sustainable economy.
Justice programme (A8-0068/2019 - Josef Weidenholzer, Heidi Hautala)
I voted in favour of the Commission proposal. The aim of the justice programme is to support training of judiciaries and judicial staff as a tool to improve judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters, based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and of judicial decisions. This will allow further cooperation among the EU Member States that will support the intra-state judicial procedures, which will ensure judicial processes to stand for shorter periods compared to today’s situation.
The state of the debate on the Future of Europe (A8-0427/2018 - Ramón Jáuregui Atondo)
I voted in favour of the report, which calls for a more cooperative Europe and well-functioning EU. In fact, the report calls on the European Council to fully respect the boundaries of its competences, as outlined in the treaties instead of exercising its own political initiative to the detriment of the Commission. Moreover, I found the report extremely important, as it stresses the importance of allowing the Commission to adapt the structure and working methods of its College, which will make for a more agile and efficient legislative procedure.
Fisheries Partnership Agreement between Côte d’Ivoire and the EU (2018-2024) (A8-0030/2019 - João Ferreira)
I voted in favour of this resolution. This partnership agreement represents an opportunity for Europe and the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire to establish a sustainable fisheries policy and limit overexploitation of fishery resources. Through economic, financial, technical, and scientific cooperation, the agreement sets the basis for sustainable economic development of the region. Indeed, it establishes marine protected areas, enables fish markets to be built, and enables the reinforcement of organisations representing men and women in the fishing industry.
Fisheries Partnership Agreement between Côte d’Ivoire and the EU (2018-2024) (resolution) (A8-0034/2019 - João Ferreira)
I voted in favour of this resolution. This partnership agreement represents an opportunity for Europe and the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire to establish a sustainable fisheries policy and limit overexploitation of fishery resources. Through economic, financial, technical, and scientific cooperation, the agreement sets the basis for sustainable economic development of the region. Indeed, it establishes marine protected areas, enables fish markets to be built, and enables the reinforcement of organisations representing men and women in the fishing industry.
Motion for a resolution pursuant to Rule 108(6) seeking an opinion from the Court of Justice on the compatibility with the Treaties of the proposed EU-Morocco Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement (B8-0100/2019)
I voted against the motion, since there is some legal uncertainty related to the agreement. In particular, not only is there still incomprehension with respect to the inclusion of Western Sahara in the treaty, but there are also doubts that the Kingdom of Morocco respects the principles of the UN Charter and international law in relation to the principle of self-determination of peoples.
EU-Morocco Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement (A8-0027/2019 - Alain Cadec)
I voted in favour, since the EU-Morocco Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement will provide fishing opportunities to 128 vessels for a four-year period. The Commission proposed to extend the scope to the territory of Western Sahara, without contradicting the conclusions in the Court of Justice ruling (27 February 2018), and fulfilling the three conditions: (i) an explicit provision to that effect in the text; (ii) the consent of the populations concerned; and (iii) the benefit for the local populations. According to the Commission report, the conditions are met, and the report gives a positive recommendation to the agreement.
Agreement to prevent unregulated high seas fisheries in the Central Arctic Ocean (A8-0016/2019 - Norica Nicolai)
I voted in favour. The agreement aims at preventing unregulated fishing in the high seas portion of the Central Arctic Ocean. The Joint Programme of Scientific Research, which is part of the agreement, will be tasked with increasing knowledge of the living marine resources of the Arctic Ocean and its ecosystems. It is our duty to protect maritime flora and fauna for future generations. As part of the agreement, the EU is promoting its environmental objectives.
Protocol to the EU-Mexico Economic Partnership, Political Coordination and Cooperation Agreement (accession of Croatia) (A8-0066/2019 - Inmaculada Rodríguez-Piñero Fernández)
EU Anti-Fraud Programme (A8-0064/2019 - José Ignacio Salafranca Sánchez-Neyra)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the programme. The EU Anti-Fraud Programme has two objectives: (i) protecting the financial interests of the EU, and (ii) providing support to administrative authorities of the Member States and cooperation between these and the EU Commission for the proper application of the law. Fraud, corruption, and other illegal activities harm the EU economy and society. Thus, we all must do what is necessary to counteract this phenomenon, and ensure the application of the law.
Multiannual plan for stocks fished in the Western Waters and adjacent waters, and for fisheries exploiting those stocks (A8-0310/2018 - Alain Cadec)
I voted in favour of the agreement. The agreement establishes the precautionary approach to fisheries management by means of sustainable fishing. Indeed, I believe it is extremely important to allow marine species to restore themselves by limiting their exploitation. Moreover, the agreement is in line with the EU 2020 environmental objectives, leading to a more sustainable fishing industry.
Union Civil Protection Mechanism (A8-0180/2018 - Elisabetta Gardini)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the agreement proposed by MEP Gardini, as it draws attention to natural and man-made disasters, increasingly frequent events that each time paralyse entire populations for years after their occurrence. The agreement aims at strengthening coordination among the existing capacities, and it establishes the rescEU, a body at the EU level that will act as a last resort when the existing capacities at national level are not sufficient.
Minimum requirements for water reuse (A8-0044/2019 - Simona Bonafè)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the proposal. The increasing usage of water, coupled with the global warming urge us to find a solution for the limited water resources. In fact, water scarcity is not a problem related to confined regions of the EU, but it is a visible and harmful problem throughout Europe. The only way to ensure the future generations to have access to unpolluted water is to adopt an efficient management of these scarce resources, for which this proposal sets the basis.
Approval and market surveillance of agricultural and forestry vehicles (A8-0318/2018 - Nicola Danti)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the proposal. The proposal covers different aspects related to agricultural and forestry vehicles, starting from safety of the workers that build this machinery. In fact, safety at work should be a priority in all jobs. Moreover, another aspect of the proposal that I have supported in particular is that it sets the basis for less polluting agricultural vehicles, something that can contribute to the achievement of the EU 2020 environmental objectives.
Programme for single market, competitiveness of enterprises and European statistics (A8-0052/2019 - Nicola Danti)
I voted in favour of the proposal. A higher level of integration among the markets of the single Member States will ensure that within the EU there is a single market. The proposal establishes a more coherent framework for the achievement of the latter objective, meaning that it will eliminate the existing overlaps among the numerous EU programmes and it ensures the proper functioning of the internal market.
VAT: Definitive system for the taxation of trade between Member States (A8-0028/2019 - Fulvio Martusciello)
I voted in favour of the proposal, which establishes a more coherent framework for VAT legislation within the EU. Up until now, the numerous rules presented shortcomings that disabled the VAT system from efficient functioning. Moreover, the system was not in line with the true single market plan, either. Thus, I believe that this proposal was really needed for the functioning of the EU internal market.
Roma integration strategies (B8-0098/2019)
I voted in favour of the proposal, as no person should be discriminated on any basis. The proposal finally provides the protection of the human rights of the Roma, but also sets the national instruments and structures aiming at promoting their inclusion. This proposal is only a first step towards this inclusion procedure, and further work needs to be done.
Implementation of the Treaty provisions related to EU Citizenship (A8-0041/2019 - Maite Pagazaurtundúa Ruiz)
I voted in favour. In a period in which our EU is facing a difficult time, our attention has to be devoted to the people. EU citizenship has not been fully implemented as drafted in the Treaty, urging for such a piece of legislation. The EU citizenship doesn’t aim at replacing our national citizenships, but, instead, it underlines the importance to feel the sense of belonging to a wider community, which is the EU.
Implementation of the Treaty provisions concerning enhanced cooperation (A8-0038/2019 - Alain Lamassoure)
I voted in favour of the resolution, as I believe that the future of the EU lies in further cooperation in areas upon which depends the proper functioning of the EU. For this purpose, this agreement creates a special unit in the Commission that will be responsible for inter-institutional relations, to coordinate and streamline the institutional setting—up of enhanced cooperation initiatives.
Implementation of the Treaty provisions on Parliament’s power of political control over the Commission (A8-0033/2019 - Mercedes Bresso)
. ‒ I voted in favour. The agreement not only acknowledges the implementation of the Spitzenkandidaten process but also allows European citizens to have a direct say in the choice of the Commission President. This will encourage citizens to engage more in future European elections. It also outlines the need to establish a bicameral legislative system involving the Council and Parliament, with the Commission acting as the executive.
Implementation of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union in the EU institutional framework (A8-0051/2019 - Barbara Spinelli)
Regulations and general conditions governing the performance of the Ombudsman’s duties (Statute of the European Ombudsman) (A8-0050/2019 - Paulo Rangel)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the draft regulation, as it clarifies the role of the Ombudsman with respect to the EU institutions. The Ombudsman should act as a guardian, with the duty to make recommendations where it is found that an EU institution is not properly applying a court ruling. Moreover, the agreement clearly states that it is in his/her power to handle complaints and to conduct own-initiative inquiries with a view to identifying repeated instances of maladministration and promoting best administrative practices within the EU institutions.
A comprehensive European industrial policy on artificial intelligence and robotics (A8-0019/2019 - Ashley Fox)
. ‒ I voted in favour. Artificial intelligence and robotics represent an incredible resource that can improve our lives. In particular, technology in healthcare has always brought improvement in curing and prevention. As a member of the MEPs Against Cancer group, I strongly support all practices to improve the curing of diseases and to improve the quality of life of chronically ill patients. However, as with all technologies, it is necessary to frame legislative boundaries in order to respect human dignity.
Sustainable use of pesticides (A8-0045/2019 - Jytte Guteland)
I voted in favour of the directive proposed by Ms Guteland. It has been scientifically proven that that pesticides have a negative impact on the health of living beings, including humans. This directive provides the legal grounds to limit the unreasonable use of pesticides and urges farmers to adopt a more sustainable use of these and foster the use of non-chemical alternatives. It aims at reducing the risks of pesticide use for human health and the environment.
Implementation of the cross-border Healthcare Directive (A8-0046/2019 - Ivo Belet)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the proposal. It is important to check whether the Directive on Cross-Border Healthcare has been transposed correctly in all Member States. The proposal enables the Commission to perform such analysis, which will provide the relevant information for further clarifications in the application of the Directive concerned. In addition, the Directive is particularly relevant, as it encourages the deepening of cross-border cooperation and an efficient usage of medical resources, as well as a better healthcare service for the local population.
Amendments to Parliament's Rules of Procedure (A8-0462/2018 - Richard Corbett)
Union Customs Code: inclusion of the municipality of Campione d'Italia and the Italian waters of Lake Lugano in the customs territory of the Union (A8-0368/2018 - Jasenko Selimovic)
This proposal aims to ensure that Unions Customs Code is technically precise and meets its objective of improving the competitiveness of European businesses, protecting the financial and economic interests of the Union and the Member States and the safety and security of EU consumers. I voted in favour of this report as it adds new provisions in order to provide total relief from import duty for goods that have been repaired or altered under the outward processing procedure in a country with which the Union has concluded a preferential agreement providing for such relief.
Accession of the Dominican Republic to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (A8-0451/2018 - Mary Honeyball)
. ‒ The Commission proposes that the Council adopt a decision authorising Austria, Cyprus, Croatia, Luxembourg, Portugal, Romania and the UK to accept the accession of the Dominican Republic to the 1980 Hague Convention. I voted in favour of this report as the Hague Convention is a key text that should be supported and promoted by EU Member States.
Accession of Ecuador and Ukraine to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (A8-0452/2018 - Mary Honeyball)
Accession of Honduras to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (A8-0457/2018 - Mary Honeyball)
Accession of Belarus and Uzbekistan to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (A8-0458/2018 - Mary Honeyball)
Association of the Overseas Countries and Territories with the European Union including relations between the EU, Greenland and Denmark (A8-0480/2018 - Maurice Ponga)
I voted in favour of the European Commission proposal for a Council decision on the Association of the Overseas and Territories, including Greenland, with the European Union. The proposed decision would bring together the funds for all EU overseas countries and territories under the EU budget, as part of the new heading 6, ‘Neighbourhood and the world’.
Implementation and functioning of the .eu top level domain name (A8-0394/2018 - Fredrick Federley)
. ‒ This report deals with the .eu domain which is currently managed by an outdated legal framework which is in need of review in order to provide a future-proof and flexible regulatory environment. I supported this report as it introduces necessary safeguards while also promoting EU values with regard to how the domain is governed.
Harmonisation of gross national income at market prices (GNI Regulation) (A8-0009/2018 - Roberto Gualtieri)
Situation in Venezuela (B8-0082/2019, B8-0083/2019, B8-0084/2019, B8-0085/2019, B8-0086/2019, B8-0087/2019)
Annual report on competition policy (A8-0474/2018 - Michel Reimon)
Nuclear decommissioning assistance programme of the Ignalina nuclear power plant in Lithuania (A8-0413/2018 - Rebecca Harms)
This report deals with the decommissioning of the nuclear power plant in the town of Visaginas. This programme has been conducted through several financial periods and is planned to be finalised by 2038. It originated in the context of negotiations for Lithuania’s accession to the EU. I voted in favour of this report to provide a co-financing rate of 86% to the project.
Annual report on the control of the financial activities of the European Investment Bank for 2017 (A8-0479/2018 - Georgi Pirinski)
Cross-border restitution claims of works of art and cultural goods looted in armed conflicts and wars (A8-0465/2018 - Pavel Svoboda)
I voted in favour of this report, which calls on the Commission to develop common principles regarding access to public and private archives containing information on property identification and to identify common principles on how ownership or title is established, prescription and standards of proof and to define the notion of looting and art.
Protection of the Union's budget in case of generalised deficiencies as regards the rule of law in the Member States (A8-0469/2018 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial, Petri Sarvamaa) SL
Zadevno poročilo uvaja “hitro kaznovanje” v primeru nespoštovanja pravne države po “bruseljskih kriterijih”, medtem ko se proračun sprejema po drugačni in dolgotrajni proceduri.Poročila nisem podprl, ker mislim, da ni najprimernejši odgovor na stranpoti vladavine prava.V aktualni evropski situaciji lahko to pripelje do nadaljnje polarizacije med zahodno in srednjo Evropo. Obe bi potrebovali več dialoga kot kaznovanja. Ponovno se je namreč pokazalo, da zahodna Evropa ne razume specifik srednje Evrope.Tako kažejo tudi glasovi poslancev različnih strank. Znotraj EPP smo poročilu nasprotovali poslanci iz srednje Evrope, tako je bilo tudi pri S&D. Srednja Evropa ima svoje značilnosti, svoj pogled na politični sistem in prihodnost Evrope, ki izhaja iz drugačnega zgodovinskega razvoja, kot ga je bila deležna zahodna Evropa.Ultimativno kaznovanje se mi ne zdi primerna pot v času, ko nam izrazito manjka skupnih imenovalcev. Ob tem je treba omeniti še namero, da se srednji Evropi razporedi manj kohezivnih sredstev, kar gotovo priliva olje na ogenj celotne situacije.
Establishing the Fiscalis programme for cooperation in the field of taxation (A8-0421/2018 - Sven Giegold)
I voted in favour of this report to approve Fiscalis, an EU cooperation programme which enables national tax administrations to create and exchange information and expertise. This will allow for developing and operating major Trans-European IT systems together, as well as establishing networks by bringing together national officials from across Europe.
Establishing the Rights and Values programme (A8-0468/2018 - Bodil Valero)
The report addresses the need to set up a new mechanism to support civil society organisations fighting for European values within the EU on the local and national level. I supported this report because it established a new programme within the Europe for Citizens Programme and the Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme.
European Instrument for Nuclear Safety complementing the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (A8-0448/2018 - Vladimir Urutchev)
The new European instrument for nuclear safety is promote the establishment of effective and efficient nuclear safety standards in third countries in accordance with Article 203 of the Euratom Treaty, building on the experience of nuclear safety activities within the Euratom Community. I voted in favour of this report as it promoted an effective nuclear safety culture and implementation of the highest nuclear safety and radiation protection standards.
Annual report on the financial activities of the European Investment Bank (A8-0415/2018 - Barbara Kappel)
I voted in favour of this report, which congratulates the EIB on 60 years of successful operations. Since its founding, it has invested EUR 1.1 trillion and financed 11 800 projects in 160 countries as the world’s biggest multilateral borrower and lender. I also welcome this report for calling on the EIB to step up its efforts in terms of communication and to further enhance transparency.
Ombudsman’s strategic inquiry OI/2/2017 on the transparency of legislative discussions in the preparatory bodies of the Council of the EU (A8-0420/2018 - Jo Leinen, Yana Toom)
EU-Morocco Agreement on the amendment of Protocols 1 and 4 to the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement (Resolution) (A8-0478/2018 - Marietje Schaake)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report in order to restore the tariff preferences for the population of Western Sahara. These preferences will permit more growth and prosperity in the region. Additionally, the agreement will secure closer cooperation with regard to the exchange of data on imports/exports of products originating in Western Sahara.
EU-Morocco Agreement on the amendment of Protocols 1 and 4 to the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement (A8-0471/2018 - Marietje Schaake)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report in order to restore the tariff preferences for the population of Western Sahara These preferences will permit more growth and prosperity in the region. Additionally, the agreement will secure closer cooperation with regard to the exchange of data on imports/exports of products originating in Western Sahara.
European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) (A8-0445/2018 - Maria Arena)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report. My position is that the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) needs to remain one of the special instruments that allows the European Union to react to unforeseen circumstances. I am in favour of proposals by the Commission, which in turn means that this Fund will be more accessible and have more assets to distribute.
European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) (A8-0461/2018 - Verónica Lope Fontagné)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report so that the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) can continue to boost education, training and social inclusion for European Union citizens. This programme will have a stronger emphasis on local and regional specificities. I support this motion as having more specific country-oriented goals.
Specific provisions for the European territorial cooperation goal (Interreg) (A8-0470/2018 - Pascal Arimont)
Apportionment of tariff rate quotas included in the WTO schedule of the Union following the UK's withdrawal from the EU (A8-0361/2018 - Godelieve Quisthoudt-Rowohl)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this proposal. It is necessary to prepare for the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the EU with regard to tariff rate quotas. In the absence of an agreement before the UK is no longer covered under the EU’s WTO schedule, the EU should be able to proceed by modifying the WTO tariff concessions unilaterally on the basis of the proposed regulation.
Union’s authorisation procedure for pesticides (A8-0475/2018 - Norbert Lins, Bart Staes)
I voted in favour on this report. I strongly urge the systematic overview of all studies with regard to how glyphosate and neonicotinoids are influencing our health and environment. This report provides a foundation for future action. It is not just about regaining the trust of the public, but also the respecting science. As politicians, we cannot agree to compromises regarding the health of our citizens.
Establishing a dedicated financial programme for decommissioning of nuclear facilities and management of radioactive waste (A8-0441/2018 - Peter Kouroumbashev)
Implementation report on the trade pillar of the Association Agreement with Central America (A8-0459/2018 - Reimer Böge)
I voted in favour of this report, which assesses the implementation of the trade pillar of the Association Agreement with Central America. The Association Agreement will contribute to the modernisation and diversification of exports from Central America and will serve as a necessary tool for further cooperation.
Establishing the InvestEU Programme (A8-0482/2018 - José Manuel Fernandes, Roberto Gualtieri)
I voted in favour of this report since this investment instrument will simplify and expand the model of Investment Plan for Europe in order to create jobs, investment, and innovation. In turn, it will trigger 650 billion dollars in additional investment, which will guarantee prosperity for Member States.
EU Emergency Travel Document (A8-0433/2018 - Kinga Gál)
Euratom Research and Training programme 2021- 2025 (A8-0406/2018 - Miapetra Kumpula-Natri)
European Central Bank Annual report 2017 (A8-0424/2018 - Gabriel Mato)
I voted in favour of the annual report by the ECB. In this annual report, the EP assesses all aspects of ECB activities in the year 2017, in particular, monetary policies. I believe that the ECB and its policies facilitate solid and broad-based economic expansion in the euro area and, most importantly, the recovery of headline inflation.
Banking Union - Annual report 2018 (A8-0419/2018 - Nils Torvalds)
I voted in favour of this report. It was a thorough report that also included the challenges remaining when it comes to completing the Banking Union. I support the work that has been done on the Banking Union and recognise the importance of plurality of sustainable banking models as well as problems related to tax fraud and tax evasion.
Implementation of the EU-Colombia and Peru Trade Agreement (A8-0446/2018 - Santiago Fisas Ayxelà)
I voted in favour of this report. I am much inclined to support trade agreements between the European Union and Columbia and Peru, which will allow both parties to boost international trade. I welcome the commitment of both Peru and Colombia to improve labour and environmental policies. The EU exports of agricultural products to both countries have increased significantly since the provisional application of the Agreement and I believe that the EU should support further internationalisation processes of these companies.
Situation of fundamental rights in the European Union in 2017 (A8-0466/2018 - Josep-Maria Terricabras)
This report, authored by the greens, was drafted to include a number of ideological positions that I cannot support. Rather than providing a review of the status of fundamental rights, this report drives wedges between the left and right and challenges the principle of subsidiarity in a number of areas.
Establishing, as part of the Integrated Border Management Fund, the instrument for financial support for customs control equipment (A8-0460/2018 - Jiří Pospíšil)
I voted in favour of this MFF report, since the new instrument is key for the Integrated Border Management Fund to work efficiently. This instrument will allow any customs authority/control point unit to purchase, maintain and upgrade necessary control equipment in order to ensure that the Customs Union will be more efficient.
Conclusion of the EU-Albania status agreement on actions carried out by the European Border and Coast Guard Agency in Albania (A8-0463/2018 - Bodil Valero)
I voted in favour of this report in order to secure the EU’s external borders. The report approves the Status Agreement between the EU and the Republic of Albania on actions carried out by the European Border and Coast Guard Agency in the Republic of Albania. The agreement will ensure a legally binding framework for the joint operations and rapid border interventions conducted by the Agency on the territory of Albania.
EU-Kyrgyzstan comprehensive agreement (A8-0450/2018 - Cristian Dan Preda)
Autonomous driving in European transport (A8-0425/2018 - Wim van de Camp)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report which ensures that Member States will be prepared for automated driving functions. This report will be useful in many aspects — to intensify efforts regarding the regulatory framework, testing, research and innovation and even deployments of vehicles. Furthermore, it is proposing that Europe be at the forefront of this field and will be able to compete with the US, China or Japan.
Use of vehicles hired without drivers for the carriage of goods by road (A8-0193/2018 - Cláudia Monteiro de Aguiar)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report to put in order the use of vehicles hired without drivers. This motion will allow the use of hired vehicles for the transport of goods by road under the same conditions as vehicles owned by drivers. From now on, each Member State within its territory shall allow the use of vehicles hired by undertakings established on the territory of another Member State.
Temporary withdrawal of preferences in certain agreements concluded between the EU and certain third countries (A8-0330/2018 - Christofer Fjellner)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report for two reasons. The first being that the outermost regions will receive special attention as certain sectors in these regions are particularly vulnerable and the second being that specific provisions will push the Commission to monitor and report the progress of third countries with their adherence to social and environmental standards. In the trilogue, we made sufficient compromises regarding the inclusion of the social and environmental issues in the regulation.
Establishing the 'Customs' programme for cooperation in the field of customs (A8-0464/2018 - Maria Grapini)
I voted in favour of this report. This programme will provide coordination between the authorities of the Member States, as well as capacity building, including training and exchange of best practices, in order to ensure a uniform application of EU customs legislation. Especially the further development, operation and maintenance of the customs IT infrastructure.
Amendment of the European Investment Bank Statute (A8-0476/2018 - Danuta Maria Hübner)
I voted in favour of this amendment, because it is needed in light of the new situation created by the withdrawal of the UK from the European Union. This amendment will deliver a solution to reduce one of the directors of EIB in order for the number to match the Member States. The other imported notion of this amendment is to increase the number of alternate directors so that their number will be fairly distributed among the Member States.
Gender mainstreaming in the European Parliament (A8-0429/2018 - Angelika Mlinar)
While I support gender equality, I chose to vote against this report, as it took an important issue to achieve political motivations. The report included aspects for gender-neutral language in all documents and to introduce gender dimensions in reports from across committees. I will also support initiatives for gender equality, but maintain a strong stance against texts with overt political agendas such as this.
European Joint Undertaking for ITER and the Development of Fusion Energy (A8-0393/2018 - Marian-Jean Marinescu)
I voted in favour of this report to secure funding for continued European participation in the ITER project. Fusion is going to play an important role in the future energy landscape and we should support such an inexhaustible, safe, climate-friendly, environmentally responsible and economically competitive source of energy.
Assessing how the EU budget is used for public sector reform (A8-0378/2018 - Brian Hayes)
I voted in favour of this report to simplify the coordination of concerned services. I believe that an effective public sector is essential to help Member States adapt to changing circumstances, increase resilience, expand eGovernment and improve delivery of services. Therefore, I am in favour of the reintroduction of a chapter dedicated to public administration and governance, aimed at developing an assessment framework that captures the quantitative and qualitative aspects of high-quality public administration. Financial support of EUR 9 million should help the Member States to reform their public administration.
EU guidelines and the mandate of the EU Special Envoy on the promotion of freedom of religion or belief outside the EU (A8-0449/2018 - Andrzej Grzyb)
This report emphasises freedom of religion or belief as a universal human right and a core value of the EU while affirming the work of the EU Special Envoy on the promotion of freedom of religion or belief outside the EU. FoRB must be protected, promoted and safeguarded by all actors and enhanced through interreligious and intercultural dialogues. I support this report as it reaffirms the position that the promotion and protection of FoRB in EU foreign policy and external actions must remain a priority. The Special Envoy has developed an effective mandate and should continue to receive support from the institutions.
Gender equality and taxation policies in the EU (A8-0416/2018 - Marisa Matias, Ernest Urtasun)
Expedited settlement of commercial disputes (A8-0396/2018 - Tadeusz Zwiefka)
I support this report because a specific procedural order regarding cross-border commercial disputes between businesses must be established. This kind of procedural order would provide parties with a settlement even in the case of complicated disputes, which would lead to vast savings for European businesses and activate capital. The procedure would be voluntary.
Common system of a digital services tax on revenues resulting from the provision of certain digital services (A8-0428/2018 - Paul Tang)
I voted in favour of this report to adopt taxation laws that ensure a level playing field for digital and traditional companies. The EU must act immediately to implement a coherent approach across Member States. This proposal establishes the common system of a digital services tax on revenues resulting from the provision of certain digital services.
Corporate taxation of a significant digital presence (A8-0426/2018 - Dariusz Rosati)
With the rapid transformation of the global economy as result of digitalisation, it is necessary to establish where digital companies should pay their taxes and how much they should pay. The proposal aims to address the tax challenges posed by the digital economy by putting in place a comprehensive solution in the current corporate tax systems in the Member States. Even if the company is not physically present in a country, Member States would be able to tax the profits made in their territory.
EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (A8-0366/2018 - Pedro Silva Pereira)
The Economic Partnership Agreement is the largest free trade agreement the EU has ever concluded. I supported this agreement because it will remove many regulatory barriers and bring economic benefits to both the EU and Japan. The EU-Japan EPA is the first trade agreement to include a chapter on corporate governance and includes chapters dedicated to small and medium-sized enterprises, in additional to trade and sustainable development. Together with the Strategic Partnership Agreement, the EPA will introduce a new era for EU-Japan relations.
EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (resolution) (A8-0367/2018 - Pedro Silva Pereira)
The Economic Partnership Agreement is the largest free trade agreement the EU has ever concluded. I supported this agreement because it will remove many regulatory barriers and bring economic benefits to both the EU and Japan. The EU-Japan EPA is the first trade agreement to include a chapter on corporate governance and includes chapters dedicated to small and medium-sized enterprises, in additional to trade and sustainable development. Together with the Strategic Partnership Agreement, the EPA will introduce a new era for EU-Japan relations.
EU-Japan Strategic Partnership Agreement (A8-0383/2018 - Alojz Peterle)
The SPA identifies over 40 areas for strategic cooperation, such as foreign policy and security issues, global development and humanitarian aid, environment, education, agriculture, technology, sport, culture, and health. Aging societies are a problem in the EU as well as in Japan and with joint action, we will be able to tackle the problem more efficiently. The SPA aims to strengthen the overall partnership and provides a legal foundation for improving bilateral cooperation between EU and Japan. As rapporteur, I am pleased we were able to include health as an area of cooperation that will benefit European and Japanese citizens.
EU-Japan Strategic Partnership Agreement (resolution) (A8-0385/2018 - Alojz Peterle)
The SPA identifies over 40 areas for strategic cooperation, such as foreign policy and security issues, global development and humanitarian aid, environment, education, agriculture, technology, sport, culture, and health. Aging societies are a problem in the EU as well as in Japan and with joint action, we will be able to tackle the problem more efficiently. The SPA aims to strengthen the overall partnership and provides a legal foundation for improving bilateral cooperation between EU and Japan. As rapporteur, I am pleased we were able to include health as an area of cooperation that will benefit European and Japanese citizens.
Findings and recommendations of the Special Committee on Terrorism (A8-0374/2018 - Monika Hohlmeier, Helga Stevens)
This report provides the Parliament’s view as to the practical and legislative gaps in the current counter-terrorism regime that have allowed the recent terrorist attack in the EU to occur and to make recommendations that would help tackle the terrorist threat at the EU level. I voted in favour of this report and it offers a balanced and comprehensive approach to addressing an all too common issue we face in the EU. I applaud the work this special committee was able to carry out in this area.
Annual report on the implementation of the Common Foreign and Security Policy (A8-0392/2018 - David McAllister)
I support this report because the promotion and safeguarding of universal values, such as peace, democracy, equality and rule of law are the pillars of the EU and European society. The report provides a holistic view of the ongoing trends in international relations and the role of EU therein. The EU must provide enough financial resources for the EU’s external action and promote an effective combination of hard and soft power tools. This report confirms the EU’s growing responsibility to safeguard its own security while defending its interests and values.
Annual report on the implementation of the Common Security and Defence Policy (A8-0375/2018 - Ioan Mircea Paşcu)
The rules-based order is being challenged in the EU neighbourhood and the EU must answer the challenges unanimously. I support this report because it addresses all the important elements of a successful Common Security and Defence policy. The establishment of the European Defence Industrial Development Programme, the Capability Development Plan and Coordinated Annual Review are crucial tools, which, together with 2 % of GDP defence spending, will mean a competitive and strong EU.
Annual report on human rights and democracy in the world 2017 and the European Union’s policy on the matter (A8-0373/2018 - Petras Auštrevičius)
The states have the ultimate responsibility to safeguard all human rights through implementation of treaties and conventions. I support this report because it reaffirms that European enterprises play a leading role in promoting international standards on business and human rights as well as emphasising the need to uphold the principles of freedom of opinion and expression. A truly independent, pluralistic and dynamic civil society contributes to development and stability.
EU-Ukraine Association Agreement (A8-0369/2018 - Michael Gahler)
Ukraine has made positive developments in many areas such as judiciary, anti-corruption framework, decentralisation, energy, health, banking sector and education but it still needs to continue on this path of reforms, especially in the field of reducing the oligarchy and the fight against the corruption. I support this report because it underlines the five key areas in order to strengthen the implementation process of association agreement.
Education in the digital era: challenges, opportunities and lessons for EU policy design (A8-0400/2018 - Yana Toom)
In the digital era, we are increasingly reliant upon technology which is rapidly progressing. Education systems sometimes struggle to adapt in terms of using new technologies and also of teaching and the training of teachers. To adapt to this reality, we must develop an approach based on non-formal and formal education systems. While education is a competence of the national level, the EU can help promote cooperation between stakeholders and local and regional authorities to unify the approach to educational development. I voted in favour of this report because it encourages effective digital skills assessment methods that are dynamic, flexible, constantly updated and tailored to learnersʼ needs. We should strive to achieve much broader uptake across the Union at national, regional and local levels.
Protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to carcinogens or mutagens at work (A8-0142/2018 - Claude Rolin)
. ‒ I support this agreement because the fight against cancer must be a priority in our work environments. This agreement protects workers from exposure to carcinogens or mutagens at work and establishes a new limit value for seven more carcinogens. It also reduces workers’ level of exposure to the lowest level technically possible, which means more protection to workers and a more effective fight against cancer.
Transparency and sustainability of the EU risk assessment in the food chain (A8-0417/2018 - Renate Sommer)
This report strengthens the transparency of the risk assessment process and provides additional guarantees in terms of the reliability, objectivity and independence of EFSA studies. I supported this agreement because it follows the fitness check of the General Food Law Regulation. It also follows the European Citizens’ Initiative on glyphosates and includes concerns regarding the studies to be used in the evaluation of pesticides.
European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop) (A8-0273/2017 - Anne Sander)
Cedefop adapted its activities to the overall societal, institutional and economic developments in the field of vocational education and training. This includes technological development, which plays an essential role in the vocational occupations. I support this agreement because it defines the role of Cedefop more sharply and updates its mandate as a centre for analysis, research and policy in skills and qualifications policy areas.
European Foundation for the improvement of living and working conditions (Eurofound) (A8-0275/2017 - Enrique Calvet Chambon)
. ‒ Revision of the Eurofound regulation is essential to ensure the agency’s efficiency. I support this report because a clearer description of Eurofound’s role in shaping policies on living and working conditions is needed. This revision will offer the opportunity to update Eurofound’s objectives and tasks in order to reflect the developments within the agency since its founding.
Complementing EU type-approval legislation with regard to the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the Union (A8-0359/2018 - Marlene Mizzi)
. ‒ This proposal aims to address the consequences of the withdrawal of the UK from the EU on the European system of type approval of motor vehicles, in order to ensure regulatory compliance and business continuity. I supported the report as it enables manufacturers of motor vehicles, systems, components and separate technical units holding UK type approval to obtain Union type approval, provided that the application for Union type approval is made before the UK’s withdrawal from the EU.
Common system of value added tax as regards the temporary application of a generalised reverse charge mechanism in relation to supplies of goods and services above a certain threshold (A8-0418/2018 - Gabriel Mato)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report which introduces a measure to safeguard elements to decrease the VAT gap and single transaction threshold, electronic submission notification or transactions. The proposal is to amend the common system of VAT as regards the temporary application of a generalised reverse charge mechanism in relation to supplies of good and services above a certain threshold.
Full application of the provisions of the Schengen acquis in Bulgaria and Romania (A8-0365/2018 - Sergei Stanishev)
. ‒ Bulgaria and Romania fulfilled all the conditions of the Schengen acquis relating to air borders, land borders, police cooperation, data protection, the Schengen Information System, sea borders and visas. I support this report because they have shown real commitment and even though some of the provisions still have to be approved by the Council, they are progressing towards full application.
Military mobility (A8-0372/2018 - Tunne Kelam)
. ‒ Military mobility is identified as a priority area for EU-NATO cooperation. I support this report because military mobility is a central strategic tool enabling the EU to pursue its security and defence interests and is crucial for enabling NATO’s reinforcement capabilities. The EU should take more concrete steps to meet its specific security and defence needs and military mobility is one of those steps.
New European Agenda for Culture (A8-0388/2018 - Giorgos Grammatikakis)
As Europe faces growing social inequalities, divers populations, pugilism, radicalism and security threats, the EU must focus on fostering solidarity between Member States. Culture has a role to play in creating a sense of belonging and moving us closer together through active citizenship. I voted in favour of this report as it bring the promotion and protection of culture around three dimensions: social, economic and external, while also taking into consideration sector specific approaches.
Application of the Euro 5 step to the type-approval of two- or three- wheel vehicles and quadricycles (A8-0346/2018 - Daniel Dalton)
. ‒ Environmental protection is essential for the protection of our future. Alternative powertrains such as electricity provide a good substitute for current powertrains and they protect the environment at the same time but they are still very costly. I supported this report because it represents the best balance between environmental protection and the social and economic imperatives for more accessible and economically friendly alternative powertrains.
Accession of Samoa to the EU-Pacific States Interim Partnership Agreement (A8-0376/2018 - David Martin)
. ‒ Economic partnerships are very important agreements, which bring sum-sum end game. I voted in favour of the agreement because we need to support Samoa’s development and its advancement from least developed country status should not be the reason for losing trade preferences. As the EU, it is our responsibility to promote free trade and strategic partnerships that is why Samoa needs to maintain current duty-free and quota-free access to the EU on all products except arms and ammunition.
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2018/003 EL/Attica publishing (A8-0377/2018 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial)
. ‒ Globalisation brought many advantages to world economy but also some major structural changes in world trade patterns. The rapid digital evolution has presented problems for the Greek publishing sector, which will also present difficulties for redeployment. I voted in favour of this proposal because the mobilisation of EGF provides a necessary financial contribution to the Greek economy, which has been suffering a decline in per capita real GDP and is having problems with rising unemployment.
Temporary reintroduction of border control at internal borders (A8-0356/2018 - Tanja Fajon)
. ‒ The threats to our countries and to the EU cannot be time framed in advance. I voted against this report because we have to adapt to changing realities and protect our borders if the situation so demands. This cannot be achieved through the Commission’s proposal of a reintroduction of internal border controls for only one year with no possibility of extension. I support the removal of temporary border controls on the Slovenian-Austrian border, which was a consequence of bad or inadequate measures taken by governments but if future situations require similar actions, Member States should have the right to protect their citizens, no matter the timeline.
Common rules for the operation of air services (A8-0150/2018 - Claudia Țapardel)
. ‒ Clarification of the ATA agreement wet-lease clause is necessary for further bilateral cooperation in this field. I support the agreement because it is pragmatic and presents the best option. It should be noted that wet-leasing as an instrument will continue to be exceptional and should not have a negative impact on the normal functioning of the EU aviation market. This approach honours the obligations from the EU-US ATA as well as existing EU rules, that is why is the best possible option.
The Cum Ex Scandal: financial crime and the loopholes in the current legal framework (B8-0518/2018, B8-0519/2018, B8-0520/2018, B8-0521/2018, B8-0525/2018, RC-B8-0551/2018, B8-0551/2018, B8-0552/2018)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this Resolution because schemes such as cum-ex should not breach European or Member State law. Exchange of information is crucial when dealing with issues of fraudulent schemes; that is why the creation of a single point of contact by all Member States is very welcome. Fight against all types of crime should be at the core of EU activities so I support the creation of a subcommittee on taxation and financial crimes within the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) in the new parliamentary term.
WTO: the way forward (A8-0379/2018 - Bernd Lange, Paul Rübig)
. ‒ The World Trade Organisation (WTO) needs modernisation to ensure the organisation will adapt to changing world. I voted in favour of this report because I think it is important the WTO becomes more efficient. Addressing the gaps in current rulebooks, undertaking the pluri-lateral approach instead of a Single Undertaking approach, creating the regulatory framework to cope with technological developments and social challenges, making the organisation more transparent, which together, with a reinforced Secretariat, will mean a more efficient WTO.
2018 Report on Serbia (A8-0331/2018 - David McAllister)
Serbia continues on the path towards integration into the European Union and the changes that have been made are most welcomed. I support Parliament’s report, which welcomes Serbia’s continued engagements. It is important to promote the EU among the Serbian public, to continue the fight against corruption and to ensure that Serbia continues the path of real and sustainable reforms, which are crucial for membership. The normalisation process with Kosovo, which is carried out in good faith, is very much welcomed and must be seen as a recognition of Serbia’s true will towards integration.
2018 Report on Kosovo (A8-0332/2018 - Igor Šoltes)
I supported the amendments to the Commission report on Kosovo because the implementation of fundamental reforms is crucial for progress in Kosovo. The solution of problems such as visa liberalisation, corruption, organised crime, human trafficking, inefficient judiciary, and freedom of speech must be priorities in further transformation of political and social system in Kosovo. Good bilateral relations between neighbours are the basis for regional stability so Kosovo must strengthen the engagements for normalisation of relations between Serbia and Kosovo.
2018 Report on the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (A8-0341/2018 - Ivo Vajgl)
The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia is showing real progress in its implementation of changes needed for further progress towards EU integration. The Pržino Agreement, Urgent Reform Priorities, and Prespa Agreement are just a few of the actions taken by the Macedonian Government which prove that with strong political will, things can progress. It is important to maintain a positive atmosphere, which is why I support the report, which points out some of the issues that need to be addressed, such as the informal economy, unemployment and gender equality. With Macedonian commitments to the implementation of reforms, EU accession and NATO membership negotiations will be successful.
2018 Report on Albania (A8-0334/2018 - Knut Fleckenstein)
. ‒ The rule of law is a basic principle for every democratic country, so I strongly welcome the justice reforms which have been implemented in Albania. The important tasks before the Albanian authorities now are to consolidate the reforms achieved, to fight corruption at all levels and further to improve the vetting process in line with international standards. I support the report because Albania has demonstrated real political commitment to reform, but it still needs to do more especially in the field of economic development, which must be sustainable and environment friendly.
2018 Report on Montenegro (A8-0339/2018 - Charles Tannock)
Reforms are the key indicators of successful integration, therefore their implementation must be a priority for Montenegro. The freedom of speech means independent media and a strong judicial system, which will successfully deal with problems such as corruption, money laundering, human trafficking and all organised crime, will provide protection. Montenegro’s progress in ensuring macroeconomic stability and fiscal consolidation is very welcomed and presents opportunities for Montenegro to play an even more constructive role in the regional stability of Western Balkans.
Defence of academic freedom in the EU's external action (A8-0403/2018 - Wajid Khan)
Academic freedom must be respected in all actions and policies relating to EU’s external action. Ideas and critical discourse are essential part of democratic society and development. Education institutions should be protected because academic freedom is a human right and plays an essential role in the educational advancement. I support recommendations made in the draft regarding EU’s diplomatic effort, which through bilateral and multilateral engagements must strive to prevent attacks on academic freedom and encourage partner countries to set a framework and implement laws, which will protect academic freedom.
Transparent and predictable working conditions in the European Union (A8-0355/2018 - Enrique Calvet Chambon)
I did not support this decision to enter into interinstitutional negotiations because I deem some of the proposed solutions problematic, such as the definition of ‘worker’, the timing and means of information transfer, as well as the new demands on contracts that set obligations and conditions to turn on-demand contracts into standard employment contracts. For all these issues we need better solutions than the ones that were proposed.
Rail passengers' rights and obligations (A8-0340/2018 - Bogusław Liberadzki)
I was happy to support this report because it brings change directly to the life of every EU citizen. Now we can look forward to the uniform application of the rules on domestic, regional and cross border rail passenger services, improved provision of information about passenger rights, or travel information in relation to the journey. In addition, better availability and distribution of tickets, through-tickets and reservations will be required. Moreover, better rights for persons with disabilities or reduced mobility and improved assistance in stations with the possibility of pre-notification and the level of minimum compensation for delays/cancellations is now set.
Persistent organic pollutants (A8-0336/2018 - Julie Girling)
The issues of health are one of my major priorities in my work as an MEP and pollutants are a vital element in order to ensure safe and healthy food for EU citizens. The Regulation aims at introducing into the Union legal system recent decisions on the persistent organic pollutants taken within the framework of the Stockholm Convention.
Care services in the EU for improved gender equality (A8-0352/2018 - Sirpa Pietikäinen)
Support for this report was important because the situation in the care service is not optimal. There were some subsidiary issues with this report but in the end, it is important that we emphasised the need for more childcare facilities and the need for sufficient legislative protection of care workers. The importance of work-life balance for family home carers who are regularly overlooked and their rights and duties are not yet defined as thoroughly as they should be.
Lyme disease (Borreliosis) (B8-0514/2018)
As borreliosis is present in Slovenia, I was very pleased to participate in the debate and support the resolution. The resolution calls for a major role to be played by the EU in addressing the training of general practitioners to facilitate the diagnosis and screening of Lyme disease, publishing guidelines, based on the best practices within the EU. It also calls on the Commission to draw up a European plan to combat Lyme disease and encourages the setting—up of a European network on Lyme disease including relevant stakeholders.
Interim report on the Multiannual Financial Framework 2021-2027 – Parliament's position with a view to an agreement (A8-0358/2018 - Jan Olbrycht, Isabelle Thomas, Janusz Lewandowski, Gérard Deprez)
. ‒ I supported the report because Parliament has adopted a solid position for the negotiations with the aim of reaching a good agreement with the Council before the 2019 European Parliament elections. It also includes Parliament’s position on own resources, stating that no agreement can be reached on the future MFF without corresponding progress in this area.
State aid rules: new categories of State aid (A8-0315/2018 - Sander Loones)
I supported this draft legislative resolution because until now, certain categories of state aid were, through block exemptions, not subject to notification requirements (for example: aid to SMEs, R&D, aid for environmental protection). The Commission rightly wanted to add the following two new categories to the list of block exemptions: financing channelled through or supported by EU centrally managed financial instruments or budgetary guarantees, where the aid consists in the form of additional funding provided through state resources, and projects supported by EU European Territorial Cooperation programmes.
Arms export: implementation of Common Position 2008/944/CFSP (A8-0335/2018 - Sabine Lösing)
I supported this report because the European Parliament calls on a uniform, consistent and coordinated application of the eight criteria of the Common Position. It supports the creation of a new supervisory body on EU level for arms control and calls on the sanctioning those Member States which fail to comply with the Common Position when granting export licenses. It urges Member States to significantly increase the consistency of the implementation of the Common Position. The report underlines the importance of the export licensing risk assessment methodology, which should also take into account the overall situation in the country of destination such as state of democracy, rule of law or socio-economic development.
Empowering competition authorities and ensuring the proper functioning of the internal market (A8-0057/2018 - Andreas Schwab)
This report was important because it aims at empowering the national competition authority (NCAs) when they are applying EU competition rules, in particular, with regard to their independence and resources, powers to investigate, impose effective and deterrent fines and implement leniency programmes. I supported this resolution because it has clear language on the potential conflict of interest and the eventual cooling-off period, as well as maximum amount of the fine for each competition related infringement.
European Electronic Communications Code (A8-0318/2017 - Pilar del Castillo Vera)
I supported the progress in this field because connected cars, health-related services, and smart cities will require additional spectrum of connectivity for their development. The Code will ensure advanced connectivity by timely release of the spectrum, simplified regulatory intervention and greater consistency in assignment. In addition, agreement was reached that the minimum internet speed that everyone has access to (even if they live in rural areas or cannot afford to pay for an internet package themselves) should reflect the internet speed enjoyed by the majority of consumers.
Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (A8-0305/2017 - Evžen Tošenovský)
I supported this report because it establishes a 19-cent-per-minute cap for calling from mobiles or landlines to another EU Member State and a 6-cent CAP per SMS, which directly affects the life of every citizen. This measure will apply from 15 May 2019. In addition, BEREC, (Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications) will not be turned into an EU Agency but the dual structure of BEREC and the BEREC Office will be maintained in their current state. .
CO2 emission performance standards for new heavy-duty vehicles (A8-0354/2018 - Bas Eickhout)
I did not support this report because via amendments procedure Parliament adopted very high penalties for truck makers failing to meet the environmental targets: 5000 €/CO2/tkm from 2025 to 2029 and 6800 €/CO2/tkm from 2030 onwards. Also, the achieved compromises were not respected and the Parliament adopted too ambitious CO2 reduction targets for trucks and the definition of the low-emission heavy duty vehicle (clean truck benchmarks). I support the fight against CO2 emission but we have to give our industry time to adapt and find plausible solutions for the future.
Need for a comprehensive Democracy, Rule of Law and Fundamental Rights mechanism (B8-0523/2018, B8-0524/2018)
The motion reiterates the call for a comprehensive, permanent and objective EU mechanism for the protection of democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights. The joint motion for a resolution was made by four political groups (EPP, S&D, ALDE, Greens and GUE) and was in accordance with Christian-Democrat values, which is why I supported the motion without any issues.
Implementation of the EU-Georgia Association Agreement (A8-0320/2018 - Andrejs Mamikins)
I supported this annual report because it shows the progress and the issues pertaining to Georgia. The report positively assesses the efforts and achievements of Georgia to date in terms of implementation of the AA/DCFTA. Particularly, the adoption of the three-year AA/DCFTA Implementation Plan is well received. It highlights the role played by civil society in a day-to-day monitoring of the implementation and reform effort and underscores the importance of communicating about the tangible benefits for the local population. Members also call on the EEAS and Commission to boost internal capabilities to step up their own monitoring of the implementation phase, especially when it comes to the prime minister and foreign minister.
Implementation of the EU-Moldova Association Agreement (A8-0322/2018 - Petras Auštrevičius)
I supported this annual report because it shows the progress and the issues pertaining to Moldova. The report pays particular attention to the state of democracy, which currently is in a state of regression. In this respect, such issues are mentioned including the invalidation of the mayoral elections in Chisinau and the change of the electoral legislation for parliament (introduction of the mixed system) against the advice of the Venice Commission. State capture by oligarchic interests and systemic corruption are major shortcomings. The inability of state institutions to track stolen assets, investigate and prosecute those responsible is the most extreme example. Political influence, lack of independence and impartiality of the judiciary is another persistant problem that is addressed in the report.
Humanitarian visas (A8-0328/2018 - Juan Fernando López Aguilar)
I could not support this report because there are parallel negotiations on the ‘Revision of Visa Code’, where the future implementation of the document is unclear – especially with the problem of cooperation with third countries that are not compliant in the field of readmission. If those issues did not exist, I would happily support the narrative regarding Humanitarian Visas, but that was not the case with this report.
EU development assistance in the field of education (A8-0327/2018 - Vincent Peillon)
Education is essential for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and for the fulfilment of human rights and fundamental freedoms. However, although the EU is the biggest contributor to the Global Partnership for Education (GPE), EU funding for education in developing countries has fallen over the past few years, which contradicts the commitments and targets agreed upon at international level. This commitment should therefore be reflected in the future MFF and that is one of the reasons why I supported this report.
Energy efficiency (A8-0391/2017 - Miroslav Poche)
. ‒ Our climate change goals are related to energy efficiency – that is why I supported the report. The Energy Efficiency Directive was adopted establishing a 32.5% indicative EU target with a review clause and national indicative contributions. Regarding the Member State obligation under article 7, a reduction of 0.8% annual savings obligations was agreed with the inclusion of early measures, flexibilities and the choice for MS to include or exclude transport.
Governance of the Energy Union (A8-0402/2017 - Michèle Rivasi, Jakop Dalunde)
. ‒ The Governance of the Energy Union Regulation was adopted setting up a robust framework to ensure the achievement and monitoring of the 2030 targets and establishing a long-term strategy. This is an important gain for our energy security and coherent network; that is why I supported the report. I also expect a positive effect on the EU by the setting up of National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs) and the aim to streamline monitoring and reporting. A robust mechanism (gap-filler) to ensure the collective attainment of the EU renewable target was created without establishing national targets.
Promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources (A8-0392/2017 - José Blanco López)
The Directive on Renewable Energy sources was adopted setting an EU binding target of 32% by 2030 without national binding targets, which means that we are fighting together on an EU level. With this in mind, I supported the report. It also contains a sub—target of 14% of RES in transport fuels with a capping of first generation biofuels and an increase of advanced biofuels. A review clause will potentially increase both targets in 2023. A phasing out of palm oil from high-risk land-use change was put in place, based on a certification process to be developed by the Commission.
Multiannual plan for small pelagic stocks in the Adriatic Sea and the fisheries exploiting those stocks (A8-0337/2018 - Ruža Tomašić)
I supported the report on the proposal for a regulation because the goal of the report is to attain and maintain the maximum sustainable yield (MSY) for the stocks concerned, make the fisheries sector sustainable and provide an effective management framework. This MAP, the first plan of its kind in the Mediterranean area, is likely to have a major impact on fisheries management in the Mediterranean as a whole. The report is based on management of fishing efforts and represents the fishing sector’s real needs, with biological but also economic and social sustainability.
Minimum standards for minorities in the EU (A8-0353/2018 - József Nagy)
. ‒ I supported this report because I come from a country were minorities are part of our nation’s life and their rights are enshrined in our national legislation. I support setting the same level of cooperation and minimum standards for minorities across the EU. This report is also important because, more and more, we can observe the increase of hate crime and hate speech against minorities. We must condemn such behaviour in the European Union.
Digitalisation for development: reducing poverty through technology (A8-0338/2018 - Bogdan Brunon Wenta)
. ‒ Digital technologies have huge potential in terms of reducing poverty, increasing the competitiveness of the economy and creating employment opportunities, which is why I supported the report. In parallel to the fact that digitalisation is rapidly growing globally, Africa and Latin America continue to lag behind, losing the opportunity to fully utilise their human capital towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. The report calls for sufficient funding under the MFF for 2012-2027 to enable streamlining of digital technologies into all aspects of development policy.
Import of cultural goods (A8-0308/2018 - Alessia Maria Mosca, Daniel Dalton)
To protect the cultural goods of third countries from being illegally imported into the EU, regulations are needed to reduce trafficking and combat terrorism. I voted in favour of this report to implement a common definition of cultural goods and a framework to monitor these regulations with diligence.
Protection of the EU’s financial interests - Recovery of money and assets from third-countries in fraud cases (A8-0298/2018 - Cătălin Sorin Ivan)
Unfair trading practices in business-to-business relationships in the food supply chain (A8-0309/2018 - Paolo De Castro)
Often agricultural producers are targets of unfair trading practices that impose unnecessary financial burdens. I supported the report because I agree that bargaining position of agricultural producers needs to be improved and protected, by demanding more written contracts and monitoring economic dependence. Agricultural producers may become economically dependent on one trading partner need special protection.
Authorisation and supervision of medicinal products for human and veterinary use (A8-0035/2016 - Claudiu Ciprian Tănăsescu)
I voted in favour of the report, because we should strictly separate medicine markets . Currently the market authorisation for veterinary medicines is the same as the one for human medicines. The veterinary market for medicine needs to be decoupled from the human medicine market. That way we can separately develop more relevant regulations for both. Regarding the veterinary medicines we need decisions on legal tools which will determine the fees paid to the European Medicines Agency (EMA). The EMA also needs more freedom to manage their own budget and staff.
Veterinary medicinal products (A8-0046/2016 - Françoise Grossetête)
The existence of too many legal documents creates confusion and lowers the effectiveness of the European legal system. Combining the directive and regulation into a new regulation in order to create just one legal document dictation rules on production, distribution etc. of medicines for veterinary use will make rules more transparent. I voted in favour of the report because it offers a reduction in the use of antibiotics and supports cross EU innovation.
Manufacture, placing on the market and use of medicated feed (A8-0075/2016 - Clara Eugenia Aguilera García)
Medicated feed exists across the entire Union and it influences the quality of animal products. I supported the report, because we need a unified approach to medicated feed and its regulation, so that the entire Union has access to the same quality of food. Also, the amount of medicated feed given to animals needs to be supervised and food products should be labelled when medicated feed has been used, in order to provide sufficient information to the consumers.
Charging of heavy goods vehicles for the use of certain infrastructures (A8-0202/2018 - Christine Revault d'Allonnes Bonnefoy)
I voted in favour of the report. The polluter pays principle is one of the basic principles of ecology and we need to adapt our traffic habits to adhere to this policy. Heavy-duty vehicles also present an additional burden to our roads and environment and need to have a different tolling system to account for this burden properly.
Promotion of clean and energy-efficient road transport vehicles (A8-0321/2018 - Andrzej Grzyb)
The public sector should set an example when buying vehicles. I supported this report because it encourages the public sector to purchase clean, energy-efficient vehicles. It also takes into account the differences between Member States when setting goals for the amount of clean vehicles in the public sectors. Therefore, the targets are determined based on the amount of already existing clean vehicles.
General budget of the European Union for 2019 - all sections (A8-0313/2018 - Daniele Viotti, Paul Rübig)
I supported the report, because we need to try to negotiate an increase in the budget. More funds are needed to tackle migration, integration (like Erasmus+) and innovation. The proposed budget increases funds to cover the costs for the above—mentioned much—needed programmes, while still remaining within reasonable limits of what the EU can spend.
Discharge 2016: EU general budget - European Council and Council (A8-0300/2018 - Marco Valli)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the report because I support the idea of a joint EU Transparency Register. We are facing difficulties owing to a lack of information regarding the separation of the European Council and Council budgets. Also, many costs that these institutions wish to cover are not transparently shown. The European Parliament should remain the discharge authority, without any conditions.
Launch of automated data exchange with regard to dactyloscopic data in Ireland (A8-0344/2018 - Branislav Škripek)
. ‒ The Government of Ireland has persuasive arguments as to why it needs to receive and supply personal data. Countries struggling to tackle cross-border crime, especially terrorism, need access to certain forms of data in order effectively to prevent harm. I believe that general provisions for data protection will be implemented, and that Government of Ireland is indeed in need of help to prevent cross-border crime, therefore I voted in favour.
Launch of automated data exchange with regard to DNA data in Ireland (A8-0343/2018 - Branislav Škripek)
Launch of automated data exchange with regard to dactyloscopic data in Croatia (A8-0345/2018 - Branislav Škripek)
. ‒ The Government of Croatia should be able to receive and supply personal data, after all they are the southern border of the European Union. With them lies a difficult task of protecting the border, combating cross-border crime and facilitating effective cooperation. I believe they will implement general provisions for data protection and protect the border of the European Union from cross-border threats, therefore I voted in favour.
Reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment (A8-0317/2018 - Frédérique Ries)
. ‒ The report bans many of the single-use plastic items that make up the majority of all maritime litter, such as plastic straws, cutlery plates, etc. I voted in favour of this report, as it will make a tangible difference to our environment by minimising the effects of harmful consumption habits dealing with single use plastics.
Establishment, operation and use of the Schengen Information System in the field of border checks (A8-0347/2017 - Carlos Coelho)
The Schengen Information System will improve our border security prevent crime by making the sharing of information on terrorism mandatory and faster. The report allows DNA, fingerprints and facial images sharing between the Member States. It also puts more emphasis on child protection. I voted in favour to increase cooperation in controlling Schengen borders.
Establishment, operation and use of the Schengen Information System in the field of police cooperation and judicial cooperation in criminal matters (A8-0349/2017 - Carlos Coelho)
The Schengen Information system is necessary for the effective improvement of law enforcement and judicial cooperation throughout Europe. We need to update the system with new technology, including facial recognition and alerts on categories of wanted or missing persons. I voted in favour of this report, because it offers more information to all police forces and judicial institutions in the EU to maintain security and stability.
Use of the Schengen Information System for the return of illegally staying third-country nationals (A8-0348/2017 - Jeroen Lenaers)
In the recent years, many people have entered the EU and regulation is needed to ensure safety, of those entering, those staying and the EU citizens. In order to actually remove third country nationals, who have not been granted a visa or an asylum, we need an updated information system to ensure the best possible cooperation. Because this system offers improvements, such as facial recognition and fingerprint database, I voted in favour.
Harmonisation of the structures of excise duties on alcohol and alcoholic beverages (A8-0307/2018 - Miguel Viegas)
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: Renewing the authorisation for genetically modified maize NK603 × MON 810 (B8-0490/2018)
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: Authorisation for genetically modified maize MON 87427 × MON 89034 × 1507 × MON 88017 × 59122 (B8-0491/2018)
Discharge 2016: European Asylum Support Office (EASO) (A8-0299/2018 - Bart Staes)
EU-Bahamas Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0304/2018 - Emilian Pavel)
EU-Mauritius Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0303/2018 - Emilian Pavel)
EU-Antigua and Barbuda Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0305/2018 - Emilian Pavel)
EU-Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0306/2018 - Emilian Pavel)
EU-Barbados Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0301/2018 - Emilian Pavel)
EU-Seychelles Agreement on the short-stay visa waiver (A8-0302/2018 - Emilian Pavel)
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2018/002 PT/Norte – Centro – Lisboa wearing apparel (A8-0311/2018 - José Manuel Fernandes)
. ‒ Major structural changes following changing world trade patters harm the workers and make the workers redundant. The assessment of the Portuguese situation, where many of the workers, mostly over 55, need assistance adjusting to the changing job requirements. I voted in favour because the Adjustment fund gives Portugal much needed financial help.
Quality of water intended for human consumption (A8-0288/2018 - Michel Dantin)
. ‒ We need to ensure that the water we drink is healthy, uncontaminated and accessible to all. Therefore, we need to monitor the price of water, its quality and put in place regulations that will require Member states to follow through. This directive provides more transparency to consumers, establishes Member State’s responsibility for clean water and endorses a risk-based approach.
Resources for economic, social and territorial cohesion and resources for the investment for growth and jobs goal (A8-0282/2018 - Iskra Mihaylova)
Alignment of reporting obligations in the field of environment policy (A8-0324/2018 - Adina-Ioana Vălean)
I voted in favour of the report because it will modernise information management and diminish the administrative burden on Member States. With less bureaucracy, we can speed up the process of information exchange. The report also focuses on environmental liability and the protection of wild birds and animals used for scientific purposes, all very important issues that need more regulation.
The role of employee financial participation in creating jobs and reactivating the unemployed (A8-0293/2018 - Renate Weber)
The schemes to establish employee financial participation are not balanced across the EU. The outcomes are very positive, with higher profitability, income stability and job creation. When employees have more responsibility, such as participation in decision-making and shares in the company, they become more involved and better motivated to improve their working space. I voted in favour to raise awareness and ensure that the benefits of these schemes are accessible everywhere in the Union.
Public procurement strategy package (A8-0229/2018 - Carlos Coelho)
. ‒ The current public purchasing rules are not up to date and I voted in favour of this new strategy, which will modernise the rules. It will allow for more digitalisation and encourage criteria other than the lowest price. Other relevant criteria that should be included are quality, social inclusion and sustainability.
EU Agency for Criminal Justice Cooperation (Eurojust) (A8-0320/2017 - Axel Voss)
Mutual recognition of freezing and confiscation orders (A8-0001/2018 - Nathalie Griesbeck)
The recognition of the freezing and confiscation orders is still too slow in the EU and it allows illegally obtained funds to be moved from member state to member state before necessary action can be taken. Therefore, I voted in favour of the proposal to strengthen the cooperation between Member States when it comes to orders dealing with freezing and confiscation.
Free flow of non-personal data in the European Union (A8-0201/2018 - Anna Maria Corazza Bildt)
I voted in favour of this proposal on the free flow of non-personal data in the EU. The use of data has become very important topic and EU data market has high potential for new services, such as data storage and processing. With reasonable regulation, the development of a data market will be beneficial for the entire Union.
VAT: period of application of the reverse charge mechanism and of the Quick Reaction Mechanism (A8-0283/2018 - Sirpa Pietikäinen)
Administrative cooperation in the field of excise duties as regards the content of electronic register (A8-0285/2018 - Ivana Maletić)
Health technology assessment (A8-0289/2018 - Soledad Cabezón Ruiz)
Emission performance standards for new passenger cars and for new light commercial vehicles (A8-0287/2018 - Miriam Dalli)
Rates of value added tax (A8-0279/2018 - Tibor Szanyi)
EU-Morocco Agreement for scientific and technological cooperation: terms and conditions for the participation of Morocco in the Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA) (A8-0281/2018 - Aldo Patriciello)
Inclusion of the Italian municipality of Campione d’Italia and the Italian waters of Lake Lugano in the customs territory of the Union (A8-0284/2018 - Roberto Gualtieri)
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2018/001 NL/Financial service activities (A8-0294/2018 - Ivana Maletić)
Provision of audiovisual media services (A8-0192/2017 - Sabine Verheyen, Petra Kammerevert)
I voted in favour of this proposal. With development, the scope of regulated media providers needs to be wider, so that consumers are equally protected. We also achieve greater protection and promotion of European film by implementing a quota. The 30 % European quota will apply to TV service providers and video-on-demand services, meaning they will be required to offer at least 30 % European content.
Draft Amending Budget No 5/2018: cancellation of the reserve related to the support to Turkey from the Instrument for Pre-Accession and reinforcement of the European Neighbourhood Instrument and of the Humanitarian Aid for orther urgent actions (A8-0292/2018 - Siegfried Mureşan)
Single Digital Gateway (A8-0054/2018 - Marlene Mizzi)
Listing the third countries whose nationals must be in possession of visas when crossing the external borders and those whose nationals are exempt from that requirement (Kosovo) (A8-0261/2016 - Tanja Fajon)
A European Strategy for Plastics in a circular economy (A8-0262/2018 - Mark Demesmaeker)
I voted in favour of this proposal because we have to take step forward towards managing plastics in a sustainable way throughout the whole value chain. Use of plastic has to be reduced. Because of the low reuse and recycling rates of plastic waste is the greenhouse gas emission higher and presence of plastic waste (including microplastics) in oceans.
A European One Health Action Plan against Antimicrobial Resistance (A8-0257/2018 - Karin Kadenbach)
. – Antimicrobial resistance is an increasingly serious threat to global public, not just the EU, that requires action across all government sectors and society that is why I voted in favour of European One Health action plan against AMR. We have to understand the value of vaccines in combating AMR and need to increase funding for early research in epidemiology and immunology of AMR pathogens. Inappropriate use of antibiotics in humans, veterinary overuse in livestock and poor hygiene conditions in healthcare or in the food chain should be restricted and limited.
Europe on the Move: an agenda for the future of mobility in the EU (A8-0241/2018 - István Ujhelyi)
We have to consider the future of mobility no matter the area or the social group it addresses. I voted in favour of this report. Digitalisation is one of the key factors and education and acquisition of skills have a direct link to prospects of employment. The EU needs a regulatory framework which encourages innovation.
Implementation of the Plant Protection Products Regulation (A8-0268/2018 - Pavel Poc)
We have to ensure a high level of protection for humans, animals and the environment and to improve the functioning of the internal market through harmonisation, while providing clearer rules to make the approval process for plant protection products more efficient. The transparency of the approval and authorisation process is needed. That is why I voted in favour of this report.
Dual quality of products in the Single Market (A8-0267/2018 - Olga Sehnalová)
Nominal quantities for placing on the Union market of single distilled shochu (A8-0255/2018 - Adina-Ioana Vălean)
Amendment to the US-EU Memorandum of Cooperation (deployment of air traffic management systems) (A8-0214/2018 - Rolandas Paksas)
Agreement on Air Transport between Canada and the EU (accession of Croatia) (A8-0256/2018 - Francisco Assis)
Copyright in the Digital Single Market (A8-0245/2018 - Axel Voss) SL
Po dodatni razpravi, pojasnilih in novih kompromisih se mi zdi direktiva vredna podpore.Kot Evropejcu se mi zdi veliko bolj pomemben pošten odnos do evropskih ustvarjalcev kot profit Googla. Spoštovanje avtorjev ne ogroža ne svobode interneta in ne uporabnikov, pomeni pa konec izkoriščanja malih s strani velikih.Potrebno je razlikovati med svobodo, pravico in krajo. Potrebna je reforma, ki pravično ščiti evropsko ustvarjalnost.
Countering money laundering by criminal law (A8-0405/2017 - Ignazio Corrao)
There is no doubt that money laundering and terrorist financing can threaten our economic stability that is why I voted in favour of this directive. We have to strengthen the fight against terrorist financing and have zero tolerance for criminal offences and sanctions in the area of money laundering.
State of EU-US relations (A8-0251/2018 - Elmar Brok)
I voted in favour of this report. The EU-US partnership is unparalleled based on the historical and strategic partnership and we share common values. Relationship is crucial for both sides and we need to strengthen the partnership on all levels including via existing and future frameworks for cooperation.
State of EU-China relations (A8-0252/2018 - Bas Belder)
I voted in favour of this report because I think that the strategic partnership between the EU and China is one of the most important partnerships for the EU. There is still a lot of potential for deepening this relationship and for further cooperation in the international area but we have to stay true to our interests and values. Promotion of human rights and the rule of law must be at the core of the EU engagement with China.
Equivalence of field inspections (A8-0253/2018 - Czesław Adam Siekierski)
I voted in favour of this proposal, as it implements articles of directives regarding recognition of the equivalence of fodder plant, cereal, vegetable and oil and fibre plant seed harvested in non-EU countries. When it comes to our trade with third countries, this is a necessary measure to ensure equal standards.
Common system of value added tax as regards the special scheme for small enterprises (A8-0260/2018 - Tom Vandenkendelaere)
I voted in favour of this proposal to reduce the burden on SMEs dealing with VAT matters. Small enterprises face proportionately higher VAT compliance costs than larger businesses, and it is therefore appropriate that Member States should be allowed to grant a VAT exemption to small businesses if they do not exceed a certain annual turnover, which varies from one country to another.
Implementing decision on subjecting the new psychoactive substances cyclopropylfentanyl and methoxyacetylfentanyl to control measures (A8-0271/2018 - Branislav Škripek)
I voted in favour of the application subjecting the new psychoactive substances N-phenyl-N-[1-(2-phenylethyl)piperidin-4-yl]cyclopropanecarboxamide (cyclopropylfentanyl) to new control measures. The available evidence and information on the health and social risks that these substances pose provide sufficient grounds for subjecting these substances to the proposed control measures.
Mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Bulgaria, Greece, Lithuania and Poland (A8-0272/2018 - Janusz Lewandowski)
I voted in favour of the resolution to provide assistance to Bulgaria, Greece, Lithuania and Poland. It is extremely difficult to cope with natural disasters and we have to help countries in their times of need. We have to respond in a manner that is rapid, efficient and flexible to emergency situations and show solidarity with the populations of regions affected by natural disasters.
Draft Amending Budget No 4/2018: mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Bulgaria, Greece, Lithuania and Poland (A8-0273/2018 - Siegfried Mureşan)
I voted in favour of the resolution to provide assistance to Bulgaria, Greece, Lithuania and Poland. It is extremely difficult to cope with natural disasters and we have to help countries in their times of need. We have to respond in a manner that is rapid, efficient and flexible to emergency situations and show solidarity with the population of regions affected by natural disasters.
The impact of EU cohesion policy on Northern Ireland (A8-0240/2018 - Derek Vaughan)
I voted in favour of the report on the impact of EU cohesion policy on Northern Ireland. The cohesion funding is important not only for the Northern Irish economy, but also for the greater peace process of the two countries. Projects funded under the Peace programme effectively encourage cross-border and cross-community contacts.
Specific measures for Greece (A8-0244/2018 - Pascal Arimont)
I voted in favour of this implementation report because it acknowledges the positive impact that the measures taken with regard to the Greek economy have had, while simultaneously stressing their exceptional nature. It is necessary to ensure liquidity to both finalise the implementation of programmes under 2007-2013 programming period and to start the implementation of the current programing period.
Pathways for the reintegration of workers recovering from injury and illness into quality employment (A8-0208/2018 - Jana Žitňanská)
I voted in favour of this report because it is key that the European Union take care of the workers recovering from injury and illness who will return to employment. In addition to its proven benefits for workers’ economic and social well-being and successful reintegration, back to work also has a strong economic case for companies and for the society as a whole.
Relationships between the EU and third countries concerning financial services regulation and supervision (A8-0263/2018 - Brian Hayes)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report as it guides the relationships with 3rd countries in the field of financial services, which currently are organised mainly through the ‘equivalence procedure’ tool. Fighting tax evasion, tax fraud, tax avoidance and money laundering are important themes that have significant impact on a country’s economy and the EU should encourage jurisdictions to grant access to financial markets of third countries through cooperation with EU market participants.
European Solidarity Corps (A8-0060/2018 - Helga Trüpel)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this resolution for the implementation of the European Solidarity Corp in Member States in order to contribute to cohesion and solidarity in Europe, supporting communities and responding objectives. I believe that we need to ensure that activities fostering solidarity are offered to participants and contribute to address concrete societal needs and to strengthen communities. This programme develops skills and competences of young people for personal, educational, social, civic and professional development.
Structural Reform Support Programme: financial envelope and general objective (A8-0227/2018 - Ruža Tomašić)
Euratom Programme complementing the Horizon 2020 Framework Programme (A8-0258/2018 - Rebecca Harms)
Measures to prevent and combat mobbing and sexual harassment at the workplace, in public spaces, and in political life in the EU (A8-0265/2018 - Pina Picierno)
Language equality in the digital age (A8-0228/2018 - Jill Evans)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report on language equality in the digital age. I agree that the proposed options will improve language equality in Europe through the use of new technologies and by improving the institutional frameworks for language technology policies. Education policies are necessary in order to secure the future of language equality in the digital age.
Transparent and accountable management of natural resources in developing countries: the case of forests (A8-0249/2018 - Heidi Hautala)
. ‒ Forests are our fortune, and I strongly agree that we should prevent large-scale deforestation with its attendant problems: growing inequality, loss of biodiversity, bad governance, corruption and the violation of human rights. That is why I voted in favour of Heidi Hautala’s report. We need more transparency and accountability in the forestry sector in developing countries.
European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) (A8-0322/2017 - Kinga Gál)
I voted in favour of gradually adopting this system. ETIAS is an automated system of authorizing travel, based on US example of ESTA. It responds to the primary need to know who crosses our borders even before the traveller enters the EU. The system gathers information on all travellers who are travelling from visa free countries to Europe and ensures that possible security concerns are identified prior to travelling to the Schengen area.
European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS): Europol tasks (A8-0323/2017 - Kinga Gál)
I voted in favour of gradually adopting this system. ETIAS is an automated system of authorizing travel, based on US example of ESTA. It responds to the primary need to know who crosses our borders even before the traveller enters the EU. The system gathers information on all travellers who are travelling from visa free countries to Europe and ensures that possible security concerns are identified prior to travelling to the Schengen area.
73rd Session of the UN General Assembly (A8-0230/2018 - Eugen Freund)
I voted in favour of this recommendation. It proposes several very important things such as actively supporting the UN Secretary-General’s three-pillar reform agenda with the aim of making the UN system truly coordinated, efficient, effective, integrated, transparent and accountable; calling for a comprehensive reform of the United Nations Security Council to improve its representativeness on the basis of a broad consensus; promoting the revitalisation of the work of the General Assembly and the improved coordination and coherence of the actions of all UN institutions, and many others.
The migration crisis and humanitarian situation in Venezuela and at its borders (RC-B8-0315/2018, B8-0315/2018, B8-0316/2018, B8-0317/2018, B8-0318/2018, B8-0319/2018, B8-0320/2018, B8-0321/2018)
I voted in favour of this report. I agree that we cannot recognise the electoral process nor the results of an early presidential election, as they did not meet international or democratic standards. We need to call for the holding of fresh presidential elections and I believe that a very strong response from the EU and the whole international community is needed.
Guidelines for Member States to prevent humanitarian assistance being criminalised (B8-0314/2018)
I voted in favour of this report since it supports the idea of bringing more clarity to the rules on irregular entry and transit, as there is a fine line between facilitating smugglers and facilitating humanitarian aid. It also encourages the adoption of guidelines for Member States in order to bring clarity and uniformity of implementation of the current aquis by specifying which forms of facilitation should not be criminalised by Member States and stresses that clarity of parameters will ensure greater consistency in the criminal regulation of facilitation across EU Member States.
Adequacy of the protection afforded by the EU-US Privacy Shield (B8-0305/2018)
I voted in favour of this proposal. It takes into account that privacy and data protection are legally enforceable fundamental rights enshrined in the Treaties, the Charter of Fundamental Rights and the European Convention of Human Rights, as well as in laws and case law. Furthermore, it emphasises that they must be applied in a manner that does not unnecessarily hamper trade or international relations, but cannot be ‘balanced’ against commercial or political interests and takes the view that the current Privacy Shield arrangement does not provide the adequate level of protection required by Union data protection law and the EU charter.
The adverse effects of the US Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act on EU citizens (B8-0306/2018)
Statute for social and solidarity-based enterprises (A8-0231/2018 - Jiří Maštálka)
I voted in favour of this report since there seems to be a common trend of national legislation enlarging the range of activities in which social enterprises are entitled to engage, provided that they are of general interest and/or social utility, such as the provision of community services, including in the educational, cultural and environmental fields. The report also states that social and solidarity-based enterprises should be regarded as a specific category of company law.
Reform of the electoral law of the European Union (A8-0248/2018 - Jo Leinen, Danuta Maria Hübner)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this reform. It seeks to enhance citizens’ participation in the European Parliament elections, raise awareness of their European character and prevent irregular voting, while respecting the constitutional and electoral traditions of the Member States. The new rules also recognise the right of Member States to allow different forms of voting, including internet voting, provided that certain strict conditions are respected, as well as allowing the display of the name or logo of European political parties on ballot papers.
Partnership Agreement between the EU and EAEC and Armenia (A8-0177/2018 - László Tőkés)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this agreement, as it will bring bilateral relations to a new level. By voting in favour, I have welcomed the recent peaceful change of power in Armenia and have expressed strong support for necessary reforms, which will respond to the expectations of the people who were protesting on the streets of Armenian cities. This agreement also calls on Armenia to pursue necessary reforms (in the area of the electoral system, media freedom, independence of the judiciary, transparency of the governance of state institutions, the fight against corruption and abusive oligarchic control).
Partnership Agreement between the EU and EAEC and Armenia (resolution) (A8-0179/2018 - László Tőkés)
EU-Iraq Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (A8-0222/2018 - Tokia Saïfi)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution because the EU-Iraq Partnership and Cooperation Agreement provides a legal framework covering issues from regular political dialogue to trade relations and regulatory cooperation, as well as development assistance. The aim of this Agreement, concluded for 10 years, is to build a solid basis for strengthening ties between Iraq and the EU. The Agreement underlines the EU’s determination to play a significant role in Iraq’s transition and will be the main tool for the EU’s support to Iraq and further enhancement of EU-Iraq relations.
EU-Iraq Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (resolution) (A8-0224/2018 - Tokia Saïfi)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report. It calls for full use to be made of the mechanisms it establishes in order to deepen the ties between the EU and Iraq. The Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) is an essential instrument for implementing the EU strategy for Iraq and for strengthening our cooperation in the country’s reconstruction, stabilisation and reconciliation.
EU-New Zealand Agreement relating to the modification of concessions (accession of Croatia) (A8-0220/2018 - Daniel Caspary)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this Agreement since the EU was required under WTO rules (Article XXIV:6 of the GATT 1994) to enter into negotiations with WTO members having negotiating rights related to the tariff schedule of Croatia in order to eventually agree on a compensatory adjustment. Such adjustment is due if the adoption of the EU’s external tariff regime results in an increase in tariff beyond the level for which the acceding country has bound itself at the WTO.
Statute of the European System of Central Banks and of the European Central Bank: clearing and payment systems (A8-0219/2018 - Gabriel Mato, Danuta Maria Hübner)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report. It proposes to adapt the ECB Statute in the context of the supervision of central counterparties (CCPs) to include clearing systems for financial instruments under the ECB’s regulatory competence as the increasing systemic importance of CCPs could give rise to risks that could affect clearing systems, which may have a negative bearing on the smooth operation of payment systems and the implementation of the single monetary policy.
Vehicle taxation: charging of heavy good vehicles for the use of certain infrastructures (A8-0200/2018 - Deirdre Clune)
I voted in favour of this proposal. This proposal considers that vehicle taxes can represent a cost to industry regardless of whether or not a member state decides to use a toll or not. As a result of this, it recommends that Member States should be given more scope to reduce their rates of vehicle taxation for HGVs below the minima that was originally established by Directive 1999/62/EC. I support it also because I think it is essential to also reduce the rate of vehicle taxation on HGVs taking into due consideration the potential for burdensome added costs on the transport industry and in particular SMEs.
Draft amending budget No 2/2018: Entering the surplus of the financial year 2017 (A8-0209/2018 - Siegfried Mureşan)
I voted in favour of this report, since it underlines that the low under-implementation payments at the end of the year is only due to the adoption of an Amending budget 6/2017 which reduced significantly the level of 2017 payments (by EUR 7.7 billion) due to heavy implementation delays particularly in the area of cohesion policy. It report also promotes that the Union budget should be enabled to reuse any revenue resulting from fines or linked to late payments without a corresponding decrease in GNI contributions. The point made is also that this 2017 surplus could provide an excellent solution to the financing of the Union’s contribution to the Facility for Refugees in Turkey for 2018, which I support.
Towards an EU external strategy against early and forced marriages (A8-0187/2018 - Charles Goerens)
I voted in favour of this report. It reiterates that child, early and forced marriages should be regarded as a serious violation of human rights and an infringement of the fundamental rights of the children cornered, such as to freely express their consent and to their physical integrity and mental health. It also calls on legislators, both in the EU Member States and in third countries, to set the minimum uniform age for marriage at 18 years and to adopt necessary administrative, legal and financial measures to ensure effective implementation of this requirement. Finally it considers that the empowerment of women and girls though education and economic opportunities is crucial tool to fight against these practices. Children must be guaranteed full access to education. It stresses the urgent need to inform and educate men and boys, gaining their support for measures to uphold human rights, including the rights of children and women, which I agree with wholeheartedly.
The definition of SMEs (B8-0304/2018)
I voted in favour of this resolution because it touches upon various aspects related to the definition of SMEs, in addition calls to assess the need for a separate definition on Mid-cap companies, which are currently referred to in several EU Legislations in different ways, and the need to ensure that large corporate organisations do not create structures similar to SMEs simply in order to take advantages from instruments meant for true SMEs.
Negotiations on the EU-Azerbaijan Comprehensive Agreement (A8-0185/2018 - Norica Nicolai)
I voted in favour of this report. It sets out the EP’s recommendation for EU negotiators regarding the new agreement with Azerbaijan and highlights the importance of focusing on the rule of law, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, trade and economic cooperation as well as the strategic area of energy cooperation.
Daily and weekly driving times, minimum breaks and rest periods and positioning by means of tachographs (A8-0205/2018 - Wim van de Camp)
I voted in favour of this report as I support the Commission proposal with the changes agreed in compromise amendments, as it aims to foster a level playing field and fair competition within the sector, while lessening unnecessary administrative burdens, accelerating the digitisation of transport documents and boosting enforcement.
Opening of negotiations for an EU-Jordan Agreement on the exchange of personal data for fighting serious crime and terrorism (A8-0232/2018 - Claude Moraes)
Opening of negotiations for an EU-Turkey Agreement on the exchange of personal data for fighting serious crime and terrorism (A8-0233/2018 - Claude Moraes)
Opening of negotiations for an EU-Israel Agreement on the exchange of personal data for fighting serious crime and terrorism (A8-0235/2018 - Claude Moraes)
Opening of negotiations for an EU-Tunisia Agreement on the exchange of personal data for fighting serious crime and terrorism (A8-0237/2018 - Claude Moraes)
I voted in favour of this report since it encourages negotiations on international agreements with Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Tunisia and Turkey, to provide for the exchange of personal data between Europol and the authorities competent for fighting serious crime and terrorism in these countries.
Opening of negotiations for an EU-Morocco Agreement on the exchange of personal data for fighting serious crime and terrorism (A8-0238/2018 - Claude Moraes)
Opening of negotiations for an EU-Lebanon Agreement on the exchange of personal data for fighting serious crime and terrorism (A8-0234/2018 - Claude Moraes)
Opening of negotiations for an EU-Egypt Agreement on the exchange of personal data for fighting serious crime and terrorism (A8-0236/2018 - Claude Moraes)
Opening of negotiations for an EU-Algeria Agreement on the exchange of personal data for fighting serious crime and terrorism (A8-0239/2018 - Claude Moraes)
Cooperation Agreement between the EU and the Agency for Aerial Navigation Safety in Africa and Madagascar (A8-0213/2018 - Jerzy Buzek)
I voted in favour of this cooperation agreement, as it is crucial for the development of services that will benefit civil aviation as a whole in the long term, while also providing associated services in ASECNAʼs area of competence as well as satellite radio navigation. The cooperation activities in the agreement also cover the use in Africa of the system produced by the Galileo programme, radio spectrum, standards, certification and international organisations, safety, research and development, human resources, communication and visibility, personnel exchanges and the promotion of satellite radio navigation services on the African continent.
Extension of the EU-US Agreement for scientific and technological cooperation (A8-0212/2018 - Rolandas Paksas)
I voted in favour of the extension of the agreement for scientific and technological cooperation between EU and the USA. This agreement has been extended several times since 1998 and it benefits the European Union in the fields of science, technology and innovation. Therefore I am supporting an additional extension of five years.
European High Performance Computing Joint Undertaking (A8-0217/2018 - Zigmantas Balčytis)
I voted in favour of this joint undertaking. It is a response to the need for European science and industry to access world-leading supercomputers and data infrastructure and is therefore key to the EUʼs becoming one of the worldʼs top supercomputing powers by 2022/2023. I believe that involving academic research institutions and other stakeholders should be encouraged, and that the data flow between the supercomputer and the researcher should be guaranteed.
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2017/009 FR/Air France (A8-0210/2018 - Alain Lamassoure)
I voted in favour, as it is important that we provide additional assistance to workers suffering the consequences of major structural changes in world trade patterns. I acknowledge the importance of active labour market measures co-funded by the EGF for improving the chances of reintegration into the labour market for the groups affected by the issue concerned.
Role of cities in the institutional framework of the Union (A8-0203/2018 - Kazimierz Michał Ujazdowski)
I voted in favour of this report because it strengthens the political representation of cities and municipalities in the current EU institutional framework, sets up a permanent structured dialogue mechanism among associations representing local authorities and urban interests in policy design, and establishes a pilot programme of 54 European debate forums, with a view to attaining a system of municipal debate and consultation on EU affairs; and it calls for sufficient support to be granted to cities and local authorities to enable them to improve the urban dimension of EU policy-making. It also requires municipalities to appoint a councillor in charge of European affairs in order to stimulate the debate on the future of the Union, all of which are measures that I believe will benefit the EU greatly in the future.
Three-dimensional printing: intellectual property rights and civil liability (A8-0223/2018 - Joëlle Bergeron)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report as 3D printing as much of an opportunity as it is a challenge for the future. An opportunity due to its potential to create jobs for skilled labour and a challenge due to the legal, ethical, health and even safety and security issues that are possibly at stake. We should also be aware of the fact that, in order to anticipate problems intellectual property infringement related to 3D printing might cause in the future, the EU might have to adopt new legislation and tailor existing laws to the specific case of 3D technology, without duplicating existing rules.
European Defence Industrial Development Programme (A8-0037/2018 - Françoise Grossetête)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this program. It is the first European programme specifically dedicated to industrial defence projects, which will increase cooperation and strengthen the competitiveness of the EU defence industry. In my opinion, it is time that the European Union step up its game on defence and develops a common approach. Member States are used to working together on a country-by-country basis on defence issues, but in the current state of world affairs, we cannot rely solely on this approach. Cooperation has to be strengthened.
Integrated farm statistics (A8-0300/2017 - Maria Gabriela Zoană)
. ‒ I voted in favour because it encourages the collection of statistical data, in particular the farm structure survey. It also stresses the importance of ensuring coherence and compatibility of the data and the uniformity of the reporting formats as well as the role of selecting the content of the data collection in a manner consistent with the aim of devising better targeted and more effective agricultural and rural development measures which take account, as a matter of priority, of the needs of producers and consumers in the Union.
Notification of investment projects in energy infrastructure: repeal (A8-0211/2018 - Barbara Kappel)
. ‒ I voted for the repeal of this Regulation since it is no longer fit for purpose. There were significant overlaps between reporting obligations under this Regulation and reporting obligations to ENTSO-E and ENTSO-G, with little to no value added by obligations under the Regulation mentioned above.
Measures to strengthen administrative cooperation in the field of value-added tax (A8-0215/2018 - Roberts Zīle)
. ‒ The report stresses the importance of jointly processing and analysing all relevant data within Eurofisc (the mechanism provided for Member States to enhance their administrative cooperation in combating organised VAT fraud), improving the operational framework for coordinated checks between Member States, developing the exchange of data between Member States’ tax administrations and law enforcement authorities at EU level as well as tackling fraud involving the dual VAT regime applicable to cars by improving access to vehicle registration data. It is also important for successfully fighting fraud involving customs procedures 42 and 63. I voted in favour of the report.
Violation of rights of indigenous peoples in the world (A8-0194/2018 - Francisco Assis)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report. It calls for the EU, the Member States and their partners in the international community to adopt all necessary measures for the full recognition, protection and promotion of the rights of indigenous peoples, including to their lands, territories and resources. The EU shall make sure that all its development, investment and trade policies respect the human rights of indigenous people, as enshrined in human rights treaties and conventions. Furthermore, all states should urgently ratify ILO Convention No 169 on Indigenous and Tribal Peoples.The EU should also encourage partner states engaged in post—conflict peace building involving land rights to develop measures to enable the return of dislocated indigenous and local communities to their traditional territories, as a crucial factor in achieving sustainable people and social stabilisation. It insists that the EU and its Member States must work to hold multinational corporations and international financial institutions to account for their impact on indigenous communities’ human and environmental rights. EU companies should be duly investigated and sanctioned through appropriate mechanisms. The EU is encouraged to withdraw any form of institutional or financial support in the event of human rights violations.
Climate diplomacy (A8-0221/2018 - Arne Lietz, Jo Leinen)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report since it reaffirms the international leading role of the EU and its strong engagement in honouring the commitment to the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals. Furthermore, it underlines the impact of climate change on human life, peace and stability as well as reaffirming the EU’s responsibility towards developing countries and vulnerable states in order to support their sustainable development, which consequentially increases stability and security. It encourages a coherent and coordinated approach to EU climate diplomacy, for an improvement of its structure and resources as well as for mainstreaming of the climate diplomacy dimension in the EU external relations, as it constitutes a collective responsibility towards the entire planet, for current and future generations.
Structural and financial barriers in the access to culture (A8-0169/2018 - Bogdan Andrzej Zdrojewski)
The report provides a cross—sector assessment of existing obstacles to cultural access and participation by taking into account financial, educational, structural and digital barriers and identifies political priorities and measures to overcome them. I voted in favour of this report because it outlines a good framework for a cultural action strategy and encourages investment in cultural and creative sectors.
Proportionality test before adoption of new regulation of professions (A8-0395/2017 - Andreas Schwab)
The Commission’s proposal aims to set up a common framework for conduction proportionality assessments when introducing new regulation of professions, in order to ensure the proper functioning of the internal market. I voted in favour of this report as it takes the Commission’s proposal to ensure that this becomes a tool for smart regulation in the context of the internal market of services.
Monitoring the application of EU law 2016 (A8-0197/2018 - Kostas Chrysogonos)
I voted in favour of this report, which assesses the Commission’s 34th annual report on monitoring the application of EU law. This report stresses that ensuring timely and correct application of EU legislation remains a serious challenge and underlines that applying EU law effectively is essential to deliver the benefits of the EU’s policies to the citizens and guarantee a level playing field for business.
Composition of the European Parliament (A8-0207/2018 - Danuta Maria Hübner, Pedro Silva Pereira)
I voted to give consent to the European Council draft decision on the composition of the European Parliament as it reflects the decision of the EP in February 2018 with regard to the withdrawal of the UK and how this will affect the structure of the European Parliament. The agreement cuts 46 seats from the European Parliament after Brexit and redistributes 37 of the remaining seats to under-represented countries.
EU-Iceland Agreement on supplementary rules for external borders and visas for 2014-2020 (A8-0196/2018 - Anders Primdahl Vistisen)
I voted in favour of this report because it confirms an agreement that concludes the arrangements for the participation of Iceland in the ISF borders and Visa programme. It also provides supplementary rules, with respect to the Commission responsibility to implement the budget and the power by the Court of Auditors.
EU-Switzerland Agreement on supplementary rules for external borders and visas for 2014-2020 (A8-0195/2018 - Claude Moraes)
Implementation of the remaining provisions of the Schengen acquis relating to the Schengen Information System in Bulgaria and Romania (A8-0192/2018 - Monica Macovei)
. ‒ This draft Council Decision aims at lifting the remaining restrictions on the use of the Schengen Information System (SIS) by Bulgaria and Romania, affecting specifically the obligation to refuse entry to third-country nationals for whom an alert has been issued by another Member State, or to deny such persons permission to stay, and the obligation to refrain from issuing SIS alerts and entering additional information on third-country nationals for the purposes of refusing entry or stay. I voted in favour of this report as the decision will make the checks performed at the external borders of Bulgaria and Romania more effective through an improvement in security measures.
Cohesion policy and the circular economy (A8-0184/2018 - Davor Škrlec)
Further macro-financial assistance to Ukraine (A8-0183/2018 - Jarosław Wałęsa)
This report indicates how the EU can give additional macro-financial assistance to Ukraine. The aim of this MFA is to help Ukraine cover part of its additional external financing needs in 2018-2019 and to provide incentives to step up Ukraine’s reform efforts. I voted in favour of this report because I see this assistance as a possibility to support the country on its path to better governance, specifically by including an element of conditionality on the financial assistance.
Negotiations on the modernisation of the EU-Chile Association Agreement (A8-0158/2018 - Charles Tannock)
. ‒ This report strengthens the cooperation between Chile and the EU. Chile is an important partner for the EU, sharing values and principles of democracy, the rule of law and human rights. This report is ambitious, comprehensive and balanced, focusing on bringing tangible benefits for the citizens, businesses and economies of both sides. I voted in favour of the report because it highlights areas in which we can cooperate further while also including a strong parliamentary dimension to our cooperation.
EU-NATO relations (A8-0188/2018 - Ioan Mircea Paşcu)
. ‒ The report assesses the relationship between the EU and NATO in 2017. The report examines the similarities and differences that exist between the two organisations as well as the extent to which they have adapted to the changing geopolitical environment. I voted in favour of this report because while acknowledging the progress achieved in bilateral cooperation, it also identifies that there is still progress lacking in certain areas. Nevertheless, it reaffirms the commitment of the EU to working closely with NATO to ensure security for European citizens.
Cyber defence (A8-0189/2018 - Urmas Paet)
. ‒ The cyber—domain is becoming an increasingly important factor in security and defence matters. While the effective competences in the cyber—domain reside with the Member States, coordination at the European level in regard to national efforts is needed. I voted in favour of this report as it outlines ways in which various existing agencies could work more closely together to address the key issues arising from cybersecurity.
State of play of recreational fisheries in the EU (A8-0191/2018 - Norica Nicolai)
Recreational fishing is important not only for the individuals who partake in these activities, but also for those in jobs supported by this industry. However, recreational and semi-subsistence fisheries could represent a significant source of fishing mortality, have an impact on ecosystems, and interact with commercial fisheries and users of the marine and freshwater environment. To monitor the effects of the industry, more data need to be collected regularly, and regulations should be adopted to ensure a good level of reliable data throughout the EU. I voted in favour of this report, as it adequately discusses ways in which to combat the current problems with practical solutions.
Clearing obligation, reporting requirements and risk-mitigation techniques for OTC derivatives and trade repositories (A8-0181/2018 - Werner Langen)
I voted in favour of the European Market Infrastructure Regulation because I believe that it is a step towards reducing systemic risk by increasing the transparency of the derivatives market through different requirements. This proposal amends the EMIR Regulation and simplifies the rules applicable to over-the-counter derivatives and makes them more proportionate in order to reduce costs and the regulatory burden weighing on market participants, without putting financial stability at risk.
Common rules in the field of civil aviation and European Union Aviation Safety Agency (A8-0364/2016 - Marian-Jean Marinescu)
CO2 emissions from and fuel consumption of new heavy-duty vehicles (A8-0010/2018 - Damiano Zoffoli)
Modernisation of education in the EU (A8-0173/2018 - Krystyna Łybacka)
This report emphasises education as a key aspect of economic potential and a crucial factor for the development of the individual as a whole, challenges faced by the education systems due to the rapid technological developments, and teachers as the main guarantor of the successful modernisation of education systems. I voted in favour of this report because it focuses on the need to increase investment in education, using the European Structural and Investment Funds and to support teachers and manages, in the area of technology and development.
Towards a sustainable and competitive European aquaculture sector (A8-0186/2018 - Carlos Iturgaiz)
To achieve a growing, sustainable and innovative EU aquaculture sector, certain challenges remain to be overcome. The EU should take advantage of its experience and expertise in the industry and export practices to third countries that wish to access the EU seafood market. I voted in favour of this report because I believe it does a good job to promote EU aquaculture abroad.
Fishing mortality ranges and safeguard levels for certain herring stocks in the Baltic Sea (A8-0149/2018 - Alain Cadec)
I voted in favour of this report approving the technical amendment of the Regulation No 2016/1130 in light of the scientific assessment conducted in 2017 on the multiannual plan of the Commission for the stocks of cod, herring and prat in the Baltic Sea. Since its implementation in 2016, we have seen changes in the stocks of herring in the Bothnian Sea and should continue to implement the best scientific advice available when it comes to adapting plans for these waters and their marine wildlife.
EU-Switzerland Agreement on the cumulation of origin between the EU, Switzerland, Norway and Turkey in the framework of the Generalised System of Preferences (A8-0151/2018 - Tiziana Beghin)
EU-Norway Agreement on the cumulation of origin between the EU, Switzerland, Norway and Turkey in the framework of the Generalised System of Preferences (A8-0152/2018 - Tiziana Beghin)
EU-Norway Agreement on administrative cooperation, combating fraud and recovery of claims in the field of Value Added Tax (A8-0147/2018 - Miguel Viegas)
Optimisation of the value chain in the EU fishing sector (A8-0163/2018 - Clara Eugenia Aguilera García)
I voted in favour of this report as it seeks to identify what can be improved so that processors and local fishers can retain most of the value generated from their activities. Proper optimisation of these processes can help them to get the most from a product and revitalise the economy of local fishing communities reliant on the fishing industry. I support this effort to contribute positively to local communities by encouraging dynamic, profitable and sustainable economic activity.
Implementation of CAP young farmers’ tools in the EU after the 2013 reform (A8-0157/2018 - Nicola Caputo)
This report identifies tools that can be implemented to support young farmers under current CAP rules and helps young farmers to overcome the major barriers to entering agriculture. I voted in favour of this report as it suggests practical steps the EU can take to foster a more inclusive CAP that trains young farmers to be successful businessmen in a key European industry.
Multiannual plan for demersal stocks in the North Sea and the fisheries exploiting those stocks (A8-0263/2017 - Ulrike Rodust)
This multiannual plan for the North Sea is the second management plan proposed by the Commission and is a key tool for the sustainable use of marine resources through offering better predictability on catches allowed to fisherman over time. I voted in favour of the report as the agreement reached in committee provides a balanced approach towards fisheries in the North Sea.
Posting of workers in the framework of the provision of services (A8-0319/2017 - Elisabeth Morin-Chartier, Agnes Jongerius)
I voted in favour of this report because it introduces revisions of the 1996 workers directive that will make remuneration fairer for posted workers. The provisions will promote better cooperation between member states and encourages transparency of labour law rules. This report also emphasises the need for the clarity of information for both employers and employees.
Management, conservation and control measures applicable in the Convention Area of the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (A8-0377/2017 - Linnéa Engström)
The South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation is contracted by the European Union, thereby making is necessary for the binding conservation and management measure adopted by this organization must be enacted into EU law as they apply to the Union fishing vessels operating in the SPRFM Convention Area. I supported this report as the regulation aims at transposing already existing SPRFM conservation and management measures, referring to management, conservation and control measures concerning certain species and certain fishing methods.
Sustainable finance (A8-0164/2018 - Molly Scott Cato)
This report deals with the integration of environmental, social and governance criteria into business and investment decisions. The report calls for the establishment of a clear EU classification system for climate, environmentally and socially sustainable activities in addition to standards and labels for green financial products, strengthened sustainability disclosure and integration of sustainable finance criteria in relevant future legislation related to the financial sector. I voted in favour of this report as the text adopted in committee was balanced and put forth a number of key proposals that will make our finance industry more sustainable.
The 2017 EU Justice Scoreboard (A8-0161/2018 - Jytte Guteland)
Protocol to the EU-Uzbekistan Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (accession of Croatia) (A8-0104/2018 - Jozo Radoš)
I voted in favour of this report because it encourages the Uzbek government to further pursue its efforts in eradicating child labour, other forms of forced labour while also strengthening its cooperation with the EU. The EU should also make full use of the Partnership and cooperation agreement to ensure that the Uzbek government improves the rule of law, protection of human rights and carries out democratic reforms in the country.
EU-Korea Framework Agreement (accession of Croatia) (A8-0120/2018 - Tokia Saïfi)
Subjecting the new psychoactive substance ADB-CHMINACA to control measures (A8-0133/2018 - Maite Pagazaurtundúa Ruiz)
I voted in favour of the recommendation to subject the new substance, ADB-CHMINACA, to control measures. I did so because the assessment report, the available evidence and information on the health and social risks that the substance poses provides sufficient grounds to control the substance across the EU.
Subjecting the new psychoactive substance CUMYL-4CN-BINACA to control measures (A8-0134/2018 - Maite Pagazaurtundúa Ruiz)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the recommendation to subject the new substance to control measures. I did so because the assessment report, the available evidence and information regarding the health and social risks of the substance provide sufficient grounds to subject the substance to control measures across the EU.
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2017/010 BE/Caterpillar (A8-0148/2018 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial)
Annual report 2016 on the protection of EU’s financial interests - Fight against fraud (A8-0135/2018 - Gilles Pargneaux)
I voted in favour of the report. I was satisfied with the thoroughness of the investigation and happy to see the the total number of fraudulent and non-fraudulent irregularities had decreased from 2015 by 15 percent. However, the EU should continue to fight the rising tobacco smuggling trend that has intensified in the recent years.
Annual report on the control of the financial activities of the European Investment Bank for 2016 (A8-0139/2018 - Marco Valli)
I voted in favour the report because it emphasizes the promotion of financially sustainable activities providing positive long-term impacts. The report also states that it is necessary to enhance the scrutiny by additional indicators, which will provide more realistic data on the performance of the investments of the European Investment Bank.
Cohesion policy and thematic objective ‘promoting sustainable transport and removing bottlenecks in key network infrastructures’ (A8-0136/2018 - Andrey Novakov)
Current situation and future prospects for the sheep and goat sectors in the EU (A8-0064/2018 - Esther Herranz García)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the report because the EU should protect its sheep and goat sectors. It does so with this report, which makes a series of good recommendations to boost the prospects in this sector, which is vital for maintaining productive agriculture in regions where farming conditions are especially difficult.
Media pluralism and media freedom in the European Union (A8-0144/2018 - Barbara Spinelli)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report on media pluralism and media freedom in the EU. I did so because the report makes a number of suggestions that will improve the position of investigative journalists and whistle-blowers, and will promote transparency, the rule of law and democracy. It also calls on the Commission to develop a policy that will attain universal access to the internet, and not to adopt unnecessary measures to undermine encryption.
Common system of value added tax, with regard to the obligation to respect a minimum standard rate (A8-0124/2018 - Roberto Gualtieri)
Prevention of the use of the financial system for the purposes of money laundering or terrorist financing (A8-0056/2017 - Krišjānis Kariņš, Judith Sargentini)
. – I voted in favour of this resolution on the prevention of the use of the financial system for the purposes of money laundering or terrorist financing. Its goal is to prevent the use of financial systems for the funding of criminal activities and strengthening transparency rules to prevent large—scale concealment of funds, which is definitely something the EU should strive to accomplish.
Approval and market surveillance of motor vehicles and their trailers, and of systems, components and separate technical units intended for such vehicles (A8-0048/2017 - Daniel Dalton)
Organic production and labelling of organic products (A8-0311/2015 - Martin Häusling)
Guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (A8-0140/2018 - Miroslavs Mitrofanovs)
. – I voted in favour of the guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States. I am satisfied with the guidelines produced by Parliament, which encourage the Commission to propose a comprehensive employment policy for the Member States that will reduce poverty, increase overall employment, and end social exclusion and discrimination.
Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and the Council on European business statistics, amending Regulation (EC) no 184/2005 and repealing 10 legal acts in the field of business statistics (A8-0094/2018 - Janusz Lewandowski)
Protection of investigative journalists in Europe: the case of Slovak journalist Ján Kuciak and Martina Kušnírová (B8-0186/2018)
. – I voted in favour of this motion for resolution. It is unacceptable investigative journalists are being killed in the EU, which prides itself on values of transparency, democracy and the rule of law. The motion clearly condemns this actions and calls for collective action against organised crime and an immediate, thorough and meaningful investigation into such killings.
A European values instrument to support civil society organisations which promote democracy, rule of law and fundamental values within the European Union (B8-0189/2018)
. – I voted in favour of this motion for resolution because the EU should continue to support the civil society organisations which are vital for upholding and promoting values enshrined in the treaty on the functioning of the EU such as democracy, rule of law, human dignity, equality and respect for human rights.
The violation of human rights and the rule of law in the case of two Greek soldiers arrested and detained in Turkey (B8-0194/2018, B8-0196/2018)
. – I voted in favour of this report because it clearly condemns human rights violations, the detention of journalists and violations of the rule of law, and calls for the immediate release of two Greek soldiers in Turkey. The EU should put pressure on Turkey to respect human rights and to end the oppression of the civil society organisations and the press.
Implementation of the Treaty provisions concerning national Parliaments (A8-0127/2018 - Paulo Rangel)
. – I voted in favour of this report because the EU should bring national parliaments closer to the overall process of integration and encourage them to fully exercise their European functions, encourage regular debates between respective ministers and committees and establish national weeks when commissioners and members of the European Parliament can address their cooperation.
Annual Report on Competition Policy (A8-0049/2018 - Ramon Tremosa i Balcells)
. – I voted in favour of this report as it strongly emphasises the independence of the Commission and national authorities in their mission of shaping and effectively enforcing EU competition rules. The EU should in future establish target timeframes so that antitrust investigations can be concluded before the competition is obliged to leave the market, which is too late. The report also stresses that the digital companies should stop evading paying their share of taxes and calls for greater transparency and for stronger enforcement.
Implementation of the European Protection Order Directive (A8-0065/2018 - Soraya Post, Teresa Jiménez-Becerril Barrio)
. – I voted in favour of this report because it increases judicial cooperation in criminal matters, which is fundamental for the efficient functioning of the justice system. The report ensures that protection orders are applied when moving across borders from one Member State to another and therefore increases protection for those who need it.
Implementation of the Bologna Process – state of play and follow-up (B8-0190/2018)
. – I voted in favour of this resolution because it furthers the EU agenda of offering one of the best academic and professional development environments worldwide. The EU should continue to support and fund the academic exchanges, facilitate mechanisms for academic and professional cooperation and increase the budget for educational purposes.
End-of-life vehicles, waste batteries and accumulators and waste electrical and electronic equipment (A8-0013/2017 - Simona Bonafè)
I voted in favour of the resolution as its aim is to stimulate the transition towards a circular economy, which will boost global competition, foster sustainable economic growth and generate new jobs. Care must be taken when determining how to regulate the end of the lives of such products, since they can be highly toxic for the environment.
Landfill of waste (A8-0031/2017 - Simona Bonafè)
I voted in favour of this report because it will generate new jobs, limit municipal waste considerably in the future and ban some waste from landfill entirely. The EU should set goals as high as possible in order to combat the waste problem. This act does just that, but it is also flexible enough for all Member States to enact.
Procedural rules in the field of environmental reporting (A8-0253/2017 - Francesc Gambús)
Integrity policy of the Commission, in particular the appointment of the Secretary-General of the European Commission (B8-0214/2018)
I voted in favour of the resolution on the integrity policy of the Commission. I did so because I believe the resolution does, on the one hand, prevent arbitrary appointments and criticises the Commission for doing so, but on the other hand, it recognises that there has to be mutual trust between the Commission President and his Secretary-General and that the appointment is in his discretion.
Progress on UN Global compacts for safe, orderly and regular migration and on refugees (B8-0184/2018)
I voted in favour of this resolution because the EU should help refugees and enable safe and orderly migration. The resolution calls on the international community to deal with the refugee crisis because only it can effectively deal with this problem. The act also calls on all Member States to unite behind a single EU stance so the EU can use all of its power to influence other key countries in this regard.
Implementation of the EU external financing instruments: mid-term review 2017 and the future post-2020 architecture (A8-0112/2018 - Marietje Schaake)
I voted in favour of the new architecture since it recommends strengthening democratic institutions, the rule of law, good governance and fighting against corruption. The external financing instruments play a crucial role in promoting progress in third countries and the mediation capacity to mitigate conflicts is of great importance. The instruments have proven themselves effective and flexible in their purpose.
Annual reports 2015-2016 on subsidiarity and proportionality (A8-0141/2018 - Mady Delvaux)
Discharge 2016: EU general budget - Commission and executive agencies (A8-0137/2018 - Joachim Zeller)
Discharge 2016: EU general budget - 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th EDFs (A8-0123/2018 - Barbara Kappel)
Discharge 2016: EU general budget - European Parliament (A8-0105/2018 - Derek Vaughan)
Discharge 2016: EU general budget - European Council and Council (A8-0116/2018 - Ingeborg Gräßle)
Discharge 2016: EU general budget - Court of Justice (A8-0122/2018 - Ingeborg Gräßle)
Discharge 2016: EU general budget - Court of Auditors (A8-0089/2018 - Ingeborg Gräßle)
Discharge 2016: EU general budget - Committee of the Regions (A8-0117/2018 - Ingeborg Gräßle)
Discharge 2016: EU general budget - European External Action Service (A8-0128/2018 - Marco Valli)
Discharge 2016: EU general budget - European Ombudsman (A8-0100/2018 - Ingeborg Gräßle)
Discharge 2016: EU general budget - European Data Protection Supervisor (A8-0099/2018 - Ingeborg Gräßle)
Discharge 2016: Performance, financial management and control of EU agencies (A8-0115/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators (ACER) (A8-0074/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: Office of the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (BEREC) (A8-0069/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: Translation Centre for the Bodies of the European Union (CdT) (A8-0106/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop) (A8-0068/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Training (CEPOL) (A8-0098/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) (A8-0066/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Asylum Support Office (EASO) (A8-0083/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Banking Authority (EBA) (A8-0067/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) (A8-0085/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) (A8-0086/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Environment Agency (EEA) (A8-0090/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA) (A8-0107/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) (A8-0091/2018 - Indrek Tarand)
Discharge 2016: European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) (A8-0087/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) (A8-0088/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) (A8-0096/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Medicines Agency (EMA) (A8-0103/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) (A8-0081/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) (A8-0078/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Union Agency for Network and Information Security (ENISA) (A8-0114/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Union Agency for Railways (ERA) (A8-0079/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) (A8-0101/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Training Foundation (ETF) (A8-0080/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Agency for the operational management of large-scale IT systems in the area of freedom, security and justice (eu-LISA) (A8-0111/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA) (A8-0084/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: Euratom Supply Agency (ESA) (A8-0102/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions (Eurofound) (A8-0092/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: EU Judicial Cooperation Unit (Eurojust) (A8-0113/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Police Office (Europol) (A8-0109/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) (A8-0093/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) (A8-0108/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: European GNSS Agency (GSA) (A8-0082/2018 - Bart Staes)
Discharge 2016: Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking (BBI) (A8-0071/2018 - Brian Hayes)
Discharge 2016: Clean Sky 2 Joint Undertaking (A8-0070/2018 - Brian Hayes)
Discharge 2016: ECSEL Joint Undertaking (A8-0072/2018 - Brian Hayes)
Discharge 2016: Fuel Cells and Hydrogen 2 Joint Undertaking (FCH2) (A8-0073/2018 - Brian Hayes)
Discharge 2016: Innovative Medicines Initiative 2 Joint Undertaking (IMI) (A8-0075/2018 - Brian Hayes)
Discharge 2016: ITER and the Development of Fusion Energy Joint Undertaking (A8-0095/2018 - Brian Hayes)
Discharge 2016: SESAR Joint Undertaking (A8-0077/2018 - Brian Hayes)
Discharge 2016: Shift2Rail Joint Undertaking (S2R) (A8-0076/2018 - Brian Hayes)
EU-Lebanon Agreement for scientific and technological cooperation: participation of Lebanon in the Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA) (A8-0352/2017 - Sofia Sakorafa)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this agreement because the EU and Lebanon should continue to deepen their cooperation in the field of research and innovation in the Mediterranean area. Lebanon is a country the EU wishes to help and support along its path of development and this program aims to provide solutions including, but not limited to, sustainable water management and food production.
EU-Mauritius Fisheries Partnership Agreement: fishing opportunities and financial contribution (A8-0053/2018 - Norica Nicolai)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the EU – Mauritius Fisheries Partnership Agreement because the EU should cooperate with Mauritius in the field of fishing and support it through continued financial contributions. This agreement allows ships from several Member States to fish in the waters of Mauritius, while encouraging the development of a sustainable ocean economy.
EU-Norway Agreement concerning additional trade preferences in agricultural products (A8-0126/2018 - Tiziana Beghin)
A European strategy for the promotion of protein crops (A8-0121/2018 - Jean-Paul Denanot)
. ‒ I strongly support the European plan on the promotion of protein crops since this measure will encourage more research into these crops, resulting in higher agronomic performance and economically beneficial to produce. This report also emphasises that protein crops are an important contributor to the circular economy and that they can be used for human consumption, renewable energy and the production of green chemicals.
Inclusion of greenhouse gas emissions and removals from land use, land use change and forestry into the 2030 climate and energy framework (A8-0262/2017 - Norbert Lins)
Binding annual greenhouse gas emission reductions to meet commitments under the Paris Agreement (A8-0208/2017 - Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this resolution as it establishes national emission targets for Member states in non-emissions trading sectors between 2021 and 2030. This resolution was the result of coordination across political lines and provides enough flexibility for Member States, while also ensuring that the EU will meet its obligations in cutting carbon emissions.
Statute and funding of European political parties and European political foundations (A8-0373/2017 - Mercedes Bresso, Rainer Wieland)
I voted in favour of this agreement, as amended rules on the funding and establishment of European political parties will enhance the transparency in the connection between national parties and parties in the European Parliament with which they are affiliated, as well as making for stricter rules on funding.
Energy performance of buildings (A8-0314/2017 - Bendt Bendtsen)
Implementation of the 7th Environment Action Programme (A8-0059/2018 - Daciana Octavia Sârbu)
I voted in favour of this programme because it makes the necessary adjustments to the seventh environment action plan, which was close to failing to meet its goals. The report correctly determines the current state of the EAP and makes sound proposals for the future of the programme to ensure that the EU will reach as many goals as it can within the EAP.
Gender equality in the media sector in the EU (A8-0031/2018 - Michaela Šojdrová)
EU-Comoros fisheries partnership agreement: denunciation (A8-0058/2018 - João Ferreira)
EU-Comoros fisheries partnership agreement: denunciation (resolution) (A8-0055/2018 - João Ferreira)
Europass: framework for skills and qualifications (A8-0244/2017 - Thomas Mann, Svetoslav Hristov Malinov)
I voted in favour of this report on Europass because the Europass revision will provide European citizens with additional services, such as e-portfolio creation and skills assessment. With additional offerings of learning opportunities and various data, the portal should help career development and labour mobility.
Creative Europe Programme (2014 to 2020) (A8-0369/2017 - Silvia Costa)
I voted in favour of the report on the Creative Europe programme because it will enable the European Union Youth Orchestra to receive a grant until the programme ends in 2020. The European Union Youth Orchestra will therefore work without disturbances, but it is necessary to ensure cost-efficiency and seek resources other than EU funding in order to achieve gradual independence from EU funding.
Location of the seat of the European Medicines Agency (A8-0063/2018 - Giovanni La Via)
I voted in favour of the report on the location of the seat of the European Medicines Agency, which ensures that the relocation will be completed by 30 March 2019, when the UK formally leaves the Union. I also want to stress out that the whole procedure should be transparent and cost-efficient, allowing the agency to continue its work in a uninterrupted manner.
Common Consolidated Corporate Tax Base (A8-0051/2018 - Alain Lamassoure)
I voted in favour of this report on a Common Consolidated Corporate Tax Base because I welcome the simplification of the EU corporate tax base, which will make the whole process easier and more efficient. The report supports tax being collected by the Member State where the company is located, rather than according to an apportionment formula distributed to Member States where the company generates the actual profit.
Common Corporate Tax Base (A8-0050/2018 - Paul Tang)
I voted in favour of the report on the Common Corporate Tax Base (CCTB), which is the second part of the tax package. The aim of the proposal is to reduce the burden of bureaucracy in cross-border business activity. The report underlines that the level of red tape will be reduced and only one tax return will be required for operations across the entire EU.
Guidelines for the 2019 budget - Section III (A8-0062/2018 - Daniele Viotti)
I voted in favour of report on the general guidelines for the preparation of the 2019 budget, Section III – Commission, which gives directions on the negotiations for next EU budget, which is being negotiated in this parliamentary mandate. I believe it should support the further development of the EU, and the fields of innovation, competitiveness, the fight against climate change, the transition to renewable energy, migration and security should be included in it.
Guidelines on the framework of future EU-UK relations (B8-0134/2018, B8-0135/2018)
I voted in favour of this report and the guidelines it provides for the framework of future EU-UK relations because I support the Commission’s proposals and intent for the negotiation process. I believe the deal which is agreed upon should fair for both sides and should be concluded as soon as possible.
Rail transport statistics (A8-0038/2018 - Karima Delli)
I voted in favour of report on rail transport statistics because I support the establishment of common rules for rail transport statistics at the European Union level. I believe high quality statistics can contribute to better work with data, improving the rail network and exchange of data between countries.
Measures for the control of Newcastle disease (A8-0026/2018 - Adina-Ioana Vălean)
I voted in favour of the report on measures for the control of Newcastle disease, which will simplify and accelerate the relocation of European Reference Laboratory for Newcastle disease from United Kingdom to a new location in EU after Brexit. The new location has to be selected by the end of April, due to the time constraints of Brexit procedures and the urgent need to ensure that the laboratory will continue its work with minimal disturbances.
Further macro-financial assistance to Georgia (A8-0028/2018 - Hannu Takkula)
I voted in favour of the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council providing further macro-financial assistance to Georgia. Given the economic situation of Georgia, I believe that further macroeconomic assistance from the EU can be a valuable tool for stabilisation in the country.
The next MFF: Preparing the Parliament’s position on the MFF post-2020 (A8-0048/2018 - Jan Olbrycht, Isabelle Thomas)
I voted in favour of the report on the next MFF because we need a smooth and efficient transition in the field of finances. This will allow for the swift adoption of all sectorial regulations and the launch of new EU programmes. It also enables Parliament to enter into structural dialogue with the Commission and the Council.
Reform of the European Union’s system of own resources (A8-0041/2018 - Gérard Deprez, Janusz Lewandowski)
I voted in favour of the report on reform of the European Union’s system of own resources. The position of the European Parliament is for the reports dealing with the MMF and own resources to be negotiated in the same package. The report underlines the need for a higher level of EU spending under the post-2020 MFF and proposes new possibilities for own resources.
European Semester for economic policy coordination: Annual Growth Survey 2018 (A8-0047/2018 - Hugues Bayet)
Implementation of the Protocol on the financial consequences of the expiry of the ECSC Treaty and on the Research Fund for Coal and Steel (A8-0034/2018 - Jean Arthuis)
I voted in favour of the implementation of the Protocol on the financial consequences of the expiry of the ECSC Treaty and on the Research Fund for Coal and Steel, because I support the proposed Commission Decision. It aims to allow the use of all appropriations corresponding to de-commitments under the RFCS since 2003. The Commission calculated that the potential gains could be recycled at EUR 40,3 million. I fully support the further work of the Commission in this area.
EU-New Zealand agreement on cooperation and mutual administrative assistance in customs matters (A8-0029/2018 - Daniel Caspary)
I voted in favour of EU-New Zealand Agreement, because I support deepened cooperation with New Zealand as a key partner of the EU. Additionally, the agreement can become a basis to further develop customs cooperation across multiple fields. I think that in light of the possibility of tariffs being imposed on certain materials and the threat of trade wars between global leaders, every agreement on cooperation with a third country should be most welcomed.
A European strategy on Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (A8-0036/2018 - István Ujhelyi)
I voted in favour this report because it outlines the potentials benefits and a strategy for a Cooperative Intelligent Transport System in the EU. Privacy, data protection and cybersecurity risks are important issues which should concern not only EU citizens, but also the larger over-arching systems, including the one mentioned above, which directly affect the lives of European citizens. We should openly discuss these issues and pursue efficient solutions.
Cross-border parcel delivery services (A8-0315/2017 - Lucy Anderson)
I voted in favour of the report on cross-border parcel delivery services because EU consumers do not currently take full advantage of the single market. A study by the European Parliament concluded that the potential contribution to European GDP of a fully functioning Digital Single Market could be up to EUR 415 billion. The report aims at making the market work more effectively while increasing the transparency of tariffs and simultaneously lowering the tariffs paid by individuals and small business.
Initial qualification and periodic training of drivers of certain road vehicles and driving licences (A8-0321/2017 - Peter Lundgren)
. ‒ I voted in favour of this report dealing with the initial qualification and periodic training of drivers of certain road vehicles and driving licences because we need new ways to address the driver’s specific needs in choosing and following through with training programs. This Proposal will also allow the use of new methods, which can boost the market itself.
Establishing the European Defence Industrial Development Programme aiming at supporting the competitiveness and innovative capacity of the EU defence industry (A8-0037/2018 - Françoise Grossetête)
Gender equality in EU trade agreements (A8-0023/2018 - Eleonora Forenza, Malin Björk)
I voted in favour of report on gender equality in EU trade agreements, because it as a whole delivers a message that gender equality should be respected in all areas of society, even in trade agreements. It also encourages the Commission to support international efforts to promote gender equality. Trade agreements can serve as a valuable tool to promote European values worldwide.
Lagging regions in the EU (A8-0046/2018 - Michela Giuffrida)
I voted in favour of report on the lagging regions in the EU, because it examines the competitiveness of low-income and low-growth regions and goes further to suggest possible solutions to boost growth and jobs in these regions. I think the low-income regions need European a concrete, goal-oriented plan to pursue further development.
The role of EU regions and cities in implementing the COP 21 Paris Agreement on climate change (A8-0045/2018 - Ángela Vallina)
I voted in favour of report on the role of EU regions and cities in implementing the COP21 Paris Agreement on climate change. I believe we must do much more to protect our environment, because we are responsible for the climate change and our actions will determine the future of our planet. As a global leader in Climate Action, I am pleased that the EU can demonstrate a united front on this most important agreement and continue to reflect a shared dedication to reducing harmful emissions.
EU-USA Bilateral Agreement on prudential measures regarding insurance and reinsurance (A8-0008/2018 - Roberto Gualtieri)
I voted in favour of this report to constitute the legal instrument for the conclusion of the Bilateral Agreement between the EU and the USA on prudential measures regarding insurance and reinsurance. This includes three areas: group supervision, reinsurance and exchange of information between supervisors. I support this report, which gives consent to the conclusion of the agreement.
Definition, presentation and labelling of spirit drinks and protection of geographical indications thereof (A8-0021/2018 - Pilar Ayuso)
The report deals with a Commission proposal to align EU legislation on spirit drinks with the Lisbon Treaty, however introduces some changes on the delegation powers granted to the Commission. In this report, we agree with the Commission that the different schemes for geographical indications in the European Union need to be harmonised. I voted in favour of this report because I believe it takes important steps towards the protection of geographical modifiers of spirit drinks and introduces measures that protect the health of European citizens.
Mandatory automatic exchange of information in the field of taxation (A8-0016/2018 - Emmanuel Maurel)
Because of revelations resulting from the Panama Papers and Paradise Papers, it has become evident that certain intermediaries assist clients to evade tax liabilities, usually via cross-border arrangements involving a company located in a jurisdiction which is low tax or non-transparent. The proposal obliges intermediaries who design or promote tax planning arrangements to provide information to tax authorities. I voted in favour of the report as it has become evident we need more regulations and transparency to prevent tax avoidance.
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: authorisation of genetically modified maize 59122 (DAS-59122-7) (B8-0122/2018)
I voted in favour of the Objection regarding the Commission Decision to renew the authorisation for the placing of products on the market containing genetically modified maize. I maintain my strong objections to the use of GMOs in any products of the European Union and will continue to support all efforts to ban the use of GMOs.
Objection pursuant to Rule 106: authorisation of genetically modified maize MON 87427 × MON 89034 × NK603 and genetically modified maize combining two of the events MON 87427, MON 89034 and NK603 (B8-0124/2018)
I voted in favour of the Objection regarding the Commission Decision to renew the authorisation for the placing of products on the market containing genetically modified maize. I maintain my strong objections to the use of GMOs in any products of the European Union and will continue to support all efforts to ban the use of GMOs.
Situation of fundamental rights in the EU in 2016 (A8-0025/2018 - Frank Engel)
This annual report deals with fundamental rights in the EU, including the rule of law, corruption, migration, integration, discrimination, minorities, and a number of other rights and key issues. In addition to supporting the report, I voted in favour of certain amendments to the report which protect the freedom of religion and belief, while also extending protection towards religious minorities. These fundamental rights must be safeguarded carefully throughout European legislation.
Prospects and challenges for the EU apiculture sector (A8-0014/2018 - Norbert Erdős)
Beekeeping is a pillar of European agriculture, many of the plants and food production relying on pollination by bees. I voted in favour of this report because the EU must revise its support for beekeepers, including additional support, more research, training and education, a focus on bee health and environmental aspects, the reduction of chemicals which are harmful to bees, and the fight against fake honey. Additionally, I voted in favour of amendment 2 which calls on the Commission to ban the production, sale and use of all neonicotinoid-based pesticides throughout the EU. Unfortunately, this amendment did not pass, however I still supported the report as a whole.
Banking Union - Annual Report 2017 (A8-0019/2018 - Sander Loones)
This report divides the year into three main areas: supervision, resolution and deposit insurance. The report agrees with the Commission that the procedures leading to decisions as to whether or not a bank is failing or likely to fail need to be improved. It calls for improved methodologies to carry out these assessments. This report also calls for preparedness to mitigate the disruptive effects of Brexit with regard to smaller banks. I believe this report provides an excellent framework for the banking union in the year ahead.
Cutting the sources of income for Jihadists - targeting the financing of terrorism (A8-0035/2018 - Javier Nart)
I voted in favour of this report calling on Member States and the Commission to consider cutting the funding sources of terrorist networks as a key priority, as removing the funding is a key step to hampering the effectiveness of those networks. This report calls for Member States to improve coordination and cooperation by establishing a stable European counter-terrorism financial intelligence platform, within the framework of existing structures.
EU priorities for the 62nd session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (A8-0022/2018 - Izaskun Bilbao Barandica, Ángela Vallina)
This report empowers women and girls and provides recommendations to specifically empower rural women. This report provides an excellent strategy towards improving the status of women and I support the overall objective of this important report. However, I voted against certain amendments that exceeded the competencies of the EU on issues of sexual and reproductive health.
Nominal composition of the special committee on the Union’s authorisation procedure for pesticides
I voted in favour of establishing this special committee because I believe it is necessary for the European Parliament to contribute to the debate regarding the use of pesticides in Europe. While I support the creation of this special committee, I believe it is of the utmost importance that establishing special committees outside of the competencies of the standing committees does not become a regular occurrence in the European Parliament. We should strive to include topics of special interest within committees which already exist.
Current human rights situation in Turkey (B8-0079/2018, RC-B8-0082/2018, B8-0082/2018, B8-0084/2018, B8-0091/2018, B8-0092/2018, B8-0095/2018, B8-0097/2018, B8-0103/2018)
The current situation in Turkey gives real reason for concern regarding the ongoing state of emergency, the continuous repression of the Kurdish population and the situation with regard to religious minorities in the country. In light of such serious problems which continue to remain unaddressed, there is no way that the EU could consider accession status for Turkey at this time.
Situation in Venezuela (RC-B8-0078/2018, B8-0078/2018, B8-0080/2018, B8-0081/2018, B8-0083/2018, B8-0087/2018, B8-0094/2018)
The Venezuela case is very delicate, with the recent protests regarding violations of democracy and the rule of law by the current government. Positions of power must be divided accordingly and the country is obligated to enable its citizens with access to food, medical supplies, personal security and freedom. I voted in favour of this resolution because it highlights the important issues that must be addressed for the country to return to the right path.
Summer-time arrangements (B8-0070/2018, B8-0071/2018)
Personally, I am very sceptical of the current summer—time arrangements, since there is a lot of justified criticism on negative effects of the summer/winter clock changes on the health of individuals. I would also like to point out the effect the summer—time arrangements have had on the elderly population. The arrangements were presented and implemented at a time in history when it made sense, but those times are over and the lack of benefits from changing the clock twice a year coupled with the scientifically—proven negative effects on human health is a reason I voted in favour of this resolution.
Composition of the European Parliament (A8-0007/2018 - Danuta Maria Hübner, Pedro Silva Pereira)
This report provides us with a plan to implement in the next elections, in light of the occurrence of Brexit. The unfortunate results of the referendum on UK membership of the European Union presented a problem, as the UK will vacate 73 seats in the European Parliament after the 2019 elections. The report suggests that we reduce the total number of MEPs from 751 to 705 and allocate the remaining seats to countries which are currently under-represented in the European Parliament. Additionally, we voted against the establishment of transnational lists, seeing this as potentially encouraging populist movements in Europe.
Revision of the Framework Agreement on relations between the European Parliament and the European Commission (A8-0006/2018 - Esteban González Pons)
I voted in favour of the amendments of the framework agreement between the European Parliament and the European Commission that would allow active Commissioners to be selected as the Spitzenkandidat by European Political Parties. I strongly support this process and affirm the decision that the Parliament would reject any candidate for the post of Commission President who was not appointment via the Spitzenkandidat process in the European Elections. The Spitzenkandidat process reflects institutional balance and is a political practice that we should continue to uphold.
Automated data exchange with regard to vehicle registration data in Portugal (A8-0017/2018 - Ignazio Corrao)
I welcome the positive proposals that were suggested by the European Council for the improvement and authorisation of Portugal’s data storage system. Authorising Portugal to store and proceed registration data of vehicles with their automated searching and comparison methods could enable better cross-border cooperation of the responsible authorities in combating terrorism in the areas near the borders. These measures are directed towards the common goal of European Union, which are ensuring more safety, security, and better cooperation between the Member States, this is why I voted in favour of this proposal.
Protection and non-discrimination with regard to minorities in the EU Member States (B8-0064/2018)
In the European Union, we need to fight against discrimination of any linguistic, cultural or other minorities living in the Member States. We should strive to preserve social cohesion, which is why I voted in favour of the report and continue to express my support of raising awareness in the European Union institutions regarding protection and non-discrimination of minorities in the EU.
Objection to a delegated act: Adding Sri Lanka, Trinidad and Tobago and Tunisia to the list of high-risk third countries (B8-0074/2018)
I voted in favour of this objection to the Commission proposal because I do not believe that Tunisia belongs on the list of high-risk third countries.Additionally, I do not believe we should set a precedent of adding countries to lists of this nature within groupings. Tunisia, Trinidad and Tobago and Sri Lanka all have very different political situations and the intricacies of these sensitive issues should not be reduced so easily. Tunisia continues to be a reliable partner for the EU and we should continue to offer support as they transition into a functioning democracy.
Zero tolerance for female genital mutilation (B8-0068/2018)
. ‒ I voted in support of the resolution to implement policies that address the problem of female genital mutilation (FGM) in the relevant policy and legislative frameworks of the various directorates-general. I support the Commission’s efforts to tackle the problem of FGM in a wider framework and to eradicate the practice, while mainstreaming efforts against it in the health, social work, education, justice and media sectors.
EU-Brazil Agreement for scientific and technological cooperation (A8-0004/2018 - Angelo Ciocca)
I am strong believer that European Community needs to cooperate with third countries in areas of technological development. This will enable us to improve areas of biotechnology, clean technologies, management and the sustainable use of environmental resources, bio-safety, health and medicine, which in the end will benefit European Union as well as other countries. The agreement is based on principles of mutual benefit, effective protection of intellectual property and non-discrimination. That is why I am supporting the idea of prolonging the cooperation between the EU and Brazil and voted in favour of the renewal of the agreement.
Setting up a special committee on the Union’s authorisation procedure for pesticides, its responsibilities, numerical strength and term of office (B8-0077/2018)
I voted in favour of establishing this special committee because I believe it is necessary for the European Parliament to contribute to the debate regarding the use of pesticides in Europe. While I support the creation of this special committee, I believe it is of the utmost importance that establishing special committees outside of the competencies of the standing committees does not become a regular occurrence in the European Parliament. We should strive to include topics of special interest in with committees which already exist.
Geo-blocking and other forms of discrimination based on customers' nationality, place of residence or place of establishment (A8-0172/2017 - Róża Gräfin von Thun und Hohenstein)
I support the idea of implementing stricter regulations regarding geo-blocking based on nationality, place of residence or place of establishment. It is unacceptable that within the internal markets of the European, products available from one Member Country remain unavailable in others because of geo-locations. For this reason, I voted in favour of the Commission’s idea to limit geo-blocking, while still respecting some regulatory measures.
Cost-effective emission reductions and low-carbon investments (A8-0003/2017 - Julie Girling)
Strong political consensus between political parties has enabled an significant agreement leading to improving the cost effective investments sector. These measures will not only work to combat the negative effects of global carbon leakage from third countries, but also promote European products and innovations to fulfil the EU climate targets for 2030. The new rules for addressing the regulations of energy sector and industry will encourage Member States to compensate regarding indirect carbon costs and improve their attempts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This is why I support the efforts of the European Parliament to enable a path to the modernisation of Europe’s industrial and power sectors.
European Central Bank Annual Report for 2016 (A8-0383/2017 - Jonás Fernández)
In light of future endeavours regarding sustainable accommodative monetary policy in the euro area, it is important to keep inflation rate as low as possible while increasing employment and economic growth. I voted for the adoption of the ECB annual report, which calls for more secure and stable efforts to improve individual’s pensions and health insurances, and enable a path to future banking and capital markets union.
Accelerating clean energy innovation (A8-0005/2018 - Jerzy Buzek)
I support clean energy innovation so that we can understand how to better replace current energy sources with more environmentally friendly ones. I believe it is a duty of the EU to lead and explore this area since the energy union is not possible without European Union leading the transition. I believe the future lies in clean, renewable and energy efficient solutions for the industry, means of transportation and construction work. Creating the right business environment is the key for the future. Supporting innovations in clean energy and providing businesses with the right financial instruments and proper regulations should be the main focus of the European Commission and European Parliament. I voted in favour of the proposal and hope that with the support of European Commission, we can speed up the transition process into more efficient and effective clean energy methods.
Marrakesh Treaty: facilitating the access to published works for persons who are blind, visually impaired, or otherwise print disabled (A8-0400/2017 - Max Andersson)
I voted in favour of the application of the Marrakesh Treaty. This agreement has a clear humanitarian and social development dimension and its main goal is to create a set of mandatory limitations and exceptions for the benefit of the blind, visually impaired, and otherwise print disabled. The Treaty aims at easing access for persons with visual impairments and other print disabilities to works in accessible format, all the while protecting the relevant stakeholders.
Jurisdiction, recognition and enforcement of decisions in matrimonial matters and matters of parental responsibility, and international child abduction (A8-0388/2017 - Tadeusz Zwiefka) SL
Glasoval sem proti poročilu poslanca Zwiefke, ker sem trdno prepričan, da so družine in družinski odnosi veliko prepomembna zadeva, da bi ljudem jemali pravico, da se o njih izrečejo. Doslej je Evropska zveza pri zadevah glede zakonskih in starševskih sporov v čezmejnih primerih spoštovala nacionalne kompetence in državam članicam dopustila, da so zavrnile priznanje ali izvršitev odločitve oblastnega organa druge države članice, če so menile, da je le-ta v nasprotju z njenim javnim redom. Pri tem je bilo ključno, da je bila pristojnost Evropske zveze zgolj pogojna in je bila podrejena nacionalnim zakonodajam, ki so urejale družinsko življenje.S sklicevanjem na načelo nediskriminacije iz Listine o temeljnih pravicah Evropske unije pa se bodo lahko po novi ureditvi, na primer, spori iz zakonskih in partnerskih zvez od nacionalnih sodišč selili tudi pred Sodišče Evropske unije, ki bo nato lahko s svojimi odločitvami posegalo v notranjo ureditev držav članic. Tega do sedaj na področju družinske zakonodaje to sodišče ni počelo, ker tudi ni imelo pravne podlage. Ko gre za dobro družin, partnerjev in otrok, mora spregovoriti ljudstvo, zato si namesto sodnega aktivizma pri teh vprašanjih želim videti več civilnodružbenega in zakonodajnega aktivizma.
Implementation of the Youth Employment Initiative in the Member States (A8-0406/2017 - Romana Tomc)
I voted in favour of Romana Tomc’s resolution for the implementation of the Youth Employment Initiative in the Member States. I think that European Union should support the employment of young people. The topic of youth employment has become a central problem, especially after the economic and financial crisis that began in 2008. We should continue to seek new channels through which we may empower young people to find employment.
Implementation of the Professional Qualifications Directive and the need for reform in professional services (A8-0401/2017 - Nicola Danti)
. ‒ I voted in favour of the report on the implementation of Directive 2005/36/EC as regards regulation and the need for reform in professional services. I believe professional services play a fundamental role in the EU economy and, furthermore, the quality of professional services is of paramount importance in preserving the European economic, social and cultural model.
Control of exports, transfer, brokering, technical assistance and transit of dual-use items (A8-0390/2017 - Klaus Buchner)
. ‒ I voted in favour of setting up an EU regime for the control of exports, transfer, brokering, technical assistance and transit of dual-use items. The proposed regulation for the EU export control regime, through a recast of the Dual-Use Regulation, as proposed by the Commission, is an important contribution to achieving various objectives. The Dual-Use Regulation has the potential to back our foreign and security policy, fostering peace and stability in the world, while the proposed human rights dimension provides the EU with an additional tool to protect human rights globally, and an effective export control mechanism is central to upholding free and fair trade.
Promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources (A8-0392/2017 - José Blanco López)
Energy efficiency (A8-0391/2017 - Miroslav Poche)
Management, conservation and control measures applicable in the Convention Area of the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (A8-0377/2017 - Linnéa Engström)
I voted in favour of this regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council laying down management, conservation and control measures applicable in the Convention Area of the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation because I believe that we have a moral duty to protect the environment and our marine ecosystem.
Implementation of EU macro-regional strategies (A8-0389/2017 - Andrea Cozzolino)
In recent years, the macro-regional strategies (MRS) have gained significant importance as a platform for transnational cooperation. This cooperation is not limited to Member States, but also extends to third countries who wish to partner with the EU. They provide an integrated framework for addressing mutual challenges and exploiting common potential. For this reason, I voted in favour of the resolution to implement EU macro—regional strategies.
Conservation of fishery resources and protection of marine ecosystems through technical measures (A8-0381/2017 - Gabriel Mato)
Even if I voted against most of the amendments of the regulation for the conservation of fishery resources and protection of marine ecosystems through technical measures, I voted in favour of some amendments. I believe that is necessary have a detailed and quantified knowledge concerning the impacts of innovative fishing gear including their cumulative effects on the marine environment and specie. An effective programme of monitoring and evaluation should be established.
International ocean governance: an agenda for the future of our oceans in the context of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (A8-0399/2017 - José Inácio Faria)
I voted in favour of the resolution entitled ‘International ocean governance: an agenda for the future of our oceans in the context of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals’ because I believe that we have to take care of the oceans as they are an important resource for Europe and the planet as a whole.
Women, gender equality and climate justice (A8-0403/2017 - Linnéa Engström)
I think that men and women should have the same rights and opportunities and should be treated equally. Taking into consideration the reality that women typically face more challenges as a result of climate change, I support concrete steps towards ensuring their rights are safeguarded appropriately. For this reason I voted in favour of the resolution for women, gender equality and climate justice.
Situation in Afghanistan (RC-B8-0678/2017, B8-0678/2017, B8-0679/2017, B8-0680/2017, B8-0681/2017, B8-0682/2017, B8-0683/2017, B8-0684/2017)
I voted in favour of this report as it provides a concrete approach and proposals regarding the situation in Afghanistan. The four decades of conflict in Afghanistan has hampered economic and social development. I support this motion for a resolution because it clearly identifies the positive steps taken by the Afghan Government to improve the political, security, and economic situation of the country, while maintaining areas of concern, including those such as the Islamic State and necessary initiatives to address displaced and returning refugees.
Situation of the Rohingya people (RC-B8-0668/2017, B8-0668/2017, B8-0669/2017, B8-0670/2017, B8-0671/2017, B8-0672/2017, B8-0673/2017, B8-0674/2017)
I voted in favour of this report emphasizing the current situation of the Rohingya Muslim people in Myanmar, who are currently facing a grave human rights situation. This report outlines a course of action through with the European Parliament can intervene in this situation according to its ability.
Implementation of the directive on combating the sexual abuse and sexual exploitation of children and child pornography (A8-0368/2017 - Anna Maria Corazza Bildt)
I voted in favour of this resolution for implementation of the directive as it provides a tool for comprehensive legal framework to combat child sexual abuse and clear minimum standards for sanctions and measures to prevent abuse, combat impunity and protect child victims. I strongly believe EU Member States must work more closely with each other and with Europol and the IT industry to fight sexual abuse and exploitation of children.
State of play of negotiations with the United Kingdom (B8-0676/2017, B8-0677/2017)
I voted in favour of this resolution because I believe it provides a solid basis for the continuation of negotiations with the United Kingdom regarding Brexit negotiations. As we continue to reach an understanding of what this unprecedented split will look like, we in the European Parliament will remain attentive to the human rights aspect.
Objection to an implementing act: use of phosphoric acid – phosphates – di – tri – and polyphosphates (E 338-452) in frozen vertical meat spits (B8-0666/2017)
Use of phosphates is prohibited today and I wanted it to stay so. This is why I voted for the objection to European Commission’s proposal. Scientists have been warning us that there are health risks related to the use of phosphates in food. We should be more precautious when our health is in question, we should wait for EFSA’s final word on this issue before voting on it.
Annual report on the implementation of the Common Security and Defence Policy (A8-0351/2017 - Michael Gahler)
This report focuses on providing added value to proposals on strengthening cooperation in security and defence matters and increasing the level of ambition on the European level. It calls for a strengthening of the European Defence Agency, for the setting up of a DG Defence in the European Commission, which would drive the Union’s actions to support, coordinate or supplement the actions of the Member States aimed at the progressive framing of common defence policy, for the development of an EU white book on security and defence, for a clarification of defence matters as included in the EU global strategy, and for a fully-fledged EU defence budget under the next MFF. This report also emphasises the importance of the EU-NATO strategic partnership, a necessary aspect to addressing modern security challenges we face. I supported this report as it provides an excellent basis for the future development of a common union defence policy.
Annual report on the implementation of the Common Foreign and Security Policy (A8-0350/2017 - David McAllister)
. ‒ This report, the first annual assessment of the Common Foreign and Security Policy, includes three core milestones: coordination, consolidation and cooperation. It allows for the coordination of an assessment of profound threats and challenges, in order to face the current political and security environment. It also consolidates and deepens the European project through enhancing the capabilities of the EU. Finally, it encourages cooperation within coalitions and with institutions delivering security. I strongly support this report and the movement towards an enhanced CFSP.
Annual report on human rights and democracy in the world 2016 and the EU policy on the matter (A8-0365/2017 - Godelieve Quisthoudt-Rowohl)
This report takes a look at the situation of democracy, human rights and the rule of law worldwide. It expresses our concern regarding the suppression of civil society and faith-based organisations and the lack of freedom of expression both online and offline, as this expression is considered a vital component of any democratic society. In this report, we confirmed our support for the systematic introduction of human rights clauses in international agreements between the EU and third countries, including trade and investment agreements. I voted in favour because I believe this report adequately outlines the areas in which we can promote human rights and democracy globally. I appreciate how this report puts an added emphasis on enlargement policy as one of our strongest tools for reinforcing respect for democratic principles and human rights in candidate and potential candidate countries.
Hong Kong, 20 years after handover (A8-0382/2017 - Alyn Smith)
I voted in favour of this report as it provides recommendations to the Council, the Commission and the Vice President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy 20 years after the handover of Hong Kong. I believe that this report takes into account the geo-political situation of the region and addresses the proper areas with regard to Hong Kong.
Sustainable management of external fishing fleets (A8-0374/2017 - Linnéa Engström)
I voted in favour of this proposal, as it provides much—needed updates to the current Common Fisheries Policy. The proposal introduces a new system for delivering licenses to EU vessels to operate outside of EU waters and to third country vessels to fish within EU waters. Additionally, the proposal creates a register of fishing licenses to better monitor the EU external fleet and to increase transparency regarding its activities. I approve of this proposal as it would increase accountability regarding some practices which are currently poorly implemented and monitored.
Amendments to various Regulations in the field of agriculture and rural development (A8-0380/2017 - Albert Deß)
I believe that simpler and fairer rules for EU farming policy are good so I voted for them to enter into force in the beginning of the coming year. We agreed that Member States will be able to increase the support rates directed to young farmers and to better tailor the support to their needs. Among others the ‘greening’ element of the CAP is simplified and improved, notably in relation to permanent pastures and the Ecological Focus requirements.
EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS): continuing current limitations of scope for aviation activities and preparing to implement a global market-based measure from 2021 (A8-0258/2017 - Julie Girling)
Even though the aviation industry was included in the 2008 Emissions Trading Scheme, this provision has never been fully enacted due to challenges present by 3rd countries and the question of EU legislation applying to their airlines. Due to this discrepancy, EU provisions regarding flights to and from 3rd countries have been suspended twice. The commission recommended that the existing derogation for international flights be extended beyond 2016 until there is an understand regarding how the global market based measures will apply to future flights. I voted in favour of this report because it addresses the issues present by the operation of 3rd country airlines in the EU. It extends the derogation while simultaneously establishing a time line for revisiting and incorporating emission offsetting schemes. If the EU is to be a global leader in climate actions, we must take such measures to influence other international entities to partake in important initiatives such as the ETS.
Extension of the duration of the European Fund for Strategic Investments (A8-0198/2017 - Udo Bullmann, José Manuel Fernandes)
I voted in favour of this report as establishes the position of the Parliament with regard to the European Fund for Strategic Investments. In September 2016, the European Commission presented a legislative proposal to extend the duration of the EFSI until 31 December 2020 and introduced technical improvements to the fund and the European investment advisory hub. I supported the position of the EP in trilogue negotiations and believe that this report adequately incorporated the views of the EP in the Commission proposal.
Rules on the exercise of copyright and related rights applicable to certain online transmissions of broadcasting organisations and retransmissions of television and radio programmes (A8-0378/2017 - Tiemo Wölken)
I voted for the proposed Broadcasters Regulation. I believe laying down concrete rules on the clearance of rights of copyright protected works is important. The regulation enables consumers to watch certain online programmes and it facilitates rights clearance for certain TV transmissions. Now we are ready for negotiations with the Council.
Towards a digital trade strategy (A8-0384/2017 - Marietje Schaake)
The digital economy has revolutionised societies and economies around the globe and its importance will only continue to grow. Current rules and regulations are not easily applied to a digital 21st century, leaving certain trade barriers standing. As digital trade and e-commerce are here to stay, it is necessary for the EP to outline its position. I voted in favour of the report as it addresses a wide range of issues, including future initiatives in the WTO on e-commerce, the importance of competition and SMEs, customs and tax, underlying requirements for digital trade, censorship, filtering and encryption bans as trade barriers, forced source code transfers, sustainable development or consumer protection rules.
Protection against dumped and subsidised imports from countries not members of the EU (A8-0236/2017 - Salvatore Cicu)
We have an obligation to protect the internal market of the EU and should combat dumping practices. There is a need for clear regulation, and I voted in favour of this proposal, as it sends the right message that the European Parliament will not allow imports of dumped and subsidised goods and will not let European companies be jeopardised.
The situation of the rule of law and democracy in Poland (B8-0594/2017, B8-0595/2017)
While I fully support the aim and intention of this resolution with regard to the political situation in Poland, I was unfortunately unable to vote in favour of the resolution as a whole. This was a result of other political groups using this resolution as a means to include controversial topics including access to contraceptives and abortion as amendments. The situation in Poland is grave and the violations of the rule of law must be addressed, but I cannot support such a resolution that uses a political necessity to slip in controversial topics.
Saving lives: boosting car safety in the EU (A8-0330/2017 - Dieter-Lebrecht Koch)
I support the report as it addresses an important issue regarding the safety of EU roads and it affects virtually every citizen of the Member States. It is important to take action on all three levels - the drivers themselves, the vehicles and the infrastructure and take measures aimed at reducing the number of incidents on the roads. The mentioned safety-related driver assistance systems could prevent some of the incidents that appear in great numbers all throughout the EU and are definitely a step in the right direction.
Territorial typologies (A8-0231/2017 - Iskra Mihaylova)
I welcome this proposal as it addresses the adequate definitions and statistical criteria for territorial typologies, thereby ensuring harmonised and transparent application and use at EU level and in Member States. The proposal also makes it possible to aggregate data based on typologies, which is an important part of planning future policies and policy responses.
Recognition of professional qualifications in inland navigation (A8-0338/2016 - Gesine Meissner)
I voted in favour of this directive because I welcome the Commission’s proposal in making a step forward to increasing labour mobility of qualified workers throughout the Union. I also support the change from the previous experience-based career system to a new competence-based systems as this will allow qualified people with different backgrounds to enter to the profession at the later stages of their career.
Cooperation between national authorities responsible for the enforcement of consumer protection laws (A8-0077/2017 - Olga Sehnalová)
I believe that infringements occurring at the EU level should be handled by efficient mechanisms to avoid inconsistent enforcement approaches and their duplication. That is why I support the proposal as it rightly identifies the powers needed by the enforcement authorities in Member States and establishes a coordination mechanism that tackles widespread infringements, therefore protecting a large number of EU customers. The proposal aims to make the rules for cooperation among Member States to be enforced more efficiently as it takes into account the increase in the digital single market and adapts the rules in order to protect e-commerce consumers.
Deployment of cohesion policy instruments by regions to address demographic change (A8-0329/2017 - Iratxe García Pérez)
I feel that demographic change is an important issue that needs to be adequately addressed as it affects many policy areas at both regional and local levels. I voted in favour of this report as it tackles the role of cohesion policy measures in mitigating the negative effect of demographic changes and caters to the need for greater coordination of EU instruments for a comprehensive approach to demographic change.
Action plan on retail financial services (A8-0326/2017 - Olle Ludvigsson)
I voted in favour of the report as it tackles many of the issues raised in the report on the green paper on retail financial services. With the increasing digitalisation, there is a need for faster adaptation of policy-making and there is still much to be done in the future about this matter, as there are no coherent solutions yet for a number of confusing practices. I also support the view that the priority should be given to the implementation of existent legislative acts and that new legislative initiatives should be presented only if needed.
General budget of the European Union for 2018 - all sections (A8-0299/2017 - Siegfried Mureşan, Richard Ashworth)
. – I agree with the guidelines established by the Commission and the Committee on Budgets regarding the general budget for the EU for the year 2018. I agree especially with the following points: further reinforcement of programmes that are key to boosting growth and jobs and that reflect Parliament’s priorities for the 2018 Budget including COSME, Horizon 2020, and Erasmus+; support for internal measures to address security, migration and refugees and to reinforce external financing instruments with a focus on the EU’s immediate neighbourhood; and the strengthening of EU Agencies, especially those in the justice and home affairs area, thus enabling them to fulfil their mandate. These are the reasons why I voted in favour of the general budget of the EU for 2018.
Discharge 2015: EU general budget - European Council and Council (A8-0291/2017 - Bart Staes)
. – I voted in favour of denying discharge of the budget of the European Council due to the failure of the Council to acknowledge the European Parliament as the ultimate discharge and budget authority. The refusal points out those requests made by the EP in previous discharge exercises that continue to be unanswered, such as the lack of information on the costs of the buildings and the unavailability of the whistle-blowers’ rules. For these reasons, I supported the rejection by Parliament.
Protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to carcinogens or mutagens (A8-0064/2017 - Marita Ulvskog)
. – In my opinion, the protection of workers’ health is one of the most important issues we have to address at the European level. This directive sets out some obligations for employers and emphasises that the reduction of workers’ exposure to levels as low as possible is very important. I voted in favour of the report because I am convinced that many carcinogenic diseases can be prevented if we limit workers’ exposure to certain toxic substances and put legal limits on them (such us: crystalline silica dust, chromium (VI), ethylene oxide, 1,2- epoxypropane, acrylamide, 2-nitropropane,o-toluidine, 1,3-butadiene, hydrazine and bromoethylene).
Establishing an Entry/Exit System (EES) to register entry and exit data of third country nationals crossing the EU external borders (A8-0057/2017 - Agustín Díaz de Mera García Consuegra)
. – The European Union is a unique union of free countries sharing common values, and EU citizens are granted certain freedoms (specially freedom of movement) within this union. In recent times, however, we have seen terrible violations against fundamental rights by terrorist groups coming from other parts of the world. Additionally, we must ensure that future violations are prevented. For this reason, we have to improve control of our external borders. I voted in favour of the proposal for a Regulation on the establishment of an Entry/Exit System, which will modernise external border management by improving the quality and efficiency of controls and support Member States with the increasing numbers of travellers entering and exiting the EU. The proposed Entry/Exit System will allow for the effective management of authorised short-stays, increased automation at border controls, and improved detection of document and identity fraud.
Fundamental rights aspects in Roma integration in the EU: fighting anti-Gypsyism (A8-0294/2017 - Soraya Post)
. – I voted in favour of this report which fights against discrimination of Roma peoples in the European Union. We will need to work together with Roma across Europe to fight the issues that their communities face (issues of access to health, forced sterilisation, removal of children, access to justice, housing, education, employment, national Roma integration strategies, role of media, hate speech, multiple and intersectional discrimination etc.). This report is an important step towards ensuring inclusion, non-discrimination and participation of marginal groups such as the Roma.
Agreement establishing the EU-LAC International Foundation (A8-0279/2017 - Javier Couso Permuy)
. – Relations between the European Union and Latin America and the Caribbean are based on deep historical and cultural ties, international law, respect for human rights, and common values. That is why I support formal partnerships between EU and Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC). The EU-CELAC partnership and its activities facilitate intergovernmental dialogue in line with the bi-regional action plan.
Safety rules and standards for passenger ships (A8-0167/2017 - Daniela Aiuto)
. – We should ensure maximum safety for passengers traveling on board passenger ships to prevent accidents and shipwrecks. We must set standards for ship inspections with regard to construction, stability and fire protection. The Commission proposal aimed to modernise existing safety rules of passenger ships longer than 24 metres, which affects around 4000 vessels in the EU. I voted in favour of the report because the Commission seeks to simplify and clarify the corresponding requirements such as technical requirements for vessel construction, stability, machinery, electrics, fire safety and life-saving equipment for passenger ships.
2017 UN Climate Change Conference in Bonn, Germany (COP23) (B8-0534/2017) SL
Management, conservation and control measures applicable in the ICCAT Convention area (A8-0173/2017 - Gabriel Mato)
. – I strongly support the conservation, control and enforcement measures adopted by the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) in the Atlantic Ocean and adjacent seas. The act proposes the implementation of 28 ICCAT recommendations into EU regulation. I voted in favour because I am convinced that EU legislation should follow the directions of specialised international commisions responsible for regulation suggestions, such as the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT). I voted in favour because I support the European Commision’s approach to targeting the exploitation of marine biological resources.
Addressing shrinking civil society space in developing countries (A8-0283/2017 - Teresa Jiménez-Becerril Barrio)
. – I am concerned by the shrinking of civil society space in developing countries. Civil society supports and promotes democracy, good governance and some fundamental rights. I am concerned about the growing restrictions imposed on civil society actors and organisations, as well as the increasing number of human rights violations they face. This report tackles the phenomenon, giving priority to political dialogue, as well as to the protection of the most vulnerable groups, particularly in conflict-affected states. Coherence between all EU policies is key to ensure that human rights are efficiently mainstreamed across all EU activities.
The fight against cybercrime (A8-0272/2017 - Elissavet Vozemberg-Vrionidi)
. – Cyber crime threatens many aspects of our lives. I voted in favour of this report because I want to see more investments being directed towards cybersecurity, better education and public awareness, and an increase in cross-border information exchanges. This own initiative report leads EU legislation in right direction.
EU political relations with ASEAN (A8-0243/2017 - Reinhard Bütikofer)
. – The ASEAN region has become one of the world’s most dynamic and fastest-growing regions. Development is promising in terms of the economy, technology and research and the region has a geopolitically and geo-economically strategic position. For 40 years, EU-ASEAN relations have covered a wide range of sectors including trade and investment, development, economics and political affairs. I suport the deepening of ASEAN economic and political relations and the movement towards improving regional capabilities. I am convinced that ASEAN has an important role in promoting dialogue and cooperation for peace, security, stability and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region.
Protocol to the EU-Chile Association Agreement (accession of Croatia) (A8-0277/2017 - Inmaculada Rodríguez-Piñero Fernández)
. ‒ The Commission’s proposal constitutes a legal instrument for the conclusion of the Third Additional Protocol to the Association Agreement, taking into account Croatia’s accession to the European Union. The protocol is intended to be applied retroactively. I voted in favour of the protocol because it puts all the Member States on an equal footing. It will extend the agreement to all Member States, as was initially intended.
Modernisation of the trade pillar of the EU-Chile Association Agreement (A8-0267/2017 - Inmaculada Rodríguez-Piñero Fernández)
. ‒ Following the success of Association Agreement concluded by European Union and Chile in 2002, both partners should continue to increase their current cooperation. I voted in favour of this recommendation because it correctly proposes more opportunities in the market while excluding more sensitive ones. It also stresses the importance of transparency and urges both parties to work in that field to the best of their ability. The argument for a dispute settlement mechanism is also most welcome and this should be included, with the possibility of sanctions, if the situation calls for it.
Multi-annual plan for demersal stocks in the North Sea and the fisheries exploiting those stocks (A8-0263/2017 - Ulrike Rodust)
I voted against this plan because it does not adequately tackle the issue of fishing in the North Sea. There were a number of issues in the text that I am unable to support. The issue of ranges within which the Council can agree on the quotas is unacceptable, as well as the inclusion of recreational fisheries in the scope and the option of suspending target fishing. Sustainability of fishing in the area needs to be achieved as soon as possible, however the impact of these policies on all stakeholders needs to be taken into account for the policies to be truly successful.
Multilateral Agreement on the establishment of a European Common Aviation Area (ECAA) (A8-0260/2017 - Roberts Zīle)
I voted in favour of this recommendation because I believe European Common Aviation Area is an important step forward for air traffic, which is becoming more and more important in our everyday life. The ratification process of the agreement was concluded in all the partner states in 2014 and in 2015 Council amended the agreement to take into account the accession of Croatia, Romania and Bulgaria. The common aviation area will harmonize safety standards and make the flights easier and more readily available.
EU political relations with India (A8-0242/2017 - Cristian Dan Preda)
This report highlights a number of mutual grounds for cooperation between European Union and India. I voted in favour of this report because it correctly identifies the areas in which we need to step up our co-operation, especially with regard to important fields such as climate change and cyber security. Within this report, I support the call to India to establish a comprehensive and open dialogue with Pakistan as well as improving coordination in the field of human rights, with an emphasis on the issues of capital punishment and discrimination as key priorities for our cooperation.
Mobilisation of the EU Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Italy (A8-0280/2017 - Giovanni La Via)
I voted in favour of this report because I believe in solidarity as a fundamental European value. Italy was hit by devastating earthquakes in August 2016 and January 2017. These earthquakes took 333 lives and left over 30 000 people in need of assistance. The EUR 1 166 797 579 this draft amending budget mobilizes can cover nearly half the damages done by the earthquakes and is necessary to aid those people affected.
Draft amending budget No 4/2017 accompanying the proposal to mobilise the EU Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Italy (A8-0281/2017 - Jens Geier)
I voted in favour of this report because I believe in solidarity as a fundamental European value. Italy was hit by devastating earthquakes in August 2016 and January 2017. These earthquakes took 333 lives and left over 30 000 people in need of assistance. The EUR 1 166 797 579 this draft amending budget mobilises can cover nearly half the damages done by the earthquakes and is necessary to aid those people affected.
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2017/002 FI Microsoft 2 (A8-0278/2017 - Petri Sarvamaa)
The European Globalisation Adjustment Fund was created to aid workers who have become jobless as a consequence of major structural changes in world trade patterns. Specifically, this report considers Finland’s application to this fund as fulfilling all the necessary criteria. When Microsoft acquired Nokia, the later lost a large percentage of the mobile phone market and left many highly educated workers in Finland without a job, and a large portion of these workers were under 50 years old. Taking all the above into the account, I voted in favour of this proposal, as it fulfils the purpose of the Fund.
Inclusion of greenhouse gas emissions and removals from land use, land use change and forestry into the 2030 climate and energy framework (A8-0262/2017 - Norbert Lins)
The proposal requires each Member State to ensure that accounted CO₂ emissions from land use are entirely compensated by an equivalent removal of CO₂. This proposal extends the commitment already made by the Kyoto Convention to the period 2020-2030. It also contains accounting rules to be used by the Member States. I voted in favour of this proposal because I believe we need to continue the positive work of the Kyoto Protocol, extending its practice to increase long-term sustainability. I also welcome the restriction by which forestry countries relying on the forestry sector are encouraged to keep doing so.
Uniform format for residence permits for third country nationals (A8-0065/2017 - Jussi Halla-aho)
This report is about a regulation that aims at harmonising documents among Member States regarding the residency permits for third-country nationals. I voted in favour of this report because a more coordinated system is needed to prevent fraud and counterfeiting and this regulation brings us closer to that.
Draft amending budget No 3/2017: budgetary resources of the Youth Employment Initiative; establishment plans of ACER and SESAR2 (A8-0282/2017 - Jens Geier)
This draft amending budget includes a commitment of EUR 500 million to the Youth Employment Initiative, while also amending the establishment plans of the decentralised agency ACER and the Joint Undertaking SESAR2 without incurring any changes to the overall budget. I voted in favour of this amendment because employment, especially of our youth, should be one of our greatest priorities. By allocating more funds to the Youth Employment Initiative, we are working towards this goal by giving more options to younger generations.
EU political relations with Latin America (A8-0268/2017 - Javi López)
I voted in favour of this report because relations between the EU and Latin America are of key significance due to Latin America’s increasing geopolitical importance as well as recent events in the region. I support the emphasis on trade with the countries in the region, but stress the importance of improving living conditions for the citizens as a result of this trade. As the report states, partners should also fully commit to eradicating corruption, while increasing prosperity and long—term stability. Finally, the report spotlights recent events in the region, specifically expressing regret regarding the events in Venezuela while commending progress in Columbia.
Corruption and human rights in third countries (A8-0246/2017 - Petras Auštrevičius)
I voted in favour of this report because I agree with its call for the regional tackling of corruption. Corruption not only negatively impacts trade, but also affects development and investment, as well as undermining trust in institutions. I am very much in favour of information sharing between representatives of Member States and European delegations in third countries to strengthen our position abroad.
2016 Report on Turkey (A8-0234/2017 - Kati Piri)
. ‒ The 2016 Report on Turkey by the Commission indicates that Turkey remains a key partner for the European Union.While the EU strongly and immediately condemned the attempted coup of 15 July 2016, it has called on the Turkish authorities, in the light of the subsequent scale and collective nature of the measures taken since the coup attempt, to observe high standards in terms of respecting the rule of law and fundamental rights. I voted in favour of this report because it stresses the strategic importance of good relations between the EU and Turkey, while also indicating certain areas of regression in relation to the rule of law and human rights in the country.
Cross-border exchange of accessible format copies of certain works and other protected subject-matter for the benefit of persons who are blind, visually impaired or otherwise print disabled (A8-0102/2017 - Max Andersson)
I voted in favour of this directive because it facilitates the use of certain content which is copyright protected for the benefit of persons who are blind, visually impaired or otherwise print disabled. Print-disabled persons face great challenges when it comes to accessibility to books, despite the availability of technology in the digital age. The regulation proposed aims to implement the Marrakesh Treaty, which was adopted in 2013 at the World Intellectual Property Organisation to facilitate the availability and cross-border exchange of books and other print material in accessible formats.
Promoting cohesion and development in the outermost regions of the EU (A8-0226/2017 - Younous Omarjee)
This report scrutinises the implementation of Article 349 TFEU in different policy areas, putting forward concrete proposals for the new EU strategy for the outermost regions. The Commission is currently preparing this strategy and it is expected to be launched by the end of 2017. I voted in favour of this report because it identifies the responsibilities of the Union and of the Member States concerned regarding the solid and sustainable development of the EU outermost regions.
Conclusion of the EU-Cuba Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement (Resolution) (A8-0233/2017 - Elena Valenciano)
This report focuses on the Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement signed by the EU and Cuba in December 2016, welcoming the introduction of a new framework for bilateral relations and emphasising the importance of implementation and compliance. This agreement encourages Cuba to align its human rights policy with the international standards to which it has previously agreed and to ratify all pending UN human rights conventions. Additionally, it provides for EU assistance regarding economic and political transition in Cuba, fostering democratic and electoral standards that protect the basic rights of all citizens. I voted in favour of this report because I see the improvement of bilateral relations with Cuba as an effective channel to engage in constructive dialogue in a number of areas.
Towards an EU strategy for international cultural relations (A8-0220/2017 - Elmar Brok, Silvia Costa)
I voted in favour of the approach of the joint communication on an EU strategy for international cultural relations because it identifies three pillars of strategy. It supports culture as an engine for sustainable social and economic development; the promotion of culture and intercultural dialogue for peaceful inter-community relations; and reinforces current initiatives regarding cooperation on cultural heritage. To accomplish these objectives, the report relies on principles of subsidiarity to empower each Member State to launch joint actions with the EU. Additionally, this report emphasises the role of independent media in promoting cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue and calls for greater coherence among EU policies and actions involving third countries. This report highlights European culture as a valuable soft power tool, a catalyst of peacekeeping, stability and reconciliation and an engine for sustainable socio-economic and human development.
Recommendation to the Council on the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly (A8-0216/2017 - Andrey Kovatchev)
In light of the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2017, the European Parliament addresses recommendations to the Council regarding peace and security, the fight against terrorism, non-proliferation and disarmament, migration, human rights, democracy and the rule of law, development, climate change, EU and reform of the UN system. I voted in favour of the recommendations because I believe they represent the interests the EU should represent at the General Assembly, specifically the emphasis on stronger multilateral commitments to establish political and peaceful solutions to current global conflicts. Additionally, these recommendations highlight the necessity to improve coordination between all UN institutions, which would enhance the efficiency, effectiveness and accountability of all actions.
EU-Kosovo Framework Agreement on the general principles for the participation of Kosovo in Union programmes (A8-0207/2017 - Ulrike Lunacek)
Towards a pan-European covered bonds framework (A8-0235/2017 - Bernd Lucke)
As there is currently no EU framework regarding covered bonds, I voted in favour of this report to establish the position of Parliament in light of the Commission’s indication that it will present a legislative proposal for an EU framework in the first quarter of 2018. In order to avoid enforcing a one-size-fits-all European model across Member States, this report proposes a limited principles-based approach based on high quality standards and best practices, while leaving means and ways to the Member States.
The role of fisheries-related tourism in the diversification of fisheries (A8-0221/2017 - Renata Briano)
As traditional fishing communities in the EU have come under pressure from different negative factors over the last decades, traditional fishing communities in Europe can no longer depend solely on traditional fishing activity. To contribute to job creation, social inclusion and the revitalisation of communities dependent on fishing, diversification to other fields and fisheries-related tourism is becoming inevitable. I voted in favour of this report as it makes sound suggestions as to how to connect fishing communities and tourists to each other to establish a lasting beneficial partnership.
Limitation periods for traffic accidents (A8-0206/2017 - Pavel Svoboda)
The current standards for limitation periods regarding tort claims vary widely between Member States. As national rules differ in terms of time and limitation periods, divergent practices across the Member States can lead to situations where victims of cross-border road traffic accidents lose their right to compensation. Combining the variation in standards with the discrepancies between limitation laws can lead to undesirable consequences for the victims, creating unnecessary obstacles to fair legal processes. I voted in favour of this report to establish a certain level of harmonisation to address the main issues that arise from visiting victims and provide efficient access to justice by defining minimum standards concerning the overall length, commencement, suspension, and computation of limitation periods.
Common minimum standards of civil procedure (A8-0210/2017 - Emil Radev)
The freedom of European citizens to freely move across borders and reside in Member States has made it far more likely that they will come into contact with the civil procedures of another Member State. Discussions regarding the harmonisation of civil procedures with the EU have been ongoing for over two decades, and the current regulatory framework is highly fragmented and consists of a complex grouping of Treaty provisions. I voted in favour of this report as it requests that the Commission submit a proposal for a directive setting common minimum standards applicable to civil disputes having cross-border implications.
Disclosure of income tax information by certain undertakings and branches (A8-0227/2017 - Hugues Bayet, Evelyn Regner)
A longer lifetime for products: benefits for consumers and companies (A8-0214/2017 - Pascal Durand)
This report calls on the Commission to adhere to a number of criteria, including minimum resistance per product category, support for the right to have products repaired, promotion of a usage-oriented economic model, better information for consumers regarding the durability of products, the halting of planned obsolescence, reinforcement of consumer rights to a legal guarantee of conformity, and combating software- planned obsolescence. I voted in favour of this report because it offers protection to consumers and encourages sustainable business models.
Addressing human rights violations in the context of war crimes, and crimes against humanity, including genocide (A8-0222/2017 - Cristian Dan Preda)
This report concerns the role that the EU can play preventing human rights violations and ensuring accountability for the crime of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes. I voted in favour of this report because it underlines the role the international community has played to prevent such crimes and suggests an instrument should be established to minimise the warning response gap. This report outlines the most efficient avenues to prevent [and] address war crimes.
Private security companies (A8-0191/2017 - Hilde Vautmans)
This report analyses the positive and negative effects of the growing relevance of Private Security Companies in the domain of security and defence. PSCs are part of a growing industry, with some 40 000 companies employing over 1.5 million people. I voted in favour of this report because it is necessary to create an EU regulatory framework for PSCs, especially in zones of conflict. The report calls for the establishment of a list of contractors complying with EU standards on transparency, criminal records, financial and economic capacity, licences, strict vetting of personnel and adhering to an international code of conduct. Also, this report suggests that PSCs only be used to provide logistical support and protection of installations.
Working conditions and precarious employment (A8-0224/2017 - Neoklis Sylikiotis)
Non-standard, atypical forms of employment have been increasingly relevant over the last decade and fixed termed and part-time contracts are becoming more common. This report surveys the effects of these new employment arrangements on working conditions and attempts to make suggestions as to how insecurities can be prevented. I voted in favour of this report to address the possible issues that may arise from these new types of contracts.
Implementation of the European Fund for Strategic Investments (A8-0200/2017 - José Manuel Fernandes, Udo Bullmann)
This report assesses the implementation of the EFSI Regulation two years after its entry into force in July 2015, specifically emphasising the shortcomings that have been detected during implementation, while taking into consideration evaluation reports of the Commission, the EIB and the Court of Auditors, in addition to an independent external evaluation by Ernst and Young. I voted in favour of this report as it is an excellent assessment of the positive role played by EFSI in helping to resolve difficulties and remove obstacles, while also addressing areas that are in need of improvement. Some important aspects of this report include calling for all EFSI investments to remain compatible with the COP 21 commitment and underlining the need to enhance the transparency of EFSI governance structures for Parliament.
European agenda for the collaborative economy (A8-0195/2017 - Nicola Danti)
This report deals with the Commission Communication from June 2016 which addresses the application of existing EU law to new collaborative economies. As new collaborative economy service models have begun to provide services and activities, established lines between traditional and non-traditional provision of services are blurred and many ensuing sensitive questions arise. The Communication suggests a general guidance on the application of existing EU laws to the collaborative economy and various collaborative economy services models. I voted in favour of this report because it addresses the growing importance of the societal and economic effects of the collaborative economy. Additionally, it highlights the risk of fragmentation in the EU if the collaborative economy is not properly regulated, threatening consumer protection, workers’ rights and tax compliance. With regard to a legal framework on the collaborative economy, this report asks the Commission to assess the need for it, taking into account the existing legislation applicable to this sector and to check if there is a need for more.
Online platforms and the Digital Single Market (A8-0204/2017 - Henna Virkkunen, Philippe Juvin)
. ‒ This report pertains to a Commission Communication which outlines the key issues identified in the assessment of online platforms, presents the Commission’s position on both the innovation opportunities and the regulatory challenges presented by online platforms, and sets out its approach to supporting their future development in Europe. The communication underlines the need to adopt policy and regulatory approaches that respond directly to the challenges, yet also provide flexible and sustainable solutions.I voted in favour of the report because it acknowledges that online platforms operate in various business areas and are very diverse in their characteristics and classification, therefore encouraging unique approaches to individual cases. Additionally, it encourages the Commission to provide guidelines as well as encourage platforms to strengthen other self-regulatory measures and transparency.
Binding annual greenhouse gas emission reductions to meet commitments under the Paris Agreement (A8-0208/2017 - Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy)
Objection to Commission Delegated Regulation amending Delegated Regulation (EU) No 639/2014 as regards the control measures relating to the cultivation of hemp and certain provisions on payments (B8-0395/2017) SL
Glasoval sem proti uporabi pesticidov v naravnih okoljih, ki smo se jih že odločili zaščititi pred kemičnimi posegi.Evropska zveza ne more spodbujati uporabe pesticidov in se hkrati v istem okolju truditi za zaščito biotske raznovrstnosti, to dvoje se izključuje. Ker površine z ekološkim pomenom predstavljajo le majhen delež kmetijskih zemljišč, je toliko bolj pomembno, da pesticidov tu ne dovolimo. Potrebno je poiskati naravne rešitve za zatiranje škodljivcev. Ob tem poudarjam, da se zavedam pomena domače proizvodnje beljakovinskih pridelkov, vendar je potrebno za to v okviru skupne evropske kmetijske politike najti rešitve, ki ne gredo na račun narave in zdravja. Enako pomemben pa je tudi vidik naravnega opraševanja. Če za pridelovanje krme na površinah z ekološkim pomenom dovolimo uporabo pesticidov, so čebele med prvimi žrtvami.Zato ne smemo pozabiti, da namen t. i. zelene komponente ni večanje proizvodnje pridelkov, ampak zaščita biotske raznovrstnosti.
The need for an EU strategy to end and prevent the gender pension gap (A8-0197/2017 - Constance Le Grip)
This report tackles the problem of gender pension gap by considering life course approach in addition to other factors including gender pay gap, interrupted careers of women, part-time work, design of pension systems and lower contributions which automatically lead to a greater gap in pensions. This report provides a comprehensive approach to best address the problem, address existing inequalities, improve methods for collecting data and raise awareness. By focusing on more than just pensions, this report examines the different factors contributing to such a gap and on possible recommendations for decision-makers. I voted in favour of this report because to address the problem of the gender pension gap while representing the exclusive and share competencies of both FEMM and EMPLY committees.
2016 Report on Serbia (A8-0063/2017 - David McAllister)
This report approves of the continued commitment Serbia has demonstrated to the Process of European Integration and encourages for additional negotiations chapters to be opened, specifically those pertaining to the rule of law. It applauds the progress Serbia has made regarding the development of a functioning market economy and the improvement of the overall economic situation in the country. However, this report also acknowledges the lack of progress Serbia has made in the fight against corruption and encourages leaders to demonstrate political will and commitment in tackling this issue by enhancing and enforcing a legal framework. Additionally, it reminds Serbia and its neighbours that outstanding bilateral disputes should not have a detrimental effect on the accession process. I voted in favour of this report as highlights the significant progress Serbia has made, while also encouraging further progress in a number of key areas.
2016 Report on Kosovo (A8-0062/2017 - Ulrike Lunacek)
This report welcomes the entry into force of the EU-Kosovo Stabilisation and Association Agreement, the launch of the European Reform Agenda and the adoption of the national strategy for the implementation of the SAA. Although the report welcomes the return of the opposition to parliament, it expresses concern regarding the continued polarisation of political society and encourages parties to facilitate dialogue to reduce tension. Additionally, this reports calls on the Commission to grant visa liberalisation pending fulfilment of all criteria and the agreement between Kosovo and Montenegro regarding border demarcation. At the same time, the report puts a significant emphasis on the need to normalize relations between Serbia and Kosovo. I voted in favour of this report because I feel that it addresses crucial topics including the normalisation of relations with neighbouring countries and provides much needed impetus for the process of visa liberalisation, which has been too long delayed.
2016 Report on the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (A8-0055/2017 - Ivo Vajgl)
This report considers the 11 December 2016 elections in Macedonia to have been held in an ordinary and calm atmosphere, in accordance with international standards and in line with OSCE/ODIHR recommendations. In light of the political crisis, this vote in plenary had been delayed until the political parties were able to reach an agreement and a government was formed. In this resolution, the Parliament highlights the need for commitment by all political forces to remain on the EU integration path and the continuation of serious reforms in areas of the rule of law, justice, corruption, fundamental rights, home affairs and good neighbourly relations, in addition to reforms already mentioned in the Urgent Reform Priorities of the Przino Agreement. As the chair of the delegation to Macedonia, I welcome the formation of a government and fully expect the normal functioning of the JPC to resume as soon as possible.
Agreement between the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway on an EEA Financial Mechanism 2014-2021 (A8-0072/2017 - David Borrelli)
. ‒ This agreement allows Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein to participate fully in the single market. The EEA Financial Mechanism Agreement and the Norway Agreement will together provide for a financial contribution by the EEA EFTA States to economic and social cohesion in the EEA of EUR 2.8 billion for the period of 2014-2021. I voted in favour, to give consent to the provisional application of this agreement, which was introduced by the Council in May 2016.
The right funding mix for Europe’s regions: balancing financial instruments and grants in EU cohesion policy (A8-0139/2017 - Andrey Novakov)
. ‒ This report provides recommendations on the funding mix of grants and financial instruments, suggesting EU funding methods should be simplified while maintaining individualised approaches on a case-by-case basis. I voted in favour as this report adequately addresses the role of financial instruments in EU cohesion policy.
Future perspectives for technical assistance in cohesion policy (A8-0180/2017 - Ruža Tomašić)
I voted in favour of this report because it outlines the need for increased value-added, transparency and result-orientation of the assistance provided to Member States and the Commission for technical assistance for the implementation of the EU Structural and Investment Funds. Additionally, it suggests that local and regional authorities should have greater access to the activities financed under technical assistance.
Cross-border portability of online content services in the internal market (A8-0378/2016 - Jean-Marie Cavada)
This report introduces a legal provision that ensures subscribers to online content services in the EU can receive these services in another Member State on a temporary basis. Providers are also given a level of legal certainty to continue providing customers with such services. I voted in favour to ensure that traveling EU citizens can enjoy cross-border portability of the services to which they subscribe in their home countries. Though ensuring cross-border portability, it does not grant unlimited cross-border access and maintains territorial and exclusive licenses by relying on strong verification systems and granting access on a temporary basis only.
Implementation of the EU-Korea Free Trade Agreement (A8-0123/2017 - Adam Szejnfeld)
. ‒ With this year marking the fifth anniversary of the entry into force of the Free Trade Agreement between the European Union and its Member States and the Republic of Korea, an assessment of the implementation of the FTA was requested by the EPP Group in the Committee on International Trade. This FTA is especially significant, being the EU’s first trade deal with an Asian country and the first agreement to lift so many trade barriers.Although the agreement has met the expectations of the parties, the report acknowledges certain issues which should be verified and analysed under the agreement. One such area with room for improvement involves SMEs, many of which are unaware of the opportunities the agreement brings. The report calls on the Commission and Member States to undertake awareness campaigns among SMEs to familiarise them with the many advantages of the agreement. The report also encourages a further deepening of trade and investment relations between the EU and Korea.
Road transport in the European Union (B8-0290/2017)
This report calls on the Commission to take into account Parliament’s resolution from September 2015 on the implementation of the 2011 White Paper on Transport as they draft the Road Initiatives.I voted in favour of this new report as the 2015 report provided excellent guidelines regarding the European transport sector. The 2015 report considered that the future Road Initiatives should provide the much-needed boost for a more sustainable and competitive European road sector, strengthen European road infrastructure, ensure a level playing field for operators in the global market as well as the completion of and a better-functioning Internal Market for road transport of passengers and freight. In addition to all of this, it sets out a long-term strategy for Europe’s road sector.
Annual report 2014 on subsidiarity and proportionality (A8-0114/2017 - Sajjad Karim)
This report assesses how EU institutions and bodies have implemented the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality, taking into consideration and comparing with previous years. I voted in favor of this report because it allows for reasoned opinions to be extended to include compliance with the principle of proportionality, in addition to that of subsidiarity.
FinTech: the influence of technology on the future of the financial sector (A8-0176/2017 - Cora van Nieuwenhuizen)
With the emergence of new technologies in global finance markets, it is necessary the EU foster an environment of rapid innovation. I voted in favor of this report because it lays a foundation for a comprehensive European policy in the area of financial technologies. This report calls on the Commission to draw up a comprehensive FinTech Action plan, which boosts its Capital Markets Union and Digital Single Market strategies, which will ultimately lead to a stronger and more sustainable European financial system.
EU eGovernment action plan 2016-2020 (A8-0178/2017 - Sabine Verheyen)
I voted in favour of this report because it underlines that the digitalisation of government services should help to achieve the full potential of the single market and promote better exercise of citizenship, improve quality of life and the social and economic development of the regions. This report provides a framework for the Commission to identify specific measurable targets within the Action Plan.
Annual report 2015 on the protection of EU's financial interests - Fight against fraud (A8-0159/2017 - Julia Pitera)
This report calls on the Commission to further enhance its supervisory role through audit, control and inspection activities, remedial action plans and early warning letters. I voted in favour of the report after taking into consideration the rise in fraudulent and non- fraudulent irregularities regarding cross-border fraud. The report calls for a mid-term assessment in 2018 to establish whether the new regulatory architecture for cohesion policy and further payments will reduce the risk of irregularities. The proposals in this report are an excellent starting point for combating irregularities and fraud.
Resource efficiency: reducing food waste, improving food safety (A8-0175/2017 - Biljana Borzan)
I voted in favour of this report because it provides an action plan to reduce food waste in the EU. The report sets binding food waste reduction targets of at least 30% by 2025 and 50% by 2030. Additionally, it calls upon the Commission to adopt a common methodology for measuring food waste and calls for EU guidelines to be drawn up on food donation. I found this report to be an excellent initiative for reducing waste and fostering sustainable food practices within European societies.
Minamata Convention on Mercury (A8-0067/2017 - Stefan Eck)
The ratification of this convention is an important step towards a higher level of protection of human health and the environment from mercury by allowing the EU to play an active role in shaping a global, mercury-free policy. I voted in favour to give the consent of the Parliament for the Council decision regarding the Minamata Convention on Mercury. This convention provides a legal framework for cooperation and measure to control and limit the use of anthropogenic emissions of mercury and mercury compounds to air, water and land.
Agreement on Operational and Strategic Cooperation between Denmark and Europol (A8-0164/2017 - Agustín Díaz de Mera García Consuegra)
Due to the decision of Denmark to cease participation in Europol on 1 May 2017, it was necessary to establish a operational and strategic cooperation agreement to ensure a sufficient level of cooperation between Europol and Demark. This is of key importance to continue the effective fight against terrorism and organised crime. This agreement places Denmark on the list of third countries with which Europol share agreements, a decision which the Parliament had already endorsed in February. I voted in favour of this because it provides for continued cooperation in with Denmark, which no longer has the full rights of membership in Europol.
European Year of Cultural Heritage (A8-0340/2016 - Mircea Diaconu)
I support this initiative to designate 2018 as the European Year of Cultural Heritage in order to promote European cultural heritage as a key aspect of cultural diversity, intercultural dialogue and the EU’s international presence. This report addresses the role of civil society as active participants and sets the budget to fund the initiative. I believe this is a positive effort to promote cultural diversity, intercultural dialogue and social cohesion, to emphasize the economic contribution of cultural heritage and to promote cultural heritage as a tool of EU external relations.
Discharge 2015: EU general budget - European Commission and executive agencies (A8-0150/2017 - Joachim Zeller)
Discharge 2015: EU general budget - European Parliament (A8-0153/2017 - Dennis de Jong)
Discharge 2015: EU general budget - European Council and Council (A8-0131/2017 - Bart Staes)
Annual report on the financial activities of the European Investment Bank (A8-0121/2017 - Georgios Kyrtsos)
The EU policy objectives regarding the EIB’s investment programme include: accelerating economic recovery, promotion youth employment, innovation and SMEs, enhancing environmental sustainability and climate action alongside promoting economic and social cohesion. I voted in favour of this report because it introduces measures that will promote these policy objectives. It enhances the sustainability of the EIB’s investment policy, allows for the monitoring of the EIB’s impact in the implementation of key public policy areas, deepens the EIB’s transparency, accountability and internal control as a prerequisite for better corporate governance and encourages the monitoring of the EFSI’s added value and additionality.
Wholesale roaming markets (A8-0372/2016 - Miapetra Kumpula-Natri)
Third countries whose nationals are subject to or exempt from a visa requirement: Ukraine (A8-0274/2016 - Mariya Gabriel)
I voted in favour of this agreement for visa-free travel for the citizens of the European Union and for the citizens of Ukraine when travelling to the territory of the other entity. Ukraine has successfully met the requirements for visa-free travel to the EU and its citizens will not be free to visit Europe on short-stay visas as a result.
Negotiations with the United Kingdom following its notification that it intends to withdraw from the European Union (RC-B8-0237/2017, B8-0237/2017, B8-0241/2017, B8-0242/2017, B8-0243/2017)
Application of the provisions of the Schengen acquis relating to the Schengen Information System in Croatia (A8-0073/2017 - Nuno Melo)
Medical devices (A8-0068/2017 - Glenis Willmott)
I voted in favour of this report because it offers a positive update to the framework for the regulation of Medical devices. The aim of revising the original directive regulation Medical devices was to ensure a consistent and high level of health and safety protection for EU citizens using these products and to adapt the EU legislation to the significant technological and scientific processes in the sector over the last 20 years.
Addressing refugee and migrant movements: the role of EU External Action (A8-0045/2017 - Elena Valenciano, Agustín Díaz de Mera García Consuegra)
This report provides a value-based response to the refugee crisis to save lives, ensure protection of those in need and manage borders and mobility. I voted in favour of this report because international migration is a global responsibility and it is of the utmost importance that the EU establishes a value-based common policy on migration, which takes into consideration cooperation with third countries.
Characteristics for fishing vessels (A8-0376/2016 - Werner Kuhn)
I voted in favour of this report because it allows existing rules and regulations regarding the characteristics of fishing vessels to be streamlined in a clear and transparent manner. By codifying these regulations, this will allow for a more efficient and accurate identification of current rules within the legislation.
Palm oil and deforestation of rainforests (A8-0066/2017 - Kateřina Konečná)
I voted in favour of this report because it addresses the environmental impact of the palm oil industry regarding deforestation, habitat degradation and carbon pollution resulting from the burning of rainforests. This report encourages the sustainable production of palm oil and promotes the phasing out of palm oil for use as a biodiesel within a reasonable timeline.
Women and their roles in rural areas (A8-0058/2017 - Marijana Petir, Maria Lidia Senra Rodríguez)
This report provides services that will improve the working and living conditions in rural areas by providing services, increasing the participation of women as beneficiaries of CAP and regional development programmes, in addition to increasing their roles in management of farms and in representative bodies. Concerning Amendments 48 and 41, I voted against, since I stand against violence and for the respect of the convention. But I did follow the rapporteur that it does not fit in the initial purpose of the report.
Draft recommendation following the inquiry into emission measurements in the automotive sector (B8-0177/2017)
I voted in favour of this report because it establishes ways for the European Commission and Member States’ authorities to improve the EU framework on emission measurements in the automotive sector. After revelations regarding automotive manufacturers in the past few years, it has become apparent that we need a stronger EU oversight of the automotive legislation. Each Member State must do a proper job to check that the cars respect the emission norms on which we have agreed.
Constitutional, legal and institutional implications of a Common Security and Defence Policy: possibilities offered by the Lisbon Treaty (A8-0042/2017 - Esteban González Pons, Michael Gahler)
I voted in favour of this resolution because it reaffirms the commitment of Member States to the Treaty on the CSDP and increases their efforts at achieving its objectives while maintaining compatibility with NATO. Additionally, it calls for a prominent role for Parliament in the scrutiny and supervision of the implementation and in the evaluation of the CSDP and in the scrutiny of the Coordinated Annual Review on Defence.
e-Democracy in the EU: potential and challenges (A8-0041/2017 - Ramón Jáuregui Atondo)
Considering the importance of enhancing the democratic linkage between citizens and political institutions, e-democracy tools can help foster citizen participation and promote awareness of the EU. The report is a series of recommendations of different tools that include e-government, e-governance, e-deliberation, e-participation and e-voting, which will allow citizens to be more involved in democratic processes. I voted in favour in order to protect privacy and personal data of citizens when using e-democracy tools and to foster a more secure internet environment.
Use of the 470-790 MHz frequency band in the Union (A8-0327/2016 - Patrizia Toia)
I voted in favour of this measure because the standardisation of the 700 MHz band would be positive in the field of communications. This proposal aims to free up additional spectrums for wireless broadband in light of the exponential growth in mobile traffic and in preparation for the arrival of 5G in the next few years. The 700 MHz band is currently used in most Member States for digital terrestrial television, so under the proposal these broadcasting services would have to be migrated to the sub-700 MHz band.
Mercury (A8-0313/2016 - Stefan Eck) SL
Glasoval sem za poročilo o živem srebru, ker gre za ureditev področja, ki ga sedanja evropska zakonodaja še ni zadostno pokrivala.Gre za vprašanja uvoza živega srebra, izvoza nekaterih izdelkov, ki živo srebro vsebujejo, uporabo živega srebra v proizvodnih procesih itd. Posebej občutljivo je vprašanje obravnave živega srebra kot odpadka in njegovega skladiščenja po poteku roka uporabe.
Waste (A8-0034/2017 - Simona Bonafè) SL
Bistvo poročila pri odpadkih je slediti geslu, da mora ravnanje z odpadki v praksi pomeniti več recikliranja in manj odlaganja.Podprl sem predlog zakonodaje o ravnanju z odpadki, ki predvideva zvišanje deleža recikliranih odpadkov v Evropi do leta 2030 s sedanjih 44 na 70 odstotkov. Obenem smo se poslanci odločili tudi za omejitev deleža odpadkov, ki konča na odlagališčih na 5 odstotkov in prepolovitev količine zavržene hrane.Delež reciklaže odpadne embalaže (papir in karton, plastika, steklo, kovine in les) bi moral po našem mnenju do leta 2030 doseči 80 odstotkov, z vmesnimi zastavljenimi cilji za vsak posamezen embalažni material za leto 2025.
Options for improving access to medicines (A8-0040/2017 - Soledad Cabezón Ruiz) SL
Glasoval sem za resolucijo o boljši dostopnosti zdravil, ker menim, da so se zdravila v zadnjih letih in desetletjih močno podražila. Z resolucijo pozivamo Komisijo in Svet, naj uveljavita nove ukrepe za kontrolo pri cenah za zdravila, kot je na primer krepitev koordinacije med državami članicam glede skupne dobave in postavitve fiksnih cen.
Implementation of the Creative Europe programme (A8-0030/2017 - Silvia Costa) SL
Program Ustvarjalna Evropa podpira kulturni, kreativni in avdiovizualni sektor ter njegov razvoj. Z resolucijo, katero podpiram, predlagamo ohranjanje programa in spodbujamo članice k povišanju proračuna za program Ustvarjalna Evropa. V Evropskem parlamentu poudarjamo pomembnost, da so merila za podporo projektov postavljena tako, da manjšim projektom ne ovirajo dostopa do financiranja.
Implementation of the Europe for Citizens programme (A8-0017/2017 - María Teresa Giménez Barbat) SL
Namen programa Evropa za državljane je, da prispeva k boljšemu razumevanju Evropske unije, njene zgodovine in raznolikosti. Podpiram resolucijo o izvajanju programa Evropa za državljane, ker menim, da je pomembno, da se čim več državljanov v Evropski uniji zaveda pluralnosti in raznolikosti Evrope ter delovanja njenih institucij.
Combating terrorism (A8-0228/2016 - Monika Hohlmeier) SL
Z novo direktivo Evropskega parlamenta in Sveta o boju proti terorizmu posodabljamo kazensko pravo v EU v povezavi z najnovejšimi izzivi glede terorizma in čezmejnimi napadi.Direktiva med drugim kriminalizira potovanje v tujino z namenom vstopa v teroristično organizacijo, financiranje terorizma, spodbujanje k terorizmu ter pomoč pri napeljevanju in načrtovanju terorističnih napadov.Glasoval sem za direktivo, ker si prizadeva za obširen pristop k boju proti terorizmu, vključno z določbami za prevencijo, deradikalizacijo ter podporo in skrb za žrtve terorizma.
Reinforcement of checks against relevant databases at external borders (A8-0218/2016 - Monica Macovei) SL
Uredbo o preverjanju osnovnih podatkov v ustreznih zbirkah podatkov na zunanjih mejah EU sem podprl, ker menim da prispeva k varnosti Evropske unije, zlasti glede na pojav tujih borcev iz EU, ki se poskušajo pridružiti terorističnim skupinam, kot na primer tako imenovani islamski državi.Uredba zavezuje članice EU, da sistematično preverjajo vse osebe, ki prestopajo zunanje meje EU v relevantnih bazah podatkov. V primeru da iz časovnih razlogov sistematični pregledi niso izvedljivi, so možne tudi ciljne kontrole.
Improving the functioning of the European Union building on the potential of the Lisbon Treaty (A8-0386/2016 - Mercedes Bresso, Elmar Brok) SL
Namen poročila je bila priprava ocene, kakšne so zakonske možnosti na podlagi Pogodb, da se izboljša delovanje EU. Cilj je obnoviti izgubljeno prepričanje in zaupanje ljudi s pomočjo povečanja transparentnosti odločanja in odgovornosti institucij, agencij in neformalnih teles. To bi dosegli z večjim sodelovanjem med institucijami, izboljšanjem učinkovitosti delovanja, boljšo uporabo obstoječih instrumentov in večjo demokratičnostjo procesa odločanja.Med doseženimi kompromisi mdr. izstopajo: potreba po bolj učinkovitem okviru za koordinacijo ekonomske politike in izboljšan demokratični nadzor na področju ekonomskega upravljanja, dodatno pa tudi opcija združitve položaja predsednika evroskupine in komisarja za ekonomske in finančne zadeve v enotno funkcijo finančnega ministra EU; potreba, da EP najde možnosti za zagotovitev parlamentarne demokratične odgovornosti v zadevah evroobmočja, ne da bi se za ta namen ustanovil nov organ; povečanje sodelovanja na področju pravosodja in notranjih zadev, zlasti ko gre za imigracije in azilno politiko.
Civil Law Rules on Robotics (A8-0005/2017 - Mady Delvaux) SL
Glasoval sem za, ker v Evropi potrebujemo skupna pravila, ki bi urejala vprašanja v zvezi s hitro razvijajočim se sektorjem robotike. Komisijo smo tako pozvali, naj pripravi zakonodajne predloge o robotiki in umetni inteligenci, da bi se lahko v celoti izkoristil njihov gospodarski potencial in zagotovila ustrezna raven varnosti in zaščite.Ker se standardi za robote trenutno pripravljajo v več državah, bi morala EU prevzeti vodilno vlogo pri njihovem določanju, da ji ne bo treba slediti tistim iz tretjih držav. Ob tem je treba z ustrezno zakonodajo pojasniti tudi vprašanja odgovornosti, predvsem v primeru vozil brez voznika. Zavzemam se za vzpostavitev sistema obveznega zavarovanja in dopolnilnega sklada, ki bi zagotavljal polna nadomestila za žrtve nesreč v teh primerih. Ker bi razvoj in uporaba robotike lahko vplivala tudi na trg delovne sile, mora Komisija to področje redno spremljati.Robotika obenem odpira tudi etična vprašanja glede zasebnosti in varnosti, zato je treba oblikovati etični kodeks ravnanja za vse raziskovalce in načrtovalce robotov, ti pa bi morali pri delovanju spoštovati človekovo dostojanstvo. Prav tako je treba razmisliti o vzpostavitvi evropske agencije za robotiko in umetno inteligenco, ki bi javnim službam zagotavljala tehnična, etična in regulativna strokovna znanja.
European Cloud Initiative (A8-0006/2017 - Jerzy Buzek) SL
Pobudo sem podprl, ker se naslanja na strategijo za digitalno industrijo. Z njo želimo poslanci doseči večjo izmenjavo podatkov, njihov večji izkoristek, zlasti v raziskovalne namene, pa tudi v javnem in zasebnem sektorju na splošno. Obenem je pobuda pomembna za nadaljnjo graditev podatkovne infrastrukture.
Investing in jobs and growth - maximising the contribution of European Structural and Investment Funds (A8-0385/2016 - Lambert van Nistelrooij) SL
Glasoval sem za poročilo o vlaganju v delovna mesta in rast, ker poziva k večji povezanosti in koheziji glede evropskih investicijskih programov, ki ustvarjajo delovna mesta in gospodarsko rast.V Parlamentu pozivamo k izboljšavi komunikacije o evropskih strukturnih in investicijskih skladih, povečanju vidljivosti ter izboljšanju povezave z evropskim semestrom. Poudarjamo tudi, da je pomembno, da Komisija, države članice, regije in mesta bolj obveščajo o uspehih in dosežkih kohezijske politike.
Aviation Strategy for Europe (A8-0021/2017 - Pavel Telička) SL
Glasoval sem za poročilo o letalski strategiji za Evropo, ker menim da to poročilo predlaga dobre ukrepe za podporo evropske letalske industrije, varnost letenja, konsolidacijo enotnega trga EU na področju letalstva in zagotavlja močno pozicijo evropskega letalstva glede na globalno konkurenco.S sprejetim poročilom ustvarjamo ugodno okolje za investicije v potrebno infrastrukturo in nadaljnji tehnološki razvoj. Pozdravljam spodbudo k vzpostavitvi vseevropske zračne avtoceste kot nadaljnji korak v smeri dokončne vzpostavitve enotnega evropskega neba.
EU-Canada Strategic Partnership Agreement (A8-0028/2017 - Charles Tannock) SL
Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft (Product Coverage Annex) (A8-0007/2017 - Inmaculada Rodríguez-Piñero Fernández) SL
Sporazum ATCA odpravlja vse uvozne dajatve na področju civilnega letalstva, vključno s prilogo/aneksom o zajetih proizvodih. Z zadnjo posodobitvijo harmonizacijskega sistema je stopila v veljavo zadnja različica aneksa. Odbor za civilno letalstvo je v ta namen leta 2015 sprejel protokol, ki pokriva vse zadeve s področja skupnih trgovinskih politik. Pravno podlago za to predstavlja člen 218(6)(a) Pogodbe, ki zagotavlja soglasje Evropskega parlamenta.
Cost-effective emission reductions and low-carbon investments (A8-0003/2017) SL
Glasoval sem pozitivno, ker se zavzemam za krepitev stroškovno učinkovitega zmanjšanja emisij skozi sistem za trgovanje z emisijami (EU ETS). To je prava pot za doseganje ciljev Pariškega sporazuma proti podnebnih spremembam.Na ta način sledimo predlogu Komisije za vsakoletno zmanjšanje števila brezplačnih pravic do izpustov (emisijskih kuponov) za 2,2 odstotka od leta 2021 naprej namesto sedanjega 1,74 odstotka, z možnostjo povečanja faktorja na 2,4 odstotka po letu 2024. Sledimo pa tudi predlogu za podvojitev rezerve za stabilnost trga, ki bo prevzela presežne kupone. V prvih štirih letih delovanja bi rezerva tako vsako leto prevzela do 24 odstotkov presežnih kuponov, 1. januarja 2021 pa bi se ukinilo 800 milijonov pravic, vključenih v rezervo.Sredstva, pridobljena z dražbami emisijskih kuponov, bodo namenjena skladu za modernizacijo energetskih sistemov v državah z nižjimi dohodki in skladu za inovacijo. Podprl sem tudi ustanovitev sklada za pravičen prehod, ki bi bil namenjen programom za prerazporeditev ali preusposabljanje delavcev, ki bi ji prizadele spremembe na trgu dela zaradi prestrukturiranja gospodarstva v manj ogljične industrije.
2016 Report on Albania (A8-0023/2017 - Knut Fleckenstein) SL
Z reformo pravosodnega sistema je Albanija naredila pomemben korak na poti k članstvu v Evropsko Unijo. Podpiram poročilo o Albaniji, ker kaže pot v evropsko integracijo po jasno definiranih kriterijih, kot so implementacija reforme pravosodnega sistema, boj proti organiziranemu kriminalu in izvedba pravičnih in nepristranskih parlamentarnih volitev poleti 2017.Pozdravljam sprejem zakonodaje za izključitev kazenskopravnih zločincev iz opravljanja javnih funkcij in protikorupcijsko zakonodajo. Ampak kljub napredkom so potrebne še nadaljnje reforme. Zaskrbljujoče omejeni so napredek na področju svobode medijev, nepristranskost nadzornih organov, korupcija, odvisnost od političnega vpliva ter selektivna pravičnost.
2016 Report on Bosnia and Herzegovina (A8-0026/2017 - Cristian Dan Preda) SL
Poročilo o Bosni in Hercegovini zaznava precejšni napredek pri prizadevanju in odločnosti Bosne in Hercegovine za implementacijo reformne agende, vključno z institucionalnimi, socialnimi in ekonomskimi reformami. Zato podpiram poročilo in pozdravljam poziv k nadaljnjim korakom za evropsko integracijo Bosne in Hercegovine, vključno s podelitvijo statusa kandidatke za članstvo.Evropski parlament ostaja podpornik državne suverenosti, enotnosti in celovitosti Bosne in Hercegovine. Pozivamo, da se ohrani reformni zagon. Predvsem v boju proti korupciji je potreben večji angažma. Potreben je nadzor dodeljevanja javnih sredstev, zaposlovanja v javnem sektorju in financiranja političnih strank. Zaskrbljujoča je tudi fragmentacija v štiri različne pravne sisteme.V Parlamentu poudarjamo, da je treba odpraviti pomanjkljivosti sodstva, krepiti sodno učinkovitost in neodvisnost, vključno z depolitizacijo sodnikov in implementacijo sodnih sklepov. Tudi problem etnične in politične razdvojenosti ostaja ovira pri uveljavljanju potrebnih reform.
Single Market Governance within the European Semester 2017 (A8-0016/2017 - Antonio López-Istúriz White) SL
Glasoval sem za resolucijo o poročilu o upravljanju enotnega trga v okviru evropskega semestra 2017.Poročilo je samoiniciativno poročilo odbora za notranji trg in varstva potrošnikov (IMCO). Skupaj z drugimi poročili je del paketa številnih poročil različnih odborov, s katerimi Parlament prispeva svoj vidik k srečanju Evropskega sveta v marcu.Glavni cilj tega poročila je ustanovitev enotnega trga kot dodatni steber evropskega semestra. Evropski semester naj ne bi bil omejen samo na koordinacijo ekonomske politike in politike zaposlovanja, ampak naj bi bil dopolnjen z dodatnim elementom, ki se ukvarja z možnostmi spodbujanja realnega gospodarstva in gospodarske rasti.
Banking Union - Annual Report 2016 (A8-0019/2017 - Danuta Maria Hübner) SL
Glasoval sem za resolucijo o letnim poročilu o bančni uniji, ker je delujoča bančna unija potreben aspekt glede preprečitev ponovitve bančne krize, kot smo jo doživeli v preteklih letih.V Parlamentu ponovno poudarjamo, da zaščita depozitov zadeva vse državljane EU in da je to potreben korak k dopolnitvi bančne unije.
The role of whistleblowers in the protection of EU´s financial interests (A8-0004/2017 - Dennis de Jong) SL
Annual report on EU competition policy (A8-0001/2017 - Tibor Szanyi) SL
Glasoval sem za poročilo, ki ga je pred tem podprla že večina članov odbora ECON. Komisarki Vestager po eni strani nalaga sodelovanje z Evropskim parlamentom kot tudi zahteva večjo vključenost EP v zadeve na področju konkurence skozi redni zakonodajni postopek. Posebno pozornost namenja konkurenci pri obdavčevanju znotraj evropskega skupnega trga. Pri tem zahteva, da morajo biti davki plačani v državi, v kateri podjetja ustvarjajo dobičke, in poziva k ustanovitvi Skupne konsolidirane osnove za davek od dohodkov pravnih oseb (CCCTB), ki bi pomagala odpraviti distorzije pri konkurenci.Poročilo že petič zapored navaja, da je bila državna pomoč v finančnem sektorju sicer res potrebna za vzpostavitev globalnega finančnega sistema, da pa jo je treba z ustanovitvijo bančne unije zmanjšati ali ukiniti. Poročilo med drugim tudi poziva države članice in evropske institucije, da se z upoštevanjem evropske konkurenčne zakonodaje osredotočijo na krepitev evropskega notranjega trga za čas po izvedbi Brexita.
Promoting gender equality in mental health and clinical research (A8-0380/2016 - Beatriz Becerra Basterrechea) SL
Poročilo je sestavljeno vsebinsko zelo raznoliko in je kot takšno problematično. Nesprejemljivo je, da so znotraj enega poročila, ki naj bi izključno nanašalo na vprašanja enakosti med spoloma, duševnega zdravja in kliničnih raziskav tudi teme, kot so splav, teme t. i. reproduktivnega zdravja, teme istospolnih, transspolnih itd. Poročilo precej pozornosti namenja duševnemu zdravju LGBT skupin in njihovi pozitivni diskriminaciji.Poročilo samo je tudi precej nenatančno, stvari se večkrat ponavljajo, med seboj meša psihične in fizične vzroke bolezni, opazno je tudi pomanjkanje strokovne podlage. Zaradi vseh nedoslednosti sem se vzdržal glasovanja.
Major interpellations (3)
Breaches of the rights of children whose parents work in Austria PDF (48 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Violation of fundamental human rights of women in Pakistan PDF (194 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Differences in declarations, composition and taste of products in central/eastern and western markets of the EU PDF (193 KB) DOC (17 KB)
Written questions (21)
Slovene language not used in information letters for traffic offences PDF (45 KB) DOC (19 KB)
Refugee status in Thailand PDF (41 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Introduction of an International Day Commemorating Victims and Survivors of Religious Persecution PDF (93 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Protection of minority languages in Europe PDF (100 KB) DOC (18 KB)
The case of Alfie Evans: freedom of choice and of movement of the child PDF (187 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Child benefits in Austria PDF (97 KB) DOC (20 KB)
The Commission's intervention in the Coman case PDF (90 KB) DOC (18 KB)
Frequency problems for Slovenian radio stations in Primorska - state of affairs one year later PDF (93 KB) DOC (15 KB)
Honey - labelling of country of origin PDF (194 KB) DOC (16 KB)
Directive 2004/37/EC PDF (92 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Covenant on Demographic Change PDF (101 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Action by the Commission to ensure implementation of pesticides legislation PDF (189 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Authorisation of pesticides during the transition period PDF (104 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Progress in the ratification of the Marrakesh Treaty PDF (197 KB) DOC (28 KB)
Industrially produced trans fatty acids (ITFAs) in food PDF (193 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Combatting vine wood diseases PDF (102 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Partial ban on neonicotinoids PDF (189 KB) DOC (24 KB)
Reduction of funding for Horizon 2020 programme PDF (93 KB) DOC (24 KB)
German minimum wage requirement for drivers engaged in road transport as a measure against social dumping PDF (92 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Aerial spraying of pesticides PDF (93 KB) DOC (25 KB)
Recognition of geographic indications on the internet - negotiations with Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) PDF (197 KB) DOC (26 KB)
Written declarations (7)
Amendments (571)
Amendment 299 #
2018/2974(RSP)
Paragraph 24
24. Supports active and sustainable forest management at national level, together with concrete means to incentivise the potential of the EU bioeconomy, given the large potential of forests to contribute to strengthening Europe's climate efforts (through sequestration, storage and substitution effects) and achieving the target of zero emissions by 2050; recognising the need to halt the loss of biodiversity and the degradation of ecosystems services in the EU by 2020; including assessment of the costs and socio-economic benefits of conserving biodiversity and associated ecosystem services, and development of evidence- based polices that help implement and finance EU biodiversity conservation measures
Amendment 390 #
2018/2974(RSP)
Paragraph 34
34. Underlines the importance of increased initiatives and sustained dialogue in relevant international fora, with the aim to spur similar policy decisions ramping up climate ambition in other regions and third countries through an effective policy of climate diplomacy; considers that the EU, must, inter alia, increase its own climate financing and work actively to encourage Member States to increase their climate aid (development aid rather than loans) in third countries;
Amendment 12 #
2018/2776(RSP)
Recital C
C. whereas innovative digital solutions for health and care can boost health and quality of life of citizens and enable more efficient ways of organising and delivering health and care services as well as creating new opportunities due to the emergence of new technologies;
Amendment 20 #
2018/2776(RSP)
Recital D a (new)
D a. whereas digital data generated from devices and software provides opportunities to enhance knowledge and understanding about sickness and disease and to improve medical diagnosis and care;
Amendment 22 #
2018/2776(RSP)
Recital D b (new)
D b. whereas digital devices and software have been developed to diagnose and treat illness and chronic disease, as well as to facilitate self-management and help people monitor their health;
Amendment 23 #
2018/2776(RSP)
Recital E
E. whereas the organisation and the sustainability of healthcare delivery of health and social care is the responsibility of the Member states; whereas the Union can support the cooperation between Member States in promoting public health and prevention of disease and improving the complementarity of their health services cross-border;
Amendment 26 #
2018/2776(RSP)
Recital G
G. whereas in the progressive digitalization of the society, patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals face the challenges of using information technology, personalised diagnosis and the digital infrastructure of patient records in the context of personal data security;
Amendment 27 #
2018/2776(RSP)
Recital G a (new)
G a. whereas the Global Digital Health market was estimated to be worth €17 billion in 2017 with an average growth rate of 12-16 percent annually; whereas this is almost ten times the speed of growth of the whole EU economy; whereas this growth could double using health IT to enable the management of chronic diseases; whereas state of the art supply chain management processes could effectively lower the costs of healthcare operations; whereas science, research and innovation have a vital role to play in Europe’s response to challenges and to its competitiveness;
Amendment 37 #
2018/2776(RSP)
Paragraph 3
3. Is of the opinion that the digital transformation of health and care needs to be patient-centred; believes that the EU needs to reiterate its support for the transition from existing fragmented health and social care models towards holistic and comprehensive coordinated healthcare system; supports the need to drive a real transformation of European networks, supporting a shift from a centred-oriented disease and care approach to a more prevention; agrees that healthcare professionals and patient- centric imperative have to be at the centre of all digital innovation;
Amendment 44 #
2018/2776(RSP)
Paragraph 4
4. Believes that there is a need to ensure a key role for public health systems in the governance and the policymaking on digital health and care; notes that, by the implementation of innovative solutions, governments and policy-makers are not considering anymore the health expenditures as a pure cost but as an investment, fostering the growth of companies by innovation, and supporting the creation of jobs and new businesses;
Amendment 55 #
2018/2776(RSP)
Paragraph 6
6. Regrets that, at present, many citizens in Europe have limited electronic access to their personal health data, in particular in cross-border treatments; supports the Commission's efforts to provide legal certainty, partnership regarding data processing that will enhance trust, allowing the flow of data across borders by building European Reference Network and other digital eHealth platforms;
Amendment 64 #
2018/2776(RSP)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8 a. Believes that digital health care solutions are related to technological advancement, based on scientific and research development; notes that digital health solutions require proper interoperability schemes, future infrastructure based on secure storages, 5G deployment, conditions for IoT development, processing health care big data in high performance computing centres; believes that, for the success in patient satisfaction, the accessibility of the adequate infrastructure should function everywhere and be open to everybody;
Amendment 74 #
2018/2776(RSP)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12 a. Stresses that health data should be widely used for research and development in the health sector; notes that data analysis methods available today allow research to tackle complex issues that were not solvable in the past; believes that supporting research focuses on design and analysis of executable computer algorithms describing biological phenomena, in particular cancer and brain disorders, which lead us to new discoveries and finally to the new therapies saving the people’s lives;
Amendment 75 #
2018/2776(RSP)
Paragraph 12 b (new)
12 b. Believes that artificial intelligence, machine learning and exponential leaps in data availability and cloud computing fuel research initiatives to understand biology at molecular and cellular levels, guide the development of medical treatments and analyse data streams to detect health threats, predict disease outbreaks and counsel patients; believes that data mining and data navigation techniques can be used to identify care gaps, risks, trends and patterns;
Amendment 79 #
2018/2776(RSP)
Paragraph 15
15. Calls on the Commission to facilitate European coordinated action to support pooling and secure exchange of genomic and other health data in order to advance research and personalised medicine, while ensuring full compliance with data protection legislation and ethical principles; believes that there is a gap to promote collaboration between universities and businesses in order to boost the commercialization of knowledge and innovation from digital health adoption;
Amendment 93 #
2018/2776(RSP)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20 a. Stresses that successful reorganisation of care delivery should adopt a transparent bottom-up approach to build trust and synergies between the different stakeholders; stresses that the reorganisation of healthcare delivery models and systems cannot materialise without the involvement of governments, providers, patients, insurers and health professionals; stresses that digital health requires innovation across industry sectors and disciplines, such as IT (artificial intelligence, IoT, data analytics, automated decisions, algorithms), digital (web techs, virtualreality, games, etc), design, social sciences (behaviour change, psychology) and medical sciences;
Amendment 95 #
2018/2776(RSP)
Paragraph 20 b (new)
20 b. Notes that digital health provides a novel opportunity to exploit the advantages of the EU in psychiatric genetic research, building on the public health care system and biobanks; considers that this is a huge opportunity for a stronger prevention system to collect and provide access to sequenced genomes in the EU;
Amendment 99 #
2018/2776(RSP)
Paragraph 22
22. Calls on the Commission to work with relevant actors to support more cooperation across borders and enlarge the deployment of digitally enabled care models; supports building the network which brings together national authorities responsible for digital health from all the Member States on a voluntary basis to work on common orientations for digital healthcare;
Amendment 101 #
2018/2776(RSP)
Paragraph 23
23. Calls on the Commission and Member States to ensure that health professionals improve competences and skills; considers that, in order to support patients’ empowerment, the professional digital literacy addressed to the physicians with clear purpose: be more innovative and bold in using new digital opportunities, need to be improved;
Amendment 108 #
2018/2776(RSP)
Paragraph 25
25. Considers that a positive balance to citizens between the use of digital tools and direct consultation with health professionals should be achieved; considers also that a secure access and cross-border sharing of health data would be a positive step forward; notes that there is a huge potential to support the creation of robust open-innovation platforms that create opportunities for innovators and the space for new business models;
Amendment 110 #
2018/2776(RSP)
Paragraph 26 a (new)
26 a. Considers that an implementation of healthcare funding models incorporating performance-based payments should include improving patient care experience; considers that the sustainable healthcare systems and the investment in the transformative change are required for the widespread uptake of integrated care models in order to ensure long-term financial sustainability;
Amendment 111 #
2018/2776(RSP)
Paragraph 26 b (new)
26 b. Calls on the Commission to create an integrated care roadmap towards legal framework for mutual recognition and acceptance of eID and eSignature, produce EU guidelines on eHealth, develop the regulation supporting a cross- sectorial use of the notified identification systems and extend the eHealth Digital Service Infrastructure (eHDSI);
Amendment 112 #
2018/2776(RSP)
Paragraph 26 c (new)
26 c. Notes that digital healtcare transition will require political leadership, sustained investment and a long-term vision on both national and European level;
Amendment 30 #
2018/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas internal and external security are increasingly intertwined; whereas the EU has always prided itself on its soft power and will keep doing so; whereas an evolving reality, however, requires the EU not to remain an exclusively ‘civilian power’, but to develop and extend its hard power, since soft and hard power go hand in handcomplement each other; whereas development in third countries is not possible without security and peace; whereas the military plays a key role in this, especially in countries where civilian authorities are unable to fulfil their tasks in the light of the security situation; whereas the European Peace Facility (EPF or the Facility) will lead to a stronger engagement of the EU towards partner countries and will increase the effectiveness of EU external action;
Amendment 43 #
2018/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas the proposed average annual envelope for the EPF is EUR 1 500 000 000, while the combined spending under the Athena mechanism and the APF has fluctuated between EUR 250 000 000 and EUR 500 000 000 annually; whereas the potential purposes of the additional EUR 1 000 000 000 per year are not adequately specified or guaranteed in the proposal;
Amendment 127 #
2018/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 – point b
Paragraph 2 – point b
(b) in line with Article 36 TEU, to dfully take into considerationimplement Parliament’s views when preparing proposals for multi-year ‘action programmes’ or ad hoc assistance measures, including by withdrawing proposals that are opposed by Parliament;
Amendment 37 #
2018/2236(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Point e
Point e
(e) welcome the release of political prisoners and encourage the authorities to resolve cases of prisoners of conscience, thereby adhering to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; support the establishment of the National Preventive Mechanism against torture and expects further measures to ensure a moratorium on the practice;
Amendment 60 #
2018/2236(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Point f
Point f
(f) welcome the progress made towards the eradication of child labour and the phasing-out of forced labour, as well as the recent visits to Uzbekistan by UN Special Rapporteurs and the reopening of the country to international non- governmental organisations in this field; encourage continued cooperation with the International Labour Organization;
Amendment 76 #
2018/2236(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Point h
Point h
(h) continue holding annual Human Rights Dialogues in cooperation with the EEAS, while mainstreaming human rights issues in all meetings; encourage compliance with international human rights instruments;
Amendment 86 #
2018/2236(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Point i
Point i
(i) urge the authorities to improve the local healthcare system and increase state resources to facilitate improvements, since the situation has deteriorated significantly since the country gained its independence;
Amendment 37 #
2018/2159(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the EU, as a key contributor to international organisations, an aid donor and the world's largest trading partner, should take a leading role in global peacebuilding and conflict prevention;
Amendment 44 #
2018/2159(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the prevention of violent conflict is fundamental to political and social advancement; whereas it is instrumental to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and vice- versa;
Amendment 76 #
2018/2159(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital M
Recital M
M. whereas gender equality and peacpeace keeping efforts are fremain drasticalquently under-funded with a consistent disparity betweenand lack policy commitments to gender equality and women’s empowerment, and the financial allocations required to achieve them;
Amendment 126 #
2018/2159(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Calls for further capacity development on gender analysis andf conflict prevention for in- house staff and senior mediators, as well as for third parties;
Amendment 132 #
2018/2159(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Calls for gender-scomprehensitive conflict analysies as a requirement of any majorprecursors to EU engagement in violent and conflict- affected areas;
Amendment 136 #
2018/2159(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Recalls the growing need for conflict prevention in addressing the root causes of conflict and in achieving the SDGs, with a particular focus on democracy and human rights, the rule of law, judicial reform and support for civil society and gender programmes;
Amendment 139 #
2018/2159(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Highlights the fact that all EU interventions in violent and conflict- affected areas need to be conflict and gender smprehensitive; calls for immediate action to embed these aspects in all relevant policies, strategies, actions and operations, entailing a greater focus on the avoidance of doing harm, while maximising the EU's contribution to achieving conflict prevention objectives;
Amendment 149 #
2018/2159(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Recommends that the existing parliamentary training and coaching programmes available for Members of the European Parliament, as well as training programmes for third country parliamentarians, political parties and staff, be further developed, including those on gender aspects;
Amendment 175 #
2018/2159(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Calls for mandatory consultations with civil society organisations, especially those specialised in women's rights and minority human rights, when establishing and implementing EU programmes and policies on peace, security and mediation;
Amendment 182 #
2018/2159(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Takes the view that growing challenges demand higher appropriations for conflict prevention and the provision of dedicated staff capacity; recalls that the implementation of the Women, Peace and Security Agenda includes gender budgeting and adequate earmarked funding;
Amendment 62 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas new areas of tension between the EU and Russia have arisen since 2015, including: Russian intervention in Syria; large-scale military exercises (Zapad 2017); rRussian interference aimed at influencing elections and stoking tensions in societies in Europe an societiesd globally; restrictions on fundamental freedoms and extensive human rights violations in Russia, including the systemic targeting of human rights defenders and civil society in Russia, discrimination against the Tatar minority in occupied Crimea, and the politically motivated persecution of Alexei Navalny and many others; cyber attacks and assassinations on European soil carried out by Russian intelligence agents using chemical weapons; the intimidation, arrest and imprisonment of foreign citizens in Russia in breach of international law, including Oleg Sentsov and many others; the organisation of illegal and illegitimate elections in the Donbas; flawed presidential elections lacking any real choice and with restrictions on fundamental freedoms; violations of arms control agreements;
Amendment 116 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Underlines that Russia's direct and indirect involvement in armed conflicts and its illegal annexation of Crimea and violation of the territorial integrity of Georgia constitute a deliberate violation of democratic principles and, fundamental values and international law;
Amendment 152 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Believes that non-implementation of the Minsk Agreements demonstrates Russia's lack of good will and continued territorial aspirations; asks for consultations to be advanced within the Normandy format;
Amendment 282 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Stresses the importance of continued political and financial support for civil society activists, human rights defenders, bloggers, independent media, investigative journalists, outspoken academics and public figures, and NGOs in Russia; calls on the Commission to programme more ambitious financial assistance to Russian civil society from the existing external financial instruments;
Amendment 345 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Calls for a European version of the Magnitsky Act to enable the application of sanctions against human rights offenders;
Amendment 367 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Supports increased funding for the European Endowment for Democracy and other instruments to advance democracy and human rights in Russia and elsewhere;
Amendment 9 #
2018/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas by implementing robust and inclusive democratic reforms and actively improving neighbourly relations, the new government is demonstrating a seriouscontinuity in the commitment to the country’s Euro- Atlantic path; whereas reform efforts should be paired with continued EU support for implementation of the Urgent Reform Priorities;
Amendment 29 #
2018/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas each candidate country is judged individually on its own merits, and it is the speed and quality of reforms that determine the timetable for accession and the pace of negotiations; whereas bilateral issues should not obstruct accession or take precedence over the process of European integration;
Amendment 30 #
2018/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)
Recital F a (new)
Fa. whereas air pollution is a major problem of Macedonian cities and according to the latest study by the Finnish Meteorological Institute and the Macedonian Institute for Public Health, Skopje and Tetovo have the highest concentration of fine particles in the air (PM 2.5) among all European cities;
Amendment 36 #
2018/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Commends the positive diplomacy and active trust-buildingWelcomes the efforts leading to compromise and to the settlement of open bilateral issues; welcomes the entry into force on 14 February 2018 of the friendship treaty with Bulgariareiterates the importance of constructive political dialogue between all actors of the political process; stresses that bilateral issues should not obstruct the accession process;
Amendment 71 #
2018/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Condemns in the strongest possible terms the 27 April 2017 attack on the Parliament of the country, during which several MPs sustained severe injuries, and calls for the organisers and perpetrators to be brought to justice; stresses that the establishment of accountability for these acts of violence should continue to be conducted in line with the law and in a transparent, independent and proportionate manner; underlines that legal proceedings must not be instrumentalised for political gains; further condemns any form of obstruction and abuse of procedures of the Parliament;
Amendment 82 #
2018/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Considers that Macedonian membership in NATO could contribute to achieving greater security and political stability in south-east Europe; calls on all EU Member States which are NATO members, to actively support the accession of the country to NATO;
Amendment 139 #
2018/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Commends the constructive role the country has played in dealing with the challenges of the migration crisis; calls for further improvements in the asylum system and migration management; encourages the country to step up regional cooperation and partnership with Frontex under a new status agreement with a view to dismantling human trafficking networks;
Amendment 142 #
2018/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Calls for further improvements in the asylum system and migration management; encourages the country to step up regional cooperation and partnership with Frontex under a new status agreement with a view to dismantling human trafficking networks; acknowledges the country’s efforts to address the challenges of the European migration and refugee crisis and expresses the expectation that mutually beneficial cooperation continues in the future;
Amendment 203 #
2018/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. URecalls that the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia completed its last population census in 2002; underlines the importance of conducting a new and long- overdue population census to obtain an updated and realistic picture of the country’s demographicdemographic statistics in line with European standards;
Amendment 204 #
2018/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Underlines the importance of conducting a long-overdue population census to obtain an updated and realistic picture of the country’s demographics; stresses the need of improving the laws and regulations related to this issue in order to prevent abuse and circulation of fake data;
Amendment 208 #
2018/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. CWelcomes the adoption of the new Energy Law by the Macedonian Parliament, transposing the Third Energy Package and making it fully compatible with the Energy Community Treaty; calls upon the authorities to focus on energy market reforms, while ensuring security of supply and diversification of energy sources;
Amendment 217 #
2018/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. Calls for further trade and customs facilitation and diversification of exports, including by using the intra-regional trade potential; calls on the Commission to exempt the country from the steel and aluminium safeguard measures;
Amendment 222 #
2018/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34
Paragraph 34
34. Draws attention to extreme air pollution indicators in Skopje and other heavily polluted citiesmany cities in the Republic of Macedonia; calls for effective action for air quality monitoring and improvement; calls on the competent authorities of the Republic of Macedonia to urgently harmonize the legislation in the field of environmental and nature protection with the acquis communautaire, to adopt appropriate policies and to start implementing targeted measures to improve air quality in major urban areas;
Amendment 88 #
2018/2108(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Expresses serious concern about the proposed reduction in funding for the health programme; reiterates its call for the health programme to be restored as a robust stand-alone programme with increased funding in the next multiannual financial framework (MFF) (2021-2027), in order to implement the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on public health, health systems and environment- related problems, and ensure an ambitious health policy with a focus on cross-border challenges, including, in particular, a considerable increase in common EU efforts in the fight against cancer, the prevention and management of chronic and rare diseases, including rare cancers, combating anti-microbial resistance and ensuring easier access to cross-border healthcare;
Amendment 147 #
2018/2108(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 6
Subheading 6
Rare diseases, Rare Cancers and European Reference Networks (ERNs)
Amendment 148 #
2018/2108(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Stresses the importance of EU-wide cooperation in ensuring the efficient pooling of knowledge and resources to tackle rare diseases, including rare cancers, effectively across the EU;
Amendment 152 #
2018/2108(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Encourages the steps already taken to increase public awareness and understanding of rare diseases and rare cancers, and to increase funding for R&D;
Amendment 158 #
2018/2108(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23 a. Encourages Member States to integrate ERNs into the National Rare Diseases Plans and National Cancer Plans;
Amendment 26 #
2018/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recognises that the complex nature of these challenges, with different threats affecting different Member States to varying degrees, provides room for agreementdiscussion on how to deal with the challenges collectively, in a spirit of solidarity to achieve agreement;
Amendment 110 #
2018/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Reaffirms the importance of developing the necessary military capabilities to deal with the comprehensive security challenges in and around Europe outlined by the EU Global Strategy; recalls that European Union´s Global Strategy encourages the realization of deep defence cooperation across member states;
Amendment 197 #
2018/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Strongly believes that the EU’s long-standing and largest CSDP mission, EUFOR BiH / Operation Althea, still plays an important role of deterrence as a visible sign of EU commitment to the country and wider Western Balkan region; considers it therefore essential to continue its executive mandate and sustain its current force strength (600 staff) as the safe and secure environment has still the potential to deterioratefor destabilisation with increased tensions and current ethno-nationalist centred politics;
Amendment 262 #
2018/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 37
Paragraph 37
37. Notes, while welcoming the overall progress made in CSDP since the presentation of the Global Strategy, that the parliamentary structures at EU level which have been established at a time when the EU’s level of ambition and level of activity regarding security and defence matters was rather limited, are no longer adequate to provide the necessary parliamentary oversight of a rapidly evolving policy area demanding the capacity for swift responses; therefore, reiterates its previous call to upgrade the Subcommittee of Security and Defence to a full-fledged committee and to provide it with the competences necessary in order to contribute to a comprehensive parliamentary oversight of CSDP; the upgrade from subcommittee to committee should be the consequence of replacing the ad-hoc management of defence and security at Commission level with a more specialized model taking into account the increasing complexity of the effort to be managed;
Amendment 12 #
2018/2088(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas AI is key to turning Europe into a ‘start-up continent’ by exploiting the latest technologies to generate growth in Europe, in particular in the areas of health technology, healthcare services and programmes, drug discovery, robotic and robot-assisted surgery, and medical imaging and records as well as securing sustainable environment and safe food production;
Amendment 22 #
2018/2088(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas there are strong ethical concerns about the autonomy of robots and their impact on the doctor-patient relationshipuse of word ´autonomous´ for complex AI systems since the autonomy as such can only be attributed to human beings;
Amendment 28 #
2018/2088(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph –1 (new)
Paragraph –1 (new)
-1. Underlines that any revolutionary technological progress, particularly in the field of AI and robotics, shall serve human wellbeing;
Amendment 29 #
2018/2088(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph –1 a (new)
Paragraph –1 a (new)
-1a. Stresses that AI systems and robots are innovative technological means to improve people´s lives, grow the economy, and address challenges in health, environment, climate change, food safety among many others with human agent being always responsible for their use;
Amendment 30 #
2018/2088(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to draw up a fully comprehensive EU Action Plan aimed at creating a European ‘artificial intelligence ecosystem’; in line with the Statement on Artificial Intelligence, Robotics and ´Autonomous´ Systems published by European Group on Ethics in Science and New Technologies in March 2018 and thoroughly address issues of safety, security, prevention of harm and mitigation of risks, human moral responsibility, governance and regulation of AI and robots;
Amendment 114 #
2018/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point i
Paragraph 1 – point i
(i) to welcome the trilateral cooperation between the African Union (AU), the EUEU, UN and othe UNr intergovernmental organizations as a strong signal in terms of strengthening multilateralism and global governance and providing assistance to those in need of international protection;
Amendment 307 #
2018/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point z
Paragraph 1 – point z
(z) to reaffirm the EU’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and to stress the need to implement the Paris Agreement globally to preserve our habitat for future generations; to further raise our level of ambition regarding emissions reductions and to emphasize the role of the EU as a global leader in climate action;
Amendment 314 #
2018/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point aa
Paragraph 1 – point aa
(aa) to insist on the need to develop a comprehensive strategy for EU climate diplomacy and to integrate climate action into all fields of EU external action, including trade, development cooperation, humanitarian aid and security and defence;
Amendment 323 #
2018/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point ab
Paragraph 1 – point ab
(ab) to call for the opening of a debate on establishing an international legal definition of the term ‘climate refugees/migrants’legal terminology for those populations displaced due to consequences of climate change;
Amendment 60 #
2018/2018(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point o
Paragraph 1 – point o
o) to reaffirm the joint commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement and to provide for a close cooperation on environmental protection and the fight against climate change; to strengthen partnership regarding technical and policy cooperation in key environmental areas, including CO2 emissions in international transport, the conservation of biodiversity, and sustainable production and consumption;
Amendment 66 #
2018/2018(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point p
Paragraph 1 – point p
p) to ensure that the agreement has ais built upon strong parliamentary dimensparticipation, strengthening the current provisions and mechanisms of cooperation to enable increased input into and scrutiny of its implementation, notably through the existing inter-parliamentary format of the JPC; to provide for the possibility of the JPC requesting relevant information on the implementation of the Association Agreement;
Amendment 22 #
2018/2017(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the conflict in Libya can only be solved through a coherent and comprehensive approach involving all international actors and stakeholders and by ensuring Libyan ownership of and inclusiveness in the peace process;
Amendment 64 #
2018/2017(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point c
Paragraph 1 – point c
(c) to further reflect on and discuss within the EU institutions how better to address all aspects of the Libyan conflict with positive solutions, including by devoting greater attention to local dynamics, and to show unity of purpose and initiative among all institutions and the Member States in order to ensure coherence of the measures by all actors involved;
Amendment 103 #
2018/2017(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g
Paragraph 1 – point g
(g) to ensure that EU funds are effectively deployed in projects that help the Libyan population and civil society and that adequate support is provided to municipalities in their provision of essential services and in building local governance, so as to ensure basic living standards for the population; to ensure coordination between central authorities and local municipalities in order to identify the priorities to invest in; to promote projects that foster locally embedded dialogue and conflict-resolution mechanisms, involving young people in particular; to ensure the money under the EU Emergency Trust Fund is only granted when accompanied by a sound analysis of local authorities and recipients; to promote communication between civil society organizations and local governmental authorities to consider and involve the recommendations of CSOs operating in the area;
Amendment 149 #
2018/2017(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point k
Paragraph 1 – point k
(k) to investigate thoroughly the allegations about abuses and inhuman treatment of migrants and refugees in Libya by criminal groups; to devise initiatives to prevent any such incidents from occurring in the future and to close as soon as possible those facilities which are found not to be in line with international standards; to ensure that migrants are treated in a manner accordant with the relevant international human rights instruments and to allocate the necessary funding from the EU budget; to ensure that the EU Border Assistance Mission (EUBAM) in Libya is actively contributing to developing the capacities of the Libyan authorities, notably the Libyan Coast Guard, in line with the highest standards of international law; to continue the project EUNAVOR Med Operation Sophia which counters human trafficking and smuggling by taking action against criminal networks and disrupting their business models;
Amendment 194 #
2018/2004(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Welcomes the introduction by France, with the support of Portugal and Belgium, of an EU pilot module on cyber defence; calls for close monitoring of the outcomes and the future implementation of similar programs in other member states in light of positive results;
Amendment 84 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) In order to give substance to the objectives of the CAP as established by Article 39 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), as well as to ensure that the Union adequately addresses its most recent challenges and international commitments, it is appropriate to provide for a set of general objectives reflecting the orientations given in the Communication on ‘The Future of Food and Farming’. A set of specific objectives should be further defined at Union level and applied by the Member States in their CAP Strategic Plans. WhileIn order to strikinge a balance across the dimensions of sustainable development, in line with the impact assessment, tMember States should be required to take action to achieve all specific objectives simultaneously. These specific objectives should translate the general objectives of the CAP into more concrete priorities and take into account relevant Union legislation, particularly with regard to climate, energy and environment.
Amendment 127 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 22
Recital 22
(22) The framework of standards of GAECs aims to contribute to the mitigation and adaptation to climate change, the tackling of water challenges, the protection and quality of soil and the protection and quality of biodiversity. The framework needs to be enhanced to take into account in particular the practices set until 2020 under the greening of direct payments, the mitigation of climate change and the need to improve farms sustainability, and in particular tche nutrients managementmical input reduction. It is acknowledged that each GAEC contributes to multiple objectives. In order to implement the framework, Member States should define a national standard for each of the standards set at Union level taking into account the specific characteristics of the area concerned, including soil and climatic conditions, existing farming conditions, land use, crop rotation, farming practices and farm structures. Member States may also define in addition other national standards related to the main objectives laid down in Annex III in order to improve the environmental and climate delivery of the GAEC framework. As part of GAEC framework, in order to support both the agronomic and the environmental performance of farms, nutrieninput management plans will be established with the help of a dedicated electronic Farm Sustainability Tool made available by the Member States to individual farmers. The tool should provide on-farm decision support starting from minimum nutrient and pesticides management functionalities. A wide interoperability and modularity should also ensure the possibility to add other electronic on-farm and e-governance applications. In order to ensure a level playing field between farmers and across the Union, the Commission may provide support to the Member States in the design of the Tool as well as with the data storage and processing services required.
Amendment 226 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 58 a (new)
Recital 58 a (new)
(58a) The existing knowledge base, in terms of the quantity and quality of available information, varies considerably for the purposes of monitoring the specific objectives set out in Article 6 of this proposal. For some specific objectives, in particular for monitoring biodiversity, the knowledgebase is currently weak or insufficiently adapted for the purposes of creating robust impact indicators, such as for pollinators and crop biodiversity. Specific objectives and indicators set for the Union as a whole in Article 6 and Annex 1 respectively should be based on a shared or comparable knowledge base and methodologies in all Member States. The Commission should identify areas where knowledge gaps exist or where the knowledge base is insufficiently adapted for the purposes of monitoring the impact of the CAP. It should use the Union budget to provide a common response to knowledge-related and monitoring obstacles related to all Article 6specific objectives and indicators. It should draw up a report on this issue no later than December 31, 2020 and make its findings public.
Amendment 342 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
1. The achievement of the general objectives shall be pursued through simultaneously achieving the following specific objectives:
Amendment 379 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point e
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point e
(e) foster sustainable development and efficient management of natural resources such as water, soil and air, whilst seriously reducing chemical dependency;
Amendment 391 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point f
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point f
(f) contribute to the protection ofreversing the decline in biodiversity, including agro- biodiversity, enhanceing ecosystem services and preserveing habitats and landscapes;
Amendment 518 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
Article 12 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
Member States shall establish a system for providing the Farm Sustainability Tool for Nutrientinput reductions referred to in Annex III, with the minimum content and functionalities defined therein, to beneficiaries, who shall use the Tool.
Amendment 531 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 4
Article 12 – paragraph 4
4. The Commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 138 supplementing this Regulation with rules for good agricultural and environmental condition, including establishing the elements of the system of the ratio of permanent grassland, the year of reference and the rate of conversion under GAEC 1 as referred to in Annex III, the format and additional minimum elements and functionalities of the Farm Sustainability Tool for Nutrientinput reductions.
Amendment 789 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 28 – paragraph 5 a (new)
Article 28 – paragraph 5 a (new)
Amendment 854 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 43 – paragraph 1 – point d
Article 43 – paragraph 1 – point d
(d) integrated production; , promoting, developing and implementing methods of production respectful of the environment, environmentally sound cultivation practices and production techniques, sustainable use of natural resources in particular protection of water, soil and other natural resources, while reducing pesticide dependency;
Amendment 882 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 49 – paragraph 1 – point d
Article 49 – paragraph 1 – point d
(d) actions to support laboratories for the analysis of apiculture products, including bee losses or productivity drops that it may incur for participant beekeepers;
Amendment 889 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 49 – paragraph 1 – point h a (new)
Article 49 – paragraph 1 – point h a (new)
(ha) measures to improve the pollination of honeybees and other wild pollinators.
Amendment 921 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 51 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 51 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) improve competitiveness of Union wine producers including contributing to improvement of sustainable production systemreduction of environmental impact of the Union wine sector; through implementing methods of production respectful of the environment, environmentally sound cultivation practices and reproduction of environmental impact of the Union wine sector;techniques, sustainable use of natural resources in particular protection of water, soil and other natural resources while reducing pesticide dependency, those objectives relate to the specific objectives set out in points (b) to (f) and (h) and (i) of Article 6(1);
Amendment 1212 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 70 – paragraph 2
Article 70 – paragraph 2
2. Member States shall grant support under this type of interventions in order to promote risk management tools, which help genuine farmers manage production and income risks related to their agricultural activity which are outside their control and which contribute to achieving the specific objectives set out in Article 6. These tools may consist of multi-risk management systems.
Amendment 1221 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 70 – paragraph 3 – point b
Article 70 – paragraph 3 – point b
(b) mutual funds to pay financial contribumpensations to mutual funds, including the administrative cost of setting upfarmers for economic losses caused by adverse climatic events, an outbreak of an animal or plant disease, pest infestation, or an environmental incident;
Amendment 1237 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 71 – paragraph 7
Article 71 – paragraph 7
7. In the case of cooperation in the context of farm succession and with the further aim to encourage generational renewal at farm level, Member States may grant support only to farmers having reached the retirement age as set under national legislation.
Amendment 1375 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 94 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 94 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Member States shall make CAP Strategic Plans and related annexes public, both at the draft stage and after their approval, in order to allow an informed public debate to take place. Member States shall consult partners on the arrangements for the publication of CAP Strategic Plans and related documentation.
Amendment 1410 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 96 – paragraph 1 – point e a (new)
Article 96 – paragraph 1 – point e a (new)
(ea) a summary of the areas where baseline information is missing or is insufficient for the purposes of providing a full description of the current situation as regards the specific objectives laid down in Article 6 of this proposal and for the purposes of monitoring those objectives.
Amendment 1469 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 111 – paragraph 3 – point b a (new)
Article 111 – paragraph 3 – point b a (new)
(ba) issues relating to the quality and quantity of data and indicators available for monitoring;
Amendment 1519 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 129 – paragraph 1
Article 129 – paragraph 1
1. Member States shall provide the Commission with all the necessary information or data enabling it to perform the monitoring and evaluation of the CAP. Granting of CAP funds shall be conditional upon the provision by the Member States of this information and data.
Amendment 1521 #
2018/0216(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 129 – paragraph 2
Article 129 – paragraph 2
2. Data needed for the context and impact indicators shall primarily come from established data sources, such as the Farm Accountancy Data Network and Eurostat. Where data for these indicators are not available or not complete, the gaps shall be addressed in the context of the European Statistical Program established under Regulation (EC) No 223/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council40 , the legal framework governing the Farm Accountancy Data Network or through formal agreements with other data providers such as the Joint Research Centre and the European Environment Agency. Where data for certain indicators is not complete, the Commission shall propose alternative indicators based on the result of research and pilot projects while also considering EU wide data collections such as the LUCAS survey. __________________ 40 Regulation (EC) No 223/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 March 2009 on European statistics and repealing Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1101/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the transmission of data subject to statistical confidentiality to the Statistical Office of the European Communities, Council Regulation (EC) No 322/97 on Community Statistics, and Council Decision 89/382/EEC, Euratom establishing a Committee on the Statistical Programs of the European Communities (OJ L 87, 31.3.2009, p. 164).
Amendment 68 #
2018/0207(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) In accordance with Article 2 of the Treaty of the European Union, ‘the Union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom democracy, equality, the rule of law and the respect for human rights, including the rights of the persons belonging to minorities. In particular and in accordance with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, human dignity is the primary foundation of all fundamental human rights. These values are common to the Member States in a society where pluralism, non- discrimination, tolerance, justice, solidarity and equality between women and men prevail’. Article 3 further specifies that the ‘Union’s aim is to promote peace, its values and the well-being of its people’ and, among others, ‘it shall respect its rich cultural and linguistic diversity, and shall ensure that Europe’s cultural heritage is safeguarded and enhanced’. Those values are further reaffirmed and articulated in the rights, freedoms and principles enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.
Amendment 72 #
2018/0207(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) Those fundamental human rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the EU project, on the basis of the idea that fundamental human rights are universal, indivisible, interdependent and interrelated. Therefore, a new Justice, Rights and Values Fund, comprising the Rights and Values and the Justice programmes shall be created in the EU budget. At a time where European societies are confronted with extremism, radicalism and divisions, it is more important than ever to promote, strengthen and defend justice, fundamental human rights and EU values: human rights, respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law. This will have profound and direct implications for political, social, cultural and economic life in the EU. As part of the new Fund, the Justice Programme will continue to support the further development of Union area of justice and cross-border cooperation. The Rights and Values Programme will bring together the 2014-2020 Programme Rights, Equality and Citizenship established by Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council8 and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Council Regulation (EU) No 390/20149, (hereafter ‘the predecessor Programmes’). __________________ 8 Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 establishing a Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme for the period 2014 to 2020 (OJ L 354, 28.12.2013, p. 62) 9 Council Regulation (EU) No 390/2014 of 14 April 2014 establishing the ‘Europe for Citizens’ programme for the period 2014- 2020 (OJ L 115, 17.4.2014, p.3)
Amendment 76 #
2018/0207(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The Justice, Rights and Values Fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus primarily on people and entities, which contribute to make our common values, fundamental human rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant. The ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain rights-based, equal, inclusive and democratic society. That includes a vibrant civil society, encouraging people’s democratic, civic and social participation and fostering the rich diversity of European society, based on our common history and memory. Article 11 of the Treaty of the European Union further specifies that the institutions shall, by appropriate means, give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of Union action. Article 17 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union sets out that the Union shall maintain a dialogue with the churches and organisations mentioned in that Article. Churches and religious communities or associations are long- standing primary stakeholders in fostering protection and promotion of fundamental human rights and should be granted the same access as civil society organisations to the relevant funding opportunities.
Amendment 85 #
2018/0207(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) In order to bring the European Union closer to its citizens, a variety of actions and coordinated efforts are necessary. Bringing together citizens in town-twinning projects or networks of towns and supporting civil society organisations in the areas covered by the programme will contribute to increase citizens’ engagement in society and ultimately their involvement in the democratic life of the Union. At the same time supporting activities promoting mutual understanding, diversity, dialogue , including intercultural and interreligious dialogue, and respect for others fosters a sense of belonging and a European identity, based on a shared understanding of European values, culture, history and heritage. Increasing plurality and global migration movements raise the importance of intercultural and inter- religious dialogue in our societies. Full support should be given to inter-religious dialogue as a part of social harmony in Europe and a key element in solving social tensions. Interreligious dialogue could also help to highlight the positive contribution of religion to social cohesion. As religious illiteracy sets the stage for the misuse of religious feelings among the population, support for projects and initiatives developing religious literacy is also important. The promotion of a greater sense of belonging to the Union and of Union values is particularly important amongst citizens of the EU outermost regions due to their remoteness and distance from continental Europe.
Amendment 93 #
2018/0207(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) Remembrance activities and critical reflection on Europe’s historical memory are necessary to make citizens, in particular young citizens, aware of the common history, as the foundation for a common future, moral purpose androoted in Europe’s spiritual and moral heritage and based on shared values. The relevance of historical, spiritual, cultural and, intercultural and interreligious aspects should also be taken into account, as well as the links between remembrance and the creation of a European identity and sense of belonging together.
Amendment 101 #
2018/0207(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) Gender-based violenceViolence against women and violence against children and young people constitute a serious violation of fundamental rights. Violence persists throughout the Union, in all social and economic contexts, and has serious repercussions on victims’ physical and psychological health and on society as a whole. Children, young people and women are particularly vulnerable to violence, in particular in close relationships. Action should be taken to promote the rights of the child and to contribute to the protection of children from harm and violence, which pose a danger to their physical and mental health and constitute a breach of their rights to development, protection and dignity. The concept of harm and violence should cover the exposition of children to pornography or gratuitous violence. Combating all forms of violence, promoting prevention and protecting and supporting victims are priorities of the Union which help fulfil individuals’ fundamental rights and contribute to equality between women and men. Those priorities should be supported by the Programme.
Amendment 106 #
2018/0207(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) Non-discrimination is a fundamental principle of the Union. Article 19 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union provides for action to combat discrimination based on sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation. Non- discrimination is also enshrined in Article 21 of the Charter. The principle of non- discrimination entails not only that similar situations should not be treated differently, but also that different situations should not be treated in the same way. The specific features of the diverse forms of discrimination should be taken into account and appropriate action should be developed in parallel to prevent and combat discrimination on one or more grounds. The Programme should support actions to prevent and combat discrimination, racism, xenophobia, anti- Semitism, anti-muslim hatred and other forms of intolerance. In that context, particular attention should also be devoted to preventing and combating all forms of violence, hatred, segregation and stigmatisation, including anti-religious stigmatisation, as well as combating bullying, harassment and intolerant treatment. The Programme should be implemented in a mutually reinforcing manner with other Union activities that have the same objectives, in particular with those referred to in the Commission Communication of 5 April 2011 entitled ‘An EU Framework for National Roma Integration Strategies up to 202010’ and in the Council Recommendation of 09 December 2013 on effective Roma integration measures in the Member States11. Authorities at Union and national level have an obligation to prevent discrimination on grounds of belonging to a religious group or carrying out religious acts, whether affiliated to majority or minority religious denominations. Furthermore, focus should not be placed on discrimination of religions, but on people being discriminated because of their religious affiliation or practices. An effective protection by the Member States of the right to conscientious objection, both at the individual and institutional level, especially in the healthcare, pharmaceutical, educational and economical fields, as a fundamental right placed at the basis of democracy and the rule of law should also be supported. __________________ 10 COM(2011)173. 11 OJ C 378, 24.12.2013, p. 1.
Amendment 111 #
2018/0207(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) Attitudinal and environmental barriers as well as lack of accessibility hinder the full and effective participation of people with disabilities in society, on an equal basis with others. People with disabilities are faced with barriers to, among other things, access the labour market, benefit from an inclusive and quality education, avoid poverty and social exclusion, enjoy access to cultural initiatives and media, or use their political rights. As a party to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (the UNCRPD), the Union and all its Member States have committed to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities. The provisions of the UNCRPD have become an integral part of the Union legal order. Specific needs in the area of disability should be fully taken into account in the relevant funding efforts.
Amendment 114 #
2018/0207(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) Article 3(3) TEU requires the Union to promote the protection of the rights of the child, in line with Article 24 of the Charter and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. The primary responsibility shared between the mother and the father to promote and protect their child’s best interest should be paramount, avoiding the interpretation according to which children and their rights can be seen as separate from their family and parents. Public authorities should strengthen the rights of the child to live in a family environment that ensures harmonious upbringing and growth, the protection of his or her psychological integrity and the development of his or her personality.
Amendment 132 #
2018/0207(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) to promote equality and fundamental human rights (Equality and rights strand),
Amendment 177 #
2018/0207(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point b
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) mutual learning through exchange of good practices among stakeholders to improve knowledge and mutual understanding, including through intercultural and interreligious dialogue, and civic and democratic engagement;
Amendment 41 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) The aim of this Regulation is to ensure that manufacturers established in the Union are able to compete effectively in those third country markets where supplementary protection does not exist or has expired. It is intended to complement the efforts of the Union’s trade policy to ensure open markets for Union-based manufacturers of medicinal products. Indirectly, it is also intended to put those manufacturers in a better position to enter the Union market immediately after expiry of the relevant supplementary protection certificate, namely the Day-1 entry. It would also help to serve the aim of fostering access to medicines in the Union by helping to ensure a swifter entry of generic and biosimilar medicines onto the market after expiry of the relevant certificate.
Amendment 49 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) TKeeping in mind that the SPC regulation in the EU provides for uniform solution of the protection and for the free movement of medicinal products, the aim of this Regulation is to ensure that manufacturers established in the Union are able to compete effectively in those third country markets where supplementarhance further balance between the interests of the originators, generic and biosimilar makers and public health by following the principle of proportionality. The Regulation will promote the competitiveness of makers of generics and biosimilar producers established in the Union, enhancing growth and job creation in the internal market and contributing to a wider supply of products under uniform conditions. This will help these makers to compete effectively in markets where intellectual property protection does not exist or has expired. It is intended tshould also complement the efforts of the Union’s trade policy to ensure open markets for Union-based manufacturkers of medicinal products. Indirectly, it is also intended to put those manufacturers in a better position to enter the Union market immediately after expiry of the relevant supplementary protection certificate. It would also help to serve the aim of fostering access to medicines in the Union by helping to ensure a swifter entry of generic and biosimilar medicines onto the market after expiry of the relevant certificate or active ingredients, and it will ensure that neither Member States’ health systems nor the patients are forced to bear excessive pharmacotherapy costs which would be in direct conflict with the public interest.
Amendment 52 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) In those specific and limited circumstances, and in order to creatit is appropriate to eliminate the aforementioned, unintended side effects of the supplementary protection certificate so as to enable a level -playing field between Union-based manufacturers and those in third country manufacturers, it is appropriate to restrict the protection conferred by aies. This would enable making exclusively for (i) export to third countries and (ii) entry onto the Union market immediately after expiry of the relevant supplementary protection certificate so, as to allow making for the exclusive purpose of export to third countries andwell as any related acts strictly necessary for that making or for the actual export or that entry onto the Union market itself.
Amendment 62 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) That exception should cover the making of the product, including the product which corresponds to the medicinal product protected by a supplementary protection certificate in the territory of a Member State, for the exclusive purpose of export to third countries, as well as any upstream or downstream acts by the maker or by third parties in a contractual relationship with the maker protected by a supplementary protection certificate, including the making of the corresponding medicinal product, in the territory of a Member State, for the exclusive purpose of export to third countries or countries where no supplementary protection certificate is in place and to prepare for Day-1 entry on the Union’s market, as well as any upstream or downstream acts, where such acts would otherwise require the consent of the certificate-holder, and are strictly necessary for making for the purpose of export or for the actual export itself and for Day-1 Entry. For instance, such acts may include the supply and import of active ingredients for the purpose of making the corresponding medicinal product to which the product covered by the certificate corresponds, or, temporary storage of the product or medicinal product, advertising for othe exclusivr activities necessary for the purpose of actually exporting to third country destinations or Day-1 Entry.
Amendment 66 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) In those specific and limited circumstances, and in order to create a level playing field between Union-based manufacturers and third country manufacturers, it is appropriate to restrict the protection conferred by a supplementary protection certificate so as to allow making for the exclusive purpose of export to third countriesor placing on the market after the expiry of the certificate and any related acts strictly necessary for making, for the eventual placing on the market or for the actual export itself.
Amendment 71 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) The exception should not cover placing thea medicinal product made for the exclusive purpose of export and Day 1 Entry on the market in thea Member State where a supplementary protection certificate is in force, either directly or indirectly after export, nor should it cover re- importation of the medicinal product to the market of a Member State in which a certificate is in force. Moreover, it should not cover any act or activity for the purpose of import of medicinal products, or parts of medicinal products, into the Union merely for the purposes of repackaging and re-exporting.
Amendment 71 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) That exception should cover the making of the product, including the product which corresponds to the medicinal product protected by a supplementary protection certificate in the territory of a Member State, for the exclusive purpose of export to third countriesor placing the product on the market after the expiry of the certificate, as well as any upstream or downstream acts by the maker or by third parties in a contractual relationship with the maker, where such acts would otherwise require the consent of the certificate-holder, and are strictly necessary for making for the purpose of export or for placing the product on the market subsequently to the certificate’s expiry or for the actual export itself. For instance, such acts may include the supply and import of active ingredients for the purpose of making the medicinal product to which the product covered by the certificate corresponds, or temporary storage of the product or advertising for the exclusive purpose of export to third country destinationsor stocking the product to prepare for entry to the market after the expiry of the certificate.
Amendment 75 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) By limiting the scope of the exception to making for the purposes of Day-1 Entry and of export outside the Union and acts strictly necessary for such making or for the actual export itself, the exception introduced by this Regulation will not unreasonably conflict with normal exploitation of the product or medicinal product in the Member State where the certificate is in force, nor unreasonably prejudice the legitimate interests of the certificate-holder, taking account of the legitimate interests of third parties.
Amendment 79 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
Amendment 87 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) By limiting the scope of the exception to making for the purpose of export outside the Unionand of marketing after the certificate has expired and acts strictly necessary for such making or for the actual export itself (including temporary storage and stocking), the exception introduced by this Regulation will not unreasonablyshould not conflict with normal exploitation of the product in the Member State where the certificate is in force, nor unreasonably prejudice the legitimate interests of the certificate- holder, taking account of the legitimate interests of third parties.
Amendment 91 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
Amendment 105 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14
Recital 14
Amendment 107 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) To this end, this Regulation should impose a once-off duty on the person making the product for the exclusive purpose of export, or of placing on the market after the expiry of the certificate requiring that person to provide certain information to the authority which granted the supplementary protection certificate in the Member State where the making is to take place. The information should be provided before the making is intended to start for the first time in that Member State. The making and related acts, including those performed in Member States other than the one of making in cases where the product is protected by a certificate in those other Member States too, should only fall within the scope of the exception where the maker has sent this notification to the competent industrial property authority (or other designated authority) of the Member State of making. The once-off duty to provide information to the authority should apply in each Member State where making is to take place, both as regards the making in that Member State, and as regards related acts, whether performed in that or another Member State, related to that making. The authority should be required to publish that information, in the interests of transparency and for the purpose of informing the holder of the certificate of the maker’s intention.
Amendment 114 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
Amendment 115 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) In addition, this Regulation should impose certain due diligence requirements on the maker as a condition for the exception to operate. The maker should be required to inform persons within its supply chain, through appropriate means, in particular contractual means, that the product is covered by the exception introduced by this Regulation and is intended for the exclusive purpose of export, and/or that it is being manufactured exclusively to be marketed only after the expiry of the certificate. A maker who failed to comply with these due diligence requirements would not benefit from the exception, nor would any third party performing a related act in the same or a different Member State where a certificate conferring protection for the product was in force, and the holder of the relevant certificate would therefore be entitled to enforce its rights under the certificate.
Amendment 126 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) In order to ensure that holders of supplementary protection certificates already in force are not deprived of their acquired rights, the exception provided for in this Regulation should only apply to certificates that are granted on or after a specified date after entry into force, irrespective of when the application for the certificate was first lodged. The date specified sabolish segmentation among EU and non EU undertakings, and ensure equal treatment, the exception provided for in this Regulation should apply immediately after this Regulation comes in force. This Regulation should apply to certificates that are valid at entry into force. Such solution shall not interfere with legal rights of hould allow a reasonable time for applers of supplementary protection certificantes and other relevant market players to adjust to the changed legal context and to make appropriate investment and manufacturing location decisions in a timely way. The date should also allow sufficient time for public authorities to put in place appropriate arrangements to receive and publish notifications of the intention to make, and should take due account of pending applications for certificatesrising from this legal instrument. Holders of supplementary protection certificates already in force shall not be deprived of their acquired rights, if the exception provided for in this Regulation should apply to certificates that are valid and in force at the date of entry into force of this Regulation.
Amendment 131 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) In order to ensure that the rights of holders of supplementary protection certificates already in force are not deprived of their acquired rights not unduly restricted, the exception provided for in this Regulation should only apply to certificates that are granted on or after a specified dateapplied for after the entry into force of this Regulation, as well as to certificates that enter into effect two years after the entry into force of this Regulation, irrespective of when the application for thse certificates was first lodged. The date specified should allow a reasonable time for applicants and other relevanere granted. It is necessary to ensure a timely entry into force of this Regulation, given that, as from 2020, patents will expire in third countries for many high-turnover medicinal products that market players to adjust to the changed legal context and toe protected by certificates in the Union, thus opening up considerable new opportunities in global marke appropriate investment and manufacturing location decisions in a timely way. The date should also allow sufficient time for public authorities to put in place appropriate arrangements to receive and publish notifications of the intention to make, and should take due accountts that makers of generics and biosimilars established in the Union should be able to seize. At the same time, these timing arrangements should allow a reasonable time for certificate holders to adjust to the changed legal context and to make appropriate investment decisions in a timely way, while ensuring that the economic benefits of the exception can be effectively reaped by makers of pgending applications for certificateerics and biosimilars.
Amendment 133 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) It is necessary and appropriate for the achievement of the basic objective, of providing a level playing field for generic and biosimilar manufacturers with their competitors in third country markets where protection does not exist or has expired, to lay down rules restricting the exclusive right of a supplementary protection certificate holder to make the product in question during the term of the certificate, and also to impose certain information and labelling obligations on makers wishing to take advantage of those rulesenabling the making of the product in question during the term of the certificate. This Regulation complies with the principle of proportionality, and does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve the objectives pursued, in accordance with Article 5(4) of the Treaty on European Union.
Amendment 138 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 22
Recital 22
(22) This Regulation respects fundamental rights and observes the principles recognised by the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. In particular, this Regulation seeks to ensure full respect for the right to property in Article 17 of the Charter by maintaining the core rights of the supplementary protection certificate, by confining the exception to certificates granted on or after a specified date after entry into force of this Regulation and by imposing certain conditions on the application of the exception,the right to health care in Article 35 of the Charter by making medicines more accessible to EU patients, the principle of proportionality in Article 52 of the Charter, point (a) of Article 6 TFEU on the right to health protection for European citizens.
Amendment 143 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EU) No 469/2009
Article 4 – paragraph 2
Article 4 – paragraph 2
2. The certificate referred to in paragraph 1 shall not confer protection against a particularcertain acts against which the basic patent conferred protection if, with respect to that particular act, the following conditions are met:
Amendment 143 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) It is necessary and appropriate for the achievement of the basic objective, of providing a level playing field for generic and biosimilar manufacturers with their competitors in third country markets where protection does not exist or has expired, to lay down rules restricting the exclusive right of a supplementary protection certificate holder to make the product in question during the term of the certificate, and also to impose certain information and labelling obligations on makers wishing to take advantage of those rules. This Regulation complies with the principle of proportionality, and does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve the objectives pursued, in accordance with Article 5(4) of the Treaty on European Union.
Amendment 144 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 22
Recital 22
(22) This Regulation respects fundamental rights and observes thee CJEU has confirmed on numerous occasions that the objective pursued by Regulation No 469/2009 is not to compensate the holder fully for the delay to the marketing of his invention. Moreover, the protection granted by the SPC relates to exclusivity on the EU market which does not fall within the scope of the waiver introduced by this Regulation in respect of the fundamental rights and principles recogniszed by the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. In particular, this Regulation seeks toaims at ensureing full respect for the right to property inguaranteed by Article 17(2) of the Charter by maintaining the core rights of the supplementary protection certificate, by confining the exception to certificates granted on or after a specified date after entry into force of this Regulation and by imposing certain conditions on the applic holder. By the introduction of this exception, the Union adopts a solution in the pharmaceutical sector which is essential to promote public interest. The exception should be considered in the light of the principle of proportionality, measuring it up with the protection of values such as health protection, which is a special emanation of the general concept of public interest. Facilitating the wide-ranging availability of medicinal products constitutes an important goal of health policy, including the one pursued at the EU level in accordance with Article 35 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. Any unjustified delay of lawful price competition in the pharmaceutical sector means that both state budgets and patients are forced to bear excessive pharmacotherapy costs, which is in conflict with the public interest. The provisions establishing supplementary protection certificate aim at compensating the holder of the basic patent for the period prior to the granting of a marketing authorization when they cannot enjoy the market exclusivity conferred by the basic patent. This compensation consists of a specific extension of patent protection for the purpose of ensuring market exclusivity lasting 15 years from the first marketing authorization of the medicinal product. Such an extension, however, does not grant an absolute right to the holder of the certificate and therefore may be subject to certain restrictions, as long as the essential compensation function of the extension is safeguarded, notably that adequate market exclusivity is ensured for the duration of the certificate. In order to reap the full benefits of the exception introduced by this Regulation with due regard to the protection of legitimate expectations and without unduly curtailing acquired rights, the exception should be operational in the case of certificates that enter into effect two years after the entry into force of this Regulation, irrespective of when these certificates were granted. This solution ensures an appropriate transitional period but also makes the exception apply across the board from the specified date, allowing for a timely and transparent introduction of the new regime. From the point of view of public interest, it is most beneficial to introduce the waiver as soon as possible. However, postponing its application guarantees predictability to applicants and other stakeholders. In addition, it is ensured that legal continuity is maintained to the extent that it is necessary for the planned systemic change. It needs to be underlined that it is not possible to achieve the desired goal by other means. The legitimate expectations of the exception, holders of certificates granted before the specified date remains fully respected, as the exception does not alter their factual status on the markets on which they enjoy the extension of patent protection in any economically relevant manner. They will continue to enjoy market exclusivity for the same amount of time, as their competitors will only be able to lawfully enter the market in territories where no such exclusivity exists.
Amendment 147 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EU) No 469/2009
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point a – point i
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point a – point i
(i) making for the exclusive purpose(s) of export to third countries; and/or entry onto the market of Member States immediately after expiry of the certificate in those Member States; and/or
Amendment 155 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – introductory part
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – introductory part
(1) Article 45 is replaced by the following:
Amendment 156 #
2018/0161(COD)
Article 45 – Subject matter of protection and exeffect of the ceprtions to rights conferredficate
Amendment 157 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EU) No 469/2009
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point a – point i
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point a – point i
(ia) making for the exclusive purpose of putting the product on the market after expiration of the SPC within period of 9 months before expiration of the SPC; or
Amendment 157 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EC) No 469/2009
Article 4 – paragraph 1
Article 4 – paragraph 1
1. Within the limits of the protection conferred by the basic patent, the protection conferred by a certificate shall extend only to the product covered by the authorisation to place the corresponding medicinal product on the market and for any use of the product as a medicinal product that has been authorised before the expiry of the certificateSubject to the provisions of Article 4, the certificate shall confer the same rights as conferred by the basic patent and shall be subject to the same limitations and the same obligations.
Amendment 158 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EC) No 469/2009
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
2. The certificate referred to in paragraph 1 shall not confer protection against a particular act against which the basic patent conferred protection if, with respect to that particular act,By way of derogation from paragraph 1, the certificate shall not confer protection against a particular act which would otherwise require the consent of the holder of the certificate referred to in Article 11 (‘the certificate holder’) if the following conditions are met:
Amendment 159 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EU) No 469/2009
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point a – point ii
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point a – point ii
(ii) any related act that is strictly necessary for that making or for the actual export itself;, for the export, and/or for effectively entering the market of Member States immediately after expiry of the certificate in those Member States.
Amendment 166 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EU) No 469/2009
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point b
Amendment 170 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EC) No 469/2009
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point a – point i
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point a – point i
(i) making for the exclusive purpose of export to third countries or to countries where no supplementary protection certificate is in place; or placing on the market after the expiry of the certificate; or
Amendment 180 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EU) No 469/2009
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point c
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point c
Amendment 186 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EU) No 469/2009
Article 4 – paragraph 3
Article 4 – paragraph 3
Amendment 201 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EC) No 469/2009
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point b
(b) the authority referred to in Article 9(1) of the Member State where that making is to take place (‘the relevant Member State’) is notified by the person doing the making (‘the maker’) of the information listed in points(a) and (c) of paragraph 3 no later than 28 days before the intended start date of making in that Member State;
Amendment 209 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EU) No 469/2009
Article 4 – paragraph 4
Article 4 – paragraph 4
Amendment 211 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EC) No 469/2009
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point c
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point c
(c) in the case of products made for the exclusive purpose of export to third countries, the maker ensures that a logo, in the form set out in Annex -I, is affixed to the outer packaging of the product or, if there is no outer packaging, to its immediate packaging;
Amendment 213 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EU) No 469/2009
Article 4 – paragraph 5
Article 4 – paragraph 5
5. Paragraph 2 shall apply in the case only of certificates granted on or after [OP: please insert the date of the first day of the third month that follows the month in which this amending Regulation is published in the Official Journal)].only to activities carried out after the entry into force of the present Regulation;
Amendment 219 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Amendment 222 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Regulation (EU) No 469/2009
Article 11 – paragraph 4
Article 11 – paragraph 4
Amendment 226 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EC) No 469/2009
Article 4 – paragraph 3 – point d
Article 4 – paragraph 3 – point d
Amendment 228 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EC) No 469/2009
Article 4 – paragraph 3 – point e
Article 4 – paragraph 3 – point e
Amendment 232 #
2018/0161(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Regulation (EC) No 469/2009
Article 4 – paragraph 3 – point f
Article 4 – paragraph 3 – point f
Amendment 29 #
2018/0122M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Reaffirms the shared commitment to respect for human rights, democracy, fundamental freedoms, good governance and the rule of law, and to working together for the global promotion and protection of these values and the rules based international order;
Amendment 46 #
2018/0122M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Suggests that the EU and Japan work together to increase the capacities of ASEAN regarding the regional integration agenda; supports the decision taken at the 33rd ASEAN-Japan Forum in Tokyo to further strengthen ties and address regional and international issues of common interest and to work together to promote peace and stability; calls for synergies between Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific strategy and EU initiatives, including the EU investment Plan and extended EU Trans-European Transport Networks to promote global cooperation in connectivity;
Amendment 1 #
2018/0091(NLE)
The Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety calls on the Committee on International Trade, as the committee responsible, to recommend rejectingthat the Parliament give its consent to the proposed Council decision on the conclusion of the Economic Partnership Agreement between the European Union and Japan.
Amendment 16 #
2017/2276(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas Western values and unity are under stress in an era of geopolitical turbulence; whereas the West’s two major organisations that have Europe at the centre of their activities, the EU and NATO, are making progress on enhancing their cooperation in facing complex threats, both conventional and hybrid, generated by state and non-state actors, coming from the South and the East; whereas neither organisation separately has the full range of tools to address them all on its ownse issues independent of each other;
Amendment 25 #
2017/2276(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas EU-NATO cooperation is notshould not be considered as a goal in itself but as a way to achieve the broad range of shared goals through complementarity of missions and available means; whereas together they can make efficient use of resources and mobilise more effectively a broad range of existing instruments to respond to security challenges;
Amendment 108 #
2017/2276(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Is convinced that the EU and NATO, sharing the same values, have both identical and similar strategic interests too in protecting their citizens against any threats;
Amendment 130 #
2017/2276(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes that the absence of a common threat perception within the EU can have an detrimental impact on relations between the EU and NATO; encourages the EU Member States therefore to find a shared understanding of the evolving threat environment and welcomes recent efforts in that direction;
Amendment 238 #
2017/2276(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Notes cumbersomethat current procedures infor sharing classified information between the two organisations remain cumbersome and inefficient; considers that both organisations share the same strategic challenges and, implicitly, will be dealing with the consequences together; believes that – by building mutual trust – cooperation in the exchange of classified information and intelligence analysis could be improved; is of the opinion that fostering a ‘need-to-share’ approach to intelligence exchange would also benefit missions and operations of both organisations; is of the view that the Parallel and Coordinated Intelligence Assessment could be used in fighting hybrid threats more effectively together;
Amendment 22 #
2017/2275(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas various international charters and laws prohibit the marriage of minors; whereas early and forced marriage has a very negative impact on the personal development of the individuals concerned and on the children resultingborn from the marriage;
Amendment 45 #
2017/2275(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas child, early and forced marriages are linked to high rates of maternal mortality, lower use of family planning and unwanted pregnancies, and and pregnancy at a premature age, which usually signal the end of a girl’s education;
Amendment 106 #
2017/2275(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Calls on legislators, both in the EUEU Member States and in third countries, to set the minimum age for marriage at 18 years and to provide themselves with the administrative, legal and financial means to be able to comply with this requirement;
Amendment 118 #
2017/2275(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Believes it is important to comprehensively tackle the multiple causes of early and forced marriage, including age-old traditions having little regard for gender equality and women’s affairspractices which fail to incorporate gender equality, the lack of educational opportunities and, very often, the endemic poverty in the communities concerned;
Amendment 187 #
2017/2275(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 – point f
Paragraph 8 – point f
f. the implementation of these programmes builds on the relevant conventions and texts, as well as the specific goals adopted by the United Nations General Assembly Resolution of 25 September 2015 in the context of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals, in particular Goal 3 (‘Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages’), Goal 4 (‘Ensure inclusive and quality education for all and promote lifelong learning’) and Goal 5 (‘Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls’), including access to all sexual and reproductive health services, in particular safe abortion for girls;
Amendment 13 #
2017/2272(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the effects of climate change are having increasingly severe impacts on different aspects of human life as well as on the global order anddevelopment opportunities and worldwide geopolitical order and stability; whereas climate diplomacy can be understood as a form of targeted foreign policy to promote climate action through reaching out to other actors, cooperating on specific climate-related issues, building strategic partnerships and strengthening relations withbetween state and non- state actors including major contributors to global pollution, thereby contributing to mitigating the effects of climate change;
Amendment 24 #
2017/2272(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas EU climate diplomacy has to encourage risk management projects, model public opinion, encourage political and economic cooperation to counter climate change and to promote low carbon economy;
Amendment 28 #
2017/2272(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C b (new)
Recital C b (new)
Cb. whereas EU climate diplomacy should produce a model of proactive adjustment encouraging interaction between policies countering climate change; whereas institutionalization of climate change policies is corresponding to public awareness and should translate to clearer political will;
Amendment 55 #
2017/2272(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that the effects of climate change have a tangible impact on severall aspects of human life, on peace and securityespecially on global resources, development opportunities, security, regional relations and peace and that these effects are increasingly being felt in theaffecting lives of EU citizens, as well as challenging the international community; underlines the increasing urgency of climate action and that addressing climate change requires a joint effort at international level, as it constitutes a collective responsibility towards the entire planet, for the current and future generations;
Amendment 57 #
2017/2272(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Notes with concern the deterioration of the world’s water resources and ecosystems, as well as the growing threat posed by water scarcity, water related risks and extreme events;
Amendment 79 #
2017/2272(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes thatRegrets the US President’s announcement of the country’sdecision to withdrawal from the Paris Agreement gives the EU the opportunity and reinforces its obligation to assume a leading role in climate action and to step up its; reaffirms the role of the EU as a leader in global climate action and reinforces its commitment to increasing climate diplomacy efforts to form a strong alliance of countries and actors that will continue to support and contribute to the objectives of limiting global warming to well below 2°C while pursuing efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C; highlights nevertheless the importance of closely cooperating with the US government, and in particular US states and cities;
Amendment 91 #
2017/2272(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Believes that mitigating climate change and moving towards a low- emission economy will contribute to enhanced peace and security both within and outside of the EU as climate change often exacerbates existing instabilities and conflicts, evenpotentially leading to increased migration flows due to the scarcity of resources and lack of economic opportunities as well as a deterioration in living conditions;
Amendment 114 #
2017/2272(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Underlines the importance of the EU speaking with a single and unified voice in all international forums and calls on the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and the Commission to coordinate a joint EU effort to ensure its commitment to the implementation of the Paris Agreement; encourages the EU to consider ways to further raise the level of ambition of the Paris Agreement; insists on the need to develop a comprehensive strategy for EU climate diplomacy and to integrate climate into all fields of EU external action, including trade, development cooperation, humanitarian aid and security and defence;
Amendment 126 #
2017/2272(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls for Parliament’s greater involvement and the establishment of an annual process, initiated by the Commission and the EEAS and carried out in cooperation with the Member States, to identify key priorities for EU climate diplomacy in the year in question and to come forward with concrete recommendations for addressing capacity gaps;
Amendment 149 #
2017/2272(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Underlines that gender equality, women´s empowerment and women´s full and equal participation and leadership are vital to achieve sustainable development, including climate change adaptation;
Amendment 162 #
2017/2272(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. Emphasises the need for the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to take swift and appropriate additional actions in order for international shipping to contribute its fair share to the fight against climate change;
Amendment 179 #
2017/2272(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Reiterates the key importance of cities and regions for these efforts and for fighting climate changes introducing innovations, measures of environment protection, use of green technologies, investing in skills, training and increasing competitiveness through developing pure technologies at local levels;
Amendment 183 #
2017/2272(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 b (new)
Paragraph 12 b (new)
12b. Recognises the importance of effective and efficient adaptation action, strategies and plans, including the use of ecosystem-based solutions to enhance adaptive capacity, strengthen resilience, and reduce vulnerability to climate change in the context of the Paris Agreement;
Amendment 198 #
2017/2272(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14a. Highlights the need to streamline EU policies in order to adequately respond to situations such as water and food scarcity, which are likely to occur more often in the future; recalls that such scarcities of fundamental nutrition would pose severe long-term security challenges which risk to potentially off-set other achievements of EU development policy;
Amendment 220 #
2017/2272(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15a. Calls upon the EU to actively support initiatives developing smart technology systems to the fight against climate change as technological advances in this area will give European companies a competitive lead in an emerging market while simultaneously reducing the negative effects of climate change at a global level;
Amendment 236 #
2017/2272(INI)
17. Considers it important that the EU keep up its efforts to re-engage the US in multilateral cooperation on climate action and points out that the Brexit negotiations and the future relationship with the UK must reflect the need for continued cooperation on climate diplomacy;
Amendment 251 #
2017/2272(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Calls on the EU and its Member States to strengthen their ties with civil society and to form alliances and build up synergies with the scientific community, non-governmental organisations, non- traditional actors and the private sector, to develop export strategies for climate technologies and to encourage technology transfer to and capacity-building in third countries; asks the EU to align the goals, ideas and methods of different actors to establish a coordinated approach to climate action;
Amendment 61 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Highlights that the EU-US relationship is the fundamental guarantor for global stability and has been the cornerstone of our efforts to ensure peace and stability for our societies since the end of the Second World War, and stronger multilateral economic cooperation and trade; believes that the ‘America first’ policy will harm the interests of both the EU and the US; stresses that protectionism should be avoided in the interest of all parties;
Amendment 80 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Is concerned about the diverging views on addressing global issues and regional conflicts that have appeared since the election of President Trumpespecially since 2017; seeks clarity as to whether the transatlantic relationship, which was defined over decades, still has the same relevance today; stresses that the values-based overarching framework of our partnership is essential to securing the architecture of the global economy and security;
Amendment 128 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Welcomes the ongoing and uninterrupted work of the TLD in fostering EU-US relations through parliamentary dialogue and coordination on issues of specific common interest, such as trade, security, economic and cultural issues; calls furthermore for a continued intensification of the dialogue and a strengthening of the transatlantic cooperation;
Amendment 133 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Recalls that both in the EU and the US, our societies are strong because they are built on a plurality of actors, including among others our governments, parliaments, various political institutions, civil society organisations, media and religious groups; highlights that we should foster links across the Atlantic to promote the merits of our transatlantic partnership, including by allocating appropriate funding, at different levels and not only focusing on the East and West Coasts;
Amendment 198 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Stresses the importance of cooperation, coordination and synergy effects in the field of security and defence and insists that burden sharing should not be solely focused on the target of spending 2 % of GDP on defence; states that NATO is still crucial for the collective defence of Europe and its allies;
Amendment 210 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Calls on the EU to strengthen and speed up the European Defence Union with a view to creating more synergies in defence spending; insists that more defence cooperation at EU level strengthens the European contribution within the NATO alliance and reinforces our transatlantic bond; supports, therefore, the recent efforts to step up the European defence architecture, including the European Defence Fund and the newly established Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) as well as expanding efforts of common European Defence Research in close cooperation with non-EU members of NATO;
Amendment 218 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Reiterates the need for the EU and the US to enhance their cooperation in the field of cybersecurity and defence as well as ICT-security and strengthening of safety efforts to protect critical infrastructure including advancing common standards and stimulating compatibility and interoperability;
Amendment 229 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Underlines the need for a common approach to regulating digital platforms and to increasing their accountability as well as their adherence to copyright and the rights of the rightholders;
Amendment 234 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19a. Stresses the need for proper negotiations regarding standardisation especially in the context of the increasingly rapid developments of technology, especially in the IT area;
Amendment 235 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Emphasises that an important part of strengthening EU-US counter-terrorism efforts includes the protection of critical infrastructure as well as a comprehensive approach to fighting terrorism, also via coordination in global forumregional, multilateral, and global forums as well as to promote the exchange of data relating to terrorist activities;
Amendment 244 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Calls for the stipulation of a political and societal dialogue balancing anonymity and responsibility in social media in the context of hate speech and fake news phenomena, cybercrime, extremist propaganda, and the infringement of the electoral process in social media;
Amendment 316 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Is concerned about US security and trade policy in East and Southeast Asia, including the political vacuum resulting from its TPP withdrawal, and welcomes the active trade policy of the EU in this part of the world, also for sake of political balance, this also applies to the TTIP or similar EU-US efforts;
Amendment 345 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. Reiterates that we have sharedcommon interests in Africa where we must coordinate and intensify our support for good governance, democracy, human rights and security issueefforts regarding stable good governance with respect of democracy, economy with respect to internationally agreed standards for sustainability and the protection of the environment as well as regarding human rights and security issues on local, regional, and multinational levels;
Amendment 363 #
2017/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Points to our common political, economic and security interests with regard to China and Russia and recalls that joint efforts, including atespecially through the appointment of judges in the WTO, could be helpful to address imbalances in global trade deals with foreign ambitions, as on Ukraine and on the silk road;
Amendment 11 #
2017/2254(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 16 a (new)
Citation 16 a (new)
– having regard to the European Center for Disease Control Report 2016 on Antimicrobial resistance surveillance in Europe;
Amendment 25 #
2017/2254(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas prudent antibiotic use and infection prevention and control targeting all healthcare sectors are the cornerstones for effective intervention to prevent the selection and transmission of antibiotic- resistant bacteria;
Amendment 44 #
2017/2254(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas healthcare-associated infections (HAI) are often due to antibiotic-resistant bacteria and poor hygiene practices, especially in hospitals; whereas the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) estimates that approximately 4 million patients acquire a HAI each year in the EU and that approximately 37 000 deaths result directly from these infections;
Amendment 138 #
2017/2254(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to align surveillance, monitoring and reporting of AMR patterns and pathogens; calls on the Commission to encourage and support Member States to put in place and monitor national targets for the surveillance and reduction of AMR/HAIs.
Amendment 369 #
2017/2254(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21 a. Calls on the Commission to assess the efficiency of current hygeine practices and santitation methods in hospitals and healthcare environments; asks the Commission to explore the use of probiotics and other sustainable hygenie techonologies as efficient sanitations approaches to prevent and reduce the number of HAIs attributed to AMR;
Amendment 395 #
2017/2254(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23 a. Calls on the Commission to take the gloabl lead in advocating evidence- based best practice models for early diagnosis to tackle AMR;
Amendment 29 #
2017/2227(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Supports the upcoming launch of negotiations for an EU-Australia free trade agreement, which must be conducted in a spirit of reciprocity and mutual benefit while taking into account the sensitivity of certain products; encourages a high degree of ambition in the area of services; points out the timely launch of these negotiations, given that Australia has already reached several FTAs with important countries in East Asia and the Pacific and is about to conclude them with other relevant countries; urges that the negotiations be concluded within a swift timeframe;
Amendment 55 #
2017/2227(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Reiterates that the fight against climate change requires the support of the whole international community; recognizes Australia as a global partner in climate action and anticipates further foreign policy endeavours along these lines; welcomes Australia’s ratification of the Paris Agreement and the commitment laid down in the FA to enhance cooperation in order to fight climate change; takes note of Australia’s target of reducing emissions by 26 to 28 % below 2005 levels by 2030, which was reaffirmed in the 2017 Review of Climate Change Policies; highlights that this review maintains the commitment to help other countries through bilateral and multilateral initiatives;
Amendment 15 #
2017/2206(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas traditionalerritories which have traditionally been inhabited by indigenous territoripeoples encompass approximately 22 % of the world’s land surface and are estimated to hold 80 % of the planet’s biodiversity; whereas the tropical forests inhabited by indigenous peoples and local communities contribute, at least for one quarter, to store carbon across the tropical forest biome, making them valuable in any strategy to address climate change;
Amendment 16 #
2017/2206(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas indigenous peoples hold a unique relationship with the land and environment in which they live, utilizing available natural resources to establish unique systems of knowledge, innovations and practices related to the use and management of these lands, which in turn shapes a fundamental part of their identity and spirituality;
Amendment 20 #
2017/2206(INI)
C. whereas human rights treaties recognise the right of indigenous peoples to their ancestral lands and resources and provide that states must consult indigenous peoples in good faith in order to obtain their free, prior and informed consent pertaining to projects that can have a negative impact on their ways of life or that can, threaten the natural resources they have traditionally cultivated and continue to depend upon or lead to the displacement of their populations;
Amendment 28 #
2017/2206(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the collective and individual rights of indigenous peoples continue to be violated in various regions of the world, and as a result they continue to face physical, psychological and sexual violence as well as racism, exclusion, discrimination, forced evictions, destructive settlement, illegal expropriation of their traditional domains or deprivation of access to their resources and, livelihoods and traditional knowledge;
Amendment 30 #
2017/2206(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. whereas traditional knowledge can be defined as practical knowledge, skills and practices that have been developed, sustained and transmitted from generation to generation within a community, often contributing to the cultural or spiritual identity, having been developed communally and jointly, therefore to be considered as collective property of the entire community; whereas this traditional knowledge has been a significant contributing factor to the development of humanity; whereas the modern commercial use and reification of this knowledge threatens the role of indigenous peoples as the traditional holders and custodians of this knowledge;
Amendment 81 #
2017/2206(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Calls on the EU, the Member States and their partners in the international community to adopt all necessary measures for the full recognition, protection and promotion of the rights of indigenous peoples and the protection of their property;
Amendment 97 #
2017/2206(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on all states, including the EU and the Member States, to include indigenous peoples and rural communities in their decision making processes used to determine strategies for tackling climate change;
Amendment 108 #
2017/2206(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Urges the EU and its Member States to redouble their efforts in order to ensure the physical integrity and the legal assistance of indigenous, environmental, intellectual property and land rights defenders;
Amendment 149 #
2017/2206(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Recommends that the EU develops a European regional action plan for business and human rights, guided by the principles enshrined in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and calls for the development and enforcement of national action plans focused on this issue;
Amendment 175 #
2017/2206(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Invites the EU to urge its partner states to draw up inclusive social policies for indigenous peoples in ancurrently living in traditional territories or urban environments, in order to reduce the effects of uprooting and of the mismatch between their traditional capabilities and contemporary metropolitan dynamics;
Amendment 199 #
2017/2206(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Calls on the EU to ensure that all EU-funded development projects that could in any way negatively affect the livelihoods, culture, lands and resources of indigenous peoples rigorously comply with the principle of free, prior and informed consent;
Amendment 215 #
2017/2203(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point l – introductory part
Paragraph 1 – point l – introductory part
(l) calls on the Member States to regulate hawala, making it mandatory to declare to the authorities every transaction made using the hawala system, and emphasisingfor agents carrying out hawala transactions to declare to every transaction made using the hawala system to the relevant authorities, while communicating with groups affected by these measures that the aim is not to crack down on traditional informal money transfers, but on trafficking involving organised crime, terrorism or industrial/commercial profits deriving from dirty money; in this respect, calls for:
Amendment 31 #
2017/2123(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Deplores the fact that terrorist and criminal organisations are proliferating and instability isincreasing in strength and number while instability simultaneously spreadings in the South, as fragile and disintegrating states throw upresult in large ungoverned spaces; stresses that in the vulnerable to outside forces; stresses the continuation of East Russia’s war against Ukraine and its illegal annexation of Crimea continue; is deeply concerned that hybrid tactics, including cyberterrorism and information warfare, are destabilising the Eastern Partnership countries and the western Balkans, as well as targeting Western democracies and increasing tensions within them; is concerned that the security environment surrounding the EU will remain highly volatile for years to come;
Amendment 62 #
2017/2123(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Believes strongly that whenever necessary, the European Union needs to take its destiny into its own handsshould take decisive action to determine its future; stresses that the framing of a common defence policy referred to in Article 42 TEU has the objective of establishing common defence and endowing the Union with strategic autonomy and freedom of action in promoting peace, security and progress in Europe and in the world;
Amendment 28 #
2017/2121(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Takes the view that, in order for the EU to succeed in addressing the challenges it facesand successfully overcoming the challenges Member States face at the national level and collectively, and in particular security threats, it needs to both be an effective global player and focus its resources on strategic priorities;
Amendment 80 #
2017/2121(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Is of the view that, in an international environment that is increasingly conflict-ridden and unstable, only a joint soft power with credibleunder threat of destabilisation and conflict, soft power must be used simultaneously and in combination with hard power canto confront major security challenges, notably the refugee crisis, terrorism, conflicts in the Eastern and Southern neighbourhoods, proxy wars and hybrid warfare, and to challenginge assertive behaviour by Russia and China to challenge have exercised in the region; takes the view that it is necessary to tackle the root causes of instability and of forced and irregular migration, namelysuch as poverty, the lack of economic opportunities, armed conflicts, bad governance and climate change;
Amendment 102 #
2017/2121(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Underlines the need to intensify the fight against Islamist terrorism in the Southern neighbourhood and among throughout other neighbours of our neighbours; urges the needing regions; calls for concerted diplomatic efforts on the part of the EU, the US and other international allies, to convincinvolve players in the region, such as Turkey, the Gulf states and Iran, of the need for a common strategy to address this global challenge; believes that these diplomatic efforts should be accompcan be enhaniced by the wide range of other tools and instruments at the EU’s disposal;
Amendment 119 #
2017/2121(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Stresses that a sustainable political solution to the Syrian crisis needs to be based on an inclusive, Syrian-led political settlement involving all relevant national and international stakeholders; supports the call of the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Syria on the ceasefire guarantor states to undertake urgent efforts to uphold the ceasefire regime; calls on all parties involved, inside and outside Libya, to support both the Libyan political agreement signed on 17 December 2015 and its resulting Presidential Council, which is the only authority recognised by the international community and by the UN; underlines that solving the Libyan crisis is a prerequisite for stability in the Mediterranean;
Amendment 181 #
2017/2121(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Recognises the importance of selective engagement and, whenevere possible, dialogue with Russia so as to ensure accountability and to maintain the possibility of and encourage future cooperation on resolving global crises where there is a clear EU interopportunity to promote EU valuest;
Amendment 201 #
2017/2121(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Reiterates the need for a strategic refocus on the Western Balkans, recognizing the need for the EU follow through with its ambitions in the region, giving a fresh impetus to EU enlargement policy and strengthening the rule of law and the resilience of state institutions; is convinced that regional reconciliation and integration through the transatlantic institutional architecture is the best means to address the dangers stemming from destabilising foreign interference, organised crime, disinformation and hybrid threats; remains dedicated to fostering high-functioning political societies through inter-parliamentary exchanges and open dialogue with candidate countries in the region;
Amendment 4 #
2017/2083(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses the increasing importance of political, security and economic relations between the EU and Africa at a time when both are experiencing profound changes, and recognises the contribution made by the Joint Africa-EU Strategy to building a stronger partnership over the past 10 years; calls for increased cooperation between the EU and African countries facilitated by inter-parliamentary dialogue; encourages African partners to continue to make inter-parliamentary cooperation at bilateral, regional and international levels a political priority;
Amendment 87 #
2017/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point h
Paragraph 1 – point h
(h) to establish specific measures aimed at implementing the recommendations by the OSCE/ODHIR and the Council of Europe’s Venice Commission with a view to ensuring progress towards free and credible elections and referenda that allow for a free and fairwhich guarantee the free expression of Azerbaijani citizens’ views and aspirations;
Amendment 265 #
2017/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point a c
Paragraph 1 – point a c
(ac) to ensure that the agreement has a robust parliamentary dimension, strengthening the current provisions and mechanisms of cooperation to enable increased input into and scrutiny of its implementation, notably through the establishment of an upgraded interparliamentary structure encouraging regular and constructive dialogue between the European Parliament and the parliament of Azerbaijan to consider all aspects of relations and implementation of agreements;
Amendment 5 #
2017/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that the EU is faced with multiple challenges that affect global stability and that can only be tackled with long-term and holistic external actions; recalls the ambition of EU leaders as expressed in the Rome Declaration to strive towards a Union that is ‘big on big issues and small on small ones’; calls for the multi-annual financial framework (MFF) to make this a reality by substantially increasing external action appropriations (Heading 4), thereby makingo position common foreign policy a core EU function and responsibility of the EU;
Amendment 23 #
2017/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Highlights that increased funding is needed for an effective European response to modern global challenges and to tackle Europe’s new priorities, which are reflected in the EU Global Strategy and the renewed European Neighbourhood policy, including development aid, human rights violations, bad governance, security threats and armed conflicts, and natural disasters and climate change as well as the refugee and migratory challenges caused by these issues;
Amendment 101 #
2017/2025(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Calls for the EU, together with the Member States, and India to pursue and strengthen their efforts in promoting effective, rule-based multilateralism at global level; urges the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and the Council to support reform of the UN Security Council including India's bid for Permanent Membership; encourages them EU and India to coordinate as much as possible their positions and initiatives at UN level on issues where their cooperation could make a difference, but also in other international fora, such as the World Trade Organisation (WTO);
Amendment 24 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) It is important to provide legal certainty and to ensure EU wide coordination and cooperation by establishing a framework for the screening of foreign direct investment in the Union on grounds of security or public order. This is without prejudice to the sollegal certainty should not interfere with the unique responsibility of the Member States for the mainto mandaten ance ofd control the national security of their respective countries.
Amendment 27 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) The framework for the screening of foreign direct investment should provide the Member States and the Commission with the necessary means to address risks to security or public order in a comprehensive manner, and toenabling adaptation to changing circumstances, whilst maintaining the necessary flexibility for Member States to screen foreign direct investments on grounds of security and public order taking into account their individual situations and varying national circumstances in each Member State.
Amendment 46 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) In determining whether a foreign direct investment may affect security or public order, Member States and the Commission should be able to consider all relevant factors, including the effects on critical infrastructure, technologies, including key enabling technologies, and inputs which are essential for security or the maintenance of public order, and the disruption, loss or destruction of which would have a significant impact in a Member State or in the Union. In that regard, Member States and the Commission should also be able to take into account whether a foreign investor is controlled directly or indirectly (e.g. through significant funding, including subsidies) by the government of a third country.
Amendment 51 #
2017/0224(COD)
(14) A mechanism which enables Member States to cooperate and assist each other where a foreign direct investment in one Member State may affect the security or public order of other Member States should be set up. Member States should be enabled to provide comments to ahrough proper channels to adequately communicate with another Member State in which thean investment is planned or has been completed, irrespective of whether the Member States providing comments or the Member States in which the investment is planned or has been completed maintain a screening mechanism or are screening the investment. The comments of Member States should also be forwarded to the Commission. The Commission should also have the possibility, where appropriate, to issue an opinion to the Member State in which the investment is planned or has been completed, irrespective of whether this Member State maintains a screening mechanism or is screening the investment and irrespective of whether other Member States have provided comments.
Amendment 63 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) Where the Commission considers that a foreign direct investment is likely to affect projects or programmes of Union interest on grounds of security or public order, the Commission should have the possibility to address an opinion to the Member States in which such investment is planned or completed within a reasonable timeframe. The Member States should take utmost account of the opinion and provide an explanation to the Commission if they do not follow this opinion, in compliance with their duty of sincere cooperation under Article 4(3) TEU. The Commission should also have the possibilitybe able to request from those Member States the information necessary for its screening of such investment.
Amendment 217 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Calls on the Kosovo authorities to address gender mainstreamingequality between men and women as a priority and to ensure that governing bodies and authorities lead by example; is concerned about the structural challenges hampering the implementation of the law on gender equality between men and women, and remains concerned about the under- representation of women in decision- making positions; is concerned that no progress has been made on combating domestic and gendersex-based violence; urges the authorities to encourage publicly and put in place protection mechanisms and shelter measures for women who break the silence and denounce domestic violence, and welcomes in this respect the NGO ‘'Be a Man’' founded by men in Pristina;
Amendment 281 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 a (new)
Paragraph 25 a (new)
25 a. Strongly condemns the act of sending a Serbian nationalist train from Belgrade to Northern Kosovo; interprets this as an act of provocation and a step back in Serbia-Kosovo relations;
Amendment 238 #
2016/2313(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Is concerned about cases of political pressure and intimidation against journalists, including physical and verbal attacks, as well as by the lack of transparency in media ownership; emphasises the need to investigate attacks against journalists and ensure proper judicial follow-up; calls on the competent authorities to ensure the independence and financial stability of the three public service broadcasters as well as the political, operational and financial independence of the Communications Regulatory Authority; calls for the digital switchover to be finalised and for a broadband strategy to be drawn up; calls for introduction of legislation to guarantee media pluralism and for programmes to be broadcast in the languages of all of the three constituent peoples;
Amendment 245 #
2016/2313(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Remains concerned by the continued fragmentation, inefficiency and complexity of the education system; calls for countrywide common core curricula and better coordination between the different levels of education governance, in a way to still ensure the right of children to education in their own language; continues to be concerned about the persistently high school-drop-out rates of Roma pupils; regrets the slow progress in addressing and resolving the issue of ‘two schools under one roof’ and other forms of segregation and discrimination in schoolsarding the system' two schools under one roof' calls on the authorities to promote the principles of tolerance and dialogue as well as the right of all constituent peoples to education in their own language;
Amendment 277 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20 a. Reiterates its call on the authorities to continue their efforts to eliminate the legacy of the former Communist secret services by making its files open to the public, as a step towards the democratisation of Serbia; calls on Serbia to intensify the process of succession and implementation of obligations relating to the division of the common archive of the former Yugoslavia; reiterates, in this connection, that full access to all archival materials, especially those of the former Yugoslav Secret Services (UDBA) and the Yugoslav People's Army Security Service (KOS) is of vital significance; reiterates its call to the authorities to facilitate access to those archives that concern the former republics of Yugoslavia and to return them to their respective governments if they so request;
Amendment 75 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the implementation of the political agreement leading to early parliamentary elections on 11 December 2016 and the respect for fundamental freedoms shown at the elections of 11 December 2016; urges all political parties to accept its results in the interest of domestic stability and underlines their responsibility to ensure that there is no backsliding into political crisis; calls for a swift formation of a new government in order to make use of the mandate to carry on with necessary reforms; considers cross- party cooperation essential for addressing pressing domestic and EU-related challenges;
Amendment 114 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Underlines the strategic importance of supporting further progress in the process of EU integration and urges once again that the political will be shown to fully implement the Urgent Reform Priorities and the Przhino Agreement; calls on the Commission to assess, at its earliest convenience but before the end of 2017, the country’s progress on implementation and to report back to Parliament; while recalling that long overdue reforms need to be launched and implemented, supports the continuation of the High Level Accession Dialogue (HLAD) for systematically assisting the country in this endeavour; draws attention to the potential negative consequences of further delays in the country’s accession process;
Amendment 120 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 d (new)
Paragraph 4 d (new)
4 d. Welcomes the high level of legislative alignment with the acquis communautaire and acknowledges the priority given to the effective implementation and enforcement of existing legal and policy frameworks, as in the case of countries already engaged in the accession negotiations;
Amendment 121 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 e (new)
Paragraph 4 e (new)
4 e. Congratulates Macedonia for its continuous fulfilment of its commitments under the Stabilization and Association Agreement (SAA); calls on the Council to adopt the Commission's 2009 proposal to move to the second stage of the SAA, in line with the relevant provisions;
Amendment 186 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Welcomes the adoption of the national strategy for equality and non- discrimination 2016-2020; is concerned about impartiality and the independence of the Commission for Protection from Discrimination; reiterates its condemnation of hate speech against discriminated groups; is concerned that intolerance against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) people persists; reiterates its call for the Anti- Discrimination Law to be aligned with the acquis as regards discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation; underlines again the need to combat discrimination against the Roma, and to facilitate their integration and their access to the education system and the labour market; is concerned about the inhumane physical conditions in prisons, despite a significant increase in the prison budget;
Amendment 273 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Commends the country for constructive cooperation in addressing the migration crisisnstructive role the country has played in dealing with the challenges of the migration crisis and adhering to the decision of the European Council to close the Western Balkan migration route in March 2016; recommends further actions to ensure capacities to combat human trafficking and migrant smuggling;
Amendment 309 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Welcomes the tangible results fromCommends the positive approach which has been applied to strengthen bilateral cooperation, especially in the context of European integration, for increasing mutual trust and promoting good neighborliness in concrete terms; acknowledges positive developments regarding the implementation of the confidence- building measures with Greece, including the visit of Greek Minister of Foreign Affairs to Skopje in August 2016; strongly reiterates its invitation to the Vice- President/High Representative (VP/HR) and the Commission to develop new initiatives to overcome the remaining differences and to work, in cooperation with the two countries and the UN Special Representative, on a mutually acceptable solution on the name issue and to report back to Parliament thereon; calls upon the UN to intensify the mediation process in order to find a mutually acceptable solution regarding the naming dispute with Greece and to request that Greece respects International Law and the 2011 ICJ ruling;
Amendment 294 #
2016/2308(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Condemns in the strongest terms all terrorist attacks carried out in Turkey, and stands firmly by Turkey’s population in our joint fight against terrorism; welcomes the close bilateral relations between EU Member States and Turkey in the field of anti-terrorism cooperation, including on ‘foreign fighters’; underlines that strong cooperation between Europol and Turkish law enforcement authorities is key to effectively combat terrorism; reiterates its condemnation of the return to violence by the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), which has been on the EU’s list of terrorist organisations since 2002; invites the Member States to enforce legislation banning the use of signs and symbols of organisations which are on that list;
Amendment 900 #
2016/2114(REG)
Parliament's Rules of Procedure
Rule 15 – paragraph 1
Rule 15 – paragraph 1
The President, Vice-Presidents and Quaestors shall be elected by secret ballot, in accordance with Rule 182. Nominations shall be with consent. They may only be made by a political group or by at least 40 Members. However, if the number of nominations does not exceed the number of seats to be filled, the candidates may be elected by acclamation. Members shall be permitted to serve a maximum of two terms in the office of President pursuant to Rule 19(1), regardless of whether they are served consecutively or not.
Amendment 60 #
2016/2062(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Calls for the collection and dissemination of the best emission- reducing practices of the sector; urges that further incentives for job creation related to energy efficiencydevelopment of the sector and for job creation related to technological progress, energy efficiency, including renewable energy, and innovation be established;
Amendment 32 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 7 a (new)
Citation 7 a (new)
- having regard to the report approved by the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety and by the European Parliament on the amendment of the Regulation 726/2004;
Amendment 49 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas patients should have access to the healthcare and treatment options of their choice and preference, including to complementary and alternative therapies and medicines;
Amendment 66 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the prices of new medicines have increased during the past few decades to the point of being unaffordable for many European citizens and seriously affecting the sustainability of the national health care systems;
Amendment 70 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas the number of people diagnosed with cancer is rising every year and the combination of increased cancer incidence in the population and new technologically advanced cancer medicines results in a situation where the total cost of cancer is rising, which puts an unprecedented demand on healthcare budgets and makes treatment unaffordable for many cancer patients, thus leading to a risk that affordability or pricing of the medication will become a deciding factor in a patient's cancer treatment.
Amendment 80 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas in addition to high prices, other barriers to access to medicines include shortages of essential medicines, the poor connection between clinical needs and research, unjustified administrative procedures, unavailability of products, rigid patent rules and budget restrictions;
Amendment 123 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas, due to the current international reference pricing system, the prices of medicines are usually negotiated by means of bilateral and confidential negotiations between the pharmaceutical industry and Member States;
Amendment 133 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas the entry of generics and biosimilars onto the market is an important mechanism to reduce prices, and whereas there are clear concerns about the strategies to delay this entry;
Amendment 154 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J b (new)
Recital J b (new)
Jb. whereas parallel trade of medicinal products lead to excessive medicines outflow from member states where lower prices are applied.
Amendment 196 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Stresses that patients' organisations should be better involved in the definition of private and public clinical trials research strategies, to ensure that they meet the true unmet needs of European patients;
Amendment 236 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Emphasises that mostnew medicines are not examples of genubringineg innovation, but often ‘me-too’ or ‘evergreening’ products, which are permitted notably by complementary patent extenssufficient added clinical value do not provide genuine innovations;
Amendment 276 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Stresses that most national assessment agencies are already using clinical, economic and social benefit criteria to assess new drugs in terms of pricing and reimbursement and stresses the importance of increasing collaboration among Member States in the field of pricing and reimbursement of medicinal products to ensure sustainability of healthcare systems and preserve the rights of European citizens to access quality healthcare;
Amendment 282 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Recognises that pricing and reimbursement of medicinal products are competences of Member States;
Amendment 356 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16a. Highlights the role of the European Union in monitoring and providing guidance on economic policies within the framework of the European Semester, and welcomes the production of country-specific recommendations in the field of healthcare sustainability;
Amendment 383 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Calls for EU-wide measures on the pharmaceutical market to reinforce the negotiation capacities of Member States in order to achieve fair prices forensure fast and equitable access to innovative medicines;
Amendment 393 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Calls on the Commission to promote R&D driven by patients’ needs, while fostering social responsibility in the pharmaceutical sector, by setting up an EU public platform for R&D funded by contributions from profits made by the pharmaceutical industry through sales to public health systems; calls for transparency on the costs of R&Dinvolve patients and their organisations in the definition of research priorities of all its programmes related to health, to promote R&D driven by patients' need;
Amendment 421 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Calls on EU Member States and the pharmaceutical industry to increase transparency on the process of pricing and reimbursement of pharmaceutical products, including the costs of R&D;
Amendment 442 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Calls on the Commission to reviewupdate the regulatory framework for orphan medicines, to define clearly the concept of unmet medical needs, to assess the impact of incentives to develop effective, safe and affordable drugsprovide guidance on priority unmet medical needs, and to review existing incentives schemes to facilitate the development of effective, safe and affordable drugs for rare diseases, including rare cancers, compared to the best available alternative and to promote the European register of rare diseases and reference centres;
Amendment 464 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Calls on the Commission to take a very cautious approach and guarantee safety and efficacy in any fast- track approval process and to introduce the concept of conditional authorisation based on effectiveness; in this respect, calls on the Commission to take into consideration the opinion of non-industry related stakeholders;
Amendment 474 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Calls on the Commission to set up a framework to promote, guarantee and reinforce the competitiveness of generic medicineand biosimilar medicines in sustainable market conditions, guaranteeing their faster entry onto the market and monitoring unfair practices in accordance with Articles 101 and 102 of the TFEU, and to present a biannual report in this regard;
Amendment 499 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Calls on the Commission to propose legislationcarry out an impact assessment on a European system for health technology assessment as soon as possible, and to assess added-value medicines compared with the best available alternative; also calls on the Commission to harmonise pricing and reimbursement criteria to take into account the level of innovation and the social and economic cost-benefit analysis, and to put in place a European classification on the added value level of medicines;
Amendment 506 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 a (new)
Paragraph 25 a (new)
25a. Calls on the European Medicines Agency to assess added-value medicines compared with the best available alternative; also calls on the Commission to harmonise pricing and reimbursement criteria to take into account the level of innovation and the social and economic cost-benefit analysis, and to put in place a European classification on the added value level of medicines;
Amendment 522 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Calls on the Council to increase cooperation between the Member States as regards price-setting procedures, in order to share information about prices, reimbursement, negotiation agreements and good practices and to avoid unnecessary administrative requirements and delays, based also on the work of the EURIPID project and existing bilateral and multilateral collaborations;
Amendment 601 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36
Paragraph 36
36. Calls on the Commission to analyse the causes of shortages, to establish a list of essential medicines and monitor compliance withsubmit a proposal to further specify Article 81 of Directive 2001/83/EU on shortages of supply, and to promote the supply of generic and biosimilar medicines;
Amendment 246 #
2016/0379(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
Article 17 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
The seat of the Agency shall beis in Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Amendment 367 #
2016/0379(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 25 – paragraph 1 – point k
Article 25 – paragraph 1 – point k
(k) be responsible for deciding whether it is exceptionally necessary for the purpose of carrying out the Agency's tasks in an efficient and effective manner to locate one or more staff in one or more Member States for the purpose of carrying out the Agency's tasks in an efficient and effective manner. The decision to establish a local office requires the prior consent of the Commission, the Administrative Board, the Member State of the Seat and the Member State or Member States concerned. The decision shall specify the scope of the activities to be carried out at that local office in a manner that avoids unnecessary costs and duplication of administrative functions of the Agency and that fully respects Decision 2009/913/EU.
Amendment 82 #
2016/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 37 a (new)
Recital 37 a (new)
(37a) Decision 2009/913/EU taken by common agreement between the representatives of the governments of Member States of 7 December 2009 on the location of the seat of the Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators provides that the European Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators shall have its seat in Ljubljana, Slovenia. The seat of the Agency is the centre of its activities and the statutory functions of the Agency. Thus, the meetings of the statutory organs should take place at the seat.
Amendment 84 #
2016/0378(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 38
Recital 38
(38) The Agency’s host Member State should provide the best possible conditions to ensure the smooth and efficient functioning of the Agency, including multilingual, European- oriented schooling and appropriate transport connectionsSeat Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Slovenia and the Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators was concluded on 26 November 2010 and entered into force on 10 January 2011. It is considered that the Seat Agreement and other specific arrangements fulfil the requirements of Regulations (EU) No 713/2009 and 863/2016.
Amendment 529 #
2016/0288(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 92 a (new)
Article 92 a (new)
Article 92a Intra-Union calls 1. Providers of publicly available number based interpersonal communication services shall not apply tariffs to intra-Union fixed and mobile communications services terminating in another Member State which are higher from tariffs for services terminating in the same Member State, unless it is justified by the difference in mobile termination rates. 2. Where providers of publicly available number based interpersonal communication services apply different tariffs to intra-Union fixed and mobile communications services terminating in another Member State than to services terminating in the same Member State, the surcharge shall not be higher than the difference between mobile termination rate of the Member State where the call is terminating and mobile termination rate of the Member State where call is originating.
Amendment 55 #
2016/0000(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 p (new)
Paragraph 4 p (new)
4p. Calls to maintain and increase the partial use of CAP to support investments for production and use of renewable energy in the agricultural sector;
Amendment 1 #
2015/2340(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
– having regard to the Convention on the Rights of the Child,
Amendment 3 #
2015/2340(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
Amendment 18 #
2015/2340(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 36 a (new)
Citation 36 a (new)
– having regard to the European Parliament's Annual Report on human Rights and Democracy in the World 2014,
Amendment 55 #
2015/2340(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J a (new)
Recital J a (new)
Ja. whereas gestational surrogacy is a growing practice of reproductive exploitation of women from developing countries, generating already more than 2 billion US dollars per year in India alone1a; _________________ 1aReport by the Confederation of Indian Industry, estimating surrogacy generates in India $2.3bn a year by 2012 http://www.theguardian.com/world/2011/d ec/06/surrogate-mothers-india
Amendment 131 #
2015/2340(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19a. Calls for the inclusion of gestational surrogacy as a form of trafficking in human beings as it involves reproductive exploitation and use of the human body for financial or other gain;
Amendment 135 #
2015/2340(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 b (new)
Paragraph 19 b (new)
19b. Calls on the Commission to include gestational surrogacy as a new form of THB as it implies the sale of children according to the definition given by Article 2a of the optional protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography; Moreover in this practice children are traded without respect of their rights as persons;
Amendment 136 #
2015/2340(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 c (new)
Paragraph 19 c (new)
19c. Condemns the practice of gestational surrogacy, which undermines the dignity of women since their bodies and reproductive functions are used for trade; considers that the practice of gestational surrogacy which involves reproductive exploitation and use of the human body for financial or other gain, in particular in the case of vulnerable women in developing countries, shall be banned and treated as a matter of urgency in human rights instruments;
Amendment 183 #
2015/2340(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31 a (new)
Paragraph 31 a (new)
31a. Recommends to the international community and especially to those countries, such as the United States, India, Russia and Ukraine, in which gestational surrogacy is growing fastest, to give attention to comply with international obligations acquired in the ratification of the optional protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography and take proper action regarding gestational surrogacy;
Amendment 27 #
2015/2324(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Believes that particular attention should be paid to preserving the settlement of sparsely populated areas of the region;
Amendment 51 #
2015/2324(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Believes that additional possibilities should be sought for sustainable agriculture in the challenging conditions of the Alpine region;
Amendment 75 #
2015/2229(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital N
Recital N
N. whereas the freedom of thought, conscience, and religion and beliefshould become a priority for the European Union and must be unconditionally enhanced through inter- religious and inter-cultural dialogues;
Amendment 88 #
2015/2229(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Expresses deep concern that human rights and democratic values are increasingly under threat worldwide, with particular reference to freedom of expression, of thought, conscience and religion, of assembly and of association;
Amendment 289 #
2015/2229(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 60
Paragraph 60
60. Recalls that freedom of thought, conscience, and religion and belief is a fundamental human right, as recognised in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; in this regard, it highlights the particularly dramatic situation of persecution in which Christian communities are in various third countries;
Amendment 295 #
2015/2229(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 60 a (new)
Paragraph 60 a (new)
60a. Invites the Union to effectively operate so that the freedom to change one's religion without any coercion is ensured in the world;
Amendment 304 #
2015/2229(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 61
Paragraph 61
61. Calls on the EU and the Member States to step up their efforts to enhance respect for freedom of thought, conscience, and religion and belief and to promote inter- religious dialogue when engaging with third countries; fully supports the EU practice of taking the lead on thematic resolutions at the UNHRC and at the UNGA on freedom of religion and belief; requests concrete action towards the effective implementation of the EU Guidelines on the promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief, including by ensuring systematic and consistent training of EU staff at Headquarters and in Delegationsthat they are systematically consulted and used on the ground and a continued and consistent training of EU staff at Headquarters and in Delegations; supports the idea of an ambitious revision of these EU Guidelines, aimed at integrating new tools and at improving and strengthening the text adopted in 2013; underlines that churches and religious communities must be fully involved in the review process of the EU Guidelines on the promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief;
Amendment 1 #
2015/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2
Citation 2
– having regard to Articles 3, 5 and 23 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union,
Amendment 7 #
2015/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 8
Citation 8
– having regard to the 1989 UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography;
Amendment 9 #
Amendment 10 #
2015/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 9 b (new)
Citation 9 b (new)
– having regard to the Hague Adoption Convention;
Amendment 12 #
2015/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 15 a (new)
Citation 15 a (new)
– having regard to Directive 2004/23/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 March 2004 on setting standards of quality and safety for the donation, procurement, testing, processing, preservation, storage and distribution of human tissues and cells;
Amendment 15 #
2015/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 25 a (new)
Citation 25 a (new)
– having regard to its resolution of 10 March 2005 on the trade in human egg cells;
Amendment 17 #
2015/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 26 a (new)
Citation 26 a (new)
– having regard to its resolution of 16 December 2015 on Human Rights and Democracy in the world 2014 and the European Union policy on that matter;
Amendment 29 #
2015/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas THB takes many different forms across many legal and illegal activities, including, but not limited to, agriculture, food processing, prostitution, domestic work, manufacturing, care, cleaning, other types of forced labour (particularly in the service industries), forced begging, forced marriage, illegal adoptions, gestational surrogacy and the trade in human organs, cells and tissues, including trade in reproductive cells as well as foetal cells and tissues;
Amendment 58 #
2015/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)
Recital F a (new)
Fa. whereas women are exposed to special kinds of reproductive exploitation such as trafficking of their reproductive cells, forced marriage, coerced adoption, prostitution, surrogacy and female genital mutilation;
Amendment 174 #
2015/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23a. Expresses its concern by growing practice of reproductive exploitation of women; calls on the European Commission to include gestational surrogacy as a form of THB as it involves reproductive exploitation and use of human body for financial or other gains; calls upon the Member States to respect their international commitments and to take the necessary actions to stop any involvement of European countries, citizens or companies in surrogacy tourism;
Amendment 176 #
2015/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 b (new)
Paragraph 23 b (new)
23b. Recalls that the human body should not be a source of financial gain; calls on the Commission to condemn all sorts of THB with the purpose of the removal of organs and adopt a clear attitude toward illegal trade of organs, tissues and cells, including trade in reproductive cells and foetal tissues and cells;
Amendment 202 #
2015/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Calls on the Member States to ensure gender-specific provision of services to victims of THB that is appropriate to their needs, recognising the form of trafficking to which they have been subjected; highlights that whilst a majority of victims are women and girls, there should be specialised services for victims of all genderswomen and men victims of THB;
Amendment 91 #
2015/2113(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 – point 1 (new)
Paragraph 6 – point 1 (new)
(1) Calls on the Commission and the Member States to endeavour the challenge of rural development and low productivity of the farming sector with subsidy dependence, as an opportunity to pull sources from different schemes applied to farming to incentivize investment in renewables in rural areas, with the objective of increasing energy independence and decreasing the costs of food production;
Amendment 176 #
2015/2112(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Calls for concrete commitments to deliver additional sources of climate finance, such as the adoption of a financial transactions tax and the allocation of emissions trading revenues to climate- related investments, and revenues from carbon pricing of transport fuels and partial use of farming subsidies to guarantee investments for the production and use of renewable energy in farms; calls for concrete steps including a timetable for the phase out of fossil fuel subsidies, an ambitious roadmap of commitments of public and multilateral banks in favour of financing the ecological transition, specific public guarantees in favour of green investments, labels and fiscal advantages for green investment funds and for issuing green bonds;
Amendment 84 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The European Council of October 2014 made a commitment to reduce the overall greenhouse gas emissions of the Union by at least 40% below 1990 levels by 2030. All sectors of the economy should contribute to achieving these emission reductions and the target will be delivered in the most cost-effective manner through the Union emission trading system (EU ETS) delivering a reduction of 43% below 2005 levels by 2030. This was confirmed in the intended nationally determined reduction commitment of the Union and its Member States submitted to the Secretariat of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change on 6 March 201516 . The burden of the emission reductions should be fairly shared between sectors covered by the EU ETS, and comparable efforts should be made concerning aviation emissions from intra-Union flights. __________________ 16 http://www4.unfccc.int/submissions/indc/S ubmission%20Pages/submissions.aspx
Amendment 86 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2 a (new)
Recital 2 a (new)
(2a) In accordance with the Agreement adopted in Paris at the 21st Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change of 12 December 2015 (the 'Paris Agreement') and in line with the commitment of the co-legislators expressed in Directive 2009/29/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council1a and Decision No 406/2009/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council1b , all sectors of the economy are required to contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions. To this end, efforts to limit international maritime emissions through the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) are under way and should be encouraged, with the aim of establishing a clear IMO action plan for climate policy measures to reduce CO2 emissions from shipping at a global level. The adoption of clear targets to reduce international maritime emissions through the IMO has become a matter of great urgency and a prerequisite for the Union not to act further on the inclusion of the maritime sector within the EU ETS. __________________ 1aDirective 2009/29/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 April 2009 amending Directive 2003/87/EC so as to improve and extend the greenhouse gas emission allowance trading scheme of the Community (OJ L 140, 5.6.2009, p. 63). 1bDecision No 406/2009/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 April 2009 on the effort of Member States to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions to meet the Community's greenhouse gas emission reduction commitments up to 2020 (OJ L 140, 5.6.2009, p. 136).
Amendment 96 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The European Council confirmed that a well-functioning, reformed EU ETS with an instrument to stabilise the market will be the main European instrument to achieve this target, with an annual reduction factor of 2.2% from 2021 onwards, free allocation not expiring but existing measures continuing after 2020 to prevent the risk of carbon leakage due to climate policy, as long as no comparable efforts are undertaken in other major economies, without reducing the share of allowances to be auctioned. The auction share should be expressed as a percentage figureclarity on the amount of auctioned allowances in the legislation, to enhance planning certainty as regards investment decisions, to increase transparency and to render the overall system simpler and more easily understandable.
Amendment 104 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) It is a key Union priority to establish a resilient Energy Union to provide secure, sustainable, competitive and affordable energy to its citizens. Achieving this requires continuation of ambitious climate action with the EU ETS as the cornerstone of Europe’s climate policy, and progress on the other aspects of Energy Union17. Implementing the ambition decided in the 2030 frameworkf the EU ETS is to remain the main Union instrument, its interaction with other Union and national policies that have an impact on the demand for EU ETS allowances needs to be taken into account. Implementing the ambition decided in the 2030 framework and adequately addressing the progress on other aspects of the Energy Union contributes to delivering a meaningful carbon price and continuing to stimulate cost-efficient greenhouse gas emission reductions. __________________ 17 COM(2015)80, establishing a Framework Strategy for a Resilient Energy Union with a Forward-Looking Climate Change Policy
Amendment 113 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) Article 191(2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union requires that Union policy is based on the principle that the polluter should pay and, on this basis, Directive 2003/87/EC provides for a transition to full auctioning over time. Avoiding carbon and investment leakage is a justification to postpone fullsuch a transition, and targeted free allocation of allowances to industry is justified in order to address genuine risks of increases in global greenhouse gas emissions inand diversion of investments to third countries where industry is not subject to comparable carbon constraints as long as comparable climate policy measures are not undertaken by other major economies. Additional achievements in sectors not falling under the scope of the EU ETS and not subject to a risk of carbon leakage, in particular in the building sector and sustainable transport, will decrease the amount of effort needed from the Union’s industry.
Amendment 121 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The auctioning of allowances remains the general rule, with free allocation as the exception. Consequently, and as confirmed by the European Council, the share of allowances to be auctioned, which was 572% over the period 2013-2020, should not be reduced. The Commission's Impact Assessment18 provides details on the auction share and specifies that this 57% share is made up of allowances auctioned on behalf of Member States,. Allowances originally covered by the transitional Union-wide rules for harmonised free allocation (which includinge allowances set aside for new entrants but not allocated, and allowances for modernising electricity generation in some Member States and allowances which are to be auctioned at a later point in time because of their placement in the Market Stability Reserve established by Decision (EU) 2015/… of the European Parliament and of the Council19 . __________________ 18 19Decision (EU) 2015/… of the European Parliament and of the Council of … concerning the establishment and operation of a market stability reserve for the Union greenhouse gas emission trading scheme and amending Directive 2003/87/EC (OJ L […], […], p. […]).that are unallocated due to closures and partial cessations) should not be considered to be auctioned allowances for the purposes of the calculation of the auction share. __________________ 18 SEC(2015)XX SWD(2015)135
Amendment 126 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) To preserve the environmental benefit of emission reductions in the Union while actions by other countries do not provide comparable incentives to industry to reduce emissions, free allocation should continue to installations in sectors and sub- sectors at genuine risk of carbon leakage. Experience gathered during the operation of the EU ETS confirmed that sectors and sub-sectors are at risk of carbon leakage to varying degrees, and that free allocation has prevented carbon leakage. While some sectors and sub-sectors can be deemed at a higher risk of carbon leakage, others are able to pass on a considerable share of the costs of allowances to cover their emissions in product prices without losing market share and only bear the remaining part of the costs so that they are at a low risk of carbon leakage. The Commission should determine and differentiate the relevant sectors based on their trade intensity and their emissions intensity to better identify sectors at a genuine risk of carbon leakage. W, taking into account that sectors that increase their trade intensity because of rising exports, would not be expected to be subject to an increased risk of carbon leakage. However, where, based on these criteria, a threshold determined by taking into account the respective possibility for sectors and sub-sectors concerned to pass on costs in product prices is exceeded, the sector or sub-sector should be deemed at risk of carbon leakage. Others should be considered at a low risk or at no risk of carbon leakage. Taking into account the possibilities for sectors and sub-sectors outside of electricity generation to pass on costs in product prices without losing market share should also reduce windfall profits.
Amendment 131 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 7 b (new)
Recital 7 b (new)
(7b) The EU ETS and the Union-wide rules for harmonised free allocation should not give incentives to increase emissions. The emissions intensity of the relevant sectors should therefore always be determined on the basis of the lowest value since the establishment of the EU ETS.
Amendment 135 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) In order to reflect technological progress in the sectors concerned and adjust them to the relevant period of allocation, provisbenchmarks for free allocations to installations, should be made updated before the valuesstart of the benchmarks for free allocations to installations, determined on the basis of data from the years 2007-8, to be updated in line with observed average improvementfourth trading period in order to base free allocations on actual technological progress. That update should be carried out on the basis of robust, objective and verified data from installations. For reasons of predictability, thifurther updates should be done through applying a factor that represents the best assessment of progress across sectors, which should then take into accountalso be based on robust, objective and verified data from installations so that sectors whose rate of improvement differs considerably from this factor have a benchmark value closer to their actual rate of improvement. Where the data shows a substantial difference from that factor reduction of more than 0.5% of the 2007-8 value higher or lower per year over the relevant period, the related benchmark value shall be adjusted by that percentage. To ensure a level playing field for the production of aromatics, hydrogen and syngas in refineries and chemical plants, the benchmark values for aromatics, hydrogen and syngas should continue to be aligned to the refineries benchmarks.
Amendment 138 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 8 b (new)
Recital 8 b (new)
(8b) Sectors or sub-sectors which have been determined to be exposed to a significant risk of carbon leakage because of costs related to greenhouse gas emissions passed on in electricity prices, should at least partially be compensated on the basis of harmonised arrangements in pursuing the goal of a level playing field. It should be possible for Member States to top up the compensation at Union level in accordance with state aid rules.
Amendment 139 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) Member States should partially compensate, in accordance with state aid rules, certain installations in sectors or sub-sectors which have been determined to be exposed to a significant risk of carbon leakage because of costs related to greenhouse gas emissions passed on in electricity prices. The Protocol and accompanying decisions adopted by the Conference of the Parties in Paris need to provide for the dynamic mobilisation of climate finance, technology transfer and capacity building for eligible Parties, particularly those with least capabilities. Public sector climate finance will continue to play an important role in mobilising resources after 2020. Therefore, auction revenues should also be used for climate financing actions in vulnerable third countries, including adaptation to the impacts of climate. The amount of climate finance to be mobilised will also depend on the ambition and quality of the proposed Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs), subsequent investment plans and national adaptation planning processes. Member States should also address the social aspects of decarbonising their economies and use auction revenues to promote skill formation and reallocation of labour affected by the transition of jobs in a decarbonising economy.
Amendment 152 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) The main long-term incentive from this Directive for thecarbon capture and storage of CO2(CCS) and carbon capture and use (CCSU), new renewable energy technologies and breakthrough innovation in low-carbon technologies and processes is the carbon price signal it creates and that allowances will not need to be surrendered for CO2 emissions which are permanently stored or avoided. In addition, to supplement the resources already being used to accelerate demonstration of commercial CCS and CCU facilities and innovative renewable energy technologies, EU ETS allowances should be used to provide guaranteed rewards for deployment of CCS and CCU facilities, new renewable energy technologies and industrial innovation in low-carbon technologies and processes in the Union for CO2 stored or avoided on a sufficient scale, provided an agreement on knowledge sharing is in place. The majority of this support should be dependent on verified avoidance of greenhouse gas emissions, while some support may be given when pre-determined milestones are reached taking into account the technology deployed. The maximum percentage of project costs to be supported may vary by category of project.
Amendment 161 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) A Modernisation Fund should be established from 2% of the total EU ETS allowances, and auctioned in accordance with the rules and modalities for auctions taking place on the Common Auction Platform set out in Regulation 1031/2010. Member States who in 2013 or 2014 had a GDP per capita at market exchange rates of below 60% below the Union average should be eligible for funding from the Modernisation Fund and derogate up to 2030 from the principle of full auctioning for electricity generation by using the option of free allocation in order to transparently promote real investments modernising their energy sector while avoiding distortions of the internal energy market. The rules for governing the Modernisation Fund should provide a coherent, comprehensive and transparent framework to ensure the most efficient implementation possible, taking into account the need for easy access by all participants. The function of the governance structure should beSuch rules should be transparent, balanced and commensurate with the purpose of ensuring the appropriate use of the funds. Thate governance structure should be composed of an investment board and a management committee and due account should be taken of the expertise of the EIB in the decision-making process unless support is provided to small projects through loans from a national promotional banks or through grants via a national programme sharing the objectives of the Modernisation Fund. Investments financed from the fund should be proposed by the Member States. To ensure that the investment needs in low income Member States are adequately addressed, the distribution of funds will take into account in equal shares verified emissions and GDP criteria. The financial assistance from the Modernisation Fund could be provided through different forms.
Amendment 173 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) The existing provisions which are in place for small installations to be excluded from the EU ETS allow the installations which are excluded to remain so, and it should be made possible for Member States to update their list of excluded installations and for Member States currently not making use of this option to do so at the beginning of each trading period. Member States should ensure that alternative measures for installations that have opted out do not result in higher compliance costs. For small emitters covered by the EU ETS, monitoring, reporting and verification requirements should be simplified for such installations.
Amendment 183 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point -1 d (new)
Article 1 – point -1 d (new)
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 3 – point u b (new)
Article 3 – point u b (new)
(-1d) In Article 3, the following point is added: '(ub) “small emitter” means an installation with low emissions which meets at least one of the following criteria: – the average annual emissions of that installation reported in the verified emission reports during the trading period immediately preceding the current trading period, with the exclusion of CO2 stemming from biomass and before subtraction of transferred CO2, were less than 50 000 tonnes of CO2(e) per year; – the average annual emissions referred to in the first indent are not available to that installation or are no longer applicable to that installation because of changes in the installation's boundaries or changes to the operating conditions of the installation, but the annual emissions of that installation for the next five years, with the exclusion of CO2 stemming from biomass and before subtraction of transferred CO2, is expected to be, based on a conservative estimation method, less than 50 000 tonnes of CO2(e) per year;'
Amendment 188 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point -1 g (new)
Article 1 – point -1 g (new)
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 3 c – paragraph 2
Article 3 c – paragraph 2
Amendment 189 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point -1 g (new)
Article 1 – point -1 g (new)
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 3 c – paragraph 2
Article 3 c – paragraph 2
Amendment 193 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point -1 j(new)
Article 1 – point -1 j(new)
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 3 d – paragraph 2
Article 3 d – paragraph 2
(-1j) In Article 3d, paragraph 2 is replaced by the following: '2. From 1 January 2013, 1521, 50 % of allowances shall be auctioned. This percentage may be increased as part of the general review of this Directive.'
Amendment 197 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 1 a (new)
Article 1 – point 1 a (new)
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 3 d – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
Article 3 d – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
Amendment 201 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 1 b (new)
Article 1 – point 1 b (new)
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 3 e – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 3 e – paragraph 1 a (new)
(1b) In Article 3e, the following paragraph is added: '1 a Given the expectation of a global market-based measure (GMBM) applying from 2021, any free allocation of allowances under this Directive from 2021 shall only be given if it is confirmed by a subsequent decision made by the European Parliament and the Council.'
Amendment 203 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 2 a (new) Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 1 – point 2 a (new) Directive 2003/87/EC
(2a) The following Chapter is inserted: 'Chapter IIa Shipping Article 3ga Inclusion of shipping in the absence of progress at international level As from 2019, in the absence of a comparable system operating under the IMO, CO2 emissions emitted in Union ports and during voyages to and from Union ports of call, shall be accounted for through a self-regulated system that ensures contributions at the level of the market price for allowances in the preceding year or through the surrendering of allowances in the EU ETS.'
Amendment 242 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 4 – point a
Article 1 – point 4 – point a
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
From 2021 onwards, the share of allowances to be auctioned by Member States shall be 572%.
Amendment 267 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 4 – point b b (new)
Article 1 – point 4 – point b b (new)
(bb) In paragraph 3, the introductory part is replaced by the following: '3. Member States shall determine the use of revenues generated from the auctioning of allowances. At least 750 % of the total revenues generated from the auctioning of allowances referred to in paragraph 2 , including all revenues from the auctioning referred to in paragraph 2, points (b) and (c), or the equivalent in financial value of theose revenues, shouldall be used for one or more of the following:'
Amendment 274 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 4 – point b f (new)
Article 1 – point 4 – point b f (new)
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10 – paragraph 3 – point f
Article 10 – paragraph 3 – point f
(bf) In paragraph 3, point (f) is replaced by the following: '(f) to encourage a shift to low- emission and public forms of transport; and compensate electrified transport modes such as railways for their indirect EU ETS costs unless measures with an equivalent effect on other surface transport modes are taken.'
Amendment 282 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 4 – point c
Article 1 – point 4 – point c
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10 – paragraph 3 – point l
Article 10 – paragraph 3 – point l
'(l) to create a just transition fund in order to cushion the social impact of the decarbonisation of their economies and promote skill formation and reallocation of labour affected by the transition of jobs in a decarbonising economy in close coordination with the social partners.'
Amendment 292 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 4 – point d a (new)
Article 1 – point 4 – point d a (new)
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 4 a (new)
Article 10 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 4 a (new)
(da) In paragraph 4, the following subparagraph is added: 'In that report Member States shall also communicate to the Commission the closures of electricity generation capacity as a result of national measures.'
Amendment 296 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 4 – point d c (new)
Article 1 – point 4 – point d c (new)
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10 – paragraph 5
Article 10 – paragraph 5
(dc) paragraph 5 is replaced by the following: '5. The Commission shall monitor the functioning of the European carbon market. Each year, it shall submit a report to the European Parliament and to the Council on the functioning of the carbon market including the implementation of the auctions, liquidity and the volumes traded. In its monitoring report, the Commission shall give particular attention to the risk of carbon and investment leakage. The report shall also address the interaction between the EU ETS, non-ETS and other climate and energy measures at Union and national level, and shall analyse the effects of various policy instruments on the level of demand for Union allowances and its consequences on the supply- demand balance in the carbon market. The Commission shall calculate the equivalent number of allowances for closures that are reported by Member States. If necessary, Member States shall ensure that any relevant information is submitted to the Commission at least two months before the Commission adopts the report.'
Amendment 299 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 4 – point d e (new)
Article 1 – point 4 – point d e (new)
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10 – paragraph 5 a (new)
Article 10 – paragraph 5 a (new)
(de) the following paragraph is added: '5a. After assessment by the Commission, Member States may surrender a corresponding volume of allowances and place them into the Market Stability Reserve or retire them.'
Amendment 322 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 5 – point b
Article 1 – point 5 – point b
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10a – paragraph 2 –subparagraph 3 – introductory part
Article 10a – paragraph 2 –subparagraph 3 – introductory part
The benchmark values for free allocation shall be adjusted in order to avoid windfall profits and reflect technological progress in the period between 2007- to 2008 and each later period for which free allocations are determined in accordance with Article 11(1). This adjustment shall reduce the benchmark values set by the act adopted pursuant to Article 10a by 1% of the value that was set based on 2007-8 data in respect of each year between 2008 and the middle of the relevant period of free allocation, unless:
Amendment 335 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 5 – point b
Article 1 – point 5 – point b
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10a – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 3 – point i
Article 10a – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 3 – point i
Amendment 349 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 5 – point b
Article 1 – point 5 – point b
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10a – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 3 – point ii
Article 10a – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 3 – point ii
Amendment 358 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 5 – point b
Article 1 – point 5 – point b
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10a – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 3 – point ii a (new)
Article 10a – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 3 – point ii a (new)
The adjustment of the benchmarks for heat, fuel and process emissions shall be based on energy efficiency improvements and shall take into account the availability of resources on a Union-wide scale.
Amendment 372 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 5 – point c
Article 1 – point 5 – point c
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10a – paragraph 5
Article 10a – paragraph 5
In order to respect the auctioning share set out in Article 10, the sum of free allocations in every year where the sum of free allocations does not reach the maximum level that respects the Member State auctioning share, the remaining allowances up to that level shall be used to prevent or limit reduction of free allocations to respect the Member State auctioning share in later years. Where, nonetheless, the maximum level is reached, free allocations shall be adjusted accordingly. Any such adjustment shall be done in a uniform mantargeted in accordance with the risk of carbon leakage and shall in any case guarantee that 100% free allocation up to the level of the benchmarks is maintainerd.
Amendment 382 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 5 – point d
Article 1 – point 5 – point d
Amendment 395 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 5 – point e – point i
Article 1 – point 5 – point e – point i
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10a – paragraph 7 – subparagraph 1
Article 10a – paragraph 7 – subparagraph 1
Allowances from the maximum amount referred to in Article 10a(5) of this Directive which were not allocated for free up to 2020 shall be set aside for new entrants and for significant production increases, together with of more than 10% expressed as the rolling average of verified production data for the two preceding years compared to the production activity reported in accordance with Article 11. In addition, 250 million allowances placed in the market stability reserve pursuant to Article 1(3) of Decision (EU) 2015/… of the European Parliament and of the Council(*). 1814 shall be set aside for this purpose.
Amendment 417 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 5 – point f
Article 1 – point 5 – point f
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10a – paragraph 8 – subparagraph 1
Article 10a – paragraph 8 – subparagraph 1
400 million allowances shall be available to support, taken from the share of allowances to be auctioned, shall be available to support and leverage investments, using different instruments managed by the European Investment Bank, in innovation in low-carbon technologies and processes in industrial sectors listed in Annex I, and to help stimulate the construction and operation of commercial demonstration projects that aim at the environmentally safe capture and geological storage (CCS) of CO2CCS and CCU as well as demonstration projects of innovative renewable energy technologies, energy conversion and storage, as well as electric battery development in the territory of the Union.
Amendment 434 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 5 – point f
Article 1 – point 5 – point f
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10a – paragraph 8 – subparagraph 2
Article 10a – paragraph 8 – subparagraph 2
The allowances shall be made available for innovation in low-carbon industrial technologies and processes and support for demonstration projects for the development of a wide range of CCS, CCU and innovative renewable energy technologies that are not yet commercially viable in geographically balanced locations. In order to promote innovative projects, up to 6075% of the relevant costs of projects may be supported, out of which up to 450% may not be dependent on verified avoidance of greenhouse gas emissions provided that pre-determined milestones are attained taking into account the technology deployed.
Amendment 438 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 5 – point f
Article 1 – point 5 – point f
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10a – paragraph 8 – subparagraph 3
Article 10a – paragraph 8 – subparagraph 3
In addition, 50 million unallocated allowances from the market stability reserve established by Decision (EU) 2015/…1814 shall supplement any existing resources remaining under this paragraph as a consequence of funds resulting from NER300 allowance auctions for the period between 2013 and 2020 not having been used, for projects referred to abovein subparagraphs 1 and 2, with projects in all Member States including small-scale projects, before 2021 and from 2018 onwards. Projects shall be selected on the basis of objective and transparent criteria, taking into account their relevance in relation to the decarbonisation of the sectors concerned. Projects supported under this subparagraph may also receive further support under subparagraphs 1 and 2.
Amendment 442 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 5 – point f
Article 1 – point 5 – point f
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10a – paragraph 8 – subparagraph 3 a (new)
Article 10a – paragraph 8 – subparagraph 3 a (new)
The timetable for monetisation of allowances shall be published no later than 18 months before the start of Phase IV and shall ensure the gradual monetisation of the allowances spread out throughout that Phase.
Amendment 447 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 5 – point i b (new)
Article 1 – point 5 – point i b (new)
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10a – paragraph 20
Article 10a – paragraph 20
(ib) paragraph 20 is replaced by the following: 'The Commission shall, as part of the measures adopted under paragraph 1, include measures for defining installations that partially cease to operate or significantly reduce their capacity, and measures for adapting, as appropriate, the level of free allocations given to them accordingly. Those measures shall provide flexibility for industry sectors where capacity is regularly transferred between operating installations in the same company.'
Amendment 448 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 5 – point i b (new)
Article 1 – point 5 – point i b (new)
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10a – paragraph 20
Article 10a – paragraph 20
(ib) paragraph 20 is replaced by the following: 'The Commission shall, as part of the measures adopted under paragraph 1, include measures for defining installations that partially cease to operate or significantly reduce or increase their capacity or their production by more than 10% (expressed as the rolling average of verified production data for the two preceding years compared to the production activity reported in accordance with Article 11), and measures for adapting, as appropriate, the level of free allocations given to them accordingly.'
Amendment 457 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 6
Article 1 – point 6
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10b – paragraph 1
Article 10b – paragraph 1
1. Sectors and sub-sectors where the product exceeds 0.2 from multiplying their intensity of trade with third countries, defined as the ratio between the total value of exports to third countries plus the value of imports from third countries and the total market size for the European Economic Area (annual turnover plus total imports from third countries), by their emission intensity, measured in kgCO2 divided by their gross value added (in €), shall be deemed to be at high risk of carbon leakage. Such sectors and sub- sectors shall be allocated allowances free of charge for the period up to 2030 at 100% of the quantity determined in accordance with the measures adopted pursuant to Article 10a. To ensure a level playing field for the production of hydrogen and syngas in refineries and chemical plants, hydrogen and syngas shall continue to be deemed to be at the same risk of carbon leakage as the refinery sector.
Amendment 473 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 6
Article 1 – point 6
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10b – paragraph 2 – introductory sentence
Article 10b – paragraph 2 – introductory sentence
2. Sectors and sub-sectors where the product from multiplying their intensity of trade with third countries by their emission intensity is above 0.18,12 as well as sectors that were deemed at risk of carbon leakage between 2013 and 2020 and that have a trade intensity of at least 40 %, may be included in the group referred to in paragraph 1, on the basis of a qualitative assessment using the following criteria:
Amendment 480 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 6
Article 1 – point 6
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10b – paragraph 2 – point c
Article 10b – paragraph 2 – point c
(c) profit margins or the inability to pass on carbon costs as a potential indicator of long-run investment or relocation decisions.
Amendment 495 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 6
Article 1 – point 6
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10b – paragraph 3
Article 10b – paragraph 3
3. Other sectors and sub-sectors are considered to be able to pass on more of the cost of allowances in product prices without losing market share, and shall be allocated allowances free of charge for the period up to 2030 at 30% of the quantity determined in accordance with the measures adopted pursuant to Article 10a.
Amendment 499 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 6
Article 1 – point 6
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10b – paragraph 4
Article 10b – paragraph 4
4. By 31 December 2019, the Commission shall adopt a delegated act for the preceding paragraphs for activities at a 4-digit level (NACE-4 code) or activities which are at the relevant level of disaggregation based on public and sector specific data as appropriate to comprise those activities covered by the EU ETS, as concerns paragraph 1, in accordance with Article 23,. The assessment of the intensity of trade shall be based on data for the three most recent calendar years available. For the calculation of the emission intensity the lowest value of kgCO2 since the establishment of the EU ETS shall be used.
Amendment 529 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 6
Article 1 – point 6
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10c – paragraph 1
Article 10c – paragraph 1
1. By derogation from Article 10a(1) to (5), Member States which had in 2013 a GDP per capita in €EUR at market prices below 60% of the Union average may give a transitional free allocation to installations for electricity productionelectricity and heat generators, including district heating, for the modernisation of the energy sector.
Amendment 544 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 6
Article 1 – point 6
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10c – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point b
Article 10c – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point b
(b) ensure that only projects which contribute to the diversification of their energy mix and sources of supply, the necessary restructuring, environmental upgrading and retrofitting of the infrastructure, clean technologies and modernisation of the energy production (electricity and heat), transmission and distribution sectors are eligible to bid;
Amendment 565 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 6
Article 1 – point 6
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10c – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 3
Article 10c – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 3
Where investments with a value of less than €EUR 10 million are supported with free allocation, the Member State shall select projects based on objective and transparent criteria. Those criteria shall be subject to public consultation, ensuring full transparency and accessibility of relevant documents, and fully take into account comments raised by stakeholders. The results of this selection process shall be published for public commentnsultation. On this basis, the Member State concerned shall establish and submit a list of investments to the Commission by 30 June 2019.
Amendment 590 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 7
Article 1 – point 7
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10d – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 10d – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
A fund to support and leverage investments in modernising energy systems, including district heating, and improving energy efficiency in Member States with a GDP per capita below 60% of the Union average in 2013 or 2014 shall be established for the period 2021-30 and financed as set out in Article 10.
Amendment 658 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 8
Article 1 – point 8
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 11 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 11 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
A list of installations covered by this Directive for the fivthree years beginning on 1 January 2021 shall be submitted by 30 September 2018, and. The lists for the subsequent fivthree years shall be submitted every five years thereafterby 30 September 2021 and the list for the four last years by 30 September 2024. Each list shall include information on production activity, transfers of heat and gases, electricity production and emissions at sub- installation level over the five calendar years preceding its submission. Free allocations shall only be given to installations where such information is provided.
Amendment 671 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 10 b (new)
Article 1 – point 10 b (new)
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 12 – paragraph 3a
Article 12 – paragraph 3a
(10b) In Article 12, paragraph 3a is replaced by the following: '3a. An obligation to surrender allowances shall not arise in respect of emissions verified as captured and transported for permanent storage to a facility for which a permit is in force in accordance with Directive 2009/31/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 April 2009 on the geological storage of carbon dioxide, nor in respect of emissions verified as captured and/or re- used in an application ensuring a permanent bound of the CO2, for the purpose of carbon capture and re-use.'
Amendment 676 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 11 a (new)
Article 1 – point 11 a (new)
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 14 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 14 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Amendment 682 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 15 a (new)
Article 1 – point 15 a (new)
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 21 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 21 – paragraph 2 a (new)
(15a) In Article 21, the following paragraph is inserted: '2 a. The report shall, using data provided through the cooperation referred to in Article 18b, include a list of operators subject to the requirements of this Directive who have not opened a registry account.'
Amendment 691 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 22
Article 1 – point 22
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 25a – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 25a – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Where a third country adopts measures for reducing the climate change impact ofa commitment under the Paris Agreement, the Commission shall adopt amendments to provide for flights departarriving from thate third country which land in the Community, the Commissconcerned to be excluded from the aviation, after consulting with that third country, and with Member States within the Committee referred to in Article 23(1), shall consider options available in order to provide for optimal interaction between the Communityctivities listed in Annex I. The Commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 23 to supplement this Directive concerning sucheme and that country’s measure amendments.
Amendment 692 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 22
Article 1 – point 22
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 25a – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 25a – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Amendment 712 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 22 f (new)
Article 1 – point 22 f (new)
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 30 a (new)
Article 30 a (new)
(22f) The following Article is inserted: 'Article 30a Adjustments upon global stocktake under the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement Every 5 years, in line with the regular reviews foreseen in the Paris Agreement, the Union shall assess its INDC in the context of global mitigation efforts following a global stocktake of nationally- determined contribution. The Commission shall submit a report assessing, in particular, the following elements: the implication of the options required at Union level; the efforts undertaken by other major economies; the Union industries' competitiveness in the context of carbon and investment leakage risks as well as the impact on the Union's industrialisation target of 20%. If, on that basis, the Commission deems it necessary to submit a legislative proposal to amend this Directive it shall in parallel present a full impact assessment and take into account the differentiated abilities and costs of decarbonisation in the power and industrial sectors covered by the EU ETS.'
Amendment 9 #
2015/0093(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Amendment 8 #
2014/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the aim of TTIP is above all about regulation10 , about reducing orto reduce and eliminate existing non-tariff barriers11 , an and could as such aboutendanger the level of protection of human health and the environment; __________________ 10See speech by EU Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmström of 11 December 2014.http://trade.ec.europa.eu/doclib/docs /2014/december/tradoc_152942.pdf 11 See 2014 Report on Technical Barriers to Trade by the US Trade Representative, p. 45.
Amendment 96 #
2014/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers it misleadingimportant on the part of the Commission to try to appease public concerns abake into account the TTIP by stating that existing standards will not be lowered, as this disregards the fact that many standards have yet to be set in the implementation of existing (framework) legislation (e.g. REACH) or by the adoption of new laws (e.g. cloning)environmental, health and food safety standards;
Amendment 107 #
2014/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Welcomes the transparency initiatives undertaken by Commissioner Cecilia Malmström and agrees that they are supporting the public debate on TTIP;
Amendment 120 #
2014/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Is concernedPoints out that the TTIP negotiations shave already affected Commission proposals and actions relating, for example, to food safety and climate protection (e.g. pathogen meat treatments; implementation of the fuel quality directive)ll not affect proposals and actions of the Commission, existing legislation of the EU in the area of food safety and climate protection and the independent decision taking of the European Parliament;
Amendment 168 #
2014/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Agrees with Commissioner Malmström that all areas where the EU and the US have very different rules or approaches should be excluded from the negotiations12 ; __________________ 12See speech by EU Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmström of 11 December 2014.there should not be a trade-off between the economic goals and the people's health, safety and the environment; agrees further with the Commissioner that where Europe and the United States have very different rules, there will be no agreement, such as GMOs, the use of hormone in bovine sector, REACH and Cloning; __________________
Amendment 176 #
2014/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4 b. Calls for a regulatory framework on pesticides, which puts consumers safety first, enhances cooperation between authorities in the assessment procedures and methodologies for risk evaluation, and establishes a pest management cooperation in order to avoid animal and plant pests, which can cause unproportionate trade barriers;
Amendment 179 #
2014/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 c (new)
Paragraph 4 c (new)
4 c. Underlines that the negotiations on the health and pharmaceutical sector shall deliver benefits for citizens by having access to high quality medical products and services through affordable prices, by an increased cross-border scientific knowledge and through the removal of unnecessary and burdensome approval processes and inspections; calls for a speeding up of the approval of new medicines and medical devices and the establishment of a regulatory cooperation, which creates synergies and avoids burdensome approval processes and inspections in the sector while keeping the highest quality of services and products;
Amendment 6 #
2014/2021(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas the EU and Japan share values of democracy, the rule of law and promotion of human rights, all of which should form the core part of any agreement between the two parties aiming to provide a solid framework for that relationship;
Amendment 8 #
2014/2021(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
Amendment 39 #
2014/2021(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point o a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point o a (new)
(o a) to explore possibilities of closer cooperation on satellite navigation systems;
Amendment 45 #
2014/2021(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point q a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point q a (new)
(q a) to promote cooperation on securing access to global supply of rare earth and other critical raw materials;
Amendment 46 #
2014/2021(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point s
Paragraph 1 – point s
(s) to promote public awareness and visibility of in each other's region; to intensify bilateral cultural, academic, youth, people-to-people and sports exchanges;
Amendment 18 #
2014/0011(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 1 a (new)
Recital 1 a (new)
(1a) In the light of the need to maintain the incentives in the EU's Emissions Trading System during the negotiations on the Energy Efficiency Directive (2012/27/EU) the European Commission came forward with a declaration to examine options, including among others permanent withholding of the necessary amount of allowances, for action with a view to adopting as soon as possible further appropriate structural measures to strengthen the ETS during phase 3, and make it more effective.
Amendment 32 #
2014/0011(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The report from the Commission to the European Parliament and the Council on the state of the European carbon market in 21027 identified the need for measures in order to tackle structural supply-demand imbalances. The impact assessment on the 2030 climate and energy policy framework8 indicates that this imbalance is expected to continue, and would not be sufficiently addressed by adapting the linear trajectory to a more stringent target within this framework. A change in the linear factor only changes gradually the cap. Accordingly, the surplus would also only gradually decline, such that the market would have to continue to operate for more than a decade with a surplus of around 2 billion allowances or more, thereby preventing the ETS from delivering the necessary investment signal to reduce CO2 emissions in a cost efficient manner. In order to address this problem and to make the European Emission Trading System more resilient to imbalances, a market stability reserve should be established. To ensure regulatory certainty as regards auction supply in phase 3 and allow for some lead-time adjusting to the introduction of the design change, the market stability reserve should be established as of phase 4 starting in 20212017. In order to preserve a maximum degree of predictability, clear rules should be set for placing allowances into the reserve and releasing them from the reserve. Where the conditions are met, beginning in 20217, allowances corresponding to 12% of the number of allowances in circulation in year x-2 should be put into the reserve. A corresponding number of allowances should be released from the reserve when the total number of allowances in circulation is lower than 400 million. __________________ 7 COM(2012)652 final. 8 Insert reference.
Amendment 53 #
2014/0011(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 3 a (new)
Recital 3 a (new)
(3a) The European Council conclusions of 23 and 24 October 2014 on the 2030 Climate and Energy Policy Framework give clear guidance on the continuation of free allocations and carbon leakage provisions after 2020, stating that "the most efficient installations in the sectors at risk of losing international competitiveness should not face undue carbon costs leading to carbon leakage" and that "future allocations will ensure better alignment with changing production levels in different sectors" and "at the same time, incentives for industry to innovate will be fully preserved and administrative complexity will not be increased." The conclusions further underline that both direct and indirect costs for the respective industry sectors will be taken into account as well as the need for affordable energy prices. It is of paramount importance that the Commission reviews the functioning of Directive 2003/87/EC, in that respect.
Amendment 73 #
2014/0011(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) The Commission should review the functioning of the market stability reserve in relation to its operation in the light of experience of its application. The review of the functioning of the market stability reserve should in particular consider whether the rules on placing allowances in the reserve are appropriate with regard to the aim pursued to tackle structural supply- demand imbalances. The review should be carried out in 2021.
Amendment 94 #
2014/0011(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 1 – paragraph 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1
1. A market stability reserve is established, and shall operate from 1 January 20217.
Amendment 131 #
2014/0011(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 1 – paragraph 3
Article 1 – paragraph 3
3. In each year beginning in 20217, a number of allowances equal to 12% of the total number of allowances in circulation in year x-2, as published in May year x-1, shall be placed in the reserve, unless this number of allowances to be placed in the reserve would be less than 100 million.
Amendment 167 #
2014/0011(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 10 – paragraph 1
Article 10 – paragraph 1
2. “1. From 20217 onwards, Member States shall auction all allowances that are not allocated free of charge in accordance with Article 10a and 10c and are not placed in the market stability reserve established by Decision [OPEU please insert number of this Decision when known] of the European Parliament and of the Council(*).” In 2019 and 2020 an additional quantity of allowances as set out in the third column of the table in Annex IV of Commission Regulation (EU) No 176/2014 shall be placed in the reserve.
Amendment 196 #
2014/0011(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 2 a (new)
Article 2 a (new)
Article 2a Review of Directive 2003/87/EC By ...+, the Commission shall review Directive 2003/87/EC, taking into account the conclusions of the European Council of 23 and 24 October 2014, in particular with regard to carbon leakage provisions and the continuation of free allocations, better reflecting changing production levels and incentivising the most efficient performance taking into account direct and indirect carbon costs, and if appropriate shall, in accordance with the ordinary legislative procedure, submit a proposal to the European Parliament and the Council. ________________ + OJ: Please, insert the date: six months from the entry into force of this Decision.
Amendment 216 #
2014/0011(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 1
Article 3 – paragraph 1
By 31 December 20261, the Commission shall on the basis of an analysis of the orderly functioning of the European carbon market review the market stability reserve and submit a proposal, where appropriate, to the European Parliament and to the Council. The review shall pay particular attention to the percentage figure for the determination of the number of allowances to be placed into the reserve according to Article 1(3) and the numerical value of the threshold for the total number of allowances in circulation set by Article 1(4).
Amendment 225 #
2014/0011(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 4 – paragraph 1
Article 4 – paragraph 1
Article 10(1) of Directive 2003/87/EC as amended by Directive 2009/29/EC shall continue to apply until 31 December 202016.
Amendment 49 #
2013/2945(RSP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the 2013 Progress Report on Turkey and shares the Commission's conclusion that Turkey is a strategic partner for the European Union and that important progress on reforms was made in the preceding twelve months; underlines the importance and urgent need of further reforms and the promotion of dialogue across the political spectrum and in society more broadly, as well as th through accepting, respecting and empowering civil society to consolidate democracy and to ensure respect of fundamental rights in practice;
Amendment 99 #
2013/2945(RSP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Expresses concern on the way the Turkish government, after the 17th of December 2013, reacted to the corruption related operation lead by the Istanbul prosecutor on several ministers and businessmen; condemns the dismissal of police chiefs responsible of the corruption-related operation; in this matter, calls for the respect of the rule of law, impartiality and independence of the judiciary as ways of empowering the separation of powers which represents one of the fundamental pillars of democracy;
Amendment 119 #
2013/2945(RSP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Welcomes and urges for the implementation of the democratiszation package presented by the Government on 30 September 2013 and calls on the Government to duly consult the opposition and relevant civil society organiszations in the preparation of the implementing legislation and to continue with its reform efforts towards revision of the electoral system, including the lowering of the 10% threshold, and the adequate inclusion of all components of Turkish society; calls on the Government to ensure that the legislation on hate crimes offers protection for all citizens, including minorities and LGBTI; calls on the government to present a reform package with no delay where some of the vital issues, such as Alevi question, that are not included by the democratization package of 30 September, will be addressed;
Amendment 153 #
2013/2945(RSP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Expresses concerns at the very limited coverage of the Gezi Park events by Turkish media and the dismissal of journalists who criticised the Government’'s reactions to such events; recalls that freedom of expression and media pluralism are at the heart of European values and that an independent press is crucial to a democratic society; reiterates once again its concern at the fact that most media are owned by and concentrated in, large conglomerates with a wide range of business interests and points out to the worrying widespread phenomenon of self-censorship by media owners and journalists with intense pressure over those journalists who express criticism to the government; expresses concern at the particularly high number of journalists currently in pre-trial detention and calls on Turkey’'s judicial authorities to review and address these cases as soon as possible;
Amendment 236 #
2013/2945(RSP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a. Notes the concerns of the Turkish public opinion on the inability of the Court of Audit to audit many state institutions due to the lack of necessary law enforcement;
Amendment 161 #
2013/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H a (new)
Recital H a (new)
Ha. whereas the Commission has repeatedly called on Member States to shift tax burden from labour to other tax bases, such as environmental pollution and consumption; whereas internalising negative externalities of production and transport is a pivotal element of EU policy objectives; whereas measures which only apply to domestic products, transporters or producers would put additional pressure on the competitiveness of domestic businesses, in particular in energy-intensive industries or the transport sector, compared with businesses operating outside the EU which are not subject to internalisation levies;
Amendment 821 #
2013/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 a (new)
Paragraph 30 a (new)
30a. Calls on the Commission to examine a proportional and non-discriminatory carbon equalisation system as referred to in Directive 2009/29/EC of the European Parliament and the Council of 23 April 2009, internalising the negative externalities of production and transport, such as a European border tax adjustment (BTA) levied by Member States on import products, calculated on the basis of the life-cycle carbon cost of products, and including a rebate mechanism for exports; stresses that in order for a carbon equalisation system applied to import products to be compatible with WTO rules domestic carbon taxation should apply to similar products and should not be imposed directly on producers or transporters; acknowledges that due to its practical complexity a BTA should be carefully designed and gradually implemented in line with international trade agreements, e.g. through a pilot project in sectors which are most affected by domestic environmental levies; believes that a BTA would benefit both the competitiveness of EU businesses and the environmental sustainability of international production and transport; points out that revenues from a BTA could be used to decrease taxes, in particular on labour, and/or support the development of sustainable technologies.
Amendment 16 #
2013/2133(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas the SPA and the CETA are closely linked, followingbeing negotiated in parallel, respecting in mutual trust the EU's common approach and Canadian principles;
Amendment 28 #
2013/2133(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b
Paragraph 1 – point b
(b) to insist that all contractual relationships with third countries, both industrialised and developing, should include clearly worded conditionality and political clauses on human rights and democracy, without exception; to adopt appropriate safeguards to ensure that the suspension mechanism cannot be abused by either side;
Amendment 18 #
2013/2081(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Health has become an important issue in global politics with implications for security, economic wellbeing and international development. The EU needs a coherent foreign policy approach, addressing challenges not only such as disease threats and cross-sectoral coordination regarding the global policy environment and health governance but producing key elements of foreign policy and development strategy from the perspective of having an "impact on health" as a point of departure;
Amendment 41 #
2013/0222(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1
Article 4 – paragraph 1
1. The Agency shall levy a fee for the assessment of periodic safety update reports referred to in 107e and 107g of Directive 2001/83/EC and in Article 28 of Regulation (EC) No 726/2004 with assessment criteria according to Annex I of Directive 2001/83/EC.
Amendment 110 #
2013/0222(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex – part IV – paragraph 3
Annex – part IV – paragraph 3
3. Holders of marketing authorisations for medicinal products (other than authorised homeopathic medicinal products) referred to in Article 7(5) shall pay 80 % of the amount applicable to the chargeable units corresponding to those products. Holders of marketing authorisations for homeopathic medicinal products shall pay the percentage equivalent to the ICT services applicable to the chargeable unit corresponding to those products.
Amendment 101 #
2012/2870(RSP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Welcomes the Council decision to invite the Commission to take steps towards visa liberalisation as a gradual and long term perspective, in parallel with the signature of the readmission agreement; urges Turkey to sign and implement the readmission agreement without further delay and to ensure that, until this agreement enters into force, existing bilateral agreements are fully implemented; recalls that Turkey is one of the key transit countries for illegal migration to the EU and underlines the need to intensify cooperation with the EU on migration management, the fight against human trafficking and border controls; stresses once again the importance of facilitating the process to access to the EU for business people, academics, students and representatives of civil society from Turkey; supports the efforts of the Commission and the Member States to implement the visa code, harmonise and simplify visa requirements and create visa facilitating centres in Turkey; Reminds the Member States of their commitments under the association agreement in line with the Soysal Ruling of the European Court of Justice of 19 February 2009;
Amendment 12 #
2012/2258(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the Commission’s proposal to promote a new paradigm of viewing ageing as an opportunity for the future rather than a burden on society; however, emphasises that this opportunity should not be limited to technical (ICT) innovations and its potential for the internal market, for EU industries and enterprises; believes it should also includein addition to a clear and unambiguous strategy to promote and formally recognise the value of older people, the value of their experience and of their contribution to society, it should also include research into new types of employment for older people which will not be detrimental to the employment of younger people; believes that the positive potential of 'new' old people should be studied in order to come up with useful solutions which are acceptable to everyone;
Amendment 22 #
2012/2258(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Encourages the Commission’s proposal to adopt the definition of active and healthy ageing, as formulated by the WHO; however, emphasises that active and healthy ageing encompasses the entire lifespan and that the particularities of the EU context should be part of the definition and more specifically the EU priorities in regard to healthy and ecologically sustainable environmental conditions, health prevention and awareness, health literacy and eHealth, food safety and adequate nutrition, gender equality, and sustainable socio-economic conditions, social and health security systems and social protection schemes;
Amendment 31 #
2012/2258(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Supports the Commission’s proposal to increase the average number of HLY (Healthy Life Years) by two years as part of the objectives of Horizon 2020; however, emphasises that to achieve this ambitious goal a life-course perspective should be applied; stresses that appropriate mechanisms should be developed so as to fully incorporate overarching policy issues into the equation, such as social and health security, and social protection, employment and economic policies, gender equality and discrimination;
Amendment 45 #
2012/2258(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Reaffirms the Commission’s proposal to increase older people’s participation in decision- and policy-making and to stimulate regional and local governance; however, stresses that a bottom-up participatory approach requires more in- depth baseline assessments and regular monitoring of the actual and future needs and demands of older people and their informal care providers; stresses that we need to know substantially more about local environments in order to formulate policies which will be acceptable in real life;
Amendment 56 #
2012/2258(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Invites the Commission to apply a holistic approach in regard to prevention; points out the systematic correlation between socio-economic status and health outcomes throughout life; invites the Commission and the Member States to tackle structural issues and to eliminate socio-economic inequalities (which lead to health inequalities); further, questions the responsibility and pressure put on individuals to improve their health status, that is, without appropriately tackling structural issues, including health illiteracy; therefore, invites the Commission and the Member States to create structural conditions which tackle health inequalities and to provide firm support for the necessary research into the potential of local environments;
Amendment 77 #
2012/2258(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Welcomes the Commission’s intention to implement individual case management schemes and care plans; however, while acknowledging that a client/patient-centred approach is necessary, the cost for such an approach in terms of deploying trained care providers and utilizing appropriate ‘tools’, should not be solely attributed to the individual but should be considered as a societal responsibility, guaranteeing inter- and intra-generational solidarity; consideration should be given to new forms of solidarity which lie hidden in the potential of the older generation and which should be incorporated into solutions for care- and cure-related issues;
Amendment 88 #
2012/2258(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Acknowledges the Commission’s intention to contribute to making care and cure systems more cost-efficient; however, emphasises that the continuous increase of overall (health) care costs cannot be attributed to population ageing only, as the cost of health care is rising mainly on account of new technologies and ever more expensive medicines, which are becoming increasingly inaccessible for poorer people, resulting in increasing health inequality; furthermore, stresses that the burden of these costs are being put on the individual, increasingly so, creating a vicious circle in which people’s health and well-being are being put at risk as they are compelled to reallocate their often limited resources or when they have to postpone, abandon or even restrain from treatment, assistance and adequate nutrition;
Amendment 94 #
2012/2258(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Welcomes the Commission’s approach in regard to active ageing and independent living, more specifically, its comprehensive view on the role and importance of ‘place in ageing’ as the radius or perimeter in which people live their lives increasingly contracts as they age, and as older people tend to prefer living independently for as long as possible; stresses that the solution is not just old people's homes, but also inter- generationally and comprehensively active neighbourhoods;
Amendment 123 #
2012/2258(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Supports the Commission’s approach in regard to age-friendly innovations; however, invites the Commission to ensure that these innovations are end-user- oriented and user-friendly and actively incorporate their potential; hence, invites the Commission to develop a methodology through which the current and future needs of older people can be evaluated, since features adapted to older people’s needs are proven to be generally to the advantage of younger generations as well;
Amendment 126 #
2012/2258(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16a. Points out that, despite ongoing urbanisation, a lot of people still live in the countryside, which also requires innovative solutions;
Amendment 337 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 78
Paragraph 78
78. Recalls the specific commitment made in the Lisbon Treaty to focus on children's rights in EU's external policies; points out that the near-universal adoption of the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child provides a particularly solid international legal foundation to pursue progressive policies in this area; in this context fully supports the San Jose Articles on the application of international human rights law in relation to the protection of human life;
Amendment 1352 #
2012/0366(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex 1 – point 14 a (new)
Annex 1 – point 14 a (new)
(14 a) Smoking in presence of children can cause sudden infant death
Amendment 1354 #
2012/0366(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex 1 – point 14 b (new)
Annex 1 – point 14 b (new)
(14 b) Smoking during pregnancy causes premature birth
Amendment 1355 #
2012/0366(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex 1 – point 14 c (new)
Annex 1 – point 14 c (new)
(14 c) Children that are forced to smoke passive are more vulnerable to asthma and meningitis
Amendment 390 #
2012/0288(COD)
Council position
Annex II – point 3
Annex II – point 3
Directive 2009/28/EC
Annex IX – part A – title
Annex IX – part A – title
Part A. Feedstocks and fuels from waste and residues, the contribution of which towards the target(s) referred to in Article 3(4) shall be considered to be twice their energy content
Amendment 393 #
2012/0288(COD)
Council position
Annex II – point 3
Annex II – point 3
Directive 2009/28/EC
Annex IX – part A – point a
Annex IX – part A – point a
Amendment 396 #
2012/0288(COD)
Annex II – point 3
Directive 2009/28/EC
Annex IX – part A – point b
Annex IX – part A – point b
(b) Biomass fraction of mixed municipal waste, but not separated household waste subject to recycling targets or separate collection under point (1) and (2)(a) of Article 11(2) of Directive 2008/98/EC; derogations may be granted by Member States for separate biowaste where processes allow the production of both compost and biofuels.
Amendment 398 #
2012/0288(COD)
Council position
Annex II – point 3
Annex II – point 3
Directive 2009/28/EC
Annex IX – part A – point c
Annex IX – part A – point c
Amendment 400 #
2012/0288(COD)
Council position
Annex II – point 3
Annex II – point 3
Directive 2009/28/EC
Annex IX – part A – point d
Annex IX – part A – point d
(d) Biomassdegradable fraction of industrial waste not fit for use in the food or feed chain, including material from retail and wholesale and the agro-food and fish and aquaculture industry, and excluding feedstocks listed in part B of this Annex., retail and wholesale waste, but not waste subject to separate collection under Article 11(1) of Directive 2008/98/EC, and provided that the waste hierarchy and the principle of cascading use are respected
Amendment 409 #
2012/0288(COD)
Council position
Annex II – point 3
Annex II – point 3
Directive 2009/28/EC
Annex IX – part A – point g
Annex IX – part A – point g
Amendment 416 #
2012/0288(COD)
Council position
Annex II – point 3
Annex II – point 3
Directive 2009/28/EC
Annex IX – part A – point o
Annex IX – part A – point o
Amendment 425 #
2012/0288(COD)
Council position
Annex II – point 3
Annex II – point 3
Directive 2009/28/EC
Annex IX – part A – point p
Annex IX – part A – point p
Amendment 427 #
2012/0288(COD)
Council position
Annex II – point 3
Annex II – point 3
Directive 2009/28/EC
Annex IX – part A – point q
Annex IX – part A – point q
Amendment 442 #
2012/0288(COD)
Council position
Annex II – point 3
Annex II – point 3
Directive 2009/28/EC
Annex IX – part B – title
Annex IX – part B – title
Part B. Feedstocks, th from waste and residues whose contribution of which towards the target referred to in the first subparagraph of Article 3(4) shall be considered to be twice their energy content
Amendment 447 #
2012/0288(COD)
Council position
Annex II – point 3
Annex II – point 3
Directive 2009/28/EC
Annexe IX – part B a (new)
Annexe IX – part B a (new)
Part Ba. Feedstocks whose contribution towards the target referred to in Article 3(4) shall be considered to be four times their energy content and which contribute towards the 2,5% target referred to in Article 3(d)(i) (a) Algae (autotrophic). (b) Renewable liquid and gaseous fuels of non-biological origin. (c) Carbon Capture and Utilisation for transport purposes. (d) Bacteria.
Amendment 15 #
2012/0260(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1 a (new)
Recital 1 a (new)
(1a) As honey is a natural product, it should be exempted from the requirement to bear a list of ingredients.
Amendment 17 #
2012/0260(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1 b (new)
Recital 1 b (new)
(1b) In order to take account of consumers’ increasing sensitivity over the presence of genetically modified organisms in food and their rights to be informed thereof, in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2011 and Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 22 September 2003, Council Directive 2001/110/EC of 20 December 2001 should be amended accordingly.
Amendment 32 #
2012/0260(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 6
Recital 6
Amendment 47 #
2012/0260(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1 a (new)
Directive 2001/110/EC
Article 2 – Point 5
Article 2 – Point 5
(1a) In Article 2, the following point is added: "5. By way of derogation from Article 9 of Regulation 1169/2011, a list of ingredients shall not be required for honey."
Amendment 62 #
2012/0260(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Member States shall bring into force the laws, regulations and administrative provisions necessary to comply with Article 1, point (1) by [dat12 months after the date of entry into force]. They shall forthwith communicate to the Commission the text of those provisions.
Amendment 80 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) In order to allow for independent control as to whether these principles are adhered to, a clinical trial should be subject to prior authorisation, and approval by an ethics committee prior to commencement.
Amendment 253 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 a (new)
Article 4 a (new)
Article 4 a Ethics Committee 1. Authorisation of a clinical trial shall not be granted before an independent ethics committee has made a positive decision on the clinical trial. The Ethics Committee assessment shall include, in particular, the compliance with the requirements specified in Chapter V, Article 46, Article 47 and Chapter XII. 2. The Ethics Committee shall ensure that the rights, safety and well-being of subjects are protected. It shall be independent of the researcher, independent of the sponsor, and free of any other undue influence. It shall act in accordance with the laws and regulations of the country or countries in which the research is to be conducted and shall abide by all relevant international norms and standards. The Ethics Committee shall consist of a reasonable number of members, who collectively possess the relevant qualifications and experience to be able to review and evaluate the scientific, medical and ethical aspects of the proposed trial. 3. Member States shall take the necessary measures to establish Ethics Committees and facilitate their work.
Amendment 260 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
The sponsor shall propose one of the Member States concerned as reporting Member StateMember States concerned shall determine which state shall be the reporting Member State according to an established procedure based on objective criteria which are set by the Commission.
Amendment 264 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 3
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 3
Amendment 269 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
2. Within six14 days following submission of the application dossier, the proposed reporting Member State shall notify the sponsor through the EU portal of the following:
Amendment 276 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 3
Article 5 – paragraph 3
3. Where the proposed reporting Member State has not notified the sponsor within the time period referred to in paragraph 214 days, the clinical trial applied for shall be considered as falling within the scope of this Regulation, the application shall be considered complete, the clinical trial shall be considered a low-intervention clinical trial if this is claimed by the sponsor, and the proposed reporting Member State shall be the reporting Member State.
Amendment 280 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 3
Article 5 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 3
Where the proposed reporting Member State has not notified the sponsor according to points (a) to (d) of paragraph 2 within threeseven days following receipt of the comments or of the completed application, the application shall be considered complete, the clinical trial shall be considered as falling within the scope of this Regulation, the clinical trial shall be considered as a low-intervention clinical trial if this is claimed by the sponsor, and the proposed reporting Member State shall be the reporting Member State.
Amendment 310 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1 – point a
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1 – point a
(a) within 10 days from the validation date25 days, but no earlier than 15 days after receipt of the successfully validated application, for low-intervention clinical trials;
Amendment 313 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1 – point b
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1 – point b
(b) within 25 days from the validation date35 days but no earlier than 20 days after receipt of the successfully validated application for clinical trials other than low- intervention clinical trials;
Amendment 317 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1 – point c
Article 6 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1 – point c
(c) within 30 days from the validation date40 days but no earlier than 30 days after receipt of the successfully validated application for any clinical trial with an advanced therapy investigational medicinal product.
Amendment 321 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 5
Article 6 – paragraph 5
5. Until the assessment date, any Member State concerned may communicate to the reporting Member State any considerations relevant to the application. The reporting Member State shall take those considerations duly into account and shall document them in the assessment report. If the assessment report of the reporting Member State deviates from the considerations of the Member States concerned, it shall state the reasons for this deviation in the assessment report.
Amendment 359 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 3 a (new)
Article 8 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 3 a (new)
Notwithstanding the first and second subparagraphs, in case of other conflict, the Member States involved shall attempt to agree on a conclusion. If no conclusion is found, the Commission shall take a decision on the conclusion after having heard the Member States involved, and, if appropriate, having taken advice from the European Medicines Agency.
Amendment 375 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 2
Article 9 – paragraph 2
2. Member States shall ensure that the assessment is done jointly by a reasonable number of persons, including a significant number of medical doctors, who collectively have the necessary qualifications and experience.
Amendment 409 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15
Article 15
A substantial modification may only be implemented if it has been approved in accordance with the procedure set out in this Chapter, and if it has been approved by an independent ethics committee before its implementation.
Amendment 412 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
Article 17 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
2. Within fourten days following submission of the application dossier, the reporting Member State shall notify the sponsor through the EU portal of the following:
Amendment 425 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 20 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2
Article 20 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2
Notification shall be done by way of one single decision within ten days from the validation dateassessment date according to Article 6 (4).
Amendment 454 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 28 – paragraph 1 – point d
Article 28 – paragraph 1 – point d
(d) the subject or, where the subject is not able to give informed consent, his or her legal representative has had the opportunity, in a prior interview with a medical doctor who is the investigator or a member of the investigating team, to understand the objectives, risks and inconveniences of the clinical trial, and the conditions under which it is to be conducted and has also been informed of the right to withdraw from the clinical trial at any time without any resulting detriment;
Amendment 460 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 28 – paragraph 3
Article 28 – paragraph 3
3. Any subject or his legal representative may, without any resulting detriment, withdraw from the clinical trial at any time by revoking his or her informed consent. The withdrawal of consent shall not affect the activities carried out based on consent before its withdrawal.
Amendment 463 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 29 – paragraph 1
Article 29 – paragraph 1
1. Informed consent shall be written, dated and signed and given freely by the subject or his or her legal representative after having been ducomprehensively and comprehensibly informed of the nature, significance, implications and risks of the clinical trial, and after having received the corresponding information in writing. It shall be appropriately documented. Where the subject is unable to write, oral consent in the presence of at least one impartial witness may be given in exceptional cases. The subject or his or her legal representative shall be provided with a copy of the document by which informed consent has been given.
Amendment 474 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 30 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 30 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) the informed consent of the legal representative has been obtained, whereby; consent shall represent the subject's presumed will and may be revoked at any time, without detriment to the subject;
Amendment 478 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 30 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 30 – paragraph 1 – point c
(c) the explicit wish of an incapacitated subject who is capable of forming an opinion and assessing this information to refuse participation in, or to be withdrawn from, the clinical trial at any time is consideredduly taken into account by the investigator;
Amendment 481 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 30 – paragraph 1 – point h a (new)
Article 30 – paragraph 1 – point h a (new)
(ha) the Ethics Committee, with expertise in the relevant disease and the patient population concerned, or after taking advice in clinical, ethical and psychosocial questions in the field of the relevant disease and patient population concerned, has endorsed the protocol;
Amendment 487 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 31 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 31 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) the minor has received all relevant information in a way adapted to his or her age and maturity, from professionalsa medical doctor (either the investigator or member of the trial team) trained or experienced in working with children, regarding the trial, the risks and the benefits;
Amendment 491 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 31 – paragraph 1 – point c
Article 31 – paragraph 1 – point c
(c) the explicit wish of a minor who is capable of forming an opinion and assessing this information to refuse participation in, or to be withdrawn from, the clinical trial at any time, is duly taken into consideration by the investigator in accordance with his or her age and maturity;
Amendment 496 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 31 – paragraph 1 – point h b (new)
Article 31 – paragraph 1 – point h b (new)
(hb) the corresponding scientific guidelines of the Agency have been followed;
Amendment 498 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 31 – paragraph 1 – point h d (new)
Article 31 – paragraph 1 – point h d (new)
(hd) the Ethics Committee, with paediatric expertise or after taking advice in clinical, ethical and psychosocial problems in the field of paediatrics, has endorsed the protocol;
Amendment 513 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 32 – paragraph 1 – point e
Article 32 – paragraph 1 – point e
(e) the Ethics committee positively assesses that a direct benefit of the clinicial trial for the patient is to be expected, as well as the fact that the clinical trial poses a minimal risk to, and imposes a minimal burden on, the subject.
Amendment 532 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 34 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
Article 34 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
3. Within one year from the end of a clinical trial, the sponsor shall submit to the EU database and to the public EudraPharm database a summary of the results of the clinical trial.
Amendment 570 #
2012/0192(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 40 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 40 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. The responsible Ethics Committee shall be involved in the assessment of this information.
Amendment 5 #
2011/2193(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 11 a (new)
Citation 11 a (new)
- having regard to the European Parliaments Resolution on the trade in human egg cells from March 10th 2005
Amendment 6 #
2011/2193(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas donated tissues and cells, such as skin, bones, tendons, corneas and haematopoietic stem cells, are increasingly used in medical therapies and as starting material for advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMP); whereas the Directive2004/23 asks the Member States to endeavour to ensure voluntary and unpaid donation and endeavour to ensure that the procurement of tissues and cells as such is carried out on a non-profit basis which is a clear legal obligation which can in the case where a Member State does not follow the principal lead to infringement procedure;
Amendment 16 #
2011/2193(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital M a (new)
Recital M a (new)
Ma. Whereas the donation of some tissues and cells creates a severe risk for the donor, whereas this risk is particular high in egg-cell donation because of the hormone treatment which is necessary to prepare the donation;
Amendment 17 #
2011/2193(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital M b (new)
Recital M b (new)
Mb. Whereas the Charta of Fundamental Rights which is the leading principle for the European Union and legally binding after entering into force of the Lisbon Treaty prohibits making the human body and its parts as such a source of financial gain.
Amendment 18 #
2011/2193(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital M c (new)
Recital M c (new)
Mc. Whereas unpaid donation is not only an ethical principle but also necessary to protect the health of the donor and the recipient as the involvement of high amounts of money in the donation process may stimulate the donor to take risks and may hinder the disclosure of risks in his/her medical history.
Amendment 19 #
2011/2193(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital M d (new)
Recital M d (new)
Md. Whereas there is a lot of evidence that allogenic cordbloood transplantation is already successful for many patients and there are also serious reports that in some cases autologes treatment with this kind of cells can be successful.
Amendment 20 #
2011/2193(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital M e (new)
Recital M e (new)
Me. Whereas serious media again and again report that in the area of tissues and cells the principle of unpaid donation is violated.
Amendment 24 #
2011/2193(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the concluspresentations of the Second Report on Voluntary and Unpaid Donation of Tissues and Cells; which shows that a lot of activities are performed in the Member States to implement the principle of unpaid donation but also shows that still a lot needs to be done
Amendment 31 #
2011/2193(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Asks the Commission to carefully monitor the development in the Member States and to examine carefully any reports by actors in the civil society and media under violation of the principle and draw appropriate consequences if necessary infringement procedures.
Amendment 40 #
2011/2193(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
Amendment 63 #
2011/2193(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Underlines the importance of mothers donating cord blood and tissue at birth eitherspecially into public or private banks to help treat illnesses and further research in the field;
Amendment 72 #
2011/2193(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Calls on Member States to raise awareness of public and private cord blood banking through information campaigns that may take place, for example, during antprenatal classes; but at the same times not exclude the activities of public cordblood banks including appropriately regulated information campaigns by those private cordblood banks.
Amendment 98 #
2011/2193(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Calls on the Commission to consider revising the principles governing tissue and cell donation as laid down inpropose as soon as possible a revision of the Directive 2004/23/EC, in order to bring them into line with the principles governing organ donation laid down in Directive 2010/45/EU, and to take into account of scientific developments and the the new legal situation after the entering into force of the Lisbon Treaty and to take into account the scientific developments, the practical experience of actors in the sector and the recommendations of this report;
Amendment 99 #
2011/2193(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23a. Asks the Commission to also propose a revision of Regulation EC 1394/2007 in order to include provision that guarantees the application of the principle of unpaid donation similar to the Directive 2010/45 and to take into account the problems in the implementation of the regulation especially for SMEs.
Amendment 45 #
2011/0461(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) The Civil Protection Mechanism constitutes a visible expression of European solidarity by ensuring a practical and timely contribution to prevention of and preparedness for disasters and the response to major disasters and imminence thereof. THowever, as it is primarily the responsibility of Member States to protect people, the environment and property on their territory against disasters and to ensure that their disaster management systems have sufficient capabilities, this Decision should therefore not affect the reciprocal rights and obligations of the Member States under bilateral or multilateral treaties, which relate to the matters covered by this Decision, nor Member States' responsibility to protect people, the environment and property on their territory.
Amendment 259 #
2011/0461(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 28 – paragraph 2
Article 28 – paragraph 2
2. Financial Assistance referred to in Articles 20 and Article 21 (a) to (f) may also be granted to countries coming under the European Neighbourhood Policy as well as potential candidate countries not participating in the Mechanismbe granted to candidate countries and potential candidate countries not participating in the Mechanism and to countries coming under the European Neighbourhood Policy, in so far as it complements funding under the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA) and the European Neighbourhood and Partnership Instrument (ENPI).
Amendment 31 #
2011/0339(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
– Having regard to its resolution of 9 October 2008 on "Together for Health: A Strategic approach for the EU 2008- 2013"1, _______________ 1. OJ C 9E, 15.1.2010, p.56.
Amendment 32 #
2011/0339(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
– Having regard to the White paper - Together for Health: A strategic Approach for the EU 2008-2013 (COM (2007)630 final),
Amendment 70 #
2011/0339(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) NPatients' organizations and health professionals' associations, non- governmental bodies and health stakeholders, in particular patients' organisations and health professionals' associationss well as churches and religious associations or communities working in the public health area and health stakeholders in general, play an important role in providing the Commission the information and advice necessary to implement the pProgramme. In playing this role, they may require contributions from the Programme to enable them to function. That is why the pProgramme shall be accessible to representative NGOs and patient organisations working in the public health area, which play an effective role in civil dialogue processes at EU level, such as for example participation in consultative groups, and in that wayall entities, thereby strengthening their capacity to contribute to pursuing the Programme's specific objectives.
Amendment 165 #
2011/0339(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 7 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) actions having a clear EU added value co-financed by the competent authorities of the Member States responsible for Public Health or the third countries participating pursuant to Article 6, or by anon- governmental bodiesther body as referred to in Article 8(1) mandated by these competent authorities;
Amendment 166 #
2011/0339(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 2 – point c
Article 7 – paragraph 2 – point c
(c) the functioning of non governmentalthe bodies as referred to in article 8(2) where financial support is necessary to the pursuit of one or more of the specific objectives of the Programme.
Amendment 169 #
2011/0339(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 3 – point b
Article 7 – paragraph 3 – point b
(b) 60 % of eligible costs for the functioning of a non-governmental bodybody as referred to in Article 8(2). In cases of exceptional utility such bodies may benefit from a financial contribution up to a maximum of 80% of eligible costs;
Amendment 172 #
2011/0339(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 8 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) They are non-governmental, non- profit-making, independent of industry, commercial and business or other conflicting interests as well as of governments;
Amendment 207 #
2011/0339(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex 1 – point 2 – point 2.6 a (new)
Annex 1 – point 2 – point 2.6 a (new)
Amendment 2 #
2010/0310M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the EU has reaffirmed its commitment to building a strong partnership with Iraq, based on the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, to supporting the Iraqi authorities in the reconstruction phase and tthroughout the transition to democracy and reconstruction process, while also tackling the causes of the political, social and economic instability;
Amendment 7 #
2010/0310M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas parliamentary elections are scheduled for 12 May 2018; whereas the full participation of all components of Iraqi society will be an important step towards an inclusive democracy and a shared sense of nationhood;
Amendment 54 #
2010/0310M(NLE)
2. Stresses that the PCA is an essential instrument for implementing the EU strategy for Iraq and for strengthening our cooperation in the country’s reconstruction, stabilisation and reconciliation; emphasizes the importance of Iraqi ownership in the process of building a democratic, federal and pluralist state based on the respect for human rights and rule of law;
Amendment 61 #
2010/0310M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the EU and the Member States to maintain the humanitarian assistance they are currently providing to help and protect all Iraqis affected by the conflicts; using aid as a means to help consolidate governance, democracy and rule of law;
Amendment 71 #
2010/0310M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls on the EU to make every effort to encourage the pursuit of a sustained and constructive dialogue between the central authority and the authorities of the Kurdistan region of Iraq in order to establish stable relations which satisfy both parties and fully respect the country’s diversity and the rights of all elements of Iraqi society, as well as the principles of the Iraqi Constitution and the unity and territorial integrity of Iraq; fostering inclusive decision making at the highest level;
Amendment 95 #
2010/0310M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Continues to provide ongoing support for the broad action to combat terrorism being carried out by the Global Coalition against Da'esh, which remains a prominent threat in spite of recent military gains against the organization; calls on the EU to establish a dialogue on issues relating to the fight against terrorism with a view to reforming anti-terrorist legislation and strengthening the country’s capacity to deal with the terrorist threats;
Amendment 102 #
2010/0310M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Calls on the Commission to support a reform of the judicial system, in particular with regard to transitional justice, in order to ensure compliance with international standards on fair trials and judicial independence to ensure accountability within government structures;
Amendment 108 #
2010/0310M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Calls on the EU to promote good relations between Iraq and its neighbours and to promote its role as a contributor to regional peace; highlights the importance of preserving the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country;
Amendment 116 #
2010/0310M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Stresses that the reconstruction and stabilisation process must be accompanied by coherent economic and social development policies which benefit all Iraqis; calls on the EU to engage fully alongside the Iraqi authorities not only to address the economic and budgetary imbalances but also to promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth capable of generating jobs, particularly for young people, in addition to establishing a framework for trade and investment;
Amendment 118 #
2010/0310M(NLE)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Stresses that the reconstruction and stabilisation process must be accompanied by coherent economic and social development policies which benefit all Iraqis in a sustainable and inclusive manner; calls on the EU to engage fully alongside the Iraqi authorities not only to address the economic and budgetary imbalances but also to promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth capable of generating jobs, particularly for young people;
Amendment 48 #
2010/0242(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) The growing proportion of older people in Europe and the consequent increase in chronic conditions makes it more important than ever to promote healthy ageing and develop initiatives to counter health risks associated with the ageing process, such as malnutrition. Healthy ageing can help raise labour market participation of older people, enable them to be active in society for longer, improve their individual quality of life and curb the strains on health and social care systems.
Amendment 78 #
2010/0208(COD)
Council position
Recital 7 a (new)
Recital 7 a (new)
(7a) To ensure that the cultivation of GMOs does not result in the unintended presence of GMOs in particular in products recognised under the Union quality schemes such as organic production, effective co-existence measures are needed. Member States should therefore be required, under Directive 2001/18/EC, to adopt rules applicable to their territories to avoid such unintended presence. Particular attention should be paid to any possible cross- border contamination from a Member State or a region where cultivation is allowed into a neighbouring Member State or region where it is prohibited. The Commission Recommendation of 13 July 2010 provides guidance to Member States for the development of national co- existence measures, including in border areas.
Amendment 84 #
2010/0208(COD)
Council position
Recital 7 b (new)
Recital 7 b (new)
(7b) Most Member States do not have measures in place to protect conventional and organic farming from contamination with GMOs, and when measures exist they are not usually efficient enough to protect farmers from contamination. Member States that do not ban the cultivation of GM crops should be obliged to adopt measures to protect conventional and organic farming from contamination and to design liability regimes that ensure that the economic burden of contamination is on GMO producers rather than on conventional and organic farmers.
Amendment 87 #
2010/0208(COD)
Council position
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) During the authorisation procedure of a given GMO, the possibility should be provided for a Member State to request the Commission to present to the notifier/applicant its demand to adjust the geographical scope of itsa notification/application submitted in accordance with Part C of Directive 2001/18/EC or in accordance with Articles 5 and 17 of Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 to the effect that all or part of the territory of that Member State be excluded from cultivation. The Commission should facilitate the procedure by presenting the request of the Member State to the notifier/applicant without delay and the notifier/applicant should respond to that request within an established time-limit.
Amendment 101 #
2010/0208(COD)
Council position
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) In addition, and only where the notifier/applicant has refused to adjust the geographical scope of the notification/application of a GMO as requested byThere should always be the possibility for a Member State, there should be the possibility for that Member State too act as risk manager and adopt reasoned measures restricting or prohibiting the cultivation of thata GMO or of groups of GMOs defined by crop or trait or of all GMOs once authorised in all or part of its territory, on the basis of grounds distinct from those assessed according to the harmonized set of Union rules, that is Directive 2001/18/EC and Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003relating to the public interest, which are in conformity with Union law. Those grounds may be related to environmental or agricultural policy objectives, or other compelling grounds such as town and country planning, land use, socio- economic impacts, co-existence and public policylegitimate factors such as socio-economic impacts, where those factors have not been addressed as part of the harmonised procedure provided for in Part C of Directive 2001/18/EC, or to persisting scientific uncertainty. Those measures should be duly justified on scientific grounds or on grounds relating to other legitimate factors which might arise from the deliberate release or the placing on the market of GMOs. Those grounds may be invoked individually or in combination, depending on the particular circumstances of the Member State, region or area in which those measures will apply.
Amendment 170 #
2010/0208(COD)
Council position
Article 1 – paragraph 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1
Directive 2001/18/EC
Article 26b – paragraph 1
Article 26b – paragraph 1
1. During the authorisation procedure of a given GMO or during the renewal of consent/authorisation, a Member State may request, via the Commission, the notifier/applicant to adjust the geographical scope of its notification/application submitted in accordance with Part C of this Directive or Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003,to adjust the geographical scope of the written consent or authorisation to the effect that all or part of the territory of that Member State is to be excluded from cultivation. Thise request shall be communicated to the Commission and, if applicable, to the competent authority responsible for issuing the written consent under this Directive at the latest 360 days from the date of the circulation of the assessment report under Article 14(2) of this Directive, or from receiving the opinion of the Authority under Article 6(6) and Article 18(6) of Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003. The Commission shall communicate the request of the Member State to the notifier/applicant and to, the other Member States and to the public without delay.
Amendment 182 #
2010/0208(COD)
Council position
Article 1 – paragraph 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1
Directive 2001/18/EC
Article 26 b – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Article 26 b – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
2. Where the notifier/applicant oppoIn cases a request of a Member Stais submitted in accordance with paragraph 1, the notifier/applicant shall notify the Commission and the Member States within 30 days from the communication by the Commission of that request. In the event of explicit or tacit agreement of the notifier/applicant, the adjustment of the geographical scope of the notification/application shall be implemented as a condition in the written consent or authorisation.
Amendment 187 #
2010/0208(COD)
Council position
Article 1 – paragraph 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1
Directive 2001/18/EC
Article 26 b – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Article 26 b – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
The written consent issued under this Directive and, where applicable, the decision issued in accordance with Article 19 as well as the decision of authorisation adopted under Articles 7 and 19 of Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003, shall be issued on the basis of the adjusted geographical scope of the notification/application as explicitly or tacitly agreed by the notifier/applicant.
Amendment 69 #
2009/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Fully supports the OSCE Minsk Group Co- chairs’ mediation, the Madrid Principlesproposed draft of basic principles (so-called Madrid Document) and the Moscow Declaration; condemns the idea of a military solution and calls on both sides to avoid militant rhetoric; furthermore calls on both sides to show more ambition in the peace talks and to abandon the tendency to prefer perpetuating the status quo created through military conquests in defiance of UN Security Council resolutions; calls on the international community likewise to show courage and political will to overcome the remaining sticking points which hinder an agreement;
Amendment 100 #
2009/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Stresses that security for all is an indispensable element of any settlement; recognises the importance of robustadequate peace- keeping arrangements;
Amendment 198 #
2009/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Holds the view that broader cooperation on a regional level and with the EU in sectors such as the economy, transport, energy and environment is essential for the optimal development of the sectors themselves and for ensuring stability in the region, but that cooperation should also embrace the building of human capital in the whole region as a long-term investment; welcomes the fact that all three countries benefit from the EU’s GSP and takes note that all of them qualify for the GSP+ for sustainable development and good governance; notes that regional cooperation in the judicial and police fields and the establishment of integrated border management are essential for further promoting mobility in the region and with the EU; deplores the fact that implementation of regional projects with involvement of all three countries is still hindered by the persistence of unresolved conflicts;
Amendment 4 #
2009/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas effective primary prevention can greatly contribute to improving health and whereas it has been predicted that, by implementing 100% population coverage of cervical cancer screening, an estimated reduction of over 94% of life years lost could be attained and, for every 152 pap smear tests performed, one life year could be gained,through population-based interventions and measures to encourage healthy lifestyles;
Amendment 10 #
2009/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H c (new)
Recital H c (new)
Hc. whereas the disease arises principally as a consequence of individual exposure to carcinogenic agents in what individuals inhale, eat and drink, or are exposed to in their personal or work environment. Personal habits, such as tobacco use, dietary and physical activity patterns - as well as occupational and environmental conditions – play major roles in the development of cancer,
Amendment 14 #
2009/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H g (new)
Recital H g (new)
Hg. whereas effective secondary prevention aimed at early disease detection can also significantly contribute to improving health prevention can greatly contribute to improving health and whereas it has been predicted that, by implementing 100% population coverage of cervical cancer screening, an estimated reduction of over 94% of life years lost could be attained and, for every 152 pap smear tests performed, one life year could be gained,
Amendment 22 #
2009/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital N b (new)
Recital N b (new)
Nb. whereas poor nutrition, physical inactivity, obesity, tobacco and alcohol, are risk factors common to other chronic diseases, such as CVD, type 2 diabetes, and respiratory diseases, and therefore cancer prevention programmes should be conducted within the context of an integrated chronic disease prevention programme,
Amendment 24 #
2009/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital U a (new)
Recital U a (new)
Ua. whereas cancer is also strongly associated with social and economic status. Cancer risk factors are highest in groups with the least education. In addition, patients in the lower socioeconomic classes have consistently poorer survival rates than those in higher strata,
Amendment 31 #
2009/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Argues that strong action on cancer at a European level has the potential to set in place a framework for coordinated action at Member State, regional and local level. The European Partnership for Action Against Cancer should complement and build on work currently undertaken by the European Institutions in the field of health, and should seek to form partnerships with other services and sectors to ensure a comprehensive approach to the prevention and treatment of cancer;
Amendment 33 #
2009/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that closer cooperation with stakeholders, with the participation of civil society and employers’ and employees’ organisations at international, European, national, regional and local level, should be established for a good and effective partnershiprepresentative and effective partnership. The European Partnership for Action Against Cancer should gather those stakeholders with a genuine interest in improving health outcomes. The potential of this forum to contribute to the development and dissemination of best practice guidelines should not be underestimated. The Partnership should also establish channels of communication with other fora, such as the EU Health Policy Forum, to ensure the work against cancer is giving due consideration to other concerns such as health inequities, the determinants of health and the role of health professionals all of which have a clear impact on the prevalence and treatment of cancer;
Amendment 35 #
2009/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls on the European Commission and the European Council to cooperate with the European Parliament in a well-coordinated inter-institutional partnership in order to reduce the burden of cancer; , using the legal basis established in the Treaty of Lisbon to protect public health and prevent diseases. The European Commission and the European Council should consider the various formal and informal structures that exist to consult with the Members of the European Parliament;
Amendment 42 #
2009/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Underlines that prevention is the most cost-effective response, as one third of cancers are preventable, and urges that more resources are systematically and strategically invested in both primary and secondary prevention; underlines that in these times of financial instability it is all the more important to maintain investments in health, in particular through portance of maintaining investments in health, in particular through preventive actions. In this regard, the European Commission and the European Council should consider further action to ensure a health-improving environment, including work on tobacco, nutrition and alcohol and provisions to impreoventive opportunities for physical actionsvity;
Amendment 48 #
2009/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Stresses that integrated research (basic and clinical) on the use of nutrition in preventing cancer/treating malnutrition associated with cancer should be developed as well as validated and widely accepted guidelines on nutritional support for cancer patients; urges therefore the Commission to provide funding to develop and validate integrated research (basic and clinical) on the use of nutrition in preventing cancer and treating malnutrition associated with cancer as well as for the development of widely accepted guidelines on nutritional support for cancer patients for social and health care professionals across Europe, and calls on the Member States to promote the implementation of such guidelines;
Amendment 53 #
2009/2103(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Calls for support to be stepped up for research into cancer prevention, including research into the effects of harmful chemicals and environmental pollutants, nutrition, lifestyle, genetic factors, and the interaction of all these, and calls for the links between breast cancer and potential risk factors such as tobacco, alcohol and hormones to be investigated;
Amendment 1 #
2008/2220(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. underlines that food quality systems should provide information and offer a guarantee for consumers of the authenticity of local ingredients and production techniques; considers therefore that such schemes need to be implemented with reinforced controls and traceability systems;
Amendment 9 #
2008/2220(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. calls for support for the development and promotion of trademarks for food with controlled production;
Amendment 10 #
2008/2220(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. calls for measures to prevent the non- transparent inclusion of ingredients in EU food products where there is no clear information about the conditions of, or controls on, their production.
Amendment 36 #
2008/2211(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Calls on the Commission to fund research into the effect of electromagnetic fields on flora and fauna, in particular on bees;
Amendment 25 #
2008/2200(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses that the accession process must be based on a fair and rigorous application of the principle of conditionality whereby each country will be judged solely in the light of its capacity to meet all the benchmarks laid down in relation to a specific stage of the negotiations, and, consequently, that the accession process must not be slowed down or blocked for countries that have satisfied the benchmarks previously set;
Amendment 33 #
2008/2200(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Stresses that all parties concerned must make serious efforts to find mutually acceptable solutions to outstanding bilateral disputes between EU Member States and countries of the Western Balkans; believes that the opening of accession negotiations and the opening and closing of negotiation chapters should be based exclusively on an objective evaluation by the Commission, and that EU Member States must not obstruct or block the accession process over questions relating to bilateral disputes;
Amendment 131 #
2008/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Urges both parties to closely coordinate their policies towards Russia; conscious of Russia's relevance as a neighbouring country and a global player, of its interdependence with the EU and of its role as a global player, emphasises the importance of building up constructive cooperation with Russia, without compromising democratic principles or international law; calls on both transatlantic partners to closely coordinate their approach towards any reform of the European security architecture, while insisting on the OSCE principles as its inalienable base and maintaining the coherence of NATO;
Amendment 136 #
2008/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Urges both partners to pay special attention to Latin America and its regional organisations in particular, coordinating efforts to promote the consolidation of democracy, respect for human rights, good governance, the fight against poverty, the strengthening of social cohesion, market economies, the rule of law including the fight against organised crime and drug trafficking, and supporting regional integration as well as cooperation in respect of climate change;
Amendment 168 #
2008/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 a (new)
Paragraph 38 a (new)
38a. Stresses the importance of closer cooperation in space programmes, in particular between the ESA (European Space Agency) and NASA;
Amendment 4 #
2008/2153(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Believes it crucial to avoid disruptive competitive scrambles for scarce food resources; therefore calls for more effective EU coordination with non-governmental organisations, the Food and Agriculture Organization and other international agencies at a technical level and with the UN at a political level to promote fair access to global food resources and to increase food production in key developing countries while consistently taking into account biodiversity and sustainable development criteria;
Amendment 5 #
2008/2153(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Urges the EU to help countries at risk of conflict to develop strong agricultural policies of their own based on easy access to raw materials, quality education and adequate funding, as well as on reliable infrastructure; believes that EU aid in support of this can result inshould be targeted at improveding food self- sufficiency for recipient developing countries, and therefore betterwhich will improve regional food security and access to food for the poorest sections of society;
Amendment 7 #
2008/2153(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Believes that rising food prices and accelerated development in the field of biotechnology must not lead to an environmentally less sensitive stance on the use of genetically modified food;
Amendment 1 #
2008/2054(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A
Recital A
A. Considers that the reorganisation of responsibilities and provisions regarding the CFSP and the CSDP will on the one hand require newadditional funding but on the other hand provide the opportunity for rationalisation measures;
Amendment 2 #
2008/2054(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital G
Recital G
G. Notes that the new budgetary procedure abolishes all distinctions between the different chapters of the budget and types of expenditure; therefore believes that the special provisions concerning the CFSP budget in the current Interinstitutional Agreement, notably those which define the budgetary nomenclature and rule out placing any amount in the reserve, should be abolished, but that the implementation of the new budgetary regime should follow the spirit of the Interinstitutional Agreement.
Amendment 21 #
2008/0218(CNS)
(5) include in the national plans provisions designed to ensure equitable access to high quality care, including diagnostics, treatments and orphan drugs, to all rare disease patients throughout their national territory with a view to ensuring equitable access to quality care on the basis of equity and solidarity throughout the European Union following the principles agreed in the High Level Pharmaceutical Forum paper "Improving Access to Orphan Medicines for all Affected EU citizens".
Amendment 39 #
2008/0218(CNS)
(c) sharing Member State's assessment reports on the therapeuticclinical added value of orphan drugs at EU level, in order to minimise delays for access to orphan drugs for rare disease patients;
Amendment 119 #
2008/0142(COD)
Council position
Recital 32
Recital 32
(32) This Directive should not provide either for the transfer of social security entitlements between Member States or other coordination of social security systems. The sole objective of the provisions regarding prior authorisation and reimbursement of healthcare provided in another Member State should be to enable freedom to provide healthcare for patients and to remove unjustified obstacles to that fundamental freedom within the patient's Member State of affiliation. Consequently this Directive should fully respect the differences in national healthcare systems and the Member States' responsibilities for the organisation and delivery of health services and medical care. This Directive should also respect the different management systems and the specific approaches chosen by the Member States in integrating public and private provision of healthcare services.
Amendment 74 #
2008/0013(COD)
Proposal for a directive – amending act
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) Where equivalent measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, in particular taxation, are in place for small installations whose emissions do not exceed a threshold of 1025 000 tonnes of CO2 per year, there should be a procedure for enabling Member States to exclude such small installations from the emissions trading system for so long as those measures are applied. This threshold relatively offers the maximum gain in terms of reduction of administrative costs for each tonne excluded from the system, for reasons of administrative simplicity. As a consequence of the move from five-year allocation periods, and in order to increase certainty and predictability, provisions should be set on the frequency of revision of greenhouse gas emission permits.
Amendment 146 #
2008/0013(COD)
Proposal for a directive – amending act
Recital 18
Recital 18
(18) Transitional free allocation to installations should be provided for through harmonised Community-wide rules ("benchmarks") in order to minimise distortions of competition within the Community. These rules should take account of the most greenhouse gas and energy efficient techniques, substitutes, alternative production processes, use of biomass, renewables and greenhouse gas capture and storage. Any such rules should not give incentives to increase emissions and ensure that an increasing proportion of these allowances is auctioned. Allocations must be fixed prior to the trading period so as to enable the market to function properly. They shall also avoid undue distortions of competition on the markets for electricity and heat supplied to industrial installations. They shall further avoid undue distortions of competition between industrial activities carried out in installations operated by a single operator and production in outsourced installations. These rules should apply to new entrants carrying out the same activities as existing installations receiving transitional free allocations. To avoid any distortion of competition within the internal market, no free allocation should be made in respect of the production of electricity by new entrants, which is not the case of electricity recovered from unavoidable waste gases and other residues, and electricity produced in connection with industrial heat consumption for the own consumption of the operators of the installations. Allowances which remain in the set-aside for new entrants in 2020 should be auctioned.
Amendment 720 #
2008/0013(COD)
Proposal for a directive – amending act
Article 1 - point 21
Article 1 - point 21
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 27 - paragraph 1
Article 27 - paragraph 1
1. Member States mayshall at the request of the operator exclude, from the Community scheme, combustion installations which have a rated thermal input below 25 MW, reported emissions to the competent authority of less than 1025 000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent, excluding emissions from biomass, in each of the preceding 3 years, and which are subject to measures that will achieve an equivalent contribution to emission reductions, if the Member State concerned complies with the following conditions: (a) it notifies the Commission of each such installation, specifying the equivalent measures that are in place, (b) it confirms that monitoring arrangements are in place to assess whether any installation emits 1025 000 tonnes or more of carbon dioxide equivalent, excluding emissions from biomass, in any one calendar year; (c) it confirms that if any installation emits 1025 000 tonnes or more of carbon dioxide equivalent, excluding emissions from biomass, in any one calendar year or the equivalent measures are no longer in place, the installation will be re-introduced into the system; (d) it publishes the information referred to in points (a), (b) and (c) for public comment.
Amendment 8 #
2008/0000(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas increasing rates of cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, mental illness, overweight and obesity problems , along with malnutrition and inadequate nutrition, and HIV/AIDS as well as new challenges are increasingly threatening health in the European Union and beyond,
Amendment 21 #
2008/0000(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)
Recital F a (new)
Fa. Whereas at the same time the competences of Member States in the field of health and their freedom to decide what kind of health services they consider appropriate to provide must be respected, in strict compliance with the principle of subsidiarity, including the respect for the different management systems and for the specific approaches chosen by the Member States in integrating public and private provision of healthcare services;
Amendment 22 #
2008/0000(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F b (new)
Recital F b (new)
Fb. Whereas in the event of concerns based on ethical grounds, it remains within the competence of the Member States whether or not a certain service constitutes a health service;
Amendment 35 #
2008/0000(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K a (new)
Recital K a (new)
Ka. Whereas malnutrition, which affects a significant number of EU citizens, including an estimated 40% of patients in hospitals and between 40% and 80% of older people in care homes, costs European health care systems similar amounts to obesity and overweight;
Amendment 36 #
2008/0000(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K b (new)
Recital K b (new)
Kb. Whereas health is not only influenced by alcohol, tobacco, inactivity, diet and similar external factors, and therefore more attention should be devoted to the psychosomatic dimension of many diseases and to the deeper causes of the growing number of people affected by depression and other mental disorders;
Amendment 37 #
2008/0000(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K c (new)
Recital K c (new)
Kc. Whereas Member States should further promote assistance to people affected by a chronic disease and/or by a disability so as to allow them to be integrated in society to the fullest extent possible;
Amendment 71 #
2008/0000(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Stresses that the desire to prevent diseases must not lead to a climate in society that would prevent children with a chronic disease or a disability from being born; asks the Commission to promote concrete assistance to parents of children with a chronic disease and/or a disability;
Amendment 76 #
2008/0000(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Believes that the rights of citizens to have access to healthcare and their responsibility for their own health should be fundamental; emphasises the importance of health literacy programmes and encouraging all sectors of society to lead healthy lifestyles;
Amendment 81 #
2008/0000(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Stresses that the concept of ‘healthy lifestyle’ (i.e. a healthy diet, the absence of drug abuse and sufficient physical activity) needs to be complemented by a psychosocial dimension (i.e. a balanced approach to work and family life);
Amendment 85 #
2008/0000(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Stresses that the prohibition on making the human body and its parts as such a source of financial gain, as mentioned in Article 3 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, should be considered a guiding principle in the area of health, especially in the field of cell, tissue and organ donation and transplantation;
Amendment 87 #
2008/0000(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Welcomes the intention, in the spirit of ‘health for all’, to promote health and disease prevention among all age groups; stresses the need to highlight key health- related issues, such as nutrition, obesity, malnutrition, physical activity, consumption of alcohol, drugs and tobacco and environmental risks, while taking into account the role of genderin compliance with the principle of equality between men and women, providing support for healthy ageing and reducing the burden of chronic illnesses;
Amendment 94 #
2008/0000(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. Urges the Commission to take a more holistic approach to nutrition and make malnutrition, alongside obesity, a key priority in the field of health, incorporating it wherever possible into EU-funded research, education and health promotion initiatives and EU-level partnerships;
Amendment 100 #
2008/0000(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Believes that action to promote healthy lifestyles in families, schools, hospitals, care homes, workplaces and places of leisure is essential to successful disease prevention;
Amendment 117 #
2008/0000(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16a. Calls on Member States, along with regional and local authorities, to use the cooperation mechanism to improve the exchange of best practice; calls on the Commission to be proactive in producing guidelines and recommendations based on such good practice;
Amendment 8 #
2007/2268(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Amendment 9 #
2007/2268(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1b. Welcomes in particular the establishment of the National Council for European integration, led by the leader of the opposition, as an important driving force behind the EU accession process; encourages the Government and the Parliament to continue with sustained, regular and constructive dialogue among all stakeholders involved, in a spirit of cooperation and consensus on the key issues of the country's European agenda;
Amendment 46 #
2007/2268(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Expresses the hope that application as from May 2008Welcomes the adoption of the new Law on the Legal Status of Churches, Religious Communities and Religious Groups, adopted on 20 September 2007,to be applied as of May 2008, which will make it possible to put an end, once and for all, to complaints by small church communities, in particular communities which have arisen or developed over the last few decades as a result of foreign proselytisation or by seceding from existing churches, on not being allowed to build, own or use premises serving as prayer rooms;
Amendment 58 #
2007/2268(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Commends the Government on the progress that it has made in the economic area, while maintaining macro-economic stability; welcomes the adoption of the new Banking Law in line with the EU acquis; notes the importance of adopting a new law on the National Bank in 2008, thereby strengthening that bank's independence, as well as the administrative capacities for supervision;
Amendment 102 #
2007/2268(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
Amendment 117 #
2007/2268(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
Amendment 129 #
2007/2268(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
Amendment 141 #
2007/2268(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
Amendment 166 #
2007/2268(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Notes that, ofgiven the fact theat three countries whichy has achieved significant progress since 2005 when it haves been European Uniongiven a candidate Member Sstateus since 2005, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedoniaand that, of the three candidate countries, it is the only country with which no accession negotiations have taken place to date, considers itthat it is desirable that this exceptional situation should end, and; calls on the European Commission to develop a roadmap leading to commenceset of benchmarks whose accomplishment ofby those negotiations, after which, if there are no new domestic conflicts, the Council can take a decision in 2008 on a starting date for the negotiationse country will lead to the opening of the accession negotiations by the end of 2008;
Amendment 78 #
2007/2267(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. RDeeply regrets the fact that the Croatian government has decided to introduce unilaterally the Ecological and Fishing Protection Zone (ZERP) in the Adriatic, thus reneging on the agreement reached in 2004 with the European Commission, Italiany and Slovenian authorities; remind,, referred to in the June 2004 European Council conclusions and the Negotiating Framework; warns Croatia that, unless a commonly agreed solution is found, this could have serious repercussions on the pace of the accession negotiations;
Amendment 90 #
2007/2267(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Asks Croatia to show readiness in solving all the outstanding border issues and expects the same readiness and support on the part of all its neighboursExpects that Croatia will strengthen its efforts to find definitive solutions to outstanding bilateral issues, in particular border issues with Slovenia, Serbia, Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina; welcomes in this respect the generinformal agreement in principle reached by the Prime Ministers of Croatia and Slovenia on the issue of arbitration, and asks both sides to implement this agreement and to endorse the result of the arbitration by a clear decision by the two countries' parliamentsthird party involvement, which needs to be follow up;
Amendment 1 #
2007/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6 a (new)
Recital 6 a (new)
(6a) The CARS21 (Competitive Automotive Regulatory System for the 21st century) Final Report1 stated that "efforts with a view to increasing international harmonisation of motor vehicle regulations should be maintained where appropriate, with a view to involving the key vehicle markets and to extending harmonisation to areas not yet covered, notably in the framework of both the 1958 and the 1998 Agreements of the UNECE". In line with this recommendation, the Commission should continue to support the development of internationally harmonised requirements for motor vehicles under the auspices of the UNECE. In particular, if a Global Technical Regulation (GTR) on hydrogen and fuel cell vehicles is adopted, the Commission should consider the possibility of adapting the requirements of this Regulation to those of the GTR. 1 http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/automotive/pagesba ckground/competitiveness/cars21finalreport.pdf
Amendment 2 #
2007/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6 b (new)
Recital 6 b (new)
(6b) Hydrogen mixtures could be used as a transition fuel to facilitate the introduction of hydrogen-powered vehicles in countries where there is a good natural gas infrastructure. The Commission should therefore develop requirements for the use of mixtures of hydrogen and natural gas/biomethane, especially the mixing ratio of hydrogen and gas, taking into account the technical feasibility and the environmental benefits.
Amendment 5 #
2007/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – point 1
Article 3 – point 1
1) "hydrogen powered vehicle" means any motor vehicle that uses pure hydrogen or a mixture of hydrogen and natural gas as fuel to propel the vehicle;
Amendment 6 #
2007/0214(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – point b – indent – 1 (new)
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – point b – indent – 1 (new)
- use of pure hydrogen or a mixture of hydrogen and natural gas/biomethane;