[ParlTrack]

I voted against this report, which sets out the visa exemptions rules for UK citizens travelling to the EU in the event of a disorderly departure of the UK from the European Union. The report was unanimously adopted by Parliament in the Civil Liberties Committee under its lead negotiator and rapporteur, Claude Moraes. As the ALDE shadow rapporteur on this subject, I therefore expected the interinstitutional negotiations to take place in a smooth and swift manner. Nevertheless, Parliament was regrettably faced with an obscure and inappropriate attitude from the Council, which inserted an entirely inappropriate reference to Gibraltar as a ‘colony’ in a footnote to Article 3 of the amending regulation. I was equally disappointed and baffled to see the Commission changing its position by ultimately supporting the Council’s position regarding the footnote referencing and singling out Gibraltar. Furthermore, I deeply regret the decision by some colleagues to remove the excellent rapporteur, Claude Moraes, based solely on his nationality. Therefore, despite holding a strong view that neither UK nor EU citizens should need to have visas for short-term travel to each other’s territory, I could not support the final text of the regulation, specifically the footnote regarding Gibraltar. Such language is unacceptable in EU regulation.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I voted in favour of this regulation, which will help strengthen the security of identity cards and of residence documents issued to EU nationals. The regulation will establish common security standards for ID cards and residence documents, which will help tackle document fraud and identity theft, which are rampant, in part due to the multitude of formats of ID cards and residence permits currently in circulation in the EU. This regulation will overall facilitate the free movement of EU citizens, reduce administrative hassle and strengthen the internal security of the European Union, ultimately contributing to the European Union’s fight against terrorism and cross-border crime. While the new cards will have a standardised format with two biometric identifiers (the facial image and two fingerprints), I nevertheless voted against the provision to render the taking of fingerprints mandatory as I believe this should be optional and remain the Member States’ competence to decide on the latter.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report, which concerns the establishment of a framework to facilitate sustainable investment as it provides the basis towards climate friendly investments and sustainable projects across the EU. Nevertheless, I voted against the introduction of proposals to define when and how an economic activity is considered as unsustainable i.e. the ‘brown taxonomy’. Indeed, such an extension would heavily increase the bureaucratic burden on all industries as it takes the opposite approach of the Commission’s proposal, which sought to define when and how an economic activity is sustainable, not the other way round. In my view, the report’s suggestion to include unsustainable activities will not encourage transition strategies since those activities identified as ‘brown’ will not be able to benefit from sustainable finance to fund their transition and therefore will not be incentivised to get greener. I also voted against the suggestion to implement a ‘comply or explain mechanism’ as the latter would create a substantial and unnecessary burden for investors, as they will need to justify whether they consider the adverse impacts of the investment decisions on sustainability factors.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report, which concerns the Parliament’s estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2020. I welcome this report as it will ensure more transparency and accountability of the Parliament’s budget by bringing several improvements as regards the disclosure of revenue and expenditures. I notably support the suggestion to call on Members to be fully accountable for their spending under the General Expenditures Allowance (GEA) as citizens deserve more transparency. I therefore welcome the adoption of the amendment calling for Members’ GEA accounts to be checked by an external accountant and for the expenditures to be made available to the public on the personal pages of the Members on the European Parliament’s website.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I voted in favour of this resolution concerning the situation of rule of law and the fight against corruption in the EU, and specifically regarding Malta and Slovakia. Indeed, this resolution rightly points to the serious shortcomings in the rule of law in Malta and Slovakia as well as to the rising threats for journalists throughout the EU. I strongly support this resolution, which follows up on the efforts undertaken by the Committee on Financial Crimes, Tax Evasion and Tax Avoidance (TAX3) by condemning and calling for the launch of an independent inquiry into the assassinations of Ms Caruana Galizia in Malta and of Mr Kuciak and Ms Kušnírová in Slovakia. As the motion recalls, a strong democracy based on the rule of law cannot function without strong and independent media. I also welcome the references made to the shortcomings regarding the fight against corruption, financial crimes, money laundering, tax evasion and organised crime in Malta and Slovakia and which contribute to undermining citizens’ trust in public institutions.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I voted in favour of this cross-party resolution as it appropriately tackles the recent developments of the Dieselgate scandal. I regret the attempts of the PPE and ECR Groups to obstruct and water down this resolution, which tackles such a timely and crucial issue. As this resolution recalls, a number of Member States have failed to take up the necessary measures against car manufacturers violating car emissions legislation or to impose the appropriate sanctions on those manufacturers. This widespread issue should thus be better tackled at the EU level if we want to safeguard the functioning of the single market and better protect our environment as well as the health of our citizens.

2016/11/22

I voted against this report, which concerns the European Regional Development Fund and Cohesion Fund. The main reason I oppose this report is based on the fact that it asks Member States to make a duly justified request for further flexibility within the current framework of the Stability and Growth Pact for the public or equivalent structural expenditure by way of co-financing of investments activated as part of ERDF and CF. I therefore voted against this text as it stipulates that the national co-financing of the investments funded by the ERDF shall be excluded from the assessment of Member States’ fiscal positions.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report, which concerns the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment. This report marks a milestone in the global fight against pollutants such as marine litter. This report also gradually shifts the burden on producers of harmful products containing single-use plastics such as cigarette butts, plastic bottles or fishing gear. I therefore welcome the work of the rapporteur on this proposal, as it feeds into the objective of the Commission’s Circular Economy Action Plan, which seeks to lay the foundation for industries to innovate and become more competitive while reducing environmental damage which are currently costing consumers an estimated €6.5 billion.

2016/11/22

I voted against this report on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council laying down common provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund Plus, the Cohesion Fund, the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund, the Asylum and Migration Fund, the Internal Security Fund and the Border Management and Visa Instrument, as well as financial rules for those. While I support the compromise text reached at Council level, there are a number of amendments which were added after the negotiations I do not agree with. Notably, I oppose the references seeking to limit the conditionality and eligibility criteria of operations as well as the addition to limit the possibility of transferring part of the funds to InvestEU and to the Connect Europe Facility.

2016/11/22

I voted against this report, which concerns the EU directive harmonising the dates on which Member States apply Daylight Saving Time. The proposal aims to abolish seasonal time changes across the European Union. This goes a long way from the intention of the original directive and encroaches on Member Statesʼ sovereignty. The impact of such changes has been largely under-studied. Indeed, the Commission proposal is not accompanied by a full impact assessment. The consequences of this proposal might include a situation in which, for example, Ireland and Northern Ireland would adopt different time zones if the UK were to redraft its own laws following Brexit. Furthermore, numerous studies on the subject have thus far failed to provide any conclusive findings on the positive effects that the abolition of the biannual clock change might bring. I therefore do not consider this proposal to be based on sufficient scientific evidence to support the potential economic or health benefits of abolishing Daylight Saving Time.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I voted against this proposal on copyright in the Digital Single Market as the Directive risks undermining the rights of internet users for several reasons. First, the upload filter as envisaged in the proposal will not allow to differentiate between different types of creative content and thus will not be able to distinguish actual copyright infringements from legitimate content such as commentary, criticism or parody. This proposal thus drastically endangers citizens’ fundamental rights of access to information as well as freedom of expression at large. The Directive would also constitute a substantial burden for creators, as it is virtually impossible to obtain licenses for all content uploaded and shared online. The proposal as it stands will take away control from users and small businesses, and place it into the hands of internet giants. I therefore consider it shameful that a majority of MEPs rejected considering the amendments to the proposal, including the one to reject Article 13. Overall, this proposal will greatly endanger the creative industry and clearly undermines the rights of citizens to share and enjoy online content freely.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on financial crimes, tax evasion and tax avoidance. This report is the result of twelve months of work conducted by the TAX3 Committee, which I had the privilege of chairing. As highlighted in our report, there is a clear lack of political will from Member States to tackle financial crimes, tax evasion and tax avoidance. For this reason, our report emphasises the need to set up an EU—wide anti-money laundering watchdog and to establish a financial police force and financial intelligence unit to better coordinate the fight against financial crimes at EU level. I therefore welcome the overwhelming cross-party support as it sends a strong signal to the Council to finally take action and follow up on the tremendous legislative work that has been achieved by this Parliament, together with the Commission, over the last five years. It is now crucial that Member States enforce and implement the legislation that is on the table and show citizens that the Council cannot remain the weakest link in the fight against financial crimes, tax evasion and tax avoidance.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the annual report on the financial activities of the European Investment Bank. The EIB has indeed taken the necessary steps to better measure the impact of its investments rather than only providing data on quantitative volumes of financing. Further, I also support the suggestion of the report to recall the need for the EIB to remain committed to enhance its activities in contributing to long-term and sustainable growth.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report, which concerns the establishment of the Fiscalis 2020 programme for cooperation in the field of taxation. I welcome the proposal as it constitutes a timely and necessary proposal that will help support tax authorities to better cooperate and incidentally protect the financial and economic interests of the Union by building a stronger administrative capacity with regard to tax cooperation. The Fiscalis programme will also allow national administrations to better communicate and exchange information securely, which is essential to bolster Member States’ capacity to combat VAT fraud, corruption, tax evasion and aggressive tax planning. I therefore voted whole-heartedly in favour of this report, as it constitutes an essential step to achieve fairer competition while supporting the Union’s potential to establish a long-term approach on fairer taxation.

2016/11/22

. ‒ This report concerns the apportionment of tariff rate quotas included in the WTO schedule of the European Union following the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the Union. I voted in favour of the latter as it is necessary to define the apportionment of the existing quantities between the UK and the EU to become effective on the date the UK is no longer covered by the EU’s WTO schedule. Once the UK leaves the customs union, it will set and apply its own tariffs to its imports and therefore, the EU must ensure that it does not continue to import the same amounts from the UK and that the UK creates its own schedule of commitments in the WTO. I therefore voted in favour of the proposed EU share of the apportioned quota, which was computed by subtracting the UK share of a given quota from the entire scheduled tariff rate quota in question.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this own-initiative report on the Union’s authorisation procedure for pesticides which sets out a number of recommendations including improving transparency, no longer allowing the use of plant protection products in public spaces. This proposal is indeed very much needed to safeguard the health of European citizens. I also welcome the proposal to call on the Commission to submit a legislative proposal amending the regulation in order to enable a fast-track approval process for low-risk pesticides of biological origin, and to designate Member States carrying out the risk assessment for new applications.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report concerning the regulation on the instrument for financial support for customs control equipment. The customs control equipment instrument, alongside the border management and visas instrument, will provide funding for Member States to enhance their capacities to deal with migration challenges and potential future threats at external borders. The instrument will allow the maintenance and upgrading of eligible detection equipment for customs controls and cover equipment also used for wider control purposes (e.g. border control and security). I therefore support this proposal, which seeks to provide financial support for customs control equipment, as it will help strengthen cooperation between customs authorities, as well as overall administrative capacity. This instrument will also contribute to the functioning of the EU anti-fraud programme and therefore to protection of the financial and economic interests of the Union.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report, which concerns the establishing of the ‘Customs’ programme for cooperation in the field of customs. The customs programme indeed plays an essential role in safeguarding the financial interests of the Union and of the Member States by ensuring the effective collection of customs duties. The customs programme also focuses on developing harmonised and standardised customs controls while increasing cooperation in the field of customs, both of which are essential for tracking and better combating illegal cross-border flows of goods and fraud. The programme will therefore enhance consumer protection in the long-term while exploiting the full potential of the internal market.

2016/11/22

Tento návrh nově nastavuje uspořádání dosavadních kosmických programů a doplňuje je o nové iniciativy (GOVSATCOM a SSA), zřizuje Kosmický program EU jakožto jednotný a soudržný rámec. Návrh dále zřizuje Agenturu Evropské unie pro kosmický program (EUSPA), která nahradí Agenturu pro evropský GNSS (GSA) se sídlem v Praze. Zprávu k tomuto návrhu jsem podpořil, neboť návrh posiluje působnost a rozšiřuje kompetence nově vzniklé EUSPA, jediné agentury EU sídlící v České republice. Vítám také, že zpráva EP rozšiřuje kompetence této agentury ve srovnání s původním návrhem Evropské komise. Souhlasím rovněž s vhodným nastavením řídící struktury Kosmického programu EU. Důležité bude nyní zajistit dostatečné financování EUSPA, jež se bude projednávat až při jednání o víceletém finančním rámci.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report, which concerns the setting up of a common system of a digital services tax (DST) on revenues resulting from the provisions of certain digital services. As the ALDE shadow rapporteur on this report, my goal was to ensure that this report would focus on several aspects that are crucial for preserving the integrity and competitiveness of the single market while ensuring that digital companies’ revenues generated by user activity are taxed in a fair, efficient and transparent way. To do so, I notably tabled amendments on the need to ensure that SMEs do not fall inadvertently into the scope of this interim measure as the primary objective is to restore the balance between tech giants and smaller enterprises who suffer from the unfair taxation system. I also stressed on the need for this temporary tax not to exceed 3% as to ensure it does not have unintended consequences on businesses and companies. I am therefore glad that my colleagues recognised the importance of advocating for the DST as an interim measure before a comprehensive solution can be achieved at international level. I remain hopeful that the Council will come to a compromise in the near future.

2016/11/22

The proposal for a corporate taxation of a significant digital presence aims at establishing a taxable nexus for digital businesses operating across border in case of a non-physical commercial presence (significant digital presence). This report thus constitutes the comprehensive solution to address the corporate tax rules within Member States. As the shadow rapporteur on this report, I am pleased to see that all political groups have come to a comprehensive agreement and have put forward a text, which seeks to reform corporate tax rules so that profits are registered and taxed where businesses have significant interaction with users through digital channels. One of the key concerns of our group was to establish clear criteria defining which companies are to be considered as having a ‘significant digital presence’ so SMEs do not fall inadvertently into the scope of this Directive. This will ensure that SMEs continue prospering while digital companies pay their fair share of taxes through a consistent and transparent system. I therefore welcome the overwhelming support from my colleagues on this report, which is crucial if we want to achieve a fairer taxation system where digital companies equally contribute to society as smaller businesses do.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem ve prospěch přijetí tohoto společného usnesení předloženého poslanci ze tří politických frakcí, a to vzhledem k existenci možného střetu zájmů českého premiéra Andreje Babiše dle článku 61 nového finančního nařízení, které vstoupilo v platnost 2. srpna 2018, a vzhledem k obavám ze strany Evropské komise o nepovolené čerpání evropských prostředků vyplacených koncernu Agrofert. V souvislosti s tím, že se jedná o možné porušení unijní legislativy, souhlasím, aby se touto otázkou zabývaly instituce EU a aby existenci střet zájmu prošetřily.

2016/11/22

The EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement is the biggest bilateral trade deal in the world. It opens up the European and Japanese markets and will create many opportunities for businesses and consumers on both sides in many areas, from agriculture to the automotive industry. It is estimated that the agreement could increase EU GDP by 0.7% and create up to 400 000 jobs throughout the continent. As Chair of the European Parliament’s Delegation for relations with Japan, I am proud of all of the work and the engagement by the EU and by our Japanese colleagues, which has helped pave the way towards a stronger relationship between two of the remaining bastions of a rules-based global system. For all of these reasons, I wholeheartedly support the EU-Japan EPA.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the EU-Japan Strategic Partnership Agreement. This Agreement will foster greater cooperation between the European Union and Japan in a number of areas, including political dialogue, promotion of human rights and fundamental freedoms, and the scientific and cultural sectors. It will be the basis for further agreement and dialogue in the years to come, and it cements the importance of the relationship between the EU and Japan. As Chair of the European Parliament’s Delegation for relations with Japan, I understand the importance of dialogue between two of the most prominent liberal democracies in the world. Japan is a trusted ally in a turbulent global context, and as we move forward, the EU must remain committed to the relationship with our Japanese partners. This should include support and cooperation in global forums, where old alliances are being tested in a way we have not seen before.

2016/11/22

Jedná se o usnesení Evropského parlamentu ke každoroční zprávě informující o stavu dodržování zásad lidských práv a demokracie ve světě a o politice EU v této oblasti. V tomto případě jsem se hlasování o návrhu usnesení EP zdržel, a to s ohledem na znění odstavce 47, jenž vyzývá členské státy k odpovědnosti a spolupráci v případě řešení migrace a odkazuje na globální pakt OSN o migraci a globální pakt o uprchlících. Domnívám se, že se tento odstavec odchyluje od problematiky lidských práv a demokracie a zároveň odkazuje na iniciativu OSN, kterou některé členské státy nepodpořily.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report, which concerns the rights and obligations of rail passengers. I follow the report’s objective which seeks to better protect the rights of rail passengers and ensure they are justly compensated for delays, cancellations and any material damage. I also welcome the suggestion of the rapporteur to ask for the ticket price to be paid within one month after the submission of the request for compensation to the railway undertaking, tour operator or ticket vendor.

2016/11/22

. ‒ This report concerns the proposal for the multiannual financial framework (MFF) for the years 2021 to 2027. Firstly, I welcome the report’s position to propose the most significant increases in the areas of research and innovation, SMEs, support for investment, migration and border management, and security and defence. I also support the suggestion to increase the MFF ceiling from the current 1.0% to 1.3% of EU GNI in order to finance those new priorities. I therefore believe that setting the level of the 2021-2027 MFF at EUR 1 324.1 billion will ensure the necessary level of funding for key EU policies that will enable Member States to fulfil their mission and objectives. Contrary to some colleagues, I do not believe that the MFF should be adopted after the European elections but should rather be adopted swiftly so as to allow the newly elected Parliament to adjust the 2021-2027 MFF during the mandatory mid-term revision.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report concerning the empowering competition authorities and ensuring the proper functioning of the internal market. As a shadow rapporteur on this file, I welcome the fact that strong emphasis was put on adequate tools to impose proportionate and deterrent sanctions for breaches of EU antitrust rules so that companies cannot escape fines through corporate re-structuring. The overarching aim of this report is to ensure national competition authorities (NCAs) of the Member States are given the necessary resources to be more effective enforcers antitrust rules in the framework of the European Competition Network. I therefore gladly welcome the outcome of this report, which overall promotes the goals of competitive markets that deliver more jobs and growth.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this resolution, which concerns some recommendations to the Commission on Humanitarian Visas. While several Member States currently have national schemes for issuing humanitarian visas or residence permits to guarantee protection to people in need, there is currently no harmonisation at Union level of protected entry procedures (PEPs) and no legal framework at Union level for humanitarian visas.I therefore welcome this report, which highlights the right of Member States to issue European humanitarian visas to persons seeking international protection, to allow those persons to enter the territory of the Member State. I also second the request of this report to ask the Commission to submit, by 31 March 2019, on the basis of point (a) of Article 77(2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), a proposal for a Regulation on establishing a European Humanitarian Visa.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report, which concerns the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Latvia. As the report points out, it is the Union’s responsibility to provide the required assistance to regions affected by natural disasters. The natural disaster that occurred in Latvia in 2017 caused a great deal of destruction in some regions, which qualify as ʻless developed regionsʼ. Latvia, indeed, suffered a long-lasting period of intense rainfall, which led to the saturation of soil and subsequent flooding throughout the country. I therefore welcome the decision to mobilise the European Union Solidarity Fund and provide the amount of EUR 17 730 519 to Latvia, in commitment and payment appropriations for the financial year 2018.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I voted in favour of this resolution, which concerns the rule of law in Romania. On the basis of the Venice Commission opinion of October 2018 and the Commission’s report of November 2017, it is clear that the integrity of the judiciary, democracy and the rule of law are compromised. The independence of the judiciary is enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights and is an essential requirement of the democratic principle of the Union.In this regard, the redrafted law pertaining to Romanian judicial and criminal legislation raises concerns as to the independence of the judicial system and the capacity of the Romanian authorities to fight corruption effectively in the country. The legislation on the financing and functioning of NGOs further illustrates the gradual weakening of the rule of law. I therefore support this resolution, which calls on the Romanian authorities to put in place safeguards to ensure a transparent and legal basis for any institutional cooperation, and to avoid any interference that upsets the system of checks and balances. It is equally important that the Romanian Government shows willingness to cooperate with the Commission and to implement in full all recommendations by the latter.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this resolution, which concerns the establishing of minimum standards for minorities in the EU.Throughout the EU, approximately 8% of citizens belong to a national minority and approximately 10% speak a regional or minority language. Together, minorities therefore make up a considerable portion of the EU’s population. To this day, persisting harassment, discrimination and violence limit the ability of these people fully to enjoy their fundamental rights and freedoms.As this report rightly points out, the Union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy and equality, the primacy of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. For this reason, I fully support the resolution, which stresses the need for Member States to respect and promote these values with a view to guaranteeing non-discrimination for minorities throughout the Union.

2016/11/22

. – I abstained on this report, which concerns the employment and social policies in the euro area. This report addresses the various economic and social challenges such as the high rates of unemployment and youth unemployment in the euro area. While overall employment in the euro area is overall growing, there remains some room for improvement in reducing the risk of poverty, youth and long-term unemployment, among others. However, I believe that EU rules when it comes to budgetary planning must be fully applied, and therefore I do not agree with the implied extra flexibility called for under this report. I do welcome, on the other hand, the need for euro area Member States to ensure that sufficient investment is allocated to the field of education to ensure the Union’s competitiveness and improve employment prospects for future generations.

2016/11/22

. – I voted in favour of this resolution, which concerns the use of Facebook users’ data by Cambridge Analytica and the impact on data protection. The resolution stresses the issue of Facebook’s misuse of users’ personal data to target voters during the 2016 American presidential election process and during the UK referendum on membership of the EU. As the report highlights, it is crucial to ensure that such profiling based on online behaviour for political and electoral purposes are prohibited. This resolution, which outlines the threat of election interference practices as a threat to democracy, is highly relevant in light of the upcoming European elections of May 2019.

2016/11/22

. – This report concerns the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2019. I voted in favour of this proposal of the general budget for the year 2019, as it allocates more resources to key areas such as innovation, internal security and sustainable economic growth, among other issues. Another key focus of the budget is put on better managing and addressing the root causes of migration, as well as the protection of external borders. The budget was also drafted to ensure economic stability, predictability and convergence, which are key aspects given the future withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the Union. I also welcome the emphasis of the 2019 general budget on the need to ensure the modernisation of public financial management. This report thus constitutes a sensible budget that I believe adequately responds to the most pressing challenges of the Union for the upcoming year.

2016/11/22

. – I voted in favour of this report, which concerns the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment. Single-use plastics such as plates, straws and cotton buds make up 80-85% of marine litter items. This report seeks to introduce an EU-wide ban on single-use plastic products whenever alternatives are available while encouraging the consumption of other plastic items for which no alternative exists. I welcome the work of the rapporteur in ensuring that a vast range of products harmful to the environment, such as fishing nets, plastic bottles and cigarette butts are covered by this directive. The Commission will issue guidelines in order to ensure that Member States will take the relevant measures to gradually achieve a sustained reduction of the environmental impact of plastic waste.

2016/11/22

. – I voted in favour of this report, which concerns the establishment, operation and use of the Schengen Information System (SIS) in the field of border checks. The aim of this report is to facilitate and strengthen the communication infrastructure between Member States as regards alerts raised in the field of border checks. This report aims strengthen the SIS information system and allow all Member States an efficient and swift exchange and access of data entered in SIS by national competent authorities. In turn, strengthening the SIS database will ease the initiation of public prosecutions in criminal proceedings and for judicial inquiries following an alert in the field of border checks.

2016/11/22

. – I voted in favour of this report, which concerns the establishment, operation and use of the Schengen Information System in the field of police cooperation and judicial cooperation in criminal matters. The aim of this report is to make use of the Schengen information System (SIS) as to facilitate and strengthen the communication infrastructure between Member States when identifying a person or an object with a view to taking specific action. This report will thus strengthen the SIS information system and will allow for an enhanced police and judicial cooperation in criminal matters once an alert is entered in the SIS database by national competent authorities. In turn, strengthening the SIS database will allow the competent judicial authorities to identify more easily a person or an object with a view to taking specific action.

2016/11/22

. – This report concerns the use of the Schengen Information System for the return of illegally staying third-country nationals. The aim of this report is to strengthen the identification of illegally staying third-country nationals and facilitate the identification of fraudulent use of identity documents, for example using multiple identities. I welcome the work of the rapporteur as this report will allow for a more efficient and swift cooperation among Member States in identifying illegally staying third-country nationals by improving the communication of information systems across borders. This system will also facilitate the work of competent judicial authorities to determine the course of action to be taken regarding the return decisions of the identified persons.

2016/11/22

. – This report concerns discharge for the budget of the European Asylum Office (EASO) for the financial year 2016. While the EASO has taken new measures, including removing its Executive Director and replacing him with an ad interim Director, and steps to strengthen its procurement procedures, I abstained from voting on the report. In my view, the ongoing investigation of the former Executive Director and the procurement issues in the 2016 budget do not give me sufficient confidence to grant EASO discharge in respect of the implementation of its budget for the financial year 2016.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report, which concerns the amendment of the duties and competences of the European Union Agency for Criminal Justice Cooperation (Eurojust). This report calls for Eurojust to be able to exercise its tasks at the request of Member States’ competent authorities as well as the European Public Prosecutor’s Office. The report also stresses that Member States shall assist each other in carrying out tasks in accordance with the Treaties in order to facilitate the tasks carried out by Eurojust. The report further calls for a clear division of competences between the European Public Prosecutor’s Office and Eurojust to deal with financial crimes affecting the interests of the European Union. I welcome this suggestion as put forward in the report as it would help facilitate the cooperation of Eurojust and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report, which concerns the regulation of a framework for the free flow of non-personal data in the European Union. This report seeks to ensure the free movement of data other than personal data within the Union by laying down rules relating to data localisation requirements, the availability of data to competent authorities and data porting for professional users. This will allow businesses to gain easier access to useful data that will help them avoid duplication of data at different locations while easing entry into new markets. As put forward in the report, data location requirements should be prohibited unless they are justified on grounds of public security and in compliance with the principle of proportionality. This proposal, which establishes data as the EU’s fifth freedom, is particularly important in the context of the Single Market as it will help remove additional barriers and burdens such as data localisation rules. By reducing protectionism with regards to the flow of non-personal data, I believe this legislation constitutes a milestone in offering both companies and public authorities new efficiency gains on the global scene.

2016/11/22

In 2017, the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) concluded an investigation into a case of customs fraud in the UK, which shows that the EU budget suffered a loss of EUR 1 987 billion in terms of lost customs duties due on textiles and shoes imported from China through the UK in the period 2013-2016. The investigations revealed substantial VAT evasion in connection with trade made through the United Kingdom, with losses amounting to EUR 3.2 billion for the period 2013-2016. Given the significance of this issue, I voted in favour of this resolution, which addresses the lack of harmonised application of customs controls by Member States, which incentivises fraudulent activities where customs controls are the weakest. I also encourage the Commission to ensure that Member States comply with the Union Customs Code in order to fill the existing gaps in the implementation of VAT regulations.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report, which concerns the harmonisation and simplification of certain rules in the value added tax system and the introduction of the definitive system for the taxation of trade between Member States. The report supports the Commission’s proposal to introduce four ‘quick fixes’ that can help improve the functioning of the current cross-border VAT system: tackling the VAT identification number, chain transactions, call-off stock situations and proof of intra-Community supply. I also support the recommendation put forward in the report concerning the harmonisation of criteria based on which Member States may determine which enterprises fall under the status of certified taxable person. This will allow Member States to easily identify and fine enterprises and businesses that do not comply with the criteria harmonised at Union level. I also welcome the proposition to set up the VAT dispute resolution mechanism by 1 June 2020.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report, which concerns the common system of VAT as regards the period of application of the optional reverse charge mechanism in relation to supplies of certain goods and services susceptible to fraud and of the Quick Reaction Mechanism against VAT fraud. The purpose of the proposal is to prolong (i) the possibility for Member States to use the reverse charge mechanism for payment of VAT on supplies of goods and services which are susceptible to fraud, as well as (ii) the possibility to use the Quick Reaction Mechanism to combat fraud. The extension period of the mechanisms will be highly beneficial to help Member States that are particularly affected by VAT fraud, such the Czech Republic. I therefore support the decision of the ECON Committee to approve the Commission’s proposal, as I believe prolonging the Directive until 30 June 2022 will leave Member States more time to better combat existing fraud in supplies of goods and services included in Article 199 of the VAT Directive.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the report concerning administrative cooperation in the field of excise duties as regards the content of electronic register. This report seeks to amend the scope of Article 19 of the Regulation to include two new economic operators: certified consignors who are registered as consignors for excise goods that have already been released for consumption, and certified consignees who are registered as consignees for excise goods that have already been released for consumption. This proposal is much needed in light of the increasing automation of movements of excise goods being released for consumption in one Member State and that are being moved to another Member State in order to be delivered for commercial purposes in that other Member State.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I voted against this report, which concerns the regulation of emission performance standards for new passenger cars and for new light commercial vehicles, and which is part of the Union’s integrated approach to reducing CO2 emissions from light-duty vehicles. While the Commission’s proposal to set the CO2 targets at 30% for 2030 for cars and vans would be feasible, the suggested 40% reduction of CO2 emissions presented in this report seems unrealistic for the automotive industry from a logistical viewpoint.Moreover, the zero-emissions and low-emissions vehicles’ (ZLEV) proposed benchmark of 40% market share far exceeds the technological and implementing capabilities of the automotive industry. The suggestion of a softened two-way adjustment mechanism (bonus and ‘malus’) therefore seems inappropriate in this context. I believe that the Commission proposal to establish a ‘crediting system’, rewarding manufacturers exceeding a given ZLEV benchmark with a less strict CO2 target, would constitute a more appropriate measure.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on the rates of value added tax (VAT), which seeks to grant Member States greater flexibility in setting VAT rates and benefiting from reduced or zero tax rates with other Member States. The current rules, which were designed over two decades ago, need to be revised and adapted to the contemporary cross-border business landscape. I also welcome the suggestion put forward in the report to allow Member States to accommodate local conditions and preferences or choose a uniform tax rate while ensuring that the reduced rates and exemptions are for the benefit of the final consumer and remain in the general interest.

2016/11/22

I voted against this report, which concerns the coordination of certain provisions laid down by law, regulation or administrative action in Member States concerning the provision of audio-visual media services in view of changing market realities. While the recent development of the audio-visual media landscape calls for a revision of the current legal framework, several points put forward in the report would be detrimental to the audio-visual industry in different respects.First, the suggestion to introduce quantitative quotas to impose financial obligations on on-demand services would impose a significant burden on media service providers. This would be detrimental to the expected objective of achieving a balance between access to online content services, consumer protection and competitiveness. Second, the extension of the legislation to video-sharing platforms would not constitute a sound solution, as it would also place the tax burden on online video providers, ultimately reducing incentives for those businesses to grow and invest in EU markets.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report, which seeks to amend budget No 5/2018 of the EU for the financial year 2018. The report proposes to cancel the reserve (EUR 70 million in commitment appropriations and EUR 35 million in payment appropriations) included in the 2018 budget for support to Turkey under the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA II) and transfer the related commitment and payment appropriations to the European Neighbourhood Instrument (ENI) and Humanitarian Aid, respectively. This decision is justified on the grounds that Turkey did not achieve sufficient improvements in the fields of rule of law, democracy and freedom of the press. While I believe the proposed cancellation of the budgetary reserve is justified and necessary, it should not however come at the expense of the Turkish civil society. I therefore encourage the Commission to ensure that the remaining funds for Turkey under IPA are directed primarily towards civil society organisations.

2016/11/22

This vote concerned whether or not the Parliament’s negotiation team on the Directive on Copyright in the Digital Single Market should be given a mandate to enter into negotiations with the Council based on the JURI Committee’s position on the Directive. I voted against the granting of the mandate for two fundamental reasons. Firstly, the vote in the JURI Committee was very close, with only 14 of the 25 members supporting the text as currently drafted. Secondly, as JURI is made up of only 25 members, I believe that on a topic as controversial as this, the whole Parliament should have the option to analyse and vote on the Parliament’s position before negotiations with the Council begin. I am therefore glad that we will be able to fully analyse the proposal and take a position on the content in the plenary session of September 2018.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report, which concerns reforms of the European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI). ECI is a right allowing EU citizens to request the European Commission to consider their proposal to address a specific problem they are concerned about. However, the ECI still has room for improvement, and possible measures have been outlined in this report. The proposed improvements relate namely to easier and more user-friendly registration procedures, more efficient communication between citizens and the European Commission and easier access for ECI initiators and stakeholders to practical and legal advice when necessary.

2016/11/22

This report concerns the exchange of personal information (including DNA profiles) between Member States’ authorities working in the field of prevention and investigation of criminal offences. As the regulation on exchange of data within the EU was introduced before Croatia’s accession, Croatia had to be verified in order to be able to supply and receive DNA data. As Croatia fully meets the conditions to join the cross-border cooperation in fighting cross-border crime and terrorism, I voted in favour of this report.

2016/11/22

This report, which I voted in favour of, concerns the principles and procedures related to the EU budget and EU funds, and is closely linked to the files on Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for the years 2014-2020. This report aim is to introduce more simplification and flexibility to the financial rules in order to avoid delays in introducing EU programs, and to make the EU’s budget more adaptable to constant or unexpected changes triggered by globalisation. Amongst others, it calls for simplification for recipients of EU funds, easing administration burdens including. Reduction of costs and time within the implementation of EU funds and more flexible budget management.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro zprávu o Evropském systému pro cestovní informace a povolení (ETIAS). Díky systému ETIAS budou členské státy EU schopné posoudit ještě před příjezdem do schengenského prostoru, zda občan třetí země bez vízové povinnosti a zaregistrovaný v systému ETIAS představuje potenciální riziko ve vztahu k nelegální migraci nebo bezpečnostní či zdravotní riziko. Věřím, že systém ETIAS pomůže členským státům a jejich pohraničním strážím rychleji a efektivněji zjistit, jestli občan třetí země splňuje podmínky vstupu a neohrozí bezpečnost schengenského prostoru.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro zprávu o Evropském systému pro cestovní informace a povolení (ETIAS). Díky systému ETIAS budou členské státy EU schopné posoudit ještě před příjezdem, zda občan třetí země, který se zaregistruje do systému ETIAS (ale zároveň nemusí mít vízum) a který se chystá cestovat do schengenského prostoru, představuje potenciální riziko ve vztahu k nelegální migraci nebo bezpečnostní či zdravotní riziko. Věřím, že systém ETIAS pomůže členským státům a jejich pohraničním strážím rychleji a efektivněji zjistit, jestli občan třetí země splňuje podmínky vstupu a neohrozí bezpečnost schengenského prostoru. Navíc tato zpráva zahrnuje přesnější pokyny pro agentury EU (včetně Europolu) ke zpracování informací pro účely kontrolního seznamu ETIAS.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report, which concerns the mandate for the trilogue on the 2019 budget of the EU. I agree with the points on the EU’s priorities within the budget, ranging from development, growth and fighting climate change to security and migration. It is crucial that the EU has adequate and sufficient resources at its disposal to respond to its regular commitments, but also to urgent needs and challenges that might arise in 2019, for example crises related to climate, security and migration or related to difficulties in the financial sector.

2016/11/22

The Privacy Shield is the arrangement that allows US companies to transfer and use data of EU nationals for commercial ends – on the basis that they adequately respect European law. American companies can sign up to the Privacy Shield programme and, if they meet the requirements of this arrangement, are allowed to receive personal data from the EU. While it is acknowledged that the functioning of the Privacy Shield is significantly more satisfactory than that of its predecessors, it has turned out that, after almost two years of the Privacy Shield being in place, still a lot of essential provisions from this arrangement are not being applied by the US authorities. I did not vote in favour of this motion for the resolution as there are some reasons for concern with regards to the treatment of personal data. I believe the Commission should be given the leeway to continue to negotiate with the US authorities in order to ensure that both sides are fully compliant with the provisions of the privacy shield. I do not agree that there should be an automatic suspension of the Privacy Shield from 1 September 2018.

2016/11/22

The US Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) is an American law requiring foreign banks and financial institutions to report to the American tax authorities on customers who are US citizens, with the aim of preventing tax evasion and tax fraud by US citizens. However, due to this law, many ‘accidental Americans’, who, by accident of birth, inherited US citizenship, but who do not maintain any ties to the US and are EU citizens, face problems with banks or financial institutions. Indeed, banks often refuse to have them as customers, so these EU citizens no longer have access to financial services like a basic bank account, mortgage loans or credit for their business. Moreover, in order to comply with this law, the personal information of EU citizens might be shared with the US authorities without justification and EU-US citizens are unable to deny such access, which might result in breach of EU data protection rules. This resolution, which I supported, calls on the European Commission to carefully assess the situation of these accidental Americans, and to make sure that in Europe no one is excluded from essential financial services on the basis of their nationality.

2016/11/22

This report concerns the social and solidarity-based economy. Amongst others, the social and solidarity-based economy ensures jobs for more than 14 million people in the EU and thus supports many EU undertakings. Moreover, this sector has a great potential for further innovation, development, growth and strengthening cohesion in the societal, economic and regional aspect. However, the regulation of social and solidarity-based enterprises varies across Member States. I voted in favour of this report, as its goal is to introduce an ‘optional European social economy label’ for the enterprises concerned so that benefits for businesses across the EU are greater and cooperation between various EU social and solidarity-based enterprises is promoted more.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report. The Structural Reform Support Programme is designed to assist Member States in preparing and introducing growth-sustaining administrative and structural reforms in various areas ranging from governance, economy and the labour market to public administration. In order to meet the growing demand for support from Member States, and in view of the need to support the implementation of structural reforms which are of interest to the European Union in Member States whose currency is not yet the euro, the financial allocation for the programme shall be increased from EUR 142.8 million to EUR 222.8 million in current prices, which is the aim of this proposal.

2016/11/22

. ‒ With this report, the European Parliament has rubber-stamped the final reform accepted by the Council for its updated electoral procedure well before the 2019 elections. The main objective is to encourage citizens’ participation and to enhance the democratic and transnational dimension of the European elections. Although the report contains some good proposals, I decided to abstain on the final vote, as, while I welcome the reduction in the total number of seats, linked to the departure of the UK from the EU, I would have had a preference for the reduction of all 73 UK seats, in order to save our taxpayers money.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro doporučení o uzavření dohody mezi EU a Novým Zélandem, která byla sjednána v návaznosti na přistoupení Chorvatska k EU. S přistoupením Chorvatska v 2013 rozšířila EU svou celní unii. Světová obchodní organizace (WTO) nařizuje pravidla, podle kterých je EU následně povinna zahájit jednání se členy WTO vlastnícími negociační práva o listině celních koncesí Chorvatska. Cílem těchto jednáni je dohodnout se na vyrovnání, které je nutné v případě, kdy výsledkem přijetí vnějšího celního tarifu EU je zvýšení cel nad úroveň, ke které se přistupující země u WTO zavázala. To byl případ obchodu mezi Chorvatskem a Novým Zélandem, zejména ve vztahu k dovozu určitých druhů masa, kde jsou cla EU vyšší než cla stanovená Chorvatskem před jeho přistoupením.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report, which aims to modify the Statute of the European System of Central Banks and of the European Central Bank, in particular the wording of Article 22 concerning ‘clearing systems for financial instruments’ (CCPs). As the ALDE Group’s shadow rapporteur on this file, I worked to ensure that the final drafting of Article 22 was consistent with the position Parliament agreed on the EMIR supervision proposal. While it is clear that the ECB should have greater regulatory powers for the supervision of EU and third-country CCPs, this cannot be to the detriment of the legislative prerogatives of the European Parliament and the Council of the EU.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report. It concerns Draft amending budget No 2/2018, of which purpose is to devote the surplus from the 2017 financial year to the 2018 budget (amounting to EUR 555.5 million). This surplus was generated from a positive outturn on income, from an under-spending in expenditure and from a positive balance of exchange rate differences. In addition, I support the idea of creating a special reserve in the EU budget that would consist of all kinds of unexpected revenues and be used to deal with urgent and unexpected needs; such reserves would be useful, inter alia, in migration management which might require ad-hoc resources.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report, which relates to Draft amending budget devoting EUR 500 million in commitment appropriations in 2018 for the extension of the Facility for Refugees in Turkey. The main purpose of this Draft amending budget is to support the continuation of the schooling of refugee children in Turkey. This is especially important due to the fact that Turkey hosts the highest number of refugees in the world (incl. more than 3 million registered refugees from Syria). In addition, due to the agreement between the EU and Turkey, there are much fewer migrants crossing the border from Turkey to Europe, with those making use of border crossings between Turkey and the EU being returned to Turkey. The EU-funded Turkish Facility for Refugees provides support to refugees in key areas of life, such as education and health care.

2016/11/22

The Commission proposed, through a delegated decision, to add Iran to Annex III of Decision 466/2014/EU, which in practice would mean that should the EIB in the future decide to invest in projects in Iran, those investments would be covered by an EU funding guarantee. The Commission’s decision has the support of all 28 Member States, as well as the President of the Commission and High Representative Mogherini. While I remain concerned with the situation with regards to human rights and democracy in Iran, I would point out that on the whole there are improvements in the economic and social situation. In addition, as this delegated decision simply puts mechanisms in place, and does not require the EU nor the EIB to invest in Iran, I believe that it is a prudent act. Therefore, I voted against the objection to the Commission Delegated Decision.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this resolution. It outlines the necessity of updating the definition of Small and Medium Enterprises in order to ensure a fair and proportionate determination of what constitutes an SME in the EU economic sector. Given the fact that there have been many differences between the structures and work of SMEs in EU Member States and that the definition has been interpreted in some ways as being too wide, I agree that the it should be re-evaluated.

2016/11/22

This report is particularly important given the intensive mobility of international road transport and the drawbacks in the current legal framework and enforcement of rules for posting drivers. At the same time, rules on posting drivers raise a lot of legal difficulties and controversies in EU society. The aim of this report is to improve the clarity and adequacy of the rules on driving times, breaks and rest periods, so that drivers work in fair and safe road transport in the whole EU. I voted in favour of the proposal as it ensured that international transport operations would be excluded from the posting requirements. I am therefore disappointed that Parliament decided to reject the proposal and send it back to the Transport Committee for further negotiations.

2016/11/22

This report, closely linked to the one on posting rules, is also very significant because of the intensive mobility of international road transport and the drawbacks in the current legal framework and enforcement of rules on minimum breaks and rest periods. The aim of this report is to diminish confusing and unsuitable rules on rest, resting conditions and drivers’ breaks. I supported this proposal as I find the compromise reached in the Transport Committee to be balanced, also taking into consideration the wide range of practices among Member States. I am therefore disappointed that Parliament decided to reject the proposal and send it back to the Transport Committee for further negotiations.

2016/11/22

The goal of this report on cabotage and access to the lorry driver profession, which is interlinked with the reports on posting and resting period of drivers, is to diminish gaps and to improve enforcement of the rules in the single market in road transport. The proposed changes in the road transport sector could lead to savings for businesses and significant reduction in infringements of cabotage rules. I supported the final text as it ensured that cabotage operations can last seven days, and it contains other safeguards which will ease the concerns of some Member States who feel undercut by competition. At the same time, it would not endanger the business models of international road transport operators. I am therefore disappointed that Parliament decided to reject the proposal and send it back to the Transport Committee for further negotiations.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro zprávu o zmocnění k zahájení jednání o dohodě mezi EU a Jordánskem o výměně osobních údajů mezi agenturou Europol a jordánskými orgány příslušnými pro boj proti závažné trestné činnosti a terorismu. Dohody o strategické a operační spolupráci mezi agenturou Europol a třetími zeměmi usnadňují výměnu informací i praktickou spolupráci. Jordánsko považuji za strategickou partnerskou zemi Evropské unie v rámci boje proti terorismu a podobným bezpečnostním hrozbám v Evropě a jejím okolí. Jsem také však názoru, že vzhledem k odlišné úrovni jordánského systému zpracovávání a předávání osobních údajů je třeba řádně posoudit potřebu spolupráce s Jordánskem v této oblasti, a to s ohledem na bezpečnostní zájmy a úroveň předávání osobních údajů v EU.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro zprávu o zmocnění k zahájení jednání o dohodě mezi EU a Tureckem o výměně osobních údajů mezi agenturou Europol a tureckými orgány příslušnými pro boj proti závažné trestné činnosti a terorismu. Dohody o strategické a operační spolupráci mezi agenturou Europol a třetími zeměmi usnadňují výměnu informací i praktickou spolupráci. Turecko považuji za strategickou partnerskou zemi Evropské unie v rámci boje proti terorismu a podobným bezpečnostním hrozbám v Evropě a jejím okolí. Jsem také však názoru, že vzhledem k současné složité bezpečnostní a politické situaci v Turecku a k odlišné úrovni tureckého systému zpracovávání a předávání osobních údajů je třeba řádně posoudit potřebu spolupráce s Tureckem, a to s ohledem na bezpečnostní zájmy a úroveň předávání osobních údajů v EU.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro zprávu o zmocnění k zahájení jednání o dohodě mezi EU a Izraelem o výměně osobních údajů mezi agenturou Europol a izraelskými orgány příslušnými pro boj proti závažné trestné činnosti a terorismu. Dohody o strategické a operační spolupráci mezi agenturou Europol a třetími zeměmi usnadňují výměnu informací i praktickou spolupráci. Izrael považuji za strategickou partnerskou zemi Evropské unie v rámci boje proti terorismu a podobným bezpečnostním hrozbám v Evropě a jejím okolí. Jsem také však názoru, že vzhledem k odlišné úrovni izraelského systému zpracovávání a předávání osobních údajů je třeba řádně posoudit potřebu spolupráce s Izraelem v této oblasti, a to s ohledem na bezpečnostní zájmy a úroveň předávání osobních údajů v EU.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro zprávu o zmocnění k zahájení jednání o dohodě mezi EU a Tuniskem o výměně osobních údajů mezi agenturou Europol a tuniskými orgány příslušnými pro boj proti závažné trestné činnosti a terorismu. Dohody o strategické a operační spolupráci mezi agenturou Europol a třetími zeměmi usnadňují výměnu informací i praktickou spolupráci. Tunisko považuji za strategickou partnerskou zemi Evropské unie v rámci boje proti terorismu a podobným bezpečnostním hrozbám v Evropě a jejím okolí. Jsem také však názoru, že vzhledem k odlišné úrovni tuniského systému zpracovávání a předávání osobních údajů je třeba řádně posoudit potřebu spolupráce s Tuniskem v této oblasti, a to s ohledem na bezpečnostní zájmy a úroveň předávání osobních údajů v EU.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro zprávu o zmocnění k zahájení jednání o dohodě mezi EU a Marokem o výměně osobních údajů mezi agenturou Europol a marockými orgány příslušnými pro boj proti závažné trestné činnosti a terorismu. Dohody o strategické a operační spolupráci mezi agenturou Europol a třetími zeměmi usnadňují výměnu informací i praktickou spolupráci. Maroko považuji za strategickou partnerskou zemi Evropské unie v rámci boje proti terorismu a podobným bezpečnostním hrozbám v Evropě a jejím okolí. Jsem také však názoru, že vzhledem k odlišné úrovni marockého systému zpracovávání a předávání osobních údajů je třeba řádně posoudit potřebu spolupráce s Marokem v této oblasti, a to s ohledem na bezpečnostní zájmy a úroveň předávání osobních údajů v EU.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro zprávu o zmocnění k zahájení jednání o dohodě mezi EU a Libanonem o výměně osobních údajů mezi agenturou Europol a libanonskými orgány příslušnými pro boj proti závažné trestné činnosti a terorismu. Dohody o strategické a operační spolupráci mezi agenturou Europol a třetími zeměmi usnadňují výměnu informací i praktickou spolupráci. Libanon považuji za strategickou partnerskou zemi Evropské unie v rámci boje proti terorismu a podobným bezpečnostním hrozbám v Evropě a jejím okolí. Jsem také však názoru, že vzhledem k odlišné úrovni libanonského systému zpracovávání a předávání osobních údajů je třeba řádně posoudit potřebu spolupráce s Libanonem v této oblasti, a to s ohledem na bezpečnostní zájmy a úroveň předávání osobních údajů v EU.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro zprávu o zmocnění k zahájení jednání o dohodě mezi EU a Egyptem o výměně osobních údajů mezi agenturou Europol a egyptskými orgány příslušnými pro boj proti závažné trestné činnosti a terorismu. Dohody o strategické a operační spolupráci mezi agenturou Europol a třetími zeměmi usnadňují výměnu informací i praktickou spolupráci. Egypt považuji za strategickou partnerskou zemi Evropské unie v rámci boje proti terorismu a podobným bezpečnostním hrozbám v Evropě a jejím okolí. Jsem také však názoru, že vzhledem k odlišné úrovni egyptského systému zpracovávání a předávání osobních údajů je třeba řádně posoudit potřebu spolupráce s Egyptem v této oblasti, a to s ohledem na bezpečnostní zájmy a úroveň předávání osobních údajů v EU.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro zprávu o zmocnění k zahájení jednání o dohodě mezi EU a Alžírskem o výměně osobních údajů mezi agenturou Europol a alžírskými orgány příslušnými pro boj proti závažné trestné činnosti a terorismu. Dohody o strategické a operační spolupráci mezi agenturou Europol a třetími zeměmi usnadňují výměnu informací i praktickou spolupráci. Alžírsko považuji za strategickou partnerskou zemi Evropské unie v rámci boje proti terorismu a podobným bezpečnostním hrozbám v Evropě a jejím okolí. Jsem také však názoru, že vzhledem k odlišné úrovni alžírského systému zpracovávání a předávání osobních údajů je třeba řádně posoudit potřebu spolupráce s Alžírskem v této oblasti, a to s ohledem na bezpečnostní zájmy a úroveň předávání osobních údajů v EU.

2016/11/22

This report on the Cooperation Agreement between the EU and the ASECNA concerns crucial aspects in civil aviation, i.e. the development of satellite navigation and the provision of associated services within the ASECNA’s work. The EU and Africa have been working together in the area of satellite navigation (related especially to air transport) for at least seven years. I voted in favour of this report, as putting this agreement into force would enable further positive cooperation between the EU and ASECNA in managing a satellite-based augmentation service system (SBAS) within civil aviation.

2016/11/22

Since 1998 the European Union and the United States of America have been strategic partners for research. This report seeks to extend the current agreement between the US and the EU on mutual cooperation in common science and technology (S&T) areas, which was signed back in 1997. It has been demonstrated that this agreement provides a good framework for cooperation between the EU and the US in this area. Indeed, the United States has been the most active third country in the EU Horizon 2020 programme, contributing to mutual R&D, investment, scientific programmes and cooperation between American and European scientists. It is therefore in the EUʼs interest to extend the agreement for another five-year period, which is why I voted in favour of this report.

2016/11/22

High-performance computing refers to the use of powerful supercomputers for the processing of large amounts of data. It is a crucial tool to address major scientific challenges affecting EU citizens’ lives, such as early detection of diseases, forecasting climate change or the prevention of natural disasters. It helps industries and businesses to reduce design and production cycles and plays a crucial role in the area of national security and defence. However, today the EU is lagging behind in this field: the supercomputers available in the Union do not satisfy demand. European scientists and industry are thus increasingly processing their data outside the EU, which can be detrimental to the protection of personal data, in particular for sensitive health-related information. The objective of the new European joint undertaking proposed by the Commission is to pool resources within Europe to establish a high-performance computing ecosystem. I believe that this new project will boost Europe’s competitiveness in this field, which is why I supported the report.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report, as I support having a small safety net for employees in the event of mass redundancies. The report concerns the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund for assistance to employees in France, who have recently been struggling with redundancies in its air transport sector. The assistance, accounting for almost EUR 9 900 000, is aimed at workers who have faced difficulties in adapting to the changing global trade patterns. Due to significant changes in the international air transport sector, e.g. the rapid rise of three large airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways, Air France has been struggling to adapt to the new market environment and therefore has had to undertake a large restructuring operation, which has led to redundancies that have the potential to negatively impact the French economy.

2016/11/22

This report recommends making cities more autonomous and engaged in policy-making. Local authorities play a crucial role in helping to implement EU policies in areas such as social cohesion, environment, migration and asylum. Even though I see cities as an important link between the EU and citizens, I decided to abstain in the vote because the report proposes to introduce new communication instruments that might prove ineffective and confusing. I believe that the stronger empowerment of cities should be brought about by means of existing instruments, such as the Committee of the Regions, and that no new forums should be founded.

2016/11/22

. ‒ The use of 3D printers is becoming increasingly popular across various sectors, ranging from education, business, medicine, archaeology and research, etc. However, the rising popularity of 3D printing also comes with some specific legal and ethical concerns related to intellectual property rights and civil liability, such as copyright, patents, 3D trademarks etc. I voted in favour of this report, as it calls on the EU to carefully assess those issues and eventually come up with a new legislation, or tailor existing ones to the specific case of 3D technology.

2016/11/22

The new European Defence Industrial Development Programme, with a EUR 500 million budget for 2019-2020, is a key pillar of the European Defence Fund launched in June 2017, and aims at boosting European industry’s competitiveness and innovation capacity in this field. This financial aid will make the EU more independent and will foster cooperation between Member States and between undertakings, including SMEs, as it will co-fund projects that are implemented by at least three undertakings in at least three Member States. I voted in favour of this legislation, as I believe such projects are of key importance in today’s world, as Europe needs to do more for its own security. It is a major step towards further integration between Member States and improving the EU’s defence sector.

2016/11/22

. ‒ European agricultural statistics provide detailed knowledge of the sector, allowing policy makers and stakeholders to evaluate and take informed decisions on agricultural policies based on evidence. The aim of these new rules is to address the shortcomings identified in the evaluation of the current system by streamlining and updating the collection of farm-level statistics within a single framework, as well as by allowing for more flexibility for the rapid introduction of new data collection. The report includes useful recommendations on how to improve data transmission and reduce the burden on farms. I believe more efficient integrated farm statistics can help to better implement and monitor the Common Agricultural Policy, while ensuring agricultural policies are more fit for purpose.

2016/11/22

. ‒ In 2014, the EU adopted a regulation (Regulation (EU) No 256/2014) on the notification of investment projects in energy infrastructure within the European Union to the Commission which aimed to give the Commission an overall picture of the development of investment in energy infrastructure in the EU so that it could better fulfil its responsibilities in the field of energy. Since then, Member States have gone through three reporting exercises (2011, 2013 and 2015), therefore, giving enough time for the Commission to carry out an evidence-based critical analysis of whether the Regulation has had the expected results. The Commission concluded that this Regulation is no longer fit for purpose and proposes that it be repealed. This report, which I supported, aims at endorsing the Commission decision.

2016/11/22

. ‒ Significant high amounts of VAT revenue are being lost in the EU every year, with a gap estimated at EUR 160 billion of which 40 to 60 billion would be due to cross-border VAT fraud. This negatively affects not only revenue collection in Member States but also the Union’s own resources. This regulation addresses the most widespread forms of cross-border fraud by reinforcing exchange and analysis of information between EU tax administrations and with law enforcement bodies. I see cooperation between Member States as an essential component of our arsenal to fight against tax fraud, which is why I supported this report.

2016/11/22

. ‒ The total population of indigenous peoples is estimated to be over 370 million people living in over 70 countries worldwide, representing around 5% of the total world population. There are at least 5 000 distinct indigenous peoples, who, despite their geographical dispersion, face similar threats and challenges. I voted in favour of this report which highlights the need for Member States to ensure the protection and promotion of their rights, as enshrined in human rights treaties and conventions. In particular, it calls on the EU to legally recognise the territorial autonomy and self-determination of indigenous people, i.e. their rights to use territories and resources that they acquired by tradition. Too often, this right is denied.

2016/11/22

. ‒ This report underlines the importance of placing climate on the agenda of the EU’s external relations and diplomacy. Europe is a leader in the international diplomacy of climate change, reflecting the demands of European Union citizens for a clean environment. Now that the US is abandoning the Paris Agreement and questioning the existence of climate change, the EU’s role is even more important, and I believe a European climate diplomacy could influence international decisions in this field. Furthermore, I am convinced that fruitful cooperation of the EU with other states within climate diplomacy may also contribute positively to tackling climate-related challenges, such as peace and security, development and economic relations.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro tuto zprávu. Přístup ke kultuře je jedním ze základů kulturní politiky, jež je nahlížena jak z národní perspektivy a perspektivy společenství, tak zejména jako klíčové téma z perspektivy občanů. Cílem zprávy je provést průřezovou analýzu existujících překážek v přístupu ke kultuře a účasti na ní. Tematický rozsah zprávy je zcela jistě širší, než by naznačoval její název. Zpráva se totiž netýká pouze strukturálních a finančních překážek v přístupu ke kultuře, ale rovněž sociálních, digitálních a nepochybně nejproblematičtějších překážek v oblasti vzdělávání. Většina analyzovaných překážek koexistuje či spolu velmi úzce souvisí, což dokazuje komplexnost problematiky přístupu ke kultuře a účasti na ní a poskytuje oporu zpravodajovým tezím o průřezovém charakteru této problematiky a o zásadním významu koordinace kulturní politiky s dalšími oblastmi politiky.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro zprávu, která obsahuje úpravy pro návrh Komise o zásadě proporcionality, aby se stal nástrojem pro inteligentní regulaci v souvislosti s vnitřním trhem služeb. Zásada proporcionality byla uznána za základní zásadu práva EU Smlouvami i Soudním dvorem, který definoval konkrétní kritéria pro její uplatňování. Cílem zprávy je vypracovat společný rámec pro provádění testů přiměřenosti při zavádění nové regulace povolání s cílem zajistit, aby vnitrostátní orgány ve všech členských státech prováděly posouzení přiměřenosti jejich regulace stejně účinným způsobem. Souhlasím s tím, aby byly provedeny změny mimo jiné v oblastech transparentnosti a posílené úlohy při centralizaci informací, zákazu diskriminace, řešení praktik „gold-platingu“ či uznání zvláštního statusu zdravotnických služeb a zaručení nejvyššího stupně ochrany lidského zdraví při regulaci povolání.

2016/11/22

European legislation on the use of hired vehicles without drivers for the carriage of goods by road has been in place for 25 years and does not meet operators’ current needs. The aim of this legislation is to review existing rules and align with today’s haulage market sector and with current EU policy priorities. These new rules will remove existing restrictions for accessing this market and establish a uniform European regulatory framework to ensure equal access for transport operators across the EU to the market for hired vehicles. I voted in favour of this report, which I see as an opportunity to foster a level playing field in the sector and ensure fair competition for rental and leasing companies in the EU while eliminating administrative burdens.

2016/11/22

In recent years Russia has continued to follow an expansionist policy, both through covert and overt means. Therefore I believe it is right that we now reflect on and once again condemn the actions it took in Georgia 10 years ago, which led to the current annexation of the regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. The EU strongly supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia within its internationally recognised borders.However, Russia still continues the illegal occupation of these Georgian regions, undermining international law and the rules-based system. There must be a peaceful resolution of the Russia-Georgia conflict in full respect of international law.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this motion for a resolution, which sets out the Parliament’s position on the Commission’s proposal for a new partnership with ACP (African, Caribbean and Pacific) countries. As the Cotonou Agreement between the EU and ACP is going to expire in February 2020, these negotiations should start as soon as possible (i.e. no later than August 2018). The current partnership between the ACP and the EU has played an important role, e.g. in progress towards the Millenium Development Goals (MDGs). It has been also making a significant contribution to the eradication of poverty and the integration of ACP States into the global economy, and has been improving market access and political dialogue between the ACP States and the EU.Therefore, I particularly welcome that a key objective in the upcoming negotiations will be on achieving Sustainable Development Goals. Furthermore, it is positive that there will also be a focus on cooperation in order to combat terrorism and organised crime. And while I personally believe the Commission’s approach in this case on migration is appropriate, i.e. focusing on effective returns and readmission of migrants, overall I could support the Parliament’s resolution.

2016/11/22

This report includes observations on how the European Commission oversaw the application of EU law in 2016. It touches upon various areas of implementation of EU law, such as environment, administrative procedures, migration, free movement of persons, employment, gender discrimination, etc. I abstained on the final vote on this report, as I do not agree that Member States should be subject to infringement procedures related to redistribution of migrants. Indeed, the quota system for asylum seekers is fatally flawed, as has been recognised by many observers. The EU should now focus on finding a permanent mechanism which could be accepted by all Member States in order to deal with asylum and migration, rather than being fixated on past mistakes.

2016/11/22

When the United Kingdom leaves the European Union in 2019 the number of seats in the European Parliament will be reduced from 751 to 705. This report outlines how the remaining seats should be allocated between the Member States. I believe that the composition of the European Parliament should be based on fair, transparent, objective, sustainable and equitable principles, especially given the fact that it is the only directly elected European institution. The proposed new system is more democratic and now complies with the Lisbon Treaty and the principle of digressive proportionality. There will be no loss of seats for any Member State and I believe the Parliament will now better reflect the citizens it represents, which is why I supported this text.

2016/11/22

V roce 2014 přijaly Evropský parlament a Rada jako součást Fondu pro vnitřní bezpečnost nástroj pro finanční podporu v oblasti vnějších hranic a víz na období 2014–2020. Hlavním cílem fondu je zajistit vysokou úroveň bezpečnosti v EU, usnadnit legální cestování a zároveň řešit nelegální migraci prostřednictvím vysoké a jednotné úrovně ochrany vnějších hranic a účinného zpracovávání schengenských víz. Hlasoval jsem pro toto doporučení, protože věřím, že Fond pro vnitřní bezpečnost vytváří mechanismus solidarity, který zapojené státy (EU a Island) zavazuje stejnými evropskými pravidly k ochraně vnějších hranic v zájmu všech zapojených států. Dohoda bude sloužit k dosažení klíčových cílů schengenského acquis , a to ke sdílení odpovědnosti za to, že je zajištěna účinná, vysoká a jednotná úroveň kontroly na vnějších hranicích.

2016/11/22

V roce 2014 přijaly Evropský parlament a Rada jako součást Fondu pro vnitřní bezpečnost nástroj pro finanční podporu v oblasti vnějších hranic a víz na období 2014–2020. Hlavním cílem fondu je zajistit vysokou úroveň bezpečnosti v EU, usnadnit legální cestování a zároveň řešit nelegální migraci prostřednictvím vysoké a jednotné úrovně ochrany vnějších hranic a účinného zpracovávání schengenských víz. Hlasoval jsem pro toto doporučení, protože věřím, že Fond pro vnitřní bezpečnost vytváří mechanismus solidarity, který zapojené státy (EU a Švýcarsko) zavazuje stejnými evropskými pravidly k ochraně vnějších hranic v zájmu všech zapojených států. Dohoda bude sloužit k dosažení klíčových cílů schengenského acquis , a to ke sdílení odpovědnosti za to, že je zajištěna účinná, vysoká a jednotná úroveň kontroly na vnějších hranicích.

2016/11/22

. ‒ The aim of this report, which I voted in favour of, is to approve the Council decision to remove the last remaining restrictions on the use of the Schengen Information System SIS) by Bulgaria and Romania, which are not yet members of the area of free movement. In practical terms, this would mean that these two countries will be obliged to refuse entry, or leave to remain on their respective territories, to third-country nationals for whom an entry ban has been issued by another Member State, and to enter alerts in respect of such refusals in the system.The strategic geographical situation of Bulgaria and Romania – sharing borders with Turkey, Moldova, Ukraine, Serbia and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia – allows them to play a key role in the surveillance of our external border. It was thus important to give them access to the SIS, thereby increasing the level of security in the Schengen area and making the fight against serious crime and terrorism more effective.

2016/11/22

Cohesion policy is key in promoting the circular economy and in achieving its objectives. With this resolution, which I supported, the European Parliament stresses that the shift towards a more circular economy offers opportunities for all European regions and as such, should be seen as a driving force for regional development. Indeed, I believe the circular economy has great potential to modernise our economy and should be seen as an opportunity to create new jobs and reduce social and economic inequality across Europe.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro tuto zprávu, aby Ukrajina byla podpořena makrofinanční pomocí pod podmínkou dodržování demokratických hodnot. Makrofinanční pomoc EU je mimořádný nouzový nástroj pro řešení vážných problémů s platební bilancí ve třetích zemích. Je to již počtvrté od vypuknutí krize v roce 2014, co Komise navrhuje makrofinanční pomoc. Navzdory tomu, že se hospodářská situace od roku 2015 zlepšila, přetrvává řada slabých míst v důsledku silné závislosti země na vývozu komodit, pomalejšího doplňování jejích mezinárodních rezerv oproti očekáváním a nestabilního domácího politického prostředí. Pomoc EU by navíc poskytla motivaci k zintenzivnění reformního úsilí Ukrajiny prostřednictvím schválení memoranda o porozumění s ukrajinskými orgány, které stanovuje podpůrná opatření politik.

2016/11/22

. ‒ This report calls on the EU to speed up negotiations with one of our strategic partners: Chile. The negotiations were launched in November 2017 and will, hopefully, be finalised by the end of the current parliamentary term. I support a modernisation of the EU-Chile Association Agreement as I believe it has the potential to deepen the existing relationship significantly. Chile is a key partner for the EU in numerous areas, including the protection of human rights, peace and security, eliminating corruption and drug trafficking, and also combating climate change.

2016/11/22

. ‒ The European security situation is more and more fragile as we are threatened by the activities of terrorist groups, Russia’s aggressive behaviour, and we also face violence and instability in the countries near Europe. NATO members face similar challenges. In this context, I believe a closer partnership within the European Union and NATO is highly needed, as we share common interests, and this is what the report is calling for. I believe that closer cooperation would guarantee more stability and security as well as stronger European defence capabilities.

2016/11/22

. ‒ Europe’s fragmented defence capabilities make it vulnerable to cyber—attacks. The report, which I supported, calls on Member States to improve EU resilience to these type of attacks, by, for example, enhancing the ability of their armed forces to work together and to strengthen cyber—cooperation at European level, with NATO and other partners. Indeed, cyberspace knows no border, it is therefore impossible for any one state to tackle the threats alone. Cross—border cooperation and better training are essential to address this challenge.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro tuto zprávu. Rekreační rybolov je zájmová činnost, avšak hospodářský, sociální a environmentální význam této činnosti jsou faktory, které dokládají, jak významná tato činnost je, a měly by se tudíž brát v úvahu a analyzovat při zvažování budoucích právních úprav. S ohledem na naši strategii rozvoje modré ekonomiky pomůže finanční a regulační podpora turistického rekreačního rybolovu v malých komunitách nebo méně rozvinutých regionech při diverzifikaci jejich příjmu a hospodářství. Podporuji také, aby členské státy EU shromažďovaly více údajů a aby přijaly nezbytnou regulaci s cílem zajistit dobrou úroveň údajů v rámci EU a ve všech našich přímořských oblastech, protože dostupné údaje a shromažďování údajů v odvětví rekreačního rybolovu chybějí nebo v některých případech nejsou vůbec dostupné.

2016/11/22

As shadow rapporteur for the ALDE Group on the EMIR REFIT proposal, I was pleased to support Parliament’s position. There are a number of areas of improvement compared with the Commission proposal. Importantly, there will be no legal limbo for pension funds in the period between August 2018 and the entry into force of the new EMIR Regulation. We have also worked hard to reduce the reporting burdens for counterparties, as well as minimising duplication in reporting. This is an example of better regulation in practice, and I hope that it could serve to inform other reviews which are ongoing in different areas of EU legislation.

2016/11/22

Navrhované nařízení o společných pravidlech v oblasti civilního letectví a o zřízení Agentury Evropské unie pro bezpečnost letectví (EASA) je součástí strategie v oblasti letectví zaměřené na zlepšení konkurenceschopnosti EU v odvětví letectví. Tato zpráva, pro niž jsem hlasoval, prosazuje celkovou bezpečnost letectví, ale současně zohledňuje také zájmy vyjádřené zúčastněnými stranami a obecný rozvoj letectví. EASA by měla hrát aktivnější a rozhodující úlohu v případech, kdy se členský stát rozhodne okamžitě reagovat na závažný problém v oblasti bezpečnosti civilního letectví odchýlením se od platných pravidel EU. Podporuji posílení mezinárodní spolupráce a prosazování norem EU a to, aby agentura mohla v rámci reakce na potřeby, které odvětví projevilo, zřídit místní úřady ve třetích zemích, kde jsou z hlediska odvětví zapotřebí.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report which introduces a new system for measuring and reporting on CO2 emissions and fuel consumption from heavy duty vehicles, (buses, lorries and coaches). They produce around 25% of CO2 emissions from road transport in the EU and around 6% of the EU’s total CO2 emissions. Action at EU level to curb these emissions is thus needed to reduce the carbon footprint of the EU’s transport sector. The new rules will prevent emissions from growing and set the first ever CO2 emission standards for heavy-duty vehicles in the EU. Trucks which produce around 25% of the CO2 emissions from road transport and yet, until now, did not have CO2 cap, will also contribute to achieving the goals of the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement. Finally, I think the new rules on the publication of information related to CO2 emissions and fuel consumption will allow for more transparency while preventing making commercially sensitive information from European truck manufacturers public.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro tuto zprávu. Vzdělání je klíčový ekonomický potenciál a základní faktor rozvoje v informační společnosti. Demografické a sociální výzvy, kterým Evropa čelí, požadavky pracovního trhu, nové technologie a individuální vzdělávací preference a potřeby udávají směr změn ve vzdělávání. Zásadní je, aby vzdělávací systémy (od mateřských škol po univerzity) nabízely nejen vysoce kvalitní znalosti, ale také odpovídající soubor kompetencí, včetně klíčové kompetence 21. století, tedy schopnosti celoživotního učení. Navíc je nutné zlepšit postavení učitelů, jejich pracovní podmínky, profesní vyhlídky a odměňování. Podporuji, aby vznikl Evropský prostor vzdělávání, který by byl v souladu s dosavadními výsledky Evropského prostoru vysokoškolského vzdělávání a Evropského prostoru výzkumu a inovací a představoval nový podnět pro rozvoj vzdělávání za současného dodržení zásad subsidiarity, svobody vzdělávání a institucionální autonomie.

2016/11/22

V Evropě akvakultura představuje přibližně 20 % produkce ryb a přímo zaměstnává přibližně 85 000 lidí. Odvětví tvoří především malé a střední podniky nebo mikropodniky v pobřežních a venkovských oblastech. Evropská akvakultura dodává vysoce kvalitní produkty a zároveň splňuje přísné normy v oblasti udržitelnosti a ochrany spotřebitele. Nicméně v důsledku hospodářské krize a stále silnější konkurence ze třetích zemí se objem produkce akvakultury v posledních deseti letech snižoval. Hlasoval jsem pro tuto zprávu a podporuji návrhy týkající se mimo jiné rozvinutí potenciálu akvakultury v EU, zjednodušení administrativních postupů, spravedlnosti při interakci s jinými odvětvími, přizpůsobení právních předpisů potřebám akvakultury, posílení konkurenceschopnosti akvakultury EU v Unii i za hranicemi a podpory výzkumu a inovací.

2016/11/22

The report, which I voted in favour of, concerns odometer tampering, or clocking – that is the malpractice of deliberate and unauthorised change of the mileage of a vehicle shown on its odometer. This problem is frequent and widespread in the EU, including cross—border. It also has a negative effect on third countries which import second—hand cars from the EU. I believe that the EU should have a common, integrated system of legal, technical and operational rules in order to prevent clocking in motor vehicles and ensure that European consumers do not purchase cars which have been fraudulently tampered with.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report, as I believe that it is crucial to strengthen Europe’s capacity to help Member States to respond to emergency crises efficiently. The Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM) was established in order to strengthen cooperation within the EU and to support coordination in the field of civil protection so that the EU responds to natural (e.g. flooding or forest fire seasons) and man—made disasters more effectively (e.g. the migration crisis and terrorist attacks). A dedicated reserve of reaction assets should be created at the EU level.

2016/11/22

The Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) is a programme that promotes the development of a high-performing, sustainable and interconnected trans-European network (TEN) in the fields of transport, energy and digital services infrastructure. However, today the development and rehabilitation of transport infrastructure still varies across the EU and is challenging in terms of capacity of financing, even though it is a crucial factor for sustainable growth, creation of jobs, competitiveness and social and territorial cohesion within the EU. I voted in favour of this resolution. Given the success of the CEF 2014-2020 programme, I support the idea of continuing it after 2020 while also moving towards a greener, truly integrated, modern, accessible-to-all, safer and efficient transport system.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this motion for a resolution. The current situation in Nicaragua is worrying. At least 84 people have been killed, more than 860 injured and over 400 arrested because of the peaceful student-led protests that started on 18 April 2018 in opposition to the social security reforms announced by President Daniel Ortega. The high number of casualties during the April demonstrations was due to brutal repression used by the state authorities. Furthermore, media outlets were arbitrarily banned by the Government. The April events in Nicaragua have led to significant concern in the EU, therefore I support the EU’s condemnation of the brutal repression and intimidation of peaceful protestors and the EU’s call on the Nicaraguan authorities to stop the violation of human rights.

2016/11/22

The principle of equality between women and men is a core value of the EU and within the EU’s external relations. Thus, the EU established the 5th Sustainable Development Goal (SDG5), with the aim of achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls in the world. The subsequent Gender Action Plan (2010-2015) (GAP I), despite several drawbacks, brought some progress, and the new Gender Action Plan II 2016-2020 (GAP II) puts emphasis on changing the EU institutional culture so that there is a systematic EU approach in its external relations to gender and the situation of women and girls. I voted in favour of this report because it recalls that some progress is essential and suggests concrete improvements, such as an effective mechanism to monitor and strengthen gender policy under trade agreements and to address the impact of (post-)conflict situations on women and girls.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report, as I regard the participation of youth in EU affairs as very important. The aim of the implementation of the EU Youth Strategy (EYS) is to present ideas for a more coordinated and focused EU strategy for sustainable growth and let our youth contribute to the EU’s development. I agree that the future EYS should be inclusive and centred around young people, including fields such as volunteering, supporting youth work and promoting EU values.

2016/11/22

The EU is focusing on the transition to a more sustainable, low-carbon economy, for instance within the framework of the Paris climate agreement. The EU has invested more than EUR 220 million from its budget in green and low-carbon projects. The Ecodesign Directive has been a successful instrument for the improvement of energy efficiency, i.e. greenhouse gas emissions have been significantly reduced and consumers enjoy more economic benefits. However, more product groups selected on the basis of their ecodesign potential should be included in the directive. Therefore, I voted in favour of the report that calls for an ambitious plan on ecodesign and the circular economy which ensures both environmental benefits and opportunities for sustainable growth and jobs, including SMEs and for consumers.

2016/11/22

The aim of the resolution is to draw attention to the abusive use of fixed-term contracts and zero-hour contacts. It also admits that the risk of precariousness exists in certain types of employment relationship, such as fixed-term, part-time and temporary contracts. In addition, it considers that, in general, zero-hour contracts are part of precarious employment and therefore new legislative instruments should be developed at the EU and national levels. However, for reasons of subsidiarity I voted against this resolution. Employment law is a national competence and the EU should not impose itself in this area while there are such differing approaches across the Union.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro tuto zprávu o poskytnutí pomoci Řecku, Španělsku, Francii a Portugalsku. Evropská komise navrhla uvolnit z Fondu solidarity Evropské unie (FSEU) finanční pomoc související s lesními požáry v Portugalsku a Španělsku, s hurikány ve Francii a zemětřeseními v Řecku. Přírodní pohromy, které se v EU vyskytly v průběhu roku 2017, způsobily ztrátu lidských životů a silně poničily zasažené regiony, z nichž je většina kvalifikována jako „méně rozvinuté regiony“. Uvolnění prostředků z Fondu solidarity EU je známkou solidarity Unie s jednotlivými zeměmi a Evropany, kteří byli těmito tragickými událostmi postiženi.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro tuto zprávu. Týká se návrhu změny rozpočtu na rok 2018 a navýšení prostředků (do 104 166 951 EUR) na pomoc členským státům v případě závažné přírodní katastrofy, která má vážné následky pro životní podmínky, životní prostředí nebo hospodářství. Přírodní pohromy, které se v EU vyskytly v průběhu roku 2017 v Řecku, Španělsku, Francii a Portugalsku, způsobily ztrátu lidských životů a silně poničily zasažené regiony, z nichž je většina kvalifikována jako „méně rozvinuté regiony“. Uvolnění prostředků z Fondu solidarity EU je známkou solidarity Unie s jednotlivými zeměmi a Evropany, kteří byli těmito tragickými událostmi postiženi.

2016/11/22

Evropský fond pro přizpůsobení se globalizaci (EFG) byl zřízen, aby poskytoval dodatečnou pomoc pracovníkům, které zasáhly důsledky velkých strukturálních změn světového obchodu. Hlasoval jsem pro tuto zprávu, protože souhlasím s tím, aby EFG poskytoval podporu pracovníkům, kteří byli propuštěni, a osobám samostatně výdělečně činným, které přestaly vykonávat svou činnost, v důsledku významných změn ve struktuře světového obchodu způsobených globalizací, v důsledku pokračující celosvětové finanční a hospodářské krize nebo v důsledku nové celosvětové finanční a hospodářské krize, a pomáhat těmto osobám při jejich opětovném začlenění na trh práce.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem proti námitce týkající se geneticky modifikované kukuřici GA21. Nesouhlasím s tím, že by Komise měla vzít zpět návrh prováděcího rozhodnutí o povolení uvedení produktů, které obsahují geneticky modifikovanou kukuřici GA21. Členské státy během tříměsíčního období konzultací ke stanovisku Evropského úřadu pro bezpečnost potravin (EFSA) z roku 2007 i stanovisku úřadu EFSA z roku 2017 předložily řadu kritických poznámek vzhledem k tomu, že členské státy ve své kritice poukazují mimo jiné na skutečnost, že chybí některé informace, které jsou zapotřebí k vyvození závěrů týkajících se posouzení rizik kukuřice GA21. Komise by také měla dodržovat své závazky podle Úmluvy OSN o biologické rozmanitosti tím, že pozastaví veškerý dovoz geneticky modifikovaných rostlin, které jsou tolerantní ke glyfosátu, a neschvalovat žádné geneticky modifikované rostliny tolerantní k herbicidům, aniž by bylo provedeno plné posouzení reziduí z postřiku doplňkovými herbicidy a z nich vyrobenými komerčními přípravky, jak jsou používány v zemích, kde se tyto rostliny pěstují.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem proti námitce týkající se geneticky modifikované kukuřici 1507 × 59122 × MON 810 × NK603 a geneticky modifikované kukuřice spojující dvě nebo tři z genetických modifikací 1507, 59122, MON 810 a NK603. Nesouhlasím s tím, že by Komise měla vzít zpět návrh prováděcího rozhodnutí o povolení uvedení produktů, které obsahují výše zmíněné druhy kukuřice. Komise by neměla povolit žádné geneticky modifikované rostliny tolerantní k herbicidům, aniž by bylo provedeno plné posouzení reziduí z postřiku doplňkovými herbicidy a z nich vyrobených komerčních přípravků, jak jsou používány v zemích, kde se tyto rostliny pěstují. Mělo by být také začleněno posouzení rizik využití doplňkových herbicidů a jejich reziduí do posouzení rizik geneticky modifikovaných rostlin tolerantních k herbicidům bez ohledu na to, zda je daná geneticky modifikovaná rostlina určena k pěstování v Unii nebo k dovozu jako potravina a krmivo.

2016/11/22

Trh s rybami v Evropské unii je největším trhem na světě, který pojme čtvrtinu veškerého dovozu. Naše závislost na dovozu téměř 60 % celkových dodávek má zřejmý dopad na politiku v odvětví rybolovu a obchodu v EU. Trh EU je totiž diskriminační, pokud jde o ryby a podmínky, které je nutné splnit k jejich uvedení na trh. Tato diskriminace odvětví rybolovu v EU neprospívá. Nařízení vykazuje určité nesrovnalosti a nejasnosti a již řadu let je zřejmé, že hlavní problém spočívá v nejednotném uplatňování nařízení ze strany členských států. Hodnocení Komise i zpráva Účetního dvora upozorňují na problémy mj. s ověřováním údajů, výměnou informací mezi členskými státy, nedostatečnými či chybějícími opatřeními pro uplatňování bodového systému a se sankcemi, které nebyly dostatečně odrazující. Hlasoval jsem pro tuto zprávu, protože stojím o přísnější, účinnější a harmonizovanější kontrolní režim pro EU, včetně lepší sledovatelnosti všech produktů rybolovu.

2016/11/22

Sdělení o modernizaci a zjednodušení společné zemědělské politiky (SZP) pod názvem „Budoucnost potravinářství a zemědělství“ bylo přijato Komisí v listopadu 2017. Text tohoto sdělení zahajuje proces vícestupňového schvalování, v jehož rámci mají orgány 27 členských států EU případně odsouhlasit právní předpisy určující SZP po roce 2020. Cílem sdělení je proto poskytnout jak základ, tak i rámec diskuse ohledně zemědělství mezi institucionálními i individuálními, veřejnými i soukromými subjekty napříč evropskou sedmadvacítkou. Hlasoval jsem pro tuto zprávu, protože věřím, že by měla být zajištěna podpora inteligentního a odolného zemědělství, posílení environmentálních a klimatických opatření a posílení sociálně-ekonomické struktury venkovských oblastí.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro zprávu o nové meziinstitucionální dohodě o zdokonalení tvorby právních předpisů („nová IID“), jejímž cílem je zlepšit způsob, jakým EU vydává právní předpisy a zajistit tak, aby legislativa EU lépe sloužila občanům a podnikům a aby zákony a politiky EU účinně dosahovaly svých cílů s minimálními administrativními překážkami. Nová IID stanoví společné závazky a cíle, obsahuje ustanovení o interinstitucionální spolupráci, pokud jde o víceleté a roční meziinstitucionální plánování, nástroje pro lepší tvorbu právních předpisů, legislativní nástroje, akty v přenesené pravomoci a prováděcí akty, transparentnost a koordinaci legislativního procesu, provádění a uplatňování právních předpisů Unie a zjednodušování.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro tento návrh usnesení. Podle mě je důležité, aby finanční rámec odrážel jasnou a pozitivní vizi budoucnosti Unie a reagoval na potřeby, obavy a očekávání občanů EU. Rozhodnutí o víceletém finančním rámci (VFR) bude muset zajistit Unii finanční prostředky nezbytnými k tomu, aby v příštím období sedmi let mohla řešit důležité výzvy a splnit své politické priority a cíle. Momentálně VFR na období let 2021 až 2027 tyto požadavky nesplňuje, protože ze srovnávacích údajů, které Komise na základě důrazné výzvy ze strany Parlamentu dne 18. května 2018 oficiálně zveřejnila, vyplývají jisté nesrovnalosti, pokud jde o způsob, jakým byla tato čísla v návrzích týkajících se VFR prezentována a sdělena. Nesrovnalosti se týkají mimo jiné společné zemědělské politiky (SZP), politiky soudržnosti a programu Erasmus+, které musí být co nejrychleji vyřešeny.

2016/11/22

. – This report outlines the European Parliament’s objectives to stabilise the current situation in Libya. Amongst others, it highlights the EP’s strong support for the UN Action Plan for Libya for the stabilisation of the country and for a political and inclusive national reconciliation process. Moreover, it recommends putting more effort into improving the protection of migrants and refugees in Libya and supporting a durable solution for the more than 180 000 internally displaced persons in the country. I voted in favour of this report as I agree that there should be stronger pressure put on the actors who hamper political negotiations for peace, for the UN-imposed arms embargo to be applied effectively, and for new sanctions to be considered against those who support illegal oil agreements.

2016/11/22

. – Schengenský prostor je jedním z největších úspěchů Evropské unie. Při poslední reformě správy Schengenu a po náročných jednáních získal Evropský parlament větší kontrolní pravomoci, které více odpovídají evropskému rámci. Jakkoli je i nadále založen na svrchované pravomoci členských států kontrolovat své hranice, stal se v roce 2013 schengenský systém evropštějším. Nicméně poslední tři roky byly značně náročné: schengenský prostor se ocitl pod nevídaným tlakem. Důvodem nebyla jeho struktura a správa, nýbrž selhání v částech acquis , jako jsou vnější hranice, a v oblastech s ním velmi úzce souvisejících, jako je společný evropský azylový systém. Zdržel jsem se hlasování pro tuto zprávu, protože zpráva není v souladu s postojem České republiky k otázce rozdělování uprchlíků mezi státy EU. Nadále je nutné hledat veškerá možná řešení, která zajistí rychlé a rozumné východisko ze současné situace pro všechny občany EU.

2016/11/22

. – Hlasoval jsem pro tuto zprávu. Jejím cílem je posouzení provádění směrnice 2012/29/EU, kterou se zavádí minimální pravidla pro práva, podporu a ochranu obětí trestného činu v členských státech EU. Soustředí se především na její konzistentnost, relevantnost, účelnost a účinnost. Každý rok se mnoho osob v EU stane obětmi zločinu – policii je nahlášeno okolo 30 milionů trestných činů, v to nepočítaje méně závažné trestné činy. Více a více lidí cestuje, žije nebo studuje v zahraničí, a stávají se proto potenciálními obětmi trestných činů spáchaných v jiné než jejich vlastní zemi. EU je pověřena zajistit, aby byli občané a cizinci cestující v rámci jejích hranic chráněni.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro tuto zprávu. Cílem stávajícího návrhu zprávy je podat přehled o provádění obchodní politiky a zmapovat uskutečněné kroky. Dalším cílem je ověřit, zda EU dodržuje závazky, které přijala od vydání obchodní strategie EU „Obchod pro všechny“, a zároveň analyzovat způsob, jakým byly tyto kroky uskutečněny. Jakožto největší světová obchodní velmoc musí Evropská unie podporovat zájmy podniků a občanů prováděním své obchodní politiky a zároveň sledovat cíl, kterým je spravedlivý a rovný obchod pro všechny, založený na pravidlech, jež je třeba dodržovat, a na klíčových zásadách, jako je reciprocita. Evropské podniky dostatečně nevyužívají výhod, které jim dohody o volném obchodu poskytují, zatímco u podniků z partnerských zemí je míra využívání preferencí mnohem vyšší. Z toho plyne, že je zásadní, aby byl obsah dohod uplatňován a aby hospodářské subjekty i spotřebitelé plně využívali evropské nástroje.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro prodloužení mandátu zvláštního výboru pro boj proti terorismu. Tento výbor hraje velmi důležitou roli, protože zahrnuje konzultace a slyšení s hlavními evropskými institucionálními aktéry a národními experty v mnohých oblastech boje proti terorismu a rovněž s příslušnými subjekty působícími v oblasti předcházení radikalizaci a poskytování pomoci obětem terorismu.

2016/11/22

Jedním z hlavních cílů reformy stávající společné rybářské politiky (SRP) je dosáhnout míry využití, která umožní maximální udržitelný výnos pro obnovu a zachování všech rybích populací na udržitelných úrovních. První víceletý plán řízení po reformě SRP byl přijat pro region Baltského moře. Nařízení (EU) 2016/1139 zavedlo víceletý plán pro populace tresky obecné, sledě obecného a šprota obecného v Baltském moři. Cílem plánu je zajistit, aby využívání dotčených populací obnovilo a zachovávalo stavy populací nad úrovněmi, které mohou poskytnout maximální udržitelný výnos. Nicméně z vědeckého hodnocení provedeného v roce 2017 vyplývá, že se příslušné hodnoty maximálního udržitelného výnosu populací sledě obecného v Botnickém moři a sledě obecného v Botnickém zálivu změnily. Hlasoval jsem pro tuto zprávu, protože nařízení potřebuje změnu s ohledem na nejnovější a nejlepší dostupné vědecké poradenství.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro zprávu k návrhu nařízení Evropského parlamentu a Rady o statistice přepravy věcí po vnitrozemských vodních cestách. Vnitrozemské vodní cesty jsou důležitou částí dopravní sítě Evropské unie. Podporuji promoci vnitrozemských vodních cest v rámci společné dopravní politiky za účelem zvýšení ekonomické výkonnosti i snížení využívání energie a negativních vlivů dopravy na životní prostředí. Souhlasím s tím, že by měla být zavedena statistika přepravy věcí v této oblasti dopravy za účelem zavedení lepší kontroly a rozvoje společné dopravní politiky EU (včetně regionů i mezinárodních dopravních sítí v Unii) i dosažení co nejvyšší úrovně srovnatelnosti mezi druhy dopravy.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro uzavření dohody ve formě výměny dopisů mezi EU a Švýcarskem o kumulaci původu mezi EU, Švýcarskem, Norskem a Tureckem v rámci všeobecného systému preferencí. Tato dohoda je nezbytná pro zajištění hladkého obchodování mezi EU a Švýcarskem. Byla vyjednána v roce 2010 s cílem zapracovat změny, k nimž došlo v důsledku reformy pravidel původu v rámci systému všeobecných celních preferencí („GSP“). Reforma zavedla nový systém kumulace původu registrovanými vývozci a zařazení Turecka do systému kumulace, který dosud fungoval mezi Unií, Švýcarskem a Norskem. Nový systém kumulace zahrnuje, že EU, Norsko, Švýcarsko a Turecko umožní zvýhodněným zemím GSP začlenit materiály z jakékoli země systému (EU, Švýcarsko, Norsko, Turecko) do svého výrobního procesu a vyvézt konečný výrobek do EU, Švýcarska, Norska nebo Turecka za zvýhodněných podmínek GSP za předpokladu, že byl konečný výrobek dostatečně opracován nebo zpracován.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro uzavření dohody ve formě výměny dopisů mezi EU a Norskem o kumulaci původu mezi EU, Švýcarskem, Norkem a Tureckem v rámci všeobecného systému preferencí. Tato dohoda je nezbytná pro zajištění hladkého obchodování mezi EU a Norskem. Byla v roce 2010 vyjednána s cílem zapracovat změny, k nimž došlo v důsledku reformy pravidel původu v rámci systému všeobecných celních preferencí („GSP“). Reforma zavedla nový systém kumulace původu registrovanými vývozci a zařazení Turecka do systému kumulace, který dosud fungoval mezi Unií, Švýcarskem a Norskem. Nový systém kumulace zahrnuje, že EU, Norsko, Švýcarsko a Turecko umožní zvýhodněným zemím GSP začlenit materiály z jakékoli země systému (EU, Švýcarsko, Norsko, Turecko) do svého výrobního procesu a vyvézt konečný výrobek do EU, Švýcarska, Norska nebo Turecka za zvýhodněných podmínek GSP za předpokladu, že byl konečný výrobek dostatečně opracován nebo zpracován.

2016/11/22

Evropská unie je z hlediska hodnoty největším globálním obchodníkem s produkty rybolovu a akvakultury. Evropští zákazníci v roce 2015 utratili za produkty rybolovu a akvakultury 54 miliard EUR, což představuje nejvyšší dosud zaznamenanou částku. Definice hodnotového řetězce obsahuje celou řadu činností, které se provádějí, aby se určitý výrobek či služba dostaly z místa původu až ke konečnému spotřebiteli. Pracovní místa v odvětví rybolovu jsou nicméně soustředěna pouze do několika zemí. Například samotné Španělsko představuje čtvrtinu všech pracovních míst v celé EU a čtyři země s nejvyšším počtem pracovních míst v odvětví rybolovu (Španělsko, Itálie, Řecko a Portugalsko) představují společně 70 %. Hlasoval jsem pro tuto zprávu o optimalizaci hodnotového řetězce v odvětví rybolovu EU, aby většina vytvořené hodnoty zůstala místním zpracovatelům a rybářům a aby se situace místních komunit zlepšila v podmínkách s dynamickou, výnosnou a udržitelnou hospodářskou činností.

2016/11/22

Podpořil jsem zprávu o provádění nástrojů SZP pro mladé zemědělce po reformě v roce 2013. Jejím cílem je zlepšit stávající režim podpory a pomoci mladým zemědělcům při překonávání hlavních překážek, s nimiž se potýkají při vstupu do zemědělství. Souhlasím se zachováním nástroje SZP na podporu mladých zemědělců, zvýšením maximální výše financování nad hranici 2 %, přehodnocením systému přímých plateb a vytvářením pobídek pro starší zemědělce, aby předávali své zemědělské podniky mladším generacím, omezením administrativních a dalších překážek (jako je přístup ke kapitálu, nedostatek podnikatelských dovedností a chybějící plány pro předávání podniků mladší generaci) a poskytnutím větší flexibility v souvislosti s měnícími se podmínkami na trzích.

2016/11/22

Rybolov v Severním moři a přilehlých oblastech je vysoce komplexní záležitost. Hlavní problém spočívá v tom, že mnohé z nejdůležitějších populací žijících při dně moře se loví při smíšeném rybolovu. V praxi to znamená, že po vytažení lovného zařízení se úlovek pokaždé skládá ze směsi různých druhů. Její složení se mění v závislosti na typu použitého lovného zařízení a místě a době jeho použití. Hlasoval jsem pro tuto zprávu, protože víceletý plán zajistí udržitelné využívání populací při dně, neboť zaručí, že budou využívány v souladu se zásadami maximálního udržitelného výnosu a ekosystémového přístupu k řízení rybolovu. Plán také přinese stabilitu rybolovných práv a současně zajistí, aby se řízení opíralo o nejaktuálnější odborné znalosti o populacích, smíšeném rybolovu a dalších aspektech ekosystému a životního prostředí.

2016/11/22

Vysílání pracovníků představuje zvláštní druh dočasné mobility pracovních sil založený na svobodě poskytovat služby přes hranice v rámci vnitřního trhu. Směrnice o vysílání pracovníků z roku 1996 stanovuje soubor povinných pravidel týkajících se pracovních podmínek, které se mají uplatňovat v souvislosti s vyslanými pracovníky. Přestože jsou vyslaní pracovníci zaměstnanci vysílající společnosti, a tudíž se na ně vztahují právní předpisy „vysílajícího“ členského státu, mají rovněž nárok na řadu základních práv platných v hostitelském členském státě. Nicméně během posledních dvou desetiletí se situace v hospodářství a na trhu práce v EU podstatně změnila – jednotný trh se rozvinul a mzdové rozdíly prohloubily. Hlasoval jsem proti této zprávě, protože momentálně navrhuje zpřísnění pravidel pro vyslané pracovníky, což naruší fungování volného pohybu služeb a ohrozí fungování českých firem. Zpráva nezaručuje odstranění nekalých praktik a prosazení zásady, podle níž by za tutéž práci na témže místě měli být pracovníci odměňováni stejným způsobem.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro tuto zprávu. Regionální organizace pro řízení rybolovu v jižním Tichomoří (SPRFMO) je nedávno založenou organizací, která doplňuje Komisi pro rybolov v západním a středním Tichém oceánu (WCPFC) a Meziamerickou komisi pro tropické tuňáky (IATTC). Odpovídá za hospodaření s rybolovnými zdroji jiných než vysoce stěhovavých druhů. Cílem návrhu Komise je převzít nejrůznější opatření na zachování a řízení rybolovných zdrojů (CMM), která byla dosud schválena a jichž je do současné doby 15 a která se vztahují na celé spektrum záležitostí – od nezákonného, nehlášeného a neregulovaného rybolovu, přes opatření na snížení úmrtnosti mořských ptáků až po průzkumný rybolov.

2016/11/22

This report focuses on the environmental aspects of sustainability (e.g. greenhouse gas emissions, Carbon Tax and mandatory reporting to encourage a transition towards climate-positive investments), the introduction of carbon stress tests and the establishment of a green taxonomy. While I am supportive of some points of the report, such as EIB actions to fund energy efficiency projects, I could not vote in favour of the final text. I abstained because I think that the text remains unclear and inconsistent and lacks definitions of basic concepts such as sustainability and green economy. Moreover, the wording on taxonomy is only partially satisfactory and it does not target the improvement of the decision-making nor the risk assessment of existing market players. Finally, the chapter on role of the ECB, especially regarding its purchase programme, and on Green Bonds are too far-reaching.

2016/11/22

V Unii je prosazování práva u soudů do značné míry stále věcí vnitrostátních procesních pravidel a praxe. Vnitrostátní soudy jsou rovněž soudy Unie. I řízení u těchto soudů musí tudíž zajistit rovný přístup, spravedlnost a účinnost, jakož i efektivní uplatňování práva Unie. Ačkoli jsou členské státy stranami Evropské úmluvy o ochraně lidských práv a základních svobod (EÚLP), zkušenost ukázala, že tato skutečnost sama o sobě ne vždy zaručuje dostatečnou úroveň důvěry v systémy soudnictví jiných členských států. Hlasoval jsem pro tuto zprávu, protože podporuji cíl spočívající v dosažení účinných, nezávislých a vysoce kvalitních systémů spravedlnosti v členských státech. Zvýšení účinnosti soudů může vést skutečně k rychlejšímu růstu ekonomiky a vnímání nezávislosti soudnictví ze strany podnikatelské sféry může podnítit růst produktivity. Pokud systémy soudnictví zaručují prosazování práv, jsou věřitelé s větší pravděpodobností ochotni poskytovat úvěry, podniky nemají tak silnou tendenci chovat se oportunisticky, snižují se transakční náklady a inovativní podniky s větší pravděpodobností investují.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro doporučení k návrhu rozhodnutí Rady EU o uzavření Protokolu k Dohodě o partnerství a spolupráci s Uzbekistánem s ohledem na přistoupení Chorvatska k Evropské unii. Dohoda mezi EU a Uzbekistánem byla podepsána už v roce 1996 a bylo nutné ji aktualizovat vzhledem k tomu, že Chorvatsko přistoupilo k EU v roce 2013 a mělo by být signatářem dohody jako plnohodnotný člen EU.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro toto doporučení k návrhu rozhodnutí Rady EU o uzavření Protokolu k Rámcové dohodě mezi EU a Korejskou republikou s ohledem na přistoupení Chorvatska k Evropské unii. Vzhledem k tomu, že Chorvatsko přistoupilo k EU v roce 2013, mělo by být signatářem dohody jako plnohodnotný člen EU. Tato rámcová dohoda vstoupila v platnost v roce 2014 a představuje první dohodu tohoto typu mezi Evropskou unií a jednou z asijských zemí. Dohoda umožnila posílit spolupráci Evropské unie s Jižní Koreou, která je klíčovým partnerem v regionu, a to v mnoha oblastech, jako jsou např. mír a bezpečnost, lidská práva a právní stát, životní prostředí, energetika či boj proti terorismu, korupci a organizovanému zločinu.

2016/11/22

One of the psychoactive substances identified by the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) and Europol is ADB-CHMINACA, of which one’s consumption might lead to death and hospitalisation. Moreover, EMCDDA and Europol found the substance in various forms, such as herbal material, powder or blotters. I voted in favour of this report, as I believe that Member States should have control measures on substances that have life-threatening toxicity effects and they should also include criminal penalties under their legislation to subject these substances to control measures.

2016/11/22

. ‒ One of the psychoactive substances identified by the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) and Europol as potentially leading to death and hospitalisation is CUMYL-4CN-BINACA. During their research, EMCDDA and Europol found the substance in various forms, such as herbal material and powder.I support this report because I believe that control measures on substances that have life-threatening toxicity effects should be applied in Member States. In addition, Member States should include criminal penalties under their legislation to subject these substances to control measures.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro zprávu o návrhu rozhodnutí Evropského parlamentu a Rady o uvolnění prostředků z Evropského fondu pro přizpůsobení se globalizaci na základě žádosti Belgie, protože tato země potřebovala finanční podporu pro svůj strojní sektor po propuštění 2 287 zaměstnanců ze strojního podniku Caterpillar Solar Gosselies v roce 2016. Věřím, že pracovníci, kteří jsou postiženi důsledky významných změn ve struktuře světového obchodu nebo důsledky celosvětové finanční a hospodářské krize, by měli získat účinnou a rychlou finanční podporu při opětovném začlenění na trh práce.

2016/11/22

The total number of fraud cases in 2016 was 15 % lower than in 2015 and their value had decreased by 8 %. Furthermore, 20 Member States are working on the establishment of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO). This report emphasises the need for effective cooperation among Member States, the EPPO, OLAF and Eurojust in combatting fraud.However, not all Member States have adopted anti-fraud strategies yet, and there are significant differences between their reporting processes and quality of inspections, concerning e.g. the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development, cohesion policy and fisheries and public procurement. I voted in favour of this report because it underlines the importance of strengthening measures against fraudulent irregularities, transparency and cooperation between Member States to combat fraud.

2016/11/22

I did not support this objection. I voted against the objection to the authorisation of new plant strains, which have received a favourable opinion by the EU scientific authority (EFSA). According to the Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms of the EFSA, there is no evidence for new hazards, modified exposure or scientific uncertainties about the genetically modified sugar beet H7-1.

2016/11/22

Cílem této výroční zprávy je provedení kontroly finančních aktivit Evropské investiční banky (EIB) podle Výroční zprávy EIB za rok 2016. EIB je největší multilaterální bankou a největším veřejným poskytovatelem úvěrů na světě, který působí na mezinárodních kapitálových trzích. Navíc EIB hraje klíčovou roli při zavádění stále většího počtu finančních nástrojů využívajících prostředky z rozpočtu EU k dosažení pákového efektu, tj. inovace a dovednosti, podpora malých a středních podniků a podniků se střední tržní kapitalizací, investice do infrastruktury a opatření v oblasti životního prostředí a klimatu. Nicméně bylo zjištěno, že EIB potřebuje zlepšení v některých svých oblastech. Hlasoval jsem pro tuto zprávu, protože zahrnuje důležitá doporučení k posílení správy a řízení, obchodních postupů a standardů v oblasti transparentnosti a odpovědnosti EIB.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro návrh usnesení, ve kterém Evropský parlament vyzývá venezuelskou vládu k okamžitému pozastavení prezidentských voleb do doby, než budou splněny podmínky pro věrohodné, transparentní a inkluzivní volby. Nedávný vývoj ve Venezuele způsobuje, že se situace v oblasti lidských práv, demokracie a právního státu dále zhoršuje a polarizuje. Venezuelská národní volební rada rozhodla omezit účast v současných místních a regionálních volbách na ty strany, které předloží kandidáty pro prezidentské volby do 20. května 2018. Navíc venezuelský nejvyšší soud rozhodl v lednu 2018 o vyloučení koalice opozičních stran Mesa de la Unidad Democrática (MUD) z účasti v prezidentských volbách, což představuje vážné porušení zásady spravedlivých voleb, když je opozičním kandidátům zakázáno účastnit se voleb svobodně a za rovných podmínek.

2016/11/22

. ‒ ‘ Promoting sustainable transport and removing bottlenecks in key network infrastructures’ is one of the 11 thematic objectives of the 2014-2020 cohesion policy. For decades, the EU’s cohesion policy has stood as one of the most important and visible policies of the European Union. The investments through the EU’s cohesion budget do not only deliver the long-term objectives of the European Union but also impact and benefit all citizens, local communities and businesses. In particular, transport infrastructure investments are among cohesion policy’s most tangible achievements. I voted in favour of this report, because I support an ambitious common EU transport policy and a strong emphasis on the transport area within cohesion policy and other EU financial instruments, supporting basic infrastructure and promoting sustainable transport, accessibility and connectivity.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro návrh usnesení o ochraně migrujících dětí. Evropský parlament v něm zdůrazňuje skutečnost, že všechny děti, bez ohledu na jejich status migranta nebo uprchlíka, mají v první řadě a především nárok na všechna práva zakotvená v Úmluvě OSN o právech dítěte. Navíc podporuji názor, že by Komise měla pomáhat členským státům s přijímáním a řádným uplatňováním uceleného přístupu založeného na právech ve všech politikách souvisejících s dětmi a také s uplatňováním zásady nejlepšího zájmu dítěte. Každé migrující dítě musí mít zajištěnou podporu a ochranu.

2016/11/22

Testování na zvířatech u konečných kosmetických přípravků je v EU zakázáno od září 2004 a zákaz testování kosmetických přísad na zvířatech platí od března 2009. I když je míra dodržování platných zákazů testování na zvířatech a uvádění testovaných výrobků na trh v Evropě velmi vysoká, závažným problémem, který přetrvává a je třeba řešit jej přednostně, je nedostatek úplné a spolehlivé dokumentace v informační složce k výrobkům, pokud jde o kosmetické přípravky dovážené do EU ze třetích zemí, ve kterých je testování na zvířatech nadále požadováno. Hlasoval jsem pro tento návrh usnesení o zavedení celosvětového zákazu testování kosmetických přípravků na zvířatech. Věřím, že by nařízení EU o kosmetických přípravcích mělo být použito jako model pro zavedení celosvětového zákazu testování kosmetických přípravků na zvířatech a zákazu mezinárodního obchodu s kosmetickými přísadami a přípravky testovanými na zvířatech.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report. It aims to support sheep and goat farming as this is one of the most fragile livestock-farming sectors in the European Union. The support includes, inter alia, a new environmental aid payment (in recognition of the key role the sheep and goat sectors play), the maintenance or the increasing of the voluntary coupled support (VCS) for the whole sector, and enhancing the European agricultural promotion campaigns of sheep and goat products in the EU and in participating third countries. The report also takes into consideration that producers should have their bargaining power strengthened within the food chain, and that the sheep and goat sector should be classified as sensitive sector in any trade negotiations with third countries. In addition, I agree that there should be measures introduced that would simplify the electronic identification system without putting at risk full product traceability.

2016/11/22

Právo na svobodu projevu a svobodu názoru jsou základními lidskými právy a nezbytnými podmínkami pro plný osobní rozvoj jednotlivců a jejich aktivní zapojení do demokratické společnosti, pro uskutečnění zásad transparentnosti a zodpovědnosti a také pro naplnění dalších lidských práv a základních svobod. Pluralitu nelze oddělit od svobody, demokracie a právního státu. Současně jsme svědky rostoucích obav společnosti EU vyvolaných falešnými zprávami, internetovou šikanou nebo pornografickou pomstou, ale také šířením falešných zpráv a dezinformací v sociálních médiích nebo prostřednictvím internetových vyhledávačů. Hlasoval jsem pro tuto zprávu, protože věřím, že by se tradiční sdělovací prostředky měly rozvíjet jako svobodné, nezávislé a pluralitní a získat zpět důvěryhodnost. Souhlasím také s tím, že by členské státy EU měly dělat vše pro to, aby nekalé praktiky a zločiny spáchané vůči novinářům státními i nestátními subjekty byly eliminovány.

2016/11/22

. ‒ In 2017 the Commission introduced the first proposal with a definitive system for the taxation of trade between EU Member States. It also announced that it would propose a reform of VAT rates consisting in maintaining a minimum for the standard VAT rate. I voted in favour of this report as I am convinced that despite the fact that Member States are granted flexibility in setting VAT rates, all of them should apply a standard VAT rate of at least 15%. Considering that all Member States currently apply a standard rate of at least 17%, the current arrangement for a minimum standard rate of 15% remains appropriate. It will implement an agreed limit that ensures functionality of the internal market, but also leaves flexibility for Member States in determining their standard VAT rates at the same time.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report. A new anti-money laundering directive is an essential part of the EU regulatory framework to combat financial crime and terrorist financing. The national anti-money laundering units’ powers will be strongly reinforced, thus allowing them to better follow the money and detect suspicious transactions. These new rules provide for more transparency, including public access to information about who really owns the companies or trusts involved in a financial transaction, which I believe is the best deterrent to money laundering. I consider it important that all sides of trade agreements and partnerships are bound by key transparency standards.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this regulation. It ensures reliable, harmonised and transparent type-approval and market surveillance procedures in the Member States. I believe that manufacturers of vehicles circulating in the European Union should be required to submit those vehicles for testing both before placing them on the market and during their lifetime. Consumer protection is a priority of the European Union, and Member States and the Commission should guarantee appropriate surveillance.

2016/11/22

. ‒ Parliament has managed to set an appropriate approximation for the budget for 2019 in key areas. These areas are, amongst others, the 2019 European elections (political activities of Members, Parliament’s communication strategy and enabling European parties to implement political campaigns), security (finishing security projects), buildings (e.g. additional offices for MEPs), better communication with citizens, IT developments, services for MEPs (e.g. extended training), and a green approach to transport (encouraging sustainable mobility). Moreover, this report reiterates previous calls for more accountability and transparency regarding the general expenditure allowance (GEA) for Members, while avoiding more bureaucracy, which would require more staff to audit receipts and approve expenditure, thereby entailing higher costs to the taxpayer.

2016/11/22

Statistical information on businesses for policy-making and other purposes is growing. However, the current system for producing European business statistics leads to inconsistencies in the data collected. The proposed regulation establishes a common legal framework for the development, production and dissemination of European statistics related to the structure, the economic activities and the performance of businesses, as well as on their international transactions. I believe this text will streamline, modernise and simplify existing rules and reduce the administrative burden for businesses.

2016/11/22

Freedom of expression and information is a fundamental right, enshrined, inter alia, in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU. It is necessary to take adequate measures at national level to protect and promote a pluralist, independent and free media, as well as to guarantee the protection of whistle-blowers, who often risk their lives to defend public interest. I voted in favour of this motion for resolution because I am concerned at the abuse, crimes and deadly attacks still being committed against journalists and media workers in the European Union, such as the recent murder of Slovak journalist Ján Kuciak and his partner Martina Kušnírová. I consider it crucial that Member States’ authorities guarantee and maintain a safe and free media environment.

2016/11/22

Although there has been an improvement in the size, scope, composition and influence of civil society organisations (CSOs) around the world for the last few decades, they are facing difficulties in securing enough funds to develop and perform their activities independently and effectively. I voted in favour of this resolution which calls for the setting up of a funding instrument – the European Values Instrument – to promote and protect EU values, especially democracy, freedom, the rule of law and fundamental rights, within the EU budget of the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). The new instrument should fund civil society organisations which are active at local and national level in promoting and protecting EU values.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this motion for resolution because I condemn the violation of human rights and the rule of law in the case of two Greek soldiers arrested and detained in Turkey in March 2018 for the allegedly illegal crossing of the Greek-Turkish border. Now those two soldiers have been held in a Turkish prison for more than one month without charges being brought against them. Furthermore, they are unaware of the crime which they are accused of. Therefore, I support the Greek Government’s efforts to secure the release and return of the lieutenant and sergeant who were on a regular patrol tour of the border.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report. Its goal is to assess the use of current mechanisms for national parliaments’ participation in the European political process. I believe that national parliaments in the EU should play a stronger role in the EU process and scrutinise compliance with the principle of subsidiarity on the basis of the so-called early warning system (EWS). However, the current EWS has rarely been used since the entry into force of the Treaty of Lisbon. This system should thus be reformed and simplified, as underlined in this report.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report. Competition policy has always been an important element for the European Union, crucial for the functioning of the single market. This report aims at providing the EP assessment of the Commission report on Competition Policy for 2016, which gives detailed information on the most important policy and legislative initiatives, and on decisions adopted by the European Commission in application of EU competition law during that year.

2016/11/22

Vaccinations are unquestionably one of the most cost-effective public health measures available. All EU Member States recommend vaccination against serious, sometimes life-threatening diseases. However, some vaccines remain undervalued and under-used and an increasing number of parents and patients are choosing to delay or refuse vaccines. Recent epidemiological data on the situation of vaccinations in the Member States shows a significant drop in the use of vaccines. Therefore, I voted in favour of motion for resolution on the subject of vaccinations because I believe that there should be a more harmonised schedule for vaccinations across the EU and Member States should strengthen their support for national vaccination initiatives.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report. It assesses how Member States apply the mechanism allowing persons who benefit from a protection order in criminal matters issued in one Member State to request a European Protection Order (EPO). However, since the transposition of the EPO Directive in 2011, only seven EPOs have been issued across the Member States, even though thousands of national protection orders have been requested and issued in the Member States in recent years. In order to enhance the use of this instrument, coordination and communication among the Member States during EPO executions should be reinforced. Moreover, the issuance of the protection order must be fast, effective, efficient and automatic, and involve minimum bureaucracy.

2016/11/22

. ‒ The implementation of the Bologna process, an agreement between member countries which facilitates mutual recognition of higher education diplomas across 48 countries, is still fragmented. Although the process has promoted the mobility of students, teachers, researchers and administrative staff, participating members should increase their political engagement and foster mutual cooperation in the implementation of this agreement. I believe that better implementation of this process could foster our common sense of belonging to the European project through our education system.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this decision. Member States have reached an agreement to schedule the next European Parliament election in the period from 23 to 26 May 2019, instead of from 6 to 9 June 2019. After certain Member States had reported that it would be impossible to hold the elections in early June 2019, Ministers of European Affairs had to change the timetable unanimously, on the basis of an opinion of the European Parliament.

2016/11/22

Evropská unie a Austrálie jsou blízkými partnery už déle než padesát let. Obě strany slavily 55. výročí spolupráce a diplomatických vztahů a uzavřely rámcovou dohodu v roce 2017. Hlasoval jsem pro tento návrh Evropského parlamentu, protože věřím, že by EU a Austrálie měly udržovat výborné bilaterální vztahy a nadále zlepšovat spolupráci v oblastech trhu, životního prostředí, zahraniční politiky a bezpečnosti.

2016/11/22

Evropská unie a Austrálie jsou blízkými partnery už déle než padesát let. Obě strany slavily 55. výročí spolupráce a diplomatických vztahů a uzavřely rámcovou dohodu v roce 2017. Hlasoval jsem pro tuto rezoluci, protože věřím, že by EU a Austrálie měly udržovat výborné bilaterální vztahy a nadále zlepšovat spolupráci v oblastech trhu, životního prostředí, zahraniční politiky a bezpečnosti.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro doporučení k návrhu o uzavření Úmluvy Rady Evropy o prevenci terorismu jménem Evropské unie. Je to důležitá úmluva, protože její cílem je zvýšit úsilí EU v oblasti lidských práv, a to jak prostřednictvím opatření na vnitrostátní úrovni, tak prostřednictvím mezinárodní spolupráce.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro doporučení k návrhu o uzavření dodatkového protokolu k Úmluvě Rady Evropy o prevenci terorismu jménem Evropské unie. Tento dodatkový protokol považuji za důležitý, protože doplňuje úmluvu sérií ustanovení zaměřených na provádění trestněprávních aspektů rezoluce Rady bezpečnosti OSN o hrozbách mezinárodnímu míru a bezpečnosti způsobené teroristickými akcemi a má za účel zabránit a omezit tok zahraničních teroristických bojovníků do oblasti konfliktů.

2016/11/22

Eurostat estimates that in 2013 more than 79.368 million tonnes of packaging waste was generated in Europe, some 500 000 tonnes more than in 2012. In the next few years, it is anticipated that the quantities of packaging placed on the market will continue to increase. I voted in favour of this report as I believe that it sets out clear and necessary measures for Member States to minimise the environmental impact of packaging and use the opportunity for waste management to be transformed into sustainable material management.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report. It stresses the importance of removing hazardous substances from products at the design stage and of effective and low—energy consumption management of secondary raw materials, so that the circular economy remains effective and sustainable. This report also contains the necessary guidelines for Member States to use a quality check report and a common methodology for the collection, organisation and processing of data based on reliable sources. Those points raised in the report are necessary for an effective and sustainable circular economy.

2016/11/22

Currently the environment and human health are facing a significant threat owing to weak waste management. I voted in favour of this report because it is designed to guide Member States on how to effectively prevent or reduce the adverse impacts of generating and mismanaging waste, on how to improve waste prevention and on how to apply a waste hierarchy in order to enhance the transition towards a circular economy.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report because it supports effective action to foster the efficient use of resources and a reduction in the production of waste and in its environmental impact, so as to encourage by practical means the transition to a circular economy. With the circular economy, the environment will receive greater protection. In the meantime, reindustrialisation will be promoted, European competitiveness will be increased in the global context and the creation of quality jobs and new business opportunities will be fostered.

2016/11/22

Attempts by EU Member States to streamline reporting obligations started with the Standardised Reporting Directive (SRD) in 1991, but a certain number of acts of Union law in the field of environment that were adopted under the SRD have become obsolete. I voted in favour of this report because it is a new initiative of the package that repeals the SRD and amends six legal acts referring to it. For the sake of legal clarity, the SRD repeal decision amends all references to the SRD where these are obsolete, such as in the Emission Trading Scheme, the Ship Recycling Regulation, the Carbon Capture and Storage Directive and in the Sewage Sludge Directive.

2016/11/22

The EU institutions should act as role models in the fields of the rule of law, transparency and good administration. Moreover, they should have sufficient internal checks and balances to react appropriately whenever these fundamental rights are violated or threatened. However, the European Commission in February 2018 appointed its new Secretary-General in violation of the rules on open and transparent candidate application procedures. I voted in favour of this motion for a resolution which highlights that all the EU institutions, including the European Commission, should act with maximum transparency and allow for equal opportunities for the best candidates for senior official positions.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this motion for a resolution. The aim of this report is to evaluate the progress made by Member States within the UN Global Compacts. The motions for resolutions address significant topics on the EU’s agenda, i.e. relations within the context of international organisations (UN, OSCE, OECD, Council of Europe, EBRD), asylum, refugees and displaced persons, and migration policy. I believe that the EU Member States should unite and actively address the challenges related to human mobility caused by climate change, conflict and economic hardships, as Europe is one of the leading destinations of migrants and refugees.

2016/11/22

Over a seven-year period, between 2014 and 2020, the European Union (EU) dedicated EUR 51.8 billion to its external action. A large share of this funding, EUR 32 billion, is disbursed through so-called external financial instruments (‘the instruments’). I voted in favour of this report because I believe that, in the light of challenging conditions, the EU’s funding of external relations instruments should reflect ambitious external actions, and the budget allocations for global actions should increase. Moreover, the following use of EU external funds should be simplified. The report recommends the elimination of administrative and bureaucratic burdens within financial instruments, the harmonisation of services of the Commission and EEAS and the creation of a one-stop-shop for external organisations applying for EU funding.

2016/11/22

The principles of subsidiarity and proportionality are fundamental principles inherent to the efficient running of the Union. These principles ensure an efficient European legislative process while respecting national sovereignty. It is the Member States’ duty to make sure that the application of these principles maintains that balance. I voted in favour of this report because it encourages citizens, stakeholders and national parliaments to interact in the various stages of the European legislative process and aims to simplify the existing communication system of this process.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report. It recommends to grant the Commission and EU executive agencies discharge in respect of the implementation of their budgets for the financial year 2016. Moreover, Member States should focus on, amongst other things, the quick delivery of cohesion policy programmes and related payments, and the improvement of the transparency of migration policy financing. I believe that the EU budget should be presented according to the EU’s political objectives for the MFF and have true European added value budget, which promotes common Union objectives such as sustainable economic and social development in all Member States.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report because it contains important recommendations to improve the use of EU funds in many fields ranging from climate action, external aid to cohesion policy. The Court of Auditors provides important information on issues of concern related to the implementation of funds. The special reports of the Court of Auditors form an integral part of Parliament’s decision on the general discharge in relation to the implementation of the general budget of the EU for the financial year 2016.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report because it includes important observations and recommendations on how to improve the European Development Funds (EDFs). Despite the Commission’s efforts to improve the overall financial management of the EDFs, the supervisory and control systems have still been only partially effective. Moreover, the report recalls the importance of EU trust funds to provide a rapid political response in case of a lack of resources to certain crises (such as the migration crisis) and to grant financial support to partner countries only if they provide sufficient transparency, traceability and accountability and if they fulfil their obligations in reform policies.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report which includes a recommendation to give discharge to the European Parliament’s President in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Parliament for the financial year 2016. In the year 2016 a very high level of budget implementation was achieved. Nevertheless, there is room for improvement in specific areas, such as enhanced social media strategy concerning the European Parliament elections, review of the system for calculating reimbursements for visitors and accredited parliamentary assistants of MEPs, protection of British staff from being victims of Brexit, assessment of the current situation of the voluntary pension fund, and the renewal of the car fleet.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report because I agree that the budget of the European Council and the Council should be separated in order to contribute to the transparency of the financial management of the institutions and to improve the accountability of both institutions. Furthermore, the institutions should establish an independent disclosure, advice and referral body with sufficient budgetary resources, in order to help whistle-blowers use the right channels to disclose information on possible irregularities affecting the financial interests of the EU, while protecting their confidentiality and offering support and advice.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report recommending the European Parliament to give discharge to the Registrar of the Court of Justice in respect of the implementation of the Court’s budget for the financial year 2016. There were no significant weaknesses related to human resources and procurement of the Court and payments as a whole for the year 2016 were free from material error. However, the Court of Justice should continue to ensure sound financial planning in order to avoid over—estimation of its commitment for missions and subsequent discrepancies.

2016/11/22

The financial statements of the Court give a true and fair view of the financial position of the Court. Moreover, in 2016 the overall rate of implementation for the budget by the Court of Auditors was 99%. I thus voted in favour of giving discharge to the Secretary—General of the European Court of Auditors.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of granting discharge to the Secretary—General of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) because I am satisfied with the financial performance of this institution in 2016. The EESC’s administrative and other expenditures were free from material error and no substantial weaknesses were identified with regards to the audited topics on human resources and procurement.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of granting discharge to the Committee of the Regions because I am satisfied with the financial performance of this institution in 2016. The Committee of the Regions’ administrative and other expenditures were free from material error and no substantial weaknesses were identified with regards to the audited topics on human resources and procurement.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of granting the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy discharge because I am satisfied with the overall financial performance of this institution in 2016. The EEAS has continued to implement its administrative budget without being affected by major errors. However, the Court of Auditors identified several weaknesses in procurement procedures organised by Union delegations and in providing sufficient training, support and advice to the delegation staff responsible for procurement. Therefore, the EEAS should improve the efficiency of its administrative budget, especially for the delegations.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of granting discharge to the European Ombudsman because I am satisfied with the financial performance of this office in the financial year 2016. There were no significant weaknesses related to human resources and procurement and payments as a whole for the year 2016 were free from material error.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of granting discharge to the European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) because I am satisfied with the financial performance of this agency in 2016. The EDPS’ administrative and other expenditures were free from material error. Moreover, the examined supervisory and control systems for administrative and other expenditure of the EDPS were effective.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Union agencies for the financial year 2016: performance, financial management and control. However, the agencies should further strengthen their efforts to lower the level of carryovers of committed appropriations in the budgetary and financial management and to diminish errors in procurement.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Agency for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Office of the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (BEREC) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Office for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Translation Centre for the Bodies of the European Union (CdT) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Centre for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (CEDEFOP) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Centre for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Training (CEPOL) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Agency for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Agency for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report calling on postponing the European Parliament’s decision on granting the European Asylum Support Office discharge in respect of the implementation of the Office’s budget for the financial year 2016. There were a number of outstanding issues and on—going corrective actions identified in response to the Court of Auditors’ comments in 2013 and 2014 related to late payments, internal control standards (ICSs) and high staff turnover. I agree that there has been a lack of rigour in the Office’s procurement procedures.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Banking Authority (EBA) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Authority for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Centre for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Agency for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Environment Agency (EEA) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Agency for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Agency for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Authority for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Institute for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Authority for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Institute for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Agency for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Centre for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Maritime Safety Agency for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Agency for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Union Agency for Network and Information Security (ENISA) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Agency for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Union Agency for Railways (ERA) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Agency for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Securities and Markets Authority for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Authority for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Training Foundation (ETF) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Foundation for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Agency for the operational management of large—scale IT systems in the area of freedom, security and justice (eu—LISA) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Agency for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Agency for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Euratom Supply Agency (ESA) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Agency for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions (Eurofound) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Foundation for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the EU Judicial Cooperation Unit (Eurojust) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Agency for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Police Office (Europol) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Agency for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Agency for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Agency for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European GNSS Agency (GSA) for the financial year 2016. The annual accounts of the Agency for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Bio-based industries (BBI) Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2016. I also supported the European Parliament to grant the Agency’s Executive Director discharge. The annual accounts of the BBI for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Clean Sky 2 Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2016. I also supported the European Parliament to grant the joint undertaking’s Executive Director discharge. The annual accounts of the Clean Sky 2 Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the ECSEL Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2016. I also supported the European Parliament to grant the joint undertaking’s Executive Director discharge. The annual accounts of the ECSEL Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen 2 Joint Undertaking (FCH2) for the financial year 2016. I also supported the European Parliament to grant the joint undertaking’s Executive Director discharge. The annual accounts of the FCH2 for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Innovative Medicines Initiative (IMI2) for the financial year 2016. I also supported the European Parliament to grant the joint undertaking’s Executive Director discharge. The annual accounts of the IMI2 for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the ITER and the Development of Fusion Energy for the financial year 2016. I also supported the European Parliament to grant the joint undertaking’s Executive Director discharge. The annual accounts of the ITER and the Development of Fusion Energy for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the SESAR Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2016. I also supported the European Parliament to grant the joint undertaking’s Executive Director discharge. The annual accounts of the SESAR Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Shift2Rail Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2016. I also supported the European Parliament to grant the joint undertaking’s Executive Director discharge. The annual accounts of the Shift2Rail Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2016 were reliable and the underlying transactions were legal and regular.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro uzavření dohody s Libanonem. Libanon splňuje požadavky dohody a je důležitým partnerem EU ve Středomoří v rámci Partnerství pro výzkum a inovace v oblasti Středomoří (PRIMA). Konkrétním cílem partnerství PRIMA jsou vědecké a technologické spolupráce a také posílení a podpora vnitrostátních výzkumných a inovačních programů ve středomořských zemích. PRIMA je navíc jeden z nemnoha pokusů o vědeckou diplomacii, který by mohl přispět k řešení nucené emigrace obyvatel Středomoří (včetně Libanonu) a jejích základních příčin.

2016/11/22

. ‒ The Indian Ocean is the second-largest provider of tuna in the world and the biggest source of tuna catches for EU fleets. Fisheries and ocean economy in this area concerns also Mauritius, with which the European Union has been cooperating since 1989 when both parties signed their first bilateral fishing agreement. In 2017 the EU and Mauritius initialled a new Protocol to continue successful and stable cooperation and environmental policy as well as to promote sustainability. I voted in favour of this recommendation, as I believe that the EU and Mauritius have been and should remain close partners in the field of fisheries and environment.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro uzavření dohody mezi EU a Norskem o dodatečných obchodních preferencích pro zemědělské produkty. Tato dohoda nabídne vývozcům v EU nové obchodní příležitosti a prohloubí obchodní vztahy mezi oběma stranami. Pokud jde o obchod se zbožím, Norsko je sedmým nejvýznamnějším obchodním partnerem EU. Cílem nové dohody je další zvýšení liberalizace obchodu, rozšíření stávajících celních kvót, zavedení nových celních kvót pro další zemědělské produkty a odstranění některých přetrvávajících překážek obchodu, například valorických místo specifických cel na určené druhy zemědělských výrobků.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I voted in favour of the European strategy for the promotion of protein crops. This strategy aims to encourage the production of protein and leguminous plants in the European agriculture sector and reduce the EU’s considerable dependency on imports of protein crops that are used predominantly for animal feed. The European Union is facing the serious challenge of a major deficit in vegetable proteins due to the needs of its livestock sector which is dependent on feed imports from third countries. The objective of the European strategy is, inter alia, to facilitate the cultivation of soya in the EU as a profitable and competitive product.

2016/11/22

. ‒ 195 countries signed the Paris Climate Agreement in December 2015 to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, and make efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels. In light of this agreement the European Council in 2014 set a target of at least 40% reduction in emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG), compared to levels in 1990s. GHG include LULUCF (land use, land-use change and forestry), i.e. the carbon pools of living biomass, dead organic matter and organic soil carbon. I voted in favour of this report because it aims to extend the EU legal framework for GHG emissions and LULUCF removals from managed land in the EU.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report because I consider it crucial that the EU meets its commitments under the Paris Agreement that entered into force in November 2016. The aim of the EU Member States is to reduce annual greenhouse gas emissions between 2021 and 2030 for a resilient Energy Union (the Union that ensures secure, affordable and climate-friendly energy) and strengthen the global response to the threat of climate change as well as support sustainable development and eradicate poverty.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report. It contains necessary rules on eligibility for European politicial parties or political foundations that wish to receive funding. In order to be financially suported, those parties or foundations have to respect the principal EU values, such as respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and human rights. Moreover, I believe that the funding of political foundations or parties should be more transparent and subject to stricter scrutiny.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report. It aims to establish a long-term strategy in EU Member States for the transformation of the national stock of residential and commercial buildings, both public and private, into a highly energy-efficient and decarbonised building stock by 2050. I believe that EU Member States should mobilise their investment to facilitate the necessary renovation of buildings, in accordance with the COP21 Agreement on Climate Change signed in 2015. Moreover, I agree that the development and implementation of Member States’ long-term renovation strategies should be supported by structured and permanent stakeholder platforms.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro tuto zprávu, protože nabízí důležitá doporučení ke zlepšení provádění programu a návrhy pro příští akční programy v oblasti životního prostředí. Jedná se zejména o ochranu, zachování a rozvoj přírodního bohatství EU, změnu v zeleném a konkurenceschopném nízkouhlíkovém hospodářství a zároveň o ochranu občanů EU před environmentálními tlaky a riziky ovlivňujícími jejich zdraví. Sedmý akční program pro životní prostředí také přispívá k soudržnosti jednotlivých politik a k vytváření dlouhodobé strategie jak na úrovni Evropské unie, tak na úrovni členských států.

2016/11/22

Média zásadně ovlivňují politiku a společnost. Jejich řádnému a vyváženému fungování tudíž musíme věnovat náležitou pozornost. K tomu nepochybně patří i vyváženost z pohledu rovnosti žen a mužů. Hlasoval jsem pro tuto zprávu, protože věřím, že by ženy neměly být diskriminovány v oblasti médií. Jak veřejnoprávní, tak i soukromá média mají sloužit celé společnosti, a je tedy žádoucí, aby jejich podoba a práce odpovídala tomu, že polovinu společnosti tvoří ženy. Přestože je počet žen mezi absolventy mediálních oborů vyšší než mužů, jen něco mezi 30–40 % vedoucích postů v médiích je v EU obsazeno ženami.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this motion for a resolution in order to support women and girls in the digital sector. For the last few decades digitalisation and technical development have been revolutionising and substantially changing the way that people communicate, study, work and exchange information. Despite this enormous improvement in communication, women and girls use technology and the Internet less than men and boys and are often subjected to hate speech and threats through cyber-harassment. I believe that Member States should do more to protect their citizens from all possible forms of online bullying and help them benefit from digital and technological development in their education, work and daily life.

2016/11/22

The aim of this report is to contribute to the review of the European Development Fund (EDF), the Development Cooperation Instrument (DCI) and the Humanitarian Aid Instrument (HAI), launched by the Commission to assess their appropriateness to the EU objectives in development cooperation and humanitarian aid policies. One of the key recommendations of this report is that the important challenges the EU is facing, both internally and at its external borders, should not weaken its development agenda. Indeed, I believe that development and humanitarian aid are essential for addressing the root causes of some of the current crises Europe is facing, like the migration crisis. As outlined in this text, it is thus essential that development cooperation and humanitarian aid policies remain on top of the EU agenda and fulfil their primary objectives enshrined in the Treaty.

2016/11/22

Debt is harmful for many developing countries, and the funds available in these countries are often used for consumer spending or eroded by corruption. Even though debt should be used for the purpose of lasting investment while consumer spending should be financed by cash, the situation in several states is completely different, and ill-considered lending may lead to an inadmissible risk for both savers and borrowers for many years. I voted in favour of this report. It details the necessary steps for addressing sovereign debt problems and helping developing countries achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, such as fighting against tax havens, tax avoidance and illicit financial flows that increase the debt burden.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the 7th Cohesion Report because it outlines clear guidelines on how to strengthen economic, social and territorial cohesion in the European Union. Regional disparities have been a permanent fixture in the EU. Moreover, there are substantial development disparities also within the Eurozone. I agree that Member States should set employment, social inclusion, fighting poverty, supporting innovation, digitalisation, climate change and economic growth as priorities for cohesion policy in future.

2016/11/22

. ‒ This report is to denounce the Fisheries Partnership Agreement (FPA) between the European Union and the Union of the Comoros. I voted in favour of this report, because I believe that the EU should strengthen its measures to protect EU fisheries. The FPA’s goal is to maintain effective and safe conservation and management of fish stocks and prevent illegal, undeclared or unregulated fishing. However, the Union of the Comoros proved to be persistently failing to discharge its duties stated in the EU-Comoros Agreement and I see the denunciation of the FPA as an effective method to avoid further risks in the fishing industry.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the motion for a resolution, because the Union of the Comoros did not fulfil its duties within the EU-Comoros Fisheries Partnership Agreement. The Union of the Comoros has long been involved in piracy of fishing licences and in illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. Moreover, Comoros did not react to the EU’s warnings to respect the common agreement. Therefore, I believe that denunciation of this agreement is the right way to protect the EU’s fishing industry.

2016/11/22

The European Commission proposed to increase the EU’s efforts to update, modernise and improve European tools and services concerning skills, competences and qualifications. The European Parliament supports the idea that qualifications and competences should be more transparent. In order to achieve this transparency, the modernised Europass framework, which is based on a portfolio of documents, should be understandable and interoperable within and between the Member States. I voted in favour of this report because I am convinced that fair and transparent web-based Europass tools should be available and usable for all employers and employees working within the EU.

2016/11/22

The Committee on Culture and Education adopted the report to establish the Creative Europe programme (from 2014 to 2020). Moreover, the aim is also to include the European Union Youth Orchestra (EUYO) so that the European cultural and creative sectors across all the Member States are supported. Not only does the EUYO demonstrate its unique musical talent, but it also promotes Europe’s core values and communicates with the youngest generations in Member States. I voted in favour because I believe that the EUYO should be supported by sufficient funding within the Creative Europe programme so that it can further develop and continue its great work.

2016/11/22

The European Medicines Agency, which is responsible for the scientific evaluation, supervision and safety monitoring of medicines in the EU, is currently located in London. However, given the fact that the United Kingdom is in the process of leaving the Union, the Agency’s headquarters need to be relocated. In the summer of 2017 the EU27 Ministers voted for Amsterdam to replace London. I voted in favour of the EMA’s move to the capital city of the Netherlands, provided that the authorities inform the European Parliament every three months about the state of construction of the new EMA office.

2016/11/22

Společně s poslanci Evropského parlamentu jsem hlasoval pro přijetí směrnice o společném konsolidovaném základu daně z příjmu právnických osob (CCCTB). Navržený systém CCCTB by měl sjednotit podmínky pro podnikání a danění na jednotném vnitřním trhu EU. Návrh směrnice o CCCTB uvádí technická pravidla pro konsolidaci zisků a rozdělení konsolidovaného základu daně mezi způsobilé členské státy. Návrh obsahuje řadu ustanovení proti vyhýbání se daňovým povinnostem právnických osob. Navržený systém bude všem společnostem a skupinám společností, které vykonávají zdanitelnou činnost ve více než jednom členském státě Evropské unie, umožňovat, aby vyřizovaly své daňové povinnosti na základě jednotných pravidel pro výpočet základu daně, jednaly pouze s jednou daňovou správou a podávaly jediné konsolidované daňové přiznání k dani z příjmů právnických osob, co povede mimo jiné k podstatnému snížení administrativních nákladů a přispěje k odstranění překážek pro přeshraniční investování v rámci EU.

2016/11/22

Společně s poslanci Evropského parlamentu jsem hlasoval pro přijetí směrnice o společném základu daně (CCTB), pro niž jsem byl zpravodajem své frakce ALDE. Cílem směrnice o CCTB je zavést jednotný soubor pravidel pro výpočet základu daně z příjmů právnických osob na vnitřním trhu EU. Podobně jako návrh směrnice CCCTB předložila Evropská komise návrh směrnice CCTB v rámci boje za zvýšení daňové transparentnosti a spravedlivé placení daní na podzim 2016.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this resolution because it presents a coherent and sound plan for the EU budget in 2019. The resolution contains important points related to responses to challenges for the EU and citizens’ expectations, and helps to prepare a sustainable future within and outside the EU.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the motions for resolutions on Syria. The EU should react quickly and effectively to the devastating war that has been ongoing in Syria for seven years. The situation in Syria has not been improving for a long time and the EU must work with international partners in order to help Syrians stabilise their country. The international community must ensure that the perpetrators of atrocities are brought to justice. Moreover, the Syrian civil war has a direct effect on the EU owing to the large numbers of Syrian refugees fleeing to Europe.

2016/11/22

I do not agree with the US Department of Commerce, which has imposed a tariff on Spanish olives. It has done so after concluding that the subsidies that the olive producers received in the EU meant that they could export olive products at a below—market price. I voted in favour of the resolution because the subsidies for the olive producers have in fact been fully in line with WTO rules and within the European Common Agriculture Policy (CAP). Furthermore, CAP support is regarded by the WTO as a non-trade-distorting mechanism.

2016/11/22

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) concerns companies taking responsibility for their impact on society and plays a significant role in maintaining the sustainability, competitiveness and innovation of EU enterprises and is important for the EU economy. I voted in favour of the resolution on corporate social responsibility because I believe that job safety, transparency in financial transfers from a European subsidiary to a US parent company or to tax havens, along with sanctions against companies persisting in their restructuring plans, need to be ensured and respected in Member States.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the guidelines on the framework of future relations between the EU and the UK. It is important that both sides reach a common agreement on their cooperation after the UK officially leaves the European Union. Given the fact that the UK has been our partner for many decades, the EU should make sure that we maintain a fruitful relationship. However, the UK will be treated like any other third country. It will not be able to enjoy the same benefits or market access as Member States of the EU. Moreover, the future UK-EU agreement should function on the basis of a coherent and solid governance system. The future EU-UK relations should be also based on, inter alia, mutual cooperation mechanisms in the field of common foreign and security policy, in order to face shared threats.

2016/11/22

The aim of this regulation is to introduce common rules for the production of rail transport statistics at EU level. In other words, the EU needs to have comprehensive and accurate statistics on the transport of goods and passengers by rail. I voted in favour, because I believe that all Member States should be responsible for providing statistics on rail transport on their national territory and ensure the quality of the data they provide.

2016/11/22

Newcastle disease is a contagious viral bird disease affecting many domestic and wild avian species. I voted in favour of this Directive which introduces new measures for the control of this disease and activates the legal procedure to start the designation of a new EU Reference Laboratory for the Newcastle disease after the United Kingdom withdraws from the EU. The European Parliament thus reacts fast to changing conditions within the EU after Brexit, because it is important to keep safety and prevent diseases from further spreading in the future. The new measures within this Directive include instruments to indicate the EU reference laboratory for the disease as well as its functions and duties. This Directive also presents an adequate model form to report on the disease situation and the control measures used by Member States, and contains clear criteria for Member States to draw up contingency plans specifying the national measures to be implemented in the event of an outbreak the disease.

2016/11/22

Na základě žádosti gruzínské vlády navrhla Evropská komise poskytnout Gruzii nový program makrofinanční pomoci (MFA). Navrhovaný program makrofinanční pomoci navíc doplní dohodu uzavřenou mezi Gruzií a Mezinárodním měnovým fondem (MMF). Hlasoval jsem pro návrh rozhodnutí Evropského parlamentu a Rady o poskytnutí další makrofinanční pomoci Gruzii, protože makroekonomický výhled Gruzie je zřejmě nadále nejistý, země zažívá nízký růst HDP, národní měna (lari) výrazně oslabila a platební bilance je velmi nestabilní. Věřím, že si Gruzie jako blízký partner Evropské unie zaslouží další podporu ve svém ekonomickém vývoji.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this objection because I do not agree with the Commission’s regulation on the Union List of Projects of Common Interest (PCIs). The PCIs are a list of key (especially cross-border) infrastructure projects linking the energy systems of EU countries and aiming to achieve the EU energy policy and climate objectives in accordance with the Paris Agreement. The European Parliament does not support several points made by the Commission, such as inconsistency in methods to identify gas projects, excessively large number of fossil fuel projects prioritised in the Union List, insufficient transparency in Projects of Common Interest and negative impact of some projects on our environment. In my opinion, the Commission should propose a regulation that is compatible with the Paris Agreement.

2016/11/22

The European Globalisation Adjustment Fund has been created in order to provide additional assistance to workers suffering from the consequences of major structural changes in world trade patterns. In October 2017, Germany applied for a financial contribution from the EGF after having registered 646 redundancies at Goodyear Tires Germany GmbH (which manufactures rubber and plastic products). Indeed, with the fall in EU automotive output and market shares, mostly because of the increasing market shares of Asian suppliers in the last years, significant overcapacity has built up in the B segment at Goodyear, which forced the company to close its plant in Philipsburg. As a consequence, 646 workers lost their job. I believe this fund will facilitate their integration in the labour market.

2016/11/22

The aim of this report is to keep existing levels of resources stable for traditional policies, such as agriculture, fisheries and cohesion policy. Moreover, it stresses the importance of adequate financial support for research and education programmes and for policies addressing new challenges in the fields of migration, security, defence, border control and macroeconomic stability. I voted in favour of this report because I believe that it contains appropriate measures to meet the EU’s future financial objectives. Nevertheless, I would have preferred a more original and modernised long—term budget for the European Union and would hope that this would be developed further in negotiations with the Council in the coming months.

2016/11/22

Even though the economic situation has been improving in the EU over the past few years after some difficult circumstances in the wake of the 2008 global financial crisis, we are still facing growing inequality in Member States, rising in-work poverty and divergence between the eurozone members. I voted in favour of the 2018 Annual Growth Survey as I believe that the European Semester is a useful tool to have an overview of economic policy coordination within the Union. I believe that the EU can thus use this opportunity to keep sustainable growth and high-quality employment.

2016/11/22

The Research Fund for Coal and Steel (RFCS) supports research projects in coal and steel sectors to ensure their competitiveness through innovation, preserves jobs in areas that face difficulties, and helps to reduce their emissions of CO2 and other pollutants. However, today’s revenues assigned to the funding of such research projects have been decreasing significantly for the last years. Moreover, the value of investments in the RFCS is declining alarmingly. As a result, the budget for the RFCS programme for 2018 is around EUR 27 million, a decrease of EUR 19 million compared to the amount for 2017. According to the Commission’s forecasts, this figure is likely to decline further in 2019 and there is a risk that the level of funding for after 2020 may not be met. This proposal aims to enable the Commission to use the de-commitments made in the RFCS research programme in the past for the 2018 and 2019 years. I am supportive of this ‘recycling’, which could represent a gain of EUR 40 million, thus ensuring the financing of research for these sectors for the future.

2016/11/22

V roce 2013 byla Evropská komise pověřena zahájením jednání o Dohodě o spolupráci a vzájemné správní pomoci v celních otázkách mezi EU a Novým Zélandem. Jednání o dohodě bylo zahájeno v roce 2015 a v roce 2017 přijal EP svá doporučení k mandátu pro jednání o dohodě o volném obchodě. Cílem dohody je poskytnout právní rámec pro obchodní spolupráci, celní předpisy a bezpečnou výměnu informací mezi EU a Novým Zélandem. Hlasoval jsem pro toto doporučení, protože podporuji další prohlubování obchodních a ekonomických vztahů mezi EU a Novým Zélandem fungujících v bezpečném a spolehlivém, obchod podporujícím celním prostředí. Věřím, že uzavření dohody o partnerství bude krokem vpřed k brzkému uzavření dohody o volném obchodě mezi EU a Novým Zélandem.

2016/11/22

Currently, there are significant differences in the level of development and readiness of the EU countries. EU Member States should make sure that those differences do not deepen more in the future. Our efforts concern also the EU transport sector; we need to modernise it, but simultaneously guarantee its safety, effectiveness and sustainability. An initiative of the EU that can facilitate cooperative, connected and automated mobility is the European Strategy on Cooperative Intelligent Transport. I voted in favour, because I believe that the new technologies, which include the Cooperative Intelligent Transport system, will help to facilitate mobility with Member States, harmonise the EU transport system, and prepare it for future challenges.

2016/11/22

Doručování zásilek je v dnešní době konkurenceschopným, inovativním a rychle rostoucím odvětvím. Čím dál, tím víc občanů Evropské unie nakupuje prostřednictvím internetu. Podstatná část spotřebitelů nicméně nakupuje v internetových obchodech ve svých zemích a jen málo lidí objednává zboží z jiných zemí. Spotřebitelé a malé podniky vyjadřují obavy z kvality přeshraničních dodávek a vysokých nákladů spojených s přeshraničním doručováním zásilek. Hlasoval jsem pro přijetí návrhu nařízení o přeshraničním doručování zásilek, protože podporuji jeho hlavní cíl, kterým je zvýšení efektivnosti v tomto sektoru, zajištění transparentních sazeb, konečných nákladů a dostupných cen.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I voted in favour of this report because the EU needs to have safe and well-functioning road transport. This Directive aims at improving the quality of vehicles and the qualifications of drivers to ensure that professional drivers of trucks and buses are trained properly to do their job so that European roads remain safe. It will also help prevent illegal trade in fake licenses.

2016/11/22

The defence industry is a significant element of the EU economy and it needs significant improvement in competitiveness, innovation, cooperation between its structures, and research and development capabilities. The Commission proposal to establish the European Defence Industrial Development Programme aims at achieving these goals. I am supportive of this initiative as I believe that better cooperation between Member States defence industry players is essential to address emerging security threats.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro přijetí návrhu usnesení, protože jsem přesvědčen, že je potřeba podporovat ženy v tom, aby mohly využívat svá práva v ekonomickém sektoru. Nadále jsme v mnohých oblastech, k nimž patří i oblast obchodních dohod Evropské unie, svědky nerovného postavení mužů a žen. V mnoha evropských zemích dostávají za stejnou práci ženy nadále nižší odměnu než muži a nerovnost postavení mužů a žen zůstává značná. Rovnost žen a mužů je podporována nejen v rámci Evropské unie, ale celosvětově (například prostřednictvím Všeobecné deklarace lidských práv). Cílem Evropské unie jakožto důležitého globálního hráče je snižovat platové rozdíly mezi oběma pohlavími.

2016/11/22

V dnešní Evropské unii je nadále hodně členských států s tzv. zaostávajícími regiony. V osmi zemích EU (Itálii, Španělsku, Řecku, Portugalsku, Bulharsku, Maďarsku, Polsku a Rumunsku) se nachází čtyřicet sedm regionů s nízkými příjmy a s nízkým růstem. Cílem této zprávy je identifikovat rozvojové problémy v těchto regionech a najít efektivní řešení podporující růst a zvýšení příjmů. Hlasoval jsem pro přijetí této zprávy, protože jsem přesvědčen, že zaostávající regiony potřebují zvýšit produktivitu, míru školní docházky a zaměstnanosti a Evropská unie by jim měla být nápomocna v udržení jejich atraktivnosti pro mladé lidi a kvalifikované pracovníky a při rozvoji jejich inovativních systémů a institucí.

2016/11/22

I support the report on the COP21 Paris Agreement because I am concerned about the consequences of climate change on our lives. Nowadays, we are witnessing substantial and rapid climate change and during the last few years we have been observing significant temperature fluctuations that are untypical of our regions. What is also worrying, the temperature increase in the EU over the past decade has been faster than in the rest of the planet and its consequences can be devastating for our environment. In fact, the EU is responsible for 9% of global emissions and 75% of those are generated by our cities. Despite this number, very few European cities have taken steps to adapt to climate change. This report recalls that regions, cities and towns need to play a decisive role in tackling climate change, also for their own interest: more and more cities are faced with floods, droughts and heat waves. There is an urgent need to design and adapt our cities to cope with these future conditions.

2016/11/22

This directive provides an updated harmonised legal framework for the distribution of insurance and reinsurance products in the Internal Market. It aims at ensuring that insurance distributors are more transparent when it comes to the price and costs of their products, and provide better and more comprehensible information to consumers. I voted in favour of this directive, as I believe that the new rules will enhance transparency and consumer protection in Europe.

2016/11/22

This Bilateral Agreement between the EU and the USA concerns prudential insurance and reinsurance measures. The EU-USA cooperation covers three areas, such as group supervision, reinsurance and exchange of information between supervisors. Its goal is to remove key trade barriers in the sector, especially collateral and local presence requirements. I voted in favour of this Bilateral Agreement because I believe that consistency with existing policy provisions in the insurance policy area as well as consistency with the Investment Plan for Europe is guaranteed.

2016/11/22

. ‒ As co-rapporteur for the PANA committee, I believe the European Parliament should continue its work in the field of financial crimes, tax evasion and tax avoidance as this remains a major concern within the EU. Our battle against money laundering and tax evasion is far from over, as the Paradise Papers revelations have also shown. We still have more enquiries to make and we must explore how the recommendations we made in PANA, TAXE1 and TAXE2 are observed by the Commission and Member States. Fair taxation is certainly one of the elements which would enhance the benefits of globalisation.

2016/11/22

This proposal aims at aligning the current regime for the definition, presentation and labelling of spirit drinks with the Lisbon Treaty, as regards the power it confers to the Commission. Moreover, by introducing Article 43(2) of TFEU, the Commission emphasises the existing link between agriculture and the spirit drinks by reflecting the fact that the ethyl alcohol used for the production of spirit drinks and other alcoholic beverages must be of agricultural origin. This text also replaces the existing procedures for the protection of geographical indications (GIs) of spirit drinks with new ones. This will better indicate where particular spirit drinks come from and what their characteristics associated with the place are. I voted in favour of this directive because I believe that it is necessary to ensure that the rules on GI for spirit drinks are reinforced and applied uniformly in all Member States. This will help us prevent unreliable practices, ensure protection of consumers and avoid unfair competition.

2016/11/22

The work of the PANA inquiry committee has clearly evidenced the role played by intermediaries like banks, lawyers, accountants or tax advisors in facilitating tax evasion and money laundering often through complex cross-border schemes. This new legislation addresses this issue by introducing a mandatory disclosure requirement of the tax schemes intermediaries set up for their clients. I believe this new obligation will bring more transparency to this sector and allow more scrutiny by tax administrations. These new rules will enable them to get the information they need to tackle aggressive tax planning scheme, while bringing more certainty to those intermediaries who respect the law.

2016/11/22

The European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) was created in order to provide additional assistance to workers suffering from the consequences of major structural changes in world trade patterns. Increased imports of textiles and clothing into the EU forced down prices, which caused the closing of five apparel manufacturers in Galicia, Spain. 303 workers lost their jobs. Galicia is confronted with exceptional circumstances having a serious impact on employment: in total, 26% of clothing companies shut down over the period 2010 to 2016 in the region. I supported this report because I believe the EGF will improve the chances of reintegration in the labour market of these workers under the current trade conditions and provide them with the assistance they need.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this resolution which supports the European Commission’s decision to trigger Article 7(1) TEU against Poland. The lack of independence of the new Polish judiciary law raises serious concerns. The existence of an independent judicial system is essential for the effective application of EU law in sectors ranging from investment protection to police and justice cooperation in the EU. The Polish authorities now have until 20 March to inform the Commission of the steps taken to address the problems identified.

2016/11/22

Safeguarding and guaranteeing fundamental rights is a key aspect of the European Union and a commitment which is part and parcel of the European integration process. For decades, the development of Europe as a political entity has gone hand in hand with improvements to the legal and judicial safeguards which enable EU citizens to assert their rights. However, I do not fully share the analysis made in this report regarding the migration crisis in the EU as I think it does not truly reflect the situation in Europe. This is why I decided to abstain on the final vote.

2016/11/22

The beekeeping sector is an integral part of European agriculture, providing over 620 000 EU citizens with their main income or additional earnings. However, the situation of beekeepers active in the EU today is not easy, because there are several factors that make their lives difficult. Those factors include, inter alia, the spread of fake honey in the internal market and animal diseases (triggered by invasive alien species). I voted in favour of this report, as I believe that beekeepers should be provided by the EU with greater support in funding, research and development, education and training in beekeeping. Consequently, beekeepers may maintain their businesses and facilitate production of honey of the highest quality.

2016/11/22

The Annual Banking Union report outlines the key areas where convergence has been achieved in the Union, in the interest of financial stability, and areas which remain to be dealt with in order to complete the Banking Union. While the Banking Union is an important project, and one which I support, I also recognise that we will face some difficulties in the years to come, particularly with regard to how to deal with bank deposit guarantee schemes across the EU. I supported this year’s report as I believe it struck the right balance between highlighting accomplishments we have achieved and the challenges still to come.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report. The terrorism threat in Europe remains high. In order to effectively combat terrorism, I believe it is essential that we cut off its financing sources. This report acknowledges one important element: terrorist funding often takes the form of small donations, rather than one large sum of money, and thus makes recommendations to also combat this ‘micro-financing’, which I think is important. It also makes recommendations on how to tackle its root causes and how to improve exchange of information in this field within the EU.

2016/11/22

Equality between women and men is a fundamental principle of the Union. This recommendation from the Parliament to the Council outlines key areas where women still face difficult challenges around the world, including in terms of access to employment, healthcare, and also in terms of equal pay. I voted in favour of this legislation because I believe that Member States should speak in a unified way at the 62nd session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women, and highlight to our external partners the importance of equality of opportunity for women and girls around the world.

2016/11/22

Estimates show that there are around 30 million blind and partially sighted people in Europe. However, the proportion of published books available in accessible formats for them ranges from only 7% to 20%.The Marrakesh Treaty, adopted in April 2014, obliges the EU Member States to establish a set of mandatory limitations and exceptions to copyright protection for the benefit of people who are blind, visually impaired, or otherwise print disabled. They continue to face too many barriers in accessing books, and I hope that this plan will remove these obstacles, as it is essential to improve their social inclusion and access to culture. With this vote, the European Parliament gives its consent to the Council’s decision on the conclusion of the Marrakesh Treaty and paves the way for its rapid ratification.

2016/11/22

With European citizens becoming more mobile, cross-border disputes on family matters in the EU are rising. I supported this proposal which defines new rules to simplify dispute proceedings and make them more efficient. The updated regulation will make deadlines by which cross-border parental child abduction cases must be settled stricter. It will also give children the opportunity to express their views in all proceedings concerning them. I welcome that all decisions will become automatically enforceable in other EU countries.

2016/11/22

Finanční a hospodářská krize, která začala v roce 2008, vedla k prudkému nárůstu počtu nezaměstnaných. Stále existuje vysoké procento nezaměstnaných mladých osob. Mezi členskými státy se míra této nezaměstnanosti liší. Podpořil jsem tento návrh. Jsem přesvědčen, že je podpora ze strany EU v boji proti nezaměstnanosti nutná.

2016/11/22

I supported the proposal. Regulated professions represent one fifth of the labour force in the EU and cover many crucial sectors such as health and social services, transport, tourism and education. To facilitate free movement in the Single Market, the directive sets European rules for the automatic recognition of professional qualifications, an automatic recognition system of professional experience, as well as the cross-border provision of services. This report finds the right balance in regulating these professions, which is of public interest, without hampering their competitiveness and their innovation capacity.

2016/11/22

V současné době představují tyto technologie hrozbu, kdy je mají evropské společnosti možnost neomezeně prodávat komukoliv, včetně států, kde dochází k porušování lidských práv. Rozhodl jsem se tento návrh podpořit. Je nezbytné, aby prodej těchto technologií byl regulován, neboť tyto technologie jsou často používány samotnými vládami, které jejich prostřednictvím sledují své občany. To v mnoha případech vede k zatýkání novinářů nebo bojovníků za lidská práva, což představuje ohrožení demokratických hodnot.

2016/11/22

Cílem tohoto návrhu je provést opatření, která pokrývají celou řadu otázek, jako je nezákonný, nehlášený a neregulovaný rybolov či opatření, které mají za cíl snížení úmrtnosti mořského ptactva nebo snížení množství průzkumného rybolovu. Tuto zprávu jsem podpořil, jelikož věřím, že povede ke snížení praktik s negativním dopadem na životní prostředí.

2016/11/22

Podpořil jsem zprávu o provádění makroregionálních strategií EU. Dle mého názoru tyto strategie inovativně přispívají k přeshraniční, meziodvětvové a víceúrovňové spolupráci v Evropě. Zpráva rovněž vyzývá členské státy a regiony, které jsou takto zapojeny, aby vytvořily vhodné struktury pro usnadnění spolupráce, včetně společného plánování, zvýšení možností financování a přístupu zdola nahoru. Zpráva také zdůrazňuje význam dostatečných lidských zdrojů a administrativní kapacity pro příslušné vnitrostátní a regionální orgány.

2016/11/22

This report sets out rules for where, when and how fishing can take place in Europe, with the aim to limit unwanted catches and reduce the impacts of fishing on nature. In particular, the regulation defines the type of fishing gears and methods allowed in the EU. One of these methods, pulse fishing, was highly debated because of the disastrous impact in has on the marine environment. I believe the European Parliament made the right decision in prohibiting this method, which is why I supported this report. However, I find it regrettable that the target for reducing by-catches of undersized fish are not mandatorily fixed in this regulation.

2016/11/22

Tento návrh má za cíl podpořit budoucnost oceánů v kontextu cílů strategie udržitelného rozvoje do roku 2030. Je nezbytné přijmout účinná opatření, která povedou ke zlepšení stavu životního prostředí. Z tohoto důvodů jsem hlasovat ve prospěch návrhu. Věřím, že zpráva pomůže ke zlepšení kvality oceánů.

2016/11/22

This report aims to highlight the gender dimension of climate change in particular, and especially to suggest ways of mainstreaming gender equality in climate—change policies. It is important to identify gender—sensitive strategies to respond to the environmental and humanitarian crises which can be caused by climate change. Climate change can exacerbate existing inequalities, including gender inequalities. Nevertheless, I believe that this report goes too far in some areas, for example the proposal to move staff from important duties in DG CLIMA to focus on a gender focal point. For this reason, I could not fully support the report.

2016/11/22

I support the report. I am concerned that Member States have not fully transposed the provisions on offences concerning sexual exploitation and sexual abuse. It is necessary to protect children against new forms of crime online. I believe that this report will help to protect children and will help ensure effective prevention and intervention in all Member States.

2016/11/22

Cílem tohoto návrhu bylo omezit využívání fosfátu při přípravě masových pokrmů, jako je kebab. Tyto látky mají schopnost na sebe vázat vodu, čímž zvyšují šťavnatost připravovaných pokrmů. Vzhledem k tomu, že neexistuje přesvědčivá odborná studie, která by škodlivý účinek těchto látek prokazovala, rozhodl jsem se nepodpořit tento návrh.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the report. European common action may in some cases be the most effective way to protect our citizens. The EU is based on the values of democracy, the rule of law and the universality and indivisibility of human rights and fundamental freedoms. The EU has to be an influential global actor that protects its citizens and Member States from growing threats to their security.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the report. The main aim of the report is to look at the human rights and democracy challenges in third countries and the parliamentary scrutiny of human rights in external policies for 2016. I am convinced that the report will support human rights defenders, and it gives a clear signal that there is a need for international, impartial and independent investigations of serious crimes in Syria. The report could help to find long-term solutions to migration flows based on respect for human rights and dignity.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the report. I am convinced that a scheme for greenhouse gas emissions allowance trading and the current limitations of scope for aviation activities have to continue. It is necessary to effectively tackle climate change. This report will be based on limit compliance obligations to emissions from flights between aerodromes situated in the European Economic Area.

2016/11/22

I did not support sending the report directly from the JURI Committee to trilogue. I am convinced that due to the sensitivity of this issue, the entire report should have been put to a vote of the plenary. Furthermore, I have questions about the impact of the JURI position on the freedom for consumers to be able to access a wide range of content across the entire EU. Another concern that I have is that the positions of committees which submitted opinions to the JURI report were not always considered in the final text. For these reasons, I did not vote in favour of mandate for trilogue.

2016/11/22

. – I could not support the citizenship report this year. This was due to the rather negative references to trade agreements and a disregard for the need for fiscal responsibility with reference to austerity policies. I also had concerns relating to the proposals for the upcoming European elections and, to some extent, moving discourse away from local citizens to a more distant level, for example the promotion of transnational lists in 2019.

2016/11/22

Globalisation and digitalisation of trade have developed in recent years. It is necessary to provide a new legal framework to protect the interests of European citizens. It is an opportunity for consumers to have access to digital goods and services in third countries. I believe that this report will help to create benefits for consumers. The report also protects intellectual property rights, global industry standards, interoperability of information and communications technology standards and puts into place tax- and duty-free customs treatment.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I voted against granting a mandate to the Civil Liberties Committee to negotiation the reform of the Dublin Regulation with the Council. Although the migratory and refugee crisis exposed significant structural weaknesses and shortcomings in the design and implementation of the European asylum system, and of the Dublin rules in particular, I believe that this report is a step in the wrong direction. It is clear to me that the temporary relocation scheme introduced in the wake of the migration crisis has been a failure, and I do not see how using this scheme as a template for a permanent relocation programme is of benefit to Europe.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem ve prospěch tohoto návrhu, neboť posiluje spolupráci mezi Evropskou unií a jejími členskými státy na straně jedné a Novým Zélandem na straně druhé. Zaměřuje se na celou řadu politik. Jedná se například o oblast lidských práv, nešíření zbraní hromadného ničení, boj proti terorismu, právní spolupráci a boj proti praní špinavých peněz, organizovanou trestnou činnost, korupci a mnoha dalších.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem ve prospěch Dohody o partnerství pro vztahy a spolupráci (PARC), jelikož věřím, že bude poskytovat politický rámec zaměřený na budoucí vztahy mezi EU a Novým Zélandem. Spolupráce Evropské unie s Novým Zélandem v oblasti míru, bezpečnosti, regionální stability v oblasti Asie a Tichomoří, zemědělství, udržitelného rozvoje, humanitární pomoci, energetiky, životního prostředí a změny klimatu je potřebná.

2016/11/22

Given that the EU is Africa’s main partner in the fields of economic activity and trade, as well as development, humanitarian aid and security, I voted in favour of a new vision for this partnership. A renewed strategic partnership would focus on priority areas such as economic development, good governance, including human rights, human development via public services covering basic needs, such as education, health, access to water and sanitation, gender equality, science, technology and innovation, security and the fight against terrorism, migration and mobility and the environment – including climate change.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the Annual Report of the activities of the European Ombudsman. The work of the Ombudsman is important in ensuring transparency and also that the work done within the EU institutions is performed to the highest ethical standards. I particularly welcome the Ombudsman’s active engagement with the European Parliament and her work on ensuring access to information and documents of the EU’s institutions. Finally, and having called for this also in recent opinions from the Civil Liberties Committee to the Budgetary Discharge, it is important that the Ombudsman continues her work on assessing the implementation of the EU’s internal rules on whistle-blowing.

2016/11/22

Podpořil jsem tento návrh. Přezkum implementace ochrany životního prostředí (EIR) je nástrojem ke zlepšení provádění právních předpisů a politik EU v oblasti životního prostředí. Jeho cílem je vyřešit příčiny nedostatků v implementaci a pokusit se nalézt řešení. Z těchto důvodů věřím, že EIR bude velmi užitečná.

2016/11/22

I voted against this report. Inequality and unemployment curtail effective demand, frustrate innovation, and can lead to increased financial fragility. I am not convinced that the measures outlined in this report can combat inequalities effectively. I have concerns about introducing a European level unemployment scheme and a minimum social income. Both measures are Member State competences and fail to consider fully questions such as their financing and also the divergences across the Union. Lastly, as regards the modernisation of tax systems, while I agree that much needs to be done to combat tax avoidance and tax evasion, as evidenced through my work as Rapporteur on the inquiry report following the Panama Papers leak, I believe that too much tax harmonisation is to the detriment of competition in the EU.

2016/11/22

Cílem této zprávy je učinit změny základního antidumpingového nařízení a základního antisubvenčního nařízení. Již dříve proběhly veřejné konzultace a byly provedeny nezávislé studie dopadů tohoto aktu. Jejich výsledky tvoří základ návrhu, který jsem se proto rozhodl podpořit.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this resolution. Developments in Malta in recent years have led to serious concerns about the rule of law, democracy and fundamental rights, including freedom of the media and the independence of the police and the judiciary.The work undertaken within the framework of the PANA investigative committee has evidenced some cases of potential breaches of EU anti-money laundering rules which I believe should be urgently addressed. Moreover, the horrific assassination of Daphne Caruana, a journalist whose investigations focused on corruption in Malta, is worrying and constitutes a direct threat to freedom of expression. The resolution calls for an independent investigation on this murder, and asks the EU to establish a dialogue with the Maltese Government regarding the functioning of the rule of law in Malta.

2016/11/22

Rozhodl jsem se podpořit tuto zprávu, neboť jsem zastánce myšlenky multilateralismu a vytvoření svobodného a spravedlivého obchodu založeného na pravidlech, která budou vést ke prospěchu všech. Zároveň věřím v obchod, který podporuje udržitelný rozvoj tím, že klade zásadní důraz na sociální, environmentální a lidská práva, a uplatňuje jednotná a harmonizovaná pravidla vůči všem stejně.

2016/11/22

Východní partnerství je založeno na společném závazku mezi Arménií, Ázerbájdžánem, Běloruskem, Gruzií, Moldavskem, Ukrajinou a Evropskou unií o prohloubení jejich vztahů a dodržování mezinárodního práva a základních hodnot včetně demokracie, právního státu, lidských práv, základních svobod a rovnosti žen a mužů, jakož i sociálního tržního hospodářství, udržitelného rozvoje a řádné správy věcí veřejných. Rozhodl jsem se podpořit tuto zprávu, neboť věřím, že toto partnerství může těmto státům pomoci k prohlubování demokratických hodnot.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this resolution. It is very important that the EU makes use of the tools which allow it to monitor, protect and uphold democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights. I am in favour of Member States being responsible for their own affairs, and that the European Union should only intervene when it is clear that there is a need to do so. Unfortunately in Poland the independence of the judiciary, among other things, is in danger and so it is right that the EU examines this further.

2016/11/22

Zpráva uvádí, že každoročně na evropských silnicích zemře kolem 25 500 lidí a přibližně 135 000 je vážně zraněno. Je třeba přijmout účinnější opatření, pokud má dojít ke snížení počtu dopravních nehod. Vzhledem k tomu, že bezpečnost silničního provozu závisí na vozidle, na infrastruktuře a na řidiči, jsou potřebná účinná opatření aktivní a pasivní bezpečnosti na všech třech úrovních. Rozhodl jsem se podpořit tuto zprávu, protože věřím, že pomůže ke zvýšení bezpečnosti silničního provozu.

2016/11/22

Podpořil jsem tuto zprávu. Jsem přesvědčen, že je nezbytné zajistit podporu zájmů spotřebitelů a obyvatel Evropské unie. Tento akt umožní příslušným orgánům vyšetřovat protiprávní jednání a zabránit tomu, aby obchodníci v budoucnu takové chování opakovali.

2016/11/22

Demographic change entails major economic, social, fiscal and environmental pressures on Member State governments and regional and local authorities. These pressures will be exacerbated by a declining active population and a higher dependency ratio. I did not support the report because I am convinced that this issue should be tackled in a coordinated manner through the national, regional and local authorities with the involvement of civil society representatives.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report because I am convinced that promoting the development of an efficient retail financial services market is necessary. The action is needed to facilitate innovation that is beneficial to end-users while releasing the full potential of the single market in retail financial services. This would boost competitiveness, lower prices and increase product choice and diversity.

2016/11/22

As shadow rapporteur for the STS regulation for the ALDE Group, I am pleased with the overall outcome of the negotiations. For businesses in Europe it is important to have a variety of funding possibilities to tap into. With the ‘gold standard’ brand of STS securitisations in Europe, it will give businesses which are considering looking for funding on capital markets the confidence to explore this avenue further. While the negotiations were difficult, in the end we were able to strike the right balance between a robust framework which reflects the lessons learned from the financial crisis and a competitive regulatory environment which will encourage banks to originate STS securitisations. It is therefore my hope and expectation that this regulation will be another important step towards Capital Markets Union.

2016/11/22

The amendment to the CRR regulation was necessary in order to encourage banks to generate STS securitisations by allowing capital relief on those securitisations which met the criteria for the label. While on the investor side there should be confidence in the quality of the brand, from the originator side it is imperative to have incentives to offer those brands to investors. During the negotiations we also ensured that banks in all Member States would be treated equally by not unduly penalising competitive banks based in countries with lower sovereign ratings. This will encourage the growth of origination of STS securitisations across the whole EU.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the Parliament’s position on the Budget for 2018. As the rapporteur for the opinion of the Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs Committee, I am convinced that more funding is needed for EU measures in the context of internal security and in order to respond to the migration crisis. For example, it is clear that more staff are needed within Europol as their responsibilities increase. Furthermore, I believe that as we move towards negotiations on the future Multi-Annual Financial Framework, more resources and focus needs to be put on the areas of research and innovation. Parliament has consistently argued for sufficient funding of both these headings of the budget, and I fully support this.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of Parliament’s position on the budget for 2018. As the rapporteur for the opinion of the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, I am convinced that more funding is needed for EU measures in the context of internal security and in order to respond to the migration crisis. For example, it is clear that more staff are needed within Europol as their responsibilities increase. Furthermore, I believe that as we move towards negotiations on the future multiannual financial framework, more resources and focus needs to be put on the areas of research and innovation. Parliament has consistently argued for sufficient funding of both these headings of the budget, and I fully support this.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the trilogue agreement on the Entry/Exit system. In my view it is imperative that we have records of who has crossed the Union’s external borders and when. I also appreciate that this regulation will make the border processing of those entering the Union more efficient and effective. This will lead to an increase in quality of border checks across the EU. I also support measures which ensure that reliable and systematic identification of over-stayers is improved. This regulation is an important step towards reinforcing security across the EU and helping to fight against terrorism and serious crime.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the trilogue agreement on the Entry/Exit system. In my view it is imperative that we have records of who has crossed the Union’s external borders and when. I also appreciate that this regulation will make the border processing of those entering the Union more efficient and effective. This will lead to an increase in the quality of border checks across the EU. I also support measures which ensure that reliable and systematic identification of over-stayers is improved. This regulation is an important step towards reinforcing security across the EU and helping to fight against terrorism and serious crime.

2016/11/22

I voted against the report on minimum income policies in the EU. I hold the view that policies related to income, social security, wages etc., are solely the responsibility of Member States. EU legislation should focus on areas where it has the competences to act, and we must always bear in mind the principle of subsidiarity.

2016/11/22

I support the regulation on the establishment of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO). It is necessary to establish a single, strong, independent EPPO that is able to investigate, prosecute and bring to court the perpetrators of criminal offences affecting the European Union’s financial interests. The EPPO should be fully independent of national governments and EU institutions and protected from political influence and pressure.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the report on prison systems and conditions. As shadow rapporteur on this report, I worked to ensure that the suggestions from Parliament respected the principle of subsidiarity, while also addressing questions of EU-wide importance. These include fighting radicalisation in prisons and encouraging Member States to improve rehabilitation of prisoners. We also addressed the question of prisoner transfers between Member States.The Council of Europe has produced a number of reports on the fundamental rights of prisoners, and this report draws largely from their recommendations. I supported this own-initiative text, while recognising that this is, of course, a question first and foremost for Member States, rather than the EU.

2016/11/22

It is necessary to put into effect certain provisions of the Schengen acquis relating to the Visa Information System (VIS) in Bulgaria and Romania. According to the 2005 Act of Accession, the provisions of the Schengen acquis to which Bulgaria and Romania accede upon accession are to apply in Bulgaria and Romania pursuant to a Council decision. All the necessary conditions for the application of all parts of the Schengen acquis have been met. It is therefore desirable to adopt a decision implementing the corresponding provisions of the VIS.

2016/11/22

Účelem tohoto rozhodnutí je povolit České republice přijímat a poskytovat osobní údaje za účelem automatizovaného vyhledávání údajů o registraci vozidel. Hlasoval jsem ve prospěch tohoto návrhu, neboť zintenzívnění přeshraniční spolupráce, zejména v boji proti terorismu a přeshraniční trestné činnosti, je nezbytné.

2016/11/22

Podpořil jsem tento návrh, jelikož zavádí požadavek na digitální registraci a oznamování údajů o cestujících na palubách osobních lodí prostřednictvím harmonizovaných správních postupů. Účelem tohoto je usnadnění nouzového vyhledávání a záchranných operací. Za důležité považuji také to, že shromažďované osobní údaje za účelem usnadnění pátracích a záchranných operací a účinného zacházení s následky havárie by neměly být dále zpracovávány nebo používány k jinému účelu a neměly by se uchovávat déle, než je nezbytné.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem ve prospěch zprávy, protože jsem přesvědčen, že je nezbytné zajistit vysokou úroveň ochrany zdraví lidí i zvířat a životního prostředí. Je nutné zajistit, aby látky nebo výrobky uváděné na trh neměly škodlivý účinek na zdraví lidí nebo zvířat nebo nepřijatelné účinky na životní prostředí a aby zlepšily fungování vnitřního trhu při současném zlepšení zemědělské výroby.

2016/11/22

Rozhodl jsem se podpořit tento návrh. V rozvojových zemích se každá třetí dívka vdá před dosažením osmnáctého roku. Tato raná manželství představují porušení práv dítěte. Sňatky bývají často doprovázeny různými formy násilí na ženách. Více než 60 % těchto dívek nemá formální vzdělání. Nejčastější příčinou úmrtí dívek ve věku 15–19 let jsou v rozvojových zemích komplikace v souvislosti s těhotenstvím a porodem.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this resolution. Climate change is one of the most important challenges for humanity. All states and all players worldwide need to do their utmost to limit the associated problems. The Paris Agreement is a major step in that direction, although much more still needs to be done. Human activities have been the dominant cause of the warming observed since the middle of the 20th century.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the resolution. In a transitional period, when the United Kingdom will no longer be a Member State, there should only be the continuation of the whole of the acquis communautaire, which implies full application of the four freedoms (free movement of citizens, capital, services and goods). The withdrawal agreement incorporates the full set of rights that citizens currently enjoy. It should ensure reciprocity, equality, symmetry and non-discrimination for EU citizens in the United Kingdom and UK citizens in the European Union. The unique position and special circumstances confronting the island of Ireland must be addressed in the withdrawal agreement. It is necessary to ensure the continuity and stability of the Northern Ireland peace process. I am also convinced that the United Kingdom must respect in full its financial obligations made as a Member State of the European Union and insist that this issue must be fully settled in the withdrawal agreement.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem ve prospěch návrhu, jelikož je nezbytné omezit používání některých nebezpečných látek v elektrických a elektronických zařízeních. Tento návrh má za cíl řešit možné nežádoucí vedlejší účinky směrnice o omezení používání některých nebezpečných látek v elektrických a elektronických zařízeních, které by vznikly po 22. červenci 2019. Jedná se především o změnu v oblasti působnosti této směrnice.

2016/11/22

Europe is indisputably one of the world leaders when it comes to women’s rights and gender equality. In addition, I think that it is necessary to support international agreements that we have in connection with fundamental rights and fighting discrimination. There is undoubtedly a gender pay gap in many Member States. Nevertheless, I believe that this is a question of subsidiarity, and that Member States retain the primary responsibility for their own social policies, and while on the EU side we should encourage policies which reflect Union values, we should not impose our views on areas which are not within our competences.

2016/11/22

Podpořil jsem tento návrh, neboť jsem přesvědčen, že se organizace občanské společnosti staly významnými aktéry v oblasti rozvojové pomoci na globální úrovni. Nejen, že se stále zmenšuje prostor pro občanskou společnost v rozvojových zemích, a zvláště v zemích postižených konflikty, ale je zde také stále těžší řešit některé problematické otázky prostřednictvím právních předpisů, zdanění, omezení financování či zvýšené byrokracie. Je nezbytné, aby byla uznána potřeba poskytovat pomoc vládám, politickým stranám, parlamentům a správním orgánům, která by umožňovala efektivní práci těchto občanských společností.

2016/11/22

I supported the report because cybercrime is increasing in intensity, complexity and causing ever-greater economic and social damage, affecting the fundamental rights of individuals. To be effective, cybersecurity strategies should be based on fundamental freedoms and rights. It is necessary to have closer cooperation between competent authorities and service providers to accelerate mutual legal assistance and mutual recognition procedures in the areas of competence provided for in the European legal framework.

2016/11/22

ASEAN has become one of the most dynamic and growth-oriented regions in the world. Relations between the EU and ASEAN cover a wide range of areas, including trade and investment, development, economics and politics. With bilateral trade in goods valued at more than EUR 200 billion per year, ASEAN is the EU’s third largest trading partner and the EU ASEAN’s second. Cooperation could be strengthened to address global challenges such as climate change, international crime and terrorism, border management, maritime security, financial sector development, transparency and macroeconomic policies. I therefore supported this own initiative report.

2016/11/22

The demand for accessible products and services is high and the number of citizens with disabilities and/or functional limitations will increase significantly with the ageing of the European Union’s population. Taking into account demographic changes, it is expected that in 2020 approximately 120 million persons in the European Union will have major or minor disabilities. An environment where products and services are more accessible allows for more inclusion and facilitates autonomy. I voted in favour of this report. It is necessary that people with disabilities should benefit from free circulation of goods and services on the internal market and ensure their full participation in society. I fully support this idea. Harmonisation of national measures on accessibility is proposed as a necessary condition to put an end to the legislative divergence between Member States.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I am convinced that the EU-Chile Agreement on trade in organic products contributes to the development and expansion of the organic sector in the Union and the Republic of Chile. It also achieves a high level of respect for the principles of organic production, the control systems and the integrity of organic products. I support this agreement as a necessary part of the EU-Chile trade framework. The proposal also includes, as a strong safeguard, the possibility of unilaterally suspending recognition of equivalence if one party considers that the other party is no longer fulfilling the requirements for equivalence.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I support this protocol in accordance with the Act of Accession of Croatia. It is necessary to take into account Croatia’s accession to the European Union. This step is important to update the European Union legal framework. The accession of Croatia to the Agreement establishing an association between the European Community and its Member States, of the one part, and Chile, of the other part is to be agreed by means of a protocol to that agreement through a simplified procedure.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I voted in favour on the modernisation of the trade pillar of the EU-Chile Association Agreement. As a reminder, the current association agreement, including its trade pillar, was concluded in 2002. It has been greatly beneficial to both parties since it entered into force in 2003, having doubled trade in goods and contributed to increasing trade in services and investment.However, the European Union and Chile have concluded more modern, ambitious and comprehensive trade agreements since the entry into force of their bilateral association agreement. The agreement should include a number of areas for fostering shared growth, equal opportunities, decent jobs and sustainable development, including the respect and promotion of labour and environmental standards and animal welfare and gender equality, for the benefit of the citizens on both sides.

2016/11/22

European citizens should be able to draw easily and without obstacles on European statistics to enable them to use such. It is the reason why I support this Regulation. It is necessary to provide the European statistics evidence. It has to be provided promptly, reliably, relevantly and publicly without unnecessary time lags. Moreover, high quality statistics developed, produced and disseminated under the multiannual programme should contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nation’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and to the 2015 Paris Agreement, through the monitoring of its objectives and targets.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the regulation on venture capital funds and social entrepreneurship funds because I believe that setting a legal framework for these funds will help to develop their market in Europe. In the context of the capital markets union, EU level supervision is key in order to facilitate cross-border investment and move towards the completion of the single market in financial services.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the regulation on establishing a multiannual plan for demersal stocks in the North Sea and the fisheries exploiting those stocks. The North Sea is one of Europe’s biggest fishing grounds, especially for key commercial species such as cod and haddock. The regulation aims to secure the long-term sustainability of North Sea fish stocks and provide stability for fishermen in the region. This multiannual plan has the potential to end overfishing in the North Sea and provide healthy stocks and productive fisheries.

2016/11/22

I am convinced that it is important to establish an instrument contributing to stability and peace in order to extend the European Union’s assistance under exceptional circumstances to be used to assist partner countries.I supported this proposal which seeks to address the EU’s need for a stronger Europe when it comes to foreign policy in order to better contribute to supporting development and securing peace and prosperity in the world. Those actions are particularly necessary to ensure the protection of civilian populations in the areas affected by conflict, crises or fragility.

2016/11/22

European Union institutions are more transparent and accountable than many other political institutions on national or regional levels in Europe. Citizens can follow nearly all committee meetings by web streaming. Yet for several reasons politics in Brussels is more distant to citizens across the EU. In the majority of 20 Member States, citizens’ confidence is now higher in national institutions. Only in a minority of eight countries do citizens have more trust in EU institutions than in national ones. EU institutions have to enhance transparency, accountability and integrity and set the highest standards possible in these areas. I voted in favour of the report because I am convinced that the aim of this report is to contribute to improve transparency and integrity.

2016/11/22

I support the resolution on the future of the Erasmus+ programme. It is a very important part of the European education system. I believe that the Erasmus+ programme must be expanded significantly after 2020 to reach more diverse groups of people. To that end, its budget must be increased and funds must be used more strategically. It is important that the post-Brexit agreement allowing continued mobility for students and teachers between the EU and the UK was accepted. The Commission would take action to allocate adequate budgetary resources to Erasmus+ programme from 2020.

2016/11/22

I believe that the New Skills Agenda for Europe is an initiative which rightly puts the focus on the need to upgrade the European education and training systems in line with the fast changing economic and societal environment. In order to achieve the ambitious goals of the Agenda, there is a need to adopt a holistic approach to education and skills development providing citizens with the key set of competences for lifelong learning, defined as a combination of knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for personal fulfilment and development, active citizenship and employment. Stronger emphasis is needed in the Agenda on the important role of non-formal and informal learning in reaching out to and empowering learners. However, the provision of real access, recognition and sustainable financial support remains a great challenge. This is particularly evident for disadvantaged groups, such as low-skilled adults who are in need.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the Agreement on the establishment of a European Common Aviation Area. The Agreement, by creating a single aviation market, should deliver substantial economic benefits for air travellers and the aviation industry. At the same time, the Agreement offers the same high standards in term of safety and security across Europe, through the uniform application of rules. The Agreement creates an open framework accessible for European neighbour countries which wish to fully integrate into the European aviation community. It is very important that the Agreement is based on the principles of free market access, freedom of establishment, equal conditions of competition, and common rules including in the areas of safety, security, air traffic management and environment.

2016/11/22

The European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction and Europol has drawn up the report. The conclusion is that acryloylfentanyl is a synthetic opioid structurally similar to fentanyl, a controlled substance widely used in medicine. Fentanyl is used as an adjunct to general anaesthesia during surgery and for pain management. The bulk of production takes place in China. In three Member States forty-seven deaths associated with the substance have been reported, together with 20 acute intoxications apparently due to acryloylfentanyl. Accordingly, in view of the toxic and hazardous nature of the substance I support this report. This substance could represent a serious health risk.

2016/11/22

The EU and India are two of the world’s largest democracies. They have built, over the last two decades, a Strategic Partnership founded on shared values and interests. They are important economic, trade and investment partners and have been engaged since 2007 in negotiations for an ambitious free trade and investment agreement. I support this report because I am convinced that the adoption of the EU-India Action Plan 2020 and the re-launch of cooperation will help the European Union in many areas such as security, counter-terrorism, migration and mobility, trade, technology transfer, culture, climate change, development, energy and water.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of proposal of the Commission on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund. It is necessary to grant financial assistance relating to earthquakes that took place in the regions of Abruzzo, Lazio, Marcha and Umbria of Italy. They led to 333 casualties, over 30 000 people in need of assistance, significant damage to the infrastructure, businesses, including farms and the tourism sector, and living conditions of the affected population. I welcome the decision as a sign of the Union’s solidarity with European Union citizens and regions hit by the natural disasters.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the proposal to mobilise the EU Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Italy. This relates to mobilisation of the Fund in relation to the earthquakes that occurred in Italy between August 2016 and January 2017 in the regions of Abruzzo, Lazio, Marche and Umbria. The purpose of the report is to formally enter the corresponding budgetary adjustment into the 2017 Union budget. This mobilisation represents the biggest ever mobilisation of the EUSF and I believe that is necessary to help Italy after this natural catastrophe.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this proposal. The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector is highly susceptible to changes in global economy, due to high competition, rapid technological progress and innovations, mergers, acquisitions and outsourcing. The competition between employees from the EU and from outside the EU is intensive. Employees in the European ICT sector are ageing and less educated than their American and Asian counterparts. Finnish ICT professionals are facing increasingly global competition compared to employees in any other sector. On 21 June 2017, the Commission proposed the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund for Finland in order to support the reintegration of 1 248 workers into the labour market.

2016/11/22

I supported limiting the exemption from the EU ETS of flights to and from Europe until 2021. I am convinced that this vote is an important step towards achieving European climate goals. I truly believe that the European Union should be the leader setting ambitious targets. I voted in favour of the proposal to start reducing the cap in aviation emission allowances from 2021, thus bringing aviation into line with other sectors covered by the scheme. Reducing emissions is key to addressing the climatic impact of aviation.

2016/11/22

On 20 July 2016 the Commission proposed a regulation regarding the inclusion of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and removals from land use and forestry in the EU 2030 climate and energy framework. This will be the first time that the land-use sector is formally included in EU climate policy.The regulation requires Member States to balance emissions and removals from the land-use sector over two five-year periods between 2021 and 2030. The regulation is part of the EU’s efforts to reduce its GHG emissions by 40% below 1990 levels by 2030.The strategy will contribute to meeting the greenhouse gas emission reduction commitments of Member States and achieving long-term emission reductions and enhancements of waste removal in all sectors and I fully support this regulation.

2016/11/22

I voted in a favour of the report. The current design of the residence permit was adopted in 1997. Back in 2009, Member States considered that it was necessary to work on a new design for residence permits and decided to introduce more modern security features to improve the security features of residence permits. Therefore, it is necessary to establish a new common design for residence permits for third-country nationals with more modern security features in order to render the residence permits more secure and prevent forgery. Such harmonisation of the residence permit shall help border guards and other relevant authorities to conduct their tasks and contribute to the security of European Union citizens and legal residents.

2016/11/22

I did not support the objection on food subjected to special import conditions from Japan as I believe that the Japanese food safety agency has all the tools at its disposal to carry out rigorous safety checks on food produced around the area affected by the Fukushima accident. I have full confidence in our Japanese colleagues, who have proven to be at the forefront of global food safety examinations. On the other hand, I do support the calls for the Commission to be more transparent about the data it used which led to the lifting of the restriction on these imports, as I believe it would give citizens in all Member States reassurance that the European side carefully analysed the data from Japan. As we move towards a new phase of our strong relationship with Japan, it is important that both sides communicate clearly with each other and citizens about potential risks and problems associated with all imports and exports.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of amending budget No 3 to the general budget 2017 on increasing the budgetary resources of the Youth Employment Initiative (YEI). Youth unemployment rates have decreased in most Member States in comparison to the reference year of 2012 but they are still above 2008 (pre—financial crisis) levels. This situation calls for continued efforts and support at EU level, which is why I support this amending budget.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the implementation of Common Position 2008/944/CFSP. Recent data show that international transfers of major weapons between 2012 and 2016 reached their highest volume for any five-year period since the end of the Cold War. Arms exports and transfers have an impact on security, human rights and democracy. Arms control should be strict, transparent, effective and accepted by all parties. While stressing that maintaining a defence industry serves as part of the self-defence of the Member States, I agree that the Common Position is important for a legally binding framework that sets minimum requirements which Member States have to apply in the field of arms export controls.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of report on EU political relations with Latin America. I believe that the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) region is an ideal partner for the European Union to respond to the major challenges currently facing the world. The long-standing EU-LAC partnership, based on historical, cultural, human and economic ties, should take on a more cross-cutting character, based on common values and principles such as respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, the rule of law, international peace and security and a common commitment to a multilateral system of global governance based on common standards and dialogue. Such cooperation could help to consolidate economic growth through sustainable socio-economic development policies while ensuring social integration, civil liberties and human rights, and reducing poverty.

2016/11/22

Corruption is a global phenomenon which dramatically hits those most in need in developing countries. This phenomenon negatively affects sustainable development, increasing inequalities and deepening the gap between the ruling elite and the majority of people. I voted in favour of this report. Corruption undermines human rights, democracy, democratic accountability, good governance, the rule of law, legal security, as well as countries’ economic capacities, social capital and trust in the institutions. The financial sector has a key role to play in preventing corrupt practices that facilitate land grabbing in particular. Banks and financial institutions should undertake customer due diligence to combat money laundering linked to corruption and ensure that the investors´ support is effective.

2016/11/22

I am convinced that a more coordinated European response to terrorism is needed, and I therefore voted in favour of the proposal on setting up the special committee on terrorism in the European Parliament. The Committee is to examine, analyse and evaluate facts provided by law enforcement authorities of the Member States, competent EU agencies and recognised experts on the extent of the terrorist threat on European soil. It will propose appropriate measures to enable the European Union and Member States to help prevent, investigate and prosecute terrorism-related crimes. This is an important step towards ensuring a more secure European Union.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the EU-Iceland Agreement on the protection of geographical indications for agricultural products and foodstuffs. The conclusion of the agreement is part of the overall strategy of the European Union to promote the production and consumption of European products with geographical indications (GIs). Under the negotiated geographical agreement, 1 150 EU foodstuff GIs will be protected in Iceland as in the rest of the EU. It is necessary to defend these products against practices liable to mislead the consumer as to the true origin of the product.

2016/11/22

The European Union and Iceland are Parties to the Agreement on the European Economic Area which provides for the free movement of goods, with the exception of agricultural and fisheries products. This is the latest round of negotiations aimed at increasing the degree of liberalisation on both sides, extending the current tariff rate quotas and opening new tariff rate quotas for additional agricultural products. Overall, almost all trade on processed agricultural products will be duty free, with some exceptions, notably of fermented milk products. I am convinced that this agreement will help European agriculture.

2016/11/22

The Mediation Directive has as its objective the facilitation of access to alternative dispute resolution and the promotion of the amicable settlement of disputes. Effective and efficient justice systems are of fundamental importance to the proper functioning of the internal market, to economic stability, to investment and to competitiveness. These systems foster confidence in commercial transactions, facilitate the resolution of disputes and help ensure that the necessary trust exists to encourage economic activity. Mediation could be seen as a means to improve the efficiency of the justice system and to reduce the hurdles that lengthy and costly judicial procedures create for citizens and businesses. It can therefore contribute to economic growth. These are the reasons why I voted in favour of the report on implementation of the Directive.

2016/11/22

As a member of the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs I recall that there is no common European system of franchise and franchise agreements. I therefore support a wider spread of this business model across the EU because it has a significant cross-border dimension. Franchising is an effective way for people to start their own business and create their own franchised jobs. In the long term, the franchisee will often create additional jobs. I voted in favour because I am convinced that in a better normative environment of franchise agreements we can ensure compliance with labour standards and decent and quality service.

2016/11/22

I am convinced that space exploration is not a cost for European citizens, but an investment. An ambitious EU space strategy can ensure Europe’s autonomy and positioning in the strategic area of space, while also boosting growth, competitiveness and the creation of jobs in space-related manufacturing, operations and downstream services. Use of the results of public research in space technologies by wider society has the potential to bring competitive and cross-cutting solutions to key EU political priorities. I voted in favour because I believe that space programmes and their services are essential assets in economic sectors and sectors such as energy, climate, safety, health, agriculture, transport, the digital market and local planning. There is also huge potential in addressing challenges such as migration, border management and sustainable development.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the report on academic further and distance education as part of the European lifelong learning strategy because I am convinced that the level of education and training is reflected in society. Continuous enhancement of knowledge, experience and skills is imperative not only at work, but also in an individual’s private and public life. Education systems must therefore pay close attention to, and adapt to, rapidly changing circumstances. Poor access to education opportunities can reduce people’s competitiveness in the labour market and cause difficulties in their private life or even lead to permanent inertia, exclusion from society and, as we have seen in recent years, violent radicalisation, especially among the young, who are the most vulnerable group in this regard. Distance education can improve accessibility for all, without discrimination in terms of nationality, religion, social status, age or sex.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the report. The objective is to ensure a legislative framework that is fit for purpose and of high quality, as referred to in the Interinstitutional Agreement between the European Parliament, the Council of the European Union and the European Commission on Better Law-Making. It is necessary to reduce red tape and the volume of legislation which is no longer relevant to our present needs. The legislation needs to be reviewed regularly and obsolete legislation has to be identified. Repealing obsolete legislation keeps the legislative framework transparent, clear and easy for Member States and relevant stakeholders, in this case the road haulage sector, to implement.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the report because I am convinced that this proposal will help to bolster the development of a more inclusive European digital society. The new legal framework will attract and enable investments in connectivity where connectivity should benefit everyone. The proposal is to equip every European village and city with free wireless internet access around the main centres of public life by 2020. It also opens up the possibility of developing and applying a concept to differentiate the European digital identity. Universal access aims to boost local digital ecosystems, strengthen the link between the European Union and its citizens, and create more and better opportunities for the development of new generation networks.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the report on the regulation concerning measures to safeguard the security of gas supply. I believe that this regulation is a major step for European energy security as well as for the transparency of gas contracts in the EU. It is one of the key legislative actions under the Energy Union framework. This is important in the context of the EU’s increasing dependence on gas imports, as well as repeated gas supply disruptions from Russia which have severely affected supply to several EU Member States. In case of an emergency cut in the supply of gas, this legislation will help to ensure we are prepared so that citizens and public services will not end up facing gas shortages.

2016/11/22

Norway continues whaling and uses a formal objection to the moratorium as well as reservations to CITES listings. Norway’s exports of whale meat have grown sharply in recent years. For the 2017 season, it increased its quota of whales to 999, up from 880 in 2016. Some of these exports are shipped through EU ports. This resolution calls on Norway to withdraw its reservations concerning the CITES of large whale species and to cease all trade in whale meat and whale products. I voted in favour of the resolution, while also noting that the responsibility remains with the Norwegian Government to implement the recommendations of the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling (ICRW).

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the interim report on the EU’s accession to this Convention. I support a pan-European approach. The Istanbul Convention enshrines in particular the duty of prevention, the principle of victim protection and support, as well as the prosecution of perpetrators of violence and domestic violence. Fighting violence against women should no longer remain a phrase. Now we have the tools to do so. The Istanbul Convention has the potential to bring about the change in mentality that we need to fight violence against women effectively. It must be stressed that any form of violence against women or domestic violence is unacceptable.

2016/11/22

I did not support the report on the impact of international trade and the EU’s trade policies on global value chains. I am convinced that the measures proposed would have adverse effects on SMEs by increasing red tape. Global value chains (GVCs) have become a key element of the global economy. They can help developing countries to better integrate into it, reduce poverty and improve employment, while having a positive effect on increasing their production capacity. On the other hand, I do support the calls of the Committee on International Trade to adopt reinforced trade defence instruments to combat unfair commercial practices, taking into account social and environmental dumping, as I believe that it is a very important issue for the development of international trade.

2016/11/22

. ‒ The year 2016 was a turbulent one in Turkey and the measures taken against the thousands of alleged supporters of the Gülen movement, which included arrests, detentions and property confiscations, were particularly regrettable. I am also concerned about the violations of freedom of expression and media freedom, which have so far led to the closure of some 170 media outlets and the jailing of more than 150 journalists.As I believe that accession to the EU should be conditional on respect for human rights and the rule of law, I supported the report stating that the accession talks with Turkey should be suspended. Nevertheless, I welcome the report’s invitation to the EU and its Member States to cooperate with Turkey in all areas of mutual interest, including trade, migration and security.

2016/11/22

. ‒ In the context of the upsurge in terrorist attacks and cross-border crimes, I believe that a more coordinated European response is needed, and I therefore voted in favour of the proposal on setting up a special committee on terrorism in the European Parliament. I am of the opinion that by exploring the counter-terrorism legislation, as well as the situation on the ground, the committee will be able to address both legislative and practical deficiencies, thus increasing security within the Union.The committee will particularly focus on cooperation and information exchange between national law-enforcement authorities and on the interoperability of European information-sharing databases, because these are key to the protection of the EU external borders and to ensuring that the Schengen Area can function optimally.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the report on the European Fund for Sustainable Development (EFSD), which will be used by the Union to improve the investment climate in its partner countries, thus aiming at eradication of poverty, long-term sustainable and inclusive growth and job creation. I am convinced that by advancing sustainable development in the African countries with which the EU has concluded partnerships on migration, the EFSD will be effective in addressing the root causes of migration and that it will therefore help to alleviate the current pressure on Europe. Additionally, a certain amount of the investments will be used to support climate action, which will help the EU to achieve its goals for sustainable development.

2016/11/22

. – Dvojí zdanění v případě společností působících ve dvou či více evropských zemích představuje jednu z největších překážek jednotného trhu, neboť vytváří bariéry pro přeshraniční investice. Avšak pokusy o odstranění dvojího zdanění často vedly k „dvojímu nezdanění“, kdy se společnosti vyhnuly daním prostřednictvím praktik, jako je narušování daňových základů a přesouvání zisku do jiných zemí. Řešení sporů s daňovými úniky společností je navíc zdlouhavé, drahé a často bez výsledku. Proto jsem podpořil zprávu o mechanismu řešení sporů týkajících se dvojího zdanění na evropské úrovni. Tento mechanismus obsahuje účinnější postupy řešení sporů v mezích jasného časového rámce, čímž zlepšuje výkonnost příslušných orgánů a chrání tak zájmy členských států i daňových poplatníků.

2016/11/22

. – Podpořil jsem zprávu zdůrazňující potřebu lépe koordinovat současné i budoucí iniciativy pro dosažení cílů udržitelného rozvoje jak na úrovni EU, tak na úrovni členských států. Ve shodě se zprávou jsem toho názoru, že dodržování cílů udržitelného rozvoje by mělo být klíčovým prvkem iniciativ navrhovaných ve všech oblastech pracovních programů Unie. Kromě toho také vítám ve zprávě uvedený návrh na větší propojení občanské a správní společnosti skrze platformu, která by sloužila jako fórum ke sdílení osvědčených postupů a úspěšných projektů. Návrhy tak nebudou postupovat pouze jedním směrem – od orgánů Unie směrem k nižším úrovním –, ale i naopak, takže návrhy a iniciativy na úrovni Unie budou obohaceny informacemi na základě zkušeností na místní úrovni. Takto koordinovaná snaha o udržitelný rozvoj přispěje k dosažení zlepšení životních podmínek pro všechny.

2016/11/22

. – Nejvzdálenějším regionům Evropské unie byl článkem 349 Smlouvy o fungování Evropské unie udělen zvláštní status, na základě kterého může Unie přizpůsobit svou politiku potřebám těchto regionů. Bohužel se však v současné době politika EU těmto regionům přizpůsobuje jen velmi omezeně, a proto jsem podpořil zprávu, která vybízí Komisi k předložení akčního plánu, který by jasně stanovil strategii Unie k těmto regionům. Zpráva v tomto ohledu předkládá několik okruhů a prioritních projektů zaměřených na konkrétní opatření, která lze rychle provést, a to zejména v oblasti zemědělské politiky a rybolovu. Závěrem zpráva také připomíná nutnost zlepšit zapojení nejvzdálenějších regionů do horizontálních programů, které se vztahují zejména na výzkum, životní prostředí, vzdělávání, kulturu, dopravu, energetiku a telekomunikace.

2016/11/22

. – Dodatek k Montrealskému protokolu byl přijat minulý rok v říjnu na zasedání v Kigali ve Rwandě. Smluvní strany protokolu tam souhlasily se zařazením částečně fluorovaných uhlovodíků („látky HFC“) do seznamu látek regulovaných protokolem. Látky HFC jsou běžně používány v klimatizacích, chladicích zařízeních, aerosolech, pěnách i jiných výrobcích jako náhrady za chlorfluoruhlovodíky (látky CFC) a jiné látky, které poškozují ozonovou vrstvu a které byly redukovány díky opatřením přijatým v rámci protokolu. Bohužel se však ukázalo, že látky HFC jsou také účinnými skleníkovými plyny s tisícinásobným potenciálem globálního oteplování oproti účinku oxidu uhličitého. Proto je třeba jejich použití co nejdříve omezit. Z tohoto důvodu jsem podpořil zprávu o přijetí dodatku k Montrealskému protokolu z Kigali.

2016/11/22

. – Látky znečišťující ovzduší se mohou před usazením dostávat až do vzdálenosti tisíců kilometrů, z čehož vyplývá, že znečišťování ovzduší je třeba řešit na mezinárodní úrovni. Úmluva o dálkovém znečišťování ovzduší přesahujícím hranice států z roku 1979, kterou se stanovil rámec pro kontrolu a snižování škod způsobených na lidském zdraví a životním prostředí v důsledku takového znečišťování, byla prvním mezinárodním právně závazným nástrojem v této oblasti. Postupně bylo k úmluvě připojeno osm protokolů. V roce 2012 došlo k revizi a pozměnění osmého protokolu zaměřeného na omezení acidifikace, eutrofizace a přízemního ozonu. Aby se tyto změny staly závaznými, musí je nyní smluvní strany ratifikovat. Věřím, že ratifikace změn přispěje k lepší ochraně lidského zdraví a životního prostředí, a proto jsem hlasoval pro zprávu navrhující, aby Parlament udělil svůj souhlas k ratifikaci.

2016/11/22

. – Dohoda o politickém dialogu a spolupráci představuje účinný nástroj k zajištění rámce pro vztahy mezi EU a jejími členskými státy na jedné straně a Kubánskou republikou na straně druhé. V zásadě se dohoda opírá o tři hlavní kapitoly: kapitolu o politickém dialogu, kapitolu o spolupráci a dialogu o odvětvových politikách a kapitolu o obchodě a obchodní spolupráci. V kapitole o politickém dialogu je stanoveno, že smluvní strany navážou dialog o takových otázkách, jako jsou lidská práva, zbraně a odzbrojení, migrace, drogy, boj proti terorismu a udržitelný rozvoj. Jsem proto toho názoru, že dohoda bude přínosem pro další vývoj v oblasti lidských práv na Kubě, a proto jsem podpořil zprávu navrhující, aby Výbor pro zahraniční věci doporučil udělení souhlasu s uzavřením této dohody.

2016/11/22

. – Podpořil jsem zprávu o návrhu rozhodnutí Rady o uzavření Dohody o politickém dialogu a spolupráci mezi Evropskou unií a jejími členskými státy na jedné straně a Kubánskou republikou na straně druhé. Věřím, že tato dohoda poskytne nový rámec pro vztahy mezi EU a Kubou a přispěje tak ke zlepšení životních podmínek a sociálních práv kubánských občanů a k prosazování hodnot demokracie a lidských práv, včetně svobody projevu, sdružování a shromažďování. Zároveň vítám, že Dohoda o politickém dialogu a spolupráci výslovně odkazuje na občanskou společnost jakožto aktéra spolupráce. Za vhodné považuji i to, že do dohody byla začleněna i ustanovení na podporu udržitelného hospodářského rozvoje a také rozvoje v oblasti životního prostředí na Kubě.

2016/11/22

. – Eurojust, jakožto evropská jednotka pro soudní spolupráci, významně podporuje členské státy v boji proti závažné organizované trestné činnosti, která se dotýká více než jedné země EU. S cílem posílit spolupráci s Evropskou agenturou pro provozní řízení rozsáhlých informačních systémů v prostoru svobody, bezpečnosti a práva, ("eu-LISA"), sjednal Eurojust memorandum o porozumění mezi eu-LISA a Eurojustem. Věřím, že posílená spolupráce těchto orgánů přispěje k efektivnější vzájemné výměně informací, a tedy k větší bezpečnosti evropských občanů, a proto jsem hlasoval pro zprávu o návrhu prováděcího rozhodnutí Rady, kterým se schvaluje uzavření memoranda o porozumění mezi eu-LISA a Eurojustem.

2016/11/22

I believe that intercultural exchange is essential for mutual understanding and political dialogue. I therefore endorsed the report on the joint communication proposed by the Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy on the development of an effective EU strategy for international cultural relations. The report emphasises that culture should become an essential part of political dialogue and highlights the role of culture in EU external policy as a soft power tool, and a catalyst for peacekeeping, stability and reconciliation. In view of the key role of culture in international relations, I also welcome the report’s call on the High Representative to give a specific role to cultural issues in the implementation road map of the EU Global Strategy.

2016/11/22

The global financial crisis in 2008 led to a number of difficulties for workers in many sectors across Europe. For that reason, the EU set up both legislative and budgetary instruments to provide these workers with additional and prompt support. In this case, it is workers in Spain in the coal and lignite mining sector in the region of Castilla y León who require this support. Despite Spain’s efforts to improve the employment situation in the region via financial support and special measures such as occupational counselling, job-search assistance, training in skills, competences, promotion of entrepreneurship and support for business start-ups, the situation remains difficult. Consequently, I believe that the eligible workers should benefit from the EU’s support.

2016/11/22

Standards are technical specifications defining requirements for products, production, processes, services or test methods, which are developed and followed by industry and market actors to ensure safety, reduce costs and facilitate companies’ integration in trade. With respect to that, the European standardisation system represents an important tool, which develops interoperability of networks and systems, supports quality, performance and protection of consumers, and enhances European growth. However, the European standardisation system must be adapted to the circumstances, which change rapidly because of the new digital technologies and quickly evolving international context. I therefore supported the report, which highlights the importance of revising the system by taking into account not only the contributions of big industry and public authorities, but also those of SMEs, consumers and citizens in order to improve the inclusiveness and transparency of the system.

2016/11/22

. – Hlasoval jsem pro zprávu doporučující učinit kroky nezbytné k harmonizaci rámců pro kryté dluhopisy v EU. Kryté dluhopisy v současné době financují zhruba 20 % evropských hypoték a jen v roce 2015 představovaly více než 2 000 miliard EUR závazků v Evropě. Kryté dluhopisy navíc hrály klíčovou úlohu při financování úvěrových institucí, zejména během krize, kdy si zachovaly vysokou míru bezpečnosti a likvidity. Pro ještě větší efektivitu krytých dluhopisů zpráva vyzývá Komisi, aby předložila návrh rámce, který by jasně definoval prémiové a běžné kryté dluhopisy a evropské zajištěné cenné papíry, a rozšířil tak institucionální zásady krytých dluhopisů na dluhové nástroje, které financují důležité hospodářské činnosti podporující růst. Věřím, že takový rámec zajistí více transparentnosti, veřejného dohledu a právní jistoty a zvýší tak účinnost těchto nástrojů.

2016/11/22

. – Podpořil jsem zprávu vyzývající Komisi k tomu, aby předložila vhodný legislativní návrh týkající se promlčecí lhůty u dopravních nehod. Pravidla pro promlčecí lhůty u občanskoprávních žádostí o náhradu škody se v současné době v členských státech mnohdy zásadním způsobem liší. Proto je v případě dopravních nehod, při kterých je obsažen přeshraniční prvek, velmi složité domáhat se odpovědnosti za škodu. Složitost tohoto úkonu totiž často vede k nedodržení promlčecí lhůty, což může vést k zamítnutí žádosti, a tedy neúspěchu co se náhrady za škodu týče. Z toho důvodu považuji na místě harmonizaci promlčecí lhůty v EU, jak je navržena ve zprávě, zavést.

2016/11/22

. – Vzhledem k tomu, že občanskoprávní řízení je neoddělitelně spjato s právem na spravedlivý proces a účinnou právní ochranou, tedy základními hodnotami Unie, podpořil jsem zprávu o minimálních standardech těchto řízení na evropské úrovni. Zavedení společných procesních norem na úrovni Unie usnadní spolupráci mezi příslušnými orgány a zajistí soudní ochranu práv jednotlivce, což povede k posílené důvěře mezi justicemi států a většímu obecnému pocitu spravedlnosti, jistoty a předvídatelnosti v celé Unii. Kromě toho se tímto krokem přispěje k většímu povědomí o již existujících procesních pravidlech a mechanismech EU.

2016/11/22

This long-awaited legislation will enhance tax transparency by obliging multinational companies to state publicly details of their profits in each country where they operate, along with their real activity in those countries, even outside the EU. By making the information publicly available, we will be able to see whether companies shift their profit from one jurisdiction to another to minimise companies’ tax liabilities, a well-known practice to reduce their actual tax bill. I see tax transparency as the best deterrent to tax evasion, and thus, I voted in favour of this text.

2016/11/22

The Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area is the economic and trade pillar of the Association Agreement between the EU and Ukraine, and it establishes a free trade area for trade in goods over a transitional period of ten years. With respect to that, the EU reduces or abolishes its custom duties faster than Ukraine, thus supporting Ukraine in its recently worsened economic, political and security situation. In view of the persisting difficulties in Ukraine, I voted in favour of the report on the proposal providing for further assistance to Ukraine through additional trade preferences. These include zero tariff-rate quotas for certain agricultural products, and partial or full removal of import duties for some industrial products over a three-year period. Additionally, I welcome that the report encourages Ukraine to fully respect democratic principles and the principle of the rule of law, and to continue in its efforts to combat corruption and organised crime.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the Draft Amending Budget, which will enter the surplus of the 2016 budget into the 2017 budget. In particular, I consider the list of the main components of this surplus, as put forward in the report, as very useful in drafting budgets for the upcoming years. Beyond that, the report notes that the adoption of the draft amending budget will reduce the share of contributions from Member States to the Union budget in 2017 by EUR 6 405 million. With respect to that, I welcome the encouragement to the Member States to use this money to match the Union contribution to Union trust funds and to the new European Fund for Sustainable Development.

2016/11/22

. – Zpráva vypracovaná Výborem pro vnitřní trh a ochranu spotřebitelů se zabývá krátkou životností výrobků uváděných na trh a jejich čím dál tím více obtížnou opravitelností. To pochopitelně vede k rostoucí nespokojenosti spotřebitelů a také k negativním dopadům na životní prostředí. Z těchto důvodů jsem hlasoval pro zprávu, která požaduje, aby Evropská komise zajistila lepší informovanost spotřebitelů o životnosti výrobků, například o domácích elektrospotřebičích. Také vítám, že zpráva vybízí Komisi k zavedení dobrovolné evropské značky, která by zahrnovala jak trvanlivost, tak i ekodesign výrobku. Spotřebitelé si tak budou moci cíleně vybrat výrobky, které mají delší životnost a které jsou šetrnější k životnímu prostředí.

2016/11/22

I am convinced that the EU should lead by example in the fight against mass atrocities and impunity. I therefore supported the report, which encourages the EU and the Member States to lend active support to international efforts to bring to justice members of terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and ISIS/Daesh, as well as any other actors committing crimes against humanity. Furthermore, I welcome that the report reaffirms that accession to the International Criminal Court and the Rome Statute is crucial, and calls on the states which have not yet done so to ratify the Rome Statute in order to support accountability and reconciliation as key elements in preventing future atrocities. Last but not least, as highlighted in the report, it is essential for the EU to provide assistance to the victims, continue in its efforts to eradicate sexual and gender-based violence, and support the stabilisation and reconciliation processes.

2016/11/22

Despite the fact that private security companies, including military ones, have been increasingly often employed by national governments, the European Union still lacks a regulatory framework for these companies. For this reason, I endorsed the report calling for the establishment of such a framework, which would set out clear rules for interaction, cooperation and assistance between law enforcement and private security companies. More specifically, the report stresses that the activities of private security companies in conflict areas should be restricted so as to avoid their involvement in the use of force and weaponry. Further, those Member States employing private security companies must ensure their accountability through putting in place a binding regulatory and monitoring mechanisms. For this purpose, the report calls on the Commission to develop an effective European regulatory model.

2016/11/22

European citizens must be guaranteed ‘decent work’, in other words work which delivers a fair income, which takes place in a safe workplace, and which provides for social protection, better prospects for social integration, freedom for people to express their concerns, and which is characterised by equality of opportunity and treatment for all women and men. I therefore endorsed the report, which encourages the Commission and the Member States to tackle precarious employment, including undeclared work and bogus self-employment. In particular, it is necessary to increase job quality in non-standard jobs by providing a set of minimum standards as regards social protection and access to training and development.

2016/11/22

EFSI is still in its infancy, with some teething problems appearing in data on implementation of the funds. While I believe that the potential for economic growth through EFSI remains convincing, this report will help encourage the effectiveness of EFSI through increasing the effectiveness of EFSI through greater clarity in selection procedures when the applications for EFSI funding are being processed. With respect to that, small-scale projects should be given extra support, because they often encounter difficulties when applying. Last but not least, the report notes that in order to improve efficiency, options for making the EFSI governance structure completely separate from that of the European Investment Bank should be discussed.

2016/11/22

The recent rapid growth of the collaborative economy is clearly noticeable. On the one hand, it creates new opportunities for citizens, yet on the other, it challenges the traditional economy. I therefore supported the report, which calls for an adequate European strategy in regards to this sector. Firstly, the Member States should enhance legal certainty, because certain parts of the collaborative economy fall within grey areas of local and regional regulation. In relation to that, special attention should be paid to the individual rights and protection of consumers, as well as to fair working conditions and adequate legal and social protection of those employed within the collaborative economy. Lastly, it is important to ensure competition and tax compliance of collaborative economy platforms. Exchange of best practice among the Member States would be beneficial in this regard.

2016/11/22

The EU has been responding to the regulatory challenges presented by the rapid developments in the use of online platforms through different initiatives. I am therefore of the opinion that coordination and consistency between these initiatives must be ensured in order to avoid fragmentation of the EU internal market. However, this report calls into question the E-commerce Directive in regard to platform liability rules. These rules are essential for safeguarding the internet against censorship and they are at the heart of the digital single market. Consequently, I decided to abstain from the vote on this report.

2016/11/22

. ‒ More than two years of conflict have devastated Yemen, leaving 21 million people in need of some kind of humanitarian assistance and creating the largest food-security emergency in the world. Additionally, the conflict presents a serious risk for the stability of the region, in particular that of the Horn of Africa, the Red Sea and the wider Middle East.I therefore endorse the resolution, which condemns the ongoing violence in Yemen and all the attacks against civilians, and which reaffirms the commitment to continue in supporting Yemen and its people. It is essential to provide adequately financed humanitarian aid coordinated by the UN, which would supply food, medicine and other necessary assistance. Lastly, I welcome the call to all parties in the conflict to prevent and address all forms of violence, including sexual and gender-based violence, as well as condemning the use of children in the hostilities.

2016/11/22

. ‒ EU Regulation No 1141/2014 lays down the conditions governing the statute and funding of European political parties and European political foundations. These conditions concern governance of European political parties and the establishment of an authority for European political parties and foundations for the purpose of registration, control and sanctions, as well as financing of the parties. However, there are certain shortcomings in the regulation in relation to the level of co-financing, and the possibility of MEPs having multi-party membership.I supported the resolution, as it calls on the Commission to evaluate the shortcomings identified and propose a revision in order to align the activities of the European political parties with EU principles and to ensure transparency with regard to their funding.

2016/11/22

. – V souladu s Pařížskou dohodou o změně klimatu a za účelem dosažení cíle Evropské unie o snížení emisí skleníkových plynů o 40 % z roku 1990 do roku 2030 by EU měla pokračovat ve své podpoře členským státům v jejich úsilí směřujícím ke snížení emisí. Proto jsem podpořil zprávu, která vyzdvihuje strategii dlouhodobého snižování emisí založenou na inovativních opatřeních maximalizujících výkonnost, a to zejména skrze oběhové hospodářství, zlepšení energetické náročnosti budov a navýšení objemu energie z obnovitelných zdrojů. Zpráva však nezapomíná ani na odvětví dopravy, které je hlavním producentem emisí skleníkových plynů. V tomto ohledu je důležité prosazování využívání energie s nízkými emisemi, jako například udržitelná biopaliva a elektrická vozidla.

2016/11/22

. – Domnívám se, že sloučení 14 případů zmocnění a jejich předložení v rámci jediného nařízení představuje závažný zásah Komise do pravomocí Parlamentu jakožto spolutvůrce právních předpisů, protože to nutí Parlament celý balíček buď pouze přijmout, nebo odmítnout, bez jakékoli možnosti pro vyjádření stanoviska k jednotlivým případům tohoto zmocnění. Co se obsahu týče, dle navrhovaného nařízení by byla zakázala fytosanitární ochrany u luskovin pěstovaných na plochách využívaných v ekologickém zájmu, což by mělo negativní dopad na domácí produkci bílkovin. Navíc se přínos luskovin z hlediska ochrany půdy a vázání dusíku jasně prokázal a není tedy vhodné jejich pěstování omezovat. Proto jsem hlasoval pro usnesení, které informuje Komisi o tom, že nařízení v přenesené pravomoci nemůže vstoupit v platnost.

2016/11/22

In light of the available data, the report calls calling on the Commission to come up with an EU strategy to end a gender pension gap. In 2014, the pension gap between women and men in the EU was an alarming 39.4%. Additionally, the data collected show that the gap has actually increased in more than half of the Member States in the last five years. However, it is important to bear in mind that as women are overrepresented in poorly-paid jobs and under-represented in well-paid professional ones, and as they often take a break in their careers in order to raise children, they encounter difficulties in their lives, which later have a negative impact on their pensions. I therefore believe that what is needed is rather a comprehensive and effective strategy addressing the underlying causes of pension gap such as discrimination against women in the labour market in terms of pay or career advancement.

2016/11/22

. – Vítám pokroky Srbska v jeho cestě k integraci do EU, a to zejména co se týče rozvoje fungujícího tržního hospodářství a zlepšení celkové ekonomické situace v zemi. Na druhou stranu však souhlasím se zprávou, která podotýká, že je zapotřebí v tomto pokroku pokračovat. Pokud jde o hospodářství, Srbsko by mělo nadále podporovat malé a střední podniky a také podnikání zejména mezi mladými lidmi. Co se týče jiných oblastí, Srbsko by se mělo soustředit zejména na postupné sbližování své zahraniční a bezpečnostní politiky s politikou EU, včetně své politiky vůči Rusku. V neposlední řadě je třeba zdůraznit nutnost dodržování demokratických zásad, lidských práv, právního státu a ochrany menšin a zranitelných skupin, jako jsou například Romové, osoby se zdravotním postižením, osoby s HIV/AIDS, LGBTI osoby, migranti a žadatelé o azyl a etnické menšiny.

2016/11/22

I endorsed the report, which reflects the European Union’s willingness to assist Kosovo with its economic and political development that plays a key role in its path towards European integration. On the other hand, I share the concerns expressed in the report in regards to the extreme polarisation of the political landscape in Kosovo and increasing violence. Kosovo should continue in implementation of reforms aiming at the protection of freedom of expression and media freedom, the protection of the rights of all minorities, and crucially, the combat against violent extremism and radicalisation. Beyond that, the process of normalisation of relations with Serbia should remain a priority. With respect to that, recognition of Kosovo by the five Member States, which have not yet done so, would be beneficial to the normalisation of relations between Kosovo and Serbia, and it would also increase the EU’s credibility in its own external policy.

2016/11/22

. – Jako většina poslanců Evropského parlamentu jsem v prosinci minulého roku uvítal předčasné volby v Makedonii, které jasně signalizovaly tamní vůli pro vytvoření stabilní vlády, ve které by se všechny politické strany i etnické skupiny podílely na vzájemné spolupráci za účelem zahájení přístupových jednání do EU. Proto jsem podpořil zprávu, která vyjadřuje podporu Makedonii v její cestě k zahájení přístupových jednání, ale která tuto podporu podmiňuje pokrokem v provádění dohody z Pržina, jejíž úspěšná implementace je nezbytná pro politickou stabilitu země. Kromě toho sdílím i obavy vyjádřené ve zprávě, které se týkají přílišné politizace veřejné správy v Makedonii, a v této souvislosti vítám, že zpráva naléhá na makedonskou vládu, aby nepolevovala v boji proti korupci a řídila se principy profesionality, zásluhy a nezávislosti. Na závěr dodávám, že konstruktivní dialog mezi orgány státní správy a občanskou společností je naprostou nutností a klíčovým nástrojem v usmiřování znesvářených etnických skupin.

2016/11/22

The humanitarian and security crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has further deteriorated in the aftermath of the refusal of President Joseph Kabila to step down in December 2016, thus violating the Congolese Constitution. The country has subsequently suffered from further brutal violence, which caused displacement of over one million civilians, widespread famine and grave violations of human rights, including the massacre of more than 500 civilians in Kasai province and the discovery of over 40 mass graves, as reported by the UN. For this reason, I supported the resolution, which strongly condemns all violations of human rights in DRC, and which calls for an independent and comprehensive committee of inquiry to investigate the violence in the Kasai province. Further, the EU and the Member States should increase financial and humanitarian aid through reliable organisations in order to better protect Congolese people from human rights violations, food insecurity and epidemics.

2016/11/22

‒ In light of the current increase in scepticism about the benefits of the European Union, it is more important than ever to engage in effective communication with European citizens, thus bridging the gap between them and the EU. I therefore endorsed the report, which stresses the need to improve the quality of communication concerning the European Structural and Investment Funds, especially in regards to the final results of projects. In relation to that, the report proposes to continue the communication activities for another four years after closure of the project as the visibility of cohesion policy suffers due to its nature bringing results rather in the long-term. Further, noting the important role of the media in informing citizens, the report emphasises the need to develop information campaigns and communication strategies that target the media. Beyond that, I welcome the report’s emphasis on boosting the attractiveness of EU cohesion policy funding through the reduction of complexity and, where appropriate, the number of regulations and guidelines.

2016/11/22

‒ Falling under the Horizon 2020 regulation, the Seventh Framework Programme for research and innovation (FP7) is still ongoing. Yet although the programme is considered to be a success, there were some shortcomings identified: the high administrative burden and cumbersome legal and financial rules; insufficient focus on industry participation and societal impact; and weak communication. This is of importance especially because it is likely that the programme will not be fully executed and evaluated before 2020, which could have negative impact on future follow-up programmes. For this reason, I supported the report, which urges the Commission to publish an evaluation report as soon as possible. Additionally, the report notes that the share of Horizon 2020 funds allocated to small and medium sized enterprises increased from 19.4 % in 2014 to 23.4 % in 2015 and calls on the Member States to further encourage this trend, a recommendation that I welcome. Lastly, the report appreciates the creation of a Common Support Centre (CSC), which will help to coordinate and deliver the Programme in an efficient and harmonised manner.

2016/11/22

. – Je znepokojující, že přestože je právo na státní příslušnost zakotveno ve Všeobecné deklaraci lidských práv již téměř sedmdesát let, zůstává toto právo pro miliony lidí stále nedosažitelné. Navíc se této problematice nedostává mezinárodní pozornosti, a to navzdory jejímu závažnému dopadu na lidská práva. Situace je alarmující v jižní a jihovýchodní Asii, a to zejména na Myanmaru, kde osoby bez státní příslušnosti z etnické menšiny Rohingyů tvoří až 20 % z celosvětového počtu. Dále se neustále objevují zprávy o porušování lidských práv a pokračující represi a diskriminaci Rohingyů. Proto jsem podpořil zprávu vyzývající orgány Myanmaru, aby obnovily myanmarské občanství rohingyjské menšině a zároveň umožnily přístup do země humanitárním organizacím, mezinárodním pozorovatelům, nevládním organizacím a novinářům. Závěrem vítám i výzvu zprávy, aby Evropská unie vypracovala komplexní strategii v oblasti osob bez státní příslušnosti.

2016/11/22

The creation of sustainable agrifood systems represents a positive contribution to solving water shortage, food security and nutrition. Consequently, I endorsed the report on PRIMA, whose general objective is to build research and innovation capacities and to develop knowledge and common innovative solutions for sustainable agrifood systems and integrated water management in the Mediterranean region. PRIMA’s work will be implemented on the basis of annual work plans, which will be in line with the priorities of other research and innovation projects under Horizon 2020. In relation to that, all calls, proposals and projects will be immediately made available on the Horizon 2020 database eCORDA, thus keeping the European citizens updated.

2016/11/22

. – Nedávná zemětřesení v Itálii měla ničivý dopad na všechny občany žijící v tamním regionu. Je jasné, že bude zapotřebí rozsáhlých rekonstrukčních prací, zejména co se týče obnovy kulturního dědictví v postižených oblastech. Tyto události poukázaly na skutečnost, že EU musí být schopna rychle poskytnout dodatečnou a účinnou podporu z Evropského fondu pro regionální rozvoj (EFRR) jednotlivým regionům v členských státech v případě, že jsou zasaženy rozsáhlými přírodními katastrofami, a doplnit tak prostředky, které jsou k dispozici v rámci Fondu solidarity Evropské unie. Z tohoto důvodu jsem podpořil zprávu, která navrhuje zřízení samostatné prioritní osy pro operace na obnovu a přestavbu podporovanou právě z EFRR, pokud částka přidělená na tyto operace nepřekročí 5 % z celkových přidělených prostředků EFRR daného členského státu na programové období 2014–2020.

2016/11/22

. – Štítky jsou důležitým nástrojem poskytujícím spotřebiteli jasné, úplné a srozumitelné informace o výrobku uváděném na trh. Podpořil jsem proto zprávu, která stanovuje rámec týkající se výrobků spojených se spotřebou energie, dle kterého budou muset tyto výrobky být opatřeny štítkem značícím energetickou výkonnost, absolutní spotřebu energie a jiné ekologické a výkonnostní charakteristiky. Spotřebitelé tak budou moci upřednostnit energeticky úsporné výrobky před těmi méně úspornými, a snížit tak svou spotřebu energie. Štítek navrhovaný ve zprávě je ve formě grafického diagramu, který výrobek klasifikuje od písmena A po G podle odpovídající energetické úspornosti, a podle barvy odpovídající energetické výkonnosti výrobku. Zpráva dále zdůrazňuje, že členské státy by měly zajistit, aby zavedení či případné přepracování systému označování energetickými štítky bylo provázeno odpovídajícími vzdělávacími, informačními a propagačními kampaněmi.

2016/11/22

. – Jsem toho názoru, že kultura je významným nástrojem pro lidský rozvoj, pro podporu evropského povědomí, evropské politické integrace, sociálního začlenění a vzájemného porozumění. Proto vítám iniciativy, které zdůrazňují bohatství, rozmanitost a společné charakteristické rysy evropské kultury a které podporují větší vzájemné poznání mezi evropskými občany prostřednictvím mezikulturního dialogu. Zároveň věřím, že by Evropská unie měla podporovat projekty napomáhající turismu a rozvoji měst po celé Evropě. Projekt Evropská hlavní města kultury hraje právě v tomto ohledu zásadní roli. Proto jsem rád podpořil zprávu, která navrhuje Novi Sad (Srbsko), Temešvár (Rumunsko) a Elefsina (Řecko) jako evropská hlavní města kultury v roce 2021. Zpráva navíc také zmiňuje přínos zavedení sítě evropských hlavních měst kultury, která by usnadnila výměnu zkušeností a vystupovala jako poradenská služba pro nově vybraná města.

2016/11/22

. – Podpořil jsem zprávu, která vychází z toho, že program Horizont 2020 určující rámec, kterým se řídí podpora výzkumných a inovačních činností ze strany Unie, a který podporuje lepší využívání průmyslového potenciálu politik v oblasti inovací, výzkumu a technologického rozvoje, přináší jasnou přidanou hodnotu a je tedy úspěšný. I přesto se však domnívám, že je možné tento program dále vylepšovat. To se týká především rozpočtu, který je v současné době nedostačující a který znemožňuje podporu mnoha vysoce kvalitním projektům. Tento problém se ještě více prohloubil škrty způsobenými v důsledku Evropského fondu pro strategické investice (EFSI). Vítám proto návrh, aby byl rozpočet programu navýšen na 120 miliard EUR a aby byla podpořena součinnost tohoto programu a jiných specializovaných evropských fondů pro výzkum a inovace. Dále jsem také pro navýšení míry podpory mladým výzkumným pracovníkům a vznik nových center excelence v oblasti výzkumu.

2016/11/22

. – Politika soudržnosti na evropské úrovni úspěšně propojuje specifické potřeby jednotlivých regionů Evropské unie s prioritami Unie jako celku, a přináší tak všem občanům hmatatelné výsledky. Silná a řádně financovaná politika soudržnosti po roce 2020, která by zajistila vhodný rámec pro Evropský strukturální a investiční fond (ESIF), je předpokladem pro pokračující úspěch této politik. Bohužel však zpráva, o které bylo v Parlamentu hlasováno, obsahovala změnu, která se staví proti makroekonomické podmíněnosti. Makroekonomická podmíněnost stanovuje pravidla pro pozastavení ESIF v případech, kdy se na členské státy vztahuje postup při nadměrném schodku a kdy tyto státy nepodniknou nápravná opatření. Jsem toho názoru, že řádná fiskální pravidla musí být respektována jako podmínka úspěšné politiky soudržnosti, a proto jsem spolu s ostatními členy ALDE skupiny hlasoval proti této zprávě.

2016/11/22

. – V rámci Evropské unie se v současné době na elektronické knihy, co se daní týče, vztahuje standardní minimální sazba ve výši 15 %. Na rozdíl od toho se tato sazba nevztahuje na tištěné publikace, na které si členské státy mohou účtovat sníženou, nadměrně sníženou, a v některých případech dokonce i nulovou sazbu. Domnívám se, že takovéto uplatňování dvojího metru je absurdní, a to zejména v době digitální revoluce. V souladu se strategií Komise pro digitální jednotný trh a ambicí zajistit konkurenceschopnost Evropy v digitálním hospodářství by členské státy měly mít možnost sladit sazby DPH pro elektronicky dodávané publikace s nižšími sazbami DPH pro tištěné publikace, a tím stimulovat inovace a investice. Digitalizace publikací navíc usnadňuje přenos znalostí a přístup ke kultuře. Z těchto důvodů jsem proto návrh, který členským státům umožní snížit DPH na elektronické knihy tak, aby odpovídala knihám tištěným, podpořil.

2016/11/22

5G technology is an engine for innovation and development, and it is therefore essential for economic growth of the European Union and maintenance of its global competitiveness. Additionally, 5G represents the standard for the future in mobile communication technologies and mobile and wireless connectivity as innovative services and applications are being used on the go by an ever increasing number of citizens. For this reason, I believe that Europe will benefit from further transformation towards the digital economy in terms of wider coverage, connectivity and faster speeds.I therefore endorsed the report on a 5G Action Plan aimed at the deployment of standardised 5G networks from 2020 to 2025. In this context, the report underlines the importance of cooperation between academia, research institutions, and both the private sector and the public sector on research and development concerning 5G mobile communications, and encourages the Commission to continue involving all relevant sectors in the process.

2016/11/22

The European Union lacks a genuine legal framework, which would ensure adequate protection of persons who are temporarily or permanently in the position of being unable to manage their property if their property is located in several Member States. In order to allow vulnerable adults to benefit fully from the EU’s principles of free movement and residence, I voted in favour of the proposal, which seeks to fill this gap. The proposal aims at facilitating and enhancing cooperation between the Member States in this field. For this purpose, it contains provisions aiming at improved information on administrative and judicial decisions taken relating to vulnerable adults, the promotion of the enforcement of protective measures taken by the authorities of one Member State in the other Member States, and at fostering of consultation and coordination among the Member States where the execution of a decision envisaged by the authorities of a Member State could have logistical and financial implications for another Member State.

2016/11/22

. – S přihlédnutím k úsilí o hospodářskou reformu Ukrajiny a za účelem podpory rozvoje užších hospodářských vztahů s Evropskou unií jsem rád podpořil zprávu o návrhu nařízení na zavedení dočasných autonomních obchodních opatření pro Ukrajinu, která by měla umožnit vyšší vývoz zemědělských a průmyslových produktů z Ukrajiny do Unie. Tato opatření mohou významně pomoci ukrajinské ekonomice, která se sice vzpamatovává z hluboké recese, ale která zároveň doplácí na snížený obchod s Ruskem v souvislosti s nekončícím konfliktem na východní Ukrajině. Komise navíc pečlivě zvážila eventuální dopady tohoto nařízení na výrobce v Unii a došla k závěru, že by opatření neměla mít negativní dopad na evropský trh.

2016/11/22

. – Současná podoba jednotného vízového formátu se datuje do roku 1995, kdy byl tento formát vytvořen v rámci mezivládní schengenské spolupráce. Od té doby se již dvakrát podstatně změnil. I přesto však byly nedávno v několika členských státech zjištěny vysoce kvalitní padělky vízových štítku, což je nebezpečné zejména v současné době zvýšené teroristické hrozby. Z toho důvodu Komise předložila návrh, kterým se mění nařízení (ES) č. 1683/1995 a kterým požaduje nový formát víz s více bezpečnostními prvky, který zabrání padělání vízových štítků. Změny se týkají přílohy víz, která bude nahrazena tak, aby zobrazovala fotografii a obecný popisek nové vízové nálepky. Bezpečnost občanů EU je pro mě naprostou prioritou a návrh jsem proto rád podpořil.

2016/11/22

The EU Agency for Fundamental Rights assists EU institutions and EU Member States in safeguarding the fundamental rights of everyone in the EU and it therefore plays a very important role. The draft Council resolution establishing Multiannual Framework for the Agency for 2018-2022, submitted to Parliament for consent, includes eight thematic areas: victims of crime and access to justice; equality and discrimination; information society; judicial cooperation, except in criminal matters; migration, borders, asylum and integration of refugees and migrants; racism, xenophobia and related intolerance; rights of the child; and integration and social inclusion of Roma.Unfortunately, the area of police and judicial cooperation in criminal matters is not included, which does not reflect the needs on the ground. I therefore supported the resolution, which reiterates the importance of the work of the Agency and its key role in the promotion of fundamental rights across the EU, and which calls on the Council and the Commission to include police and judicial cooperation in criminal matters in the thematic areas.

2016/11/22

European industry, which represents the pillar of Europe’s economy and wealth, currently faces major challenges arising from globalisation and innovation trends. To secure a positive outcome to these challenges, it is imperative to put digitisation at the centre of industrial development and social services, thus boosting economic growth and employment in a socially conscious manner. For this reason, I welcomed the report, which emphasises the importance of the Industrial Digitalisation Strategy (IDS). The IDS offers the opportunity to advance innovation, efficiency and sustainable technologies that raise competitiveness and modernise the EU’s industrial base, as well as to remove obstacles to the development of the digital market.

2016/11/22

Currently, 1.6 billion people living in 56 countries around the world are identified as fragile, which increases their vulnerability due to various factors, such as conflict, extreme poverty, lack of access to healthcare, forced displacement, inequality, food insecurity, corruption or natural disasters. This situation calls for improvement and I am of the opinion that enhancing the ability of these people to prepare, withstand and quickly recover from stresses and shocks is the way forward.I therefore supported the resolution, which establishes resilience as a strategic priority of EU external action. The resolution highlights the fact that building resilience is a long-term process and that it can be achieved only through integrated development programmes which recognise the multidimensional – human, economic, environmental, political, security and societal – nature of resilience. With respect to that, the resolution encourages increased collaboration between the public and private sectors on resilience and calls on the Commission to further facilitate this cooperation.

2016/11/22

. – Počet antisemitských útoků v Evropě bohužel neustále narůstá a je tedy dobře, že Evropská komise a také národní vlády přicházejí s větším počtem iniciativ proti antisemitismu. Rád jsem podpořil usnesení, aby členské státy i instituce a agentury Unie přijaly definici antisemitismu používanou Mezinárodním společenstvím paměti holocaustu. Tato definice je nutná při identifikaci a postihu antisemitských projevů, včetně těch na sociálních sítích, které povážlivě narůstají. V této souvislosti je třeba donucovacím orgánům poskytnout cílenou odbornou přípravu v boji proti zločinu z nenávisti a diskriminaci a zároveň podpořit organizace občanské společnosti a vzdělávání v prevenci a boji proti všem formám nenávisti a nesnášenlivosti. Vzpomínky na holocaust by nikdy neměly být zapomenuty. Usnesení navíc ukazuje, že pro antisemitismus není na našem kontinentu místo. Věřím, že bychom měli udělat vše, co je v našich silách, abychom bojovali proti antisemitismu ve všech jeho podobách.

2016/11/22

. – Vzhledem k potřebě zmírnit hospodářské a sociální rozdíly v rámci Evropského hospodářského prostoru (EHP) jsem podpořil vytvoření nového mechanismu pro finanční příspěvky států EHP ESVO a nového norského finančního mechanismu. Dohoda o finančním mechanismu EHP a Norská dohoda společně poskytnou finanční příspěvek států EHP-ESVO na hospodářskou a sociální soudržnost v EHP ve výši 2,8 miliardy EUR na období 2014–2021, což přispěje k dosažení celkových cílů Evropy 2020 pro inteligentní a udržitelný růst. EHP státy rovněž přidělí určitou část finančních prostředků na řešení nezaměstnanosti mládeže. Kromě toho protokoly o obchodu s rybami mezi EU, Islandem a EU a Norskem zaručují těmto zemím koncese na období 2014–2021.

2016/11/22

. – Efektivita kombinace grantů a finančních nástrojů se prokázala během minulých let, kdy tyto nástroje investované skrze Evropský strukturální a investiční fond v rámci politiky soudržnosti EU přinesly viditelné výsledky prostřednictvím investic v jednotlivých regionech EU. Proto jsem uvítal investice ve výši 454 miliard EUR prostřednictvím fondů ESI na období 2014–2020. Avšak přestože jak granty, tak finanční nástroje napomáhají naplnit cíle politiky soudržnosti, mají tyto dva instrumenty odlišnou intervenční logiku a uplatňování. Finanční nástroje fungují lépe ve více rozvinutých regionech a metropolitních oblastech, zatímco granty jsou efektivnější v odlehlejších regionech s vysokou mírou nezaměstnanosti. Proto jsem podpořil zprávu, která zdůrazňuje, že pro dosažení maximální efektivity musí být granty a finanční nástroje financovány tak, aby odpovídaly charakteru daného regionu.

2016/11/22

Mobility is at the core of the European Union and portable devices such as pads and mobile phones are increasingly used to access online content. Despite that, content might be blocked when travelling abroad. I therefore welcome the report introducing new rules which will allow European citizens to enjoy their subscriptions when travelling in the EU. One will now be able to go for holidays or for a business trip and still enjoy one’s subscribed digital products, from e-books and music to films and series. At the same time, content providers will have the possibility to verify the location of subscribers, while fully respecting the existing legal framework on personal data protection.

2016/11/22

. ‒ The EU-Korea Free Trade Agreement saw the EU’s trade deficit of EUR 7.6 billion transformed into a trade surplus of EUR 2.5 billion in the fifth year of its validity.However, cases of imprisonment of trade union leaders, violations of freedom of association and interference in negotiations, which should rest within the autonomy of the bargaining partners, are of concern to the EU. For these reasons, I endorsed the report encouraging further deepening of trade and investment relations between the EU and Korea, while also calling on the Commission to engage in formal consultations with the Korean Government towards the ratification by Korea of the fundamental International Labour Organisation (ILO) conventions.

2016/11/22

. – Důrazně odsuzuji všechny akty násilí a terorismu na izraelsko-palestinském území, které ohrožují civilní obyvatelstvo. Vzhledem k přetrvávajícím bojům a dané politické situaci jsem přesvědčen, že strategie podporující řešení založené na dvou státech je jediným způsobem, jak ukončit izraelsko-palestinský konflikt, a zamezit tak dalšímu utrpení tamního obyvatelstva. Proto vítám usnesení, ve kterém EU znovu potvrzuje své odhodlání podporovat spravedlivé a komplexní řešení izraelsko-palestinského konfliktu na základě dvoustátního řešení. V souvislosti s tím usnesení podtrhuje, že zajištění spravedlivého a trvalého míru bude vyžadovat společné mezinárodní úsilí, na kterém se EU bude aktivně podílet. V neposlední řadě usnesení opětovně zdůrazňuje, že izraelská politika osídlování a s tím související opatření, jako jsou demolice a konfiskace a vystěhovávání, dvoustátní řešení ohrožují.

2016/11/22

. – Jsem přesvědčen, že jediným způsobem, jak ukončit válku v Sýrii, která již stála 400 000 životů a zanechala více než 13,5 milionu lidí v zoufalé situaci bez dostatku jídla, vody a přístřeší pro sebe a jejich rodiny, je svobodnými a spravedlivými volbami. K tomu je však zapotřebí politický proces sestávající se ze všech syrských skupin angažovaných ve válce, a to pod dohledem OSN. Proto jsem přijal usnesení o strategii pro Sýrii. Usnesení vyzývá k mírovému úsilí vedeného samotnou Sýrií s podporou OSN a aktivní úlohou EU a zároveň doporučuje vytvořit tribunál pro válečné zločiny v Sýrii, který by sloužil k zahájení procesu politického dialogu a usmiřování.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the resolution calling on the Commission to put forward a legislative proposal concerning the road haulage market. Road transport is a driving force of the European Union’s economy, creating about 5 million direct jobs and contributing nearly 2% of the EU’s GDP. Unfortunately, it also plays a role in climate change by significantly contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. I am therefore of the opinion that the legislative framework must be changed so as to provide for innovation and development of European road transport in an ecological and sustainable manner. Consequently, the legislation should focus on improving competitiveness and innovation in the road sector; facilitating cross-border mobility by road; improving social conditions and safety rules; and, finally, on promoting low-emission road transport.

2016/11/22

Although Dadaab refugee complex was intended as a temporary solution for about 90 000 of those fleeing persecution, violence and instability in the East Africa region, it has been in place for 26 years by now, sheltering more than 260 000 persons predominantly from Somalia. Moreover, 60% of these are minors. Since the Kenyan Government recently decided to close the entire complex, all efforts have been directed at finding a sustainable solution for the Somali refugees. I therefore voted for the resolution, which emphasises that the returns of the refugees must always be voluntary, fully informed and followed by a sustainable reintegration of these refugees to their country of origin. Further, a better management of the borders between Somalia and its neighbouring countries is key in preventing activities of traffickers and smugglers of persons, as well as arms, drugs and other illicit goods.

2016/11/22

The resolution urging the Member States to fulfil their obligations to relocate asylum seekers is based on two emergency Council Decisions from 2015. Under these Decisions, 160 000 asylum seekers with a high chance of being granted refugee status from Italy and Greece were to be relocated by September 2017 to other Member States where their applications would be processed.The European Parliament does not usually urge Member States in this way, it is rather the role of the European Commission. I do not recall any EP resolution urging Member States to fulfil their legal obligation to protect Schengen external borders, for example. Therefore I did not vote in favour of this resolution.

2016/11/22

. ‒ On 1 April 2017, the Russian independent newspaper Novaya Gazeta reported that more than 100 men perceived to be gay had been abducted and detained in the autonomous republic of Chechnya in the Russian Federation. At least four are alleged to have been killed. Abducted victims had been mistreated, tortured and forced to disclose the identity of other LGBTI individuals. I am deeply concerned at these reports and I therefore support the resolution calling on the authorities to end this campaign and immediately release illegally detained persons.I am convinced that the Chechen and Russian authorities must uphold the rights and fundamental freedoms enshrined in their domestic legislation and international human rights obligations.

2016/11/22

. – Podpořil jsem usnesení doporučující finanční pomoc ve výši 2 641 800 EUR bývalým zaměstnancům v oblasti informačních a komunikačních technologiích ve Finsku. Úloha sektoru informačních a komunikačních technologií ve Finsku je zásadní, ale počet jeho zaměstnanců je v posledních letech velmi nestabilní kvůli silné konkurenci mezi finským a zahraničním sektorem v této oblasti. 821 zaměstnanců Nokie ztratilo své místo v důsledku právě této konkurence. Jsem proto přesvědčen, že pomoc financující profesní poradenství, odbornou přípravu, pobídky k zaměstnávání či posílení služeb na pomoc začínajícím podnikatelům a společnostem je tak na místě.

2016/11/22

The principles of subsidiarity and proportionality are among the pillars of the European Union. I therefore endorsed the report, which considers these principles as integral parts of the EU’s policy-making process. With respect to that, the Commission should always take the two principles into account when conducting impact assessments used for decision-making in the legislative process. The Commission should also systematically carry out enhanced proportionality assessments for each legislative proposal. Beyond that, the report notes the suggestion from some of the Member States to introduce a ‘green card’ mechanism, which would afford national parliaments the opportunity to suggest to the Commission a legislative initiative for its examination. Lastly, I welcome the report’s recommendations aimed at enhancing information exchange between national and regional parliaments through creation of IT platforms.

2016/11/22

The contribution of FinTech companies especially to the development of financial intermediation, is positive and should be further encouraged. Yet it also entails certain risks to financial stability. For this reason, I endorsed a report, which calls on the Commission to draw up a comprehensive FinTech Action Plan in order to strike the right balance between incentives to innovative, consumer and investor protection and financial stability. While being established within the framework of Capital Markets Union and Digital Single Market, the Action Plan should be based on the principles of a risk-based approach and technology neutrality to ensure a level playing field between big technology companies, start-ups and financial institutions.

2016/11/22

. – Současná bezpečnostní situace se vyznačuje zvýšenou hrozbou teroristických útoků, organizovaného zločinu a také vyšší mezistátní provázaností těchto bezpečnostních hrozeb. Je proto nezbytné, aby členské země posílily své úsilí v oblasti přeshraniční spolupráce, a to zejména co se týče efektivní výměny informací. Výměna osobních údajů je však možná jen po zavedení obecných ustanovení o ochraně údajů do vnitrostátních právních předpisů všech členských států, které jsou do výměny zapojeny. Pokud jde o údaje o registraci vozidel, ověřovací proces prokázal, že Chorvatsko úspěšně splnilo tuto podmínku, a proto jsem rád hlasoval pro návrh prováděcího rozhodnutí Rady, kterým se Chorvatsku povoluje pro účely automatizovaného vyhledávání údajů o registraci vozidel přijímat a poskytovat osobní údaje.

2016/11/22

The rule of law and democratic values are the pillars of the European Union and I believe that human dignity, the freedom of association and academic freedom must be protected. Consequently, I supported the resolution reiterating the risk of a breach of EU values and basic rights under the Government of Prime Minister Orbán. The resolution provides for the European Parliament’s Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE) to draw up a special report and schedule a vote to trigger Article 7(1) of the Treaty on European Union. Triggering the Article would translate into a process of dialogue and investigations, recommendation, and, only if clearly necessary, sanctions. I will assess my approach to the future draft resolution on the basis of the LIBE report and further findings.

2016/11/22

The Framework Agreement on Partnership and Cooperation between the European Union and Mongolia provides a general framework for promoting bilateral, regional and international cooperation in the areas of trade and investment, sustainable development, justice, freedom and security. According to the Act of Accession of Croatia to the EU, Croatia can accede to the international agreements concluded by the European Union and its Member States by means of protocols to these agreements, if it became the Member of the Union only after their conclusion. I therefore endorsed the report on the protocol, whose purpose is to take account of the accession of the Republic of Croatia to the European Union, thus ensuring the effectiveness of the cooperation between the EU and Mongolia.

2016/11/22

Evropská unie podporuje Bosnu a Hercegovinu v pokroku na cestě do Evropy prostřednictvím procesu stabilizace a přidružení, což je politika navržená Evropskou unií na podporu spolupráce se zeměmi západního Balkánu, jakož i regionální spolupráce. Dohody o stabilizaci a přidružení jsou hlavní složkou tohoto procesu. Dle aktu o přistoupení Chorvatska k EU může Chorvatsko přistoupit k mezinárodním dohodám podepsaným nebo uzavřeným Evropskou unií a jejími členskými státy prostřednictvím protokolů k těmto dohodám, pokud se stalo členem Unie až po uzavření těchto dohod. Podpořil jsem proto zprávu o protokolu, jehož cílem je zohlednit přistoupení Chorvatské republiky k Evropské unii v souvislosti s dohodou o stabilizaci a přidružení Bosny a Hercegoviny a zajišťovat tak efektivitu spolupráce mezi celou EU a touto zemí Balkánu.

2016/11/22

Země přidružené k provádění, uplatňování a rozvoji schengenského acquis se mají účastnit nástroje zvaného Fond pro vnitřní bezpečnost, který zajišťuje finanční podporu vnějších hranic a víz. Konkrétně se tento finanční instrument využívá pro budování infrastruktury potřebné na hraničních přechodech a pro hraniční dohled, jakož i pro opatření k usnadnění účinného řízení migračních toků. Rád jsem proto hlasoval pro zprávu o doplňkových pravidlech nezbytných pro takovou účast v případě Norska. Norsko tak nyní bude moci s EU sdílet odpovědnost za účinnou kontrolou vnějších hranic Evropské unie.

2016/11/22

The International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) brings together 27 cotton producing, consuming and trading countries, assisting the governments in promoting a sound and better informed world cotton economy by improving transparency in the world cotton market, raising awareness for new challenges or problems, fostering international cooperation, gathering statistical data, as well as by providing technical information and forecasts.However, the European Union (EU) is not yet a member of ICAC. I am of the opinion that the EU cannot afford to stay outside the ICAC as cotton is very important to the European Union’s economic, trade and development objectives. Additionally, membership of this international body will allow the EU to enhance cooperation and dialogue on a wide range of cotton issues, such as swift access to accurate and relevant information, analytical advice and linkages between cotton producers, the textile sector, consumers’ organisations and public authorities. I therefore endorsed the report urging Parliament to support the EU’s accession to ICAC.

2016/11/22

Základním cílem plánu eGovernment je transformovat a zjednodušit procesy ve veřejné správě tak, aby využívaly moderní komunikační a informační technologie. Tyto technologie umožňují vytvořit zcela nové portfolio služeb veřejné správy zjednodušující zásadním způsobem komunikaci občanů i firem s veřejnou správou i mezi subjekty veřejné správy navzájem. Modernizace veřejné správy je klíčem k tomu, aby správa mohla vyhovět potřebám občanů. Koordinovaná elektronizace služeb veřejné správy je navíc předpokladem pro vznik a rozvoj jednotného digitálního trhu. Akční plán Evropské unie pro eGovernment tudíž podtrhuje principy dostupnosti, transparentnosti a nutnosti přeshraničního přístupu jako standardu. Rád jsem proto hlasoval pro zprávu, která vyzývá členské státy, aby stránky veřejné správy více přizpůsobily užívání na telefonu či iPadu, a která zdůrazňuje nutnost učinit veřejnou správu snáze dostupnou a co možná nejméně nákladnou.

2016/11/22

The EU and the Member States share responsibility for protecting the EU’s financial interests and fighting fraud. Unfortunately, in 2015, the number of irregularities reported, both fraudulent and non-fraudulent, increased by 36% in comparison to 2014, thus amounting to EUR 637.6 million. The particular areas of concern are the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund, the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development, the common fisheries policy and the cohesion policy. In the light of these data, I voted in favour of the report, which calls for the establishment of uniform reporting principles in order to enhance detection of irregularities, as well as for improvement in the exchange of information between Member States. Further, the Member States are called upon to continue with training of the staff responsible for management and control of funds, as well as to step up their efforts in the areas of public procurement, financial crime, conflict of interest, corruption and whistle-blowing. Beyond that, I support the call on the Commission to publish the second anti-corruption report and develop a corruption index in order to rank the Member States.

2016/11/22

Plýtvání potravinami v rámci EU dosahuje až 88 milionů tun ročně, přičemž výroba a likvidace potravinářského odpadu vede k emisím 170 milionů tun CO2 a spotřebuje se při tom 261 milionů tun zdrojů. Evropský parlament se proto snaží toto plýtvání do roku 2030 snížit o polovinu. Návrh usnesení, pro které jsem hlasoval v úterý 16. 5., vyzývá Evropskou komisi ke zrušení stávajících omezení na potravinové dary, a to zejména skrze osvobození potravinových darů od povinností odvádět daně. Dále by se dle návrhu měly vnitrostátní orgány a zúčastněné strany zapojit do zvyšování informovanosti spotřebitelů o významu označení „spotřebujte do“ a „minimální trvanlivost do“ na štítcích potravin, a to zejména o skutečnosti, že potraviny mohou být konzumovány po datu, které je uvedeno na etiketě označené údajem „minimální trvanlivost do“.

2016/11/22

The Customs Union is a key element of the European Union and the Union Customs Code is essential for the safeguarding of EU own resources, namely customs duties, and national tax interests. I therefore endorsed the report, which is based on the notion that the efficiency of customs procedures is crucial not only for trade facilitation, but also for effective combat against illicit trade, terrorism, tax evasion and drug and tobacco trafficking. Further, I embrace the importance of interconnected IT systems as highlighted in the report, because I am of the view that effective data sharing is crucial for systematic and coordinated custom controls.

2016/11/22

. – Rada EU, Evropská komise a Evropský parlament dosáhly dohody o velkoobchodních cenových stropech při užívání roamingu pro přenos dat mezi jednotlivými zeměmi. Zastropování velkoobchodních cen za roaming je nezbytným krokem k úplnému zrušení maloobchodních roamingových poplatků, což umožní uživatelům mobilních telefonů přenos dat v jiných zemích EU bez placení dalších poplatků. Nižší ceny roamingu umožní občanům EU přístup k většímu obsahu audiovizuálních dat při cestování, což jim mimo jiné dovolí pohodlně pracovat kdekoli po Evropě. Nové cenové stropy roamingu tak vítám, a zprávu jsem proto podpořil.

2016/11/22

. – Jsem hrdý, že jsem podpořil zprávu umožňující občanům Ukrajiny cestovat do zemí EU bez víz. Je třeba si uvědomit, že mimo to, že Ukrajina splnila všechna kritéria pro bezvízový styk s EU, což je samo o sobě naprosto dostatečné pro jeho přiznání, byla tato země vtažena do obtížné situace a zaslouží si naši podporu. Lidé na Ukrajině trpí a v sázce jsou také klíčové principy mezinárodních vztahů a mezinárodního práva.Ukrajinci, kteří mají biometrické pasy, tak nyní budou moci bezvízově cestovat do Evropské unie za účelem dovolené, podnikání nebo z dalších důvodů. Uvolnění vízového režimu se však nevztahuje na cestování za účelem zaměstnání. Dále je bezvízová cesta také omezena časově, a to na pobyty, jejichž délka nepřesahuje 90 dní v jakémkoliv 180denním období. Podmínkou k liberalizaci vízového režimu bylo také přijetí mechanismu takzvané záchranné brzdy, který umožňuje rychlou reakci na výjimečné situace v podobě okamžitého znovuzavedení vízové povinnosti.

2016/11/22

The EU-US Privacy Shield is a framework for transatlantic exchanges of personal data for commercial purposes between the European Union and the United States. This new agreement reflects the requirements set out by the European Court of Justice in its ruling on 6 October 2015, which declared the old Safe Harbour framework invalid.It entails stronger obligations on companies in the US to protect the personal data of Europeans and stronger monitoring and enforcement mechanism by the U.S. Also for the first time, EU citizens will benefit from redress mechanisms in this area. Further, it brings legal clarity for businesses relying on transatlantic data transfers. Although I remain critical in regards to certain aspects of this framework, I recognise its merits and I consequently did not support the resolution which in my view, constitutes a premature negative judgement of the agreement, before the first annual review which is due to take place in September 2017, thus damaging businesses legal certainty.

2016/11/22

. ‒ Spojené království oficiálně oznámilo svůj záměr vystoupit z Evropské unie 29. března 2017. Začalo tak období vyjednávání mezi Evropskou unií a Spojeným královstvím o jejich budoucích vztazích. Ve středu Evropský parlament schválil usnesení, ve kterém jsou jasně stanoveny zásady a podmínky tohoto vyjednávání. Zejména vítám důraz kladený na potřebu zaručení rovných práv nejen pro občany EU žijící v UK, ale i pro britské občany žijící v EU. Usnesení také varuje UK před pokusy o omezení práv občanů EU spojených s volným pohybem před vystoupením země z EU. Text se dále zaobírá i ekonomickými vztahy EU a UK a dává jasně najevo, že hospodářské vztahy založené na dohodách o jednotlivých odvětvích nebudou možné. Usnesení na závěr podtrhuje, že UK zůstává členem EU až do svého oficiálního odchodu se všemi svými právy a povinnostmi, včetně finančních závazků, které mohou pokračovat i po datu vystoupení.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of a report aimed at codification of a series of Directives relating to certain aspects of company law. The proposed Directive does not change the content of the acts being codified, it only brings them together with such formal amendments as are required by the codification exercise itself. The proposal thereby provides for improved coordination of safeguards, which are required by Member States in respect of the formation of public limited liability companies and the maintenance of their capital, as well as it lays down measures in regards to the division of public limited liability companies and cross-border mergers of limited liability companies.

2016/11/22

. ‒ Podpořil jsem zprávu o uplatňování ustanovení schengenského acquis v oblasti Schengenského informačního systému (SIS) v Chorvatsku. Schengenský informační systém je databáze sdílená všemi členskými státy v schengenském prostoru, kde jsou soustředěny informace o hledaných, pohřešovaných nebo sledovaných osobách a informace o odcizených nebo pohřešovaných vozidlech a předmětech. Nově se tedy na hranicích s Chorvatskem budou kontrolovat pasy v této databázi, což souvisí se snahou Unie zabezpečit hranice EU v kontextu zhoršené bezpečnostní situace a migrační vlny. Opatření zároveň představuje první krok ke zrušení kontrol na vnitřních hranicích EU do Chorvatska.

2016/11/22

Patient safety must be ensured at all times. Unfortunately, a number of scandals involving medical devices highlighted the weaknesses in the existing regulatory framework. It was therefore necessary to adopt new regulations, which will enhance the minimum standards to ensure safety of medical devices. In particular, the new regulations entail random inspections of producers’ facilities after devices have been placed on the market, a duty of the manufacturers to provide a clinical evidence of medical device safety or an ‘implant card’ for patients, enabling patients and doctors to track which product has been implanted. At the same time, the new regulations do not create unnecessary administrative burden nor do they hinder innovation. Overall, the regulations will improve patients’ safety, and so I endorsed them.

2016/11/22

The new regulations are a result of a multi-year negotiation process between the European Commission, Parliament and Council to address gaps in oversight that led to several device-related scandals, and to adapt existing rules to technological and scientific progress. I am therefore glad that the legislative process is now concluded, thus providing for improved safety and traceability of devices. The new regulations include stricter premarket review of high-risk devices, strengthened designation criteria for notified bodies, improved system for traceability, vigilance and post-market surveillance, as well as a risk-based classification system for IVDs.

2016/11/22

MMFs are worth roughly €1tn to the European economy and represent 15% of the funds industry. Therefore it was very important for us to strike the right balance between reducing risk while ensuring that these key funds continue to finance the real economy in Europe. I am proud to have developed the concept of the new Low Volatility Net Asset Value (LVNAV) fund. The LVNAV has taken away the worst of the current CNAV, such as the ‘breaking of the buck’, while retaining those aspects which made CNAVs attractive to investors, such as same day settlement and consistent tax treatment.Beyond this, we have also tightened liquidity and diversification requirements, and banned sponsor support for MMFs. Each of these measures will in their own way contribute to reducing systemic risk in the financial sector.Overall, the new regulation has achieved its objectives, and therefore I voted in favour.

2016/11/22

The revision of the Prospectus Directive is the first legislative measure associated with the EU’s Capital Markets Union project. I am honoured to have led the Parliament’s negotiations on this file, and I believe we have made a crucial step towards CMU. The transformation of the Prospectus Directive into a Regulation will ensure harmonisation in Europe. The European Parliament’s Growth Prospectus initiative will ensure that SMEs have less red tape to deal with, and the ability to raise funds cross border, when seeking finance from capital markets. By raising the threshold under which entities are not obliged to publish a Prospectus to €1m, the Parliament has shown that it wants to help crowd-funding and other forms of innovative start-ups. Furthermore, we have simplified the procedure for secondary issuances, developed a framework for summaries which will reduce their length. Overall, the Prospectus Regulation will ensure that all companies will benefit from a simpler and cheaper system when issuing on the markets.

2016/11/22

The draft regulation strengthens various flexibility provisions and special instruments, making it easier to move money around within the EU’s long-run budget. This will allow the Union to react promptly to unexpected situations and effectively tackle urgent challenges such as the migration crisis, as well as to address new priorities such as boosting growth and creating jobs. I view such provision of space for manoeuvre as essential for adequate responses to the new challenges and I therefore endorsed this report. In particular, I welcome the extra budgetary means for migration-related measures and for the Youth Employment Initiative.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the report on Parliament’s estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2018, because it allows for continuing of policies aimed at improving efficiency and achieving savings, as well as providing room for growth and investment. In particular, the priority objectives include investing in digitalisation, continuing the multiannual building projects, analysing the possible impact of Brexit, encouraging a green approach to transport and, importantly, enhancement and strengthening of security projects. In respect to that, I support the embedding of cybersecurity in Parliament’s overall strategic management framework. Beyond that, I welcome that the estimates also include additional extraordinary investments, which are required to launch the communication campaign in preparation for the 2019 elections.

2016/11/22

The European Union Solidarity Fund (EUSF) was set up in 2002 in response to disastrous flooding in central Europe, including the Czech Republic, in the summer of that year. Since then, repair work after more than 70 natural disasters in at least 24 EU countries has received EUSF aid.To repair the damage caused by fires in Portugal, drought and fires in Cyprus and floods in the United Kingdom, a financial aid is clearly necessary. I therefore voted in favour of the report on Draft Amending Budget No 1/2017, which accompanies the proposal to mobilise an amount of EUR 71 524 810 from the EUSC in order to provide assistance to these countries.

2016/11/22

. ‒ Vzhledem k aktuální migrační krizi, ke zvýšené teroristické aktivitě a v rámci boje proti závažné trestné činnosti považuji za nezbytné zlepšit přeshraniční sdílení informací. Hlasoval jsem proto pro zprávu o automatizované výměně DNA dat v České republice, Portugalsku, Litvě, Lotyšsku, Estonsku, Maďarsku, Kypru, Polsku, Švédsku, Belgii, na Slovensku a na Maltě. Tyto země tak budou moci přijímat a poskytovat osobní údaje svých občanů pro účely automatizovaného vyhledávání a srovnávání údajů o DNA, což umožní efektivnější identifikaci osob a zajistí tak bezpečnost občanů EU.

2016/11/22

. ‒ Vzhledem k současné migrační krizi a rovněž v souvislosti se zvýšeným nebezpečím dalšího teroristického útoku je potřeba zlepšit přeshraniční spolupráci členských států Evropské unie a zkvalitnit jejich vzájemnou výměnu informací. Databáze Europolu v současné době obsahuje daktyloskopické záznamy pouze od části zemí EU, což v případě potřeby často komplikuje či znemožňuje identifikaci osob. Zavedení automatizované výměny daktyloskopických dat v dalších členských zemích, včetně České republiky, umožní těmto zemím získávat a využívat osobní data daktyloskopického charakteru, což výrazně pomůže v oblasti bezpečnosti. Možnost získávat a využívat osobní data dovolí těmto zemím zefektivnit kontrolu nad jejich územím, potažmo v celé Evropské unii, a proto jsem zprávu podpořil.

2016/11/22

The current situation in respect to global migration is pressing: in 2015, 244 million people lived abroad, with 65 million of them living abroad because they were forcibly displaced. Europe currently hosts 6% of the world’s displaced people, while 86% of the world’s refugees live in impoverished regions. I therefore welcome the report’s emphasis on the fact that migration flows are a global responsibility requiring a global response. Cooperation and partnerships with third countries to address the root causes of migration through EU external policies is essential. In line with EU principles, one overall objective of the EU’s external migration policies should be to establish a multilateral governance regime for international migration, in full cooperation with the UN.

2016/11/22

The emission scandal of September 2015 once again demonstrated that diesel cars’ nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions in laboratory tests differ markedly from those measured on the roads. This new report will improve the control over testing centres and national authorities who approve vehicles for sale, by giving the Commission a stronger oversight in this field. This new robust EU-level market surveillance system for vehicles will prevent the car manufacturers from manipulating pollution emission and fuel consumption tests, and help regain consumers’ trust. The report also calls for strengthening consumer protection: the car buyers eventually affected by the fraudulent car manufacturers should be financially compensated and a harmonised EU redress system will be put in place.

2016/11/22

There are many drivers of global deforestation, including the production of agricultural commodities such as soy, beef, maize and palm oil. However, palm oil is increasingly more often used in food, cosmetics and biofuel and it currently accounts for 40% of deforestation. In respect to that, it is important to point out that the loss of natural habitats in the form of rainforests endangers the survival of a large number of species such as the Sumatran rhinoceros, the Sumatran tiger and the Bornean orangutan. However, production of cheap vegetable oil does not lead to loss of nature habitats only, but also to greenhouse gas emissions. I therefore endorsed the report, which recalls that sustainable agriculture, food security and sustainable forest management are core objectives of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). I believe that a single certification scheme for palm oil entering the EU market will help to achieve the goal of phasing out of palm oil in biofuels by 2020, thus effectively countering deforestation and habitat degradation.

2016/11/22

. ‒ Kauza dieselgate ukázala, že je třeba napravit nedostatky při kontrolách výrobců automobilů a odstranit právní mezery tak, aby se zabránilo dalšímu podvádění při zkouškách emisí. Přestože bylo známo, že se emise oxidů dusíku (NOx) vozidel s dieselovým motorem v laboratorních testech výrazně liší od hodnot naměřených na silnicích, stávající legislativa chránila veřejné zdraví a kvalitu ovzduší nedostatečně. Vyšetřovací výbor pro měření emisí v automobilovém průmyslu (EMIS) v únoru shrnul svou roční práci v závěrečné zprávě a navrhl doporučení, která požadují upřesnění předpisů EU a také zpřísnění a zlepšení jejich vymahatelnosti. Vítám proto projednávání nové legislativy, která věnuje větší pozornost technickým zkušebnám a standardům, podle kterých se mají ověřovat a certifikovat celá vozidla nebo jejich součásti.

2016/11/22

I endorse the motion for resolution emphasising the importance of ensuring that the EU engages actively and consistently in UN human rights mechanisms, because I am of the view that the EU should lead by example and tolerate no human rights violations. Crucially, the motion for resolution emphasises the universality and indivisibility of human rights, including civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights and encourages the EU to ensure their promotion both at home and abroad. I welcome the appeal to all states to place human rights at the centre of their respective development policies, especially in case of Belarus, Burundi, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Myanmar/Burma, Occupied Palestinian Territories, South Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

2016/11/22

Podpořil jsem zprávu o návrhu zřízení systému prověřování a hloubkové kontroly dodavatelského řetězce v případě dodavatelů cínu, tantalu, wolframu a zlata z konfliktních zón do Evropské unie. Návrh je součástí balíčku opatření zaměřených na rozvoj integrovaného přístupu EU k zastavení zisků z obchodu s minerály, které jsou používány k financování ozbrojených konfliktů. Jsem toho názoru, že toto opatření povede k obtížnějšímu financování ozbrojených skupin v bojových zónách, a že tak přispěje k ukončení tamního násilí.

2016/11/22

. ‒ Reliable data is indispensable in making well-informed and sound decisions firmly grounded in the best possible scientific advice. I therefore welcome the report on the Union framework for the collection, management and use of data in the fisheries sector, which provides for an improved framework for gathering extensive and reliable information, and for making it available at regional and European level. I believe that reliable data is essential for the implementation of the common fisheries policy and will allow for a better evaluation of essential issues in fisheries management.

2016/11/22

Bezpečnostní situace v Evropské unii se stala méně předvídatelnou a stabilní a EU musí přijmout příslušná opatření. Společná bezpečnostní a obranná politika (SBOP) je nedílnou součástí společné zahraniční a bezpečnostní politiky Unie spadající pod Lisabonskou smlouvu. Avšak budoucnost spolupráce v rámci EU nyní závisí spíše na politické vůli než na právních aspektech Smlouvy. Hlasoval jsem proto pro zprávu, která považuje současnou podobu Lisabonské smlouvy za dostačující pro utvoření dostatečného a skutečně soudržného rámce pro politické a vojenské struktury EU a pro zahraniční vojenské a civilní mise a operace. Vítám i důraz na potřebu posílit Evropskou obrannou agenturu, která hraje nepostradatelnou roli v rozvoji obranné schopnosti Unie v oblasti řešení krizí, podpory a posilování evropské spolupráce ve vyzbrojování a posilování evropské obranné průmyslové a technologické základny.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I endorse the report calling for measures to protect the Arctic, because it is a very sensitive and vulnerable region and the effects of climate change and growing competition for access to the Arctic and its natural resources are bringing new environmental and security challenges there. Yet destruction of this area by using its resources unsustainably would translate into acceleration of climate change and pollution of a source of clean water, which would have a serious negative effect on global fish stocks.I also welcome the report’s emphasis on the need for continued dialogue with Russia, within the framework of Arctic regional cooperation, notwithstanding the increased stationing of Russian military forces in the region.

2016/11/22

I am of the view that Montenegro is currently the most advanced in its accession process, with the country’s alignment with the EU acquis continuing at a good speed and joining formally NATO later this year. I therefore welcome the report’s encouragement of Montenegro to accelerate the pace of reforms and to continue focusing on the fundamentals of the accession process. Additionally, the reform of Montenegro according to the Union’s standards would contribute towards the pursuit of peace and prosperity in the Western Balkans. Yet corruption and organised crime levels remain high and they are of serious concern to me. It is therefore necessary that Montenegro improves this situation and delivers concrete results.

2016/11/22

. – Svět se nachází v době rozvoje tzv. informační společnosti, jejíž nástup s sebou přinesl mnoho převratných změn ve všech oblastech lidského života. Využívání moderních informačních a komunikačních technologií (IKT) je nyní běžnou součástí života, a ty tak představují klíčový faktor pro fungování a dlouhodobý rozvoj naší společnosti. IKT technologie mohou významnou měrou posílit a doplnit demokracii v Unii skrze digitalizaci složek veřejné správy, jako je tomu například v případě e-government anebo e-hlasování. Souhlasím však se zprávou i v tom, že e-demokracie sama o sobě nezaručuje zapojení občanů do politického života a že je více než důležité zajistit možnost zapojit se i mimo digitální prostor.

2016/11/22

Following the horsemeat scandal, European citizens became increasingly concerned about the traceability of food and the integrity of the meat supply chain. For that reason, I welcome the call to sharpen enforcement tools, and especially official food inspections, which will contribute to improving food traceability, as well as combating fraud, thus restoring consumer trust in the integrity of the food chain. More specifically, the new legislation includes setting up a comprehensive and effective control system along the whole food chain, including controls on food, animal feed, plant health, pesticides, animal welfare, organic production, protected geographical indications and regular, unannounced, risk-based controls in all sectors.

2016/11/22

I endorsed this report, because it frees up additional radio spectrum for wireless broadband, thus ensuring provision of broadband services in rural areas, while accommodating the specific needs of audiovisual media distribution. The proposal calls for better spectrum coordination which is vital to provide higher quality internet to all Europeans, thus enabling them to easily access innovative services and creative content from their tablets, smartphones, as well as from smart TV sets. Moving towards the use of 700 MHz band in the EU paves the way for 5G, the next generation of communication, providing first-class connectivity in the Digital Single Market.

2016/11/22

Svoboda pohybu a pobytu osob na území EU je základním aspektem občanství Unie, které bylo zavedeno Maastrichtskou smlouvou v roce 1992. Ačkoli je tato svoboda velmi důležitá, i po deseti letech po uplynutí lhůty pro provedení uvedené směrnice přetrvávají značné překážky v jejím provádění. Proto vítám návrh usnesení, který podtrhuje význam této svobody občanů Evropské unie a který zároveň zdůrazňuje způsoby jejího zdokonalení. Avšak schengenský prostor je v poslední době bohužel vystaven značnému tlaku v důsledku nebývalého přílivu uprchlíků a migrantů do EU. Další výzva přichází v podobě teroristických útoků, které ukázaly, jak obtížné je odhalit teroristy, kteří volně vstupují do schengenského prostoru a pohybují se v něm. Jsem proto názoru, že v současné době se všechny výsady pramenící ze svobody volného pohybu občanů v EU nemohou vztahovat na jejich rodinné příslušníky pocházející z nečlenských zemí, a proto jsem se hlasování zdržel.

2016/11/22

Podpořil jsem návrh usnesení o systému mýtného v Německu, jelikož jsem toho názoru, že tento systém je diskriminační vůči zahraničním vozidlům, a že tím pádem porušuje pravidla Evropské unie zakazující diskriminaci na základě státní příslušnosti dopravce nebo místa původu či určení vozidla. Systém by navíc mohl uškodit vnitřnímu trhu Unie, který je v některých regionech závislý na plynulém provozu přes hranice. V tuto chvíli by bylo na místě ustanovení rámce pro všeobecné zavedení a propojení systémů silničních poplatků v celém Společenství, které by zabránilo obdobným diskriminačním návrhům.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report because I am of the view that growth and jobs, particularly for young people, must remain key EU budget priorities, along with dealing with the migration crisis and climate change. The high unemployment rate among young people is of major concern to me. The EU has an obligation to show that it has a real added value for younger generations. The matter is of even greater urgency at times of growing populism throughout Europe. It is therefore necessary to increase funding for the Erasmus+ student exchange programme and support initiatives aimed at mobility of young people across Europe. Additionally, it is necessary to increase the budget dedicated to dealing with the effects of the migration crisis and its humanitarian implications, and insist that a sustainable and fair solution must be found to this issue.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the report, because I support developing European guidelines on good practice in the equine sector and enhancing the protection of animals. The equine sector within the EU is worth over EUR 100 billion per annum and accounted for an additional total turnover of EUR 27.3 billion in betting in 2013 alone, with EUR 1.1 billion received by Member State governments. Further, equidae perform various roles: sources of milk and meat, they are also competition and recreational animals or working animals in transport, tourism, rehabilitation and education therapies or research animals. They thus make a significant economic, environmental and social contribution to the EU.

2016/11/22

. – Jsem toho názoru, že ochrana zdraví občanů je naprostou prioritou. Proto jsem podpořil zprávu o nařízení regulujícím nakládání se rtutí, která je jednou z deseti nejvíce toxických látek vyskytujících se v přírodě. Děti jsou obzvláště zranitelné, jelikož rtuť může negativně ovlivnit vývin mozku a nervového systému. Cílem nařízení je zajištění ochrany zdraví občanů, zvířat i životního prostředí před škodlivými účinky rtuti. Zároveň se však neomezuje export, import a ani výroba homeopatických lékařských preparátů, pokud jsou tyto preparáty zdraví opravdu přínosné a alternativy bez rtuti nejsou dostupné.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of this report, because I am of the view that it draws attention towards the importance of creating a modern and efficient corporate governance framework for European undertakings, investors and employees that must be adapted to the needs of today’s society and to the changing economic environment. The past years have highlighted certain corporate governance shortcomings in European listed companies, especially in the areas of insufficient engagement of shareholders and lack of adequate transparency. The proposal addresses these issues by empowering shareholders to vote on remuneration policy for company directors, thus enabling them to tie it more closely to the company’s performance and long—term interests. At the same time, the new transparency requirements suggested in the proposal would help institutional investors and asset managers, who are often important shareholders of companies in the EU, to step up their shareholder engagement in investment strategies.

2016/11/22

I endorsed this report because although the European Union has so far made a significant progress in the area of protection of our environment and human health through implementation of circular economy model, I believe that we have to continue in our efforts and keep leading by example. Electrical and electronic waste is one of the fastest growing waste streams. I therefore welcome the report on the proposal aimed at management of waste in the most efficient way, thereby delivering economic and environmental benefits. The obligations of Member States in regards to reporting will be simplified and the quality and reliability of statistics will be improved. Additionally, over 170 000 direct jobs will be created, the competitiveness of EU waste management, recycling and manufacturing will be substantially improved and the dependency of the EU on raw material imports will be reduced.

2016/11/22

. – Poptávka po surových materiálech neustále roste. Abychom tuto poptávku uspokojili, je třeba přejít k oběhovému hospodářství založenému na společnosti, jež recykluje, snižuje produkci odpadů a využívá odpadů jako zdroje. Recyklace a opětovné užívání navíc podporuje nejen udržitelnost rozvoje, ale i inovaci a konkurenceschopnost. Proto jsem podpořil zprávu o nařízení, díky kterému podíl recyklovaného odpadu vzroste do roku 2030 z dnešních 44 % na 70 %.

2016/11/22

. – V roce 2013 činila celková produkce odpadů v EU přibližně 2,5 miliardy tun, z toho 1,6 miliardy tun nebylo opětovně použito nebo recyklováno, a bylo tedy pro evropské hospodářství ztraceno. Avšak lepší nakládání s odpady umožní efektivnější využívání zdrojů a pomůže otevřít nové trhy, a vytvořit tak nová pracovní místa, zmenšit závislost na dovozu surovin a snížit dopady na životní prostředí. Podpořil jsem proto zprávu o návrhu, jehož cílem je snížení podílu skládkovaného komunálního odpadu na 5 % z celkového množství, a to do roku 2030.

2016/11/22

. – Podpořil jsem tuto zprávu, protože souhlasím s nástroji a postupy, které vyzdvihuje. Podtrhuje, že nakládání s odpady v Unii je třeba zlepšit, aby bylo možné zachovat, chránit a zlepšit kvalitu životního prostředí, chránit lidské zdraví, zajistit uvážlivé a racionální využívání přírodních zdrojů a posílit oběhové hospodářství. Toho lze dosáhnout opětovným užíváním materiálů z recyklovaných obalů na výrobu nových obalů či jiných produktů, a to způsobem, který zajistí co nejvyšší kvalitu výsledného produktu.

2016/11/22

I voted in favour of the report on fundamental rights implications of big data, because the prospects and opportunities of big data can only be fully grasped by the citizens, the public and private sectors and the academia, when trust in these technologies is ensured by a strong enforcement of fundamental rights. The report follows the data protection package, which completely overhauled EU data protection with a new set of rules and principles adapted to modern data processing techniques, thus ensuring a high level of protection of individuals’ unwavering rights. It stresses that compliance with the existing data protection legislation is key to establishing trust in and the reliability of big data solutions. Additionally, it draws attention to important points such as digital literacy and awareness-raising about digital rights among the public.

2016/11/22

I endorsed the report on minimum standards for the protection of farm rabbits, because it adequately addresses the concerns in regards to poor welfare, high stress levels and high mortality rates of farm rabbits in Europe. The report calls for drafting of guidelines containing good practices and establishing animal welfare rules for rabbits. The aim is therefore to improve rabbit rearing standards, especially in respect of transport, housing, slaughtering and administration of antibiotics, while preserving the quality and safety of rabbit meat imports.

2016/11/22

The European Union’s Euro-Mediterranean Association Agreements with countries in the southern Mediterranean provide a suitable framework for North-South dialogue, thus allowing for the development of closer relations and cooperation in relevant areas, especially in regard to trade, and economic and social relations. In respect to Lebanon, the Agreement serves as a basis for the country’s development as a stable, democratic, politically open and economically strong neighbour of the EU. According to the Act of Accession of Croatia to the EU, Croatia can accede to the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement only by means of a Protocol to the Agreement concluded between the Council of the EU and Lebanon, because Croatia became a Member of the European Union only after the European Union’s Association Agreement with Lebanon. I therefore voted to recommend that the Council sign the Protocol.

2016/11/22

. ‒ Determining Liechtenstein’s contribution to the Union budget in respect of the Internal Security Fund, which serves to support external borders and visas policy, will contribute to ensuring a high level of security within the Union while facilitating legitimate travel. Protection of European citizens and their mobility are among the Union’s top priorities, and the regulation helps to ensure both of these through a uniform and high level control of the external borders and the effective processing of Schengen visas. Consequently, I supported this report.

2016/11/22

. – Podpořil jsem zprávu o povinnosti členských států EU informovat Evropskou komisi o plánovaných dohodách v oblasti energetiky s nečlenskými zeměmi ještě před začátkem jejich vyjednávání. Tato povinnost výrazně přispěje k zajištění energetické bezpečnosti všech členů EU, jelikož tak umožní Evropské komisi zajistit transparentnost těchto dohod, zamezujíc tak nečlenským zemím zneužívat jejich dominantních pozic v oblasti energetiky.

2016/11/22

This resolution is a call on the Commission to fulfil its obligation to produce a delegated act, that, if adopted then by the co-legislators, would temporarily remove the visa waiver for US citizens travelling to the EU. The Commission is legally obliged to take measures to reintroduce visa requirements for US citizens given that Washington still does not grant visa-free access to nationals of five EU countries, while US citizens can travel to all EU countries visa-free. Although those countries notified the Commission about this non reciprocity, so far the Commission hasn’t proposed any delegated act.Although I understand why the European Parliament strongly calls on the Commission to act, I think that EU countries with visa obligations should enhance their efforts to meet the US criteria for visa liberalisation. The fact that some EU Member States do not fulfil the criteria is not, in my view, a reason for a ‘visa reciprocity war’ at the end of which we cannot exclude the US administration imposing visa requirements on all EU citizens, which could have a significant negative impact for Europe. I would thus favour rather diplomatic negotiations at this stage. For this reason, I decided to abstain.

2016/11/22

. – Podpořil jsem zprávu o zpřístupnění lékařských preparátů skrze dosažení lepší rovnováhy mezi zájmy členských států a farmaceutického sektoru. Právo evropských občanů na cenově dostupnou, bezpečnou a efektivní lékařskou péči tak bude zajištěno. Touto cestou se navíc zajistí stálé investice ve farmaceutickém sektoru, což posílí výzkum, vývoj, inovace a samozřejmě i výměnu informací v oblasti lékové politiky.

2016/11/22

. – Program Kreativní Evropa je efektivním finančním nástrojem EU, který podporuje kulturní i umělecké projekty. I navzdory nízkému rozpočtu program již nyní úspěšně podporuje jak správce kulturních památek a institucí skrze dílčí program „Kultura“, tak i tvůrce v audiovizuální oblasti skrze dílčí program „Media“. Kreativní Evropa tak výrazně přispívá ke kulturnímu bohatství Evropy. Proto vítám zprávu o zjednodušení administrativy, která zbytečně komplikuje uvolnění peněz na konkrétní projekty.

2016/11/22

The amended Europe for Citizens programme will further strengthen the sense of European belonging, mutual tolerance and respect, as well as promote a better understanding of the EU. This will be achieved mainly through involvement of a wider range of participants – including asylum seekers – thus developing common integration founded on European values. At times of rising populism and nationalism, it is of utmost importance to raise awareness of European historical heritage and values, as well as to bring the Union closer to its citizens. Consequently, I voted in favour of this report.

2016/11/22

Enhancing coherence between the EU trade and environment policy will significantly contribute to a successful fight against wildlife trafficking by tackling not only supply-side issues, but also demand for illegal products in domestic markets, including online platforms. Additionally, the report ensures that combating the illegal wildlife trade remains a priority for the EU policymakers, securing thus their commitment for wildlife protection. In light of the unprecedented surge in illegal wildlife trafficking of an estimated turnover of EUR 20 billion, I voted in favour of the report.

2016/11/22

. ‒ The terrorist threat in Europe remains at a critical level: as ISIS loses ground in the Middle East, this threat and that posed by their returning foreign fighters are likely to persist.Whilst responsibility for security lies primarily with Member States, recent terrorist attacks in Europe have shown that no country can address this on its own. We need to adapt our counter-terrorism measures to this reality and add a truly European approach. Moreover, 82% of Europeans want the EU to do more to combat terrorism, and 69% consider its current measures to be insufficient. I believe this new directive is part of our response to their demand. It will strengthen the Union’s arsenal against terrorism by criminalising acts such as receiving training for terrorism or travelling for terrorist purposes – all this while preserving the fundamental rights and freedoms of our citizens.

2016/11/22

The review of the Schengen Border Code is important as it increases the checks on people crossing the EU’s external borders. This revision will ensure that there are systematic checks of documents against relevant databases in order to verify that people crossing the border do not pose security risks. This will apply also to people leaving the Schengen Area. I voted in favour of this review as it will help to improve security in the EU as well as ensuring that people who attempt to enter the Schengen Area will go through a minimum security check

2016/11/22

Evropa čelí bezpočtu závažných výzev, na které hledá odpovědi. V tomto kontextu Evropský parlament dnes přijal zprávu k vývoji současného institucionálního uspořádání EU / Lisabonská smlouva / (Verhofstadt). Zpráva představuje komplexní a z tohoto hlediska patrně zatím jediný příspěvek do diskuse o budoucí podobě EU. V dokumentu takového charakteru a rozsahu, který má podnítit diskusi, je samozřejmě velké množství návrhů a podnětů. Stejně tak v této zprávě jsou vedle většiny návrhů, s nimiž se ztotožňuji, i takové myšlenky, kterou mou podporu nemají nebo si přinejmenším zaslouží další zkoumání. To však nemohl být důvod, abych nehlasoval pro tento souhrnný příspěvek do debaty o budoucí podobě Unie. A to zvláště dnes, kdy často zaznívá kritika EU, ovšem bez snahy či schopnosti předkládat konkrétní návrhy na její vylepšení, bez snahy podněcovat věcnou diskusi. Doufám, že i díky této zprávě se debata o budoucnosti EU posune do konstruktivnější roviny.

2016/11/22

. – Evropa čelí bezpočtu závažných výzev, na které hledá odpovědi. V tomto kontextu Evropský parlament dnes přijal zprávu ke zlepšení fungování EU v současném institucionálním a právním uspořádání /Lisabonská smlouva/ (Bresso, Brok). Zpráva představuje komplexní a z tohoto hlediska patrně zatím jediný příspěvek do diskuse o zlepšení fungování EU. V dokumentu takového charakteru a rozsahu, který má podnítit diskusi, je samozřejmě velké množství návrhů a podnětů. Stejně tak v této zprávě jsou vedle většiny návrhů, s nimiž se ztotožňuji, i takové myšlenky, které mou podporu nemají nebo si přinejmenším zaslouží další zkoumání. To však nemohl být důvod, abych nehlasoval pro tento souhrnný příspěvek do debaty o lépe fungující Unii. A to zvláště dnes, kdy často zaznívá kritika EU, ovšem bez snahy či schopnosti předkládat konkrétní návrhy na její vylepšení, bez snahy podněcovat věcnou diskusi. Doufám, že i díky této zprávě se debata o fungování EU posune do konstruktivnější roviny.

2016/11/22

The EU-Canada CETA is the most progressive trade agreement in the world. As more and more countries close themselves off from free trade, this agreement sends a strong signal that the EU is open and willing to work with partners in order to help create jobs and growth in our economies. I hope that soon we will also have an EU-Japan Free Trade Agreement in place which replicates the success of the CETA.

2016/11/22

The EU-Canada Strategic Partnership will broaden cooperation between the two sides on a range of issues of global concern, such as counter-terrorism, peace and security, migration, sustainable development and energy issues. This partnership will be a cornerstone of relations between the EU and Canada and it will serve as the basis for all discussions. In today’s world, this agreement sends a strong signal that the EU can work with like-minded global partners to further progressive agendas worldwide.

2016/11/22

The European Semester process is intended to ensure that Member States keep their budgetary and economic policies in line with their EU commitments. This report stresses the importance of strengthening growth by implementing reforms, completing the internal market and attracting private investment by modernising the business environment. I am of the view that these priorities are key to improving the prosperity of Europe.

2016/11/22

Since 2015, the European Parliament has been monitoring the implementation of different stages of the Banking Union across the EU. This year’s report makes recommendations to improve supervision mechanisms, as well as resolution in the case of insolvency. The aim is also to ensure that taxpayers do not have to foot the bill for bank bail-outs in the future. Taking this into account, as well as the underlying theme of making the EU’s financial system less prone to crises, I voted in favour of the report.

2016/11/22

Following the Danish referendum on its participation in Europol, where the Danish people decided that they would no longer be a part of it, it is important for the EU to avoid having any loopholes in its security. By voting in favour of this agreement, we ensure that Denmark will be able to continue to cooperate with Europol in order to avoid security and information gaps within the Schengen area.

2016/11/22

It is important for the EU to be able to investigate and decide on cases relating to competition across Member States, where this is in the interest of the European consumer. Having a strong competition policy ensures that people are not penalised by artificially high prices, nor monopolisation of certain sectors of the economy. This year’s competition report focuses on State Aid, Anti-trust and the Digital Single Market, among other areas. It is important for Parliament to outline its view on these cases, especially at this time.

2016/11/22

Úzká spolupráce se všemi zeměmi balkánského regionu je klíčová pro stabilizaci a rozvoj této oblasti. Podpořil jsem dohodu mezi EU a Kosovem, protože jsem toho názoru, že pouze podobné vazby a provázanost vztahů na základě co nejtěsnější spolupráce mají potenciál region konsolidovat.

2016/11/22

Nařízení o dovozu textilních výrobků pokrývá pravidla dovozu do EU ze dvou třetích zemí, Běloruska a Severní Koreje. Na tyto státy se nevztahují bilaterální dohody v této oblasti, včetně systému všeobecných celních preferencí a iniciativy „Vše kromě zbraní“. Jedná se o technické ujednání o ročních kvantitativních limitech pro dovoz, distribuci a o zárukách, proto jsem hlasoval pro schválení textu.

2016/11/22

Hlasoval jsem pro pokračování činnosti Mezinárodního střediska pro vědu a techniku, protože účelem střediska je podpora mezinárodního vědeckého partnerství a zdokonalování mechanismů pro předcházení šíření zbraní hromadného ničení. Rovněž také rozvoj základního a aplikovaného výzkumu a uvádění technologií na trh, které považuji za zásadní pro prosperitu evropského kontinentu.

2016/11/22

I decided to vote in favour of this resolution which rejects the Commission’s reviewed list of third countries with deficiencies in their anti-money laundering regulation. Under the current EU anti-money laundering directive, banks and other operators have to apply enhanced scrutiny and transparency standards when dealing with so called ‘high risk’ third countries identified on the list due to the threat they pose to money laundering and terrorist financing. The Commission adopted a first list in July, which the EP reluctantly accept with the caveat that the next one be more ambitious and reflective of the current situation in some jurisdiction, and not simply a copy paste of the FATF black list. Unfortunately, this new proposal does not take into account our concerns. We want the Commission to conduct its own analysis of risk and not to solely rely on existing list.

2016/11/22

Moderní doprava a logistika mají zásadní význam pro účinné fungování vnitřního trhu Evropské unie, jsou důležité pro zajištění konkurenceschopnosti a vytváření nových obchodních a pracovních příležitostí. Cílem politiky transevropské dopravní sítě (TEN-T) je umožnit efektivní, inteligentní a udržitelnou dopravu, proto jsem hlasoval ve prospěch zprávy a dalšího rozvoje této oblasti.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I voted against this report because I think that its content disregards the competences of social partners and the Member States, hindering the competitiveness of the entire EU. I also find the report not balanced regarding the labour market. Furthermore, it does not support flexible labour-market solutions which can create possibilities for companies, nor the principles of flexicurity.

2016/11/22

. ‒ I supported this motion for resolution because it calls on the Commission and the Member States to come up with appropriate proposals regarding the enforcement of the EU customs systems in order to ensure that any elements necessary for the implementation of a coherent strategy will be properly covered and will comply with current global trade rules. I support the creation of a genuine digital single market and more uniform electronic customs requirements and ambitious risk-assessment programmes at EU level.

2016/11/22

528 Written explanations of Petr JEŽEK

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