BETA

473 Written explanations of Roberta METSOLA

Launch of automated data exchange with regard to vehicle registration data in Ireland (A9-0003/2019 - Juan Fernando López Aguilar)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report, which concerns the automated exchange of vehicle registration data between state authorities in Ireland and the EU for the purposes of improving public security, including preventing and investigating terrorism and cross-border crime.
2019/09/17
Draft amending budget No 1/2019: surplus from 2018 (A9-0005/2019 - John Howarth)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report because it would integrate the surplus from the 2018 budget into the 2019 budget, reducing the amount that each Member State must contribute. In addition, it encourages a high level of discipline in budgetary spending and reporting, while also allocating extra funds for unforeseen emergencies.
2019/09/18
Draft amending budget No 2/2019: reinforcement of key programmes for EU competitiveness: Horizon 2020 and Erasmus+ (A9-0004/2019 - John Howarth)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report because it strengthens two important EU programmes. The increase in funds for Horizon 2020 will support research and innovation to help tackle climate change, while activities in the field of higher education and vocational training will be further promoted through Erasmus+.
2019/09/18
Mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Romania, Italy and Austria (A9-0002/2019 - Siegfried Mureşan)

I voted in favour of this report because it releases financial assistance to regions affected by natural disasters in the Union. Each of these three Member States has experienced some sort of natural disaster including flooding, landslides and/or heavy rain, and all of them are in need of financial assistance to invest in regenerating or rebuilding infrastructure.
2019/09/18
Draft amending budget No 3/2019: proposal to mobilise the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Romania, Italy and Austria (A9-0006/2019 - John Howarth)

I voted in favour of this report, which covers the proposed mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Romania for the flooding in the Northeast region; to Italy for flooding and landslides following heavy rainfall; as well as to Austria for the same phenomenon in the Alpine/southern regions in 2018.
2019/09/18
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund - EGF/2019/000 TA 2019 - Technical assistance at the initiative of the Commission (A9-0001/2019 - Bogdan Rzońca)

I voted in favour of this report. The European Globalisation Adjustment Fund provides additional support to workers who are suffering the consequences of major structural changes in world patterns due to globalisation. The report calls for increased cooperation between EU institutions to ensure the smooth operation and application of this fund.
2019/09/18
The UK’s withdrawal from the EU (B9-0038/2019, B9-0039/2019)

I voted in favour of this motion for a resolution which emphasises the importance of a fair and balanced Withdrawal Agreement in line with EU principles, which provides legal certainty to all those affected by the UK’s withdrawal from the EU. The EU will not consent to a Withdrawal Agreement if there is no provision in place for a backstop in Northern Ireland. Alternative arrangements are only acceptable if they make it possible to avoid physical infrastructure or related checks and controls at the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. It is incumbent on the UK to come up with written proposals for such alternative arrangements.
2019/09/18
Patentability of plants and essential biological processes (B9-0040/2019, B9-0040/2019, B9-0041/2019, B9-0042/2019, B9-0043/2019, B9-0044/2019, B9-0047/2019)

I voted in favour of this motion for a resolution. It calls on the Commission and Member States to protect the innovative capacity of the European plant-breeding and farming sectors and the general public interest, and ensures that the Union will effectively safeguard guaranteed access to, and use of, material obtained from essentially biological practices.
2019/09/19
Importance of European remembrance for the future of Europe (RC-B9-0097/2019, B9-0097/2019, B9-0098/2019, B9-0099/2019, B9-0100/2019)

I voted in favour of this motion for a resolution. It stresses the importance of keeping the memories of the past alive to promote reconciliation through remembrance of the past, and it reiterates Europe’s united stance against all totalitarian rule from whatever ideological background. The motion calls on EU Member States to commemorate 23 August as the European Day of Remembrance for victims of totalitarian regimes at both EU and governmental level.
2019/09/19
State of implementation of anti-money laundering legislation (B9-0045/2019, B9-0046/2019)

I voted in favour of this motion for a resolution, which reiterates calls for the effective implementation of the Fourth Anti-Money Laundering Directive. The European Parliament welcomes the Commission’s initiation of infringement procedures against Member States based on the findings of its completeness checks, to be performed as soon as possible by the Commission. This resolution calls on the Commission to ensure a transparent process with clear and concrete benchmarks for countries that commit to undergo reforms to be listed.
2019/09/19
Periods of application of Regulation (EU) 2019/501 and Regulation (EU) 2019/502 ( - Karima Delli)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this request for an urgent procedure on the periods of application of two EU Regulations that ensure basic road freight and road passenger and basic air connectivity between the EU and the UK in the event of Brexit. The application periods foreseen in these two pieces of legislation would have to be adjusted in the event of an extension of the timeline of the UK’s departure from the European Union in order to be aligned with the principles that guided the establishment of the original application periods.
2019/10/10
Eurojust and Serbia Cooperation Agreement (A9-0009/2019 - Juan Fernando López Aguilar)

I voted in favour of this report, which concerns an agreement between Eurojust and Serbia that will underpin cooperation between them in combatting organised crime and terrorism. The agreement provides for liaison officers, contact points and exchange of information between the two partners.
2019/10/10
Draft amending budget No 4/2019: reduction of commitment and payment appropriations in line with updated needs of expenditure and update of revenue (own resources) (A9-0012/2019 - John Howarth)

I voted in favour of this report, which will adjust the EU budget in line with present realities to ensure that the Union’s commitments are reflected in its budget.
2019/10/10
Adjustments to the amounts mobilised from the Flexibility Instrument for 2019 to be used for migration, refugee inflows and security threats (A9-0013/2019 - John Howarth)

I voted against this report, since the ultimate result of the Draft Amending Budget No 4/2019 would have been a net reduction of EUR 100 million in commitments and a reduction of EUR 55.6 million in payments. Although the Draft Amending Budget would have increased the budget for reinforcing the EU institutions by EUR 11.9 million, this did not adequately counterbalance the aforementioned reductions.
2019/10/10
Objection pursuant to Rule 112: Active substances, including flumioxazine (B9-0103/2019)

I voted in favour of this resolution. These active substances, including flumioxazine, are identified as likely containing endocrine disrupting properties, which require more scientific research.
2019/10/10
Objection pursuant to Rule 112: Active substances, including chlorotoluron (B9-0104/2019)

I voted in favour of this resolution. These active substances, including chlorotoluron, are identified as likely containing endocrine disrupting properties, a field in which requires more scientific research.
2019/10/10
Objection pursuant to Rule 112: Genetically modified maize MZHG0JG (SYN-ØØØJG-2) (B9-0107/2019)

I voted in favour of this resolution. Further scientific research is required in this field to develop health risk assessments on the long-term effects of GMOs.
2019/10/10
Objection pursuant to Rule 112: Genetically modified soybean A2704-12 (ACS-GMØØ5-3) (B9-0105/2019)

I supported this resolution because I would prefer to see further research about the long-term effects of GMOs.
2019/10/10
Objection pursuant to Rule 112: Genetically modified maize MON 89034 × 1507 × MON 88017 × 59122 × DAS-40278-9 and genetically modified maize combining two, three or four of the single events MON 89034, 1507, MON 88017, 59122 and DAS-40278-9 (B9-0106/2019)

I voted in favour of this resolution. I would prefer to see further research about the long-term effects of genetically modified organisms.
2019/10/10
Foreign electoral interference and disinformation in national and European democratic processes (B9-0108/2019, B9-0111/2019)

I voted in favour of this resolution. Foreign interference calls the integrity of our elections into question. It is important to ensure that the preparations for free and fair elections in the European Union are adequately protected against foreign interference and disinformation campaigns, notably those waged online.
2019/10/10
Multiannual Financial Framework 2021-2027 and own resources: time to meet citizens' expectations (B9-0110/2019, B9-0112/2019, B9-0113/2019)

I voted against this resolution, which calls for a common consolidated corporate tax base, a digital services tax and a financial transaction tax, which, ultimately, all fall outside the competence of the European Union to introduce.
2019/10/10
Employment and social policies of the euro area (A9-0016/2019 - Yana Toom)

I voted in favour of this report. It enhances social cooperation, provides equal opportunities for men and women in terms of employment, and makes reducing the gender pension gap a priority.
2019/10/10
European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (2014-2020) (A9-0015/2019 - Vilija Blinkevičiūtė)

I voted in favour of this report. The European Globalisation Fund is a mechanism that allows the Union to support workers who are jobless due to the restructuring of the global economy or economic and financial crises. With the possibility of a disorderly withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union, through this report, the European Parliament calls for support for workers made redundant because of likely economic disruptions caused by a ‘no-deal’ Brexit.
2019/10/22
Fishing authorisations for Union fishing vessels in United Kingdom waters and fishing operations of United Kingdom fishing vessels in Union waters (A9-0014/2019 - Chris Davies)

. ‒ I voted for this report because it provides contingency measures for fishermen in the case of a ‘no-deal’ Brexit. This proposal is a limited amendment of Regulation (EU) 2017/2403, extending the period of application of the contingency measures set out in Regulation (EU) 2019/498 to cover the year 2020. It provides a framework and legal basis for EU and UK fishermen to maintain access to each other’s waters in 2020 in the event that the UK leaves the EU without an agreement.
2019/10/22
Implementation and financing of the EU general budget in 2020 in relation to the UK's withdrawal from the EU (A9-0018/2019 - Johan Van Overtveldt)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report because it will minimise the financial disruption caused by the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union. This proposal will extend the contingency framework under Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2019/1197 into the year 2020. It would allow for an orderly budget implementation of the legal commitments with the UK and UK entities that have been agreed to before the date of withdrawal, or between the withdrawal date and the end of 2019. This is contingent on the UK making a written commitment to contribute to the financing of the budget for 2020 under the terms set in this proposal.
2019/10/22
Periods of application of Regulation (EU) 2019/501 and Regulation (EU) 2019/502 (Committee on Transport and Tourism)

. ‒ I supported this motion for a resolution. Following the extension of the Brexit date, and if the United Kingdom withdraws from the Union without an agreement, the period of application of Regulation (EU) 2019/501 and for Regulation (EU) 2019/502 would be limited accordingly. This would limit the period that the road hauliers are allowed to provide cabotage services and significantly limit the period during which UK carriers would be able to operate flights into the European Union.
2019/10/22
Draft general budget of the European Union for 2020 - all sections

I voted in favour of the budget for 2020. This budget will ensure that the priorities expressed by our citizens at the polls in May 2019 in various areas, ranging from combatting climate change, to education, to technological advances, are adequately supported by a realistic budget for the European Union.
2019/10/23
General budget of the European Union for 2020 - all sections (A9-0017/2019 - Monika Hohlmeier, Eider Gardiazabal Rubial)

I voted in favour of the budget for 2020. This budget will ensure that the priorities expressed by our citizens at the polls in May 2019 in various areas, ranging from combatting climate change, to education, to technological advances, are adequately supported by a realistic budget for the European Union.
2019/10/23
Discharge 2017: EU general budget - European Council and Council (A9-0010/2019 - Isabel García Muñoz)

I voted in favour of refusing the discharge. In March 2019, the Parliament postponed the 2017 discharge for the ninth year. The Parliament’s report on this declares that the Council has failed to provide answers to the written questions and that the Secretary-General of the Council did not attend the hearing organised.
2019/10/23
Objection pursuant to Rule 112: Assessment of the impact of plant protection products on honeybees (B9-0149/2019)

I voted in favour of this resolution. This resolution opposes the adoption of the draft Commission regulation and urges it to submit a new one to the Standing Committee. The draft proposed by the Commission overlooks chronic toxicity and larval toxicity for honeybees and acute toxicity for bumblebees. A new draft should be based on the latest scientific and technical knowledge, incorporating chronic toxicity and acute toxicity for both honeybees and bumblebees.
2019/10/23
Financial assistance to Member States to cover serious financial burden inflicted on them following a UK's withdrawal from the EU without an agreement (A9-0020/2019 - Younous Omarjee)

I voted in favour of this report. In the absence of a withdrawal agreement with the United Kingdom, the UK will no longer be a part of the single market or the customs union. Brexit will therefore lead to considerable economic ramifications in both the UK and in remaining Member States that rely heavily on economic ties with the United Kingdom. This proposal will add Brexit to the circumstances justifying the disbursement of the European Union Solidarity Fund.
2019/10/24
Effects of the bankruptcy of Thomas Cook Group (RC-B9-0118/2019, B9-0118/2019, B9-0119/2019, B9-0120/2019, B9-0121/2019, B9-0122/2019, B9-0124/2019)

I voted in favour of this motion for a resolution. Following the collapse of the British company Thomas Cook, 600 000 people were stranded away from home, many of whom were left with no alternative return trip offered. Thousands of employees around Europe have lost their jobs, and many SMEs have found themselves in financial difficulty due to the bankruptcy of Thomas Cook. This motion for a resolution calls on the Commission to identify and enact EU financial instruments that could compensate for the harm caused to the tourism sector and help to improve its competitiveness and guarantee a high level of consumer protection. It reiterates the importance of establishing an EU Strategy for Sustainable Tourism with coordinated and concrete measures.
2019/10/24
The Turkish military operation in northeast Syria and its consequences (RC-B9-0123/2019, B9-0123/2019, B9-0125/2019, B9-0126/2019, B9-0127/2019, B9-0128/2019, B9-0129/2019, B9-0133/2019)

I voted in favour of this motion for resolution. In light of Turkey’s recent military operation on Syrian soil that particularly impacted Kurdish-majority areas, this resolution urges Turkey to withdraw all of its forces from Syrian territory. It calls upon the EU to take a strong position against this attack, which constitutes a grave violation of international law, and consider all available options in the de-escalation of this situation.
2019/10/24
Opening accession negotiations with North Macedonia and Albania (B9-0155/2019, RC-B9-0156/2019, B9-0156/2019, B9-0157/2019, B9-0158/2019, B9-0159/2019, B9-0160/2019, B9-0161/2019)

I voted in favour of this motion for a resolution, which expresses Parliament’s deep disappointment at the EU’s failure to agree on opening accession talks with North Macedonia and Albania due to the blocking of France, Denmark and the Netherlands, since both countries made considerable progress in meeting the EU’s requirements for opening accession negotiations. This has a detrimental effect on the EU’s credibility.
2019/10/24
Distance sales of goods and certain domestic supplies of goods (A9-0019/2019 - Ondřej Kovařík)

I voted in favour of this proposal, which aims to expand on existing provisions concerning taxable persons operating electronic interfaces, such as marketplaces, platforms and portals facilitating the supply of goods in the EU by taxable persons not established in the EU. It clarifies situations in which online platforms are considered to have facilitated a sale between users. The new rules ensure that goods sold from storage facilities within the EU will have the correct amount of VAT charged, even when the goods are technically being sold to consumers by non-EU businesses.
2019/11/14
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund - EGF/2019/001 BE/Carrefour - Belgium (A9-0021/2019 - José Manuel Fernandes)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this proposal. This proposal would mobilise an amount of EUR 1 632 028 from the EGF for Belgium. The application for the funds concerns 1 019 workers made redundant in Carrefour Belgique SA. Many of the workers made redundant are between 55 and 64 years old, a particularly vulnerable age group in employment. Changing patterns of consumers’ habits, as well as globalisation and digitalisation, have had an impact on retail trade, particularly in Wallonia, where the unemployment rate (8.6%) is considerably higher than the EU average and twice as high as the Flanders region.
2019/11/14
Objection pursuant to Rule 112: Genetically modified cotton LLCotton25 (ACS-GHØØ1-3) (B9-0170/2019)

I opposed this motion for a resolution. Based on EFSA’s assessment, there have been no demonstrable adverse effects to human health, animal health, or the environment caused by LLCotton25.
2019/11/14
Objection pursuant to Rule 112: Genetically modified soybean MON 89788 (MON-89788-1) (B9-0169/2019)

I voted against this motion for a resolution. The European Food Safety Authority has adopted a favourable opinion to the placing on the market of genetically modified soybean MON 89788. Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 states that genetically modified food or feed must not have adverse effects on human health, animal health, or the environment, and requires the Commission to take into account any relevant provisions of Union law and other legitimate factors relevant to the matter under consideration when drafting its decision. In this case, there is no evidence for EFSA to consider that soybean MON 89788 poses a risk to human or animal health or to the environment.
2019/11/14
Numerical strength of committees (B9-0039/2020)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this resolution, which states the number of MEPs that will sit on each Committee of the European Parliament.
2020/01/15
Protocol to the Agreement between the EU, Iceland and Norway concerning the criteria and mechanisms for establishing the State responsible for examining a request for asylum lodged in a Member State or in Iceland or Norway regarding the access to Eurodac for law enforcement purposes (A9-0053/2019 - Jadwiga Wiśniewska)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report. EU Members, Iceland and Norway agree on the criteria and mechanisms for establishing the State responsible for examining a request for asylum in any one of these countries for law enforcement purposes. This will create cohesion for the purpose of prevention, detection or investigation of terrorist offences or of other serious criminal offences.
2020/01/15
EU-China Agreement on certain aspects of air services (A9-0041/2019 - Tomasz Piotr Poręba)

I voted in favour of this report. It is important for EU-China relations so that EU carriers can benefit from trade with the People’s Republic of China, with all necessary protection.
2020/01/15
Common system of value added tax as regards the special scheme for small enterprises (A9-0055/2019 - Inese Vaidere)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report. SMEs face higher VAT compliance costs than larger businesses. The proposal aims to reform the VAT rules applicable to small businesses with a view to reducing the administrative burden and compliance costs for SMEs. Currently, the VAT exemption for small businesses is only available to national operators. The proposed reform will allow a similar VAT exemption to be applied to small businesses established in other Member States.
2020/01/15
The European Green Deal (RC-B9-0040/2020, B9-0040/2020, B9-0041/2020, B9-0042/2020, B9-0043/2020, B9-0044/2020, B9-0045/2020, B9-0046/2020)

I voted in favour of this resolution. The Green Deal is not only crucial for the environment; it is also Europe’s plan to become the first climate-neutral continent – a zero-pollution Europe with sustainable transport and a circular economy. Amongst others, the timeline proposed by the Commission includes enshrining the 2050 climate neutrality goal into law by March 2020.
2020/01/15
Implementing and monitoring the provisions on citizens’ rights in the Withdrawal Agreement (B9-0031/2020)

I voted in favour of this resolution. It protects the full set of rights of the EU-27 citizens and their families residing in the UK and does the same for UK citizens and their families residing in one of the EU-27 Member States. It is important that, after Brexit, the continuation of citizens’ rights will be guaranteed throughout.
2020/01/15
Annual report 2018 on the human rights and democracy in the world and the European Union's policy on the matter (A9-0051/2019 - Isabel Wiseler-Lima)

I voted in favour of this report. The European Parliament is committed to promoting and protecting human rights, the rule of law and democracy wherever they may be threatened, and this report identifies weaknesses in these areas across the world and how the European Union can engage with third countries to rectify them within the framework of its foreign relations.
2020/01/15
Annual report on the implementation of the common security and defence policy (A9-0052/2019 - Arnaud Danjean)

I voted in favour of this report. As the international security context becomes more intense, it is necessary for Member States to decide on a defence strategy that safeguards the livelihoods of citizens and protects our borders while also ensuring that the EU as a whole is able to respond in a timely manner to international crises.
2020/01/15
European Parliament's position on the Conference on the Future of Europe (B9-0036/2020, B9-0037/2020, B9-0038/2020)

I voted in favour of this report. The new President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, has pledged to establish a Conference on the Future of Europe and EU citizens should have the opportunity to debate and construct the European Union they want to live in.
2020/01/15
Situation in Venezuela after the illegal election of the new National Assembly Presidency and Bureau (parliamentary coup) (B9-0051/2020, B9-0052/2020, B9-0053/2020, RC-B9-0048/2020, B9-0048/2020, B9-0049/2020, B9-0050/2020)

I voted in favour of this resolution. On 5 January 2020 the security forces of Nicolás Maduro’s regime prevented members of the National Assembly from meeting by militarising the area surrounding the legislative palace. In a chaotic and tumultuous session, legislators from the United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) chose a new President of the National Assembly in clear violation of democratic norms. The EU remains convinced that a peaceful, political and democratic solution is the only sustainable way out of the Venezuelan crisis.
2020/01/16
Ongoing hearings under article 7(1) of the TEU regarding Poland and Hungary (B9-0032/2020)

I voted in favour of this resolution. The procedure to invoke a clear risk of a serious breach under Article 7(1) TEU has been triggered in two cases so far: in December 2017 by the Commission in respect of Poland, and in September 2018 by the European Parliament in respect of Hungary. The rule of law guarantees our fundamental rights and values. No democracy can thrive without independent courts guaranteeing the protection of fundamental rights and civil liberties, nor without an active civil society and free media ensuring pluralism. This resolution calls for the creation of an independent, evidence-based and non-discriminatory EU mechanism that would monitor and assess the rule of law situation in all Member States on an equal footing.
2020/01/16
COP15 to the Convention on Biological Diversity (Kunming 2020) (B9-0035/2020)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this resolution. The EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, also part of the European Green Deal, is being prepared in view of the United Nations Conference on Biological Diversity in October (COP15), in Kunming, China. Europe needs to be a driving force behind stopping the decline in biodiversity overall, globally, and thus must lead by example in its commitment to biodiversity equivalent to the 1.5ºC Paris Climate Agreement target.
2020/01/16
Activities of the European Ombudsman in 2018 (A9-0032/2019 - Peter Jahr)

I voted in favour of this report. This report highlights the importance of transparency and accountability inquiries of the Ombudsman and the recommendations of the Ombudsman, which aim at improving the legislative transparency of the Council.
2020/01/16
Institutions and bodies in the Economic and Monetary Union: Preventing post-public employment conflicts of interest (B9-0047/2020)

I voted in favour of this resolution. It underlines the importance of an open, efficient and independent European administration for the EU as a whole, including institutions, bodies and agencies in the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU).
2020/01/16
Agreement on the withdrawal of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland from the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community (A9-0004/2020 - Guy Verhofstadt)

I voted in favour of this Recommendation. This Council decision would ensure that the United Kingdom exits the European Union amicably and in a manner that provides assurances to EU citizens residing, working and studying in the UK that their rights will be protected.
2020/01/29
Parliament's calendar of part-sessions – 2021

I voted in favour of the calendar, which would help improve the efficiency of the work of the European Parliament.
2020/01/30
Parliament's calendar of part-sessions – 2022

I voted in favour of the calendar, which would help improve the efficiency of the work of the European Parliament.
2020/01/30
Verification of credentials (A9-0015/2020 - Lucy Nethsingha)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this proposal for a European Parliament Decision to verify the credentials of the MEPs elected in the 2019 European Parliament elections, which included those elected from the United Kingdom, in an effort to minimise any perceived lack of transparency amidst the UK’s exit from the European Union.
2020/01/30
Common charger for mobile radio equipment (RC-B9-0070/2020, B9-0070/2020, B9-0072/2020, B9-0074/2020, B9-0075/2020, B9-0076/2020, B9-0085/2020)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this resolution. The resolution calls for a common charger, which will decrease the amount of e-waste per person and empower consumers to improve their ecological footprint. This is also a step in the right direction for consumers since it would improve the compatibility of their devices with electronic accessories, and avoid unnecessary purchases of complementary electronic accessories when changing mobile phones.
2020/01/30
Gender pay gap (B9-0069/2020, B9-0073/2020, B9-0083/2020, B9-0084/2020)

. ‒ I voted in favour of the resolution. It is unacceptable that men and women receive unequal pay for the same type of work done. Member States must adopt the principle of equal pay for equal work or work of equal value. Economic independence is a vital prerequisite to encourage more women to enter into the workforce, mainstream gender equality throughout business hierarchies and strengthen social welfare systems in Member States.
2020/01/30
Conclusion of the EU-Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement (A9-0003/2020 - Geert Bourgeois)

I voted in favour of the free trade agreement with Vietnam to strengthen EU ties with other countries and to safeguard and promote the interests of EU businesses, including Maltese ones, around the world.
2020/02/12
Conclusion of the EU-Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement (Resolution) (A9-0017/2020 - Geert Bourgeois)

I voted in favour of the free trade agreement with Vietnam to strengthen EU ties with other countries and to safeguard and promote the interests of EU businesses, including Maltese ones, around the world.
2020/02/12
EU-Viet Nam Investment Protection Agreement (A9-0002/2020 - Geert Bourgeois)

I voted in favour of the free trade agreement with Vietnam to strengthen EU ties with other countries and to safeguard and promote the interests of EU businesses, including Maltese ones, around the world.
2020/02/12
EU-Viet Nam Investment Protection Agreement (Resolution) (A9-0014/2020 - Geert Bourgeois)

I voted in favour of the report that calls upon the EU to proceed in a manner that would protect EU and Maltese investments when their entities engage in business ventures with Vietnam.
2020/02/12
Automated decision-making processes: Ensuring consumer protection, and free movement of goods and services (B9-0094/2020)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this resolution to promote the interests of EU consumers and to protect the EU’s single market.
2020/02/12
Proposed mandate for negotiations for a new partnership with the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (B9-0098/2020)

. ‒ I voted in favour of the proposed mandate for negotiations that will determine what kind of a new partnership the UK and the EU will have, with a view to ensuring that the EU’s single market can be protected.
2020/02/12
European Central Bank - annual report 2018 (A9-0016/2020 - Costas Mavrides)

I voted in favour of the report to promote the single market and to ensure economic stability in the EU.
2020/02/12
False and Authentic Documents Online (FADO) system (A9-0022/2019 - Roberta Metsola)

I voted in favour of my report on the False and Authentic Documents Online system, which will lead to a framework that supports EU Member States in the rapid sharing of images of genuine, false and forged documents, which is essential to fighting criminality.
2020/02/13
Regulation amending the Multiannual financial framework 2014-2020

I voted in favour of this report. As the pandemic continues to threaten the lives and livelihoods of Europeans, Member States need all of the flexibility from the current budget that they can get. This amendment seeks to achieve exactly that.
2020/04/16
Draft amending budget No 1/2020: Assistance to Greece in response to increased migration pressure - Immediate measures in the context of the COVID-19 outbreak - Support to post-earthquake reconstruction in Albania - Other adjustments

I voted in favour of this draft amending budget. This pandemic has shown us the extent of the tragedy and loss that accompany a disaster. Therefore, it is imperative that most affected governments and societies have the tools they need to rebuild. This draft amending budget addresses the commitment appropriations that will be given to Member States in their continued efforts to combat the spread of the virus.
2020/04/17
Draft amending budget No 2/2020: Providing emergency support to Member States and further reinforcement of the Union Civil Protection Mechanism/rescEU to respond to the COVID-19 outbreak

I voted in favour of this Draft Amending Budget. By tapping into the margins and flexibilities of the MFF, funding of over EUR 4.5 billion will be used to finance the ESI (Emergency Support Initiative) Package. This will go towards supporting those on the front lines of the pandemic. The bulk of these appropriations will finance actions to effectively address the public health—related humanitarian consequences of the outbreak within the Union.
2020/04/17
Mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument for 2020: migration, refugee inflows and security threats; immediate measures in the context of the COVID-19 outbreak; reinforcement of the European Public Prosecutor's Office (C9-0092/2020)

I voted in favour of the decision to mobilise the Flexibility Instrument for 2020. It is crucial during this time of crisis that we make decisions quickly, use all of the instruments and tools of the Union, and make sure that our priority is saving lives and livelihoods. More flexible spending will make this happen.
2020/04/17
Mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument for 2020: migration, refugee inflows and security threats; immediate measures in the context of the COVID-19 outbreak; reinforcement of the European Public Prosecutor's Office (C9-0096/2020)

I voted in favour of this decision. By tapping into more resources within the budget to be used by Member States fighting to contain the spread of the virus, we are ensuring that all resources possible are being exhausted in order to protect European citizens and their livelihoods during this critical time.
2020/04/17
Mobilisation of the Contingency Margin in 2020: providing emergency assistance to Member States and further reinforcing the Union Civil Protection Mechanism/rescEU in response to the COVID-19 outbreak

I voted in favour of this decision. The Contingency Margin is the last of all resources that can be used in the fight against the virus, and necessary especially for those countries dealt the harshest blow during this time of crisis.
2020/04/17
Specific measures to provide exceptional flexibility for the use of the European Structural and Investments Funds in response to the COVID-19 outbreak

. ‒ I voted in favour of this regulation. We cannot predict the outcome of this pandemic, but we know it will hit some harder than others. It is therefore necessary for a CRII+ (Coronavirus Response Investment Initiative Plus) package to be available for those countries like Spain and Italy which might need the additional extraordinary flexibility under cohesion policy that the CRII+ offers. This will also allow for a bigger mobilisation of non-utilised support from the ESI funds.
2020/04/17
Introduction of specific measures for addressing the COVID-19 crisis

I voted in favour of this regulation. Its purpose is to target financing to those most vulnerable in society who are critically hit by the pandemic, so that they can receive necessities such as food and the basic materials needed to survive.
2020/04/17
Specific measures to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak in the fishery and aquaculture sector

I voted in favour of this regulation. As we all experience shocks as a result of this pandemic, those in the fisheries and aquaculture sector have been significantly hit by COVID-19. In Malta too, this unprecedented crisis has led to the temporary cessation of many fisheries activities. The European Commission has proposed a new package of temporary and targeted measures under the European Maritime & Fisheries Fund that includes support to our fishermen, aquaculture farmers, and the producers of fisheries and aquaculture products.
2020/04/17
Medical devices (C9-0098/2020)

I voted in favour of this decision to postpone the date of the new medical devices regulation that was adopted in May 2017 and was due to be applied by April 2020. This will minimise any disturbance to the essential supply of medical equipment, while our attention remains on supporting the current functioning of our public health systems.
2020/04/17
EU coordinated action to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and its consequences

I voted in favour of this resolution. Now, more than ever, we need to show that the EU, its Member States and institutions are able to work together to achieve the common goal of saving European lives. Financial tools such as the MFF and ESI and frameworks like the EU digital transformation can be used in the response to and the recovery from this pandemic. We need to protect our citizens, the common Single Market, the Schengen system and other EU flagship initiatives and the environment. Above all else, we need to do all of this in cohesion with our Members and institutions.
2020/04/17
EU-Montenegro status agreement on actions carried out by the European Border and Coast Guard Agency in Montenegro (A9-0018/2020 - Bettina Vollath)

I voted in favour of this proposed Council Decision. The Status Agreement would allow for joint operations, rapid border interventions and/or return operations to take place on the territory of Montenegro with the involvement of the European Border and Coast Guard Agency. Under this Agreement, the EBCGA shall be able to deploy teams with executive powers in Montenegro to carry out join operations, rapid border interventions or return operations.
2020/05/13
EU-Serbia status agreement on actions carried out by the European Border and Coast Guard Agency in Serbia (A9-0019/2020 - Bettina Vollath)

I voted in favour of this proposed Council Decision. The Status Agreement would allow for joint operations, rapid border interventions and/or return operations to take place on the territory of Serbia with the involvement of the European Border and Coast Guard Agency. Under this Agreement, the EBCGA shall be able to deploy teams with executive powers in Serbia to carry out joint operations, rapid border interventions and/or return operations.
2020/05/13
Renewal of the EU-India Agreement for scientific and technological cooperation (A9-0096/2020 - Cristian-Silviu Buşoi)

I voted in favour of this status agreement. As global leaders in the field of science and technology, India and the EU have been cooperating in this area since 2002. This agreement is the third renewal of the current one, which offers a political, legal and administrative framework for coordinating and facilitating the strengthening of the international dimension of the European Research Area.
2020/05/13
Renewal of the EU-Ukraine Agreement on cooperation in science and technology (A9-0095/2020 - Cristian-Silviu Buşoi)

I voted in favour of this status agreement. The current agreement with Ukraine expired last November, and the European Parliament has to give its consent for the new agreement to come into force. It provides a framework for coordinating and facilitating science and technology cooperation between EU and Ukraine.
2020/05/13
EU-Belarus Agreement on readmission of persons residing without authorisation (A9-0097/2020 - Petar Vitanov)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this agreement. For the returns procedure in the Dublin Regulation and other migration law to be effective, we must have adequate return agreements in place.This agreement establishes the rapid and effective procedures for the identification, and safe and orderly return of persons who do not, or no longer, fulfil the conditions for entry to Belarus or the EU. The final agreement also proposes a set of readmission obligations for nationals, third-country nationals and stateless persons.
2020/05/13
EU-Belarus Agreement on facilitation of issuance of visas (A9-0090/2020 - Ondřej Kovařík)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this agreement. Its aim is to facilitate the process of issuing visas to citizens of the European Union and of Belarus for stays of not more than 90 days in any 180-day period.
2020/05/13
Amending the International Convention for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) - Protocol (A9-0089/2020 - Rosanna Conte)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this recommendation. The common fisheries policy (CFP) is respected by the proposed amendments to this International Convention for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT). This is important to bring the Convention in line with regard to other amendments adopted by other regional fisheries management organisations (RFMOs).
2020/05/13
EC-Mauritania Fisheries Partnership Agreement: fishing opportunities and financial contribution. Extension of the Protocol (A9-0088/2020 - Clara Aguilera)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this recommendation. The fishing agreement with the Republic of Mauritania is one of the most important of the EU’s fisheries agreements with third countries. It allows a maximum of 58 EU vessels from Spain, Italy, Portugal, Netherlands, Lithuania, Latvia, Poland, Germany, UK, Ireland and France to fish in Mauritanian waters. This extension will allow for these activities to be continued while negotiations for a new agreement and protocol are underway.
2020/05/13
A safety net to protect the beneficiaries of EU programmes: setting up an MFF contingency plan (A9-0099/2020 - Jan Olbrycht, Margarida Marques)

I voted in favour of this plan. The multiannual financial framework (MFF) contingency plan is one of the most important aspects of the MFF procedure. It secures that, in the case that no agreement on the 2021-2027 MFF is concluded by the deadline, existing EU programmes can and will continue.Parliament must take this into account given the complexities of the MFF discussions, especially during this time of crisis. It is therefore crucial that citizens continue to be protected in any worse-case scenario.
2020/05/13
International road passenger transport services by coach and bus in the border regions: cabotage operations between Germany and Switzerland (A9-0006/2020 - Markus Ferber)

I voted in favour of this proposal. This will allow cabotage operations between Germany and Switzerland as passenger transport services by coach and bus cross from Union territory into third country territory along the border regions between the two countries.
2020/05/13
International road passenger transport services by coach and bus in the border regions: cabotage operations between Italy and Switzerland (A9-0007/2020 - Markus Ferber)

I voted in favour of this proposal. This will allow cabotage operations between Italy and Switzerland as passenger transport services by coach and bus cross from Union territory into third country territory along the border regions between the two countries.
2020/05/13
Automated data exchange with regard to dactyloscopic data in the United Kingdom (A9-0100/2020 - Juan Fernando López Aguilar)

I voted in favour of the draft Council decision on this automated data exchange of dactyloscopic data in the United Kingdom. This is an important tool in the EU and the UK’s cooperation to fight cross-border crime.
2020/05/13
2018 discharge: Fuel Cells and Hydrogen 2 Joint Undertaking (A9-0030/2020 - Joachim Stanisław Brudziński)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for this joint undertaking. The amendments adopted focus on: the agencies’ resources, budgetary management, increasing further collaboration between the agencies and concerns about increasing conflicts of interest.
2020/05/14
2018 discharge: Clean Sky 2 Joint Undertaking (A9-0032/2020 - Ryszard Antoni Legutko)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for this joint undertaking, which concerns the financial year 2018, and which is an important step in reviewing how this entity utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
2018 discharge: Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking (A9-0034/2020 - Ryszard Antoni Legutko)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for this joint undertaking, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this entity utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (A9-0042/2020 - Ryszard Czarnecki)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how it utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: ECSEL Joint Undertaking (A9-0045/2020 - Ryszard Antoni Legutko)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for this joint undertaking, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this entity utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: Innovative Medicines Initiative 2 Joint Undertaking (A9-0046/2020 - Ryszard Antoni Legutko)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the Innovative Medicines Initiative 2 Joint Undertaking, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this joint undertaking utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: Shift2Rail Joint Undertaking (A9-0055/2020 - Joachim Stanisław Brudziński)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for this joint undertaking, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this joint undertaking utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Environment Agency (A9-0064/2020 - Ryszard Czarnecki)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the EEA, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this agency utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Union Agency for Railways (A9-0061/2020 - Ryszard Czarnecki)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the European Union Agency for Railways, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this agency utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Maritime Safety Agency (A9-0066/2020 - Ryszard Czarnecki)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the European Maritime Safety Agency, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this agency utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European GNSS Agency (A9-0067/2020 - Ryszard Antoni Legutko)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the GNSS Agency, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this agency utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (A9-0073/2020 - Ryszard Czarnecki)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how the EMCDDA utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Union Aviation Safety Agency (A9-0074/2020 - Ryszard Antoni Legutko)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this agency utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Asylum Support Office (A9-0077/2020 - Ryszard Czarnecki)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for EASO, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how it utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: EU general budget - European Parliament (A9-0021/2020 - Maria Grapini)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the European Parliament, which concerns the financial year 2018. This is an important step in reviewing how Parliament utilised its budget for that financial year to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: EU general budget - Court of Justice of the European Union (A9-0027/2020 - Tomáš Zdechovský)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the CJEU, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this institution utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: EU general budget - European Ombudsman (A9-0028/2020 - Tomáš Zdechovský)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the Ombudsman's office, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how it utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: EU general budget - European Data Protection Supervisor (A9-0029/2020 - Tomáš Zdechovský)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the European Data Protection Supervisor, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this agency/body/entity (as relevant) utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: EU general budget - Court of Auditors (A9-0031/2020 - Tomáš Zdechovský)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the European Court of Auditors, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this institution utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (A9-0033/2020 - Joachim Stanisław Brudziński)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this Agency utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: Translation Centre for the Bodies of the European Union (A9-0035/2020 - Joachim Stanisław Brudziński)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the Translation Centre for the Bodies of the European Union, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this Centre utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: EU general budget - European Council and Council (A9-0038/2020 - Tomáš Zdechovský)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the Council and the European Council, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how these institutions utilised their budgets to reach their stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Union Agency for Network and Information Security (ENISA) (A9-0039/2020 - Ryszard Czarnecki)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the ENISA, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this Agency utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (A9-0040/2020 - Joachim Stanisław Brudziński)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the CEDEFOP, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this Centre utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Fisheries Control Agency (A9-0041/2020 - Ryszard Czarnecki)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the European Fisheries Control Agency, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this Agency utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: EU general budget - European External Action Service (A9-0043/2020 - Tomáš Zdechovský)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the EEAS, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how the EEAS utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: SESAR Joint Undertaking (A9-0044/2020 - Joachim Stanisław Brudziński)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for this joint undertaking, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this entity utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Training Foundation (A9-0047/2020 - Joachim Stanisław Brudziński)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the European Training Foundation, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this Foundation utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: Eurojust (A9-0048/2020 - Ryszard Czarnecki)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for Eurojust, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this agency utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Joint Undertaking for ITER and the Development of Fusion Energy (A9-0049/2020 - Ryszard Antoni Legutko)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for this joint undertaking, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this entity utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: Agency for Support for BEREC (BEREC Office) (A9-0050/2020 - Ryszard Czarnecki)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for BEREC, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this Office utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions (A9-0051/2020 - Joachim Stanisław Brudziński)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for EUROFUND, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how Eurofound utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators (A9-0052/2020 - Ryszard Czarnecki)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this Agency utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Union Agency for the Operational Management of Large-Scale IT Systems in the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice (eu-LISA) (A9-0053/2020 - Ryszard Antoni Legutko)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the eu-LISA, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this Agency utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Institute of Innovation and Technology (A9-0054/2020 - Ryszard Antoni Legutko)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the Agency for the European Institute of Innovation and Technology, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this Agency utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: Euratom Supply Agency (A9-0056/2020 - Ryszard Czarnecki)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for Euratom Supply Agency, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this Agency utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: eighth, ninth, tenth and eleventh European Development Funds (A9-0057/2020 - Michèle Rivasi)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for these four European Development Funds, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how their budgets were utilised to reach the stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Securities and Markets Authority (A9-0059/2020 - Ryszard Czarnecki)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the Agency for the European Securities and Markets Authority, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this Agency utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Banking Authority (A9-0060/2020 - Ryszard Czarnecki)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the European Banking Authority, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how the EBA utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Training (CEPOL) (A9-0062/2020 - Ryszard Czarnecki)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for CEPOL, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this CEPOL utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Chemicals Agency (A9-0063/2020 - Ryszard Antoni Legutko)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for ECHA, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how ECHA utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (A9-0065/2020 - Joachim Stanisław Brudziński)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this entity utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Food Safety Authority (A9-0068/2020 - Ryszard Czarnecki)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the European Food Safety Authority, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this Agency utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: EU general budget – Commission and executive agencies (A9-0069/2020 - Monika Hohlmeier)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the European Commission, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how the Commission and the Executive Agencies of the European Union utilised their budgets to reach their stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (A9-0070/2020 - Ryszard Czarnecki)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for the Agency for Fundamental Rights, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this Agency utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: EU general budget – Committee of the Regions (A9-0071/2020 - Tomáš Zdechovský)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for CoR, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this institution utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Border and Coast Guard Agency (A9-0072/2020 - Joachim Stanisław Brudziński)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for Frontex, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this Agency utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) (A9-0075/2020 - Ryszard Czarnecki)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for Europol, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this Agency utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: European Medicines Agency (A9-0076/2020 - Ryszard Czarnecki)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for EMA, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how this Agency utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Discharge 2018: General budget of the EU – European Economic and Social Committee (A9-0078/2020 - Tomáš Zdechovský)

I voted in favour of the discharge report for EESC, which concerns the financial year 2018 and which is an important step in reviewing how the EESC utilised its budget to reach its stated objectives and projects.
2020/05/14
Temporary measures concerning the general meetings of European companies (SE) and of European Cooperative Societies (SCE)

I voted in favour of this report. The Statute for a European Company (SE) and the Statute for a European Cooperative Society (CSE) indicate that entities governed by them are mandated to meet at least once a year. Due to social distancing, this has not been possible and so this report provides a derogation to the deadlines by which such entities should meet.
2020/05/14
Parliament's estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2021 (A9-0102/2020 - Olivier Chastel)

I voted in favour of this report which provides a detailed breakdown of Parliament’s expected revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2021. This procedure is the first full budgetary procedure for the new legislature 2019-2024 and concerns the first year of the new Multiannual Financial Framework for 2021-2027.
2020/05/14
Macro-financial assistance to enlargement and neighbourhood partners in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic crisis

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report. Some of the Union’s enlargement and neighbourhood partners are currently facing a balance of payments crisis: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, the Republic of North Macedonia, Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine, Jordan and Tunisia. Now more than ever, we need to show our solidarity with our partners in third countries that require urgent financial assistance.
2020/05/15
Temporary measures concerning the operation of air services

. ‒ I voted in favour of this proposal which supports new legislation on the allocation of slots at airports. The aviation sector is strategically important to the EU, and Malta especially, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on this sector can have wide consequences for the EU economy, connectivity, trade and much more. An ambitious and coordinated policy response is necessary, and this proposal will allow the Commission and national authorities to more easily address COVID-19-related issues.
2020/05/15
Temporary measures concerning the validity of certificates and licences (omnibus)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this proposal. Its objective is to lay down temporary measures with regard to certain certificates and training in the area of road, rail and inland waterways transport and maritime security, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
2020/05/15
Port infrastructure charges

. ‒ I voted in favour of this proposal. The current pandemic is having a serious impact on maritime transport, affecting many Member States that are particularly dependent on their ports. Therefore, a suspension or deferral of the payment of port infrastructure charges may help ship operators in such exceptional circumstances.
2020/05/15
4th railway package: extension of the transposition periods

. ‒ I voted in favour of this proposal, which is part of the emergency measures adopted by the Commission in reaction to the extraordinary situation of the COVID-19 outbreak. In the light of this, 17 Member States have requested a delay in transposition of the two directives of the 4th Railway Package, since they will be unable to complete the necessary legislative activity before June 2020.
2020/05/15
Protocol on the implementation of the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Community and the Republic of Cape Verde (2019-2024) (A9-0024/2020 - Cláudia Monteiro de Aguiar)

I voted in favour of this recommendation. It is important that we have the legislation in place to facilitate the activities of EU vessels in Capo Verde while supporting the country in managing these activities and the funds given by the Commission to ensure their optimal use.
2020/06/17
Protocol on the implementation of the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Community and the Republic of Cape Verde (2019-2024) (Resolution) (A9-0023/2020 - Cláudia Monteiro de Aguiar)

I voted in favour of this report. It is important that we have the legislation in place to facilitate the activities of EU vessels in Capo Verde while supporting the country in managing these activities and the funds given by the Commission to ensure their optimal use.
2020/06/17
Protocol on the implementation of the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Community and Guinea-Bissau (2019-2024) (A9-0012/2020 - João Ferreira)

I voted in favour of this recommendation. It is important that we have the legislation in place to facilitate the activities of EU vessels in Guinea-Bissau while supporting the country in managing these activities and the funds given by the Commission to ensure their optimal use.
2020/06/17
Protocol on the implementation of the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Community and Guinea-Bissau (2019-2024) (Resolution) (A9-0013/2020 - João Ferreira)

I voted in favour of this report. It is important that we have the legislation in place to facilitate the activities of EU vessels in Guinea—Bissau while supporting the country in managing these activities and the funds given by the Commission to ensure their optimal use.
2020/06/17
Protocol on the implementation of the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between São Tomé and Príncipe and the European Community (A9-0001/2020 - Nuno Melo)

I voted in favour of this recommendation. It is important that we have the legislation in place to facilitate the activities of EU vessels in the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe while supporting the country in managing these activities and the funds given by the Commission to ensure their optimal use.
2020/06/17
EU-Swiss Confederation Agreement on the modification of Switzerland’s WTO concessions (Article XXVIII of the GATT 1994) with regard to seasoned meat (A9-0092/2020 - Jörgen Warborn)

I voted in favour of this recommendation. Switzerland faced abruptly increasing imports of meats and particularly ‘seasoned meats’, which the Swiss Parliament combated by adopting a motion for the reclassification of seasoned meats. For the EU, this meant a substantial increase in tariffs. After trying to solve the issue bilaterally, the EU resorted to WTO action. After a number of negotiating rounds, the EU and Swiss Confederation agreed to amendments to its tariffs on certain meats in order to resolve this matter.
2020/06/17
Request for funding for biomedical research on Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (B9-0186/2020)

I voted in favour of this request. There is still a lot that is unknown about Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), which often goes undiagnosed. It is for this reason that the EU needs to advance its research on diagnostic tests and treatment of ME/CFS.
2020/06/17
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: technical assistance at the initiative of the Commission (A9-0109/2020 - Victor Negrescu)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report. The European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) aims to provide support for those workers and self-employed persons whose skills are no longer appropriate due to structural changes in world trade caused by globalisation. This report mobilises the EGF for the financial year 2020.
2020/06/17
Mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Portugal, Spain, Italy and Austria (A9-0105/2020 - José Manuel Fernandes)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report. As the result of climate change, countries all over the world are more likely to face more frequent and increasingly intense extreme weather events that could bring about tragic disasters. It is for this reason that countries have the tools and funds necessary to be able to repair the damage and build back better. It is for this reason that I have supported the Commission’s financial assistance to Portugal, Spain, Italy and Austria – countries that faced floods, hurricanes and/or landslides in 2019.
2020/06/17
Draft amending budget No 3/2020: Entering the surplus of the financial year 2019 (A9-0104/2020 - Monika Hohlmeier)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report. This report seeks to ensure that, where there is flexibility in the budget, the Union has the means necessary to support the swift deployment of financial assistance to the regions and businesses most affected as a result of the pandemic.
2020/06/17
Draft amending budget No 4/2020: proposal to mobilise the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Portugal, Spain, Italy and Austria (A9-0106/2020 - Monika Hohlmeier)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report. This report will amend the 2020 budget to increase the amount of finances given the Member States that have suffered from natural disasters. The lives and livelihoods of those affected depend on the resilience of their natural environment, economy, and living conditions. Through the European Union Solidarity Fund, the EU will ensure that these people and their economies bounce back, even more resilient than before.
2020/06/17
Conclusion of the EU-Moldova Common Aviation Area Agreement (A9-0084/2020 - Roberts Zīle)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this recommendation. The Agreement forms part of the Eastern Partnership as well as the EU’s broader neighbourhood policy. The Protocol does not change the current agreement in place between the EU and Moldova, but builds on it by providing for a gradual market opening in terms of access routes and a level playing field among all actors involved. In essence, it ensures that Moldova’s legislation on aviation is in line with EU law.
2020/06/17
Amendment of the EU-Moldova Common Aviation Area Agreement (accession of Croatia) (A9-0083/20202 - Roberts Zīle)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this recommendation. The Agreement forms part of the Eastern Partnership as well as the EU’s broader neighbourhood policy. The Protocol does not change the current agreement in place between the EU and Moldova, but builds on it by providing for a gradual market opening in terms of access routes and a level playing field among all actors involved, including Croatia as a Member State of the European Union. In essence, it ensures that Moldova’s legislation on aviation is in line with the prerequisites of EU law in this field.
2020/06/17
Amendment of the EU-Morocco Euro-Mediterranean Aviation Agreement (accession of Bulgaria and Romania) (A9-0005/2020 - Sven Schulze)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this recommendation. The Agreement forms part of the Eastern Partnership as well as the EU’s broader neighbourhood policy. The Protocol does not change the current agreement in place between the EU and Morocco, but builds on it by providing for a gradual market opening in terms of access routes and level playing field among all actors involved, including Romania and Bulgaria as Member States of the European Union. In essence, it ensures that Morocco’s legislation on aviation is in line with the prerequisites of EU law in this field.
2020/06/17
Conclusion of the EU-Jordan Euro-Mediterranean Aviation agreement (A9-0086/2020 - Andris Ameriks)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this recommendation. The Agreement forms part of the Eastern Partnership as well as the EU’s broader neighbourhood policy. The Protocol does not change the current agreement in place between the EU and Jordan, but builds on it by providing for a gradual market opening in terms of access routes and a level playing field among all actors involved. In essence, it ensures that Jordan’s legislation on aviation is in line with EU law.
2020/06/17
Conclusion of the EU-China Civil Aviation Safety Agreement (A9-0087/2020 - Tomasz Piotr Poręba)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this recommendation. The Protocol does not change the current agreement in place between the EU and China, but builds on it by providing for a gradual market opening in terms of access routes and a level playing field among all actors involved. In essence, it ensures that China’s legislation on aviation is in line with EU law.
2020/06/17
Conclusion of the EU-Georgia Common Aviation Area Agreement (A9-0082/2020 - Andris Ameriks)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this recommendation. The Agreement forms part of the Eastern Partnership as well as the EU’s broader neighbourhood policy. The Protocol does not change the current agreement in place between the EU and Georgia, but builds on it by providing for a gradual market opening in terms of access routes and a level playing field among all actors involved. In essence, it ensures that Georgia’s legislation on aviation is in line with the prerequisites of EU law in this field.
2020/06/17
Conclusion of the EU-Israel Euro-Mediterranean Aviation Agreement (A9-0085/2020 - Andor Deli)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this recommendation. The Protocol does not change the current agreement in place between the EU and Israel, but builds on it by providing for a gradual market opening in terms of access routes and a level playing field among all actors involved. In essence, it ensures that Israel’s legislation on aviation is in line with the prerequisites of EU law in this field.
2020/06/17
Recommendations on the negotiations for a new partnership with the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (A9-0117/2020 - Kati Piri, Christophe Hansen)

I voted in favour of this report, which states the Parliament’s position on the United Kingdom leaving the Union with a comprehensible deal on the table. We need to protect the rights of those European citizens living in the UK as well as European owners of businesses, especially small businesses, that have activities in the United Kingdom, and vice versa.
2020/06/18
Conference on the Future of Europe (B9-0170/2020, B9-0179/2020)

I voted in favour of this resolution. With the global world order shifting, it is now more crucial than ever that people are placed at the centre of policy-making. The Conference of the Future of Europe is the platform in which people will be given the opportunities to inform decision-makers what the EU should look like within the new world order. This resolution makes sure that, throughout the planning, organising, and concluding stages of the Conference, the voices of the people from across European society are heard effectively.
2020/06/18
EU disability strategy post 2020 (B9-0123/2020)

I voted in favour of this motion for a resolution. It is undisputed that our work to strengthen the access of opportunities by European people with disabilities must not only remain ongoing, but must be improved. We need more ambitious targets, a more adequate budget and a higher representation of persons with disabilities involved in policy-making, which also includes decision-makers with disabilities having access to the assistive voting equipment they need. This resolution is a step in the right direction.
2020/06/18
Amending Regulations (EU) No 575/2013 and (EU) 2019/876 as regards adjustments in response to the COVID-19 pandemic (A9-0113/2020 - Jonás Fernández)

I voted in favour of this report. Our institutions have endured a great hit due to the disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic. At the same time, these institutions have a major role in contributing to the next phase of the European response: our recovery. It is important that funds are employed where they are most needed and this report covers these concerns.
2020/06/18
Setting up a special committee on foreign interference in all democratic processes in the European Union, including disinformation, its responsibilities, numerical strength and term of office (B9-0190/2020)

I voted in favour of this proposal. As disinformation is on the rise globally, we cannot let it seep into European and Member State national, regional and local elections, which affect the lives of millions of people. It is for this reason that I support the special committee which will address evidence of foreign interference in the democratic institutions of the EU.
2020/06/18
Setting up a special committee on artificial intelligence in a digital age, its responsibilities, numerical strength and term of office (B9-0189/2020)

I voted in favour of this proposal. As technologies continue to advance, especially in the area of artificial intelligence (AI), it is becoming increasingly necessary for the European Parliament to tackle policy in this field. The role of the committee will be to analyse the impact of AI in terms of the EU economy, fin tech, health, tourism, agriculture, environment and various other key sectors that affect the European way of living. The committee will also investigate the challenge of deploying artificial intelligence and its contribution to business value and economic growth.
2020/06/18
Banking Union - annual report 2019 (A9-0026/2020 - Pedro Marques)

I voted in favour of this report. This annual report recognises the importance of continuance to the financial stability of the Eurozone, especially during this time of the pandemic. We must do all we can to ensure that our businesses, particularly our small businesses and micro-enterprises, are able to have access to the finance they need in order to cover their costs as they continue to feel the impact of the shocks caused by the pandemic.
2020/06/19
Guidelines for the 2021 Budget - Section III (A9-0110/2020 - Pierre Larrouturou)

I voted in favour of this report. It is important that we have a budget that can weather the worst of the expected economic downturn which no EU Member State can shoulder alone. The 2021 budget must therefore reflect the level of ambition that all European citizens expect the EU to rise to.
2020/06/19
Eastern Partnership in the run-up to the June 2020 Summit (A9-0112/2020 - Petras Auštrevičius)

I voted in favour of this recommendation. The enlargement process is an integral instrument of the European Union. It is our duty to reach out to those countries in the Western Balkans that are geographically, historically, and culturally part of Europe. Both the EU members and those countries need to hold up their end of the bargain and honour their commitments.
2020/06/19
Tourism and transport in 2020 and beyond (RC-B9-0166/2020, B9-0166/2020, B9-0175/2020, B9-0177/2020, B9-0178/2020, B9-0180/2020, B9-0182/2020, B9-0184/2020)

I voted in favour of this resolution. The tourism and transport industries have been burdened greatly by the pandemic. While our economies slowly resume, our entertainment and transport businesses – especially small and medium businesses – continue to struggle. It is important that there is the EU support to ensure that the livelihoods of those employed by these sectors continue to be protected and secured.
2020/06/19
Administrative cooperation in the field of taxation: deferring certain time limits due to the COVID-19 pandemic (C9-0134/2020)

I voted in favour of this report. The pandemic has brought about financial constraints to all sectors of our Single Market economy. It is therefore both relevant and necessary that time limits are extended to not further burden business owners, especially owners of SMEs.
2020/06/19
Exceptional temporary support under EAFRD in response to the COVID-19 outbreak (amendment of Regulation (EU) No 1305/2013) (C9-0128/2020 - Norbert Lins)

I voted in favour of this report. As restaurants, shops, and hotels remained close during the worst of the pandemic, the agriculture sector suffered as a result. Small businesses and farmers are in need of urgent emergency support in order to maintain their activities. This is why the EU will be giving a one-off lump sum for farmers and SMEs involved at any stage of the processing and distributing of farmed goods.
2020/06/19
European citizens’ initiative: temporary measures concerning the time limits for the collection, verification and examination stages in view of the COVID-19 outbreak (C9-0142/2020 - Loránt Vincze)

I voted in favour of this report. The European Citizens’ Initiative depends on European citizens contributing to the EU institutions by having their voices heard. Preserving the efficacy of the instruments is crucial. This is why I support the adoption of temporary measures that will allow for the extension of collection periods for these initiatives.
2020/06/19
The Anti-racism protests following the death of George Floyd (B9-0194/2020, B9-0195/2020, B9-0196/2020, B9-0197/2020)

I voted in favour of this resolution, which outlines what we can do on the EU and Member State levels to tackle the scourge of racism.
2020/06/19
The PRC national security law for Hong Kong and the need for the EU to defend Hong Kong's high degree of autonomy (RC-B9-0169/2020, B9-0169/2020, B9-0171/2020, B9-0173/2020, B9-0174/2020, B9-0176/2020, B9-0181/2020, B9-0193/2020)

I voted in favour of this resolution. Hong Kong's freedoms must be preserved and all EU-China relations must be rooted in the EU's value system.
2020/06/19
Situation in the Schengen area following the Covid-19 outbreak (B9-0165/2020)

I voted in favour of this report. The Schengen area is one of the historical achievements of the European Union that must be preserved. In the context of the COVID-19 crisis, the Schengen area has come under a lot of pressure as many Member States have reintroduced temporary border controls, as an immediate health safeguard measure, affecting the free movement of people. A return to a fully functional Schengen area is thus of utmost importance to protect the principle of freedom of movement of EU citizens.
2020/06/19
European protection of cross-border and seasonal workers in the context of the COVID-19 crisis (B9-0172/2020)

I voted in favour. The free movement of people is an essential element of the Single Market; businesses, citizens and entire communities rely on clarity, and clear EU rules inspire confidence. Many European workers working in a country different to the one they reside in, as well as seasonal workers, were particulary affected by the crisis. They were placed in a vulnerable situation, not only due to uncertainty over whether they could go to work, but also due to potential compromises to their health and safety.
2020/06/19
Amending Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 as regards the resources for the specific allocation for the Youth Employment Initiative (A9-0111/2020 - Younous Omarjee)

I voted in favour of this report. The Youth Employment Initiative (YEI) is aimed towards those young people living in regions where youth unemployment stands at 25% or higher. Under the Youth Guarantee, Member States have the opportunity to introduce measures to ensure that young people up to the age of 25 receive a good quality offer of employment, continued education, an apprenticeship or a traineeship.
2020/07/08
Amending Regulation (EU) 2017/2454 as regards the dates of application due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 crisis (A9-0123/2020 - Luděk Niedermayer)

I voted in favour of this report. As Member States had to shift their priorities due to the COVID-19 outbreak, resources that were originally meant to go towards implementing the VAT e-commerce package had to be used to fight the pandemic. It was therefore more sensible to postpone the date of the application of the amendments laid out in this regulation.
2020/07/08
International and domestic parental abduction of EU children in Japan (B9-0205/2020)

I voted in favour of this report. Japan does not recognise joint custody after divorce, a right of the child that we uphold in the EU. Children are denied access to their European parents if their Japanese parent chooses to take them with them when they return to Japan. The family is a central unit of society and it is important that the lives of our children are not severely disrupted in cases of divorce due to government policy
2020/07/08
The rights of persons with intellectual disabilities in the COVID-19 crisis (B9-0204/2020)

I voted in favour of this. The COVID—19 crisis has further deepened the inequality gap as persons with disabilities and their families suffered disproportionately during this pandemic. The lockdown situation posed an intensely difficult challenge for people with intellectual disabilities, as isolation tends to aggravate problems. Moreover, the pandemic stressed major flaws in our countries’ support systems for a number of at—risk groups in society. It is therefore essential that our EU institutions and their Member States ensure common protocols for possible future risk situations based on the lessons learnt from the COVID—19 crisis.
2020/07/08
Ειδικοί κανόνες για την απόσπαση οδηγών στον τομέα των οδικών μεταφορών και απαιτήσεις επιβολής (A9-0114/2020 - Kateřina Konečná) (A9-0114/2020 - Kateřina Konečná)

I voted against the Council proposal at second reading because the proposal does not sufficiently address the insularity that island Member States suffer. The new rules put restrictions on cabotage operations and introduce new mandatory rest periods. These rules are likely to reduce Maltese competitiveness, increase costs of goods, and have a negative impact on the environment.
2020/07/08
Daily and weekly driving times, minimum breaks and rest periods and positioning by means of tachographs (A9-0115/2020 - Henna Virkkunen)

. ‒ I voted against the Council proposal at second reading because the proposal does not sufficiently address the insularity that island Member States suffer. The new rules put restrictions on cabotage operations and introduce new mandatory rest periods. These rules are likely to reduce Maltese competitiveness, increase costs of goods, and have a negative impact on the environment.
2020/07/08
Adapting to development in the road transport sector (A9-0116/2020 - Ismail Ertug)

. ‒ I voted against the Council proposal at second reading because the proposal does not sufficiently address the insularity that island Member States suffer. The new rules put restrictions on cabotage operations and new mandatory rest periods. These rules are likely to reduce Maltese competitiveness, increase costs of goods, and have a negative impact on the environment.
2020/07/08
European citizens’ initiative: temporary measures concerning the time limits for the collection, verification and examination stages in view of the COVID-19 outbreak (C9-0142/2020 - Loránt Vincze)

. ‒ I voted in favour. The European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) is a participatory democracy instrument that depends on engagement of citizens across the EU. In light of the unforeseeable COVID-19 pandemic, the lockdowns led to a near standstill of public life. This has made it nearly impossible for organisers of the ECI to continue their local campaigning activities. It is therefore only fair that we extend the collection periods for these initiatives, so that we can give citizens a real chance to participate in the ECI.
2020/07/09
Amending Directives (EU) 2017/2455 and (EU) 2019/1995 as regards the dates of transposition and application due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 crisis (A9-0122/2020 - Ondřej Kovařík)

I voted in favour of this report. The date of application of the VAT e-commerce Directive was orginally set for 1 January 2021. However, due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the concern of Member States was to protect their people and therefore funds had to be reshuffled. This means that countries can no longer commit to honouring the original application date of this package and that a postponement is needed.
2020/07/09
Financial activities of the European Investment Bank - annual report 2019 (A9-0081/2020 - David Cormand)

I voted in favour of this report. As we continue to venture into the new European era that will be dominated by the green transition and the digital age, among other things, it is vital that we are prepared to lead in these areas. There is therefore a great need for the European Investment Bank to put more focus on climate, digitalisation and just transition. Moreover, we need to make sure that SMEs continue to be provided with the support they need to navigate the post-Covid19 era.
2020/07/09
Control of the financial activities of the European Investment Bank - annual report 2018 (A9-0118/2020 - Bas Eickhout)

I voted in favour of this report. It highlights the role of the Bank in financing the European Green Deal, the Just Transition Fund and its shift towards the ‘EU Climate Bank’. The report also includes the importance for there to be more synergies between Europe’s strategic investments, while highlighting the need for more transparency and accountability of the Bank’s operations.
2020/07/09
Protection of the European Union's financial interests - combating fraud - annual report 2018 (A9-0103/2020 - Joachim Kuhs)

I voted in favour of the 30th Annual report on the protection of the EU’s financial interests and the fight against fraud. In the past three decades, the EU has developed the legislative foundation for OLAF and EPPO to fight against fraud and irregularities at EU level. The only way forward is for Member States to cooperate ever more closely together, along with the Commission, and through the proper checks and balances in the EU budget which give protection to the EU’s finances.
2020/07/09
Humanitarian situation in Venezuela and migration and refugee crisis (RC-B9-0211/2020, B9-0211/2020, B9-0212/2020, B9-0213/2020, B9-0214/2020, B9-0215/2020)

I voted in favour of this resolution. The situation in Venezuela is desperate, with UNHCR stating that this is the second largest refugee crisis worldwide as around five million Venezuelans have fled the country. In May 2020, the EU and the Spanish Government, along with UNHCR and IOM, held an International Donors Conference in Solidarity with Venezuelan Refugees and Migrants. It is now crucial that the EUR 2.544 billion goes directly to assist the refugees and migrants in providing them with the medicines and food that they so urgently need, especially as the pandemic has compounded an already desperate situation.
2020/07/09
Draft amending budget no 5 to the general budget 2020 Continuation of the support to refugees and host communities in response to the Syria crisis in Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey (A9-0127/2020 - Monika Hohlmeier)

I voted in favour of this report. The European Union has pledged to provide EUR 100 million to refugees and host communities in Jordan and Lebanon and EUR 543 million appropriated to ensure the continuation of urgent humanitarian support to refugees in Turkey. The EU needs to work with its neighbours in order to create legal pathways for those seeking to flee war or instability.
2020/07/10
Mobilisation of the Contingency Margin in 2020: continuation of humanitarian support to refugees in Turkey (A9-0125/2020 - Monika Hohlmeier)

I voted in favour of this report. The Union’s external border with Turkey faces mounting pressure from incoming migrants. It is therefore in the EU’s interest to work with our neighbour to ensure that the proper border controls are in place for security purposes, while ensuring that refugees are able to exercise their rights as such in these situations.
2020/07/10
Objection pursuant to Rule 112(2) and (3): Active substances, including flumioxazine (B9-0203/2020)

I voted in favour of this objection. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) concluded already in 2014, and subsequently in 2017 and 2018, that there were critical areas of concern when flumioxazine is used under certain conditions.
2020/07/10
A comprehensive European approach to energy storage (A9-0130/2020 - Claudia Gamon)

I voted in favour of this report. The Green Deal presents many opportunities and challenges, including how to decarbonise the EU economy while it is predicted that elecricity demand will more than double by 2050. We therefore want to encourage higher use and supply of renewable energy sources, so that constant electricity supply can be secured while the EU reaches its target of becoming carbon neutral by 2050.
2020/07/10
Conclusion of an EU - New Zealand agreement, under negotiation, on the exchange of personal data for fighting serious crime and terrorism (A9-0131/2020 - Annalisa Tardino)

I voted in favour of this report. Terrorism, cybercrime and organised crime cannot be fought by one country or region alone, but require a global effort to combat them. It is for this reason that cooperation with New Zealand in the field of law enforcement will provide security for Europeans and New Zealanders alike, while better cross-border information exchange will enhance our fight against serious crime and terrorism.
2020/07/10
Chemicals strategy for sustainability (B9-0222/2020)

I voted in favour. I stand with the majority in the European Parliament calling on the Commission to come up with a new chemicals strategy for sustainability that ensures a high level of protection for the environment. The Commission’s strategy should seek to minimise our environment’s exposure to hazardous chemicals, and that of more vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and pregnant women.
2020/07/10
Transitional provisions in order to address the impact of COVID-19 crisis (amendment of Regulation (EU) 2016/1628) (C9-0161/2020)

I voted in favour. The Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted supply chains and halted progress on some of the Union’s key Green Deal targets. Non-road machinery manufacturers were set to achieve the targets of ‘Stage V’, reducing the current emissions of air pollutants from engines for NRMM. In light of the disruptions caused by the pandemic, the dates for producing and placing on the market NRMM have been postponed by twelve months.
2020/07/10
A comprehensive Union policy on preventing money laundering and terrorist financing – Commission's Action plan and other recent developments (B9-0207/2020)

I voted in favour of this resolution. There should be zero tolerance for money laundering in the European Union and all of its Member States. For over three decades, the EU has continuously designed and implemented a solid regulatory framework for preventing and combatting money laundering and terrorist financing. We need to continue strengthening EU anti-money laundering measures and countering the financing of terrorism frameworks while protecting whistle-blowers.
2020/07/10
Proposal for a Council decision authorising Portugal to apply a reduced rate of excise duty on certain alcoholic products produced in the autonomous regions of Madeira and the Azores (A9-0140/2020 - Younous Omarjee)

I voted in favour of this proposal. Portugal is able to apply excise duty rates reduced by up to 75% of the standard Portuguese rates to rum and other liquors produced and consumed in Madeira and the Azores. This decision entails extending these current measures until 2027. This is in view of the fact that Article 349 allows for derogations from EU rules for the outermost regions of the Union, in order to partly compensate for their remote location and specific difficulties.
2020/09/14
Effective measures to “green” Erasmus+, Creative Europe and the European Solidarity Corps (A9-0141/2020 - Laurence Farreng)

I voted in favour. The European Green Deal sets the target of a climate-neutral EU by 2050. It is therefore essential that our initiatives and policies here on now reflect our ambitious goal. The concepts of climate, the environment, and mobility are each covered in the Green Deal. Educators, artists, and creators therefore play a crucial role in achieving the broader goals of the European Green Deal, including societal change through responsible consumption and rational use of resources.
2020/09/14
The EU’s role in protecting and restoring the world’s forests (A9-0143/2020 - Stanislav Polčák)

I voted in favour of this procedure. We are living in a climate emergency, making it absolutely necessary to halt and reverse deforestation and the degradation of natural ecosystems. The EU and its Member States must therefore be more ambitious in their actions to address the urgency of deforestation and forest degradation worldwide.
2020/09/15
EU-African security cooperation in the Sahel region, West Africa and the Horn of Africa (A9-0129/2020 - Javier Nart)

. ‒ I voted in favour procedure. In order to reduce the amount of people migrating due to conflict, social injustices, or for economic reasons, the states concerned must maintain strong and reliable institutions. It is therefore in the EU’s interest to meaningfully engage with the African Union and African states in order to jointly achieve sustainable development and human security.
2020/09/15
Amending Decision No 1313/2013/EU on a Union Civil Protection Mechanism (A9-0148/2020 - Nikos Androulakis)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this proposal, which builds on the progress achieved so far. The Union Civil Protection Mechanism gives the EU the tools to coordinate and supplement the action of Member States in order to prevent, prepare for and respond to natural and man-made disasters, such as the global pandemic, within and outside the Union. The overall objective is to provide better emergency support to European citizens.
2020/09/16
Global data collection system for ship fuel oil consumption data (A9-0144/2020 - Jutta Paulus)

I voted in favour of this proposal. If shipping were a country, it would rank sixth in it contributions to global emissions.
2020/09/16
Draft Council decision on the system of own resources of the European Union (A9-0146/2020 - José Manuel Fernandes, Valerie Hayer)

I voted in favour of this proposal. This amended proposal allows the Commission to exceptionally borrow up to EUR 750 billion. The Commission amended its 2018 proposal on 27 May 2020 as part of its recovery plan for Europe to address the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. The way forward requires a carefully crafted balance between drawing on new sources of funding for the EU’s budget and respect for the principles of subsidiarity on taxation as enshrined in the EU treaties.
2020/09/16
Implementation of the EU Association Agreement with Georgia (A9-0136/2020 - Sven Mikser)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this procedure. Georgia’s chosen path of European and Euro-Atlantic integration acknowledges the progress in implementing comprehensive reforms, which has made Georgia a key partner of the EU in the region. EU assistance is based on the ‘more for more’ principle and is conditional upon continued reform progress on, in particular, democracy and the rule of law, including checks and balances in the institutions, independence of the judiciary and electoral reform.
2020/09/16
Type approval of motor vehicles (Real Driving Emissions) (A9-0139/2020 - Esther de Lange)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this proposal. The General Court delivered a judgment so as to set out the conformity factors to assess compliance of the vehicle with the emission limits. These were used to progressively reduce the discrepancy between emissions measures in driving and testing.
2020/09/16
Just Transition Fund (A9-0135/2020 - Manolis Kefalogiannis)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this proposal which demonstrated the Commission’s increased ambition concerning climate-related activities and highlights the proposal to spend 25% of expenditure on such activities. According to the Commission’s proposal, a significant share of cohesion funding will focus on a greener, low-carbon Europe by promoting clean and fair energy transition through a circular economy.
2020/09/16
Determination of a clear risk of a serious breach by the Republic of Poland of the rule of law

I voted in favour of this report, which sets out, in accordance with Article 7(1) TEU, the concerns of the Commission with regard to the rule of law in Poland. It invites the Council to determine that there is a risk of a serious breach by the Republic of Poland of the rule of law. Over the years, incremental changes to the way the judiciary is set up and managed have given rise to a number of concerns voiced by the Commission and the Parliament as to the integrity of the rule of law in Poland, as do the increasing number of LGBTI-free zones in Poland, which contract the values of this Union. Poland should be guided back into the heart of Europe where it belongs.
2020/09/17
Strategic approach to pharmaceuticals in the environment

I voted in favour of this resolution. It is disheartening that there has not been more urgent action on the development of drugs that are harmful to the environment. As it stands, no methodology exists for considering the environmental impact of medicines in the assessment of human medicines.
2020/09/17
Maximising the energy efficiency potential of the EU building stock

I voted in favour of this report which calls on the Commission to assess the impact of the gentrification of neighbourhoods. More importantly, it highlights the role of neighbourhoods and communities, as well as other actors such as local and regional authorities and SMEs, within the context of a holistic approach to renovation, in order to achieve a highly energy-efficient and climate-neutral building sector by 2050 in line with the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD).
2020/09/17
Shortage of medicines - how to address an emerging problem

I voted in favour of this report. Pre-COVID-19 medicine shortages had been a growing problem in the EU in recent years. The pandemic further stresses the problems associated with the risk of bottlenecks in the supply of medicines to patients. This puts patients at considerable risk and so this report stresses that the Union needs to regain its independence with regard to healthcare, to secure rapidly and efficiently its supply of affordable medicines and vaccines.
2020/09/17
Implementation of National Roma Integration Strategies: combating negative attitudes towards people with Romani background in Europe

I voted in favour of this report. The Romani people face a specific form of racism and neglection, which has led to the highest rates of poverty and social exclusion. This report therefore calls on the Commission to introduce a ‘Romani mainstreaming policy’ in order to integrate the perspective of the Romani people at all stages and levels of mainstream policies, programmes and projects.
2020/09/17
Preparation of the Special European Council, focusing on the dangerous escalation and the role of Turkey in the Eastern-Mediterranean

I voted in favour of this report due to my concerns about the ongoing dispute and related risk of further military escalation in the Eastern Mediterranean. A sustainable conflict resolution can only be found through dialogue and negotiations conducted in good faith.
2020/09/17
Situation in Belarus

I voted in favour of this resolution. The European Parliament rejects the results of the so-called presidential elections that took place in Belarus on 9 August 2020. These were conducted in flagrant violation of all internationally recognised standards. It stands firmly with the people of Belarus who are protesting legitimately in their calls for free and fair elections and for their country to transition to democracy. The Parliament firmly condemns all unjustified and all excessive use of force against protesters, including by law enforcement authorities.
2020/09/17
Situation in Russia, the poisoning of Alexei Navalny

I voted in favour of this resolution. The European Parliament strongly condemns the attempted assassination of Alexei Navalny and expresses its utmost concern about the repeated use of chemical nerve against Russian citizens. This constitutes a reprehensible crime under international law under the Chemical Weapons Convention.
2020/09/17
Sustainable rail market in view of COVID-19 outbreak

I voted in favour of this request for urgent procedure. The pandemic is having a substantial impact on transport in general. The railway sector is of strategic importance to the European Union and makes a vital contribution to the EU’s overall economy and employment. It affects the entire supply chain and has effects on railway undertakings, shippers and logistic enterprises.
2020/09/17
Draft amending budget no 8: Increase of payment appropriations for the Emergency Support Instrument to finance the COVID-19 vaccines strategy and for the impact of the Corona Response Investment Initiative Plus (C9-0290/2020 - Monika Hohlmeier)

I voted in favour of this request for an urgent procedure on the draft budget amendment. This will incorporate additional payments to finance the COVID-19 vaccines strategy as well as additional payment needs for cohesion following the adoption of the Corona Response Investment Initiative Plus (CRII+).
2020/09/17
Cultural recovery of Europe

I voted in favour of this resolution. Performers, artists, creators, authors and publishers have been severely affected by the global Covid-19 pandemic. It is therefore essential that the post-pandemic recovery and revitalisation of European cultural policy is deeply interconnected with social challenges. It is essential that there is resilience in this sector so that, through it, our European societies can continue to learn, be entertained, and grow.
2020/09/17
Covid-19: EU coordination of health assessments and risk classification and the consequences on Schengen and the single market (RC-B9-0257/2020)

I voted in favour of this resolution. The European Parliament expresses its concern about the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak and its long-term consequences on the well-being of people around the world, particularly the most vulnerable groups. It considers that freedom of movement for Union citizens is a fundamental right enshrined in the EU treaties and the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, and that the integrity of the Schengen area should be preserved in the face of health threats such as the ongoing pandemic.
2020/09/17
The importance of urban and green infrastructure - European Year of Greener Cities 2022 (B9-0243/2020)

I voted in favour of this resolution. Green cities are crucial to achieving the goals in the Paris Agreement and strengthening the EU’s resilience and ability to adapt to climate change. The European Parliament therefore calls on the Commission to devise a new EU strategy for greener cities and green infrastructure to help cities play their part in climate change mitigation and adaptation, as well as improving the wellbeing of people living in cities.
2020/09/17
Amending Regulation (EU) No 514/2014 of the European Parliament and the Council, as regards the decommitment procedure

I voted in favour of this proposal. There is more that we need to do in order to beat the pandemic. The aim of this proposal is to make sure that Member States can make the most use out of the allocations when responding to the public health crises.
2020/10/05
Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Martinique and Réunion: indirect taxes on 'traditional' rum

I voted in favour of this proposal. Remote territories face a number of constraints that affect their economic and social situations. This proposal therefore aims to relieve the pressures posed by geographical distances by applying a reduced rate of certain indirect taxes on traditional rum produced in the French outermost regions in Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Martinique, and Réunion when transported to mainland France and consumed there.
2020/10/05
AIEM tax in the Canary Islands

I voted in favour of this proposal, which is in line with Article 359 of TFEU and which allows for specific measures for the EU outermost regions to be introduced This will allow Spain to apply exceptions from what is known as ‘Arbitrio sobre Importaciones y Entregas de Mercanías en las Islas Canarias’ (AIEM) to certain products produced locally in the Canary Islands.
2020/10/05
Docks dues extension in the French outermost regions

. ‒ I voted in favour of this proposal, which applies to the French outermost regions. The scope of this is to offset the competitive disadvantages affecting the outermost regions.
2020/10/05
Draft amending budget No 7/2020: Update of revenue (own resources)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this draft amending budget (DAB). This will update the revenue side of the budget so that the forecast of the traditional own resources can be revised on the basis of more recent economic forecasts. The pandemic has drastically changed the outlook for the European economy, and so it is only fitting that the budget is amended to reflect our new reality.
2020/10/05
The Establishment of an EU Mechanism on Democracy, the Rule of Law and Fundamental Rights (A9-0170/2020 - Michal Šimečka)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this legislative own-initiative report. The Council, the Commission and Parliament have agreed to promote and strengthen their respect for Union values on democracy, human rights and rule of law. Civil society across the EU demands to have truth, justice, and accountability and their voices deserve to be heard and their calls to be met. The rule of law has to be strong everywhere in the European Union.
2020/10/07
Implementation of the common commercial policy – annual report 2018 (A9-0160/2020 - Jörgen Warborn)

I voted in favour of this report, which seeks to update the EU’s common commercial policy.
2020/10/07
The European Forest Strategy - The Way Forward (A9-0154/2020 - Petri Sarvamaa)

I voted in favour of this proposal. It is essential that such policies give Member States and civil society actors the tools and resources they need in order to best protect Europe’s forests, which cover 43% of its surface area.
2020/10/07
Application of railway safety and interoperability rules within the Channel tunnel (C9-0212/2020)

I voted in favour of this proposal. In order to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the Channel Fixed Link — which goes between France and the United Kingdom — it is necessary to have a single safety authority responsible for the whole of this infrastructure, which should remain the Intergovernmental Commission. It is therefore essential that we amend the current policy so that the authority will be a body established by a Member State and a third country (the UK, after Brexit).
2020/10/08
Decision empowering France to conclude an international agreement concerning the Channel tunnel (C9-0211/2020)

I voted in favour of this decision, which will give France the authority to negotiate an international agreement with the United Kingdom on all concerns regarding the Channel Fixed Link, on behalf of the European Union.
2020/10/08
Organic production: date of application and certain other dates (C9-0286/2020)

I voted in favour of this proposal. The EU market should include a regulatory framework that encourages the smooth functioning of organic production, which combines the best environmental and climate action practices. A solid, consensual regulatory framework for the next 10 years is therefore key for achieving the objective of 25% of agricultural land for organic farming by 2030, as stated in the Farm to Fork Strategy.
2020/10/08
Digital Finance: emerging risks in crypto-assets - regulatory and supervisory challenges in the area of financial services, institutions and markets (A9-0161/2020 - Ondřej Kovařík)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this proposal which welcomes the adoption of the digital finance package by the Commission. The Commission proposal on crypto-assets is timely, useful and necessary and reflects the recent developments in Union and global markets. It is crucial that we have legal clarity to develop a new regulatory regime for digital finance. There does, however, need to be increased importance of monitoring and reviewing measures relating to the regulation of digital finance.
2020/10/08
Further development of the Capital Markets Union (CMU): improving access to capital market finance, in particular by SMEs, and further enabling retail investor participation (A9-0155/2020 - Isabel Benjumea Benjumea)

I voted in favour of this proposal, which welcomes the adoption of the Digital Finance Package by the Commission. The Commission proposal on crypto-assets is timely, useful and necessary and reflects the recent developments in Union and global markets. It is crucial that we have legal clarity to develop a new regulatory regime for digital finance. There does, however, need to be increased importance of monitoring and reviewing measures relating to the regulation of digital finance.
2020/10/08
Reinforcing the Youth Guarantee (B9-0310/2020)

I voted in favour of this proposal. The Youth Guarantee has created opportunities and helped over 24 million young people in the EU to find employment and participate in education or traineeship programmes. I therefore give my full support to the Commission in its intention to introduce the structural improvements necessary based on the lessons learned from the 2008 financial crisis, in which youth unemployment soared. A reinforced Youth Guarantee must be binding for all Member States, cover young people from a wide range of backgrounds and with wide-ranging abilities, and improve from the previous version that preceded it.
2020/10/08
Amending Regulation (EU) No 168/2013 as regards specific measures on L-category end-of-series vehicles in response to the COVID-19 pandemic (A9-0190/2020 - Maria Grapini)

I voted in favour of this report, which is a response to the Commission’s proposal to introduce measures to combat the effects of COVID-19 on the motorcycle industry, which is struggling to comply with market rules on the sale of end-of-series vehicles due to a drop in consumer demand.
2020/10/19
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2020/001 ES/Galicia shipbuilding ancillary sectors (A9-0192/2020 - Valerie Hayer)

I voted in favour of this report. The pandemic continues to disrupt the flow of supply chains across Europe, and so it is crucial that measures are implemented in order to prevent mass disruptions, as in the case of the application that Spain submitted to the European Global Adjustment Fund following the redundancies of 960 workers in shipbuilding ancillary sectors.
2020/10/19
Discharge 2018: General budget of the EU - European Economic and Social Committee (A9-0188/2020 - Tomáš Zdechovský)

I voted in favour of this discharge report, which concerns the financial year 2018. It is an important step in reviewing how the European Economic and Social Committee utilised its budget to reach its mandate and objectives.
2020/10/20
Discharge 2018: General budget of the EU - European Council and Council (A9-0189/2020 - Tomáš Zdechovský)

I voted in favour of this discharge report, which concerns the financial year 2018. It is an important step in reviewing how the Council and the European Council utilised their budgets to fulfil their roles and mandates as envisaged in the Treaties.
2020/10/20
Digital Services Act: Improving the functioning of the Single Market (A9-0181/2020 - Alex Agius Saliba)

I voted in favour of this report, which recognises the importance of the legal framework set out in the e-Commerce Directive. The Directive lays down our internal market framework for online services, and this report stresses the need to address the remaining unjustified and disproportionate barriers to the provision of digital services.
2020/10/20
Digital Services Act: adapting commercial and civil law rules for commercial entities operating online (A9-0177/2020 - Tiemo Wölken)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report which recognises the importance of the legal framework which was set out by the E-Commerce Directive. The Directive’s aim is to remove obstacles to cross-border online services in the EU internal market and provide legal certainty for businesses and consumers. This report proposes that the Digital Services Act include a regulation that establishes contractual rights, including guaranteeing accessible and independent recourse to judicial redress.
2020/10/20
Digital Services Act and fundamental rights issues posed (A9-0172/2020 - Kris Peeters)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report which stresses the importance of a fair digital ecosystem in which fundamental rights, particularly freedom of expression and information, is ensured online while fully ensuring the possibility of digital platforms and law enforcement to work together to combat illegalities.
2020/10/20
Framework of ethical aspects of artificial intelligence, robotics and related technologies (A9-0186/2020 - Ibán García Del Blanco)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report. As technologies continue to advance, especially in the area of artificial intelligence (AI), it is essential that the EU has an effective and harmonised regulatory framework applicable to high-risk technologies that protects the Charter and international human rights law that protects our citizens.
2020/10/20
Civil liability regime for artificial intelligence (A9-0178/2020 - Axel Voss)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report. We are already seeing the ways that artificial intelligence (AI) is improving our lives through its uses in finance, health, education, business, assistance to vulnerable persons and the transport sector, amongst others. Technologies based on AI could and should be used to improve our lives. It is crucial that principle-based regulatory frameworks in the Union are employed for AI and that, preferably, a horizontal and harmonised legal framework is introduced in order to ensure legal clarity.
2020/10/20
Intellectual property rights for the development of artificial intelligence technologies (A9-0176/2020 - Stéphane Séjourné)

I voted in favour of this report. As technologies continue to advance, especially in the area of artificial intelligence (AI), it is important that the Commission includes the protection of Intellectual Policy Rights in its policy and legislative proposals within the context of the development of AI and related technologies.
2020/10/20
Recommendation to the Council and the VPC/HR concerning the Implementation and governance of Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) (A9-0165/2020 - Radosław Sikorski)

I voted in favour of this report. The Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) is part of the EU’s Security and Defence Policy (CSDP). It was launched in December 2017 with the participation of 25 EU Member States. A strategic review of PESCO took place at the end of this year to assess its strength and weaknesses. Of these, it was emphasised that conflict resolution should be a priority of the Union and that synergies exist between different EU defence operations.
2020/10/20
Report on the implementation of the EU Association Agreement with the Republic of Moldova (A9-0166/2020 - Dragoş Tudorache)

I voted in favour of this report. The European Union’s core values – namely democracy, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and the rule of law – must be at the heart of any agreement between the EU and third countries. With these values in mind, the Union remains committed to support the Republic of Moldova’s European path through political association, economic integration and the respective reform.
2020/10/20
Recommendation to the Council, the Commission and the VPC/HR on relations with Belarus (A9-0167/2020 - Petras Auštrevičius)

I voted in favour of this resolution which strongly supports the EU decision to not recognise the fraudulent election results in Belarus. In addition to refusing to accept the result of the election, the EU should consider steps against Belarusian officials deemed to be responsible for the violence and repressions that has taken place as a result of the election fraud.
2020/10/21
The future of European education in the context of Covid-19 (B9-0338/2020)

I voted in favour of this resolution. Undoubtedly, the pandemic has hit school-age children indiscriminately with many having to adapt quickly to remote learning during the first wave of the pandemic. It is therefore essential that the Union scale up its efforts to promote best practices in all education sectors and explore possibilities for new initiatives to avoid education being put on hold indefinitely as schools are shut down.
2020/10/21
Economic policies of the euro area 2020 (A9-0193/2020 - Joachim Schuster)

I voted in favour of this report which calls for the Commission’s 2020 country-specific recommendations (CSRs) to be taken more seriously by each Member State, especially since Member States have made limited or no progress in six out of ten CSRs addressed to them in 2019.
2020/10/21
Common agricultural policy - support for strategic plans to be drawn up by Member States and financed by the EAGF and by the EAFRD (A8-0200/2019 - Peter Jahr)

I voted in favour of this proposal. This common agriculture policy (CAP) deal goes further for the environment than the Commission’s 2018 CAP offer by fencing off 30% of direct payments for eco—schemes, and 35% for green spending, out of the rural development coffers.
2020/10/23
Common agricultural policy: financing, management and monitoring (A8-0199/2019 - Ulrike Müller)

I voted in favour of this proposal. This Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) deal goes further for the environment than the Commission’s 2018 CAP offer by fencing off 30% of direct payments for eco-schemes, and 35% for green spending out of the rural development coffers.
2020/10/23
Common agricultural policy – amendment of the CMO and other Regulations (A8-0198/2019 - Eric Andrieu)

I voted in favour of this proposal. This common agriculture policy (CAP) deal goes further for the environment than the Commission’s 2018 CAP offer by fencing off 30% of direct payments for eco—schemes, and 35% for green spending, out of the rural development coffers.
2020/10/23
Introducing exceptional trade measures for countries and territories participating in or linked to the European Union's Stabilisation and Association process (A9-0175/2020 - Emmanuel Maurel)

I chose to support this resolution as the proposal to extend the autonomous trade measures are the most suitable measure to continue the economic development of the Union’s partners in the Western Balkans.
2020/11/11
EU/Senegal Fisheries Partnership Agreement: implementation of the Agreement. Protocol (A9-0180/2020 - Izaskun Bilbao Barandica)

I voted in favour of the EU/Senegal Fisheries Partnership Agreement as it ensures legal fishing opportunities for Union vessels in Senegalese waters, limited to fishing areas on the high seas.
2020/11/11
EU/Senegal Fisheries Partnership Agreement: implementation of the Agreement. Protocol (Resolution) (A9-0182/2020 - Izaskun Bilbao Barandica)

I voted in favour of the EU-Senegal Fisheries Partnership Agreement as it ensures legal fishing opportunities for Union vessels in Senegalese waters, limited to fishing areas on the high seas.
2020/11/11
EU/Seychelles Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement and Implementation. Protocol (2020-2026) (A9-0185/2020 - Caroline Roose)

. ‒ I voted in favour of continuing the long-standing EU/Seychelles Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement in order to allow Union tuna fishing vessels access to Seychelles fishing zone with stringent catch volumes.
2020/11/11
EU/China Agreement: cooperation on and protection of geographical indications (A9-0199/2020 - Iuliu Winkler)

. ‒ I chose to support this agreement between the Union and China as it is important that the Commission extends the current IPR protections and measures to combat counterfeiting to include as many indications as possible that meet the criteria, including fisheries and aquaculture.
2020/11/11
EU/China Agreement: cooperation on and protection of geographical indications (Resolution) (A9-0202/2020 -Iuliu Winkler)

. ‒ I chose to support this agreement between the Union and China as it is important that the Commission extends the current IPR protections and measures to combat counterfeiting to include as many indications as possible that meet the criteria, including fisheries and aquaculture.
2020/11/11
Common system of value added tax: identification of taxable persons in Northern Ireland (A9-0200/2020 - Irene Tinagli)

. ‒ I voted in support of this resolution to ensure continued legal certainty for businesses on the island of Ireland post-Brexit. This particular piece of legislation will mean that from the 1 January 2021, Northern Ireland will continue to remain under EU VAT legislation regarding goods, but not services.
2020/11/11
Introduction of capacity limits for Eastern Baltic cod, data collection and control measures in the Baltic Sea and permanent cessation for fleets fishing for Eastern Baltic cod (A9-0093/2020 - Niclas Herbst)

. ‒ I voted in favour of these measures as a balance was achieved that protects the remaining cod stocks in the hope that they will recover, whilst also providing support and aid for the crews and communities that can no longer access these fishing stocks.
2020/11/11
Enhanced cooperation between Public Employment Services (PES) (A9-0128/2020 - Manuel Pizarro)

. ‒ I supported this resolution on enhanced cooperation between public employment services as it extends the network till at least 2027, encourages the exchange of best practice between heads of PES, as well as encouraging more effective services for jobseekers.
2020/11/11
EU/Seychelles Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement and Implementation. Protocol (2020-2026) (resolution) (A9-0184/2020 - Caroline Roose)

I voted in favour of continuing the long-standing EU/Seychelles Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement in order to allow Union tuna fishing vessels access to the Seychelles’ fishing zone with stringent catch volumes.
2020/11/12
Programme for the Union's action in the field of health for the period 2021-2027 (“EU4Health Programme”) (A9-0196/2020 - Cristian-Silviu Buşoi)

I voted in favour of this resolution as the pandemic highlighted the need for additional investment in healthcare systems and increased support for the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA). Most importantly it addresses the need to make medicines available and affordable as well as the need for coordination across the Union when tackling cross-border health threats. It is essential that we learn the hard lessons of this crisis and the ‘EU4Health Programme’ will allow us to do so.
2020/11/13
InvestEU Programme (A9-203/2020 - José Manuel Fernandes, Irene Tinagli)

I voted in support of this resolution as it reintroduces solvency support, which is needed as not all companies have the same access to market finance and Member States may lack the budgetary means to support companies negatively impacted by the pandemic.
2020/11/13
The impact of Covid-19 measures on democracy, fundamental rights and rule of law (B9-0343/2020)

I voted in support of this initiative that highlights the need for continued support for the media and journalists in the fight to end impunity for crimes committed against them. We must safeguard the fundamental right to freedom of expression and combat hate speech and disinformation. Protecting our journalists is key to achieving these goals.
2020/11/13
Mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund: assistance to Croatia and Poland in relation to a natural disaster and advances to Croatia, Germany, Greece,Hungary, Ireland, Portugal and Spain in relation to a public health emergency (A9-0221/2020 - Olivier Chastel)

I supported the mobilisation of the European Solidarity Fund to aid our citizens negatively impacted by an earthquake in Croatia, floods in Poland and advance payments to combat the ongoing health emergency.
2020/11/23
Draft amending budget No 9/2020: assistance to Croatia, Poland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Portugal and Spain (A9-0223/2020 - Monika Hohlmeier)

I supported this draft amending budget measure that will make funds available to citizens negatively impacted by natural disasters and the ongoing health crisis.
2020/11/23
Tackling homelessness rates in the European Union (B9-0363/2020)

I voted in favour of this resolution, which calls on Member States to adopt a shared framework definition of homelessness in the Union, and to take targeted action to protect the homeless.
2020/11/23
The Schengen system and measures taken during the COVID-19 crisis (B9-0362/2020)

I voted in favour of this resolution which calls for the protection of the freedoms of our Schengen system whilst taking into consideration the measures taken to safeguard citizens’ health during the pandemic and the need for a coordinated approach.
2020/11/23
Markets in financial instruments: amending information requirements, product governance requirements and position limits to help the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic (A9-0208/2020 - Markus Ferber)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this resolution which covers financial market instruments and proposes changes to the existing regime. The ultimate aim of these proposed changes is to deliver efficient markets for energy derivatives that will support the transition to a more sustainable energy system.
2020/11/25
Addressing product safety in the single market (A9-0207/2020 - Marion Walsmann)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report that highlights the European Union’s longstanding commitment to transparency and robust enforcement of rules related to product safety. It also focuses on the need to address new technologies, new marketplaces and the importance of tackling the counterfeiting phenomenon.
2020/11/25
Strengthening media freedom: the protection of journalists in Europe, hate speech, disinformation and the role of platforms (A9-0205/2020 - Magdalena Adamowicz)

I supported this resolution which recognises the important role that journalists play in combating hate speech and disinformation and highlights the need to protect them from attacks. We protect media freedom which is a key component of our Union and protect the individuals who play such a vital part in our society.
2020/11/25
A New Industrial Strategy for Europe (A9-0197/2020 - Carlo Calenda)

I voted in favour of this resolution on a new industrial strategy for Europe which highlights the need for long-term competitiveness of our industries with a focus on innovation and support for the uptake of new technologies, especially amongst our SMEs.
2020/11/25
Foreign policy consequences of the COVID-19 outbreak (A9-0204/2020 - Hilde Vautmans)

I voted in favour of this report from Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee which delves into the impact of the pandemic on the Union’s geopolitical reality. The report examines the EU’s relationship with our traditional partners across the Atlantic, identifies India as an important strategic ally and expresses concern over the way some international actors have used the pandemic to diminish human rights or as a means to project power and increase influence.
2020/11/25
Improving development effectiveness and efficiency of aid (A9-0212/2020 - Tomas Tobé)

I supported this resolution which focuses on the need for greater coordination and efficiency in the implementation of sustainable development goals in our development partner countries. The EU is the world’s biggest donor and promoting democracy and human rights are key priorities on the international stage; however, there needs to be greater joint-action through collective identification of strategic investment targets.
2020/11/25
The application of Union tariff rate quotas and other import quotas (A9-0216/2020 - Christophe Hansen)

I voted in favour of this resolution as it addresses a risk posed to the functioning of the Union’s market and the integrity of the Common Commercial Policy by the UK’s withdrawal from the Union. This resolution clarifies that the EU’s tariff-rate-quotas (TRQs) and other import quotas should only be applicable to goods imported and released into free circulation in the EU and not in Northern Ireland.
2020/11/25
Stocktaking of European elections (A9-0211/2020 - Pascal Durand)

I supported this resolution which delves into the impact of the 2019 MEP elections which sought to increase participation in the democratic process as well as improve the governance of the Union.
2020/11/25
Escalating tensions in Varosha following the illegal actions by Turkey and the urgent need for the resumption of talks (B9-0355/2020)

I voted in favour of this resolution, which calls on Turkey, in response to its actions in the eastern Mediterranean, to stop unilateral activities which violate the Law of the Sea and which are leading to rising tensions on the island of Cyprus.
2020/11/26
Elimination of customs duties on certain products (A9-0217/2020 - Bernd Lange)

I supported this report, which called for the elimination of customs duties between the US and the EU for the first time in 20 years. Under this report, the EU will remove tariffs on imports of lobsters, while the US will halve its duties on imports of certain glassware, ceramics, disposable lighters and prepared meals. The hope is that this will lead to a further elimination of duties in the spirit of good faith and shared values.
2020/11/26
Union General Export Authorisation for the export of certain dual-use items from the Union to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (C9-0345/2020 - Bernd Lange)

I voted in favour of this resolution as it is part of the Union’s preparations for the UK’s withdrawal from the Union. This resolution addresses the export of dual-use items from the EU to the UK, which will require authorisation from competent national authorities. It is crucial that actions such as these are approved to allow the continued proper functioning of our market.
2020/11/26
Temporary measures in relation to value added tax for COVID-19 vaccines and in vitro diagnostic medical devices in response to the COVID-19 pandemic (C9-0352/2020)

I voted in favour of this resolution, which makes possible a zero VAT rate on vaccinations, supplies of vaccines, testing kits and closely—linked medical services. We need to use every tool in our arsenal to begin a roll—out of a safe and reliable vaccine across the Union.
2020/11/26
EU Trade Policy Review (B9-0370/2020)

I supported this resolution, which provides Parliament’s feedback to inform the expected Commission Communication on the EU’s trade policy in early 2021. The pandemic and the changing geopolitical environment have increased our need for ‘open strategic autonomy’, which is the main focus of this balanced text.
2020/11/26
Management, conservation and control measures applicable in the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Convention area (A9-0231/2020 - João Ferreira)

I supported this resolution which will lead to the transposition into EU law of the control, conservation and management measures adopted by the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC). This will allow EU vessels operating in IATTC convention area to target tuna and swordfish in a manner that meets stringent international standards on conservation.
2020/12/14
Conclusion of the EU-Japan Civil Aviation Safety Agreement (A9-0239/2020 - Cláudia Monteiro de Aguiar)

I voted in favour of this agreement between the EU and Japan which will grant greater access to the Japanese market to our businesses and also ensure better conditions for passengers.
2020/12/14
EC/Mauritania Fisheries Partnership Agreement: extension of the Protocol (A9-0244/2020 - Annie Schreijer-Pierik)

I voted in support of the extension of the fisheries partnership agreement between the Union and Mauritania which maintains the same financial contributions and the same fishing opportunities for EU vessels.
2020/12/14
EU/Cook Islands Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement: extension of the implementation Protocol (A9-0243/2020 - François-Xavier Bellamy)

I voted in favour of the approval of extending the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the Union and the Cook Islands. The agreement will allow EU vessels to continue fishing in the Cook Islands’ waters for another year.
2020/12/14
Transitional provisions for support from the EAFRD and EAGF in the years 2021 and 2022 (A9-0101/2020 - Elsi Katainen)

I voted in favour of the transitional provisions as it is crucial that the Union’s farmers receive the support they need until the new strategic plans can be implemented in 2023. The provisions will allow funds from the 2021-2027 MFF to be allocated along the lines of the existing CAP and provide farmers with the legal certainty and financial stability they need.
2020/12/15
European Year of Rail (2021) (A9-0191/2020 - Anna Deparnay-Grunenberg)

I voted in favour of this resolution as the European Year of Rail will promote railways as a sustainable and safe means of transport across the Union’s borders. The Commission will be required to conduct two feasibility studies on a label to promote goods transported by rail and a connectivity index, similar to that for air travel and will be required to inform the Parliament and the Council by March 2021.
2020/12/15
Authorising the Commission to vote in favour of the capital increase of the European Investment Fund (A9-0253/2020 - Johan Van Overtveldt)

. ‒ I supported this authorisation for the Commission to vote in favour of increasing the capital in the European Investment Fund which aims to maintain the Union’s relative share in capital at the current level.
2020/12/15
Draft amending budget No 10/2020: Increase of payment appropriations and other adjustments to expenditure and revenue (A9-0252/2020 - Monika Hohlmeier)

. ‒ I supported this budget measure which seeks to increase the level of payments in line with updated forecasts.
2020/12/15
Additional resources in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: REACT-EU (A9-0150/2020 - Andrey Novakov, Constanze Krehl)

. ‒ REACT-EU is one of the proposals under the Recovery Package which provides an additional EUR 50 billion and a number of derogations on cohesion funding for economic and social recovery. Therefore, I voted in support of the report.
2020/12/15
Council regulation laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2021 to 2027 (A9-0260/2020 - Jan Olbrycht, Margarida Marques)

. ‒ I voted in favour of granting the Parliament’s consent to the MFF for the years 2021-2027. The Parliament succeeded in securing an additional EUR 16 billion for selected flagship projects, horizontal measures to tackle the climate crisis and also enhanced scrutiny powers over the expenditure of Next Generation EU funds. This is a momentous moment for the Union as we jointly face combined crises and are now armed with the largest package financed by the EU Budget.
2020/12/16
Interinstitutional Agreement on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management, as well as on new own resources, including a roadmap towards the introduction of new own resources (A9-0261/2020 - Esteban González Pons)

. ‒ I voted in support of this Interinstitutional Agreement which is part of the MFF Regulation.
2020/12/16
A new strategy for European SMEs (A9-0237/2020 - Paolo Borchia)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this resolution which seeks to bring the goals of the SME strategy in line with those of the industrial strategy, the European data strategy and the European Green Deal. Our SMEs are the cornerstone of our economy and it is of the utmost importance that they are given the necessary tools to innovate and contribute to our ambitious climate targets.
2020/12/16
MFF, Rule of Law Conditionality and Own Resources (B9-0428/2020, B9-0429/2020)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this resolution which responds to the Council Conclusions of 10-11 December and stresses the purpose and scope of the rule of law mechanism in the legal text.
2020/12/16
Implementation of the Dublin III Regulation (A9-0245/2020 - Fabienne Keller)

I supported this report which examines the implementation of the Dublin III Regulation which has now been supplanted by the new European Pact for Migration and Asylum.
2020/12/16
Implementation of the Return Directive (A9-0238/2020 - Tineke Strik)

I supported this report which calls on the Commission to monitor and enforce compliance of the Return Directive whilst calling on Member States to respect European Law.
2020/12/16
Rules and general principles concerning mechanisms for control by Member States of the Commission’s exercise of implementing powers (A9-0187/2020 - József Szájer)

I supported the referral back to Committee as more work needs to be done to ensure transparency of politically sensitive implementing acts.
2020/12/17
Objection pursuant to Rule 112(2) and (3): Genetically modified soybean MON 87751 × MON 87701 × MON 87708 × MON 89788 (B9-0411/2020)

I voted in support of the objection due to the negative food safety implications for our citizens and livestock. The authorisation of these GMOs poses a risk to our food safety and our health and the modified crops display a tolerance to toxic substances.
2020/12/17
Objection pursuant to Rule 112(2) and (3): Genetically modified maize MON 87427 × MON 89034 × MIR162 × MON 87411 and genetically modified maize combining two or three of the single events MON 87427, MON 89034, MIR162 and MON 87411 (B9-0413/2020)

I voted in support of the objection due to the negative food safety implications for our citizens and livestock. The authorisation of these GMOs poses a risk to our food safety and our health and the modified crops display a tolerance to toxic substances.
2020/12/17
Objection pursuant to Rule 112(2) and (3): Genetically modified maize MIR604 (SYN-IR6Ø4-5) (B9-0414/2020)

I voted in support of the objection due to the negative food safety implications for our citizens and livestock. The authorisation of these GMOs poses a risk to our food safety and our health and the modified crops display a tolerance to toxic substances.
2020/12/17
Objection pursuant to Rule 112(2) and (3): Genetically modified maize MON 88017 (MON-88Ø17-3) (B9-0415/2020)

I voted in support of the objection due to the negative food safety implications for our citizens and livestock. The authorisation of these GMOs poses a risk to our food safety and our health and the modified crops display a tolerance to toxic substances.
2020/12/17
Objection pursuant to Rule 112(2) and (3): Genetically modified maize MON 89034 (MON-89Ø34-3) (B9-0416/2020)

I voted in support of the objection due to the negative food safety implications for our citizens and livestock. The authorisation of these GMOs poses a risk to our food safety and our health and the modified crops display a tolerance to toxic substances.
2020/12/17
European Citizens' Initiative - Minority Safepack (B9-0403/2020, B9-0405/2020)

I voted in favour of this European Citizens’ Initiative which defends the rights of linguistic minorities. Safeguarding the survival of minority languages is an important role for us as legislators. We must ensure that they continue as living languages, thus protecting the variety within our collective culture and shared heritage.
2020/12/17
Union action for the European Capitals of Culture for the years 2020 to 2033 (A9-0201/2020 - Željana Zovko)

I voted in favour of this report, which calls for prolonging the European Capitals of Culture terms for Rijeka (Croatia) and Galway (Ireland) due to the reality of the ongoing pandemic, therefore allowing them to implement their cultural programmes.
2020/12/17
Implementation of the EU water legislation (B9-0401/2020)

I voted in favour of this report, which will increase access to water for the vulnerable, increase the quality standards for drinking water and the materials in contact with it and also improve consumer access to information.
2020/12/17
EU Security Union Strategy (B9-0421/2020)

I voted in favour of this resolution, which lays out the Union’s security strategy, the strategy to combat child sexual abuse and also plans to curb drug and firearms trafficking. The Union is in need of a coherent strategy that tackles the evolving security challenges of not only the present day but also the next decade.
2020/12/17
The need for a dedicated Council configuration on gender equality (B9-0402/2020, B9-0404/2020)

I supported the call for a dedicated Council configuration on gender equality to ensure that issues of this nature receive the importance they deserve and are the subject of high—level political dialogue.
2020/12/17
Amendments to the Rules of Procedure in order to ensure the functioning of Parliament in extraordinary circumstances (A9-0194/2020 - Gabriele Bischoff)

I supported the amendments to the Rules of Procedure as it is essential that MEPs are able to continue their work as legislators in the extraordinary circumstances we are facing. The amendments add new rules that detail the decision-making procedure and introduce specifications for remote participation and remote voting.
2020/12/17
Certain aspects of railway safety and connectivity with regard to the Channel Tunnel (C9-0379/2020)

I supported this regulation as it is critical that railway safety and connectivity through the Channel Tunnel continues after Brexit.
2020/12/17
EU Strategy on adaptation to climate change (B9-0422/2020)

I voted in favour of this important report on the need for an updated strategy on adaptation to climate change. Not only does the report call for the mainstreaming of adaptation in all relevant EU policy areas, but also highlights the issue of desertification, which is of particular importance to our islands and the rest of the Mediterranean.
2020/12/17
Deliberations of the Committee on Petitions 2019 (A9-0230/2020 - Kosma Złotowski)

I voted in favour of this report which highlights the role the Petitions Committee plays within the EU in the framework of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. I also supported the call for a means for the Committee to be directly involved in the legislative process.
2020/12/17
Agreement for co-operation in dealing with pollution of the North Sea by oil and other harmful substances (Bonn Agreement): extension of its material and geographical scope of application (A9-0268/2020 - Pascal Canfin)

I voted in favour of the extension of the material and geographical scope of application of the Bonn Agreement. The aim is to continue to prevent pollution in the North Sea Area and to safeguard coastal areas from maritime disasters and chronic pollution from ships and offshore installations.
2021/01/19
Exemption of certain third country spot foreign exchange benchmarks and the designation of replacements for certain benchmarks in cessation (A9-0227/2020 - Caroline Nagtegaal)

I voted in favour of this report as it aims to ensure that when a widely used benchmark is phased out it does not cause disruptions to the economy and harm financial stability in the EU.
2021/01/19
Technical Support Instrument (A9-0173/2020 - Alexandra Geese, Othmar Karas, Dragoș Pîslaru)

I voted in favour of this report as it will enable Member States to use this instrument in order to prepare and implement their recovery plans under the Recovery and Resilience Facility. It is therefore a vital instrument towards successful recovery from the health crisis.
2021/01/19
Exercise of the Union's rights for the application and enforcement of international trade rules (A9-0133/2020 - Marie-Pierre Vedrenne)

I voted in favour of amending the Enforcement Regulation in order to protect the European Union’s interests under international trade agreements in situations when third countries adopt illegal measures and simultaneously block a dispute settlement process.
2021/01/19
European Arrest Warrant and surrender procedures between Member States (A9-0248/2020 - Javier Zarzalejos)

. ‒ The European Arrest Warrant (EAW) is a vital and widely used instrument of judicial cooperation in criminal matters in the EU. The incomplete and/or incorrect transposition of the EAW Framework Decision hampers the application of the principle of mutual recognition in criminal justice matters. As this report facilitates the proper implementation of the EAW, I chose to support it.
2021/01/20
Strengthening the single market: the future of free movement of services (A9-0250/2020 - Morten Løkkegaard)

. ‒ The service sector creates 90% of new employment and generates 73% of the EU’s GDP; however, cross-border trade in services generates only 6.5% of the EU’s GDP. This report aims to drive the potential of the single market for services and therefore I chose to support it.
2021/01/20
Achieving an effective policy legacy for the European Year of Cultural Heritage (A9-0210/2020 - Dace Melbārde)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report as it summarises the achievements of the 2018 Year of Cultural Heritage and focuses on different angles of cultural heritage (including sustainable tourism, digitalisation of cultural goods, protection of cultural sites and protection of languages). The report also invites the Commission to consider organising another European Year of Cultural Heritage and calls for more strategic cooperation between the European Union and other international organisations, which is important in preserving and promoting our cultural heritage.
2021/01/20
Artificial intelligence: questions of interpretation and application of international law (A9-0001/2021 - Gilles Lebreton)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report as it seeks to address the advantages and disadvantages relating to artificial intelligence with regard to the interpretation and application of international law. This balanced report seeks to frame the legal provisions which govern artificial intelligence in the areas of civil and military uses and of state authority outside the scope of criminal justice.
2021/01/20
Revision of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) guidelines (A9-0251/2020 - Jens Gieseke)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report as it sets out the European Parliament’s expectations towards the Commission’s proposal for a revision of the Trans-European Transport Network guidelines. These expectations include the deployment of alternative fuels, boosting of innovative digital applications and provide for actions to upgrade rail and road connections to sea and inland waterways ports.
2021/01/20
Monitoring the application of EU law 2017, 2018 and 2019 (A9-0270/2020 -Sabrina Pignedoli)

. ‒ Every year, the European Commission draws up an annual report on its monitoring of the application of EU law in response to requests from the European Parliament and the EU countries. This report adequately reflects on the European Commission’s annual reports 2017, 2018 and 2019. Therefore, I voted in support of the report.
2021/01/20
Implementation of the Common Foreign and Security Policy - annual report 2020 (A9-0266/2020 -David McAllister)

I chose to support this report as the pandemic and the changing geopolitical environment have increased the European Union’s need to foster a new level of ambition in its foreign policy, to strengthen its means and capacities and to assert itself as a preferred ‘partner of choice’ for third parties, which is the focus of this text.
2021/01/20
Implementation of the Common Security and Defence Policy - annual report 2020 (A9-0265/2020 - Sven Mikser)

Due to the rise of multi-faceted threats to global and regional security, this report calls on the EU to continue asserting itself as a global actor for peace and security, notably by cooperating with likeminded democracies, by intensifying its efforts towards ‘strategic autonomy’ and by proactively countering disinformation campaigns coming from third states and non-state actors. Therefore, I voted in support of this report.
2021/01/20
FEAD: specific measures to address the COVID-19 crisis (A9-0174/2020 - Lucia Ďuriš Nicholsonová)

I supported the technical amendments to the Fund for European Aid to the Most Deprived (FEAD) Regulation, which include specific measures to address the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and are fully aligned with the provision in REACT-EU.
2021/01/20
Connectivity and EU-Asia relations (A9-0269/2020 - Reinhard Bütikofer)

This report encourages the Commission and the European External Action Service to create a global EU connectivity strategy, as an extension of the current EU-Asia connectivity strategy, in order to align the EU’s connectivity philosophy and connectivity policies with the goal of strengthening the EU’s role as a true and indispensable geopolitical and geo-economic actor through a coordinated EU approach. As the report stresses the importance of the EU’s strategic relationships in Asia while simultaneously maintaining core EU principles, I voted in favour.
2021/01/21
The arrest of Aleksei Navalny (B9-0090/2021, B9-0091/2021, B9-0092/2021, B9-0093/2021, B9-0094/2021, B9-0095/2021)

I voted in favour of this resolution as it calls for the immediate and unconditional release of the Russian opposition leader and all other persons detained in relation to his return to Russia on 17 January 2021.
2021/01/21
The latest developments in the National Assembly of Venezuela (RC-B9-0056/2021, B9-0056/2021, B9-0060/2021, B9-0062/2021, B9-0064/2021, B9-0065/2021)

I voted in favour of this resolution as it reiterates the importance of free, credible, inclusive, transparent and fully democratic elections and rejects the results of the fraudulent elections held on 6 December 2020 in Venezuela.
2021/01/21
The right to disconnect (A9-0246/2020 - Alex Agius Saliba)

After the rapporteur tabled a compromise amendment in plenary taking into account the recently concluded Framework Agreement on Digitalisation that would give due regard to the role of all social partners affected, I chose to support this report.
2021/01/21
Mitigating the consequences of earthquakes in Croatia (RC-B9-0057/2021, B9-0057/2021, B9-0058/2021, B9-0059/2021, B9-0061/2021, B9-0063/2021)

I voted in favour of this resolution as it expresses solidarity with the Croatian authorities and citizens who are bearing the devastating effects of the March and December 2020 earthquakes in Croatia.
2021/01/21
Closing the digital gender gap: women’s participation in the digital economy (A9-0232/2020 - Maria da Graça Carvalho)

I voted in favour of this balanced report as it aims to address the root causes of the existing digital gender gap, reflect on the data available and propose concrete measures and actions to promote women’s and girl’s participation in the digital education and economy, also with due regard to the COVID-19 crisis.
2021/01/21
Control of the acquisition and possession of weapons (codification) (A9-0010/2021 - Magdalena Adamowicz)

I voted in favour of this report as it aims to codify the existing legislation governing the acquisition and possession of weapons.
2021/02/08
Establishing the Recovery and Resilience Facility (A9-0214/2020 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial, Siegfried Mureşan, Dragoș Pîslaru)

As the Recovery and Resilience Facility aims to support reforms and investments by Member States to mitigate the economic and social consequences of the coronavirus pandemic and make EU economies more sustainable, I chose to support it.
2021/02/09
European Central Bank – annual report 2020 (A9-0002/2021 - Sven Simon)

I voted to support this report as it appreciates the role and contribution of the European Central Bank as an independent institution in safeguarding the stability of the euro and ensuring smooth monetary transition during the health emergency. Notably, this report also highlights the fact that SMEs remain the backbone of the EU’s economy and societies, and therefore require further support.
2021/02/09
New Circular Economy Action Plan: see Minutes (A9-0008/2021 - Jan Huitema)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report as it builds on the Circular Economy Action Plan which aims to accelerate the transformational change required by the European Green Deal for achieving a cleaner, climate-neutral, resource-efficient and competitive economy, and is expected to create 700 000 new jobs by 2030.
2021/02/09
Implementation of the Anti-Trafficking Directive (A9-0011/2021 - Juan Fernando López Aguilar, María Soraya Rodríguez Ramos)

. ‒ This report precedes the upcoming European Commission Communication on a new EU strategy towards the eradication of trafficking in human beings. I voted in favour of this report as it identifies key patterns and challenges in addressing trafficking in human beings, and covers the following areas: trafficking and smuggling; digital technologies and impacts on trafficking; identification, protection, assistance and support to victims; trafficking as a gendered crime, addressing trafficking for sexual exploitation, labour exploitation and other forms of exploitation; trafficking in the context of asylum and migration, trafficking of children; cooperation between Member States and with EU Agencies.
2021/02/09
Implementation of Article 43 of the Asylum Procedures Directive (A9-0005/2021 - Erik Marquardt)

Article 43 of Directive 2013/32/EU on common procedures for granting and withdrawing international protection establishes border procedures as a possibility Member States can use under the Common European Asylum System. When an asylum application is made at the border or in a transit zone, Member States can, under certain conditions, examine the application at these locations. I voted in favour of this report as it gives further guidance to Member States on the implementation of border procedures within this context.
2021/02/09
Public access to documents for the years 2016-2018 (A9-0004/2021 - Ioan-Rareş Bogdan)

I voted in favour of this report, which has, at its core, the protection of the right of access to documents, which is intrinsically linked to the democratic nature of the institutions.
2021/02/09
Reducing inequalities with a special focus on in-work poverty (A9-0006/2021 - Özlem Demirel)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report as it focuses on the reduction of inequalities, which is one of the important elements in the fight against in-work poverty.
2021/02/09
The impact of Covid-19 on youth and on sport (B9-0115/2021)

. ‒ The COVID-19 pandemic crisis has impacted many aspects of our lives. Youth and sport have been disproportionately impacted. As this resolution stresses the importance of investing in a high-quality level of education and training for youth as well as the need to support the sports sector, I voted in favour of it.
2021/02/09
Markets in financial instruments (A9-0208/2020 - Markus Ferber)

As this report aims to amend Directive 2014/65/EU (Markets in Financial Instruments) in order to support the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, I voted in favour of it.
2021/02/10
EU Recovery prospectus and targeted adjustments for financial intermediaries to help the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic (A9-0228/2020 - Ondřej Kovařík)

I voted in favour of this report as it aims to introduce a new shorter prospectus (the ‘EU Recovery Prospectus’) for companies that have a record of accomplishment in the public market. This will facilitate the recapitalisation of companies affected by the economic shock of the coronavirus pandemic. The EU Recovery Prospectus will be temporary, easy to produce for companies, easy to read for investors and easy to scrutinise for national competent authorities.
2021/02/10
Slot utilisation rules at Union airports: temporary relief (C9-0420/2020)

I voted in favour of this report as it provides an adequate balance between the protection of historic series of slots and a progressive return to a normal situation, while preventing companies from being forced to fly empty planes as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. This is crucial for legacy airlines in particular.
2021/02/10
Temporary measures concerning the validity of certificates and licences (Omnibus II) (C9-0004/2021)

I voted in favour of this report as it aims to lay down additional specific and temporary measures concerning the validity of certificates and licences within the areas of road, rail and inland waterways transport and maritime security, in response to the extraordinary circumstances caused by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
2021/02/10
EU Association Agreement with Ukraine (A9-0219/2020 - Michael Gahler)

As this report is a reflection of the shared ambition of the EU and Ukraine for political association and economic integration, I voted in favour of it.
2021/02/10
European Skills Agenda for sustainable competitiveness, social fairness and resilience (B9-0108/2021)

I voted in favour of this resolution as it highlights the importance of digital skills and literacy, equal access to skilling, re-skilling and upskilling, and overcoming labour market shortages and mismatches, especially in light of the COVID-19 crisis and its consequences.
2021/02/10
InvestEU Programme (A9-0203/2020 - José Manuel Fernandes, Irene Tinagli)

I voted in favour of the programme as it is designed to streamline investment support and adjusted to tackle the post-coronavirus investment landscape. Particularly, this programme includes the possibility for Member States to use InvestEU funding to provide capital support towards small and medium-sized businesses that have been hard-hit by the pandemic.
2021/03/09
Programme for the Union's action in the field of health for the period 2021-2027 (“EU4Health Programme”) (A9-0196/2020 - Cristian-Silviu Buşoi)

I voted in favour of this programme as it aims to combat cross-border health threats, ensure affordable medicine and promote stronger health systems
2021/03/09
A WTO-compatible EU carbon border adjustment mechanism (A9-0019/2021 - Yannick Jadot)

The aim of the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism CBAM is to place a carbon price on imports of certain goods from outside the EU, in order to push EU partners to raise their climate ambition and reduce the risk of ‘carbon leakage’. As this resolution carefully balances meeting the European Green Deal climate objectives with avoiding additional burdens on EU industries or creating distortions within the internal market and along the value chain, I chose to support it.
2021/03/10
Implementation of the Construction Products Regulation (A9-0012/2021 - Christian Doleschal)

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report as it calls for: removing technical barriers to trade, enhancing health, safety and environmental standards, addressing the lack of harmonised standards and enforcement of rules, preventing duplications and ensuring coherence of legislation within the context of marketing of construction products within the EU.
2021/03/10
Equal treatment in employment and occupation in light of the UNCRPD (A9-0014/2021 - Katrin Langensiepen)

. ‒ This report provides recommendations on how we can make workplaces more inclusive, accessible and non-discriminatory for persons with disabilities. It is for this reason that I voted in favour of it.
2021/03/10
Fisheries control (A9-0016/2021 - Clara Aguilera)

As this report aims to modernise and simplify the rules of monitoring fisheries activities and ensure compliance with the Common Fisheries Policy, I voted in favour of it.
2021/03/10
Activities of the European Ombudsman - annual report 2019 (A9-0013/2021 - Sylvie Guillaume)

I voted in favour of this report as it highlights the importance of decision-making accountability and citizens’ participation in EU policy-making.
2021/03/10
European Semester: Annual Sustainable Growth Strategy 2021 (A9-0036/2021 - Markus Ferber)

I voted in favour of this report as it highlights the European Semester’s essential role in coordinating economic, budgetary and employment policies in the Member States, which serves to ensure sound public finances within the EU. This is especially the case within the context of the economic crisis where the Semester will have a big role to play within the context of the Recovery and Resilience Facility, and therefore the EU’s recovery.
2021/03/11
European Semester: employment and social aspects in the Annual Sustainable Growth Strategy 2021 (A9-0026/2021 - Lina Gálvez Muñoz)

l voted in favour of this report as it proposes concrete ways in which we can strengthen employment and social aspects in the Annual Sustainable Growth Strategy 2021, also within the context of the COVID-19 recovery.
2021/03/11
The Syrian conflict - 10 years after the uprising (B9-0175/2021, B9-0176/2021, B9-0177/2021, B9-0178/2021, B9-0179/2021, B9-0180/2021, B9-0181/2021)

I voted in favour of this resolution as it condemns all atrocities and violations of human rights and international humanitarian law carried out within the context of the Syrian conflict and calls for a number of actions, which could be the first steps towards stability and peace in the area.
2021/03/11
Declaration of the EU as an LGBTIQ Freedom Zone (B9-0166/2021, B9-0167/2021)

As I believe it is important to give a strong message in favour of the EU as an LGTBIQ Freedom Zone, I voted in favour of this resolution.
2021/03/11
Children's Rights (B9-0164/2021)

I voted in favour of this resolution as it stresses the importance of protecting our children and guaranteeing their rights.
2021/03/11
EU/Norway Agreement: modification of concessions on all the tariff-rate quotas included in the EU Schedule CLXXV as a consequence of the United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union (A9-0035/2021 - Jörgen Warborn)

. – This report was of a technical nature. I voted to approve this agreement with Norway so as to apportion the Union’s WTO concessions on TRQs (under GATT) to be split across the European Union and the United Kingdom.
2021/04/26
EU/Honduras Voluntary Partnership Agreement (A9-0053/2021 - Karin Karlsbro)

. – I voted in favour of this agreement as it aims at strengthening forest governance and law enforcement and will reassure the EU market that timber exported from Honduras comes from legally harvested timber.
2021/04/26
Implementation report on the road safety aspects of the Roadworthiness Package (A9-0028/2021 - Benoît Lutgen)

. – I voted in favour of this report as it accurately assesses the achievements and the shortcomings in the implementation of the 2014 ‘Roadworthiness Package’ and lays down the Parliament’s expectations in view of the package’s revision.
2021/04/26
Chemical residues in the Baltic Sea based on petitions 1328/2019 and 0406/2020 under Rule 227(2) (B9-0224/2021)

. – I voted in favour of this resolution as it concerns the disposal of ammunitions in the Baltic Sea after World War II and the negative impact of decomposing chemicals on the environment.
2021/04/26
Specific Programme implementing Horizon Europe – the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (A9-0118/2021 - Christian Ehle)

. – Being the EU’s key funding programme for research and innovation, Horizon Europe will help boost the EU’s competitiveness and growth. It is for this reason that I chose to support this report which, notably, increases the programme’s budget considerably compared with the previous Horizon 2020 programme, simplifies procedures, incentivises more research in the areas of health, digital and climate, strengthens key priorities such as cultural and creative research, and establishes grant-only support to SMEs through the European Innovation Council.
2021/04/27
European Institute of Innovation and Technology (A9-0120/2020 - Marisa Matias)

. – The European Institute for Innovation and Technology, which is now one of the three components of the ‘Innovative Europe’ pillar of Horizon Europe (2021-2027), has played an important role in enriching the innovation ecosystem in the European Union. As it has contributed to the training of thousands of researchers, the ‘birth’ of new businesses – many of them already on a significant scale – and an overall improvement in cooperation and the transfer of technology between universities, research institutions and the private sector, I chose to support this report.
2021/04/27
Strategic Innovation Agenda of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (A9-0121/2020 - Maria da Graça Carvalho)

. – The European Institute for Innovation and Technology, which is now one of the three components of the ‘Innovative Europe’ pillar of Horizon Europe (2021-2027), has played an important role in enriching the innovation ecosystems in the European Union. I supported this report since it accompanies the report on the European Institute for Innovation and Technology.
2021/04/27
Union Civil Protection Mechanism (A9-0148/2020 - Nikos Androulakis)

. – I voted in favour of this report as it reinforces the EU Civil Protection Mechanism to give the EU a more active role in supporting Member States during emergencies and sets the ground for more coordinated EU response to natural and man-made disasters inside and outside Europe in case of large-scale emergencies with transboundary effect.
2021/04/27
EU/Honduras Voluntary Partnership Agreement (Resolution) (A9-0054/2021 - Karin Karlsbro)

. – I voted in favour of the EU/Honduras Voluntary Partnership Agreement as it aims at strengthening forest governance and law enforcement and, by means of the FLEGT licensing scheme, will reassure the EU market that the timber exported from Honduras comes from legally harvested timber.
2021/04/27
Interinstitutional agreement on mandatory transparency register (A9-0123/2021 - Maria Hübner)

. – As this report aims to improve the ethical interest-representation in the EU, I chose to support it.
2021/04/27
The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (A9-0128/2021 - Andreas Schieder, Christophe Hansen)

. – Despite the fact that the UK has left the EU, it still remains a crucial partner and ally for the EU ˗ both on the continent and globally. I voted in favour of the EU-UK Agreement, as I believe it amounts to a fair and balanced agreement in terms of rights and responsibilities for both parties. Crucially, the agreement maintains a level playing field, but also a high level of protection in many different areas which will continue to provide stability in this new relationship.
2021/04/27
The outcome of EU-UK negotiations (B9-0225/2021)

. – I voted in favour of this resolution as it accurately sets out the main political messages of the European Parliament concerning the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement.
2021/04/27
Soil protection (B9-0221/2021)

. – I voted in favour of this resolution as it aims to protect and encourage the sustainable use of soil.
2021/04/28
Administrative cooperation in the field of excise duties: content of electronic registers (A9-0121/2021 - Irene Tinagli)

. – As this report aims to broaden the scope of Regulation (EU) No 389/2012, which will increase administrative cooperation in the field of excise duties, I chose to support it.
2021/04/29
Parliament’s estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2022 (A9-0145/2021 - Damian Boeselager)

. – I voted in favour of this report as it provides the European Parliament with the necessary resources to return to normalcy after the COVID-19 crisis, provides more resources for priority projects and improves the work of the European Parliament’s administration.
2021/04/29
Russia, the case of Alexei Navalny, military build-up on Ukraine's border and Russian attack in the Czech Republic (B9-0235/2021, RC-B9-0236/2021, B9-0236/2021, B9-0237/2021, B9-0250/2021, B9-0251/2021, B9-0252/2021)

. – I voted in favour of this resolution, as among other things it calls on Russia to: immediately and unconditionally release Alexei Navalny; withdraw its troops from the Ukrainian border; and take responsibility for the explosion of the arms depot in Vrbětice in the Czech Republic.
2021/04/29
5th anniversary of the Peace Agreement in Colombia (RC-B9-0227/2021, B9-0227/2021, B9-0228/2021, B9-0229/2021, B9-0230/2021, B9-0231/2021, B9-0232/2021)

. – As this resolution reflects the positive aspects of the progress made by the Colombian Government vis-a-vis the implementation of the Peace Agreement signed in 2016, I chose to support it.
2021/04/29
European Child Guarantee (B9-0220/2021)

. – As this resolution aims to prevent and combat poverty and social exclusion by ensuring the free and effective access of children in need to key services, I chose to support it.
2021/04/29
The accessibility and affordability of Covid-testing (B9-0233/2021, B9-0234/2021)

. – I voted in favour of this resolution as I believe that individual testing for COVID—19 must not only be a possibility for those who can afford or access it – it must be available to all regardless of the socio—economic factors at play.
2021/04/29
EU-India relations (A9-0124/2021 - Alviina Alametsä)

. – Considering India is an important strategic partner for the EU, I voted in favour of this report as it strengthens the EU and India’s relationship in a number of key areas – notably foreign and security policy cooperation, promotion of the rule of law, human rights and good governance and trade.
2021/04/29
Just Transition Fund (A9-0135/2020 - Manolis Kefalogiannis)

. – The Just Transition Fund will consist of a 17.5bn EUR budget aimed towards the economically, socially and environmentally just transformation process in EU regions formerly dependent on coal extraction and other related heavy industries. I voted in favour of the establishment of this fund, as it is one-step closer towards a greener, more sustainable Europe.
2021/05/18
Review of the European Union Solidarity Fund (A9-0052/2021 - Younous Omarjee)

. – I voted in favour of this report as it notably recommends more flexibility in the different stages of the fund’s mobilisation and the possibility of budgetary adjustments based on comprehensive evaluations.
2021/05/18
Exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting for the period 2021-2027 (Pericles IV programme): extension to the non-participating Member States (A9-0165/2021 - Clare Daly)

. – I voted in favour of this report so that the Pericles IV programme, which aims to protect euro banknotes and coins against counterfeiting and related fraud, can be extended to non-participating Member States.
2021/05/18
EU/Cuba Agreement: modification of concessions on all the tariff-rate quotas included in the EU Schedule CLXXV as a consequence of the United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union (A9-0129/2021 - Gabriel Mato)

. – I voted in favour of this technical report as it apportions the quantitative commitments contained in the EU28 WTO schedule for various tariff-rate quotas between two separate customs territories: the EU27 and the UK. This was necessary on account of Brexit.
2021/05/18
Protocol to the Euro-Mediterranean Association Agreement EU/Tunisia (accession of Croatia) (A9-0150/2021 - Michael Gahler)

. – I chose to support this report as it outlines the European Parliament’s support for the Republic of Croatia to accede to the Protocol to the Euro-Mediterranean Association Agreement between the EU and Tunisia, on account of the Republic of Croatia’s accession to the European Union.
2021/05/18
Protocol to the EU/Central America Association Agreement (accession of Croatia) (A9-0148/2021 - Karol Karski)

. – I chose to support this report as it outlines the European Parliament’s support for the Republic of Croatia to accede to the Protocol to the EU/Central America Association Agreement, on account of the Republic of Croatia’s accession to the European Union.
2021/05/18
Agreement EU/USA/Iceland/Norway: Time Limitations on Arrangements for the Provision of Aircraft with Crew (A9-0125/2021 - Maria Grapini)

. – I chose to support this report as it outlines the European Parliament’s support for the establishment of clear and non-restrictive wet lease arrangements between the EU and the US by providing more precision to associated provisions of the US-EU Air Transport Agreement. In doing so, the parties will be able to maximise benefits for consumers, airlines, labour and communities on both sides of the Atlantic, so as to better reflect the realities of a global aviation industry and strengthen the transatlantic air transportation system.
2021/05/18
Dock dues scheme in the French outermost regions (A9-0138/2021 - Younous Omarjee)

. – As this report approves the Commission Proposal establishing the legal framework for dock dues applicable in French outermost regions after 30 June 2021, including a revision of the current provisions to make the scheme more flexible and transparent, I chose to support it.
2021/05/18
Securing the objectives of the landing obligation under Article 15 of the Common Fisheries Policy (A9-0147/2021 - Søren Gade)

. – As this report aims to make it easier to achieve the objectives of protecting and improving the sustainability of fisheries, I chose to support it.
2021/05/18
Common system of value added tax: exemptions on importations and on certain supplies, in respect of Union measures in the public interest (A9-0155/2021 - Irene Tinagli)

. – As this report aims to introduce a VAT exemption for the acquisition of goods and services by the Commission, agency or body established under Union law in the fulfilment of a mandate conferred on it by Union law in the public interest, I chose to support it.
2021/05/18
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2020/002 EE/Tourism - Estonia (A9-0158/2021 - José Manuel Fernandes)

. – I chose to support this report as it approves the mobilisation of the EGF to provide assistance to Estonia, which is facing redundancies in the tourism sector as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic.
2021/05/18
Mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Greece and France in relation to natural disasters and to Albania, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czechia, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Montenegro, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Spain in relation to a public health emergency (A9-0157/2021 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial)

. – I chose to support this report as it approves the mobilisation of the EGF to provide assistance to 20 Member States and accession countries, which are notably facing economic and social consequences relating to the public health emergency caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
2021/05/18
Draft amending budget No 2/2021: financing the COVID-19 response and including refinements and updates related to the final adoption of the Multiannual Financial Framework (A9-0160/2021 - Pierre Larrouturou)

. – I chose to support this report as it aims to provide additional funding in the 2021 budget for the prevention, preparedness and response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and introduces technical modifications resulting from the adoption of the MFF and sectoral legislative acts of EU programmes.
2021/05/18
Challenges of sports events organisers in the digital environment (A9-0139/2021 - Angel Dzhambazki)

. – I voted in favour of this report as it recognises the difficulties and provides recommendations to safeguard the rights of sports events organisers, which have been exclusively operating in the digital environment on account of the pandemic.
2021/05/18
Research Fund for Coal and Steel (A9-0102/2021 - Cristian-Silviu Buşoi)

. – I voted in favour of this report as it outlines the European Parliament’s proposals to update the Research Fund for Coal and Steel Research Programme objectives to align them with the EU’s climate, energy and environmental targets.
2021/05/18
Artificial intelligence in education, culture and the audiovisual sector (A9-0127/2021 - Sabine Verheyen)

. – As this report paves the way for a comprehensive approach on artificial intelligence in the fields of education, culture and audiovisual sectors by outlining how artificial intelligence could provide a huge source of opportunities while also taking stock of its challenges within the sector, I chose to support it.
2021/05/19
A European Strategy for Energy System Integration (A9-0062/2021 - Christophe Grudler)

. – Innovative and clean energy solutions, such as the European System Integration which is part of the European Green Deal, pave the way for a greener, more sustainable Europe. It is for this reason that I voted in favour of this report.
2021/05/19
A European Strategy for Hydrogen (A9-0116/2021 - Jens Geier)

. – I voted in favour of this report as investments in clean hydrogen is key for the EU to achieve a higher climate ambition, reduce greenhouse gas in a cost effective way while also fostering sustainable growth and jobs.
2021/05/19
2019-2020 Reports on Turkey (A9-0153/2021 - Nacho Sánchez Amor)

. – I voted in favour of this report as it gives a sobering account of the continuous and growing distancing of Turkey from European values and standards while also leaving the door open for avenues in which EU-Turkey relations may improve.
2021/05/19
2019-2020 Reports on Montenegro (A9-0131/2021 - Tonino Picula)

. – In light of the accession negotiations, this report gives an accurate account of the progress Montenegro has made in a number of areas while also outlining the rest of the areas in which Montenegro is yet to align itself to EU standards. It is for this reason that I chose to support this balanced report.
2021/05/19
The effects of climate change on human rights and the role of environmental defenders on this matter (A9-0039/2021 - María Soraya Rodríguez Ramos)

. – Not only does this report call for greater attention and ambition to combatting climate change but it also calls for a comprehensive human rights-based approach to climate action. It is for this reason that I chose to support it.
2021/05/19
Reversing demographic trends in EU regions using cohesion policy instruments (A9-0061/2021 - Daniel Buda)

. – I voted in favour of this report as it puts forward long-term policy recommendations to appropriately reverse negative demographic trends, with a special focus on rural and disadvantaged areas and regions.
2021/05/19
Impacts of EU rules on the free movements of workers and services: intra-EU labour mobility as a tool to match labour market needs and skills (A9-0066/2021 - Radan Kanev)

. – I voted in favour of this report as it addresses the persisting and long-lasting issues related particularly to working conditions for mobile workers, as well as existing red tape and legal barriers for service providers, freelancers and SMEs operating in more than one Member State.
2021/05/19
Accelerating progress and tackling inequalities towards ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 (B9-0263/2021)

. – With less than 10 years to go to reach the common goal of ending AIDS by 2030, I voted in favour of this report as it gives both the EU and Member States concrete recommendations with the aim of accelerating progress and tackling inequalities towards ending AIDS as a public health threat.
2021/05/19
Chinese countersanctions on EU entities and MEPs and MPs (RC-B9-0269/2021, B9-0269/2021, B9-0270/2021, B9-0271/2021, B9-0273/2021, B9-0274/2021, B9-0275/2021)

. – As this report condemns the baseless and arbitrary sanctions imposed by the Chinese authorities, which amount to an attack on freedom of speech, academic freedom and the international commitment to and understanding of universal human rights, I chose to support it.
2021/05/20
Data Protection Commissioner v Facebook Ireland Limited, Maximillian Schrems (“Schrems II”) - Case C-311/18 (B9-0267/2021)

. – As this report keeps the door open to potential new data transfer mechanisms with our US partners, while at the same time stressing the importance of enforcing EU data protection safeguards and legal certainty for businesses, I chose to support it.
2021/05/20
European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights: interim report (A9-0058/2021 - Lukas Mandl)

. – This report aptly outlines the issues that ought to be immediately part of the current revision of FRA Regulation, and issues that still require an impact assessment. It is for this reason that I chose to support it.
2021/05/20
Liability of companies for environmental damage (A9-0112/2021 - Antonius Manders)

. – This report sets out the European Parliament’s recommendations which ultimately have the aim of preventing environmental damage by reducing risks, strengthening the precautionary and the polluter pays principle, creating a level playing field for businesses and ensuring that taxpayers do not have to bear the cost for environmental damage. As the ambition contained within this report finds the appropriate balance between environmental and business interests, I chose to support it.
2021/05/20
New Avenues for Legal Labour Migration (A9-0143/2021 - Sylvie Guillaume)

. – As this report examines whether the sectoral approach to labour migration is working, which sectors might benefit from further labour migration instruments at EU level, and how a more holistic approach to legal labour migration at EU level might benefit the EU as a whole, I chose to support it.
2021/05/20
Digital future of Europe: digital single market and use of AI for European consumers (A9-0149/2021 - Deirdre Clune)

. – As this report focuses on the challenges ahead towards the completion of the Digital Single Market and on the role the EU can play as a standard-setter in creating a frictionless and futureproof internal market for the further development of high quality AI-driven products and services governed by common EU rules on accessible, inclusive, human-centric and trustworthy AI technology, I chose to support it.
2021/05/20
ETIAS consequential amendments: police and judicial cooperation (A9-0254/2020 - Jeroen Lenaers)

. – I voted in favour of this report as it provides amendments to the ETIAS Regulation relating to police and judicial cooperation. This will ensure interoperability between the new ETIAS database through which all visa-exempt non-EU nationals will have to apply online for travel authorisation prior to their departure, and the EU Entry/Exit System, the ECRIS-TCN, and the Schengen Information System with a view to cross-check prior to the granting of the travel authorisation whether the applicant poses a security risk.
2021/06/07
ETIAS consequential amendments: borders and visa (A9-0255/2020 - Jeroen Lenaers)

. – I voted in favour of this report as it provides amendments to the ETIAS Regulation relating to borders and visa. This will ensure interoperability between the new ETIAS database through which all visa-exempt non-EU nationals will have to apply online for travel authorisation prior to their departure, and the EU Entry/Exit System, the ECRIS-TCN, and the Schengen Information System with a view to cross-check prior to the granting of the travel authorisation whether the applicant poses a security risk.
2021/06/07
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2020/003 DE/GMH Guss - Germany (A9-0189/2021 - Jens Geier)

. – I voted in favour of mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund to support Germany, which is facing redundancies in the ‘manufacture of basic metals’ sector as a result of the COVID—19 pandemic.
2021/06/07
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2020/005 BE/Swissport – Belgium (A9-0188/2021 - Olivier Chastel)

. – I voted in favour of mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund to support Belgium, which is facing redundancies in the passenger air transport sector as a result of the COVID—19 pandemic.
2021/06/07
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2020/004 NL/KLM - Netherlands (A9-0187/2021 - Monika Vana)

. – I voted in favour of mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund to support the Netherlands, which is facing redundancies in the air transport sector as a result of the COVID—19 pandemic.
2021/06/07
Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2020/007 FI/Finnair - Finland (A9-0186/2021 - Eero Heinäluoma)

. – I voted in favour of mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund to support Finland, which is facing redundancies in the air transport sector as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
2021/06/07
ETIAS consequential amendments: ECRIS-TCN (A9-0083/2021 - Jeroen Lenaers)

. – I voted in favour of this report as it provides amendments to the ETIAS Regulation relating to the ECRIS-TCN. This will ensure interoperability between the new ETIAS database through which all visa-exempt non-EU nationals will have to apply online for travel authorisation prior to their departure, and the EU Entry/Exit System, the ECRIS-TCN, and the Schengen Information System with a view to cross-check prior to the granting of the travel authorisation whether the applicant poses a security risk.
2021/06/08
EU Digital COVID Certificate - Union citizens (C9-0104/2021 - Juan Fernando López Aguilar)

. – The Digital Green Certificate aims to create an interoperable system within the EU by providing evidence to countries that a person has been vaccinated, tested negative or recovered from the virus. Chiefly, this will prevent discrimination, as vaccination will not be precondition to travel. As this report facilitates the return of free movement in the EU in a way adjusted to the health situation, I chose to support it.
2021/06/08
EU Digital COVID Certificate - third-country nationals (C9-0100/2021 - Juan Fernando López Aguilar)

. – The Digital Green Certificate aims to create an interoperable system within the EU by providing evidence to countries that a person has been vaccinated, tested negative or recovered from the virus. Chiefly, this will prevent discrimination, as vaccination will not be precondition to travel. This report specifically concerns third countries nationals that reside in the Union and want to go to another Member State. As this report facilitates the return of free movement in the EU in a way adjusted to the health situation, I chose to support it.
2021/06/08
Competition policy – annual report 2020 (A9-0168/2021 - Johan Van Overtveldt)

. – I voted in favour of the European Parliament’s annual report on competition policy as it highlights and provides recommendations namely to the EU’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the Temporary Framework for State aid as well as competition issues in the digital sector.
2021/06/08
EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030: Bringing nature back into our lives (A9-0179/2021 - César Luena)

. – I voted in favour of this report as is it provides a comprehensive, ambitious and long-term plan to protect nature and reverse the degradation of ecosystems while at the same time respecting the different national situations and ensuring compensation for the sectors which are hardest hit, namely the farming and fisheries industries.
2021/06/08
Regulations and general conditions governing the performance of the Ombudsman’s duties (A9-0174/2021 - Paulo Rangel)

. – I voted in favour of this report as it constitutes a basis for a reform of the regulations and general conditions governing the performance of the Ombudsman’s duties, which will help the mandate-holder better fulfil his/her role.
2021/06/09
Transitional provisions in order to address the impact of COVID-19 crisis (amendment of Regulation (EU) 2016/1628) (C9-0185/2021)

. – Due to the continued supply chain difficulties during the COVID-19 pandemic, this resolution sets out transitional provisions to the regulation on Non-Road Mobile Machinery in order to address the impact of the COVID-19 crisis. It is for this reason that I chose to support it.
2021/06/09
The conflict of interest of the Prime Minister of the Czech Republic (B9-0303/2021)

. – I voted in favour of this resolution as it addresses the worryingly deep conflict of interest of the Prime Minister of the Czech Republic and outlines three concrete ways in which he is able to resolve it.
2021/06/09
The EU's Cybersecurity Strategy for the Digital Decade (B9-0305/2021)

. – I voted in favour of this resolution as it underlines the increasing amount of malicious cyberattacks on the health sectors and other sensitive private and public institutions while also calls for the new Cybersecurity Strategy to namely: strengthen resilience, technological sovereignty and leadership, build operational capacity to prevent, deter and respond to cyber-attacks, as well as advance a global and open cyberspace through increased cooperation.
2021/06/10
Rule of Law situation in the European Union and the application of the conditionality regulation 2020/2092 (B9-0317/2021, B9-0319/2021, B9-0320/2021)

. – As the European Commission did not fulfil its obligations under the Rule of Law Conditionality Regulation, the resolution calls on the Commission to act on the basis of Article 265 of the TFEU within 2 weeks, which I supported.
2021/06/10
European Parliament’s Scrutiny on the ongoing assessment by the Commission and the Council of the national recovery and resilience plans (RC-B9-0331/2021, B9-0331/2021, B9-0333/2021, B9-0334/2021, B9-0335/2021, B9-0337/2021, B9-0338/2021)

. – I voted in favour of this resolution, as parliamentary oversight is material to the success of the EU’s Recovery and Resilience Facility.
2021/06/10
Human rights and political situation in Cuba (B9-0341/2021, B9-0342/2021, B9-0343/2021, B9-0345/2021, B9-0346/2021)

. – I voted in favour of this resolution as it underscores the increasing human rights violations and repression by the Cuban government on the island and calls on the Cuban authorities to comply with their international obligations.
2021/06/10
Systematic repression in Belarus and its consequences for European security following abductions from an EU civilian plane intercepted by Belarusian authorities (B9-0328/2021, B9-0330/2021, B9-0332/2021, B9-0339/2021, B9-0340/2021, B9-0344/2021)

. – I voted in favour of this resolution as it condemns the hijacking and forced landing of Ryanair flight FR4978 in Minsk and the detention Roman Protasevich and Sofia Sapega and amongst many important demands, calls on the Council to proceed with the more sanctions against individuals and entities who are complicit in the Lukashenka regime.
2021/06/10
The situation in Afghanistan (B9-0321/2021, B9-0324/2021, B9-0325/2021, B9-0326/2021, B9-0327/2021, B9-0329/2021)

. – I voted in favour of this resolution as it highlights the European Parliament’s position vis-a-vis Afghanistan.
2021/06/10
European Citizens' Initiative "End the cage age" (B9-0296/2021, B9-0302/2021)

. – I voted in favour of this resolution as it reinforces the European Parliament’s commitment to safeguarding animal welfare whilst also offering farmers support and incentives to update their practices.
2021/06/10
Promoting gender equality in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education and careers (A9-0163/2021 - Susana Solís Pérez)

. – I voted in favour of this report as it underlines the importance of encouraging women and girls to pursue STEM education and careers by removing barriers, fighting gender stereotypes and improving access to education and training.
2021/06/10
Future EU financing of the radio network Euranet Plus (B9-0316/2021)

. – Over the last 15 years, the pan—European radio network Euranet Plus has successfully contributed, with content in 12 official EU languages – which, on a daily basis, reaches more than 15 million listeners – to bridging the information gap between the EU and its citizens by strengthening understanding of, and promoting debate on, all fields of EU policy—making. I voted in favour of this resolution as it calls for a renewal of Euranet Plus’s current core funding.
2021/06/10
Conservation and enforcement measures applicable in the Regulatory Area of the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organisation (NAFO) (Isabel Carvalhais - A9-0220/2020)

. – As the European Union is a contracting party of the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organisation (NAFO), I voted in favour of this report as it sets out EU compliance with the conservation and enforcement measures applicable for the NAFO.
2021/06/23
Cross-border payments in the Union (codification) (A9-0202/2021 - Karen Melchior)

. – I voted in favour of this report as it aims to facilitate the functioning of the internal market by establishing rules on cross-border payments and the transparency of currency conversion charges within the Union.
2021/06/23
Regulations and general conditions governing the performance of the Ombudsman’s duties (A9-0174/2021 - Paulo Rangel)

. – I voted in favour of this report as it further strengthens and improves the Ombudsman’s role and effectiveness.
2021/06/23
EU/Thailand Agreement: modification of concessions on all the tariff-rate quotas included in the EU Schedule CLXXV as a consequence of the United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union (A9-0180/2021 - Heidi Hautala)

. – I gave my consent to this agreement as it apportions the quantitative commitments contained in the EU-28 WTO schedule for various tariff-rate quotas between two separate customs territories: the EU-27 and the UK. This was necessary on account of Brexit.
2021/06/23
EU/Indonesia Agreement: modification of concessions on all the tariff-rate quotas included in the EU Schedule CLXXV as a consequence of the United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union (A9-0182/2021 - Heidi Hautala)

. – I gave my consent to this agreement as it apportions the quantitative commitments contained in the EU-28 WTO schedule for various tariff-rate quotas between two separate customs territories: the EU-27 and the UK. This was necessary on account of Brexit.
2021/06/23
EU/Argentina Agreement: modification of concessions on all the tariff-rate quotas included in the EU Schedule CLXXV as a consequence of the United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union (A9-0175/2021 - Jordi Cañas)

. – I gave my consent to this agreement as it apportions the quantitative commitments contained in the EU-28 WTO schedule for various tariff-rate quotas between two separate customs territories: the EU-27 and the UK. This was necessary on account of Brexit.
2021/06/23
Challenges and opportunities for the fishing sector in the Black Sea (A9-0170/2021 - Ivo Hristov)

. – As this report highlights the main challenges and opportunities to be considered in this semi-enclosed sea basin, notably the socio-economic situation of fishers (in particular small-scale fishers), tailored measures to prevent illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, overexploitation of resources, the impacts of climate change including on the increasing expansion of non-indigenous species and the lack of data concerning fishing activity in the Black Sea region, I chose to support it.
2021/06/23
The role of the EU's development cooperation and humanitarian assistance in addressing the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic (A9-0151/2021 - Hildegard Bentele, Norbert Neuser)

. – As this report proposes ways in which the EU can improve its role in development cooperation and humanitarian assistance in order to address the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, I chose to support it.
2021/06/23
European Climate Law (Jytte Guteland - A9-0162/2020)

. – I voted in favour of this provisional agreement as it will ensure that the European Union will become climate-neutral by 2050.
2021/06/24
European High Performance Computing Joint Undertaking (A9-0177/2021 - Maria da Graça Carvalho)

. – As this report renews the establishment of the European High Performance Computing Joint Undertaking with the aim of achieving scientific, digital and industrial leadership of the European Union in the world, I chose to support it.
2021/06/24
Public sector loan facility under the Just Transition Mechanism (A9-0195/2020 - Johan Van Overtveldt, Henrike Hahn)

. – The Public Sector Loan Facility is the third pillar of the EU Just Transition Mechanism, which aims at mobilising EUR 25-30 billion in public investment through grants and loans in 2021-2027 and constitutes an integral part of the Multiannual Financial Framework 2021-2027 package. I chose to support this provisional agreement as it incorporates many of Parliament’s demands, including beneficiaries’ compliance with EU values, and a greater share of the loans going to the poorest regions.
2021/06/24
Official controls on animals and products of animal origin in order to ensure compliance with the prohibition of certain uses of antimicrobials (A9-0195/2021 - Pascal Canfin)

. – I voted in favour of this report as it enables all the necessary controls to be in place with regard to imported animals and animal products at the same time as the regulation on veterinary medicinal products, which starts applying on 28 January 2022.
2021/06/24
Commission’s 2020 Rule of law report (A9-0199/2021 - Domènec Ruiz Devesa)

. – In 2020, the Commission adopted its first annual rule of law report, which covers developments in all EU Member States in four areas (judiciary, media freedom, anti-corruption framework, general checks and balances). I voted in favour of this report as it calls for a more detailed analysis of the rule of law in the Member States, recalls the need for an EU wide mechanism for rule of law that covers all values in Art. 2 TEU and concludes that the Commission should include recommendations to Member States and align them with applicable tools to remedy the identified shortcomings, where necessary.
2021/06/24
Regulatory fitness, subsidiarity and proportionality - report on Better Law Making 2017, 2018 and 2019 (A9-0191/2021 - Mislav Kolakušić)

. – I voted in favour of this report, which compares and analyses the Commission’s annual reports on Better Law Making in relation to previous years and with each other, as it suggests ways in which the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality and the EU’s relations with national parliaments can be improved.
2021/06/24
2019-2020 Reports on Bosnia and Herzegovina (A9-0185/2021 - Paulo Rangel)

. – Since March 2002, the European Commission has reported regularly to the Council and Parliament on progress made by the countries of the Western Balkans region. I voted in favour of this report, which analyses the Commission’s 2019-2020 Reports on Bosnia and Herzegovina, as it sets out the European Parliament’s recommendations for Bosnia and Herzegovina to be able to continue advancing on its path to European integration.
2021/06/24
Use of technologies for the processing of data for the purpose of combating online child sexual abuse (temporary derogation from Directive 2002/58/EC) (A9-0258/2020 - Birgit Sippel)

. – As a number of communication services started to fall within the scope of the ePrivacy Directive on 21 December 2020, a temporary derogation was needed so that these providers may continue to fight child sexual abuse and related material online. As this report provides this temporary derogation, I chose to support it.
2021/07/06
Recognition of third countries certificates in inland navigation (A9-0210/2021 - Andris Ameriks)

. – This report amends the transitional provisions of Directive (EU) 2017/2397 (‘Directive’) on the recognition of professional qualifications in inland navigation in order to cover certificates of qualification, service record books and logbooks issued by third countries. I chose to support this report as it will allow third countries to align their requirements to EU standards and provide for a smooth transition to the system of recognition of third country documents provided for in the Directive.
2021/07/06
Draft amending budget No 3/2021: surplus of the financial year 2020 (A9-0218/2021 - Pierre Larrouturou)

. – As the 2020 general budget provided a surplus of EUR 1 768 617 610, I voted this surplus to enter into the 2021 budget in order to reduce the contributions of the Member States to the financing of the 2021 budget and in turn have the Member States devote these expected reductions in their GNI contributions to finance actions that aim at addressing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
2021/07/06
European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (A9-0227/2021 - Lukas Mandl)

. – This report aims to revise the mandate of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights. As the revision reflects elements of European Parliament interim report adopted in May 2021, mainly the inclusion of the former third pillar (judicial cooperation in criminal matters and police cooperation) and the discontinuation of the current five-year Multiannual Framework (with a view to abandoning the establishment of thematic restrictions for each five years period to enable the Agency to adjust its work and thematic focus to emerging priorities), I chose to support it.
2021/07/06
Interbus agreement: Protocol on international regular and special regular carriage of passengers by coach and bus (A9-0176/2021 - Maria Grapini)

. – This protocol extends the Interbus Agreement to international regular and special regular carriage of passengers by coach and bus. I voted in favour of it as international regular and special regular carriage of passengers by coach and bus are important sectors of economy and expanding those services beyond the EU would greatly benefit EU citizens, foreign tourists, and the whole tourism industry. Moreover, the use of carriage of passengers by coach and bus provides an opportunity for passengers to travel at more affordable prices to the same destinations they could reach by plane or train.
2021/07/06
Railway safety and signalling: Assessing the state of play of the ERTMS deployment (A9-0181/2021 - Izaskun Bilbao Barandica)

. – I voted in favour of this resolution as it sets out the European Parliament’s recommendations for overcoming the main challenges identified in the deployment of the European Rail Traffic Management System.
2021/07/06
Trade related aspects and implications of COVID-19 (A9-0190/2021 - Kathleen Van Brempt)

. – I voted in favour of this report as it emphasises the fact that international trade policy must continue to play a proactive role in ramping up global production capacities and technology transfers by facilitating trade in raw materials, solving supply chain problems and revisiting the global framework for intellectual property rights in view of future pandemics.
2021/07/06
Financial activities of the European Investment Bank - annual report 2020 (A9-0200/2021 - Pedro Silva Pereira)

. – Financing the Green Deal and Europe’s long-term climate ambitions is increasingly the focus of the European Investment Bank (EIB). I voted in favour of this resolution as it recognises the valuable contribution of the EIB while also providing suitable recommendations as to how its work can be improved.
2021/07/06
Protection of the EU’s financial interests - combatting fraud - annual report 2019 (A9-0209/2021 - Caterina Chinnici)

. – As this resolution gives the European Parliament’s assessment as to which extent EU funds or revenue of the EU budget are at risk of misuse due to fraudulent or non-fraudulent irregularities, I chose to support it.
2021/07/06
The impact on the fishing sector of offshore windfarms and other renewable energy systems (A9-0184/2021 - Peter van Dalen)

. – I voted in favour of this report as it emphasises the need for alternative energy systems to move towards the Green Deal objectives while also acknowledging the fact that offshore windfarms have an impact on the seabed, marine life and biodiversity and therefore gives recommendations as to how such negative long-term impacts can be avoided.
2021/07/06
Measures necessary for 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 (A9-0229/2021 - Johan Van Overtveldt)

. – The Commission manages the assets of the ECSC in liquidation in order to ‘ensure that funds are available when needed, while still generating the highest return available’. The Commission uses the returns on ECSC in liquidation to support research projects in the steel and coal sectors. I voted in favour of this report so as to render the ECSC portfolio more resilient when faced with these challenges, by enlarging the scope for investing in other asset classes and using other investment techniques.
2021/07/07
Managing the assets of the ECSC in liquidation and of the Research Fund for Coal and Steel (A9-0228/2021 - Johan Van Overtveldt)

. – The Commission manages the assets of the ECSC in liquidation in order to ‘ensure that funds are available when needed, while still generating the highest return available’. The Commission uses the returns on ECSC in liquidation to support research projects in the steel and coal sectors. I voted in favour of this report so as to render the ECSC portfolio more resilient when faced with these challenges, by enlarging the scope for investing in other asset classes and using other investment techniques.
2021/07/07
Citizens’ dialogues and citizens’ participation in EU decision-making (A9-0213/2021 - Helmut Scholz)

. – Since this report discusses possible mechanisms for the active participation of citizens in the EU decision-making process, also within the framework of the Conference on the Future of Europe, I chose to support it.
2021/07/07
EU-NATO cooperation in the context of transatlantic relations (A9-0192/2021 - Antonio López-Istúriz White)

. – Since this report highlights the importance of EU-NATO cooperation to effectively address the broad array of security challenges the transatlantic community is faced with, I chose to support it.
2021/07/07
The creation of guidelines for the application of the general regime of conditionality for the protection of the Union budget (A9-0226/2021 - Eider Gardiazabal Rubial, Petri Sarvamaa)

. – I voted in favour of this report as it stresses the European Parliament’s position on the guidelines for the application of the general regime of conditionality for the protection of the Union budget. Notably, the report stresses that developing guidelines must in no event cause further delay in the application of the conditionality regulation.
2021/07/07
EU global human rights sanctions regime (EU Magnitsky Act) (B9-0371/2021)

. – The EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime is an essential addition to the EU’s human rights and foreign policy toolbox, which strengthens the EU’s role as a global human rights actor by allowing it to take restrictive measures against legal and natural persons involved in serious human rights violations everywhere in the world. It is for this reason that I voted in favour of the report.
2021/07/07
Annual Report on the functioning of the Schengen area (A9-0183/2021 - Tanja Fajon)

. – This report builds on the findings of the last annual report on the functioning of the Schengen area, adopted in 2018 by the European Parliament. As it takes into consideration the legislation adopted since then, that aimed at strengthening the Schengen Area and at the same time highlights the persistent remaining challenges and shortcomings encountered in the implementation of the Schengen acquis, I chose to support it.
2021/07/07
A new ERA for Research and Innovation (B9-0370/2021)

. – As this resolution highlights the importance of increased investment in research and innovation (including research and innovation cooperation) within the EU, I chose to support it.
2021/07/08
Review of the macroeconomic legislative framework (A9-0212/2021 - Margarida Marques)

. – The review of the EU Economic governance framework will make the framework simpler, operating on more observable and quantifiable metrics, as well as effectively enforceable. I voted in favour of this report, as it outlines the European Parliament’s position vis-a-vis this review, which is closely aligned with the proposals of the European Fiscal Board and recommendations issued by the European Commission. Notably, the report stresses that the economic governance framework should be reviewed in the context of the current economic environment and, whilst building on experiences of the existing framework and fully respecting the Treaties, the review shall be facts-based and future-oriented.
2021/07/08
Situation in Nicaragua (RC-B9-0400/2021, B9-0400/2021, B9-0401/2021, B9-0402/2021, B9-0403/2021, B9-0404/2021, B9-0405/2021)

. – I voted in favour of this resolution, as it underscores the seriously deteriorating conditions of human rights and democracy in Nicaragua in the recent months.
2021/07/08
The repression of the opposition in Turkey, specifically HDP (RC-B9-0406/2021, B9-0406/2021, B9-0407/2021, B9-0408/2021, B9-0409/2021, B9-0410/2021, B9-0411/2021)

. – As this resolution highlights the European Parliament’s concern over the constant attacks and pressure on opposition parties in Turkey, which undermines the proper functioning of the democratic system, I chose to support it.
2021/07/08
Establishment of Antarctic Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and the conservation of Southern Ocean biodiversity (B9-0369/2021)

. – I voted in favour of this resolution as it expresses its full support for the efforts by the European Union and its Member States, Australia, Norway, the United Kingdom, Uruguay, United States and New Zealand to establish two new Marine Protected Areas in the Southern Ocean, in particular in East Antarctica and in the Weddell Sea, under the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources.
2021/07/08