3482 Amendments of Notis MARIAS
Amendment 1 #
2018/2218(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the ECSEL Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the joint undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2017 / Postpones its decision on discharge to the Executive Director of the ECSEL Joint Undertaking in respect of the implementation of the joint undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 7 #
2018/2218(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Acknowledges the factNotes that the Court´s report states that the transactions underlying the annual accounts of the Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2017 are, in all material respects, legal and regular;
Amendment 11 #
2018/2218(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Takes note of the factStresses that the Court noticed significant shortcomings in the management of the procurement procedures for administrative services; notes from the Joint Undertaking’s replies that a budget, procurement and contracts assistant has been nominated to handle this problem;
Amendment 14 #
2018/2218(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Takes note of the factNotes that, in 2017, the Joint Undertaking had not properly documented in its register of exceptions management overrides of controls nor deviations from established processes and procedures; observes from their replies that the Joint Undertaking has taken actions to address this issue, like revising Internal Control Standard 8, that it has a register of exceptions and that a training session took place for its staff in 2018;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2217(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the Shift2Rail Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the joint undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2017 / Postpones its decision on discharge to the Executive Director of the Shift2Rail Joint Undertaking in respect of the implementation of the jJoint uUndertaking’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2216(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen 2 Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the joint undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2017 / Postpones its decision on discharge to the Executive Director of the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen 2 Joint Undertaking in respect of the implementation of the jJoint uUndertaking’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2216(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Welcomes the factNotes that the absence of established key performance indicators is no longer an issue under Horizon 2020; observes that not all targets of the third set of 2017 key performance indicators specific to FCH2 were met;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2215(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the Innovative Medicines Initiative 2 Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the joint undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2017 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the Innovative Medicines Initiative 2 Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the joint undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 7 #
2018/2215(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. WelcomNotes that the absence of established key performance indicators (KPIs) is no longer an issue under Horizon 2020; regrets that less than 60 % of the third set of 2017 target KPIs were reached;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2214(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
Amendment 2 #
2018/2213(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the Clean Sky 2 Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2017 / Postpones its decision on discharge togranting the Executive Director of the Clean Sky 2 Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the Jjoint Uundertaking’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2213(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. NotesPoints out that the Court, in its report on the Clean Sky 2 (the “Court's report”), indicated the transactions underlying the annual accounts as legal and regular in all material aspects;
Amendment 6 #
2018/2213(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. WelcomStresses the successful closure of the Clean Sky programme with the delivery in 2017 of a total of 28 significant demonstrators (ground and flight tested) together with having selected all its Core Partners and having achieved the addition of the Partners to the programme, bringing the total to 497 participants;
Amendment 8 #
2018/2213(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. WelcomesPoints out that the absence of established Kkey Pperformance Iindicators (KPIs) is no longer an issue under Horizon 2020; regrets that information on third set of KPIs is not yet available due to nature of the projects; takes note that the experts call for further monitoring activity and analysis, making a clear distinction between the actually achieved KPIs at the end of each year and the projected KPIs;
Amendment 2 #
2018/2212(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the SESAR Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the joint undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2017 / Postpones its decision on discharge togranting the Executive Director of the SESAR Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the jJoint uUndertaking’'s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2211(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the European Joint Undertaking for ITER and the Development of Fusion Energy discharge in respect of the implementation of the joint undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2017 / Postpones its decision on discharge toPostpones its decision on granting the Director of the European Joint Undertaking for ITER and the Development of Fusion Energy discharge in respect of the implementation of the jJoint uUndertaking’'s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2211(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. AcknowledgNotes that the transactions underlying the annual accounts of the Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2017 are, in all material respects, legal and regular;
Amendment 6 #
2018/2211(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Expresses ongoing concergreat dissatisfaction that the estimated completion date for the whole construction phase is currently planned with a delay of about 15 years compared to the original baseline; acknowledges the fact that the ITER Project reported completing 50 percent of the ‘ total construction work scope through First Plasma’ at the end of 2017; notes that the new schedule endorsed by the ITER Council set out a four-stage approach, making December 2025 the deadline for achieving the first strategic milestone of the project construction phase (‘First Plasma’) and December 2035 the estimated completion date for the whole construction phase; acknowledges the fact that the aim of the new staged approach is to better align the project implementation with the priorities and constraints of all members of the ITER Organisation;
Amendment 16 #
2018/2211(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. NotesExpresses its profound dissatisfaction at the fact that the Joint Undertaking has not consistently followed on the declarations of interests from senior management; calls on the Joint Undertaking to report to the discharge authority any improvement made in this regard;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2209(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GrantRefuses the Executive Director of the European Union Agency for the Operational Management of Large-Scale IT Systems in the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2209(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes with appreciation that budget-monitoring efforts during the financial year 2017 resulted in a budget implementation rate of 100 %, representing an increase of 2,1 % compared with 2016; notes furthermore that the payment appropriations execution rate was 91,53 %, representing an increase of 0,68 % compared with 2016;
Amendment 5 #
2018/2209(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes with concern from the Court’s report that although the Agency paid the full price for construction works for its new premises in Strasbourg in 2016, the work is still not finalised and only 70 % of the works were covered by the accepted works progress reports; takes note that the contractor submitted a financial claim and filed a court case against the Agency; notes from the Agency that it registered a statement of defence with the Administrative Court of Strasbourg, and that the Court’s decision is pending; calls on the Agency to report forthwith to the discharge authority on the final decision of the Administrative Court of Strasbourg;
Amendment 6 #
2018/2209(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes with satisfaction that the Agency uses several key performance indicators (KPIs) in areas such as system performance, security, and the level of customer satisfaction to measure the added value provided by its activities, and various other KPIs to enhance its budget management;
Amendment 12 #
2018/2209(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Regrets deeply the gender imbalance within the Agency's Management Bboard members, with 46 out of 52 being of the same gender;
Amendment 15 #
2018/2209(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Welcomes the suggestion of the Court to publish vacancy notices also on the website of the European Personnel Selection Office in order to increase publicity; understands the concern of the Agency with regard to translation costs;
Amendment 23 #
2018/2209(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. AcknowledgNotes the Agency’s existing measures and ongoing efforts to secure transparency, prevention and management of conflicts of interests, and whistleblower protection; notes with concern that the Agency does not publish the CVs of the members of its Management Board, nor of its managerial staff in general, only of its Executive Director; calls onurges the Agency to publish the CVs of all members of its Management Board and of its managerial staff;
Amendment 2 #
2018/2207(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GDoes not grants the interim director of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology discharge in respect of the implementation of the Institute’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 6 #
2018/2207(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Welcomes the factNotes that the Institute has conducted joint public procurement procedures and set up common selection committees for the staff with the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Training, taking advantage that they are both located in Budapest;
Amendment 7 #
2018/2207(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Observes that an external evaluation to assess the impact, governance, processes and progress towards financial sustainability of the first wave of KICs for the period 2010 to 2016 was made in 2017, and during 2018 the Institute will conclude the review; calls on the Institute to report promptly to the discharge authority on the conclusions of this review;
Amendment 12 #
2018/2207(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Takes note of the factNotes that it is structurally understaffed, as also endorsed by the Court in their Special Report No 4/2016; notes that the Institute’s requests to significantly increase its staff capacity have been declined by the Commission; calls on the Institute to report to the discharge authority of any developments in this matter;
Amendment 14 #
2018/2207(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Regrets to nNotes from the Court’s report that the Institute’s current interim Director was appointed in 2014, and has held the post ever since as ad interim; points out that that practice is at odds with the Staff Regulations which limits the duration to a maximum of one year; regrets that a selection procedure for the nomination for a new Director launched in 2016 was unsuccessful; takes note that a vacancy notice was again published in June 2018; calls on the Institute to report to the discharge authority on the results of the ongoing selection process;
Amendment 15 #
2018/2207(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Welcomes the suggestion of the Court to publish vacancy notices also on the website of the European Personnel Selection Office in order to increase publicity; understands the Institute’s reply concerning the high translation costs triggered by such publication;
Amendment 16 #
2018/2207(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Notes from the Court’s report that by the end of 2017 the Institute had not yet implemented all of the tools launched by the Commission aimed to introduce a single solution for the electronic exchange of information with third parties participating in public procurement procedures (e-procurement); notes from the Institute’s reply that it intends to adopt the e-tendering and e-submission tools, for which preparatory actions are ongoing; calls onurges the Agency to report to the discharge authority on the implementation of all the necessary tools;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2206(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GrantRefuses the Management Committee of the Office of the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications discharge in respect of the implementation of the Office’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2206(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes with appreciation that budget monitoring efforts during the financial year 2017 resulted in a budget implementation rate of 99,94 %, representing an increase of 3,74 % compared to 2016; notes that the payment appropriations execution rate was at 86,92 %, representing a notable increase of 9,73 % compared to 2016;
Amendment 6 #
2018/2206(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Regrets profoundly the gender imbalance within the Office's management board members, with 24 out of 29 being of the same gender;
Amendment 8 #
2018/2206(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Regrets that the Office did not have internal rules on whistleblowing in place on 31 December 2017; notes however that the Office plans to adopt these by the end of 2018; calls onurges the Office to report to the discharge authority on their implementation;
Amendment 9 #
2018/2206(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Notes with appreciation that in 2017, the Office undertook an internal exercise to assess its internal control systems, concluding that they have been effectively implemented;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2205(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GrantRefuses the Director of the Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2205(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes with satisfaction that budget monitoring efforts during the financial year 2017 resulted in a budget implementation rate of 98,72 %, reaching the Agency’s planned target and representing an increase of 0,61 % compared to 2016; notes that the payment appropriations execution rate was at 75,81 %, representing an increase of 15,87 % compared to the previous year;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2205(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes with satisfaction that the Agency uses certain measures as Key Performance Indicators to assess the added value provided by its activities, in particular to estimate the impact of network codes and guidelines, and to improve its budget management;
Amendment 7 #
2018/2205(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes with appreciation that the Agency succeeded on the implementation of the regulation on wholesale energy market integrity and transparency for the first year (2017) and in accompanying and monitoring the shift in the implementation of the already adopted network codes in electricity and gas;
Amendment 10 #
2018/2205(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. RStrongly regrets the gender imbalance within the Agency's senior management members, with five out of six being of the same gender;
Amendment 11 #
2018/2205(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Welcomes the suggestion of the Court to publish vacancy notices also on the website of the European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO) in order to increase publicity; takes note of the Agency’s reply that four of the nine vacancy notices already have been published on the EPSO website; understands the concern of the Agency for what concerns translation costs;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2204(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GDoes not grants the Executive Director of the European Securities and Markets Authority discharge in respect of the implementation of the Authority’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2204(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes with appreciation that the budget monitoring efforts during the financial year 2017 resulted in a budget implementation rate of 100 %, representing an increase of 0,03 % compared to 2016; notes that the payment appropriations execution rate was at 89,76 %, representing an increase of 2,47 % compared to the previous year;
Amendment 5 #
2018/2204(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Welcomes the suggestion of the Court to publish vacancy notices on the website of the European Personnel Selection Office in order to increase publicity; understands the Authority’s reply concerning the high translation costs triggered by such publication;
Amendment 6 #
2018/2204(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Notes with satisfaction that the Authority has adopted a policy on protecting the dignity of the person and preventing harassment;
Amendment 7 #
2018/2204(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. AcknowledgesTakes note of the measures the Authority already has in place and its ongoing efforts to secure transparency, to prevent and manage conflicts of interests, and to protect whistleblowers; furthermore, welcomes the fact that the Authority publishes a register of staff meetings with external stakeholders;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2203(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GrantRefuses the Executive Director of the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority discharge in respect of the implementation of the Authority’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2203(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes with appreciation that budget monitoring efforts during the financial year 2017 resulted in a budget implementation rate of 99,79 %, reaching the Authority’s planned target and representing an increase of 0,11 % compared to 2016; notes furthermore that the payment appropriations execution rate was at 88,09 %, representing a slight decrease of 0,88 % compared to 2016;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2203(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes with satisfaction that the Authority has set 13 strategic level targets measured with Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) which are divided between its three operational strategic objectives to assess the added value provided by its activities, and to improve its budget management, in addition to other indicators used internally;
Amendment 8 #
2018/2203(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Notes that an external evaluation of the three European Supervisory Authorities was carried out in 2017; calls on the Authority to report forthwith to the discharge authority on the results of that external evaluation, as regards remarks concerning the Authority;
Amendment 9 #
2018/2203(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Welcomes the suggestion of the Court to publish vacancy notices on the website of the European Personnel Selection Office in order to increase publicity; understands the Authority’s reply concerning the high translation costs triggered by such publication;
Amendment 10 #
2018/2203(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Notes that the Commission’s Internal Audit Service performed an audit to assess the effectiveness of the management controls in the stress test process of the Authority; calls onurges the Authority to report to the discharge authority about the results of that audit;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2202(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GDoes not grants the Executive Director of the European Banking Authority discharge in respect of the implementation of the Authority’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2202(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes with satisfaction that the Authority uses fourteen key performance indicators to assess the results of its activities, as far as the limitations of the Authority to control these results allow, and to improve its budget management;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2202(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes with satisfaction that the Authority delivered the regulatory products in line with its Work Programme and achieved all the targets stated in the applications of the Authority’s service level agreements;
Amendment 6 #
2018/2202(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. WelcomesTakes note of the fact that the Authority shares practices and templates with the European Securities and Markets Authority and the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority, with which the Authority holds regular meetings and forms a Joint Committee;
Amendment 8 #
2018/2202(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Notes with concern that, according to the Court’s report, in four out of five audited open procurement procedures, the procedure to identify the most economically advantageous solution was not satisfactory; observes the Authority’s reply and notes its reasoning; invites the Authority to find a more balanced approach between quality and price criteria in order to improve the economy of its procurements;
Amendment 10 #
2018/2202(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Notes that, according to the Court´s report, by the end of 2017 the Authority was not yet using all of the tools launched by the Commission aimed to introduce a single solution for the electronic exchange of information with third parties participating in public procurement procedures (e-procurement); notes that, according to the Authority’s reply, it has planned to implement e-submission in 2019; calls on the Authority to report to the discharge authority forthwith on the progress made regarding this matter;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2201(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GDoes not grants the Director of the European Institute for Gender Equality discharge in respect of the implementation of the Institute’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2201(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Acknowledges thatNotes the budget monitoring efforts during the financial year 2017 that resulted in a budget implementation rate of 98,92 %, representing a slight increase of 0,5 % compared to 2016; notes that the payment appropriations execution rate was 80,95 %, representing a notable increase of 8,12 % compared to the previous year; observes that, after analysing the advantages and disadvantages of differentiated appropriations, the Institute decided not to adopt them as a measure to address the multiannual nature of its operations; calls on the Institute to remain aware of the situation at hand, and to report to the discharge authority on any developments in that regard;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2201(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Welcomes the factNotes that the Institute uses certain Key Performance Indicators in relation to operational objectives and management of financial and human resources to assess the added value provided by its activities and to improve its budget management;
Amendment 5 #
2018/2201(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes with appreciation that the Institute implemented its work programme effectively and fulfilled 98,75 % of the single programming document activities in 2017; notes furthermore that the Institute has released the third edition of the Gender Equality Index to monitor the progress of gender equality in the Union;
Amendment 6 #
2018/2201(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes with satisfaction that the Institute proactively initiated a joint activity with other agencies in 2017 consisting of training and experience- sharing workshops on preventing harassment; notes furthermore that the Institute supported the European Institute of Innovation and Technology in mainstreaming a gender perspective in its operations and contributed to a joint publication with the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions;
Amendment 8 #
2018/2201(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Regrets deeply the gender imbalance within the Institute’s management board members, with 26 out of 32 members being of the same gender;
Amendment 10 #
2018/2201(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Notes with concern that, according to the Court’s report, the Institute was brought to court by unsuccessful tenders, claiming a total of EUR 700 000 in damages (amounting to up to 9 % of the Institute’s annual budget) and the annulment of the award decision; observes that the Institute is already preparing to financially address the potential losses; notes from the Institute’s reply that it will adjust the procurement procedures regardless of the final decision of the Court; calls on the Institute to report forthwith to the discharge authority on developments in that regard;
Amendment 12 #
2018/2201(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Notes with concern that, according to the Court’s report, the Institute issued and finalised a tender process to obtain a supplier for travel services without guaranteeing the best value-for-money; notes from the Institute’s reply that it has internal controls in place to check and control the prices of services provided by the selected supplier; notes furthermore that the Institute is intending not to renew this contract but to participate in a joint procurement procedure organised by the Commission; calls on the Institute to report forthwith to the discharge authority on the progress made in that regard;
Amendment 13 #
2018/2201(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Notes that, according to the Court’s report, the Institute had not yet, , by the end of 2017, introduced the tools launched by the Commission aimed at introducing a single solution for the electronic exchange of information with third parties participating in public procurement procedures (e-procurement); notes from the Institute’s reply that the Institute is implementing e-submission and e- invoicing in compliance with the timelines set by the Commission by the end of 2018; calls on the Institute to report forthwith to the discharge authority on the progress made in that regard;
Amendment 15 #
2018/2201(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Notes the Institute’s efforts to ensure a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly working place; observes that the Institute unfortunately does not have any specific measures in place to reduce or offset CO2 emissions, but notes that it encourages its staff to use public transport or bicycles for commuting;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2200(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GDoes not grants the Executive Director of the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation discharge in respect of the implementation of the Europol’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 7 #
2018/2200(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes with satisfaction that the Agency monitored its performance through 36 Key Performance Indicators, 60 other performance indicators and the implementation of around 140 specific actions planned in its Work Programme, with the performance reporting framework in general aimed at assessing the added value the Agency’s activities and at enhancing its budget management;
Amendment 13 #
2018/2200(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Regrets deeply the gender imbalance within the Agency’s senior management members, with 133 out of 151 members being of the same gender;
Amendment 15 #
2018/2200(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Welcomes the suggestion of the Court to also publish vacancy notices on the website of the European Personnel Selection Office in order to increase publicity; understands the concern of the Agency as regards translation costs;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2199(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GrantRefuses the Director-General of the Euratom Supply Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’'s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2199(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes with satisfaction that budget monitoring efforts during the financial year 2017 resulted in a commitment appropriations execution rate of 98,88 %, representing an increase of 4,54 % compared to 2016; notes with concern, however, that the payment appropriation execution rate was 74,64 %, representing a decrease of 11,48 % compared to 2016;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2198(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GrantRefuses the Executive Director of the European Chemicals Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 5 #
2018/2198(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Notes with appreciation that the Agency shares its Internal Audit Capability with the European Global Navigation Satellite Systems Agency and closely collaborates with other agencies, including the sharing of services, under the roof of inter-agency network and through Memoranda of Understanding with multiple agencies;
Amendment 6 #
2018/2198(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. According to the Court’s report, unlike most other agencies, the Agency’s founding regulation does not explicitly require periodical external evaluations of its activities, which are key elements to assess performance; encouragescalls on the Agency to undertake an external evaluation at least every five years;
Amendment 10 #
2018/2198(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Notes that the Commission’s Internal Audit Service (IAS) carried out a risk assessment and prepared the IAS strategic audit plan for 2018-2020 and furthermore, conducted preliminary interviews for an audit on conflicts of interest and ethics in October 2017; calls onurges the Agency to report to the discharge authority on the outcome of that audit and any respective actions taken as a response to the recommendations;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2197(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GrantRefuses the Executive Director of the European Fisheries Control Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2197(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes with satisfaction that the Agency uses a number of Key Performance Indicators to support its multiannual strategic objectives and to assess the added value provided by its activities, and to improve its budget management;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2197(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Notes the Agency’s efforts to ensure a cost-effective and environment- friendly working place; points out, however, that the Agency does not yet have any additional measures in place to reduce or offset CO2 emissions;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2196(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GDoes not grants the Executive Director of the European GNSS Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2196(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes with appreciation that the budget monitoring efforts during the financial year 2017 resulted in a budget implementation rate of 100 %, representing the same rate as in 2016; notes furthermore that the execution rate of payment appropriations was 86,20 %, representing an increase of 3,78 % compared to 2016;
Amendment 5 #
2018/2196(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Welcomes the suggestion of the Court to publish vacancy notices also on the website of the European Personnel Selection Office in order to increase publicity; understands the Agency’s concern for what concerns translation costs; notes furthermore that the Agency introduced new job posting tools, advertising extensively on social media and improving the job opportunities webpage;
Amendment 8 #
2018/2196(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Notes that, according to the Agency, both the declarations of interest and the short CVs of its top management have been published in its website; regrets however that the CVs of the Administrative board members are not published; calls onurges the Agency to report to the discharge authority on the actions taken in that regard;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2195(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GrantRefuses the executive director of the European Border and Coast Guard Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2195(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes with satisfaction that the Agency uses various Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure the added value provided by its activities; takes note that the Agency plans to revise its indicators in 2019; invites the Agency to further develop the KPIs for enhancing its budget management, particularly taking into account the extension of its mandate and the continuously increasing budget, and report to the discharge authority on the developments made in this regard;
Amendment 5 #
2018/2195(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes the management board’s approval of the reorganisation of the Agency structures in June 2017, affecting the allocation of resources; calls onurges the Agency to report to the discharge authority on the implementation of this new organisational structure;
Amendment 10 #
2018/2195(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Welcomes the suggestion of the Court to publish vacancy notices also on the website of the European Personnel Selection Office in order to increase publicity; understands the Agency’s concern for what concerns translation costs;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2194(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GrantRefuses the Executive Director of the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Training discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2194(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes with appreciation that the College uses key performance indicators to measure its training activities and their impact, in particular the satisfaction level of the participants, in order to assess the added value provided by them, and performance indicators to improve its budget management;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2194(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Observes that the five year periodical external evaluation concluded in January 2016 issued 17 recommendations, for which the College plans to implement all corrective actions by the end of 2018; calls on the College to report forthwith to the discharge authority on the actions taken to address these recommendations;
Amendment 6 #
2018/2194(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Welcomes the suggestion of the Court to publish vacancy notices on the website of the European Personnel Selection Office in order to increase publicity; understands the College’s reply concerning the high translation costs triggered by such publication; furthermore acknowledges the College’s intention to publish all its vacancies on the interagency job board developed by the EU Agencies Network;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2193(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GrantRefuses the Executive Director of the European Railway Agency (now European Union Agency for Railways) discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2193(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Acknowledges that the Agency met its target of 95 % achievement of timely delivery of issuing reports, advice and opinions; points out with concern that the Agency did not achieve the goal of 90 % achievement of all outputs using financial and human resource planning, with only 67 % categorised as fully achieved and 18 % as partially achieved;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2193(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. WelcomNotes the Agency’s cooperation with the European Securities and Markets Authority, sharing accountancy services and having participated in a joint call for tenders;
Amendment 5 #
2018/2193(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Notes that the Agency has adopted a policy on protecting the dignity of the person and preventing harassment, that it provides awareness raising sessions for its staff and managers and that confidential counsellors are promoted; points out the relatively high number of alleged harassment cases in the Agency in 2017, with 12 reported but none investigated; urges the Agency to report to the discharge authority on the measures taken in order to address this issue;
Amendment 6 #
2018/2193(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Notes with concern that 29 exceptions and 7 non-compliance events were registered in 2017, which represents an increase in comparison to 2016; acknowledges that the Agency identified the main areas of concern in this regard; calls onurges the Agency to report to the discharge authority on the measures taken to decrease their occurrences in the future;
Amendment 7 #
2018/2193(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Notes that the Agency has published the declarations of conflicts of interest and the CVs of its management board members on their website; regrets deeply that the Agency expects its senior management staff to complete and sign a declaration of conflicts of interest only when they are involved in an evaluation committee; calls onurges the Agency to report to the discharge authority on any development made in order to address this issue;
Amendment 8 #
2018/2193(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Regrets deeply that the Agency had still not set up rules on whistleblowing but that they are to be adopted by the end of 2018; asks the Agency to report forthwith to the discharge authority when its whistleblowing rules have been established and are implemented;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2192(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GDoes not grants the Executive Director of the European Union Agency for Network and Information Security discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2192(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. ADoes not approves the closure of the accounts of the European Union Agency for Network and Information Security for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2192(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes with appreciationthat thate budget monitoring efforts during the financial year 2017 resulted in a budget implementation rate of 99,99 %, representing an increase of 1,52 % compared to 2016; takes note that the payment appropriations execution rate was 88,19 %, representing a slight decrease of 0,99 % compared to 2016;
Amendment 6 #
2018/2192(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes with satisfaction that the Agency uses certain key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess the added value provided by its activities and to enhance its budget management, focusing more qualitative indicators for the assessment of the achievement of its operational goals and more quantitative indicators for its administrative goals; invites the Agency to further develop the KPIs to better assess the outcome and impact of its activities, in order to gain advise on how to provide more added value for the Agency’s outputs;
Amendment 9 #
2018/2192(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Notes from the Court’´s report that in 2016, the Agency misguidedly moved eight additional staff to Athens, reducing the number of staff in Heraklion to 14; notes that according to the Agency, at the end 2017, that number was further reduced to 11 staff members, still further hampering its work in Crete; highlights the fact that in accordance with the Court’s 2013 Report, it is likely that costs could be further reduced if all staff were centralised in one location, that is to say its official seat in Heraklion as established by Decision 2004/97/EC, Euratom; calls on the Agency to report to the discharge authority on any possible measures to address the situation;
Amendment 10 #
2018/2192(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Welcomes the suggestion of the Court to publish vacancy notices also on the website of the European Personnel Selection Office in order to increase publicity; understands the concern of the Agency for what concerns translation costs;
Amendment 13 #
2018/2192(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Notes the Agency’s existing measures on and ongoing efforts to secure transparency, prevention and management of conflicts of interests, and whistle-blower protection; points out with concern, however,expresses its deep displeasure at the fact that only the CVs of the executive director and the Chair of the management board (MB) are published on its website, and furthermore, that the Agency publishes only the executive director’s declaration of conflicts of interests on its website, but not of the other senior management members; calls onurges the Agency to publish the CVs of all the members of the MB and the declarations of conflicts of interests of its senior management;
Amendment 14 #
2018/2192(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Requests the Agency and the Court of Auditors to transmit detailed information on all transfers of officials, including the Executive Director of the Agency, to the European Parliament's Committee on Budgetary Control for information and consultation;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2191(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GrantRefuses the Director of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control discharge in respect of the implementation of the Centre’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2191(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes with satisfaction that the budget monitoring efforts during the financial year 2017 resulted in a budget implementation rate of 99,78 %, representing an increase of 1,76 % compared to 2016; notes that the payment appropriations execution rate was 81,71 %, representing an increase of 2,45 % compared to the previous year;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2191(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Takes note that an external evaluation for the period 2013-2017 will be carried out in 2018-2019; calls on the Centre forthwith to report to the discharge authority on its outcome;
Amendment 5 #
2018/2191(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Notes that the declaration of interest and the CV of the Director are published on the Centre’s website; notes with concern that some declarations of interest and CVs of the management board and of the advisory forum are missing; calls onurges the Centre to report to the discharge authority on the measures taken in this regard;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2190(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GrantRefuses the Executive Director of the European Food Safety Authority discharge in respect of the implementation of the Authority’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2190(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes with satisfaction that the Authority has introduced several impact and outcome Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in its comprehensive performance based management approach to measure the added value provided by its activities; notes furthermore that the Authority uses other KPIs to enhance its budget management;
Amendment 5 #
2018/2190(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes that the Authority’s external evaluation started in 2017 and the results will become available during the course of 2018; calls onurges the Authority to report to the discharge authority on the conclusions of this evaluation and the respective measures taken in order to address any recommendations;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2189(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GrantRefuses the Executive Director of the European Aviation Safety Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2189(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes with satisfaction that the budget monitoring efforts during the financial year 2017 resulted in a budget implementation rate of 99 %, representing the same rate as in 2016; notes, furthermore, that the payments appropriations execution rate was 93,75 %, showing an increase of 2,55 % compared to 2016;
Amendment 7 #
2018/2189(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Notes with satisfaction that the Agency shares resources on overlapping tasks with other Agencies, including notably the European Food Safety Agency, the European Union Intellectual Property Office, the European Training Foundation and the European Securities Market Authority, in the areas of surveys, e- learning and cloud services;
Amendment 9 #
2018/2189(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. RegretsIs dissatisfied with the gender imbalance within the Agency's senior management, with 5 out of 5 being of the same gender, and within the management board members, with 25 out of 29 being of the same gender;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2188(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GDoes not grants the Executive Director of the European Maritime Safety Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2188(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes with satisfaction that the Agency uses a number of specific Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure the implementation of its annual work programme and that the evaluation of the Agency represents the main instrument to assess the added value provided by its activities; acknowledges the Agency’s constructive approach, giving emphasis to both multi-annual and annual strategic objectives and to the proper evaluation of the achievement of these objectives; notes that the Agency uses only the budgetary execution rate as the main KPI to improve its budget management;
Amendment 7 #
2018/2188(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Regrets deeply the gender imbalance within the Agency's Administrative board members, with 46 out of 56 being of the same gender; takes note from the Agency that the nomination of the Agency’s Administrative Board falls under the remit of the Commission and the Member States;
Amendment 8 #
2018/2188(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Welcomes the suggestion of the Court to publish vacancy notices also on the website of the European Personnel Selection Office in order to increase publicity; understands the Agency’s reply concerning the high translation costs triggered by such publication;
Amendment 9 #
2018/2188(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Notes with concern from the Court’s report that the Agency did not systematically check prices and uplifts charged with the suppliers’ quotes and invoices issued to the framework contractor for the acquisition of software licences; notes from the Agency’s reply that it will remind the Project Officers to consistently check these prices and will request the Contracting Authority to ask the contractor to provide information about the prices; calls onurges the Agency to report to the Discharge Authority on any development on this issue;
Amendment 10 #
2018/2188(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Notes the Agency’s preliminary efforts to ensure a cost-effective and environment-friendly working place; points out, however, that the Agency unfortunately does not have any additional measures in place to reduce or offset CO² emissions;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2187(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GrantRefuses the Director of the European Training Foundation discharge in respect of the implementation of the Foundation’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2187(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes with satisfaction that the Foundation uses certain key performance indicators (KPIs) in addition to other productivity and quality indicators, to assess the added value provided by its activities and to improve its budget management;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2187(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. WelcomNotes the Foundation’s agreements and annual action plans on cooperation in areas of policy overlap with the European Foundation for the Improvements of Living and Working Conditions and with the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training; appreciates that the Foundation became the leader of the inter- Agency contract for the provision of benchmarked staff engagement surveys;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2186(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GrantRefuses the Administrative Director of Eurojust discharge in respect of the implementation of Eurojust’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2186(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes with appreciation that the budget monitoring efforts during the financial year 2017 resulted in a budget implementation rate of 99,97 %, representing a slight increase of 0,08 % compared to 2016 and including EUR 11 130 000 that was ring-fenced for the new building; notes that the payment appropriations execution rate was 83,95 %, representing an increase of 3,53 % in comparison to 2016;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2186(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes with satisfaction that Eurojust uses certain quantitative and qualitative key performance indicators to measure its achievements of its objectives for its annual activities including impact, outcome and technical and operational indicators to improve its budget management; acknowledges Eurojust’s efforts to enhance its performance evaluation framework to provide more meaningful information that would better indicate the achievement of its strategic objectives and assess the added value provided by its activities;
Amendment 7 #
2018/2186(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Welcomes the Court’s suggestion that Eurojust publish vacancy notices on the website of the European Personnel Selection Office in order to increase publicity; understands Eurojust’s concerns regarding translation costs;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2185(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GrantRefuses the Executive Director of the European Medicines Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2184(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GrantRefuses the Director of the Translation Centre for the Bodies of the European Union discharge in respect of the implementation of the Centre’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2184(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Welcomes the external evaluation of the Centre’s business model, carried out in 2017; calls onurges the Centre to report to the discharge authority on the outcome of the final evaluation;
Amendment 8 #
2018/2184(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Regrets the fact that the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) decided, on 26 April 2018, to terminate the translation arrangement it concluded with the Centre, despite its legal obligation to avail of the services of the Centre, as provided for in Article 148 of Regulation (EU) 2017/1001 of the European Parliament and of the Council14, which established the EUIPO; takes note of the legal action brought before the General Court by the Centre on 6 July 2018; calls on the Centre to keep the discharge authority regularly updated on the developments of the legal proceedings; _________________ 14 Regulation (EU) 2017/1001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 June 2017 on the European Union trade mark (OJ L 154, 16.6.2017, p. 1)
Amendment 1 #
2018/2183(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GrantRefuses the Director of the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 2 #
2018/2183(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GPostpones its decision on grantsing the Director of the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2183(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
Amendment 4 #
2018/2183(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes that, although the Agency performed well in making use of the available resources, the items related to web communications and work programme delivery were slightly below the targets set;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2182(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GDoes not grants the Executive Director of the European Environment Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2182(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes with satisfaction that the budget monitoring efforts during the financial year 2017 resulted in a budget implementation rate of 99,97 %, representing the same rate as in 2016; notes that the payment appropriations execution rate was 89,04 %, representing a slight decrease of 0,78 % compared to the previous year;
Amendment 5 #
2018/2182(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Regrets deeply the gender imbalance within the Agency's senior management, with 7 out of 8 being of the same gender;
Amendment 6 #
2018/2182(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Notes with concern from the Court’s report that several weaknesses were pointed out in the recruitment procedures organised by the Agency leading to a lack of transparency and potential unequal treatment of candidates; notes from the Agency’s reply that it plans to develop its recruitment procedures in light of the weaknesses identified; calls on the Agency to report forthwith to the discharge authority on the developmentsprogress made in this regard;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2181(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GrantRefuses the Director of the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction discharge in respect of the implementation of the Centre’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2181(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes with appreciation that the budget monitoring efforts during the financial year 2017 resulted in a budget implementation rate of 100 %, representing a slight increase of 0,05 % compared to 2016; notes that the payment appropriations execution rate was 94,70 %, representing a decrease of 0,94 % compared to the previous year;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2181(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes with satisfaction that the Centre measures the achievement of its 68 annual targets with 50 key performance indicators, which are divided into eight strategic objectives, to assess the added value provided by its activities, and to improve its budget management;
Amendment 5 #
2018/2181(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes with appreciation that the Centre shares synergies with the European Maritime Safety Agency in corporate and support services and the management of common premises in Lisbon; acknowledges that operational synergies have been put in place with other Union Agencies in the areas of Justice and Home Affairs and Health;
Amendment 7 #
2018/2181(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Notes that, according to the Court´s report, by the end of 2017 the Centre was not yet using any of the tools launched by the Commission aimed at introducing a single solution for the electronic exchange of information with third parties participating in public procurement procedures (e-procurement); notes that, according to the Centre’s reply, the Centre has set up the tools required for “e- invoicing” and has planned the preparatory operations required to be able to use “e- tendering” and “e-submission” from October 2018 as required by the relevant legal framework; calls on the Centre to report forthwith to the discharge authority on the progress made;
Amendment 8 #
2018/2181(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Notes that the Commission’s Internal Audit Service (IAS) outlined the importance of undertaking an analysis of the needs of data collection, validation and quality assurance processes and to review its data quality management framework and its alignment with the Centre’s Strategy 2025; observes that the Centre adopted an action plan to address these recommendations in December 2017; calls on the Centre to report forthwith to the discharge authority on the progress made in this regard;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2180(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GrantRefuses the Director of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2180(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes with appreciation that budget monitoring efforts during the financial year 2017 resulted in a budget implementation rate of 100 %, the same rate as in 2016; notes with concern that the payment appropriations execution rate was low at 72,11 %, representing a slight decrease of 1,1 % compared with the previous year;
Amendment 7 #
2018/2180(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Notes with concern that, during recent years, legal proceedings were brought against the Agency concerning irregular recruitment decisions and that the Agency was accused of irregular practices relating to the use of the consulting services of a former stand- by temporary judge of the Civil Service Tribunal, and that certain ambiguities in that regard may still endure; calls onurges the Agency to report to the discharge authority on any updates to this issue;
Amendment 8 #
2018/2180(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Notes the Agency’s efforts to ensure a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly working place; points out, however, that the Agency does not yet have additional specific measures in place to reduce or offset CO2 emissions;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2179(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GrantRefuses the Director of the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions discharge in respect of the implementation of the Foundation’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2179(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes with appreciation that the budget monitoring efforts during the financial year 2017 which resulted in a budget implementation rate of 100 %, representing the same rate as in the 2016; takes note of the fact that the payment appropriations execution rate was 80,7 %, representing a decrease of 4,1 % compared to 2016;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2179(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes with satisfaction that the Foundation uses certain key performance indicators (KPIs), included in its performance monitoring system, which in addition to the KPIs consists of ‘metrics’ (other indicators for operational processes) and qualitative assessment and evaluation, to assess the added value, including the outcome and impact, provided by its activities, and to improve its budget management;
Amendment 5 #
2018/2179(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. WelcomNotes the results of the job screening exercise, carried out in December 2017, showing a relatively high level of stability year on year;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2178(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GDoes not grants the Executive Director of the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training discharge in respect of the implementation of the Centre’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2178(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes with satisfaction that the Centre uses an exemplary performance measurement system that includes key performance indicators to assess the added value provided by its activities in the project, activity and organisational levels and other measures to improve its budget management;
Amendment 7 #
2018/2178(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Notes the departure of the Centre’s head of service for human resources in April 2017 as well as the departure of the Centre’s legal advisor and the resulting additional workload for the remaining staff; calls on the Centre to report to the discharge authority of any developments in this regard;
Amendment 9 #
2018/2178(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Notes with satisfaction that the Centre has a dignity at work policy in place and that in 2017 a mandatory session on dignity at work and prevention of harassment was delivered, and furthermore workshops and counselling skill session were offered;
Amendment 11 #
2018/2178(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Notes from the Court´s report that by the end of 2017 the Centre was not yet using any of the tools launched by the Commission aimed to introduce a single solution for the electronic exchange of information with third parties participating in public procurement procedures (e- procurement); notes from the Centre’s report that it has planned to implement the necessary electronic measures in late 2018; calls onurges the Centre to report to the discharge authority on the progress made regarding this matter;
Amendment 13 #
2018/2178(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Notes the Centre’s existing measures and ongoing efforts to secure transparency, prevention and management of conflicts of interests, and whistle-blower protection; points out with concern, however,expresses its deep displeasure at the fact that the Centre does not publish the CVs of its senior management on its website, and that the Centre’s senior management, in-house experts and assistants declare potential conflicts of interest only as they occur according to Centre’s policy on the prevention and management of conflict of interests since 2014;
Amendment 2 #
2018/2177(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Commission discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the eighth, ninth, tenth and eleventh European Development Funds for the financial year 2017 / Postpones its decision on granting the Commission discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the eighth, ninth, tenth and eleventh European Development Funds for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 1 #
2018/2176(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the for the financial year 2017 / Postpones its decision on granting the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European External Action Service for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 2 #
2018/2175(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the European Data Protection Supervisor discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget for the financial year 2017; / Postpones its decision on granting the European Data Protection Supervisor discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2175(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the European Data Protection Supervisor discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget for the financial year 2017; / Postpones its decision on granting the European Data Protection Supervisor discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 5 #
2018/2175(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes that in 2017, the Supervisor had a total allocated budget of EUR 11 324 735, which represented aStresses the need to reduce the budget for the financial year 2018, given the 21,93 % increase compared to the 2016 budget, and that the budget implementation in terms of commitment appropriations for 2017 amounted to EUR 10 075 534in the budget for the financial year 2017 compared to 2016; notes with concern that the implementation rate continued decreasing from 94,66 % in 2015 and 91,93 % in 2016 to 89 % of the available appropriations in 2017; notes that the budget implementation in terms of payment appropriations amounted to EUR 9 368 686,15, corresponding to 77 % of the available appropriations; calls on the Supervisor to define the budget estimates prudently;
Amendment 6 #
2018/2175(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Notes with concern the sharp increase in the number of missions by members and staff of the Supervisor from 2014 to 2017, stressing that, in times of crisis and budget cuts in general, this expenditure should be reduced and that such days should be organised, as far as possible, in the institutions' own premises, since the added value that this entails does not justify such high costs;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2173(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Secretary-General of the Committee of the Regions discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Committee of the Regions for the financial year 2017 / Postpones its decision on granting the Secretary-General of the Committee of the Regions discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Committee of the Regions for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2173(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes with satisfaction that based on its audit work, the Court concluded that the payments as a whole for the year ended 31 December 2017, the administrative and other expenditure of the institutions and bodies were free from material error;
Amendment 15 #
2018/2173(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. RegretsExpresses its deep displeasure at the fact that the Committee’s follow-up to the 2016 discharge resolution provides only indirect answers to Parliament’s remarks by referring to the Annual Activity Report in several points; stresses that the follow-up report is essential for the Committee for Budgetary Control to determine whether the Committee has implemented Parliament’s recommendations;
Amendment 2 #
2018/2172(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Secretary-General of the European Economic and Social Committee discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Economic and Social Committee for the financial year 2017 / Postpones its decision on granting the Secretary-General of the European Economic and Social Committee discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Economic and Social Committee budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2172(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. WelcomesTakes note of the conclusion of the Court of Auditors (the “Court”), according to which the payments as a whole for the year ended on 31 December 2017 for administrative and other expenditure of the European Economic and Social Committee (the “Committee”) were free from material error;
Amendment 5 #
2018/2172(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes with satisfaction that, in its annual report for 2017, the Court identified no significant weaknesses in respect of the audited topics relating to human resources and procurement for the Committee;
Amendment 12 #
2018/2172(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. EncouragesCalls on the Committee to publish its Annual Activity Report and Annual Accounts by 31 March of the year following the accounting year in question with a view to optimising and speeding up the discharge procedure;
Amendment 14 #
2018/2172(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Notes that the final appropriations for travel and subsistence allowances for Members wereincreased to EUR 19 819 612 in 2017 (compared to EUR 19 561 194 in 2016); welcomes the detailed list of travels by Members presented in the annual activity report; welcomes measures that contribute to an efficient planning of meetings and reducing transportation costs;
Amendment 17 #
2018/2172(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Welcomes theCalls for an increase in political dialogue between the Committee and Parliament as well as other instituitions; notes the Committee’s active contribution to the inter-institutional cooperation on assessing Union policies and law in the framework of the agreement on better law- making and the Regulatory Fitness and Performance Programme (REFIT); encourages the Committee and Parliament to pursue their efforts in strengthening the political cooperation;
Amendment 23 #
2018/2172(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Notes that members of staff must also declare their involvement in external activities in accordance with Article 11 of the Staff Regulations; urgescalls on the Committee to swiftly establish guidelines on the prevention of conflict of interests to be provided to all staff in response to the Decision of the European Ombudsman in case 1306/2014/OV;
Amendment 4 #
2018/2171(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Secretary-General of the Court of Auditors discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Court of Auditors for the financial year 2017 / Postpones its decision on granting the Secretary-General of the Court of Auditors discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Court of Auditors for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2169(DEC)
1. Grants the Registrar of the Court of Justice discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Court of Justice for the financial year 2017 / Postpones its decision on granting the Registrar of the Court of Justice discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Court of Justice for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 5 #
2018/2169(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes with satisfaction that, in its annual report for 2017, the Court of Auditors identified no significant weaknesses in respect of the audited topics relating to human resources and procurement for the Court of Justice of the European Union (the ‘CJEU’);
Amendment 6 #
2018/2169(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Welcomes the factNotes that, on the basis of its audit work, the Court of Auditors concluded that the payments as a whole for the year ended on 31 December 2017 for administrative and other expenditure of the CJEU were free from material error;
Amendment 12 #
2018/2169(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. WelcomesTakes note of the intention of the CJEU to streamline its procedures in order to publish its Annual Activity Report by 31 March 2019 with a view to optimising and speeding up the discharge procedure;
Amendment 20 #
2018/2169(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Notes that chauffeurs drove to the home countries of the members of the CJEU without having the member on board on 26 occasions and that 53 nights were reimbursed to the drivers in relation to those trips; notes, moreover, that 22 flights, five trips by train and one boat trip were scheduled for chauffeurs in order to do official missions with a member in his or her home country; underlinstresses that chauffeurs should accompany members in the home country only in duly justified cases;
Amendment 24 #
2018/2169(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Reiterates its cCalls on the CJEU to publish CVs and declarations of interest for all its members on the website; notes that short biographies of each member are published on the website, which do not however contain information on membership of any other organisations; notes that members are required to submit a declaration of their financial interests to the President of the Court of which they are a member on taking up their duties in line with the new Code of Conduct for members; calls on the CJEU to publish those declarations on its website forthwith;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2168(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Secretary-General of the Council discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Council and of the Council for the financial year 2017 / Postpones its decision on granting the Secretary-General of the Council discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Council and of the Council for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 2 #
2018/2167(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GDoes not grants its President discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Parliament for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 55 #
2018/2167(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 41 a (new)
Paragraph 41 a (new)
41a. Deplores the fact that, while the public and private media avail themselves of European Parliament equipment and facilities in Strasbourg and Brussels, they nevertheless fail to respect the principle of proportional equality with regard to the political groups represented therein.
Amendment 56 #
2018/2167(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 41 b (new)
Paragraph 41 b (new)
41b. Calls on the Directorate-General for Communication to ensure that, in the run-up to the 2019 European elections, the public and private media air the views of MEPs and political groups in the European Parliament in a way that ensures objectivity and pluralism;
Amendment 58 #
2018/2167(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 42
Paragraph 42
42. Takes note of the reform approved by the Bureau in November 2017 of the European Parliament Liaison Offices (EPLO) where the revised mission statement aims at engaging with citizens, media and stakeholders in order to reach out to citizens; calls on the Liaison Offices to inform the Committee on Budgetary Control of the outcome of the reform;
Amendment 63 #
2018/2167(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 45
Paragraph 45
45. Regrets deeply that expenditure items such as salaries and mission costs were not communicated in response to the questionnaire; draws on the information provided during the 2016 discharge procedure, where salaries paid for EPLO staff amounted to EUR 23 058 210 and mission costs amounted to EUR 1 383 843; assumes that these amouurges the Liaison Offices to inform the European Parliament's have not changed significantlyCommittee on Budgetary Control for the budgetary year 2017 andwith regarding all expenditure and funding; remains concerned that costs may outweigh the benefits; acknowledges the importance of effective communication in Member States but stresses the need for cost- efficiency; invites all decision-making parties involved to strive for more added value particularly with regards to running costs;
Amendment 6 #
2018/2166(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants/pPostpones the Commission discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 10 #
2018/2166(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants/pPostpones the Director of the Education, Audiovisual and Culture Executive Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 14 #
2018/2166(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 3
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants/pPostpones the Director of the Executive Agency for Small and Medium- sized Enterprises discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 18 #
2018/2166(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 4
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants/pPostpones the Director of the Consumers, Health, Agriculture and Food Executive Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 22 #
2018/2166(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 5
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants/pPostpones the Director of the European Research Council Executive Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 24 #
2018/2166(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 6
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants/pPostpones the Director of the Research Executive Agency discharge in relation to the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 28 #
2018/2166(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 7
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants/pPostpones the Director of the Innovation and Networks Executive Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2017;
Amendment 5 #
2018/2111(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers that EU institutions should enhance efforts to ensure greater effectiveness of the electoral rights of Union citizens; highlights the fact that electoral laws in many Member States remain complex and urges the Commission to call on the Member States to actively uphold best practices which help citizens to vote in and stand for EU elections pursuant to Article 22(2) TFEU, including the publication of electoral laws one year before EU elections, the combating of fake news and the promotion of media pluralism; the public and private media must air in their news bulletins and political information broadcasts the positions of the national parties represented in the European Parliament;
Amendment 7 #
2018/2111(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers that EU institutions should enhance efforts to ensure greater effectiveness of the electoral rights of Union citizens; highlights the fact that electoral laws in many Member States remain complex and urges the Commission to call on the Member States to actively uphold best practices which help citizens to vote in and stand for EU elections pursuant to Article 22(2) TFEU, including the publication of electoral laws one year before EU elections, the combating of fake news and the promotion of media pluralism; notes the need for the media to air views on the basis of the principle of proportional equality between the political groups represented in the European Parliament;
Amendment 8 #
2018/2111(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers that EU institutions should enhance efforts to ensure greater effectiveness of the electoral rights of Union citizens; highlights the fact that electoral laws in many Member States remain complex and urges the Commission to call on the Member States to actively uphold best practices which help citizens to vote in and stand for EU elections pursuant to Article 22(2) TFEU, including the publication of electoral laws one year before EU elections, the combating of fake news and the promotion of media pluralism; the public and private media should air MEPs' views in a way that ensures objectivity and pluralism;
Amendment 2 #
2018/2105(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 3 #
2018/2105(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 b (new)
Citation 4 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 22 #
2018/2105(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Κ a (new)
Recital Κ a (new)
Ka. whereas the financial crisis has brought about an economic and social crisis, throwing legitimate doubt on the European institutions;
Amendment 42 #
2018/2105(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes with great concern that inquiries relating to transparency and accountability, including on access to information and documents, continued to account for the greatest proportion of cases handled by the Ombudsman in 2017, followed by complaints relating to EU agencies and other bodies;
Amendment 51 #
2018/2105(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Underlines the fact thExpresses intense dissatisfaction at EU legislation on access to documents, since it is seriously outdated; reiterates its call for a revision of Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001 in order to also facilitate the Ombudsman’s work in scrutinising the granting of access to documents by Parliament, the Council and the Commission; emphasises that Regulation 1049/2001 no longer reflects the current legal situation and institutional practices implemented by EU institutions, offices, bodies and agencies;
Amendment 98 #
2018/2105(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Strongly believes that stricter moral and ethical rules and standards need to be applied throughout the EU institutions here and now with a view to securing respect for the duty of integrity and discretion, as well as full independence from the private sector;
Amendment 108 #
2018/2105(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Highlights the need to adopt major improvements on conflict of interest rules for special advisers; calls directly on the Commission to fully implement the Ombudsman’s recommendations, by adopting full transparency and a proactive approach to its assessment of any potential conflict of interests before and after their appointment, and ensuring that citizens have complete access to all the relevant information on special advisers;
Amendment 112 #
2018/2105(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Reiterates its call onUrges the Commission to make its work fully transparent by publishing data online on all its meetings with tobacco lobbyists or their legal representatives and all minutes thereof, in line with its obligations under the WHO FCTC;
Amendment 121 #
2018/2105(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Calls onUrges the Ombudsman to launch a strategic inquiry in order to assess whether EU Institutions, offices and agencies, such as the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the EMA, ensure that the collection and examination of scientific evidence is fully independent, transparent, accurate and free from conflict of interests, and whether the proper policies and procedural safeguards are in place, notably when dealing with GMOs, glyphosate, pesticides, phytosanitary and biocidal products and medicines;
Amendment 131 #
2018/2105(INI)
27a. Points to the need for an inquiry by the European Ombudsman into compliance by the Troika with the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights;
Amendment 132 #
2018/2105(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 b (new)
Paragraph 27 b (new)
27b. Stresses the need to improve social dialogue;
Amendment 133 #
2018/2105(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 c (new)
Paragraph 27 c (new)
27c. Stresses that trust between citizens and the institutions is of paramount importance in the current economic difficulties;
Amendment 134 #
2018/2105(INI)
27d. Stresses the need for the European Ombudsman to investigate the conflict of interest between the Commission's role in the Troika and its responsibility as guardian of the Treaties and the acquis communautaire;
Amendment 135 #
2018/2105(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 e (new)
Paragraph 27 e (new)
27e. Points out the need for an investigation by the European Ombudsman into the conflict of interest between the current role of the ECB as a 'technical advisor' in the Troika, its position as a creditor of the four EU Member States that adopted the Memorandum and its mandate under the Treaty on European Union and Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union;
Amendment 136 #
2018/2105(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 f (new)
Paragraph 27 f (new)
27f. Calls on the Ombudsman to ensure that the Commission will help to create an ECI infrastructure providing legal advice and a legal framework that protects ECI members;
Amendment 3 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Calls for the 2019 budget to focus on testablished priorities outlined in the European Semester, and on addressing the main concerns of EU citizens that are within EU full or partial responsibility as outlined e.g. in the Eurobarometer 2018; underlines that the most pressing issues lie especially in the area of security and defence, whilerequiring urgent action relate to economic development, growth and youth unemployment are among other crucial areas to be addressed;
Amendment 21 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Underlines thatStresses the importance of the role played by the European Supervisory Authorities (ESAs) role is essential in fostering consistent application of Union law and better coordination between national authorities, ensuring financial stability, promoting better functioning of financial markets and assuring consumer protection; calls on the Committee on Budgets to ensure adequate resources for the ESAs;
Amendment 29 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Understands the significant increase in ESAs’ budget estimates for 2019 caused mainly byNotes that the introduction of new tasks proposed infor the ESAs review and other currently negotiated legislative files; considers that conditional budgesulted in a significant lines covering the cost of the new tasks should be introduced and will only be triggered after the laws are adopted; recognises that such funding will only apply until a new funding mechanism is adoptedcrease in their budget estimates for 2019;
Amendment 35 #
2018/2046(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
Amendment 14 #
2018/2006(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Highlights the ongoing problem of EU funds lost owing to fraudulent cases in which funds are transferred to third countries;
Amendment 16 #
2018/2006(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Highlights with concern that funds from third countries may also be fraudulently transferred to the EU; underlines that the results of the preparatory action implemented by UNICRI on ‘Support to EU Neighbours to Implement Asset Recovery’ should lead to a broader and permanent EU programme to implement asset recovery;
Amendment 19 #
2018/2006(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Underlines that the EU has unfortunately only concluded agreements on mutual legal assistance with a few third countries so far, such as Japan, the United States, Norway and Lichtenstein, despite the fact that it is suspected that funds are also transferred to other jurisdictions;
Amendment 21 #
2018/2006(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Regrets the fact that many Member States must currently rely on bilateral agreements and that there is no EU approach to this serious issue; callstresses, therefore, the need for a more unified approach;
Amendment 23 #
2018/2006(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Strongly encouraUrges the EU to become part of the Group of States Against Corruption (GRECO);
Amendment 24 #
2018/2006(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Commission to generalise the practice of adding anti- fraud clauses toharden its stance in agreements signed by the EU with third countries by adding anti-fraud clauses; regrets the fact that there is no data on the amount of EU funds lost annually owing to fraudulent cases linked to money transfer to third countries; calls on the Commission to calculate the amount of EU funds lost;
Amendment 25 #
2018/2006(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Invites the Commission to assess the risk and highlightremove the sensitive points in EU laws that facilitate illegal money transfer outside of the EU;
Amendment 26 #
2018/2006(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Calls on the Commission finally to establish a standardised data collection method to enable detection of the transfer of fraudulent assets to third countries, which would be identical for all Member States, with the aim of creating a central EU database in the future; underlines that such a mechanism exists to combat money laundering, and that this mechanism could be expanded;
Amendment 28 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) In certain policy areas, breaches of Union law may cause serious harm to the public interest, in the sense of creating significant risks for the welfare of society. Where weaknesses of enforcement have been identified in those areas, and whistleblowers are in a privileged position to disclose breaches, it is necessary to enhance enforcement by ensuring effectiveffectively ensuring real protection ofor whistleblowers from retaliation and introducing more effective reporting channels.
Amendment 31 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) Whistleblower protection currently provided in the European Union is unfortunately fragmented across Member States and uneven across policy areas. The consequences of breaches of Union law with cross-border dimension uncovered by whistleblowers illustrate how insufficient protection in one Member State not only negatively impacts on the functioning of EU policies in that Member State but can also spill over into other Member States and the Union as a whole.
Amendment 33 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) Accordingly, common minimumStricter common standards ensuring effective whistleblower protection should app, however, apply, particularly in those acts and policy areas where i) there is a need to strengthen enforcement; ii) under-reporting by whistleblowers is a key factor affecting enforcement, and iii) breaches of Union law cause serious harm to the public interest.
Amendment 36 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) Whistleblower protection is necessaryimperative to enhance the enforcement of Union law on public procurement. In addition to the need of preventing and detecting fraud and corruption in the context of the implementation of the EU budget, including procurement, it is necessary to tackle insufficient enforcement of rules on public procurement by national public authorities and certain public utility operators when purchasing goods, works and services. Breaches of such rules create distortions of competition, increase costs for doing business, violate the interests of investors and shareholders and, overall, lower attractiveness for investment and create an uneven level playing field for all businesses across Europe, thus affecting the proper functioning of the internal market.
Amendment 39 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) The importance of whistleblower protection in terms of preventing and deterring breaches of Union rules on transport safety which can endanger human lives has been already acknowledged in sectorial Union instruments on aviation safety38 and maritime transport safety39, which provide for tailored measures of protection to whistleblowers as well as specific reporting channels. These instruments also include the protection from retaliation of the workers reporting on their own honest mistakes (so called ‘just culture’). It is necessary to complement the existing elements of whistleblower protection in these two sectors as well as to provide such protection to enhance immediately the enforcement of safety standards for other transport modes, namely road and railway transport. _________________ 38 Regulation (EU) No 376/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council, of 3 April 2014, on the reporting, analysis and follow-up of occurrences in civil aviation (OJ L 122, p. 18). 39 Directive 2013/54/EU, of the European Parliament and of the Council, of 20 November 2013, concerning certain flag State responsibilities for compliance with and enforcement of the Maritime Labour Convention (OJ L 329, p. 1), Directive 2009/16/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council, of 23 April 2009, on port State control (OJ L 131, p. 57).
Amendment 41 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) Evidence-gathering, detecting and addressing environmental crimes and unlawful conduct against the protection of the environment unfortunately remain a challenge and need to be reinforced as acknowledged in the Commission Communication "EU actions to improve environmental compliance and governance" of 18 January 201840. Whilst whistleblower protection rules exist at present only in one sectorial instrument on environmental protection41, the introduction of such protection appears necessary to ensure effective enforcement of the Union environmental acquis, whose breaches can cause serious harm to the public interest with possible spill-over impacts across national borders. This is also relevant in cases where unsafe products can cause environmental harm. _________________ 40 41 Directive 2013/30/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council, of 12 June 2013, on safety of offshore oil and gas operations (OJ L 178, p. 66)COM(2018) 10 final.
Amendment 43 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) Similar considerations warrant the introduction of whistleblower protection to build upon existing provisions and in practice effectively prevent breaches of EU rules in the area of food chain and in particular on food and feed safety as well as on animal health and welfare. The different Union rules developed in these areas are closely interlinked. Regulation (EC) No 178/200242 sets out the general principles and requirements which underpin all Union and national measures relating to food and feed, with a particular focus on food safety, in order to ensure a high level of protection of human health and consumers’ interests in relation to food as well as the effective functioning of the internal market. This Regulation provides, amongst others, that food and feed business operators are prevented from discouraging their employees and others from cooperating with competent authorities where this may prevent, reduce or eliminate a risk arising from food. The Union legislator has taken a similar approach in the area of ‘Animal Health Law’ through Regulation (EU) 2016/429 establishing the rules for the prevention and control of animal diseases which are transmissible to animals or to humans 43. _________________ 42 European Parliament and of the Council of 28 January 2002 laying down the general principles and requirements of food law, establishing the European Food Safety Authority and laying down procedures in matters of food safety (OJ L 31, p. 1). 43 OJ L 84, p. 1Regulation (EC) No 178/2002 of the
Amendment 69 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 28
Recital 28
(28) Effective whistleblower protection implies wider protecting alsoon for further categories of persons who, whilst not relying on their work-related activities economically, may nevertheless suffer retaliation for exposing breaches. Retaliation against volunteers and unpaid trainees may take the form of no longer making use of their services, or of giving a negative reference for future employment or otherwise damaging their reputation.
Amendment 74 #
2018/0106(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 34
Recital 34
(34) It is for the Member States to identify the authorities competent to receive and give appropriate follow up to the reports on breaches falling within the scope of this Directive. These may be regulatory or supervisory bodies in the areas concerned, law enforcement agencies, anti-corruption bodies and ombudsmen. The authorities designated as competent shall have, in addition to the necessary capacities and powers, suitably qualified staff to assess the accuracy of the allegations made in the report and to address the breaches reported, including by launching an investigation, prosecution or action for recovery of funds, or other appropriate remedial action, in accordance with their mandate.
Amendment 4 #
2017/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that the right to petition the European Parliament is a cornerstone of European citizenship, as enshrined in Articles 20 and 227 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union and Article 44 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, ranking second in importance to citizens according to recent surveys; underlines the importance of petitions as a means for citizens to express their concerns about instances of misapplication or violation of EU law and on potential lacunae, while at the same time highlighting these deficiencies to the Commission in recognition of its role as guardian of the Treaties;
Amendment 17 #
2017/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that proper implementation of EU law is essential to achieving the EU policy goals defined in the Treaties and secondary legislation, and that lack of enforcement not only undermines the efficiency of the internal market, but also affects the credibility and image of the Union; underlines, in this regard, that implementation and enforcement are founded on the distribution of powers conferred by the Treaties, and that the Member States and the Commission therefore have a shared responsibility to implement and enforcefor the correct implementation of European law; points out, at the same time, that all EU institutions share the responsibility of ensuring implementation and enforcement of EU law, as provided for in the 2016 Interinstitutional Agreement on Better Law-Making;
Amendment 28 #
2017/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Welcomes the increased transparency of, and the provision of more statistical information in, the Commission report for 2016, as compared to previous reports; regrets the fact, however, that it provides no precise information on the number of petitions that have led to the initiation of EU Pilot or infringement procedures; notes with regret that Parliament is not involved in these procedures; reiterates its call onurges the Commission to share with Parliament information on all EU Pilots opened and infringement procedures initiated in order to improve transparency, reduce the time frame for dispute settlement through the Committee on Petitions, build citizens’ trust in the EU project and, ultimately, enhance the legitimacy of the EU Pilot procedure; acknowledges the Court of Justice’s ruling on cases C-39/05 P and C- 52/05 P of May 2017, according to which documents within the EU Pilot procedure should not be disclosed publicly if there is a risk that such disclosure would affect the nature of the infringement procedure, alter its progress or undermine the objectives of that procedure;
Amendment 37 #
2017/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Welcomes the presentation in the report of the revised Commission strategy for monitoring the application of EU law, as this policy is outlined in the 2016 Communication ‘Better results through better application’; notes the intention of the Commission to direct petitioners to seek redress at national level when complaints do not concern issues of wider principle, do not raise systemic issues and can satisfactorily be dealt with by other mechanisms at EU or national level; notes the Commission’s intent to launch an EU Pilot procedure only where it could prove to be useful in a case, and to proceed with infringement procedures without relying on EU Pilots in order to expedite investigations of breaches of EU law; is very concerned, however, thatsince this approach maywill lead to ineffective investigation of complaints through petitions in cases where action at EU level could prove more appropriate; deplores the high number of infringement procedures in 2016; notes the distinctively decreasing trend in the number of EU Pilots launched in the same year;
Amendment 62 #
2017/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes that, according to Standard Eurobarometer 86, a majority of EU citizens favours a common EU policy in areas such as defence, migration and terrorism; recalls that, in order for such policies to be successful, it is paramount that they are implemented in a timely and uniform manner in all Member States; notes with concern that certain Member States such as Germany and France are disregarding their obligations with regard to asylum and migration, in particular where relocation of asylum seekers and immigrants is concerned;
Amendment 66 #
2017/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. WelcomNotes the proactive work of the Commission on the application of union law under the Better Regulation Package, and the support offered to Member States through implementation plans for new directives; points out, however, that Member States should live up to their responsibility to enforce the rules they have jointly adopted.
Amendment 1 #
2017/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2017/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 11 #
2017/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Takes the viewNotes that the cooperation between the Commission and the Member States in the area of fraud detection is not effective enough;
Amendment 13 #
2017/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. DeploresRegards as unacceptable the fact that not all Member States have adopted national anti- fraud strategies;
Amendment 20 #
2017/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. WelcomNotes the decision of 20 Member States to proceed with the establishment of a European Public Prosecutor’s Office through enhanced cooperation and looks forward to fruitful cooperation between OLAF and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office; regrets however that not all EU Member States have been willing to participate in this initiative, and underlines the importance of maintaining equivalent fraud detection efficiency rates in all Member States;
Amendment 28 #
2017/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Notes with great concern that tobacco smuggling to the EU has intensified in recent years and, according to estimates, represents an annual loss of EUR 10 billion in public revenue to the EU and Member States’ budgets, while at the same time it is a major source of organised crime, including terrorism;
Amendment 33 #
2017/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Calls onUrges the Commission to report annually the amount of EU own resources recovered following the recommendations made by OLAF and to communicate the amounts still to be recovered;
Amendment 35 #
2017/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. DeploresNotes with great disapproval the fact that non- fraudulent irregularities in direct expenditure increased by 16% compared to the previous year, in contrast to all other budget sectors, which registered a decrease in this regard;
Amendment 36 #
2017/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. RegretsNotes with great disapproval that this is the fourth year in which the irregularities reported as fraudulent in direct management increased in number (16 cases in 2015 and 49 cases in 2016) and value (EUR 0.78 million in 2015 and EUR 6.25 million in 2016);
Amendment 45 #
2017/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Calls onUrges the Commission and Member States to take firmer measures against fraudulent irregularities; believes that non-fraudulent irregularities should be eliminated using administrative measures, in particular by introducing more transparent and simpler requirements;
Amendment 47 #
2017/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. Looks forward to the independent mid-term evaluation of the Hercule III programme, which is toshould have been submitted to the European Parliament and the Council no later than 31 December 2017;
Amendment 58 #
2017/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36
Paragraph 36
36. Reiterates its opinionStresses that corruption is an enormous challenge for the EU and the Member States, and that, without effective measures against it, corruption undermines economic performance, the rule of law and the credibility of democratic institutions within the Union;
Amendment 1 #
2017/2187(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the ECSEL Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on discharge togranting the Executive Director of the ECSEL Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the joint undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 1 #
2017/2186(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the Shift2Rail Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on discharge to the Executive Director of the Shift2Rail Joint Undertaking in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 1 #
2017/2185(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen 2 Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen 2 Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 1 #
2017/2184(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the Innovative Medicines Initiative 2 Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the joint undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the Innovative Medicines Initiative 2 Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the joint undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 1 #
2017/2183(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the Bio- based Industries Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 1 #
2017/2182(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the Clean Sky 2 Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the joint undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the Clean Sky 2 Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the joint undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 1 #
2017/2181(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the SESAR Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the joint undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on discharge to the Executive Director of the SESAR Joint Undertaking in respect of the implementation of the joint undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2180(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the Joint Undertaking for ITER and the Development of Fusion Energy discharge in respect of the implementation of the joint undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on discharge to the Director of the Joint Undertaking for ITER and the Development of Fusion Energy in respect of the implementation of the joint undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 5 #
2017/2179(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes with concern that, according to the Court of Auditors’ summary of results of the Court’s 2016 annual audits of the Union agencies and other bodies (“the Court’s summary”), the agencies’ 2016 budget amounted to some EUR 3,4 billion, representing an increase of about 21,42 % compared to 2015 and about 2,4 % (2015: 2%) of the Union’s general budget; points out that the increase is mainly related to agencies working on matters related to industry, research and energy (additional EUR 358 000 000) and civil liberties, justice and home affairs (additional EUR 174 000 000); notes moreover that of the EUR 3,4 billion budget, some EUR 2,4 billion were financed by the Union general budget, whereas some EUR 1 billion were financed by fees and also by direct contributions from Member States, the European Free Trade Association countries and other sources;
Amendment 11 #
2017/2179(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. WelcomNotes the contribution provided by the EU Agency’s Network (“the Network”) in coordinating, collecting and consolidating actions and information for the benefit of the Union Institutions, including the Parliament; notes that its coordination tasks include the annual discharge and budget procedures, the implementation of the Commission’s roadmap stemming from the Common Approach and related policy initiatives, and the review and implementation of Financial and Staff Regulations;
Amendment 18 #
2017/2179(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Stresses, therefore, the immediate need to establish clear definitions of acceptable carry-overs in order to streamline the Court’s reporting on this issue, as well as to enable the discharge authority to distinguish between the carry- overs indicating poor budgetary planning, and the carry-overs as a budgetary tool which support multiannual programmes as well as procurement planning;
Amendment 20 #
2017/2179(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. ObservesNotes with concern that the audited budgetary implementation reports of certain agencies differ from the level of detail provided by most other agencies, which demonstrates the need for clear guidelines on the agencies’ budget reporting; acknowledges the efforts made in order to ensure consistency on the presentation and reporting of accounts; calls on the Network and the individual agencies to continue working on streamlined indicators and report the measures taken to the discharge authority;
Amendment 22 #
2017/2179(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Notes that, according to the Court’s summary, public procurement remains an error-prone area; notes thatexpresses its dissatisfaction with EASO, the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drugs Addiction (EMCDDA), the European Agency for the operational management of large-scale IT Systems in the area of freedom, security and justice (eu-LISA), the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (BEREC), which did not fully comply with the public procurement principles and rules laid down in the Financial Regulation; calls on the Agencies to pay particular attention to the Court’s comments on public procurement;
Amendment 24 #
2017/2179(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Notes with satisfaction that the majority of the Agencies (27 out of 31) have a business continuity plan in place; considers that all agencies should have such a plan in place; calls on the Network to report to the discharge authority on the evolution of that situation;
Amendment 40 #
2017/2179(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Expresses its concern that only 22 Agencies (71 %) have adopted internal rules and guidelines on whistleblowing and reporting irregularities in accordance with the provisions of the Staff Regulations; notes that the remaining nine agencies foresee adoption of the relevant rules and guidelines; calls on the Network to report immediately to the discharge authority on the adoption and implementation of these measures per individual Agency;
Amendment 44 #
2017/2179(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34
Paragraph 34
34. Notes that the agencies ashould promote more actively promoting their work through various channels, in particular by regularly updating their websites to provide information and promote the work they have delivered; notes in addition that social media is increasingly becoming a standard communication tool for the agencies; observes that open days, targeted campaigns and videos explaining the core work of agencies are some of the activities used in educating citizens and providing them with opportunities to learn more about the work of the agencies and the Union institutions; acknowledges that the general or specialised media relations activities are regularly measured through different indicators, as well as that each Agency has its communication plan with specific activities tailored for its needs;
Amendment 3 #
2017/2178(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Agency for the Οperational Management of Large-Scale IT Systems in the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Agency for the Οperational Management of Large-Scale IT Systems in the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2177(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Recital b – paragraph 1
Recital b – paragraph 1
recalls that in February 2016 the Office directly awarded a FWC for interim services to support it in its response to the migration crisis for a period of 12 months amounting to EUR 3 600 000; recallsdeplores the fact that the FWC was awarded to a single preselected economic operator without applying any of the procurement procedures laid down in the Financial Regulation; considers that the award was therefore not in compliance with the relevant Union rules and that the associated 2016 payments, amounting to EUR 592 273, are irregular;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2176(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the interim director of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology discharge in respect of the implementation of the Institute’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the interim director of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology discharge in respect of the implementation of the Institute’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2175(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Management Committee of the Office of the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications discharge in respect of the implementation of the Body’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Management Committee of the Office of the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications discharge in respect of the implementation of the Body’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2174(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2173(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Securities and Markets Authority discharge in respect of the implementation of the Authority’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Securities and Markets Authority discharge in respect of the implementation of the Authority’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2172(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority discharge in respect of the implementation of the Authority’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority discharge in respect of the implementation of the Authority’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2171(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Banking Authority discharge in respect of the implementation of the Authority’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Banking Authority discharge in respect of the implementation of the Authority’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2170(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the European Institute for Gender Equality discharge in respect of the implementation of the Institute’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the European Institute for Gender Equality discharge in respect of the implementation of the Institute’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 3 #
2017/2169(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation discharge in respect of the implementation of the Europol’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation discharge in respect of the implementation of the Europol’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2168(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director General of the Euratom Supply Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director General of the Euratom Supply Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2167(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Chemicals Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Chemicals Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2166(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Fisheries Control Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Fisheries Control Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2165(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European GNSS Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European GNSS Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2164(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the executive director of the European Border and Coast Guard Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the executive director of the European Border and Coast Guard Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2163(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Training discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Training discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2162(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Union Agency for Railways discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Union Agency for Railways discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2161(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Union Agency for Network and Information Security discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Union Agency for Network and Information Security discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 4 #
2017/2161(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Union Agency for Network and Information Security for the financial year 2016 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Union Agency for Network and Information Security for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 5 #
2017/2161(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – indent 1
Paragraph 1 – indent 1
- the Agency did not include a chapter on transparency, accountability and integrity in the 2016 annual report; calls onurges the Agency forthwith to include such a chapter in the 2017 Annual activity report;
Amendment 6 #
2017/2161(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – indent 2
Paragraph 1 – indent 2
Amendment 7 #
2017/2161(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes from the Court´s report that the carry-overs of committed appropriations for Title II (administrative expenditure) were at EUR 300 000 (25 %), compared to EUR 150 000 (22 %) in 2015, i.e. EUR 150 000 more; notes that those carry-overs primarily related to investments in IT and a service car near year end - the use of this car and the reasons for its purchase will have to be communicated for information to the European Parliament's Committee on Budgetary Control;
Amendment 8 #
2017/2161(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
Amendment 9 #
2017/2161(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Requests the Agency and the Court of Auditors to transmit detailed information on all transfers of officials, including the Executive Director of the Agency, to the European Parliament's Committee on Budgetary Control for information and consultation;
Amendment 11 #
2017/2161(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Notes from the Court´s report that in 2016, the Agency incorrectly moved eight additional staff to Athens, reducing the number of staff in Heraklion to 14; notes from the Agency’s reply that the total staff expected to be in Heraklion at the end of 2017 is eight, which will make it even more difficult for the Agency to work in Crete; highlights the fact that, according to the Court´s 2013 report, it is likely that costs could be further reduced if all staff were centralised in one location, i.e. at the official headquarters of the Agency in Heraklion, Crete, as set out in Decision 2004/97/EC, Euratom; calls on the Agency to report to the discharge authority on the possible measures to improve the situation;
Amendment 12 #
2017/2161(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Notes that the Agency uses official vehicles butand rightly does not allow their private use;
Amendment 13 #
2017/2161(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Notes with concern that the Agency has not yet provided any specific initiative to improve transparency in its contacts with lobbyists and stakeholders; calls onurges the Agency to enact a proactive lobby transparency policy without further delay and to report to the discharge authority on any taken measures addressing this issue;
Amendment 15 #
2017/2161(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Notes with concern that the Agency does not make public the minutes of its management board meetings; calls on the Agency forthwith to change its practice by publishing the minutes in order to improve the transparency of its decision-making process;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2160(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control discharge in respect of the implementation of the Centre’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control discharge in respect of the implementation of the Centre’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2159(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Food Safety Authority discharge in respect of the implementation of the Authority’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Food Safety Authority discharge in respect of the implementation of the Authority’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 3 #
2017/2158(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Aviation Safety Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Aviation Safety Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2157(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Maritime Safety Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Maritime Safety Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2156(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the European Training Foundation discharge in respect of the implementation of the Foundation’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the European Training Foundation discharge in respect of the implementation of the Foundation’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2155(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Administrative Director of Eurojust discharge in respect of the implementation of Eurojust’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Administrative Director of Eurojust discharge in respect of the implementation of Eurojust’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 3 #
2017/2154(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Medicines Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Medicines Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2153(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the Translation Centre for the Bodies of the European Union discharge in respect of the implementation of the Centre’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the Translation Centre for the Bodies of the European Union discharge in respect of the implementation of the Centre’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2152(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2151(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Environment Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Environment Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2150(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction discharge in respect of the implementation of the Centre’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction discharge in respect of the implementation of the Centre’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2149(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2148(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions discharge in respect of the implementation of the Foundation’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions discharge in respect of the implementation of the Foundation’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2147(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training discharge in respect of the implementation of the Centre’s budget for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training discharge in respect of the implementation of the Centre’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2145(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European External Action Service for the financial year 2016; / Postpones its decision on granting the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European External Action Service for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 26 #
2017/2145(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Asks the EEAS to provide before 30 June 2018 further explanation of the increasing number of seconded national experts reaching 445 in 2016 (85% of them being located in Brussels) compared to 434 in 2015 and 407 in 2014;
Amendment 2 #
2017/2144(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the European Data Protection Supervisor discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget for the financial year 2016; / Postpones its decision on granting the European Data Protection Supervisor discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 8 #
2017/2144(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls on the Supervisor to provide a detailed list of missions undertaken by its members in 2016, indicating the price, the place and the cost of each mission before 30 June 2018; calls for the missions undertaken in 2017 to be included in its next annual activity report;
Amendment 9 #
2017/2144(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls on the Supervisor to inform the Committee on Budgetary Control before 30 June 2018 of the amounts paid in 2016 under Service Level Agreements which have fees depending on consumption;
Amendment 3 #
2017/2143(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the European Ombudsman discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget for the financial year 2016; / Postpones its decision on granting the European Ombudsman discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 29 #
2017/2143(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Notes the lack of data from 2016 in different sections of the Ombudsman’s annual activity report for 2016; urges the Ombudsman to provide the follow up to the 2015 discharge before 30 June 2018, in compliance with Article 166 of the Financial Regulation.
Amendment 4 #
2017/2142(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Secretary-General of the Committee of the Regions discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Committee of the Regions for the financial year 2016; / Postpones its decision on granting the Secretary-General of the Committee of the Regions discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Committee of the Regions for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 3 #
2017/2141(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Secretary-General of the European Economic and Social Committee discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Economic and Social Committee for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Secretary-General of the European Economic and Social Committee discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Economic and Social Committee for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 3 #
2017/2140(DEC)
1. Grants the Secretary-General of the Court of Auditors discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Court of Auditors for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Secretary-General of the Court of Auditors discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Court of Auditors for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 5 #
2017/2139(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Registrar of the Court of Justice of the European Union discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Court of Justice of the European Union for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Registrar of the Court of Justice of the European Union discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Court of Justice of the European Union for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 1 #
2017/2138(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Secretary-General of the Council discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Council and of the Council for the financial year 2016 / Postpones its decision on granting the Secretary-General of the Council discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Council and of the Council for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 1 #
2017/2137(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. GPostpones its decision on grantsing its President discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Parliament for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 23 #
2017/2137(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Encourages the Parliament’s Secretariat to continue its additional efforts in assisting the political groups in improving their internal financial management and in providing them with better guidance; calls on the political groups to further improve the application of relevant rules for authorising and settling expenditure, as well as to improve and further harmonise how they carry out and procurement procedures;
Amendment 60 #
2017/2137(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Recalls that the key performance indicator of DG COMM is the total outreach or exposure attained across the entire range of Parliament’s communication platforms and channels; notes with satisfaction that, with regards to the Parliament’s presence in the media and average coverage per month, there was a 12% increase compared to 2015, and 7% increase compared to the election year 2014; acknowledges in addition significant results for the Parliament’s use of social media, as well as actions related to raising awareness among young people; points out, however, that the Parliament’s communication activities should continue to improve, in particular by increasing outreach on social media; which is currently below the standards expected of a parliamentary institution;
Amendment 69 #
2017/2137(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Notes with satisfaction the major technical and editorial improvements of Parliament’s public website, in particular search engine optimisation of the website; notes that the Responsive Web Design project and the live streaming and video- on-demand platform renewal project, which aim to redesign the website to make it adaptive to all kinds of devices, were launched in 2016 and successfully implemented to parts of the website; calls for a continuation of these projects and their implementation on all sections of the Parliament’s website; encourages further improvements because the website is still rather user-unfriendly;
Amendment 74 #
2017/2137(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31 a (new)
Paragraph 31 a (new)
31a. Underlines the need to modernise the mission of the information offices of Parliament by optimising the use of new communication technologies as their task is to better inform citizens;
Amendment 145 #
2017/2137(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 47 a (new)
Paragraph 47 a (new)
47a. Encourages the successor travel agency to strive to achieve the most competitive prices for the European Parliament’s work-related travels;
Amendment 3 #
2017/2136(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants/pPostpones the Commission discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 5 #
2017/2136(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants/pPostpones the Director of the Education, Audiovisual and Culture Executive Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 7 #
2017/2136(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 3
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants/pPostpones the Director of the Executive Agency for Small and Medium- sized Enterprises discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 9 #
2017/2136(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 4
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants/pPostpones the Director of the Consumers, Health, Agriculture and Food Executive Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 11 #
2017/2136(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 5
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants/pPostpones the Director of the European Research Council Executive Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 13 #
2017/2136(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 6
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants/pPostpones the Director of the Research Executive Agency discharge in relation to the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 15 #
2017/2136(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 7
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants/pPostpones the Director of the Innovation and Networks Executive Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2016;
Amendment 149 #
2017/2136(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 70 a (new)
Paragraph 70 a (new)
70a. Reiterates its call for thematic concentration, as expressed in its discharge report on budget year 2015; calls on the Commission to inquire to what extent thematic concentration could contribute to simplification and a decrease of the regulatory burden and control burden;
Amendment 438 #
2017/2136(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 277
Paragraph 277
277. Wishes to receive the supporting documents for these explanations until 30 June 2018;
Amendment 443 #
2017/2136(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 281 b (new)
Paragraph 281 b (new)
281b. Reiterates Parliament's view that a 'comprehensive review' of the European Schools system is urgently required to consider "reform covering managerial, financial, organisational and pedagogical issues" and recalls its request that "the Commission submit annually a report giving its assessment of the state of progress" to Parliament;
Amendment 1 #
2017/2126(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2017/2126(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 16 #
2017/2126(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital ΙΑ a (new)
Recital ΙΑ a (new)
ΙΑa. whereas the financial crisis has brought about an economic and social crisis, thus justifiably undermining the credibility of the European institutions;
Amendment 17 #
2017/2126(INI)
3a. Stresses the need for the European Ombudsman to investigate compliance by the Troika with the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU;
Amendment 18 #
2017/2126(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Stresses the need to improve the social dialogue;
Amendment 19 #
2017/2126(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. Stresses that trust between citizens and the institutions is of paramount importance in today's difficult economic situation;
Amendment 25 #
2017/2126(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Welcomes the decreasing number of inquiries concerning the European institutions conducted by the Ombudsman in 2016 (245 in 2016, 261 in 2015); reiterates its call onUrges the EU institutions, bodies, offices and agencies to respond and react within a reasonable time-frame to the critical remarks of the Ombudsman and to improve their compliance rate with the Ombudsman’s recommendations and/or decisions;
Amendment 48 #
2017/2126(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. Gives its full support to the Ombudsman’s stated ultimate goal, which is to help strengthen the structures and institutions of accountability and transparency at the European level, including the Eurogroup, the Troika and the ESM, and to improve the quality of democracy in the Europe;
Amendment 60 #
2017/2126(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15a. Stresses the need for the European Ombudsman to investigate the conflict of interest between the Commission's role in the Troika and its responsibility as guardian of the Treaties and the acquis communautaire;
Amendment 61 #
2017/2126(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 b (new)
Paragraph 15 b (new)
15b. Points out the need for an investigation by the European Ombudsman into the conflict of interest between the current role of the ECB as a 'technical advisor' in the Troika, its position as a creditor of the four EU Member States that adopted the Memorandum and its mandate under the Treaty on European Union and Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union;
Amendment 68 #
2017/2126(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Supports the Ombudsman’s role in shaping a proactive and transparent policy regarding the clinical trials carried out by the European Medicines Agency (EMA); encouraUrges the Ombudsman to continue monitoring the EMA to ensure that it meets the highest standards of transparency and access to information on clinical trials, namely standards that are in the public interest and of value to doctors, patients and researchers;
Amendment 73 #
2017/2126(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Calls on the Ombudsman to ensure that the Commission will help to create an infrastructure with legal advice on ECIs and to create a legal framework that protects ECI members;
Amendment 76 #
2017/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
Amendment 201 #
2017/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
Amendment 259 #
2017/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Points out that while unemployment has decreased, aggregate demand in the euro area remains subdued, largely as a result of the rise in poor quality, temporary, low-paid jobs; calls on the ECB to evaluate how this phenomenon is slowing the recovery and explore ways to stimulate demand in spite of wage stagnation;
Amendment 266 #
2017/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15 a. Points out that austerity policies in some Member States have contributed to stagnation and recession, with unfavourable consequences for public accounts, unemployment levels and social cohesion in the euro area Member States,
Amendment 467 #
2017/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. Urges the ECB and national central banks to support Greece, for example through ensuring the eligibility of Greek companies for the CSPP and, the inclusion of Greek sovereign bonds in the APP and the extension of the CBPP3 programme to Greek legal entities governed by public and private law;
Amendment 475 #
2017/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33 a (new)
Paragraph 33 a (new)
33a. Calls on the ECB to return to Greece the 2014 profits on the purchase of Greek Government (ANFA and SNP) bonds;
Amendment 477 #
2017/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33 b (new)
Paragraph 33 b (new)
33b. Calls on the ECB and the Bank of Greece, as part of the quantitative easing programme, to purchase and redeem in full by the end of 2017 all bonds held by individual Greek small investors maturing between 2023 and 2042 that were issued under the Private Sector Involvement (PSI) initiative in 2012;
Amendment 530 #
2017/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 37
Paragraph 37
37. Is deeply concerned by the lack of sufficient clarity and transparency surrounding the provision of ELA;
Amendment 546 #
2017/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38
Paragraph 38
38. AsksUrges the ECB to make it a rule to publish its decisions, recommendations and opinions, thereby drastically reducing the number of exemptions from disclosure;
Amendment 551 #
2017/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 a (new)
Paragraph 38 a (new)
38a. Points out that, as observed in the judgment of the Court of Justice of 16 June 2015 in Case C-62/14, ECB purchases of government bonds on secondary markets expose it to a significant risk of losses and the possibility of debt cancellation;
Amendment 553 #
2017/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 b (new)
Paragraph 38 b (new)
38b. Calls on the euro area Member States that are subject to a macroeconomic adjustment programme to comply with Article 7(9) of Regulation No 472/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 May 2013 and carry out a comprehensive audit of their public finances in order, inter alia, to assess the reasons that led to the building up of excessive levels of debt as well as to track any possible irregularity;
Amendment 558 #
2017/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 c (new)
Paragraph 38 c (new)
38c. Recalls that Article 127 TFEU stipulates that, without prejudice to the overriding objective of price stability, the ECB shall support the general economic policies in the Union and that this is set out in further detail in Article 282 TFEU;
Amendment 560 #
2017/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 d (new)
Paragraph 38 d (new)
38d. Draws attention to Article 123 TFEU, Article 21 of the Statute of the European System of Central Banks and Article 7 of Council Regulation (EC) No 3603/1993 of 13 December 1993;
Amendment 562 #
2017/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 e (new)
Paragraph 38 e (new)
38e. Recalls that monetary dialogue is important for ensuring transparency in monetary policy vis-à-vis both the Council and the general public;
Amendment 563 #
2017/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 f (new)
Paragraph 38 f (new)
38f. Stresses that the ECB's supervisory and monetary policy roles should not be confused and should not generate any conflict of interest in its execution of its principal functions;
Amendment 564 #
2017/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 g (new)
Paragraph 38 g (new)
38g. Deplores the fact that the ECB has exceeded even the widest interpretation of its mandate as defined in the Treaty, including its role in the Troika and the Quartet;calls on the ECB to step back and strengthen its independence from political decisions in line with the judgment of the European Court of Justice in Case C- 62/14 of 16 June 2015, in particular paragraph 102 thereof, and with the opinion of Advocate General P.Cruz Villalon regarding the case, in particular paragraphs 227 and 263 thereof;
Amendment 565 #
2017/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 h (new)
Paragraph 38 h (new)
38h. Underlines the need to ensure democratic accountability with regard to the new responsibilities assigned to the ECB in relation to its supervisory tasks and its involvement in Troika and Quartet programmes, while stressing the the importance of the ECB retaining its independence in the field of monetary policy and the need to avoid any conflict of interests in the performance of its duties;
Amendment 566 #
2017/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 i (new)
Paragraph 38 i (new)
38i. Recalls the European Parliament's report of 28 February 2014 on the enquiry on the role and operations of the Troika, which calls on the next Parliament to pursue the work of this report and to develop further its key findings and to investigate further;
Amendment 567 #
2017/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 j (new)
Paragraph 38 j (new)
38j. Calls for an in-depth assessment of the functioning of the Troika and the involvement of the ECB in the Troika and the Quartet in order to clarify and redefine the terms of reference and enhance democratic accountability in the adoption and implementation of rescue programmes;calls on the Council to reconsider the issue of ECB and IMF participation in the Troika;
Amendment 568 #
2017/2124(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 k (new)
Paragraph 38 k (new)
38k. Recalls Parliament's resolution on the ECB's annual report for 2013 and, in particular, paragraph 9 thereof;
Amendment 1 #
2017/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 4 #
2017/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 59 #
2017/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the good performance of the European economy, supported by moderate GDP growth and decreasing, yetExpresses its dissatisfaction at the still high, unemployment rates; notes that the modest recovery remains fragile and that the development of GDP per capita is close to stagnation;
Amendment 76 #
2017/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that Europe harbours untapped economic potential as growth and employment are advancing unevenly; underlines that this is the result of the heterogeneous performance of the Member States’ economies; emphasises that the implementation ofdenounces so-called structural reform or memorandums in theEU Member States could facilitate at least 1 % higher growthsuch as Greece, where they have massively swelled the ranks of the unemployed, transforming the country into a vast social graveyard;
Amendment 88 #
2017/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
Amendment 101 #
2017/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Considers that for this to materialise the structural conditions for growth need to be improved; tTakes the view that the potential growth of all Member States should increase in the long term to at least 3 %; for this to happen, establishing clear benchmarks on how to improve the potential growth of Member States could provide the necessary guidance for policy actions; points out that such a regular benchmarking exercise would have to take due account of individual structural strengths and weaknesses of Member States;
Amendment 122 #
2017/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
Amendment 161 #
2017/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Takes the view that reforminitiatives to improve the business climate are needed to boost productivity and employment in the euro area; underlines in this context the importance of supply-side reforms;
Amendment 272 #
2017/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
Amendment 286 #
2017/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. WelcomDeplores the fact that deficits in the euro area are projected to decline; is concerned, however, that this process is slowing down and agrees that government debt remains too high in some Member States;public debt remains excessively high in certain Member States as a result of austerity and unsuccessful anti-inflation policies imposed by the EU and the IMF in countries such as Greece
Amendment 313 #
2017/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
Amendment 328 #
2017/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
Amendment 368 #
2017/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Takes note of the Commission’s recommendation to close the Excessive Deficit Procedures for several Member States; welcomes past and ongoing fiscal and reform efforts, yet insists that these efforts will need to continue to ensure the durability of the correction of the excessive deficit;
Amendment 386 #
2017/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
Amendment 5 #
2017/2071(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Acknowledges the EIB’s contribution to restoring investment activity in the EU after the economic and financial crises; stresses that the EIB’s activities during the current period of recovery and credit availability must be carefully directed towards products and projects, thereby ensuring additionality;
Amendment 38 #
2017/2071(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Emphasises that the EIB can play a positive role in reducing the negative public investment gap, but that its activities should not come into conflict with fiscal rules, as fiscal stability is a key precondition for stable and sustainable economic growth;
Amendment 68 #
2017/2071(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Stresses the need for the EIB to prioritise external operations so that its activities especially focus on areas of high importance for the EU; highlights the great potential for EIB operations to improve the economic situation in Ukraine, which is facing great economic stress and instability due to the ongoing armed conflict in Eastern Ukraine, with the direct and indirect participation of Russian military and security services;
Amendment 87 #
2017/2071(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Notes a wide variety of experiences with EFSI projects; cCalls for the exchange of best practices between the EIB and the Member States in order to increase the effectiveness of the Juncker plan;
Amendment 8 #
2017/2069(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 9 #
2017/2069(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 b (new)
Citation 4 b (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 45 #
2017/2069(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas as petitions have shown, EU citizens face notable difficulties in exercising this right, owing to administrative burdens and bureaucracy in Member States, and to misinformation and/or a lack of cooperation by Member State authorities;
Amendment 58 #
2017/2069(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas the right to petition the European Parliament, as laid down in Articles 20 and 227 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union and in Article 44 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, is one of the pillars of EU citizenship, ranks as the second best known of EU citizenship rights, and creates an interface between citizens and the European institutions through an open, democratic and transparent process;
Amendment 64 #
2017/2069(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas citizens have the right to organise or support, together with other EU citizens from all Member States, a European Citizens’ Initiative, which enables them to set the legislative agenda of the EU; whereas the European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) is an important direct democratic instrument enabling citizens to become actively involved in the framing of European policies and legislation, whereas the European Citizens’ Initiative should be transparent and effective, whereas the exercise of this right has not been satisfactory thus far;
Amendment 115 #
2017/2069(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Recognises that the protection of minority rights is mainly a national competence; recalls, however, that both the Treaties and the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights make reference to the protection of national minorities and discrimination practised on the grounds of language; underlines the need for the Commission to play an active role in the protection of minorities, by promoting awareness-raising meetings, seminars and resolutions in order to encourage national governments to find durable solutions and to promote the culture of linguistic diversity in the Member States;
Amendment 150 #
2017/2069(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Believes that the reform of the Electoral Act on the basis of Parliament’s legislative initiative is an unmissable opportunity for the Union to become more democratic; highlights the fact that thousands of Europeans share this view, as evidenced by the ‘Let me Vote’ European Citizens’ Initiative, which aims to allow citizens to vote in their place of residence; commends the Commission for exploring the possibilities for non-national EU citizens who have exercised their right to free movement to vote in national elections in the country in which they reside; urges the Commission to devise a concrete action plan for the introduction of electronic voting with a view to the 2019 European Parliament elections;
Amendment 177 #
2017/2069(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Maintains that transparency is a key tool for bringing citizens closer to the EU and involving them in its activities; recommends the promotion of the right to access documents and the translation of as many documents as possible into alinto all official EU languages; supports the intensification of dialogue with citizens and the encouragement of public debates in order to improve EU citizens’ understanding of the impact of the EU on their daily lives and to allow them to take part in an exchange of views, through slots in television programmes for targeted audiences;
Amendment 191 #
2017/2069(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Urges the Member States to guarantee that their national legislation is sufficiently clear and detailed to ensure that the right to free movement of citizens and their families is respected; to proceed with the proper training of competent national authorities in this respect on the basis of an electronic learning tool and to disseminate accurate information to interested parties in a precise manner; to foster, furthermore,Call son the Member States, furthermore, to foster good cooperation and a swift exchange of information with other national administrations, especially where cross-border insurance and old age pensions are concerned;
Amendment 6 #
2017/2066(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 21 a (new)
Citation 21 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 7 #
2017/2066(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 21 b (new)
Citation 21 b (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 28 #
2017/2066(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. WelcomesTakes note of the Commission Action Plan on consumer financial services as a means of addressing some of the challenges raised by Parliament in its report on the Green Paper on retail financial services, with the aim of striving towards a genuine technology-enabled single market for retail financial services, while protecting consumers, lowering prices and fighting against tax fraud, tax evasion and tax avoidance;
Amendment 47 #
2017/2066(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Considers that the three main strands of work identified by the Commission for the remaining years of the current mandate are worth pursuing; believes, nevertheless, that several concerns raised by Parliament last year in its report on the Green Paper on retail financial services have not yet been credibly addressed by the Commission in its Action Plan;
Amendment 60 #
2017/2066(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Considers a high level of consumer protection and transparency key tothe most decisive factor for the development of a single market in retail financial services; believes the enforcement of EU and national financial consumer legislation needs to be strengthened across all Member States;
Amendment 107 #
2017/2066(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. StressUrges that addressing consumer over-indebtedness linked to credit activities must be given priority if the Commission aims to explore ways of facilitating cross- border access to loansimmediate priority;
Amendment 116 #
2017/2066(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Asks the Commission to assess carefully whether national rules and practices are motivated by consumer protection concerns; underlines that the dismantling of national barriers should not be to the detriment ofe need for national rules regarding consumer protection;
Amendment 154 #
2017/2066(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Reiterates the need for the Commission to identify and remove regulatory barriers to the use of pan- European electronic signature systems for subscribing to financial services, thereby facilitating EU- wide cross-border digital onboarding, without affecting the level of security of existing systems or their ability to comply with the requirements of the Fourth Anti- Money Laundering Directive;
Amendment 10 #
2017/2053(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. WelcomNotes the work of the High Level Group on Own Resources, and in particular the measures aimed at reducing the share of the GNI-based contribution, which is residual in nature; argues that this reduction should be compensated for by the use of genuine own resources;
Amendment 68 #
2017/2053(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Supports the creation of a dedicated budget line to support the adoption of the euro by Member States not yet part of the euro area, but calls for it to be made separate from the Eurozone’s budgetary capacity; considers that the budgetary capacity of the Eurozone should be excluded from ceiling calculations for commitments and payments under the multiannual financial framework;
Amendment 77 #
2017/2053(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
Amendment 5 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Is concernedNotes that insufficient funding for Horizon 2020 has resulted in a low success rate for applications; calls the Commission to respect the breakdown of Horizon 2020 budget as described in Annex II of Regulation (EU) 1291/2013;
Amendment 9 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Calls for the 2018 budget to reflect the priorities outlined in the European Semester, specifically re-launching investment, pursuing structural reforms and conducting responsible fiscal policies;
Amendment 10 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls to restore the original annual profile of the budget lines for Horizon 2020 and CEF that were cut for the provisioning of the EFSI Guarantee Fund; remindnotes that during the EFSI negotiations the Parliament called to reduce as much as possible the negative impact on these two programmes; is concerned that the proposed extension of EFSI may again weaken Horizon 2020 and CEF;
Amendment 19 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
Amendment 20 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. WelcomNotes the inclusion of adequate resources in the 2018 budget to support the European Supervisory Authorities (ESAs); underlines that the role of the ESAs is essential in fostering the consistent application of Union law and better coordination between national authorities, and in ensuring financial stability, better integrated financial markets and consumer protection; emphasises that the ESAs must stick strictly to the tasks assigned to them by the European Parliament and the Council and must not seek to broaden their mandate beyond those assignments;
Amendment 27 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Emphasises that the ESAs should ensure that the IT-systems used are as efficient, user-friendly, secure and cost- effective as possible;
Amendment 35 #
2017/2044(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Reiterates that the financing of the ESAs should be reviewed; calls on the Commission to examine the possibility of introducing calibrated fees for market participants partly replacing the contributions of national competent authorities;
Amendment 21 #
2017/2024(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Considers the European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) to be an important direct democratic instrument enabling citizens to become actively involved in the framing of European policies and legislation. Considers that ECI should be made both transparent and effective;
Amendment 25 #
2017/2024(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1b. Stresses the importance of European citizens participating in EU policy making in the economic crisis era;
Amendment 40 #
2017/2024(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Stresses that all European citizens should be given the opportunity of collecting signatures for an ECI, independently of their Member State of residence;
Amendment 54 #
2017/2024(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Stresses the need for EU services to provide legal advice regarding ECIs;
Amendment 62 #
2017/2024(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Supports the AFCO proposal to ensure the follow-up of successful ECIs, in terms of concrete legislative proposals from the Commission, while using the whole potential of the European Parliament as a co-legislator; calls for maintaining the current system of designating lead committees thematically according to competence, with PETI as the first associated committee; recalls the importance of public hearings in ensuring that an inclusive approach is taken to increasing attendance by various stakeholders;
Amendment 3 #
2017/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recognises that the Committee on Petitions could serves as a valuablen even more important link between EU citizens, businesses and civil society organisations and EU institutions, especially in the challenging times that the Union isEuropean peoples are currently going through; notes itsthat it could make an even more important contribution to strengthening the image and credibility of the Union through the effective application of EU law;
Amendment 7 #
2017/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Acknowledges that petitions are a major source of first-hand information not just about violations and deficiencies in the application of EU law in the Member States, but also about potential loopholes in EU legislation; confirms that petitions enhance the capacity of the Commission and the Parliament to react to and resolve problems relating to transposition and misapplication; notes with appreciation that the Commission intends to considers the implementation of EU law a priority, so that citizens can benefit from it in their everyday lives;
Amendment 10 #
2017/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. CommendNotes the focus of the Commission’s Annual Report on the enforcement of EU law; notes that, unfortunately, petitioners very frequently refer to violations of EU law, particularly in the fields of the environment, justice, fundamental rights, the internal market, transport and health; draws attention to the fact that the Report highlights how the Commission regarded these sectors as a political priority in 2015;
Amendment 15 #
2017/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the Commission to urgeask the Member States to ensure the strict enforcement of EU rules on the free movement of persons; recalls that, in addition to constituting one of the fundamental freedoms of the EU and forming an integral part of EU citizenship, the free movement of persoEU Member State citizens is also of great importance for EU citizens and for their perceptions of the EU, and appears as a frequent subject of petitions;
Amendment 17 #
2017/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Welcomes the firmNotes that the stance taken by the Commission towards the Member States on the application of EU law in the area of asylum and migration fails to reflect solidarity with Greece; urges compliance with the undertaking given by Commissioner Avramopoulos regarding the relocation of 6 000 refugees a month from Greece to other EU Member States; urges the Commission to bring pressure to bear, backed by sanctions where necessary, to induce countries such as FYROM and Albania, which constantly benefit from European programmes and funds, to open the border here and now and comply with the Geneva Convention relating to the Status of Refugees; recalls that, on account of the migratory flows towards Europe, the EU is faced with an unparalleled legal, political and humanitarian challenge; expresses the hope that the Commission will systematically monitor the application of the European Agenda on Migration by the Member States;
Amendment 30 #
2017/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Notes with appreciation the abundance of statistics demonstrating the appreciable progress achieved in resolving shortcomings in the application of EU law through the EU Pilot procedure; observes that the number of EU Pilot procedures launched in 2015 was the lowest ever recorded, while the number of infringement procedures remains considerable;
Amendment 33 #
2017/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Regrets the fact that no precise statistics concerning the number of petitions that led to the initiation of an EU Pilot or infringement procedure are provided; reiterates the request forurges the timely provision of data about these procedures by the Commission to the Committee on Petitions, where petitions and their further treatment are concerned; underlines that the provision of such information in a structured manner is also provided for in the Interinstitutional Agreement on Better Law-Making of April 2016;
Amendment 41 #
2017/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Supports the introduction of the Better Regulation Agenda as an effort by the Commission to assist Member States in implementing and enforcing EU law effectively; highlights, in this context, the importance of explanatory documents, which facilitatenable and expedite the exchange of information between the Commission and the Member States, thus ensuring better understanding of transposition measures.
Amendment 8 #
2017/2003(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recognises the fact that all collaborative economies, covering the full spectrum from market-oriented to gift- based, are rooted in human cooperative behaviour and that no matter how diverse they are, or will become, they areshould all be identified by equalresource sharing, the active empowerment of citizens, community- accepted innovation, and the intensive use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) as a key enabler;
Amendment 28 #
2017/2003(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Emphasises that ICTs allow innovative ideas within the collaborative economies to evolve quickly and efficiently, while connecting and empowering participants, thereby reducing the need for intermediation, decreasing direct costs and overheads, channelling rich information flows and reinforcing trust between peers;
Amendment 73 #
2017/2003(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. UrgesCalls on the Commission to ensure that the EU develops the highest international standards regarding (a) social protection for ‘workpreneurs’ in collaborative economies, (b) safety guarantees for the customers of collaborative economies, and (c) cohabitation synergies with traditional business models;
Amendment 96 #
2017/2003(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls on the Commission to ensure directly that EU legislation and policies are future- friendly and provide legal certainty in order to unleash the full potential of collaborative economies for EU businesses and citizens, while redefining and modernising – where necessary – the concepts of ‘work/service’, ‘worker’ and ‘service provider’;
Amendment 107 #
2017/2003(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. NotStresses that collaborative economies are increasingly important in the energy sector, allowing consumers, individuals and communities to engage efficiently in several decentralised phases of the renewable energy cycle, including self- production and self-consumption, storage and distribution.
Amendment 59 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Foreign direct investment should contributes to the Union's growth, by enhancing its competitiveness, creating jobs and economies of scale, bringing in capital, technologies, innovation, expertise, and by opening new markets for the Union's exports. It should supports the objectives of the Commission's Investment Plan for Europe and contributes to other Union projects and programmes.
Amendment 66 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) Pursuant to the international commitments undertaken in the World Trade Organisation, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, and in the trade and investment agreements concluded with third countries, the Union and Members States may adopt restrictive measures relating to foreign direct investment on the grounds of security or public order, subject to certain requirementswhenever they deem it appropriate.
Amendment 68 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) Several Member States have justifiably put in place measures according to which they may restrict the movement of capital between Member States and between Member States and third countries on grounds of public policy or public security. Those measures reflect Member States' objectives and concerns with respect to foreign direct investment, and result in a number of different measures in terms of scope and procedure. Other Member States do not have such mechanisms.
Amendment 73 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) Foreign direct investment falls within the common commercial policy. In accordance with Article 3(1)(e) TFEU, the European Union has exclusive competence with respect to the common commercial policy, while respecting the exclusive competence of its Member States to safeguard their national security in relation to foreign direct investment.
Amendment 83 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) The framework for the screening of foreign direct investment should first and foremost provide the Member States and the Commission with the means to address risks to security or public order in a comprehensive manner, and to adapt to changing circumstances, whilst maintaining the necessary flexibility for Member States to screen foreign direct investments on grounds of security and public order taking into account their individual situations and national circumstances.
Amendment 103 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14
Recital 14
Amendment 112 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
Amendment 118 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) Where the Commission considers that a foreign direct investment is likely to affect projects or programmes of Union interest on grounds of security or public order, the Commission should have the possibility to address an opinion to the Member States in which such investment is planned or completed within a reasonable timeframe. The Member States should take utmostinto account of the opinion and provide an explanation to the Commission if they do not follow this opinion, in compliance with their duty of sincere cooperation under Article 4(3) TEU. The Commission should also have the possibility to request from those Member States the information necessary fof the Commission on the basis of sincere cooperation. The Commission may request any information from the competent national author its screening ofies regarding such investment.
Amendment 122 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) In order to facilitate the cooperation with other Member States and the screening of foreign direct investment by the Commission, Member States should notify their screening mechanisms and any amendment thereto to the Commission, and shouldmay report on the application of their screening mechanisms on a regular basis. For the same reason, Member States that do not havemaintain a screening mechanism should also report on the foreign direct investments that took place in their territory, on the basis of the information available to them.
Amendment 129 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18
Recital 18
(18) To that end, it is also important to ensure a minimum level of information and coordination with regard to foreign direct investments falling under the scope of this Regulation in all Member States. This information should be made available by the Member States in which the foreign direct investment is planned or has been completed upon request of the Member States or of the Commission. Relevant information includes aspects such as the ownership structure of the foreign investor and the financing of the planned or completed investment, including, when available, information about subsides granted by third countries.
Amendment 132 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) The communication and cooperation at Member State and Union level should be enhanced through the establishment of contact points for the screening and monitoring the course of foreign direct investments in each Member State.
Amendment 135 #
2017/0224(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) No later than threewo years after the entry into force of this Regulation, the Commission should present to the European Parliament and the Council a report on the application of this Regulation. Where the report proposes modifying the provisions of this Regulation, it may be accompanied, where appropriate, by a legislative proposal.
Amendment 14 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) In its report on the application of Regulation (EU) No 211/201124 of March 201524, the Commission listed a number of challenges arising in the implementation of that Regulation and made a commitment, which is still pending, to analyse further the impact of those issues on the effectiveness of the European citizens' initiative instrument and to improve its functioning. _________________ 24 COM(2015)145 final. COM(2015) 145 final.
Amendment 20 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) This Regulation aims toshould make the European citizens’ initiative more accessible, more transparent, more effective, more democratic, less burdensome and easier to use for organisers and supporters, in order to achieve the full potential of the European citizens’ initiative as a tool to foster debate and citizen participation at Union level, and to bring the Union closer to its citizens.
Amendment 26 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) To achieve those objectives, the procedures and conditions required for the European citizens’ initiative should be transparent, clear, simple, user-friendly and proportionate to the nature of this instrument. They should strike a judicious balance between rights and obligations.
Amendment 31 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
Amendment 34 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) In order to ensure that an initiative is representative of a Union interest while ensuring that the instrument remains easy to use the minimum number of Member States from which citizens must come should be set at one quarter ofat least four Member States.
Amendment 37 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
Amendment 38 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 11
Recital 11
Amendment 43 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13 a (new)
Recital 13 a (new)
(13 a) Stresses the need to create an infrastructure with legal advice on European Citizens' Initiatives and to create a legal framework to protect members of the European Citizens' Initiatives.
Amendment 54 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) In order to make the European citizens’ initiative more accessible, and taking into account that the procedures and conditions required for the European citizens’ initiative should be transparent, clear, simple, user-friendly and proportionate, it is appropriate to partially register an initiative in cases where only part or parts of the initiative meet the requirements for registration under this Regulation. Initiatives should be partially registered where a substantial part of the initiative, including its main objectives, does not manifestly fall outside the framework of the Commission’s powers to submit a proposal for a legal act of the Union for the purpose of implementing the Treaties and all the other registration requirements are met. Clarity and transparency should be ensured as regards the scope of the partial registration and potential signatories should be informed of the scope of the registration and of the fact that statements of support are collected only in relation to the scope of the registration of the initiative.
Amendment 87 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 25
Recital 25
(25) The support and funding for initiatives should be transparent and accountable. Therefore groups of organisers should provide updated information on the sources of support and funding for their initiatives between the date of registration and the date at which the initiative is submitted to the Commission. Entities, notably organisations which under the Treaties contribute to forming European political awareness and expressing the will of citizens of the Union, should be able to promote and provide support and funding to initiatives, provided that they do so in accordance with the procedures and conditions laid down by this Regulation and with full transparency.
Amendment 5 #
2017/0024(NLE)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 6 #
2017/0024(NLE)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 7 #
2017/0024(NLE)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 8 #
2017/0024(NLE)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 9 #
2017/0017(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 10 #
2017/0017(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 14 #
2017/0017(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) At the 21st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) which took place in Paris from 30 November to 12 December 2015, an international agreement was adopted to strengthen the global response to climate change. The Paris Agreement, inter alia, sets out a long-term goal in line with the objective to keep the global temperature increase well below 2°C above pre- industrial levels and to pursue efforts to keep it to 1,5°C above pre-industrial levels. The Paris Agreement was approved on behalf of the Union by Council Decision (EU) 2016/1841. The Paris Agreement entered into force on 4th November 2016. In order to achieve the goal of the Paris Agreement, parties will prepare, communicate and maintain successive nationally determinedpecific contributions.
Amendment 15 #
2017/0017(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The environmental objectives of the Union as referred to in Article 191 of the Treaty, are preserving, protecting and improving the quality of the environment; protecting human health; and promoting measures at international level to deal with regional or worldwide environmental problems, and in particular, first and foremost, combating climate change.
Amendment 18 #
2017/0017(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) A binding target of at least a 40% domestic reduction in economy-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 1990 was set by the European Council of 23-24 October 2014. The Council meeting on 6 March 2015 formally approved this contribution of the Union and its Member States as their Intended Nationally Determined Contribution under the Paris Agreement. The European Council conclusions of October 2014 foresaw that the target should be delivered collectively by the Union in the most cost- effective manner possible, with the reductions in the Emissions Trading System (ETS) and non-ETS sectors amounting to 43% and 30% by 2030 compared to 2005 respectively. All sectors of the economy should contribute to achieving these emission reductions.
Amendment 22 #
2017/0017(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) The Union and its Member States have been endeavouring to advance international agreement to reduce greenhouse gas impacts from aviation since 1997 and they have legislation in place since 2008 to limit the climate change impacts from aviation activities through the EU emissions trading system (EU ETS) that has been operating since 2005. In order to advance progress at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the Union has needlessly twice adopted time- bound derogations to the EU ETS so as to limit compliance obligations to emissions from flights between aerodromes situated in the European Economic Area (EEA), with equal treatment on routes of aircraft operators wherever they are based. The most recent derogation from the EU ETS, Regulation (EU) No 421/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council, limited compliance obligations to intra- EEA flights between 2013 and 2016, and envisaged potential changes to the scope of the system as regards activity to and from aerodromes situated outside the EEA from 1 January 2017 onwards following the review set out in that Regulation.
Amendment 28 #
2017/0017(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) In the light of the resolution adopted at ICAO's 39th Assembly in October 2016 on the implementation of a global market-based measure from 2021 to offset international aviation emissions above 2020 levels, it is considered appropriateessential to continue the existing derogation pending further progress on the design elements and the implementation of the global market- based measure. In this regard, the adoption of Standards and Recommended Practices by ICAO to complement that Resolution and implement the global system is planned for 2018. However, its concrete operationalisation will require action by ICAO parties at domestic level. Also, governance arrangements must be developed by ICAO, including a registry system. In this context, the current derogation of the EU ETS obligations for flights to and from third countries should be extended, subject to the review on implementing the ICAO scheme, in order to promote momentum in ICAO and facilitate the operationalisation of the ICAO scheme. As a result of the extension of the derogation, the amount of allowances to be auctioned and issued for free, including from the special reserve, should be the same as would correspond to 2016, and should be proportional to the reduction of the surrender obligation.
Amendment 38 #
2017/0017(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) In order to adopt non-legislative acts of general application to supplement or amend certain non-essential elements of a legislative act, the power to adopt acts in accordance with Article 290 of the Treaty should be delegated to the Commission to adopt measures for the monitoring, reporting and verification of emissions applicable to aircraft operators for the purpose of the global market-based measure being elaborated in ICAO. It is of particular importance that the Commission carries out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work, including at expert level, and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the Interinstitutional Agreement on Better Law-Making of 13 April 2016. In particular, to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts, the European Parliament and the Council receive all documents at the same timesimultaneously as Member States' experts, and their experts systematically have access to meetings of Commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts.
Amendment 37 #
2017/0003(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 38 #
2017/0003(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 40 #
2017/0003(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Article 7 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union ("the Charter") protects the fundamental and inalienable right of everyone to the respect for his or her private and family life, home and communications. Respect for the privacy of one’s communications is an essential dimension of this right. Confidentiality of electronic communications ensures that information exchanged between parties and the external elements of such communication, including when the information has been sent, from where, to whom, is not to be revealed to anyone other than to the parties involved in a communication. The principle of confidentiality should apply to current and future means of communication, including calls, internet access, instant messaging applications, e-mail, internet phone calls and personal messaging provided through social media.
Amendment 80 #
2017/0003(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21
Recital 21
Amendment 85 #
2017/0003(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 22
Recital 22
Amendment 102 #
2017/0003(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 28
Recital 28
Amendment 105 #
2017/0003(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 30
Recital 30
Amendment 107 #
2017/0003(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 31
Recital 31
Amendment 108 #
2017/0003(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 33
Recital 33
Amendment 112 #
2017/0003(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 37
Recital 37
Amendment 114 #
2017/0003(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 39
Recital 39
Amendment 117 #
2017/0003(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 40
Recital 40
Amendment 4 #
2016/2903(RSP)
Citation 9 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol No 1 to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 5 #
2016/2903(RSP)
Citation 9 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol No 2 to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 12 #
2016/2903(RSP)
Recital A
A. whereas the use of conventional plant protection products is increasingly contentious, due to the serious risks that they pose for human health and the environment;
Amendment 31 #
2016/2903(RSP)
Recital Δ
D. whereas biological low-risk pesticides mayshould constitute a viable alternative to conventional plant protection products, both for conventional and for organic farmers, and contribute to a more sustainable agriculture; whereas some biological pesticides possess new modes of action, which is beneficial with a view to evolving resistance to conventional pesticides and limits the impact on non- target organisms; whereas biological low- risk pesticides should be the preferred option for non-professional users and home gardeningsustainable agriculture;
Amendment 50 #
2016/2903(RSP)
Recital Θ
I. whereas, regrettably, biological low-risk pesticides are often refused authorisation by Member States due to their lower efficacy as compared to synthetic chemical pesticides;
Amendment 58 #
2016/2903(RSP)
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses the need to increase the availability of biological low-risk pesticides without any further delay in order to reduce the use of conventional plant protection products;
Amendment 70 #
2016/2903(RSP)
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that farmers need to have a bigger toolbox at hand to protect their crops and to decide which measure will most sustainably protect their crops, thereby boosting sustainable agriculture; therefore encourages wider use of various alternatives to synthetic chemical pesticides, including biological pesticides, as a component of integrated pest management;
Amendment 94 #
2016/2903(RSP)
Paragraph 5
5. WelcomesTakes note of the “Implementation Plan on increasing low-risk plant protection product availability and accelerating integrated pest management implementation in Member States” as endorsed by the Council; calls on the Member States, the Commission and the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization (EPPO) to follow up on the implementation of this plan;
Amendment 100 #
2016/2903(RSP)
Paragraph 7
7. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to give priority to the evaluation, and then to the authorisation and registration of biological low-risk plant protection products;
Amendment 110 #
2016/2903(RSP)
Paragraph 8
8. Welcomes the 2016 Commission REFIT initiative to carry out an evaluation of Regulation 1107/2009; stresses that this REFIT initiative must not lead to the lowering ofan improvement in food safety and environmental protection standards;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2325(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 3 #
2016/2325(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
Amendment 12 #
2016/2325(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. WelcomNotes the Commission communication entitled ‘Space Strategy for Europe’ and endorses the Commission’s full commitment to maximising the economic and societal benefits of space, fostering the European space sector, reinforcing Europe’s autonomy in space and strengthening Europe’s role as a global actor as well as international cooperation in space;
Amendment 62 #
2016/2325(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. StressNotes that the success of the space sector is highly dependent on research and innovation and that the next Framework Programme should put an emphasis on space-related research, whilst ensuring efficiency through full cooperation between the EU, the ESA and the Member States in areas such as launcher research;
Amendment 84 #
2016/2325(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. HighlightStresses the ability of satellites to provide uninterrupted very high capacity connectivity, in particular in remote areas and outermost regions, which will be essential for the development of 5G networks, enabling services such as autonomous driving; stresses also the need to reserve adequate frequency bands for the operation of these satellite services; calls for this to be addressed in legislative work on telecommunication networks;
Amendment 97 #
2016/2325(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. EmphasisUnderlines the need to invest more decisively in education and training of European citizens in the area of space in order to be able to fully exploit the opportunities created by space during the shift to a digital society;
Amendment 121 #
2016/2325(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Recalls that EU space programmes are of a civil nature and reiterates emphatically and unequivocally its commitment to the non-militarisation of space; recognises nonetheless the need to improve synergies between civil and security and defence aspects and to make use of space capacities to meet security and safety needs, also taking account of the geopolitical environment and the Common Security and Defence Policy;
Amendment 133 #
2016/2325(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Calls on the Commission to mitigate immediately the risks presented by space debris by enhancing current SST services with the aim of setting up an independent system capable of both recognising threats from space debris to European space infrastructure and inducing measures to avoid collision;
Amendment 159 #
2016/2325(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Believes that ensuring a peaceful and safe space environment will require engagement with international partners to promote norms of responsible behaviour, and calls on the Commission to work closely with the EEAS and the Member States in this regardis of vital importance;
Amendment 168 #
2016/2325(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Highlights the factStresses that the European Parliament shouldmust play an active role in the development of EU space policy and that it should be involved in all exchanges conducted by the Commission, the Council, the EEAS and the ESA on space- related topics;
Amendment 33 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
Amendment 49 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Expresses concern at the persistent extreme polarisation of the political landscape; calls on all the parties to create the conditions for a fruitful, solution and result-oriented dialogue with a view to defusing tension and reaching a sustainable compromise aimed at facilitating the progress of the country on its European path;
Amendment 57 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
Amendment 76 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes with concern that the post of Minister of European Integration still remains vacant and that this undermines the coherence and effectiveness of SAA implementation policies; underlines that the path towards EU integration requires a strategic long-term vision and sustained commitment in the adoption and implementation of the necessary reforms;
Amendment 84 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
Amendment 98 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Welcomes the proposal by the Commission to grant visa liberalisation, which would be a very positive step for Kosovo on the path to European integration; iIs concerned by the stalemate in the Assembly with regard to the ratification of the demarcation agreement with Montenegro, and stresses that visa liberalisation can only be granted once Kosovo has fulfilled all criteria, including with regard to building up a track record of high-level convictions for corruption and organised crime;
Amendment 123 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Welcomes the progress made in implementing the various agreements signed since August 2016 in the normalisation process with Serbia, after months of little to no progress; calls on both Kosovo and Serbia to show more engagement and sustained political will as regards the normalisation of relations and recalls that this is a condition for accession to the EU; takes note of some progress on other technical issues such as cadastre, university diplomas and licence plates and on the implementation of the agreement on the Mitrovica Bridge; welcomes the allocation of an independent international telephone code to Kosovo; reiterates its call on the European External Action Service to carry out an evaluation of the performance of the sides in fulfilling their obligations;
Amendment 128 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Notes that the Association of Serbian Municipalities has not yet been set up and that the Statute still has to be drafted, and urges Kosovo to establish the association in line with the agreement reached under the EU-facilitated dialogue and with the ruling of the Kosovo Constitutional Court; expresses concern at the continued presence of Serbia’s parallel structures and calls for their dismantlement; encourages all stakeholders to find an acceptable and mutually agreeable long-term solution for the status of the Trepca mining complex;
Amendment 163 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
Amendment 180 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Expresses serious concerns atDeplores the lack of progress with regard to the protection of freedom of expression and media freedom, and at the increased political interference and pressure and intimidation exerted on the media; urges the Kosovo authorities to fully recognise and protect freedom of expression in line with EU standards and to end impunity for attacks against journalists;
Amendment 195 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Reiterates its concern aboutDeplores the very slow progress in the fight against corruption and organised crime and calls for renewed efforts and a clear political will to tackle these issues; regrets that corruption and organised crime go unpunished in certain areas of Kosovo, notably in the north; is concerned that the track record of investigations, prosecutions, final convictions and confiscation and sequestration of criminal assets remains low; calls for direct and effective cooperation between Kosovo and Serbia, as well as between all the countries in the region, in the fight against organised crime; stresses that Kosovo’s membership of Interpol and cooperation with Europol would facilitate these efforts;
Amendment 227 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Welcomes theStresses the need for increased efforts to counter violent extremism and radicalisation and recognises the important work carried out by Kosovo in this area; notes that many foreign fighters have returned to Kosovo and calls on the authorities to establish effective policies for prevention, de-radicalisation and reintegration;
Amendment 269 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
Amendment 14 #
2016/2313(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 15 a (new)
Citation 15 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 15 #
2016/2313(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 15 b (new)
Citation 15 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of Subsidiarity and Proportionality,
Amendment 23 #
2016/2313(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Α
Recital Α
A. whereas the EU remains committed to BiH’s EU perspective, to itthe country's territorial integrity, sovereignty and unity; whereas the Council asked the Commission to prepare its opinion on BiH’s application for membership;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2313(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Β
Recital Β
Amendment 52 #
2016/2313(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
Amendment 65 #
2016/2313(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Welcomes the progress on the implementation of the 2015-2018 Reform Agenda, as well as the country’s determination to pursue further institutional and socio-economic reforms; sStresses that harmonised implementation of the Reform Agenda is needed to achieve real change across the country and to improve the lives of all BiH citizens; calls for the reform momentum to be maintained in order to transform BiH into a fully effective, inclusive and functional state; regrets that common reform efforts often continue to be hampered by ethnic and political divisions; considers it essential to maintain consensus on EU integration and to advance in a concerted manner on the rule of law, including the fight against corruption and organised crime, the reform of the judiciary and public administration;
Amendment 103 #
2016/2313(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Regrets that the declared political commitment to combat corruption did not translate into tangible results; acknowledges progressnotes that progress has been made in adopting anti- corruption action plans and setting up corruption prevention bodies at various levels of governance; notes with concern that fragmentation and weak inter-agency cooperation hamper the effectiveness of anti-corruption measures; calls for greater professional specialisation within the police and the judiciary by means of appropriate coordination channels; stresses the need to establish a track record of effective scrutiny of political party and electoral campaign financing;
Amendment 129 #
2016/2313(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Reiterates its concern about the continued fragmentation into four different legal systems; stresses the urgent need to strengthen judicial independence, including from political pressure, and to fight corruption in the judiciary; urges the rapid adoption of the action plan for the implementation of the 2014-2018 justice sector reform; welcomes the adoption of the law on free legal aid at state level and the introduction by the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council of guidelines on prevention of conflict of interest, the drafting of integrity plans and disciplinary measures; notes the important role of the Structured Dialogue on Justice in addressing the shortcomings in the BiH judiciary;
Amendment 134 #
2016/2313(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Regrets that a high number of constitutional court decisions are not being implemented, including in particular the decision on the RS day, which was contested in the referendum held on 25 September 2016; emphasises that respect for the rule of law and the country’s constitutional framework is of paramount importance for advancing on the EU path;
Amendment 187 #
2016/2313(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Deems it essentialurgently necessary to enhance public participation in decision- making and to better engage citizens in the EU accession process; notes that civil society is fragmented, institutionally and financially weak; calls for better cooperation mechanisms between government and civil society organisations, including the developing of a strategic framework for cooperation;
Amendment 254 #
2016/2313(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Welcomes measures to modernise labour legislation, to improve the business environment and to address weaknesses in the financial sector within the framework of the Reform Agenda; welcomes the 3- year Extended Fund Facility programme agreed with the IMF, which is expected to further improve the business climate, to reduce the size of government and to safeguard the financial sector; continues to regret the absence of a unified single economic area, which hampers the business environment and foreign direct investments; calls, as a matter of urgency, for the competent authorities to outline coordinated measures with a view to strengthening the rule of law, simplifying contract enforcement procedures and combating corruption in the economy;
Amendment 5 #
2016/2312(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 11 a (new)
Citation 11 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 6 #
2016/2312(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 11 b (new)
Citation 11 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of Subsidiarity and Proportionality,
Amendment 10 #
2016/2312(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Α
Recital Α
A. whereas Albania has made steady progress in its EU accession process; whereas further implementation of, inter alia, the judicial reform package, electoral reform and the so-called decriminalisation law is important in strengthening citizens’ trust in their public institutions and political representatives;
Amendment 28 #
2016/2312(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
Amendment 39 #
2016/2312(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
Amendment 58 #
2016/2312(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Commends the consensual adoption of the constitutional amendments for judicial reform and the adoption of laws on the institutional reorganisation of the judiciary; calls for the swift adoption and implementation of all relevant accompanying laws and by- laws, in particular the law on the re- evaluation (vetting) of judges, prosecutors and legal advisors; notstresses that the application of the vetting law has been suspended by the Constitutional Court, and that the latter has requested the opinion of the Venice Commission on its constitutionality; reiterates that a comprehensive judicial reform is a major demand by Albania’s citizens for re- establishing trust in their political representatives and public institutionsessential, and that the credibility and effectiveness of the overall reform process, including the fight against corruption and organised crime, depend on the success of the vetting process and judicial reform;
Amendment 69 #
2016/2312(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. WelcomNotes the new justice reform strategy 2017-2020 and its action plan, as well as the increased budgetary means for implementation; calls for any shortcomings in the functioning of the judicial system to be further addressed, including lack of independence from other branches of power, selective justice, limited accountability, ineffective oversight mechanisms, corruption, the overall length of judicial proceedings and enforcements;
Amendment 78 #
2016/2312(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Ad-Hoc Parliamentary Committee on Electoral Reform to finalise its review of the electoral code while addressing, taking into account all previous OSCE/ODIHR recommendations; calls on the competent authorities to ensure implementation in due time beforeforthwith and not to play for time until the upcoming parliamentary elections of June 2017; recalls that all political parties are responsible for ensuring that democratic elections are conducted in compliance with international standards; calls onurges Albania’s political parties to respect the law, in spirit and in letter, on the exclusion of criminal offenders from public office when drawing up their candidate lists;
Amendment 85 #
2016/2312(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Welcomes improved transparency and inclusivitStresses the need to increase the transparency of parliamentary activities, but calls for parliamentary capacities to be enhanced in order to monitor the implementation of reforms and their compliance with EU standards and to make better use of the various oversight mechanisms and institutions in order to hold the government to account; calls for the parliamentary code of ethics to be approved and for the rules of procedure to reflect the law on the role of parliament in the EU integration process; offers to explore ways for closer cooperation with the Parliament of Albania within the framework of the European Parliament support programme for parliaments of the enlargement countries in order to enhance its capacity to produce quality legislation in line with the EU acquis and to exercise its oversight role in the implementation of reforms;
Amendment 89 #
2016/2312(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Notes the efforts towards a more citizen-friendly public administration and steady progress in the implementation of public administration reform; calls for further progress in strengthening the application of the Civil Service Law and the Law on Administrative Procedures, in order to safeguard the independence of regulatory bodies, improve recruitment procedures based on merit and performance, and enhance institutional and human resource capacities, with a view to ensuring efficient conduct of EU accession negotiations; commends the National Council for European Integration on its initiatives to enhance the capacities of public administration and civil society in monitoring the implementation of accession-related reforms;
Amendment 132 #
2016/2312(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Urges the competent authorities to continue improving the climate of inclusion and tolerance for allDemands that the Albanian government respect the rule of law and the rights of the Greek ethnic minoritiesy in the country, including by enhancing the role of the State Committee on MinoritiesNorthern Epirus; calls on the Albanian Government here and now to stop the illegal seizure of the property of the Greeks in the Himara region; as regards Roma and Egyptians, calls for continued efforts in improving their access to employment, education, health, social housing and legal aid; is concerned that, despite improvements, the inclusion of Roma children in the education system remains the lowest in the region;
Amendment 165 #
2016/2312(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Commends religious tolerance and good cooperation among religious communities; calls on the Albanian government here and now to cease the targeted distortion of history which seeks to eradicate the centuries-old Greek presence in Northern Epirus; encourages the competent authorities and religious communities to cooperate in preserving and fostering religious harmony; considers it essential to prevent Islamic radicalisation, including through disengagement and reintegration of returning foreign fighters, to counter violent extremism in cooperation with CSOs and religious communities, and to intensify regional and international cooperation in this area;
Amendment 172 #
2016/2312(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Reiterates the critical importance of professional and independent private and public service media; is concerned aboutdeplores political influence in the media and widespread self- censorship among journalists; notes the slow implementation of the law on audiovisual media and the delays in filling vacancies in the Audiovisual Media Authority (AMA); calls for measures to raise the professional and ethical standards of and prevalence of regular work contracts for journalists, to enhance the transparency of government advertising in the media and to ensure the independence of the regulatory authority and the public broadcaster;
Amendment 204 #
2016/2312(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Notes that the number of unfounded asylum applications lodged by Albanians in EU Member States has increased again; urgescalls on the government to intensify awareness-raising and prevention efforts in this regard;
Amendment 211 #
2016/2312(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Commends Albania on its continued full alignment with relevant EU declarations and Council conclusions, thereby demonstrating its clear commitment to European integration and solidarity; commends both Albania and Serbia on their continued commitment to improving bilateral relations and strengthening regional cooperation at political and societal level, for example through the Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO) headquartered in TiranaNotes the ongoing commitment of Albania and Serbia to improving their bilateral relations; encourages both countries to continue their good cooperation in order to promote reconciliation in the region;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2307(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers it necessary to refocus the European Semester on the delivery of the Europe 2020 objectives for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth, paying more attention to the social, education and employment targets, particularly in southern European countries such as Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal, as well as to properly recognise the contribution of culture in reaching the so-called ‘Social Triple A’ for the development and wellbeing of individuals and societies;
Amendment 10 #
2016/2307(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Reiterates its cCalls on the Commission and Member States to shift their macroeconomic approach towards encouraging social investment in the public sector;
Amendment 15 #
2016/2307(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls on the Commission, in this perspective, to use the flexibility clause of the Stability and Growth Pact to take measures to allow Member States to enhance investment in cultural and youth policies, in education and training and in research, in particular by excluding such investments from the calculation of national budget expenditure;
Amendment 23 #
2016/2307(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to promote the right to high-quality education, investing in outreach to the most vulnerable learners, and to use the new skills agenda to strengthen human capacity, support an inclusive labour market and tackle social inequalities, which are becoming steadily wider within the Union, therefore focusing on social, intercultural, creative and transferable skills;
Amendment 31 #
2016/2307(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Recalls the urgent need to invest in children and youth, especially with regard to thematic areas with direct relevance to the Europe 2020 strategy, such as early school leaving (ESL), higher education, youth employment, vocational education and training (VET), lifelong learning and mobility;
Amendment 41 #
2016/2307(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls for the creation of a child guarantee and for a proper and swift implementation of the Youth Guarantee, including through a proper funding allocation so as to to combat high youth unemployment rates in EU Member States such as Greece, Italy and Spain;
Amendment 52 #
2016/2307(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Recalls that the European Semester should be a more open, transparent and democratic process; cCalls on the Commission to introduce guidelines for stakeholder dialogue in order to improve the quality of civil society participation.
Amendment 1 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 1 #
2016/2306(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
Amendment 2 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol No 2 to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 9 #
2016/2306(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Points out that climate change is undoubtedly a very serious global challengethreat to the environment and humanity and that swift action should remain a priority for the EU; underlines, in this connection, the importance of the Paris Agreement adopted in December 2015 at the COP21, a global milestone for enhancing global collective action and accelerating the global transformation to a low-carbon and climate resilient societywhich failed to create a clear framework for addressing climate change; notes that the aAgreement should sets out a qualitative long-term emissions reduction goal in line with the objective of keeping the global temperature increase well below 2°C and pursuing efforts to keep it to 1.5°C;
Amendment 17 #
2016/2306(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recalls that ensuring sustainable growth, climate protection, substantive measures to address climate change and job creation in the EU means using our resources in a smarter and more sustainable way and reducing dependence on imports of raw materials; considers that the focusre should be an immediate focus on waste prevention, greater recycling and re-use of products; notes that it is estimated that the circular economy could provide EU companies with savings of about EUR 600 billion per year; reiterates therefore its call for the principles of the circular economy to be incorporated into the European Semester;
Amendment 22 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Α
Recital Α
A. whereas the European Union’'s economy is recovering and growing at a moderate pacedeteriorating;
Amendment 36 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Γ
Recital Γ
C. whereas the employment rate is growing steadily, although at an insufficient pace, reducing unemployment in the euro area to 10.1 % in 2016social inequalities within the Union are constantly increasing and unemployment rates in Southern European Member States such as Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal are very high;
Amendment 44 #
2016/2306(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Stresses that effective investment in the health is an essential condition for economic prosperity and growth promotion, producing results in terms of productivity, labour supply, human capital and public spendingsector in EU Member States such as Greece, Spain, Italy, Portugal, etc. is a basic prerequisite for the welfare of citizens.
Amendment 45 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas this recovery in the labour markets, and growth, is are uneven among the Member States, benefitting those that have implemented structural reforms;
Amendment 53 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ε
Recital Ε
E. whereas growth has to an important degree relied upon unconventional and, in the long term, unsustainable monetary policies; whereas this supports the call for a three-pronged policy approach of growth-friendly investment, a full and consistent implementation of the Stability and Growth pact across Member States, and a particular focus on structural reforms;
Amendment 101 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Η
Recital Η
H. whereas the EU’s insufficient level of global competitiveness and productivity calls for structural reforms in the Member Statpolicies in order to bring about sustained growth;
Amendment 109 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. WelcomesPoints to the Commission’s Annual Growth Survey 2017 reaffirming the strategy of a virtuous triangle of investment, structural reforms and responsible public finances; agrees that faster progress on the adoption of reforms, in line with the country-specific recommendations, is needed to deliver on growth and jobsand agrees that immediate measures are needed to combat unemployment;
Amendment 124 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
Amendment 143 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Finds that while unemployment is, on average, graduallyis not decreasing, and that activity rates are growing, structural deficiencies persist in some Member Statesfalling;
Amendment 161 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Agrees with the Commission that access to finance is crucial for businesses to growespecially for SMEs;
Amendment 168 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
Amendment 197 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
Amendment 255 #
Amendment 258 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
Amendment 275 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
Amendment 297 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Is concerned about the effects of demographic developments on public finances, conditioned by, inter alia, low birth rates, ageing societies and the influx of refugees; points in particular to the impact of ageing populations on pension and healthcare systems in the EU; notes that, owing to different demographic structures, the effects of these developments will vary across Member States, but warns that the already foreseeable funding costs will have a significant impact on public deficits; highlights the fact that current consolidation paths will not be sufficient to ensure compliance with EU fiscal rules if pension systems are not reformed or current reforms are reversed or not implemented;
Amendment 323 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Welcomes the fact that, on average, youth unemployment is declining; notes, however, that there remain stark differences across the Member States that call for continued reformnotes that there remain stark differences across the Member States with regard to unemployment rates that call for immediate measures to facilitate the entry of young people into the labour market;
Amendment 358 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 3
Subheading 3
Amendment 362 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
Amendment 386 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
Amendment 406 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
Amendment 415 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
Amendment 426 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
Amendment 448 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
Amendment 458 #
2016/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
Amendment 12 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas 5G willis expected to be an engine for innovation, bringing disruptive change across industries and creating new use cases, high-quality services and products, revenue streams and business models, boosting the competitiveness of industries and consumer satisfaction;
Amendment 21 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Β
Recital Β
B. whereas the architecture of 5G mobile networks will be substantially different to that of previous generations, given that they are expected to provide the most comprehensive means of achieving the digital single market in order to meet the expected business and performance requirements for Very High Capacity (VHC) networks, especially with regard to latency and reliability;
Amendment 34 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Δ
Recital Δ
D. whereasnoting that the 5G networks rollout will be conducted mainly through commercial investments and will be receptive to an investment-friendly regulatory environment; whereas the streamlining of administrative conditions, for example for the deployment of small cells for strict and timely spectrum harmonisation and VHC network development, as currently proposed in the European Electronic Communications Code, is of crucial importance;
Amendment 36 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ε
Recital Ε
E. whereas the implementation of 5G and the gigabit society requires an explicit timetable, policies and rules that are tailored to future developments, investment and innovation, cooperation with all stakeholders and adequate investments in order to fulfil all conditions within the required timeframe;
Amendment 44 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. WelcomNotes the Commission’s proposal to draw up a 5G Action Plan aimed at making the EU a world leader in the deployment of standardised 5G networks from 2020 to 2025;
Amendment 59 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. WelcomNotes the gigabit society targets of attaining network speeds of 100Mbps for all European consumers and, in the long term, of between 1Gbps and 100Gbps for the main socio-economic drivers, such as digitally intensive businesses, major transport hubs, financial institutions and schools;
Amendment 74 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses that a coherent spectrum strategy, including national roadmaps, is needed in order to meet adequately the challenges of 5G, addressing human, machine-to- machine (M2M) and Internet of Things (IoT) communications at various levels: connection speed, mobility, latency, duty cycle, reliability, etc.;
Amendment 79 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Points out that the construction of 5G wireless networks requires flexible and efficient use of all available non- contiguous parts of the spectrum, including 700Mhz bandfor wireless broadband services, for widely different network deployment scenarios, with a clear emphasis on harmonising the available spectrum bands on a regional basis;
Amendment 101 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Believes that 5G is more than an evolution of mobile broadband and that it will be a key enabler of the future digital world as the next generation of ubiquitous ultra-high broadband infrastructure that will support the transformation of processes in all economic sectors (public sector, healthcare, energy, utilities, manufacturing, transportation, the automotive industry, virtual reality (VR), online gaming and so forth) and provide agile, elastic and highly personalised services that will improve every citizen’s life; it is also expected to promote inclusive growth in rural and urban areas;
Amendment 118 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Notes that 5G should be instrumental in tackling the digital divide immediately and in improving internet take-up, especially in rural and remote areas;
Amendment 133 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. WelcomNotes the WiFi4EU initiative to promote free internet in local communities by means of an EU-funded scheme; notes that access speeds are increasing, and that as usage across multiple wireless devices grows, WLAN will need to match end-to- end connectivity demands;
Amendment 143 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. BelieveExpects that 5G will enable new high-quality services, connect new industries and ultimately improve the customer experience for increasingly sophisticated and demanding digital users;
Amendment 149 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Considers that the development and improvement of digital skills should take place through major investment in education with two main objectives: training a highly skilled workforce able to retain and create technological jobs, especially in countries with high unemployment levels, and putting an end to digital illiteracy – a cause of digital divide and exclusion;
Amendment 154 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. WelcomNotes the Commission initiative to reinforce the Investment Plan for Europe within financing instruments (EFSI, CEF) earmarked to finance strategic objectives for gigabit connectivity until 2025;
Amendment 161 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Calls on the Commission to ensure, maintain and develop financing for the 5G Action Plan at the appropriate level within the horizon of the next Multiannual Financial Framework 2020-2027 and in line with the needs of the EU Member States;
Amendment 187 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Calls on the Member States to implement the 5G Action Plan fully through coherent and timely action in regions and cities thatin order to encourages and incentivises cross-sector innovation and fosters an economic industry-wide cooperative framework;
Amendment 199 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Notes that each sector should work out immediately its own roadmap for standardisation, relying on industry-led processes, with a strong desire to reach common standards that have the potential to become worldwide standards;
Amendment 202 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Supports the immediate development of integrated solutions and tests followed by cross-industry trials of large-scale pilots in response to demand for services in the gigabit society;
Amendment 215 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Highlights that the development of the gigabit society requires fewer and simpler rules, which should be future- oriented, pro- investment, pro-innovation and based on an assessment of market competition; stresses that infrastructure- based competition offers the potential for less regulation and allows for a fair long- term return on investments;
Amendment 222 #
2016/2305(INI)
23. Stresses that National Broadband Plans need to be revised carefully, target all 5G areas, maintain a multi-technology approach, support regulatory flexibility and maximise the scope of innovation and coverage;
Amendment 229 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. WelcomNotes the Commission initiative to establish the Participatory Broadband Platform to ensure the high- level engagement of public and private entities, as well as local and regional authorities;
Amendment 236 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. RecallNotes that SMEs would benefit greatly from access to 5G solutions; calls on the Commission to detail its action plans to facilitate SME access to the 5G Participatory Broadband Platform;
Amendment 244 #
2016/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. SupportNotes the Commission’s proposed plan to set up spectrum harmonisation and long-term licence durations of at least 25 years, which will increase the stability and certainty of investments; notes that the decisions on these issues should be taken at the same time in all Member States to adopt binding guidance on certain conditions of the assignment process;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. StressNotes that voluntary, inclusive and consensus-oriented standardisation processes have been effective;
Amendment 24 #
2016/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. RecogniStresses the strategic importance of ICT standardisation and calls on the Commission to support an EU presence in international ICT fora;
Amendment 36 #
2016/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. WelcomStresses the ICT priority areas as the essential technology building blocks on which equally important areas such as eHealth, smart and efficient energy use, intelligent transport systems and advanced manufacturing will rely;
Amendment 55 #
2016/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. AsksCalls on the Commission to rationalise the number of platforms and coordination mechanisms;
Amendment 66 #
2016/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Encouragmphasises the European adoption of the Reference Architecture Model for Industry 4.0;
Amendment 70 #
2016/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Underlines the importance of effective digitalisation of vertical industries in order to benefit small and medium enterprises and especially consumers at European, national, regional and local level and the need to represent their concerns appropriately in international ICT standardisation;;
Amendment 88 #
2016/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Urges the Joint Initiative to better align research and innovation more effectively with standard-setting priorities;
Amendment 96 #
2016/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Highlights the fact thatneed for timely delivery is crucial;
Amendment 100 #
2016/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Calls on the Commission to develop immediately with international partners an agenda for closer cooperation based on specific areas of common interest;
Amendment 111 #
2016/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Highlights the fact that the FRAND (fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory) system of licensing is expected to strikes an important balance between innovators and technology users;
Amendment 129 #
2016/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. AsksCalls on the Commission to update Parliament regularly on the progress of ICT standardisation.
Amendment 10 #
2016/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Believes that the development of eGovernment is a key element of the Digital Single Market; welcomnotes the Commission Communication entitl's announced ‘EU eGovernment Action Plan 2016-2020’;: supports the underlying principles of the Action Plan, which will make public administrations more inclusive, trustworthy and efficient, providing open and interlinked digital services; welcomes the fact that administrative burdens and costs will be reduced by adopting the once-only principle;
Amendment 27 #
2016/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that adequate, reliable and high-performance infrastructure, such as ultrafast broadband and telecommunications networks, are essential for the functioning of eGovernment services; notes that the continuous adoption of innovative technologies, such as big data and the internet of things or the uptake of mobile services for eGovernment will be essential for keeping up with technological development and the provision of more rapid services that are more in line with user needs;
Amendment 43 #
2016/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Emphasises the importance of developing cross-border public services, such as the full deployment of highly secure eID and e-signatures; notes that there is still a lack of interoperability of different public services between Member States; welcomnotes in this regard the revision of the European Interoperability Framework and the swift implementation of Regulation (EU) No 910/2014 (eIDAS);
Amendment 50 #
2016/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
Amendment 71 #
2016/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Believes the Commission can play a leading role in creating a more open and inclusive eGovernment approach; therefore calls for the Commission to accelerate its efforts in leading by example, and for other European institutions to follow swiftly; believes that adoption by the Commission of the provisions of the CEF building blocks canould facilitate trust and a cultural shift towards the uptake of digital public services.
Amendment 1 #
2016/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2016/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 3 #
2016/2271(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. WelcomNotes the Commission communication on ‘Digitising European Industry’ (COM(2016)0180); recalls the objective of raising the contribution of industry to EU GDP to 20 % by 2020; underlines the important role that digitalisation can play in this context and the urgent need to establish an ambitious EU strategy;
Amendment 14 #
2016/2271(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses the need for adequate investment in research and innovation, infrastructures, cybersecurity and digital skills and calls on the Union to increase funding for these sectors;
Amendment 15 #
2016/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Α
Recital Α
Α. whereas the need for energetic efforts to reindustrialise Europe must be pursuemphasised with the aim of combining competitiveness and sustainability;
Amendment 31 #
2016/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas it is an imperative for European industrial strategy to create a digital single market helping to increase GDP in the Union and create thousands of jobs;
Amendment 34 #
2016/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ε
Recital Ε
Ε. whereas the digitalisation of industrial manufacturing canmust be an important stepping stone in increasing the resilience, sustainability and competitiveness of our economy;
Amendment 41 #
2016/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas digitalisation has the potential to increase efficient use of resources, energy and capital, contributing to a moren integrated circular economy and industrial symbiosis;
Amendment 43 #
2016/2271(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Deems itCalls on the Commission to take the necessary measures to ensure the full respect of workers’ and consumers’ right to privacy and to protection of their personal data in the digital environment; emphasises the importance of the correct implementation of the General Data Protection Regulation, ensuring the full application of the principle of ‘privacy by design and by default’;
Amendment 45 #
2016/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas digitalisation canis expected to contribute to safer working conditions, to greater product safety, and to the individualisation and decentralisation of production;
Amendment 61 #
2016/2271(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Considers it necessary to ensure high-quality education, lifelong learning and vocational training, including in the field of basic and advanced digital qualifications and skills and an internet which is equally and freely accessible to all.
Amendment 67 #
2016/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. WelcomNotes the Commission’s Communication on Digitising European Industry;
Amendment 71 #
2016/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 – introductory part
Paragraph 2 – introductory part
2. Strongly believes that an IDS ismust be of critical importance in contributing to solving Europe’s most pressing economic challenges:
Amendment 128 #
2016/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses the importance of an EU governance structure for the digitalisation of industry that facilitates the coordination of national initiatives and platforms on industrial digitalisation; calls on the Commission to consider setting a non- binding orientation target, that allows the EU to remain a global industrial leader; underlines the importance of advancing digitalisation in all EU Member States, particularly in those regions that are lagging behind; expects that, besides industry leaders and social partners, stakeholders from academia, the standardisation community, trade unions, policy-makers and civil society as well as industry leaders, especially SMEs, will also be invited to play an active role;
Amendment 132 #
2016/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. AsksCalls on the Commission to establish a specific industrial foresight unit that examines manufacturing and digitalisation trends, studies pertinent developments in other regions, identifies new key technologies and ensures that European leadership in these areas is maintained and new trends are integrated into policies and actions for the benefit of all EU Member State citizens;
Amendment 147 #
2016/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Stresses that integrated industrial digitalisation must be basmeet the needs on strong enabling conditionsf and benefit small and medium enterprises, especially consumers at European, national, regional and local level;
Amendment 164 #
2016/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. HighlightNotes in this context the need to advance investment in connectivity through 5G and fibre optics as an instrument for convergence and ensuring a robust digital infrastructural backbone for Europe’s industry;
Amendment 182 #
2016/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Believes that clusters and synergies between SMEs, industrial players, the skilled crafts sector, start-ups, academia, finance and other stakeholders can be successful models in advancing digital manufacturing and innovation; notes the importance ofneed to utilisinge digitalisation for advancing business model innovations;
Amendment 198 #
2016/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. WelcomNotes the establishment of the Smart Specialisation Platform for Industrial Modernisation and particularly the Commission’s proposal for Digital Innovation Hubs (DIH) to strengthen industrial digitalisation and digital innovation for SMEs; calls on the Commission to increase the funding for the DIH;
Amendment 201 #
2016/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Notes the important role of cities in providing digital infrastructure and support for SMEs, entrepreneurs and industry, and the immense opportunities which digital- industrial innovation holds for cities; asks the Commission to look into the US ‘Cities Innovation Technology Investment Initiative (CITIIS)’ and increase immediately investment in these sectors in the EU Member States; welcomes the publication of a European Digital City Index;
Amendment 212 #
2016/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Highlights the role that public procurement canmust play in advancing new industrial digital innovations and technology; asks the Commission to include a digital check in its REFIT Programme;
Amendment 217 #
2016/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Stresses the importance of financing the digitalisation of Europe’s industry; expresses disappointmendeplores the fact that that the European Fund for Strategic Investment (EFSI) has so far invested only 11 % in digital projects;
Amendment 242 #
2016/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Underlines the role of cybersecurity within the digitalisation of Europe’s industry; considers cyber-resilience as crucial and cybersecurity as a core sector for European digitalisation efforts; stresses that priority must in any case be given to the protection of personal and sensitive data; believes that producers are responsible for ensuring safety and security standards on the basis of the available state of the art technology; notes that cybersecurity requirements for the Internet of Things (IoT) and IT security standards must strengthen European cyber- resilience; believes that European standardisation bodies have a special role to play in this respect;
Amendment 311 #
2016/2271(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Deplores the fact that Europe faces a digital gap in terms of skill Stresses that Europe faces a digital gap in terms of skills; calls for the implementation of a skills guarantee and the right to (re- )training and life-long- learning; emphasises the importance of ensuring the promotion of digital skills; calls on industry to grant employees a ‘digital sabbatical’; asks the Commission to launch a pan-European up-skilling initiative;
Amendment 16 #
2016/2270(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas a number of Member States have been coerced into reducing budget deficits and cutting their social spending, which hassalaries, pensions and social spending have been slashed, particularly in those Member States, such as Greece and Portugal, to which the Memorandum provisions apply, thereby undermineding public health, education, social security and housing systems;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2270(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital Γ
Recital Γ
C. whereas the absence of any strategy forthe eradication of tax avoidance and tax evasion schemes havehas deprived countries of revenue that is essential for a robust social state and public welfare policies, leading to worsening poverty;
Amendment 72 #
2016/2270(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that urgent practical steps need to be taken here and now to eradicate poverty and social exclusion and promote the fair distribution of income and wealth;
Amendment 87 #
2016/2270(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls for priority to be given consistently, when shaping macroeconomic policies, to reducing social inequalities and guaranteeing universal free access to public social services;
Amendment 104 #
2016/2270(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Points out that an increase in social transfers and progressive, fair and redistributive tax systems, alongside practical measures to combat tax avoidance and tax evasion, are prerequisites for economic, social and territorial cohesion;
Amendment 142 #
2016/2270(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls onStrongly urges the Commission to propose a framework directive establishing minimum income schemes set at above 60% of national median equivalised disposable income, taking due account of each country’s specific characteristics.
Amendment 2 #
2016/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 18 a (new)
Citation 18 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 3 #
2016/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 18 b (new)
Citation 18 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 7 #
2016/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas, following the economic crisis which began in 2008, the EU is still having to face a period of stagnation with sluggish economic recoveryunemployment levels in certain EU Member States remain very high; whereas, on a more positive note, the motto of the Annual Growth Survey (AGS) for 2016 was ‘strengthening recovery and fostering convergence’;
Amendment 9 #
2016/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ε
Recital Ε
Ε. whereas the European Semester aims to increase the coordination of economic and fiscal policies across the EU in order to enhance stability, promote growth and employment and strengthen competitiveness; whereas this aim has not been achieved;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Reiterates that the single market is one of the foundations of the EU and is the backbone of Member States’ economies and of the European project as a wholemust contribute to strengthening the Member States’ economies; stresses that for the EU to successfully strengthen its recovery and foster convergence, the single market plays an essential role;
Amendment 18 #
2016/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses that the Single Market pillar within the European Semester should serve to identify the key areas for the promotion and facilitation of growth and jobs; stresses, furthermore, that it should also serve as a benchmark for commitment to struc, particularly in the southern European countries such as Greece, Italy, Spain and Porturgal reform in Member States;
Amendment 22 #
2016/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Reiterates its call on the Commission to take full account of the key growth and job-creation areas for building an EU single market fit for the 21st century, in response to the current economic and refugee crisis and as previously identified by the Commission and further specified in the study of September 2014 entitled ‘The Cost of Non-Europe in the Single Market’ and including services, the Digital Single Market and in particular e-commerce, the consumer acquis, public procurement and concessions and the free movement of goods;
Amendment 26 #
2016/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Urges the Commission to carry out systematic monitoring of implementation and enforcement of the single market rules through the country-specific recommendations (CSRs), in particular where those rules make a contribution to structural reforms;
Amendment 31 #
2016/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
Amendment 33 #
2016/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
Amendment 37 #
2016/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. WelcomEmphasises the Single Market Strategy and its targeted actionsactions which should be aimed at creating opportunities for consumers, professionals and businesses, encouraging and enabling the modernisation and innovation that Europe needs, and ensuring practical delivery that benefits consumers and businesses in their daily lives;
Amendment 40 #
2016/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Emphasises, in respect of the single market in services, that there is a clear need to improve the cross-border provision of services; welcomstresses the Commission’s intention to present a proposal for a services card and for a harmonised notification form; welcomstresses, furthermore, the Commission’s intention to review market developments and, if necessary, take action in connection with insurance requirements for business and construction service providers;
Amendment 41 #
2016/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Notes that more than 5 500 professions across Europe require specific qualifications or a specific title, and welcomemphasises, in this context, the mutual evaluation of regulated professions conducted by the Commission with the Member States;
Amendment 46 #
2016/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Reiterates its cCalls on the Commission to improve governance of the single market by developing a set of analytical tools to more properly measure its economic and regulatory performance within the framework of the single market pillar of the European Semester; believes that such an analytical tool could provide useful input for the CSRs, the AGS, the European Council’s guidance to Member States, and the national action plans aimed at implementing the single market guidelines;
Amendment 53 #
2016/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Welcomes and eagerly aAnticipates the Commission initiative to create a Single Digital Gateway to build on and improve existing tools and services, such as the Points of Single Contact, the Product Contact Points, the Construction Contact Points, the Your Europe portal and SOLVIT, in a user- friendly way for the benefit of both citizens and businesses;
Amendment 59 #
2016/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Stresses that the single market should continue to work for all actors - EU citizens and in particular students, professionals and entrepreneurs, as well as SMEs - in all Member States, who should remain in permanent dialogue and should be committed to assess what works and what does not work, and in what way single market policy should be developed in the future; highlights, in this context, the role of the Single Market Forum organised annually by the Commission in cooperation with local partners such as national authorities, chambers of commerce and business associations;
Amendment 28 #
2016/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 29 a (new)
Citation 29 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 29 #
2016/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 29 b (new)
Citation 29 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 56 #
2016/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Β
Recital Β
B. whereas the capital and liquidity ratios of EU banks have steadily improved over the last years; whereasdeploring the fact that risks to financial stability nevertheless remain; whereas the current situation calls for caution when introducing regulatory changes;
Amendment 100 #
2016/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. NotesExpresses concern at the high level of non- performing loans (NPLs) in some jurisdictions; considers that this issue is crucial and has yet to be solved; welcomdeplores the workinadequacy of the SSM and its draft guidance on this issue; looks forward to the results of the work on a minimum EU insolvency framework; calls on Member States to improve their insolvency legislation and to stimulate growth in order to tackle NPLs;
Amendment 128 #
2016/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Considers that there are many risks associated with sovereign debt; notes, however, that modifying its prudential treatment could have a significant effect on the financial sector, which calls for caution in reform efforts; awaits with interest the results of the international work on this issue; considers that, in the end, a better regulatory framework, be it European or international, will be needed;
Amendment 164 #
2016/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Points out that guidance provided by international foraimmediate steps should be usedtaken in order to avoid the risk of regulatory fragmentation;
Amendment 170 #
2016/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
Amendment 192 #
2016/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Recalls the need to clarify the objectives of Pillar 2 and its place within the stacking order of capital requirements; is of the view that the use of capital guidance isought to be a relevant way forward in order to balancachieve financial stability concerns with flexibility needs;
Amendment 355 #
2016/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. RegretsDeplores the fact that the Commission did not allow for more time to assess the implementation of the DGSD before proposing the EDIS and did not conduct a proper impact assessment of the proposal; stands ready, however,is bound to seize the opportunity generated by the proposal to discuss the DGSD and address some of the options and discretions it includes;
Amendment 388 #
2016/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Welcomes aNotes the European approach to deposit insurance, which must make it possible to address outstanding DGSD implementation issues and phase inimmediately introduce the risk reduction measures;
Amendment 399 #
2016/2247(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Recommends thatCalls on the Commission, the ECB and the EBA to study the possibility and suitability of accompanying the introduction of the EDIS with an assessment of the capital and liquidity situation of banks in order to better quantify the risks to be insured;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2244(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that franchising is an effective way for people to set up their own business and thus create their own employment: if they are affiliated with a well-known business model and able to take immediate advantage of its commercial reputation; advice (training), visibility, communication, installation, products, etc. provided by the franchiser; in the long term the franchisee will often create additional jobs;
Amendment 6 #
2016/2244(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. RecallNotes that 100% of the investment, however, comes from the franchisee; purchasing or leasing the premises, furnishings, interior and exterior decorations and stock, all of which is imposed by the franchiser, who is often also the seller of those items, and at a high price;
Amendment 10 #
2016/2244(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 – introductory part
Paragraph 4 – introductory part
4. Calls onUrges the Commission and the Member States to implement measures to improve protection of franchisees and their employees while ensuring that the business concerned remains viable:
Amendment 20 #
2016/2244(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 – indent 7
Paragraph 4 – indent 7
- the (weak) representation of franchisees in representative organisations should be aided and enhanced immediately against the (powerful) representation of franchisers.
Amendment 7 #
2016/2243(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 17 a (new)
Citation 17 a (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 8 #
2016/2243(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 17 b (new)
Citation 17 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 1 #
2016/2242(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2016/2242(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 6 #
2016/2242(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas youth unemployment has been and continues to be a problem in a number of Member States, with more than 4 million such as Greece where 45.7% of young people aged between 15 and 24 are unemployed in the EU;
Amendment 20 #
2016/2242(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes that the youth unemployment rate in the EU has decreased in the past few years; regrets, however, that in mid-2016 18.8 % of young people in the EU were still unemployedRegrets that in mid-2016 18.8 % of young people in the EU were still unemployed; points out that the youth unemployment rate in Greece, Spain and Italy is 45.7%, 42.2% and 37.9%, respectively; urges the Member States to utilise available EU support in order to tackle this longstanding issue;
Amendment 25 #
2016/2242(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Is strongly concerned that NEETs are disconnected from the education system and the labour market; understands that this demographic is the hardest to reach through existing operational programmes that implement youth unemployment funding schemes; considers that, for the 2017-2020 period,the special focus should be on this demographic so as to ensure that the main YG objectives are achieved;
Amendment 26 #
2016/2242(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses that the integration of NEETs requires significantly more EU financing and that the Member States should mobilise additional resources from their national budgets;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2242(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. EmphasisesPoints out that the YG has failed to madke a positivesubstantial contribution to tackling youth unemployment since 2012 but thatand, as a result, the youth unemployment rate remains unacceptably high in Member States such as Greece, Spain, Italy and Portugal; welcomes, therefore, the agreement reached by the co-legislators for the extension of the YEI until 2020;
Amendment 38 #
2016/2242(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Welcomes the fact that the YEI was frontloaded in the years 2014 and 2015 and the increase of the initial pre-financing to EUR 1 billion designed to ensureaimed at a swift mobilisation of resources;
Amendment 45 #
2016/2242(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls forUrges that specific expertiseto be developed in the Member States within public employment services (PES) in order to support people that cannot find a job within four months after becoming unemployed or leaving formal education;
Amendment 48 #
2016/2242(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. RegretsDeplores the fact that the majority of NEETs in the EU do not yet have access to any YG scheme; asks the Council to consider continuing a learning exchange within the existing PES network with a view to developing strategies based on best practices to reach and support NEET youth;
Amendment 61 #
2016/2242(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Invites the Commission and the Council to consider proactive transitional initiatives, such asenhance vocational orientation, careers guidance and information about the labour market, as well as support services in schools and careers services at universities, in order to facilitate young people’s transition into work by equipping them with transition and career management skills;
Amendment 74 #
2016/2242(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Recognises the significant efforts made by the Member States to implement the YG; observes, however, that most reforms have not yet been fully implemented, in particular in the forging of partnerships with social partners and young people and in supporting those facing multiple barriers; concludes that considerable effortinitiatives and financial resources are needed in the long term to achieve the YG objectives;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2229(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the Agreement upholds the historical fishing rights of fishermen from Denmark, Norway and Sweden in the Kattegat and Skagerrak without prejudice to the rights of fishermen from other States, while ensuring also that suitable measures are taken for fisheries management and conservation in these waters;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2229(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Γ
Recital Γ
C. whereas the Agreement also supports the implementation of the reformed system for fisheries management in the EU put in place underin line with the aims and basic principles of the new Common Fisheries Policy, and in particular the introduction of the landing obligation;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2229(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on the Commission to submit to Parliament and the Council, within the last year of application of the agreement and before the opening of negotiations for its renewal, a full and detailed progress report on its implementation;
Amendment 6 #
2016/2229(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Emphasises that access to the internal market for any third country must build on reciprocity, and that in the case of Norway any customs duties on food products, including on fisheries products, from the EU must be in conformity with the Agreement on the European Economic Area;
Amendment 10 #
2016/2229(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Stresses that the Commission should continue to put pressure on Norway in particular to ensure that custom duties on agricultural and food products from the EU are not set in a way contrary to the principles of free trade in the area of food products, including fisheries products;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Points out that European territorial cooperation, including cooperation across the EU’s external borders, is important for the regions in the Arctic; highlights that the EU funding supporting the cooperation creates clear added value and should be maintained post-2020;
Amendment 5 #
2016/2228(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 a (new)
Citation 6 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 6 #
2016/2228(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 b (new)
Citation 6 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 8 #
2016/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas applying and respecting the rules and objectives of the Common Fisheries Policy should be one of the most important aims for the Member States of the European Union represented in the Arctic region; whereas, additionally, the quantitative target of restoring and maintaining stocks above levels which can produce the maximum sustainable yield should be part of any evaluation concerning the marine environment and fisheries in the region;
Amendment 9 #
2016/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas any fisheries in the Arctic region must take place in compliance with existing international agreements regulating the area, including the 1920 Spitsbergen Treaty and, specifically, any, which lays down equal fishing rights ofor States Parties to this Treaty, and also in compliance with any historical fishing rights;
Amendment 19 #
2016/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Underlines that cooperating closely with the regions and sub-regions in the European Arctic is essential when building the EU-Arctic policy and EU funding for the area, as the regions and local communities have strong expertise in the key topicsare the final beneficiaries of policies relating to the Arctic and in contrast with the EU have undisputed rights to the territories in which they live;
Amendment 23 #
2016/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
Amendment 23 #
2016/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Calls for any development of commercial fisheries in the Arctic region to be made in a way fully compatible with the sensitive and specific nature of the region and its ecological balance;
Amendment 24 #
2016/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
Amendment 28 #
2016/2228(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Α
Recital Α
Α. whereas the EU is a global actor; whereas there has been a longstanding engagement of the EU in the Arctic based on history, geography, economy and research;
Amendment 31 #
2016/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
Amendment 31 #
2016/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls for any further development of commercial fisheries in the Arctic region to be made in compliance with international agreements relating to the area and the rights of any States Parties to such agreements and in compliance with existing historical fishing rights;
Amendment 37 #
2016/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
Amendment 38 #
2016/2228(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the EU has gradually built and enhanced its Arctic policy; whereas the evolving engagement and common EU interests are best served by well coordinated common means;
Amendment 42 #
2016/2228(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Recalls that no free trade agreement has been concluded between EU and Russia, and that therefore the EU has no effective bilateral instrument with which to influence trade and investment in the Russian Arcticthe EU will benefit from an environmentally prudent development of the Russian Arctic and urges the immediate normalisation of relations with Russia in order to strengthen cooperation in the development plans for that region.
Amendment 56 #
2016/2228(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the Arctic has long been an area of constructive international cooperation and whereas there is a need to keep the Arctic as a low-tension area or even an area of cooperation;
Amendment 74 #
2016/2228(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas three EU Member States (Denmark, Finland and Sweden) are full members of the eight-member AC, and seven others (France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain and the United Kingdom) are observers; whereas the EU is seeking to upgrade its status in the AC;
Amendment 115 #
2016/2228(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the joint communication as a positive step towards an integrated EU policy on Arctic matters, identifying 39 specific areas of action, and towards developing a more coherent framework for EU action; stresses the need for more coherence between the EU’s internal and external policies as regards Arctic matters; reiterates its call for a comprehensive strategy and a concretised action plan on the EU’s engagement in the Arctic;
Amendment 126 #
2016/2228(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Underlines the importance of UNCLOS in providing a complementary multilateral legal framework for settling intra-Arctic sovereignty issues; notes that only very few unresolved issues of jurisdiction exist in the Arctic; considers respect for international law in the Arctic essential; advocates a strong role for the EU in promoting effective multilateral arrangements and a global rules-based order through the strengthening and consistent implementation of relevant international, regional and bilateral agreements, frameworks and arrangements; underlines that the EU should have a strong role in reaching an agreement to maintain the Arctic, which is not under any country’s jurisdiction, as an area of common heritage to be used exclusively for peaceful and scientific purposes; notes that this does not concern navigation and traditional livelihoods;
Amendment 233 #
2016/2228(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Reconfirms its support for observer status of the EU in the AC; is convinced that the upgrading of the EU’s status would reinforce the political andis convinced that the institutional role of the AC should be upgraded in tackling Arctic matters;
Amendment 245 #
2016/2228(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Notes the EU’s capacity to contribute in multiple ways to the resolution of potential security challenges and the prevention of conflicts; calls on the EU to contribute, in partnership with its Member States, to building civilian security mechanisms, as well as to enhancing both natural and man-made crisis and disaster management capacities, and search and rescue infrastructure;
Amendment 255 #
2016/2228(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Notes the increase in the stationing of Russian military forces in the region, the building and reat the Arctic should not be turned into yet another zone of military rivalry and that the developmeningt of bases and the creation of an Arctic military district of Russiathis region need not be a zero-sum game;
Amendment 271 #
2016/2228(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Stresses the importance of engaging Russia in Arctic cooperation and the need to further assert EU strategic interests towards Russia by the use of selective engagement and to seekof seeking progress on issues of common EU and Russian concern where there is ground for global solutions to common challenges and threats; urges that this issue be included in the EU strategy on the Arctic;
Amendment 303 #
2016/2228(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Calls for better and earlier involvement of indigenous people in the making of a citizen-centred Arctic policy; stresses the need to safeguard their rights, culture, living environment and language;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2226(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 7 a (new)
Citation 7 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2016/2226(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 7 b (new)
Citation 7 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 5 #
2016/2226(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas according to the ILO, awareness of forced labour in Uzbekistan is still at an early stage, but recent ILO surveys nonetheless show that a vast majority of workers participate voluntarily when invited to pick cotton and that people who refuse to pick cotton are only rarely fined;
Amendment 9 #
2016/2226(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Η
Recital Η
Η. whereas the eradication of forced labour is an objective and requires ongoing procesefforts which needs to be supported by the EU and the international community;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2226(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas the Government of Uzbekistan has presented various Action Plans, has taken measures to raise awareness (including the organisation of round tables), has set up a feedback mechanism in order to eradicate child labour, and is changing the recruitment process in the country for picking cotton;
Amendment 17 #
2016/2226(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
Amendment 20 #
2016/2226(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Appreciates the fact that the Government of Uzbekistan is also pursuing the eradication of forced labour in cooperation with the ILO, but realiand stresses that this is a complex process, requiring, among other things,es the reform of employment policies;
Amendment 28 #
2016/2226(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Commission and the EU Delegation in Tashkent also to contribute through policy dialogue and assistance programmes to structural reformbetter working conditions in Uzbekistan, including increased remuneration for cotton pickers, mechanisation, and greater budgetary transparency on revenue from the cotton harvest;
Amendment 29 #
2016/2226(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Reiterates the Union’s commitment to further and deepen bilateral relations, which include trade, as well as all areas related to democratic principles, respect for human and fundamental rights and the rule of law; calls on the Government of Uzbekistan to create more space for independent civil societyat a promotion and deepening of relations between the European Union and Uzbekistan presuppose respect for human and fundamental rights and the rule of law;
Amendment 36 #
2016/2226(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Shares the view that the Decent Work Country Programme should be extended beyond 2016 and should be deepened so as to consider the modernisation of the Uzbek economy,improvements in employment policy, occupational health and safety and labour inspection, also taking gender equality into account;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2225(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2016/2225(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of Subsidiarity and Proportionality,
Amendment 29 #
2016/2225(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Δ
Recital Δ
D. whereas big data has the potential to bring undeniable benefits and opportunities for citizens, businesses and governments, but also entails significant risks, namely with regard to the protection of fundamental rights as guaranteed by the EU Charter and Union law, such as the right to privacy;
Amendment 42 #
2016/2225(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ε
Recital Ε
E. whereasdeploring the fact that the pervasiveness of sensors, extensive routine data production and contemporary data- processing activities are characterised by a high degree of opacity;
Amendment 52 #
2016/2225(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital ΣΤ
Recital ΣΤ
F. whereas biased algorithms and other analytical tools, low quality of data, spurious correlations, errors, the underestimation of legal, social and ethical implications and the marginalisation of the role of humans in these processes can trigger flawed decision-making procedures;
Amendment 65 #
2016/2225(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Emphasises that information revealed by big data analysis is only as reliable as the underlying data permits, and that strong scientific and ethical standards are therefore needed for judging the results of such analysis and its predictive algorithms which will respect the rights and freedoms of individuals;
Amendment 96 #
2016/2225(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Points out that Union law for the protection of privacy and personal data, as well as the rights to equality and non- discrimination, arshould be applicable to data processing even when that processing is preceded by pseudonymisation and anonymisation techniques, insofar as there are risks of re-identification, or, in any case, when use of non-personal data might impact on individuals’ private lives or other rights and freedoms;
Amendment 108 #
2016/2225(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Takes the viewStresses that transparency, fairness, accountability and control over personal data are core values through which specific rights and obligations are derived, and which should guide the action of corporations, public authorities and other actors that use data to frame their decision- making procedures; emphasises the need for much greater transparency with regard to data processing and analytics by businesses;
Amendment 119 #
2016/2225(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Highlights the fundamental role that the Commission, the European Data Protection Board and other independent supervisory authorities should play in the coming years and decades to promote legal certainty concerning concrete standards protecting fundamental rights and guarantees associated with the use of data processing and analytics;
Amendment 131 #
2016/2225(INI)
6. Takes the view that anonymisation techniques should comprise technical measures and contractual obligations which ensure non-re-identification; calls on corporations to regularly review such risks in light of new technologies and to document the appropriateness of measures adopted, allowing independent supervisory authorities to monitor practices and provide recommendations;
Amendment 136 #
2016/2225(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. UrgesCalls on corporations and other data controllers to make use of instruments provided for by the GDPR, such as codes of conduct and certification schemes, to seek greater certainty over their specific obligations under Union law and to bring their practices and activities into compliance with the appropriate Union legal standards and safeguards;
Amendment 180 #
2016/2225(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Encourages all law enforcement actors that use data processing and analytics to ensure appropriate human intervention throughout the various stages of the processing and analysis of data, especially when decisions may carry high risks for individualswhile duly respecting the principle of personal data protection;
Amendment 191 #
2016/2225(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Stresses, in particular, the importance ofneed to carrying out prior impact assessments that take account of ethical concerns in order to assess the inclusiveness, accuracy and quality of the data, and to ensure that individuals targeted by the decisions and/or actors involved in the decision-making processes are able to challenge the analysis, patterns and correlations and to prevent any harmful effects on certain groups of individuals;
Amendment 215 #
2016/2225(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Calls on the Member States’ law enforcement authorities that make use of data analytics to uphold the highest standards of ethics in the analysis of data and to ensure human intervention and accountability throughout the different stages of decision-making, not only to assess the representativeness, accuracy and quality of the data, but also to assess the appropriateness of each decision to be taken on the basis of that information;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2224(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital Α
Recital Α
Α. whereas whistle-blowers played an important decisive role in the LuxLeaks, SwissLeaks and Panama Papers revelations, thus contributing substantially to increased reforms to combat financial and tax fraud, money laundering and corruption, which hamper economic development and the rule of law;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2224(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital Α
Recital Α
A. whereas whistle-blowers often play an important and sometimes even crucial role in reporting irregularities, illegalities, fraud, corruption and other breaches of the rule of law at European and national level;
Amendment 5 #
2016/2224(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital Β
Recital Β
B. whereas the courage of those who, notwithstanding their personal and professional risks, report or disclose information in the public interest is such that the public law enforcement and monitoring authorities owe them adequate legal safeguards and protection;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2224(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital Β
Recital Β
Β. whereas whistle-blowing is very often not restricted to economic and financial matters, and persons who report or disclose information in the public interest often suffer reprisals, as do family members and colleagues, resulting for example in the loss of their careers;
Amendment 16 #
2016/2224(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Calls onUrges the Commission to take all necessary steps to implement the resolution on the role of whistle-blowers in the protection of EU’s financial interests and, in particular, to submit legislative proposals aimed at establishing a minimum level of protection for European whistle- blowers and an effective and comprehensive European whistle-blower protection programme;
Amendment 25 #
2016/2224(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Welcomes the fact that the Commission has recentfinally introduced a channel for whistle-blowers to report or disclose information on competition and cartel agreements, but insists that there should not be an excessive number of channels;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2224(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Calls onStrongly urges the Commission to present horizontal legislation to protect whistle- blowers as soon as possible;
Amendment 38 #
2016/2224(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Expresses the viewConsiders that the adoption of sector-specific legislation, such as in the field of the protection of the financial interests of the EU, could be fast- tracked and should not have to wait for the adoption of more general legislation on the protection of whistle-blowers.
Amendment 55 #
2016/2224(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Argues that whistle-blowers should be free to reporlodge a complaint both internally, within the workplace, and externally, and should be protected regardless of their choice of reporting channel;
Amendment 72 #
2016/2224(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls on the Commission to ensure that whistle-blowers have unhindered access to independent legal advice and financial and psychological support, and can claim compensation for harassment or the loss of their current or future livelihood if said harm is caused in retaliation for a disclosure made under whistle-blower protection.
Amendment 10 #
2016/2222(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. NoteCondemns the increased use of palm oil in processed food, with some 50 % of packaged goods now containing palm oil, and as a biofuel; calls for clear and transparent labelling of palm oil in processed goods;
Amendment 17 #
2016/2222(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Α
Recital Α
A. whereas the European Union plans to ratify the Paris Agreement and willshould play a crucial role in achieving the objectives laid down in the area of environmental protection and sustainable development;
Amendment 19 #
2016/2222(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Β
Recital Β
B. whereas the EU wasshould be instrumental in setting the Sustainable Development Goals that are closely linked to the issue of palm oil (SDGs 2, 3, 6, 14, 16, 17 and, in particular, 12, 13 and 15);
Amendment 32 #
2016/2222(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Δ
Recital Δ
D. whereas cultivation of palm oil over the last 20 years has unfortunately been the cause of 20% of all deforestation;
Amendment 33 #
2016/2222(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes the alarming scale of deforestation driven by palm oil; notes that palm oil is an important driver of deforestation for commercial agriculture, where it is already causing major damage, since extremely biodiverse tropical forest is being converted to monocultural palm oil plantations;
Amendment 34 #
2016/2222(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. NotDeplores the alarming scale of deforestation driven by palm oil; notes that palm oil is an important driver of deforestation for commercial agriculture, where extremely biodiverse tropical forest is being converted to monocultural palm oil plantations;
Amendment 58 #
2016/2222(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Η
Recital Η
H. whereas demand for palm oil will, according to estimates, double by 2050; whereas new plantations are constantly being established and existing ones expanded in Indonesia, Malaysia and other Asian countries, as well as in Africa and Latin America, thereby further damaging the environment;
Amendment 67 #
2016/2222(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
Amendment 83 #
2016/2222(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Is fully aware of how complex the issue of palm oil is and notes the need to operate on the basis of the collective responsibility of many actors, be theysuch as the EU and international organisations, Member States, countries in which palm oil is cultivated and indigenous people, private businesses, or NGOs; all of these actors must play a part in resolving this problem;
Amendment 104 #
2016/2222(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. UrgesCalls on the Commission to step up dialogue with governments of palm-oil- producing countries in order to increase environmental, land tenure and human rights standards, as well as transparency on land tenure and corporate ownership;
Amendment 155 #
2016/2222(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls on the Commission, in cooperation with the non-profit sector, to launch information campaigns and to provide consumers with comprehensive information on the environmentally serious consequences of the reckless cultivation of palm oil; calls on the Commission to ensure that information confirming that a product is not linked to deforestation is provided to consumers by means of a special indication on the product;
Amendment 161 #
2016/2222(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Ccalls on the Commission to honour the EU’s international commitments and to press ahead withstep up its efforts to developing an EU action plan to protect forests and forest people’s rights.
Amendment 168 #
2016/2222(INI)
Amendment 199 #
2016/2222(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Calls on the Commission without delay to strengthen environmental measures in its trade agreements with a view to preventing palm oil-related deforestation;
Amendment 209 #
2016/2222(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Calls on the Commission and EU Member States to focus on the development of tools that will facilitate the better integration of conservation issues into development cooperation; notes that such an approach will help to ensure that development activities do not lead to unintended environmental problems, but rather work in synergy with conservation activities;
Amendment 218 #
2016/2222(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Calls on the Commission to continue to developintensify research to gather information on the impact of European consumption on the process of deforestation;
Amendment 226 #
2016/2222(INI)
Amendment 2 #
2016/2221(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the geography, topography and accessibility of the land, in particular in mountainous areas, necessarily make employment and working conditions in the farming industry very problematic and insecure; whereas the Troika's austerity policies affect agriculture even more and reduce employment in that sector;
Amendment 6 #
2016/2221(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas equality between men and women is a fundamental right that presupposes a guarantee of equal opportunities and equal treatment; in all sectors;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2221(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereasdeploring the fact that these inherent problems are compounded by short-term factors, such as economic uncertainties and unpredictable weather, which, as can be seen today, make the situation of workers in the farming industry all the more difficult;
Amendment 18 #
2016/2221(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C
Recital C
C wWhereas it is deplorable to note that women suffer particular discrimination in relation to access to the labour market, with substantially lower wages, major pension disparities and more uncertain and precarious employment ties; whereas maternity represents an unacceptable form of discrimination against women in relation to accessing and remaining in the labour market;
Amendment 34 #
2016/2221(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that farmers and farm workers are, by virtue of their profession, exposed to a range of external factors, such as price and market fluctuations or even unpredictable weather, that make employment prospects precarious and insecure; considers that the Commission and the Member States must encourage the use of income-stabilisation and risk- management tools and take measures to strengthen the agricultural sector within the Union;
Amendment 39 #
2016/2221(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas it is deplorable to note that the EU’s macro-economic and austerity policies have resulted in increasing levels of poverty and inequality, particularly affecting women in the southern European Member States such as Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal;
Amendment 47 #
2016/2221(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Draws attentCalls on the Commission to thake specifical measures to address the case of seasonal workers, whose working conditions are particularly precarious; understands ‘seasonal workers’ to be workers who have entered into open-ended or fixed-term employment contracts, the duration and renewal of which are contingent to a major degree on seasonal factors, such as the changing weather, public holidays and/or the timing of harvests; calls on the Commission and the Member States to regulate the social and legal status of seasonal workers and to provide them with social security cover;
Amendment 57 #
2016/2221(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes that combating poverty and inequalities between men and women necessarily entailpresupposes a fairer distribution of wealth and betterimproved employment legislation, notably through collective bargaining, higher wages, and implementation of the principle of ‘equal pay for equal work’ or ‘work of equal value’, and social protection;
Amendment 64 #
2016/2221(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes that young people and women have particular difficulty in finding jobs in rural areas or starting a farm of their own in Member States of the southern Europe, such as Greece, Spain, Italy and Portugal; calls on the Commission and the Member States to ensure that funding for young farmers and support programmes for women in rural areas guarantee high- quality jobs with fair wages;
Amendment 68 #
2016/2221(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on Member States to take immediate measures to eliminate the pay and pension differential between women and men and put an end to all forms of precarious employment;
Amendment 79 #
2016/2221(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls on Member States to introduce legislation to protect or increase maternity, paternity and parental rights and asks that this protection should also be reflected in employment legislation; urgescalls on the Commission to submit a new maternity directive, respecting Parliament’s position.
Amendment 91 #
2016/2221(INI)
5. Calls on the Member States to emphasise the role that the social partners and social protection agencies should play in rural areas in combating undeclared work and improving safety and well-being at work, with a view to promoting the integratingon of all types of farm worker, particularly young people and women, even - and above all - those engaged in seasonal work.
Amendment 4 #
2016/2219(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Firmly believes that sustainable development and human, individual and social rights are interdependent, and that respect for and protection and fulfilment of human rights are prerequisites for reducing poverty and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs);
Amendment 5 #
2016/2219(INI)
Draft opinion
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 1) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 7 #
2016/2219(INI)
Draft opinion
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 13 #
2016/2219(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital Α
Recital Α
Α. whereas violence against women and girls is one of the world’s most widespread human rights violations, affecting all levels of society, regardless of age, education, income, social position or country of origin or residence, and representing a major barrier to gender equality; whereas in certain countries a substantial increase in the number of such cases has been observed;
Amendment 15 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 b (new)
Citation 5 b (new)
Amendment 16 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 c (new)
Citation 5 c (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of Subsidiarity and Proportionality,
Amendment 22 #
2016/2219(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital Β
Recital Β
Β. whereas sexual and reproductive health and rights are grounded in basic human rights and are essential elements of human dignity, which must be protected worldwide; whereas, furthermore, these have not yet been secured in all parts of the world;
Amendment 33 #
2016/2219(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Highlights the paramount importance of SDG 16; stresses that respect for human rights, consolidation of the rule of law, social justice, good governance and stability should be key objectives of all EU external policies;
Amendment 42 #
2016/2219(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Strongly condemns the continued use of rape and other forms of sexual and gender-based violence against women and girls as a weapon of war; calls on all countries, and in particular EU Member States, which have not yet done so to develop NAPs implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1325, together with strategies to combat directly violence against women;
Amendment 46 #
2016/2219(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Recalls the introduction of a human-rights-based approach (HRBA) in EU development policy aimed at integrating human rights principles into EU operational activities for development; calls for greater dissemination of the HRBA toolbox among our partners, and for its implementation to be closely monitored by the Commission;
Amendment 54 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the promotion and safeguarding of the indivisibility and universality of human rights arshould be cornerstones of the EU’s foreign and security policies;
Amendment 55 #
2016/2219(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls for a global commitment to ensure the safety of women and girls from the start of every emergency or crisis, by adequately addressing the risk of sexual and gender-based violence, raising awareness, ensuring the prosecution of the perpetrators of such violence and ensuring that women and girls have access to justice, ending the impunity of perpetrators - and to the full range of sexual and reproductive health services, including safe and legal abortion for victims of war rape;
Amendment 56 #
2016/2219(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Recalls the crucial importance of the principle of Policy Coherence for Development (PCD), as enshrined in Article 208 TFEU; insists on strengthening coherence and coordination among all EU external policies and instruments while implementing the HRBA;
Amendment 68 #
2016/2219(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls onUrges the Council, the Commission and the Member States to include human rights systematically in political dialogues conducted with developing countries;
Amendment 71 #
2016/2219(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses the importance ofneed to enhancinge women’s and girls’ access to all levels of education and removing gender barriers to learning, as educating women and girls has proved to significantly improve their future prospects;
Amendment 77 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereasdeploring the fact that respect for human rights is under threat worldwide, and whereasthat the universality of human rights is increasingly, and seriously, being challenged by a number of authoritarian regimes; whereas there are numerous attemptsmore attempts are needed worldwide to shrinktop the space of civil society shrinking, including in multilateral fora;
Amendment 85 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas a new Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy 2015-2019 was adopted by the Council on 20 July 2015, with a view to enabling the EU tohowever without the EU adequately meeting these challenges throughor adopting a more focused, systematic and coordinated use of its human rights instruments;
Amendment 90 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas the EU’s commitment to effective multilateralism, with the UN at its core, is an integral part of the Union’s external policy, and should be based on the belief that a multilateral system founded on universal rules and values is best suitedctions are needed immediately to addressing global crises, challenges and threats;
Amendment 94 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas the regular sessions of the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC), the appointment of Special Rapporteurs, the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) mechanism and the Special Procedures addressing either specific country situations or thematic issues alldo not contribute sufficiently to the international efforts to promote and respect human rights, democracy and the rule of law;
Amendment 106 #
2016/2219(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Strongly regDeplorets women’s under- representation in political decision-making, which undermines human rights and democracy; considers that governments should aim for gender equality in democracy-building and maintenance processes; and combat all forms of gender discrimination within society.
Amendment 128 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O
Recital O
O. whereas substantialfurther progress hais bneen made so far towardsded to abolishing the death penalty, and whereby worldwide, despite the fact that many countries have suspended capital punishment, while and others have taken legislative measures towards this end;
Amendment 136 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Q
Recital Q
Q. whereasdeploring the fact that millions of children around the world continue to suffer from all forms of violence, including the consequences and burden of war and its atrocities, discrimination and poverty, while the measures taken by the Commission to combat violence against children are inadequate;
Amendment 156 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital S
Recital S
S. whereas reports of violations of civil and political, economic, social, labour and cultural rights resulting from corporate behaviour continue to be heard from around the world;
Amendment 164 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital U
Recital U
U. whereas sporting events such as the Olympic Games and the football World Cups should be organised in full respect of all human rights, as enshrined in the Olympic Charter, and should aim at a harmonious development of humankind, with a view to promoting a peaceful society concerned with the preservation of human rights and human dignity, and with no discrimination based on any grounds such as nationality, race, religion, politics, gender or sexual orientation;
Amendment 177 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Expresses its serious concern that the promotion and protection of human rights and democratic values are under threat worldwide, that the universality of human rights is increasingly, and seriously, being challenged by a number of authoritarian regimesand/or terrorist regimes, particularly in States on the borders of the European Union;
Amendment 185 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Expresses its serious concern at the numerous, ever-increasing attempts made to shrink the space of civil society and human rights defenders, and the growing number of repressive laws adopted throughout the world, under the pretext of combating terrorism (through the introduction of counter-terrorism laws), as is occurring in Turkey;
Amendment 193 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses firmly that the European Union is committed to a CFSP founded on the advancement of democracy, the rule of law, the universality and indivisibility of human rights and fundamental freedoms, respect for human dignity, the principles of equality and solidarity, and respect for the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law;
Amendment 203 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Reiterates its call on the EU Member States to lead by example, by speaking with one voice in support of the indivisibility and universality of human rights and, in particular, by ratifying all international human rights instruments set up by the UN;
Amendment 211 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Draws attention to its long-term commitment to promote human rights and advance democratic values, without political or other considerations, as reflected, inter alia, in the annual award of the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, in the work of the Subcommittee on Human Rights, and in the monthly plenary debates and resolutions on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law;
Amendment 263 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Calls on the EUSR to consulthold systematically and in-depth consultations with civil society, including local civil society organisations, ahead of his visits to third countries;
Amendment 285 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Recognises the importance of engaging in human rights-specific dialogues also with countries with serious human rights problems; underlines, however, the need for the EU to draw clear political conclusions when these Human Rights Dialogues do not lead to positive outcomes; warns against side-lining human rights discussions in high-level political dialogues;
Amendment 309 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Requests that the EU strengthens its cooperation with the UN in the context of formulating a common strategic vision on security on the basis of, on the one hand, the new EU Global Strategy on Foreign and Security Policy and, on the other, the UN’s revision of its peace operations and its peacebuilding architecture; insists that there be cooperation with the UN in strengthening the role and capacity of regional and sub-regional organisations in peacekeeping, conflict prevention, civilian and military crisis management, and conflict resolution, and that procedures for the use of the CSDP in support of UN operations be developed further, including through the deployment of EU battlegroups, or through capacity- building and Security Sector Reform initiatives, while human rights and gender are mainstreamed into the work of the mission and operation;
Amendment 315 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Firmly reiterates that human rights agreed under UN conventions are universal, indivisible, inter-dependent and inter-related, and that respect for these rights must be enforced; stresses that it is important that the Member Stateserative to ratify all international human rights instruments established by the UN, including those enshrined in the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and, notably, the Optional Protocol establishing complaints and inquiry mechanisms, in conformity with Article 21 TEU;
Amendment 345 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. Condemns the dramatic number of deaths at sea in the Mediterranean; is extremely concerned about the growing numbers of human rights abuses against migrants and asylum seekers on their route to Europe; highlights the weaknesses and systematic incoherence of the policies of the EU and the Member States in this area and stresses the need for a holistic approach to find long-term solutions; regrets the failure to comply with the agreements on the relocation of refugees within the EU, resulting in massive overcrowding in the reception centres in Greece and in Italy;
Amendment 351 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31 e (new)
Paragraph 31 e (new)
31e. Recognises that EU Member States cannot accommodate more refugees; stresses therefore the importance of providing humanitarian assistance on the spot and of Member States contributing constructively to peace in the refugees' regions of origin; calls on the US and Canada to take initiatives for a more equitable sharing of refugee flows between the developed countries;
Amendment 359 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Stresses the urgent need to develop and introduce a comprehensive, coherent and well-coordinated Common European Asylum System equitably sharing the responsibility among the Member States;
Amendment 362 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32 a (new)
Paragraph 32 a (new)
32a. Recognises that the majority of people entering the EU are not refugees but migrants; stresses therefore the urgent need to develop and implement a comprehensive, coherent and well- coordinated common European system of solidarity for the equitable sharing of migration from third countries between EU Member States;
Amendment 376 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34
Paragraph 34
34. Calls on the Member States to respect and fully implement the adopted EU common asylum package andon the common migration legislation; calls on the Member States to participate in resettlement programmes, giving access to family reunification and granting humanitarian visarelocation of refugees from Greece and Italy to other EU Member States;
Amendment 394 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35
Paragraph 35
35. Recalls that criminal networks are taking advantage of the lack of safe migration channels, and of the vulnerability of women, girls and children and some specific ethnic groups, in order to subject them to trafficking and sexual exploitation;
Amendment 478 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 46
Paragraph 46
46. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to guarantee policy coherence on business and human rights at all levels, in particular in relation to the Union’s trade policy; invites the Commission and the Member States to report regularly on the steps taken to ensure effective protection of human rights in the context of business activity; regrets therefore the conclusion of agreements with countries where child labour and slavery are practised and condemns this practice of the EU;
Amendment 593 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 66
Paragraph 66
Amendment 602 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 66 b (new)
Paragraph 66 b (new)
66b. Expresses its opposition to the adoption of children by same-sex couples and the formation of families with parents of the same sex;
Amendment 714 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 79
Paragraph 79
79. Recognises the fact that persecution and marginalisation of human rights defenders is growing all over the world; is concerned that the public space for civil society is shrinking and that human rights defenders are increasingly under attack worldwide; considers a free civil society to be one of the foundations for the protection and support of human rights and democratic values, provided that they are sincerely held and are not being exploited to serve the interests of third parties;
Amendment 720 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 80
Paragraph 80
80. Highlights the role of EU delegations in creating an enabling environment for civil society, requiring a maximum of transparency and inclusion in their cooperation with civil society organisations and human rights defenders; regrets, therefore, that, ten years after the adoption of the EU Guidelines on Human Rights Defenders, the contact information of Human Rights Focal Points / Liaison Officers for Human Rights defenders are still not included on the websites of all EU delegations;
Amendment 736 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 83
Paragraph 83
83. Calls for increased support in the areas of promoting media freedom, protecting independent journalists and bloggers, and whistle-blowers, reducing the digital divide and facilitating unrestricted access to information and communication, and uncensored access to the internet (digital freedom);
Amendment 755 #
2016/2219(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 88
Paragraph 88
88. Is concerned about the growth of illegal hate speech, meaning speech that attacks a person or a group on the basis of national origin, colour, religion, gender or sexual orientation, especially on media platforms; calls on the Commission to involve representatives of civil society organisations to ensure that their views are taken into account in the negotiations on codes of conductespecially on media platforms;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2206(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes the simultaneous publication of proposals to revise the respective Regulations establishing the Union’s three tripartite agencies, CEDEFOP, EU-OSHA and Eurofound; underlines the importance of preserimproving the current full tripartite governance of those agencies;
Amendment 5 #
2016/2206(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Recalls that the discussion of the draft annual work programmes and the multiannual strategies of the agencies in the committees responsible should helps to ensure that the programmes and strategies reflect the actual political priorities;
Amendment 8 #
2016/2206(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. WelcomEmphasises the cooperation and exchange of ideas and practices between the agencies within the framework of the Union agencies performance development network, which contributes to more balanced governance, improved efficiency and greater coherence between them;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2206(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes the second progress report on the implementation of the Common Approach on EU1 decentralised agencies and appreciates the progress made in many areas; welcomesLooks to the Commission’s and the agencies’ efforts and progress made to make further efforts in the implementation of the roadmap; __________________ 1 http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal- content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=COM:2015:17 9:FIN&from=EN
Amendment 1 #
2016/2204(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2016/2204(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of Subsidiarity and Proportionality,
Amendment 10 #
2016/2204(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas social and economic circumstances and living conditions have changed substantially in recent decadesworsened in recent decades, chiefly in the countries of Southern Europe such as Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal, and differ quite considerably between the Member States as well as within them; whereas the concept of multifunctionality has opened up new opportunities for women; whereas women are very often the promoters of the development of additional activities on or outside the farm beyond the scope of agricultural production;
Amendment 20 #
2016/2204(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Γ
Recital Γ
C. whereas equality between women and men is a core principle of the European Union and its Member States, and its promotion should be one of itstheir principal objectives;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2204(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Δ
Recital Δ
D. whereas family farming is the most common operational farming model in the EU, and thus of great importanceshould thus be protected by the Union;
Amendment 44 #
2016/2204(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital ΣΤ
Recital ΣΤ
F. whereas the ongoing crisis in European agriculture and the situation of young people from rural areas, which is particularly affecting the countries of Southern Europe such as Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal, pose a serious challenge for the Common Agricultural Policy, which should ensure the development of rural areas while enhancing their potential;
Amendment 50 #
2016/2204(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ζ
Recital Ζ
G. whereas it is necessary to maintainCalls on the Union to take measures to create a sustainable and vibrant farming sector in all Member States of the Union as the fundamental economic basis of rural areas, which contributes to rural development, food production, biodiversity and the creation of jobs, mainly in underdeveloped countries ;
Amendment 56 #
2016/2204(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas the status of family farms as primary food producers can onlyshould be improved and their farming and livestock activities maintained through providing adequate financial resources and measures at EU level;
Amendment 118 #
2016/2204(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital ΙΣΤ
Recital ΙΣΤ
P. whereas women in rural areas also suffer from gender pay and pension gaps which are steadily becoming wider in some Member States of the Union;
Amendment 123 #
2016/2204(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital ΙΖ
Recital ΙΖ
Q. whereas women’s participation in the use of the instruments available under rural development programmes until 2014 was deplorably low; whereas no thematic sub- programmes on ‘Women in rural areas’ have been created so far;
Amendment 133 #
2016/2204(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. RecogniseSupports women’s contribution to the economy in rural areas as entrepreneurs, heads of the family business and promoters of sustainable development and their importance as stakeholders in the entire economic and social development of these areas; stresses, in particular, women’s fundamental role as members of family farms, which constitute the main socioeconomic cell of rural areas that cares for food production, preservation of traditional knowledge and skills, cultural identity and protection of the environment;
Amendment 159 #
2016/2204(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Encourages the Member States to monitorimprove the situation of women in rural areas and to make use of existing measures and specific instruments under the CAP in order to increase the participation of women as beneficiaries; recommends that the Commission keep the provision on thematic sub-programmes on ‘Women in rural areas’ when reforming the CAP in the future, as these sub-programmes can play a role in creating job opportunities for women in rural areas;
Amendment 210 #
2016/2204(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. EncouragesCalls on the Member States to promote equality between women and men in the management bodies and representation of all types of organisations, associations and public institutions;
Amendment 223 #
2016/2204(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Member States to fully implement the existing legislative acts relating to equal treatment of women and men in social security matters; calls on the Commission to monitor the transposition of their provisions in order to address the challenges and discrimination faced by women living and working in rural areas;
Amendment 302 #
2016/2204(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Emphasises that rural areas within the Member States have a crucial economic and security role to play in our modern society, in which more than 12 million farmers provide a sufficient amount of healthy and safe food for half a billion consumers throughout the European Union; stresses that keeping these areas vibrant is of the utmost importance and calls on the EU to immediately increase funding for the agricultural sector in EU countries;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2202(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Commission discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the eighth, ninth, tenth and eleventh European Development Funds for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Commission discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the eighth, ninth, tenth and eleventh European Development Funds for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2201(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the ECSEL Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the ECSEL Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2201(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the ECSEL Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the ECSEL Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2199(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen 2 Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on discharge to the Executive Director of the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen 2 Joint Undertaking in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2199(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen 2 Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen 2 Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2198(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the Innovative Medicines Initiative 2 Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the Innovative Medicines Initiative 2 Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2198(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the Innovative Medicines Initiative 2 Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the Innovative Medicines Initiative 2 Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2197(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on discharge to the Executive Director of the Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2197(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2196(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the executive director of the Clean Sky 2 Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the executive director of the Clean Sky 2 Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2196(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the Clean Sky 2 Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the Clean Sky 2 Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2195(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the SESAR Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the SESAR Joint Undertaking discharge in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2195(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the SESAR Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the SESAR Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2194(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the European Joint Undertaking for ITER and the Development of Fusion Energy discharge in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the European Joint Undertaking for ITER and the Development of Fusion Energy discharge in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2194(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Joint Undertaking for ITER and the Development of Fusion Energy for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Joint Undertaking for ITER and the Development of Fusion Energy for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2193(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Agency for the Οperational Management of Large-Scale IT Systems in the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Agency for the Οperational Management of Large-Scale IT Systems in the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2193(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Agency for the Οperational Management of Large-Scale IT Systems in the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Agency for the Οoperational Mmanagement of Llarge-Sscale IT Systems in the Aarea of Ffreedom, Ssecurity and Jjustice for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2192(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Asylum Support Office discharge in respect of the implementation of the Office’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Asylum Support Office discharge in respect of the implementation of the Office’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2192(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Asylum Support Office for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Asylum Support Office for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2191(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology discharge in respect of the implementation of the Institute’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Institute for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2191(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2190(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Management Committee of the Office of the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications discharge in respect of the implementation of the Body’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Management Committee of the Office of the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications discharge in respect of the implementation of the Body’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 5 #
2016/2190(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the Office of the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the Office of the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2189(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Agency for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 6 #
2016/2189(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2188(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Securities and Markets Authority discharge in respect of the implementation of the Authority’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Securities and Markets Authority discharge in respect of the implementation of the Authority’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2188(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Securities and Markets Authority for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Securities and Markets Authority for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 14 #
2016/2188(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Welcomes the initiative reducing the 2015 budget through two subsequent budget amendments, thereby using Union funds rationally; believes that ESMA’s budget still has rationalisation potential; stresses, therefore,emphasises strongly that any potential increases in ESMA’s means should be accompanied by adequate rationalisation measures;
Amendment 23 #
2016/2188(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Concludes that ESMA’s financing arrangement is to be reviewed; calls on the Commission to examine the possibility of modifying the current financing arrangement by introducing additional appropriately and proportionately calibrated fees for market participants, possibly replacing in part the contributions of national competent authorities;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2188(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Considers that the minutes of meetings of the Board of Supervisors, which are publicly available, should provide betaccurater insight into the discussions held, members’ positions and voting behaviour; believes that outreach to the general public could also be enhanced by web streaming events.
Amendment 2 #
2016/2187(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority discharge in respect of the implementation of the Authority’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority discharge in respect of the implementation of the Authority’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2187(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2187(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Points out that a solution has been agreed to share any budget surplus or deficit with Member States corresponding to their contribution key; calls on the Commission to legally formalise the agreed process immediately;
Amendment 16 #
2016/2187(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Notes with concern that, with the exception of the CVs of the Senior Management Board, the CVs and the declarations of interest of the Authority’s Management Board members and of the Senior Management Board are not published on the Authority’s website; calls the Authority to take all necessary measures in order to improve the publicity and the transparency of information related to their members;
Amendment 18 #
2016/2187(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Believes that the EIOPA budget still has rationalisation potential; stresses, therefore,emphasises strongly that any potential increases in EIOPA's means should be accompanied by adequate rationalisation measures;
Amendment 23 #
2016/2187(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Concludes that EIOPA’s financing arrangement is to be reviewed; calls on the Commission to examine the possibility to modify the current financing arrangement by introducing appropriately and proportionately calibrated fees for market participants, possibly partly replacing the contributions of national competent authorities;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2187(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Considers that the minutes of meetings of the Board of Supervisors, which are publicly available, should provide betaccurater insight into the discussions held, members’ positions and voting behaviour; believes that outreach to the general public could also be enhanced by web streaming events.
Amendment 2 #
2016/2186(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Banking Authority discharge in respect of the implementation of the Authority’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Banking Authority discharge in respect of the implementation of the Authority’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2186(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Banking Authority for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Banking Authority for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 5 #
2016/2186(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Takes note of EBA’s lease agreement, which ends on 8 December 2026, but which includes a break option after six years, triggering a penalty payment of 16 months’ rent equivalent to EUR 3 246 216; considers it imperative that the 2016 accounts should fully disclose any future relocation costs;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2186(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Believes that the initial budget cuts should not have been implemented by postponing the publication of standards and guidelines or by cutting attendance in BCBS working groups, but by ending financing of non-core related activities; stresses, therefore,emphasises strongly that any potential increases in EBA's means must be accompanied by adequate rationalisation measures;
Amendment 23 #
2016/2186(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Concludes that EBA’s financing arrangement is to be immediately reviewed; calls on the Commission to examine the possibility of modifying the current financing arrangement by introducing appropriately and proportionately calibrated fees for market participants, possibly partly replacing the contributions of National Competent Authorities;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2186(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Considers that the minutes of meetings of the Board of Supervisors, which are publicly available, should provide betadequater insight into the discussions held, members’ positions and voting behaviour; believes that outreach to the general public could also be enhanced by web streaming events.
Amendment 1 #
2016/2185(DEC)
Amendment 2 #
2016/2185(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the European Institute for Gender Equality discharge in respect of the implementation of the Institute’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the European Institute for Gender Equality discharge in respect of the implementation of the Institute’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2185(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Institute for Gender Equality for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Institute for Gender Equality for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 5 #
2016/2185(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. HighlightNotes that in 2015 EIGE achieved the great majority of its planned output indicators; the overall level of committed appropriations was 98,55 %, the overall available budget implementation rate for 2015 was 73,86% (compared to 77,97 % in 2014);
Amendment 6 #
2016/2185(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Is concerned that in 2015 the level of carry-overs of payments for Title III (operational expenditure) increased to 61 %, compared to 54 % in 2014; notes that, according to the Court of Auditors, this mainly results from the nature of activities of EIGE which span over many months, often beyond year-end; repeats its previous calls on EIGE to step up effortscalls on EIGE to reduce the level of carry-over of such payments;
Amendment 8 #
2016/2185(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Appreciates the contribution of EIGE to the ongoing work of the Committee on Women's Rights and Gender Equality; points outnotes that the outcome of the external evaluation of EIGE was positive overall; calls for better use of the Experts Forum’ and for higher synergies with other stakeholders;
Amendment 13 #
2016/2185(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Welcomes the prioritising of the work on several areas with outputs of high quality and high visibility, without losing focus on gender mainstreaming; in the event that Regulation No 1922/2006 is reviewed, calls for the incorporation ofurges that the fight against violence against women, female genital mutilation and migrant women should be incorporated into the tasks of EIGE;
Amendment 15 #
2016/2185(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
Amendment 2 #
2016/2184(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the European Police Office discharge in respect of the implementation of the Office’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the European Police Office discharge in respect of the implementation of the Office’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2184(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Police Office for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Police Office for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2183(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director General of the Euratom Supply Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director General of the Euratom Supply Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Agency for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2183(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the Euratom Supply Agency for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the Euratom Supply Agency for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2182(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that European Chemicals Agency ('the Agency') is a consolidated entity, in accordance with Article 185 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council1 (Financial Regulation), and it is the driving force among regulatory authorities in implementing the Union's chemicals legislation for the benefit of human health and the environment as well as for innovation and competitiveness; notes that the Agency helps companies to comply with the legislation, advances the safe use of chemicals in cooperation with international organisations and stakeholders and provides information on chemicals and addresses chemicals of concern; _________________ 1 Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 (OJ L 298 26.10.2012, p. 1).
Amendment 2 #
2016/2182(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Chemicals Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Chemicals Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2182(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Chemicals Agency for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Chemicals Agency for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2182(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council 2 (REACH Regulation), the Agency is financed through fees paid by industry and by an Union´s balancing subsidy as referred to in Article 208 of the Financial Regulation; welcomnotes that in 2015 and contrary to the original assumption, the Agency was fully financed through higher than expected fee income and the reserve from the income of previous years for its REACH/CLP operations; _________________ 2 Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 December 2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH), establishing a European Chemicals Agency, amending Directive 1999/45/EC and repealing Council Regulation (EEC) No 793/93 and Commission Regulation (EC) No 1488/94 as well as Council Directive 76/769/EEC and Commission Directives 91/155/EEC, 93/67/EEC, 93/105/EC and 2000/21/EC (OJ L 396, 30.12.2006, p. 1).
Amendment 5 #
2016/2182(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Welcomes the improvement of the way in which information on chemicals is presented on the Agency´s website which helps companies and consumers to make more use of it, making it more useful to interested parties;
Amendment 14 #
2016/2182(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. AcknowledgNotes that with regard to Regulation (EU) No 649/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council3 (PIC Regulation) and as referred to in Article 208 of the Financial Regulation, in 2015, DG Environment paid EUR 1,22 million in subsidies to the Agency for certain hazardous chemicals and pesticides in international trade; _________________ 3 Regulation (EU) No 649/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 4 July 2012 concerning the export and import of hazardous chemicals (OJ L 201, 27.7.2012, p. 60).
Amendment 19 #
2016/2182(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Recommends, based on the facts available, that discharge be grantedpostponement of the granting of discharge to the Executive Director of the European Chemicals Agency with respect to the implementation of the Agency'’s budget for the financial year 2015.
Amendment 2 #
2016/2181(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Fisheries Control Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Fisheries Control Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2181(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Fisheries Control Agency for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Fisheries Control Agency for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2180(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European GNSS Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European GNSS Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2180(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European GNSS Agency for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European GNSS Agency for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2179(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the executive director of the European Border and Coast Guard Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the executive director of the European Border and Coast Guard Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budgetbudget of the Agency for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2179(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Agency for the Management of Operational Cooperation at the External Borders of the Member States of the European Union for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Agency for the Management of Operational Cooperation at the External Borders of the Member States of the European Union for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2178(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Training discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Training discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2178(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Police College for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Police College for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 6 #
2016/2178(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Observes that a total of EUR 1 406 984 was carried over to 2016, amounting to 17 % of the overall 2015 budget; notes that, according to the Court’s report, the level of committed appropriations carried over was at EUR 212 456 (49 %) for Title II (administrative expenditure) compared to EUR 383 940 (59 %) in 2014; acknowledges that these carry-overs resulted from the College’s relocation from the United Kingdom (UK) to Hungary in September 2014 and the consequential need to initiate new services and supply contracts; acknowledges that most of the services procured under these annual contracts had not been provided by the end of 2015; calls the College to further reduce the level of allocations carried over to the following year by keeping them at the lowest possible level;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2177(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Union Agency for Railways discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Union Agency for Railways discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2177(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Railway Agency for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Railway Agency for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2176(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the executive director of the European Union Agency for Network and Information Security discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the executive director of the European Union Agency for Network and Information Security discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2176(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Union Agency for Network and Information Security for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Union Agency for Network and Information Security for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2175(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes that the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (“the Centre”), whose objective is to strengthen the EU's defences against infectious diseases, is almost exclusively financed from the Union budget; notes also that the EFTA Member States contributed 2,97% of the Centre’s 2015 budget; acknowledges that in 2015, the Centre had an outturn of EUR 5 079 604 on a total budget of EUR 58 451 950 cashed from the Commission;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2175(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control discharge in respect of the implementation of the Centre’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control discharge in respect of the implementation of the Centre’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2175(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. StressNotes that the Ebola epidemic provided a test case for the Union’s preparedness arrangements and legal framework and that the Health Security Committee met regularly to discuss appropriate measures based on rapid risk assessments and guidance from the Centre;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2175(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2175(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. AcknowledgNotes that the Early Warning and Response System, which was established under Decision No 1082/2013/EU to notify alerts and report measures taken to fight the serious cross- border health threats, has been constantly monitored; in 2015, there were 88 notifications, which resulted in 280 messages and information exchanges, and 37 different events were addressed, for example, the Ebola epidemic, the influx of refugees, the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), poliomyelitis, the shortage of medical countermeasures, the Zika virus, and the explosion of a chemical factory in China; stresses that all events were followed up in close cooperation with the Centre and Member States;
Amendment 12 #
2016/2175(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Recommends, based on the facts available, that discharge be grantedpostponing discharge to the Director of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control with respect to the implementation of the Centre's budget for the financial year 2015.
Amendment 2 #
2016/2174(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Food Safety Authority discharge in respect of the implementation of the Authority’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Food Safety Authority discharge in respect of the implementation of the Authority’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2174(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. WelcomNotes the contribution of the Authority to the safety of the Union food and feed chain, by providing Union risk managers with comprehensive, independent and up-to-date scientific advice on questions linked to the food chain, communicating clearly to the public on its outputs and the information on which they are based, and cooperating with interested parties and institutional partners to promote coherence and trust in the Union food safety system;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2174(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes that the Authority produced more than 600 scientific outputs covering the entire food chain and contributing to the improvement of public health and expects further similar measures in the near future ;
Amendment 5 #
2016/2174(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Food Safety Authority for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Food Safety Authority for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 9 #
2016/2174(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. WelcomNotes that in 2015 the Authority launched a multi-annual project to assess bee stressors and attributes of healthy honey bee colonies, also with a view to establishing a framework for robust and harmonised measurement of the health status of honey bee colonies in field surveys;
Amendment 14 #
2016/2174(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Believes that the Authority should continue paying special attention to public opinion, and commit itself, as much as possible, immediately to openness and transparency; welcomes, in this respect, that in 2015, the Authority successfully tested its new methodological approach to the use of scientific evidence; also welcomes, in this context, the improvements in sharing data by opening up the data warehouse of the Authority to a growing number of stakeholders; encourages the Authority to further progress on this path;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2174(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
Amendment 31 #
2016/2174(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Notes that only some of declaration of interests of the Authority’s Management Board members are published on its website; calls on the Authority, in accordance with the principles of publicity and transparency, to take all necessary actions in order to make the statements of interests of all the Authority's Management Board Members available;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2173(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the executive director of the European Aviation Safety Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the executive director of the European Aviation Safety Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2173(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Aviation Safety Agency for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Aviation Safety Agency for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2172(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Maritime Safety Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Maritime Safety Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2172(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Maritime Safety Agency for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Maritime Safety Agency for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2171(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Expresses its satisfactionNotes that the Court of Auditors has declared the transactions underlying the Foundation’s annual accounts for the financial year 2015 to be legal and regular and that its financial position as at 31 December 2015 is fairly represented;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2171(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the European Training Foundation discharge in respect of the implementation of the Foundation’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the European Training Foundation discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Foundation for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2171(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Acknowledges the Foundation’s continued contribution to modernising the education and training systems and to strengthening the human capital of partner countries including the support provided to the Union’s migration dialogue and Mobility Partnerships with neighbourhood countries; notes the Foundation’s inventory on migrant support measures from an employment and skills perspective (MISMES) as well as its recommendations regarding skills and migration;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2171(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. CommendNotes the Foundation’s high achievement rate of 96 % in respect of the target set out in its work programme;
Amendment 9 #
2016/2171(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. WelcomNotes the full compliance of the Foundation with the 2004 EU Staff Regulation;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2171(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Notes the efforts made by the Foundation to ensure security of its assets and hopeexpects this process willto be completed in the near future;
Amendment 12 #
2016/2171(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. NoteAscertains the high level of committed appropriations under Title II (36,2 %) carried over to 2015 mainly attributed to planned purchases made at the end of 2014.
Amendment 4 #
2016/2170(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of Eurojust for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of Eurojust for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2169(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that, as stipulated in its financial regulation, budget revenue of the European Medicines Agency ('the Agency') is based on cash received for contributions from the Union, fees for circulation and marketing authorisation applications for pharmaceutical products and for post- authorisation activities as well as for various administrative activities;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2169(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Medicines Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Medicines Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2169(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Medicines Agency for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Medicines Agency for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 14 #
2016/2169(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. NotesDeplores the fact that in 2015 the Agency recommended 93 medicines for marketing authorisation and that those include 39 new active substances; stresses that those substances have previously never been authorised in a medicine in the Union and are not related to the chemical structure of any other authorised substance;
Amendment 24 #
2016/2169(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Recommends, on the basis of the facts available, that discharge be grantedpostponing discharge to the Executive Director of the European Medicines Agency with respect to the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015.
Amendment 2 #
2016/2168(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the Translation Centre for the Bodies of the European Union discharge in respect of the implementation of the Centre’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the Translation Centre for the Bodies of the European Union discharge in respect of the implementation of the Centre’s budgetbudget of the Centre for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2168(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the Translation Centre for the Bodies of the European Union for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the Translation Centre for the Bodies of the European Union for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2167(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Expresses its satisfactionNotes that the Court of Auditors has declared the transactions underlying the Agency’s annual accounts for the financial year 2015 to be legal and regular and that its financial position as at 31 December 2015 is fairly represented;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2167(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2167(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2167(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Acknowledges that the implementation rate of the budget remained high in 2015 (97.5%) although it slightly decreased in comparison to 2014 (99%); notespoints out, however, that the level of appropriations carried over remained high for Title II (26%) and Title III (41%), although Title II appropriations that were carried over were reduced from 2014;
Amendment 8 #
2016/2167(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes with disapproval that the Agency has still not fully complied with the 2004 EU Staff Regulation;
Amendment 10 #
2016/2167(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. RecognisNotes the role that the Agency must plays in the implementation of the EU Strategic Framework on Health and Safety at Work 2014 to 2020; notes in this regard the value of the Agency’s work in the context of the ongoing revision of exposure limit values in the occupational health and safety directives.
Amendment 2 #
2016/2166(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Executive Director of the European Environment Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Executive Director of the European Environment Agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2166(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. WelcomNotes the publication of the Agency’s fifth yearly State of the Environment Report (SOER 2015);
Amendment 4 #
2016/2166(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Environment Agency for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Environment Agency for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2166(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. WelcomNotes that the Court of Auditors has announced that the transactions underlying the annual accounts of the Agency for the financial year 2015 were legal and regular in all material respects;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2166(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Recommends, based on the facts available, that discharge be grantedpostponement of the granting of discharge to the Executive Director of the European Environment Agency with respect to the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015.
Amendment 17 #
2016/2166(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Notes with concern that the Agency’s Management Board members are not required to make their CVs and declarations of interest publicly available, and consequently only a few can be found on its website; notes that the CVs and declarations of interest of its senior management team are published in the website; calls on the Agency to take all necessary measures in order to facilitate an increase in the publication of information as well as wider transparency;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2164(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction discharge in respect of the implementation of the Centre’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction discharge in respect of the implementation of the Centre’s budgetbudget of the Centre for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2164(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2163(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights discharge in respect of the implementation of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights discharge in respect of the implementation of budget of the Agency’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2163(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2162(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Expresses its satisfactionNotes that the Court of Auditors has declared the transactions underlying the Foundation’s annual accounts for the financial year 2015 to be legal and regular and that its financial position as at 31 December 2015 is fairly represented;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2162(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions discharge in respect of the implementation of the Foundation’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions discharge in respect of the implementation of the Foundation’s budget for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2162(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 5 #
2016/2162(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Acknowledges the Foundation’s progress in the implementation of the current four-year programme for 2013 to 2016 on research into shaping social and labour policies; welcomes its input to policy development through a consistently high number of surveys, studies, presentations, events and projects; notes the start of the European Parliament’s pilot project, ‘The future of manufacturing in Europe’;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2162(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Commends the highPoints to the budget implementation rate in 2015 (99,9%) and the good overall target delivery;
Amendment 17 #
2016/2162(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes that the level of committed appropriations carried over to 2016 was high for Title III (31,2%); notes that this is mainly related to multi-annual projects implemented according to schedule; notstresses, however, that further efforts are needed to meet the target of a timely delivery of planned activities;
Amendment 21 #
2016/2162(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. WelcomNotes the conclusion of a headquarters agreement between Ireland and the Foundation in November 2015.
Amendment 1 #
2016/2161(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Expresses its satisfactionNotes that the Court of Auditors has declared the transactions underlying the Centre’s annual accounts for the financial year 2015 to be legal and regular and that its financial position as at 31 December 2015 is fairly represented;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2161(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Director of the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training discharge in respect of the implementation of the Centre’s budget for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Director of the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Centre for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2161(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Approves the closure of the accounts of the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training for the financial year 2015 / Postpones the closure of the accounts of the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2161(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Appreciates the good quality of the Centre’s research, analyses and policy advice through which it supports the development of European VET policies and contributes to their implementation; expects, however, further action by the Centre in helping citizens develop their skills and find employment;
Amendment 6 #
2016/2161(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Commends the highNotes the budget implementation rate in 2015 (98,5 %) and the good overall target delivery; notes, however, that the level of appropriations carried over was high for title II (28 %); notes that this resulted from a large amount of equipment required following refurbishment of the Centre’s building which had not been invoiced by the end of 2015;
Amendment 10 #
2016/2161(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. WelcomNotes the Centre’s focus on skills and particularly the first European Skills and Jobs Survey as well as the launch of the new Skills Panorama; notes that the Centre provided more country- specific information and analysis and expanded its services to individual Member States;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2160(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes with satisfaction that according to the European Court of Auditors (ECA) the overall level of error in Heading 5 (Administration), including the budget of the European External Action Service (EEAS), continues to be relatively low (0,6% in 2015);
Amendment 6 #
2016/2160(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that the ECA found certain weaknesses in recruitment procedures of local agents in delegations and in procurement procedures organised by delegations and invites the EEAS immediately to improve the quality of its procedures; points out the challenges of operations within a decentralised network of 139 delegations, with limited human resources and in diverse environments, and stresses the necessity to reduce the administrative burden faced by individual delegations; welcomes the pilot project on the regionalisation of the administrative support to Union delegations in Europe and calls for the centralisation of administrative tasks at Headquarters as far as possible;
Amendment 9 #
2016/2160(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recalls the need to ensure full respect of the staffing formula on the ratio between EEAS staff drawn from Member States and from Union institutions as set out by the Council Decision on the organisation and functioning of the EEAS; welcomespoints to the commitment of the Vice- President/High Representative made to the Parliament to address the existing overrepresentation of national diplomats in the positions of heads of delegations, and to present in the course of 2017 a review of the EEAS human resources policy, looking at issues such as gender balance and mobility of staff between institutions;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2159(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the European Data Protection Supervisor discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the for the financial year 2015; / Postpones its decision on granting the European Data Protection Supervisor discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2157(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Secretary-General of the Committee of the Regions discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Committee of the Regions for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Secretary-General of the Committee of the Regions discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Committee of the Regions for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2156(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Secretary-General of the European Economic and Social Committee discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Economic and Social Committee for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Secretary-General of the European Economic and Social Committee discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Economic and Social Committee for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2155(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Secretary-General of the Court of Auditors discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Court of Auditors for the financial year 2015 / Postpones its decision on granting the Secretary-General of the Court of Auditors discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Court of Auditors for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2154(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants the Registrar of the Court of Justice discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Court of Justice for the financial year 2015; / Postpones its decision on granting the Registrar of the Court of Justice discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Court of Justice for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2153(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants/Refuses to grant the Secretary- General of the Council discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the European Council and of the Council for the financial year 2015;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2153(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls the Parliament's major role specified in the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) and in the Financial Regulation in respect of the budget discharge;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2153(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes the catalytic role of Parliament and of other institutions within the discharge procedure, as governed by the provisions of the Financial Regulation, in particular Articles 162 to 166 thereof;
Amendment 5 #
2016/2153(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Regrets that the Council continues to beis remaining silent in relation to the remarks made by Parliament in its discharge resolution of 27 April 20177 on the trend from previous years; _________________ 7 Texts adopted of that date, P8_TA(2017)0147.
Amendment 6 #
2016/2153(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Notes with satisfaction that, for the first time the Council provided the Parliament the 2015 annual activity reports (AAR) of the Directorate General for Administration, of the Legal Service and of the Directorate General for Communication and Document Management; notes that the remaining directorates do not have authorising officers by delegation that implement the Union budget Section II EC/C;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2153(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Regrets that the budget of the European Council and the Council have not yet been separated, as recommended by Parliament in recent discharge resolutions;
Amendment 8 #
2016/2153(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. NotesRegrets that that the information on the Council’s building policy provided on its website does not include details about the costs incurred in relation to those buildings; is aware that occasionally information is exchanged between the building departments of both institutions; proposurges that that exchange becomes frequent and that detailed information be given to Parliament in the Council’s annual financial report;
Amendment 10 #
2016/2153(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Reiterates its call for progress reports on building projects and a detailed breakdown of the costs incurred to date; calls forurges that information be provided on the costs related to the delayed completion of the Europa building;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2153(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Notes that new ethics guidelines for the Council were published in 2015 and are to be followed up by awareness-raising activities on ethics and integrity; regrets that the Council’s whistleblowing rules continue to be publicly unavailable;
Amendment 12 #
2016/2153(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. WelcomNotes the improvements made by the Council with regard to corporate policies, particularly transparency; however regrets that the Council has not yet joined the Union transparency register;
Amendment 13 #
2016/2153(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Reiterates its call onUrges the Council to develop detailed anti-corruption guidelines and independent policies within its structures;
Amendment 14 #
2016/2153(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Regrets the difficulties repeatedly encountered in the discharge procedures to date, which were due to a lack of cooperation from the Councillack of cooperation from the Council in respect of the discharge procedure; points out that Parliament refused to grant discharge to the Secretary-General of the Council in relation to the financial years 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014 for the reasons set out in its resolutions of 10 May 20118, 25 October 20119, 10 May 201210, 23 October 201211, 17 April 201312, 9 October 201313, 3 April 201414, 23 October 201415, 29 April 201516, 27 October 201517, 28 April 201618and 27 October 201619and postponed its decision on granting the Secretary-General of the Council discharge in relation to the financial year 2015 for the reasons set out in its resolution of 27 April 2017; _________________ 8 OJ L 250, 27.9.2011, p. 25. 9 OJ L 313, 26.11.2011, p. 13. 10 OJ L 286, 17.10.2012, p. 23. 11 OJ L 350, 20.12.2012, p. 71. 12 OJ L 308, 16.11.2013, p. 22. 13 OJ L 328, 7.12.2013, p. 97. 14 OJ L 266, 5.9.2014, p. 26. 15 OJ L 334, 21.11.2014, p. 95. 16 OJ L 255, 30.9.2015, p. 22. 17 OJ L 314, 1.12.2015, p. 49. 18 OJ L 246, 14.9.2016, p. 21. 19 OJ L 333, 8.12.2016, p. 51.
Amendment 16 #
2016/2153(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Reminds the Council of the Commission's view, expressed in January 2014, that all institutions should be fully part of the follow-up process to the observations made by Parliament in the discharge exercise and that all institutions should cooperate to ensure the smooth functioning of the discharge procedure;
Amendment 17 #
2016/2153(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Regrets deeply that the Council continues to fail to provide answers to Parliament's questions;
Amendment 8 #
2016/2152(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Points out, however, that the reputational risk in the case of the Parliament’s budgetary and financial management is relatively high, especially against the background of the Members of Parliament (MEPs) being the representatives of the citizens in the Union and hence any irregularities do not only damage the administration’s reputation, but also undermine the credibility of the MEPs as aneven if the error rate is remarkably low, the reputational risk is relatively high, given that such financial and budgetary errors might impact negatively on the standing of the institution;
Amendment 99 #
2016/2152(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38
Paragraph 38
38. Calls on the secretary-general to ensureNotes that the accounts of the political groups and of NI are easily accessible on the Parliament’'s website in a format that allows for quick and easy searches;
Amendment 105 #
2016/2152(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40
Paragraph 40
40. Welcomes the introduction of a special form for rapporteurs which enables to indicate which interest representatives had influenced their reports (legislative footprint);
Amendment 204 #
2016/2152(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 69
Paragraph 69
69. Notes with concern that no special arrangements have been made for staff’s pensions in case of a Member State leaving the Union and that it is entirely at the discretion of the Member State concerned, whether and to what extent it will acknowledge the pension rights of Union staff of their nationality; while recognising that this issue holds for all European institutions, invites the secretary-general to engage in a dialogue with the Commission in order to make sure that British staff do not become victimised in the case of a Brexit and that their statutory, contractual and acquired rights are fully safeguarded;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes that the estimated error level in the policy area of economic, social and territorial cohesion is 5,2%, which represents a small decrease of 0,5% from last year but is still unacceptably high;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Is satisfied withNotes the overall implementation by the Commission of the budgetary headings for environment, climate action, public health and food safety in 2015;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Is satisfied withNotes the work carried out by the five decentralised agencies which are under its remit and which carry out technical, scientific or managerial tasks that help the Union institutions elaborate and implement policies in the area of environment, climate, public health and food safety, as well as with the way those agencies’ budgets are implemented;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes that the 2.9% error rate established by the European Court of Auditors for agriculture for 2015 - in 2014 it was 3.6% - continues to decline; regdeplorets, however, that the estimated error rate is still above the 2% materiality threshold; points out that problems are administrative in nature, in many instances, and hence the error rate neither should be taken as a yardstick for fraud, inefficiency or waste nor necessarily means that monies have vanished, have been lost or have been squandered;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Is satisfied to seeStresses that the follow-up of DG MARE’s reservation made in its 2014 annual report in respect of the management and control system for the EFF programmes (2007-2013) has significantly reduced the number of operational programmes and Member States concerned to only five;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Is Streassuredes that the internal control system implemented by DG MARE provides sufficient assurance to adequately manage the risk relating to the legality and regularity of the transactions;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Points out that gender equality ishould be a cross-cutting objective for all policy areas; notes, however, that accessible data do not allow the quantification of appropriations allocated to actions contributing to gender equality in most EU funds and programmes;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. SupportNotes all recommendations formulated by the ECA based on its findings; welcomes the fact that the Commission has fully implemented 5 out of the 7 recommendations the ECA made in the 2012 and 2013 reports and urges the Commission to take steps to conclude implementation of the remaining ones;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Expresses regret, however,Deplores the fact that the vast majority of Member States transmitted their operational programme related to the EMFF very late, which causesing long delays in the mobilisation of fthe Funds;
Amendment 5 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Takes the view that the Member States should improve the instruments and channels they use to transmit information to the Commission; recommends that the Commission exert greater pressure on Member States to submit reliable data;
Amendment 5 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Repeats its calls on the Commission to implement gender budgeting at all stages of the budgetary process, including, inter alia, in the implementation of the budget and the assessment of its execution, including EFSI, ESF, ERDF, Horizon 2020, in order to combat the discrimination taking place in the EU Member States; stresses that quantifiable indicators for results and impact of the budget implementation on the achievement of gender equality objectives must be incorporated in the planning and evaluation of the budget, in line with the Budget Focused on Results initiative and the focus on performance;
Amendment 6 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that the principal sources of error in this area are the inclusion of ineligible expenditure in the beneficiaries´ cost declarations, the selection of ineligible projects, activities and beneficiaries and the infringement of public procurement and State aid rules; stresses the need to take steps immediately to reduce these sources of error;
Amendment 6 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. EncouragesCalls on the budgetary authority to focus on pilot projects (PP) and preparatory actions (PA) with true added value for the Union in the future; acknowledges that ten PP and five PA amounting all together to EUR 1 400 000 in commitment appropriations and EUR 5 599 888 in payment appropriations have been implemented;
Amendment 6 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Acknowledges that the Annual Report of the Court of Auditors (the ‘Court’) for 2015 found that the estimated error rate in Cohesion Policy decreased from 5,7 % in 2014 to 5,2 % in 2015; highlights the reduced level of error for the 2007-2013 programming period compared to the 2000-2006 period, which is a result of the strengthened management and control systems of Member States and the corrective measures taken by the Commission, and expects it to be further reduced;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes with concerndisapproval the persisting deficiencies in the quality of expenditure verifications carried out by auditors contracted by beneficiaries, which in some cases lead to the Commission's acceptance of ineligible costs;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that the main sources of errors are those found in the application of rules on eligibility, infringements of public procurement rules and state aid rules; underlines that errors made in 2015 may also be corrected before closure; notes with satisfaction the significantthe improvements in audit authorities’ controls compared to the previous year;
Amendment 8 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that the error rate for the first pillar of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) (EAGF: 2.2%) is very different from that for the second CAP pillar (EAFRD: 5.3%) and that that considerable difference is accounted for by the fact that the two CAP pillars differ in design, scale and objectives; welcomnotes the fact that direct payments were predominantly regular;
Amendment 8 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. WelcomesStresses its satisfaction at the fact that the Commission has accepted and taken account of all the Court’s recommendations;
Amendment 9 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Is very concernedDeplores the fact that Member States had sufficient information available to prevent and correct errors before claiming reimbursement and if this information was used the estimated errors would have been 2,4% lower and that, in addition, the error at Member State level contributed a further 0,6% to error levels;
Amendment 9 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Notes that the level of implementation in the Public Health programme 2014-2020 is very good, at 99,.9%, and that the payment appropriations available were fully implemented;
Amendment 9 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Underlines and shares, however, the concerns that the Commission’s auditors have expressed with regard to the need to ensure that these agreements bring value for money and are economically and environmentally sustainable;the need to ensure the environmental viability of agreements.
Amendment 9 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. StressesDeplores the fact that, despite the joint declaration attached to the MFF on gender mainstreaming, no specific measures have so far been taken; calls for effective monitoring of the implementation of that declaration in the annual budgetary procedure;
Amendment 10 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Notes that DG SANTE was responsible, in 2015, for implementing EUR 237 251 659 on public health budget lines, of which 97,4% have been committed satisfactorily; however, these funds have proved insufficient to support Member States' health systems; also takes note that the level of execution of payments is at 97,2%; stresses, however, that all credits under the Health domain were fully implemented, except for the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA); nevertheless underlines that the under-execution of those commitment appropriations fully corresponds to the outturn of 2014;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Is of the opinionRecommends, on the basis of the data available and the implementation report, that discharge can be grantedpostponing discharge to the Commission with respect to expenditure in the areas of environmental and climate policy, public health and food safety for the financial year 2015.
Amendment 14 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes the ECA recommendation that the Commission immediately and fundamentally reconsiders the design and delivery mechanism for the ESIFs when making its legislative proposal for the next programming period and takes into account the suggestions of the high level simplification group;
Amendment 14 #
Amendment 14 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls onUrges the Court of Auditors to include an analysis of achieving gender- related targets included in the EU 2020 Strategy in the annual reports assessing the execution of the Union budget;
Amendment 15 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
Amendment 15 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Reiterates its previous calls on the Commission to ensure the full implementation of the funds allocated to the Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme and urges it to take immediate steps to increase funding for the promotion of gender equality; notes that full implementation of the 2015 budget is declared by the use of global commitments, not allowing for a clear assessment of the use of the funds;
Amendment 17 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Reiterates its view that the Union’s financial rules need to be better adapted to the specificities of external action, including crisis management, and stresses that the current revision of the Financial Regulation needs to deliver greater flexibility.
Amendment 18 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. UrgesCalls on the Commission through the HLG1 to pay specific attention to national eligibility rules in its audit of national management and control systems, helping Member States to simplify them; urges the Commission to clarify the notion of recoverable VAT by providing guidance; _________________ 1 High Level Group of Independent Experts on Monitoring Simplification for Beneficiaries of the European Structural and Investment Funds
Amendment 27 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Expresses its concernDeplores the fact that managing authorities presented a lower level of cost claims for reimbursement in 2015 than in 2014, which led to a fall in the level of unpaid cost claims from EUR 23,2 billion in 2014 to EUR 10,8 billion in 2015, of which EUR 2,8 billion had remained unpaid since the end of 2014; points out the risk that delays in the budgetary execution for 2014-2020 period will be greater than those for the previous period;
Amendment 33 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes with concern the delayed start-up of the 2014-2020 programming period and that by the end of 2015 fewer than 20 % of the national authorities responsible for ESI funds had been designated; urgescalls on Member States to speed up this process and the Commission to provide assistance and clarifications;
Amendment 38 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Notes with concernDeplores the fact that, as of 30 June 2016, not all Member States had transposed the directives on public procurement and urges the Commission to assist Member States increase their capacity to transpose those directives, as well as to implement all their action plans on ex ante conditionalities;
Amendment 38 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Draws attention to the fact that many small-scale programmes, such as the school fruit and school milk schemes, are not user-friendly, partly because of the red tape involved, meaning less than perfect acceptance and implementation; welcomescalls on Commissioner Hogan’s to take immediate simplification initiatives in this connection;
Amendment 49 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Welcomes the use of additional financial instruments, though they must be designed with a sufficient degree of immediate compatibility to ensure that they do not result in an increased error rate;
Amendment 52 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. WelcomStresses the Court’s approach to focus on performance and considers it good practice that managing authorities define relevant result indicators measuring the contribution of the projects to the achievement of the objectives set for the operational programmes.
Amendment 56 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Calls on the Commission to make greater use of the opportunities regarding the performance reserve within the existing legal framework, in order to create a genuine financial stimulus to effectively improve the financial management; requests furthermore a reinforcement of the performance reserve as an instrument, by increasing the performance-dependent component in the following legislative framework;
Amendment 58 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. WelcomNotes the Commission’s proposed new approach to error rate analysis; welcomes also the Commission’s new procedure, likely to be applied for the first time in 2016, for prior checks, while retaining the method for dealing with minor errors;
Amendment 80 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. WelcomNotes Commissioner Oettinger’s intention to bring the various shadow budgets, in the long run, back under the Union budget; Calls on the Commission to prepare a communication on this issue;
Amendment 134 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 42 a (new)
Paragraph 42 a (new)
42a. Underlines that the control burden for end-users would decrease if a 'Single Audit' approach would be applied, in which a European audit would not be carried out separately, but would build on national audits. Such a continuing line of accountability would however only be possible if national audits are adequate and if Commission and Member States would agree on the principles and interpretations; calls on the Commission to be proactive in this regard by publishing guidelines;
Amendment 135 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 42 b (new)
Paragraph 42 b (new)
42b. Believes that granting discharge should depend on the necessary improvement in financial management at Member State level; points at the instrument of national declarations in this context which could help to achieve greater accountability and ownership at national level;
Amendment 149 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 58 a (new)
Paragraph 58 a (new)
58a. Reiterates its call for thematic concentration, as expressed in its discharge report on budget year 2014; calls on the Commission to inquire to what extent thematic concentration could contribute to simplification and a decrease of the regulatory burden and control burden;
Amendment 324 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 206
Paragraph 206
206. Takes noteDeplores that the Court did not formulate any error rate regarding this policy area whilst the director general of DG HOME estimates in his 2015 annual activity report a residual multiannual error rate of 2,88% for DG HOME directly managed non-research grants;
Amendment 327 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 210
Paragraph 210
210. Takes noteDeplores that the Commission considers that it is “difficult if not impossible to provide an estimated cost paid for migrants/seeker country by country as the management of migratory flows comprises a wide range of activities”107 ; _________________ 107 reply to written question 23 - hearing of Commissioner AVRAMOPOULOS of 29 November 2016
Amendment 351 #
2016/2151(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 223 a (new)
Paragraph 223 a (new)
223a. Calls for the Commission to play its full part in all aspects of the process of reform covering managerial, financial, organisational and pedagogical issues; asks that the Commission submits annually a report giving its assessment of the state of progress in these areas to the European Parliament to ensure its relevant committees can scrutinise the management of the schools system and evaluate the use it makes of the resources put at the system's disposal out of the European Union budget asks that the relevant Commissioner give the matter his close attention, and specifically calls on him to participate personally in the biannual meetings of the Board of Governors; reiterates Parliament's view that a 'comprehensive review' of the European Schools system is urgently required; calls for the first draft of the review in question to be provided until 30 June 2017;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Is concerned byDeplores the delays in the adoption and implementation of operational programmes and the designation of managing authorities and calls for sufficient payment appropriations to be made available through the current multiannual financial framework (MFF) in order to prevent a new backlog of unpaid bills in the second half of the MFF;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Is surprised and concerned that, instead of the report required by Article 16(3) of the Common Provisions Regulation (CPR), the Commission has presented only a communication regarding negotiations of partnership agreements (PAs) and operational programmes (OPs);
Amendment 5 #
2016/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Β
Recital Β
Β. whereas, with a budget of EUR 454 billion for the period 2014-2020, the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESI Funds) arshould be the EU’s main investment policy tool, focusing on aid for southern European Member States such as Greece that have particularly high unemployment;
Amendment 6 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Is of the opinion that the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESI Funds) are crucial investment tools, including for rural areas, and that the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) ishould be the main financing vehicle for boosting rural development in many Member Statesall Member States and principally those in which the agricultural sector has been particularly hard-hit; considers, moreover, that the rural development programme for Greece should be stepped up and funding increased for the period 2014-2020 ;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes the efforts made to use the ESI Funds in support of key priorities set in the country-specific recommendationfor the EU Member States; notes the Commission’s proposal on the establishment of the Structural Reform Support Programme; stresses that Article 23 of the Common Provision Regulation must only be used as a last resort and that Parliament must be fully involved from the early stages;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF) are the EU Cohesion Policy’s main financial instruments; underlines the importance ofneed for equal access to education and training in delivering genuine convergence and reducing ever-growing disparities and socioeconomic inequalities among European regions;
Amendment 8 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. WelcomNotes the significant contribution made by the European Structural and Investment Funds to the construction of an efficient and safe European transport network; Stresses the importance of synergies between the various funds;
Amendment 9 #
2016/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the negotiations for PAs and Operational Programmes (OPs) for the period 2014-2020 have been a modernised, strongly adjusted and intensive exercise withd a new framework for performance-based budgeting, ex-ante conditionalities and thematic concentration, resulting inadvertently in serious delays in the actual commencement of cohesion policy implementation;
Amendment 14 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Is of the opinion that the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIFs) must be used to boost quality jobs, sustainable growth and shared prosperity across Europe, with a special focus on supporting the most vulnerable and exposed groups in society;
Amendment 16 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes that there ishould be a stronger focus on performance of ESI Funds in the current MFF, as well as procedures for monitoring achievement of goals; believes that any link between performance and the ESI Funds in the future MFF can only be established after a thorough evaluation of the current arrangement;
Amendment 18 #
2016/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
Amendment 18 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Regrets that the overall level of the MFF 2014-2020 is lower compared with the MFF 2007-2013; stresses that in a period of austerity policies and extreme fiscal adjustments, pressure on southern European Member States’ budgets increases; highlights the fact that such pressure has led to a decrease in public financing for education and has generated high and persistent unemployment, especially among young people; notes that Greece's education spending is down 35.6% compared to 2009;
Amendment 19 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Takes note of the results envisaged in PAs and OPs, and expects Member States and regions to take the right path in order to achieve cohesion policy objectives;
Amendment 19 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Underlines that the new EAFRD should builds on the previous programming periods by providing flexibility to better address specific territorial needs and broadening the objectives to six EU priorities for rural development divided into 18 focus areas, all of which contribute to the three cross-cutting objectives of innovation and environment/climate change mitigation and adaptation;
Amendment 22 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes that, in the current MFF, financial instruments play a stronger role; believes, however, that they should not substitute grants as the core tool for ESI Funds; stresses that their implementation must be immediate, effective, transparent and always subject to full parliamentary scrutiny, without any prejudice to the unity of the EU budget;
Amendment 23 #
2016/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ζ
Recital Ζ
Amendment 27 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Expects the Commission to present to Parliament at the earliest opportunity a detailed assessment of the complementarity, additionality and synergies achieved so far between the ESI Funds and the EFSI, and calls for steps to be taken to ensure full coherence and synergies between the ESI Funds and other EU instruments; points out that ESI Funds have been earmarked for the period 2014-2020 for investment of EUR 454 billion in 500 projects aimed at boosting growth, research and innovation and for measures to encourage small and medium-sized enterprises; calls for the immediate implementation of these programmes, particularly in EU Member States with high unemployment rates;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Is seriously concerned and disappointed about the late adoption of the European Social Fund (ESF) OPs, and expects the Commission to have learnt from this with a view to preventing similar delays in the future;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Η
Recital Η
Η. whereas the ESI Funds in this period armust be more strongly results- oriented;
Amendment 32 #
2016/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas there ismust be a stronger alignment of investment under cohesion policy with the priorities of the EU 2020 strategy and the European Semester;
Amendment 33 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses that migration has become a structural phenomenon in Europe and calls for further use to be made of ESI Funds in order to promote the integration of asylum seekers and refugees into society;
Amendment 33 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes that the budget initially allocated for the current programming period under Pillar II was EUR 99.6 billion, which represents a decrease in real terms compared with the previous period, but because of provisions for additional national financing, variable co-financing rates and the possibility of fund-switching between CAP pillars, the final amount shows a slight overall increase at present, which should be used to assist EU Member States such as Greece that are particularly affected by the Russian embargo;
Amendment 37 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Is concerned by the long adoption process of the Rural Development Programmes (RDPs); expectsstresses the need for the Commission and the Member States to have drawn lessons from this process with a view to preventing similar delays in the futureadopt these programmes immediately so as to for strengthen the rural sectors of the EU Member States;
Amendment 37 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes that the Youth Employment Initiative (YEI) has failed to date to address the persisting problem of high levels of youth unemployment, which in several Member States remains at over 40 %; calls for an evaluat revision of the YEI following a fully fledged assessment of its performance; asks the Commission to take all necessary actions to ensure its continuation and its revision in order; asks the Commission to take all necessary actions to promote the creation of new high-quality jobs and decent social protection for young people;
Amendment 38 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. NotesExpects that that 6 million unemployed young people are towill benefit from the Youth Employment Initiative (YEI) – which will help them find jobs or improve their skills and qualifications – now that YEI has been integrated into 34 ESF programmes in the 20 eligible Member States; is concerned, however, about the delayed start to the implementation of the YEI; urges Member States and the Commission to intensify their efforts to ensure that the results envisaged are achieved successfully;
Amendment 38 #
2016/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes that Europe has been going through a difficult phase in both economic and political terms, so that a decent investment policy that is close to citizens is needed more than ever, seeking to tackle unemployment and social inequalities within the Union;
Amendment 41 #
2016/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that cohesion policy 2014- 2020 has been thoroughly reworked, requiring a change in mentality and working methods at all levels of governance, but that it is often perceived as a traditional expenditure policy rather than an investment policyso far failed to achieve the desired results, leaving countries such as Greece still in the grip of massive unemployment, poverty and social deprivation;
Amendment 49 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. WelcomNotes the higher allocation by the Member States of funds for environmental measures and for physical investments aimed at boosting competitiveness; stresses the need to increase Union funding for corresponding rural and environmental measures; expects that those measures will have a long-lasting impact and high economic leverage;
Amendment 50 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
Amendment 51 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Asks the Commission to ensure that the specific objectives of ESF programmes relating to Europe 2020 headline targets are achieved, by closely monitoring the correct implementation of the actions programmed;(Does not affect English version)
Amendment 56 #
2016/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. WelcomesPoints out that thematic concentration, as it has turned out toshould be a good tool for creating a focused policy and resulting effectiveness for the EU priorities and the EU 2020 strategy;
Amendment 60 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. StresseConsiders that the successful achievement of PA and OP objectives is greatly facilitated by the active involvement of the social partners and other relevant actors;
Amendment 62 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Stresses that funding under the cohesion policy is exceptionally important for the development of transport infrastructure in the countries of Central and E, Eastern and Southeastern Europe; calls for the necessary resources to be secured and for the level of financing to be maintained in the next multiannual financial framework;
Amendment 63 #
2016/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Insists that cohesion policy should continue to haneeds improved thematic focus, while allowing for some degree of flexibility in order to take on board the specific needs of each region;
Amendment 65 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Notes that only rarely do ESF- supported measures generate revenue directly, and that grants are therefore the appropriate tool for their implementation, while financial instruments could be a useful complementary tool for certain ESF interventions with a possible leverage effect;
Amendment 68 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Considers that the more flexible structure of the EAFRD was not fuladequately taken advantage of by some Members States and regions which perceived a risk of increased complexity and control requirements;
Amendment 69 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Underlines the importance of making ESF investments more attractive to beneficiaries through the use of simplified cost options (SCOs), and welcomes the increase in the SCO-covered amounts envisaged for the 2014-2020 period, from 7 % to 35 %; calls on the Commission to continue these efforts to make wider use of simplified options;
Amendment 70 #
2016/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Underlines, in particular, that consideration should be given to the circumstanceneeds of the distinctively urban or rural regions, the so-called ‘lagging regions’, rural regions suffering from the austerity policies imposed by the Troika on EU Member States such as Greece and regions with permanent natural or geographical handicaps (northernmost regions with very low population density, and cross-border, insular, mountainous or outermost regions); recalls in this context that it is important to support new policy challenges, such as immigration, as well as the broadly understood digital dimension of cohesion policy (including ICT and broadband access issues, which are linked to the completion of the Digital Single Market); points to the Energy Union Strategy, as the ESI Funds have an important role to play in its delivery;
Amendment 75 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
Amendment 88 #
2016/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Considers that ex-ante conditionalities, in particular the one on Research and Innovation Strategies for Smart Specialisation (RIS3), have proved their usefulness, and suggests that they be further improvedshould aim to strengthen small and medium-sized undertakings in the EU Member States;
Amendment 92 #
2016/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Draws attention toeplores the fact that 25 per cent of ex-ante conditionalities have not yet been fulfilled; calls, therefore, for urgent action to counteract this;;
Amendment 99 #
2016/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Points tout that an important improvement has been the introduction of thematic concentration, whereby investments are focused on specific objectives and priorities corresponding to indicators and targets specifically agreed for all the themes;·
Amendment 100 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Considers that the Directorate- General for Agriculture and Rural Development has the necessary technical knowledge and overview of rural and agricultural issues and is therefore the natural manager of the RDPs, and; urges the Commission to ensure that staffing levels are in place to ensure proper implementation and auditing of the CAP; stresses the responsibility of the Directorate General for Agriculture and Rural Development to strengthen the primary sector in Member States such as Greece where the agricultural sector has been particularly affected by the policies of the Troika;
Amendment 106 #
2016/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Stresses that the successful achievement of PA and OP objectives is greatly facilitated by active involvement of the local and regional level and the Llocal Aand regional action Ggroups and other relevant local and regional stakeholders on the ground, in ensuring that projects are successfully embedded in their local areas and effectively operated, while paying due regard to the common good and the social and economic welfare of the people.
Amendment 135 #
2016/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Points out that the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) is presented as a success story when it comes to fast implementation, and against this background asks the Commission to come forward with learning points for the ESI Funds for the new programming period despite the fact that it has not yet implemented the 2014-2020 investment programmes it pledged to support;
Amendment 158 #
2016/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Supports a further balanced increase in financial instruments; asks the Commission, therefore, to come forward with incentives for managing authorities to achieve this;
Amendment 184 #
2016/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Notes that the Member States have different administrative cultures, translating into different levels of performance, whichbut that the ex-ante conditionalities areshould nevertheless helping to overcome the problem;
Amendment 211 #
2016/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. WelcomNotes the code of conduct agreed during the negotiations, which outlines the minimum standards for a well- functioning partnership; observes, however, that while the code has improved the implementation of the partnership principle in most Member States, many Member States have centralised large parts of the negotiation and implementation of the PAs and OPs;
Amendment 222 #
2016/2148(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. Emphasises that ESI Funds have been earmarked for measures to contribute to GDP in many Member States, an essential element to be considered in the 7th Cohesion Report, to be expected in 2017;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 6 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the number of petitions received is modest when compared to the EU’s total population, which indicates that the vast majority of EU citizens are unfortunately not yet aware of the right to petition, or of its possible usefulness as a means of drawing the attention of the EU institutions and the Member States to matters which affect and concern them;
Amendment 8 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas 483 petitions were not considered admissible in 2015 and whereas there is still widespread confusion about the EU’s fields of activity as is shown by the high number of inadmissible petitions received (33.8%); whereas to fundamentally remedy this situation, communication with citizens needs to be encouraged and improved and the different areas of responsibility – European, national and local – need to be explained;
Amendment 21 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas the right to petition has to be a key element for a participatory democracy; whereas petitions enable the European Parliament to listen to, to inform and to help to solve problems affecting its citizens, and whereas the impact of EU legislation on the daily life of those living in the EU should be assessed through said petitions;
Amendment 24 #
Amendment 31 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas the Committee on Petitions is best able to show citizens what the European Union does for them and what solutions it can provide for their problems at European, national or local level; whereas the Committee on Petitions can do excellent work explaining the successes and benefits of the European project;
Amendment 35 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
Amendment 41 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital ΙΑ
Recital ΙΑ
K. whereas, therefore, petitions are veryplay quite an important forrole in the legislative process as they provide other Parliament committees with useful and direct input for their legislative work in their respective fields; whereas petitions are notand should remain solely the responsibility of the Committee on Petitions, but should rather be a shared endeavour of all Parliament committees;
Amendment 47 #
Amendment 73 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital X
Recital X
X. whereas the key issues of concern raised in petitions pertain to a wide range of issues, such as environmental legislation (in particular, waste water treatment, waste management, gas and hydrocarbon prospection and extraction), fundamental rights (in particular the rights of the child and of persons with disabilities), the free movement of persons, discrimination, immigration, employment, animal welfare, the application of justice (in particular custody rights regarding minors), the payment of war reparations and compensation and breaches of consumer rights;
Amendment 96 #
Amendment 98 #
Amendment 108 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses that petitions are very important for the legislative process, as they detect deficiencies in the transposition of Community legislation and provide other Parliament committees with useful and direct input for their legislative work in their respective fields; applauds the setting up of an informal petitions network within Parliament, with the participation of Members representing every committee of Parliament, in order to ensure smooth and effective coordination of petitions work; considers that petitions are not solely the responsibility of the Committee on Petitions, but should be a shared endeavour of all of the European Parliament’s committees; urges all parliamentary committees concerned to pay due attention to the petitions forwarded to them and to provide the information necessary for petitions to be processed properly;
Amendment 121 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Welcomes the fact that in 2015 the time taken to process petitions fell, maintains nonetheless that the Secretariat of the Committee on Petitions is in immediate need of greater technical resources and personnel in order to guarantee a reduction in the time taken to process petitions;
Amendment 123 #
Amendment 162 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Stresses the wide range of subjects raised in the petitions filed by citizens, such as fundamental rights, the issue of German reparations and compensation for the Second World War, the rights of persons with disabilities, the internal market, environmental law, labour relations, migration policies, trade agreements, public health issues, child welfare, transport, animal rights and discrimination;
Amendment 172 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Believes that the organisation of public hearings is an important way of examining problems raised by petitioners, such as the holding of a public hearing on German liabilities to Greece which include, inter alia, German war reparations, the repayment of the forced loan extracted from Greece during the German occupation and compensation for relatives of victims executed by the German forces of occupation between 1941 and 1944; draws attention to the public hearings organised on 26 February 2015 with the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety in response to the ECI on ‘Water is a Human Right’, and with the Committee on Legal Affairs for the ECI entitled ‘One of Us’;
Amendment 207 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H Ex-AM24
Recital H Ex-AM24
H. whereas confidence in the system and in the European project as a whole has been dented by recent events in the United Kingdom, the humanitarian refugee crisis, the social and economic impact of the financial crisis, and the rise in xenophobia and racism throughout Europe; whereas the Committee on Petitions has the responsibility and the huge challenge of maintaining dialogue with EU citizensthe Committee on Petitions has an opportunity and the huge challenge of maintaining a dialogue with citizens as it has the possibility to bring the EU’s institutions and citizens together once again, by placing the citizens in the centre of the European project;
Amendment 208 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L Ex-AM47
Recital L Ex-AM47
L. whereas, through petitions, EU citizens can better monitor the drawing up and complain about poor implementation of EU law; whereas in so doing citizens act as a useful source of information when it comes to detecting breaches of EU law;
Amendment 209 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 Ex-AM96
Paragraph 2 Ex-AM96
2. Stresses the work that the Committee on Petitions carries out in listening to and helping to solve problems affecting its citizens; believes that petitions can help in better assessing the impact that EU legislation has on their daily lives;
Amendment 210 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 Ex-AM98
Paragraph 3 Ex-AM98
Amendment 211 #
2016/2146(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 Ex-AM123
Paragraph 6 Ex-AM123
6. Notes that, as mentioned by Vice- President Timmermans at his meeting with the Committee on Petitions on 5 May 2015, the Commission is involved with and committed to the petition process and responds as quickly as possible to new petitions forwarded to it by Parliament; points out that Commission replies are usually detailed and pertain to the petitions for which it has jurisdiction; recalls howeverRecalls that on many occasions the Commission does not bring any new information in its replies to petitions for which a review has been requested owing to a change in their status and context ; notes that the Commission’s written responses are monitored, as are and explanations are given during oral debates held by the Committee on Petitions; notes that whenwith regret that the Commission candoes not provide a detailed response to a requests from the Committee on Petitions, it is because it has no jurisdiction in the matter; notes the Commission’s commitment in sending generally competent officials to meetings of the Committee on Petitions; regrets that during public debates with petitioners and Members of Parliament the officials sent by the Commission do not provide any new or relevant information that might enable a solution to the issues raised;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2145(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas cooperation among European scientists, the use and exchange of data, always in accordance with the data protection authorities and the use of new technological solutions, including cloud computing and digitisation of European science, are key to the development of the Digital Single Market; whereas the European Open Science Cloud will have positive effects on scientific development in Europe; and whereas it must be developed and used with due regard for the fundamental rights enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights (CFR);
Amendment 6 #
2016/2145(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. StressNotes that the development of the European Open Science Cloud must take place with due regard for the fundamental rights enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights (CFR), in particular for the rights of data protection, privacy, liberty and security, and that it must abide by the principles of privacy by design and by default, and the principles of proportionality, necessity, data minimisation and purpose limitation; recognises that additional safeguards, such as pseudonymisation or anonymisation, can enhance protection when personal data are used in big data applications or cloud computing;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 17 a (new)
Citation 17 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 9 #
2016/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 17 b (new)
Citation 17 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 9 #
2016/2145(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Believes that current EU data protection legislation, in particular the recently adopted General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), should provides strong safeguards for personal data protection; recognises that a harmonised approach to the implementation of the GDPR, including guidelines, compliance toolkits and awareness-raising campaigns for citizens, researchers and businesses, is crucial, especially for the development of the European Open Science Cloud and the facilitation of research cooperation, including by high-performance computing;
Amendment 18 #
2016/2145(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. BelievNotes that the free flow of data is paramount to the digital economy and essential for the development of science and research; emphasises that the Commission initiative on the free flow of data should enable the growing European cloud computing sector to be in the forefront of the global innovation race, including for science and innovation purposes; stresses that the Initiative should also aim to lift any arbitrary restrictions as to where companies should place infrastructure or store data, as these would hamper the development of Europe’s economy;
Amendment 23 #
2016/2145(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. SupportNotes the Commission’s intention to remove barriers to the free movement of data and data services and disproportionate data localisation requirements by linking the European Cloud Initiative to the free flow of data proposal; considers that, in order to achieve a digital society, the free flow of data must be regarded as the fifth freedom within the Single Marketstresses that the proposed removal of barriers must take seriously into account the protection of personal and sensitive data;
Amendment 23 #
2016/2145(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. NotStresses that the scientific community needs a secured and safe high- capacity infrastructure in order to advance research and prevent potential security breaches, cyber-attacks or misuse of personal data, especially when large amounts of data are collected and processed; calls on the Commission and the Member States to support and incentivise the development of the necessary technology, taking into account the security by design approach; supports the Commission’s efforts to enhance cooperation among public authorities, European industry, researchers and academia in the area of big data and cybersecurity from the early stages of the research and innovation process in order to enable innovative and trustworthy European solutions.
Amendment 43 #
2016/2145(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the Commission to identify best certification schemes and commonly used standards for data sharing across Member States, to lay out a market-driven pan-European set of standards facilitating data sharing, and to prefer open and global standards over proprietary standards whenever justified;
Amendment 72 #
2016/2145(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Notes the underrepresentation of key stakeholders in the discussions and in Large Scale Pilot projects; stresses that the European Cloud Initiative should involvemeet the needs of and benefit SMEs and mainly consumers at European, national, regional and local levels.
Amendment 89 #
2016/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Invalidates and wishes to review its previous resolutions based on a biased analysis of open mass data, motivated by the interests of non-European powers and compromising the protection of personal and sensitive data;·
Amendment 120 #
2016/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Recalls that data are the raw material of the digital economy and play a fundamental role in the added value chain; stresses that storing or processing data outside Europe is tantamount to killing off Europe's digital economy; demands that the storage, exploitation and use optimisation of data be carried out by European companies on the territory of the Union;·and in compliance with the relevant national legislation; ·
Amendment 183 #
2016/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11α. Stresses that the protection of personal and sensitive data must receive priority where it is at risk of being compromised by the free movement of data;·
Amendment 200 #
2016/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Asks Member States and the Union to encourage and fund the writing of secure free software with Linux, firstly within EU services, public administrations and schools and then in businesses and for the general public;·
Amendment 208 #
2016/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Highlights the importance of security of supply inand the development of domestic supplies of critical raw materials such as rare earths in order to keep the construction of electronic components in Europe; ·
Amendment 220 #
2016/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Proposes the creation of European computer assembly chains, with robotics enabling them to be competitive;· calls on the Member States and the Commission to earmark funding for robotics research and development;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2144(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital Β
Recital Β
Β. whereas the European Parliament, in its report on the revision of the MFF 2014-20201, must give greater supports to effective integration of gender mainstreaming; __________________ 1 so as to combat all forms of discrimination; __________________ 1 Texts adopted, P8_TA (2016)0309. Texts adopted, P8_TA (2016)0309.
Amendment 7 #
2016/2144(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas gender budgeting implies the introduction of the gender perspective at all levels of the budgetary process and the need to increase EU funding to promote gender equality;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2144(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital Γ
Recital Γ
C. whereas one of the most telling measures of gender equality is equal pay, which should be implemented directly in all Member States of the Union;
Amendment 13 #
2016/2144(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the lack of specific gender indicators and of collection of gender- disaggregated data regrettably makes it impossible to achieve correct financial and budgetary accountability with a view to evaluating the gender equality impact of EU policies;
Amendment 14 #
2016/2144(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes that gender budgeting should be an instrument of democratic governance that will help to ensure that gender equality becomes a reality; is of the opinion that the current gulf between male and female pay for the same work is totally unacceptable; and must be eliminated immediately;
Amendment 22 #
2016/2144(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that gender budgeting is considered in certain policy areas, such as (employment, social affairs and inclusion, home affairs, justice, development and cooperation, research and innovation, education and culture), but believes it should be included in all policy areas;
Amendment 28 #
2016/2144(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Looks upon the EU-level funding of EUR 6.17 billion allocated in the current MFF to achieving the objectives of this gender-strategic engagement as a first step, and asks for an immediate increase in this amount in the next MFF;
Amendment 33 #
2016/2144(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls for strong gender budgeting and gender mainstreaming to be taken into account in preparing the post-2020 generation of EU funding programmes with a view to increasing EU funding for measures to combat gender discrimination.
Amendment 33 #
2016/2144(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. NotesDeplores the fact that gender equality goals are too often subsumed by other policy goals that are addressed within the same budget line;
Amendment 9 #
2016/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 19 a (new)
Citation 19 a (new)
Amendment 10 #
2016/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 19 b (new)
Citation 19 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 31 #
2016/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the integrity of sport is of paramount importancet;
Amendment 38 #
2016/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas good governance in sport refers to anshould respect the appropriate regulation of sport through principles of effective, transparent, ethical and democratic management;
Amendment 46 #
2016/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ζ
Recital Ζ
Ζ. whereas a number ofin general sports organisations have not taken strong initiatives to improve governance in sport and the members of many of them have been directly implicated in corruption scandals;
Amendment 69 #
2016/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L
Recital L
L. whereas doping remathe practice of doping is increasinsg and spreading, threat toening sport integrity and athletes’ health;
Amendment 84 #
2016/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital N
Recital N
Amendment 111 #
2016/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital S a (new)
Recital S a (new)
Sa. whereas, due to the fierce competition that exists in modern professional sport, professional athletes who fail to distinguish themselves at international and / or national level face serious problems in earning a living;
Amendment 138 #
2016/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Recalls that good governance must be a condition for the autonomy of sports organisations, in compliance with the principles of transparency, accountability and democracy; stresses therefore that the autonomy of sports federations is not self- evident and State authorities should intervene where the functioning and activities of sports federations harm the public interest;
Amendment 284 #
2016/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 a (new)
Paragraph 24 a (new)
24a. Stresses that sport, as a pre- eminent social event, is a vector of social values; warns of the dangers of a normalisation of transgressive behaviour, the commercialisation of human life and other alienating processes promoted by modern professional sport and calls on all actors, in particular political actors, to put an end to these phenomena as soon as possible;
Amendment 287 #
2016/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Believes that sport builds bridges across cultures and ethnic and social divides;
Amendment 294 #
2016/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
Amendment 317 #
2016/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
Amendment 366 #
2016/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35
Paragraph 35
35. Considers that traditional sports are part of the European cultural heritage and should therefore be disseminated and protected;
Amendment 403 #
2016/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 42
Paragraph 42
Amendment 2 #
2016/2139(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 16 a (new)
Citation 16 a (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 3 #
2016/2139(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 16 b (new)
Citation 16 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of Subsidiarity and Proportionality,
Amendment 24 #
2016/2139(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital ΣΤ
Recital ΣΤ
F. whereas countries such as Russia, China, Brazil and India play an increasingly important role as emerging donors and for the transfer of development expertise and technology, not least thanks to their own recent and current development experience; whereas their engagement with more traditional donors and their participation in the GPEDC can be enhanced;
Amendment 38 #
2016/2139(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital ΙΓ
Recital ΙΓ
M. whereas development effectiveness, understood as the effective use of all means and resources geared towards the development of the material living conditions of people in the targeted areas, depends not only on aid donors but also on the existence of effective and responsive institutions, sound policies, the rule of law, inclusive democratic governance, and safeguards against corruption within developing countries and illicit financial flows at international level; whereas the GPEDC should play an increased role in facilitating and promoting progress on the above determinants for development;
Amendment 108 #
2016/2139(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Stresses that development assistance can play an important role in fighting poverty and in promoting development, for the benefit in particular of least developed countries and of the most deprived and vulnerable groups, as well catalysing other factors that are conducive to development if employed in a context of legitimate, inclusive governance based on the rule of law and respect for human rights;
Amendment 114 #
2016/2139(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Underlines the significance of SDG 16 for development effectiveness overall, and warns that development aid cannot effectively fulfil its purpose where there is a lack of respect for human rights and the rule of law,presupposes that human rights and the rule of law are respected and that there are sufficient standards and safeguards for the integrity of public institutions and office-holders, and transparency and accountability;
Amendment 116 #
2016/2139(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Recalls that corruption in recipient countries, whether directly linked to development assistance or not, poses a serious risk to democratic legitimacy and public support for development assistance in donor countries; welcomes, therefore, all measures taken to promote sound financial management and fight corruption, while noting that the situation in many partner countries by definition implies a certain degree of risk;
Amendment 119 #
2016/2139(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. UrgesCalls on Member States and other donors to scale up efforts and human resources in better conceptualising effectiveness and deep analysis in contexts of fragility, post-conflict and conflict prevention, where desired outcomes may not always be captured in the form of data and within results frameworks;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2120(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes the use of the Flexibility Instrument under heading 3 in the Draft Budget 2017 for an amount of EUR 530 million and recalls that this amount is the maximum one that can be mobilised in 2017 with this instrument with the current MFF rules; stresses, however, that this amount is insufficient to meet the growing challenges;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2120(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. AcknowledgesPoints out that the financial impact of the current refugee, migration and internal security crises was not accounted for when the current MFF was adopted in 2014; stresses that the Flexibility Instrument has to be used according to the purpose for which it was created, for clearly identified expenses which cannot be covered by other Union budgetary resources;
Amendment 16 #
2016/2120(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes that, even with the systematic mobilisation of the totality of the Flexibility Instrument under heading 3 in the coming years, the financial resources available will not be sufficient to tackle the increased needs; therefore considers as essential a fair distribution of funding according to prioritiestaking into account the burden that the migrant and refugee influx is placing on countries of first entry such as Greece or Italy, full transparency, accountabilitystate supervision and wise spending;
Amendment 26 #
2016/2120(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. WelcomNotes, the proposal of the Commission to create a new European Union crisis reserve to be financed from de-committed appropriations, as part of the MFF mid-term review; with regard to the doubling of the annual amounts, which can be mobilised with the Flexibility Instrument and the emergency aid reserve, requests the Commission to clarify the source of the financing in the interests of budgetary stability and predictability.
Amendment 1 #
2016/2119(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2016/2119(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 b (new)
Citation 3 b (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 4 #
2016/2118(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. NotStresses the mobilisation in the Draft Budget 2017 of the Contingency Margin for an amount of EUR 1 164,4 million in commitment appropriations over and above the commitment ceiling of heading 3;
Amendment 9 #
2016/2118(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Considers that additional financial needs are likely to ariseing in relation to the migration, refugee and internal security crises in 2017 and recalls that no more margin is available under the ceiling of heading 3 while the Flexibility Instrument has already been used up in its entirety for 2017; therefore, requests the Commission to clarify if and how additional funds could be possibly mobilised using the Contingency Margin tomobilise immediately additional funds using the Contingency Margin to assist EU Member States such as Greece and Italy and respond to possible additional financial needs for heading 3 during the course of 2017;
Amendment 16 #
2016/2118(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes the proposals of the CommissionStresses the need to mobilise an additional EUR 2,.55 billion under heading 3 over the period 2018-2020 as part of the MFF mid- term review/revision; recalls that immediate response is needed to the security, migration and refugee crises, together with increased funding and the immediate measures to expedite the relocation of refugees and considers it important that full transparency of payments and regular monitoring/reporting of the expenditure are ensured by all actors involved.
Amendment 1 #
2016/2101(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Reiterates the importance ofEmphasises the need for a well- functioning and integrated Single Market tofor the recovery of the European economy after the financial crisis; supports the inclusion of Country-Specific Recommendations (CSRs) which go beyond narrow fiscal and macroeconomic targets and allow for a more balanced policy mix with the potential to help sustain a socially balanced recovery; welcomes this repositioning, as well as the streamlined structure of CSRs;
Amendment 6 #
2016/2101(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the Commission’s spring 2016 forecast indicates expected growth rates of 1.6 % for the eurozone and 1.8 % for the EU in 2016;
Amendment 6 #
2016/2101(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
Amendment 10 #
2016/2101(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. WelcomStresses the fact that a large number of CSRs thatshould support a well- functioning and integrated Single Market, including financing and investment opportunities which support businessesSMEs in particular and help create jobs, e- government, public procurement and mutual recognition of qualifications; stresses that enforcement is key if the impact from these policy areas is to be felt;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2101(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas Europe still faces a huge investment deficit, even though the current account surplus in the eurozone continues to rise, theoretically creating more favourable conditions for public and private investment due to the exceptionally low interest rates on government borrowingand this is having a negative impact on employment in the EU Member States;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2101(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Acknowledges that youth unemployment is a perpetual challenge for Europe; notes that the employment situation varies significantly across the EU;, points therefore to the need for labour market reforms that would adapt education to market demands and tackle inequalities in educationarticularly in southern European countries, such as Greece, that are subject to economic austerity; expresses, in this context, its further support for the Youth Employment Initiative;
Amendment 13 #
2016/2101(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
Amendment 20 #
2016/2101(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas unemployment in the EU remains one of the main challenges that Member States are facing as it currently stands at a very high rate (10.5 million long-term unemployed in the EU), even if the numbers have improved slightly compared with previous years;
Amendment 27 #
2016/2101(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls on the Member States to do all they can to foscreater a healthy business environment through innovation, R&D and digitalisation, in order to create jobs, particularly through strengthening micro- businesses and SMEs in southern European countries, such as Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Cyprus, which have been affected by the austerity measures;
Amendment 31 #
2016/2101(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Reiterates that investments in education and culture reinforce employability and contribute to sustainable growth and job creation in the EU; underlines the need for structural reforms of the education and training systems in the Member States and the need to foster better interaction between the EU and the Member States and to facilitate the exchange of best practices among the Member States, with regard to education and training systems;
Amendment 35 #
2016/2101(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. CondemnsPoints to the barriers which still exist that hinder a well-functioning and integrated Single Market, in particular the partial transposition and implementation of the Services Directive by many Member States, and calls on the Commission to enforce more effectively what Member States have signed up to in European law;
Amendment 40 #
2016/2101(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Believes that economic growth should guarantee a positive social impact; welcomes the introduction of the three new headline social indicators in the macroeconomic imbalances procedure; reiterates the call for these to be placed on an equal footing with existing economic indicators, thereby guaranteeing that internal imbalances are better assessed and making structural reforms more effective; calls, in this connection, for a social imbalances procedure to be introduced;
Amendment 41 #
2016/2101(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Notes that further action is required to better implement mutual recognition of professional qualifications, and welcomes the exercise of mapping regulated qualifications, which will create an interactive public database that can aid Member States’ National Action Plans;
Amendment 45 #
2016/2101(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Highlights that Erasmus+ contributes to mobility and cultural exchange across the EU; calls for better promotion and use of the European tools for transparency, mobility and recognition of skills and qualifications with a view to facilitating mobility as regards learning, training and working;
Amendment 46 #
2016/2101(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas political developments such as the question of the UK’s membership of the Union, relations with Russia, the economic crsis and the refugee crisis have compounded uncertainties and further served to inhibit investment;
Amendment 46 #
2016/2101(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. RegretNotes that CSRs continue to point to deficiencies in public procurement such as the lack of competition and transparency, with 21 Member States failing to fully transpose the legislative package; calls on the Commission to act swiftly to ensure that Member States meet their legal obligations by taking the necessary infringement procedures;
Amendment 52 #
2016/2101(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Supports the Member States in their endeavours to modernise public services, in particular through e-government, and calls for better cross-border cooperation and interoperability of public administrations to the benefit of all citizens, always in accordance with the principle of personal data protection;
Amendment 57 #
2016/2101(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Emphasises that the cultural and creative industriesectors contribute significantly to youth employment, employing, on average, more young people than any other sector; stresses that further promotion of and investment insupport for the cultural and creative industries will be beneficial in creating new jobs and combating youth unemployment.
Amendment 58 #
2016/2101(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Notes that several CSRs focus on skills and labour markets; stresses that the right skills are key to ensuring productivity and output growth; calls on the Commission and the Member States to pursue and adopt digital and lifelong learning programmes as a matter of urgency.
Amendment 59 #
2016/2101(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes with concernDeplores the fact that the EUuropean economyic will grow less than expected on the basis of the Europeannter forecast is once again inaccurate for 2016, since the EU economicy winter forecast 2016ll grow less than expected, as GDP in the eurozone is expected to increase by only 1.6 %, reaching 1.9 % by 2017, which is less than what was previously being estimated;
Amendment 66 #
2016/2101(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that the challenges in the EU are linked to the deteriorating international environment and the divergences in the economic and social performance, achievednd in particular unemployment rates, which have increased significantly in different parts of the Union;
Amendment 72 #
2016/2101(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls foDemands in particular a strong commitment to promoting the Juncker Plan (EFSI) in Member States with a low level of participation;
Amendment 75 #
2016/2101(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
Amendment 81 #
2016/2101(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
Amendment 93 #
2016/2101(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Welcomes the Commission’s continuing approach to limit the number of recommendations and its effort to mainstream the semester by covering mainly key priority areas of macroeconomic and social relevance, when setting the policy objectives for the next 18 months; reiterates that this facilitates the implementation of recommendations according to a comprehensive and meaningful range of social benchmarks;
Amendment 102 #
2016/2101(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
Amendment 117 #
2016/2101(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. RegDeplorets the fact that the Commission has disregarded Parliament’s request to strengthen the application of Article 349 TFEU with a view to enhancing the outermost regions’ integration into the EU; notes that these regions have unemployment rates over 30%;
Amendment 129 #
2016/2101(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses that Europe’s long economic crisis has shown that there is a strong need to focus on public and private investment, in order to enhance the EU’s competitiveness and employment in its Member States;
Amendment 143 #
2016/2101(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Notes that the Juncker Plan will be unable to support the Greek economy as long as the Troika imposes a straitjacket on it.
Amendment 147 #
2016/2101(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Underlines that the still-too-high unemployment rates, a consequence of the IMF’s mistaken policy on deflation and austerity measures, show that the capacity to create jobs in most Member States is still limited; emphasises that further action is needed, in consultation with social partners and in accordance with national practices, to make labour markets more inclusive overall;
Amendment 157 #
2016/2101(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Expresses disquiet about the current ‘liquidity trap’ the EU economy seems to have fallen into, with interest rates at the Zero Lower Bound (ZLB), weak demand prospects, and restricted investment and spending by households and companies, not least in surplus countries;
Amendment 168 #
2016/2101(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Welcomes the Commission’s recommendation for three Member States to exit the Excessive Deficit Procedure (EDP); agrees with the Commission that large and consistent current account surpluses reflect a clear need to stimulate demand and investment in order to cope with the challenges of the future regarding transport and communications, the digital economy, education, innovation and research, climate change, energy, environmental protection and the ageing population; calls on the Commission to continue to support budgetary policies that underpin growth and recovery in all Member States and support sustainable structural reforms;
Amendment 194 #
2016/2101(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Notes that further measures are needed to reduce non-performing loans (NPL) in the euro area and to increase the ability of banks to lend to the real economy, notably to SMEsboosting the liquidity of SMEs in particular;
Amendment 209 #
2016/2101(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Underlines the fact that investment has so far lagged and failed to lead to sustainable and inclusive growth in the EU and that under the current circumstances, monetary policy alone is unlikely to bring about recovery, even though the rules made necessary by banking union have imposed more stringent financial criteria on banks; considers that a coordinated fiscal expansion is also needed in the EU, therefore, in line with the rules of the Stability and Growth Pact and its flexibility clauses, in order to place emphasis on public and private investment;
Amendment 225 #
2016/2101(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Emphasises the need to improve the EU’s overall capacityfor the EU to create and sustain jobs and thus to tackle high levels of unemployment, while considering that migration could play an important role in compensating for the negative effects of the ageing population; emphasises, however, that this alone cannot be the main response to address structural demographic, labour market or fiscal challenges but that it should be complemented with efficient public expenditure, especially in high-quality social and environmentally sustainable investments;
Amendment 264 #
2016/2101(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Invites the Commission to give priority to measures that reduce the obstacles to greater investment flows, which arise at both an EU level from a lack of clarity regarding strategies that are to be followed, especially in the fields of energy, transport, communications and the digital economy, as well as from the effect on bank lending in the wake of the adoption of the banking union, and a national level from cumbersome legal systems, corruption, lack of transparency, outdated bureaucracy, and inadequate digitalisation of public services, lack of mutual recognition of academic and technical qualifications in the professions and certain services sectors, and educational systems that remain out of synch with modern requirements;
Amendment 281 #
2016/2101(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Deeply deplores the fact that with regard to the Europe 2020 strategy, the biggest failure to be recorded concerns the goal of reducing the scale of poverty and unemployment in the Union, as not only will the goal not be reached, but poverty and unemployment will in fact have increased, especially in southern European countries such as Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal;
Amendment 292 #
2016/2101(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Underlines the importance of better addressing the high tax wedge on labour given that high taxation diminishes incentives for the inactive, the unemployed, second earners and low-wage earners to return to employment, by promoting a growth-friendly tax shift towards consumption and environmental taxes;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2100(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that competition policy is a vital part of the internal market, as provided for in the Treaty; reiterates that a competitive single market is needed to boost growth in the EU Member States and that efforts to preserve fair competition in the EU as a whole armust be in the interest of consumers and help strengthen SMEs;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2100(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 4 #
2016/2100(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 7 #
2016/2100(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls on the Commission to includeadopt ambitious provisionstrategies on competition and state aid in all trade agreementMember States and to carry out effective monitoring to ascertain whether those provisions are properly respected by the partiesstrategies are being implemented;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2100(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. WelcomNotes the Commission’s active participation in multilateral competition organisations such as the International Competition Network, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, the UN Conference for Trade and Development, and the World Trade Organization, and stresses the need to strengthen the economies of southern European Member States through such participation;
Amendment 14 #
2016/2100(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls on the Commission to support efforts to set up a comprehensive, user- friendly database containing provisions on competition collated from free trade agreements, which could be run by the WTO secretariat;
Amendment 16 #
2016/2100(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Reiterates that equal access to natural resources, including energy sources, has a fundamental impact on fair and equal competition on the global market and the economy of EU Member States.
Amendment 17 #
2016/2100(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Emphasises that EU competition law and authorities need to be improved and to guarantee a level playing field in the digital single market; calls on the Commission to pursue a policy of active, effective and accelerated enforcement of the competition rules, in particular in the online search and mobile internet sector, in order to remove barriers to innovation and to enable EU consumers to seize all the opportunities that a genuine digital single market can offer;
Amendment 18 #
2016/2100(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. HighlightDeplores the fact that EU transport legislation is often poorly implemented by Member States; believes that proper implementation of existing EU legislation would bring additional benefits to business and industry and that Union funding for this sector is insufficient;
Amendment 21 #
2016/2100(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas EU competition policy ishould be an essential instrument for a properly functioning internal market in the Unioneconomy in the Member States;
Amendment 22 #
2016/2100(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Emphasises that competition policy must attach the same importance to defending the interests of agricultural producers, especially in EU Member States adversly affected by Trika austerity policies, as it does to defending consumers’ interests, ensuring that the conditions for competition are fair so as to foster investment, employment and innovation in agricultural markets;
Amendment 36 #
2016/2100(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas competition policy keeps markets efficient and open, thus leading to lower prices, better-quality products and services and greater choice for consumers, also promoting innovation and growth;
Amendment 38 #
2016/2100(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Believes that the current crisis situation in farming calls for fresh initiatives to ensure that competition policy takes better account of the specific nature of agriculture so as to support the primary sector in EU Member States such as Greece, where agriculture has suffered particularly as a result of Troika intervention;
Amendment 39 #
2016/2100(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas competition policy can and should make a significant contribution to key political priorities such as boosting innovation, quality jobs, growth and investment, particularly in the southern European Member States such as Greece, Italy, Spain, Portugal, etc., protecting consumers and reinforcing the single market, with particular regard to the digital single market and the Energy Union;
Amendment 40 #
2016/2100(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. RecognisesPoints out the advances in digital technologies in the transport and tourism sectors, which promote competition, create jobs and benefit the consumer;
Amendment 42 #
2016/2100(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. WelcomNotes the Commission’s intention to negotiate external aviation agreements with several key countries and regions in the world; believes that these will not only improve market access, but will also provide new business opportunities for a world-beating European aviation sector, creating jobs and benefiting consumers;
Amendment 47 #
2016/2100(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Reiterates the need for the timely and proper implementation of Directive 2014/104/EU on antitrust damages actions under national law for infringements of competition rules in the EU Member States, and encourages the Commission in the strongest possible terms to monitor its implementation closely and to pursue this issue with the Member States;
Amendment 51 #
2016/2100(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
Amendment 54 #
2016/2100(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls onUrges the Commission to broaden its approach in terms of criteria for determining whether an agricultural undertaking, or a number of such undertakings linked by a horizontal agreement, is deemed to be in a ‘dominant position’, taking into consideration the degree of concentration in sectors downstream;
Amendment 58 #
2016/2100(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Looks forward to the Commission’s proposal on the ECN+, and calls for the full involvement of the European Parliament under the ordinary legislative procedure; considers that effective tools to tackle distortions of competition are crucial for the functioning of the single marketto underpin the Member State economies, and that it is imperative to ensure that consumers and businesses can rely on the consistent application of EU competition rules throughout the EU.
Amendment 61 #
2016/2100(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. WelcomNotes the annual report by the Commission on competition policy, which canmust help to restore a sufficient level of investment and innovation by creating a fair competition environment; also reiterates that Europe’s futurethe future of the EU Member States should be based on innovation;
Amendment 64 #
2016/2100(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Considers that the collective activities of producer organisations and their associations, such as production planning and sales negotiation, are necessary for achieving the aims of the CAP and, in particular sustainable food production and natural resource management and the balanced development of rural areas in the EU Member States, and that they should benefit from a presumption of compatibility with Articles 39 and 101 TFEU;
Amendment 67 #
2016/2100(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Welcomes the Commission’s goal of opening up new opportunities for citizens and small and medium-sized businesses by allowing people, goods, services and capital to move freely within the single market;
Amendment 68 #
2016/2100(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Welcomes a speedy conclusion toExpects to be apprised of the results of the negotiations on the Fourth Railway Package and believes this should further open up the railway sector to competition.
Amendment 99 #
2016/2100(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Believes that full and satisfactory implementation of the ‘Milk Package’ is essential in ordermust help to strengthen the dairy sector; asks the Commission to propose that the ‘Milk Package’ should continue to apply beyond mid-2020 and to examine whether its rules could be extended to other sectors of agriculture;
Amendment 115 #
2016/2100(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Calls on the Commission and the national competition authorities to address the concerns raised by the cumulative impact – particularly at the upper end of the food supply chain – of, on the one hand, national-level concentration in the distribution sector and, on the other, the development of European-level alliances of major distributors.;
Amendment 120 #
2016/2100(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Calls on the Commission to take immediate action to combat the rationale behind the discontinuance of designations of origin, the introduction of genetically modified foodstuffs and subsidised monoculture.
Amendment 182 #
2016/2100(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. WelcomNotes the Commission’s investigations into certain anti-competitive practices by a number of companies, in particularly Google, Amazon, Qualcomm and other media companies, film studios and TV distributors; calls on the Commission to speed up all procedures against behaviour which infringes EU antitrust rules;
Amendment 219 #
2016/2100(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. WelcomNotes the overhaul of the state aid rules; reminds the Member States, nonetheless, that the aim was to better target aid measures towards economic growth, quality job creation and social cohesion in the EU Member States; also reminds the Commission of the need to prevent certain governments from acting in bad faith as they do when misspending EU funds;
Amendment 284 #
2016/2100(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. WelcomesAwaits greater efforts by the Commission’s efforts to prepare guidance on its procedures and its continuous evaluation of the EU legal framework;
Amendment 307 #
2016/2100(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. WelcomStresses the Commission’s Framework Strategy for a Resilient Energy Union with a Forward-Looking Climate Change Policy, and agrees with its five interrelated policy dimensions; also stresses that the EU needs to move away from an economy driven by fossil fuelsneed for an energy strategy in response to climate change;
Amendment 314 #
2016/2100(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Welcomes the different antitrust investigations, in particular those into against Gazprom and Bulgargaz, aimed at ensuring market integration in the Energy Union; regrets, however,regrets the practice on the part of certain Member States of buying gas through offshore companies, as being a typical example of tax avoidance and an act that is contrary to a properly functioning Energy Union;
Amendment 326 #
2016/2100(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. WelcomesStresses that the efforts of the Commission to promote the market integration of renewable energy sources in order to avoidmust not lead to distortions of competition; underlines, however, the responsibility of Member States in promoting and financing the production and use of renewable energy;
Amendment 332 #
2016/2100(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Calls on the Commission and Member States to cut taxes on energy products and take effective measures to counter energy poverty;
Amendment 396 #
2016/2100(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Welcomes the decentralised enforcement of EU competition rules in Europe, but considers that the effectiveness of the protection of citizens and companies from anti-competitive practices should not depend only on the Member State in which they are resident;
Amendment 397 #
2016/2100(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Considers it essential, therefore, that the national competition authorities in the EU have the means and instruments they need to be effective enforcers of EU competition rules, including the tools to detect, tackle and sanction infringements and the leniency programmes that will be essential if companies are to come clean about cartels across Europe;
Amendment 400 #
2016/2100(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
Amendment 1 #
2016/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers that the EIB, which markets itself as ‘the EU bank’ and is incorporated and governed by the Treaties and relevant annexed Protocol, must live up to this particular status, which entails particular rights and responsibilities; observmeasures to boost growth and employment in the EU Member States; stresses that the bank ishould playing a key role in implementing an ever greater number of financial instruments leveraging on EU budgetary funds;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Looks forward toAwaits the results of the Commission’s mid-term review of the external lending mandate for the European Investment Bank (EIB); underlines that the EIB is operating under a development mandate and therefore needs to work in line with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 4 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes theConsiders that apparently there has been an increase in transparency and accountability due to the EIB’s Results Measurement (ReM) Framework; asks that a random sample of the nearly 400 projects that have gone through ReM assessment at appraisal be reassessed after completion by independent experts; asks that the results of this ex-post evaluation be reported to the EP;
Amendment 5 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital Β
Recital Β
Β. whereas decarbonising transport is a major challenge, and significant reductions in CO2 emissions from transport are needed if the EU is to achieve its long-term climate goals; whereas congestion and air pollution are major problems in developing urban mobility and the EU should promote alternative forms of transport and public transport;
Amendment 8 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Reiterates its cCalls on the Commission to establish a framework for annual reporting by the EIB on its operations outside the EU as regards compliance with the general principles guiding the Union’s external action; considers that the optional additional amount for the EIB should be released only if progress on such reporting is achieved;
Amendment 10 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. ConsidersDeplores the fact that the information currently made available to citizens and to the budgetary authority on financial instruments lacks completeness, timeliness and exploitability for making informed decisions on budgetary allocations, future EU financial rules and the future EU financial framework; expects the EIB to contribute actively to the EU budget’s legibility, given its unique expertise and position;
Amendment 13 #
2016/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the EIB is considered toshould be the ‘financial arm of the EU’ and the key institution for sustaining public and private investments within the EU, its role being stillshould have been more essential since the start of the financial crisis in 2008;
Amendment 13 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas in 2015 the EIB invested EUR 14 billion in transport projects that willare expected to benefit 338 million passengers per year and save 65 million travel hours per year;
Amendment 14 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Welcomes the EIB’s role inStresses the need to strengthen the EIB’s role in public-sector and local private-sector development; points out that the EIB’s support for microfinance was particularly successful, with jusneeds to be increased despite the fact that EUR 184 million microcredits sustaininged 230, 500 jobs in microenterprises, while close to EUR 3 billion loans to SMEs and midcaps have proved much less effective, sustaining only 531, 880 jobs; points out that the leverage ratio of microfinance investment vehicles was also considerably higher than that of private equity funds; points out that microcredits have a strong gender perspective, generating twice as many jobs for women as for men; asks the EIB to devote more resources to microfinances; regrets that the EIB has not supported any microfinance institution outside the ACP region and demands that similar microfinance support be provided to all other developing countries where the EIB is active;
Amendment 14 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. UnderstandsDeplores that fact that that the current EIB ‘Resilience’ initiative, the future EU External Investment Plan and the revision of the EIB external mandate cannot be entirely coordinated, as swift answers are needed in times of crisis; insists, however,; insists on the coherence and streamlining of all EU external action financial instruments; expects in particular the updated regional technical operational guidelines or any future equivalent document used to link EU objectives and EIB external action to be more detailed than hitherto;
Amendment 17 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Is concernedDeplores the fact that the EIB’s funding may be biased in favour of larger enterprises by targeting the number of jobs sustained (which includes pre-existing jobs); asks that the EIB target and report not only jobs sustained but also jobs created bythrough its funding activities; stresses the need for the EIB to strengthen SMEs in the EU Member States;
Amendment 17 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
Amendment 19 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the EIB to establish a new, responsible taxation policy and to transpose good governance requirements in its contracts with all selected financial intermediaries in line with the ‘External Strategy for Effective Taxation’; reiterates that the EIB should improve the quality of information on ultimate beneficiaries and prevent transactions with financial intermediaries that have a negative record in terms of transparency, fraud or corruption, or are registered in offshore financial centres or tax havens.; notes, moreover, that the EIB has to make productive investments in the primary sector, infrastructure, research and innovation in the EU Member States, the primary aim being to reduce massive unemployment in countries such as Greece, Spain, Portugal and Italy;
Amendment 21 #
2016/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the bank must retain a strong credit standing and must remain selective in its operations, taking into account not only the high volumes and returns of the investment but also the development targets of different sectors, with emphasis on Member States of the EU such as Greece that have fallen into poverty because of the austerity policies of the troika;
Amendment 22 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes Commission President Juncker’s plan to increase the capacity ofExpresses the need to increase the Investment Plan for Europe from EUR 315 billion to EUR 630 billion; underlines, however, that it should not lead to a reduction in well-functioning sources of transport infrastructure funding;
Amendment 23 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Calls on the EIB to implement immediately all investment projects and SME funding agreements only in those countries that respect human rights and freedom of the press;
Amendment 25 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Commends Stresses the need for further EIB’s engagement in favour of SMEs, such as the new facilities for financing European and Latin American/Caribbean SME trade activities;
Amendment 25 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Points out that measures to achieve the objectives of the 2014-2020 European Structural and Investment Funds to enhance SME competitiveness and promote employment, research, innovation and growth should be implemented immediately;
Amendment 28 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. RegretsDeplores the fact that the EIB’s report on its extra-EU activities is completely silent on volume and number of non-performing EIB loans; asks that the EIB provide the EP with an annual overview of payment deferrals and losses incurred in its sustainable development funding; asks that this information be structured by type of funding and region.;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Stresses that the EIB's primary objective should be to reduce the very high unemployment rates in countries such as Greece, Spain, Portugal and Italy and to boost growth in these countries.
Amendment 36 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Encourages the EIB to continueCalls on the EIB to support sustainable, safe, climate-friendly and innovative transport; underlines that it ismust be the European Parliament’s priority to provide sufficient funding for projects with European added value, including the cross- border transport links;
Amendment 39 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Believes that an innovative and effective economy needs advanced infrastructure and that transport infrastructure should be among the priorities, with a special focus on innovative multimodal infrastructure solutions such as short multimodal tunnels or bridges in sparsely populated areas or local communities; at the same time, infrastructure in the road transport sector should be strengthened in order to reduce road accidents;
Amendment 42 #
2016/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas the EIB should help address regional inequalities on the basis of financing sound investment projects; whereas, in particular, the EIB should devise additional ways of sustaining the economic development of countries that have had to apply a stabilisation programmesuch as Greece and Portugal that have been hit by the austerity measures of the troika;
Amendment 50 #
2016/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas the EIB should tackle youth unemployment by equipping young people with the required set of skills and provide access to finance linked to the employment of young people especially in southern European countries such as Greece, Spain, Portugal and Italy which are facing very high unemployment rates;
Amendment 52 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Underlines the importance of geographical balance in investments with EIB involvement, and expects the EIB and the Commission to deliver appropriate technical and administrative assistance to project preparation in countries in southern Europe, such as Greece, Spain, Portugal and Italy etc. that need it;
Amendment 58 #
2016/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. StressesDeplores the fact that the current crisis has significantly weakened potential growth in the European economy and that one of the main factors is the decline in public and private investment in the EU, to approximately 18 % below 2007 levels; in extreme cases such as Greece and Portugal the declining public and private investment has reached alarming levels and, according to the OECD, gross national income (GNI) has declined by 65 % in Greece and by 35 % in Portugal from 2007 levels, and at the same time unemployment rates are still high;
Amendment 61 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls on the Commission to develop new common EU regulations on the use of innovative financial instruments such as public-private partnerships or project bonds;
Amendment 73 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls onUrges the Commission and the EIB to support investment in sustainable urban mobility in order to reduce the air pollution and congestion in European cities;
Amendment 78 #
2016/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Underlines the fact that the strengthening of the Member States of EU competitiveness depends among other things on an increase in public and private investment, especially in innovation and digitalisation;
Amendment 80 #
2016/2099(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Notes that the EIB uses a wide range of products, such as loans, guarantees, project bonds and public- private partnerships to support public and private investment in transport; stresses that it is important to coordinatincrease various types of EU funding in order to ensure that EU transport policy objectives are met.
Amendment 85 #
2016/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes the stability of the EIB lending signed in 2015 (EUR 77.5 billion, after EUR 77 billion in 2014); points out that, while the figure complies with the target announced in the EIB Operational Plan 2015-2017, the current context should encourage the bank to adopt more ambitious objectivesincrease lending immediately;
Amendment 88 #
2016/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. WelcomNotes the fact that the EIB was able to deliver the commitment entered into with its shareholders of at least 180 billion in overall investment;
Amendment 103 #
2016/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. WelcomStresses the fact that in 2015 the EIB provided EUR 1.35 billion for investment in projects across Greece; notes that the EIB has provided more than EUR 12 billion for investment in Greece since the beginning of the crisis, but without achieving the expected results in the field of development;
Amendment 117 #
2016/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Calls on the EIB to increase indirectly its support to EU countries under adjustment programmes in order to contribute to jump- starting their economies;
Amendment 121 #
2016/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Stresses that investment financing should be increased in the industrial sector, especially where exports are concerned, because without agiven that there has been no considerable increase in exports the probability of a successful conclusion to an adjustment programme will be diminished;
Amendment 153 #
2016/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Supports the emphasis that should be placed by the EIB on the financing of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with 37 % of the new lending granted in 2015 (EUR 28.4 billion); welcomes in particular the factnotes that the EIB operations helped to create and sustain 4.1 million jobs in Europe’s SMEs and midcaps (+13 % as compared to 2014); recalls that SMEs are the backbone of Europe’s economy, providing 85 % of all new jobs, and that supporting them must remain a fundamental objective of the bank;
Amendment 168 #
2016/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Welcomes the startExpects the results of the start of operation of the EFSI, the governing legislation governing which entered into force in July 2015;
Amendment 174 #
2016/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Particularly welcomStresses the fact that total investment in EFSI approvals amounts to EUR 115.7 billion, which is equivalent to 37 % of the original target value (EUR 315 billion) and should be increased;
Amendment 194 #
2016/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Points out that effective cooperation with the National Promotional Banks (NPBs) can help the EIB to select the best projects in each Member State, which will result in further development;
Amendment 222 #
2016/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Emphasises that the EIB should continuimprove its programme ‘Skills and Jobs – Investing for Youth’ and carry on investing in human capital in order to equip young people with the necessary set of skills to provide them with access to finance linked to the employment of young people in SMEs and midcaps;
Amendment 240 #
2016/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Welcomes the growingNotes the involvement of the EIB with climate change, which was related to 50 % of the projects approved in 2015; climate finance totalled EUR 20.6 billion, the largest ever annual amount invested in it by the EIB;
Amendment 285 #
2016/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. AskUrges the EIB to continue its action to tackle the refugee crisis by financing emergency projects in countries of destination and making long-term investments in the refugees’ countries of origin;
Amendment 300 #
2016/2099(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Asks the EIB to continue its social housing project lending in order to cope with the large number of refugees in the EU Member States , especially in Greece and Italy;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 a (new)
Citation 10 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 3 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 b (new)
Citation 10 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 9 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Α
Recital Α
Α. whereas the EIB is the longstanding financing partner of the EU institutions, and should contributinge to EU integration, economic and social cohesion and regional development through the funding of dedicated investment instruments such as loans, equities, guarantees, risk-sharing facilities and advisory services;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Β
Recital Β
Β. whereas the EIB, as the biggest public lender in the world, ought to operates in the international capital markets, offering competitive terms to clients and favourable conditions to support EU policies and projects so as to boost growth and employment in the Union;
Amendment 13 #
2016/2098(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Acknowledges that the major EIB shareholders, i.e. Germany, France, the UK, Italy and Spain, received more than 50 % of financing in 2015, while the new Member States received less than 20 %; askscalls on the EIB and the Commission to provide more technicalimmediate assistance to those Member States having a lower share in total EIB financing;
Amendment 14 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the European Investment Fund (EIF) and the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) ought to play a key role in complementing the EIB’s interventions as the EU’s specialist vehicle for venture capital and guarantees aimed primarily at supporting SMEs and European integration and regional cohesion;
Amendment 15 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereasnoting that there are three different reports produced by the European Parliament on the activities of the EIB: a report on EIB financial activities (prepared by the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs and the Committee on Budgets), a report on the control of the financial activities of the EIB (prepared by the Committee on Budgetary Control), and a report on the implementation of EFSI (prepared by the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs and the Committee on Budgets);
Amendment 16 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ε
Recital Ε
Ε. whereas safeguards against fraud, including tax fraud and money laundering, and against the financing of terrorism risks are contained in EIB contractual provisions included in the contracts signed between the EIB Group and its counterparties; whereas the EIB also expects its counterparties to comply with all applicable legislation; whereas additional contractual provisions addressing specific transparency and integrity issues canshould be imposed by the EIB on the basis of due diligence results;
Amendment 19 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas the EIB ought to acts as the implementing arm of the EU 2020 strategy and flagship initiatives by ensuring the use of public investment in substitution or correction of financial market gaps and by triggering new EU drivers of growth and job creation, particularly in the southern European countries such as Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal;
Amendment 20 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas the catalytic effect of the EIB’s fundraising is a key element in defining EU added value and ensuring that Europe remainswill be a leading player worldwide with all the attributes of a world-class economy in terms of competitiveness, innovation, infrastructure and attractiveness;
Amendment 21 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Η
Recital Η
Η. whereas the EIB’s investments constitute an eco-stimulus package for making the EU far better equipped to remainbe a place of opportunities and to meet the challenges of globalised economic competition;
Amendment 22 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas the Investment Plan for Europe is part of a broader strategy aimed at reversing the negative trend observed in public and private investment by mobilising new and private financial liquidity to be injected into the real economy with a view to fostering long- term strategic and sustainable investments across the Union;in the Member States of the Union with high unemployment.
Amendment 27 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. WelcomNotes the EIB’s annual reports for 2015 and its achievements presented therein, and the efforts achieved for a better presentation and reporting the EIB’s contribution (or additionality) and results;
Amendment 31 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recalls Parliament’s request to present a more comprehensive and harmonised annual report for a better overview and evaluation of the EIB’s overall activities and lending priorities; invites the EIB to further refine and provide information on anticipated economic, social and environmental impacts and awaits the immediate fulfilment of its objectives;
Amendment 33 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Emphasises that all EIB-financed activities must be part of and steadily consistent with the EU’s general strategy and political priority areas as defined in the Europe 2020 strategy and , the Growth and Employment Facility and the Compact for Growth and Jobs, while integrating the economic and financial efficiency criteria;
Amendment 40 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Strongly encouragesCalls on the EIB to continuestep up its efforts to overcome investment, market and sectoral gaps with a view to possibly fostering transnational added value via greater EU economic and territorial convergence, a stronger investment environment and the return of sustainable growth across the EU, particularly in countries such as Greece that have been hard-hit by troika austerity policies;
Amendment 41 #
2016/2098(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Is concernedDeplores the fact that the SME Initiative is not delivering as planned and calls on the Commission to take immediate measures to ensure better results;
Amendment 45 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Recalls that supporting economic recovery and sustainable growth ishould be an overarching objective and that the EIB should anticipate structural challenges, notably those related to Europe’s re- industrialisation and the knowledge-based and digital economy, in order to generate new economic opportunities and promote job creation, innovation and use of renewables in line with the goals of environmental, climate or energy policies;
Amendment 48 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Is of the opinion thatCalls on the EIB shouldto systematically pay attention to mid- and long-term effects when defining investment actions and its funding decisions; considers it necessary for the EIB to invest in projects of systemic importance in the long term;
Amendment 55 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Acknowledges that the EIB is a core actor needed to revitalise the EU economy, boost employment and growth figures in the Member States and maximise the effectiveness and value for money of available financial resources by using revolving instruments, namely through a multiplier effect of guarantee funds and leveraging classical EU financial instruments such as grants;
Amendment 58 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Believes there is a need to secure a resilient and sustainable EU funding strategy to speed up economic recovery and help certain economic sectors and geographical areas catch up; recalls the need to focus on productive investment making a difference and bolster the primary sector, research, infrastructures and employment; believes that projects should be chosen on the basis of their own merits and effective additionality, possibly with a higher risk profile;
Amendment 61 #
2016/2098(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Calls on the EIB to increase immediately its financing of economic and social cohesion as well as of the urban objectives; calls, moreover, for the development of special financial instruments for macroregional strategies;
Amendment 66 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Reiterates, in this respect, that more information should be given on the precise nature of individual projects funded directly or indirectly through the EIB’s lending activities, and, in particular, on their added value and expected impacteconomic impact on each Member State of the Union ;
Amendment 70 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Reiterates Parliament’s concern about defining a balanced strategy with a dynamic, fair and transparent geographical distribution of projects and investments among EU Member States; observes that 73 % of the EIB’s total lending for 2015 (EUR 51 billion) is concentrated in six Member States;
Amendment 70 #
2016/2098(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Calls on the EIB and the Commission to step up their provision of support and advice and increase funding for local and regional authorities and SMEs, in the interests of simplifying access to EIB finance and blending grants with loans and financial instruments.
Amendment 73 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Invites the EIB to intensify immediately its communication policy towards potential stakeholders and private investors on the available funding sources and instruments, and towards citizens on the results achieved;
Amendment 77 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. WelcomNotes the report on the results and impact of the EIB operations inside the EU in 2015 based on the three-pillar assessment methodology with a view to assessing expected results, monitoring current results and measuring the impact of the four key public policy goals (PPGs), namely Innovation and skills (22.7 % of EIB signatures in 2015, amounting to EUR 15.8 billion), Finance for SMEs and midcaps (28.5 % of signatures, or EUR 19.8 billion), Infrastructure (24.5 %, or EUR 17.1 billion) and Environment (24.3 %, or EUR 16.9 billion); notes that a selection of outputs and outcomes for the new operations signed are included to illustrate expected results;
Amendment 82 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. EncouragesCalls on the EIB to continuously put an emphasis on its performance scrutiny via performance assessments and proven impact; encourages the EIB to continue to define its monitoring indicators, more specifically indicators of additionality, with a view to assessing the impact as early as possible in the project generation phase, and providing the Board with sufficient information on the expected impact, in particular with regard to the contribution to EU policies;
Amendment 90 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Recalls that the EIB has worldwide responsibilities in ensuring the EU’s attractiveness on the world stage by promoting a conducive investment climate for business and enterprise, principally for SMEs;
Amendment 95 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Acknowledges the central role of SMEs and mid-caps in the EU economy in terms of employment and growth; encouragescalls on the EIB to intensify its support to all kinds of SMEs (start-ups, micro- medium sized businesses, business clusters), with a focus on new business models with high potential job opportunities for young people;
Amendment 96 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Takes note that the EIB’s support to SMEs accounted for approximately 36.6 % of its funding in 2015, triggering a leverage effect of EUR 39.7 billion for SME finance and supporting 5 million jobs; expects increased support for SMEs;
Amendment 126 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. WelcomStresses the EIB’s rapid adaptation capacitneed for the EIB to adapt rapidly to international challenges; - calls on the EIB to continue its support to EU external policies andprovide immediate emergency response support related to the global challenge of migration by including the development aspect and by promoting economic resilience;
Amendment 136 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38
Paragraph 38
38. Insists that the widest possible geographical spread should be considered in the implementation of the EFSI pipeline for the benefit of cohesion and sustainability objectives; asks the EIB to correct the current geographical imbalances within the Union and sectoral concentration of the EFSI’s portfolio, namely under the Infrastructure and Innovation Window (IIW) and the Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Window (SMEW), by enhancing its advisory activities for projects development in Member States and technical assistance through the European Investment Advisory Hub (EIAH), by considering expanding the number of sectors eligible for EFSI funding or by better adapting the type and size of the projects to the market needs in Member States;
Amendment 141 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 43
Paragraph 43
43. Notes that the EFSI (through the SMEW) is an important tool forshould contribute more actively to providing supplementary funding to SMEs, i.e. up to EUR 75 billion of the total investment catalysed by the EFSI over three years, along with the EIB and EIF lending capacities;
Amendment 143 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 45
Paragraph 45
45. Insists, for accountability purposes, on the development of result-driven investments to be regularly assessed through the scoreboard of indicators by the Investment Committee, with a view to identifying well-targeted projects in terms of their contribution to growth and jobs - particularly in EU Member States such as Greece, Spain, Portugal, Italy, etc. with mass unemployment - and to having an objective overview of their additionality, added value and consistency with Union policies or other classical EIB operations;
Amendment 153 #
2016/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 50
Paragraph 50
50. Welcomes the factNotes that the EIB’s transparency policy is based on a presumption of disclosure and that everyone can access EIB documents and information; the EIB ismust not stopping there, but isbe constantly looking for ways to improve and raising the bar;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 5 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Α
Recital Α
Α. whereasstressing that the Member States and the Commission have shared responsibility for implementing approximately 80 % of the Union’s budget;
Amendment 6 #
2016/2097(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the Annual Report of the Commission and recalls that the goal of enhancing regional cohesion should always be accompanied by the protection of the EU’sEU Member States’ financial interests; notes that the fight against fraudulent or non- fraudulent irregularities also increases the general effectiveness of EU fund management;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Β
Recital Β
Β. whereas the protection of the EU’s financial interests should be a key element of the EU’s policy to prevent them being harmed by any form of illegal activity and increase the confidence of citizens by ensuring that their money is used properly and according to the ‘best use of every euro’ approach;
Amendment 9 #
2016/2097(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
Amendment 10 #
2016/2097(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Reiterates its call on the Council to resume immediately the negotiations with Parliament on the Directive on the protection of the financial interests of the Union (PIF Directive); recalls that the PIF Directive ishould be an essential instrument in fighting fraud, corruption, money laundering and other illegal activities affecting the EU’s financial interests; considers that, in the light of the judgment of the Court of Justice of the European Union in case C-105/14, Taricco and Others, the inclusion of VAT in the scope of the directive is inevitable;
Amendment 12 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereasstressing that Article 325 (2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, states that Member States shall take the same measures to counter fraud affecting the financial interests of the Union as they take to counter fraud affecting their own financial interests;
Amendment 13 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereasstressing that Article 325 (3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, states that Member States shall organise, together with the Commission, close and regular cooperation between the competent authorities;
Amendment 13 #
2016/2097(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
Amendment 15 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ε
Recital Ε
Ε. whereas the diversity of legal and administrative systems in the Member States presents a challenging environment in which to overcome irregularities and combat fraud undermining the economic interests of the Union and its citizens;
Amendment 15 #
2016/2097(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
Amendment 17 #
2016/2097(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to enhance the harmonisation of classification, detection and reporting of irregularities between Member States; welcomes, however, the preventive and corrective measures taken by the Commission to avoid fraudulent or not fraudulent irregularities;
Amendment 18 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereasdeploring the fact that the current VAT system, in particular as applied to cross-border transactions, is vulnerable to fraud and tax avoidance strategies, in which MTIC fraud (Missing Trader Intra- Community fraud, commonly called carousel fraud) alone was responsible for VAT revenue losses of approximately 50 billion EUR in 2014;
Amendment 18 #
2016/2097(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
Amendment 20 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Η
Recital Η
Η. whereasdeploring the fact that the VAT gap amounts to approximately 159.5 billion EUR in 2014 and varies from less than 5% to over 40% depending on the country considered;
Amendment 29 #
2016/2097(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Appreciates the efforts made by thsome Member States to detect, evaluate and report irregularities and to implement effective and proportionate anti-fraud measures; calls on the Commission also to use technical assistance in order to help strengthen the technical and administrative capacity of managing authorities to ensure effective control systems able to reduce the risks of fraud;
Amendment 34 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Is concerned that despite the positive drop of 11% of fraudulent irregularities from 1,649 in 2014 to 1,461 in 2015, the sums involved increased 18 % from 538 million EUR in 2014 to 637.6 million EUR in 2015;
Amendment 41 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. EncouragesCalls on the European Commission to continuestep up its efforts to develop programmes such as REFIT in order to simplify EU legislation; stresses that the simplification of rules and procedures helps to lower irregularities which are often linked to complex rules and requirements; notes that a reduction of administrative burden is a cost saving for public administrations and EU citizens and also encourages beneficiaries to undertake new EU programs; stresses that simplification of rules should go in line with the principle of an EU budget focused on results;
Amendment 48 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Notes with some satisfaction that the spike of the amount of Traditional Own Resources (TOR) affected by fraud in 2014 was a one-year issue and that the 2015 levels (EUR 427 million) have returned to the average of the 2011-2015 years; is displeased however that some of the Member States do not communicate any cases of irregularities linked to TOR;
Amendment 51 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. UrgesCalls on the Member States to recover the amounts of TOR due more quickly, especially those Member States which need to recover the largest amounts; urges Greece, Romania, Latvia, Malta and the Netherlands to improve their collection of TOR, as their rate of TOR due remains significantly above the EU average of 1.71% and is 8.95%, 5.07%, 5.04%, 3.84% and 3.81% respectively;
Amendment 59 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Takes note of the 241 cases of reported smuggled cigarettes involving an estimated TOR loss of EUR 31 million; puts into question the vigilance of the customs services of those Members States (the Czech Republic, Malta, Cyprus, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal and Sweden) which have not reported any single case of cigarette smuggling in 2015 and stresses the need to improve customs services in those Member States;
Amendment 64 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Is concerned aboutDeplores the losses due to VAT gap and intra-community VAT fraud, which is responsible consecutively for 159,5 billion EUR and 50 billion EUR revenue loss in 2014; notes that only two Member States, the UK and Belgium, collect and disseminate statistics on the issue of revenue losses caused cross-border VAT fraud;
Amendment 68 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Points out that the Commission does not have access to the information exchanged between Member States with a view to preventing and combating Missing Trader Intra-Community fraud, commonly called carousel fraud;; calls on all the Member States to participate in all of Eurofisc’s fields of activity so as to facilitate the exchange of information with the aim of helping to combat fraud effectively;
Amendment 70 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Notes that the VAT Information Exchange System (VIES) has proven to be a helpful tool in fighting fraud by enabling tax authorities to reconcile data on traders across countries; calls on the Member States to improve immediately response times for providing information, replying to queries and reacting to errors signalled, as recommended by the European Court of Auditors;
Amendment 74 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. WelcomNotes the Commission action plan on “VAT-Towards a single EU VAT area’’ published on 7 April 2016; deeply regrets that the publication of the “Measures to improve cooperation between tax administrations and with customs and law enforcement bodies and to strengthen tax administrations' capacity” foreseen in the action plan for 2016 will be delayed by one year;
Amendment 76 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Takes positive note of the successful outcomes of numerous joint customs operations (JCOs) involving the cooperation of OLAF and Member States with various third-country services, which have resulted in the seizure of, inter alia, 16 million sticks of cigarettes and 2 tonnes of cannabis;
Amendment 86 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. DeploreGreatly regrets that the amount of irregularities reported in the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund (EAGF) and in the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) is growing annually for at least 5 consecutive years with the amount of reported cases growing up from 1970 in 2011 to 4612 cases in 2015 with the sums involved growing from EUR 119 million in 2012 to EUR 394 million in 2015 with the level of reported irregularities of the EAFRD coming close to 2% of the entire fund; urges the Member States with the highest amount of irregularities reported – Romania, Italy, Spain, Poland, Hungary, Portugal and Lithuania – to do their utmost in order to regulate the situation;
Amendment 93 #
2016/2097(INI)
21. Regrets that more than two-thirds of the estimated level of errors in 2015 EDF expenditure were caused by the absence of supporting documents to justify the expenditure and non-compliance with public procurement rules; calls on the Commission and Member States to address these shortcomings immediately;
Amendment 97 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Asks for furtherdetailed explanations from the Commission regarding the reasons behind the high level of fraudulent cases in research and technological development (R&TD), innovation and entrepreneurship which has grown from 6 to 91 reported cases annually in the 2007-13 programming period, representing a sum of EUR 263 million, which constitutes over 20% of all reported fraud cases in the cohesion policy;
Amendment 98 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. WelcomNotes the overall drop in reported irregularities in the Pre-Accession Assistance (PAA); notes however that the number of irregularities in the Instrument for Pre-Accession (IPA I) is steadily growing with Turkey being the contributor of 46% of cases representing 83% of the sums of reported irregularities; invites the Commission to consider applying the “more for more” principle in its negative aspect (“less for less”), given the current political situation in Turkey which poses direct threat to the absorption capacities of the country;
Amendment 102 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Notes with concern that, despite the numerous calls from Parliament for the establishment of uniform reporting principles in all Member States, the situation remains highly unsatisfactory and there are still significant differences in the number of fraudulent and non-fraudulent irregularities reported by each Member State; reiterates its call tocalls on the Commission to make serious efforts to resolve the problem of differing approaches by Member States to detecting irregularities, and non- homogeneous interpretations when applying the EU legal framework;
Amendment 113 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Supports the Commission in its approach to recommendstress the need to strengthening the work of the Member States, which continue to report a very low number of fraudulent irregularities, in relation to detecting and/or reporting fraud, in particular, those which have not reported any case over the last five years: Slovakia and Finland in the area of agriculture and Denmark and Luxembourg in the area of cohesion policy;
Amendment 115 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Takes positive note of the increase of the amount of data published by the Commission on fraudulent and non- fraudulent irregularities and on the quality of statistical evaluation of irregularities reported;
Amendment 120 #
2016/2097(INI)
29. Welcomes the fact thatExpects the ex-ante and ex-post 'Community Controls' areto detecting more and more cases of irregularities; considers however, that prevention is easier than recovery of losses; urges therefore on Member States to better carry out the ex- ante controls with the assistance of the Commission;
Amendment 122 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Encourages the Commission to further enhance its supervisory role through audit, control and inspection activities, remedial action plans and early warning letters with a view to reducing irregularities;
Amendment 127 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Looks forward to the Commission’s mid-term assessment in 2018 in order to establish whether the new regulatory architecture for cohesion policy further substantially prevents and reduces the risk of irregularities including fraud, and looks forward to receiving detailed information on the impact of the new rules on management and control systems, both as regards the risk of irregularities and fraud and as regards the general implementation of the policy;
Amendment 132 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. Emphasizes the role of whistle- blowers in fraud detection and the need to protect them; welcomes the fact that in 2015 the European Commission has launched the "Experience Sharing Programme" to coordinate and exchange best practices to prevent corruption in cooperation with Member States;
Amendment 138 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34
Paragraph 34
34. Welcomes the fact that the European Parliament, the European Commission, the Council of the European Union, the Court of Justice of the European Union, the European Court of Auditors, the European External Action Service, the European Economic and Social Committee, the Committee of the Regions, the European Ombudsman and the European Data Protection Supervisor implemented internal rules protecting whistle-blowers, in accordance with Articles 22a, 22b and 22c of the Staff Regulations and expects further improvements regarding whistle-blower protection rules;
Amendment 143 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35
Paragraph 35
35. Notes that in 2015 the fight against corruption remained a priority in the framework of the European Semester and the related process of economic governance; welcomnotes measures taken in this fight such as organizing meeting with the national contact points of the Member States, launching the "Experience Sharing Programme" for Member States, the participation of OLAF on behalf of the Commission in European and international anti-corruption fora;
Amendment 148 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36
Paragraph 36
36. DeploRegrets that the Commission did not keep its word to publish an EU Anti- Corruption reports biannually, as there has been no report published in 2016;
Amendment 159 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 37
Paragraph 37
37. WelcomesAcknowledges action to breaking the deadlock in the Council regarding the proposal on the Directive on the fight against fraud to the Union’s financial interests by means of criminal law (PIF Directive) with a VAT fraud included in its scope; expresses hope for a swift conclusion of the PIF directive negotiations and looks forward to obtaining an agreement that will be beneficial for the financial interests of the Union;
Amendment 172 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 39
Paragraph 39
39. Regrets to note that despite the assurances of OLAF that it is doing its utmost to shorten the length of its investigations the duration of its investigative phase is growing continuously since 2012 from 22.5 to 25.1 months in closed cases and from 17.3 to 18.7 months in all cases, which does not help in efforts to combat tax fraud and tax evasion by multinationals;
Amendment 178 #
2016/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40
Paragraph 40
40. Reminds that in the light of the principle of mutual sincere cooperation between the institutions, of the principle of good administration and of the requirement of legal certainty, OLAF should organise its collaboration with its Supervisory Committee in a jointly agreed framework, fully respecting the applicable legal provisions, providing practical support for measures to combat tax evasion;
Amendment 16 #
2016/2096(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on governments of developing countries to mainstream gender in mental health policy, and to develop policies and programmes that address both the specific needs of women for mental health treatment and the social origins of psychological distress; strongly believes that betterthe achievement of balance in gender roles and obligations, income security, equal access to education, the development of social safety nets and poverty reduction would further redress gender disparities in mental health;
Amendment 19 #
2016/2096(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the right to health is a fundamental human right; and everyone should have free access to health care;
Amendment 22 #
2016/2096(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses the need to invest in global health research, innovation and development (R&D) to strengthen national health systems by increasing EU spending in this sector and to achieve universal healthcare coverage; regretsdeplores the fact that the EU has not incorporated the principles of its global health policy into its innovation strategy; regrets alsodeplores the fact that there are no binding provisions in any of the mechanisms which ensure that Poverty- Related and Neglected Diseases (PRND) R&D funded through the EU will produce accessible, affordable, suitable and acceptable products for populations in resource-poor settings, or that research data will be openly accessible;
Amendment 27 #
2016/2096(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes with concernDeplores the fact that the increase in offshoring medicine testing to Africa mayis continuing to result in serious ethical violations; points out that not having access to affordable healthcare or health insurance gives vulnerable people, particularly women, no other choice than to participate in clinical trials in order to receive medical treatment;
Amendment 33 #
2016/2096(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls on transnational pharmaceutical companies to fulfil their corporate responsibility to respect human rights, as enshrined in the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPBHR), whenand not to engaginge in clinical trials in low- and middle-income countries; deems that they should ensure the proper protection of participants’ safety and rights, and the conformity of their practices with the highest ethical standards.
Amendment 51 #
2016/2096(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital ΣΤ
Recital ΣΤ
F. whereas restrictions and budgetary cuts made by national governments in the area of public health also make access to health services more onerous; at the same time the violent fiscal adjustment imposed by the Troika does not allow southern European Member States, such as Greece, Spain, Portugal and Italy, to cope with the shortcomings of their health systems;
Amendment 67 #
2016/2096(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereasdeploring the fact that only 10 EU Member States have set the very much- needed target of screening 100 % of the female population for breast cancer, and whereas only eight countries have such a target for cervical cancer screening;
Amendment 92 #
2016/2096(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital M
Recital M
M. whereas, because of a variety of factors, primarily concerning different gender roles and gender inequalities, and daily social discrimination, depression is approximately twice as prevalent among women as it is among men;
Amendment 103 #
2016/2096(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O
Recital O
O. whereas male violence against women and its impacts on women’s health constitute a fundamental barrier to the achievement of gender equality and women’s full enjoyment of their human rights; and in some countries there has been a significant increase in the number of victims and the severity of the consequences of violence;
Amendment 110 #
2016/2096(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital P
Recital P
P. whereas women and girls who are subjected to female genital mutilation are exposed to serious short- and long-term effects on their physical, psychological, sexual and reproductive health;
Amendment 137 #
2016/2096(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b
Paragraph 1 – point b
(b) to recognise male violence against women as a public health issue, whatever form it takes, as it can cause physical and psychological harm;
Amendment 218 #
2016/2096(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Underlines the fact that screening procedures are considered to be one of the most effective cancer prevention measures and calls on Member States to ensure that all women and girls have access to such screening;
Amendment 223 #
2016/2096(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
Amendment 239 #
2016/2096(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Is disappointed by the fact that the annual budgets for programmes designed to prevent male violence against women in all Member States is much less than the actual cost of such violence, be it in economic, psychological, social or moral in nature;
Amendment 290 #
2016/2096(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Asks the Commission to incentivise projects at EU level focused on how women are treatedthe proper treatment of women in clinical research; such projects should involve health authorities at all levels and the pharmaceutical industry;
Amendment 13 #
2016/2095(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital Β
Recital Β
Β. whereas gender equality is enshrined in the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union and in the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights; whereas, nevertheless, the employment rate for men stands at 75.6 % compared with 64.5 % for women, and whereas the gender pay gap is 16 % and the gender pension gap 39 % and whereas in workplaces in the EU Member States there is discrimination also in recruitment procedures;
Amendment 24 #
2016/2095(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the 2002 Barcelona targets are far from being reached, while the Charter of Fundamental Rights states that children shall have the right to protection and care, thus having a dramatic impact on female labour market participation, gender equality, work-life balance and female poverty which is particularly acute in countries impoverished by the Troika's austerity policies;
Amendment 34 #
2016/2095(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Calls for the EPSR to have a binding mechanism for both the monitoring and implementation of existing and updated social rights, especially as regards equal opportunities, including female participation in the labour market, fair working conditions, combating all forms of precarious work and adequate and sustainable social protection for women;
Amendment 58 #
2016/2095(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Urges the Commission to come forward with a package of legislative and non-legislative measures regarding work- life balance with a view to achieving gender equality, including revising the directives on family leave schemes and in particular on maternity and parental leave and proposing directives on paternity and carers’ leave;
Amendment 87 #
2016/2095(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Recalls that the EPSR will not deliver without social investment, especially in available and affordable high- quality childcare infrastructure, and also measures to combat discrimination between men and women, with the support of the European Social Fund (ESF), the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI);
Amendment 108 #
2016/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Α
Recital Α
Α. whereas the European Union needs a paradigm shift towards a strong European social model based on solidarity, social justice, the rule of law, a fair distribution of wealth, gender equality, a high-quality public education system, quality employment and sustainable growth - a model that ensures good social protection for all, empowers vulnerable groups, enhances participation in civil and political life, and improves the living standards for all citizens, delivering on the objectives and rights set out in the EU Treaties, the Charter of Fundamental Rights and the European Social Charter;
Amendment 167 #
2016/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Emphasises that the European Pillar of Social Rights (EPSR) cannot be limited to a declaration of principles or good intentions but must consist of real matter (legislation, policy-making mechanisms and financial instruments), delivering positive impact on citizens’ lives in the short term and enabling support for European constructionthe EU Member States in the 21st century by effectively upholding social rights and Treaty objectives, and strengthening cohesion and upward convergence, and helping to complete EMU;
Amendment 249 #
2016/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls for the enactment of a directive on socially fair working conditions for all forms of employment, ensuring for every worker a core set of enforceable rights, including equal treatment, social protection, protection in case of dismissal, health and safety protection, provisions on working time and rest time, freedom of association and representation, collective bargaining, collective action, access to training, and adequate information and consultation rights; underlines that this directive should apply to employees as well as to all workers and persons employed in non- standard forms of employment, such as fixed-term work, part-time work, on- demand work, self-employment, crowd- working, internship or traineeship; calls for action to be taken to combat all types of precarious employment, and to tackle the high unemployment rates seen in the Member States of southern Europe, such as Greece, Spain, Portugal and others; requests that the EU acquis be updated accordingly so as to apply to all workers;
Amendment 290 #
2016/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 – introductory part
Paragraph 4 – introductory part
4. Calls for decisive steps towards legal certainty on what constitutes ‘employment’, also for work intermediated by digital platforms; underlinstresses that open- ended contracts should remain the norm given their importance for socio-economic security; calls for the directive on fair working conditions to include relevantsome minimum standards to be ensured in more precarious forms of employment, in particular:
Amendment 381 #
2016/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Emphasises the need for renewed upward convergence in wages throughout the EU and especially in those Member States hit by the austerity policies of the Troika, such as Greece, Portugal, Spain and Italy; calls on the Commission to actively support a wider coverage for collective bargaining; considers that to ensure decent living wages, minimum wages set at a decent level are necessary; recommends the establishment of national wage floors through legislation or collective bargaining, with the objective of attaining at least 60 % of the respective national average wage;
Amendment 397 #
2016/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Recalls that the right to healthy and safe working conditions also involves limitations on working time and provisions on minimum rest periods and annual leave; awaits Commission proposals forcalls on the Commission to put forward legislation and other concrete measures to uphold this right for all workers, reflecting all current knowledge about health and safety risks;
Amendment 412 #
2016/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Stresses the importance of collective rights; expects the Commission to step up concrete support for strengthening social dialogue in Member States and sectors where it is weak owing to the prolonged crisis or the prevalence ofand the rights of all workers in the EU Member States as well as taking action to combat non-standard forms of employment;
Amendment 451 #
2016/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Supports more integrated provision of social protection benefits and social services as a way to make the welfare state more understandable and accessible while not weakening social protection; points to the importance of informing citizens about social rights and to the potential of e- government solutions, possibly including, a European social security card, which could improve individual awareness and also help mobile workers clarify their contributions and entitlements;
Amendment 467 #
2016/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Agrees with the importance ofStresses the need for universal access to timely, good-quality and affordable preventative and curative health care; emphasises that all workers must be covered by health insurance;
Amendment 521 #
2016/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Insists that all workers should be covered by insurance against involuntary unemployment or part-time employment, coupled with job-search assistance and stresses the need for investment in (re)- training;
Amendment 543 #
2016/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Calls for a European framework for a guaranteed European minimum income schemes; highlights the importance of such schemes for maintaining human dignity as well as their role as a form of social investments enabling people to undertake training and/or look for work;
Amendment 563 #
2016/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Agrees that all persons with disabilities must be ensured enabling services, access to the labour market and social activity and basic income security allowing them a decent standard of living and social inclusion;
Amendment 599 #
2016/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Considers child poverty, which has increased rapidly in certain EU Member States such as Greece, to be a major issue on which Europe should ‘act big’immediately; calls for the swift implementation of a Child Guarantee in all Member States, so that every child now living in poverty can have access to free healthcare, free education, free childcare, decent housing and proper nutrition;
Amendment 684 #
2016/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 – introductory part
Paragraph 19 – introductory part
19. Is alarmed atDeplores the spread of precariousness arising from the excessive use of ‘atypical’ contracts; stresses the importance of ensuring sufficient institutional and budgetary capacities to provide adequate protection for people in non-standard forms of employment; considers in particular that:
Amendment 743 #
2016/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 – introductory part
Paragraph 22 – introductory part
22. Considers that decisive progress ismeasures to combat all forms of discrimination are urgently needed in the area of gender equality, together with measure to uphold and work-life balance; in particular:
Amendment 820 #
2016/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Emphasises that labour mobility within the EU is a fundamental right whose exercise must be supported but which should not be forced on workers by poor conditions in their home regions, and should not undermine host countries’ social standards;
Amendment 930 #
2016/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Calls for a rebalancing of the European Semester so that the existing scoreboard of key employment and social indicators and the new Convergence Code are directly taken into account in formulating CSRs and the euro area recommendation as well as for the activation of EU instruments; uUrges a stronger role for the Macroeconomic Dialogue with social partners; considers ‘macro-social surveillance’ to be of great importance for avoiding that economic imbalances are reduced at the expense of worsening the employment and social situation;
Amendment 957 #
2016/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Calls for a ‘silver rule’ on social investment to be applied wthen implementing the Stability and Growth Pact, namely to consider certaination of public social investments having a clear positive impact on economic growth (e.g. childcare or education and training), regarding them as being eligible for favourable treatment when assessing government deficits and compliance with the 1/20 debt rule;
Amendment 982 #
2016/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Highlights that today’s phenomena of capital-intensive production, high rates of inequality and unemployment and the continuing rise in ’atypical’ work imply a need to increase the role of general tax revenue in cofinancing social insurance schemes in order to provide decent social protection for all;
Amendment 993 #
2016/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 – introductory part
Paragraph 30 – introductory part
30. Reiterates its call for the raising of the MFF 2014-20 ceilings in order to cope with the increased needs of the EU Member States; calls, in particular, for:
Amendment 1 #
2016/2090(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
- having regard to investigations by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), revealing that Volkswagen diesel vehicles entering the US market between 2009 and 2015 were fitted with sophisticated software algorithms that reduced pollutant emission levels during tests,
Amendment 2 #
2016/2090(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4
Citation 4
- having regard to Rule 198 of itsthe Rules of Procedure of the European Parliament,
Amendment 3 #
2016/2090(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5
Citation 5
- having regard to the interim report of the European Parliament Committee of Inquiry into Emission Measurements in the Automotive Sector (A6-0000/2016),
Amendment 4 #
2016/2090(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Α
Recital Α
Α. whereas Article 226 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) provides a legal basis for the establishment by the European Parliament of a temporary Committee of Inquiry to investigate alleged contraventions or maladministration in the implementation of Union Llaw, without prejudice to the jurisdiction of national or Union courts, and whereas this constitutes an important element of the Parliament’s supervisory powers;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2080(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital Α
Recital Α
Amendment 5 #
2016/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas scrutiny of the declaration of financial interests of a Commissioner- designate by the committee responsible for legal affairs should consists not only of verifying that the declaration has been duly completed but also of assessing whether the content of the declaration is accurate and if a conflict of interests may be inferred; at the same, it is necessary to clarify immediately which financial interests and assets may lead to a conflict of interests in the performance of Commissioners’ duties;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2080(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital Β
Recital Β
Β. whereas it is to be deplored that the Code of Conduct for Commissioners adopted in 2011 fails to address several of Parliament’s recommendations for improvements, in particular as regards the declarations of financial interests of Members of the Commission;
Amendment 10 #
2016/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas, in its above-mentioned resolution of 8 September 2015, Parliament deemed it important for the Committee on Legal Affairs to issue guidelines in the form of recommendations or an own- initiative report, with a view to facilitating reform of the procedures relating to Commissioners’ declarations of interests and for the shortcomings in the declarations of financial interests of active members to be addressed;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas, pursuant to point 1.3 of the code of conduct for Commissioners on selflessness, integrity, transparency, honesty, responsibility and respect for the dignity of Parliament, the latter must declare any financial interest or asset which might create a conflict of interests in the performance of their duties, and whereas this also applies to any holdings of the Commissioner’s spouse or partner which might result in a conflict of interests;
Amendment 12 #
2016/2080(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes that the Code of Conduct for Commissioners adopted on 20 April 2011 (C (2011) 2904) regarding impartiality, integrity, transparency, diligence, probity, responsibility and discretion presents improvements over the preceding code adopted in 2004 as regards the financial declaration of interests since disclosure requirements were extended to Commissioners’ partners and because the declaration of interests needs to be revised when information changes and at least every year;
Amendment 13 #
2016/2080(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Regrets that the 2011 code of conduct has failed to address all the recommendations issued by Parliament’s Committee on Budgetary Control on 2 March 20111 and points out, in particular, that Commissioners are not required to declare all their financial interests or assets but only those interests or assets ‘which might create a conflict of interest in the performance of their duties’, that there is no requirement to declare debts and liabilities and that dependent children are not required to produce the same information as spouses; __________________ 1 Letter from Mr De Magistris, chair of the Committee on Budgetary Control, to Mr Lehne, Chair of the Conference of Committee Chairs.
Amendment 13 #
2016/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas the information on the form is in part inadequate, does not include a detailed definition of what constitutes a conflict of interests and does not enable Parliament to correctly evaluate either the existence of actual or potential conflicts of interests on the part of Commissioners-designate or their ability to carry out their mandate in line with the code of conduct for Commissioners;
Amendment 17 #
2016/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L
Recital L
L. whereas, pursuant to point 1.6 of the code of conduct for Commissioners, a Commissioner shall not deal with any matters within that involves her/his portfolio in which, she/he has any personal interest, in particular a family or financial interest which could impair her/his independence;
Amendment 19 #
2016/2080(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Calls for immediate clarification as to what financial interests and assets might lead to a conflict of interest in carrying out the duties of Commissioners;
Amendment 20 #
2016/2080(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 – introductory part
Paragraph 4 – introductory part
4. Points out thatExpresses concern regarding the updated study on ‘The Code of conduct for Commissioners - Improving effectiveness and efficiency’ (IP/D/CONT/IC/2014-053), which detected a number of deficiencies in the declarations of interests of the current Members of the Commission, mainly:
Amendment 23 #
2016/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes that the aim of scrutinising Commissioners' financial declarations is to ensure that the Commissioners-designate are able to fulfil their mandates completely independently, in accordance with Article 17(3) of the Treaty on European Union and with the code of conduct for Commissioners; considernotes, accordingly, that this should not be restricted to the appointment of the new Commission;
Amendment 25 #
2016/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Takes the view that evaluating a possible conflict of interests must be based on objective factors and take into account the portfolio of the Commissioner- designate;
Amendment 29 #
2016/2080(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. RegDeplorets thate failure of the code of conduct fails to lay down any divestment requirements, despite the fact that such requirements armust be standard in any ethics regime;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Confirms that the Committee on Legal Affairs must carry out a substantive analysis of the declarations of financial interests by means of an in-depth examination aimed at assessing whether the content of the declaration made by a Commissioner-designate is accurate or whether a conflict of interests may be inferred and be able to propose to the President of the Commission the replacement of that Commissioner;
Amendment 35 #
2016/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Takes the view, therefore, that in the absence of such confirmation or if the Committee on Legal Affairs identifies a conflict of interests, the procedure for appointing the Commissioner-designate shall be suspended automatically and at the same the Commissioner’s candidature must be excluded for a period of ten years;
Amendment 40 #
2016/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 – point b
Paragraph 7 – point b
(b) if the Committee on Legal Affairs deems the declaration of financial interests of a Commissioner-designate to contain information which is incomplete or contradictory, or if there is a need for further information, it shall request this information fromask the Commissioner- designate and shall considerto supply this beinfore making its decisionmation within one week and interview him/her;
Amendment 41 #
2016/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 – point c
Paragraph 7 – point c
(c) if the Committee on Legal Affairs identifies a conflict of interests based on the declaration of financial interests or the supplementary information supplied by the Commissioner-designate, it shall draw up recommendations aimed at resolving the conflict of interests; the recommendaimpose sanctions; the sanctions may include renouncing the financial interests in question and/or changes being made to the portfolthe resignation of the Commissioner-designate by the President of the Commission;
Amendment 46 #
2016/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Underlines the obligation for all Members of the Commission to ensure that their declarations of interests are regularly updated, and calls on the Commission to inform Parliament immediately of any substantial changes;
Amendment 50 #
2016/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Considers that any substantial change in the financial interests of a Commissioner during her/his term of office or any reshuffling of the allocation of responsibilities between Members of the Commission constitutes a new situation in terms of the possible existence of a conflict of interests; believes, therefore, that this situation should be subjected to scrutiny by Parliament in accordance with paragraph 7 of this resolution;
Amendment 55 #
2016/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Considers that, in the event of a conflict of interests being identified during a Commissioner's term of office and of the Commission not following Parliament's recommendations for resolving the conflict of interests as set out in paragraph 7 of this resolution, the Committee on Legal Affairs mayust impose sanctions and make recommendations aimed at asking the President of the Commission to withdraw confidence in the Commissioner in question.
Amendment 60 #
2016/2080(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10 – point i
Paragraph 10 – point i
(i) that the Commission reports on an annual basis on the implementation of the Code of Conduct for Commissioners and provides for sanctions in the event ofcomplaint procedures and sanctions in the event of not only serious misconduct but also infringements of requirements, especially as regards the declaration of financial interests.
Amendment 8 #
2016/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Points out that small-scale fishing in the Mediterranean accounts for 80% of the fleet and 60% of jobs: Points to the importance of small-scale non-industrial fishing for the sustainability of stocks, environmental conservation, the sustainable use of marine biodiversity, and the socio- economic development of fishing communities;
Amendment 19 #
2016/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Maintains that where fisheries are concerned, policy-making should be such as to enable fishermen and their organisations, trade unions, and communities to be involved in – and made an integral part of – decision-taking processes; moreover, it is necessary to protect the interests of EU fishermen, namely in those Member States which have been reduced to poverty by the economic crisis and the austerity policies;
Amendment 26 #
2016/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 – introductory part
Paragraph 3 – introductory part
3. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to make information and support more readily available to fishermen’s organisations applying for EU funding, which should meet the fishing sector’s needs by:
Amendment 61 #
2016/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Points to the need to promote collective negotiation and bargaining so as to safeguard and enhance the rights of workers in the sector which are particularly affected in some Member States of the Union;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 3 #
2016/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of Subsidiarity and Proportionality,
Amendment 37 #
2016/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Θ a (new)
Recital Θ a (new)
I a. noting the rapid decline in the number of donkeys worldwide due to the dominant production model; bearing in mind the contribution of this species to the progress of humanity and its symbolic value for some societies;
Amendment 47 #
2016/2078(INI)
J a. bearing in mind the dynamic growth in recent years in the donkey milk production sector; noting the benefits of further developing these products for producers and consumers;
Amendment 120 #
2016/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Underlines the importance of the forthcoming Animal Welfare Reference Centres for improved levels offull compliance with, and consistent enforcement of, legislation, along with the dissemination of information and best practice relating to animal welfare;
Amendment 136 #
2016/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Commission to actively support the development of guides to good practice, by releasing resources for translation of such documents and assisting with their distribution and distribution;
Amendment 151 #
2016/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls on the Commission to support the production and dissemination of information on how to meet the needs of equidae, whatever their role, based around the ‘five freedoms’ and covering the entirety of an equid’s life; calls also on the Commission to include guidance on the responsible breeding and the benefits of equid sterilisationof equids; recommends that such guidance should be disseminated to breeders, equid societies, farms, stables, sanctuaries, transporters and slaughterhouses, and that it should be accessible in a variety of formats, including online;
Amendment 243 #
2016/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. CRecognizes the importance of donkey milk production and calls on the Member States and the Commission to support this dynamic livestock sector; calls on the Commission to issue guidance on donkey milk farming; calls on the Member States to commit to increasing the number of inspections on donkey milk farms;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Acknowledges the importance ofNotes the action plan, but stresses its shortcomings as regards the incorporation of aquatic species;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital Α
Recital Α
Α. whereas the protection of endangered animal and plant species is anand combating the illegal trade in these species are issues of global interest, whichmportance and requires cooperation between all nations, including those of the EU;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. WelcomesNotes its satisfaction with the EU Action Plan against Wildlife Trafficking which will play a crucial role inis intended to combating the alarming rise in the illegal trade in wildlife; underlines, in particular, Priority 2 concerning the implementation and enforcement of the relevant existing rules and legal frameworks;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Welcomes the fact that monitoring issues have been regarded as important, but cCalls on the Commission to be more precise in its mention of IUU fishing and the European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA) in particular;
Amendment 12 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas wildlife protectionthe protection of wildlife and endangered species can, however, have a considerable price for local communities, as some species are dangerous to humans or can destroy plantations and other property or kill livestock; whereas confronting armed poachers can be utterly risky;
Amendment 15 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls for the better use of existing resources, the use of up-to-date technology and adequate training for customs authorities in source, transit and destination countries, especially developing countries, in order to successfully combat the illegal trade in wildlife which is one of the most extensive organised criminal activities;
Amendment 15 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas an action plan at European level to address the issue of wildlife trafficking is an essential step forward, given that revenue from the illegal trade in wild animals amounts to approximately US $22 billion worldwide;
Amendment 15 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Urges the Commission to acknowledge and pay due attention to IUU fishing carried out in Europe (such as the fishing of glass-eels and sturgeon and damage to coral) and to do more to protect the seabed;
Amendment 20 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes that corruption is one of the main enablers and contributors to the trade in illegal wildlife and wildlife products; welcomnotes the commitment made in the Commission strategy entitled ‘Trade for All’ to include ambitious anti-corruption provisions in all future trade agreements;
Amendment 20 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the principle of effectiveness of public action requires the Member States to coordinate their actions if endangered species are to be protected successfully from illegal trafficking;
Amendment 24 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Supports the B4Life flagship initiative on biodiversity protection, implemented in particular via the European Development Fund and the Development Cooperation Instrument, as well as objective 1.2 of the EU Action Plan against Wildlife Trafficking - which could constitute a threat to the survival and preservation of such wildlife - relating to rural communities; calls on the Commission to ensure that relevant actions are consistent with the fundamental poverty reduction objective of EU development policy, reflect the potential of local communities to contribute to wildlife protection, and include creative solutions, adapted to local conditions, to human- wildlife conflicts;
Amendment 25 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Welcomes the inclusion of provisions ensuring the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity in the EU-Vietnam free trade agreement (FTA) and insists on including wildlife protection provisions in all futureand provisions to combat the illegal trade in wildlife in all EU FTAs, including, but not limited to, those with the US and Japan; calls on the Commission to include the analysis of these provisions in its implementation reports;
Amendment 29 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Stresses the importance of maintaining the traceability of fisheries products; emphasises that illegal and unreported fishing is a threat to the sustainable exploitation of living aquatic resources and undermines efforts to achieve better management of the oceans and protect marine biodiversity;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Highlights the importance of ensuring the private sector’s involvement in the fight against wildlife trafficking, considering the role played by e- commerce platforms, distribution networks, transport and courier companies;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the Commission’sPoints to the EU Action Plan against Wildlife Trafficking and stresses the need for further measures to be taken to fully tackle it;
Amendment 36 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the EU to explore, within the scope of the WTO framework, how global trade and environmental regimes can better support each other, especially in the light of the Trade Facilitation Agreement, which opens new avenues for cooperation between customs, wildlife and trade officials, especially in developing countries.;
Amendment 40 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
Amendment 44 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Supports alternative sustainable production methods in order to reduce pressure on wild organisms (e.g. aquaculture); stresses that only marine fishery products of which the legal origin is certified by the flag state or the exporting state may be imported and exported within the EU;
Amendment 50 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses the need to responsibly manage the risks associated with combating poaching, which is often and the trade in wild species, which are usually perpetrated by heavily armed and well- organised criminal groups;
Amendment 51 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Considers awareness-raising and environmental literacy initiatives to be essential for the protection of marine biodiversity;
Amendment 53 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Agrees with the Commission that training activities are an essential part of the fight against organised crime, including wildlife trafficking which now constitute one of the most widespread organised criminal activities;
Amendment 56 #
2016/2076(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Suggests thatCalls for the action plan shouldto earmark financial resources and set out quantified targets so that the success of the plan can be tracked in the long term.
Amendment 1 #
2016/2075(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas networks of illicit activities have a detrimental impact on economies of the EU Member States in terms of growth, jobs, foreign investment, integrity of markets, trade and loss of customs income, the latter loss being borne in the end by the European taxpayer;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2075(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas illicit trade is a primary concern for business and poses a significant threat with growing global risks, in terms of transparency, integrity and financial value, mirroring the use of global trade schemes and supply chains and measures should therefore be taken to combat this problem directly;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2075(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that the efficiency of customs procedures is crucial not only for trade facilitation, but also for law enforcement in terms of fighting the counterfeiting and smuggling of excisable goods entering the EU and combating the recycling of income from unlawful activities; considers that customs services are at the crossroads between secured movement of goods protecting consumers within the EU and the implementation of the provisions of trade agreements;
Amendment 9 #
2016/2075(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Believes that trade facilitation should include rules on the transparency, integrity and accountability of customs procedures with which all Member States must comply;
Amendment 12 #
2016/2075(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Is of the opinion that the quality and performance of customs controls on the transit of goods, particularly for shipment and transport operations at ports and borders, is of the first importance and must be improved; considers it necessary to ensure that there are homogeneous control techniques among Member States for filtering at ports and borders by promoting modern, risk management-based control strategies;
Amendment 21 #
2016/2075(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Considers, with regard to the protection of the EU’s financial interests, that, while not questioning the need to conclude ambitious and wide-ranging trade agreements with the EU’s major trading partners aiming at reducing and eliminating customs tariffs, it is it necessary to make a careful further assessment of the effects of implementation of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) on the Union budget, in terms of the loss of own resources in the form of custom duties (which currently account for 12 % of the Union’s budgetary resources);
Amendment 26 #
2016/2075(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Believes, furthermore, that it is crucial that enterprises in the EU should have access to rapid anti-dumping procedures, bearing in mind the potential losses to both national budgets and the EU budget arising from distortions of competition attributable to unfair trade practices or partners that have a detrimental effect on small and medium- sized enterprises;
Amendment 28 #
2016/2075(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Calls for closer customs cooperation, both within the Union and with third countries, with a view to more efficiently combating illicit trade at the EU’s borders and helping policymakers in the mapping of market and international supply chain vulnerabilities, as well as the tracking and elimination of interconnections between actors involved in illicit trade activities;
Amendment 6 #
2016/2072(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. UnderlinStresses that cultural and creative industries (CCIs) operate in a constantly evolving environment dominated by the development and use of digital Information Communication Technology on a global scale;
Amendment 8 #
2016/2072(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Α
Recital Α
Α. whereas in its communication ‘Promoting cultural and creative sectors for growth and jobs in the EU’17, the Commission recognisesshould give greater importance to the key role of cultural and creative industries (CCIs)18 for the social and economic development of the EU; __________________ 17 18COM(2012)537 final. COM(2012)537 final. 18 Referred to in the Commission Referred to in the Commission communication as: architecture, archives and libraries, artistic crafts, audio-visual (including film, television, video games and multimedia), cultural heritage, design (including fashion design), festivals, music, performing and visual arts, publishing and radio.
Amendment 18 #
2016/2072(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Considers that the digital environment may offers new opportunities for creators to produce and distribute their works to a wider public at a lower cost, independently of physical and geographical constraints;
Amendment 19 #
2016/2072(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Β
Recital Β
Amendment 24 #
2016/2072(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas cultural diplomacy strengthens the bilateral relations between European and third countries and builds bridges between societies and contribute to better mutual understanding;
Amendment 27 #
2016/2072(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recalls in this context that CCIs predominantly consist of a myriad of micro-, small and medium sized enterprises and freelancers, with limited bargaining power vis-à-vis the new digital outlets;
Amendment 45 #
2016/2072(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls on the Commission, finally to effectively address the circulation of illegal digital content and to examine the different options, focusing on copyright related contracts, for improving fair remuneration of creators thereby rewarding creativity and innovation while promoting transparency in the copyright value chain in the digital environment, and safeguarding national cultural and linguistic specificities and stimulating economic activity.
Amendment 48 #
2016/2072(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas employment in the cultural sector is unlikely to be offshored, as it is connected to specific cultural and historical competences; whereas CCIs contribute significantly and more than any other sector to youth employment and have proved to be most resilient during the post-2008 economic crisis;
Amendment 64 #
2016/2072(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
Amendment 96 #
2016/2072(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital M
Recital M
M. whereas CCI national estimates are rarely comparable as Member States are still using different definitions of the CCI, in view of the major economic disparities still existing between the Member States, while countries such as Greece have been hit particularly hard in sectors such as culture, innovation and research;
Amendment 105 #
2016/2072(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
Amendment 137 #
2016/2072(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
Amendment 207 #
2016/2072(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Highlights that piracy and counterfeiting remain a serious concern for CCIs and citizens alike; stresses that these illicit activities can cause safety and health concerns that need to be addressed immediately;
Amendment 258 #
2016/2072(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Stresses that creative skills need to be learnt from an early age in order to lay the foundations for the continuous renewal of creative talents; encourages the Member States to improve their training, learning and qualification systems, enabling students in cultural and arts disciplines to acquire comprehensive training, improving the quality of educational systems and promoting equality at every level of education and training in the EU Member States;
Amendment 269 #
2016/2072(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Highlights the potential of CCIs regarding youth employment and reindustrialisation; calls on the Commission and the Member States to include the CCIs in the Youth Employment Initiative and to provide funds to facilitate careers and training in this sector;
Amendment 331 #
2016/2072(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Notes that participation in all EU funded programmes is open to CCIs, but that this participation should still to be considered below its potential; asks the Commission as a first step to create a one stop shop – e.g. a website – highlighting different funding opportunities for CCIs, as this would increase awareness and accessibility of funding for CCIs;
Amendment 347 #
2016/2072(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
Amendment 349 #
2016/2072(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Calls on the Commission to fully exploit potential synergies existing between EU policies, so as to effectively use the funding availableincrease funding under EU programmes - such as Horizon 2020, the Connecting Europe Facility, Erasmus +, Creative Europe and COSME - and the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIFs) to support more projects in the field of CCIs;
Amendment 370 #
2016/2072(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Notes that the EFSI should help SMEs to overcome capital shortages and typically target projects with a higher risk profile than projects supported by EIB normal operations20; notes neverthelessdeplores the fact that until May 2016 no funding had been granted for projects in the CCS nor for projects in the education or training sector, which mainly consist of SMEs with a higher degree of risk; __________________ 20 Regulation (EU) 2015/1017.
Amendment 384 #
2016/2072(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Considers that in order to improve access to finance in the CCIs and all SMEs it is necessary to develop expertise in assessing the value of intangible assets which could be used as collaterals;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 3 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 b (new)
Citation 3 b (new)
Amendment 5 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6
Citation 6
— having regard to its resolutions of 21 May 2015 on the implementation of the Common Security and Defence Policy1, of 21 May 2015 on the impact of developments in European defence markets on the security and defence capabilities in Europe2, of 11 June 2015 on the strategic military situation in the Black Sea Basin following the illegal annexation of Crimea by Russia3, of 13 April 2016 on the EU in a changing global environment – a more connected, contested and complex world4, and of 7 June 2016 on Peace Support Operations – EU engagement with the UN and the African Union5, _________________ 1 Texts adopted, P8_TA(2015)0213. 2 Texts adopted, P8_TA(2015)0215. 3Textsadopted, P8_TA(2015)0232. 4 Texts adopted, P8_TA(2016)0120. 5 Texts adopted, P8_TA(2016)0249.
Amendment 6 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 7
Citation 7
Amendment 8 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 15
Citation 15
Amendment 10 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 18
Citation 18
Amendment 12 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 19
Citation 19
Amendment 44 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes with concern that terrorism has brought guerrilla warfare toarmed conflict to the streets in major Western European streetcities; underlines that, consequently, security of the individual has become paramount, eroding the traditional distinction between its external and internal dimensions;
Amendment 61 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
Amendment 93 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
Amendment 124 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Supports the development of a sectoral strategy as a follow-up to the EUGS, to be agreed by the Council, that should further specify the civil-military level of ambition, tasks, requirements and capability priorities; reiterates its previous calls for the development of a European Defence White Book and expresses hope that the Council will assign the task of drafting this document without delay;
Amendment 136 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
Amendment 149 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
Amendment 161 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Notes that, as internal and external security are becoming more and more integrated, the integration of their respective inventories is also becoming necessary, empowering the EU to act along the entire spectrum of instruments, up to the level of Article 42(7) of the Treaty on European Union;
Amendment 169 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
Amendment 181 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
Amendment 190 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
Amendment 201 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
Amendment 211 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
Amendment 224 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
Amendment 232 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
Amendment 245 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
Amendment 270 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Is convinced that enhancing the EU’s status as a global security provider in the Member States needs adequate, sufficient capabilities and a competitive defence industry ensuring a sustainable supply chain; notes that the European defence sector is characterised by fragmentation and duplication, which need gradual elimination through a process providing incentives and rewards to all national components;
Amendment 276 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
Amendment 284 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
Amendment 300 #
2016/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
Amendment 2 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
Amendment 4 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Believes that the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), which is used to finance risky and innovative projects, canmust be used as a tool to boost EU growth and promote the development of strong, sustainable and competitive industry, especially in southern European countries such as Greece, Spain and Portugal;
Amendment 9 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Acknowledges the initial results of the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) to mobilise private investments; rRecalls that the EFSI must also contribute to economic, social and territorial cohesion and that efforts are needed to enhance synergies and complementarity between the EFSI and European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIFs); underlines the importance of ensuring additionality of the EFSI with respect to other EIB initiatives and EU- funded programs;
Amendment 16 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Points out that only 13% of SMEs trade outside the EU; takes the view that the EFSI should give priority to the internationalisation ofeconomic support for SMEs and strengthen the role of the European Investment Advisory Hub (EIAH) by giving it an export aid mission;
Amendment 16 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Urges that EFSI ensure greater additionality for its projects in relation to normal EIB activities; underlines the fact that EFSI should support strategic investments related to projects that cannot obtain funding because of market failures, suboptimal investment situations or high levels of risk; recalls, furthermore, that when determining the criteria for use of the EU guarantee, EFSI should consider not only the profitability factor, but also the positive effects in terms of growth, job creation and cohesion factors;
Amendment 17 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. NotStresses that the EFSI aims at leveraging through the EIB a total of EUR 315 billion in extra investment and new projects in the real economy by 2018;
Amendment 20 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes with interest the proposal Commission President Juncker made during his 2016 State of the Union address to give the EFSI an external element in order to mobilise between EUR 44 and 88 billion in investments in Africa and the Neighbourhood; expects the EFSI to be stepped up also in EU Member States adversely affected by Troika austerity policies with a view to strengthening SMEs in those countries; stresses that these investments should not take the place of existing investments, must comply with the additionality principle in respect to projects that are already being financed and should be targeted towards risky and, where possible, small-scale projects;
Amendment 23 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. UnderlinStresses that more transparency and publicity on the criteria of major EFSI projects are required in order to increase the trust and attractiveness of markets for the EFSI as an efficient funding tool;
Amendment 25 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses that, while the SMEs window of the EFSI represented a good opportunity for start-ups, SMEs and mid- caps, there is a lack of big investment; emphasises, therefore, the need to improve the financing of infrastructure and innovation projects in Member States such as Greece and to boost investments, which have been eroded by falling wages and pensions and consequently lower purchasing power on the Greek market;
Amendment 31 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. WelcomNotes the publication of the Commission’s new guidelines of 22 of February 2016 on combining ESIFs and the EFSI; takes note, however, that the number of existing synergies between EFSI and ESIFs funds is still extremely low and calls on the Commission, the EIB, the national promotional banks and institutions (NPBI) and the managing authorities to accelerate the design and implementation of further synergies;
Amendment 37 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. NotStresses that the geographical distribution of projects has been hitherto uneven; recalls that for the benefit of cohesion and sustainability objectives, the widest possible geographical spread should be considered in implementing the EFSI pipeline, taking into account the potential of sparsely populated areas in the EU;
Amendment 37 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls for better coordination between EFSI and other EU funds, in particular the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIFs), so as to promote stronger cohesion in Europe and ensure that EFSI has wide geographical coverage, particularly in southern European countries such as Greece, Italy, Portugal and Spain; calls, also, for closer cooperation with national promotional banks, local and regional authorities and relevant stakeholders, including further encouragement to establish investment platforms to aggregate sectorial and geographical investment opportunities;
Amendment 38 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Considers that the Commission, the EIB, the Committee of the Regions, and the managing authorities should better cooperate to ensure that more integrated ESIF-EFSI projects are put forward to boost territorial development and cohesion policies; at the same time there must be an increase in the financing of infrastructure and innovation projects in Member States such as Greece and in investments, which have been eroded by falling wages and pensions;
Amendment 43 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. AskUrges the EIB to correct the current geographical imbalances and sectoral concentration of the EFSI portfolio, namely under the Infrastructure and Innovation Window (IIW) and the Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Window (SMEW), by enhancing its advisory activities for project design in Member States and technical assistance through the European Investment Advisory Hub (EIAH), including the possibility of increasing its budget when justified;
Amendment 47 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Calls onAsks the EIB to simplify the application process and stresses the need to strengthen the visibility of, interest in and awareness about the EFSI, especially for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises in the Member States;
Amendment 48 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Considers that EFSI is instrumental in completing and restructuring the Single Market; underlines, in this light, the importance of strengthening the third pillar of the ‘Investment Plan for Europe’, alsoStresses that, under the Junker plan, the European Fund for Strategic Investments expects within three years to inject an additional investment of EUR 315 billion into the econtext of the European Semester process, in order to make the EU regulatory environment more certain, homogeneomy, 42 investment projects having already been submitted for Greece; points out, however, that only two such projects, the ProCredit grousp and favourable to investments by focusing especially on strategic objectives such as completion of the Single Market and the development of a well-functioning Digitathe Creta Farm undertaking have actually materialised; considers therefore that that the EFSI should invest immediately in the real economy and implement all Single Market, and on key actions that support these objectivesvestment projects approved by the European Investment Bank under the Junker plan;
Amendment 53 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Considers that it is essential to ensure a geographical balance of EFSI projects, taking account of the different economic devehuge disparities between North and South, in particular as regards economic growth and unemplopyment of the regionsrates, and the territorial diversity of the Member States; highlights the importance of also developing cross-border projects that could deliver a high European added value;
Amendment 61 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. WelcomesExpects fulfilment of the recent Commission proposal to extend EFSI beyond 2018 and to reinforce it in order to overcome the current investment gap in Europe and continue to mobilise private sector capital, these being crucial steps to ensure sustainable growth, competitiveness, quality job creation, measures to assist small and medium- sized enterprises and social and territorial cohesion in Europe.
Amendment 62 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. BelievStresses that transparency and tax provisions should be increased and reinforced, in particular as regards the provision on tax avoidance;
Amendment 68 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Considers that there is a need to develop the thematic concbegin the implementration of EFSI projects related to cohesion policy;
Amendment 75 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Believes that the selection of EFSI financing operations and the managing of projects should be more transparent, accountable, based on defined criteria and involve local and regional stakeholders at an early stage and with particular emphasis on Southern European countries such as Greece, Portugal, Italy and Spain; stresses that the European Investment Advisory Hub (EIAH) and the EFSI investment committee should use the expertise of regional authorities in order to promote integrated ESIF-EFSI projects; with a view to this, the EIAH should play an active role in enabling even more local and regional authorities to make the most of the EFSI;
Amendment 94 #
2016/2064(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Recalls that Parliament must play a fundamental role in monitoring the impact ofimplementing these strategies and projects in terms ofwith the aim of boosting employment and sustainable and economic growth.
Amendment 233 #
2016/2063(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16a. Notes that, according to the ECJ judgment of 16 June 2015 in Case C- 62/14, when the ECB purchases government bonds on secondary markets it is exposed to a significant risk of losses as well as to the risk of a debt cut;
Amendment 238 #
2016/2063(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 b (new)
Paragraph 16 b (new)
16b. Urges those euro area Member States which are subject to a macroeconomic adjustment programme to act pursuant to Article 7(9) of Regulation No 472/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 May 2013 to carry out a comprehensive audit of their public finances in order, inter alia, to assess the reasons that led to the build-up of excessive levels of debt, as well as to track any possible irregularities;
Amendment 247 #
2016/2063(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 c (new)
Paragraph 16 c (new)
16c. Considers that the existing flexibility within the Stability and Growth Pact rules could be used to better address the weak recovery in some Member States;
Amendment 249 #
2016/2063(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 d (new)
Paragraph 16 d (new)
16d. Recalls that Article 127 TFEU states that the ECB, without prejudice to its primary objective of maintaining price stability, shall support the general economic policies in the Union, and that this is further specified in Article 282 TFEU;
Amendment 254 #
2016/2063(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 e (new)
Paragraph 16 e (new)
16e. Draws attention to Article 123 TFEU, Article 21 of the Statute of the European System of Central Banks, and Article 7 of Council Regulation (EC) No 3603/1993 of 13 December 1993;
Amendment 256 #
2016/2063(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 f (new)
Paragraph 16 f (new)
16f. Notes that austerity policies in a number of Member States have contributed to stagnation and recession, with damaging effects on euro area members’ public accounts, levels of unemployment and social cohesion;
Amendment 258 #
2016/2063(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 g (new)
Paragraph 16 g (new)
16g. Recalls that the monetary dialogue is important to ensure the transparency of monetary policy, vis-à-vis Parliament and the wider public;
Amendment 260 #
2016/2063(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 h (new)
Paragraph 16 h (new)
16h. Stresses that the ECB’s supervisory role and its monetary policy function must not be confused and should not generate any conflict of interest in its execution of its principal functions;
Amendment 261 #
2016/2063(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 i (new)
Paragraph 16 i (new)
16i. Deplores the fact that the ECB has exceeded even a broad interpretation of its Treaty-based mandate, inter alia in its role in the troika and quadriga; urges the ECB to take a step backwards and reinforce its independence from political decisions, abiding by the ECJ judgment in Case C-62/14 of 16 June 2015, especially its paragraph 102, as well as the opinion expressed by Advocate-General Cruz Villalón in the same case, especially its paragraphs 227 and 263;
Amendment 264 #
2016/2063(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 j (new)
Paragraph 16 j (new)
16j. Recalls Parliament’s resolution on the 2013 Annual Report of the ECB, especially its paragraph 9;
Amendment 266 #
2016/2063(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 k (new)
Paragraph 16 k (new)
16k. Underlines the need for democratic accountability in view of the new responsibilities conferred on the ECB regarding supervisory tasks, as well as its involvement in the troika and quadriga programmes, while also stressing the ECB’s independence in the field of monetary policy and the need to avoid any conflict of interest in the execution of its functions;
Amendment 267 #
2016/2063(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 l (new)
Paragraph 16 l (new)
16l. Calls for a thorough assessment of the troika’s modus operandi and of the ECB’s involvement in the troika and quadriga frameworks, with a view to clarifying and redefining the scope of responsibilities and ensuring greater democratic accountability in the adoption and implementation of bailout programmes; invites the Council to reconsider the involvement of the ECB and IMF in the troika;
Amendment 268 #
2016/2063(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 m (new)
Paragraph 16 m (new)
16m. Recalls the report of Parliament of 28 February 2014 on the inquiry into the role and operations of the troika, which calls on the next Parliament to build on the work of this report, develop its key findings and investigate further;
Amendment 269 #
2016/2063(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 n (new)
Paragraph 16 n (new)
16n. Believes that the current structure of the Banking Union should be complemented in the future with a single mechanism to guarantee bank deposits, aimed at avoiding capital flight in the event of a future banking crisis;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 3 #
2016/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of Subsidiarity and Proportionality,
Amendment 4 #
2016/2062(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the fact that the Commission’s Aviation Strategy proposal hHighlights the aviation sector’s significant contribution to the EU economy; stresses that further ambitious steps are needed and that these should take into account environmental, climate, health and employment aspects;
Amendment 17 #
2016/2062(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Expresses concern that CO2 emissions from international aviation are projected to be seven times higher in 2050 than in 1990, despite improvements in efficiency;
Amendment 18 #
2016/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Α
Recital Α
Α. whereas EU transport policy ultimately aims at serving the interests of European citizens and businesses by providing an ever-greater connectivity, and the highest level of safety and barrier-free markets;
Amendment 24 #
2016/2062(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. WelcomNotes the Commission´s communication on ‘An Aviation Strategy for Europe’; stresses that action is needed to reinforce the social agenda and maintain high-quality jobs in aviation; believes that ensuring a level playing field in the sector is crucial;
Amendment 24 #
2016/2062(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. RegretsIs disappointed that international aviation is not mentioned in the Paris Agreement; notes that without considerable contributions from the aviation sector to global mitigation efforts, these goals cannot be achieved;
Amendment 29 #
2016/2062(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls for the establishment later this year of a fair and robust Global Market- Based Measure (GMBM)easure to be implemented at international level from 2020 onwards;
Amendment 33 #
2016/2062(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
Amendment 41 #
2016/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
Amendment 42 #
2016/2062(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
Amendment 55 #
2016/2062(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Urges that an EU framework be set up in relation torestricting the use of electric, remotely piloted aircraft systems and for drone operations;
Amendment 68 #
2016/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. WelcomNotes the Commission’s Communication on an Aviation Strategy for Europe and its effort to identify sources to boost the sector by finding new market opportunities and dismantling barriers, and for its proposals to meet and anticipate new challenges; believes that, in a longer-term perspective, a further holistic and ambitious approach should be embraced;
Amendment 84 #
2016/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on the Commission to rethink on-going initiatives and propose viable alternatives to remove the deficiencies of the aviation sector resulting from the late and incomplete implementation of EU legislation such as the Single European Sky (SES); urges the Member States finally to make progress on other essential dossiers such as revision of the Slot Regulation and the Passenger Rights Regulation;
Amendment 102 #
2016/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Believes that the European aviation sector can fit into a competitive global environment by further building on and developing its assets; believes that competition from third countries, if fair, should be seen as an opportunity to develop further a European aviation model;
Amendment 116 #
2016/2062(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Stresses the economic importance of air transport for the outermost regions and calls on the Commission to guarantee adequate funding for such services.
Amendment 142 #
2016/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Recalls that air space is also part of the EU single market, and that any fragmentation resulting from diverging national practices has an impact on the rest of the market and hampers EU competitivenessexercise of sovereign rights of Member States and that the principle of subsidiarity must therefore be respected with regard to air space;
Amendment 151 #
2016/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls on the Commission to implement the concept of a European upper flight information region, which is to form a ‘Trans-European Motorway of the Sky’, to overcome the increasingly difficult implementation of SES, in particular the functional airspace blocks, and to allow continuity of air services in the most vulnerable parts of the air space, while ensuring a proper deployment of the Single European Sky ATM Research (SESAR) project;
Amendment 159 #
2016/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Believes that many of the significant limits to growth, both in the air and on the ground, can be addressed by taking connectivity as the main indicator when assessing and planning actions in the sector;
Amendment 172 #
2016/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Considers that connectivity should not only be limited to number, frequency and quality of air transport services, but should also be assessed within an integrated modern transport network and extended to other criteria, such as time, affordability and environmental cost, in order to reflect the actual added value of a route; calls, therefore, on the Commission to explore the possibility of developing an EU indicator based on other existing indices;
Amendment 190 #
2016/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Believes that the benefits of the complementarity of all modes of transport without exception should be unleashed to improve mobility and achieve a resilient transport network; points out that intermodality is the only way to assure the dynamic and sustainable development of a competitive EU aviation sector; underlines that intermodality allows a more efficient use of infrastructure, by expanding airport catchment areas, which would also free up slots and contribute to creating a favourable environment for trade, tourism and cargo operations;
Amendment 202 #
2016/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Stresses the economic importance of air transport for the outermost regions and calls on the Commission to guarantee adequate funding for such services in island regions and especially in the Aegean islands;
Amendment 219 #
2016/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Notes that public and private financing in the aviation sector is vital to guarantee territorial cohesion, foster innovation and maintain or regain European leadership of our industry; recalls that all financing must respect EU state aid guidelines and competition law;
Amendment 246 #
2016/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Believes that the whole aviation value chain has the potential to be a strategic sector for investments, which needs to be further exploited by setting long-term objectives and by granting incentives to smart initiatives fulfilling those objectives; invites the Commission and the Member States to look into further measures to promote such initiatives, including through the effective use of the European Fund for Strategic Investments;
Amendment 258 #
2016/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Takes note ofExpresses concern theat CO2 emissions genfrom internated by theional aviation sectorare projected to be seven times higher in 2050 than in 1990; stresses the wide range of actions already taken to achieve carbon neutral growth from 2020, both by developing alternative fuels and lighter aircraft, and by abiding to international agreements; welcomes the Commission’s intention to review EU measures to reduce CO2 emissions from aviation in light of the outcome of the 39th Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO); is of the opinion that, in view also of the Commission’s Circular Economy Package, further initiatives reducing emissions of operational activities from, to and within airports should be encouraged;
Amendment 280 #
2016/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Acknowledges the substantialparticularly high costs spent on security measures; stresses that security challenges posed to the aviation sector will only be greater in the future, requiring an immediate shift to a more intelligence-based and reactive security system, and an improvement of the security of airports’ facilities so that they can adapt to evolving threats without requiring constant updates; calls on the Commission to look into the possibility of deepening the one-stop security concept, and of developing a EU pre-check system allowing pre-registered EU travellers to go through a lighter and faster screening; urges the Member States to commit to share intelligence systematically and to exchange best practices on airport security systems;
Amendment 287 #
2016/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15a. Urges that a precise EU framework be set up restricting the use of electric, remotely piloted aircraft systems and drone operations;
Amendment 291 #
2016/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Notes that relative to other various transport modes, the aviation sector is already well ahead in putting the benefits of digitalisation, information and communication technologies, and open data to use, and encourages the sector to continue to take a lead in this process, while ensuring interoperability; welcomNotes the Commission’s proposal for an aviation big data project and asks for clarification on its implementation;
Amendment 303 #
2016/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Insists that the aviation sector is contributing, directly and indirectly, to the creation of jobs; believes that maintaining decent working conditions and preventing unfair practices contribute to the sustainability of the aviation sector; acknowledges the necessity to bring clarity on the ‘home base’ criterion, and welcomes the Commission’s decision to have guidelines issued on the applicable labour law and competent courts;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2061(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2016/2061(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 13 #
2016/2061(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Β
Recital Β
Β. whereas women enjoy poorer pension entitlements and payments than men in most EU Member States and are both over-represented in the poorest pensioner groups and under- represented in the wealthiest;
Amendment 19 #
2016/2061(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the aim of pension policies is to make sure that pension systems give all EU citizens a decent income that safeguards them against the risk of social exclusionso as to reduce the number of citizens living in poverty and social exclusion, especially in EU Member States such as Greece;
Amendment 29 #
2016/2061(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ε
Recital Ε
Ε. whereas the pension gap tends to leaves women more at risk of economic vulnerability and dependence than men;
Amendment 36 #
2016/2061(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ζ
Recital Ζ
Ζ. whereasdeploring the fact that the lack of comparable, comprehensive, reliable and regularly updated data on the basis of which to gauge the size of the pension gap and the relative importance of the factors that contribute to it make it difficult to determine how best to tackle the problem;
Amendment 51 #
2016/2061(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital M
Recital M
M. whereas the pension gap differs from one woman pensioner to another according to social, marital and/or family status and affects persons on low incomes and in part-time employment more; whereas, in view of this, a one-size- fits-all approach will not necessarily produce the best results;
Amendment 55 #
2016/2061(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. AcknowledgesPoints out that the implementation of the principle of equal pay for the same work and for work of equal value is crucial to reducing pay and pension gapsthe great disparities in pay and pensions between men and women and to eliminating the risk of poverty;
Amendment 67 #
2016/2061(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O
Recital O
O. whereas traditional working time arrangements make it impossible for couples in which both partners wish to work full time to strike a proper work-life balance since the types of leave linked to family reasons are different for men and women;
Amendment 70 #
2016/2061(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital P
Recital P
P. whereas, despite the efforts made to improve the situation in this area, the employment rate among women still falls far short of the Europe 2020 strategy targets and is still far lower than that among men;
Amendment 85 #
2016/2061(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Highlights the fact that all people have the right to a decent public pension, and recalls that the Union should recognises the entitlement to social security benefits and social services which provide protection in the event of old age or dependency;
Amendment 87 #
2016/2061(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital ΙΘ
Recital ΙΘ
S. whereas there continues to be a large gender pay gap in the European Union; whereas that gap, which stood at 16.3 % in 2014, is caused in particular by discrimination and segregation resulting in the over-representation of women in sectors where pay is lower than in sectors dominated mainly by men;
Amendment 108 #
2016/2061(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Calls on the Commission to work closely with the Member States in establishing a strategy for putting an end to the gender gap in wages and pensions in the European Union;
Amendment 121 #
2016/2061(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. RegretsDeplores the fact that the current freeze and cuts in pensions in some Member States isn southern Europe, for instance Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal, are hitting people with low incomes, part-time jobs or interrupted careers (most of them women) hardest;
Amendment 123 #
2016/2061(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses that a multi-faceted approach is required in order to make a success of the strategy, which must address disparities between men and women in terms of their careers and ability to make pension contributions as well as those resulting from the way in which pension systems are organised; At the same time, there must be an increase in the sustainability of pension systems which is steadily being eroded in some Member States of the Union, such as Greece, which are affected by the Troika’s austerity measures;
Amendment 136 #
2016/2061(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls on the Commission to work together with the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) to develop reliable indicators on the basis of which to identify the various factors behind the pension gap, as well as to monitor that gap and flag up changesways of addressing it;
Amendment 142 #
2016/2061(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. EncouragesCalls upon the Member States to promote action to close the gap through their social policies, to raise awareness among decision-makers in this area and to develop programmes that will provide women with more information on the gap’s implications for them, as well as with the tools they require in order to devise sustainable pension funding strategies that are tailored to their specific needs;
Amendment 143 #
2016/2061(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Asks the Member States to increase minimum wages as an important tool for narrowing pension gaps and imposing transparency in pension schemes as regards men and women;
Amendment 160 #
2016/2061(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Condemns unequivocally gender pay disparities resulting from discrimination at the workplace and reiterates its call for Directive 2006/54/EC to be revised in order to ensure more equal treatment of men and women in matters of employment and pay;
Amendment 165 #
2016/2061(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Supports efforts to tackle horizontal and vertical segregation on the labour market by encouraging women to take up jobs and careers in innovative growth sectors which are currently dominated mainly by men as a result of the persistence of stereotypes; stresses the need to take immediate measures to stop the discrimination that exists even in recruitment procedures;
Amendment 175 #
2016/2061(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Stresses that the sustainability of pension schemes can be reinforced by complementing social security with tax contributionsin some Member States of the Union, such as Greece, is being affected by the austerity measures taken by the Troika, while pension discrimination against women is becoming increasingly marked;
Amendment 181 #
2016/2061(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Calls on the Commission swiftly to deliver on the commitments it gave under both the Roadmap and the Strategic Engagement, in order to enable anyone wishing to do so to strike a better work-life balance;
Amendment 207 #
2016/2061(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Calls on the Commission forthwith to carry out a thorough assessment of the impacts on the most vulnerable of the recommendations addressed to the Member States on pensions;
Amendment 222 #
2016/2061(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Urges the Member States to reverse any reforms of pension systems that aggravate imbalances in pensions (especially gender imbalances) and to take immediate measures to eradicate this discrimination.
Amendment 224 #
2016/2061(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Calls on the Member States to assess, on the basis of accurate, comparable data, the impact that their pension systems are having on the pension gap and its underlying factors in order to combat discrimination and create transparency in the pension systems of EU Member States;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Γ
Recital Γ
Amendment 5 #
2016/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas there is discrimination between men and women concerning labour rights and many women in rural areas lacking other possibilities tend to accept low-paid jobs in agriculture, often without official registration and without any social security rights;
Amendment 9 #
2016/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas gapserious shortcomings in access to justice for women victims of gender-based violence persist, in particular an absence of criminalisation of all forms of violence against women, severe under- reporting of such crimes, very few convictions for rape, and very little or no state funding for support services;
Amendment 16 #
2016/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers the situation in the area of women’s rights in the EaP countries to be stableis in need of improvement; points out, however, that profound economic changes and economic uncertainty have had a negative effect on the economic situation of women, leading to shortcomings in their de facto equality;
Amendment 17 #
2016/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Welcomes all efforts made byExpresses the need for the EaP countries to take immediate action to increase equality between women and men in society, including adoption of national action plans and cooperation with international organisations and civil society stakeholders;
Amendment 18 #
2016/2060(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Calls for representation of women at all levels of government, if necessary with the use of quotas, and for women’s systematic inclusion in transitional institutions; supports electoral systems that require voters to select both male and female candidates; stresses the importance of women’s equal, full and active participation in the prevention and resolution of conflicts and of equal opportunities in finding work, and supports empowerment projects aimed at training women to negotiate women- related issues;
Amendment 18 #
2016/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls on the EaP countries to overcome gaps in their anti-discrimination frameworks, and for greater use of anti- discrimination legislation on the grounds of sex, including greater use of international standards in judicial decisions, in order to increase the enforceability of laws and for an end to violations of women's rights in these countries;
Amendment 24 #
2016/2060(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Underlines the urgent need for gender mainstreaming and positive action in the National Action Plans of the European Neighbourhood Policy;
Amendment 25 #
2016/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls on the EaP States to promote and strengthen the political participation and access of women to power structures and leadership by womenpositions; underlines that increased participation of women in administrations leading key reforms, such as anti-corruption and economic reforms, would be beneficial; welcomes all efforts aimed at reaching this goal, such as obligatory or voluntary quotas for the lists of candidates, grants, training and support provided to female politicians and activists, and mentoring programmes and awareness- raising campaigns changing the image of women in the media;
Amendment 32 #
2016/2060(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls for access to education for children, including secondary and university education, paying particular attention to the education of girls; calls also for the eradication of early and forced marriage and genital mutilation;
Amendment 34 #
2016/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Notes that gender stereotypes and constant discrimination against women prevent greater inclusion of women in the labour market and are at the root of additional barriers to female entrepreneurship activities;
Amendment 36 #
2016/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. HighlightsDeplores the fact that women are employed to a much higher extent in services and state sectors with significantly lower wages than in the sectors employing a majority of males, that the gender pay gap remains high and can be as much as 50 %, and that women encounter cultural and sociological barriers in their access to managerial positions, as is also often the case in the EU where the wage and pension gap between men and women is quite wide;
Amendment 45 #
2016/2060(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls for women’s involvement in decision-making and in the process of implementing economic policies, for the promotion of business programmes for the involvement ofequal opportunities for men and women in companies and enterprises, and for the implementation of local development projects aimed at the economic emancipation of women in Eastern Partnership States;
Amendment 50 #
2016/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Highlights the problems ofExpresses the need to combat domestic violence and gender-based violence, including sexual harassment, and trafficking in human beings for sexual exploitation in the EaP countries, which is often unreported owing to societal acceptance of such behaviour;
Amendment 58 #
2016/2060(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses the necessity for women to participate actively in trade unions, and highlights the need to overcome legal and practical discriminatory barriers for women in the work environment in order to achieve equal pay for equal work so as to eliminate wage and pension differences between the two sexes;
Amendment 62 #
2016/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. UrgesCalls on the governments to increase efforts to investigate and prosecute suspected traffickers and convict labour and sex traffickers, and to support NGO partners that provide rehabilitation and reintegration services to victims;
Amendment 64 #
2016/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Calls for greater cooperation between EaP States on the one hand and the EU agencies and Member States’ law enforcement bodies on the other hand, in order to combat trafficking in human beings, which is also one of the most profitable organised crime activities, and dismantle criminal networks;
Amendment 65 #
2016/2060(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Urges the Eastern Partnership States to ratify the Istanbul Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence, and calls on the authorities to put in place national strategies to combat violence against women in both private and in public life;
Amendment 68 #
2016/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Encourages the EaP countries to sign and ratify the Istanbul Convention on preventing and combating violence against women;
Amendment 74 #
2016/2060(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Stresses the importance of the Sustainable Development Goals, SDG target 5 on gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls and particularly SDG target 5(2), which calls for the elimination of all forms of violence against women and girls in the public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation;
Amendment 79 #
2016/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Points out that while gender equality ishould be a horizontal principle within the ENP and the ENI, more precise and measurable targets in the area of gender equality should be pursued, also with regard to the new Gender Action Plan in Development 2016-2020;
Amendment 82 #
2016/2060(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Calls for the application of the Beijing Platform for Action and the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development for education and health as basic human rights, and calls for universal access for women to sexual and reproductive health services; stresses family planning, maternal health, easy access to contraception and access to the full range of sexual and reproductive health services as important elements in saving women’s lives;
Amendment 83 #
2016/2060(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Highlights the need to include women’s rights and gender equality issues on the agenda of regular political and human rights dialogues with the EaP partners together with proposed actions;
Amendment 88 #
2016/2060(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Condemns human trafficking and any other exploitative practice which violates the right to bodily integrity and inflicts violence; stresses the need to tackle human trafficking, the majority of victims of which are women, who are exploited for sexual purposes which constitutes the most lucrative form of human trafficking; supports the placing of these policies at the core of development cooperation in the EU neighbourhood policies;
Amendment 92 #
2016/2060(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Underlines the important role of parliamentary diplomacy in all of the above areas and the need to exchange best practices;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that the EU strategy for liquefied natural gas (LNG) and gas storage is one element of the Energy Union, which aims to gives concrete expression to the EU’s ambition to bring about a transition to a sustainable, and secure and competitive energy systemenergy system; believes, in this context, that further integration of energy policy should serve the national interests of the Member States and be for the benefit of EU citizens;
Amendment 3 #
2016/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that energy is a basic human good and that the EU must combat energy poverty; calls on the EU, as part of its energy strategy, to give priority to eliminating energy poverty and set clear and measurable targets to this end;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Is of the opinion that energy security can be achieved in the most efficient way through better coordination of national energy policies and consensus between the Member States on this matter; believes, in this context, that further integration of energy policy should be for the benefit of Member States and theirserve the national interests of the Member States and be for the benefit of EU citizens;
Amendment 6 #
2016/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the Commission’s strategy to support the use of LNG as an alternative fuel for transport where it replaces more polluting conventional fuels and does not take the place of renewable energy sources;
Amendment 13 #
2016/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that trade plays a key role in energy security, and that strong energy partnerships, reinforced by the inclusion of energy chapters in the EU’s trade agreements, are essential tools; considers it to be of key importance that the EU’s trade agreements enhance the EU’s energy diversification and reduce its dependence on imported energy from too few suppliersMember States' energy security but also respect for the environment;
Amendment 14 #
2016/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Highlights that energy is a basic human good and that an important goal of the Energy Union is to ensure equal and cheap access for all and to combat energy poverty; believes that through energy cooperation the EU can positively contribute to promoting and strengthening democracy, the rule of law and human rights in partner countries; calls in this context for better lcalls in this context for better links between energy and climate policies; believes that the EU should not make use of energy cooperation as a means of interfering with the internal political, social and economic workinkgs between energy and climate policof partner countries;
Amendment 15 #
2016/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that the European Union and its Member States should first of all focus on their renewable resources and derive maximum benefit from their renewable production capacity; stresses that this should not prevent efforts being made to extract added value from other segments of the energy markets, such as LNGthe natural gas market, provided that this is done in a sustainable manner that is fully consistent with the EU’s environmental protection principles;
Amendment 22 #
2016/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Points out that the use of LNG in heavy-duty vehicles and shipping can reduce emissions of various pollutants (SOx, NOx and particulate matter) and, in the case of shipping, can allow the sector to meet the requirements of environmental legislation by decreasing the sulphur and nitrogen content in marine fuels used in the Emission Control Areas; notes that LNG, and in particular CNG, ismust also become a viable solution for public transport which helps to reduce air and noise pollution;
Amendment 25 #
2016/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses that the use of LNG may also lead to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from maritime and road transport, provided that methane slip is minimised; stresses that significant efforts must be made by the competent bodies to minimise the methane slip in the production, distribution, and combustion phases; calls therefore for adequate measures to minimise methane slip in the overall LNG chain through the use of the best available technologies and to ensure adequate R&D financing for that purpose;
Amendment 26 #
2016/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses the need to ensure the highest environmental standards in the planning, construction and use of liquefied natural gas (LNG); emphasises the potential offered by the transition to LNG for ending the dependence of maritime transport on coal; urges the European Union to provide financial support for European projects for this purpose;
Amendment 29 #
2016/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Emphasises that liquefied natural gas (LNG) and gas storage are of particular importance in order to avoid dependence on a singlefor energy supplierecurity; calls in this context for the promotion and development of new natural gas nodes and LNG storage stations in the central and south-eastern regions, the Baltic and the Mediterranean, particularly in the Mediterranean EU Member States;
Amendment 29 #
2016/2059(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Β
Recital Β
Amendment 34 #
2016/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Recalls that in order to promote the transition towards a low-carbon society, we need to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and above all on oil;
Amendment 38 #
2016/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Emphasises the need for impact assessments to be made to ascertain the added value of constructing new LNG transport and storage infrastructure, and the need to focus new investments on areas with poor interconnection, or to supply the most vulnerable Member States, in particular those in South-Eastern Europe;
Amendment 40 #
2016/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Points out that it is estimated that gas imports to the EU will rise until 2030, even if gas demand within the EU simultaneously stays stagnant or declines; stresses that moderating energy demand and promoting renewable and local energy sources are among the most effective tools for reducing dependence on external energy; recalls that the EU has significant LNG import excess capacity overall, which shows the lack of competitiveness of LNG in the free market, but that this capacity is not evenly distributed in geographical terms;
Amendment 40 #
2016/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the Member States to ensure implementation of Directive 2014/94/EU on the deployment of alternative fuels infrastructure, within the prescribed time limits, in particular as regards the establishment of LNG refuelling points, at least along the existing TEN-T Core Network, to ensure that LNG heavy-duty motor vehicles can circulate throughout the Union, and at maritime and inland ports to enable LNG inland waterway vessels or sea-going ships to circulate throughout the TEN-T Core Network; recalls that Member States should assess, in their national policy frameworks, in close cooperation with their regional authorities, the need to install refuelling points for LNG in ports outside the TEN-T Core Network; stresses that the development of infrastructure related to LNG must correspond to the real needs of citizens and not to geopolitical schemes;
Amendment 46 #
2016/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Believes that LNG and gas storage arstorage should be an important part of the Energy Union and should contribute towards ending any kind of energy isolation of the EU Member States and regions; highlights the need to support the most vulnerable countriMember States in order to diversify their sources and routes of supply;
Amendment 50 #
2016/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls for greater institutional convergence and synergy, and in particular for better integration of external energy security priorities in policies pursued by the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (VP/HR) and better coordination between the VP/HR and the responsible Commissioners; welcomecalls in this context the EU Energy Diplomacy Action Plan and inviteson the VP/HR to regularly inform Parliament about the implementation thereofof the EU Energy Diplomacy Action Plan.
Amendment 58 #
2016/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes that the current LNG terminals are not optimally distributed across the EU; stresses that sea ports play an important role in optimising the distribution of LNG across the Union by acting as LNG hubs; recalls that due to high LNG prices, the infrastructure for the development of the use of this form of gas requires financial support beyond free market mechanisms; calls for the establishment of a long-term and stable financial framework and continuous funding opportunities through the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) and Motorways of the Sea, Horizon 2020, the European Structural and Investment Funds and the European Investment Bank;
Amendment 59 #
2016/2059(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Points out that LNG trading prices have been declining internationally and that price differentials between pipeline imports and LNG have also decreased; considers, therefore, that the key challenge is to address bottlenecks and energy security concerns in relation both to trade and to optimising storage capacity it important also to strengthen long-term contracts in the LNG sector so as to limit market crises, to reduce exposure to financial risks and to attract investment in infrastructure.
Amendment 65 #
2016/2059(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
Amendment 126 #
2016/2059(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
Amendment 139 #
2016/2059(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
Amendment 154 #
2016/2059(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Stresses the importance of finding cost efficient energy supply options to increase supply security in the Member States on the periphery of the EU, such as Cyprus, Malta and Ireland, as well as other islands that belong to Member States, which are not well connected to the internal energy market;
Amendment 172 #
2016/2059(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
Amendment 186 #
2016/2059(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Considers that, if, contrary to European interests, Nord Stream 2 were to be built, the importance of enabling access to LNG terminals and completing the North-South Gas Corridor in central and south-eastern Europe will significantly increase;
Amendment 190 #
2016/2059(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
Amendment 197 #
2016/2059(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Highlights the important role that liquid gas hubs play on thmature gas markets;
Amendment 199 #
2016/2059(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
Amendment 205 #
2016/2059(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
Amendment 3 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas protection of health is a fundamental right of all citizens enshrined in the European Convention on Human Rights;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital Α
Recital Α
Α. whereas guaranteeing universal access to medicines presents a myriad of challengesis an indefeasible right;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that Sustainable Development Goal 3, with nine quantitative and four qualitative targets, clearly states that by 2030 everyone should have access to good mental and physical health throughout their lives; underlines that, each year, 100 million people fall into poverty because of health costs which are disproportionate to their incomes, and that, according to the WHO, over one third of the world’s population, with over 50 % in Africa, does not have access to medicines; calls therefore for medicines forthwith to be treated as a public good rather than as commodities;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital Β
Recital Β
Β. whereas people living with disabilities are the most vulnerable and are in great need of medicines the most;
Amendment 12 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas EUthe public budgets of EU Member States such as Greece, including those covering health expenditure, are under significant constraints;
Amendment 14 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C
Recital C
Amendment 21 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas ecompetition can lower costs, reduce expenditure on medicines and improve access to affordable medicinenomic freedom in the pharmaceuticals sector is undermining the fundamental right to health of all citizens;
Amendment 22 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses the importance of observing the principle of subsidiarity and proportionality, as each Member State must address any shortcomings on the basis of its own particular requirements; points out that the financial adjustments arbitrarily imposed by the Troika in the Memorandum countries, especially Greece, are making it impossible to address these shortcomings since, as a result of health cuts, medicines are now in woefully short supply;
Amendment 27 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Deplores the fact that there are 18 million people without access to health care or medicines, whose human rights are being violated on a daily basis; finds it intensely alarming that there are 25 000 annual deaths in the EU due to lack of effective antibiotics;
Amendment 29 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Voices its regret that the economic crisis and memorandum requirements in Greece, have led to drastic cuts in public spending on health care, including medical services and medicines;
Amendment 32 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Recognises as key obstacles to access to medicines the lack of affordability and availability of medicines, the budgetary cuts resulting from the financial crisis, the fiscal adjustment programmes, the high price of medicines and the monopolies of large companies in the market;
Amendment 33 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Urges not to use free trade agreements with low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) to introduce TRIPS- plus intellectual property (IP) rules that extend monopoly protection, and not to introduce new IP enforcement rules or investment protection to the detriment of access to medicines, in particular for the most economically vulnerable categories of consumers;
Amendment 34 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Highlights the fact that the WTO TRIPS Agreement provides flexibilities to patent rights, such as compulsory licensing, which have proved to be a major tool in bringing prices to reasonable levels;(Does not apply to English version)
Amendment 35 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls for support for the progress achieved by the pharmaceutical industry, hitherto driven by European SMEs, which have transformed the standard of healthcare in Europe and helped to prolong life expectancy by increasing EU funding for health services in the Member States;
Amendment 38 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Α
Recital Α
A. whereas the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union recognises the fundamental right of citizens to health and medical treatment2, which every EU Member State must protect; __________________ 2 The right to health care is the economic, social and cultural right to a universal minimum standard of health care to which all individuals are entitled.
Amendment 43 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. ConsiderStresses that exclusive protection periods granted to pharmaceuticals through patents or other mechanisms hinder competition, lead to high prices and negatively impact access to needed medicines;
Amendment 46 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Highlights the negative impact of Member States’the austerity policies inflicted on the Member States and stresses that budgetary cuts should not prevent any EU citizen from being able to access medicines;
Amendment 47 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recommends that each Member State should be free to set its own innovation policy in the field of cutting- edge technologies, possibly with the aid of by stepping up EU funding;
Amendment 52 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Underlines the adverse impact of the policy adopted by the Troika seeking to change the Greek health service;
Amendment 53 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recalls that the Pharmaceutical Sector Inquiry Report adopted by the Commission in 2009 showed that manufacturers of medicines have developed abusive strategies in connection with patent claims in order to hinder market entry of generic medicines, which should be avoided;
Amendment 54 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses that, without transparency of research and development costs to originator companies and information on the actual prices paid for medicines across the EU, any discussion on fair medicine prices remains impossible; recalls the Commission’s commitment to greacondemns any attempt to completer transparency of EU positions, specific legal proposals, and negotiating texts in the TTIP negotiationshe opaque TTIP negotiations, in particular regarding the pharmaceuticals sector;
Amendment 56 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Recognises the launch of the United Nations High-Level Panel on Access to Medicines as a global response to the need tostep towards addressing multifaceted issues in a holistic way;
Amendment 61 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Identifies patent rights as a major obstacle to access to medicines, and urges public policy makers to take proactive steps towards making generic and biosimilar medicines available, always taking into account the need to ensure the same beneficial effects, continuity of patient care and prevention of any risk of abuse or misuse of the regulatory framework;
Amendment 62 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Urges thatCalls for universal access to medicines should not be contingent on price, which should reflect a fair balance between the cost ofand increased funding for investment in research, industry growth and the need for sustainable welfare systems;
Amendment 68 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the prices of new medicines have increased during the past few decades to the point of being unaffordable for many European citizens and particularly for citizens of the countries of southern Europe, such as Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal;
Amendment 71 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Reiterates that the stability of Europeanthe welfare systems, which are one of the cornerstones of EU cooperation and whose budgets differ greatly from one Member State to another, is contingent on people being in employment, and that high levels of unemployment are making the very high levels of unemployment in the Member States of southern Europe, such as Greece, Portugal, Italy and Spain, are a reflection of the social inequalit iessential to find new means of funding welfare that exist within the Union;
Amendment 72 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls on the European Patent Office (EPO) and the Member States to grant patents only on health products that strictly fulfil the patentability requirements of novelty, inventive step and industrial applicability as enshrined in the European Patent Convention;
Amendment 74 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
Amendment 77 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas in addition to high prices, other barriers to access to medicines include shortages of essential medicines, the poor connection between clinical needs and research, unjustified administrative procedures, rigid patent rules, inadequate funding by the EU for the health systems of its Member States and budget restrictions;
Amendment 88 #
2016/2057(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Calls on the Member States to establish a pooled public platform for R&D financed by all states via a contribution of 0.01 % of their GDP.
Amendment 110 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas the Commission has had to introduce incentives to promote research in areas such as rare diseases, and whereasdeploring the fact that 25 000 people die each year in the EU owing to lack of access to adequate antimicrobial drugs;
Amendment 171 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Regrets that the research priorities of the pharmaceutical industry are profit- oriented rather than patient-oriented and condemns the EU’s position in having turned medicine from a public good into a commodity;
Amendment 248 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Stresses that the high level of public funds used for R&D is not reflected in the pricing;
Amendment 260 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. DeploreCondemns the large number of litigation cases aiming to delay generic entry;
Amendment 335 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Welcomes initiatives such as the Innovative Medicines Initiative (IMI), but regretsdeplores the fact that only a few of them are entirely public;
Amendment 367 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Calls for EU-wide measures to guarantee the right of patients to universal, affordable, effective, safe and timely access to essential and innovative therapies, and to guarantee the sustainability of EU public health care systems, and also for funding by the Union for investment in research and for the improvement of the health systems of its Member States;
Amendment 509 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to promote major publicly funded investment in research based on medical needs, and to introduce conditional funding based on affordable end pricing and non-exclusive licencing; at the same time, given that the violent economic adjustment imposed by the EU does not permit each Member State to tackle the deficits observed in the health system, considers that the Union should take immediate steps to cover these deficits;
Amendment 548 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Calls on the Commission and the Council to explore new improved measures to control prices, such as horizontal scanning and coordinating joint procurements;
Amendment 598 #
2016/2057(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36
Paragraph 36
36. Calls on the Commission to analyse the causes of shortages, to establish a list of essential medicines and monitor compliance with Article 81 of Directive 2001/83/EU on shortages of supply, and to take action to deal with these shortages and to promote the supply of generics;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2056(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. WelUnderscomres the Commission initiative, since opportunities forrelating to digitalisation, reducing market fragmentation and empowering consumers are crucial to achieving a genuine single market for retail financial services;
Amendment 19 #
2016/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Β
Recital Β
Β. whereas the further development of the retail financial services market at EU level wcould not only facilitate important and fruitful cross-border activity, but woul and also open up greater scope for healthy competition at both national and European level;
Amendment 24 #
2016/2056(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on the Commission to ensure that digitalisation brings better market access for businesses on an equal footing, especially for SMEs and fintechs, and greater consumer choice, acting as a catalyst in bringing down price differences of financial services within the EU;
Amendment 29 #
2016/2056(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes the increasing number of new types of service provider operating in this market; considers that this may bring significant benefits for consumers, with adequatthrough suitable regulation so as to ensure high levels of security and transparency;
Amendment 32 #
2016/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the rapid transformation brought about by digitisation and fintech innovation not only creates new and oftenccasionally better financial products for consumers, but also involves keyserious challenges in terms of security, data protection, consumer protection and taxation;
Amendment 38 #
2016/2056(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Is concernedDeplores the fact that consumer trust in financial services remains low, and calls on the Commission to bring forward measures forthwith to improve consumer financial literacy, to increase the transparency of these products, and to remove consumer barriers to switching;
Amendment 47 #
2016/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. WelcomesExpresses its satisfaction at the Commission Green Paper on retail financial services (defined as including insurance) and the vivid and productive debate that it has generated so far;
Amendment 48 #
2016/2056(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. ConsiderBelieves that unjustified discrimination based on residence and price differences for common retail financial products between EU Member States requires that urgent action; suggests be taken forthwith; takes the view that comparison tools play an important role in bringing down price differences;
Amendment 53 #
2016/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Finds the Green Paper initiative to be timely, particularly given the need to work proactively at all stages of the policymaking process in ordersignificant, given the need to be able to track and steer developments in such an innovative and fast-changing market;
Amendment 54 #
2016/2056(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses that portability of products is essential for a real single market in retail financial services; calls on the European Commission, therefore, to submit measures to ensure cross-border portability, harmonising the rights and obligations of businesses and consumers in the sector across the EU;
Amendment 55 #
2016/2056(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. NotEmphasises that rising numbers of cross- border transactions are increasing demand for information on personal financial data such as solvency in private agreements, and stresses the need for common rules on such exchanges of information, in compliance with data protection rules;
Amendment 60 #
2016/2056(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Emphasises the importance ofvalue of the availability of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) and online dispute resolution (ODR), especially cross-border, asince efficient redress is key to the single market and consumer trust;
Amendment 62 #
2016/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Underlines the importance of promoting positive developments in this market by creating and maintaining a level playing field where the rules are as technology- and business-model-neutral as is feasible; points out that such an approach is necessary, not least in order to give new and innovativeall SMEs a fair chance;
Amendment 66 #
2016/2056(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. AsksLooks to the Commission for an immediate and effective action plan on retail financial services.
Amendment 69 #
2016/2056(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9α. Condemns the austerity measures and the Memoranda imposed by the Troika on Greece which had the effect of placing obstacles in the way of efforts to develop the digital economy.
Amendment 72 #
2016/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Emphasises, in particular that, because of low levels of consumer trust and satisfaction, that in particular, the Green Paper initiative can succeed only if it has a strong focus on creating an EU market in which well- protected consumers have access to transparent, straightforward and good- value-for-money products achieving a fair cost price/selling price ratio;
Amendment 81 #
2016/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Recalls that all initiatives based on the Green Paper should be compatible with stepping upfully in line with the fight against tax fraud and, tax evasion and tax avoidance;
Amendment 93 #
2016/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Notes the increasing complexity of retail financial products; insists on the need to develop initiatives and instruments that, on the one hand, reduce the abovementioned complexity and, on the other, allow consumers to identify safe and simple products within the range of products available to them; supports initiatives such as the Key Investment Information Document for undertakings for collective investments in transferrable securities (UCITS) and the Key Information Document for packaged retail and insurance-based investment products (PRIIPs);
Amendment 122 #
2016/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Stresses, not least given that otherwise positive digitisation processes could trigger exclusionary tendencies, that the financial inclusion perspective and measures to ensure that consumers are better informed regarding financial matters should always be kept in mind, and that measures should be taken to ensure that all consumers have access to at least the most essential financial services;
Amendment 145 #
2016/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Notes that frontline employees at financial institutions could, through information strategies, have a crucial role to play in opening up retail services to all strands of society and to consumers all over Europe; points out that such employees should, in principle, be given the training and time necessary to be able to serve their customers accurately, and should not be made subject to sales targets or inducements that could bias or distort their advice;
Amendment 158 #
2016/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Emphasises that, in order for the single market in retail financial services to be efficient and dynamic, there should be no unnecessary or unfair differences between euro and non-euro Member States;
Amendment 168 #
2016/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Observes that the EU-level capacity for data collection and analysis in this field will probably needs to be strengthened; notes that it will be necessary to give some of the most promising ideas in the Green Paper a broad and adequate empirical underpinning before it is possible to move on to legislative processes;
Amendment 175 #
2016/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Emphasises that the enforcement of EU and national financial and consumer legislation needs to be strengthened; stresses that the European Supervisory Authorities should step up their activities on consumer issues and that the agencies responsible in a number of Member States should start to work more actively and competently in this field;
Amendment 204 #
2016/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Urges the Commission, inter alia on the basis of the structure of the Payment Accounts Directive (PAD) and the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority’s analysis of the insurance sector, to put together a step-by-stepn action plan for building a well-organised andn easy-to-use EU comparison portal covering most or all parts of the retail financial services market;
Amendment 219 #
2016/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Asks the Commission to investigate further the confusing and sometimes misleading practices with which consumers are faced when making card payments involving currency conversion, and to present a coherent solution that would make it possible, including in practice, for the consumer to understand and control the situation fully;
Amendment 223 #
2016/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Urges the Commission and the Member States, by working carefully on the implementation of the eIDAS Regulation and the new anti-money laundering legislation, inter alia, to create – as should be entirely feasible – a general environment in which robust security requirements are combined with fair and simple procedures for consumers to identify themselves in accordance with the principles of personal data protection;
Amendment 234 #
2016/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Calls on the Commission, in close cooperation with the and Member States, to draw up a plan for establishing a coordinated network of national ‘one-stop shops’ that would assist retail financial firms wishing to make better use of cross- border business opportunities;
Amendment 267 #
2016/2056(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Encourages the Commission, while ensuring financial stability, to move forward in creating a stronger single market for mortgages and consumer credit, but to do so carefully, balancing privacy and data protection concerns with improved cross-border access to better- coordinated credit databases and, making sure that credit-related incidents whereby consumers have been unreasonably exposed to currency exchange risks are not repeated;
Amendment 8 #
2016/2053(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Calls for an effective post-Cotonou framework adapted to global challenges, based on ownership by the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries and in line with the Sustainable Development Goals; stresses that a revised general framework agreement, together with the regional Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) and other trade instruments, must support fair and sustainable trade and, ultimately, sustainable development and poverty reduction and must avoid triggering unemployment in the EU Member States;
Amendment 21 #
2016/2053(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 16
Citation 16
— having regard to Rule 52 of itsthe Rules of Procedure of the European Parliament,
Amendment 21 #
2016/2053(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that the post-Cotonou process should offer a framework within which to discuss trade issues with all the ACP countries; calls for a strengthening of trade cooperation, with a values-driven approach, international trade and improved Policy Coherence for Development; believes that inclusive growth, job creation, the development of the private sector and regional integration must be central in a future economic partnership;
Amendment 37 #
2016/2053(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls for strong, legally binding sustainable development provisions; asks for the human rights 'essential elements' clause to remain in the future agreement so that the linkage clauses in the EPAs continue to function after 2020;
Amendment 39 #
2016/2053(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the Cotonou Agreement promises to addresses new global challenges such as climate change, migration and terrorism, but has to date produced few concrete results in these areas;
Amendment 47 #
2016/2053(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ε
Recital Ε
Ε. whereas political dialogue on essential elements, as referred to in Articles 8 and 96 of the Cotonou Agreement, is a concrete and legal means of upholding the common values of the ACP-EU partnership to an unparalleled degree and promoting democracy and human rights, which are fundamental for sustainable development;
Amendment 53 #
2016/2053(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas the involvement of national parliaments, local authorities, and civil society and the private sector in political dialogue has been rather limited; whereas the role of the ACP Group as such has been limited to cases where Article 96 is invoked; whereas political dialogue, and Article 96 in particular, have mostly been used at a late stage of political crises and not in a preventative manner;
Amendment 55 #
2016/2053(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses that civil society involvement is a must throughout the implementation of the EPAs and the post- Cotonou process; notes the importance of a renewed ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly and defends strong parliamentary oversight of the future framework; asks for results-oriented monitoring of ACP-EU cooperation, especially with regard to fair trade and sustainable development;
Amendment 61 #
2016/2053(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5a. Recalls the Financing for Development commitments; calls for the EU to ensure more and effective funding for Aid for Trade to support the ACP countries’ efforts to move up the global value chain.
Amendment 65 #
2016/2053(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5α. Calls on the Commission to take the necessary steps to ensure that the Cotonou Agreement does not promote multinationals at the expense of small and medium-sized enterprises or trigger unemployment within the EU Member States.
Amendment 67 #
2016/2053(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Affirms that ACP-EU cooperation is a valuable and uniquen achievement that has to some extent strengthened bonds between ACP and EU countries and their parliaments throughout the last 40 years; underlines - provided the ACP countries demonstrate their commitment to taking joint action as a group - that in order to improve the effectiveness of cooperation and adapt it to new challenges, on the one hand, a new structure has to be adopted that keeps those parts of the ACP- EU acquis that are universal in character, such as commitment to human rights, good governance and democracy, the objective of the rule of law, and exchange of best practice in a common framework, whileand on the other the main work has to be done according to the principle of subsidiarity, that is, it must take place in regional agreements that are tailored to specific regional needs and to the mutual interests existing between the EU and the respective region;
Amendment 78 #
2016/2053(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Emphasises that both the common framework and the regional agreements should be legally binding; underlines that, in order to strengthen effectiveness and reduce duplication, the regional agreements with Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific should be designed in a way that takes into account existing regional and sub-regional organisations, e.g. the African Union, Regional Economic Communities, and regional agreements such as the Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs), as well as the specific regional needs of organisations and citizens and should allow the inclusion of additional countries, such as northern African countries, or the creation of groupings in accordance with specific interests or needs (e.g. development status, as in the case of LDCs, or geographical peculiarities, as in the case of small island developing states);
Amendment 94 #
2016/2053(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls for an ACP-EU peer review mechanism to scrutinise SDG implementation in member states on a regular basis, with ACP and EU representatives not only from governmental institutions but also from national parliaments, the European Parliament and civil society, drawing up yearly conclusions and recommendations for follow-up;
Amendment 104 #
2016/2053(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls for the fight against poverty to remain an overarching objective of ACP-EU cooperation; believes, however, that a new agreement must primarily be a political project and clearly leave behind the donor-recipient mentality; considers that cooperation should take place in areas of common interest where common gains can be expected, not just in economic terms but also with regard to peace and security, human, defence of human rights, protection of workers and social rights, good governance and democracy, the environment, climate change and other areas related to the prosperity of both ACP and EUprincipally ACP populations;
Amendment 113 #
2016/2053(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls for the essential elements in the Cotonou Agreement regarding human rights, democratic principles and the rule of law to continue to form the value-based foundation of a new agreement; calls for good governance to be added as an essential element, as well as the protection of the social and labour rights of ACP citizens;
Amendment 123 #
2016/2053(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Stresses that political dialogue is a fundamental part of the Cotonou Agreement, and that Articles 8 and 96 are a concrete and legally binding means to uphold the essential elements of ACP-EU relations, though they have not always been used effectively in the past; calls for political dialogue to remain a central and legal pillar in the overarching framework and on the regional level of the new agreement; calls for political dialogue to be used more effectively and systematically and in a proactive way in order to prevent any political crises;
Amendment 129 #
2016/2053(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Underlines in this regard that political dialogue is a valuable basis for improving the situation of the peoples of the partner countries; regrets the insufficient use of this instrument and its weak effectiveness so far; calls, therefore, for improved monitoring of the human rights situation, labour and social rights and of the other essential and fundamental elements of the Agreement, and for a regular biennial or multiannual evaluation and joint reports on the respect of these elements by all ACP- EU member states with the purpose of naming infringements, shaming and praising; calls for the results of these reports to be presented at the overarching ACP-EU meetings and used as a basis for political dialogue;
Amendment 143 #
2016/2053(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Calls for stronger involvement and support for capacity-building by civil society, especially for local groups that are directly concerned by policies; underlines in this regard the danger of shrinking space for civil society in someACP countries, and the need also to include those groups that are unable to organise their interests or that are, despite a legitimate democratic interest, not recognised by their government;
Amendment 148 #
2016/2053(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Believes that the private sector canould play a pivotal role in the development process and canould contribute to financing development, provided investment occurs with constant respect for the people and for traditional ownership or use, and for the environment; calls, therefore, for private investment to be supported under the auspices of the European Investment Bank (EIB) provided it is in line with international human rights law and social and environmental protection rulesthe protection of labour and social rights and the environment; calls, furthermore, for local, regional and national private sectors to be allowed to participate in policymaking, programming and implementation;
Amendment 154 #
2016/2053(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Calls for Joint ACP-EU Council meetings to include topical and urgent political debates, including on sensitive issues, with the aim of adopting joint conclusions on them; calls onurges the relevant ACP and EU member state ministries to improve their participatione actively at the level of ministers, in order to give the meetings the necessaryrequisite political legitimacy and confer the needed visibility on the principle of partnership;
Amendment 161 #
2016/2053(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Believes that the JPA should ensure the adequate and proportional representation and participation of all political forces in its debates; calls, therefore, for the ACP national delegations to the JPA to include representatives of their national political spectrum, including the opposition, respecting gender equality;
Amendment 170 #
2016/2053(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Calls for the JPA to be aligned with the new regional structure, thus focusing its work in regional fora on issues of regional importance, strongly involving the region’s national parliaments while also maintaining more regular, but less frequent, joint ACP-EU meetings;
Amendment 175 #
2016/2053(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Calls for an alignment of common resolutions in the overarching ACP-EU forum on urgent international topics, delays regarding SDG-relevant topics and breaches of human rights, and an alignment of resolutions in regional or other respective meetings on current topics and issues that are urgent and of particular interest for a region or asome specific group;
Amendment 181 #
2016/2053(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Calls for further efforts to be made to improve JPA scrutiny of development programming and follow-up to such scrutiny; calls on the Commission and ACP governments to promote the involvement of ACP national parliaments, local and regional authorities and civil society actors in the pre- and post-scrutiny of development programming, and to supply all available information in a timely manner to ACP national parliaments in order to assist them in their exercise of democratic scrutiny;
Amendment 187 #
2016/2053(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Reiterates its call for budgetisation of the EDF in order to enhance efficiency and effectiveness, democratic scrutiny, and the visibility and coherence of EU development financing; stresses, however, that this budgetisation should be conditioned by i) a guaranteed ring- fencing of developing funds to maintain the level of financing for developing countries; and ii) a permanent solution for EU financing of security expenses linked to development cooperation; underlines that all Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) in need should also in the futurehenceforward be eligible for EU development aid;
Amendment 197 #
2016/2053(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Underscores that the 11th EDF is the main source of funding for the African Peace Facility (APF), despite the fact that this was meant to be a provisional solution when the APF was established in 2003; calls for the creation of a dedicated instrument for financing security expenses linked to development cooperation;
Amendment 203 #
2016/2053(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Reiterates that the EPAs constitute a basis for regional cooperation and that they must be instruments for development and regional integration; highlights, therefore, the need for legally binding sustainability provisions (on human rights, labour rights and social and environmental standards) in all EPAs, and underlines the importance of creating effective monitoring systems that include first and foremost a wide range of civil society in order to avoid the negative effects of trade liberalisation;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 1 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
Amendment 1 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
Amendment 2 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 3 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes that, with around EUR 200 billion of annual military spending, European countries are unable to avert the deterioration of their security environment and to weigh on global affairs because of fragmented defence policies that create inefficiencies and hinder their force projectionthe amount earmarked for this sector by the Member States is effectively equivalent Portugal's GDP; believes that a more integrated framework for defence could result in significant savings, additional capabilities and more sustainedeffective investment; recalls that, according to ‘cost of non- Europe’ estimates, annual efficiency gains in this area could range between EUR 26 billion in the less optimistic scenarios and EUR 130 billion;
Amendment 8 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
Amendment 10 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. AcknowledgNotes that the current geopolitical environment and the situation in Europe call for the Union to assume greater responsibilities in the fields of both external and internal security and to pursue more ambitious goals such as a European Army, and welcomes the European Council’s conclusions of June 2015 asking for further development of both civilian and military capabilities and the strengthening of Europe’s defence industrinternal security;
Amendment 10 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
Amendment 12 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas in recent years the security situation in and around Europe has significantly worsened and has created arduous challenges that no single country or organisation is able to face alone; whereas solidarity and resilience requires the EU to stand and to act together, and to do so in concert with our allies; whereas the fight against terrorism is a priority for the EU and should be engaged within as well as outside the EU’s bordersthe fight against terrorism is a priority for the EU;
Amendment 15 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Believes that common funding has a key role to play in incentivising the use of mechanisms whose potential remains largely untapped, such as permanent structured cooperation and EU Battlegroups; calls, therefore, for the Athena mechanism to be expanded and for consideration to be given to alternative funding for military expenditure in order to do away with the ‘costs lie where they fall’ principle; sStresses that, in this context, the EU budget should be able to fund the administrative costs of establishing strategic structures, such as joint operational headquarters; calls also for more ambitious civilian missions that are better integrated in the policy cycle and in the range of available instruments;
Amendment 20 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
Amendment 22 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. RecallNotes that the internal market instruments offer solutions for effective cooperation among Member States and for building on economies of scale, in order to avoid duplications and make expenditure more efficient in times of budget constraints and in view of the imminent risks of the EU defence sector losing critical expertise and innovation, autonomy and competitiveness advantages;
Amendment 26 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Urges the Member States to engage more actively in cooperative projects, e.g.specially research programmes or pooling and sharing of assets; supports, in this framework, the proposed preparatory action on defence research which should pave the way for a dedicated programme;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Believes that the time is ripe for unfreezing the budget of the European Defence Agency, and is convinced that more should be done to close the investment gap in defence capabilities, including via EU innovative financing· endorses, finally, the proposal for a ‘European Semester’ on defence, whereby Member States would coordinate their defence spending plans in an open process involving the European Parliament and the national parliaments.;
Amendment 31 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the Council, the Commission and the VP/HR to ensure, as provided for in the TEU, consistency between the different areas of external action and to address these areas through a global and comprehensive approach;
Amendment 37 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
Amendment 39 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the security and defence building capacity enshrined in the Treaties has yet to be accomplished; whereas it is the responsibility ofa matter for the Member States to build a European Security and Defence Union;
Amendment 41 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
Amendment 41 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. UrgTakes the view that it is a matter for Member States to fully enforce Directive 2009/81/EC, concerning procurement in the fields of defence and sensitive security, and Directive 2009/43/EC, concerning the transfer of defence-related products, while noting that Member States have made little use of the available tools, for example joint purchases through central purchasing bodies such as the European Defence Agency;
Amendment 46 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Reiterates its support for the adoption of a White Book on defence on the basis of the EU Global Strategy on Foreign and Security Policy, which should be based on a joint accurate appraisal of the existing military capabilities of the Member States;
Amendment 49 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
Amendment 51 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
Amendment 55 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
Amendment 61 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
Amendment 68 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas except for the creation of the European Defence Agency (EDA), none of the other missing elements of the EU common security and defence policy have so far been conceived, decided or implemented; whereas the EDA still needs to be harnessed to develop its full potential;
Amendment 70 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Highlights the importance of intensifying the synergies between security and defence and the synergies with other Union policies, and of building on integrated capabilities in order to develop common approaches in the areas of, for example, hybrid threats, terrorism, external border security, illegal immigration, common intelligenceterrorism, illegal immigration, cybersecurity and customs controls;
Amendment 72 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
Amendment 77 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
Amendment 81 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas France invoked thethe invocation by France of Article 42(7) TEU on 17 November 2015 and subsequently requested and managed the other Member States’ aid and assistance contributions on a bilateral basis; whereas a limited number of Member States have the necessary management capacity to follow this examplewas unrealistic;
Amendment 82 #
2016/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
Amendment 99 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Encourages the European Council to leadnot to go ahead with the progressive framing of the EDU, with a view to its establishment under the next multiannual political and financial framework of the EU (MFF); and takes the view that the Lisbon Treaty fails to provides a solid basis for the EDU;
Amendment 125 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Believes that the Member States which are willing to make more binding commitments to one another should establish permanent structured cooperation within the Union framework; encourages those Member States to establish multinational forces within the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) and make these forces available to the common security and defence policy; believes that the Council should normally entrust the implementation of a peace-keeping, conflict prevention and strengthening international security task to those multinational forces; is convinced that the EU battle group system should be further developed to that end; underlines that PESCO is open to all Member States;
Amendment 193 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
Amendment 208 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9α. Is convinced that the establishment of defence policy that contributes to collective defence, should, where legitimate, take place within a different context from that of NATO; in particular, considers it important to strengthen Member States' resilience in the East and the South, but without offending third countries;
Amendment 213 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
Amendment 224 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Invites the VP/HR to propose an initial EU security and defence white book which will be based on the EU global strategy endorsed by the European Council; takes the view that the security and defence white book should guide the Union contributions in security and defence policy for each multiannual political and financial framework of the EU;
Amendment 234 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Is convinced that the EU security and defence white book should be the result of coherent intergovernmental and interparliamentary processes, which should be underpinned by international coordination with our partners and allies, and comprehensive interinstitutional support;
Amendment 238 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
Amendment 241 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
Amendment 266 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 – indent 3
Paragraph 16 – indent 3
Amendment 293 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 – indent 8
Paragraph 16 – indent 8
Amendment 300 #
2016/2052(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 – indent 10
Paragraph 16 – indent 10
Amendment 1 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Underlines that the ambitious Agenda 2030 and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, to which the Union and Member States signed up in September 2015, requires development assistance from the EU budget to be kept at least at the level foreseen in the MFF, while maintaining its focus on long-term efforts to eradicate poverty, as stipulated bynd the Union and its Member States to comply with the commitments and take account of the objectives they have approved in the context of the United Nations and other competent international organisations, as expressly required under Article 208 TFEU;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
Amendment 1 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
Amendment 3 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that the objectives of the CFP can only be effectively reached if there is a sufficient budget; points out that the budget is concentrated in Section III and Title 11, ‘Maritime Affairs and Fisheries’; notes that the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) and the compulsory contributions to regional fisheries management organisations and sustainable fisheries agreements make up most of the budget.
Amendment 4 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Is concerned about the significant impact that the pledges made by the EU at the London conference on supporting Syria and in the context of the Facility for Refugees in Turkey will have on the external financing instruments and the humanitarian aid budget; while supporting those pledges, stresses that their fulfilment must not be to the detriment of other priority areas and long- term policies; cCalls in particular for an increase in the funding of the European Neighbourhood Instrument, which plays a vital role in supporting stability among Europe's Eastern and Southern neighbours; considers it essential to maintain the EU’s pivotal role in supporting the Middle East Peace Process, the Palestinian Authority and UNRWA;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. RecallNotes that transport infrastructures are fundamental to the freedom of movement of persons, goods and services on which the single market is based, and that this freedom of movement is both a powerful catalyst for EU integration, jobs and tourism and is a key factor in the performance of European trade and industry;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the commitments of the EC to provide the necessary resources to protect the external borders of the EU, to reinforce security inside and outside the Union, to provide MS support for the reception of people in need for international protection and to address the root causes of migration flows in the countries of origin and transit; points out however that the EUR 5.2 billion programmed in 2017 for Heading III and IV to address challenges posed by the refugee and migration crisis represent less than 3,5% of the total Union budget, which is little considering existential stakes involved for the EU; considers that the Union should show solidarity with those in real needmust move now from words to deeds and show its real solidarity to member states such as Greece and Italy and should demand the immediate relocation of refugees from these countries as agreed by the EU institutions and the preservation of the European democratic values, when they are under threat by terrorism and intolerance aimed at destroying the European tolerance;
Amendment 5 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses the importance of the social and, economic and cultural dimension of fishing for local communities and some maritime and coastal regions; recognises the need to maintain enough financial previsions for enabling coastal, artisanal and small scale fleet sectors to obtain funding, particularly in remote island areas of the EU Member States bordering on third countries.
Amendment 6 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls for the Commission to fully reflect in its Budget proposals the Union’s commitment to working with the private sector and financial institutions in development cooperation; hHighlights therefore the potential to leverage new resources for development through public- private partnerships, blending and other innovative ways; looks forward to the detailed proposals on the setting up of an investment plan for Africa, which should focus on capacity building and technical assistance, trade and investment opportunities, access to enspecifically on eradicating poverty and destitution, creating jobs, putting an end to discrimination, ensuring that the wealth generated is shared fairly, banning all forms of slavergy and infrastructure requirementsraising public health standards in Africa; stresses the important role that Parliament must play in supporting and monitoring such an investment plan;
Amendment 6 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Underlines that Union transport policy, in particular with regard to the Tran-European transport Network, is one of the most successful Union policies; points out that the TEN-T network must plays a fundamentaln important role in commercial exchanges within the Union, contributing to the wealth of its citizenin particular to linking the mountainous, remote and island areas of the Member States; recalls therefore the importance of financing missing and cross-border links of the TEN- T network;
Amendment 10 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses that, in view of the dynamic developments taking place in the global security and humanitarian situation, EU crisis response mechanisms need to be reinforced; strongly rejects the proposed cuts to the Instrument contributing to Stability and Peace and stresses that weakening the Union’s unique crisis response, crisis preparedness and conflict prevention instrument would amount to a strategic mistake; highlights the importance of providing sufficient funds for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) budget, funding civilian crisis-management missions that contribute to the building of peace and security around the world;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses that the alarming gravity of the humanitarian needs triggered by the Syrian crisis and other unprecedented conflicts necessitates using the Emergency Aid Reserve (over and above the MFF ceilings) and the Flexibility Instrument to the fullest extent possible, while also using the margin under heading IV to address the humanitarian crisis; calls for the European Union to compensate Greece because, as a result of the long years of austerity and recession caused by the misguided policies pursued by the Troika, it has created a humanitarian crisis in the country, where more than 1.5 million people are unemployed, including 49.8% of young people, 100 companies are going out of business every day and 2.3 million people are living below the poverty line;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes with regret that DB 2017 leaves a massively reduced unallocated margin of 0.64 billion under Heading 2; insists and notwithstanding any urgencies in other budgetary Headings that the allocated contingency margin of 0.65 billion must remain in Heading 2 to address the continuing crisis in agricultural markets andespecially in Member States such as Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal, but also to address any possible forthcoming crises and frequently occurring price volatility;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses that the CFP should also contributes to social cohesion in outermost regions and remote offshore islands; points out that those regions and islands are dependent on fishing and should therefore be especially recognised and supported in accordance with Article 349 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.
Amendment 13 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that trade is an important foreign policy tool of the Union which can help to tackle migration causes if it is underpinned with the necessary financial means; with regard to Greece, increased EU funding is essential, given the need to address the current refugee crisis;
Amendment 13 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Emphasises that the implementation of the new CFP entails a paradigm shift in fisheries managementdditional funding both for Member States and for fishermen and recalls, in this regard, the difficulties encountered in previous financial years when appropriations were reducedarticular by impoverished Greek fishermen afflicted on a daily basis by the austerity measures and memorandum provisions imposed by the Troika.
Amendment 13 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls for a revision of the MFF to deliver a more powerful and sustainable response to the current crisis in 2017funds to the EU member states that deal with the consequences of the migration flows such as Greece and Italy and requests simplification of the financial regulation and procedures, as well as the verification of how European funds are spent;
Amendment 15 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Underlines the importance of the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights, including its support of election observation, stressingStresses that respect of human rights, democracy and the rule of law are key for stability and prosperity in the world; welcomes the increase in the funding of the Instrument, which should be further reinforced;
Amendment 15 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
Amendment 16 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes that the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) did not produce the expected results as regards transport infrastructures; stresses therefore that cuts in the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) should not be further used to finance EFSI; strongly requests that the cuts in CEF to finance the EFSI programme are restored within the framework of the revision of the Multiannual Financial Framework or are at least earmarked for transport infrastructure projects with European added valuand calls for them to be earmarked in particular for linking mountainous, remote and island areas in Southern Europe, especially Greece;
Amendment 17 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Highlights that the Union isMember States are currently facing a number of serious emergencies and is convinced that the necessary financial resources need to be deployed and increased from the Union budget, in order to meet the political challenges and allow the Union to deliver answers and effectively respond to those crises as a matter of utmost urgency and priority; considers that a strong political commitment is needed to secure fresh appropriations in 2017 and until the end of the programming period for this purpose;
Amendment 17 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Regrets the proposed cuts for intervention in the agricultural markets, especially for milk and milk products compared to 2016; sees a continued financial effort being necessary to combat the crisis in the milk market; asks the Commission to extend emergency measures related to sales difficulties and especially for the protection of the traditional character of certain milk products such as Greek feta and Greek yogurt; is concerned that further markets intervention will be necessary;
Amendment 20 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Considers it of paramount importance to address protracted humanitarian crises, including those in EU Member States such as Greece, and to focus on prevention and cooperation with the private sector, in order to help bridge the global funding gap in humanitarian action;
Amendment 20 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses the importance of ensuring a proper funding for the collection of data, while at the same time respecting the personal data protection provisions in force, which is a key task to enabling rational and scientific based decisions to be taken on fisheries policy issues.
Amendment 22 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Emphasises the need to give priority to projects focused on job creation (specially through the Youth Employment Initiative), on diversifying local economies in order to add more value to their fishing activities and on the protection and recovery of fish stocks and maritime ecosystems.
Amendment 24 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Welcomes the Commission’s proposal to increase support for local public and private sector development in partner countries and calls for the respective budgetary allocations to be introduced as early as possible in next year’s budget; highlights the importance of encouraging a climate where public and private initiative can flourish, through legislative capacity building and a strong rule of law, sound banking systems and regulationsthe establishment of a strong rule of law, functioning tax systems, increased transparency and accountability;
Amendment 26 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Insists that the development budget for 2017 must reflect more consistently the Union’s focus on fragile states, Least Developed Countries, youth unemploymentEU Member States with very high youth unemployment levels, such as Greece, where the rate stands at 49.8%, and women in conflict situations;
Amendment 26 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Points at twohe key transport policy areas closely related to infrastructure development, i.e. the establishment of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) and the promotion of Motorways of the Sea which aim at relieving land transport corridors and may constitute their "maritime leg" and, in particular, to linking mountainous, remote and island areas in the Member States, especially Greece; stresses that it is of upmost importance for the sustainability of transport in the Union that goods and passenger traffics are shifted from road to rail and, maritime and air means of transport; therefore underlines the vital importance of adequately European funding for the development of ERTMS and for the promotingon of Motorways of the Seas and the Air; underlines also the need to revitalise inland waterway transport in Europe including transport across lakes in the EU Member States, especially Greece; deplores the fact that there is not sufficient investment for the creation of cross-border railway lines and points at the low frequency of passenger railway services in numerous border areas; calls for the European Budget to adequately finance the efforts of the Member States to restore missing transport links;
Amendment 26 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Welcomes the continued support for the school milk scheme of EUR 75 million in the DB for 2017; regrets the cuts of EUR 20 million to the school fruit and vegetables scheme; reiterates the vital importance of both schemes to farmers and Members States and underlines their importance given the current crisis and levels of child malnutrition in the Union; reiterates the vital importance of schemes for the free distribution of fruits and vegetables withdrawn from sale for larger families calls on the Commission to reduce bureaucracy in both schemes;
Amendment 27 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls on the Commission to assess and improve the existing tools aimed at promoting SME internationalisation regarding coherence with other SME support instruments such as COSME as well as subsidiarity, non-duplication and complementarity in relation to respective Member State programmes;
Amendment 27 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Points out that all the operational programmes on fisheries have recently been adopted by the Members States, so in the financial year 2017 the Commission and the national administrations should speed up actions to ensure a timely implementation of the projects concerned; considers that the Union budget shouldought to foresee an appropriate level of payment appropriations and commitment appropriations to prevent payment problems and financial cuts for fisheries actions.
Amendment 28 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Deplores the fact that, instead of promoting fair trade for all and increasing funding for the business sector, the EU is encouraging partnership agreements such as the TTIP which strengthen multinational companies, while forcing SMEs out of business.
Amendment 28 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that after five years, entities benefitting from funding of the civil- society capacity building in the area of financial services are still disproportionately depending on EU funding with EU grants consistently representing more than 50 % of their respective budgets; emphasises that such entities should strive to achieve a higher degree of self-funding;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Points out that the European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA) can only perform its role if provided with sufficient technical, economic and financial resources; calls on the Commission to ensure sufficient funding for the appropriations devoted to the EFCA in order to enable it to fulfil its new tasks attributed to it in the proposal on a European Border and Coast Guard package; rRecalls the need to exempt all posts of agencies dealing with the migration crisis from the 5 % staff reduction target.
Amendment 31 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Is deeply concerned about the insufficient level of appropriations for the development cooperation instrument lines for Asia and the Middle East, in particular taking into account the external and internal stress and instability that countries such as Bangladesh, Pakistan, Irakq and Yemen are facing.
Amendment 31 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Welcomes the conclusion of the fourth railway package; underlines the greater role of the European Railway Agency in terms of certification and technical infrastructure development, which must therefores which must be adequately financed; believes that continuous efforts should also be put on research and innovation in the rail sector and calls on adequate funding for the Shift2Rail Joint Undertaking;
Amendment 31 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. WelcomesNotes the funding of AMIF (EUR 1.6 billion) and ISF (EUR 0.7 billion); supports the total funding (EUR 3 billion) for setting up the European Border and Coast Guard agency, the new Entry-Exit System, the new Common European Asylum System and for creating the instrument providing fast and efficient emergency humanitarian assistance within the EU;
Amendment 32 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Calls for better synergies between the CAP and other Union policies, in particular regarding energy, water supply, land use, biodiversity and ecosystems, the development of remote islands and mountainous areas and the reorganisation of primary production;
Amendment 33 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 b (new)
Paragraph 7 b (new)
7b. Urges the Commission and the Member States to take measures in response to the significant price volatility of agricultural products;
Amendment 34 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 c (new)
Paragraph 7 c (new)
7c. Calls on the Commission to ensure that Member States, in particular Greece, pay farmers and stockbreeders on time and in full the subsidies and aid to which they are entitled under the CAP, paying special attention to compensatory allowances;
Amendment 36 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Points outNotes the present and future role of the three European Supervisory Authorities (ESAs) in relation to Union- level financial supervision and the banking union; emphasises that the 2017 draft budget must provide sufficient resources for the ESAs to fulfil their mandate; points out that the budget foreseen in the multi- annual financial framework provides sufficient resources to deal with the tasks at hand;
Amendment 37 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Welcomes the increase in operational funds for producer organisations; regrets the massive cuts in aid to producer groups for preliminary recognition; welcomes the prolongation of exceptional measures for the fruit & vegetable sector especially in light of the crisis and the Russian embargo that severely hit producers; calls on the Commission to increase the funds intended to compensate losses caused by the Russian embargo, so long as Union sanctions against Russia as a result of the Ukrainian crisis remain in place;
Amendment 42 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses the importance ofat the goals set by COP 21 with regard to transport in order to combat climate change should not lead to the loss of jobs or the closure of businesses; underlines that financial means should be available to ensure a modal shift from road to rail and waterborne transport and encouraging Member States to invest in smart, sustainable, integrated public transport that is accessible to all; recommends also paying attention to noise reduction in transport to provide citizens with an environment of high quality;
Amendment 43 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Points outNotes, however, that in the case of EBA, sufficient resources should be provided for in the 2017 draft budget to prepare a relocation away from London when the United Kingdom withdraws from the European Union;
Amendment 43 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. SupportNotes the budget increase of the efficient JHA agencies involved with migration and security; requests to further justify the dramatic 92%, EUR 73 million increase of the budget of EU-LISA for the Entry Exit System and the revision of Dublin legislation as well as to explain break-down of appropriations between EU- LISA budget and the ISF;
Amendment 44 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Announces that, for the purpose of adequately financing those pressing needs, and considering the very tight MFF margins in 2017, Parliament willshould finance the reinforcements above the DB by the exhaustion of all margins available and an increased recourse to the Contingency Margin, to be offset against the remaining margins of 2016 and 2017;
Amendment 44 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Underlines that efficient logistics management in the Union can greatlyould contribute to a certain extent to decongesting of traffic and a reducing CO2 emissions; draws attention to the fact that Motorways of the Seas are cornerstones in logistics and that ports are main nodes for multi-modal transport schemes; calls for an increase in funds for developing ports in remote island areas of Member States – in particular Greece – that border third countries;
Amendment 45 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Insists on the need to provide funds to compensate for the economic losses suffered by farmers due to market crises or other effects especially by farmers from Member States such as Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal; reiterates the need to use the available margins under Heading 2 to this effect;
Amendment 47 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Restores all cuts related to the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) in the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) and Horizon 2020 for a total of EUR 1 240 million in commitments via new appropriations to be obtained through the mid-term revision of the MFF; increases the Youth Employment Initiative with additional EUR 1 500 million in commitment appropriations to provide an effective response to youth unemployment, especially to the Member States in southern Europe, such as Greece, which should also be financed by additional funds provided in the mid-term revision of the MFF;
Amendment 51 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Notes that, again this year, subheading 1a is severely affected by the Council's reading with 52 % of the overall Council cuts in commitments falling within this heading; questions therefore how the Council can claim that jobs and growth is one of their two priorities and stresses that the Union should immediately combat the high unemployment rates of its Member States;
Amendment 52 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Underlines the keycrucial role of digital technology in the development of efficient and sustainable transport; encourages the Commission to support innovation, research and the development of innovative solutions for all transport sectors to the benefit of all Union citizens and tourists;
Amendment 54 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. WelcomNotes the increase of the budget line "Ensuring the protection of rights and empowering citizens" and expects the Commission to issue new calls for proposals, in particular to ensure the highest level of protection of fundamental rights in the digital environment.
Amendment 55 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Strongly disagrees with these cuts in a heading that symbolises mainly the European added value and delivers more growth and jobs for citizens; consequently decides to restore all cuts made by the Council;
Amendment 56 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Points out that in light of the legislative revisions with regard to the exchange of information in the field of taxation between national tax authorities, the legal basis for the Fiscalis 2020 programme may need to be revised in order to properly reflect those changesfight tax fraud and tax evasion properly.
Amendment 58 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Welcomes the slight increase in funds allocated to support beekeeping, as Parliament has consistently viewed beekeeping as a priority for the future of agriculture and for the conservation of biodiversity.
Amendment 66 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Recalls the political importance of addressing the refugee and migrant issue and the contribution the European Maritime Safety Agency can make; emphasises the importance of adequate funding to ensure optimal use of state-of- the-art technology, information sharing – in accordance with the principles of personal data protection – and staff training;
Amendment 70 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Calls for the introduction of a direct budgetary line for tourism in the Union budget for 2017, given the importance of this economic activity in Europe and the need to further improve its attractiveness and competitiveness in a worldwide competitiveefficiency in an international environment; calls on the Commission to ensure the availability in all EU languages of the Guide on EU funding 2014-2020 for the tourism sector; asks the Commission to present a yearly overview of the Tourism projects financed;
Amendment 73 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Is alarmed by the significant delays in the implementation of the European Structural and Investment Fund cycle, which is likely toill have a serious detrimental effect on the timely achievement of results on the ground but risks also to lead to the reconstitution of a new backlog of unpaid bills in the second half the current MFF; urges the Member States concerned to promptly designate the remaining managing authorities and tackle all other causes of delay in the implementation of the programmes; notes the Commission’s proposals for more simplification for recipients of Union funds but sticks to the position that most remains to be done at the Member States’ level to ensure that the programmes reach full swing;
Amendment 73 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Underlines the importance of rural, mountainous costal and remote areas in further development of sustainable tourism in Europe; believes that means should be put in the promotion of those regions as well as in tourist locations not addressed by mass tourism and especially those that border third countries; believes that specific schemes aimed at facilitating access to persons with reduced mobility to tourist facilities in Europe should be developed.
Amendment 79 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Recallgrets that the Commission has not proposed any commitment appropriations for the Youth Employment Initiative in 2017 as a result of its frontloading in the years 2014-2015; decides, in line with the Regulation on the European Social Fund7 which foresees the possibility of such a continuation, to increase the Youth Employment Initiative with additional EUR 1 500 million in commitment appropriations and EUR 500 million in payment appropriations to provide an effective response to youth unemployment; notes that, in line with Parliament’s requests, these new appropriations should be financed by the use of all financial means available under the current MFF Regulation and through the MFF mid-term revision; urges the Member States to do their utmost to speed up the implementation of the Initiative on the ground, for the direct benefit of young Europeans; stresses the fact the Union should give priority to the Member States from southern Europe that suffer from the austerity measures; __________________ 7 Regulation (EU) No 1304/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 on the European Social Fund and repealing Council Regulation (EC) No 1081/2006 (OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 470).
Amendment 99 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Underlines that Parliament continues toshould put the current migration challenge at the top of its agenda; welcomestakes notes of the Commission’s proposal for an additional EUR 1,8 billion to tackle the migration crisis in the Union, above what had initially been programmed for 2017; notes that the big deviation of the original programming shows the need of a full revision of the current MFF; is disappointed that the Commission did not use the opportunity to adjust the ceilings accordingly, particularly of Heading 3; stresses that the Commission proposes to finance this reinforcement through the mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument (for EUR 530 million, thereby fully exhausting the funding available for this year) and the Contingency Margin (for EUR 1 160 million); given the unprecedented level of funding for migration-related expenditure (totalling EUR 5,2 billion in 2017) and the proposals for applying flexibility on the table, does not request further reinforcements for migration-related policies; at the same time, will resist any attempts to reduce funding for Union actions in this field;
Amendment 113 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. WelcomesPoints out the Commission’s proposal, as part of the MFF mid-term revision, to establish a new European Union Crisis Reserve, to be financed from de-committed appropriations, as an additional instrument to react rapidly to crises, such as the current migrant and refugee crisis, as well as a wider set of events with serious humanitarian or security implications;
Amendment 146 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40
Paragraph 40
40. Considers that Council’s cuts are unjustified and harmful for the Member States and restores the DB for all Commission administrative expenditure, including administrative and research support expenditure in headings 1 to 4;
Amendment 178 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 53
Paragraph 53
53. ApprovesTakes note of the changes in its establishment plan and corresponding budgetary appropriations towhich will respond to additional needs of the political groups; fully compensates these reinforcements by reducing the appropriations in the contingency reserve and fitting out of premises budget line;
Amendment 207 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 75
Paragraph 75
75. Notes with regreCondemns the fact that the Council has decreased the DB of the Ombudsman by -EUR 195 000; underlines that this reduction would impose a disproportionate burden on the very limited budget of the Ombudsman and would have major impact on the institution's capacity to serve the European citizens effectively; restores therefore all the budget lines cut by Council in order to enable the Ombudsman to fulfil her mandate and commitments;
Amendment 209 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 76
Paragraph 76
76. Notes with regreCondemns the fact that the Council has decreased the DB of the European Data Protection Supervisor by -EUR 395 000; points out that this is in sharp contrast with the additional task conferred upon the institution by Parliament and the Council and wouldthere is a high risk to jeopardise the institution’s capacity to serve the European institutions effectively; restores therefore all the budget lines cut by Council to enable the European Data Protection Supervisor to fulfil his obligations and commitments;
Amendment 213 #
2016/2047(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 80
Paragraph 80
80. Is convinced that the Union budget can contributeshould immediately increase in order to addressing effectively not only the consequences but also the root causes of the crises that the Union isMember States are currently facing; takes the view, however, that unforeseen events with a Union-wide dimension should be tackled by pooling efforts and putting additional means at Union level rather than by calling past commitments into question or reverting to the illusion of purely national solutions; stresses, therefore, that flexibility provisions are there to enable such a joint and speedy response and should be used to the full in order to make up for the tight constraints of the MFF ceilings;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2045(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital Α
Recital Α
Α. whereas since its creation in 2002 the European Union Solidarity Fund (EUSF) has responded to 69 disasters across Europe; whereas 24 countries have been assisted, receiving disaster relief funds amounting to a total of EUR 3.7 billion and the Fund will be required to contribute still more to the repair of public infrastructures and to compensation for those affected by natural disasters;
Amendment 6 #
2016/2045(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C
Recital C
Amendment 10 #
2016/2045(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital Ε
Recital Ε
Ε. whereas the EUSF already existed in the previous programing period of the MFF Regulation, while its annual appropriations have decreased compared with the past; whereas in order to compensate for such a decrease (justified by the overall level of implementation) a carry-over of one year (N+1) has been introduced in the new regulation;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2045(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the European Union Solidarity Fund (EUSF) was set up in 2002 in reaction to that summer’s serious flooding in Central Europe, to respond to serious natural disasters and to demonstrate solidarity with the European regions affected; whereas it funds only emergency operations carried out by governments following natural disasters but should be extended to cover non-emergency situations also;
Amendment 12 #
2016/2045(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
Amendment 12 #
2016/2045(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 – indent 4
Paragraph 6 – indent 4
prevent, detect and correct irregularities and recover amounts unduly paid together with interest on late payments where appropriate, to notify any such irregularities to the Commission and to keep it informed of the progress of administrative and legal proceedings;
Amendment 15 #
2016/2045(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Welcomes in the new regulation the possibility of making advance payments of up to 10 % of the likely amount of aid, capped at EUR 30 million; considerdeplores, however, the fact that the time taken between the application and payment is rather long; recommends further improvements in the assessment phase and subsequent phases facilitating the execution of payments;
Amendment 16 #
2016/2045(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Regrets the fact that in many cases a serious lack of transparency has been noted regarding the use and the destination of the EUSF; asks for an improvement in the ex post monitoring system for spending and strongly believes that the final reports provided by Member States should be public, objective and accessible;
Amendment 17 #
2016/2045(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas since being established it has been mobilised in connection with 70 disasters linked to a wide range of natural phenomena, such as flooding, forest fires, earthquakes, storms and, more recently, drought;
Amendment 20 #
2016/2045(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Believes that necessary improvements to the regulation could include a request for mandatory updated national plans for disaster management, the preparation of agreements on emergency contracts, the implementation of provisional accommodation measures in disaster areas and the transfer to the EU budget of any revenue generated by the use of the EUSF;
Amendment 22 #
2016/2045(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas the instrument must be overhauled once more with a view to ensuring an immediate response, so as to further improve the effectiveness of emergency relief funding;
Amendment 23 #
2016/2045(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Expresses its profound disagreement at the large number of claims rejected, principally owing to the introduction of an excessive damage threshold of 1.5% of regional GDP at NUTS 2 level, and calls for this threshold to be reduced to 0.5 %;
Amendment 25 #
2016/2045(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Emphasises, furthermore, that Article 11 of the amended regulation gives the Commission and the ECA the power of audit and allows the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) to conduct investigations if necessary;
Amendment 25 #
2016/2045(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the European Parliament strongly supported the proposed changes, most of which it had already called for in previous resolutions;
Amendment 26 #
2016/2045(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Calls on the EU Solidarity Fund to take immediate measures to ensure full compensation for damage caused by severe weather conditions in Greece during the period 2014-2016;
Amendment 28 #
2016/2045(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Is of the opinion that the EUSF should, wherever possible, create synergies with other sources of financial assistance, in particular with the Structural Funds;
Amendment 31 #
2016/2045(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that, since it was established in 2002, the EUSF has been a significant source of funding in the context of natural disasters occurring across Europe, from floods to earthquakes and forest fires, and a means of demonstrating European solidarity with affected regions; noting that there is, however, considerable room for improvement in areas such as the repair of public infrastructures where necessary and payment of damages to victims of natural disasters;
Amendment 36 #
2016/2045(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Emphasises that, since the Fund was established natural disasters in the Union have increased significantly in number, severity and intensity as a consequence of climate change; stresses, therefore the added value of a sound and flexible instrument as a means of showing solidarity and providing proper, rapid assistance for people affected by major natural disasters and immediate compensation payments for damage caused by natural disasters;
Amendment 44 #
2016/2045(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Points out that the EUSF is financed outside the European Union budget, with a maximumn allocation of EUR 500 million (at 2011 prices), which must be increased so as to ensure a more effective response to the consequences of natural disasters, on top of any amounts remaining from the previous year;
Amendment 54 #
2016/2045(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Emphasises, however,Deplores the fact that, in spite of the introduction of an advance payment mechanism upstream of the standard procedure, beneficiaries still face problems as a result of the length of the overall process, which culminates in payment of the final contribution; emphasises, in this context, the need to speed up the processing of applications and ensure that as many as possible are dealt with by the deadline set;
Amendment 64 #
2016/2045(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. WelcomNotes the clarification of the rules on the eligibility of regional natural disasters, but points out that the final agreement maintains the eligibility threshold at 1.5 % of regional GDP, in line with the Commission proposal, in spite of Parliament’s efforts to reduce it to 1 %; believes that the vulnerability of the outermost regions has been taken into account, with the threshold being reduced to 1 % in their case;
Amendment 76 #
2016/2045(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Points out, in that connection, the importance of developing synergies between the various Union funds and policies with a view to forestalling, as far as possible, the impact of natural disasters and, in cases where the EUSF is activated, to guaranteeing the consolidation and the long-term development of reconstruction projects; points out that rural development programmes cofunded by the EU could also provide support in situations arising from adverse climatic conditions;
Amendment 88 #
2016/2045(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Emphasises that, following the Commission’s regrettable rejection of two applications for recognition as extraordinary regional disasters, on the grounds that the disasters in question could not be deemed ‘extraordinary’, in spite of the fact that they caused serious damage and had direct repercussions for the economic and social development of the regions concerned, a realistic eligibility threshold should be set for regional natural disasters;
Amendment 102 #
2016/2045(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Deplores the fact that the procedures for assessing implementation and closure reports took so long under the old regulation and expects closures to be carried out more efficiently and transparently under the amended regulation, and in a manner which ensures that the Union’s financial interests of the EU Member States are protected;
Amendment 104 #
2016/2045(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16a. Expresses its profound disagreement at the large number of claims for regional disasters that have been rejected, principally owing to the introduction of an excessive damage threshold of 1.5% of regional GDP at NUTS 2 level, and calls for this threshold to be reduced to 0.5 %;
Amendment 108 #
2016/2045(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 b (new)
Paragraph 16 b (new)
16b. Calls on the EU Solidarity Fund to take immediate measures to ensure full compensation for damage caused by severe weather conditions in Greece during the period 2014-2016;
Amendment 14 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 9 a (new)
Citation 9 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 1) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 16 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 9 b (new)
Citation 9 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 26 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Α
Recital Α
Α. whereas the EU is now surrounded by an arc of instability, as large parts of the Middle East and North Africa are engulfed in ethno-religious conflicts and proxy wars and terrorist groups such as ISIS and the Jabhat al-Nusra Front proliferate throughout the region, while an aggressive, revisionist Russia continues to violate its neighbours’ sovereignty and openly challenges the European security order;
Amendment 52 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Β
Recital Β
Β. whereas these conflicts have direct and serious consequences for the security and well-being of European citizens, as they increasingly spill over into the EU, be it in the form of terrorism, massive refugee flows, or disinformation campaigns aimed at dividing our societies;
Amendment 65 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls what many seem to have forgotten, namely that the European Union is one of the greatest achievements in European history and that the transformative power of the EU has brought peace, stability and prosperity to its citizens; emphasises that the EU remains the largest economic power, the most generous and a donor of humanitarian and development assistance, and a frontrunner in global diplomacy on issues such as climate change, non-proliferation and human rights;
Amendment 81 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Considers that the current crisis is also an opportunity for the EU if it is used to make the EU work better; recalls that European citizens see an effective common foreign and security policy as a priority area of action for the EU and that this is one of the areas where European cooperation can yield most value addedRecalls that an overwhelming majority of European citizens are opposed to any outside intervention; emphasises, therefore, that Member States must change their mentality since nowadays thinking about foreign policy and security in a narrow minded national perspectiveinterventionist terms is obsolete; iIs convinced that no single Member State alone is able to tackle any of the challenges we fadefence is, par excellence, today; urges Member States to finally show sufficient levels of political will and trust in one another to make it possible to use the tools at hand in a concerted manner in order to pursue our interests and values; reiterates that the EU can only be a strong global player on an equal footing with other major powers if all Member States speak with one voice and act together in the framework of a strong EU foreign policyhe responsibility of the Member States;
Amendment 102 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses that an effective implementation of the EU Global Strategy presented by the VP/HR in June 2016 is not possible without strong commitment, ownership, political will and leadership from the Member States; highlights that the appropriate resources need to be allocated to the implementation of this strategy, in particular Considers that, under the present circumstances, the introduction of a common EU external strategy can only be counterproductive and urges the VP/HR accordingly to keep external policy programming the crucial area of security and defenceo a minimum;
Amendment 117 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Welcomes the intention of devising an implementation plan on security and defence; underlines that this implementation plan should be complemented by a White Book process, which would specify the level of ambition, tasks, requirements and capability priorities for European defence; calls on the VP/HR, in close cooperation with Member States and the Commission, to start working on such a White Book as a matter of priority in order to deliver first results in the first semester of 2017;
Amendment 134 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Is of the opinion that the Global Strategy should be revised regularly, in synchrony with the electoral cycle and the entry into office of each new Commission, in order to check if its objectives and priorities still fit with the challenges and threatwill of the citizens;
Amendment 138 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Highlights that EU external action needs to be based on the following three pillars that could be defined as the ‘three Ds’: Defence, Development and Diplomacy: protection of European citizens, non-interference in the internal affairs of third countries and respect for human rights;
Amendment 146 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
Amendment 163 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
Amendment 181 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
Amendment 194 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 – indent 1
Paragraph 10 – indent 1
Amendment 203 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 – indent 2
Paragraph 10 – indent 2
Amendment 207 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 – indent 3
Paragraph 10 – indent 3
Amendment 219 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. WelcomNotes the Roadmap and the commitments of the Bratislava summit;
Amendment 222 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
Amendment 251 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
Amendment 277 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Emphasises that the security of EU Member States is undividable and that in line with Article 42(7) TEU all Member States must enjoy the same level of security; believes it is crucial to strengthen the European security architecture, which is based on the Helsinki Final Act of 1975 and which has been severely damaged by Russia’s illegal military interventions in Crimea and eastern Ukraine;
Amendment 287 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Takes the view that it is time to define a new, more realistic strategy for the EU’s relations with Russia, based on credible deterrence but also on dialogue indialogue and the establishment of areas of common interest; stresses that sanctions have proven to be the most effective means for deterring Russian aggression; recalls that the full implementation of the Minsk agreement is a prerequisite for the suspension of sanctions; insists that the EU should consider imposing further sanctions iotally ineffectual as a diplomatic strategy and calls for them to be removed as soon case Russia continues to violate international law possible; believes it is in the common interest of the EU and Russia to achieve a better relationship, provided international law is applied;
Amendment 337 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Believes that a deepening of the relationship with the US and Canada is of strategic interest to the EU, while at the same time it is important for the EU to strengthen its relationship with Central and South America;
Amendment 363 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Stresses that the EU must pay particular attention to improving the living conditions in its neighbourhood, using all available policy tools, including trade when called upon to do so, development aid and diplomacy, as well as crisis management capabilities; welcomes in this regard the EU’s new migration partnerships and the External Investment Plan; underlines the need to develop a new approach towards Africa, providing better opportunities for trade, investment and economic growth and supporting African countries in building democratic, transparent and effective institutions; is convinced that the EU should review its development and trade policies to make sure that they contribute to these goals; calls on the EU, and in particular the Member States, to significantly increase their financial commitments to the region, including through the Africa Trust Fund and the European Development Fund without prejudice to the interests of its citizens;
Amendment 382 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Underlines also the need to intensify the fight against Islamist terrorism, which affects ever larger parts of the Middle East and North Africa and has also been creeping into Europe; urges the EU to undertake concerted diplomatic efforts, together with the US, Russia and other international allies, to convince partners in the region, such as Turkey, Saudi Arabia and IranIran and Egypt, of the need for a common strategy towards this global challenge;
Amendment 422 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Recognises Turkey’s role as an important partner in solving the Syrian conflict and the fight against Da’esh; strongly condemns the attempted military coup against the democratically elected government of Turkey; encourages the Turkish government to protect the constitutional order, while underlining the importance of respect for the rule of law and independence of the judiciary in the aftermath of the coup, in cooperation with the Council of Europe;
Amendment 452 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
Amendment 464 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Stresses the need for close cooperation with other global and regional powers on global threats and challenges; emphasises in particular the crucial importance of the transatlantic relationship, which is based on common interests and values;
Amendment 482 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Recalls the importance of Europe’s normative power, and calls for the further strengthening of the EU’s cultural and science diplomacy in order to project and promote European strengths and values beyond ourEU borders; also points out the power of economic diplomacy, and in particular sanctions, as a tool for enforcing EU policies;
Amendment 497 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. Stresses the need of speeding up the consolidation of the fully-fledged European Diplomatic Service, and in particular strengthening its thematic expertise and strategic policy planning and forecasting, as well as the area of intelligence; iInsists on the need for a fair balance between diplomats seconded from the Member States and EU officials in the EEAS, including in management positions;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Underlines the importance ofneed to devisinge strategies that can help diversify the economy of the local area, provide additional jobs and income to families, and help halt the employment decline in communities dependent on the fisheries sector, as well as the need to increase EU fisheries funding for southern Europe countries such as Greece that are affected by austerity measures;
Amendment 12 #
2016/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recalls that the 2010 Tourism Communication set the development of sustainable, responsible and high-quality tourism as one of the main objectives for European tourism for the purposes of encouraging job creation and growth;
Amendment 14 #
2016/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses that, as travellers today are much more informed than they were in the past, if tourism localities are to prosper, they need to be more attentive to the need to ensure quality, authenticity and a high ratio of price to quality;
Amendment 22 #
2016/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Believes that diversification in fisheries should be based on eco-tourism and soft tourism, which are environmentally friendly business models that help preserve the identities of local communities, as well as promoting the development of outlying areas with limited economic activity;
Amendment 24 #
2016/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Stresses that one of the obstacles facing pesca-tourism, and one that limits the potential benefit for fishermen, is the regulatory burden put on small-scale commercial navigation and the high cost of refitting fishing vessels to conform to tourism standards; calls on the Union to take immediate action to step up funding for the pesca-tourism sector;
Amendment 39 #
2016/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Calls on the Commission to analyse the efficiency of EU action takeUnion to review its action in the development of fisheries areas, and in the economic diversification of fisheries, including action taken under the European Structural Funds and the EMFF in particular;
Amendment 64 #
2016/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Recommends that Fisheries Local Action Groups (FLAGs) cooperate closely with tourism experts in order to identify projects and appropriateimmediately step up funding, through Axis 4 of the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund, for diversification in fisheries areas;
Amendment 70 #
2016/2035(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
Amendment 1 #
2016/2034(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital Α
Recital Α
Α. whereas the recent bouts of extreme price volatility in global agricultural markets portend rising and more frequent threats to world food security, the future of farmers and their livelihood, particularly in the southern European countries such as Greece, Italy, Portugal and Cyprus;
Amendment 6 #
2016/2034(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Α
Recital Α
A. whereas, since 2007, extreme price fluctuation has been a feature of world agricultural markets, with increasingly frequent and marked economic shocks, certain countries suffering even greater disruption as a result of austerity policies;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2034(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital Β
Recital Β
Β. whereas high levels of price and income volatility for farmers are related to the market fundamentals of supply and demandausterity policies imposed in the EU Member States, but can also be intensified by other macro-economic variables, the broad political and legislative environment, and speculation on agricultural products which, when sold as financial assets, are exposed to shocks on related commodity markets (such as the energy and metal markets);
Amendment 14 #
2016/2034(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C
Recital C
C whereas the increased vulnerability is being triggered by an increase in extreme weather events and the impact of climate change on agricultural production levels, as well as by structural factors such as energy and fertiliser prices, exchange rates or interest rates, not to mention the extortionate taxes imposed on farmers in southern European countries such as Greece, Italy, Portugal and Cyprus;
Amendment 18 #
2016/2034(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Emphasises that the EU is both the world’s largest importer and exporter of agri-food products, but the options of using CAP rural development programmes (RDPs) to contribute towards insurance, mutual funds and income stabilisation schemes for farmers have not been very successfulhad no tangible results;
Amendment 22 #
2016/2034(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls for better synergies between CAP and other EU policies, in particular regarding energy, water supply, land use, biodiversity and ecosystems, and the development of remote island and mountainous areas and the reorganisation of primary production;
Amendment 22 #
2016/2034(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Δ
Recital Δ
D. whereas climate change adversely affects agricultural output levels;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2034(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ε
Recital Ε
E. whereas the main global players in agricultural markets arshould be introducing policies that aim to curb volatility, and whereas the G20 has also undertaken to address the issue;
Amendment 35 #
2016/2034(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital ΣΤ
Recital ΣΤ
F. whereas political choices, such as the imposition of trade embargoes and so- called non-tariff barriers generated by the TTIP, can increase the volatility of agricultural product prices;
Amendment 41 #
2016/2034(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Urges the Commission and the Member States to monitake measures in response tor the significant price volatility of agricultural products by improving the European Food Prices Monitoring Tool (FPMT).;
Amendment 43 #
2016/2034(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ζ
Recital Ζ
G. whereas, in recent decades, market opening and economic globalisation have greatly accentuated price volatility;
Amendment 45 #
2016/2034(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Calls on the Commission to ensure that the Member States, in particular Greece, pay farmers and stockbreeders on time and in full the subsidies and aid to which they are entitled under the CAP, paying special attention to compensatory allowances;
Amendment 48 #
2016/2034(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. Calls on the Commission to inform Parliament of any delays by Member States, especially Greece, in the payment of CAP subsidies and aid owing to farmers and to take action against those Member States that fail to make such payments on time;
Amendment 50 #
2016/2034(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 c (new)
Paragraph 4 c (new)
4c. Calls on the Commission to verify the correct implementation by the Member States, especially Greece, of CAP provisions in respect of grassland. In this context, particular consideration should be given to safeguarding the acquired rights of farmers, especially in Member States such as Greece with predominantly mountainous terrain;
Amendment 51 #
2016/2034(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 d (new)
Paragraph 4 d (new)
4d. Calls on the Commission to take steps to ensure full compensation and financial assistance for farmers and stockbreeders in Member States such as Greece and Cyprus where crops and livestock, machinery, equipment and infrastructures have sustained major damage caused by fires, floods or other natural disasters.
Amendment 118 #
2016/2034(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. NoteCondemns the reduction in CAP resources devoted to common market organisation (CMO) measures;
Amendment 133 #
2016/2034(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. NotesCondemns the fact that farmers’ average annual incomes in the EU have remained unchanged, or in some decreased considerably in the last decade becauses have declined, over the past 10 year of the underhand fiscal policies imposed by the Troika in certain EU Member States;
Amendment 169 #
2016/2034(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. ConsiderStresses that the wellbeing of farmers and measures to strengthen the agricultural sector must be addressed as a matters of urgency and must be a long- term aims for the future CAP;
Amendment 300 #
2016/2034(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Calls on the Commission to conduct a thorough analysis of how this can be achieved and of the increased resources that should be earmarked for it when the CAP is renewed;
Amendment 313 #
2016/2034(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Considers that mutual funds, established at the initiative of working farmers, and through which farmers’ incomes can be stabilised to some extent as the profit margins on their produce fluctuate, may offer an effective way to limit the effects of price volatility, without replacing the support that must be provided by the Union;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2033(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Calls on the Council - while acknowledging the progress made by the co-legislators in negotiations for the adoption of the Directive on the fight against fraud to the Union’s financial interests by means of criminal law (the ‘PIF Directive’) - to renew its efforts to find agreement on the matter by including VAT in the scope of that directive;
Amendment 17 #
2016/2033(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Deems it crucial to ensure the establishment of a single, strong and independent European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) that is able to investigate,at the interests of EU citizens are prostecute and bring to court the perpetrators of criminal offences affecting the Union’s financial interests, as ded by means of a simplifined in the above-mentioned PIF Directive, and believes that any weaker solution would represent a cost to the Union budgetVAT system that is fair and less vulnerable to fraud.
Amendment 35 #
2016/2033(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. WelcomesPoints to the Commission’s intention to propose a definitive VAT system by 2017 that is simple, fair, robust, efficient and less susceptible to fraud;
Amendment 41 #
2016/2033(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. WelcomesPoints to the recent Commission communication of 7 April 2016 and the projected additional measures designed to prevent fraud and help improve the existing VAT system;
Amendment 90 #
2016/2033(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. SupportsPoints to the aim of the action plan to establish a single European VAT area to buttress a deeper and more equitable single market and in order to help promote employment, growth, investment and competitiveness;
Amendment 141 #
2016/2033(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
Amendment 156 #
2016/2033(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
Amendment 161 #
2016/2033(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
Amendment 211 #
2016/2033(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. WelcomesPoints to the Commission's announcement that it will submit an SME package for VAT in 2017;
Amendment 232 #
2016/2033(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Takes the view that the VAT reform plans announced by the Commission in the action programme must be subject to comprehensive and qualitatively-sound impact assessments with input from science, tax administrations of EU Member States and companies in the EU;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2012(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2016/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas equality between women and men is a fundamental principle of the European Union, and both the EU Treaties and the Charter of Fundamental Rights prohibit any discrimination on grounds of sex and require equality between women and men to be ensured in all areas by all Member States of the Union;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2012(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 9 #
2016/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. ConsidersDeplores the fact that some challenges and problems regarding effective implementation of the Directive persist, and that the most common issues include an overly restrictive understanding of the meaning of ‘goods and services’, the broad and sometimes unclear justifications of unequal treatment on the basis of Article 4(5), and insufficient protection of women during maternity and pregnancy;
Amendment 13 #
2016/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Considers that there is a lack of awareness among the general public regarding the content and implications of the Directive, arising from a lack both of reporting and of case law and calls on all Member States of the Union to take measures to further raise awareness among citizens of the issue of gender equality as regards access to goods and services;
Amendment 15 #
2016/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Reaffirms its call on the Commission to create a publicly accessible database on gender-related non- discrimination legislation and European Court of Justice rulings against gender- related discrimination which still occurs in acute form even today;
Amendment 16 #
2016/2012(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Α
Recital Α
Α. whereas combating gender discrimination in the field of goods and services is an integral part of the principle of equality between women and men which constitutes a fundamental value of the European Union recognised in the Treaties and in the Charter of Fundamental Rights and should be the aim of all EU Member States;
Amendment 18 #
2016/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Highlights the key role that equality bodies must play in ensuring the enforcement of citizens’ legal rights and combating gender-based discrimination, and calls on the Commission to assist in safeguarding the independence and effectiveness of these bodies;
Amendment 19 #
2016/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the Member States and the Commission to raise awareness among all parties concernedcitizens of the content and implications of the Directive;
Amendment 22 #
2016/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls on the Commission to launch a study on the implementation of the Directive, to continuimprove its monitoring activities, and to support Member States in order to realise the full potential of the Directive;
Amendment 27 #
2016/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Encourages national authorities at all levels to raise awareness of rights and obligations under the directive, and encourages the Member States to equip their national equality bodies with sufficient resources to provide information on remedy proceedings and on the range of consultation services available to assist in national compliance with the directive; stresses the need to increase the funds provided by the Union to strengthen these bodies;
Amendment 33 #
2016/2012(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereasdeploring the fact that the key problematic areas in the implementation of the Directive include an overly restrictive understanding of the notion of goods and services, broad and sometimes unclear justifications of unequal treatment on the basis of Article 4(5) as well as an insufficient protection of women on grounds of maternity and pregnancy;
Amendment 39 #
2016/2012(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas, while the recent Commission communication entitled ‘European agenda for the collaborative economy’ represents a goodshould serve as a starting point for promoting and regulating this sector effectively, there is a need to incorporate the gender equality perspective and reflect the provisions of the Directive in further analysis and recommendations in this field;
Amendment 45 #
2016/2012(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes that the application of the Directive is not uniform across the Member States and that despite progress achieved in this area there are still challenges and gaps in the implementation thereof that need to be addressed in some Member States and across certain sectors forthwith;
Amendment 60 #
2016/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Expresses serious concern that cases of sexual harassment often occur on public transport, but are also reported in the context of the sharing economy, and underlinstresses the need for a proper definition of liability for such actsimmediate action to stop sexual harassment.
Amendment 62 #
2016/2012(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Considers that ensuring proper and full implementation of the ruling is crucial; calls on the Commission to monitor by means of periodic reports conformity with these rules in the Member States in order to ensure that any gaps are addressthat the principle of equal treatment - with regard to women and men - in access to goods and services is respected;
Amendment 65 #
2016/2012(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Underlines that a greater effort needs to be madeCalls on Member States to make a greater effort to protect the rights of pregnant women in this field and safeguard them against unqualified pregnancy-related costs, as well as raising awareness among service providers as to the special protection afforded to pregnant women;
Amendment 73 #
2016/2012(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Notes that while the prohibition of harassment, including sexual harassment, is embedded in national legislation, women continue to experience forms of abuse on means of transport on a systematic and frequent basis and there is a persisting need to enhance preventive measures againstto put an end to incidents of harassment, including raising awareness among the service providers;
Amendment 80 #
2016/2012(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. UnderlinesDeplores the fact that parents and carers of small children still face physical access barriers and other obstacles, such as an insufficiency of baby changing facilities on the premises of service providers; emphasises the need to safeguard the rights of both mothers and fathers to enjoy equal opportunities in the company of their children on the premises of service providers;
Amendment 99 #
2016/2012(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Considers that the relative lack of positive action based on Article 4(5) across Member States constitutes a gap in the implementation of the Directive; calls for promoting forms of positive action based on a legitimate aim, in which there is a direct link between preferential treatment and the disadvantages which need to be prevented or eliminated, such as the protection of victims of sex-related violence in cases of single-sex shelters;
Amendment 118 #
2016/2012(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Calls on the Commission, the Member States and the equality bodies to raise awareness about the provisions of the Directive among both service providers and users in order to boost the understandingimplement the principle of equal treatment in this field and reduce breaches of the Directive being left unreported;
Amendment 4 #
2016/2011(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereasdeploring the fact that the report is almost two years late and does not include an extended impact assessment for each Member State as required, but only an incomplete statistical table;
Amendment 15 #
2016/2011(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas more should, therefore, be done to inform businesses, legal professionals and other relevant parties of the existence and advantages of the procedure;
Amendment 17 #
2016/2011(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas, in certain Member States, orders should be issued more quickly and within the 30-day deadline set by the regulation, provided the obligation to pay a sum of money is not called into question by the debtor;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2011(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
Amendment 43 #
2016/2011(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses the need to holdat Member States to account inshould providinge the Commission with accurate and comprehensive data for effective monitoring and evaluation purposes;
Amendment 45 #
2016/2011(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Encourages the Member States to strive to issue orders within 30 daysa reasonable period of time, and to accept applications in certain foreign languages;
Amendment 2 #
2016/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2
Citation 2
-having regard to Articles 101, 102 and 1026 TFEU on the competition rules applicable to undertakings,
Amendment 3 #
2016/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
- having regard to Article 14 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,
Amendment 4 #
2016/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No.26) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on services of general interest,
Amendment 27 #
2016/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes that while the minimum standards associated with the universal service obligation (postal items up to 2 kg, postal packages up to 10-20 kg, registered and insured items, and other services of general economic interest such as newspapers and periodicals) meet customers’ demands, the requirements are rightly set by the national regulatory authorities (NRAs) entrusted with this task;
Amendment 33 #
2016/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on the Member States to extend the role and independence of NRAs both through high professional qualification criteria, and fixed terms of office and through legal protection against dismissal without cause, so that they can fulfil their obligations arising from the Postal Services Directive;
Amendment 43 #
2016/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Believes that obligations of independence can only be fulfilled if NRAs’ regulatory functions are separated from activities associated with ownership or control of a postal operator; considers that senior NRA officials should not be permittedbe able to work for the public postal operator or other interested parties immediately after leaving the NRA, with a view to preventing conflicts of interestoviding expertise and specialist skills;
Amendment 59 #
2016/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Stresses the importance of providing a high-quality universal service under affordable conditions, comprising at least five deliverybased on delivery within five days and five collection days a week for every EU citizen; notes that in some Member States national regulation exceeds the flexibility provided for in the Postal Services Directive; calls on the Commission to reaffirm that low population density does not constitute groundscannot be an excuse for reducing the frequency of delivery within the universal service obligation;
Amendment 83 #
2016/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Member States and the Commission to monitor the provision of postal services as a public service in order to ensure a common level playing field among providers and prevent cross- subsidisation, and to review whether public service compensation is implemented in a manner that is proportionate, transparent and fairlegal;
Amendment 98 #
2016/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Calls on the Commission to work on a harmonised definition of universal service which stipulates a minimum guaranteed level of service for consumers; calls on the Member States to further harmonise licensing procedures in order to reduce unjustified barriers within the internal market;
Amendment 117 #
2016/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Recalls that VAT exemption for postal services has to be applied in a way that minimises distortions of competition between former monopolies and market entrants so as to ensure that all operators enjoy the freedompossibility to provide postal services across Europe;
Amendment 129 #
2016/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Asks the Commission to lay down minimum standards for value-added services such as track-and-trace, pick- up/drop-off locations, the ability to choose a delivery timeobligation of the service provider to deliver the order at the most convenient time for the consumer, and suitable return procedures;
Amendment 144 #
2016/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Considers that service quality should be assessed on the basis of minimum Europe-wide standardsby consumers through the procedure of a Europe-wide service evaluation network with a view to creating a fully integrated and operational European postal sector;
Amendment 161 #
2016/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Asks the Member States to ensure the interoperability and upgrading of regional postal networks and, where several universal service providers exist, to prevent impediments to the transport of postal items;
Amendment 166 #
2016/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Considers that parcel delivery is a highly competitive, innovative and fast- growing sector, and that any new regulation in the parcel delivery market must therefore be proportionate and supportedoperational and be accompanied in all cases by sound economic evidence;
Amendment 174 #
2016/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Encourages the Commission to strengthen market oversight of parcel delivery, specifically by improvingRecommends that the Commission, always working in perfect cooperation with the national regulators’ capacity toy authorities, assess competition and identify anti- competitive practices;
Amendment 191 #
2016/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Asks the Member States and the Commission to improve transparency as regards pricing conditions and service performance (delivery options, final delivery, reliability), through the evaluation thereof chiefly by consumers, especially when it comes to e-commerce; stresses the importance of affordable cross- border delivery prices in closing the gap between domestic and cross-border prices; calls on the Commission to explore why prices on some cross-border routes are higher in one direction than the other;
Amendment 202 #
2016/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Calls on the Commission to promote the strategy on e-commerce and cross-border parcel delivery and to establish joint delivery service quality indicators so that consumers can without hindrance and at any moment compare offers from different service providers; suggests improving interoperability along the delivery chain and developing best practices for e-retailers;
Amendment 209 #
2016/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Encourages the Member States to support cost reductions by improving the interoperability of parcel dispatch and collection processes, and to develop European standards for integrated tracking systems; recalls the need to promote the quality, reliability and sustainability of integrated logistics services; encourages the creation of platforms for cooperation and information exchange between delivery operators and consumers;
Amendment 223 #
2016/2010(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Calls on the Member States to ensure decent working conditions for all employees in the postal services sector, with full respect for labour and social rights; recommends close monitoring of whether labour-market-related developments in the postal services sector comply with national law;
Amendment 5 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that ‘human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities’ each case without discrimination, are the values on which the EU is founded, as stated in Article 2 TEU; underlines the utmost importance of ensuring full respect for these values both at Union and Member State level;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that in case of systemic threats to the rule of law, Article 7 and Rule of Law Framework procedures should be launched to provide remedies; cConsiders it important to establish a new consensus between the EU and its Member States regarding respect for democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. having regard to the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms (ECHR),
Amendment 17 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the report of the Committee on Petitions on the European Ombudsman’s own-initiative inquiry concerning Frontex established that Frontex has a dutyn obligation to uphold the EU’s standards on the fundamental rights of asylum seekers in its day-to-day operations;
Amendment 21 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Regrets that, in the EU Member States, gender equality has not yet been reached in many areas; stresses that women still suffer from discrimination as exemplified by their low representation in the decision-making process, both in the private and the public sectors, and by the persisting gender pay and pensions gap;
Amendment 26 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers that citizens’ expectations regarding the protection of their fundamental rights under the Charter are very often disappointed, which may aggravates their disenchantment with the European project; notes that the general public has a limited grasp of the field of application of the Charter; believes that the European Commission and the Member States could do more to promote knowledge of the Charter, in particular the effect of its Article 51;
Amendment 30 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Notes the increase in the number of petitions owing to the economic and social crisis in Europe, which has resulted many infringements of fundamental rights;
Amendment 36 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Recalls thatPoints out that, although the portability of social security benefits, pensions, health care and recognition of professional qualifications and civil status documents is a guaranteed fundamental right conferred on citizens in the Internal Market; notes that, many citizens still encounter problems in asserting these rights;
Amendment 40 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Highlights the rights of people with disabilities, who strive to live a life as close to normal as possible; calls on the Commission and the Member States to ensure that these rights are properly respected and applied, notably the rights resulting from the ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities;
Amendment 48 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Reiterates emphatically its call on the Commission, following Opinion 2/13 of the European Court of Justice, to identify the necessary steps forward for the accession of the European Union to the European Convention on Human Rights, in line with Article 6(2) TEU.
Amendment 58 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Welcomes the proposed EU accession to the Istanbul Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence and calls for the EU and the Member States to ratify the Istanbul Convention as soon as possible;
Amendment 67 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Deplores instances of discrimination against minorities, immigrants and asylum seekerall citizens, as well as restrictions on the freedom of the media regularly reflected in petitions; calls on the Member States to pay particular attention to these issues; welcomes the unblocking of the anti-discrimination directive in the European Council;
Amendment 74 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Member States to guarantee the fundamental rights of all citizens from non-EU countries, particularly asylum seekers, living in an EU country as laid down in the Charter of Fundamental Rights;
Amendment 84 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Calls for special attention to the rights of children, in particular in the context of cross-border custody disputes and parental visitation rights, as outlined also in the opinion of the Committee on Petitions concerning the cross-border aspects of adoptions; calls on the Commission to provide clear guidance on the concept of ‘best interests of the child’ in the context of the revision of the Brussels IIA Regulation;
Amendment 86 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Reiterates its call on the Commission to submit a proposal for a legal act on violence against women and to present a comprehensive strategy on measures to combat violence against women and girls and gender-based violence;
Amendment 89 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Stresses the need to strengthen the role of the Committee on Petitions in upholding fundamental rights protected by the Charter;
Amendment 130 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls on the Member States, in cooperation with the Commission, to take all the necessary measures to ensure the protection of women migrants and asylum seekers, such as safe spaces for women and children, legal counselling and access to sexual and reproductive health and rights, including safe abortions;
Amendment 136 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas migration is an unavoidable part of the EU’s future and one of the biggest challenges of our times, as it appeals to the EU’s international humanitarian responsibilities and forms a key element for demographic reasons;
Amendment 154 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Β
Recital Β
Β. whereas acts of terrorism constitute one of the most serious violations of fundamental rights and freedoms; whereas it is necessary to have adequate tools in place, as well as a political and ideological response, to protect EU citizens and residents and to respond properly to such violations;
Amendment 154 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Commission to introduce gender mainstreaming in all areas of policy making and in all proposed legislation, including systematic gender impact assessments as part of the fundamental rights and social rights compliance assessment;
Amendment 171 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas trafficking in human beings is a serious crime often committed within the framework, is one of the most lucrative forms of organised crime, constitutes a gross violation of fundamental rights and is explicitly prohibited by the Charter;
Amendment 177 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Calls on the EU institutions to introduce specific indicators on gender equality, including the Gender Equality Index of EIGE, in the monitoring system of the future EU mechanism on democracy, the rule of law and, fundamental rights and social rights.
Amendment 202 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas violence against women, despite the fact that violence against women is a fundamental rights infringement, it is still ‘silently’ tolerated in many places and a zero tolerance approach is necessary;
Amendment 343 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Considers that the social inclusion and cultural integration of refugees in the host society is a dynamic, two-dimensional process (involving rights and duties), representing a challenge and an opportunity that requires responsibilities and efforts both by the refugees and by the Member States, their local and regional administrations and host communities;
Amendment 369 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls on Member States to apply cultural, political and social inclustegration policies as swiftly as possible and with adequate dedicated resources; recalls that social inclustegration policies must engage local, regional and national institutions and should focus both on individuals rather thand on groups or communities, as this can lead to segregation;
Amendment 398 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Reiterates that intercultural and inter-religious toleranpeace needs to be promoted via constant efforts and extensive dialogue and that the crisis arising from the waves of migration cannot be tackled without the involvement of all relevant state and non- state actors, including churches and religious organisations;
Amendment 426 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Welcomes the Commission initiatives to strengthen security cooperation between Member States and fully supports all proposed measures to pave the way towards an effective Security Union, in particular the directive on combatting terrorism;·
Amendment 445 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses thate need for appropriate treatment of victims, including victims of terrorism, which is a demonstration of our societies’ solidarity with each victim and recognition that such treatment is essential to the moral integrity of society; recalls in this regard that the rules that have applied across the EU since November 2015 guarantee that people who fall victim to crime in the EU benefit from a minimum set of rights;
Amendment 500 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Calls on Member States to make equal efforts to identify, protect and assist victims of all forms of exploitation; calls on Member States to implement the EU Anti-trafficking Directive fully and correctly and encourages the Member States, EU institutions and agencies to convene meetings within the framework the EU Network of National Rapporteurs or equivalent mechanisms on trafficking in human beings;
Amendment 636 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Highlights that many improvements are still needed to combat violence against women, and calls on the Member States and the EU to sign and ratify the Istanbul Convention following the launch of the procedure by the Commission in March 2016;
Amendment 711 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Notes with concern that child poverty rates remain high in the EU; encourages Member States and the EU to launch programmes specifically targetingcalls on the EU to step up funding immediately for the well-being and healthy development of children and to help combat child poverty;
Amendment 723 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Calls for a focus onimmediate measures to be taken to prevent violence against children at all levels, from homes to schools, public places and detention centres for migrants;
Amendment 786 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Highlights that traditional national minorities who have been living together with or alongside traditional majority cultures for centuries in Europe are facing the negative consequences of the migration crisis, i.e. mistrust towards non-majority autochthonous minorities; believes that the solution to this problem lies in the establishment of minimum standards on protecting the rights of traditional minorities, as preserving European heritage gives added value to diversitycompliance with the laws of the country to which they belong and resistance to manipulation by foreign interests;
Amendment 794 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
Amendment 819 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. WelcomStresses the concluding observations on the EU’s progressneed for progress by the EU in implementing the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), and calls on the EU to use these recommendations as an opportunity to set a positive example by ensuring effective and thorough implementation;
Amendment 821 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Stresses that persons with disabilities are entitled to enjoy their fundamental rights on an equal basis with others, including the rights to inalienable dignity, independent living, autonomy and full social integration; notes that a human rights-based approach to disability is not yet fully endorsed, resulting in discrimination against those with disabilities in the EU and urges the EU and its Member States to intensify efforts to align their legal frameworks with CRPD requirements;
Amendment 839 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36
Paragraph 36
36. Calls on the EU and the Member States to allocate sufficient and stablestep up financial and human resources to the monitoring frameworks established under Article 33(2) of the CRPD to enable them to carry out their functions, and to guarantee their independence by ensuring that their composition and operation take into account the Paris Principles on the functioning of national human rights institutions;
Amendment 955 #
2016/2009(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 46
Paragraph 46
46. Reiterates its callStresses the need for the EU to accede to the European Convention on Human Rights; notes that this would strengthen fundamental rights protection in the EU and expects the legal obstacles to accession to be eliminated as soon as possible;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Acknowledges the continual and swift technological changes occurring in the information society, the deep transformations these changes have brought about, with particular regard to educational and citizenship aspects, and the challenges and opportunities related to the various ICT tools, new media and other new technologies;
Amendment 7 #
2016/2008(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 a (new)
Citation 5 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 8 #
2016/2008(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 b (new)
Citation 5 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 14 #
2016/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that an increasing number of citizens use ICT tools and new media and technologies to engage and participate in political life at both national and EU level and that it is therefore crucial to increase digital inclusion and literacy, thus eradicating the existing digital divide; considers it also critically important that there should be reflection on and a critical approach to the use of these technologies and the framing thereof with rules intended to protect persons from risks to their mental and physical health;
Amendment 18 #
2016/2008(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas following the recent crises in the economic, political and social fields that have severely affected individual Member States and the Union as a whole, citizens’ relationship with politics has become increasingly strained, as the public feels that it isis clearly not represented adequately; whereas the engagement and involvement of citizens and civil society in democratic life are essential for the good functioning of democracy and for the legitimacy and accountability of both national and EU representational systems;
Amendment 25 #
2016/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Believes that, in order to stimulate a proper and critical knowledge of the EU and its history, values and fundamental rights, its functioning and structured decision-making processes, ICT tools and new media and technologies are crucial and will increasingly play a fundamental role ICT tools and new media and technologies are crucial and may play a fundamental role in acquiring proper critical understanding, providing the EU and Member States take the necessary measures to ensure that these technologies work well and are properly used by citizens and particularly children;
Amendment 28 #
2016/2008(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas it is crucialimportant to regain citizens’ confidence and interest in the European project by improving participation and transparency in decision- making, buttressing democratic oversight mechanisms, making political parties more open and reforming electoral systems to give the public more voice in them;
Amendment 52 #
2016/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Considers it crucial that the EU should strategically launch e-democracy tools able to provide decentralised sources of independent information and innovative models of learning, and to stimulate citizens’ active participation and political engagement through participatory and direct democracy mechanisms able to reinforce and complement, where possible, representative democracy;
Amendment 70 #
2016/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Commission to develop and implement specific pilot projects, as provided for in the Digital Agenda, towith the aim of promoteing and reinforcestrengthening responsible and active European citizenship schemecitizens, democracy being a social experience which needs to be experienced and learned about.
Amendment 74 #
2016/2008(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses that the purpose of e- democracy is to facilitate democratic practice, not to establish an alternative democratic system or to promote a certain type of democracy;
Amendment 107 #
2016/2008(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Recalls the first successful European example of online voting in Estonia in its legally binding elections in 2005 as a positiven example, but maintains that if the take-up of e-voting across Europe is to be successful, it will be necessary to assess the costs, benefits and implications of different or divergent technological approaches;
Amendment 193 #
2016/2008(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Calls for more cooperation at EU level and recommends the sharing of best practices for e-democracy projects as a way to move towards a form of democracy that is more participatory and deliberative and that responds to the requests and interests of the public; calls on the Commission to provide an assessment of possible models of online voting for consideration by the Member States by the end of 2017, in time for the next European elections in 2019;
Amendment 221 #
2016/2008(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Welcomes its initiatives in the field of e-participation and its frontrunner position; supports continuous efforts to strengthen its representative character and encourages its Members to make wider use of new technologies in order to develop them to their full potential;
Amendment 227 #
2016/2008(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Encourages political parties at EU and national level to develop new ways to promote internal democracy in order to allow better communication with their members and supporters and with civil society;
Amendment 228 #
2016/2008(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
Amendment 1 #
2016/0811(CNS)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2016/0811(CNS)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 3 #
2016/0811(CNS)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Pursuant to Decision 2009/371/JHA and Decision 2009/934/JHA, Europol is to conclude agreements with the third States which have been put on the list determined by Decision 2009/935/JHA Such agreements have the objective of supporting and strengthening action by the competent authorities of the Member States and their mutual cooperation in preventing and combating organised crime, terrorism and other forms of serious crime affecting two or more Member States, and may concern the exchange of operational, strategic or technical information, including personal data and classified information, while respecting the individual privacy of EU citizens. Strategic agreements involve the exchange of information excluding personal data, whereas operational agreements involve the exchange of information including personal data. Strategic agreements may be concluded by Europol only after approval by the Council, the latter having previously consulted the Management Board of Europol (‘Management Board’). Operational agreements require, in addition, that the Council obtain, via the Management Board, the opinion of the Joint Supervisory Body of Europol (‘Joint Supervisory Body’), in so far as the agreement concerns the exchange of personal data.
Amendment 4 #
2016/0811(CNS)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) In addition, following an assessment in accordance with Decision 2009/934/JHA to determine whether an adequate level of data protection is ensured by Ukraine, the Operational and Strategic Agreement contains provisions relating to the exchange of personal data and the protection thereof. The Operational and Strategic Agreement received a positive opinion from the Joint Supervisory Body with regard to those provisions.
Amendment 1 #
2016/0810(CNS)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2016/0810(CNS)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 3 #
2016/0810(CNS)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Pursuant to Decision 2009/371/JHA and Decision 2009/934/JHA, Europol is to conclude agreements with the third States which have been put on the list determined by Decision 2009/935/JHA. Such agreements have the objective of supporting and strengthening action by the competent authorities of the Member States and their mutual cooperation in preventing and combating organised crime, terrorism and other forms of serious crime affecting two or more Member States, and may concern the exchange of operational, strategic or technical information, including personal data and classified information, while respecting the individual privacy of EU citizens. Strategic agreements involve the exchange of information excluding personal data, whereas operational agreements involve the exchange of information including personal data. Strategic agreements may be concluded by Europol only after approval by the Council, the latter having previously consulted the Management Board of Europol (‘Management Board’). Operational agreements require, in addition, that the Council obtain, via the Management Board, the opinion of the Joint Supervisory Body of Europol (‘Joint Supervisory Body’), in so far as the agreement concerns the exchange of personal data.
Amendment 4 #
2016/0810(CNS)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) In addition, following an assessment in accordance with Decision 2009/934/JHA to determine whether an adequate level of data protection is ensured by Georgia, the Operational and Strategic Agreement contains provisions relating to the exchange of personal data and the protection thereof. The Operational and Strategic Agreement received a positive opinion from the Joint Supervisory Body with regard to those provisions.
Amendment 33 #
2016/0397(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
(1a) having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 34 #
2016/0397(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
(1b) having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 39 #
2016/0397(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) It remains essential that the coordination rules keep pace with the evolving legal and societal context in which they operate by further facilitating and facilitating still further the exercise of citizens' rights while at the same time ensuring legal clarity, a fair and equitable distribution of the financial burden among the institutions of the Member States involved and administrative simplicity and enforceability of the rules.
Amendment 45 #
2016/0397(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) Long-term care benefits have so far not been included explicitly within the material scope of Regulation (EC) No 883/2004 but coordinated as sickness benefits, leading to legal uncertainty both for institutions and persons claiming long- term care benefits. There is a need to develop forthwith a stable legal framework appropriate to long-term care benefits within the Regulation to include a clear definition of such benefits.
Amendment 54 #
2016/0397(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) There is a need to ensurfor there to be greater parity of treatment for frontier and cross- border workers by ensuring frontier workers receive unemployment benefits from the Member State of last activity provided that they have worked in that Member State for at least the past twelve months.
Amendment 55 #
2016/0397(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) Family benefits intended to replace income during child-raising periods are designed to meetshould above all meet the needs of the child and the individual and personal needs of the parent subject to the legislation of the competent Member State and therefore are distinguishable from other family benefits as they are intended to compensate a parent for loss of income or salary during time spent raising a child rather than solely meeting general family expenses.
Amendment 59 #
2016/0397(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) In order to enable a timely update of this Regulation to the developments at the national level, the power to adopt acts in accordance with Article 290 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union should be delegated to the European Commission in respect of amending the Annexes to this Regulation and Regulation (EC) No 987/2009. It is of particular importance that the Commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work, including at expert level and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the Interinstitutional Agreement on Better Law-Making of 13 April 201636. In particular, to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts, the European Parliament and Council should immediately receive all documents at the same time as Member States' experts, and their experts systematically should have access to meetings of Commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts. __________________ 36 OJ L 123, 12.5.2016, p. 1–14 . OJ L 123, 12.5.2016, p. 1–14 .
Amendment 61 #
2016/0397(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
Amendment 63 #
2016/0397(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) With a view to expediting the procedure for the verification and withdrawal of documents (in particular concerning the social security legislation which applies to the holder) in case of fraud and error, it is necessary to strengthen the collaboration and the exchange of information between the issuing institution and the institution requesting a withdrawal. Where there is doubt about the validity of a document or about the correctness of supporting evidence or where there is a difference of views between Member States concerning the determination of the applicable legislation, it is in the interest of the Member States and the persons concerned that the institutions concerned reach an agreement within a reasonable period of timeone month.
Amendment 64 #
2016/0397(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18
Recital 18
(18) If a Member State is unable to notify within the deadline the annual average cost per person in each age group for a reference year, it is necessary to provide an alternative that the Member State may submit claims for that year based on the annual average costs for the immediately preceding year published in the Official Journal. The reimbursement of the expenditure on benefits in kind on the basis of fixed amounts should be as close as possiblewhere possible be in any case closer to the actual expenditure; therefore a derogation from the notification obligation should be subject to the approval by the Administrative Commission and should not be granted in a consecutive year.
Amendment 59 #
2016/0381(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 60 #
2016/0381(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 66 #
2016/0381(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) The Union is committed to a sustainable, competitive, secure andhas announced an over-ambitious decarbonised energy system. The Energy Union and the Energy and Climate Policy Framework for 2030 establish ambitious Union commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions further (by at least 40 % by 2030, as compared with 1990), to increase the proportion of renewable energy consumed (by at least 27 %) and to make energy savings of at least 27 %, reviewing this level having in mind an Union level of 30 %10, and to improve Europe’s energy security, competitiveness and sustainability. __________________ 10 EUCO 169/14, CO EUR 13, CONCL 5, Brussels 24 October 2014.
Amendment 72 #
2016/0381(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) To reach these ambitious objectives, the 2016 review of the Energy Efficiency legislation combines: (i) reassessment of the EU's energy efficiency target for 2030 as requested by the European Council in 2014; (ii) review of the core articles of the Energy Efficiency Directive and the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive; (iii) reinforcing the enabling financing environment including the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF) and the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), which will ultimately improve the financial conditions of energy efficiency investments on the market.
Amendment 83 #
2016/0381(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The Union is committed to developing a secure, competitive and decarbonised energy system by 205012. To meet this goal, Member States and investors need milestones to ensure that buildings are decarbonised by 2050. In order to ensure this decarbonised building stock by 2050, Member States should identify the intermediary steps to achieving the mid-term (2030) and long-term (2050) objectives. __________________ 12 Communication on an Energy roadmap 2050, (COM(2011) 885 final).
Amendment 115 #
2016/0381(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) The agendas of the Digital Single Market and the Energy Union should be aligned and serve common goals. The digitalisation of the energy system is quickly changing the energy landscape, from the integration of renewables to smart grids and smart-ready buildings. In order to digitise the building sector, targeted incentives should be provided to promote suitable and smart-ready systems and digital solutions in the built environment.
Amendment 132 #
2016/0381(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) Innovation and new technology also make it ambitiously possible for buildings to support the overall decarbonisation of the economy. For example, buildings can leverage the development of the infrastructure necessary for the smart charging of electric vehicles also provide a basis for Member States, if they choose to, to use car batteries as a source of power. To reflect this aim, the definition of technical building systems should be extended.
Amendment 180 #
2016/0381(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) Access to financing is easier when good-quality information is available. Public buildings with a total useful floor area over 250 m² shouldcan therefore be required to disclose their actual energy consumption.
Amendment 187 #
2016/0381(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) To meet the objectives of an ambitious energy efficiency policy for buildings, the transparency of EPCs should be improved by ensuring that that all necessary parameters for calculations, for both certification and minimum energy performance requirements, are set out and applied consistently. Member States should put in place adequate measures to ensure, for example, that the performance of installed, replaced or updated technical building systems is documented in view of building certification and compliance checking.
Amendment 192 #
2016/0381(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) Commission Recommendation (EU) 2016/1318 of 29 July 2016 on nearly zero-energy buildings presented how the ambitious implementation of the Directive could simultaneously ensure the transformation of the building stock and the shift to a more sustainable energy supply, which also supports the heating and cooling strategy14. To make sure appropriate implementation takes place, the general framework for the calculation of the energy performance of buildings should be updated with the support of the work elaborated by the European Committee for Standardisation (CEN), under Mandate M/480 that was given by the European Commission. __________________ 14 COM(2016) 51 final
Amendment 83 #
2016/0376(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 84 #
2016/0376(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 189 #
2016/0376(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) Energy poverty is a major problem throughout the EU, particularly in Southern Europe and in countries that are, or have been, subject to memorandum provisions. Improvements to the energy efficiency of buildings should benefit in particularprimarily consumers affected by energy poverty. Member States can already require obligated parties to include social aims in energy saving measures, in relation to energy poverty, and this possibility should now be extended to alternative measures and transformed into an obligation while leaving full flexibility to Member States with regard to the size, scope and content of such measures. In line with Article 9 of the Treaty, the Union's energy efficiency policies should be inclusive and therefore also ensure accessibility of energy efficiency measures for energy poor consumers.
Amendment 525 #
2016/0376(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4
Directive 2012/27/EU
Article 7b – paragraph 2
Article 7b – paragraph 2
2. In designing alternative policy measures to achieve energy savings, Member States shallought to take into account the effect on households affected by energy poverty. Where households affected by energy poverty are already facing financial hardship, their situation must not be aggravated by the cost of these measures.
Amendment 5 #
2016/0374(CNS)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 6 #
2016/0374(CNS)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 7 #
2016/0374(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 8 #
2016/0374(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 11 #
2016/0374(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Council Directive 2006/112/EC7 provides that Member States mayare able to apply reduced rates of value added tax (VAT) to publications on any means of physical support. However, a reduced VAT rate cannot be applied to electronically supplied publications, which have to be taxed at the standard VAT rate. _________________ 7 Council Directive 2006/112/EC of 28 November 2006 on the common system of value added tax (OJ L 347, 11.12.2006, p. 1).
Amendment 12 #
2016/0374(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
Amendment 15 #
2016/0374(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
Amendment 21 #
2016/0374(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) Member States should maintain discretion to set VAT rates for publications and restrict the scope of reduced VAT ratesDoes not affect English version.
Amendment 4 #
2016/0371(CNS)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 5 #
2016/0371(CNS)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 7 #
2016/0371(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1a (new)
Citation 1a (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 8 #
2016/0371(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1b (new)
Citation 1b (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 11 #
2016/0371(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The extension of the special schemes to distance sales of goods imported from third territories or third countries requires that the customs authority of the Member State of importation is able to identify imports of goods in small consignments for which value added tax (VAT) is to be paid through one of the special schemes. The VAT identification number under which VAT is paid should therefore be communicated in advance to enable customs authorities to check its validity upon importation of the goods.Does not affect the English version.)
Amendment 9 #
2016/0370(CNS)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 10 #
2016/0370(CNS)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 12 #
2016/0370(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments,
Amendment 13 #
2016/0370(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 17 #
2016/0370(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) Furthermore, the assessment of the special schemes for the taxation of telecommunications, broadcasting or electronically supplied services introduced on 1 January 2015 has shown that the requirement to submit the VAT return within 20 days following the end of the tax period covered by the return is too short, in particular for supplies through a telecommunications network, an interface or a portal, where the services supplied through that network, interface or portal are presumed to be supplied by the operator of the network, interface or portal, who has to collect the information to complete the VAT return from each single service supplier. The assessment has also shown that the requirement to make corrections in the VAT return of the tax period concerned is very burdensome for taxable persons, as it may require them to re-submit several VAT returns every quarter. As a consequence, the deadline to submit the VAT return should be extended from 20 to 340 days following the end of the tax period and taxable persons should be allowed to correct previous VAT returns in a subsequent return instead of in the returns of the tax periods to which the corrections relate.
Amendment 32 #
2016/0363(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 33 #
2016/0363(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 34 #
2016/0363(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 35 #
2016/0363(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 32 #
2016/0360B(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 33 #
2016/0360B(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 34 #
2016/0360B(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
Amendment 35 #
2016/0360B(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
Amendment 36 #
2016/0360B(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
Amendment 37 #
2016/0360B(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 30
Recital 30
(30) In 2009, a good two years after the start of the financial crisis, a first set of reforms wereas finalised at international level and transposed into the Union law withunder Directive 2010/76/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council22. _________________ 22 Directive 2010/76/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 November 2010 amending Directives 2006/48/EC and 2006/49/EC as regards capital requirements for the trading book and for re-securitisations, and the supervisory review of remuneration policies (OJ L 329, 14.12.2010, p. 3).
Amendment 38 #
2016/0360B(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 45
Recital 45
(45) The consolidation of subsidiaries in third countries should take due account of the stable funding requirements applicable in those countries. Accordingly, consolidation rules in the Union shouldmust not introduce a more favourable treatment for available and required stable funding in third country subsidiaries than the treatment which is available under the national law of those third countries.
Amendment 39 #
2016/0360B(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 49
Recital 49
(49) Respondents to the Commission’s Call for Evidence on the EU regulatory framework for financial services regarded current disclosure requirements as disproportionate and burdensome for smaller institutions. Without prejudice to aligning disclosures more closely with international standards, smaller and less complex institutions should normally be required to produce less frequent and detailed disclosures than their larger peers, thus reducing the administrative burden to which they are subject.
Amendment 40 #
2016/0360B(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 50
Recital 50
(50) Some clarifications should be made to the remuneration disclosures. Furthermore, institutions benefitting from a derogation from certain remuneration rules should bare required to disclose information concerning such derogation.
Amendment 58 #
2016/0360B(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 52
Recital 52
(52) Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are one of the pillarsthe backbone of the Union’s economy as they play a fundamental role in creating economic growth and providing employment. Given the fact that SMEs carry a lower systematic risk than larger corporates, capital requirements for SME exposures should be lower than those for large corporates to ensure an optimal bank financing of SMEs. Currently, SME exposures of up to EUR 1,5 million are subject to a 23,81% reduction in risk weighted exposure amount. Given that the threshold of EUR 1,5 millionFor this reason, it is necessary for capital requirements for an SME exposure is not indicative of a change in riskiness of an SME, reduction in capital requirements should be extended to SME exposures beyond the threshold of EUR 1,5 million and for the exceeding part should amount to a 15% reduction of a risk-weighted exposure amounts to be more than EUR 1,5 million.
Amendment 33 #
2016/0338(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 34 #
2016/0338(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 39 #
2016/0338(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Situations, in which different Member States tax the same income or capital twice can create serious tax obstacles for, mainly for small and medium- sized businesses operating cross border. They create an excessive tax burden for businesseSMEs and are likely to cause economic distortions and inefficiencies, as well as to have a negative impact on cross border investment and growth.
Amendment 49 #
2016/0338(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
Amendment 60 #
2016/0338(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
Amendment 63 #
2016/0338(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) The introduction of an effective and efficient framework for resolution of tax disputes which ensures legal certainty and a business friendly environment for investments is therefore a crucial action in order to achieve a fair and efficient corporate tax system in the Union. The double taxation dispute resolution mechanisms should also create a harmonised and transparent framework for solving double taxation issues and as such provide benefits to all taxpayers.
Amendment 71 #
2016/0338(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The elimination of double taxation should be achieved through a procedure under which, athat is simple to use. As a first step, the case is submitted to the tax authorities of the Member States concerned with a view to settling the dispute by Mutual Agreement Procedure. In the absence of such agreement within a certain time frame, the case should be submitted to an Advisory Commission or Alternative Dispute Resolution Commission, consisting both of representatives of the tax authorities concerned and of independent persons of standing. The tax authorities should take a final binding decision by reference to the opinion of an Advisory Commission or Alternative Dispute Resolution Commission.
Amendment 73 #
2016/0338(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) The improved double taxation dispute resolution mechanism should build on existing systems in the Union including the Union Arbitration Convention. However, the scope of this Directive should be wider than that of the Union Arbitration Convention, which is limited to disputes on transfer pricing and attribution of profits to permanent establishments only. This Directive should apply to all taxpayers that are subject to taxes on income from business profits as regards their cross-border transactions in the Union. In addition, the arbitration phase should be strengthened. In particular, it is necessaryessential to provide for a time limit for the duration of the procedures to resolve double taxation disputes and to establish the terms and conditions of the dispute resolution procedure for the taxpayers.
Amendment 79 #
2016/0338(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) This Directive respects the fundamental rights and observes the principles recognised in particular by the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. In particular, this Directive seeks thould also ensure full respect for the right to a fair trial and the freedom to conduct a business.
Amendment 83 #
2016/0338(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) The Commission should review the application of this Directive after a period of five years and Member States should provide the Commission with appropriate input to support this review,Does not affect English version.
Amendment 48 #
2016/0325(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
Having regard to the Protocol (No. 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 49 #
2016/0325(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 b (new)
Citation 3 b (new)
Amendment 53 #
2016/0325(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) Regulation (EU) No 1291/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council4 established Horizon 2020 - the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (2014-2020) ('Horizon 2020'). Horizon 2020 aims at achieving a greater impact on research and innovation by contributing to the strengthening of public- public partnerships, including through Union participation in programmes undertaken by several Member States, with a view to the sustainable development of the EU Member States. __________________ 4 Regulation (EU) No 1291/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 establishing Horizon 2020 – the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (2014-2020) and repealing Decision No 1982/2006/EC (OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 104).
Amendment 54 #
2016/0325(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) Public-public partnerships should aim to develop closer synergies, increase coordination and avoid unnecessary duplication with Union, international, national and regional research programmes, and should fully respect the Horizon 2020 general principles, - with the aim of strengthening research and innovation in order to obtain sustainable development - in particular those relating to openness and transparency.
Amendment 56 #
2016/0325(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) Regulation (EU) No 1291/2013 has identified 'Climate action, environment, resource efficiency and raw materials' and 'Food security, sustainable agriculture and forestry, marine, maritime and inland water research, and the bioeconomy' as two of the priority societal challenges to be addressed forthwith by supporting investment in research and innovation. Moreover, Regulation (EU) No 1291/2013 recognises that research and innovation activities for these challenges should be carried out at the Union level and beyond, given the transnational and global nature of the climate and the environment, their scale and complexity, and the international dimension of the food and agricultural supply chain.
Amendment 58 #
2016/0325(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) Regulation (EU) No 1291/2013 acknowledges that international cooperation with third countries is necessary to address effectively common challenges, provided that the third countries concerned are not linked in any way with so-called ‘Islamic State’ and do not trigger a migration crisis to the detriment of the contracting European States. International cooperation in research and innovation is a key aspect of the Union’s global commitments and has an important role to play in the Union’s partnership with neighbourhood countries. This cooperation follows the approach taken in the European neighbourhood policy to differentiate the level of cooperation with each country in the neighbourhood based on their commitment towards the Union.
Amendment 63 #
2016/0325(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) In its Communication of 7 June 2016 on establishing a new Partnership Framework with third countries under the European Agenda on Migration, the Commission emphasised the need to call upon all policies, including research and innovation,rescue human lives at sea, to increase returns, to dismantle the business model of people smugglers and others, in order to address the root causes of migration through a new cooperation model involving private investors, leveraging limited budget resources, and focusing on SMEs and sustainable infrastructure.
Amendment 67 #
2016/0325(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) PRIMA should aims at implementing a joint programme for the development and the adoption of innovative and integrated solutions for improving the efficiency, safety, security and sustainability of food production and water provision in the Mediterranean area. PRIMA should contribute to the achievement of the recently- agreed Sustainable Development Goals and to the forthcoming European Sustainable Development Strategy in order to boost employment in the Mediterranean countries.
Amendment 72 #
2016/0325(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) In line with the objectives of Horizon 2020, in order to boost jobs and growth, any other Member State and third country associated to Horizon 2020 should be entitled to participate in PRIMA if it commits to contribute to the financing of PRIMA.
Amendment 76 #
2016/0325(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) The Union’s financial contribution should be subject to formal commitments from the Participating States to contribute to the financing of PRIMA and to the fulfilment and implementation of those commitments in accordance with the terms of this Decision. Flexibility should be provided to the Participating States to optionally contribute financially to the PRIMA-IS in view of funding indirect actions, thus achieving a high degree of financial integration. Furthermore, Participating States should contribute financially or in kind to activities implemented without Union contribution. The period during which the Participating States have to provide their contribution should be clearly defined.
Amendment 79 #
2016/0325(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) A ceiling should be established forthwith for the Union’s contribution in PRIMA with funding from Horizon 2020. Within that ceiling, the Union contribution should be equal to the contribution of the Participating States to PRIMA in order to achieve a high leverage effect and ensure a stronger integration of the Participating States' programmes. It should be possible to use a limited part of the Union contribution to cover administrative costs of the PRIMA-IS.
Amendment 80 #
2016/0325(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) In order to avoid a prolonged implementation of PRIMA and to achieve its objectives forthwith, a deadline should be fixed for the launch of the last activities, including the last calls for proposals.
Amendment 82 #
2016/0325(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) PRIMA activities should be in line with the objectives and research and innovation priorities - which operate as key drivers for smart, sustainable and inclusive development - of Horizon 2020 and with the general principles and conditions laid down in Article 26 of Regulation (EU) No 1291/2013. PRIMA should take into account the OECD definitions regarding Technological Readiness Level in the classification of technological research, product development and demonstration activities.
Amendment 89 #
2016/0325(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) In order immediately to achieve the objectives of PRIMA, the PRIMA-IS should provide financial support mainly in the form of grants to participants in actions funded by the PRIMA-IS. Those actions should be selected following open and competitive calls for proposals under the responsibility of the PRIMA-IS.
Amendment 100 #
2016/0325(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 20
Recital 20
Amendment 145 #
2016/0288(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 146 #
2016/0288(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 163 #
2016/0286(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 164 #
2016/0286(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 b (new)
Citation 3 b (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 173 #
2016/0286(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 174 #
2016/0286(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 179 #
2016/0286(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) BEREC and the Office (‘BEREC Office’) were established by Regulation (EC) No 1211/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council25. BEREC replaced the European Regulators Group (‘ERG’)26 and was meant to contribute one the one hand to the development and on the other to the better functioning of the internal market for electronic communications networks and services by aiming to ensure a consistent implementation of the regulatory framework for electronic communications. The BEREC Office was established as a Community body with legal personality to carry out the tasks referred to in Regulation (EC) No 1211/2009, in particular the provision of professional and administrative support services to BEREC. _________________ 25 Regulation (EC) No 1211/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 November 2009 establishing the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (BEREC) and the Office (OJ L 337, 18.12.2009, p.1). 26 Commission Decision 2002/627/EC of 29 July 2002 establishing the European Regulators Group for Electronic Communications Networks and Services (OJ L 200, 30.7.2002, p. 38).
Amendment 181 #
2016/0286(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) In its Communication of 6 May 2015 entitled ‘A Digital Single Market Strategy for Europe’27, the Commission envisaged presenting proposals in 2016 for an ambitious overhaul of the regulatory framework for electronic communications focusing inter alia on a more effective regulatory institutional framework in order to make the telecoms rules fit for purpose as part of the creation of the right conditions for the digital single market. These include as a minimum the deployment of very high capacity connectivity networks, more coordinated management of radio spectrum for wireless networks and creating a level playing field for advanced digital networks and innovative services. The Communication pointed out that the changing market and technological environment make it necessary to strengthen the institutional framework by enhancing the role of BEREC. _________________ 27 COM(2015) 192 final. COM(2015) 192 final.
Amendment 184 #
2016/0286(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) In its Resolution of 19 January 2016 ‘Towards a Digital Single Market Act’, the European Parliament called on the Commission to integrate further the digital single market by ensuring that a more efficient institutional framework is in place. It can do this by strengthening the role, capacity and decision-making powers of BEREC in order to allow it to foster the consistent implementation of the regulatory framework for electronic communications, to enable an efficient oversight of BEREC over the development of the single market and to help it to resolve cross-border disputes. The European Parliament also stresses, in this regard, the need to improve the financial and human resources and still further enhance the governance structure of BEREC.
Amendment 187 #
2016/0286(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) BEREC and the BEREC Office have made a positive contribution towards a consistent implementation of the regulatory framework for electronic communications. Notwithstanding, there are still significant disparities between Member States as regards regulatory practice. Moreover, the governance structure of BEREC and the BEREC Office is cumbersome and gives rise to unnecessary administrative burden. In order to ensure efficiency gains and synergies and to further contribute to the development of the internal market for electronic communications throughout the Union as well as to the promotion of access to, and take-up of, very high capacity data connectivity, competition in the provision of electronic communications networks, services and associated facilities and the interests of the citizens of the Union, this regulation aims to strengthen the role of BEREC and enhance its governance structure by establishing BEREC as a Union decentralised agency. This also corresponds to the need to reflect the significantly enhanced role played by BEREC following Regulation (EC) No 531/2012 which establishes tasks for BEREC in relation to Union-wide roaming, Regulation (EU) No 2015/2120 which establishes tasks for BEREC in relation to open internet access and Union-wide roaming, and the Directive which establishes a significant number of new tasks for BEREC such as issuing decisions and guidelines on several topics, reporting on technical matters, keeping registers and delivering opinions on internal market procedures for draft national measures on market regulation as well as on assignments of rights of use for radio spectrum.
Amendment 208 #
2016/0286(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) In the past the term of office of the Chair and of the Vice-Chairs of the Board of Regulators was one year. In view of the additional tasks assigned to BEREC and the need to ensure annual and multiannual programming for its activities, it is crucial to ensure that the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson benefit from a stable and long-term mandatethe term of office of the Chair and the Vice-Chair shall be two years.
Amendment 209 #
2016/0286(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) The Management Board should hold at least two ordinary meetings a year. In view of past experience and the enhancemeetings each month and prole of BEREC, the Management Board may need to hold additional meetingvide information about the achievements.
Amendment 210 #
2016/0286(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) The role of the Executive Director, who would be the legal representative of BEREC, is crucial for the adequate functioning of the new agency and the implementation of the tasks assigned to it for a term of office of 2.5 years. The Management Board should appoint him/her on the basis of a list drawn up by the Commission following an open and transparent selection procedure in order to guarantee a rigourous evaluation of the candidates and a high level of independence. Moreover, in the past the term of office of the Administrative Manager of the BEREC Office was three years. It is necessary that the Executive Director has a sufficiently long mandate in order to ensure stability and delivery of a long-term strategy for the agency.
Amendment 226 #
2016/0286(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18
Recital 18
(18) As BEREC is competent for taking decisions with a binding effect, it is necessary to ensure that any natural or legal person subject to, or concerned by, a decision of BEREC has the right of appeal to a Board of Appeal, which is part of the agency butand should be independent from its administrative and regulatory structure. As the decisions issued by the Board of Appeal are intended to produce legal effects towards third parties, an action for review of their legality may be brought to the General Court. In order to ensure uniform conditions as regards the rules of procedure of the Board of Appeal, implementing powers should be conferred on the Commission. Those powers should be exercised in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 182/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council 33. _________________ 33 Regulation (EU) No 182/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 February 2011 laying down the rules and general principles concerning mechanisms for control by Member States of the Commission's exercise of implementing powers (OJ L 55, 28.2.2011, p. 13).
Amendment 231 #
2016/0286(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) BEREC should be independent as regards operational and technical matters and should enjoy legal, administrative and financial autonomy. To that end, it is necessary and appropriate that BEREC should be a body of the Union having legal personality and exercising the powers conferred upon it.Does not affect the English version.)
Amendment 238 #
2016/0286(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 24
Recital 24
(24) BEREC should be allowed to engage in communication activities within its field of competence, which should not be detrimental to BEREC’s core tasks and should be carried out in accordance with relevant communication and dissemination plans adopted by the Management Board. The content and implementation of BEREC’s communication strategy should be coherent, objective, relevant and coordinated with the strategies and activities of the Commission and the other institutions in order to take into consideration the broader image of the Union.
Amendment 30 #
2016/0281(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 31 #
2016/0281(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 36 #
2016/0281(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The EIP should incorporate the Union commitment under the Addis Ababa Action Agenda on Financing for Development. It should also allow European investors and private companies, including small and medium-sized enterprises, to participate more effectively toin sustainable development in partner countries.
Amendment 41 #
2016/0281(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) Moreover, the Strategic Board should support the Commission in setting strategic guidance and overall investment goals. The Strategic Board should also support coordination and coherence between the regional platforms. This should ensure complementarity of the various instruments in external action. The Strategic Board should be co-chaired by the Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy to ensure consistency and coherence with Union external policy objectives and partnership frameworks with third countries.
Amendment 48 #
2016/0281(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) The Commission should update and report annually to the European Parliament and the Council on the financing and investment operations covered by the EFSD Guarantee with a view to ensuring accountability to the European citizens. The report should be made public in order to allow relevant stakeholders, including civil society, to express their views. The Commission should also report annually to the European Parliament and the Council on the management of the EFSD Guarantee Fund so that accountability and transparency are ensured.
Amendment 5 #
2016/0279(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 6 #
2016/0279(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to Protocol (No. 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 8 #
2016/0279(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to Protocol No 1 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 9 #
2016/0279(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to Protocol No 2 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 9 #
2016/0279(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Persons who are blind, visually impaired or otherwise print disabled continue to face many barriers to accessing books and other print material. The need to increase the number of works and other protected subject-matter in accessible formats available to those persons and improve their circulation and dissemination has been recognised at an international level. The Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to Published Works for Persons Who Are Blind, Visually Impaired, or Otherwise Print Disabled (ʻthe Marrakesh Treatyʼ) was signed on behalf of the Union on 30 April 201412 , having already been adopted by the World Intellectual Property Organization in 2013. It requires contracting parties to provide exceptions or limitations to the exclusive rights of holders of copyright and related rights for the making and dissemination of copies in accessible formats of certain works and other subject- matter and for the cross- border exchange of those accessible format copies. The beneficiaries of the Marrakesh Treaty are persons who are blind, visually impaired or have a perceptual or reading disability, including dyslexia, preventing them from reading printed works to the same degree as persons without such disability, or are unable to hold or manipulate a book or to focus and move the eyes to the extent that would be normally acceptable for reading due to a physical disability. _________________ 12 Council Decision 2014/221/EU of 14 April 2014 on the signing, on behalf of the European Union, of the Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to Published Works for Persons who are Blind, Visually Impaired, or otherwise Print Disabled. (OJ L115, 17.4.2014, p. 1.).
Amendment 10 #
2016/0279(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Persons who are blind, visually impaired or otherwise print disabled continue to face many barriers to accessing books and other print material. The need to increase the number of works and other protected subject-matter in accessible formats available to those persons and improve their circulation and dissemination has been recognised at an international level. The Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to Published Works for Persons Who Are Blind, Visually Impaired, or Otherwise Print Disabled (ʻthe Marrakesh Treatyʼ) was signed on behalf of the Union on 30 April 2014, having already been adopted by the World Intellectual Property Organization in 201312 . It requires contracting parties to provide exceptions or limitations to the exclusive rights of holders of copyright and related rights for the making and dissemination of copies in accessible formats of certain works and other subject- matter and for the cross-border exchange of those accessible format copies. The beneficiaries of the Marrakesh Treaty are persons who are blind, visually impaired or have a perceptual or reading disability, including dyslexia, preventing them from reading printed works to the same degree as persons without such disability, or are unable to hold or manipulate a book or to focus and move the eyes to the extent that would be normally acceptable for reading due to a physical disability. _________________ 12 Council Decision 2014/221/EU of 14 April 2014 on the signing, on behalf of the European Union, of the Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to Published Works for Persons who are Blind, Visually Impaired, or otherwise Print Disabled. (OJ L115, 17.4.2014, p. 1.).
Amendment 10 #
2016/0279(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) Directive […] endeavours to implement the Union's obligations under the Marrakesh Treaty in a harmonised manner in order to improve the availability of accessible format copies for beneficiary persons in all EU Member States and their circulation within the internal market. The Directive requires Member States to introduce a mandatory exception to certain rights of right holders that are harmonised by Union law. The objectives of this Regulation are to implement the obligations in the Marrakesh Treaty with respect to the export and import of accessible format copies for the benefit of beneficiary persons between the Union and third countries that are parties to the Marrakesh Treaty, and to lay down the conditions for such export and import. Such measures may only be taken at Union level as the exchange of accessible format copies of works and other subject-matter concerns the commercial aspects of intellectual property. A Regulation is therefore the only appropriate instrument.
Amendment 11 #
2016/0279(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) Directive […] endeavours to implement the Union's obligations under the Marrakesh Treaty in a harmonised manner in order to improve the availability of accessible format copies for beneficiary persons in all EU Member States and their circulation within the internal market. The Directive requires Member States to introduce a mandatory exception to certain rights of right holders that are harmonised by Union law. The objectives of this Regulation are to implement the obligations in the Marrakesh Treaty with respect to the export and import of accessible format copies for the benefit of beneficiary persons between the Union and third countries that are parties to the Marrakesh Treaty, and to lay down the conditions for such export and import. Such measures may only be taken at Union level as the exchange of accessible format copies of works and other subject-matter concerns the commercial aspects of intellectual property. A Regulation is therefore the only appropriate instrument.
Amendment 11 #
2016/0279(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 12 #
2016/0279(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 13 #
2016/0279(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The Regulation should ensure that accessible format copies of books, journals, newspapers, magazines and other writings, sheet music and other print material, which have been made in any Member State in accordance with the national provisions adopted pursuant to Directive […] may be expordisseminated to third countries that are parties to the Marrakesh Treaty. Accessible formats include Braille, large print, adapted e-books, audio books and radio broadcasts. The distribution, communication or making available of accessible format copies to print disabled persons or to authorised entities in the third country should only be carried out on a non-profit basis by authorised entities established in the Union.
Amendment 13 #
2016/0279(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Persons who are blind, visually impaired or otherwise print disabled continue to face many barriers to accessing books and other print material. The need to increase the number of works and other protected subject-matter in accessible formats available to those persons and improve their circulation and dissemination has been recognised at an international level. The Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to Published Works for Persons Who Are Blind, Visually Impaired, or Otherwise Print Disabled (ʻthe Marrakesh Treatyʼ) was signed on behalf of the Union on 30 April 201412 , having already been adopted by the World Intellectual Property Organization in 2013. It requires contracting parties to provide exceptions or limitations to the exclusive rights of holders of copyright and related rights for the making and dissemination of copies in accessible formats of certain works and other subject- matter and for the cross- border exchange of those accessible format copies. The beneficiaries of the Marrakesh Treaty are persons who are blind, visually impaired or have a perceptual or reading disability, including dyslexia, preventing them from reading printed works to the same degree as persons without such disability, or are unable to hold or manipulate a book or to focus and move the eyes to the extent that would be normally acceptable for reading due to a physical disability. _________________ 12 Council Decision 2014/221/EU of 14 April 2014 on the signing, on behalf of the European Union, of the Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to Published Works for Persons who are Blind, Visually Impaired, or otherwise Print Disabled (OJ L115, 17.4.2014, p. 1.).
Amendment 14 #
2016/0279(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The Regulation should ensure that accessible format copies of books, journals, newspapers, magazines and other writings, sheet music and other print material, which have been made in any Member State in accordance with the national provisions adopted pursuant to Directive […] may be disseminated and exported to third countries that are parties to the Marrakesh Treaty. Accessible formats include Braille, large print, adapted e-books, audio books and radio broadcasts. The distribution, communication or making available of accessible format copies to print disabled persons or to authorised entities in the third country should only be carried out on a non-profit basis by authorised entities established in the Union.
Amendment 15 #
2016/0279(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) In order to improve the availability of accessible format copies and to prevent the illegal dissemination of works and other subject-matter, authorised entities which engage in the distribution or making available of accessible format copies should comply with certain obligations. and meet certain operational requirements;
Amendment 15 #
2016/0279(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) Directive […] endeavours to implement the Union's obligations under the Marrakesh Treaty in a harmonised manner in order to improve the availability of accessible format copies for beneficiary persons in all EU Member States and their circulation within the internal market. The Directive requires Member States to introduce a mandatory exception to certain rights of right holders that are harmonised by Union law. The objectives of this Regulation are to implement the obligations in the Marrakesh Treaty with respect to the export and import of accessible format copies for the benefit of beneficiary persons between the Union and third countries that are parties to the Marrakesh Treaty, and to lay down the conditions for such export and import. Such measures may only be taken at Union level as the exchange of accessible format copies of works and other subject-matter concerns the commercial aspects of intellectual property. A Regulation is the only appropriate instrument.
Amendment 16 #
2016/0279(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) In order to improve the availability of accessible format copies and to prevent the illegal dissemination of works and other subject-matter, authorised entities which engage in the distribution or making available of accessible format copies should comply with certain obligations and meet certain operational requirements.
Amendment 18 #
2016/0279(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (ʻthe UNCRPDʼ), to which the EU is a party and which is binding for Member States of the Union, guarantees people with disabilities the right of access to information and the right to participate in cultural, economic and social life on an equal basis with others. The UNCRPD requires parties to the Convention to take all appropriate steps, in accordance with international law, to ensure that laws protecting intellectual property rights do not constitute an unreasonable or discriminatory barrier to access by persons with disabilities to cultural materials.
Amendment 18 #
2016/0279(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) In order to improve the availability of accessible format copies and to prevent the illegal dissemination of works and other subject-matter, authorised entities which engage in the distribution or making available of accessible format copies should comply with certain obligations. and meet certain operational requirements;
Amendment 19 #
2016/0279(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (ʻthe UNCRPDʼ), to which the EU is a party and which is binding for the EU Member States, guarantees people with disabilities the right of access to information and the right to participate in cultural, economic and social life on an equal basis with others. The UNCRPD requires parties to the Convention to take all appropriate steps, in accordance with international law, to ensure that laws protecting intellectual property rights do not constitute an unreasonable or discriminatory barrier to access by persons with disabilities to cultural materials.
Amendment 23 #
2016/0279(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (ʻthe UNCRPDʼ), to which the EU is a party and which is binding for Member States of the Union, guarantees people with disabilities the right of access to information and the right to participate in cultural, economic and social life on an equal basis with others. The UNCRPD requires parties to the Convention to take all appropriate steps, in accordance with international law, to ensure that laws protecting intellectual property rights do not constitute an unreasonable or discriminatory barrier to access by persons with disabilities to cultural materials.
Amendment 5 #
2016/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 6 #
2016/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 7 #
2016/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Title 1 a (new)
Title 1 a (new)
having regard to Protocol (No. 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 8 #
2016/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No. 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 10 #
2016/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 1) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 11 #
2016/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 2) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 12 #
2016/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) Persons who are blind, visually impaired or otherwise print disabled continue to face many barriers in accessing books and other print material which are protected by copyright and related rights. Measures need to be taken forthwith to increase the availability of those works in accessible formats and to improve their circulation in the internal market.
Amendment 13 #
2016/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) Directive 96/9/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council19 , Directive 2001/29/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council20 , Directive 2006/115/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council21 and Directive 2009/24/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council22 harmonise the rights of rightholders. Those Directives provide for an exhaustive list of exceptions and limitations to those rights, which allow for the use of content without the authorisation of the rightholders under certain conditions in order to achieve certain policy objectives. _________________ 19 OJ L 77, 27.3.1996, p. 20-28. 20 OJ L 167, 22.6.2001, p. 10-19. 21 OJ L 376, 27.12.2006, p. 28-35. 22 OJ L 111, 5.5.2009, p. 16-22.
Amendment 13 #
2016/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) The Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to Published Works for Persons Who Are Blind, Visually Impaired, or Otherwise Print Disabled (ʻthe Marrakesh Treatyʼ) was signed on behalf of the Union on 30 April 201423 , having already been adopted in 2013 by the World Intellectual Property Organization. Its aim is to improve the availability of works and other protected subject-matter in accessible formats for persons who are blind, visually impaired or otherwise print disabled. The Marrakesh Treaty requires contracting parties to provide exceptions or limitations to the rights of holders of copyright and related rights for the making and dissemination of copies in accessible formats of certain works and other subject- matter, and for the cross-border exchange of those copies. The conclusion of the Marrakesh Treaty by the Union requires the adaptation of Union law by establishing a mandatory exception for uses, works and beneficiary persons covered by the Treaty. This Directive implements the obligations that the Union has to meet under the Marrakesh Treaty in a harmonised manner, with a view to ensuring that those measures are applied consistently throughout the internal market. _________________ 23 Council Decision 2014/221/EU of 14 April 2014 on the signing, on behalf of the European Union, of the Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to Published Works for Persons who are Blind, Visually Impaired, or otherwise Print Disabled. (OJ L115, 17.4.2014, p. 1.).
Amendment 14 #
2016/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) This Directive is designed for the benefit persons who are blind, have a visual impairment which cannot be improved so as to give those persons visual function substantially equivalent to that of a person who has no such impairment, or have a perceptual or reading disability, including dyslexia, preventing them from reading printed works to substantially the same degree as persons without such disability, or are unable to hold or manipulate a book or to focus or move the eyes to the extent that would be normally acceptable for reading due to a physical disability. The objective of the measures introduced by this Directive is therefore to improve the availability of books, journals, newspapers, magazines and other writings, sheet music and other print material, including in audio form, whether digital or analogue, in formats that make those works and other subject-matter accessible to those persons to substantially the same degree as to persons without an impairment or disability. Accessible formats also include Braille, large print, adapted e-books, audio books and radio broadcasts.
Amendment 16 #
2016/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) Uses laid down in this Directive also include the making of accessible format copies by either the beneficiary persons or authorised entities serving their needs — whether public or private organisations, in particular libraries, educational establishments and other non- profit organisations that serve persons with a print disability as their main or one of their main activities or public interest missions —. Those uses should also include making accessible format copies, for the exclusive use of the beneficiary persons, by a natural person who does so on behalf of a beneficiary person or who assists the beneficiary person in doing so.
Amendment 18 #
2016/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) Persons who are blind, visually impaired or otherwise print disabled continue to face many barriers in accessing books and other print material which are protected by copyright and related rights. Measures need to be taken forthwith to increase the availability of those works in accessible formats and to improve their circulation in the internal market.
Amendment 18 #
2016/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) The mandatory exception should also limit the right of reproduction so as to allow for any act that is necessary in order to make changes to or convert or adapt a work or other subject-matter in such a way as to produce an accessible format copy. This also includes providing the necessary means to navigate information in an accessible format copy.
Amendment 19 #
2016/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) The exception should also allow authorised entities to make and disseminate online and offline within the Union accessible format copies of works or other subject-matter covered by this Directive.
Amendment 20 #
2016/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) The Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to Published Works for Persons Who Are Blind, Visually Impaired, or Otherwise Print Disabled (ʻthe Marrakesh Treatyʼ') was signed on behalf of the Union on 30 April 201423 , having already been adopted by the World Intellectual Property Organization in 2013. Its aim is to improve the availability of works and other protected subject-matter in accessible formats for persons who are blind, visually impaired or otherwise print disabled. The Marrakesh Treaty requires contracting parties to provide exceptions or limitations to the rights of holders of copyright and related rights for the making and dissemination of copies in accessible formats of certain works and other subject- matter, and for the cross-border exchange of those copies. The conclusion of the Marrakesh Treaty by the Union requires the adaptation of Union law by establishing a mandatory exception for uses, works and beneficiary persons covered by the Treaty. This Directive implements the obligations that the Union has to meet under the Marrakesh Treaty in a harmonised manner, with a view to ensuring that those measures are applied consistently throughout the internal market. _________________ 23 Council Decision 2014/221/EU of 14 April 2014 on the signing, on behalf of the European Union, of the Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to Published Works for Persons who are Blind, Visually Impaired, or otherwise Print Disabled. (OJ L115, 17.4.2014, p. 1).
Amendment 24 #
2016/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) This Directive is designed for the benefit persons who are blind, have a visual impairment which cannot be improved so as to give those persons visual function substantially equivalent to that of a person who has no such impairment, or have a perceptual or reading disability, including dyslexia, preventing them from reading printed works to substantially the same degree as persons without such disability, or are unable to hold or manipulate a book or to focus or move the eyes to the extent that would be normally acceptable for reading due to a physical disability. The objective of the measures introduced by this Directive is to improve the availability of books, journals, newspapers, magazines and other writings, sheet music and other print material, including in audio form, whether digital or analogue, in formats that make those works and other subject-matter accessible to those persons to substantially the same degree as to persons without an impairment or disability. Accessible formats include Braille, large print, adapted e-books, audio books and radio broadcasts.
Amendment 24 #
2016/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (ʻthe UNCRPDʼ), to which the EU is a party and which is binding for Member States of the Union, guarantees people with disabilities the right of access to information and the right to participate in cultural, economic and social life on an equal basis with others. The UNCRPD requires parties to the Convention to take all appropriate steps, in accordance with international law, to ensure that laws protecting intellectual property rights do not constitute an unreasonable or discriminatory barrier to access by persons with disabilities to cultural materials.
Amendment 31 #
2016/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) The exception should also allow authorised entities to make and disseminate online and offline within the Union accessible format copies of works or other subject-matter covered by this Directive.
Amendment 41 #
2016/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (ʻthe UNCRPDʼ), to which the EUnion is a party and which is binding for Member States of the Union, guarantees people with disabilities the right of access to information and the right to participate in cultural, economic and social life on an equal basis with others. The UNCRPD requires parties to the Convention to take all appropriate steps, in accordance with international law, to ensure that laws protecting intellectual property rights do not constitute an unreasonable or discriminatory barrier to access by persons with disabilities to cultural materials.
Amendment 13 #
2016/0276(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
Having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 14 #
2016/0276(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
Having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 18 #
2016/0276(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
Amendment 22 #
2016/0276(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
Amendment 26 #
2016/0276(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) On 1 June 2016 the Commission issued a Communication entitled ‘Europe investing again – Taking stock of the Investment Plan for Europe and next steps’ outlining the achievements of the Investment Plasituation so far and the envisaged next steps, includingsuch as the extension of the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) beyond its initial three- year period, the scaling-up of the Small and Medium- sized Enterprises (SME) Window within the existing framework and the enhancement of the European Investment Advisory Hub (EIAH).
Amendment 33 #
2016/0276(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The EFSI was established for an initial period of three years and with the aim of mobilising at least EUR 315 billion in investments. Given its success, tThe Commission is committed to the doubling of the EFSI, both in terms of duration and financial capacity. The legal extension covers the period of the current Multiannual Financial Framework and should provide a total of at least half a trillion euro investments by 2020. In order to enhance the firepower of the EFSI even further and reach the aim of doubling the investment target, Member States should also contribute as a matter of priority.
Amendment 40 #
2016/0276(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) For the period after 2020, the Commission intends toshould put forward the necessary proposals to ensure that strategic investment will continue at a sustainable level.
Amendment 45 #
2016/0276(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) The extended EFSI should address remaining market failures and sub-optimal investment situations and continue to mobilise private sector financing in investments crucial for Europe’s future job creation – including for the youth –, growth and competitiveness with strengthened additionality. They include investments in the areas of energy, environment and climate action, social and human capital and related infrastructure, healthcare, research and innovation, cross- border and sustainable transport, as well as the digital transformation. In particular, the contribution of operations supported by the EFSI to achieving the Union's ambitious targets set at the Paris Climate Conference (COP21) should be reinforced. Energy interconnection priority projects and energy efficiency projects should also be increasingly targeted. In addition, EFSI support to motorways should be avoided, unless it is needed to support private investment in transport in cohesion countries or in cross-border transport projects involving at least one cohesion country. For reasons of clarity, although they are already eligible, it should be explicitly laid down that projects in the fields of agriculture, fishery and aquaculture come within the general objectives eligible for EFSI support.Does not affect the English version.)
Amendment 53 #
2016/0276(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) In order to reinforce the take-up of the EFSI in the less-developed and transition regions, the scope of the general objectives eligible for EFSI support should be enlarged.
Amendment 65 #
2016/0276(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) In line with the exceptional market demand for SME financing under the EFSI which is expected to continue, the EFSI SME Window should be enhanced. Particular attention should be paid to social enterprises, including through the development and deployment of new instruments.Does not affect the English version.)
Amendment 20 #
2016/0265(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 21 #
2016/0265(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 4 b (new)
Citation 4 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 27 #
2016/0265(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) RPrompt, reliable and relevant evidence based on European statistics is absolutely essential to measuring the progress and evaluating the efficiency of the Union’s policies and programmes, especially in the context of the Europe 2020 strategy and the Agenda for jobs, growth, fairness and democratic change.
Amendment 33 #
2016/0265(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) Under Regulation (EC) No 223/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council11, the European statistical programme is to provide the framework for the development, production and dissemination of high-quality European statistics, setting out the main fields and objectives of the actions envisaged for a period corresponding to that of the multiannual financial framework. _________________ 11 Regulation (EC) No 223/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 March 2009 on European statistics and repealing Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1101/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the transmission of data subject to statistical confidentiality to the Statistical Office of the European Communities, Council Regulation (EC) No 322/97 on Community Statistics, and Council Decision 89/382/EEC, Euratom establishing a Committee on the Statistical Programmes of the European Communities (OJ L 87, 31.3.2009, p. 164).
Amendment 34 #
2016/0265(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) Regulation (EU) No 99/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council12 covers the period from 2013 to 2017 only, whereas the current multiannual financial framework extends to 2020. It should therefore be amended immediately to extend the European statistical programme to 2020 and fill statistical gaps where urgently necessary. _________________ 12 Regulation (EU) No 99/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 January 2013 on the European statistical programme 2013-17 (OJ L 39, 9.2.2013, p. 12).
Amendment 35 #
2016/0265(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) In the context of Better Regulation, Union policies should increasingly be designed and monitored on the basis of the needs of the EU Member States and in the light of solid evidence. European statistics have a distinct role to play in that respect and can make a real difference, especially in policy areas where responsiveness is key for policies to be successful.
Amendment 41 #
2016/0265(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) Better statistics are therefore crucial to achieving better results and contributing to a better Europe, and greater efforts should be made to boost investments in official statistics at both European and national levels and make them more effective. This should provide guidance in priority policy areas and for capacity- building, in addition to current guidance and ongoing re-prioritisation. More specifically, action should be taken to tackle the most urgent statistical gaps, increase timeliness and support political priorities and economic policy coordination through the European Semester. The Commission (Eurostat) should also provide new population projections in close cooperation with the national statistical institutes to update the analysis of the economic and budgetary implications of population ageing.
Amendment 52 #
2016/0265(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) The extension of the programme is an opportunity to makeshould be accompanied by adaptations and reflect the new orientations, to complement the existing objectives and ongoing prioritisation.
Amendment 55 #
2016/0265(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) An appropriate increase of the budget for statistics at EU level should support these changes to the programme and bring significant added value and results through large-scale projects, structural leverage effects and economies of scale benefitingimproving immediately statistical systems across the Member States.
Amendment 20 #
2016/0261(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
Having regard to Protocol No 1 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 21 #
2016/0261(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
Having regard to Protocol No 2 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 26 #
2016/0231(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
Having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 27 #
2016/0231(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
Having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 29 #
2016/0231(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The European Council conclusions of October 2014 foresaw that the target should be delivered collectively by the Member States and the Union in the most cost-effective manner possible, with the reductions in the Emissions Trading System (ETS) and non- ETS sectors amounting to 43% and 30% by 2030 compared to 2005 respectively, with efforts distributed on the basis of relative Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita. All sectors of the economy should contribute to achieving these emission reductions, and all Member States should participate in this effort, balancing considerations of fairness and solidarity, and national targets within the group of Member States with a GDP per capita above the Union average should be relatively adjusted to reflect cost- effectiveness in a fair and balanced manner. Achieving these greenhouse gas emission reductions should boost efficiency and innovation in the European economy and in particular should promote improvements, notably in buildings, agriculture, waste management and transport, in so far as they fall under the scope of this Regulation.
Amendment 34 #
2016/0231(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) On 10 June 2016 the Commission presented the proposal for the EU to ratify the Paris agreement. This legislative proposal forms part of the implementation of the EU's commitment in the Paris agreement. The Union's commitment to economy-wide emission reductions was confirmed in the intended nationally determined contribution of the Union and its Member States that was submitted to the Secretariat of the UNFCCC on 6 March 2015 without, however, establishing any clear framework provisions for responding to climate change and its disastrous consequences.
Amendment 38 #
2016/0231(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) The transition to clean energy requires changes in investment behaviour and incentives across the entire policy spectrum. It ishould be a key Union priority to establish a resilient Energy Union to provide secure, sustainable, competitive and affordable energy to its citizens. Achieving this requires continuation of ambitious climate action with this Regulation and progress on the other aspects of Energy Union as set out in the Framework Strategy for a Resilient Energy Union with a Forward-Looking Climate Change Policy16 . __________________ 16 COM(2015)80 COM(2015)80
Amendment 51 #
2016/0231(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) A range of Union measures should enhance Member States’ ability to meet their climate commitments, and ares well as being crucial to achieving necessary emission reductions in the sectors covered by this Regulation. These include legislation on fluorinated greenhouse gases, CO2-reductions from road vehicles, energy performance of building, renewables, energy efficiency and the Circular Economy, as well as Union funding instruments for climate- related investments.
Amendment 67 #
2016/0231(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) The European Environment Agency aims to support sustainable development and to help achieve significant and measurable improvement in Europe’s environment by providing timely, targeted, relevant and reliable information to policy- makers, public institutions and the public. The European Environment Agency should assist the Commission, as appropriate in accordance with its annual work programme and contribute directly and effectively to coping with climate change.
Amendment 73 #
2016/0231(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20
Recital 20
(20) This Regulation should be reviewed as of 2024 and every 53 years thereafter in order to assess its overall functioning. The review should take into account evolving national circumstances and be informed by the results of the global stocktake of the Paris Agreement.
Amendment 27 #
2016/0230(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 28 #
2016/0230(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 35 #
2016/0230(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) The Paris Agreement, inter alia, sets out a long-term goal in line with the objective to keep the global temperature increase well below 2°C above pre- industrial levels and to pursue efforts to keep it to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. In order to achieve this ambitious goal, the Parties should prepare, communicate and maintain successive nationally determined contributions to the extent that this is consistent with their economic growth and does not lead to higher unemployment. The Paris Agreement replaces the approach taken under the 1997 Kyoto Protocol which will not be continued beyond 2020. The Paris Agreement also calls for a balance between anthropogenic emissions by sources and removals by sinks of greenhouse gases in the second half of this century, and invites Parties to take action to conserve and enhance, as appropriate, sinks and reservoirs of greenhouse gases, including forests.
Amendment 43 #
2016/0230(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The LULUCF sector canould contribute to climate change mitigation in several ways, in particular by reducing emissions, and maintaining and enhancing sinks and carbon stocks. In order for measures aiming in particular at increasing carbon sequestration to be effective, the long-term stability and adaptability of carbon pools is essential.
Amendment 46 #
2016/0230(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) Decision No 529/2013/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council,11 as a first step, set out accounting rules applicable to greenhouse gas emissions and removals from the LULUCF sector and thereby contributed to policy development towards the inclusion of the LULUCF sector in the Union’s emission reduction commitment. This Regulation should build on the existing accounting rules, updating and improving them for the period 2021- 2030. It should lay down the obligations of Member States in implementing those accounting rules and the obligation to ensure that the overall LULUCF sector would not generate net emissions. It should not under any circumstances lay down any accounting or reporting obligations for private parties. _________________ 11 Decision No 529/2013/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 May 2013 on accounting rules on greenhouse gas emissions and removals resulting from activities relating to land use, land-use change and forestry and on information concerning actions relating to those activities (OJ L 165, 18.6.2013, p. 80)
Amendment 51 #
2016/0230(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) Emissions and removals from forest land depend on a number of natural circumstances, age-class structure, as well as past and present management practices. The use of a base year would not make it possible to reflect those factors and resulting cyclical impacts on emissions and removals or their interannual variation. The relevant accounting rules shouldought instead to provide for the use of reference levels to exclude the effects of natural and country- specific characteristics. In the absence of the international review under the UNFCCC and the Kyoto Protocol, a review procedure should be established to ensure transparency and improve the quality of accounting in this category.
Amendment 52 #
2016/0230(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) WhenIf and as long as the Commission chooses to be assisted by an expert review team in accordance with Commission Decision (C(2016)3301) in the review of national forestry accounting plans, it should build on the good practice and experience of the expert reviews under the UNFCCC, including as regards participation of national experts and recommendations, and select a sufficient number of experts from the Member States.
Amendment 55 #
2016/0230(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) The internationally agreed IPCC Guidelines state that emissions from the combustion of biomass can be accounted as zero in the energy sector with the condition that these emissions are accounted for in the LULUCF sector. InWithin the framework of the EU, emissions from biomass combustion are accounted as zero pursuant to Article 38 of Regulation (EU) No. 601/2012 and the provisions set out in Regulation (EU) No. 525/2013, hence consistency with the IPCC Guidelines would only be ensured if these emissions should be covered accurately under this Regulation.
Amendment 57 #
2016/0230(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) The increased sustainable use of harvested wood products can substantially limit emissions into and enhance removals of greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. The accounting rules should ensure that Member States accurately reflect in accounts the changes in the harvested wood products pool when they take place, to provide incentives for enhanced use of harvested wood products with long life cycles. The Commission shouldought to provide guidance on methodological issues related to the accounting for harvested wood products to the extent that this is consistent with their economic growth and does not lead to higher unemployment.
Amendment 60 #
2016/0230(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) Natural disturbances, such as wildfires, insect and disease infestations, extreme weather events and geological disturbances that are beyond the control of, and not materially influenced by, a Member State, may result in greenhouse gas emissions of a temporary nature in the LULUCF sector, or may cause the reversal of previous removals. AsGiven that reversal can also be the result of management decisions, such as decisions to harvest or plant trees, this Regulation should ensure that human- induced reversals of removals are always accurately reflected in LULUCF accounts. Moreover, this Regulation should provide Member States with a limited possibility to exclude emissions resulting from disturbances that are beyond their control from their LULUCF accounts. However, the manner in which Member States apply those provisions should not lead to undue under- accounting.
Amendment 64 #
2016/0230(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) In order to ensure and secure efficient, transparent and cost-effective reporting and verification of greenhouse gas emissions and removals and of other information necessary to assess compliance with Member States' commitments, reporting requirements should be included in Regulation (EU) No. 525/2013 by this Regulation, and compliance checks under this Regulation should take these reports into account. Regulation (EU) No. 525/2013 should therefore be amended accordingly. These provisions may further be streamlined to take into consideration any relevant changes in respect of the integrated governance of the Energy Union for which a proposal is foreseen by the end of 2016 in the Commission’s work programme.
Amendment 66 #
2016/0230(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) The European Environment Agency should(EEA) ought to assist the Commission, as appropriate in accordance with its annual work programme, with the system of annual reporting of greenhouse gas emissions and removals, the assessment of information on policies and measures and national projections, the evaluation of planned additional policies and measures, and the compliance checks carried out by the Commission under this Regulation.
Amendment 68 #
2016/0230(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) To facilitate data collection and methodology improvement, land use should be expressly inventoried and reported using geographical tracking of each land area, corresponding to national and EU data collection systems. The best use shall be made of existing Union and Member State programmes and surveys including the LUCAS Land Use Cover Area frame Survey and the European Earth observation programme Copernicus for data collection. Data management, including sharing for the reporting reuse and dissemination should conform to Directive 2007/2/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 March 2007 establishing an Infrastructure for Spatial Information in the European Community.
Amendment 69 #
2016/0230(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18
Recital 18
(18) In order to provide for the appropriate accounting of transactions under this Regulation, including the use of flexibilities and tracking compliance, the power to adopt acts in accordance with Article 290 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) should be delegated to the Commission in respect of the technical adaptation of definitions, values, lists of greenhouse gases and carbon pools, the update of reference levels, the accounting of transactions and the revision of methodology and information requirements. These measures shall take into account the provisions in Commission Regulation No 389/2013 establishing a Union Registry. The necessary provisions should be contained in a single legal instrument combining the accounting provisions pursuant to Directive 2003/87/EC, Regulation (EU) No 525/2013, Regulation [] on binding annual greenhouse gas emission reductions by Member States from 2021 to 2030 for a resilient Energy Union and this Regulation. It is of particular importance that the Commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work, including at expert level conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the Inter-institutional Agreement on Better Law-Making of 13 April 2016. In particular, to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts, the European Parliament and Council receive all documents at the same time as Member States' experts, and their experts have systematic access to meetings of Commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts.
Amendment 71 #
2016/0230(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) This Regulation should be reviewed as of 20240 and every 5two years thereafter in order to assess its overall functioning. This review can also be informed by the results of the global stocktake of the Paris Agreement.
Amendment 70 #
2016/0221(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 71 #
2016/0221(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 4 b (new)
Citation 4 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 72 #
2016/0221(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to Protocol (No. 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 73 #
2016/0221(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to Protocol (No. 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 76 #
2016/0221(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The Communication on the Investment Plan for Europe of 16 November 201422 should provides a comprehensive strategy to tackle the lack of finance which is holding back Europe's potential to grow and to provide jobs for its citizens, especially in the southern European Member States such as Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal. It aims at unlocking private investment by using public funding and by improving the legal framework for the investment environment. _________________ 22 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Central Bank, the European Economic and Social Committee, the Committee of the Regions and the European Investment bank: An Investment Plan for Europe (COM(2014)903 final).
Amendment 78 #
2016/0221(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The Communication on the Capital Markets Union of 30 September 201523 is an important element of the Investment Plan. It aims at reducing fragmentation in the financial markets and increasing supply of capital to businesses through the establishment of a genuine single capital market. The Communication specifies that Regulation (EU) No 345/2013 and Regulation (EU) No 346/2013 need to be amended to ensure that the frameworks are best able to supportincrease immediately investment in SMEs. _________________ 23 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Central Bank, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions: Action Plan on Building a Capital Markets Union (COM(2015)468 final).
Amendment 84 #
2016/0221(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) In order to keep a highimprove the level of investor protection, those managers should continue to be subject to the requirements of Directive 2011/61/EU while complying with certain provisions of Regulation (EU) No 345/2013 or Regulation (EU) No 346/2013, namely the provisions concerning eligible investments, targeted investors and information requirements.
Amendment 98 #
2016/0221(COD)
(7) The range of eligible undertakings in which qualifying venture capital funds can invest should be expanded immediately to further increase supply of capital to businesses. The definition of qualifying portfolio undertakings should therefore include companies with up to 499 employees (small mid-caps) and small and medium enterprises listed on SME growth markets. The new investment options should also allow growth stage entities that have already access to other sources of financing, such as SME growth markets, to receive capital from qualifying venture capital funds which in turn should contribute to the development of the SME growth markets.
Amendment 103 #
2016/0221(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) Qualifying venture capital funds should be allowed to participate on the longer term also in the funding ladder for unlisted SMEs, unlisted small-midcaps and SMEs listed on SME growth markets, to further enhance their potential for making returns from high-growth companies. Therefore, follow-on investments subsequent to the first investment should be allowed.
Amendment 107 #
2016/0221(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
Amendment 127 #
2016/0221(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) Since tThe objectives of this Regulation, namely to further strengthen an internal market for qualifying venture capital funds and qualifying social entrepreneurship funds by strengthening the use of ‘EuVECA’ and ‘EuSEF’ labels, cannot be sufficiently achieved by theat Member States and can therefore, by reason of its scale and effects, be better achieved at Union level, t. The Union may adopt measures in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in Article 5 of the Treaty on European Union. In accordance with the principle of proportionality, this Regulation does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve the objectives pursued, in accordance with Article 5(4) of the Treaty on European Union.
Amendment 4 #
2016/0218(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No. 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 5 #
2016/0218(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 b (new)
Citation 3 b (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 6 #
2016/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
Amendment 7 #
2016/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
Amendment 9 #
2016/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) The Agreement stipulates that certain agricultural and fishery products originating in Kosovo may be imported into the Union at a reduced customs duty, within the limits of tariff quotas. It is therefore necessary to lay down provisions regulating the management and review of these tariff quotas in order to allow for their thorough assessmentIt is therefore necessary to lay down provisions regulating the management of tariff quotas for agricultural products from Kosovo.
Amendment 11 #
2016/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
Amendment 12 #
2016/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) In order to ensure the effective application and management of the tariff quotas granted under the Agreement , as well as to ensure legal certainty and equal treatment with regard to the levying of duties, certain provisions of this Regulation should apply from the date of entry into force of the Agreement,be reviewed.
Amendment 14 #
2016/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1
Article 3 – paragraph 1
Amendment 15 #
2016/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Tariff reductions cannot be granted until the status of Kosovo has been settled.
Amendment 16 #
2016/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – introductory part
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – introductory part
Amendment 17 #
2016/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a
Amendment 18 #
2016/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point b
Amendment 22 #
2016/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1
Article 15 – paragraph 1
Amendment 23 #
2016/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 15 – paragraph 1 a (new)
The entry into force of this Regulation shall be postponed at least until the status of Kosovo has been settled.
Amendment 24 #
2016/0218(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 2
Article 15 – paragraph 2
Amendment 8 #
2016/0209(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 9 #
2016/0209(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 13 #
2016/0209(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Council Directive 2011/16/EU11 as amended by Directive 2014/107/EU12 applies as of 1 January 2016 to 27 Member States and as of 1 January 2017 to Austria. That Directive implements the Global Standard for Automatic Exchange of Financial Account Information in Tax Matters (“Global Standard”) within the Union. As such, it ensures that information on Account Holders of Financial Accounts is reported to the Member State where the Account Holder is resident with the aim of combating tax evasion, tax avoidance and aggressive tax planning. __________________ 11 Council Directive 2011/16/EU of 15 February 2011 on administrative cooperation in the field of taxation and repealing Directive 77/799/EEC (OJ L 64, 11.3.2011, p. 1). 12 Council Directive 2014/107/EU of 9 December 2014 amending Directive 2011/16/EU as regards mandatory automatic exchange of information in the field of taxation (OJ L 359, 16.12.2014, p. 1).
Amendment 19 #
2016/0209(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) To ensure effective monitoring of the application by Financial Institutions of the due diligence procedures set forth in Directive 2011/16/EU, the tax authorities need access to AML information and the ability to exchange such information. In the absence of such access, those authorities would not be able to monitor, confirm and audit that the Financial Institutions apply properly Directive 2011/16/EU by identifying correctly and reporting the beneficial owners of intermediary structures.
Amendment 29 #
2016/0209(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) It is therefore necessary to ensure the access by the tax authorities to the AML and anti-tax fraud information, procedures, documents and mechanisms for the performance of their duties in monitoring the proper application of Directive 2011/16/EU.
Amendment 39 #
2016/0209(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) This Directive respects the fundamental rights and observes the principles recognised in particular by the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. Where this Directive requires that access to personal data by tax authorities be provided by law, this does not necessarily require an act adopted by the parliament, without prejudice of the constitutional order of the Member State concerned. However, such a law should be clear and precise and in line with the principles of personal data protection and its application should be clear and foreseeable to persons subject to it, in accordance with the case-law of the Court of Justice of the European Union and the European Court of Human Rights.
Amendment 40 #
2016/0209(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) Since the objective of this Directive, namely the efficient administrative cooperation between Member States and its effective monitoring under conditions compatible with the proper functioning of the internal market in order to combat tax fraud, cannot be sufficiently achieved by the Member States and can therefore, by reason of the uniformity and effectiveness required, be better achieved at Union level, the Union may adopt measures, in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in Article 5 of the Treaty on the European Union. In accordance with the principle of proportionality, as set out in that Article, this Directive does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve that objective.
Amendment 6 #
2016/0208(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union, annexed to the Treaty on European Union (TEU) and the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU),
Amendment 7 #
2016/0208(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality, annexed to the Treaty on European Union (TEU) and the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU),
Amendment 19 #
2016/0208(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 39
Recital 39
Amendment 50 #
2016/0208(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 51 #
2016/0208(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of Subsidiarity and Proportionality,
Amendment 13 #
2016/0190(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The smooth and correct functioning of a Union area of justice with respect for the Member States' different legal systems and traditions is vital for the Union. In that regard, mutual trust in one another's justice systems should be further enhanced. The Union has set itself the objective of creating, maintaining and developing an area of freedom, security and justice, in which the free movement of persons and access to justice are ensured. With a view to implementing those objectives, it is essential that the rights of persons, notably children, in legal proceedings should be reinforced in order to facilitate the cooperation of judicial and administrative authorities and the enforcement of decisions in family law matters with cross-border implications. The mutual recognition of decisions in civil matters should be enhanced, access to justice should be simplified and exchanges of information between the authorities of the Member States should be improved upon.
Amendment 14 #
2016/0190(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) Since the application of the rules on parental responsibility often arises in the context of matrimonial proceedings, however, it is appropriate to have a single instrument for matters of divorce and parental responsibility.
Amendment 15 #
2016/0190(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) As regards decisions on divorce, legal separation or marriage annulment, this Regulation should apply simply and only to the dissolution of matrimonial ties and should not deal with issues such as the grounds for divorce, property consequences of the marriage or any other ancillary measures.
Amendment 16 #
2016/0190(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) As regards the property of the child, this Regulation should apply only to measures for the protection of the child, namely the designation and functions of a person or body having charge of the child's property, representing or assisting the child, and the administration, conservation or disposal of the child's property. In this context, this Regulation should, for instance, apply in cases where the object of the proceedings is the designation of a person or body administering the child's property. Measures relating to the child's property which do not concern the protection of the child should continue to be governed by Regulation (EU) No 1215/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council36. _________________ 36 Regulation (EU) No 1215/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 December 2012 on jurisdiction and the recognition and enforcement of judgments in civil and commercial matters (OJ L 351, 20.12.2012, p. 1).
Amendment 18 #
2016/0190(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) The grounds of jurisdiction in matters of parental responsibility arshould always be shaped in the light of the best interests of the child and should be applied in accordance with them. Any reference to the best interests of the child should be interpreted in light of Article 24 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child of 20 November 1989.
Amendment 20 #
2016/0190(CNS)
(15) Where the child's habitual residence changes following a lawful relocation, jurisdiction should follow the child in order to maintain the proximity. This should apply where no proceedings are yet pending, and also in pending proceedings. In pending proceedings, however, parties may agree in the interests of the efficiency of justice that the courts of the Member State where proceedings are pending retain their jurisdiction until a final decision has been given, provided that this is in the best interests of the child. This possibility is of particular importance where proceedings are nearing conclusion and one parent wishes to relocate to another Member State with the child.
Amendment 21 #
2016/0190(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) Under certain conditions and where it is iIn the best interests of the child, jurisdiction in matters of parental responsibility may also beis established in athe Member State where proceedings for divorce, legal separation or marriage annulment are pending between the parents, or in another Member State with which the child has a substantial connection and upon which the parties have agreed, even if the child is not habitually resident in that Member State. Such jurisdiction, which is an exception to the principle of proximity embodied in the jurisdiction of the Member State of habitual residence of the child for which perpetuatio fori does not exist, should cease at the latest as soon as a decision in those proceedings on parental responsibility matters has become final, in order to respect the requirement of proximity for any new proceedings in the future.
Amendment 24 #
2016/0190(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) This Regulation should not prevent the authorities of a Member State not having jurisdiction over the substance of the matter from taking provisional, including protective measures, in urgent cases, with regard to the person or property of a child present in that Member State. Those measures should be recognised and enforced in all other Member States including the Member States having jurisdiction under this Regulation until a competent authority of such a Member State has taken the measures it considers appropriate. Measures taken by a court in one Member State should however only be amended or replaced by measures also taken by a court in the Member State having jurisdiction over the substance of the matter. An authority only having jurisdiction for provisional, including protective measures should, if seized with an application concerning the substance of the matter, declare of its own motion that it has no jurisdiction. Insofar as the protection of the best interests of the child so requires, the authority should inform, directly or through the Central Authority, the authority of the Member State having jurisdiction over the substance of the matter under this Regulation about the measures taken. The failure to inform the authority of another Member State should however not as such be a ground for the non-recognition of the measure.Does not affect the EN version)
Amendment 25 #
2016/0190(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18
Recital 18
(18) In exceptional cases, tThe authorities of the Member State of habitual residence of the child may not be the most appropriate authorities to deal with the case. In the best interests of the child, as an exception and under certainsubject to conditions, the authority having jurisdiction may transfer its jurisdiction in a specific case to an authority of another Member State if this authority is better placed to hear the case. However, in this case the second authority should not be allowed to transfer jurisdiction to a third authority.
Amendment 32 #
2016/0190(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 26
Recital 26
(26) In order to conclude the return proceedings under the 1980 Hague Convention as quickly as possible, Member States should concentrate jurisdiction for those proceedings upon one or more courts, taking into account their internal structures for the administration of justice as appropriate. The concentration of jurisdiction upon a limited number of courts within a Member State is an essential and effective tool for speeding up the handling of child abduction cases in several Member States because the judges hearing a larger number of these cases develop particular expertise. Depending on the structure of the legal system, jurisdiction for child abduction cases could be concentrated in one single court for the whole country or in a limited number of courts, using, for example, the number of appellate courts as point of departure and concentrating jurisdiction for international child abduction cases upon one court of first instance within each district of a court of appeal. Every instance should give its decision no later than sixfour weeks after the application or appeal has been lodged with it. Member States should not limit the number of appeals possible against a decision granting or refusing the return of a child under the 1980 Hague Child Abduction Convention to one.
Amendment 33 #
2016/0190(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 27
Recital 27
(27) Where Central Authorities initiate or facilitate the institution of court proceedings for the return of children under the 1980 Hague Convention, they should ensure that the file prepared with a view to such proceedings is complete within six weeks, save where exceptional circumstances make this impossible. In order to enable the requested Central Authority to comply with that time limit, the requesting Central Authority should liaise closely with the applicant and respond to any requests for additional information or missing documents from the requested Central Authority without delay.Does not affect the EN version)
Amendment 36 #
2016/0190(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 30
Recital 30
(30) Where the court of the Member State to or in which the child has been wrongfully removed or retained decides to refuse the child's return under the 1980 Hague Convention, in its decision it should refer explicitly to the relevant articles of the 1980 Hague Convention on which the refusal was based and state the grounds therefor. Such a decision may be replaced, however, by a subsequent decision, given in custody proceedings after a thorough examination of the child's best interests, by the court of the Member State of habitual residence of the child prior to the wrongful removal or retention. Should that decision entail the return of the child, the return should take place without any special procedure being required for the recognition and enforcement of that decision in the Member State to or in which the child has been removed or retained.
Amendment 18 #
2016/0182(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) The Union should contributes to ensuring a high level of consumer protection and to placing consumers at the heart of the single market by supporting and complementing Member States' policies in seeking to ensure that citizens can fully reap the benefits of the internal market and that, in so doing, their legal and economic interests are properly addressed and defended. A well-functioning and trustworthy financial services sector is a key component of the single market. It requires a solid framework for regulation and supervision, which simultaneously ensures financial stability and focuses on supporting a sustainable economy. At the same time, it should provide a high level of protection to consumers and other financial services end-users, including retail investors, savers, insurance holders, pension fund participants, individual shareholders, borrowers or SMEs.
Amendment 19 #
2016/0182(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) Since 2007, the confidence of consumers in particular and of other financial services' end-users, including retail investors and savers, has been shaken by the financial and economic crisis. To restore citizens' confidence in the soundness of the financial sector, it is therefore important to increase the involvement of consumers and other end- users, as well as of stakeholders representing their interests, in the Union decision-making process in the financial sector.
Amendment 22 #
2016/0182(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) As a result, the Commission awarded between 2012 and 2015 via an open call for proposals operating grants to two non-profit entities, Finance Watch and Better Finance, aiming to enhance the involvement of consumers in the field of financial services. These grants were awarded under a pilot project during two years, 2012 and 2013, and a preparatory action since 2014. Since a preparatory action can be used up to three years3, a legislative act is necessary to provide a legal basis for funding such actions as of 2017. __________________ 3 Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 (OJ L 298 26.10.2012, p. 1).
Amendment 23 #
2016/0182(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) Finance Watch was set up in 2011 as an international non-profit association under Belgian law, with Union grants. Its mission is to defend the interests of civil society in the financial sector. Thanks to Union grants, Finance Watch in a short period of time managed to set up a qualified team of experts, able to conduct studies, policy analysis and communication activities in the field of financial services.
Amendment 24 #
2016/0182(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) Better Finance results from successive re-organisations and rebranding of pre-existing European federations of investors and shareholders since 2009. Thanks to Union grants, the organisation managed to form a financial centre of expertise, focusing mostly on the interests of consumers, individual investors, individual shareholders, savers and other end-users of financial services, in coherence with its membership base and its resources.
Amendment 26 #
2016/0182(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) The evaluation of the pilot project and the subsequent preparatory action carried out in 2015 concluded that the policy objectives concerning the financial sector, have been generally achieved. Finance Watch and Better Finance have been working on complementary policy areas and targeted different audiences. Together they have covered, through their activities, most of the Union financial political agenda since 2012.
Amendment 31 #
2016/0182(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) However, despite regular efforts, both organisations did not manage to attract stable and significant funding from other donors, independent from the financial industry, and, therefore, remain heavily dependent on Union funding, in order to be financially sustainable. Co- funding from the Union is therefore necessary to ensure the resources needed to achieve the desired policy objectives in the coming years, providing financial stability to those organisations who have so far managed to start-up their relevant activities in a short period of time. It is therefore necessary to establish a Union programme for the period 2017-2020 to support the activities of Finance Watch and Better Finance ('Programme').
Amendment 32 #
2016/0182(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) Continuing funding of Finance Watch and Better Finance for the period 2017-2020 along the same lines as for the preparatory action would ensure that the positive impacts of the activities of those organisations assessed so far, in the financial sector, are maintained. The financial envelope for the implementation of the Programme should be based on the average actual costs incurred by each beneficiary between 2012 and 2015. The co-funding rate should remain unchanged.
Amendment 34 #
2016/0152(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 35 #
2016/0152(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 44 #
2016/0152(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to Protocol No 1 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 45 #
2016/0152(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to Protocol No 2 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 24 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No. 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 25 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 26 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) The last substantive amendment to Directive 89/552/EEC of the Council27, later codified by Directive 2010/13/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council28 , was made in 2007 with the adoption of Directive 2007/65/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council29. Since then, the market of audiovisual media services has evolved significantly and rapidlyThe audiovisual media landscape is changing at a rapid pace owing to the increased convergence between television and services distributed via the internet. Technical developments allow for new types of services and user experiences. The viewing habits, particularly of younger generations, have changed significantly. While the main TV screen remains an important device to share audiovisual experiences, many viewers have moved to other, portable devices to watch audiovisual content. Traditional TV content accounts still for a major share of the average daily viewing time. However, new types of content, such as short videos or user-generated content, gain increasing importance and new players, including providers of video-on- demand services and video-sharing platforms, are now well- established. _________________ 27 Directive 89/552/EEC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 3 October 1989 on the coordination of certain provisions laid down by law, regulation or administrative action in Member States concerning the provision of audiovisual media services (Audiovisual Media Services Directive) (OJ L 298, 17.10.1989, p. 23). 28 Directive 2010/13/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 10 March 2010 on the coordination of certain provisions laid down by law, regulation or administrative action in Member States concerning the provision of audiovisual media services (Audiovisual Media Services Directive) (OJ L 95, 15.4.2010, p. 1). 29 Directive 2007/65/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2007 amending Council Directive 89/552/EEC on the coordination of certain provisions laid down by law, regulation or administrative action in Member States concerning the pursuit of television broadcasting activities (OJ L 332, 18.12.2007, p. 27).
Amendment 26 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) The last substantive amendment to Directive 89/552/EEC of the Council27 , later codified by Directive 2010/13/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council28 , was made in 2007 with the adoption of Directive 2007/65/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council29 . Since then, the market of audiovisual media services has evolved significantly and rapidly owing to increased convergence between television and services distributed via the internet. Technical developments allow for new types of services and user experiences. The viewing habits, particularly of younger generations, have changed significantly. While the main TV screen remains an important device to share audiovisual experiences, many viewers have moved to other, portable devices to watch audiovisual content. Traditional TV content accounts still for a major share of the average daily viewing time. However, new types of content, such as short videos or user-generated content, gain increasing importance and new players, including providers of video-on- demand services and video-sharing platforms, are now well- established. __________________ 27 Directive 89/552/EEC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 3 October 1989 on the coordination of certain provisions laid down by law, regulation or administrative action in Member States concerning the provision of audiovisual media services (Audiovisual Media Services Directive) (OJ L 298, 17.10.1989, p. 23). 28 Directive 2010/13/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 10 March 2010 on the coordination of certain provisions laid down by law, regulation or administrative action in Member States concerning the provision of audiovisual media services (Audiovisual Media Services Directive) (OJ L 95, 15.4.2010, p. 1). 29 Directive 2007/65/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2007 amending Council Directive 89/552/EEC on the coordination of certain provisions laid down by law, regulation or administrative action in Member States concerning the pursuit of television broadcasting activities (OJ L 332, 18.12.2007, p. 27).
Amendment 31 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) In order to ensure coherence and give certainty to businesses and Member States' authorities, the notion of "incitement to hatred" should, to the appropriate extent, be aligned to the definition in the Council Framework Decision 2008/913/JHA of 28 November 2008 on combating certain forms and expressions of racism and xenophobia by means of criminal law which defines hate speech as "publicly inciting to violence or hatred"” thereby incurring penalties. This should include aligning the grounds on which incitement to violence or hatred is based.
Amendment 34 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 7
Recital 7
Amendment 37 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 8
Recital 8
Amendment 44 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 11
Recital 11
Amendment 46 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) Similarly, Member States should be encouraged to ensure that self-and co- regulatory codes of conduct are used to effectively limit the exposure of children and minors to unsuitable audiovisual commercial communications for alcoholic beverages. Certain co-regulatory or self- regulatory systems exist at Union and national level in order to market responsibly alcoholic beverages, including in audiovisual commercial communications. Those systems should be further encouraged, in particular those aiming at ensuring that responsible drinking messages accompany audiovisual commercial communications for alcoholic beverages.
Amendment 47 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 49 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 50 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) The last substantive amendment to Directive 89/552/EEC of the Council27, later codified by Directive 2010/13/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council28, was made in 2007 with the adoption of Directive 2007/65/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council29. Since then, the market of audiovisual media services has evolved significantly and rapidly owing to increased convergence between television and services distributed via the internet. Technical developments allow for new types of services and user experiences. The viewing habits, particularly of younger generations, have changed significantly. While the main TV screen remains an important device to share audiovisual experiences, many viewers have moved to other, portable devices to watch audiovisual content. Traditional TV content accounts still for a major share of the average daily viewing time. However, new types of content, such as short videos or user-generated content, gain increasing importance and new players, including providers of video-on- demand services and video-sharing platforms, are now well- established. _________________ 27 Directive 89/552/EEC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 3 October 1989 on the coordination of certain provisions laid down by law, regulation or administrative action in Member States concerning the provision of audiovisual media services (Audiovisual Media Services Directive) (OJ L 298, 17.10.1989, p. 23). 28 Directive 2010/13/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 10 March 2010 on the coordination of certain provisions laid down by law, regulation or administrative action in Member States concerning the provision of audiovisual media services (Audiovisual Media Services Directive) (OJ L 95, 15.4.2010, p. 1). 29 Directive 2007/65/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2007 amending Council Directive 89/552/EEC on the coordination of certain provisions laid down by law, regulation or administrative action in Member States concerning the pursuit of television broadcasting activities (OJ L 332, 18.12.2007, p. 27).
Amendment 53 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) In its Communication to the European Parliament and to the Council on Better Regulation for Better Results – an EU Agenda31, the Commission stressed that when considering policy solutions, it will consider both regulatory and well- designed non-regulatory means, modelled on the Community of practice and the Principles for Better Self- and Co- regulation32. A number of codes set up in the areas coordinated by the Directive have proved to be well designed, in line with the Principles for Better Self- and Co- regulation which may constitute a useful ancillary or complementary means for legislative action. The existence of a legislative backstop has been considered an important success factor in promoting compliance with a self- or co-regulatory code. It is equally important that the codes establish specific targets and objectives allowing for the regular, transparent and independent monitoring and evaluation of the objectives aimed by the codes. Graduated sanctions which maintain an element of proportionality are usually considered to be an effective approach in enforcing a scheme. These principles should be followed by the self- and co- regulatory codes adopted in the areas coordinated by this Directive. _________________ 31 COM(2015) 215 final. COM(2015) 215 final. 32 https://ec.europa.eu/digital-single- market/communities/better-self-and-co- regulation
Amendment 54 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 15
Recital 15
Amendment 56 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 17
Recital 17
Amendment 56 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) In order to ensure coherence and give certainty to businesses and Member States' authorities, the notion of "incitement to hatred" should, to the appropriate extent, be aligned to the definition in the Council Framework Decision 2008/913/JHA of 28 November 2008 on combating certain forms and expressions of racism and xenophobia by means of criminal law which defines hate speech as "publicly inciting to violence or hatred", thereby incurring penalties. This should include aligning the grounds on which incitement to violence or hatred is based.
Amendment 58 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) The liberalisation of product placement has not brought about the expected take-up of this form of audiovisual commercial communication. In particular, the general prohibition of product placement with some exceptions has not created legal certainty for audiovisual media service providers. Product placement should thus be allowed in all audiovisual media services, subject to exceptions, since it can generate resources for audiovisual media service providers.
Amendment 64 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) The rule that a product should not be given undue prominence has proved difficult to apply in practice. It also restricts the take-up of product placement which, by definition, involves some level of prominent exposure to be able to generate value. The requirements for programmes containing product placement should thus focus on clearly informing the viewers of the existence of product placement and on ensuring that the audiovisual media service provider's editorial independence is not affected.
Amendment 65 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) Similarly, Member States should be encouraged to ensure that self-and co- regulatory codes of conduct are used to effectively limit the exposure of children and minors to unsuitable audiovisual commercial communications for alcoholic beverages. Certain co-regulatory or self- regulatory systems exist at Union and national level in order to market responsibly alcoholic beverages, including in audiovisual commercial communications. Those systems should be further encouraged, in particular those aiming at ensuring that responsible drinking messages accompany audiovisual commercial communications for alcoholic beverages.
Amendment 70 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) The liberalisation of product placement has not brought about the expected take-up of this form of audiovisual commercial communication. In particular, the general prohibition of product placement with some exceptions has not created legal certainty for audiovisual media service providers. Product placement should thus be allowed in all audiovisual media services, subject to exceptions, since it can generate additional resources for audiovisual media service providers.
Amendment 72 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 27
Recital 27
Amendment 72 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) The rule that a product should not be given undue prominence has proved difficult to apply in practice. It also restricts the take-up of product placement which, by definition, involves some level of prominent exposure to be able to generate valumust be applied in practice. The requirements for programmes containing product placement should thus focus on clearly informing the viewers of the existence of product placement and on ensuring that the audiovisual media service provider's editorial independence is not affected.
Amendment 77 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 30
Recital 30
Amendment 80 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 31
Recital 31
Amendment 84 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 30
Recital 30
(30) It is appropriate to involve the video-sharing platform providers as much as possiblectively when implementing the appropriate measures to be taken pursuant to this Directive. Co-regulation should therefore be encouraged. With a view to ensuring a clear and consistent approach in this regard across the Union, Member States should not be entitled to require video-sharing platform providers to take stricter measures to protect minors from harmful content and all citizens from content containing incitement to violence or hatred than the ones provided for in this Directive. However, it should remain possible for Member States to take such stricter measures where that content is illegal, provided that they comply with Articles 14 and 15 of Directive 2000/31/EC, and to take measures with respect to content on websites containing or disseminating child pornography, as required by and allowed under Article 25 of Directive 2011/93/EU of the European Parliament and the Council35. It should also remain possible for video-sharing platform providers to take stricter measures on a voluntary basis. _________________ 35 Directive 2011/93/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 December 2011 on combating the sexual abuse and sexual exploitation of children and child pornography, and replacing Council Framework Decision 2004/68/JHA (OJ L 335, 17.12.2011, p. 1).
Amendment 84 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 33
Recital 33
Amendment 84 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 27
Recital 27
(27) As regards commercial communications on video-sharing platforms, they are already regulated by Directive 2005/29/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council, which prohibits unfair business-to-consumer commercial practices, including misleading and aggressive practices occurring in information society services. As regards commercial communications concerning tobacco and related products in video- sharing platforms, the existing prohibitions provided for in Directive 2003/33/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council, as well as the prohibitions applicable to communications concerning e-cigarettes and refill containers pursuant to Directive 2014/40/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council, ensure that consumers are sufficiently protected and must be applied to all audiovisual media. The measures set out in this Directive therefore complement those set out in Directives 2005/29/EC, 2003/33/EC and 2014/40/EU.
Amendment 86 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 31
Recital 31
(31) When taking the appropriate measures to protect minors from harmful content and to protect all citizens from content containing incitement to violence or hatred in accordance with this Directive, the applicable fundamental rights, as laid down in the Charter on Fundamental Rights of the European Union, should be carefully balanced and be taken into account by every audiovisual media service. That concerns in particular, as the case may be, the right to respect for private and family life and the protection of personal data, the freedom of expression and information, the freedom to conduct a business, the prohibition of discrimination and the right of the child.
Amendment 90 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 33
Recital 33
(33) Regulatory authorities of the Member States can achieve the requisite degree of structural independence only if established as separate legal entities. Member States should therefore guarantee the independence of the national regulatory authorities from both the government, public bodies and the industry with a view to ensuring their independence and thus the impartiality of their decisions. This requirement of independence should be without prejudice to the possibility for Member States to establish regulators having oversight over different sectors, such as audiovisual and telecom. National regulatory authorities should be in possession of the enforcement powers and resources necessary for the fulfilment of their tasks, in terms of staffing, expertise and financial means. The activities of national regulatory authorities established under this Directive should ensure respect for the objectives of media pluralism, cultural diversity, consumer protection, the internal market and the promotion of fair competition.
Amendment 93 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 30
Recital 30
(30) It is appropriate to involve the video-sharing platform providers as much as possiblectively when implementing the appropriate measures to be taken pursuant to this Directive. Co-regulation should therefore be encouraged. With a view to ensuring a clear and consistent approach in this regard across the Union, Member States should not be entitled to require video-sharing platform providers to take stricter measures to protect minors from harmful content and all citizens from content containing incitement to violence or hatred than the ones provided for in this Directive. However, it should remain possible for Member States to take such stricter measures where that content is illegal, provided that they comply with Articles 14 and 15 of Directive 2000/31/EC, and to take measures with respect to content on websites containing or disseminating child pornography, as required by and allowed under Article 25 of Directive 2011/93/EU of the European Parliament and the Council35. It should also remain possible for video-sharing platform providers to take stricter measures on a voluntary basis. _________________ 35 Directive 2011/93/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 December 2011 on combating the sexual abuse and sexual exploitation of children and child pornography, and replacing Council Framework Decision 2004/68/JHA (OJ L 335, 17.12.2011, p. 1).
Amendment 95 #
2016/0151(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 95 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 31
Recital 31
(31) When taking the appropriate measures to protect minors from harmful content and to protect all citizens from content containing incitement to violence or hatred in accordance with this Directive, the applicable fundamental rights, as laid down in the Charter on Fundamental Rights of the European Union, should be carefully balanced and be taken into account by every audiovisual media service. That concerns in particular, as the case may be, the right to respect for private and family life and the protection of personal data, the freedom of expression and information, the freedom to conduct a business, the prohibition of discrimination and the right of the child.
Amendment 97 #
2016/0151(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 b (new)
Citation 3 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 101 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 33
Recital 33
(33) Regulatory authorities of the Member States can achieve the requisite degree of structural independence only if established as separate legal entities. Member States should therefore guarantee the independence of the national regulatory authorities from both the government, public bodies and the industry with a view to ensuring their independence and thus the impartiality of their decisions. This requirement of independence should be without prejudice to the possibility for Member States to establish regulators having oversight over different sectors, such as audiovisual and telecom. National regulatory authorities should be in possession of the enforcement powers and resources necessary for the fulfilment of their tasks, in terms of staffing, expertise and financial means. The activities of national regulatory authorities established under this Directive should ensure respect for the objectives of media pluralism, cultural diversity, consumer protection, the internal market and the promotion of fair competition.
Amendment 104 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) The last substantive amendment to Directive 89/552/EEC of the Council27, later codified by Directive 2010/13/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council28, was made in 2007 with the adoption of Directive 2007/65/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council29. Since then, the market of audiovisual media services has evolved significantly and rapidly owing to the increased convergence between television and services distributed via the internet. Technical developments allow for new types of services and user experiences. The viewing habits, particularly of younger generations, have changed significantly. While the main TV screen remains an important device to share audiovisual experiences, many viewers have moved to other, portable devices to watch audiovisual content. Traditional TV content accounts still for a major share of the average daily viewing time. However, new types of content, such as short videos or user-generated content, gain increasing importance and new players, including providers of video-on- demand services and video-sharing platforms, are now well- established. __________________ 27 Directive 89/552/EEC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 3 October 1989 on the coordination of certain provisions laid down by law, regulation or administrative action in Member States concerning the provision of audiovisual media services (Audiovisual Media Services Directive) (OJ L 298, 17.10.1989, p. 23). 28 28 Directive 2010/13/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 10 March 2010 on the coordination of certain provisions laid down by law, regulation or administrative action in Member States concerning the provision of audiovisual media services (Audiovisual Media Services Directive) (OJ L 95, 15.4.2010, p. 1). 29 Directive 2007/65/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2007 amending Council Directive 89/552/EEC on the coordination of certain provisions laid down by law, regulation or administrative action in Member States concerning the pursuit of television broadcasting activities (OJ L 332, 18.12.2007, p. 27).
Amendment 124 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) In its Communication to the European Parliament and to the Council on Better Regulation for Better Results – an EU Agenda31, the Commission stressed that when considering policy solutions, it will consider both regulatory and well- designed non-regulatory means, modelled on the Community of practice and the Principles for Better Self- and Co- regulation32. A number of codes set up in the areas coordinated by the Directive have proved to be well designed, in line with the Principles for Better Self- and Co- regulation which may constitute a useful additional or complementary means for legislative action. The existence of a legislative backstop has been considered an important success factor in promoting compliance with a self- or co-regulatory code. It is equally important that the codes establish specific targets and objectives allowing for the regular, transparent and independent monitoring and evaluation of the objectives aimed by the codes. Graduated sanctions which maintain an element of proportionality are usually considered to be an effective approach in enforcing a scheme. These principles should be followed by the self- and co- regulatory codes adopted in the areas coordinated by this Directive. __________________ 31 COM(2015) 215 final. COM(2015) 215 final. 32 https://ec.europa.eu/digital-single- market/communities/better-self-and-co- regulation
Amendment 135 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) In order to empower viewers, including parents and minors, in making informed decisions about the content to be watched, it is necessary that audiovisual media service providers provide sufficient information about the content to be watched, in particular content that may impair minors' physical, mental or moral development. This could be done, for instance, through a system of content descriptors indicating the nature of the content. Content descriptors could be delivered through written, graphical or acoustic means.
Amendment 153 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) Similarly, Member States should be encouraged to ensure that self-and co- regulatory codes of conduct are used to effectively limit the exposure of children and minors to appropriate audiovisual commercial communications for alcoholic beverages. Certain co-regulatory or self- regulatory systems exist at Union and national level in order to market responsibly alcoholic beverages, including in audiovisual commercial communications. Those systems should be further encouraged, in particular those aiming at ensuring that responsible drinking messages accompany audiovisual commercial communications for alcoholic beverages.
Amendment 184 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) The liberalisation of product placement has not brought about the expected take-up of this form of audiovisual commercial communication. In particular, the general prohibition of product placement with some exceptions has not created legal certainty for audiovisual media service providers. Product placement should thus be allowed in all audiovisual media services, subject to exceptions, as it can create additional income for audiovisual media service providers. .
Amendment 196 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) The rule that a product should not be given undue prominence has proved difficult to apply in practice. It also restricts the take-up of product placement which, by definition, involves some level of prominent exposure to be able to generate value. The requirements for programmes containing product placement should thus focus on clearly informing the viewers of the existence of product placement and on ensuring that the audiovisual media service provider's editorial independence is not affected.
Amendment 251 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 25
Recital 25
(25) In order to ensure that obligations on promotion of European works do not undermine market development and to allow for the entry of new players in the market, companies with no significant presence on the market should not be subject to such requirements. This ishould be in particular the case for companies with a low turnover and low audiences and small and micro enterprises as defined in Commission Recommendation 2003/361/EC33. It could also be inappropriate to impose such requirements in cases where – given the nature or theme of the on-demand audiovisual media services– they would be impracticable or unjustified. __________________ 33 Commission Recommendation 2003/361/EC of 6 May 2003 concerning the definition of micro, small and medium- sized enterprises (OJ L 124, 20.5.2003, p. 36).
Amendment 263 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 27
Recital 27
(27) As regards commercial communications on video-sharing platforms, they are already regulated by Directive 2005/29/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council, which prohibits unfair business-to-consumer commercial practices, including misleading and aggressive practices occurring in information society services. As regards commercial communications concerning tobacco and related products in video- sharing platforms, the existing prohibitions provided for in Directive 2003/33/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council, as well as the prohibitions applicable to communications concerning e-cigarettes and refill containers pursuant to Directive 2014/40/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council, ensure that consumers are sufficiently protected and should be respected in all audiovisual media. The measures set out in this Directive therefore complement those set out in Directives 2005/29/EC, 2003/33/EC and 2014/40/EU.
Amendment 297 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 30
Recital 30
(30) It is appropriate to involve the video-sharing platform providers as much as possiblectively when implementing the appropriate measures to be taken pursuant to this Directive. Co-regulation should therefore be encouraged. With a view to ensuring a clear and consistent approach in this regard across the Union, Member States should not be entitled to require video-sharing platform providers to take stricter measures to protect minors from harmful content and all citizens from content containing incitement to violence or hatred than the ones provided for in this Directive. However, it should remain possible for Member States to take such stricter measures where that content is illegal, provided that they comply with Articles 14 and 15 of Directive 2000/31/EC, and to take measures with respect to content on websites containing or disseminating child pornography, as required by and allowed under Article 25 of Directive 2011/93/EU of the European Parliament and the Council35. It should also remain possible for video-sharing platform providers to take stricter measures on a voluntary basis. __________________ 35 Directive 2011/93/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 December 2011 on combating the sexual abuse and sexual exploitation of children and child pornography, and replacing Council Framework Decision 2004/68/JHA (OJ L 335, 17.12.2011, p. 1).
Amendment 302 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 31
Recital 31
(31) When taking the appropriate measures to protect minors from harmful content and to protect all citizens from content containing incitement to violence or hatred in accordance with this Directive, the applicable fundamental rights, as laid down in the Charter on Fundamental Rights of the European Union, should be carefully balanced and be taken into account by every audiovisual media service. That concerns in particular, as the case may be, the right to respect for private and family life and the protection of personal data, the freedom of expression and information, the freedom to conduct a business, the prohibition of discrimination and the right of the child.
Amendment 315 #
2016/0151(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 33
Recital 33
(33) Regulatory authorities of the Member States can achieve the requisite degree of structural independence only if established as separate legal entities. Member States should therefore guarantee the independence of the national regulatory authorities from both the government, public bodies and the industry with a view to ensuring their independence and thus the impartiality of their decisions. This requirement of independence should be without prejudice to the possibility for Member States to establish regulators having oversight over different sectors, such as audiovisual and telecom. National regulatory authorities should be in possession of the enforcement powers and resources necessary for the fulfilment of their tasks, in terms of staffing, expertise and financial means. The activities of national regulatory authorities established under this Directive should ensure respect for the objectives of media pluralism, cultural diversity, consumer protection, the internal market and the promotion of fair competition.
Amendment 198 #
2016/0148(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 199 #
2016/0148(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 b (new)
Citation 3 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 200 #
2016/0148(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The resulting ineffective enforcement of cross-border infringements, in particular in the digital environment, enables traders to evade enforcement by relocating within the Union, giving rise to a distortion of competition for law-abiding traders operating either domestically or cross- border, and thus directly harming consumers and undermining consumer confidence in cross-border transactions and the Single Market. An increased level of harmonisation setting effective and efficient enforcement cooperation among competent public enforcement authorities is therefore necessary to detect, investigate and order the cessation of intra-Union infringements and widespread infringements,
Amendment 201 #
2016/0148(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) Consumers should also be protected from short-lived intra-Union infringements and widespread infringements that only last for a short period of time but whose harmful effects may continue long after the infringement has stopped. Competent authorities should have the necessary powers to investigate and order a cessation of such infringements in the future, so as to ensure consumer protection,
Amendment 206 #
2016/0148(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) Competent authorities should have access to all necessary evidence, data and information to determine whether an intra- Union infringement or widespread infringement has occurred, and in particular to identify the trader responsible, irrespective of who possesses this evidence, information or data, of where it is located and of its format. Competent authorities should be able to directly request that third parties in the digital value chain provide all the evidence, data and information necessary, while consistently respecting the principles of personal data protection,
Amendment 213 #
2016/0148(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) In the digital environment in particular, the competent authorities should be able to stopprevent infringements quickly and effectively, notably where the trader selling goods or services conceals hits identity or relocates within the Union or to a third country to avoid enforcement. In cases where there is a risk of serious and irreparable harm to consumers, the competent authorities should to be able to adopt interim measures to prevent such harm or reduce it, including, where necessary, the suspension of a website, domain or a similar digital site, service or account. Furthermore, the competent authorities should have the power to take down or have a third party service provider take down a website, domain or a similar digital site, service or account,
Amendment 219 #
2016/0148(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) In order to ensure that traders are sufficiently deterred from committing or repeating infringements and that they will not profit from those infringements, the rules on penalties which have been adopted by Member States in accordance with the requirements of Union laws that protect consumers’ interests should also be observed and applied to intra-Union infringements and widespread infringements. For those same reasons, consumers should be entitled to redress for harm caused by such infringements.
Amendment 230 #
2016/0148(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) The effectiveness and efficacy of the mutual assistance mechanism should be improved immediately. Information requested should be provided in a timely manner and the necessary enforcement measures should be adopted in a timely manner. The Commission should therefore set binding time periods for competent authorities to reply to information and enforcement requests, and clarify procedural and other aspects of handling information and enforcement requests, by means of implementing measures,
Amendment 232 #
2016/0148(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20
Recital 20
(20) In the context of widespread infringements and widespread infringement with a Union dimension, the rights of defence of the traders concerned shouldmust be respected. This requires, in particular, giving the trader the right to be heard and to use the language of its choice during the proceedings,
Amendment 233 #
2016/0148(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) If a trader responsible for the widespread infringement or the widespread infringement with a Union dimension fails to cease the infringement voluntarily, the competent authorities of the Member States concerned should designate one competent authority in a Member State to take the enforcement action adapted to preserveotect the rights of consumers residing in the other Member States concerned by the infringement. That competent authority should be designated, taking into account its capacity to take effective action against the trader, for instance where the trader is established in the Member State of that authority. The designated competent authority should act as if the consumers of the other Member States were its own consumers. Where necessary, to avoid extraterritorial application of the law, several or all the Member States concerned by the infringement should be allowed to adopt enforcement measures at the same time to protect their own consumers or consumers residing in other Member States. This may be needed, for instance, to stop infringements of a similar nature by subsidiaries of a company, established in more than one Member State, which affect the consumers of those Member States only, without an apparent cross-border element (parallel infringements),
Amendment 234 #
2016/0148(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 22
Recital 22
(22) The surveillance mechanism and alert mechanism should be strengthenedimproved immediately to ensure the timely and effective detection of widespread infringements. The information which should be exchanged and the follow up required following an exchange of information should be clarified in order to ensure that alerts that require action are duly acted upon and addressed. The Commission should coordinate the functioning of the surveillance mechanism,
Amendment 244 #
2016/0148(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 35
Recital 35
(35) This Regulation respects fundamental rights and observes the principles recognised in particular by the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union67 . Accordingly this Regulation shouldmust be interpreted and applied with respect to those rights and principles. When exercising the minimum powers set out in this Regulation, the competent authorities should strike an appropriate balance between the interests protected by fundamental rights such as a high level of consumer protection, the freedom to conduct business and freedom of information. _________________ 67 OJ C 364, 18.12.2000, p. 1.
Amendment 3 #
2016/0145(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No. 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 4 #
2016/0145(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 6 #
2016/0145(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) It is essential that identical rules for determining the characteristics of fishing vessels which shall be in line with the standards of the Common Fisheries Policy should be used in order to unify the conditions for the pursuit of the activity in the Union .
Amendment 8 #
2016/0145(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) Therefore, account should be taken by all Member States of the Union of the International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, signed in London on 23 June 1969 (1969 Convention) , and the International Convention for the Safety of Fishing Vessels, signed in Torremolinos on 2 April 1977, both drawn up under the aegis of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Amendment 10 #
2016/0142(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No. 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 13 #
2016/0142(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 19 #
2016/0142(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) In particular, the use of the mechanism should be facilitated by shortening reference periods and deadlines allowing for a faster procedure and by extending the possible grounds of suspension, which should include a substantial increase in the number of rejected readmission applications for third- country nationals having transited through the third country concerned, where a readmission agreement concluded between the Union or a Member State and that third country provides for such a readmission obligation, as well as issues of public order and national security. The Commission should also be able to trigger the mechanism in case the third country fails to cooperate on readmission, in particular where a readmission agreement has been concluded between the third country concerned and the Union.
Amendment 25 #
2016/0142(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Regulation (EC) No 539/2001
Article 1a – paragraph 2 – introductory part
Article 1a – paragraph 2 – introductory part
« 2. A Member State may notify the Commission if it is confronted, over a twoone- month period, in comparison with the same period in the previous year or with the last two months prior to the implementation of the exemption from the visa requirement for nationals of a third country listed in Annex II, with one or more of the following circumstances which it is unable to remedy on its own, namely:
Amendment 37 #
2016/0142(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Regulation (EC) No 539/2001
Article 1a – paragraph 2 – point c a (new)
Article 1a – paragraph 2 – point c a (new)
(ca) the presence of nationals of the third country concerned who pose a threat to the internal security and public order of the Member State in question.
Amendment 52 #
2016/0142(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4
Regulation (EC) No 539/2001
Article 1a – paragraph 3 – point b
Article 1a – paragraph 3 – point b
(b) the numberinterests of Member States affected by any of the situations described in paragraphs 2 and 2a;, on the basis of reports drawn up by the competent State bodies,
Amendment 58 #
2016/0142(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5
Regulation (EC) No 539/2001
Article 1a – paragraph 4
Article 1a – paragraph 4
(5) in paragraph 4, ‘three me first subparagraph is replaced by the following: Where the Commission, on ths’ e basis of the examination referred to in paragraph 3, and taking into account the consequences of a suspension of the exemption from the visa replaced by ‘one month’. quirement, decides that action is needed, it shall, within one month of receipt of the notification referred to in paragraph 2, adopt an implementing act temporarily suspending for a period of 6 months the exemption from the visa requirement for the nationals of that third country. That implementing act shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in Article 4a(2). The implementing act shall determine the date on which the suspension of the exemption from the visa requirement is to take effect.
Amendment 1 #
2016/0139(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
–
–
The Committee on Foreign Affairs calls on the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, as the committee responsible, to propose rejection of the Commission proposal.
Amendment 2 #
Amendment 3 #
2016/0139(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No. 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 4 #
2016/0139(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 5 #
2016/0139(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 4
Citation 4
having regard to Rule 59 of itsthe Rules of Procedure of the European Parliament,
Amendment 7 #
2016/0139(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
Amendment 9 #
2016/0139(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
Amendment 11 #
2016/0139(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point β
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point β
Regulation (EC) No 539/2001
Annex II – part 4
Annex II – part 4
Amendment 12 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 13 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 14 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) In its Communication of 6 April 2016, the Commission set out its options for improving the CEAS, namely to establish a sustainable and fair system for determining the Member States responsible for asylum seekers, to reinforce the Eurodac system, to achieve greater convergence in the asylum system and to prevent secondary movements, and develop an enhanced mandate for the European Asylum Support Office. That Communication is in line with calls by the European Council on 18 February 2016 to make progress towards reforming the EU's existing framework so as to ensure a humane, fair and efficient asylum policy. It also proposes a way forward in line with the holistic approach to migration set out by the European Parliament in its own initiative report of 12 April 2016.
Amendment 18 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The CEAS is based on common minimum standards for asylum procedures, recognition and protection offered at Union level, reception conditions and a system for determining the Member State responsible for asylum seekers. Notwithstanding progress on the CEAS, there are still significant disparities between the Member States in the granting of international protection and in the form that such international protection takes. Those disparities should be addressed by ensuring greater convergence in the assessment of applications for international protection and by guaranteeing a high and uniform level of application of Union law across the Union.
Amendment 20 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The tasks of the European Asylum Support Office should be expanded, and to reflect those changes, it should be renamed European Union Agency for Asylum. The Agency should be a centre of expertise and its main role should be to strengthen practical cooperation and information exchange among Member States on asylum, promote Union law and operational standards to ensure a high degree of uniformity and fairness as regards asylum procedures, reception conditions and the assessment of protection needs across the Union, monitor the operational and technical application of Union law and standards as regards asylum, support the Dublin system and provide increased operational and technical support to Member States for the management of the asylum and reception systems, in particular those whose systems are subject to disproportionate pressure.
Amendment 24 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) In its Communication of 6 April 2016, the Commission set out its options for improving the CEAS, namely to establish a sustainable and fair system for determining the Member States responsible for asylum seekers, to reinforce the Eurodac system, to achieve greater convergence in the asylum system and to prevent secondary movements, and develop an enhanced mandate for the European Asylum Support Office. That Communication is in line with calls by the European Council on 18 February 2016 to make progress towards reforming the EU's existing framework so as to ensure a humane, non-discriminatory and efficient asylum policy. It also proposes a way forward in line with the holistic approach to migration set out by the European Parliament in its own initiative report of 12 April 2016.
Amendment 29 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) The European Union Agency for Asylum should assistct as a support to Member States with training of experts from all national administrations, courts and tribunals, and national services responsible for asylum matters, including the development of a common core curriculum. In addition, the Agency should ensure that all experts participating in asylum support teams or forming part of the asylum intervention pool receive specialist training before their participation in operational activities organised by the Agency.
Amendment 32 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) The common EU list of safe countries of origin established by Regulation (EU) No XXX/XXX 9should be regularly reviewed by the Commission, as well as in special circumstances, whenever considered necessary. Having regard to the Agency's expertise, it should assist the Commission in reviewing that list. The Agency should also, at the request of the Commission, provide it with information on specific third countries which could be included in the common EU list of safe countries of origin, and on third countries designated as safe countries of origin or safe third countries or to which the concepts of safe third country, first country of asylum or European safe third country by Member States apply. __________________ 9This list may be different for each category of asylum seeker. __________________ OJ L […]. 9 OJ L […].
Amendment 33 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The tasks of the European Asylum Support Office should be expanded, and to reflect those changes, it should be renamed European Union Agency for Asylum. The Agency should be a centre of expertise and its main role should be to strengthen practical cooperation and information exchange among Member States on asylum, promote Union law and operational standards to ensure a high degree of uniformity and equal treatment as regards asylum procedures, reception conditions and the assessment of protection needs across the Union, monitor the operational and technical application of Union law and standards as regards asylum, support the Dublin system and provide increased operational and technical support to Member States for the management of the asylum and reception systems, in particular those whose systems are subject to disproportionate pressure.
Amendment 34 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) To ensure a high degree of uniformity as regards asylum procedures, reception conditions and the assessment of protection needs across the Union, the Agency should organise and coordinate activities promoting Union law. For that purpose, the Agency should assistct as a support to Member States by developing operational standards and indicators for monitoring compliance with those standards. The Agency should also develop guidelines on asylum-related matters and should enable the exchange of best practices among Member States.
Amendment 42 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) The European Union Agency for Asylum should assisct to support Member States with training of experts from all national administrations, courts and tribunals, and national services responsible for asylum matters, including the development of a common core curriculum. In addition, the Agency should ensure that all experts participating in asylum support teams or forming part of the asylum intervention pool receive specialist training before their participation in operational activities organised by the Agency.
Amendment 46 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) For Member States that are faced with specific and disproportionate pressure on their asylum and reception systems due, in particular, to their geographical or demographic situation, the European Union Agency for Asylum should support the development of solidarity within the Union and assist in the betterfastest possible relocation of beneficiaries of and applicants for international protection among Member States, while ensuring that asylum and reception systems are not abused.
Amendment 53 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 24
Recital 24
(24) The European Union Agency for Asylum should facilitate operational cooperation between Member States in matters covered by this Regulation. It should also cooperate with authorities of third-countries in the framework of working arrangements which should receive the Commission's prior approval. The Agency should act in accordance with the Union's external relations policy and without hindering or conflicting with the external policy of Member States, and under no circumstances should it formulate any independent external policy. In their cooperation with third countries, the Agency and the Member States should comply with norms and standards at least equivalent to those set by Union legislation also when the cooperation with third countries takes place on the territory of those countries.
Amendment 54 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) The common EU list of safe countries of origin established by Regulation (EU) No XXX/XXX9 9should be regularly reviewed by the Commission, as well as in special circumstances, whenever considered necessary. Having regard to the Agency's expertise, it should assist the Commission in reviewing that list. The Agency should also, at the request of the Commission, provide it with information on specific third countries which could be included in the common EU list of safe countries of origin, and on third countries designated as safe countries of origin or safe third countries or to which the concepts of safe third country, first country of asylum or European safe third country by Member States apply. This list may be different for each category of asylum seeker. __________________ 9 OJ L […].
Amendment 60 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 27
Recital 27
(27) The Commission and the Member States should be represented on the Management Board of the European Union Agency for Asylum in order to exercise a policy and political oversight over its workings. The Management Board should, where possible, consist of the operational heads of the Member States' asylum administrations or their representatives. It should be given the necessary powers, in particular to establish the budget, verify its execution, adopt the appropriate financial rules, establish transparent working procedures for decision-making by the Agency, and appoint an Executive Director and Deputy Executive Director. The Agency should be governed and operated in line with the principles of the Common Approach on Union decentralised agencies adopted on 19 July 2012 by the European Parliament, the Council and the European Commission. Its headquarters should be located in a Member State which, because of its geographical location, is more exposed to disproportionate flows of refugees and migrants and consequent pressures.
Amendment 61 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) To ensure a high degree of uniformity as regards asylum procedures, reception conditions and the assessment of protection needs across the Union, the Agency should organise and coordinate activities promoting Union law. For that purpose, the Agency should assistct as a support for Member States by developing operational standards and indicators for monitoring compliance with those standards. The Agency should also develop guidelines on asylum-related matters and should enable the exchange of best practices among Member States.
Amendment 63 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 28
Recital 28
Amendment 75 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 42
Recital 42
(42) Since the objectives of this Regulation, namely the need to facilitate the implementation and improve the functioning of the CEAS, to strengthen practical cooperation and information exchange among Member States on asylum-related matters, to promote Union law and operational standards to ensure a high degree of uniformity and fairness as regards asylum procedures, reception conditions and the assessment of protection needs across the Union, to monitor the operational and technical application of Union law and standards as regards asylum and to provide increased operational and technical support to Member States for the management of the asylum and reception systems, in particular to Member States subject to disproportionate pressure on their asylum and reception systems, cannot be sufficiently achieved by the Member States and can therefore, by reason of the scale and effects of the action, be better achieved at the level of the Union, the Union may adopt measures in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in Article 5 of the TEU. In accordance with the principle of proportionality, as set out in that Article, this Regulation does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve those objectives.
Amendment 76 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 45
Recital 45
(45) Taking into account that Denmark has until now contributed to the practical cooperation between Member States within the area of asylum, the Agency should facilitate operational cooperation with Denmark. To that end, aA Danish representative should be invited to participate in all the meetings of the Management Board, without the right to vote.
Amendment 80 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) For Member States that are faced with specific and disproportionate pressure on their asylum and reception systems due, in particular, to their geographical or demographic situation, the European Union Agency for Asylum should support the development of solidarity within the Union and assist in the betterfastest possible relocation of beneficiaries of and applicants for international protection among Member States, while ensuring that asylum and reception systems are not abused.
Amendment 81 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20
Recital 20
Amendment 95 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 24
Recital 24
(24) The European Union Agency for Asylum should facilitate operational cooperation between Member States in matters covered by this Regulation. It should also cooperate with authorities of third-countries in the framework of working arrangements which should receive the Commission's prior approval. The Agency should act in accordance with the Union's external relations policy and without hindering or conflicting with the external policy of Member States, and under no circumstances should it formulate any independent external policy. In their cooperation with third countries, the Agency and the Member States should comply with norms and standards at least equivalent to those set by Union legislation also when the cooperation with third countries takes place on the territory of those countries.
Amendment 102 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 28
Recital 28
Amendment 104 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 42
Recital 42
(42) Since the objectives of this Regulation, namely the need to facilitate the implementation and improve the functioning of the CEAS, to strengthen practical cooperation and information exchange among Member States on asylum-related matters, to promote Union law and operational standards to ensure a high degree of uniformity and equal treatment as regards asylum procedures, reception conditions and the assessment of protection needs across the Union, to monitor the operational and technical application of Union law and standards as regards asylum and to provide increased operational and technical support to Member States for the management of the asylum and reception systems, in particular to Member States subject to disproportionate pressure on their asylum and reception systems, cannot be sufficiently achieved by the Member States and can therefore, by reason of the scale and effects of the action, be better achieved at the level of the Union, the Union may adopt measures in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in Article 5 of the TEU. In accordance with the principle of proportionality, as set out in that Article, this Regulation does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve those objectives.
Amendment 105 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 45
Recital 45
(45) Taking into account that Denmark has until now contributed to the practical cooperation between Member States within the area of asylum, the Agency should facilitate operational cooperation with Denmark. To that end, aA Danish representative should be invited to participate in all the meetings of the Management Board, without the right to vote.
Amendment 112 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6
Article 6
Amendment 113 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1
Article 6 – paragraph 1
Amendment 126 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 1
Article 8 – paragraph 1
1. The Agency shall be a centre for gathering objective, relevant, reliable, accurate and up-to date information on countries of origin of persons applying for international protection, including child- specific information and targeted information on persons belonging to vulnerable groups. It shall draw up and regularly update reports and other products providing for information on countries of origin at the level of the Union including on thematic issues specific to countries of origin.
Amendment 131 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1
Article 10 – paragraph 1
1. To foster convergence in applying the assessment criteria established in Directive 2011/95/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council22, the Agency shall coordinate efforts among Member States to engage in and develop a common analysis providing guidance on the situation in specific countries of origin. __________________ 22 Directive 2011/95/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 December 2011 on standards for the qualification of third-country nationals or stateless persons as beneficiaries of international protection, for a uniform status for refugees or for persons eligible for subsidiary protection, and for the content of the protection granted (recast) (OJ L 337, 20.12.2011, p. 9).
Amendment 133 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 2
Article 10 – paragraph 2
Amendment 140 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 1
Article 11 – paragraph 1
1. The Agency shall assist the Commission in regularly reviewing, and in reviewing at other times in the event that this is deemed necessary, the situation in third countries which are included in the common EU list of safe countries of origin established by Regulation (EU) No XXX/XXX, including those that have been suspended by the Commission and those that have been removed from that list.
Amendment 205 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 1
Article 19 – paragraph 1
1. The Executive Director and the host Member State shall agree on an operational plan. The operational plan shall be binding on the Agency, the host and participating Member States.
Amendment 222 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 4
Article 22 – paragraph 4
4. For the purposes of paragraph 3, the Executive Director shall, within two working days from the date of adoption of the Commission decision, determine the actions needed to be taken for the practical execution of the measures identified in the Commission decision. In parallel, the Executive Director and the Member State concerned shall agree on the operational plan.
Amendment 237 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 1
Article 26 – paragraph 1
1. Where experts of an asylum support team or from the asylum intervention pool are operating in a host Member State, thae Agency and the host Member State shall be liable in accordance with its national law for any damage caused by them during their operations.
Amendment 238 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 2
Article 26 – paragraph 2
Amendment 240 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 3
Article 26 – paragraph 3
3. Without prejudice to the exercise of its rights vis-à-vis third parties, each Member State shall waive all its claims against the host Member State or any other Member State for any damage it has sustained, except in cases of gross negligence or wilful misconduct.
Amendment 241 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 4
Article 26 – paragraph 4
4. Any dispute between Member States or with the Agency relating to the application of paragraphs 21 and 3 of this Article which cannot be resolved by negotiations between them shall be submitted by them to the Court of Justice of the European Union in accordance with Article 273 of the Treaty.
Amendment 243 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 5
Article 26 – paragraph 5
5. Without prejudice to the exercise of its rights vis-à-vis third parties, the Agency shall meet costs relating to damage caused to the Agency's equipment during deployment, except in cases of gross negligence or wilful misconduct.
Amendment 254 #
2016/0131(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 56
Article 56
Amendment 22 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
Having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 23 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 4 b (new)
Citation 4 b (new)
Having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 26 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Directive 2004/37/EC should effectively aims to protect workers against risks to their health and safety from exposure to carcinogens or mutagens at the workplace and lays down minimum requirements to that effect including limit values, on the basis of the available scientific and technical data.
Amendment 28 #
2016/0130(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 29 #
2016/0130(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 b (new)
Citation 3 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 33 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Directive 2004/37/EC should effectively aims to protect workers against risks to their health and safety from exposure to carcinogens or mutagens at the workplace and lays down minimum requirements to that effect including limit values, on the basis of the available scientific and technical data.
Amendment 40 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) For someall carcinogens and mutagens it is necessary to consider other absorption pathways, including the possibility of penetration through the skin, in order to ensure the best possible level of protection.
Amendment 45 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) The Scientific Committee on Occupational Exposure Limits ( ‘the Committee’) assists the Commission, in particular, in evaluating the latest available scientific data and in proposing occupational exposure limits for the protection of workers from chemical risks, to be set at EU level pursuant to Council Directive 98/24/EC47 and Directive 2004/37/EC. ForRegarding the chemical agents o- toluidine and 2-nitropropane, there were no Committee recommendations available and other sources of scientific information, adequately robust and in the public domain, were considered 48 49 . __________________ 47 Council Directive 98/24/EC of 7 April 1998 on the protection of the health and safety of workers from the risks related to chemical agents at work (fourteenth individual Directive within the meaning of Article 16(1) of Directive 89/391/EEC) (OJ L 131, 05.05.1998, p. 11). 48 http://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Monograph s/vol77/mono77- 11.pdfhttp://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Mon ographs/vol99/mono99-15.pdf and http://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Monograph s/vol100F/mono100F-11.pdf 49 http://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Monograph s/vol1-42/mono29.pdf καιand http://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Monograph s/vol71/mono71-49.pdf
Amendment 48 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) There is sufficient evidence of the carcinogenicity of respirable crystalline silica dust. On the basis of available information, including scientific and technical data, a limit value for respirable crystalline silica dust should be established. Respirable crystalline silica dust generated by a work process is not subject to classification in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council50. It is therefore appropriatenecessary to include work involving exposure to respirable crystalline silica dust generated by a work process in Annex I to Directive 2004/37/EC and to establish a limit value for respirable crystalline silica dust ('respirable fraction') . __________________ 50 Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2008 on classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures (OJ L 353, 31.12.2008, p. 1).
Amendment 51 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) Guides and good practice developed through initiatives such as the Social Dialogue "Agreement on Workers' Health Protection Through the Good Handling and Use of Crystalline Silica and Products Containing it" (NEPSi) are valuable instruments to complement regulatory measures and in particular to support the effective implementation of limit values and should therefore be given serious consideration.
Amendment 54 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) 1,2-Epoxypropane meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic (category 1B) in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and therefore is a carcinogen within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. On the basis of the available information, including scientific and technical data, it is possible to identify a clear exposure level below which exposure to this carcinogen is not expected to lead to adverse effects. It is therefore appropriatenecessary to establish such a limit value for 1,2-epoxypropane .
Amendment 55 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) 1,3-Butadiene meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic (category 1A) in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and therefore is a carcinogen within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. It is possible, on the basis of available information, including scientific and technical data, to set a limit value for this carcinogen. It is therefore appropriatenecessary to establish a limit value for 1,3-butadiene .
Amendment 56 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) itropropane meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic (category 1B) in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and therefore is a carcinogen within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. It is possible, on the basis of available information, including scientific and technical data, to set a limit value for this carcinogen. It is therefore appropriatenecessary to establish a limit value for 2- nitropropane.
Amendment 57 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) Acrylamide meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic (category 1B) in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and therefore is a carcinogen within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. It is possible, on the basis of the available information, including scientific and technical data, to set a limit value for acrylamide. The Committee identified for acrylamide the possibility of significant uptake through the skin. It is therefore appropriatimperative to establish a limit value for acrylamide and to assign to it a notation indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake.
Amendment 58 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) Certain chromium (VI) compounds meet the criteria for classification as carcinogenic category 1A or 1B in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and therefore are carcinogens within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. It is possible, on the basis of the available information, including scientific and technical data, to set out a limit value for these chromium VI compounds. It is therefore appropriatimperative to establish a limit value for chromium (VI) compounds that are carcinogens within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC.
Amendment 59 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) Ethylene oxide meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic (category 1B) in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and therefore is a carcinogen within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. It is possible, on the basis of available information, including scientific and technical data, to set a limit value for this carcinogen. The Committee identified for ethylene oxide the possibility of significant uptake through the skin. It is therefore appropriatenecessary to establish a limit value for ethylene oxide and to assign to it a notation indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake.
Amendment 60 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) o-Toluidine meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic (category 1B) in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and therefore is a carcinogen within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. It is possible, on the basis of available information, including scientific and technical data, to set a limit value for this carcinogen. It is therefore appropriatenecessary to establish a limit value for o-toluidine.
Amendment 61 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) Certain refractory ceramic fibres meet the criteria for classification as carcinogenic category 1B in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and therefore are carcinogens within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. It is possible, on the basis of the available information, including scientific and technical data, to set a limit value for the refractory ceramic fibres which are carcinogens within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. It is therefore appropriateurgently necessary to establish a limit value for these refractory ceramic fibres.
Amendment 62 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) For someall carcinogens and mutagens it is necessary to consider other absorption pathways, including the possibility of penetration through the skin, in order to ensure the best possible level of protection.
Amendment 62 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) Bromoethylene meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic (category 1B) in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and therefore is a carcinogen within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. It is possible, on the basis of available information, including scientific and technical data, to set a limit value for this carcinogen. It is therefore appropriateurgently necessary to establish a limit value for bromoethylene.
Amendment 63 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) Hydrazine meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic (category 1B) in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and therefore is a carcinogen within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. It is possible, on the basis of available information, including scientific and technical data, to set a limit value for hydrazine. The Committee identified for this carcinogen the possibility of significant uptake through the skin. It is therefore appropriatenecessary to establish a limit value for hydrazine and to assign to it a notation indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake.
Amendment 66 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) The limit values set in this Directive will be kept under review in the light of the implementation of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006, in particular to take account of the interaction between limit values set out under Directive 2004/37/EC and DNELs (Derived No Effect Levels) derived for hazardous chemicals under that Regulation so as to protect workers effectively.
Amendment 68 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 22
Recital 22
(22) Since the objectives of this Directive, which are to improve living and working conditions and to protect the health of workers from the specific risks arising from exposure to carcinogens, cannot be sufficientfully achieved by the Member States, but can be better achieved at EU level, the EU mayust adopt immediate measures, in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in Article 5(3) of the Treaty on European Union. In accordance with the principle of proportionality, as set out in Article 5(4) of the TEU, this Directive does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve those objectives.
Amendment 69 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) The Scientific Committee on Occupational Exposure Limits ( ‘the Committee’) assists the Commission, in particular, in evaluating the latest available scientific data and in proposing occupational exposure limits for the protection of workers from chemical risks, to be set at EU level pursuant to Council Directive 98/24/EC47 and Directive 2004/37/EC. ForAs regards the chemical agents o- toluidine and 2-nitropropane, there were no Committee recommendations available and other sources of scientific information, adequately robust and in the public domain, were considered48 ,49. __________________ 47 Council Directive 98/24/EC of 7 April 1998 on the protection of the health and safety of workers from the risks related to chemical agents at work (fourteenth individual Directive within the meaning of Article 16(1) of Directive 89/391/EEC) (OJ L 131, 05.05.1998, p. 11). 48 http://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Monograph s/vol77/mono77-11.pdf http://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Monograph s/vol99/mono99-15.pdf and http://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Monograph s/vol100F/mono100F-11.pdf 49 http://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Monograph s/vol1-42/mono29.pdf and http://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Monograph s/vol71/mono71-49.pdf
Amendment 73 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) There is sufficient evidence of the carcinogenicity of respirable crystalline silica dust. On the basis of available information, including scientific and technical data, a limit value for respirable crystalline silica dust should be established. Respirable crystalline silica dust generated by a work process is not subject to classification in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council.50 It is therefore appropriatenecessary to include work involving exposure to respirable crystalline silica dust generated by a work process in Annex I to Directive 2004/37/EC and to establish a limit value for respirable crystalline silica dust ('respirable fraction') . __________________ 50 Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2008 on classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures (OJ L 353, 31.12.2008, p. 1).
Amendment 77 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) Guides and good practice developed through initiatives such as the Social Dialogue "Agreement on Workers' Health Protection Through the Good Handling and Use of Crystalline Silica and Products Containing it" (NEPSi) are valuable instruments to complement regulatory measures and in particular to support the effective implementation of limit values and should therefore be given serious consideration.
Amendment 86 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) 1,2-Epoxypropane meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic (category 1B) in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and therefore is a carcinogen within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. On the basis of the available information, including scientific and technical data, it is possible to identify a clear exposure level below which exposure to this carcinogen is not expected to lead to adverse effects. It is therefore appropriatenecessary to establish such a limit value for 1,2-epoxypropane .
Amendment 87 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) 1,3-Butadiene meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic (category 1A) in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and therefore is a carcinogen within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. It is possible, on the basis of available information, including scientific and technical data, to set a limit value for this carcinogen. It is therefore appropriatenecessary to establish a limit value for 1,3-butadiene .
Amendment 88 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) itropropane meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic (category 1B) in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and therefore is a carcinogen within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. It is possible, on the basis of available information, including scientific and technical data, to set a limit value for this carcinogen. It is therefore appropriatenecessary to establish a limit value for 2- nitropropane.
Amendment 89 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) Acrylamide meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic (category 1B) in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and therefore is a carcinogen within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. It is possible, on the basis of the available information, including scientific and technical data, to set a limit value for acrylamide. The Committee identified for acrylamide the possibility of significant uptake through the skin. It is therefore appropriatimperative to establish a limit value for acrylamide and to assign to it a notation indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake.
Amendment 90 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) Certain chromium (VI) compounds meet the criteria for classification as carcinogenic category 1A or 1B in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and therefore are carcinogens within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. It is possible, on the basis of the available information, including scientific and technical data, to set out a limit value for these chromium VI compounds. It is therefore appropriatimperative to establish a limit value for chromium (VI) compounds that are carcinogens within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC.
Amendment 92 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) Ethylene oxide meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic (category 1B) in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and therefore is a carcinogen within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. It is possible, on the basis of available information, including scientific and technical data, to set a limit value for this carcinogen. The Committee identified for ethylene oxide the possibility of significant uptake through the skin. It is therefore appropriatenecessary to establish a limit value for ethylene oxide and to assign to it a notation indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake.
Amendment 93 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) o-Toluidine meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic (category 1B) in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and therefore is a carcinogen within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. It is possible, on the basis of available information, including scientific and technical data, to set a limit value for this carcinogen. It is therefore appropriatenecessary to establish a limit value for o-toluidine.
Amendment 94 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) Certain refractory ceramic fibres meet the criteria for classification as carcinogenic category 1B in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and therefore are carcinogens within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. It is possible, on the basis of the available information, including scientific and technical data, to set a limit value for the refractory ceramic fibres which are carcinogens within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. It is therefore appropriateurgently necessary to establish a limit value for these refractory ceramic fibres.
Amendment 95 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) Bromoethylene meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic (category 1B) in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and therefore is a carcinogen within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. It is possible, on the basis of available information, including scientific and technical data, to set a limit value for this carcinogen. It is therefore appropriateurgently necessary to establish a limit value for bromoethylene.
Amendment 96 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) Hydrazine meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic (category 1B) in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and therefore is a carcinogen within the meaning of Directive 2004/37/EC. It is possible, on the basis of available information, including scientific and technical data, to set a limit value for hydrazine. The Committee identified for this carcinogen the possibility of significant uptake through the skin. It is therefore appropriatenecessary to establish a limit value for hydrazine and to assign to it a notation indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake.
Amendment 114 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) The limit values set in this Directive will be kept under review in the light of the implementation of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006, in particular to take account of the interaction between limit values set out under Directive 2004/37/EC and DNELs (Derived No Effect Levels) derived for hazardous chemicals under that Regulation so as to protect workers effectively.
Amendment 116 #
2016/0130(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 22
Recital 22
(22) Since the objectives of this Directive, which are to improve living and working conditions and to protect the health of workers from the specific risks arising from exposure to carcinogens, cannot be sufficientfully achieved by the Member States, but can be better achieved at EU level, the EU mayust adopt immediate measures, in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in Article 5(3) of the Treaty on European Union. In accordance with the principle of proportionality, as set out in Article 5(4) of the TEU, this Directive does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve those objectives.
Amendment 2 #
2016/0110(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) On the basis of Regulation (EU) No 258/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council8, the International Financial Reporting Standards Foundation (the IFRS Foundation), which is the legal successor to the International Accounting Standards Committee Foundation (IASCF), and the Public Interest Oversight Board (PIOB) benefit from Union co-financing in the form of operating grants until 31 December 2020, in order to achieve financial stability through the International Financial Reporting Standards and International Accounting Standards. __________________ 8 Regulation (EU) No 258/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 3 April 2014 establishing a Union Programme to support specific activities in the field of financial reporting and auditing for the period of 2014-20 and repealing Decision No 716/2009/EC (OJ L 105, 8.4.2014, p. 1).
Amendment 4 #
2016/0110(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) On 12 November 2013, the Commission published the report of Philippe Maystadt, special advisor to the Commissioner responsible for internal market and services (the ‘special advisor’s report’), in which he outlined potential reforms to EFRAG governance aimed at reinforcing the Union’s contribution to the development of international accounting standards, in a bid to improve the international comparability and transparency of financial reporting on the situation of economic entities.
Amendment 5 #
2016/0110(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) The Commission closely monitored the implementation of the reform of EFRAG governance and informed duly the European Parliament and the Council of the progress in its implementation. The Commission found that EFRAG successfully implemented the conclusions of the special advisor’s report, by implementing a new governance structure, which has increased the legitimacy and representativeness of EFRAG. Therefore it is appropriate to continue financing of EFRAG for the period 2017-2020 in order to meet the long-term objectives of the Union programme to support specific activities in the field of financial reporting and auditing.
Amendment 14 #
2016/0110(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
Amendment 6 #
2016/0106(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 7 #
2016/0106(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 10 #
2016/0106(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) To meet those objectives, the EES should process alphanumeric data and biometric data (fingerprints and facial image). The use of biometrics, despite its impact on the privacy of travellers, is justified for two reasons. Firstly, biometrics are a reliable method to identify third country nationals within the territory of the Member States not in possession of travel documents or any other means of identification, a common modus operandi of irregular migrants. Secondly, biometrics provide for the more reliable matching of entry and exit data of legal travellers. Where facial images are used in combination with fingerprint data, it allows for the reduction of fingerprints registered while enabling the same result in terms of accuracy of the identification.
Amendment 13 #
2016/0106(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) Requests for access to data stored in the Central System should be made by the operating units within the designated authorities to the central access point and should be justified. The operating units within the designated authorities that are authorised to request access to EES data should not act as a verifying authority. The central access points should act independently of the designated authorities and should be responsible for ensuring, in an independent manner, strict compliance with the conditions for access as established in this Regulation. In exceptional cases of urgency, where early access is necessary to respond to a specific and actual threat related to terrorist offences or other serious criminal offences, the central access point should be able to process the request immediately and only carry out the verification afterwards.
Amendment 14 #
2016/0106(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 25
Recital 25
(25) The personal data stored in the EES should be kept for no longer than is necessary for the purposes of the EES. It is appropriate to keep the data related to third country nationals for a period of fiseven years for border management purposes in order to avoid the need for third country nationals to re-enrol in the EES before that period has lapsed. For third country nationals who are family members of a Union citizen to whom Directive 2004/38/EC 27 applies or of a national of a third country enjoying the right of free movement under Union law and who do not hold a residence card referred to under Directive 2004/38/EC, it is appropriate to store each coupled entry/ exit reccord for a maximum period of one year after the last exit. __________________ 27 Directive 2004/38/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 29 April 2004 on the right of citizens of the Union and their family members to move and reside freely within the territory of the Member States amending Regulation (EEC) No 1612/68 and repealing Directives 64/221/EEC, 68/360/EEC, 72/194/EEC, 73/148/EEC, 75/34/EEC, 75/35/EEC, 90/364/EEC, 90/365/EEC and 93/96/EEC (OJ L 158, 30.4.2004, p. 77).
Amendment 15 #
2016/0106(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 29
Recital 29
(29) Rules on the liability of the Member States and the European Commission in respect to damage arising from any breach of this Regulation should be laid down.
Amendment 16 #
2016/0106(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 32
Recital 32
(32) Personal data obtained by Member States pursuant to this Regulation should not be transferred or made available to a third country, an international organisation or any private party established in or outside the Union except if necessary in individual cases in order to assist the identification of a third country national in relation to his/her return and subject to strict conditions.
Amendment 17 #
2016/0106(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 39
Recital 39
(39) In order to ensure uniform conditions for the implementation of this Regulation, implementing powers should be conferred on the Commission. Those powers should be exercised in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 182/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council32and in cooperation with the national authorities. __________________ 32 Regulation No 182/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 February 2011 laying down the rules and general principles concerning the mechanisms of control by Member States of the Commission’s exercise of implementing powers (OJ L 55, 28.2.2011,p. 13).
Amendment 18 #
2016/0106(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 41
Recital 41
Amendment 19 #
2016/0106(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 43
Recital 43
Amendment 147 #
2016/0106(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 148 #
2016/0106(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 b (new)
Citation 3 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 174 #
2016/0106(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) The EES should apply to third country nationals admitted for a short stay to the Schengen area. It should also apply to third country nationals whose entry for a short stay has been refused.
Amendment 189 #
2016/0106(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) The EES should have the objective of improving the management of external borders, preventing irregularllegal immigration and facilitating the management of migration flows. The EES should, in particular and when relevant, contribute to the identification of any person who does not or no longer fulfils the conditions of duration of stay within the territory of the Member States.
Amendment 230 #
2016/0106(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) In the fight against terrorist offences and other serious criminal offences, it is imperative that law enforcement authorities have the most up- to-date information if they are to perform their tasks. Access to VIS data for law enforcement purpose has already proven its usefulness in identifying people who died violently or for helping investigators to make substantial progress in cases related to human being trafficking, terrorism or drug trafficking. Access to the information contained in the EES is necessary to prevent, detect and investigate terrorist offences as referred to in Council Framework Decision 2002/475/JHA23 or other serious criminal offences as referred to in Council Framework Decision 2002/584/JHA24. The data generated by the EES may be used as an identity verification tool both in cases where the third country national has destroyed his/her documents and where law enforcement authorities are investigating a crime through the use of fingerprints or facial image and wish to establish an identity. It may also be used as a criminal intelligence tool to construct evidence by tracking the travel routes of a person suspected of having committed a crime or a victim of crime. Therefore, the data in the EES should be available, to the designated authorities of the Member States and the European Police Office ('Europol'), subject to the conditions set out in this Regulation. _________________ 23 Council Framework Decision 2002/475/JHA of 13 June 2002 on combatting terrorism (OJ L 164, 22.6.2002 p.6). 24 Council Framework Decision 2002/584/JHA of 13 June 2002 on the European arrest warrant and the surrender procedures between Member State (OJ L 190, 18.7.2002, p. 1)
Amendment 236 #
2016/0106(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) Moreover, Europol should plays a key role with respect to cooperation between Member States’ authorities in the field of cross-border crime investigation in supporting Union-wide crime prevention, analyses and investigation. Consequently, Europol should also have access to the EES within the framework of its tasks and in accordance with Council Decision 2009/371/JHA25. _________________ 25 Council Decision 2009/371/JHA of 6 April 2009 establishing the European Police Office (Europol) (OJ L 121, 15.5.2009, p. 37).
Amendment 270 #
2016/0106(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 26
Recital 26
(26) A five year data retention period is necessaryadvisable to allow the border guard performing the necessary risk analysis requested by the Schengen Borders Code before authorising a traveller entering the Schengen area. The processing of visa application in consular posts requires also analysing the travel history of the applicant to assess the use of previous visas and the respect of the conditions of stay. The abandoning of passport stamping will be compensated by a consultation of the EES. The travel history available in the system should therefore cover a period of time which is sufficient for the purpose of visa issuance. The five year data retention period will reduce the re-enrolment frequency and will be beneficial for all travellers as the average border crossing time will decrease as will do the waiting time at border crossing points. Even for a traveller entering only once in the Schengen area, the fact that other travellers being already registered in the EES will not have to re-enrol will reduce the waiting time at border. This data retention period will also be necessary to allow for facilitation for the border crossing by using process accelerators and self-service systems. Such facilitation is dependent of the data registered in the system. A shorter data retention period would have a negative impact on the duration of border controls. A shorter data retention period would also reduce the group of travellers that can benefit of such facilitation and thereby undermine the stated objective of EES to facilitate border crossing.
Amendment 285 #
2016/0106(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 31
Recital 31
(31) The processing of personal data by the authorities of the Member States for the purposes of the prevention, detection or investigation of terrorist offences or of other serious criminal offences pursuant to this Regulation should be subject to protection of the personal privacy of Union citizens and a standard of protection of personal data under their national law which complies with Council Framework Decision 2008/977/JHA30. _________________ 30 Council Framework Decision 2008/977/JHA of 27 November 2008 on the protection of personal data processed in the framework of police and judicial co- operation in criminal matters (OJ L 350, 30.12.2008, p. 60).
Amendment 18 #
2016/0105(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 19 #
2016/0105(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 b (new)
Citation 3 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 25 #
2016/0105(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) In order to carry out checks on third country nationals pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2016/399, which include the verification of the identity and/ or the identification of the third country national as well as the verification that the third country national has not exceeded the maximum duration of authorised stay in the territory of the Member States, border guards should use all the information available, including data from the EES. The data stored in that system should also be used to verifycheck that third country nationals holding a single or double entry visa have respected the maximum number of authorised entries.
Amendment 29 #
2016/0105(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) During a period of six months after the EES has started operations, border guards should take into account the stays in the territories of the Member States during the six months preceding the entry or the exit by checking the stamps in the travel documents in addition to the entry/exit data recorded in the EES. Such measure should enable the required verifications to be carried out in those cases where a person would have been admitted for a short stay on the territory of the Member States in the six months preceding the start of operations of the EES. In addition there is a need to lay down specific provisions for those persons having entered the territory of the Member States and who have not yet exited it before the entry into operations of the system. In these situations, the last entry should alsologically be recorded into the EES when exiting the territory of the Member States.
Amendment 31 #
2016/0105(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) Taking into account the different situations in the Member States and at different border crossing points within the Member States concerning the number of third country nationals crossing the borders, Member States should be able to decide whether and to what extent to make use of technologies such as automated border control systems, "self-service kiosks" and e-gates. When using such technologies and in every other case, it should be ensured that entry and exit checks are carried out in a harmonised way at the external borders and that an appropriate level of security is ensured.
Amendment 35 #
2016/0105(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) Member States should also be able to establish national facilitation programmes on a voluntary basis to allow pre-vetted third country nationals to benefit at entry from derogations to the thorough checks. When using such national facilitation programmes, it should be ensured that they are established in a harmonised way and that the appropriate level of security is guaranteed.
Amendment 38 #
2016/0089(NLE)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) Article 1(2) of Decision (EU) 2015/1601 provides that the Commission is to keep under constant review the situation regarding massive inflows of third country nationals into Member States. The Commission should submit, as appropriate, proposals to amend that Decision in order to take into account the evolution of the situation on the ground and its impact upon the relocation mechanism, as well as the evolving pressure on Member States, in particular frontline Member States. So far a minimal number of Syrian refugees have been relocated to another EU Member State.
Amendment 40 #
2016/0089(NLE)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 3 a new
Recital 3 a new
(3a) Despite the commitment of the Commissioner for Migration, Home Affairs and Citizenship to relocate 6 000 people a month from Greece, this commitment has not yet been implemented.
Amendment 46 #
2016/0089(NLE)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) Resettlement, humanitarian admission, or other forms of legal admission from Turkey under national and multilateral schemes can be expected to relieve the migratory pressure on Member States which are beneficiaries of relocation under Decision (EU) 2015/1601 by providing a legal and safe pathway to enter the Union and by discouraging irregular entries. Therefore, the solidarity efforts of Member States consisting in admitting to their territory Syrian nationals present in Turkey who are in clear need of international protection should be taken into account in relation to the 54 000 applicants for international protection referred to above. The number of persons soSo far ad mitted from Turkey by a Member State should be deducted from the number of persons to benimal number of Syrian refugees have been relocated to thatanother EU Member State under Decision 2015/1601 in relation to those 54 000 applicants.
Amendment 62 #
2016/0089(NLE)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) Since the objectives of this Decision cannot be sufficiently achieved by the Member States but can rather, by reason of the scale and effects of the action, be better achieved at Union level, the Union may adopt measures, in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in Article 5 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU). In accordance with the principle of proportionality, as set out in that Article, this Decision does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve those objectives. This Decision should enter into effect as soon as possible.
Amendment 67 #
2016/0089(NLE)
Proposal for a decision
Article 1 – paragraph 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1
Council Decision (EU) 2015/1601
Article 4 – paragraph 3 a – subparagraph 1
Article 4 – paragraph 3 a – subparagraph 1
Amendment 1 #
2016/0075(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No. 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2016/0075(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 b (new)
Citation 3 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 57 #
2016/0050(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 22 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 – introductory part
Article 22 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 – introductory part
Personal data may be processed only in accordance with the principles of personal data protection and for the purposes of:
Amendment 58 #
2016/0050(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 27 – paragraph 2
Article 27 – paragraph 2
2. Member States shall exchange information with the competent authorities of other Member States concerning the certification of persons involved in the operation of a vessel, respecting at all times the principles of data protection.
Amendment 73 #
2016/0050(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Council Directive 91/672/EEC12 and Council Directive 96/50/EC13 are the first steps taken towards the harmonisation and recognition of professional qualifications for crew members in inland navigation, however they do not go beyond the mutual recognition of certificates for boatmasters operating on inland waterways of the Union other than the Rhine. __________________ 12 Council Directive 91/672/EEC of 16 December 1991 on the reciprocal recognition of national boatmasters’ certificates for the carriage of goods and passengers by inland waterway (OJ L 373, 31.12.1991, p. 29). 13 Council Directive 96/50/EC of 23 July 1996 on the harmonization of the conditions for obtaining national boatmasters’ certificates for the carriage of goods and passengers by inland waterway in the Community (OJ L 235, 17.9.1996, p. 31).
Amendment 74 #
2016/0050(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The requirements for crew members navigating on the Rhine river and inland navigation certificates of Union, who are outside the scope of Directives 91/672/EEC and 96/50/EC, are established by the Central Commission for Navigation on the Rhine (CCNR), pursuant to the Rhine Navigation Personnel Regulation under the Revised Convention for Rhine Navigation.
Amendment 76 #
2016/0050(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) To facilitate mobility, to ensure the safety of navigation and the protection of human life, it is essentialnecessary for deck crew members, persons in charge of emergency situations on board passenger vessels and persons involved in the bunkering of liquefied natural gas-fuelled vessels to hold certificates of qualification proving their qualifications. For efficient enforcement, they should carry such certificates while exercising their occupation.
Amendment 79 #
2016/0050(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) Boatmasters sailing in circumstances presenting a particular safety hazard should hold a specific authorisation and meet specific criteria, in particular, for sailing large convoys, sailing liquefied natural gas- fuelled vessels, sailing in conditions of reduced visibility, sailing on waterways with a maritime character or sailing on waterways with specific risks for navigation. In order to obtain such authorisation, boatmasters should be required to demonstrate additional competences.
Amendment 82 #
2016/0050(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) For ensuring safety of navigation, Member States should identify waterways with a maritime character, in accordance with harmonised criteria. The competence requirements for navigating on these waterways should be defined at Union level. Without unnecessarily limiting the mobility of boatmasters, when necessary for ensuring safety of navigation, Member States should also have the possibility to identify the waterways entailing specific risks for navigation in accordance with harmonised criteria and procedures, pursuant to this Directive. In such a case, the related competence requirements should be set at Member State level.
Amendment 90 #
2016/0050(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) Member States should issue certificates of qualification only to persons thatafter checking that the persons receiving them have the minimum levels of competence, the minimum age, the minimum medical fitness and the navigation time required for obtaining a specific qualification.
Amendment 93 #
2016/0050(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) Due to the responsibility with respect to safety when exercising the profession of boatmaster, sailing with the aid of radar and bunkering liquefied natural gas-fuelled vessels or sailing liquefied natural gas-fuelled vessels, verification through practical examinations on whether the required level of competence has effectively been reached is required before the certificates of qualification are issued. Such practical examinations may be carried out using approved simulators, with a view to further facilitating the evaluation of competence.
Amendment 99 #
2016/0050(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) To contribute to an efficient administration with respect to the issuing, renewing and withdrawing certificates of qualification, Member States should designate the competent authorities for implementing this Directive and set up registers for recording data on Union certificates of qualification, service record books and logbooks. In order to facilitate the exchange of information between Member States and with the Commission for the purpose of implementation, enforcement and evaluation of the Directive as well as for statistical purposes, for maintaining safety and for ease of navigation, Member States should report such information, including data on the certificates of qualifications, service record books and logbooks, in a database kept by the Commission, with due respect for the principles of personal data protection.
Amendment 108 #
2016/0050(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 24
Recital 24
(24) In order to provide minimum harmonised standards for the certification of qualifications and to facilitate the exchange of information between Member States and the implementation, monitoring and evaluation of this Directive by the Commission, the power to adopt acts in accordance with Article 290 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union should be delegated to the Commission as regards the setting of standards of professional competence, standards for medical fitness, standards for practical examinations, standards for the approval of simulators and standards defining the characteristics and conditions of use for a database kept by the Commission to host a copy of key data related to Union certificates of qualifications, service record books, logbooks and recognised documents. It is of particular importance that the Commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work, including at expert level. The Commission when preparing and drawing up delegated acts, should ensure a simultaneous, timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the European Parliament and to the Council.
Amendment 112 #
2016/0050(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 26
Recital 26
(26) The CESNI which is open to experts from all Member States, draws up standards in the field of inland navigation, including for professional qualifications, which shall apply to the Member States of the Union. The Commission may take into account such standards when empowered to adopt acts in conformity with this Directive.
Amendment 2 #
2016/0047(NLE)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 3 #
2016/0047(NLE)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 10 #
2016/0043(NLE)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) The Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) stipulates in Article 145 that Member States and the Union shall work towards developing a coordinated strategy for employment and particularly for promoting a skilled, and trained and adaptable workforce as well as labour markets that are responsive to economic change and with a view to achieving the objectives defined in Article 3 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU).
Amendment 18 #
2016/0043(NLE)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The "Europe 2020 Strategy" proposed by the Commission enables the Union to turn its economy towards smart, sustainable and inclusive growth, accompanied by high level employment, productivity and social cohesion. Five headline targets, listed under the relevant guidelines, constitute shared objectives which guide the action of the Member States, and take into account their relative starting positions and in particular their national circumstances as well as the positions and circumstances of the Union. The European Employment Strategy has the leading role in the implementation of the employment and labour market objectives of the new strategy.
Amendment 24 #
2016/0043(NLE)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The integrated guidelines arshould be in line with the conclusions of the European Council. They give precise guidance to the Member States on defining their National Reform Programmes and implementing reforms, reflecting interdependence and in line with the Stability and Growth Pact. The employment guidelines should form the basis for anythe country-specific recommendations that the Council may address to the Member States under Article 148(4) of the TFEU, in parallel with the country-specific recommendations addressed to the Member States under Article 121(2) of that Treaty. The employment guidelines should also form the basis for the establishment of the Joint Employment Report sent annually by the Council and the European Commission to the European Council.
Amendment 35 #
2016/0043(NLE)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) The examination of the Member States' National Reform Programmes contained in the Joint Employment Report shows that Member States should continue to make every effort to address the priority areas of increasing labour market participation and reducing structural unemployment, developing a skilled workforce responding to labour market needs and promoting job quality and lifelong learning, improving the performance of education and training systems at all levels and increasing participation in tertiary education, promoting social inclusion and combating poverty.
Amendment 8 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 4
Recital 4
Amendment 9 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 4 a (new)
Recital 4 a (new)
Amendment 10 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 5
Recital 5
Amendment 11 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 5 a (new)
Recital 5 a (new)
(5a) External policy is the responsibility of the Member States and the Commission is therefore not empowered to intervene in intergovernmental agreements concluded by Member States with third countries.
Amendment 12 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) During the negotiations the Commission should have the possibility to advice on how to avoid incompatibility with Union law. In particular, the Commission could develop, together with Member States, optional model clauses or guidelines. The Commission should have the possibility to draw attention to the Union’s energy policy objectives and the principle of solidarity between Member States and Union policy positions adopted in Council or European Council conclusions.
Amendment 13 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) In order to ensure compliance with Union law, Member States should notify the draft intergovernmental agreement to the Commission before it becomes legally binding for the parties (ex-ante). In a spirit of cooperation, the Commission should support the Member State in identifying compliance issues of the draft intergovernmental agreement or amendment. The respective Member State would then be better prepared to conclude a Union law compliant agreement. The Commission should have sufficient time for such an assessment in order to provide for as much legal certainty as possible while avoiding undue delays. In order to fully benefit from the Commission’s support Member States should refrain from concluding an intergovernmental agreement until the Commission has informed the Member State of its assessment. The Member States should take all necessary steps to find a suitable solution to eliminate the incompatibility identified.
Amendment 16 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 9
Recital 9
Amendment 17 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 10
Recital 10
Amendment 18 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) Member States establish relations to third countries not only by concluding intergovernmental agreements, but also in the form of non-binding instruments. Even if legally non-binding, such instruments can be used to set out a detailed framework for energy infrastructure and energy supply. In this respect non-binding instruments can have similar impacts on the internal energy market as intergovernmental agreements as their implementation might result in a violation of Union law. In order to ensure greater transparency regarding all measures applied by Member States that can have an impact on the internal energy market and energy security, Member States should therefore submit to the Commission, ex post, also the respective non-binding instruments. The Commission should assess the submitted non-binding instruments and, if appropriate, inform the Member State accordingly.
Amendment 23 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 15
Recital 15
Amendment 27 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) A permanentn exchange of information on intergovernmental agreements at Union level should enable best practices to be developed. On the basis of those best practices, the Commission, where appropriate in cooperation with the European External Action Service as regards the Union’s external policies, should develop optional model clauses to be used in intergovernmental agreements between Member States and third countries. The use of such model clauses should aim to avoid conflicts of intergovernmental agreements with Union law, in particular internal energy market rules and competition law, and conflicts with international agreements concluded by the Union. Their use should be optional, and it should be possible to adapt their content to any particular circumstance.
Amendment 28 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) The improved mutual knowledge of existing and new intergovernmental agreements and non-binding instruments should allow for better coordination in energy matters between Member States and between Member States and the Commission. Such improved coordination should enable Member States to benefit fully from the political and economic weight of the Union and enable the Commission to propose solutions for problems identified in the area of intergovernmental agreements.
Amendment 34 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
When a Member State intends to enter into negotiations with a third country in order to amend an existing intergovernmental agreement or to conclude a new intergovernmental agreement, the Member State shall inform the Commission in writing of its intention at the earliest possible moment before the envisaged opening of the negotiations.
Amendment 35 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Amendment 36 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Amendment 37 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Amendment 38 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
Amendment 39 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2
Article 3 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2
Amendment 40 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 4
Article 3 – paragraph 4
Amendment 43 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 5 – paragraph 1
Article 5 – paragraph 1
Amendment 44 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 5 – paragraph 2
Article 5 – paragraph 2
Amendment 45 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 5 – paragraph 3
Article 5 – paragraph 3
Amendment 47 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 5 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
Article 5 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
Amendment 49 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 5 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 2
Article 5 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 2
When signing, ratifying or agreeing to an intergovernmental agreement or amendment, the Member State concerned shall take utmostmay take account of the Commission’s opinion referred to in paragraph 2.
Amendment 50 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Amendment 51 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Amendment 52 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 3
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 3
Amendment 54 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 6 – paragraph 2
Article 6 – paragraph 2
Amendment 55 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 6 – paragraph 3
Article 6 – paragraph 3
Amendment 56 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Amendment 58 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Amendment 59 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 7 – paragraph 2
Article 7 – paragraph 2
Amendment 60 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 7 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Article 7 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Amendment 61 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 7 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Article 7 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Amendment 62 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 7 – paragraph 3
Article 7 – paragraph 3
Amendment 64 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 7 – paragraph 4
Article 7 – paragraph 4
Amendment 66 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 8 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 8 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
When providing information to the Commission in accordance with Article 3(1) to (3), Article 6(1) and Article 7(1) and (2), a Member State may indicate whether any part of the information, be it commercial or other information the disclosure of which could harm the activities of the parties involved, is to be regarded as confidential and whether the information provided can be shared with other Member States.
Amendment 68 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
Amendment 69 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2
Amendment 70 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2 – point a
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2 – point a
Amendment 71 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2 – point b
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2 – point b
Amendment 72 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2 – point c
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2 – point c
Amendment 73 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2 – point d
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2 – point d
Amendment 74 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2 – point e
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2 – point e
Amendment 75 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2 – point e – paragraph 1
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2 – point e – paragraph 1
Amendment 76 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2 – point e – paragraph 2
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2 – point e – paragraph 2
Amendment 79 #
2016/0031(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 10 – paragraph 2
Article 10 – paragraph 2
2. The report shall, in particular, assess the extent to which this Decision promotes compliance of intergovernmental agreements and non- binding instruments with Union law and a high assess the level of coordination between Member States with regard to intergovernmental agreements and non- binding instruments. It shall also assess the impact that this Decision has on Member States’ negotiations with third countries and whether the scope of this Decision and the procedures it lays down are appropriate.
Amendment 22 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Natural gas (gas) remains an essential component of the energy supply of the Union. A large proportion of such gas is imported into the Union from third countries.
Amendment 23 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) A major disruption of the gas supply can affect all Member States, and the Union as a whole and Contracting Parties to the Treaty establishing the Energy Community, signed in Athens on 25 October 2005. It can also severely damage the Union economy and can have a major social impact, particularly on vulnerable groups of customers.
Amendment 37 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The Commission Communication ‘Framework Strategy for a Resilient Energy Union with a Forward-Looking Climate Change Policy’14 from February 2015, highlights the fact that the Energy Union rests on solidarity and trust, which are necessary features of energy security. This regulation should aim to boost solidarity and trust between the Member States and should put in place the measures needed to achieve these aims, thus paving the way for implementing the Energy Union. __________________ 14 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament and the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee, the Committee of the Regions and the European Investment Bank, COM(2015) 80 final.
Amendment 39 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) An internal gas market that operates smoothly is the best guarantee of security of energy supply across the Union and to reduce the exposure of individual Member States to the harmful effects of supply disruptions. Where a Member State’s security of supply is threatened, there is a risk that measures developed unilaterally by that Member State may jeopardise the proper functioning of the internal gas market and damage the gas supply to customers in other Member States. To allow the internal gas market to function even in the face of a shortage of supply, provision must be made for solidarity and coordination in the response to supply crises, as regards both preventive action and the reaction to actual disruptions of supply.
Amendment 46 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) In a spirit of solidarity, regional cooperation, involvingthe involvement of both public authorities and natural gas undertakings, should be the guiding principle of this Regulation, to identify the relevant risks in each region and optimise the benefits of coordinated measures to mitigate them and to implement the most cost-effective measures for Union consumers.
Amendment 49 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) Certain customers, including households and customers providing essential social services, are particularly vulnerable and may need social protection. A definition of such protected customers should not conflict with the Union solidarity mechanisms.
Amendment 52 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) The infrastructure standard should obligeencourage certain Member States to maintain a minimum level of infrastructure such as to ensure a degree of redundancy in the system in the event of a disruption of the single largest infrastructure. As an analysis by reference to the N-1 indicator constitutes a purely capacity-based- approach, the results of N-1 should be complemented with a detailed analysis that also captures gas flows.
Amendment 53 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) Regulation (EU) No 994/2010 requires transmission system operators to enable permanent bi-directional capacity on all cross-border interconnections unless an exemption has been granted from this obligation. It aims to ensure that the possible benefits of permanent bi- directional capacity are always taken into account when a new interconnector is planned. However, bi-directional capacity can be used to supply gas both to the neighbouring Member State and to others along the gas supply corridor. The benefits for security of supply of enabling permanent bi-directional capacity thus need to be seen in a broader perspective, in a spirit of solidarity and enhanced cooperation. A cost-benefit analysis that takes account of the whole transportation corridor should therefore be conducted when considering whether to implement bi-directional capacity. The competent authorities should accordingly be required to re- examine the exemptions granted under Regulation (EU) 994/2010 on the basis of the results of the regional risk assessments.
Amendment 54 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) Council Directive 2008/114/EC16 lays down a process with a view to enhancing the security of designated European critical infrastructure, including certain gas infrastructure, in the Union. Directive 2008/114/EC together with this Regulation contributes to creating a comprehensive approach to the energy security of the Union. __________________ 16 Directive 2008/114/EC of 8 December 2008 on the identification and designation of European critical infrastructures and the assessment of the need to improve their protection (OJ L 345, 23.12.2008, p. 75).
Amendment 60 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) When conducting a comprehensive risk assessment to be prepared at regional level, competent authorities should assess natural, technological, infrastructural, commercial, financial, social, political and, market- related risks, and any other relevant ones, including, where appropriate, the disruption of the supplies from the single largest supplier. All risks should be addressed by effective, proportionate and non- discriminatory measures to be developed in the preventive action plan and the emergency plan. The results of the risk assessments should also contribute to the all hazard risk assessments foreseen under article 6 of Decision No 1313/2013/EU18. __________________ 18 Decision No 1313/2013/EU of the European parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 on a Union Civil protection Mechanism (OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 24).
Amendment 65 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 24
Recital 24
(24) The roles and responsibilities of all natural gas undertakings and competent authorities should therefore be defined precisely in order to keep the internal gas market functioning properly, particularly in the event of supply disruptions and crises. Such roles and responsibilities should be established in such a way as to ensure that a three-level approach is respected which would involve first the relevant natural gas undertakings and industry, then Member States at national or regional level, and then the Union. This Regulation should enable natural gas undertakings and customers to rely on market mechanisms for as long as possible when coping with disruptions. However, it should also provide for mechanisms that can be deployed when markets alone are no longer able to deal adequately with a gas supply disruption.
Amendment 70 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 28
Recital 28
(28) Demand-side measures, such as fuel switching or reducing the gas supply to large industrial consumers in an economically efficient order, may have a valuable role to play in ensuring energy security, if they can be applied quickly and significantly reduce demand in response to a supply disruption. More should be done to promote efficient energy use, particularly where demand-side measures are needed. The environmental impact of any demand and supply-side measures proposed must be taken into account, with preference being given, as far as possible, to measures that have least impact on the environment. At the same time, security of supply and competitiveness aspects must be taken into account.
Amendment 82 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 39
Recital 39
(39) In March 2015, the European Council concluded that gas supply contracts with suppliers from third countries should be made more transparent and compatible with the Union energy security provisions. In this context an efficient and targeted mechanism for Member States’ access to key gas supply contracts should ensure a comprehensive assessment of relevant risks that can lead to a supply disruption or interfere with the necessary mitigating measures should a crisis nevertheless occur. Under that mechanism certain key gas supply contracts should be automatically notified, immediately after their conclusion, to the Member States. However, any obligation to notify a contract automatically needs to be proportionate. Applying this obligation to contracts between a supplier and a buyer covering 40% of the national market strikes the right balance in terms of administrative efficiency and lays down clear obligations for market participants. This does not mean that other gas supply contracts are not relevant to security of supply. Accordingly, Member States should have the right to request other contracts which might negatively affect security of supply of a Member State or region or of the Union as a whole. The Commission should have the same access to the gas supply contracts as Member States, given its role in assessing the consistency and effectiveness of the preventive action plans and emergency plans to address risks to security of supply at national, regional and EU level. The Commission may call on the Member States to amend the plans so as to take account of the information obtained from the contracts. The confidentiality of commercially sensitive information should be ensured. Improved Commission access to information on commercial contracts should not affect the Commission’s ongoing efforts to monitor the gas market, and the Commission should intervene if violations of the Union law are identified. The provisions of this Regulation should be without prejudice to the right of the Commission to launch infringement proceedings in accordance with Article 258 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) and to enforce competition rules, including state aid.
Amendment 118 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point c – point ii
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point c – point ii
(ii) disruption of supplies from third country suppliers, as well as, where appropriate, geopolitical risk or reduction of supplies because of overconsumption in transit countries;
Amendment 131 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2 – point c
Article 7 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2 – point c
Amendment 132 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Natural gas (gas) remains an essential component of the energy supply of the Union. A large proportion of such gas is imported into the Union from third countries.
Amendment 138 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2
Article 8 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2
Amendment 142 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) A major disruption of the gas supply can affect all Member States, and the Union as a whole and Contracting Parties to the Treaty establishing the Energy Community, signed in Athens on 25 October 2005. It can also severely damage the Union economy and can have a major social impact, particularly on vulnerable groups of customers.
Amendment 143 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point k
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point k
Amendment 144 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point n
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point n
Amendment 155 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 5 – point b
Article 11 – paragraph 5 – point b
(b) no measures are introduced that are likely to endanger seriously the gas supply situation in another Member State; and
Amendment 156 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The Commission Communication 'Framework Strategy for a Resilient Energy Union with a Forward-Looking Climate Change Policy'14 from February 2015, highlights the fact that the Energy Union rests on solidarity and trust, which are necessary features of energy security. This regulation should aim to boost solidarity and trust between the Member States and should put in place the measures needed to achieve these aims, thus paving the way for implementing the Energy Union. __________________ 14 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament and the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee, the Committee of the Regions and the European Investment Bank, COM(2015) 80 final.
Amendment 165 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 6 – point b
Article 13 – paragraph 6 – point b
Amendment 167 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 7
Article 13 – paragraph 7
Amendment 169 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 14 – paragraph 2 – point b
Amendment 170 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1
Article 15 – paragraph 1
Amendment 170 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) An internal gas market that operates smoothly is the best guarantee of security of energy supply across the Union and to reduce the exposure of individual Member States to the harmful effects of supply disruptions. Where a Member State's security of supply is threatened, there is a risk that measures developed unilaterally by that Member State may jeopardise the proper functioning of the internal gas market and damage the gas supply to customers in other Member States. To allow the internal gas market to function even in the face of a shortage of supply, provision must be made for solidarity and coordination in the response to supply crises, as regards both preventive action and the reaction to actual disruptions of supply.
Amendment 174 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 19 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
This Regulation shall not apply to Malta and Cyprus for as long as no gas is supplied on their respective tethe regional group of Member States along the ‘Southern Gas Corritdories’ as defined in Annex I. For Malta and Cyprus the obligations laid down in, and the choices those Member States are entitled to make pursuant to, the following provisions shall be fulfilled and made within the specified time after the date when gas is first supplied on their respective territories:
Amendment 187 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) In a spirit of solidarity, regional cooperation, involvingthe involvement of both public authorities and natural gas undertakings, should be the guiding principle of this Regulation, to identify the relevant risks in each region and optimise the benefits of coordinated measures to mitigate them and to implement the most cost-effective measures for Union consumers.
Amendment 191 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) Certain customers, including households and customers providing essential social services, are particularly vulnerable and may need social protection. A definition of such protected customers should not conflict with the Union solidarity mechanisms.
Amendment 199 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) The infrastructure standard should obliencourage Member States to maintain a minimum level of infrastructure such as to ensure a degree of redundancy in the system in the event of a disruption of the single largest infrastructure. As an analysis by reference to the N-1 indicator constitutes a purely capacity-based- approach, the results of N-1 should be complemented with a detailed analysis that also captures gas flows.
Amendment 202 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) Regulation (EU) No 994/2010 requires transmission system operators to enable permanent bi-directional capacity on all cross-border interconnections unless an exemption has been granted from this obligation. It aims to ensure that the possible benefits of permanent bi- directional capacity are always taken into account when a new interconnector is planned. However, bi-directional capacity can be used to supply gas both to the neighbouring Member State and to others along the gas supply corridor. The benefits for security of supply of enabling permanent bi-directional capacity thus need to be seen in a broader perspective, in a spirit of solidarity and enhanced cooperation. A cost-benefit analysis that takes account of the whole transportation corridor should therefore be conducted when considering whether to implement bi-directional capacity. The competent authorities should accordingly be required to re- examine the exemptions granted under Regulation (EU) 994/2010 on the basis of the results of the regional risk assessments.
Amendment 205 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) Council Directive 2008/114/EC16 lays down a process with a view to enhancing the security of designated European critical infrastructure, including certain gas infrastructure, in the Union. Directive 2008/114/EC together with this Regulation contributes to creating a comprehensive approach to the energy security of the Union. __________________ 16 Directive 2008/114/EC of 8 December 2008 on the identification and designation of European critical infrastructures and the assessment of the need to improve their protection (OJ L 345, 23.12.2008, p. 75).
Amendment 246 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) When conducting a comprehensive risk assessment to be prepared at regional level, competent authorities should assess natural, technological, infrastructural, commercial, financial, social, political and, market- related risks, and any other relevant ones, including, where appropriate, the disruption of the supplies from the single largest supplier. All risks should be addressed by effective, proportionate and non- discriminatory measures to be developed in the preventive action plan and the emergency plan. The results of the risk assessments should also contribute to the all hazard risk assessments foreseen under article 6 of Decision No 1313/2013/EU18. __________________ 18 Decision No 1313/2013/EU of the European parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 on a Union Civil protection Mechanism (OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 24).
Amendment 258 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 24
Recital 24
(24) The roles and responsibilities of all natural gas undertakings and competent authorities should therefore be defined precisely in order to keep the internal gas market functioning properly, particularly in the event of supply disruptions and crises. Such roles and responsibilities should be established in such a way as to ensure that a three-level approach is respected which would involve first the relevant natural gas undertakings and industry, then Member States at national or regional level, and then the Union. This Regulation should enable natural gas undertakings and customers to rely on market mechanisms for as long as possible when coping with disruptions. However, it should also provide for mechanisms that can be deployed when markets alone are no longer able to deal adequately with a gas supply disruption.
Amendment 274 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 28
Recital 28
(28) Demand-side measures, such as fuel switching or reducing the gas supply to large industrial consumers in an economically efficient order, may have a valuable role to play in ensuring energy security, if they can be applied quickly and significantly reduce demand in response to a supply disruption. More should be done to promote efficient energy use, particularly where demand-side measures are needed. The environmental impact of any demand and supply-side measures proposed must be taken into account, with preference being given, as far as possible, to measures that have least impact on the environment. At the same time, security of supply and competitiveness aspects must be taken into account.
Amendment 307 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 39
Recital 39
(39) In March 2015, the European Council concluded that gas supply contracts with suppliers from third countries should be made more transparent and compatible with the Union energy security provisions. In this context an efficient and targeted mechanism for Member States' access to key gas supply contracts should ensure a comprehensive assessment of relevant risks that can lead to a supply disruption or interfere with the necessary mitigating measures should a crisis nevertheless occur. Under that mechanism certain key gas supply contracts should be automatically notified, immediately after their conclusion, to the Member States. However, any obligation to notify a contract automatically needs to be proportionate. Applying this obligation to contracts between a supplier and a buyer covering 40% of the national market strikes the right balance in terms of administrative efficiency and lays down clear obligations for market participants. This does not mean that other gas supply contracts are not relevant to security of supply. Accordingly, Member States should have the right to request other contracts which might negatively affect security of supply of a Member State or region or of the Union as a whole. The Commission should have the same access to the gas supply contracts as Member States, given its role in assessing the consistency and effectiveness of the preventive action plans and emergency plans to address risks to security of supply at national, regional and EU level. The Commission may call on the Member States to amend the plans so as to take account of the information obtained from the contracts. The confidentiality of commercially sensitive information should be ensured. Improved Commission access to information on commercial contracts should not affect the Commission's ongoing efforts to monitor the gas market, and the Commission should intervene if violations of the Union law are identified. The provisions of this Regulation should be without prejudice to the right of the Commission to launch infringement proceedings in accordance with Article 258 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) and to enforce competition rules, including state aid,.
Amendment 485 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point c – point ii
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point c – point ii
(ii) disruption of supplies from third country suppliers, as well as, where appropriate, geopolitical risk or reduction of supplies because of overconsumption in transit countries;
Amendment 557 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2 – point c
Article 7 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2 – point c
Amendment 624 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2
Article 8 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2
Amendment 639 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point k
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point k
Amendment 641 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point n
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point n
Amendment 666 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 5 – point b
Article 11 – paragraph 5 – point b
(b) no measures are introduced that are likely to endanger seriously the gas supply situation in another Member State; and
Amendment 736 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 6 – point b
Article 13 – paragraph 6 – point b
Amendment 750 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 7
Article 13 – paragraph 7
Amendment 770 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 14 – paragraph 2 – point b
Amendment 772 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 1
Article 15 – paragraph 1
Amendment 790 #
2016/0030(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – subparagraph 1 – introductory part
Article 19 – subparagraph 1 – introductory part
This Regulation shall not apply to Malta and Cyprus for as long as no gas is supplied on their respective teto the regional group of Member States of the 'Southern Gas Corritdories', as set out in Annex I. For Malta and Cyprus the obligations laid down in, and the choices those Member States are entitled to make pursuant to, the following provisions shall be fulfilled and made within the specified time after the date when gas is first supplied on their respective territories:
Amendment 16 #
2016/0029(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The release of political prisoners on 22 August 2015 was an very important step, which together with several positive initiatives undertaken by the Republic of Belarus over the last two years contributed to the improvement of relations between the European Union and the Republic of Belarus.
Amendment 18 #
2016/0029(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) These positive political developments between the European Union and the Republic of Belarus should be recognised and bilateral relations further improved. Accordingly, the present regulation repeals the autonomous quotas on imports of textiles and clothing originating in the Republic of Belarus, provided for in Annexes II and III of Regulation (EU) 2015/936.
Amendment 23 #
2016/0029(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) TDespite the limited use of the autonomous quotas on imports of textiles and clothing originating in the Republic of Belarus implies that, the removal of those quotas will have a limited impacserious consequences for employment oin EU tradethe EU Member States.
Amendment 24 #
2016/0029(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
Amendment 102 #
2016/0023(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) Mostany mercury emissions and associated exposure risks result from anthropogenic activities, including primary mercury mining and processing, the use of mercury in products, industrial processes and artisanal and small-scale gold mining ("ASGM") and mercury emissions originating in particular from coal combustion and the management of mercury waste.
Amendment 103 #
2016/0023(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The seventh Environment Action Programme adopted by Decision No 1386/2013/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council34 establishes the long- term objective of a non-toxic environment and, for that purpose, stipulates that immediate action is needed to ensure the minimisation of significant adverse effects of chemicals on human health and the environment by 2020. __________________ 34 Decision No 1386/2013/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 November 2013 on a General Union Environment Action Programme to 2020 ‘Living well, within the limits of our planet’ (OJ L 354, 28.12.2013, p. 171).
Amendment 108 #
2016/0023(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The Strategy establishes that the negotiation and conclusion of an international legally-binding instrument should be a priority as Union action alone cannot guarantee effective protection of the citizens of the Union against the negative health effects of mercury.
Amendment 139 #
2016/0023(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) The use of mercury and mercury compounds in ASGM accounts for a significant share of mercury use and emissions worldwide, and should therefore be regulated immediately.
Amendment 141 #
2016/0023(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16 a (new)
Recital 16 a (new)
(16a) In view of efforts to develop and promote renewable energy sources in the EU Member States, the contribution of biomass to mercury emissions should be given immediate attention.
Amendment 148 #
2016/0023(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) The use of dental amalgam in an encapsulated form and the implementation of amalgam separators should be made mandatory to protect dental practitioners and patients from mercury exposure and to ensure that resulting mercury waste are not, under no circumstances, released into the environment, but are collected and subjected to sound and legal waste management. Given the size of the undertakings from the dentristry sector concerned by this change, it is appropriate to provide sufficient time to adapt to the new provision.
Amendment 183 #
2016/0023(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – indent 1
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – indent 1
Amendment 185 #
2016/0023(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – indent 2 a (new)
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – indent 2 a (new)
- the parties shall, however, undertake to make efforts to limit exports and imports of mercury-added products, including those referred to in the above subparagraph.
Amendment 41 #
2016/0014(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) The internal market comprises an area without weaker internal frontiers in which the free movement of goods, persons, services and capital must be ensured. Internal market rules shouldmust be transparent, simple and consistent, thus providing legal certainty and clarity for the public benefit of businesses and consumers.
Amendment 45 #
2016/0014(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) This Regulation should strengthen the current type-approval framework, in particular through the introduction of provisions on market surveillance. Market surveillance in the automotive sector shouldmust be introduced by specifying the obligations of the economic operators in the supply chain, the responsibilities of the enforcement authorities in the Member States, and the measures to be taken when automotive products are encountered on the market that represent serious safety or environmental risks or that do not comply with the type-approval requirements.
Amendment 47 #
2016/0014(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) An effective implementation of the type-approval requirements shouldmust be ensured by enhancing the provisions on conformity of production by, inter alia, providing for mandatory periodic audits of the conformity control methods and the continued conformity of the products concerned and by reinforcing the requirements relating to the competence, obligations and performance of the technical services that carry out tests for whole-vehicle type-approval under the responsibility of type-approval authorities . The proper functioning of technical services is crucial for ensuring a high level of safety and environmental protection and citizens' confidence in the system. The criteria for designation of technical services provided by Directive 2007/46/EC should be laid down in greater detail in order to assure their consistent application. The assessment methods of technical services in the Member States have a tendency to progressively differ due to the increased complexity of their work. Therefore, it is necessary to provide for procedural obligations that ensure an information exchange and monitoring of Member States' practices for the assessment, designation, notification and monitoring of their technical services. Those procedural obligations should remove any existing discrepancies in the methods used and in the interpretation of the criteria for the designation of technical services.
Amendment 52 #
2016/0014(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) Designation and monitoring of technical services by the Member States, in accordance with detailed and strict criteria, including minimum, supervision requirements, should therefore be subject to supervisory controls at Union level, including independent audits as a condition for the renewal of their notification after five years. The position of technical services vis-à-vis manufacturers should be strengthened, including their right and duty to carry out unannounced factory inspections and to conduct physical or laboratory tests on products covered by this Regulation, in order to ensure continuous compliance by manufacturers after they have obtained a type-approval for their products.
Amendment 55 #
2016/0014(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) In order to increase transparency and mutual trust and to further align and develop the criteria for the assessment, designation, and notification of technical services, as well as extension and renewal procedures, Member States should cooperate with each other and with the Commission. They should consult each other, as well as consulting Parliament and the Commission on questions with general relevance for the implementation of this Regulation and inform each other, as well as Parliament and the Commission on their model assessment checklist.
Amendment 57 #
2016/0014(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
Amendment 64 #
2016/0014(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) Closer coordination between national authorities through information exchange and coordinated assessments under the direction of a coordinating authority is fundamental for ensuring a consistently high level of safety and health and environmental protection within the internal market. This should also lead to more efficient use of scarce resources at national level. For this purpose a Forum should be established for Member States and the Commission to exchange information on and to coordinate their activities related to the enforcement of type-approval legislation. The currently informal cooperation between Member States in this respect would benefit from a more formal framework.
Amendment 66 #
2016/0014(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20
Recital 20
(20) The rules on Union market surveillance and control of products entering the Union market provided for in Regulation (EC) No 765/2008 apply to motor vehicles and their trailers, and to systems, components and separate technical units intended for such vehicles without preventing Member States from choosing the competent authorities to carry out those tasks. Market surveillance may be a competence shared between different national authorities to take account of the national market surveillance systems in the Member States established under Regulation (EC) No 765/2008. Effective coordination and monitoring at Union and national levels should guarantee that approval and market surveillance authorities enforcjointly configure the new type- approval and market surveillance framework.
Amendment 75 #
2016/0014(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 25
Recital 25
(25) In addition, the Commission should organise and carry out or require to carry out ex-post compliance verification tests and inspections, independent from those carried out by Member States under their national market surveillance obligations. When non-compliance is established by those tests and inspections, or where it is found that a type approval has been granted on the basis of incorrect data the Commission, together with the national authorities, should be entitled to initiate Union-wide remedial actions to restore the conformity of the vehicles concerned and to investigate the reasons for the incorrectness of the type approval. Appropriate funding should be ensured in the general budget of the Union to enable the execution of such compliance verification testing and inspections. In view of the budgetary constraints of the Multiannual Financial Framework 2014- 2020 the implementation of the legislative proposal will have to be built on existing resources and to be designed in such a manner that they do not generate additional financial resources. The Commission should be entitled to impose administrative fines where non-compliance is established.
Amendment 84 #
2016/0014(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 35
Recital 35
(35) Consequently, UNECE regulations and the amendments thereto which the Union has voted in favour of or that the Union applies, in accordance with Council Decision 97/836/EC15, should be incorporated within the EU type-approval legislation. Accordingly, the power should be delegated to the Commission to amend the Annexes to this Regulation and to adopt delegated acts to ensure that the references to the UNECE regulations and their respective amendments in the list of the relevant regulatory acts are kept up-to- date under the supervision of the European Parliament. __________________ 15 Council Decision 97/836/EC of 27 November 1997 (OJ L 346, 17.12.1997, p. 78).
Amendment 209 #
2016/0014(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 210 #
2016/0014(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 b (new)
Citation 3 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 212 #
2016/0014(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) The internal market comprises an area without internal frontiers in which the free movement of goods, persons, services and capital must be ensured. Internal market rules should be transparent, simple and consistent, thus providing legal certainty and clarity for the benefit of businesses and consumers.
Amendment 246 #
2016/0014(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
Amendment 310 #
2016/0014(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 34
Recital 34
(34) The Union is a contracting party to the Agreement of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) concerning the adoption of uniform technical prescriptions for wheeled vehicles, equipment and parts which can be fitted to and/or be used on wheeled vehicles and the conditions for reciprocal recognition of approvals granted on the basis of these prescriptions (‘Revised 1958 Agreement’)13. The Union has accepted a significant number of regulations annexed to the Revised 1958 Agreement and has therefore the obligation to accept type-approvals issued in accordance with those regulations, as complying with the equivalent Union requirements. For the purpose of simplifying its type-approval framework and aligning it with the international framework of the UNECE, the Union in Regulation (EC) No 661/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council14 repealed its specific type-approval Directives and replaced them with the obligatory application of the relevant UNECE regulations. To reduce the administrative burden of the type- approval process, manufacturers of vehicles, systems, components and separate technical units should be allowed to seek type-approval in accordance with this Regulation, where appropriate, directly by means of obtaining approval under the relevant UNECE regulations referred to in the Annexes to this Regulation. __________________ 13 Council Decision 97/836/EC of 27 November 1997 with a view to accession by the European Community to the Agreement of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe concerning the adoption of uniform technical prescriptions for wheeled vehicles, equipment and parts which can be fitted to and/or be used on wheeled vehicles and the conditions for reciprocal recognition of approvals granted on the basis of these prescriptions ('Revised 1958 Agreement') (OJ L 346, 17.12.1997, p. 81). 14 Regulation (EC) No 661/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 July 2009 concerning type-approval requirements for the general safety of motor vehicles, their trailers and systems, components and separate technical units intended therefor (OJ L 200, 31.7.2009, p. 1).
Amendment 312 #
2016/0014(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 36
Recital 36
(36) Unrestricted access to vehicle repair and maintenance information, via a standardised format that can be used to retrieve the technical information, and effective competition on the market for services providing such information is necessary to improve the functioning of the internal market, particularly as regards the free movement of goods, the freedom of establishment and the freedom to provide services. The requirements for the provision of repair and maintenance information have so far been laid down in Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 of the European Parliament and of the Council16, Regulation (EC) No 595/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council17, Commission Regulation (EU) No 692/200818 and Commission Regulation (EU) No 582/201119. Those requirements should be consolidated in this Regulation and Regulations (EC) No 715/2007, (EC) No 595/2009, (EU) No 692/2008 and (EU) No 582/2011 should be amended accordingly. __________________ 16 Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 June 2007 on type approval of motor vehicles with respect to emissions from light passenger and commercial vehicles (Euro 5 and Euro 6) and on access to vehicle repair and maintenance information (OJ L 171, 29.6.2007, p. 1). 17 Regulation (EC) No 595/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 June 2009 on type-approval of motor vehicles and engines with respect to emissions from heavy duty vehicles (Euro VI) and on access to vehicle repair and maintenance information and amending Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 and Directive 2007/46/EC and repealing Directives 80/1269/EEC, 2005/55/EC and 2005/78/EC (OJ L 188, 18.7.2009, p. 1). 18 Commission Regulation (EC) No 692/2008 of 18 July 2008 implementing and amending Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 of the European Parliament and of the Council on type-approval of motor vehicles with respect to emissions from light passenger and commercial vehicles (Euro 5 and Euro 6) and on access to vehicle repair and maintenance information (OJ L 199, 28.7.2008, p. 1). 19 Commission Regulation (EU) No 582/2011 of 25 May 2011 implementing and amending Regulation (EC) No 595/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council with respect to emissions from heavy duty vehicles (Euro VI) and amending Annexes I and III to Directive 2007/46/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 167, 25.6.2011, p. 1).
Amendment 319 #
2016/0014(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 38
Recital 38
Amendment 324 #
2016/0014(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 42
Recital 42
Amendment 7 #
2015/2352(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas accidents caused by offshore oil and gas rigs lead to cross- border consequences and EU action to prevent and mitigate such accidents is therefore justified, especially in respect of countries of the Eastern Mediterranean and the Adriatic;
Amendment 11 #
2015/2352(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. Whereas the hydrocarbon exploration activities conducted in Albania violate international law and fail to respect the European acquis on the protection of the marine environment;
Amendment 19 #
2015/2352(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. whereas offshore oil and gas exploration can have very negative effects on the marine environment beyond the limits of the continental shelf and States' exclusive economic zones;
Amendment 20 #
2015/2352(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
Amendment 23 #
2015/2352(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas the OSD sets out preconditions on licensing aimed at ensuring that licensees never find themselves technically orand financially unable to deal with the consequences of their offshore operations, and also requiring Member States to establish procedures for the prompt and adequate handling of compensation claims, including for transboundary incidents, and to facilitate the use of sustainable financial instruments (Article 4);
Amendment 26 #
2015/2352(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the adoption of the OSD as a first step for the protection of the environment; and human activities and calls on those Member States which have not yet transposed it into their national laws to do so as soon as possible;
Amendment 30 #
2015/2352(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
Amendment 49 #
2015/2352(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Highlights that compensatory regimes must be able to address transboundary claims effectively and without discrimination between claimants of different EEA countries; stresses the need for neighbouring countries which are not members of the EEA to respect international law;
Amendment 53 #
2015/2352(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Concludes that there is no need to give consideration toalls for further legislation untilproviding the Commission has publisheds its report on implementation of the OSD.
Amendment 53 #
2015/2352(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Invites the Member States and the Commission to consider the special situation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs); points out that offshore oil and gas incidents may have particularly serious implications for the fishing and tourism industries, their employees and workers on the oil and gas platforms, as well as for other sectors that rely on the good condition of the shared marine environment and landscapes for doing business, since these sectors, which include many SMEs, could suffer significant economic loss in the event of a major offshore accident;
Amendment 55 #
2015/2352(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Emphasises, therefore, that it is of the utmost importance to update existing liability systems in the Member States in order to ensure that if an incident occurs in the waters of these states, it would not adversely affect the future of the offshore oil and gas operations of the state in question, nor that of the entire EU, were thefor companies in the event of an incident, since an incident tomay occur in an area that is largely dependent on tourism for revenue; calls, therefore, on the Commission to revisit the need to introduce stringent common EU standards for remedial and compensatory claim systems for Member States, citizens, civil society organisations and local bodies;
Amendment 60 #
2015/2352(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Stresses the need for the Commission to perform regular conformity checks both of national legal systems and of enterprises with the relevant liability and compensation provisions in the OSD;
Amendment 66 #
2015/2352(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Regrets the fact that none of the Member States explicitly sets out a broad range of financial security instruments concerning compensation for claims for traditional damage from offshore oil and gas incidents; underlines in this context that over-reliance on insurance could potentially results in a closed market for financial security instruments, with the corollary potential forleading to a lack of competition and increased costs;
Amendment 76 #
2015/2352(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Considers that the introduction of criminal liability at EU level couldwill add a layer of deterrence beyond civil penalties, which couldwill improve protection of the environment and compliance with safety measures; calls on the Commission to prepare and submit to Parliament its first implementation report on the OSD in a timely fashion, and no later than 19 July 2019, in order to allow the latter to revisit the introduction of criminal liability for offshore safety violations leading to offshore accidents based on concrete and systematic data;
Amendment 86 #
2015/2352(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Asks the Commission to consider the possibility of introducinge further legislation, which would effectively safeguard offshore oil and gas operations before a severe accident takes place;
Amendment 5 #
2015/2350(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Α
Recital Α
Α. whereas Europe’s geography, with its long coastlines and many islands and rivers, offers extraordinary opportunities for sustainable and socially fair waterborne passenger transport;
Amendment 15 #
2015/2350(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the proposal for the European Accessibility Act provide a sound basis for the future review of Regulation (EU) No 1177/2010 within an intermodal context, including cheaper and barrier-free accessibility for passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility;
Amendment 18 #
2015/2350(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ε
Recital Ε
Ε. whereas several tragic accidents have occurred in the past in the waterborne passenger transport sector, including those involving the Estonia, the Herald of Free Enterprise and, the Costa Concordia and the Norman Atlantic;
Amendment 20 #
2015/2350(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas in its maritime transport policy strategy to 2018 the EU sets out its goal of becoming the world leader in maritime research and innovation, as well as shipbuilding, with a view to improving energy efficiency in ships, reducing their environmental impact, minimising the risk of accidents and providing better quality of life at sea;
Amendment 24 #
2015/2350(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Takes the view that waterborne passenger transport (WPT) must be put higher on the transport policy agenda of the EU and of its Member States; considers, therefore, that they should work towards a ‘single area for waterborne passenger transport’, for instance through simplifying the administrative burden arising from cross-border passenger shipping;
Amendment 35 #
2015/2350(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses the key relevance of European statistical data for formulating plans and policies for the waterborne transport sector, particularly as regards the number of cross-border maritime and inland waterway services provided by both ferries and cruise ships;
Amendment 54 #
2015/2350(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Is convinced that the EU passenger ships industry must remain a key competitive player, while reducing its environmental footprint immediately;
Amendment 69 #
2015/2350(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Welcomes the Commission’s REFIT initiative for port reception facilities and encourage its plans for new legislation under the ordinary legislative procedure, including a good information system on waste managed in different Member States, both on ships and in ports;
Amendment 71 #
2015/2350(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. RecallStresses that the prevention of pollution and accidents is keyvital to the role of the European Maritime Safety Authority in improving the safety of cross-border maritime ferries and cruises;
Amendment 84 #
2015/2350(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Invites the Commission to propose a clear framework allocating responsibilities and costs, with a view to improving security; urges the Commission, furthermore, to address staff training, instruction and guidance;
Amendment 92 #
2015/2350(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Emphasises that, when international maritime ferries operate in EU territorial waters, both EU and Member State legislation must apply;
Amendment 96 #
2015/2350(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Encourages the Commission to integrate the principles of Regulation (EU) No 1177/2010 into its proposal on intermodal passenger rights, including aspects of barrier-free accessibility for people with disabilities or reduced mobility, as well as for the elderly and socially disadvantaged;
Amendment 103 #
2015/2350(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Stresses the importance of the WPT sector in developing sustainable tourism, in particular in remote regions of the Union such as coastal and island regions; considers, furthermore, that SMEs should be a focal point for the promotion of tourism services;
Amendment 1 #
2015/2349(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
– having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 5(3) thereof,
Amendment 2 #
2015/2349(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No. 2) of the TEU on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 33 #
2015/2349(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes the opportunities of the collaborative economy and the Digital Single Market for job creation and more inclusive growth within small transport businesses; stresses, however, that the collaborative economy must not lead to an avoidance of tax and social contributions, nor to non-compliance with employment and social legislation;
Amendment 44 #
2015/2349(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. EncouraCalls on the Member States of the Union to restore collective labour agreements where they have been abolished and urges the social partners to negotiate collective agreements for all transport services in line with national laws and practices;
Amendment 46 #
2015/2349(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses that the legal uncertainty as to the definition of ‘service providers’ in the transport sector prevents the establishment of fair competition, and regrets, that being so,and regrets the difficulties experienced by many small businesses in accessing the market and offering new services;
Amendment 60 #
2015/2349(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Is concerned about the rise of precarious employment, bogus self- employment, undeclared work and social dumping; calls on the Member States to guarantee fair competition and ensure decent working conditions and the highest possible level of social protection and security for all workers;
Amendment 64 #
2015/2349(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. DeploreCondemns the anti-competitive practices resulting from inequality in the application of the rules, notably between residents and non-residents, in particular as regards pay and social security systems, which may lead to distortions such as social dumping;
Amendment 71 #
2015/2349(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes that small transport firms need to invest not only to comply with the law but alsoin order to remain competitive; deplores that, on one hand, their access to credit and funding on the money markets remains limited in spite of quantitative easing measures,relatively limited compared to large companies while, on the other hand, aid from the public purse, particularly at European level, is rarely forthcoming, owing to overly complex and long-winded administrative procedures;
Amendment 73 #
2015/2349(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Is concerned about the misuse of subcontracting in the transport sector to circumvent working and employment standards; calls on the Commission and the Member States to introduce and strengthen laws on joint and several liability and ensure the strict application of the laws protecting workers' rights;
Amendment 81 #
2015/2349(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Notes that, in a context of growing urbanisation, transport needs to be increasinglyorganised along more integrated and multi-modal lin natures, and that urban nodes have an increasingly central role to play in the organisation of mobility; stresses the growing impact of travel planning apps and the importance for small businesses of being included on the list of available apps;
Amendment 98 #
2015/2349(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Warns of the danger thatApproves of intermediation platforms, with their ‘winner takes all’ ethos, will give rise to monopolies and harm the diversity of the economic fabric, but also notes that these platformsethos, their objective being to undermine and eliminate monopolies; welcomes these platforms also because they have brought into play the idea of challenging the existing operators and have led Member States to review the structure of the market;
Amendment 110 #
2015/2349(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Draws attention to the upheavals which the development of connected and self-driving vehicles are likely to cause, causing major problems for small businesses in particular;
Amendment 119 #
2015/2349(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
Amendment 136 #
2015/2349(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Takes the view that, in view of the lack of investment in infrastructure, all transport operators should contribute; stresses the importance, in road transport, of internalising negative externalities, but recognises that this poses specificnotes that the 'famous' Juncker investment package of EUR 300 billion for infrastructural projects, has not so far been implemented, leading to a massive infrastructural investment deficit; condemns the practice of internalising negative externalities in road transport, given that this will pose many problems for small businesses, which must be taken into account;
Amendment 148 #
2015/2349(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to do more to combat anti- competitive practices by large integrated groups that undermine small businesses;
Amendment 154 #
2015/2349(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
Amendment 168 #
2015/2349(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Takes the view, in view of that, the development of collaborative business models, that the solution is neither sector- specific regulation nor regulation aimed solely at digital platforms, and that in future the mobility system needs to be addressed as a wholewould in particular help small businesses become more competitive against large multinationals; calls for the establishment of a modernised regulatory framework that fosters innovation as well as the protection of consumers and their data, and ensures healthy competiwill foster innovation;
Amendment 182 #
2015/2349(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
Amendment 191 #
2015/2349(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15a. Deplores the austerity measures imposed by the Troika in Greece that have undermined small transport firms;
Amendment 196 #
2015/2349(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Regrets that the Member States’ response to the development of collaborative business models has so far been very fragmented, and considers that a coordinated, overall European level approach is indispensable; notes the Commission’s reasonable approach to this ‘new business model’ and eagerly awaits the publication of its guidelines on this topic;
Amendment 208 #
2015/2349(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
Amendment 2 #
2015/2348(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 3 #
2015/2348(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 29 #
2015/2348(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the Commission to make rail freight services more competitivestreamlined and efficient by means of fully interoperable and interconnected rail networks and to do the same for inland waterway, sea-river and maritime transport, enabling each to operate on equal terms, and urges it to promote multimodal transport;
Amendment 31 #
2015/2348(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Considers that a seamless EU infrastructure system will only deliver its benefits to the logistics sector if the Union’s agreed legislation is properly transposed into national law, avoiding additional legal requirements that hamper the free exchange of goods; calls on the Member States to refrain from introducing new barriers, and urges the Commission to bring to the Court of Justice Member States that delay the implementation of EU law;
Amendment 39 #
2015/2348(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Stresses the importance of investment in last-mile logistics and more rational and ecological logistics hubs, especially in urban areas and ports, and of efforts to simplify administrative procedures;
Amendment 39 #
2015/2348(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Is concerned about the negative impact on the logistics sector of closures of internal borders in connection with the ‘refugee crisis’; calls on the Member States and the Commission to take freight flows into account when adopting such measures;
Amendment 52 #
2015/2348(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 – indent 2
Paragraph 4 – indent 2
- aiming to further reducimprove regulatory, operational and technical barriermeasures,
Amendment 59 #
2015/2348(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Calls on the Commission to make available more resources, especially for projects designed to improve interconnectivity with outlying regions and make more effective use of EU funding.
Amendment 88 #
2015/2348(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. RegretNotes that too often Member States’ national infrastructure plans are decided without reference to the TEN-T objectives and calls on the Commission to examine the reasons for that lack of closer cooperation; urges the Commission to increase coordination between the two levels of planning and suggests adding to the European Semester a chapter on supervising its coherence with appropriate corrective measures; calls on the Commission not to prioritise Member State projects that are not in line with the TEN-T programming;
Amendment 112 #
2015/2348(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Stresses the urgency of a greater simplification of documents and administrative and customs procedures across modes; calls on the Commission and the Member States, under the ‘better regulation’ agreement to analyse redundant EU legislation on transport and mobility and additionally to monitor national, regional and local rules that could be in contradiction with EU law;
Amendment 146 #
2015/2348(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15a. Stresses the importance of investment in last-mile logistics and more ecological and rationalised logistics hubs, especially in urban areas and ports; also stress the importance of efforts to simplify administrative procedures;
Amendment 190 #
2015/2348(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Notes with concern that the logistics sector will face a shortage of workforce in the coming years and that slow adaptation of its workforce to digital technologies could undermine the sector’s performance; calls on the Commission to identify training and learning needs at EU level, and working conditions, costs and barriers that discourage the workforce from entering the transport sector, and to propose as a matter of urgency measures to make it more attractive to young people and to future generations; regards this as an opportunity to increase the proportion of women and new entrants on the transport labour market, for example EU migrants;
Amendment 1 #
2015/2347(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4
Citation 4
– having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Articles 170 and 106 thereof,
Amendment 37 #
2015/2347(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Considers that macro-regional EU strategies, such as those already established for the Baltic, Danube and Adriatic-Ionian regions and a possible future strategy for the Carpathian region, offer an innovative governance framework for tackling transport policy challenges which cannot be solved by Member States alone;
Amendment 79 #
2015/2347(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Asks the Commission to further explore the integration of the Western Balkans accession countriesSerbia into the TEN- T network and the cooperation on transport links with Ukraine and other neighbouring countries;
Amendment 89 #
2015/2347(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
Amendment 140 #
2015/2347(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Criticises the underinvestment in cross-border railway lines and the low level of passenger rail services in many border areas; calls on the Member Statesupports the efforts of the Member States to seek adequate financing from European funds to (re-)establish missing connections;
Amendment 179 #
2015/2347(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Points out that port development in the Baltic and Black Seas must not be impeded by other undersea infrastructure; is concerned that pursuits on projects such as the North Stream may undermine and block investment in the region; insists that any undersea pipelines must respect draught requirements at port entrances;
Amendment 182 #
2015/2347(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Considers that maritime ports and airports best serve the economic development of the central and eastern EU if they are hubs in an integrated multimodal transport system; expresses deep concern about the privatisation of these infrastructure and the loss of their public status;
Amendment 3 #
2015/2345(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that several NGOs are vital change agents and human rights defenders with a central role in implementing Agenda 2030; given current humanitarian crises, underlines NGOs’ importance to humanitarian aid; condemns efforts to control NGOs through public fundbelieves, however, that it is important that they should be under public control, given that they are financed with public funds; also regards as important the public control of their activities and sources of funding, as they work on such crucial issues as coping with the refugee crisis;
Amendment 18 #
2015/2345(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Recalls EU support for the 2011 International Framework for CSO Development Effectiveness, and the commitments made to help civil society organisations (CSOs) achieve results- oriented outcomoutcomes in favour of the general interest;
Amendment 30 #
2015/2345(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Urges the Commission to build a central database outlining NGO funding and results, and to make any data secure that might endanger NGO actorencourage, at the same time, transparency regarding their activities;
Amendment 38 #
2015/2345(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
Amendment 45 #
2015/2345(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Given the unpredictable environment in which NGOs now operate, stresses that NGOs should be permitted to adjust projects based on real-time re- evaluation; at the same time, however, they must adhere strictly to the legislation of the Member States in which they operate, in particular with regard to employment relationships; otherwise, the Commission must put into place penalties for those NGOs which are financed with Union funds;
Amendment 67 #
2015/2345(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8a (new)
Paragraph 8a (new)
8a. Recognises that several NGOs are used as a means of achieving goals other than those for which they were created, and that in some cases Member States use them as a means of conducting foreign policy; calls, therefore, on the Commission to look carefully into this issue and propose a strict institutional framework to prevent NGOs from being used to serve third-party interests.
Amendment 5 #
2015/2344(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Points out that the success of the eurozone is dependent on the fair distribution of the wealth produced, increasing the welfare of all its citizens, and on well- functioning labour markets, social security systems and welfare systems, based on decent work with rights, a strong role for the social partners, social dialogue, collective bargaining and collective agreements, and preventing individual Member States from trying to gain an unfair competitive advantage by infringing workers’ rights or promoting social dumping;
Amendment 9 #
2015/2344(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Believes that the crisis enhanced the need for improvementa change in EU economic governance and that the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU) must be progressively compleso to boost growth and employment within the EU Member Stateds;
Amendment 21 #
2015/2344(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Considers that the establishmentxistence of a budgetary capacity within the eurozone is necessary to complete the EMU and that it is recommendable to create a budgetary capacity, albeit limited is needed, under the current Treaty framework;
Amendment 30 #
2015/2344(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Takes note of different proposals for this purpose, with different designs and assigning different functions;
Amendment 34 #
2015/2344(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Points out that in order to stabilise the social situation in Member States and drastically to reduce unemployment, economic stabilisers such as a European Unemployment Insurance (EUI) scheme should strengthen the welfare state and fight social deprivation caused by one- sided fiscal discipline measures taken under the European economic governance framework;
Amendment 43 #
2015/2344(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. RecallNotes that such capacity should be part of the EU budget as laid down in Article 310(1) TFEU and should comply with the provisions of Articles 310(4) and 312(1) TFEU;
Amendment 49 #
2015/2344(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Regrets the fact that the current system of European economic governance is highly unbalanced and focuses almost exclusively on fiscal stability, violent fiscal adjustment, austerity and wage competitiveness, while concerns about economic recovery, public investment policies and more and better jobs, the very high unemployment rates in some EU Member States and social cohesion are largely ignored;
Amendment 50 #
2015/2344(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Points out that, pursuant to Article 311 TFEU, it is possible to raise the own resources ceilings, to establish new categories of own resources (even if only from a limited number of Member States) and to assign certain revenue to finance specific items of expenditure, as provided for in Article 21 of the Financial Rules1; __________________ 1 Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002.
Amendment 55 #
2015/2344(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Underlines that, while the EU budget also offers sufficient guarantees for specific lending operations and that, several instruments, such as the EFSM and the EGF, allow for funds to be mobilised over and above the MFF expenditure ceilings;
Amendment 62 #
2015/2344(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Asks the Member States to respect and promote the autonomy of collective bargaining and collective agreements in particular on wages and working conditions, and to restore balance with the economic governance pillar by urgently moving ahead on the social dimension;
Amendment 65 #
2015/2344(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Reiterates the need for democratic legitimacy and accountability, implying the adoption of the community method, namely with the mandatory involvement of Parliament in the shaping, implementation and oversight of a budgetary capacity;
Amendment 73 #
2015/2344(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Recalls that the protocols on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality and on the role of national parliaments offer ample opportunities for national parliaments’ involvement in this respect;
Amendment 76 #
2015/2344(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Stresses the importance of not linking any unemployment benefit system with economic conditionality for the Member States, and of promoting social policies which fight poverty, social exclusthe very high unemployment rates in some EU Member States, social exclusion, gender discrimination and social dumping;
Amendment 78 #
2015/2344(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Believes that non-eurozone Member States should be involved, if they so desire, although in a differentiated way and depending on the design of the budgetary capacity, subject to retention of their national sovereignty.
Amendment 81 #
2015/2344(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital ΣΤ
Recital ΣΤ
F. whereas, following real convergence in the run-up to the introduction of the common currency, the euro area witnessed structural divergence between 1999 and 2009, which made the euro area as a whole less resilient to shocks; whereas regulatory adjustments and structural reforms aimed at reducing risks and improving convergence have been introduced since 2009 at both European and national level, but some euro area Member States still require solidarity and sustainable reforms in their catching-up processsince 2009 the structural reforms adopted have not contributed to the economic growth in the EU Member States but have instead led to even higher rates of unemployment and poverty; ·
Amendment 84 #
2015/2344(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses that fiscal capacity should not be merely a responsive tool in the event of country-specific shocks, but should actively enable Member States to achieve a reduction in social inequalities, social cohesion and full employment, to erase poverty, to strengthen the welfare state and to help attain all the social objectives of the Europe 2020 strategy.
Amendment 87 #
2015/2344(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6α. Stresses the need to establish a European guaranteed minimum income, a European minimum wage and a European unemployment benefit in order to combat the high rates of unemployment, poverty and social exclusion that plague the EU.
Amendment 94 #
2015/2344(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas it is to be deplored that no progress has been achieved in addressing the flaws of EMU through legislation such as the Six-Pack and the Two-Pack regulations, as well as through the introduction of the European Semester and the creation of new instruments such as the ESM;
Amendment 115 #
2015/2344(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Θ
Recital Θ
I whereas it is to be deplored that a great deal of trust has been lost in the process, both between Member States and on the part of citizens and the markets in the EU institutions and the Union as a whole;
Amendment 159 #
2015/2344(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Considers, against this background, that shortcomings have existed in the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU) since its inception under the Maastricht Treaty with the attribution of monetary policy to the European level, while budgetary policy remains within the competencies of the Member States and is only framed by provisions on light coordination of national policiesithout the creation of solidarity mechanisms between the Member States of the Eurozone;
Amendment 181 #
2015/2344(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Considers that EMU exposed its vulnerability in the context of the global financial and economic crisis when unsustainable imbalances, triggered by capital flows from core euro area nations to the periphery and a rising public spending ratio in some Member States, aggravated and led to a sovereign debt crisis, in which government borrowing costs dramatically increased in some Member States, jeopardising, in the absence of a proper fiscal backstop, the mere existence of the euro areaeconomies of those countries;
Amendment 192 #
2015/2344(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
Amendment 236 #
2015/2344(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. AcknowledgesExpresses its dissatisfaction at the results achieved since the crisis broke in terms of risk reduction and better coordination; points in particular to the manyinadequate measures taken by the EU institutions to address the shortcomings revealed by the crisis by strengthening coordination of national fiscal policies, in particular via the adoption of the Six-Pack and the Two-Pack Regulations; welcomes further the factnotes that the EU institutions have set up frameworks for action in current and future crises, namely by creating the European Financial Stability Mechanism (EFSM), the temporary European Financial Stabilisation Facility (EFSF) and its permanent successor, the European Stability Mechanism (ESM); underlines, however, that these mechanisms dramatically lack democratic oversight and parliamentary control, and hence ownership;
Amendment 260 #
2015/2344(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Makes it clear that rapid action is needed to ensure the sustainability of the euroMember States afflicted by Merkelian austerity policies; stresses that this requires strong joint efforts on the part of the EU and its Member States to complete the EMU and to restore the trust of citizens and markets;
Amendment 411 #
2015/2344(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Calls for the ESM, whilst fulfilling its ongoing tasks, to be further developed and turned into a European Monetary Fund (EMF) with adequate lending and borrowing capacities and a clearly defined mandate, including its contribution to a euro area fiscal capacity; stresses that an EMF should be managed by the Commission and held democratically accountable by the European Parliament; emphasises that national parliaments would be involved in the process, given that their constitutional prerogatives regarding financial resources could be affected;
Amendment 633 #
2015/2344(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Points out that the Rainy Day Fund should be funded by all the Member States on the basis of a cyclically sensitive economic indicator and used for payments to all Member States suffering from economic downturns;
Amendment 653 #
2015/2344(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. Acknowledges that the model of a European Unemployment Benefit Scheme would foster convergence of labour markets in the medium term and assist European citizens who are unemployed or in long-term unemployment;
Amendment 724 #
2015/2344(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36
Paragraph 36
36. Considers that instability in the financial sector could also pose severe challenges for the euro area as a whole; urges completion of the Banking Union in order to lessen these challenges; calls for the fiscal capacity to operate as a fiscal backstop for the Banking Union, as agreed in the SRM;
Amendment 833 #
2015/2344(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 44 a (new)
Paragraph 44 a (new)
44a. Deplores the fact that measures taken to date by the EU institutions have not resulted in financial stability or bank rationalisation but have instead driven certain EU Member States even more deeply into recession.
Amendment 1 #
2015/2343(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 1 #
2015/2343(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
Amendment 2 #
2015/2343(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 b (new)
Citation 4 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of Subsidiarity and Proportionality,
Amendment 11 #
2015/2343(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Α
Recital Α
A. whereas the European Union is resolved to frame a common defence policy leading to a common defence which reinforces its European identity and autonomy in order to promote peace, security and progress in Europe and in the worldintended to lead to a common defence;
Amendment 12 #
2015/2343(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
Amendment 50 #
2015/2343(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Δ
Recital Δ
D. whereas the EU now has competence to define and implement a common security and defence policy that includes the progressive framing of a common Union defence policy; whereas the Union should use this competence to coordinate and supplement the actions of the Member States, without thereby prejudicing or superseding their competence in defence;
Amendment 52 #
2015/2343(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Believes that, in the long term, the EU should aim at a common budget, financing inter alia the core of the EU integrated military forces, including the command structure, joint operations and equipment, as well as a proper EU programme for CSDP research; lLooks forward to the presentation of the Commission’s proposal for a European Defence Fund, and stresses that it should be financed by new additional appropriations.
Amendment 61 #
2015/2343(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ε
Recital Ε
Amendment 89 #
2015/2343(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ζ
Recital Ζ
G. whereas Parliament actively supports the European Defence Union and will continue to make appropriate proposals to that end; whereas the interparliamentary conference on the CFSP and CSDP should become the forum for the implementation of effective and regular interparliamentary cooperation on the CSDP and the progressive framing of a common Union defence policy;
Amendment 146 #
2015/2343(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that the reform and innovation that the Lisbon Treaty brings to the CSDP should constitute a sufficient and coherent framework and should set the path for a truly common policy, based on shared resources and capabilities as well as on coordinated planning at Union level; stresses that the progress of the CSDP within the current institutional and legal framework is dependent more on the political will of Member States than on legal considerations;
Amendment 224 #
2015/2343(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Emphasises that security and defence constitute an area where European added value can be easily demonstrated, in terms of economic and efficiency gains, by giving Member States increased and more cost-effective capacity, through greater coherence, coordination and interoperability in security and defence, as well as in terms of contributing to consolidating solidarity and cohesion within the Union;
Amendment 319 #
2015/2343(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. RegretStresses that Member States have not yet developed a common European armaments and capabilities policy (EACP) within the EDA as foreseen by Article 42(3) TEU; calls on the VP/HR to inform Parliament of the results achieved by the existing working relationship between the EDA and the Commission and of both with the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR);
Amendment 387 #
2015/2343(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
Amendment 1 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 4 #
2015/2342(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that the financial response to the exceptional influx of refugees has been an ad hoc one and has demonstrated that the Union budget and the multiannual financial framework (MFF) 2014-2020 lack the necessarysufficient resources and flexibility for a rapid and comprehensive approach to a major external crisis;
Amendment 7 #
2015/2342(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that the financial response to the exceptional influx of refugees has been an ad hoc one and has demonstrated that the Union budget and the multiannual financial framework (MFF) 2014-2020 lack the necessarysufficient resources and flexibility for a rapid and comprehensive approach to a major external crisis;
Amendment 11 #
2015/2342(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. whereas the humanitarian crisis affecting more than 65.3 million ‘displaced’ persons1 means that the distinction between people in need of international protection and migrants is becoming increasingly difficult to draw; _________________ 1 http://www.unhcr.org/news/latest/2016/6/ 5763b65a4/global-forced-displacement- hits-record-high.htmlmust be further clarified;
Amendment 12 #
2015/2342(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that the insufficient size of Heading 4 and the Emergency Aid Reserve in particular has led the Commission to resort to satellite budgetary mechanisms, such as trust funds and the Facility for Refugees in Turkey, to top up the funding available; notes that this aim has not always been met with full success;
Amendment 24 #
2015/2342(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Expresses its solidarity with people who are forced to leave their countries on account of conflicts, persecution, violations of human rights, extreme poverty and environmental causes; calls on those people to stand firm and not give up the struggle to uphold their rights;
Amendment 29 #
2015/2342(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses that third countries are facing challenges that pose risks to the rights and the protection of a growing number of people; acknowledges, however, that the EU Member States are unable to accommodate all those facing such problems; expresses the conviction that a very considerable number of migrants illegally entering the territory of EU Member States have not been encountering problems necessitating international protection;
Amendment 31 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Γ
Recital Γ
C. whereas this challenge requires global solutions; whereas, however, 86 % of the world’s refugees live in developing regions, with least developed countries hosting 26 % of the total; whereas the million people who arrived in the EU in 2015 represented 0.2 % of the EU population, compared with much higher percentages in neighbouring countries;
Amendment 37 #
2015/2342(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. WelcomNotes the Commission proposal on the revision of the MFF, in particular with regard to endowing the EU budget with larger crisis instruments; expects the proposed revision of the financial rules to reconcile the necessary flexibility and accountability.
Amendment 43 #
2015/2342(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the European Union to open up legal and safe rouensure that the burden is equally distributed between the Member States when it comes to providing sheltesr for migrants and refugerefugees and illegal migrants, based on per capita income, population, growth rates and unemployment rates;
Amendment 50 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Δ
Recital Δ
D. whereas refugees and migrants are legally two distinct categories but in reality often people are part of large-scale mixed movements of people – with political, economic, social, developmental, humanitarian and human rights implications that cut across borders;
Amendment 64 #
2015/2342(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls for international protection to be provided to people fleeing conflicts, including through resettlement programmes and humanitarian visas, giving priority to their repatriation within their country of origin;
Amendment 84 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas the increase in human mobility, if managed in a safe, orderly, regular and responsible manner, can provide significant benefits, as recognised by the 2030 Agenda, but these are often largely underestimated; whereas the ageing of the European population requires, among other measures, relying on foreign workers in order to guarantee an adequate balance between active and retired people;
Amendment 91 #
2015/2342(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls for all agreements with third countries to guarantee that the rights of migrants, whatever their status,refugees are respected and promotes the adoption of appropriate laws, including in respect of asylum;
Amendment 99 #
2015/2342(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Underlines that concepts of safe countries and safe countries of origin should not prevent individual assessments of asylum applications; calls accordingly for increased funding for the processing of asylum applications, particularly for Greece and Italy;
Amendment 117 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Underlines the fact that we are witnessing in today’s world an unprecedented level of human mobility, and stresses that one of the most urgent actions the international community must undertake is the strengthening of a common response to address the challenges and opportunities that this phenomenon represents; stresses that this response must be guided by the full protection of the rights and dignity both of everyone forced by any circumstance to flee their homes in search of a better life; underlines that, though their treatment is governed by separate legal frameworks, refugees and migrants have the same universal human rights and fundamental freedoms, which need to be safeguarded regardless of their statu and of those who host them; emphasises that the treatment of migrants and refugees is governed by different legal frameworks; recalls that the EU must abide by its values and principles in all common policies and promote them in its external relations;
Amendment 126 #
2015/2342(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Calls for the assessment and budgetary control of funds used as part of the Union’s external policies on migration, particularly funds for Turkey and those earmarked for non-governmental organisations;
Amendment 144 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that well-managed international migration represents an important contribution to socioeconomic development, as it has done historically, and that it is therefore necessary to encourage this by changing the current narrative and developing a positive one, countering xenophobic, populist and nationalistic discoursesbreak away from the dominant ideology of the so-called 'open society' in addressing this phenomenon and to focus on the real problems of people which are not exclusively individual and to place greater emphasis on issues of a cultural nature and on adopting policies focused on the medium and long term and not exclusively guided byaddressing immediate political pressures, while also addresstackling legitimate concerns regarding border management, social protection for vulnerable groups and the attempt to integration ofe refugees and migrants;
Amendment 226 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 2
Subheading 2
Better managed international migration: a global responsibility
Amendment 239 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. WelNotes the outcomes of the UN General Assembly High-Level Meeting to Address Large Movements of Refugees and Migrants of 19 September 2016 and the hosting of the Leaders’ Summit by the USA, as migration flows are a global responsibility which demand a global response and enhanced cooperation between all stakeholders; welcomes the outcome of these summits as the expression of a political commitment of unprecedented force, initiating the path towards a truly international sharing of responsibilities for refugees and large migration movements; regrets however the lack of specific pledges or legally binding commitments in terms of aid or reform, which are needed to close the current gap between rhetoric and reality; calls on all the parties involved to ensure continued political engagement, funding and concrete acts of solidarity in support of host countries; calls for the EU and its Member States to take the lead in international efforts, particularly as regards ensuring that the agreements –including the future compacts on refugees and on safe, orderly and regular migration – are swiftly put into practice, establishing follow-up mechanisms as needed;
Amendment 257 #
2015/2342(INI)
8. Underlines that the resettlement of forcibly displaced persons is a responsibility of the international community; cConsiders it crucial to implement as a matter of urgency a coordinated response in third countries to grant asylum for people in need of international protection, instead of leaving the burden on the front-line states or countries neighbouring conflict zones; highlights the fact that financial support is outpaced by the scope and scale of displacement, compounded by the lack of solutions to address the root causes of this forced displacement;
Amendment 271 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Stresses that people who are in need of international protection and are in the EU should be distributed equally among the Member States; calls therefore on Member States to speed up the relocation process as agreed in Council Decision (EU) 2015/1601 of 22 September 2015; stresses that since the refugee flows are expected to continue, it is imperative to extend the relocation programme and, in allocating refugees, to take into account the the population, the per capita GDP and the growth and unemployment rates in each State in order to achieve the best possible integration of the refugee population during their stay;
Amendment 293 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Strongly condemns all military operations by EU Member States and the US which, without UN approval, have led to prolonged political instability, the violent displacement of people and the economic destruction of business sectors; Urges those countries that led these undertakings to assume their responsibilities towards those they have turned into refugees and migrants by their actions and not to pass these responsibilities on to the international community;
Amendment 331 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Stresses that EU external action should be forward-looking instead of mainly reactive with changing objectives in response to new crises; recalls that the migration phenomenon stems from a complex set of causes such as a growing population, poverty, insufficient job creation, political instability, wars and climate change;
Amendment 528 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Welcomes the use of common security and defence policy (CSDP) missions such as EUCAP Sahel Niger and EUNAVFOR MED, cooperation with NATO, and EU initiatives such as Europol’s Joint Operational Team (JOT) Mare to gather intelligence and fight smugglers, while underlining that global mobility should not be considered a threat; recommends the use of CSDP tools for early warning (forecasting), mediation and conflict resolution, while stressing the importance of starting to plan for durable solutions as early as possible in conflict situations;
Amendment 1 #
2015/2329(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2015/2329(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of Subsidiarity and Proportionality,
Amendment 7 #
2015/2329(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Repeats its call for an independent and stronger role in setting the priorities and objectives of the programme, and recommends further simplifying its language to make it widely accessible;
Amendment 12 #
2015/2329(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. WelcomNotes the simplification of the programme structure, for example through multiannual priority-setting which, overall, has made it simpler for interested citizens and organisations to apply, as well as a number of new financial arrangements, such as a system of lump-sum payments, that have reduced the administrative burden on beneficiaries;
Amendment 13 #
2015/2329(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the Europe for Citizens programme aims to strengthen a sense of European citizenship, enhance mutual tolerance and promote a better understanding of the EUpromote better understanding of the EU and public participation in its decision-making processes;
Amendment 16 #
2015/2329(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Points out that thecertain objectives of the Europe for Citizens programme are similar and complementary to those of the European Citizens’ Initiative, in particular the aspiration to get citizens involved in EU work; believes, for that reason, that efforts should be made to link up the two programmes, possibly by means of exchanges of experience;
Amendment 18 #
2015/2329(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Requests the Commission and the Education, Audiovisual and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA) to assess the impact that a number ofthe budgetary arrangements have had on applicants and potential eligible applicants;
Amendment 19 #
2015/2329(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the current rise of ‘Euroscepticism’ – which culminated recently in the vote in favour of Brexit – reinforces the need to encourage civic participation and to launch an in-depth debate on European values, while highlighting the opportunitieis justified in the light of the neoliberal policies adopted by the EU leadership that have, inter alia, effectively excluded the majority of citizens bfrought about by belonging to the EUm the political process;
Amendment 19 #
2015/2329(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
Amendment 28 #
2015/2329(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Invites the Commission and the EACEA to come up with a realistic strategy for the medium and long term and to weigh up different options, such as a redefinition ofredefine programme goals to make them more specific or an increase in funding to bring it more in line with programme ambitions;
Amendment 36 #
2015/2329(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Commission, the EACEA, NCPs and programme beneficiaries to make additionalimmediate efforts to enhance visibility and communication. the effectiveness of the programme.
Amendment 51 #
2015/2329(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ι a (new)
Recital Ι a (new)
Ia. Repeats its call for a stronger role in setting the priorities and objectives of the programme; stresses that priorities must be set in an impartial manner and independently of political factors;
Amendment 92 #
2015/2329(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
Amendment 131 #
2015/2329(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Welcomes the strong focus on citizens and societal aspects of the EU, allowing EU institutions to directly engage with civil society on the ground; highlights within the priorities of the programme the importance of projects focused on current challenges for Europethe citizens, on issues such as migration, social inclusion and fintercultural dialoguance;
Amendment 137 #
2015/2329(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
Amendment 155 #
2015/2329(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
Amendment 2 #
2015/2328(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 3 #
2015/2328(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of Subsidiarity and Proportionality,
Amendment 4 #
2015/2328(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. RegretsDeplores the fact that a lack of financial capacity continues to be one of the main obstacles for potential applicants; encourages the Commission, the Education, Audiovisual and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA) and the Creative Europe national Desks to try to address the under-representation of micro cultural operators among funded organisations and certain sectors in the Culture sub-programme;
Amendment 7 #
2015/2328(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Looks forward to seeing the initial results of the Financial Guarantee Facility launched in 2016; bystresses the need to easinge the access of SMEs and microbusinesses to loans, expects this new market instrument to help the cultural and creative sectors, which account for 4.4 % of the EU’s GDP and 3.8 % of its workforce, realise their full potential as a promising source of growth and jobs and as drivers of competitiveness, cultural diversity and cross-border cooperation; regdeplorets, however, the fact that that the Facility will only work in those countries where a similar instrument is already in place;
Amendment 12 #
2015/2328(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Welcomes, in the light of the significant influx of migrants and refugees into the EU in recent years, the programme’s growing intercultural dimension, which will hopefully result in more projects that boost cultural integration and understanding as of 2017; given that integration is likely to remain a challenge in many countries in the EU for years to come, underlines that this should be supported as a regular programme component.
Amendment 27 #
2015/2328(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Β
Recital Β
Β. whereas it is to be deplored that the Creative Europe Programme, in particular, its Culture Sub- programme, is seriously underfinanced;
Amendment 38 #
2015/2328(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ε
Recital Ε
Ε. whereas the Cross-sectoral Strand has only partially developed its strategic goal of promoting transnational and trans- sectoral cultural cooperation, although it is expected to facilitate access to funding for SMEs, the cultural and creative sector and non-profit organisations;
Amendment 45 #
2015/2328(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas the current evaluation system has proved unsuited to the nature and specificity of the programme and should therefore be improved;
Amendment 59 #
2015/2328(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas, thanks to Parliament's action, culture, cultural and creative industries (CCIs) and the audiovisual sector have been included, albeit inadequately and with insufficient funding, in the Erasmus +, Horizon 2020 and Cosme multiannual programmes, the structural funds and the priorities of the European Investment Strategic Fund;
Amendment 70 #
2015/2328(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital P
Recital P
P. whereas it must be emphasised that the administrative management (application, evaluation and reporting processes) has been criticised by stakeholders as still being burdensome;
Amendment 81 #
2015/2328(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Urges the Member StatesCalls on the Union to increase the Creative Europe budget in line with the ambitions of the programme;
Amendment 95 #
2015/2328(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recommends thatCalls on the Commission to maintain the existing structure with two sub-programmes and use the potential of the cross-sectoral strand more effectively;
Amendment 141 #
2015/2328(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Underlines that, in an aggressive and evolving international market, European audiovisual production still needs to be directly supported by extending training to cover more actions and by paying due attention to trainers’ curricula;
Amendment 155 #
2015/2328(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Asks the Commission to balance the weight of the economic dimension with the intrinsic value of arts and culture per se, and to focus more on artists and creators, so as to support the cultural and creative sector in European countries;
Amendment 169 #
2015/2328(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Recommends that the European Platforms be extended to all sectors of Creative Europe, to enablcourage emerging talent to circulate in the EU;
Amendment 191 #
2015/2328(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. UrgesCalls on the Commission to develop and fully use the potential of the strand in order to achieve its objectives, as set in the regulation, in particular the promotion of transnational and cross- sectoral cooperation;
Amendment 215 #
2015/2328(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34
Paragraph 34
34. Recommends that Creative Europe be continued and improved in 2021-2028 as a programme with two sub-programmes and a cross- sectoral strand including training, audience development, access to markets, social inclusion, international cooperation, cross- sectoral and cross-over projects, as well as communication, studies, a Guarantee facility and CED support;
Amendment 1 #
2015/2327(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2015/2327(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 3 #
2015/2327(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Points out that Erasmus+ is the EU’s flagship mobility, education and training programme, which has been allocated a 40 % budget increase as compared to the 2007-2013 period, given the positive results and high demand; notes that it is designed to improve career prospects for young people and help participants enrol on social networks;
Amendment 6 #
2015/2327(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Recognises that investment from the EU budget under Erasmus+ contributes significantly to skills improvement, and employability and should lead to a lower risk of long- term unemployment for young Europeans;
Amendment 6 #
2015/2327(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas Erasmus+ is one of the most successful Union programmes and the major tool to support activities in the fields of education, training, youth and sport and is designed to improve the career potential of young people and to offer social links to participants;
Amendment 13 #
2015/2327(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes regional imbalances in participation in Erasmus+-funded actions; is concerned that the deplores the fact that the success rates of its actions are relatively low, and divergent across the EU; calls for targeted and timely action to widen participation and improve success rates;
Amendment 18 #
2015/2327(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. WelcomNotes the Commission proposal to increase the commitments for Erasmus+ by EUR 200 million for the rest of the current MFF, and to increase the payments by 4.5 % in the 2017 draft budget; notes that 48% of national agencies (NAs) report that programme actions are under-budgeted; calls on the Commission to propose an adequate multiannual payment plan;
Amendment 18 #
2015/2327(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers that Erasmus+ is one of the key drivers of growth, employment, competitiveness and social cohesion in that it contributes to improving European education and training systems and employability, and will provides Europeans with an opportunity to 15 billion euros by 2020 to four million Europeans so that they acquire transversal and transferable sets of skills and competences via studies, training and work experience abroad;
Amendment 20 #
2015/2327(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. NotesDeplores the fact that the greater positive effect of, and higher demand for, Erasmus+ mobility grants in eastern and southern Europe contrast with a limited overall programme budget, which leads to a high proportion of rejected applications;
Amendment 24 #
2015/2327(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes that a large majority of national agencies expecte need for the Erasmus+ programme’s objectives in the fields of education, training and youth to be reached;
Amendment 26 #
2015/2327(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Emphasises that although the overall programme is more visible than its predecessor but that the different sectoral programmes still lack visibility; recalls in this context that the specific features and characteristics of the different sectors have to be taken into account during the implementation of the programme;
Amendment 38 #
2015/2327(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Points outStresses that the goal of simpler, more user-friendly and more flexible implementation has not yet been reached; underlindeplores, in this context, the continuing lack of clarity and uneven level of detail in the programme guide;
Amendment 44 #
2015/2327(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Highlights the fact that vocational education and training (VET) and VET mobility plays a vital economic and social role in Europe as a mechanism leading to equal opportunities for all citizens, including those from socially disadvantaged groups, unemployed young people, migrants and women, who are all under-represented in VET; calls on the Commission and the Member States to position VET as a choice which leads to a promising career, make it accessible to all, ensure gender balance and non- discrimination, and guarantee that it is adequately funded;
Amendment 47 #
2015/2327(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Recalls that despite the programme’s significant overall budget increase, the budgetary profile in the MFF indicates a limited increase for the first half of the programme period, which has led, unfortunately, to the rejection of many high quality projects and hence a low success rate;
Amendment 50 #
2015/2327(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Believes that the 12.7 % increase in the total budget in 2017 compared to 2016 and further annual increases in the remaining programme years will result in higher success rates and greater satisfaction among applicants; welcomesexpects the implementation of the Commission’s intention to allocate an additional EUR 200 million for the remaining programme period;
Amendment 72 #
2015/2327(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls on the Commission to work with the Members States on stronger cooperation between education establishments and key stakeholders (businesses, VET facilities, research organisations, social partners, local/regional authorities and the youth sector) in order to enhance the responsiveness of the education and VET systems to labour market needs,improve career prospects, enable participants to acquire social connections and to guarantee that this cooperation is reflected in Erasmus+; believes that active involvement of beneficiaries in the design and implementation of the programme increases its success and added value;
Amendment 86 #
2015/2327(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. StressesDeplores the fact that, despite clear improvements in recognition and validation systems in education and VET, problems still persist; calls for specific targets such as the implementation of a fully operational credit transfer system and recognition, and for validation of competences acquired through non-formal and informal learning.
Amendment 97 #
2015/2327(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. EncouragesCalls on the Commission to continue its efforts towards an open, consultative and transparent way of working and to further improve its cooperation with partners at all levels of implementation;
Amendment 141 #
2015/2327(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. WelcomesNotes that the introduction of two types of strategic partnerships as a first and important positive step towards increasing the chances forshould encourage small-sized organisations to participate in the programme; calls on the Commission to make further improvements in order to include more small-sized organisations in programme activities;
Amendment 178 #
2015/2327(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Calls on the Commission to recognise the special nature of projects and mobilities involving people with special needs and people from disadvantaged backgrounds; encourages stronger promotion ofstresses that the possibilities for people with special needs and for people from disadvantaged backgrounds to engage in the programme should be promoted more strongly and asks that their access thereto be facilitated;
Amendment 211 #
2015/2327(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Suggests that the priority should be to refrain from further harmonisation and major changes in the structure of the programme, and instead to safeguard and consolidate achievements and make incremental improvements where necessary;
Amendment 219 #
2015/2327(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. SuggestAsks that a clear definition of cross- sectoral projects be developed in order to avoid confusion resulting from the mislabelling of projects;
Amendment 7 #
2015/2326(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Appreciates the importance attributed in the report to petitions submitted by citizens, businesses and civil society organisations as a secondary means of monitoring the application of EU law through citizens’ direct expression of their views,direct expression by citizens of their views - in addition to their primary avenue for democratic expression: elections and referendums - a right enshrined in the Lisbon Treaty and an important element of European citizenship;
Amendment 23 #
2015/2326(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Regrets that petitions submitted by EU citizens refer to violations of EU law; considers that these petitions attest to the fact that there are still frequent and widespread instances of late or incomplete transposition, or of misapplication, of EU law, and stresses that the Member States should implement and execute EU law effectively; considers that the EU itself should seek gradually to cut the size of its rulebook by up to half and to concentrate on areas where it enjoys exclusive competence, focusing within shared- competence fields solely on policies that are genuinely more effective when conducted at European level rather than at national level; points out that the EU cannot opt out of periodic assessments of the true impact of its legislation and of drawing conclusions from them, on an objective basis, in order either to maintain legislation, if not enlarge upon it, or to shift its focus or, in line with the subsidiarity principle, to return competence for it to Member States;
Amendment 26 #
2015/2326(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Regrets that petitions submitted by EU citizens refer to violations of EU law or to a number of consequences thereof for citizens and businesses or to instances of EU maladministration; considers that these petitions attest to the fact that there are still frequent and widespread instances of late or incomplete transposition, or of misapplication, of EU law, and stresses that the Member States should implement and execute EU law effectively;
Amendment 30 #
2015/2326(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Recalls that the area of police and judicial cooperation in criminal matters (previously known as the ‘third pillar’) is frequently addressed in petitions by natural persons; welcomes, therefore,is concerned at the expansion of the Commission’s competences to include police and judicial cooperation as of 1 December 2014, at a time when cooperation between police, court, intelligence and customs services should be heightened and a culture of confidence and communication cultivated within Interpol's current intergovernmental framework, centring on a number of priority areas (terrorism, transnational crime, illegal immigration, drugs and people trafficking), rather than weakening arrangements by adding a layer of bureaucratic oversight which can but be detrimental to the effectiveness of those services, as is illustrated by Europol's poor record, and therefore to territorial security and fundamental freedoms;
Amendment 34 #
2015/2326(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Underlines the importance of implementation plans adopted by the Commission with the aim of assisting and guiding Member States in the timely, clear and correct transposition of EU directives; underlines the need for the Commission to act quickly, and on a grand scale, so as gradually to cut the number of legislative acts by up to half, by 2020, on the basis of the principle that two old acts should be done away with for every new act adopted; welcomes the importance attributed to Better Regulation and to the monitoring of EU regulatory fitness, which form part of a greater effort to improve the quality of EU legislation and – it is to be hoped – should have a positive impact on the number of petitions submitted.
Amendment 3 #
2015/2319(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes that transparency is of paramount importance in the composition and the action of the expert groups; therefore welcomes the fact that the selection process is now taking place publicly; stresses in this connection that it needs to be clearly visible what practical experience and qualifications the experts possess;
Amendment 4 #
2015/2319(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ε
Recital Ε
Ε. whereas it recognises that before adopting the Decision, the Commission did engaged with representatives of Parliament and with the European Ombudsman;
Amendment 5 #
2015/2319(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas it welcomes, in particular, the presentation by the Commission presented to Parliament of a working document of the Commission’s services, responding to the recommendations contained in a working document of the Rapporteur for the Committee on Budgetary Control;
Amendment 6 #
2015/2319(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ζ
Recital Ζ
G. whereas, this notwithstanding, unfortunately neither the working document of the Commission’s services, nor the Commission Decision, provides solutions to all concerns raised by Parliament;
Amendment 8 #
2015/2319(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. WelcomesPoints to the Commission Decision of 30 May 2016 establishing horizontal rules on the creation and operation of Commission expert groups, but regrets the fact that, despite many non-governmental organisations having expressed their interest, the Commission did not organise a full public consultation;
Amendment 10 #
2015/2319(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Takes the view that the Commission hasshould madke progress towards a more balanced composition of the expert groups; regretsdeplores the fact, however, that as yet no express distinction is drawn between those representing economic and non-economic interests in order to guarantee a maximum of transparency and balance;
Amendment 12 #
2015/2319(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. RecognisesPoints out that, through the adoption of the new horizontal rules, many concerns previously expressed by Parliament have seemingly been met, in particular those concerning the need for public calls for applications for the selection of the members of expert groups and concerning the revision of the Register of Commission expert groups and the creation of synergy between this Register, the Transparency Register of the Commission and Parliament, as well as those rules relating to the need to avoid conflicts of interest, in particular as regards experts who are appointed in a personal capacity;
Amendment 13 #
2015/2319(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. NotesDeplores the fact that for financial and organisational reasons it is frequently not possible for under-represented groups, which are often representatives of civil society and of small and medium-sized undertakings, to participate; therefore calls on the Commission, in the interest of ensuring balanced composition of expert groups, to consider possibilities forseek an increase in financial support to enable them to participate;
Amendment 15 #
2015/2319(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Emphasises that the new rules should apply strictly to all Commission expert groups, irrespective of their title (thus including special, high-level or other ‘extraordinary’ groups, and formal or informal groups), that are not exclusively composed of representatives of Member States or governed by Commission Decision of 20 May 1998 on the establishment of Sectoral Dialogue Committees promoting the Dialogue between the social partners at European level;6 · __________________ 6 OJ L 225, p. 27. OJ L 225, p. 27.
Amendment 17 #
2015/2319(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the Commission to ensure that all minutes of meetings are published in order to produce greater transparency; stresses in this connection that the content and the positions expressed by the experts at these meetings must be clearly shown; also calls for the possibility of publishing minority decisions;
Amendment 18 #
2015/2319(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the Commission, when creating new expert groups or changing the composition of existing ones, to state clearly in the public call for applications how it defines a balanced composition and, which interests it seeks to be represented, and why, and also to justify any possible deviation from the balanced composition as defined beforehand, when the expert groups are established;
Amendment 23 #
2015/2319(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls on the Commission forthwith to set up a complaints mechanism, if the definition of balanced composition is contested by interested stakeholders;
Amendment 24 #
2015/2319(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. NoteRecalls that in the past it was not always possible for the Commission to find sufficient experts representing SMEs, consumers, trade unions or other organisations of general public interest, and that this was often caused by the costs involved, either in taking up leave or, for example in the case of SMEs, in finding replacement for the time spent in the expert groups, hereafter referred to as ‘alternative costs’;
Amendment 24 #
2015/2319(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Highlights furthermoreStresses that the Commission, in preparing and drafting delegated acts, must ensure that all documents, including draft acts, must be communicated to the European Parliament and the Council at the same time as to the Member States’ experts, as agreed in the Interinstitutional Agreement on Better Law-Making of 12 May 2016.
Amendment 29 #
2015/2319(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
Amendment 31 #
2015/2319(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Calls on the Commission to make sure that, even if, despite specific arrangements, it is still not possible to find sufficient experts representing all relevant interests, the expert group concerned will take all appropriate measures, for example by weighted voting procedures, to make sure that the final reports of these expert groups will effectively be representing all relevant interests in a balanced manner;
Amendment 33 #
2015/2319(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Recalls that both Parliament and the European Ombudsman has recommended to the Commission to make the deliberations of expert groups public, unless a qualified majority of their members decide that a specific meeting or part of a meeting would need to be secret, and regrets that the Commission has persisted in a system in which the meetings remain secret unless a simple majority of the members of expert groups decides that the deliberations should be made public;
Amendment 40 #
2015/2319(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Invites the Commission forthwith to develop specific guidelines explaining how it interprets the provision that the minutes of the expert groups shall be meaningful and complete, especially when the meetings are not public, and urges the Commission to provide, in this regard, the maximum transparency possible, in line with the recommendation of the European Ombudsman;
Amendment 44 #
2015/2319(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Calls on the Commission to clarify that, if individuals appointed in their personal capacity have submitted false or incomplete declarations of interest, or have failed to keep these up to date, this will not only have consequences for their membership in the expert group concerned, but will alsoutomatically mean that they will be banned from other existing or future expert groups for a period of at least twofive years after the discovery of the errors in respect of their declarations of interest;
Amendment 47 #
2015/2319(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Recalls that, in addition to experts appointed in their personal capacity, members from universities, research institutes, law firms and consultancies may also have conflicts of interest, as they do not necessarily represent a specific interest, and requests the Commission to clarify how it avoids conflicts of interest for these specific categories of experts;
Amendment 57 #
2015/2319(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Notes that the Commission has stated that by the end of 2016, the new framework for Commission expert groups will have to be implemented by all Directorates-General, and requests the Commission to submit to Parliament an evaluation report at the latest one yearsix months after the adoption of the Decision, i.e. before 1 June 2017;
Amendment 1 #
2015/2318(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2015/2318(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 3 #
2015/2318(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Highlights the fact that FP7 represented a total voted budget of EUR 55 billion, accounting for an estimated 3% of total RTD expenditure in Europe, or 25% of competitive funding; over the seven- year duration of FP7, more than 139 000 research proposals were submitted, from which 25 000 projects of the highest quality were selected and received funding; the main recipients among the 29 000 organisations participating in FP7 were, inter alia, universities (44% of FP7 funding), research and technology organisations (27%), large private companies (11%) and SMEs (13%), while the public sector (3%) and civil society organisations (2%) played a minor role;
Amendment 6 #
2015/2318(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 – introductory part
Paragraph 2 – introductory part
2. Welcomes the fact thatPoints to the ex-post evaluation of FP7, undertaken by a high- level expert group 8, which considered FP7 to have been a success; the high-level group underlined in particular that FP7: _________________ 8 Commitment and Coherence, ex-post evaluation of the 7th EU Framework Programme, November 2015 https://ec.europa.eu/research/evaluations/p df/fp7_final_evaluation_expert_group_rep ort.pdf
Amendment 7 #
2015/2318(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 – indent 5
Paragraph 2 – indent 5
– sought to strengthened the European Research Area by catalysing a culture of cooperation and constructing comprehensive networks fit to address thematic challenges,
Amendment 8 #
2015/2318(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 – introductory part
Paragraph 3 – introductory part
3. NotStresses that the public stakeholder consultation in the context of the FP7 evaluation, held between February and May 2015, pointed to the following weaknesses:
Amendment 14 #
2015/2318(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
Amendment 17 #
2015/2318(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. NotEmphasises that, in 2015, of the 150 transactions that the Court audited, 72 (48 %) were affected by error; on the basis of the 38 errors which the Court had quantified, it estimated the level of error to be 4.4 %; furthermore, in 16 cases of quantifiable errors, the Commission, national authorities or independent auditors had sufficient information to prevent or detect and correct the errors before accepting the expenditure; if all this information had been used to correct errors, the estimated level of error for this chapter would have been 0.6 % lower;
Amendment 20 #
2015/2318(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Recalls its position in the 2012 and 2014 Commission discharge: ‘Remains convinced that the Commission mustshould continue to strive for an acceptable balance between the attractiveness of programmes to participants and the legitimate necessity of accountability and financial control; recalls, in this connection, the statement of the Director-General in 2012 that a procedure designed to attain a residual error rate of 2 % under all circumstances is not a viable option’;
Amendment 37 #
2015/2318(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
Amendment 48 #
2015/2318(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
Amendment 57 #
2015/2318(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36
Paragraph 36
36. Notes with absolute respect the vote of the citizens of the United Kingdom of 23 June 2016, in which they expressed the political will to leave the European Union;
Amendment 3 #
2015/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 11 a (new)
Citation 11 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No 1) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 4 #
2015/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 11 b (new)
Citation 11 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 12 #
2015/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas national parliaments continue to observe that thean increasing number of delegated powers in the Union’s legislative acts makesthat are making it difficult to effectively evaluate whether final rules would comply with the principle of subsidiarity;
Amendment 23 #
2015/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the continued consideration of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality, which are guiding principles for the European Union when it chooses to act; stresses that subsidiarity and democratic legitimacy are closely intertwined concepts; highlights that subsidiarity checks can be consideared an important tool for reducing the so-called ‘democratic deficit’; points out that national parliaments have a vital role to play in ensuring that decisions are taken as closely as possible to the citizen;
Amendment 26 #
2015/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. NotStresses the decrease in the number of reasoned opinions received from national parliaments in 2014; points out, however, that such a decrease might be as a result of the declining number of legislative proposals by the Commission and not of a loss of interest on the part of national parliaments; draws attention to the fact that in 2014 no Commission proposal received a sufficient number of reasoned opinions to trigger the ‘yellow’ or ‘orange card procedures’ under Protocol No 2 on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality;
Amendment 38 #
2015/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Is concerned by the fact that some national parliaments have highlighted that, in a number of the Commission’s legislative proposals, the justification of subsidiarity and proportionality is insufficient or non-existent in substance; stresses, in this connection, the need forresponsibility of the European institutions to make it possible for national parliaments to scrutinise legislative proposals by ensuring that the Commission provides detailed and comprehensive grounds for its legislative decisions on subsidiarity and proportionality, in accordance with Article 5 of Protocol No 2 to the TFEU;
Amendment 44 #
2015/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Expresses concern that the Impact Assessment Board (‘IAB’) considered more than 32 % of impact assessments (‘IAs’) reviewed by them in 2014 to have included an unsatisfactory analysis of the principles of subsidiarity or proportionality, or both; notes the crucial importance of impact assessments as tools for aiding decision-making in the legislative process, and stresses the need, in this context, for proper consideration to be given to issues relating to subsidiarity and proportionality; welcomeawaits, in this connection, the implementation of the package of better regulation measures adopted by the Commission on 19 May 2015, which are intended to place new emphasis on subsidiarity and proportionality in the context of impact assessments;
Amendment 49 #
2015/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Recalls concerns raised in previous reports regardinggrets the somewhat perfunctory character of the annual reports on subsidiarity and proportionality prepared by the Commission, which often fail to pay detailed consideration to how the principles of subsidiarity and, in particular, proportionality are observed in EU policy- making; calls on the Commission to produce more analytical annual reports;
Amendment 63 #
2015/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Suggests that in any review of the Treaties and the Protocols thereto consideration should be given to whether reasoned opinions should be limited to examining subsidiarity grounds, to the appropriate number of national parliament responses required to trigger a ‘yellow’ or ‘orange card’ procedure, and to what the effect should be in cases where the threshold for these procedures is reached; believes that consideration should be given to the introduction of a ‘red card’ mechanism should be introduced whereby the consideration of a proposal by the EU co-legislators should be stayed if a significant number of national parliaments expresses concern on subsidiarity grounds, unless the proposal is amended to accommodate those concerns;
Amendment 70 #
2015/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Is of the opinion that the introduction of a ‘green card’ mechanism cshould also be considered, which would afford national parliaments the opportunity to propose the introduction, amendment or repeal of Union legislation; suggests, in this connection, that consideration should be given to the number of national parliaments needed in order to trigger such a procedure, and to the extent of its impact;
Amendment 76 #
2015/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Takes note ofConsiders reasonable the request from a number of national parliaments to extend the eight-week period in which they can issue a reasoned opinion under Article 6 of Protocol No 2 on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality; notes, in this regard, that the current timeframe for national parliaments to carry out subsidiarity checks is often deemed insufficient; considers that a twelve-week period would be more appropriate;
Amendment 89 #
2015/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Suggests assessing whetherthat appropriate criteria in the form of non- binding guidelines should be laid down at EU level for the evaluation of compliance with the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality; considers that these criteria should not unduly restrict the discretion that national parliaments should enjoy when assessing the compliance of the proposals with the subsidiarity and proportionality principles;
Amendment 108 #
2015/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Notes that legislative proposals may change substantially in the course of the legislative procedure and, in this connection, reiterates that consideration should be given to the introduction of further subsidiarity checks and impact assessments when a major amendment is likely to be adopted and at the conclusion of the legislative negotiations and in advance of the adoption of the final text, in order that the closest compliance with subsidiarity can be guaranteed and that assessments including proportionality can be made;
Amendment 78 #
2015/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Insists on the importance of developing the parliamentary dimension of EU-Iran relations as part of the strategy for re-establishing mutual trust; reiterates its support, in this regard, for the proposal discussed between Parliament and the Majlis for an inter-parliamentary dialogue on counter-terrorism; welcomes the renewed political dialogue between the EU and Iran, including on human rights; recognises that while there is suspicion and mistrust on both sides, there is also a long history between many Member States and Iran and that Iran has a strong ambition to have good relations with Europe, which provides the potential for a relationship based on mutual trust and respect; reiterates that the EU does not seek to interfere in internal political choices in this country or in any other, but seeks cooperation based on mutual respect for international standards and principles; believes that the full normalisation of relations can only occur by means of regular and sustained dialogue and that the immediate priority should be to broaden the scope of EU-Iran relations in areas where there is common agreement to do so; believes, however, that the ultimate aim must be one of partnership between Iran and the EU;
Amendment 151 #
2015/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Takes note of Iran’s stated objective of achieving a yearly growth rate of 8 %; believes that European investments are key for Iran to achieve this goal; stresses that forencourages Iran to realise its economic potential, it will have to take steps to create a transparent economic environment conducive to international investment and to take anti-corruption measures, particularly regarding compliance with the recommendations of the Financial Action Task Force; calls on the EU to fully support Iran’s efforts in this process via, in particular, support for work towards forging a bilateral investment treaty between the EU and Iran; calls for the EU to develop economic cooperation with Iran; takes note that Iran is the world’s largest economy outside the WTO; supports, in this regard, Iran’s bid to join the WTO;
Amendment 170 #
2015/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. RecallsExpresses its regret at the impact that extraterritorial US sanctions, in particular US-related sanctions on banks, have on businesses willing to invest in Iran; insists on the need to address this and other financial matters to create the necessary conditions for businesses to prosper in Iran and contribute to Iranians feeling relief from sanctions in their everyday lives;
Amendment 175 #
2015/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Believes that the lifting of sanctions by the EU and the international community as laid down in the JCPOA is an important element in demonstrating European good faith towards Iran, as well as providing mutual economic benefit; calls for emphasis to be placed on the quality as well as on the quantity of investments, and for an initiative to assess whether new investments uphold the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights similar to that undertaken when sanctions were lifted in Myanmar/Burma;
Amendment 246 #
2015/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Takes note that because of its geostrategic location, the size of its population, its oil and natural gas reserves and its influence in the region, Iran is a major playerfactor of stability in the Middle East and the Gulf region; stresses that the pursuit of Iranian interests does not and should not be in competition with other major players in the region;
Amendment 283 #
2015/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Believes the EU-Iran political dialogue should call on Iran to play a constructive role in solving the political crises in Iraq, Yemen, Syria, Lebanon and Afghanistan, based on respect for international law and the sovereignty of these countries; calls, in this regard, for a model of EU diplomacy based on political rather than religious differences and on the principle of ensuring respect, safety and security for peoples in all countries in the Middle East, without exception;
Amendment 313 #
2015/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Welcomes Iran’s readiness to support the current efforts to bring stability to Iraq, and calls for additional efforts to bring all the militias operating in the country under the authority of the Iraqi army; welcomeapplauds Iran’s contribution to the fight against ISIS/Da’esh; notes the agreement between Iran and Australia to share intelligence on the fight against ISIS/Da’esh;
Amendment 327 #
2015/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Believes that regional rivalries are an underlying factor in conflicts in several countries in the region; calls for active EU diplomacy to de-escalate tensions between Tehran and Riyadh, including confidence building, track II diplomacy and de- escalation measures in the normalisation of their relations; calls on the EU to work with the US and Russia to that end and, in particular, in supporting the development of a new regional security infrastructure that takes into account Iran and Saudi Arabia’s threat perceptions and legitimate security concerns and provides security guarantees both to Iran and the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council; stresses that cooperation on maritime security in the Persian Gulf, including the signing of a charter on free navigation, could be a first confidence-building measure in developing regional trust and cooperation;
Amendment 356 #
2015/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Believes that Iran’s revolutionary legacy and its constitution as an Islamic StateRepublic must not be an impediment for finding common ground on matters related to democracy or human rights;
Amendment 466 #
2015/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Welcomes President Rohani’s campaign promise to present a charter for citizens’ rights; underlines the importance of respecting the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary in providing the necessary legal certainty required for foreign direct investments to take place; calls on the EEAS and the Commission to work together with the Iranian authorities in areas such as judicial reform, reform of the prison system, government accountability, respect for the rule of law, citizens’ rights and the fight against corruption; believes that these measures will increase legal certainty in Iran and the country’s attractiveness to foreign investors while also benefiting Iranian citizens.
Amendment 39 #
2015/2259(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Acknowledges that the Framework Regulation constitutes a solid legal basis, the objectives of which remain relevant;
Amendment 56 #
2015/2259(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. BelievesPoints out that, given the prevalence of the materials referred to on the EU market and the risk they pose to human health, the Commission should forthwith prioritise the drawing-up of specific EU measures for paper, board, coatings, inks and adhesives;
Amendment 68 #
2015/2259(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Is convinced that, in light of the EU’s focus on moving towards a circular economy,t is imperative that specific measures at EU level should also be proposed for recycled paper and board;
Amendment 80 #
2015/2259(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Is aware of the importStresses the significant role played by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) in the risk assessment of substances for use in FCMs regulated by specific measures; recognisescalls on the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) to provide information about the costs involved in the risk assessment of a particular substance and EFSA’s limitedits resources; calls on the Commission, therefore, to evaluate the possibility of increaseing the level of funding for EFSA;
Amendment 83 #
2015/2259(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Recognises that in order to properly assess the risks of FCMs, it is necessary to take into account both substances used in their manufacture and processing and non- intentionally added substances (‘NIAS’), including impurities from the intentionally added substances and other substances resulting from chemical reactions; acknowledges thatit is imperative, to this end, for starting substances musto be clearly indicated to EFSA and to the relevant authorities in the Member States; stresses, accordingly, the importance of cooperation between scientific bodies/laboratories, and welcomes EFSA’s intention to focus more on finished materials and articles and the manufacturing process, rather than on the substances used6; _________________ 6 http://www.efsa.europa.eu/sites/default/fil es/scientific_output/files/main_documents/ 4357.pdf
Amendment 92 #
2015/2259(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Regrets that EFSA, in its current risk assessment procedure, does not take account of the so-called ‘cocktail effect’ or multiple exposures, and urgeexhorts EFSA to do so in future; also urges the Commission to consider this when determining migration limits that are considered safe for human health;
Amendment 120 #
2015/2259(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. WelcomesPoints to the fact that the Commission has finally announced its plan to introduce a migration limit of 0.05 mg/kg for Bisphenol A (BPA) for packaging and containers made of plastic, as well as for varnishes and coatings used in metal containers; considers this an improvement compared to the current migration limit of 0.6 mg/kg for BPA in plastic; regrets that this migration limit does not apply to all FCMs;
Amendment 133 #
2015/2259(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. BelieveConsiders that a Declaration of Compliance (DoC) can be an effective tool for ensuring that FCMs are compliant with the relevant rules, and recommends that all FCMs, whether harmonised or non- harmonised, are accompanied by a DoC and the appropriate documentation, as is currently the case for FCMs for which specific measures have been adopted;
Amendment 134 #
2015/2259(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Calls for the traceability and compliance of FCMs imported from third countries to be enhanced forthwith by means of a requirement calling for proper and complete identification documents and DoCs; insists that imported FCMs must conform fully to EU standards, thus safeguarding above all public health and ensuring fair competition;
Amendment 140 #
2015/2259(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Expresses its concern thaabout the level of enforcement of the legislation on FCMs which varies greatly across the EU; highlights the importance of developing EU guidelines for FCMs which would facilitate a more uniform implementation and better enforcement in the Member States regarding FCMs;
Amendment 150 #
2015/2259(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. RecommendApproves the development of a single EU standard for analytical testing in order to ensure that FCMs are tested by companies and competent authorities across the EU using one and the same method;
Amendment 161 #
2015/2259(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Calls on the Member States to carry out controls more systematically and efficiently, on the basis of the percentage of food concerned and the length of time it has been in contact with the material in question, as well as type of FCM, temperature and any other relevant factors;
Amendment 164 #
2015/2259(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Insists on the need for Member States to ensure that they have the necessary staff trained and schooled to perform uniform and robust, robust and systematic controls;
Amendment 1 #
2015/2258(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Attaches the highest importance to Articles 33 and 34 of the Convention on the rights of persons with disabilities — CRPD— (‘National implementation and monitoring’) and to the United Nations Committee’s concluding observations 76 and 77, and accordingly welcomes the approval given by the United Nations Committee to the European Parliament’s presence in the independent monitoring framework;
Amendment 15 #
2015/2258(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Notes the European Disability Strategy (2010-2020).
Amendment 17 #
2015/2258(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Stresses that all persons with disabilities have the right to live in a society in which they enjoy equal opportunities compared with others so as to ensure their full integration and participation therein.
Amendment 25 #
2015/2258(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Urges the Commission to take effective action to measure and increase the employment rate of those with disabilities on the labour market.
Amendment 37 #
2015/2258(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Calls on the Member States to provide training for those with disabilities with a view to to improving their employability.
Amendment 41 #
2015/2258(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14a. Calls on the Commission to take urgent action in cooperation with the Member States and the organisations representing persons with disabilities to ensure social protection and proper living standards for such persons and protect them from the consequences of the austerity measures taken as a result of the economic crisis.
Amendment 80 #
2015/2254(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Α
Recital Α
Α. whereas the European Union ishould be a community of values, based on democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights, enshrined in its core principles and objectives in the first articles of the Treaty on European Union (TEU), and in the criteria for Union membership;·
Amendment 100 #
2015/2254(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas respect for the rule of law within the Union is a precondition for mutual recognition and trust, key factors for policy areas such as the internal market, police and justice cooperation, the Schengen area, and asylum and migration policies, and as a consequence, the erosion of the rule of law, democratic governance and fundamental rights are a serious threat to the stability, security and prosperity of the Union;·
Amendment 116 #
2015/2254(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Ε
Recital Ε
Ε. whereas the definition of core values and principles ismust be a living and permanent process, and while those values and principles may evolve over time, they must be protected against short termism and ad hoc changes as a result of different political majorities;
Amendment 137 #
2015/2254(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Η
Recital Η
Amendment 155 #
2015/2254(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas the failure of a candidate country to meet the required standards results in a delay of accession to the Union, while the failure of a Member State or an institution of the Union to meet those same standards has little consequence in practice;·
Amendment 162 #
2015/2254(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas the obligations incumbent on candidate countries under the Copenhagen criteria continue to apply to the Member States after joining the Union by virtue of Article 2 TEU and the principle of sincere cooperation, and whereas all Member States should therefore be assessed on a regular basis in order to verify their continued compliance with the Union's common values;·
Amendment 182 #
2015/2254(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L
Recital L
L. whereas there are few instruments to correct legislative and executive policy decisions by the institutions of the Union; are inadequate;·
Amendment 186 #
2015/2254(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital N
Recital N
N. whereas the accession of the Union to the European Convention for the Protection of Fundamental Rights and Fundamental Freedom is a Treaty obligation under Article 6(2) TEU; and must be carried out;·
Amendment 197 #
2015/2254(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital P
Recital P
P. whereas the Union has at its disposal a multitude of instruments and processes for ensuring full and proper application of Treaty principles and values but in practice they appear limited in scope, inadequate and ineffective, or they are unlikely to be used; while their uneven application is perceived by many as politically motivated, arbitrary and unfairly targeting certain countries;, principally in the south of Europe creating conflicts within the Union;·
Amendment 208 #
2015/2254(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital S
Recital S
S. whereas some Member State governments deny that upholding Union principles and values is a Treaty obligation, or that the Union has the authority to ensure compliance;; ·
Amendment 242 #
2015/2254(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital V
Recital V
V. whereas a new mechanism should be based on the following guiding principles: evidence based; objective; non- discriminatory and assessing on an equal footing; applying to both Member States and institutions of the Union; and based on a graduated approach, including both a preventative and corrective arm;·
Amendment 309 #
2015/2254(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls for the creation of a Union Fund, on the basis of a pilot project, for legal assistance to individuals and organisations litigating cases relating to DRF violations by national governments or the institutions of the Union;·
Amendment 317 #
2015/2254(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Commission to develop and implement an awareness raising campaign, providing information about citizens' rights to judicial redress and litigation routes in cases relating to DRF violations by national governments or institutions of the Union; , especially in southern European countries such as Greece, Italy and Portugal, as well as Ireland, where austerity policies and memorandum provisions have been implemented;·
Amendment 389 #
2015/2254(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Confirms that the recommendations respect fundamental rights and, the principle of subsidiarity and the principle of proportionality;
Amendment 399 #
2015/2254(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. Regards Merkelian austerity as responsible for mass violations of human rights in Greece and in other EU Member States;·
Amendment 400 #
2015/2254(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 b (new)
Paragraph 11 b (new)
11b. Condemns Union doubletalk in claiming to uphold human rights at the same time as austerity policies and memorandum provisions are being imposed by the Troika, of which the Commission and European Central Bank are a part, leading to infringements of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the Union in Greece, Cyprus, Portugal and Ireland;·
Amendment 25 #
2015/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Notes that as a result of the Ombudsman’s inquiries the European Commission published documents on Greece’s entry into the Eurozone which should lead to investigate and clarify the role of certain international banks and European officials in the Greek public debt, the European Central Bank disclosed a letter to the Irish government on the financial crisis, and that the European Commission followed the Ombudsman’s recommendation to release documents on the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy, albeit after an agreement on the reform had been reached;
Amendment 35 #
2015/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Welcomes the Transparency Register, in which more than 7000 institutions have voluntarily registered; welcomes the Ombudsman’s support for Vice President Timmermans’ plan to work towards a mandatory register and welcomes the Commission’s decision obliging all members of the Commission and senior staff to publish all contacts and meetings with stakeholders and lobbyists: strongly encourages the Ombudsman to keep vigilance and full determination towards the phenomenon called ‘revolving doors’ which affects the highest EU officials as well as the entire hierarchy of their administration and of the 36 European agencies with obvious risks of conflict of interest; recommends to keep urging the European Commission to deliver full transparency regarding about 3094 experts Groups, its technology platforms (advising on research funding) and European agencies i.e., guarantees of independence, full list of the members with their CV and declaration of interests, membership conditions, agendas and reports of the meeting etc.;
Amendment 36 #
2015/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Reminds that the European Parliament had set in 2012 conditions when lifting the freeze of experts groups budget: no corporate dominance, no lobbyists sitting, open calls for participation, rules preventing a single interest having a majority of seats in any expert group, declaration of the interests, incomes and activities by the experts, publication on Internet of all the relevant documents related to experts group on the Experts Group Register Website;
Amendment 63 #
2015/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Encourages the Ombudsman to investigate in coordination with the European Court of Auditors the programs and projects financed by the European Union, specially financing of projects intended to reduce development disparities;
Amendment 1 #
2015/2202(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Citation 6 a (new)
Citation 6 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No. 1) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2015/2202(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Citation 6 b (new)
Citation 6 b (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 2) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 4 #
2015/2202(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants/rRefuses to grant the Executive Director of the ECSEL Joint Undertaking (formerly the ENIAC Joint Undertaking and the ARTEMIS Joint Undertaking) discharge in respect of the implementation of the ENIAC Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2014;
Amendment 5 #
2015/2202(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Citation 6 a (new)
Citation 6 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No. 1) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 6 #
2015/2202(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Citation 6 b (new)
Citation 6 b (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 2) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 8 #
2015/2202(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. ApprovRefuses the closure of the accounts of the ENIAC Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2014;
Amendment 9 #
2015/2202(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No. 1) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 10 #
2015/2202(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 2) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 11 #
2015/2202(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
Amendment 12 #
2015/2202(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes that, according to the Court's report, the Joint Undertaking did not assess the quality of the audit reports received from the NFAs concerning the costs related to completed projects; notes, furthermore, that, after an assessment of the audit strategies of three of the NFAs, it was not possible to conclude whether ex-post audits are functioning effectively due to different methodologies used by the NFAs which did not allow the Joint Undertaking to calculate either a weighted error rate or a residual rate error; notes also that ECSEL JTI confirmed that its extensive assessment of the national assurance systems concluded that they can provide reasonable protection of the financial interests of the Joint Undertakings’ members;
Amendment 13 #
2015/2202(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Acknowledges that, according to the Joint Undertaking, national assurance procedures have been surveyed up to April 2015 for countries receiving 54.2 % of the Joint Undertaking grants; commendnotes the intention of the Joint Undertaking to continue this exercise by covering up to 92.7% of the total Joint Undertaking grants allocated; welcomnotes the assurance of the Joint Undertaking that the national procedures provide reasonable assurance with regard to the legality and regularity of the underlying transactions.
Amendment 1 #
2015/2199(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Citation 6 a (new)
Citation 6 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2015/2199(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Citation 6 b (new)
Citation 6 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 4 #
2015/2199(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants/Refuses to grant the Executive Director of the ECSEL Joint Undertaking (formerly the ARTEMIS Joint Undertaking and the ENIAC Joint Undertaking) discharge in respect of the implementation of the ARTEMIS Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2014;
Amendment 5 #
2015/2199(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Citation 6 a (new)
Citation 6 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 6 #
2015/2199(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Citation 6 b (new)
Citation 6 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 8 #
2015/2199(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. ARefuses to approves the closure of the accounts of the ARTEMIS Joint Undertaking for the financial year 2014;
Amendment 9 #
2015/2199(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of National Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 10 #
2015/2199(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 11 #
2015/2199(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes from the Court's report that the Joint Undertaking did not assess the quality of the audit reports received from the NFAs concerning the costs relating to completed projects; notes, furthermore, that, after an assessment of the audit strategies of three of the NFAs, it was not possible to conclude whether ex-post audits are functioning effectively due to different methodologies used by NFAs which did not allow the Joint Undertaking to calculate either a weighted error rate or a residual rate error;
Amendment 1 #
2015/2196(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Citation 6 a (new)
Citation 6 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No. 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2015/2196(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Citation 6 b (new)
Citation 6 b (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No. 2) of the Treaty on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 5 #
2015/2196(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Grants toRefuses to grant the Director of the European Joint Undertaking for ITER and the Development of Fusion Energy discharge in respect of the implementation of the Joint Undertaking’s budget for the financial year 2014;·
Amendment 6 #
2015/2196(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Citation 6 a (new)
Citation 6 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No. 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 7 #
2015/2196(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Citation 6 b (new)
Citation 6 b (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No. 2) of the Treaty on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 10 #
2015/2196(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 2
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. ARefuses to approves the closure of the accounts of the European Joint Undertaking for ITER and the Development of Fusion Energy for the financial year 2014;·
Amendment 11 #
2015/2196(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No. 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 12 #
2015/2196(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No. 2) of the Treaty on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 1 #
2015/2156(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No. 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2015/2156(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 3 #
2015/2156(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Citation 6 a (new)
Citation 6 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No. 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 4 #
2015/2156(DEC)
Proposal for a decision 1
Citation 6 b (new)
Citation 6 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 1 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas ageing is the result of an increased life expectancy due to major progress in modern medicine, and is one of the greatest social and economic challengeachievements of the 21st century for European societies; whereas by 2025 more than 20% of Europeans will be 65 or over, with a particularly rapid increase in numbers of over 80s;
Amendment 1 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas robotics canould play a role in transforming our society for the better; whereas robotics and artificial intelligence can lead to innovations and new business models, and the Union must embrace developments in this area to advance the DSM;
Amendment 1 #
2015/2103(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2015/2103(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 3 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Recital A
Recital A
A. Whereas the development of robotics will bringis expected to have positive effects for the European Union economy but also for; whereas, however, it is uncertain how it will affect the daily life of individuals; whereas all robotics and artificial intelligence technology have to be developed and used with due regard for the fundamental rights enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights (CFR), in particular for the rights of data protection, privacy, liberty and security;
Amendment 6 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. tTakes the view that the impact of automated vehicles on enhancing transport safety might potentially be a major one, since human errors are currently responsible for about 90% of road accidents; notes however that it will be impossible for automated vehicles to eliminate all accidents, which raises questions of responsibility for car accidentsshould be further studied following the many accidents they have caused;
Amendment 8 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas societies and health systems will need to adapt tokeep pace with the ageing process and elderly healthcare requirements, so they can provide adequate care and remtain financially sustainablethe necessary degree of financial stability;
Amendment 9 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. Whereas the widespread and increasingly frequent use of robotics and artificial intelligence has undoubtedly provoked a variety of reactions and objections;
Amendment 10 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Bα. whereas the prevalence of robotics and AI and their increasingly widespread applications have provoked a variety of reactions and objections;
Amendment 12 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the digital transformation of European manufacturing industry, which accounts for 15% of EU GDP, could have a value-added potential of EUR 1.25 trillion in 20251,and the adoption of autonomous and robotic technologies could result in a competitive advantage for Europe ; __________________ 1 STOA, Scientific Foresight Study, Annex 1, p. 37.
Amendment 16 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas such systems will provide the foundation and the basis of emerging and future smart services, and willshould bring advances in personalised health care, emergency response and telemedicine;
Amendment 16 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Believes that robotics plays a key role in improving the competitiveness and productivity of the European economy; calls on the Commission to promote a pro- innovation policy in robotics, facilitating integration of technologies in value chains, and to assess the need to modernise legislation or develop European guidelines to ensure a joint approach in robotics, essential for companies to scale up in Europe;
Amendment 18 #
2015/2103(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas in the short to medium term robotics and AI promise to bring benefits of efficiency and savings, not only in production and commerce, but also in areas such as transport, medical care, education and farming, while making it possible to avoid exposing humans to dangerous conditions, such as those faced when cleaning up toxically polluted sites; whereas in the longer term there is potential for virtually unbounded prosperity;
Amendment 21 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
Amendment 22 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. whereas the widespread and increasingly frequent use of robotics and AI has unmistakably provoked a variety of reactions and objections;
Amendment 22 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Believes that robotics and artificial intelligence, especially those with built-in autonomy and the possibility of self- learning, should be subjected to the primary robotics laws or principles, such as a principle that a robot may do not harm to a human being and must obey a human being; these principles should also be in compliance with the rights and principles enshrined in the CFR, in particular human dignity, the respect for and protection of private and family life, the protection of personal data, the freedom of expression and information, equality and non- discrimination, solidarity, and citizens’ rights and justice;
Amendment 27 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. acknowledges that the adoption of new technologies in the field of healthcare is likelyexpected to bring major benefits in terms of patient care and effectiveness of treatment, leading to increased quality of life and life expectancy;
Amendment 31 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. education must pave the way for the next generation to be able to live fully productive lives in a world which willmay be changed by robotisation and automation;
Amendment 32 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that innovation in robotics and artificial intelligence require digital infrastructure that provides ubiquitous connectivity; calls on the Commission to set a framework that will meet the connectivity requirements for the Union’s digital future, while respecting the environment, public health and the principle of personal data protection;
Amendment 33 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Believes that harmonised standardisation for robotics is necessarylegitimate and calls on the Commission to engage with international standardisation bodies to work further on improving standards in this field;
Amendment 34 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. underlines that innovation providing better diagnoses and better insights into treatment, care and rehabilitation options leads to more accurate medical decisions, quicker recovery times, and could therefore alleviate shortages of healthcare professionals in care and rehabilitation processes;
Amendment 37 #
2015/2103(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
Ea. whereas the widespread and increasingly frequent use of robotics and AI has unmistakably provoked a variety of reactions and objections;
Amendment 40 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. notes that CPS are able to change the life of people suffering from a disability, as smart technologies can be used for prevention, assistance, monitoring and companionshipetc.;
Amendment 40 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. cCalls on the Commission and Member States to conduct furthermore extensive and in-depth research to assess the safety and environmental implications of automated vehicles, and invites them to create a knowledge-sharing system to record the outcomes of tests and pilot schemes;
Amendment 42 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. an answer must be found to the question of what provisions might be necessary in terms of the competitiveness of the labour force if thethe attempt to turn the human in general and the human body in particular into a tool must be prevented; any attempt to genetically modify humans must be strictly forbidden; in particular, any attempt to permanently artificially or genetically development or supplementing of and enhance existing human capabilities results in people with extraordinary abilities, thereby altering the meaning of the term 'disability' and conferring an unassailable advantage on people with access to such tools and interventionswith a view to creating more productive meta-humans must be forbidden;
Amendment 42 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Considers that robots developed for both manufacturing and individual use should be subject to product safety and consumer protection rules; believes that issues of personal data protection, liability and cybersecurity should be addressed in any policy on robotics;
Amendment 43 #
2015/2103(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas, more specifically, the causes for concern also include physical safety, for example when a robot's code proves fallible, and the potential consequences of system failure or hacking of connected robots and robotic systems at a time when increasingly autonomous applications come into use or are impending whether it be in relation to cars and drones or to care robots and robots used for maintaining public order and policing;
Amendment 44 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. underlines that elder care robot research and development has grown more mainstream and cheaper, producing products with greater functionality and broader consumer acceptance; notes the wide range of applications of such technologies providing prevention, assistance, monitoring and companionship and other services to elderly people, ands well as people suffering from dementia;
Amendment 45 #
2015/2103(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)
Recital F a (new)
Fa. whereas the main concern is the alienation of human nature itself from the unconditional – beyond the financial gain that may be derived – development of robotics adopted, unfortunately, by most industry professionals; whereas internationally acknowledged scholars such as Steven Hawking have expressed objections regarding the development of technical intelligence;
Amendment 49 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Underlines that the free flow of data is a basis for the digital economy and is essential for the development of robotics; highlights that high security of robotics and artificial intelligence systems as a whole, including their internal data systems and data flows, is crucial for the adequate utilisation of robots and artificial intelligence; stresses that a highparticularly high and effective level of safety, security and privacy of data used for the communication between people and robots and artificial intelligence, together with high quality of voice recognition systems, has to be ensured; calls on the Commission and Member States to support and incentivise the development of the necessary technology, including security by design and channels of communication;
Amendment 52 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Recognises that robotics and AI technologies are increasingly used in autonomous vehicles; notes that some Member States are already enacting or considering legislation in this area in particular; stresses that overregulation in robotics and robotic systems should be avoided, and calls instead for future-proof minimum harmonisation, especially in relation to autonomous vehicles.;
Amendment 54 #
2015/2103(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas the ‘soft impacts’ on human dignity may be difficult to estimate, but will still need to be considered if and when robots replace human care and companionship, and whereas questions of human dignity can also arise in the context of ‘repairing’ or enhancing human beings;
Amendment 56 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. uUnderlines that automated cars will require a particularly safe and high level of safe interaction with the transport infrastructure and that the high volume of data will need to be securely transferred in real time between automated vehicles and such infrastructure;
Amendment 57 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
Amendment 58 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. points out that, whilst robotics and artificial intelligence promise real advantages in the short and medium term in terms of effectiveness and economy not only for production and trade but also in areas where human intelligence hitherto meant there were only humans (whose work will be increasingly unnecessary), there is a danger of the number of jobs in the field of robotics not increasing to match the number of jobs which are expected to be lost;
Amendment 59 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4α. Acknowledges that the unconsidered development of robotics and AI could engender serious social and economic dangers; calls on the Union and the Member States to seek a structured public debate concerning the implications of these technological developments as soon as possible and urges those involved in robotics and AI research to provide constructive input through a critical approach to their field of study;
Amendment 63 #
2015/2103(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas ultimately there is a possibility that within the space of a few decades AI could surpass human intellectual capacity to some degree in a manner which, if not prepared for, could pose a challenge to humanity's capacity to control its own creation and, consequently, perhaps also to its capacity to be in charge of its own destiny and to ensure the survival of the species;
Amendment 63 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Calls, therefore, as a matter of urgency, for a rigorous and effective EU framework to be established that will restrict the use of electronic remote- controlled aerial systems and unmanned aircraft;
Amendment 65 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. Calls on the Member States and the Commission to launch an in-depth study into the immediate implications of the increasing use of robotics at the workplace and to seek adoption of the necessary framework legislative provisions, so as to make the transition as smooth as possible for workers affected.
Amendment 67 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
Amendment 71 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Calls on the Member States and the Commission to launch an in-depth study into the future implications of the increasing use of automated transport at the workplace and to seek adoption of the necessary framework legislative provisions, so as to make the transition as smooth as possible for workers affected, thereby ensuring the protection of jobs;
Amendment 71 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Considers that appropriate legislation should be accompanied by encouragement of a soft law framework,a code of conduct for public-private partnerships, in order to ensure the cooperation of the industry and robotic designers with public authorities; believes that such instruments should focus on practical solutions to ensure privacy and data protection, the security and ethics of the robotics industry, and the proper use of robots and artificial intelligence on a daily basisrelations; believes that such instruments should focus on practical solutions to ensure privacy and data protection;
Amendment 75 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Acknowledges that the unconsidered development of automated systems could engender serious social and economic dangers; calls on the Union and the Member States to seek a structured public debate with the direct involvement of civil society concerning the implications of these technological developments as soon as possible; urges those involved in research into the automatisation of transport to provide constructive input through a critical approach to their field of study;
Amendment 77 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. points outemphasises that while the development of technology is increasing exponentially, our social systems cannot respond as quickly, and healthcare systems have an even slower response; stresses that these discoveries have a significant impact on civilisation as we know it, and that it is therefore imperative to assess the moral and ethical implications of new technologies in the early phase ofbefore and throughout their development;
Amendment 83 #
2015/2103(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital N
Recital N
N. whereas the European Union couldght to play an essential role in establishing basic ethical principles to be respected in the development, programming and use of robots and AI and in the incorporation of such principles into European regulations and codes of conduct, with the aim of shaping the technological revolution so that it serves humanity and so that the benefits of advanced robotics and AI are broadly shared, while as far as possible avoiding potential pitfalls for humanity;
Amendment 85 #
2015/2103(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O
Recital O
Amendment 90 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. an answer must be found to the question of which areas might see restrictions or a ban on total automation in order to safeguard employment levels, taking into account demographic changes and sustainability and any unintended social consequences...; calls on the Member States and the Commission to study in great detail the near-future consequences of the increased use of robotic systems on labour and to provide a framework for this development with legislation designed to make technological transition as smooth as possible for employees;
Amendment 93 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5a (new)
Paragraph 5a (new)
5a. calls on the EU and the Member States to encourage the initiation of a structured public dialogue on the consequences of developing those technologies as soon as possible; calls on the stakeholders involved in the research in the robotics and artificial intelligence sectors to develop a critical approach towards the objects of their research and to provide a constructive feed to the public dialogue;
Amendment 102 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Safety of medical robotic devices is a precondition for their introduction in the healthcare sector. The effectiveness and safety of care and medical robots should be assessed against special safety safeguards and certification procedures, with special attention given to their use by impaired users or in emergency situations; particular attention should be paid to the security of CPS networks so as to remove any possibility of hacking into and stealing sensitive personal data;
Amendment 111 #
2015/2103(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Medical CPS and the use of a robot as an “electronic health record” raise questions concerning laws on patient privacy, medical professional secrecy, and data protection in the area of public health. Union data protection rules should be adapted to take into account the increasing complexity and interconnectivity of care and medical robots possibly handling highly sensitive personal information and health data. The codes of conduct on medical professional secrecy should be reviewed concerning the health data stored on CPS systems that can be accessed by third parties;
Amendment 111 #
2015/2103(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital T
Recital T
T. whereas, ultimately, robots’' autonomy raises the question of their nature in the light of the existing legal categories – of whether they should be regarded as natural persons, legal persons, animals or objects – or whether a new category should be created, with its own specific features and implications as regards the attribution of rights and duties, including liability for damage;
Amendment 152 #
2015/2103(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Underlines that many robotic applications are still in an experimental phase; welcomes the fact that more and more research projects are being funded with national and European money; calls on the Commission and the Member States to strengthen financial instruments for research projects in robotics and ICT; emphasises that sufficient resources need to be devoted to the search for solutions to the social and ethical challenges that theevery technological development and its applications raise;
Amendment 159 #
2015/2103(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Stresses the need to prevent attempts to turn the human in general and the human body in particular into a tool; stresses the need to prohibit definitively any attempt to permanently artificially or genetically develop or enhance existing human abilities with a view to creating more productive meta-humans;
Amendment 168 #
2015/2103(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes that the potential for empowerment of robotics has risks connected with the definition of human nature; notes, in addition, that the potential for empowerment through the use of robotics is nuanced by a set of tensions or risks relating to human safety, privacy, integrity, dignity, autonomy and data ownership; stresses that safeguarding humanity from the above-mentioned risks must be a precondition for the development of robotics;
Amendment 187 #
2015/2103(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Calls on the Member States and the Commission to encourage the initiation of a structured public dialogue on the consequences of developing those technologies as soon as possible; calls on the stakeholders involved in the research and development of the robotics and artificial intelligence sectors to develop a critical approach towards the objects of their research and to feed in to the public dialogue constructively;
Amendment 210 #
2015/2103(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Considers that the potential of and the problems connected with robotics use and the present investment dynamics justify the European Agency being equipped with a proper budget and being staffed with regulators and external technical and ethic, primarily, ethical and moral experts dedicated to the cross-sectorial and multidisciplinary monitoring of robotics- based applications, identifying standards for best practice, and, where appropriate, recommending regulatory measures, defining new principles and addressing potential consumer protection issues and systematic challenges; asks the Commission and the European Agency to report to the European Parliament on the latest developments in robotics on an annual basis;
Amendment 228 #
2015/2103(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Points out that the use of personal data as a 'currency' with which services can be 'bought' raises new issues in need of clarification; stresses that the use of personal data as a 'currency' must not lead to a circumvention of the basic principles governing the right to privacy and data protectionStresses that the use of personal data as a 'currency' must be prohibited;
Amendment 253 #
2015/2103(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Points out that human contact is one of the fundamental aspects of human care; believes that replacing the human factor with robots could dehumanise caring practices, and that it is therefore not legitimate;
Amendment 264 #
2015/2103(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Notes the great potential of robotics in the field of repairing and compensating for damaged organs and human functions, but also the complex questions raised in particular by the possibilities of human enhancement; asks for the establishment of appropriately staffed committees on robot ethics in hospitals and other health care institutions tasked with considering and assisting in resolving unusual, complicated ethical problems involving issues that affect the care and treatment of patients; calls on the Commission and the Member States to develop guidelines to aid in the establishment and functioning of such committees;
Amendment 7 #
2015/2095(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the Commission’s commitment to take measures in order to respond to the unprecedented crisis in the Mediterranean and to improve management of migration in all its aspects by reinforcing its migration policy and adopting a strategic European Agenda on Migration, which is a good first step, and expects the immediate implementation of this commitment;
Amendment 13 #
2015/2095(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Points out that numerous petitions submitted by EU citizens refer to a wide range of issues relating to the crisis in the Mediterranean, expressing shock at the tragic loss of life, the alleged shortcomings in the implementation of the European asylum and migration acquis and violations of fundamental rights, the ineffectiveness of the existing Dublin system and the lack of a comprehensive EU migration policy; due to this ineffectiveness, the Dublin III Regulation should be repealed and a new policy developed to deal with refugee and migratory flows, in particular for countries such as Greece, Italy and Spain that are affected on a daily basis by the increased influx of refugees and illegal migrants;
Amendment 22 #
2015/2095(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Emphasises that, given the scale of the recent tragedies and the alarming increase in irregular arrivals and deaths at sea, the EU and the Member States can no longer be observers but must take ownership of the debate and fully endorse the Commission Agenda on Migration; according to Greek Coast Guard data, in the first quarter of 2015, Greece had 10 762 new arrivals from the Aegean compared to 2 763 during the corresponding period of 2014. For this reason, the European Union must immediately apply the principle of European solidarity. This means that the burden of refugee and migratory flows must be distributed among EU countries depending on their size, population and GDP, taking into account the unemployment rate in each country;
Amendment 34 #
2015/2095(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses that action taken by the EU needs to be regularly monitored and enhanced; for this reason, Frontex should finally take action and actively fulfil its role of strengthening and improving cooperation between national border authorities, particularly in Greece and Italy, so as to address the huge influx of refugee and illegal migratory flows;
Amendment 70 #
2015/2095(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Calls on the Member States and the Commission to ensure a meaningful revisionthe repeal of the Dublin Regulation in order to alleviate sudden and disproportionate migration pressure on Member States such as Italy, Greece and Malta, which are more directly exposed to migrant flows, without undermining the security of the Union’s external borders; for this reason, the European Union must immediately apply the principle of European solidarity. This means that the burden of refugee and migratory flows must be distributed among EU countries depending on their size, population and GDP, taking into account the unemployment rate in each country;
Amendment 20 #
2015/2086(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
Amendment 31 #
2015/2086(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the purpose of adoption is not to give adults the inalienable right to a child, but to give the child a loving and caring, caring and affectionate environment to grow up and develop in;
Amendment 38 #
2015/2086(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas adoption proceedings should never commence before any decision withdrawing parental authority from the biological parents is final, and the latterbefore they have been given the opportunity to exhaust all legal remedies against that decision and before the child is asked whether she would like to be adopted by another family or remain with her biological parents;
Amendment 55 #
2015/2086(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereasstressing that the Hague Convention stipulates that recognition of intercountry adoptions is automatic in all signatory states, without the need for any specific procedure for recognition to be effective;
Amendment 59 #
2015/2086(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas, under the Hague Convention, recognition may be refused only if the adoption is manifestly contrary to the public policy of the state concerned;
Amendment 66 #
2015/2086(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
Ι. whereas judicial training in the widest sense is necessary for and key to mutual trust in all areas of law, including that of adoption;
Amendment 73 #
2015/2086(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas citizens unfortunately do not have access to comprehensive information on the legal and procedural aspects of domestic adoption in Member States,
Amendment 77 #
2015/2086(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L
Recital L
L. whereas cooperation within the European Network of Ombudspersons for Children was established in 1997, and Europe's ombudsmen on children's matters should be encouraged to cooperate more closely and on a more regular basis in that forum;
Amendment 84 #
2015/2086(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital M
Recital M
M. whereas more needs to be done to prevent the cross-border and illegal trafficking of children for the purpose of adoption;
Amendment 103 #
2015/2086(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital S
Recital S
Amendment 109 #
2015/2086(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital T
Recital T
T. whereas the Brussels II Regulation does not fundamentally address the question of the recognition of adoption orders, as it exclusively covers parental responsibility;
Amendment 113 #
2015/2086(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Recital U
Recital U
U. whereas it is therefore of the utmost importance to adopt legislation providing for the automatic recognition in a Member State of a domestic adoption order granted in another Member State in so far as national legislation is not thereby affected,
Amendment 125 #
2015/2086(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Calls on the authorities of the Member States to take all decisions in adoption matters with the best interests of the child in mind, and always taking into account the specific circumstances of the case;
Amendment 135 #
2015/2086(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Underlines that each adoption case is different and must be assessed on its individualobjective merits;
Amendment 142 #
2015/2086(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Considers that in the context of adoption proceedings, the child should always be given the opportunity to be heard and express his or her view on the adoption process; considers, therefore, that whenever possibleit is imperative that the child's consent to the adoption should be sought;
Amendment 150 #
2015/2086(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Points outStresses that the relevant authorities should always first consider the possibility of placing the child within its biological family, even when members of that family live in another country, before giving the child up for adoption by strangers; considers that the habitual residence of family members who wish to take over responsibility for a child should not be considered as a deciding factor;
Amendment 154 #
2015/2086(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Stresses that where a child being considered for adoption is the citizen of another Member State, the consular authorities of that Member State and the child's family residing in that Member State should be informed and consulted prior to any decision being taken;
Amendment 163 #
2015/2086(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Notes, nevertheless,Deplores the fact that problems often occur concerning the issuance of adoption certificates; calls, therefore, on the authorities of the Member States to ensure that the procedures and safeguards established by the Hague Convention are always followed in order to ensure that recognition is automatic;
Amendment 180 #
2015/2086(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Calls on the Commission to establish an effective and flexible European network of judges and authorities specialised in adoption in order to facilitate the exchange of information and good practice, which is particularly useful when adoption involves a foreign element;
Amendment 193 #
2015/2086(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Stresses the need to cooperate closely to prevent the cross-border and illegal trafficking of children for adoption purposes;
Amendment 204 #
2015/2086(INL)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Confirms that the recommendations annexed to this motion for a resolution respect the fundamental rights of the child and the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality, as set out in Article 5 TEU and Protocols 1 and 2 TFEU;
Amendment 14 #
2015/0289(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The Union is a contracting party to the United Nations Conventions on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 (UNCLOS)16 and has ratified the 1995 United Nations Agreement on the Implementation of the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea relating to the conservation and management of straddling fish stocks and highly migratory fish stocks of 4 August 1995 (UN Fish Stock Agreement)17. These international provisions set out the principle that all states have to adopt appropriate measures to ensure the sustainable management of marine resources and the conservation of marine diversity and to cooperate with each other to this end. __________________ 16 Council Decision 98/392/EC of 23 March 1998 concerning the conclusion by the European Community of the United Nations Convention of 10 December 1982 on the Law of the Sea and the Agreement of 28 July 1994 relating the implementation of Part XI thereof (OJ L 179, 23.6.1998, p. 1). 17 Council Decision 98/414/EC of 8 June 1998 on the ratification by the European Community of the Agreement for the implementing of the provisions of the United Nations Convention of the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 relating to the conservation and management of straddling stocks and highly migratory fish stocks (OJ L 189, 3.7.1998, p. 14).
Amendment 15 #
2015/0289(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) The Union has endorsed the FAO International Plan of Action to prevent, deter and eliminate illegal, unreported and undeclared fishing (IPOA-IUU) adopted in 2001. The IPOA-IUU and the FAO Voluntary Guidelines for flag state performance endorsed in 2014 underlie the responsibility of the flag State to ensure the long-term conservation and sustainable usetilisation of living marine resources and marine ecosystems. The IPOA-IUU provides that a flag State should issue authorisations to fish in waters outside its sovereignty or jurisdiction to vessels flying its flag. The Voluntary Guidelines also recommend an authorisation be given by the flag State and by the coastal state when the fishing activities take place under a fisheries access agreement or even outside such an agreement. They should both be satisfied that such activities will not undermine the sustainability of the stocks in the coastal state’s waters (paragraphs 40 and 41).
Amendment 19 #
2015/0289(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) The issue of the obligations and concomitant responsibilities and liabilities of the flag State and, where appropriate, the flag international organisation, for the conservation and management of the living resources of the high seas under UNCLOS has increasingly come into focus at international level. This has also been the case, under the heading of a due diligence obligation flowing from UNCLOS, for concurrent coastal State jurisdiction and flag State jurisdiction and, as appropriate, flag international organisation jurisdiction, to secure sound conservation of marine biological resources within sea areas under national jurisdiction. A due diligence obligation is an obligation for a State to exercise best possible efforts and to do the utmost to prevent illegal fishing, which includes the obligation to adopt the necessary administrative and enforcement measures to ensure that fishing vessels flying its flag, its nationals, or fishing vessels engaged in its waters are not involved in activities which breach the applicable conservation and management measures. For these reasons and, more generally, to strengthen the blue economy, it is important to organise both the activities of Union fishing vessels outside Union waters as well as the governance system pertaining thereto in such a manner that the Union's international obligations can be efficiently and effectively discharged and that situations where the Union might be reproached for internationally wrongful acts are avoided.
Amendment 21 #
2015/0289(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) The objective of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), as set out in Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (the ‘Basic Regulation’)20, is to ensure that fishing activities are environmentally, economically and socially sustainable and are managed consistently with the objectives of achieving economic, social and employment benefits, and that they are contributing to the availability of food supplies. However, outside this framework, the CFP is also intended to uphold the interests of European fishermen, in particular Greek fishermen most affected by the agricultural provisions of the Troika Memorandum. __________________ 20 Regulation (EU) no 1380/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the Common Fisheries Policy (OJ L 354, 28.12.2013, p. 22).
Amendment 29 #
2015/0289(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21
Recital 21
Amendment 50 #
2015/0289(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The Union is a contracting party to the United Nations Conventions on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 198216 (UNCLOS) and has ratified the 1995 United Nations Agreement on the Implementation of the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea relating to the conservation and management of straddling fish stocks and highly migratory fish stocks of 4 August 1995 (UN Fish Stock Agreement)17 . These international provisions set out the principle that all states have to adopt appropriate measures to ensure the, through an international, legally binding instrument, the preservation and sustainable management of marine resources and to cooperate with each other to this end. __________________ 16 Council Decision 98/392/EC of 23 March 1998 concerning the conclusion by the European Community of the United Nations Convention of 10 December 1982 on the Law of the Sea and the Agreement of 28 July 1994 relating the implementation of Part XI thereof (OJ L 179, 23.6.1998, p. 1). 17 Council Decision 98/414/EC of 8 June 1998 on the ratification by the European Community of the Agreement for the implementing of the provisions of the United Nations Convention of the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 relating to the conservation and management of straddling stocks and highly migratory fish stocks (OJ L 189, 3.7.1998, p. 14).
Amendment 51 #
2015/0289(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The Union has accepted the Agreement to promote compliance with international conservation and management measures by fishing vessels on the high seas of 24 November 1993 of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO Compliance Agreement)18 . This agreement stipulates that a contracting party is to abstain from granting authorisation to use a vessel for fishing on the high seas if certainthe essential conditions are not met, as well as implement sanctions if certainthe reporting obligations are not fulfilled. __________________ 18 Council Decision 96/428/EC of 25 June 1996 on acceptance by the Community of the Agreement to promote compliance with international conservation and management measures by fishing vessels on the high seas (OJ L 177/26, 16.7.1996, p. 24).
Amendment 52 #
2015/0289(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) The Union has endorsed the FAO International Plan of Action to prevent, deter and eliminate illegal, unreported and undeclared fishing (IPOA-IUU) adopted in 2001. The IPOA-IUU and the FAO Voluntary Guidelines for flag state performance endorsed in 2014 underlie the responsibility of the flag State to ensure the long-term conservation and sustainable use of living marine resources and marine ecosystems in order to better manage the oceans and protect marine biodiversity. The IPOA-IUU provides that a flag State should issue authorisations to fish in waters outside its sovereignty or jurisdiction to vessels flying its flag. The Voluntary Guidelines also recommend an authorisation be given by the flag State and by the coastal state when the fishing activities take place under a fisheries access agreement or even outside such an agreement. They should both be satisfied that such activities will not undermine the sustainability of the stocks in the coastal state’s waters (paragraphs 40 and 41).
Amendment 54 #
2015/0289(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) The issue of the obligations and concomitant responsibilities and liabilities of the flag State and, where appropriate, the flag international organisation, for the conservation and management of the living resources of the high seas and more generally the preservation of marine biodiversity under UNCLOS has increasingly come into focus at international level. This has also been the case, under the heading of a due diligence obligation flowing from UNCLOS, for concurrent coastal State jurisdiction and flag State jurisdiction and, as appropriate, flag international organisation jurisdiction, to secure sound conservation of marine biological resources within sea areas under national jurisdiction. A due diligence obligation is an obligation for a State to exercise best possible efforts and to do the utmost to prevent illegal fishing, which includes the obligation to adopt the necessary administrative and enforcement measures to ensure that fishing vessels flying its flag, its nationals, or fishing vessels engaged in its waters are not involved in activities which breach the applicable conservation and management measures. For these reasons, it is important to organise both the activities of Union fishing vessels outside Union waters as well as the governance system pertaining thereto in such a manner that the Union's international obligations can be efficiently and effectively discharged and that situations where the Union might be reproached for internationally wrongful acts are avoided.
Amendment 56 #
2015/0289(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The outcomes of the 2012 United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development ‘Rio +20’19 as well as the international developments regarding the fight against illegal wildlife trade should be reflected into the Union's external fisheries policy in order to combat illegal and unreported fishing. __________________ 19 United Nations General Assembly Resolution A/Res/66/288 of 27 July 2012 on the outcome of the Rio +20 Conference, entitled "The Future We Want".
Amendment 58 #
2015/0289(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) The objective of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), as set out in Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (the ‘Basic Regulation’)20, is to ensure that fishing activities are environmentally, economically and socially sustainable and are managed consistently with the objectives of achieving economic, social and employment benefits, and that they are contributing to the availability of food supplies. At the same time, the Common Fisheries Policy should aim to create a dynamic fisheries sector and ensure a high standard of living for communities living from fishing, especially in the Mediterranean Sea. __________________ 20 Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013on the Common Fisheries Policy (OJ L 354, 28.12.2013, p. 22).
Amendment 60 #
2015/0289(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 stresses the need to promote internationally the objectives of the CFP internationally,- which, inter alia, includes fishing activities carried out in EU networks, as well as those carried out outside Union waters by EU fishing vessels - ensuring that Union fishing activities outside Union waters are based on the same principles and standards as those applicable under Union law, while promoting a level playing field for Union operators and third-country operators.
Amendment 61 #
2015/0289(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) However, these three regulations were not implemented in an essentially consistently manner; in particular there were inconsistencies between the FAR and the Control Regulation, which was adopted after the FAR Regulation. The implementation of the FAR also revealed several loopholes, since some challenges in terms of control, such as chartering, reflagging and the issuance of fishing authorisations issued by a third country competent authority to a Union fishing vessel outside the framework of a Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement ("direct authorisations"), were not covered. Besides, some reporting obligations have proven difficult as has the division of administrative roles between the Member States and the Commission.
Amendment 63 #
2015/0289(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) The core principle of the present regulation is that any Union vessel fishing outside Union waters should be authorised by its flag Member State and monitored accordingly, irrespective of where it operates and the framework under which it does so. The issuing of an authorisation should be dependentbased on a basic set of common eligibility criteria being fulfilled. The information gathered by the Member States and provided to the Commission should allow the latter to intervene in the monitoring of the fishing activities of all Union fishing vessels in any given area outside Union waters at any time.
Amendment 69 #
2015/0289(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) In third country waters, Union vessels may operate either under the provisions of sustainable fisheries partnership agreements concluded between the Union and third countries or by obtaining direct fishing authorisations from third countries if no sustainable fisheries partnership agreement is in force. In both cases these activities should be carried out in a transparent and sustainable way. This is why the flag Member States should be empowered to authorise under a defined set of criteria and subject to monitoring, the vessels flying their flag to seek and obtain direct authorisations from third coastal states. The fishing activity should be authorised onceprovided the flag Member State is satisfied that it will not undermine sustainability. Unless the Commission has any further objection, the operator who has been given the authorisation from both the flag Member State and the coastal state should be allowed to start its fishing operation.
Amendment 73 #
2015/0289(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) Procedures should be transparent and predictable forso that Union and third country operators, as well as fornd their respective competent authorities can function better.
Amendment 76 #
2015/0289(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23
Recital 23
(23) Fishing vessels from third countries without authorisation under this Regulation shouldshall, when navigating in Union waters, be obliged to ensure that their fishing gear is installed in such a manner that it is not readily usable for fishing operationsdepart immediately by the competent port authorities of the Member State.
Amendment 65 #
2015/0288(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 66 #
2015/0288(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 b (new)
Citation 3 b (new)
having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 77 #
2015/0288(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) For the achievement of a genuine digital single market, the harmonisation of certain aspects concerning contracts for sales of goods, taking as a base a high level of consumer protection and legal certainty for digital content providers, is necessary.
Amendment 84 #
2015/0288(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) E-commerce has made major inroads in the retail sector is the main driver for growth within the Digital Single Market. However its growth potential is far from being fully exploited. In order to strengthen Union competitiveness and to boost growth, the Union needs to act swiftly and encourage economic actors to unleash the full potential offered by the Digital Single Market. The full potential of the Digital Single Market can only be unleashed if all market participants enjoy smooth access to the online sales of goods and are able to confidently engage in e- commerce transactions. The contract law rules on the basis of which market participants conclude transactions are among the key factors shaping business’ decisions whether to offer goods online cross-border. Those rules also influence consumers’ willingness to embrace and trust this type of purchase.
Amendment 86 #
2015/0288(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) While online sales of goods constitute the vast majority of distance sales in the Union, this Directive should cover all distance sales channels, including phone and mail orders, in order to avoid any unjustified distortions of competition and to create a level playing field for all businesses selling at a distance.
Amendment 97 #
2015/0288(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) While consumers enjoy a high level of protection when they purchase online or otherwise at a distance from abroad as a result of the application of Regulation (EC) No 593/2008, fragmentation also impacts negatively on consumers’ levels of confidence in e-commerce. While several factors contribute to this mistrust, uncertainty about key contractual rights ranks prominently among consumers’ concerns, which must accordingly be assuaged. This uncertainty exists independently of whether or not consumers are protected by the mandatory consumer contract law provisions of their own Member State in the case where a seller directs his cross-border activities to them or whether or not consumers conclude cross-border contracts with a seller without the respective seller pursuing commercial activities in the consumer's Member State.
Amendment 101 #
2015/0288(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) In order to remedy those problems and ensure an equal level of protection, businesses and consumers should be able to rely on a set of fully harmonised, targeted rules for the online and other distance sales of goods. Uniform rules are necessary in relation to several essential elements of consumer contract law which under the current minimum harmonisation approach led to disparities and trade barriers across the Union.
Amendment 131 #
2015/0288(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) This Directive should not affect contract laws of Member States in areas not regulated by this Directive. Member States should also be free to provide more detailed conditions in relation to aspects regulated in this Directive to the extent those are not fully harmonised by this Directive: this concernsin so far as it relates to limitation periods for exercising the consumers' rights, commercial guarantees, and the right of redress of the seller.
Amendment 136 #
2015/0288(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) In order to bring greater clarity and certainty for sellers and consumers the Directive should define the notion of a contract. This definition follows the common traditions of all Member States by requiring an agreement intended to give rise to obligations or other legal effects for a contract to exist.
Amendment 146 #
2015/0288(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) Conformity should cover fully material defects as well as legal defects. Third party rights and other legal defects might effectively bar the consumer from enjoying the goods in accordance with the contract when the right's holder rightfully compels the consumer to stop infringing those rights. Therefore the seller should ensure that the goods are free from any right of a third party, which precludes the consumer from enjoying the goods in accordance with the contract.
Amendment 152 #
2015/0288(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 23
Recital 23
(23) Ensuring longer durability of consumer goods is important for achieving more sustainable consumption patterns and a circular economy. Similarly, keeping non-compliant products out of the Union market by strengthening market surveillance and providing the right incentives to economic operators is essential to increase consumer trust in the single market. For these purposes, product specific Union legislation is the most appropriate approach to introduce durability and other product related requirements in relation to specific types or groups of products, using for this purpose adapted criteria. This Directive should therefore be complementary to the objectives followed in this Union sector specific legislation. In so far as specific durability information is indicated in any pre-contractual statement which forms part of the sales contract, the consumer should be able to rely on them as a part of the criteria for conformity.
Amendment 180 #
2015/0288(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 29
Recital 29
(29) Considering that the right to terminate the contract due to the lack of conformity is an important remedy applicable where repair or replacement are not feasible or have failed, the consumer should also enjoy the right to terminate the contract in cases where the lack of conformity is minor. This wouldis expected to provide a strong incentive to remedy all cases of a lack of conformity at an early stage. In order to make the right to terminate effective for consumers, in situations where the consumer acquires multiple goods, some being an accessory to the main item which the consumer would not have acquired without the main item, and the lack of conformity impacts that main item, the consumer should have the right to terminate the contract also in relation to the accessory elements, even if the latter are in conformity with the contract.
Amendment 183 #
2015/0288(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 31
Recital 31
(31) In order to ensure and enhance the effectiveness of the right to terminate for consumers while avoiding the consumer's unjustified enrichment, the consumer's obligation to pay for the decrease of the value of the goods should be limited to those situations where the decrease exceeds normal use. In any case the consumer should not be obliged to pay more than the price agreed for the goods. In situations where the return of the goods is impossible due to their destruction or loss, the consumer should pay the monetary value of the goods which were destroyed. However, the consumer should not be obliged to pay the monetary value where the destruction or loss is caused by the lack of conformity of the goods with the contract.
Amendment 189 #
2015/0288(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 32
Recital 32
(32b) In order to increase legal certainty for consumers and sellers and overall consumer confidence in cross-border purchases it is necessary to harmonise the period during which the seller is held liable for any lack of conformity which exists at the time when the consumer acquires the physical possession of goods. Considering that the large majority of Member States have foreseen a two-year period when implementing Directive 1999/44 and in practice this is considered by market participants as a reasonable period, this period should be maintained.
Amendment 23 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) For the achievement of a genuine digital single market, the harmonisation of certain aspects concerning contracts for supply of digital content, taking as a base a high level of consumer protection, is necessary, as well as legal certainty for digital content providers.
Amendment 25 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) Differences in national mandatory consumer contract law rules and a lack of clear contract law rules are among the key obstacles which hinder the development of the supply of digital content and cross- border sales, as very few tailor-made rules exist at Union level. BThat is to say, businesses face additional costs stemming from differences in national mandatory consumer contract law rules and legal uncertainty when selling digital content across borders. Businesses also face costs when adapting their contracts to specific mandatory rules for the supply of digital content that are already emerging in several Member States, creating differences in scope and content between specific national rules governing these contracts. In those Member States where there are not yet specific rules for the supply of digital content, traders willing to sell cross-border face uncertainty, as they will often not know which rules apply to digital content in the Member State they want to export to, nor the content of those rules and whether they are mandatory.
Amendment 30 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) This Directive should fully harmonise a set of key rules that are so far not regulated at Union level so as to achieve better consumer protection through development of the digital sector. It should include therefore rules on conformity of the digital content, remedies available to consumers in cases of lack of conformity of digital content with the contract and certain modalities for the exercise of those remedies. This Directive should also harmonise certain aspects concerning the right to terminate a long term contract, as well as certain aspects concerning the modification of the digital content.
Amendment 31 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) This Directive should not affect national laws to the extent that the topics concerned are not regulated by this Directive, such as national rules providing for obligations of the consumer towards the supplier of digital content or regulating the qualification, formation and validity of contracts or the legality of the content. Member States should also remain free to provide rules for the detailed conditions for the exercise of rights, such as the right to damages to the extent not covered by the Directive, or rules which provide for the consequences of termination of the contract which apply in addition to restitution rules regulated by this Directive.
Amendment 35 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) The Directive should address problems across differentall categories of digital content and its supply. In order to cater for fast technological developments and to maintain the future-proof nature of the notion of digital content, this notion as used in this Directive should be broader than in Directive 2011/83/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council.30 In particular it should cover services which allow the creation, processing or storage of data. While there are numerous ways for digital content to be supplied, such as transmission on a durable medium, downloading by consumers on their devices, web-streaming, allowing access to storage capabilities of digital content or access to the use of social media, this Directive should apply to all digital content independently of the medium used for its transmission. Differentiating between different categories in this technologically fast changing market is not desirable because it would hardly be possible to avoid discriminations between suppliers. AThe objective is to ensure a level-playing field between suppliers of different categories of digital content should be ensured. However this Directive should not apply to digital content which is embedded in goods in such a way that it operates as an integral part of the goods and its functions are subordinate to the main functionalities of the goods. _________________ 30OJ L 304, 22.11.2011, p.64.
Amendment 37 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) IUnfortunately, in the digital economy, information about individuals is often and increasingly seen by market participants as having a value comparable to money. Digital content is often supplied not in exchange for a price but against counter-performance other than money i.e. by giving access to personal data or other data. Those specific business models apply in different forms in a considerable part of the market. Introducing a differentiation depending on the nature of the counter-performance would discriminate between different business models; it would provide an unjustified incentive for businesses to move towards offering digital content against data. A level playing field should be ensured. In addition, defects of the performance features of the digital content supplied against counter- performance other than money may have an impact on the economic interests of consumers. Therefore the applicability of the rules of this Directive should not depend on whether a price is paid for the specific digital content in question, making it imperative for the European Data Protection Supervisor to exercise its investigatory powers.
Amendment 42 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) As regards digital content supplied not in exchange for a price but against counter-performance other than money, this Directive should apply only to contracts where the supplier requests and the consumer actively provides data, such as name and e-mail address or photos, directly or indirectly to the supplier for example through individual registration or on the basis of a contract which allows access to consumers' photos. This Directive should not apply to situations where the supplier collects data necessary for the digital content to function in conformity with the contract, for example geographical location where necessary for a mobile application to function properly, or for the sole purpose of meeting legal requirements, for instance where the registration of the consumer is required for security and identification purposes by applicable laws. This Directive should also not apply to situations where the supplier collects information, including personal data, such as the IP address, or other automatically generated information such as information collected and transmitted by a cookie, without the consumer actively supplying it, even if the consumer accepts the cookie. It should also not apply to situations where the consumer is exposed to advertisements exclusively in order to gain access to digital contente European Data Protection Supervisor could, in cooperation with the EU Member States, assess the impact of such content on personal data protection.
Amendment 47 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) Content generated by consumers should be treated on the same basis as any other digital content that the consumer provides or stores throughout the period of duration of the contract such as music and video files, pictures, games or applications and should be subject to personal data protection rules. Content generated by consumers comprises a wide range of examples including digital images, video and audio files, blogs, discussion forums, text-based collaboration formats, posts, chats, tweets, logs, podcasting, content created on mobile devices, content created in the context of online virtual environments, ratings and collections of links referring to online content.
Amendment 48 #
2015/0287(COD)
(16) In order to ensure a common set of rights for consumers and a level playing field for business, consumers should have the same remedies for digital content which is not in conformity with the contract irrespective of the way the content has been developed. Consequently the Directive should apply to contracts for the development of digital content tailor made to the specific requirements of the consumer including tailor made software. This Directive should also apply to the supply of visual modelling files required in the context of 3D printing. However this Directive should not regulate goods produced with the use of 3D printing technology or the damage caused to them.Does not affect the English version.)
Amendment 52 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) This Directive should not deal with copyright and other intellectual property related aspects of the supply of digital content. Therefore it should be without prejudice to anyImplementation of this directive should be subject to rights and obligations according toderiving from copyright law and other intellectual property laws.
Amendment 60 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 25
Recital 25
(25) In cases where the contract does not stipulate sufficiently clear and comprehensive benchmarks to ascertain the conformity of the digital content with the contract, it is necessary to set objectiveimperative to set additional conformity criteria to ensure that consumers are not deprived of their rights. In such cases the conformity with the contract should be assessed considering the purpose for which digital content of the same description would normally be used.
Amendment 61 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 27
Recital 27
(27) While data-driven services and technologies bring significant benefits, they also create some vulnerabilities. As recognised by the Digital Single Market Strategy a high level of network and information security is essential across the European Union to ensure respect of fundamental rights such as the right to privacy and personal data, to increase user confidence and strengthen their trust in the digital economy. As software becomes pervasive, qualities such as reliability, security and adaptability to evolving needs are also becoming a prime concern. It is therefore increasingly important that those data- driven services and technologies ensure that those qualities are guaranteed, to the extent that is proportionate to the role and function those technologies play. In particular, quality in terms of security and reliability is becoming an important concern for innovative, composite services that have to rely on the interconnection of diverse systems in different domains.
Amendment 63 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 28
Recital 28
(28) When applying the rules of this Directive, suppliers shouldare obliged to make use of standards, open technical specifications, good practices and codes of conduct, including in relation to the commonly used data format for retrieving the content generated by the user or any other content provided by the consumer, whether established at the international level, the European level or at the level of a specific industry sector. In this context, the Commission may consider the promotion of the development of international and European standards and the drawing up of a pan-European code of conduct by trade associations and other representative organisations that could support the uniform implementation of the Directive.
Amendment 64 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 29
Recital 29
(29) Many types of digital content are supplied over a period of time. For instance, consumers access cloud services over a period of time. It is therefore importantnecessary to ensure that the digital content is in conformity with the contract throughout the duration of the contract. Moreover, given the frequent improvement of digital content, notably by updates, the version of digital content supplied to the consumer should be the most recent one available at the time of the conclusion of the contract.
Amendment 65 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 30
Recital 30
(30) In order to work properly, digital content needs tomust be correctly integrated into the consumer's hardware and software environment. Where a lack of conformity with the contract of the digital content results from an incorrect integration, it should be regarded as a lack of conformity with the contract of the digital content itself, where it was integrated by the supplier or under its control, or by the consumer following supplier's instructions for integration and the incorrect integration was due to shortcomings in the required integration instructions. In such scenarios the origin of the lack of conformity stems from the sphere of the supplier.
Amendment 66 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 33
Recital 33
(33) Without prejudice to the fundamental rights to the protection of private life, including confidentiality of communications, and the protection of personal data of the consumer, the consumer should cooperate with the supplier in order to allow the supplier to ascertain the consumer's digital environment with the use of the least intrusive. In means which are at the disposal of both parties in the circumstances. This may often be done for instance by providing the supplier with automatically generated incident reports or details of the consumer's internet connection. Only in exceptional and duly justified circumstances where with the best use of all other means there is no other way possible, this may also be done by allowing virtual access to the consumer's digital environment. However, where the consumer does not cooperate with the supplier, it should be for the consumer to prove that the digital content is not in conformity with the contracty cases,this can be done by providing the supplier with automatically generated incident reports or details of the consumer’s internet connection.
Amendment 68 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 35
Recital 35
(35) A failure of the supplier to supply the digital content to the consumer in accordance with the contract is a serious breach of the main contractual obligation of the supplier, which should allow the consumer to immediately terminate the contract and avail himself of all legal rights to damages. Where the supplier has initially not failed to supply the digital content, interruptions of the supply making the digital content not available or accessible to the consumer over a short period of time should be treated as non- conformity with the contract, and not a failure to supply. In particular, the requirement of proper continuity of the digital content should also cover more than negligible short term interruptions of the supplyutomatically invalidating it.
Amendment 69 #
2015/0287(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 6 a (new)
Citation 6 a (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 69 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 36
Recital 36
(36) In the case of non-conformity with the contract, consumers should as a first step be entitled to have the digital content brought to conformity with the contract. Depending on technical characteristics of the digital content, the supplier may select a specific way of bringing the digital content to conformity with the contract, for example by issuing updates or requirproviding the consumer towith access a new copy of the digital content. Given the diversity of digital content, it is not appropriate to set fixed deadlines for the exercise of rights or the fulfilling of obligations related to that digital content. Such deadlines may not capture this diversity and be either too short or too long, depending on the case. It is therefore more appropriate to refer to reasonable deadlines. The digital content should be brought into conformity with the contract within a reasonable timeimmediately and free of any costs; in particular the consumer should not incur any costs associated with the development of an update for the digital content.
Amendment 70 #
2015/0287(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 6 b (new)
Citation 6 b (new)
- having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 70 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 37
Recital 37
(37) As a second step, the consumer should be entitled to have the price reduced or the contract terminated. The right of a consumer to have the contract terminated should be limited to those cases where for instance bringing the digital content to conformity is not possible and the non- conformity impairs the main performance features of the digital content. Where the consumer terminates the contract, the supplier should reimburse the price paid by the consumer or, where the digital content is supplied not in exchange for a price but against access to data provided by the consumer, the supplier should refrain from using it, from transferring that data to third parties or allowing third parties to access it after termination of the contract. Fulfilling the obligation to refrain from using data should mean in the case when the counter- performance consists of personal data, that the supplier should take all measures in order to comply with data protection rules by deleting it or rendering it anonymous in such a way that the consumer cannot be identified by any means likely reasonably to be used either by the supplier or by any other person. Without prejudice to obligations of a controller under Directive 95/46/EC the supplier should not be obliged to undertake any further steps in relation to data which the supplier has lawfully provided to third parties in the course of the duration of the contract for the supply of the digital content.
Amendment 74 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 38
Recital 38
(38) Upon termination the supplier should also refrain from using the content generated by the consumer. However, in those cases where more than one consumer generated particular content, the supplier is entitled to continue to use the content generated by the consumer where those other consumers make use of it.
Amendment 79 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 42
Recital 42
Amendment 80 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 43
Recital 43
Amendment 82 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 44
Recital 44
(44) The principle of the supplier's liability for damages is an essential element of the contracts for supply of digital content. In order to increase consumers' trust in digital content this principle should thus be regulated at Union level to ensure that consumers do not suffer a detriment if their hardware or software is damaged by digital content which is not in conformity with the contract. Therefore, consumers should be entitled to a compensation for damages caused to the consumer's digital environment by a lack of conformity with the contract or a failure to supply the digital content. However, it should be for Member States to lay down the detailed conditions for the exercise of the right to damages while taking into account that discounts on prices for future supplies of the digital content, especially when offered by suppliers as an exclusive compensation for losses, do not necessarily put the consumer as nearly as possible into the position in which the consumer would have been if the digital content had been duly supplied and been in conformity with the contract.
Amendment 83 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 45
Recital 45
(45) Due to technological or other reasons tThe supplier might be compelled to change features of the digital content supplied over a period of time. These changes are often to the advantage of the consumer as they improve the digital content. Consequently, the parties to the contract may include respective clauses in the contract which allow the supplier to undertake modifications. However, where such modifications negatively affect the way the consumer benefits from main performance features of the digital content, they may disturb the balance of the contract or the nature of the performance due under the contract to an extent that the consumer may not have concluded such a contract. Therefore, in such cases these modifications should be subject to certain conditions after informing and obtaining the agreement of the consumer.
Amendment 84 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 46
Recital 46
(46) CompetitionA level playing field is an important element for a well-functioning digital single market. In order to stimulate such a competition, cConsumers should therefore be enabled to respond to competitive offers and to switch between suppliers. In order to make this work in practice, they should be able to do so without being hindered by legal, technical or practical obstacles, including contractual conditions or lack of means for retrieving all data uploaded by the consumer, produced by the consumer with the use of the digital content or generated through the consumer's use of the digital content. However, it is also important to protect existing investments and the trust in concluded contracts. Therefore consumers should conditionally be given the right to terminate long- term contracts under certain balanced conditions. This does not preclude that consumer contracts may be concluded for longer contractual periods. However, the consumer should be entitled to terminate any contractual relation that altogether lasts for a period longer than 12 months. In order to prevent any circumvention of this right it should cover any contract which results in the consumer being bound by the contract for more than 12 months, irrespective of whether the contract is of indeterminate duration or is extended automatically or following a subsequent agreement by the partiesix months.
Amendment 85 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) For the achievement of a genuine digital single market, the harmonisation of certain aspects concerning contracts for supply of digital content, taking as a base a high level of consumer protection, is necessary, as well as legal certainty for digital content providers.
Amendment 86 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 54
Recital 54
(54) Since the objectives of this Directive, namely to contribute to the smooth functioning of the internal market and European economic invigoration by tackling in a consistent manner contract law-related obstacles for the supply of digital content while preventing legal fragmentation cannot be sufficiently achieved by the Member States but can rather, by reasons of ensuring the overall coherence of the national legislations through harmonised contract law rules which would also facilitate coordinated enforcement actions, be better achieved at Union level, the Union may adopt measures, in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in Article 5 of the Treaty on European Union. In accordance with the principle of proportionality, as set out in that Article, this Directive does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve those objectives.
Amendment 99 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) Differences in national mandatory consumer contract law rules and a lack of clear contract law rules are among the key obstacles which hinder the development of the supply of digital content and cross- border sales, as very few tailor-made rules exist at Union level. Businesses face additional costs stemming from differences in national mandatory consumer contract law rules and legal uncertainty when selling digital content across borders. Businesses also face costs when adapting their contracts to specific mandatory rules for the supply of digital content that are already emerging in several Member States, creating differences in scope and content between specific national rules governing these contracts. In those Member States where there are not yet specific rules for the supply of digital content, traders willing to sell cross-border face uncertainty, as they will often not know which rules apply to digital content in the Member State they want to export to, nor the content of those rules and whether they are mandatory.
Amendment 123 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) Fully harmonised consumer contract law rules in all Member States will make it easier for businesses to offer digital content and effect digital sales cross- border. They will have a stable contract law environment when selling online and otherwise at a distance to other Member States. Fully harmonised rules specific for digital content throughout the EUnion will remove the complexity caused by the different national rules that currently apply to contracts for the supply of digital content. They will also prevent legal fragmentation that otherwise would arise from new national legislations regulating specifically digital content.
Amendment 134 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) Consumers will benefit from fully harmonised rights for digital content at a high level of protection. They will have clear contractual rights when they receive or access digital content from anywhere in the EUnion. This will increase their confidence in buying digital content. This will also contribute to reducing the detriment consumers currently suffer, since there will be a set of clear rights that will enable them to address problems they face with digital content.
Amendment 141 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) This Directive should fully harmonise a set of key rules that are so far not regulated at Union level so as to expedite the development of the digital market for the benefit of consumers and undertakings. It should include therefore rules on conformity of the digital content, remedies available to consumers in cases of lack of conformity of digital content with the contract and certain modalities for the exercise of those remedies. This Directive should also harmonise certain aspects concerning the right to terminate a long term contract, as well as certain aspects concerning the modification of the digital content.
Amendment 151 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) This Directive should not affect national laws to the extent that the topics concerned are not regulated by this Directive, such as national rules providing for obligations of the consumer towards the supplier of digital content or regulating the qualification, formation and validity of contracts or the legality of the content. Member States should also remain free to provide rules for the detailed conditions for the exercise of rights, such as the right to damages to the extent not covered by the Directive, or rules which provide for the consequences of termination of the contract which apply in addition to restitution rules regulated by this Directive.
Amendment 163 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) The Directive should address problems across differentall categories of digital content and its supply. In order to cater for fast technological developments and to maintain the future-proof nature of the notion of digital content, this notion as used in this Directive should be broader than in Directive 2011/83/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council.30 . In particular it should cover services which allow the creation, processing or storage of data. While there are numerous ways for digital content to be supplied, such as transmission on a durable medium, downloading by consumers on their devices, web-streaming, allowing access to storage capabilities of digital content or access to the use of social media, this Directive should apply to all digital content independently of the medium used for its transmission. Differentiating between different categories in this technologically fast changing market is not desirable because it would hardly be possible to avoid discriminations between suppliers. A level-playing field between suppliers of different categories of digital content should be ensured. However this Directive should not apply to digital content which is embedded in goods in such a way that it operates as an integral part of the goods and its functions are subordinate to the main functionalities of the goods. _________________ 30 OJ L 304, 22.11.2011, p.64.
Amendment 195 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) As regards digital content supplied not in exchange for a price but against counter-performance other than money, this Directive should apply only to contracts where the supplier requests and the consumer actively provides data, such as name and e-mail address or photos, directly or indirectly to the supplier for example through individual registration or on the basis of a contract which allows access to consumers' photos. This Directive should not apply to situations where the supplier collects data necessary for the digital content to function in conformity with the contract, for example geographical location where necessary for a mobile application to function properly, or for the sole purpose of meeting legal requirements, for instance where the registration of the consumer is required for security and identification purposes by applicable laws. This Directive should also not apply to situations where the supplier collects information, including personal data, such as the IP address, or other automatically generated information such as information collected and transmitted by a cookie, without the consumer actively supplying it, even if the consumer accepts the cookie. It should also not apply to situations where the consumer is exposed to advertisements exclusively in order to gain access to digital content.
Amendment 200 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) Content generated by consumers should be treated on the same basis as any other digital content that the consumer provides or stores throughout the period of duration of the contract such as music and video files, pictures, games or applications and be subject to the principles of personal data protection. Content generated by consumers comprises a wide range of examples including digital images, video and audio files, blogs, discussion forums, text-based collaboration formats, posts, chats, tweets, logs, podcasting, content created on mobile devices, content created in the context of online virtual environments, ratings and collections of links referring to online content.
Amendment 209 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) Digital content is highly relevant in the context of the Internet of Things, thereby contributing to the smooth functioning of the internal market. However it is opportune to address specific issues of liability related to the Internet of Things, including the liability for data and machine-to-machine contracts, in a separate way.
Amendment 217 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) This Directive should not deal with copyright and other intellectual property related aspects of the supply of digital content. Therefore it should be without prejudice to anybe implemented with due regard for rights and obligations according tounder copyright law and other intellectual property laws.
Amendment 252 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 29
Recital 29
(29) Many types of digital content are supplied over a period of time. For instance, consumers access cloud services over a period of time. It is therefore importantnecessary to ensure that the digital content is in conformity with the contract throughout the duration of the contract. Moreover, given the frequent improvement of digital content, notably by updates, the version of digital content supplied to the consumer should be the most recent one available at the time of the conclusion of the contract.
Amendment 331 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 43
Recital 43
(43) Due to its nature the digital content is not subject to wear and tear while being used and it is often supplied over a period of time rather than as a one-off supply. It is, therefore, justified not to provide a period during which the supplier should be held liable for any lack of conformity which exists at the time of the supply of the digital content. Consequently Member States should refrain from maintaining or introducing such a period. Member States should remain free to use national general contract law and rely on national prescription rules in order to ensure legal certainty in relation to claims based on the lack of conformity of digital content.
Amendment 351 #
2015/0287(COD)
(46) Competition is an important element for a well-functioning digital single market. In order to stimulate such a competition, consumers should be enabled to respond to competitive offers and to switch between suppliers. In order to make this work in practice, they should be able to do so without being hindered by legal, technical or practical obstacles, including contractual conditions or lack of means for retrieving all data uploaded by the consumer, produced by the consumer with the use of the digital content or generated through the consumer's use of the digital content. However, it is also important to protect existing investments and the trust in concluded contracts. Therefore consumers should be given the right to terminate long- term contracts under certain balanced conditions. This does not preclude that consumer contracts may be concluded for longer contractual periods. However, the consumer should be entitled to terminate any contractual relation that altogether lasts for a period longer than 12twelve months. In order to prevent any circumvention of this right it should cover any contract which results in the consumer being bound by the contract for more than 12 months, irrespective of whether the contract is of indeterminate duration or is extended automatically or following a subsequent agreement by the parties.
Amendment 358 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 48
Recital 48
(48) Persons or organisations regarded under national law as having a legitimate interest in protecting consumer contractual rights should be afforded the right to initiate proceedings, either before a court or before an administrative authority which is competent to decide upon complaints or to initiate appropriate legal proceedings if these rights are infringed.
Amendment 362 #
2015/0287(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 54
Recital 54
(54) Since the objectives of this Directive, namely to contribute to the smooth functioning of the internal market and European economic invigoration by tackling in a consistent manner contract law-related obstacles for the supply of digital content while preventing legal fragmentation cannot be sufficiently achieved by the Member States but can rather, by reasons of ensuring the overall coherence of the national legislations through harmonised contract law rules which would also facilitate coordinated enforcement actions, be better achieved at Union level, the Union may adopt measures, in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in Article 5 of the Treaty on European Union. In accordance with the principle of proportionality, as set out in that Article, this Directive does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve those objectives.
Amendment 26 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Since the internal market comprises an area without internal frontiers relying, inter alia, on the free movement of services and persons, it is necessary to provide that consumers can use online content services which offer access to content such as music, games, films or sporting events not only in their Member State of residence but also when they are temporarily present in other Member States of the Union. Therefore, barriers that hamper access and use of such online content services cross border shouldmust be eliminated.
Amendment 45 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) There are a number of barriers which hinder the provision of these services to consumers temporarily present in another Member State. Certain online services include content such as music, games or films which are protected by copyright and/or related rights under Union law. In particular, the obstacles to cross- border portability of online content services stem from the fact that the rights for the transmission of content protected by copyright and/or related rights such as audiovisual works are often licensed on a territorial basis as well as from the fact that online service providers may arbitrarily choose to serve specific markets only, thus depriving consumers of information and entertainment services.
Amendment 50 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Since the internal market comprises an area without internal frontiers relying, inter alia, on the free movement of services and persons, it is necessary to provide that consumers can use online content services which offer access to content such as music, games, films or sporting events not only in their Member State of residence but also when they are temporarily present in other Member States of the Union. Therefore, barriers that hamper access and use of such online content services cross border shouldmust be eliminated.
Amendment 59 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) There are a number of barriers which hinder the provision of these services to consumers temporarily present in another Member State. Certain online services include content such as music, games or films which are protected by copyright and/or related rights under Union law. In particular, the obstacles to cross- border portability of online content services stem from the fact that the rights for the transmission of content protected by copyright and/or related rights such as audiovisual works are often licensed on a territorial basis as well as from the fact that online service providers may arbitrarily choose to serve specific markets only, thus depriving consumers of information and entertainment services.
Amendment 69 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) This Regulation should, therefore, apply to online content services that a service provider, after having obtained the relevant rights from right holders in a given territory, provides to its subscribers on the basis of a contract, by any means including streaming, downloading or any other technique which allows use of that content. A registration to receive content alerts or a mere acceptance of HTML cookies should not be regarded as a contract for the provision of online content service for the purposes of this Regulation.
Amendment 77 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) This Regulation should apply only to online content services which subscribers can effectively access and use in the Member State in which they habitually reside without being limited to a specific location, as it is not appropriate to requirefor service providers that do not offer portable services in their home country to do so across borders.
Amendment 80 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) This Regulation should, therefore, apply to online content services that a service provider, after having obtained the relevant rights from right holders in a given territory, provides to its subscribers on the basis of a contract, by any means including streaming, downloading or any other technique which allows use of that content. A registration to receive content alerts or a mere acceptance of HTML cookies should not be regarded as a contract for the provision of online content service for the purposes of this Regulation.
Amendment 82 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) This Regulation should apply to online content services which are provided against payment of money. Providers of such services are in a position to verify the Member State of residence of their subscribers. The right to use an online content service should be regarded as acquired against payment of money whether such payment is made directly to the provider of the online content service, or to another party such as a provider offering a package combining a telecommunications service and an online content service operated by another provider.
Amendment 84 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) This Regulation should apply only to online content services which subscribers can effectively access and use in the Member State in which they habitually reside without being limited to a specific location, as it is not appropriate to requirefor service providers that do not offer portable services in their home country to do so across borders.
Amendment 89 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) Online content services which are provided without payment of money are also included in the scope of this Regulation to the extent that providers verify the Member State of residence of their subscribers. Online content services which are provided without the payment of money and whose providers do not verify the Member State of residence of their subscribers should be outside the scope of this Regulation as their inclusion would involve a major change to the way these services are delivered and involve disproportionate costs. As concerns verification of the subscriber's Member State of residence, information such as a payment of a licence fee for other services provided in the Member State of residence, the existence of a contract for internet or telephone connection, IP address or other means of authentication,IP address should be relied upon, if they enable the provider to have reasonable indicators as to the Member State of residence of its subscribers.
Amendment 89 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) This Regulation should apply to online content services which are provided against payment of money. Providers of such services are in a position to verify the Member State of residence of their subscribers. The right to use an online content service should be regarded as acquired against payment of money whether such payment is made directly to the provider of the online content service, or to another party such as a provider offering a package combining a telecommunications service and an online content service operated by another provider.
Amendment 96 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) Online content services which are provided without payment of money are also included in the scope of this Regulation to the extent that providers verify the Member State of residence of their subscribers. Online content services which are provided without the payment of money and whose providers do not verify the Member State of residence of their subscribers should be outside the scope of this Regulation as their inclusion would involve a major change to the way these services are delivered and involve disproportionate costs. As concerns verification of the subscriber's Member State of residence, information such as a payment of a licence fee for other services provided in the Member State of residence, the existence of a contract for internet or telephone connection, IP address or other means of authentication,IP address should be relied upon, if they enable the provider to have reasonable indicators as to the Member State of residence of its subscribers.
Amendment 97 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) Requiring that the delivery of online content services to subscribers temporarily present in Member States other than their Member State of residence be of the same quality as in the Member State of residence could result in high costs for service providers and thus ultimately for subscribers. Therefore, it is not appropriate for this Regulation to require that the provider of an online content service take measures to ensure quality of delivery of such services beyond the quality available via the local online access chosen by a subscriber while temporarily present in another Member State. In such cases the provider shall not be liable if the quality of delivery of the service is lower. Nevertheless, iis essential. If the provider expressly agrees to guarantee certain quality of delivery to subscribers while temporarily present in other Member States, the provider shall be bound by such agreement.
Amendment 106 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) Requiring that the delivery of online content services to subscribers temporarily present in Member States other than their Member State of residence be of the same quality as in the Member State of residence could result in high costs for service providers and thus ultimately for subscribers. Therefore, it is not appropriate for this Regulation to require that the provider of an online content service take measures to ensure quality of delivery of such services beyond the quality available via the local online access chosen by a subscriber while temporarily present in another Member State. In such cases the provider shall not be liable if the quality of delivery of the service is lower. Nevertheless, if the is essential. If the provider expressly agrees to guarantee certain quality of delivery to subscribers while temporarily present in other Member States, the provider shall be bound by such agreement.
Amendment 117 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23
Recital 23
(23) Service providers should ensure that their subscribers are properly informed about the conditions of enjoyment of online content services in Member States other than the Member State of residence of the subscribers. The Regulation enables right holders to require that the service provider make use of effective means in order to verify that the online content service is provided in conformity with this Regulation. It is necessary, however, to ensure that the required means are reasonable and do not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve this purpose. Examples of the necessary technical and organisational measures may include sampling of IP address instead of constant monitoring of location, transparent information to the individuals about the methods used for the verification and its purposes, and appropriate security measures. Considering that for purposes of the verification what matters is not the location, but rather, in which Member State the subscriber is accessing the service, precise location data should not be collected and processed for this purpose. Similarly, where authentication of a subscriber is sufficient in order to deliver the service provided, identification of the subscriber should not be required.
Amendment 126 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23
Recital 23
(23) Service providers should ensure that their subscribers are properly informed about the conditions of enjoyment of online content services in Member States other than the Member State of residence of the subscribers. The Regulation enables right holders to require that the service provider make use of effective means in order to verify that the online content service is provided in conformity with this Regulation. It is necessary, however, to ensure that the required means are reasonable and do not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve this purpose. Examples of the necessary technical and organisational measures may include sampling of IP address instead of constant monitoring of location, transparent information to the individuals about the methods used for the verification and its purposes, and appropriate security measures. Considering that for purposes of the verification what matters is not the location, but rather, in which Member State the subscriber is accessing the service, precise location data should not be collected and processed for this purpose. Similarly, where authentication of a subscriber is sufficient in order to deliver the service provided, identification of the subscriber should not be required.
Amendment 138 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 28
Recital 28
(28) In order to achieve the objective of ensuring cross-border portability of online content services in the Union, it is appropriate to adopt a regulation, which directly applies in Member States. This is necessary in order to guarantee a uniform application of the cross-border portability rules across Member States and their entering into force at the same time with regard to all online content services. Only a regulation ensures the degree of legal certainty which is necessary in order to enable consumers to fully benefit from cross-border portability across the Union.
Amendment 140 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 29
Recital 29
(29) Since the objective of this Regulation, namely the adaptation of the legal framework so that cross-border portability of online content services is provided in the Union, cannot be sufficiently achieved by Member States and can therefore, by reason of its scale and effects, be better achieved at Union level, the Union may adopt measures in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in Article 5 of the Treaty on European Union, Protocol (No 1) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union and Protocol (No 2) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality. In accordance with the principle of proportionality, as set out in that Article, this Regulation does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve its objective. Therefore, this Regulation does not substantially affect the way the rights are licensed and does not oblige right holders and service providers to renegotiate contracts. Moreover, this Regulation does not require that the provider takes measures to ensure the quality of delivery of online content services outside the Member State of residence of the subscriber. Finally, this Regulation does not apply to service providers who offer services without payment of money and who do not verify the subscriber's Member State of residence. Therefore, it does not impose any disproportionate costs,
Amendment 150 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 28
Recital 28
(28) In order to achieve the objective of ensuring cross-border portability of online content services in the Union, it is appropriate to adopt a regulation, which directly applies in Member States. This is necessary in order to guarantee a uniform application of the cross-border portability rules across Member States and their entering into force at the same time with regard to all online content services. Only a regulation ensures the degree of legal certainty which is necessary in order to enable consumers to fully benefit from cross-border portability across the Union.
Amendment 151 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 29
Recital 29
(29) Since the objective of this Regulation, namely the adaptation of the legal framework so that cross-border portability of online content services is provided in the Union, cannot be sufficiently achieved by Member States and can therefore, by reason of its scale and effects, be better achieved at Union level, the Union may adopt measures in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in Article 5 of the Treaty on European Union, Protocol (No 1) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union and Protocol (No 2) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality. In accordance with the principle of proportionality, as set out in that Article, this Regulation does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve its objective. Therefore, this Regulation does not substantially affect the way the rights are licensed and does not oblige right holders and service providers to renegotiate contracts. Moreover, this Regulation does not require that the provider takes measures to ensure the quality of delivery of online content services outside the Member State of residence of the subscriber. Finally, this Regulation does not apply to service providers who offer services without payment of money and who do not verify the subscriber's Member State of residence. Therefore, it does not impose any disproportionate costs,
Amendment 193 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1
Article 3 – paragraph 1
(1) The provider of an online content service shall enablebe required to ensure that a subscriber who is temporarily present in a Member State is able to access and use the online content service.
Amendment 194 #
2015/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1
Article 3 – paragraph 1
Amendment 17 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
– having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 5(3) thereof,
Amendment 18 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No. 2) of the TEU on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 19 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 c (new)
Citation 1 c (new)
– having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 106 thereof,
Amendment 20 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 d (new)
Citation 1 d (new)
– having regard to Article 14 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,
Amendment 21 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 e (new)
Citation 1 e (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No. 26) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on services of general interest,
Amendment 22 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) The purpose of this Directive is to contribute to the proper functioning of the internal market by approximating laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the Member States, by eliminating those barriers to the free movement of certain accessible products and services that may cause some problems. This will increase the availiability of accessible products and services on the internal market.
Amendment 24 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The disparities between the laws and administrative measures adopted by the Member States in relation to accessibility of products and services for persons with functional limitations including persons with disabilities create barriers to the free movement of such products and services and distort effective competition in the internal market. Economic operators, in particular small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), are particularly affected by those barriers.
Amendment 26 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) Due to the differences in national accessibility requirements, individual professionals, SMEs and micro-enterprises in particular are discouraged from entering into business ventures outside their own domestic markets. The national, or even regional or local, accessibility requirements that Member States have put in place currently differ as regards both coverage and level of detail. Those differences negatively affect competitiveness and growth, due to the additional costs incurred in the development and marketing of accessible products and services for each national market.
Amendment 28 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) Consumers of accessible products and recipients of accessible services are faced with high prices due to limited competition among suppliers. Fragmentation among national regulations reduces potential benefits from sharing experiences with national and international peers in responding to societal and technological deve, especially in the countries of southern Europe, such as Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal which are blighted by unemplopyments.
Amendment 29 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The approximation of national measures at Union level is therefore necessary for the proper functioning of the internal market in order to put an end to fragmentation in the market of accessible products and services, to create economies of scale, to facilitate cross- border trade and mobility, as well as to help economic operators to concentrate resources on innovation instead of using those resources for complying with fragmented legal requirements across the Union.
Amendment 30 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) 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. An environment where products and services are more accessible serves the needs of consumers, allows for a more inclusive society and facilitates independent living.
Amendment 67 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The disparities between the laws and administrative measures adopted by the Member States in relation to accessibility of products and services for persons with functional limitations including persons with disabilities create barriers to the free movement of such products and services and distort effective competition in the internal market. Economic operators, in particular small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), are particularly affectedhard hit by those barriers.
Amendment 69 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) Due to the differences in national accessibility requirements, individual professionals, SMEs and micro-enterprises in particular are discouraged from entering into business ventures outside their own domestic markets. The national, or even regional or local, accessibility requirements that Member States have put in place currently differ as regards both coverage and level of detail. Those differences negatively affect competitiveness and growth, due to the additional costs incurred in the development and marketing of accessible products and services for each national market. National authorities, manufacturers and services providers also face uncertainties concerning the accessibility requirements for potential cross-border services, and concerning the applicable policy framework for accessibility.
Amendment 76 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The approximation of national measures at Union level is therefore necessary for the proper functioning of the internal market in order to put an end to fragmentation in the market of accessible products and services, to create economies of scale, to facilitate cross-border trade and mobility and reduce and prevent cross- border barriers, as well as to help economic operators to concentrate resources on innovation instead of using those resources for complying with fragmented legal requirements across the Union.
Amendment 82 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) The overall aim of the 'Digital Single Market Strategy', is to deliver sustainable economic and social benefits from a connected digital single market, facilitating trade and promoting employment within the EU. Union consumers still do not enjoy the full benefits of prices and choice that the single market can offer, because cross-border online transactions are still very limited. Fragmentation also limits demand for cross-border e-commerce transactions. There is also a need for concerted action to make sure that new electronic content is also fully available to persons with disabilities. It is therefore necessary to harmonise accessibility requirements across the digital single market and to ensure that all Union citizens regardless of their abilities can enjoy its benefits.
Amendment 89 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) The European Disability Strategy 2010-2020 – A Renewed Commitment to a Barrier-Free Europe – in line with the Convention, establishes accessibility as one of the eight areas of action, and a basic precondition for participation in society and aims at ensuring accessibility of products and services. __________________ 33 COM(2010) 636. COM(2010) 636.
Amendment 96 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 22
Recital 22
(22) Member States shallould take all appropriate measures to ensure that, where the products and services covered by this Directive comply with the relevant accessibility requirements, their free movement within the Union is not impeded due to reasons of accessibility.
Amendment 98 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 23
Recital 23
(23) In some situations, common accessibility requirements of the built environment wouldare expected to facilitate the free movement of the related services and of persons with disabilities. Therefore, this Directive enables Member States to include the built environment used in the provision of the services under the scope of this Directive, ensuring compliance with the accessibility requirements set in Annex X.
Amendment 100 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 26
Recital 26
(26) Most jobs in the Union are provided by SMEs and micro-enterprises. They have a crucial importance for future growth, but very often face hurdles and obstacles in developing their products or services, notably in the cross-border context. It is therefore necessary to facilitate the work of the SMEs and micro- enterprises, mainly in southern EU Member States such as Greece, Spain, Italy, etc., by harmonising the national provisions on accessibility while maintaining the necessary safeguards.
Amendment 102 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 29
Recital 29
(29) Economic operators should be responsible for the compliance of products and services, in relation to their respective roles in the supply chain and to accessibility requirements, so as to ensure a high level of protection of accessibility and to guarantee fair competition on the Union market.
Amendment 106 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 37
Recital 37
(37) This Directive should follow the principle of 'think small first' and should take account of the administrative burdens and difficulties that SMEs are faced with. It should set light rules in terms of conformity assessment and should establish safeguard clauses for economic operators, rather than providing for general exceptions and derogations for those enterprises. Consequently, when setting up the rules for the selection and implementation of the most appropriate conformity assessment procedures, the situation of SMEs should be taken into account and the obligations to assess conformity of accessibility requirements should be limited to the extent that they do not pose a disproportionate burden on SMEs. In addition, market surveillance authorities should operate in a proportionate manner in relation to the size of undertakings and to the small serial or non-serial nature of the production concerned, without creating unnecessary obstacles for SMEs and without compromising the protection of public interests.
Amendment 107 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 39
Recital 39
(39) In order to facilitate conformity assessment with applicable accessibility requirements it is necessary to provide for a presumption of conformity for products and services which are in conformity with voluntary harmonised standards that are adopted in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 1025/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council for the purpose of expressing detailed technical specifications of those requirements. The Commission has already issued a number of standardisation requests to the European standardisation organisations on accessibility which would be relevant for the preparation of harmonised standards. __________________ Regulation (EU) No 1025/2012 of 25 October 2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on European standardisation, amending Council Directives 89/686/EEC and 93/15/EEC and Directives 94/9/EC, 94/25/EC, 95/16/EC, 97/23/EC, 98/34/EC, 2004/22/EC, 2007/23/EC, 2009/23/EC and 2009/105/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council and repealing Council Decision 87/95/EEC and Decision No 1673/2006/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 316, 14.11.2012, p. 12)
Amendment 119 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 54
Recital 54
(54) Since the objective of this Directive, namely, the elimination of barriers to the free movement of certain accessible products and services to contribute to the proper functioning of the internal market and to serve the needs of all customers, cannot be sufficiently achieved by the Member States because it requires the harmonisation of different rules currently existing in their respective legal systems, but can rather, by reason of defining common accessibility requirements and rules for the functioning of the single market, be better achieved at Union level, the Union may adopt measures, in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in Article 5 of the Treaty on European Union. In accordance with the principle of proportionality, as set out in that Article, this Directive does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve that objective,
Amendment 163 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) 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. An environment where products and services are more accessible provides for the needs of consumers, allows for a more inclusive society and facilitates independent living.
Amendment 167 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The disparities between the laws and administrative measures adopted by the Member States in relation to accessibility of products and services for persons with functional limitations including persons with disabilities create barriers to the free movement of such products and services and distort effective competition in the internal market. Economic operators, in particular small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), are particularly affectedhard hit by those barriers.
Amendment 168 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) Due to the differences in national accessibility requirements, individual professionals, SMEs and micro-enterprises in particular are discouraged from entering into business ventures outside their own domestic markets. The national, or even regional or local, accessibility requirements that Member States have put in place currently differ as regards both coverage and level of detail. Those differences negatively affect competitiveness and growth, due to the additional costs incurred in the development and marketing of accessible products and services for each national market. National authorities, manufacturers and services providers face uncertainties concerning accessibility requirements for potential cross-border services, and policy framework provisions regarding accessibility.
Amendment 172 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The approximation of national measures at Union level is therefore necessary for the proper functioning of the internal market in order to put an end to fragmentation in the market of accessible products and services, to create economies of scale, to facilitate cross-border trade and mobility, to reduce and prevent cross- border barriers, as well as to help economic operators to concentrate resources on innovation instead of using those resources for complying with fragmented legal requirements across the Union.
Amendment 176 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) The overall aim of the ‘Digital Single Market Strategy’, is to deliver sustainable economic and social benefits from a connected digital single market, facilitating trade and promoting employment within the Union. Union consumers still do not enjoy the full benefits of prices and choice that the single market can offer, because cross-border online transactions are still very limited. Fragmentation also limits demand for cross-border e-commerce transactions. There is also a need for concerted action to make sure that new electronic content is also fully available to persons with disabilities. It is therefore necessary to harmonise accessibility requirements across the digital single market and to ensure that all Union citizens regardless of their abilities can enjoy its benefits.
Amendment 177 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) In its Article 9, the Convention requires its parties to the Convention to take appropriate measures to ensure that persons with disabilities have accesthe same access as others to the physical environment, to transportation, to information and communications, including information and communications technologies and systems, and to other facilities and services open or provided to the public, both in urban and in rural areas, on an equal basis with others. The United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities has indicated the need to create a legislative framework with concrete, enforceable and time-bound benchmarks for monitoring the gradual implementation of accessibility.
Amendment 179 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) The European Disability Strategy 2010-2020 – A Renewed Commitment to a Barrier-Free Europe – in line with the Convention, establishes accessibility as one of the eight areas of action, which is a basic precondition for participation in society and aims at ensuring accessibility of products and services. __________________ 33 COM(2010) 636. COM(2010) 636.
Amendment 185 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 22
Recital 22
(22) Member States shallmust take all appropriate measures to ensure that, where the products and services covered by this Directive comply with the relevant accessibility requirements, their free movement within the Union is not impeded due to reasons of accessibility.
Amendment 187 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 23
Recital 23
(23) In some situations, common accessibility requirements of the built environment wouldare expected to facilitate the free movement of the related services and of persons with disabilities. Therefore, this Directive enables Member States to include the built environment used in the provision of the services under the scope of this Directive, ensuring compliance with the accessibility requirements set in Annex X.
Amendment 190 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 26
Recital 26
(26) Most jobs in the Union are provided by SMEs and micro-enterprises. They have a crucial importance for future growth, but very often face hurdles and obstacles in developing their products or services, notably in the cross-border context. It is therefore necessary to facilitate the work of the SMEs and micro- enterprises, especially on the southern European Member States such as Greece, Spain, Italy, etc. by harmonising the national provisions on accessibility while maintaining the necessary safeguards.
Amendment 192 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 29
Recital 29
(29) Economic operators should be responsible for the compliance of products and services, in relation to their respective roles in the supply chain, ensuring the necessary degree of accessibility, so as to ensure a high level of protection of accessibility and to guarantee fair competition on the Union market.
Amendment 202 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 37
Recital 37
(37) This Directive should follow the principle of ‘think small first’ and should take account of the administrative burdens and difficulties that SMEs are faced with. It should set light rules in terms of conformity assessment and should establish safeguard clauses for economic operators, rather than providing for general exceptions and derogations for those enterprises. Consequently, when setting up the rules for the selection and implementation of the most appropriate conformity assessment procedures, the situation of SMEs should be taken into account and the obligations to assess conformity of accessibility requirements should be limited to the extent that they do not pose a disproportionate burden on SMEs. In addition, market surveillance authorities should operate in a proportionate manner in relation to the size of undertakings and to the small serial or non-serial nature of the production concerned, without creating unnecessary obstacles for SMEs and without compromising the protection of public interests.
Amendment 205 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 39
Recital 39
(39) In order to facilitate conformity assessment with applicable accessibility requirements it is necessary to provide for a presumption of conformity for products and services which are in conformity with voluntary harmonised standards that are adopted in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 1025/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council for the purpose of expressing detailed technical specifications of those requirements. The Commission has already issued a number of standardisation requests to the European standardisation organisations on accessibility which would be relevant for the preparation of harmonised standards. __________________ Regulation (EU) No 1025/2012 of 25 October 2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on European standardisation, amending Council Directives 89/686/EEC and 93/15/EEC and Directives 94/9/EC, 94/25/EC, 95/16/EC, 97/23/EC, 98/34/EC, 2004/22/EC, 2007/23/EC, 2009/23/EC and 2009/105/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council and repealing Council Decision 87/95/EEC and Decision No 1673/2006/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 316, 14.11.2012, p. 12)
Amendment 215 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 54
Recital 54
(54) Since the objective of this Directive, namely, the elimination of barriers to the free movement of certain accessible products and services to contribute to the proper functioning of the internal market and meet the needs of all consumers, cannot be sufficiently achieved by the Member States because it requires the harmonisation of different rules currently existing in their respective legal systems, but can rather, by reason of defining common accessibility requirements and rules for the functioning of the single market, be better achieved at Union level, the Union may adopt measures, in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in Article 5 of the Treaty on European Union. In accordance with the principle of proportionality, as set out in that Article, this Directive does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve that objective,
Amendment 231 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
Having regard to Protocol (No 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 233 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
Having regard to Protocol (No 2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 237 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) 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. An environment where products and services are more accessible provides for the needs of consumers, allows for a more inclusive society and facilitates independent living.
Amendment 242 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The disparities between the laws and administrative measures adopted by the Member States in relation to accessibility of products and services for persons with functional limitations including persons with disabilities create barriers to the free movement of such products and services and distort effective competition in the internal market. Economic operators, in particular small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), are particularly affectedhard hit by those barriers.
Amendment 245 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) Due to the differences in national accessibility requirements, individual professionals, SMEs and micro-enterprises in particular are discouraged from entering into business ventures outside their own domestic markets. The national, or even regional or local, accessibility requirements that Member States have put in place currently differ as regards both coverage and level of detail. Those differences negatively affect competitiveness and growth, due to the additional costs incurred in the development and marketing of accessible products and services for each national market. National authorities, manufacturers and services providers face uncertainties concerning accessibility requirements for potential cross-border services, and policy framework provisions regarding accessibility.
Amendment 248 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The approximation of national measures at Union level is therefore necessary for the proper functioning of the internal market in order to put an end to fragmentation in the market of accessible products and services, to create economies of scale, to facilitate cross-border trade and mobility and reduce and prevent cross- border barriers, as well as to help economic operators to concentrate resources on innovation instead of using those resources for complying with fragmented legal requirements across the Union.
Amendment 251 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) The overall aim of the '‘Digital Single Market Strategy'’, is to deliver sustainable economic and social benefits from a connected digital single market, facilitating trade and promoting employment within the Union. Union consumers still do not enjoy the full benefits of prices and choice that the single market can offer, because cross-border online transactions are still very limited. Fragmentation also limits demand for cross-border e-commerce transactions. There is also a need for concerted action to make sure that new electronic content is also fully available to persons with disabilities. It is therefore necessary to harmonise accessibility requirements across the digital single market and to ensure that all Union citizens regardless of their abilities can enjoy its benefits.
Amendment 252 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) In its Article 9, the Convention requires its parties to the Convention to take appropriate measures to ensure that persons with disabilities have accesthe same access as others to the physical environment, to transportation, to information and communications, including information and communications technologies and systems, and to other facilities and services open or provided to the public, both in urban and in rural areas, on an equal basis with others. The United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities has indicated the need to create a legislative framework with concrete, enforceable and time-bound benchmarks for monitoring the gradual implementation of accessibility.
Amendment 258 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) The European Disability Strategy 2010-2020 – A Renewed Commitment to a Barrier-Free Europe33 – in line with the Convention, establishes accessibility as one of the eight areas of action, which is a basic precondition for participation in society and aims at ensuring accessibility of products and services. __________________ 33 COM(2010) 636. COM(2010)636.
Amendment 268 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 22
Recital 22
(22) Member States shallmust take all appropriate measures to ensure that, where the products and services covered by this Directive comply with the relevant accessibility requirements, their free movement within the Union is not impeded due to reasons of accessibility.
Amendment 274 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 23
Recital 23
(23) In some situations, common accessibility requirements of the built environment wouldare expected to facilitate the free movement of the related services and of persons with disabilities. Therefore, this Directive enables Member States to include the built environment used in the provision of the services under the scope of this Directive, ensuring compliance with the accessibility requirements set in Annex X.
Amendment 281 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 26
Recital 26
(26) Most jobs in the Union are provided by SMEs and micro-enterprises. They have a crucial importance for future growth, but very often face hurdles and obstacles in developing their products or services, notably in the cross-border context. It is therefore necessary to facilitate the work of the SMEs and micro- enterprises, especially on the southern European Member States such as Greece, Spain, Italy and Portugal, by harmonising the national provisions on accessibility while maintaining the necessary safeguards.
Amendment 282 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 29
Recital 29
(29) Economic operators should be responsible for the compliance of products and services, in relation to their respective roles in the supply chain and to accessibility requirements, so as to ensure a high level of protection of accessibility and to guarantee fair competition on the Union market.
Amendment 288 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 37
Recital 37
(37) This Directive should follow the principle of '‘think small first'’ and should take account of the administrative burdens and difficulties that SMEs are faced with. It should set light rules in terms of conformity assessment and should establish safeguard clauses for economic operators, rather than providing for general exceptions and derogations for those enterprises. Consequently, when setting up the rules for the selection and implementation of the most appropriate conformity assessment procedures, the situation of SMEs should be taken into account and the obligations to assess conformity of accessibility requirements should be limited to the extent that they do not pose a disproportionate burden on SMEs. In addition, market surveillance authorities should operate in a proportionate manner in relation to the size of undertakings and to the small serial or non-serial nature of the production concerned, without creating unnecessary obstacles for SMEs and without compromising the protection of public interests.
Amendment 289 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 39
Recital 39
(39) In order to facilitate conformity assessment with applicable requirements regarding accessibility, it is necessary to provide for a presumption of conformity for products and services which are in conformity with voluntary harmonised standards that are adopted in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 1025/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council39 for the purpose of expressing detailed technical specifications of those requirements. The Commission has already issued a number of standardisation requests to the European standardisation organisations on accessibility which would be relevant for the preparation of harmonised standards. __________________ 39 Regulation (EU) No 1025/2012 of 25 October 2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on European standardisation, amending Council Directives 89/686/EEC and 93/15/EEC and Directives 94/9/EC, 94/25/EC, 95/16/EC, 97/23/EC, 98/34/EC, 2004/22/EC, 2007/23/EC, 2009/23/EC and 2009/105/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council and repealing Council Decision 87/95/EEC and Decision No 1673/2006/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 316, 14.11.2012, p. 12).
Amendment 294 #
2015/0278(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 54
Recital 54
(54) Since the objective of this Directive, namely, the elimination of barriers to the free movement of certain accessible products and services to contribute to the proper functioning of the internal market and to serve the needs of all customers, cannot be sufficiently achieved by the Member States because it requires the harmonisation of different rules currently existing in their respective legal systems, but can rather, by reason of defining common accessibility requirements and rules for the functioning of the single market, be better achieved at Union level, the Union may adopt measures, in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in Article 5 of the Treaty on European Union. In accordance with the principle of proportionality, as set out in that Article, this Directive does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve that objective,
Amendment 254 #
2015/0277(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) However, tThe possibility should be provided to apply certain provisions under this Regulation to certain types of aircraft which are excluded from the provisions of this Regulation, especially those which are produced in an industrial manner and which could draw benefits from free circulation within the Union. Therefore, organisations involved in the design of such aircraft should be allowed to request the Commission to decide that Union requirements regarding design, manufacture and maintenance of aircraft apply to new types of aircraft which are to be put on the market by such organisations.
Amendment 256 #
2015/0277(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) Member States should be allowed to exempt from the provisions of this Regulation aerodromes with low volumes of traffic, subject to a prior authorisation by the Commission, provided that the aerodromes concerned nevertheless meet the minimum common safety objectives laid down in the relevant essential requirements. When a Member State grants such exemptions, those exemptions should also apply to the equipment used at the aerodrome concerned and to the providers of ground handling and apron management services operating at the exempted aerodromes. Exemptions granted by Member States to aerodromes before the entry into force of this Regulation should remain valid, while it should be ensured that information about these exemptions is made available to the public.
Amendment 257 #
2015/0277(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) Member States may consider it preferable, notably with a view to achieving safety, interoperability or efficiency gains, to apply the provisions of this Regulation, instead of their national law, to state aircraft and air traffic management ('ATM') and air navigation services ('ANS') provided by the military. They should be allowed to do so. The Commission should be given the necessary implementing powers to decide on such requests. Member States making use of this possibility should cooperate with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (hereinafter 'the Agency'), in particular by providing all the information necessary for confirming that the aircraft and activities concerned comply with the relevant provisions of this Regulation.
Amendment 259 #
2015/0277(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) The measures taken in accordance with this Regulation to regulate civil aviation in the Union, including the delegated and implementing acts adopted on the basis thereof, should correspond to and be proportionate to the nature and risks associated with the different types of operations and activities they address. They should also, in, as far as possible, be formulated in a manner which focuses on objectives to be achieved, while allowing different means of achieving those objectives. This should contribute to a more cost-efficient achievement of required safety levels and to stimulating technical and operational innovation. Use should be made of recognised industry standards and practices, where it has been found that they ensure compliance with the essential requirements set out in this Regulation.
Amendment 269 #
2015/0277(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) In accordance with the provisions laid down in Annex 19 to the Chicago Convention, Member States are to establish an acceptable level of safety performance in relation to the aviation activities under their responsibility. In order to assist the Member States in meeting this requirement in a coordinated manner, the European Plan for Aviation Safety should lay down an acceptable level of safety performance for the Union in respect to the different categories of aviation activities. That acceptable level of safety performance should not have a binding character but express the ambition of the Union and of the Member States with regard to civil aviation safety.
Amendment 301 #
2015/0277(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23
Recital 23
Amendment 302 #
2015/0277(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 30
Recital 30
Amendment 335 #
2015/0277(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 57
Recital 57
Amendment 341 #
2015/0277(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 64
Recital 64
(64) Since the objectives of this Regulation, namely establishing and maintaining a high uniform level of civil aviation safety, while ensuring a high uniform level of environmental protection, cannot be sufficiently achieved by the Member States because of the largely transnational nature of aviation and its complexity, but can rather, by reason of the Union-wide scope of this Regulation, be better achieved at Union level, the Union may adopt measures, in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in Article 5 of the TEU. In accordance with the principle of proportionality, as set out in that Article, this Regulation does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve those objectives,
Amendment 64 #
2015/0276(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No. 2) of the TFEU on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 161 #
2015/0276(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 5
Directive 94/62/EC
Article 6 b – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 6 b – paragraph 2 – point b
(b) a list of Member States at risk of not achieving the targets within the respective time limits accompanied by appropriate recommendations for the Member States concerned.
Amendment 71 #
2015/0275(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No. 2) of the TEU on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 93 #
2015/0275(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) Member States shouldcan put in place adequate incentives for the application of the waste hierarchy, in particular, by means of financial incentives aimed at achieving the waste prevention and recycling objectives of this Directive, such as landfill and incineration charges, pay as you throw schemes, extended producer responsibility schemes and incentives for local authorities.
Amendment 166 #
2015/0275(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No. 2) of the TFEU concerning the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 30 #
2015/0274(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No. 2) of the TFEU on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 18 #
2015/0272(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
– having regard to the Protocol (No. 2) of the TFEU on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 19 #
2015/0272(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
having regard to the Protocol (No. 2) of the TEU on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 20 #
2015/0272(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Waste management in the Union should be improved, with a view to protecting, preserving and improving the quality of the environment, protecting human health, ensuring prudent and rational utilisation of natural resources and promoting a more circular economy and managing the hazardous materials contained in most of the packaging of electrical and electronic equipment.
Amendment 25 #
2015/0272(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) Implementation reports prepared by Member States every three years have not proved to be an effective tool for verifying compliance and ensuring correct implementation, and are generating unnecessary administrative burden. It is therefore appropriate to repeal provisions obliging Member States to produce such reports and for compliance monitoring purposes use exclusivelyfor monitoring compliance by Member States to use the statistical data which Member States report every year to the Commission.
Amendment 31 #
2015/0272(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) Statistical data reported by Member States are essential for the Commission to assess compliance with waste legislation across the Member States. The quality, reliability and comparability of statistics should be improved by introducing a single entry point for all waste data, deleting obsolete reporting requirements, benchmarking national reporting methodologies and introducing a data quality check report.
Amendment 14 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) In accordance with Article 9 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, in defining and implementing its policies and activities, the Union shallmust take into account requirements linked to the promotion of a high level of employment, the guarantee of adequate social protection, the fight against social exclusion, the high unemployment rates in the countries of southern Europe such as Greece, and a high level of education, training and protection of human health. In addition, as set out in Article 11 of the of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, environmental protection requirements must be integrated in the Union policies with a view to promoting sustainable development.
Amendment 19 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) Articles 120 and 121 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union provide that Member States shall conduct their economic policies with a view to contributing to the achievement of the objectives of the Union and in the context of the broad guidelines that the Council shall formulate. Thereby, the coordination of the economic policies of the Member States is a matter of common concern and should seek to tackle unemployment and social disparities within the Union.
Amendment 21 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) Several Member States have been undergoing and continue to undergo adjustment processes to correct macroeconomic imbalances accumulated in the past and manyand many of them, mainly southern European countries such as Greece, Italy, Portugal Spain and Cyprus, are facing the challenge of low potential growth. The Union has identified the implementation of structural reforms among its policy priorities to set the recovery on a sustainable path, unlock the growth potential to strengthen the adjust, which, as shown by the example of Greece, Spain and Portugal, have meant capacity, and support the process of convergencepoverty, distress and social deprivation for millions.
Amendment 24 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) RAny reforms are by their very nature complex processes that require a complete chain of highly-specialised knowledge and skills. Addressing structural reforms in a variety of public policy areas is challenging since their benefits often take time to materialise. Therefore, early and efficient design and implementation is crucial, be it for crisis-struck or structurally-weak economies. In this context, the provision of support by the Union in the form of technical assistance has been crucial in supporting the economic adjustment of Greece and Cyprus in the last yearsshould be socially balanced and for that reason, account should always be taken of the needs of the public and of local and professional stakeholders before their entry into force.
Amendment 28 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) Member States mayhave not benefited from support in addressing challenges as regards the design and implementation of structural reforms. These challenges may be dependent on various factors, including limited administrativOn the contrary, these reforms have massively swelled the rand institutional capacity orks of the unemployed and helped social inadequate application and implementation of Union legislationlities to take hold within the EU, while leaving increasing numbers of citizens destitute by the day.
Amendment 28 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) In accordance with Article 9 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, in defining and implementing its policies and activities, the Union shallould take into account requirements linked to the promotion of a high level of employment, the guarantee of adequate social protection, the fight against social exclusion and the high unemployment rates in the countries of southern Europe, and a high level of education, training and protection of human health. In addition, as set out in Article 11 of the of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, environmental protection requirements must be integrated in the Union policies with a view to promoting sustainable development.
Amendment 29 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) Articles 120 and 121 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union provide that Member States shall conduct their economic policies with a view to contributing to the achievement of the objectives of the Union and in the context of the broad guidelines that the Council shall formulate. Thereby, the coordination of the economic policies of the Member States is a matter of common concern and should be aimed at tackling the high rates of unemployment and social disparities within the Union.
Amendment 31 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
Amendment 34 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) Against this background, it is necessary to establish a Structural Reform Support Programme ('the Programme') with the objective of strengthening the capacity of Member States to prepare and implement growth-enhancing administrativs, such as the memorandums for Greece and Portugal in particular, are mand structural reforms, including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the Union funds. The Programme is intended to contribute to the achievement of common goals towards obtaining economic recovery, job creation, boosting Europe's competitiveness and stimulating investment in the real economyifestly failing to contribute to growth or greater economic prosperity in the Member States and, on the contrary, are massively swelling the ranks of the unemployed, aggravating social inequalities and leaving millions of EU citizens destitute.
Amendment 34 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) Several Member States have been undergoing and continue to undergo adjustment processes to correct macroeconomic imbalances accumulated in the past and manyand many of them, mainly southern European countries such as Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Cyprus, are facing the challenge of low potential growth. The Union has identified the implementation of structural reforms among its policy priorities to set the recovery on a sustainable path, unlock the growth potential to strengthen the adjust, which, as shown by the example of Greece, Spain and Portugal, have meant capacity, and support the process of convergencepoverty, distress and social deprivation for millions.
Amendment 35 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) Reforms are by their very nature complex processes that require a complete chain of highly-specialised knowledge and skills. Addressing structural reforms in a variety of public policy areas is challenging since their benefits often take time to materialise. Therefore, early and efficient design and implementation is crucial, be it for crisis-struck or structurally-weak economies. In this context, the provision of support by the Union in the form of technical assistance has been crucial in supporting the economic adjustment of Greece and Cyprus in the last yearsand for that reason, account should always be taken of the needs of the public and of local and professional stakeholders before their entry into force.
Amendment 36 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) Several Member States have been undergoing and continue to undergo adjustment processes to correct macroeconomic imbalances accumulated in the past and manyand many of them, mainly southern European countries such as Greece, Italy, Portugal Spain and Cyprus, are facing the challenge of low potential growth. The Union has identified the implementation of structural reforms among its policy priorities to set the recovery on a sustainable path, unlock the growth potential to strengthen the adjust, which, as shown by the example of Greece, Spain and Portugal, have meant capacity, and support the process of convergencepoverty, distress and social deprivation for millions.
Amendment 38 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) Support uUnder the Pprogramme should be provided by the Commission upon request by a Member State, in areas such as budget and taxation, public function, institutional and administrative reforms, the justice system, anti-fraud, anti-corruption and anti-money laundering, business environment, private sector development, investment, competition, public procurement, privatization processes, access to finance, investment, trade, sustainable development, innovation, education and training, labour policies, public health, asylum, migration policies, agriculture and rural development and financial sector policie, Member States seeking to apply to the Commission for support should always have the approval of the public and of business stakeholders.
Amendment 39 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) Reforms are by their very nature complex processes that require a complete chain of highly-specialised knowledge and skills. Addressing structural reforms in a variety of public policy areas is challenging since their benefits often take time to materialise. Therefore, early and efficient design and implementation is crucial, be it for crisis-struck or structurally-weak economies. In this context, the provision of support by the Union in the form of technical assistance has been crucial in supporting the economic adjustment of Greece and Cyprus in the last yearsand should be socially balanced and for that reason, account should always be taken of the needs of the public and of local and professional stakeholders before their entry into force.
Amendment 39 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) Member States mayhave not benefited from support in addressing challenges as regards the design and implementation of structural reforms. These challenges may be dependent on various factors, including limited administrativreforms have, on the contrary, massively swelled the rand institutional capacity orks of the unemployed and helped social inadequate application and implementation of Union legislationlities to take hold within the EU, while leaving increasing numbers of citizens destitute by the day.
Amendment 41 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The Union has a long-lastingworkings of the Union over the years reveal that it has no experience on providing specific support to national administrations and other authorities of Member States as regards capacity building and similar actions in certain sectors (e.g.such as taxation, customs, support to small and medium- sized enterprises) and in relation to the implementation of cohesion policy. The experience gained by the Union in assisting national authorities carrying out reforms should be used in order to enhance the capacity of the Union to provide support to Member States. Comprehensive and integrated action is indeed necessary in order to provide support to those Member States that are undertaking growth-enhancing reforms and request assistance from the Union in this respect.
Amendment 42 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
Amendment 43 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) Against this background, it is necessary to establish a Structural Reform Support Programme (‘the Programme’) with the objective of strengthening the capacity of Member States to prepare and implement growth-enhancing administrative and structural reforms, including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the Union funds. The Programme is intended to contribute to the achievement of common goals towards obtaining economic recovery, job creation, boosting Europe's compets such as the memorandums have demonstrated, especially in Greece and Portugal, that they are failing to contribute to growth or greater economic prosperity in the Member States and are, on the contrary, massively swelling the ranks of the unemployed, aggravating social inequalities and leaving millions of EU citivzeness and stimulating investment in the real economys destitute.
Amendment 45 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) Further to a dialogue with the requesting Member State, including in the context of the European Semester, the Commission should analyse the request, taking into account the principles of transparency, equal treatment and sound financial management and determine the support to be provided based on urgency, breadth and depth of the problems as identified, support needs in respect of the policy areas envisaged, analysis of socioeconomic inprovide immedicators, and the general administrative capacity of the Member Statee support. The Commission should also, in close cooperation with the Member State concerned, identify the priority areas, the scope of the support measures to be provided and the global financial contribution for such support, taking into account the existing actions and measures financed by Union funds or other Union programmes.
Amendment 46 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) Support uUnder the Programme should be provided by the Commission upon request by a Member State, in areas such as budget and taxation, public function, institutional and administrative reforms, the justice system, anti-fraud, anti-corruption and anti-money laundering, business environment, private sector development, investment, competition, public procurement, privatization processes, access to finance, investment, trade, sustainable development, innovation, education and training, labour policies, public health, asylum, migration policies, agriculture and rural development and financial sector policie, Member States seeking to apply for Commission support should always have the support of the public and of business stakeholders.
Amendment 50 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
Amendment 52 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) Further to a dialogue with the requesting Member State, including in the context of the European Semester, the Commission should analyse the request, taking into account the principles of transparency, equal treatment and sound financial management and determine the support to be provided based on urgency, breadth and depth of the problems as identified, support needs in respect of the policy areas envisaged, analysis of socioeconomic inprovide immedicators, and the general administrative capacity of the Member Statee support. The Commission should also, in close cooperation with the Member State concerned, identify the priority areas, the scope of the support measures to be provided and the global financial contribution for such support, taking into account the existing actions and measures financed by Union funds or other Union programmes.
Amendment 53 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) Member States mayhave not benefited from support in addressing challenges as regards the design and implementation of structural reforms. These challenges may be dependent on various factors, including limited administrativOn the contrary, these reforms have massively swelled the rand institutional capacity orks of the unemployed and helped social inadequate application and implementation of Union legislationlities to take hold within the EU, while leaving increasing numbers of citizens destitute by the day.
Amendment 54 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The Union has away in which the Union has been operating over the years shows that it has no long-lasting experience on providing specific support to national administrations and other authorities of Member States as regards capacity building and similar actions in certain sectors (e.g. taxation, customs, support to small and medium-sized enterprises) and in relation to the implementation of cohesion policy. The experience gained by the Union in assisting national authorities carrying out reforms should be used in order to enhance the capacity of the Union to provide support to Member States. Comprehensive and integrated action is indeed necessary in order to provide support to those Member States that are undertaking growth-enhancing reforms and request assistance from the Union in this respect.
Amendment 55 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) Member States that request support should be able to contribute toobtain it immediately and unconditionally from the financial envelope of the Programme with additional funds. Currently, Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 limits the possibility of a transfer of resources dedicated to technical assistance at the initiative of a Member State to those Member States which face temporary budgetary difficulties. Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 should therefore be amended in order to allow all Member States to participate financially to the Programme. The resources transferred to the Union budget should be used for supporting actions contributing to smart, sustainable and inclusive growth or Fund-specific purposes in the Member States concernedhealth, education, the environment, etc.
Amendment 58 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
Amendment 59 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) Member States that request support should be able to contribute toobtain it immediately and unconditionally from the financial envelope of the Programme with additional funds. Currently, Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 limits the possibility of a transfer of resources dedicated to technical assistance at the initiative of a Member State to those Member States which face temporary budgetary difficulties. Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 should therefore be amended in order to allow all Member States to participate financially to the Programme. The resources transferred to the Union budget should be used for supporting actions contributing to smart, sustainable and inclusive growth or Fund-specific purposes in the Member States concernedgrowth, health, education, the environment, etc.
Amendment 60 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) Considering the importance of sustaining the efforts of Member States in pursuing and implementing structural, institutional and administrative reforms, it is necessary to allow a co- financing rate of 100% of the eligible costs in order to achieve the objectives of the Programme, whilst ensuring compliance with the principles of co-financing and no-profit.
Amendment 61 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) In the event of unforeseen and duly justified grounds of urgency requiring immediate response, such as a serious disturbance in the economy or significant circumstances seriously affecting the economic or social conditions in a Member State going beyond its control, upon request of a Member State, the Commission should be able to adopt special measures, for a limited proportion of the annual work programme, in accordance with objectives and actions eligible under the Programmemeasures and to support the national authorities in addressing the urgent needs.
Amendment 61 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) In accordance with Article 9 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, in defining and implementing its policies and activities, the Union shallmust take into account requirements linked to the promotion of a high level of employment, the guarantee of adequate social protection, the fight against social exclusion and the high unemployment rates in the countries of southern Europe, and a high level of education, training and protection of human health. In addition, as set out in Article 11 of the of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, environmental protection requirements must be integrated in the Union policies with a view to promoting sustainable development.
Amendment 61 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) In the event of unforeseen and duly justified grounds of urgency requiring immediate response, such as a serious disturbance in the economy or significant circumstances seriously affecting the economic or social conditions in a Member State going beyond its control, upon request of a Member State, the Commission should be able to adopt special measures, for a limited proportion of the annual work programme, in accordance with objectives and actions eligible under the Programmemeasures and actions to support the national authorities in addressing the urgent needs.
Amendment 63 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) The financial interests of the Union should be protected through proportionate measures throughout the expenditure cycle, including the prevention, detection and investigation of irregularities, the recovery of funds lost, wrongly paid or incorrectly used and, where appropriate, penalties.
Amendment 64 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) The financial interests of the Union should be protected through proportionate measures throughout the expenditure cycle, including the prevention, detection and investigation of irregularities, and the recovery of funds lost, wrongly paid or incorrectly used and, where appropriate, penalties.
Amendment 65 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) Against this background, it is necessary to establish a Structural Reform Support Programme ('the Programme') with the objective of strengthening the capacity of Member States to prepare and implement growth-enhancing administrative and structural reforms, including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the Union funds. The Programme is intended to contribute to the achievement of common goals towards obtaining economic recovery, job creation, boosting Europe's competitiveness and stimulating investment in the real economys such as the memorandum programmes have demonstrated, especially in Greece and Portugal, that they contribute neither to growth or to greater economic prosperity in the Member States but are, on the contrary, massively swelling the ranks of the unemployed, aggravating social inequalities and leaving millions of EU citizens destitute.
Amendment 65 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) Articles 120 and 121 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union provide that Member States shall conduct their economic policies with a view to contributing to the achievement of the objectives of the Union and in the context of the broad guidelines that the Council shall formulate. Thereby, the coordination of the economic policies of the Member States is a matter of common concern and should seek to tackle unemployment and social disparities within the Union.
Amendment 65 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) Several Member States have been undergoing and continue to undergo adjustment processes to correct macroeconomic imbalances accumulated in the past and manyand many of them, mainly southern European countries such as Greece, Italy, Portugal Spain and Cyprus, are facing the challenge of low potential growth. The Union has identified the implementation of structural reforms among its policy priorities to set the recovery on a sustainable path, unlock the growth potential to strengthen the adjust, which, as shown by the example of Greece, Spain and Portugal, have meant capacity, and support the process of convergencepoverty, distress and social deprivation for millions.
Amendment 67 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) Several Member States have been undergoing and continue to undergo adjustment processes to correct macroeconomic imbalances accumulated in the past and manyand many of them, mainly southern European countries such as Greece, Italy, Portugal Spain and Cyprus, are facing the challenge of low potential growth. The Union has identified the implementation of structural reforms among its policy priorities to set the recovery on a sustainable path, unlock the growth potential to strengthen the adjust, which, as shown by the example of Greece, Spain and Portugal, have meant capacity, and support the process of convergencepoverty, distress and social deprivation for millions.
Amendment 68 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) Reforms are by their very nature complex processes that require a complete chain of highly-specialised knowledge and skills. Addressing structural reforms in a variety of public policy areas is challenging since their benefits often take time to materialise. Therefore, early and efficient design and implementation is crucial, be it for crisis-struck or structurally-weak economies. In this context, the provision of support by the Union in the form of technical assistance has been crucial in supporting the economic adjustment of Greece and Cyprus in the last yearsand should be socially balanced and for that reason, account should always be taken of the needs of the public and of local and professional stakeholders before their entry into force.
Amendment 68 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23
Recital 23
Amendment 71 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) Support uUnder the Pprogramme should be provided by the Commission upon request by a Member State, in areas such as budget and taxation, public function, institutional and administrative reforms, the justice system, anti-fraud, anti-corruption and anti-money laundering, business environment, private sector development, investment, competition, public procurement, privatization processes, access to finance, investment, trade, sustainable development, innovation, education and training, labour policies, public health, asylum, migration policies, agriculture and rural development and financial sector policie, Member States seeking to apply for Commission support should always have the support of the public and business stakeholders.
Amendment 71 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 24
Recital 24
(24) In order to allow for the prompt application of the measures provided for in this Regulation, this Regulation should reflect fully the wishes of the public and, if this essential condition is met, enter into force on the day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.
Amendment 75 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) Reforms are by their very nature complex processes that require a complete chain of highly-specialised knowledge and skills. Addressing structural reforms in a variety of public policy areas is challenging since their benefits often take time to materialise. Therefore, early and efficient design and implementation is crucial, be it for crisis-struck or structurally-weak economies. In this context, the provision of support by the Union in the form of technical assistance has been crucial in supporting the economic adjustment of Greece and Cyprus in the last yearsand should be socially balanced and for that reason, account should always be taken of the needs of the public and of local and professional stakeholders before their entry into force.
Amendment 75 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) Member States mayhave not benefited from support in addressing challenges as regards the design and implementation of structural reforms. These challenges may be dependent on various factors, including limited administrativOn the contrary, these reforms have massively swelled the rand institutional capacity orks of the unemployed and helped social inadequate application and implementation of Union legislationlities to take hold within the EU, while leaving increasing numbers of citizens destitute by the day.
Amendment 78 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
Amendment 79 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The Unionoperation of the Union over many years has shown that it has a long- lasting experience on providing specific support to national administrations and other authorities of Member States as regards capacity building and similar actions in certain sectors (e.g. taxation, customs, support to small and medium- sized enterprises) and in relation to the implementation of cohesion policy. The experience gained by the Union in assisting national authorities carrying out reforms should be used in order to enhance the capacity of the Union to provide support to Member States. Comprehensive and integrated action is indeed necessary in order to provide support to those Member States that are undertaking growth- enhancing reforms and request assistance from the Union in this respect.
Amendment 85 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) Further to a dialogue with the requesting Member State, including in the context of the European Semester, the Commission should analyse the request, taking into account the principles of transparency, equal treatment and sound financial management and determine the support to be provided based on urgency, breadth and depth of the problems as identified, support needs in respect of the policy areas envisaged, analysis of socioeconomic indicators, and the general administrative capacity of the Member Stateprovide immediate support. The Commission should also, in close cooperation with the Member State concerned, identify the priority areas, the scope of the support measures to be provided and the global financial contribution for such support, taking into account the existing actions and measures financed by Union funds or other Union programmes.
Amendment 85 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) Member States mayhave not benefited from support in addressing challenges as regards the design and implementation of structural reforms. These challenges may be dependent on various factors, including limited administrativOn the contrary, the reforms have massively swelled the rand institutional capacity orks of the unemployed and helped social inadequate application and implementation of Union legislationlities to take hold within the EU, while leaving increasing numbers of citizens destitute by the day.
Amendment 85 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) Against this background, it is necessary to establish a Structural Reform Support Programme ('the Programme') with the objective of strengthening the capacity of Member States to prepare and implement growth-enhancing administrativs, such as the memorandums for Greece and Portugal in particular, are mand structural reforms, including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the Union funds. The Programme is intended to contribute to the achievement of common goals towards obtaining economic recovery, job creation, boosting Europe's competitiveness and stimulating investment in the real economyifestly failing to contribute to growth or greater economic prosperity in the Member States and, on the contrary, are massively swelling the ranks of the unemployed, aggravating social inequalities and leaving millions of EU citizens destitute.
Amendment 92 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The Union has away in which the Union has been operating over the years shows that it has no long-lasting experience on providing specific support to national administrations and other authorities of Member States as regards capacity building and similar actions in certain sectors (e.g. taxation, customs, support to small and medium-sized enterprises) and in relation to the implementation of cohesion policy. The experience gained by the Union in assisting national authorities carrying out reforms should be used in order to enhance the capacity of the Union to provide support to Member States. Comprehensive and integrated action is indeed necessary in order to provide support to those Member States that are undertaking growth-enhancing reforms and request assistance from the Union in this respect.
Amendment 92 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) Support uUnder the Pprogramme should be provided by the Commission upon request by a Member State, in areas such as budget and taxation, public function, institutional and administrative reforms, the justice system, anti-fraud, anti-corruption and anti-money laundering, business environment, private sector development, investment, competition, public procurement, privatization processes, access to finance, investment, trade, sustainable development, innovation, education and training, labour policies, public health, asylum, migration policies, agriculture and rural development and financial sector policie, Member States seeking to apply to the Commission for support should always have the approval of the public and of business stakeholders.
Amendment 98 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) Member States that request support should be able to contribute toobtain it immediately and unconditionally from the financial envelope of the Programme with additional funds. Currently, Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 limits the possibility of a transfer of resources dedicated to technical assistance at the initiative of a Member State to those Member States which face temporary budgetary difficulties. Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 should therefore be amended in order to allow all Member States to participate financially to the Programme. The resources transferred to the Union budget should be used for supporting actions contributing to smart, sustainable and inclusive growth or Fund-specific purposes in the Member States concernedhealth, education, the environment, etc.
Amendment 100 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
Amendment 102 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) Against this background, it is necessary to establish a Structural Reform Support Programme ('the Programme') with the objective of strengthening the capacity of Member States to prepare and implement growth-enhancing administrative and structural reforms, including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the Union funds. The Programme is intended to contribute to the achievement of common goals towards obtaining economic recovery, job creation, boosting Europe's compets such as the memorandums have demonstrated, especially in Greece and Portugal, that they are failing to contribute to growth or greater economic prosperity in the Member States and are, on the contrary, massively swelling the ranks of the unemployed, aggravating social inequalities and leaving millions of EU citivzeness and stimulating investment in the real economys destitute.
Amendment 103 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
Amendment 105 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) In the event of unforeseen and duly justified grounds of urgency requiring immediate response, such as a serious disturbance in the economy or significant circumstances seriously affecting the economic or social conditions in a Member State going beyond its control, upon request of a Member State, the Commission should be able to adopt special measures, for a limited proportion of the annual work programme, in accordance with objectives and actions eligible under the Programmemeasures and actions to support the national authorities in addressing the urgent needs.
Amendment 105 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) Further to a dialogue with the requesting Member State, including in the context of the European Semester, the Commission should analyse the request, taking into account the principles of transparency, equal treatment and sound financial management and determine the support to be provided based on urgency, breadth and depth of the problems as identified, support needs in respect of the policy areas envisaged, analysis of socioeconomic indicators, and the general administrative capacity of the Member Stateprovide immediate support. The Commission should also, in close cooperation with the Member State concerned, identify the priority areas, the scope of the support measures to be provided and the global financial contribution for such support, taking into account the existing actions and measures financed by Union funds or other Union programmes.
Amendment 106 #
2015/0263(COD)
(19) The financial interests of the Union should be protected through proportionate measures throughout the expenditure cycle, including the prevention, detection and investigation of irregularities, the recovery of funds lost, wrongly paid or incorrectly used and, where appropriate, penalties.
Amendment 111 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) Support uUnder the Pprogramme should be provided by the Commission upon request by a Member State, in areas such as budget and taxation, public function, institutional and administrative reforms, the justice system, anti-fraud, anti-corruption and anti-money laundering, business environment, private sector development, investment, competition, public procurement, privatization processes, access to finance, investment, trade, sustainable development, innovation, education and training, labour policies, public health, asylum, migration policies, agriculture and rural development and financial sector policie, Member States seeking to apply for Commission support should always have the support of the public and business stakeholders.
Amendment 120 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
Amendment 127 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) Further to a dialogue with the requesting Member State, including in the context of the European Semester, the Commission should analyse the request, taking into account the principles of transparency, equal treatment and sound financial management and determine the support to be provided based on urgency, breadth and depth of the problems as identified, support needs in respect of the policy areas envisaged, analysis of socioeconomic indicators, and the general administrative capacity of the Member Stateprovide immediate support. The Commission should also, in close cooperation with the Member State concerned, identify the priority areas, the scope of the support measures to be provided and the global financial contribution for such support, taking into account the existing actions and measures financed by Union funds or other Union programmes.
Amendment 129 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) Member States that request support should be able to contribute to the financial envelope ofreceive immediate and unconditional aid from the Programme with additional funds. Currently, Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 limits the possibility of a transfer of resources dedicated to technical assistance at the initiative of a Member State to those Member States which face temporary budgetary difficulties. Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 should therefore be amended in order to allow all Member States to participate financially to the Programme. The resources transferred to the Union budget should be used for supporting actions contributing to smart, sustainable and inclusive growth or Fund-specific purposes in the Member States concernedhealth, education, the environment, etc.
Amendment 134 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
Amendment 136 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) In the event of unforeseen and duly justified grounds of urgency requiring immediate response, such as a serious disturbance in the economy or significant circumstances seriously affecting the economic or social conditions in a Member State going beyond its control, upon request of a Member State, the Commission should be able to adopt special measures, for a limited proportion of the annual work programme, in accordance with objectives and actions eligible under the Programmemeasures, to support the national authorities in addressing the urgent needs.
Amendment 145 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) The financial interests of the Union should be protected through proportionate measures throughout the expenditure cycle, including the prevention, detection and investigation of irregularities, and the recovery of funds lost, wrongly paid or incorrectly used and, where appropriate, penalties.
Amendment 146 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20
Recital 20
Amendment 148 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) Member States that request support should be able to contribute toobtain it immediately and unconditionally from the financial envelope of the Programme with additional funds. Currently, Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 limits the possibility of a transfer of resources dedicated to technical assistance at the initiative of a Member State to those Member States which face temporary budgetary difficulties. Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 should therefore be amended in order to allow all Member States to participate financially to the Programme. The resources transferred to the Union budget should be used for supporting actions contributing to smart, sustainable and inclusive growth or Fund-specific purposes in the Member States concernedhealth, education, the environment, etc.
Amendment 156 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
Amendment 162 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) In the event of unforeseen and duly justified grounds of urgency requiring immediate response, such as a serious disturbance in the economy or significant circumstances seriously affecting the economic or social conditions in a Member State going beyond its control, upon request of a Member State, the Commission should be able to adopt special measures, for a limited proportion of the annual work programme, in accordance with objectives and actions eligible under the Programmemeasures and actions to support the national authorities in addressing the urgent needs.
Amendment 170 #
2015/0263(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) The financial interests of the Union should be protected through proportionate measures throughout the expenditure cycle, including the prevention, detection and investigation of irregularities, and the recovery of funds lost, wrongly paid or incorrectly used and, where appropriate, penalties.
Amendment 110 #
2015/0226(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Securitisation involves transactions that enable a lender – typically a credit institution – to refinance a set of loans or exposures such as loans for immovable property, auto leases, consumer loans or credit cards, by transforming them into tradable securities. The lender pools and repackages a portfolio of its loans, and organises them into different risk categories for different investors, thus giving investors access to investments in loans and other exposures to which they normally would not have direct access. Returns to investors are generated from the cash flows of the underlying loans. At the same time, the lender strengthens its liquidity level through the securitisation procedure.
Amendment 112 #
2015/0226(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) In the Investment Plan for Europe presented on 26 November 2014, the Commission announced its intention to restart high quality securitisation markets, without repeating the mistakes made before the 2008 financial crisis. The development of a simple, transparent and standardised securitisation market constitutes a building block of the Capital Markets Union (CMU) and must contributes to the Commission's priority objective to supporting job creation and a return to sustainable growth.
Amendment 115 #
2015/0226(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The European Union does not intent to weaken the legislative framework implemented after the financial crisis to address the risks inherent in highly complex, opaque and risky securitisation. It is essential to ensure that rules are adopted to better differentiate simple, transparent and standardised products from complex, opaque and risky financial instruments and apply a more risk-sensitive prudential framework.
Amendment 120 #
2015/0226(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) Securitisation is an important element of well-functioning financial markets and helps to improve the financing of the economy. Soundly structured securitisation is an important channel for diversifying funding sources and allocating risk more efficiently within the Union financial system. It allows for a broader distribution of financial sector risk and can help to free up originator's balance sheets to allow for further lending to the economy. Overall, it can improve efficiencies in the financial system and provide additional investment opportunities. Securitisation can create a bridge between credit institutions and capital markets with an indirect benefit for businesses and citizens (through, for example, less expensive loans and business financing, credits for immovable property and credit cards).
Amendment 124 #
2015/0226(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) Establishing a more risk-sensitive prudential framework for simple, transparent and standardised ("STS") securitisations requires that the Union clearly defines what a STS securitisation is, since otherwise the more risk-sensitive regulatory treatment for credit institutions and insurance companies would be available for different types of securitisations in different Member States. This would lead to an un-level playing field and to regulatory arbitrage. Otherwise, many securitisations would not be sufficiently risk-sensitive, owing to the lack of suitable risk drivers across approaches in determining risk weights.
Amendment 128 #
2015/0226(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) At both the international and European level, muchore work has alreadymust been done to identify STS securitisation and, just as in Commission Delegated Regulations (EU) 2015/6122 and (EU) 2015/3523, criteria have already been set out for simple, transparent and standardised securitisation for specific purposes, to which a more risk sensitive prudential treatment is attached. __________________ 22 Commission Delegated Regulation of 10 October 2014 to supplement Regulation (EU) No 575/2013 with regard to liquidity coverage requirement for Credit Institutions (OJ L 11, 17.1.2015, p. 1). 23 Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2015/35 of 10 October 2014 supplementing Directive 2009/138/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on the taking-up and pursuit of the business of Insurance and Reinsurance (Solvency II) (OJ L 12, 17.1.2015, p. 1).
Amendment 129 #
2015/0226(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) Based on the existing criteria, on the BCBS-IOSCO criteria adopted on 23 July 2015 for identifying simple, transparent and comparable securitisations, in the framework of capital sufficiency for securitisations, and in particular the EBA Advice on qualifying securitisation published on 7 July 2015, it is essential to establish a general and cross-sectorally applicable definition of STS securitisation.
Amendment 130 #
2015/0226(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) Implementation of the "STS” criteria throughout the EU should not lead to divergent approaches but, instead, to the development of a safe securitisation market. Those approaches would create potential barriers for cross- border investors by constraining them to enter into the details of the Member State frameworks and thus undermining investor confidence in the STS criteria.
Amendment 140 #
2015/0226(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) It is importantessential that the interests of originators, sponsors and original lenders that transform exposures into tradable securities and investors are aligned. To achieve this, the originator, sponsor or original lender should retain a significant interest in the underlying exposures of the securitisation. It is therefore important for the originators or the sponsors to retain a material net economic exposure to the underlying risks in question. More generally, securitisation transactions should not be structured in such a way so as to avoid the application of the retention requirement. That requirement should be applicable in all situations where the economic substance of a securitisation is applicable, whatever legal structures or instruments are used. There is no need for multiple applications of the retention requirement. For any given securitisation, it suffices that only the originator, the sponsor or the original lender is subject to the requirement. Similarly, where securitisation transactions contain other securitisations positions as underlying exposures, the retention requirement should be applied only to the securitisation which is subject to the investment. The STS notification indicate to investors that originators are retaining a material net economic exposure to the underlying risks. Certain exceptions should be made for cases when securitised exposures are fully, unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed by in particular public authorities. In case support from public resources provided in the form of guarantees or by other means, any provisions in this Regulation are without prejudice to State aid rules.
Amendment 145 #
2015/0226(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) The ability of investors to exercise due diligence and thus make an informed assessment of the creditworthiness of a given securitisation instrument depends on their access to information on those instruments. Based on the existing acquis, it is important to create a comprehensive system under which investors will have access to all the relevant information over the entire life of the transactions and to reduce originators, sponsors and SSPEs reporting tasks and to facilitate investors’ continuous; easy and free access to reliable information on securitisations.
Amendment 148 #
2015/0226(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) OTo provide security for investors, originators, sponsors and SSPE's should make all materially relevant data on the credit quality and performance of underlying exposures available in the investor report, including data allowing investors to clearly identify delinquency and default of underlying debtors, debt restructuring, debt forgiveness, forbearance, repurchases, payment holidays, losses, charge offs, recoveries and other asset performance remedies in the pool of underlying exposures. Data on the cash flows generated by underlying exposures and by the liabilities of the securitisation issuance, including separate disclosure of the securitisation position’s income and disbursements, that is scheduled principal, scheduled interest, prepaid principal, past due interest and fees and charges and any data relating to the breach of any triggers implying changes in the priority of payments or replacement of any counterparties as well as data on the amount and form of credit enhancement available to each tranche should also be made available in the investor report. Although securitisations that are simple, transparent and standardised have in the past performed well, the satisfaction of any STS requirements does not mean that the securitisation position is free of risks, nor does it indicate anything about the credit quality underlying the securitisation. Instead, it should be understood to indicate that a prudent and diligent investor will be able to analyse the risks involved in the securitisation. There should be two types of STS requirements: one for long-term securitisations and one for short-term securitisations (ABCP), which should be subject to a large extent to similar requirements with specific adjustments to reflect the structural features of these two market segments. The functioning of these markets are different with ABCP programmes relying on a number of ABCP transactions consisting of short term exposures which need to be replaced once matured. In addition, STS criteria need also to reflect the specific role of the sponsor providing liquidity support to the ABCP conduits.
Amendment 157 #
2015/0226(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) It is essential to prevent the recurrence of purely ‘originate to distribute’ models. In those situations lenders grant credits applying poor and weak underwriting policies as they know in advance that related risks are eventually sold to third parties. Thus, the exposures to be securitised should be originated in the ordinary course of the originator’s or original lender's business pursuant to underwriting standards that should not be less stringent thanbe the same as those the originator or original lender applies to origination of similar exposures which are not securitised. Material changes in underwriting standards should be fully disclosed to potential investors. The originator’s or original lender should have sufficient experience in originating exposures of a similar nature to those which have been securitised. In the case of securitisations where the underlying exposures are residential loans, the pool of loans should not include any loan that was marketed and underwritten on the premise that the loan applicant or, where applicable intermediaries, were made aware that the information provided might not be verified by the lender. The assessment of the borrower's creditworthiness should also meet where applicable, the requirements set out in Directives 2014/17/EU or 2008/48/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council or equivalent requirements in third countries.
Amendment 160 #
2015/0226(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20
Recital 20
(20) Where originators, sponsors and SSPE's would like their securitisations to use the STS designation, they should notify investors, competent authorities and ESMA that the securitisation meets the STS requirements. ESMA should then publish it on a list of transactions made available on its website for information purposes. The inclusion of a securitisation issuance in ESMA’s list of notified STS securitisations does not imply that ESMA or other competent authorities have certified that the securitisation meets the STS requirements. The compliance with the STS requirements remains solely the responsibility of the originators, sponsors and SSPEs. This will ensure that originators, sponsors and SSPE's take responsibility for their claim that the securitisation is STS and that there is transparency on the market, so as to protect investors and prevent the recurrence of the misguided ‘originate to distribute’ models.
Amendment 170 #
2015/0226(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 24
Recital 24
(24) Member States should designate competent authorities and provideassist them within the necessary supervisory, investigative and sanctioning powers. Administrative sanctions and remedial measures should, in principle, be published. Since investors, originators, sponsors, original lenders and SSPEs can be established in different Member States and supervised by different sectoral competent authorities close cooperation between relevant competent authorities, including the European Central Bank (ECB) in accordance with Council Regulation (EU) No 1024/2013 24, and with the ESAs should be ensured by the mutual exchange of information and assistance in supervisory activities. __________________ 24 Council Regulation (EU) No 1024/2013 of 15 October 2013 conferring specific tasks on the European Central Bank concerning policies relating to the prudential supervision of credit institutions (OJ L 287, 29.10.2013. p. 263).
Amendment 49 #
2015/0225(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Securitisations are an important constituent part of well-functioning financial markets insofar as they contribute to diversifying institutions' funding sources and releasing regulatory capital which can then be reallocated to support further lending and to guarantee the liquidity level of the lender. Furthermore, securitisations provide institutions and other market participants with additional investment opportunities, thus allowing portfolio diversification and facilitating the flow of funding to businesses and individuals both within Member States and on a cross- border basis throughout the Union. These benefits, however, should be weighed against their potential costs. As seen during the first phase of financial crisis starting in the summer of 2007, unsound practices in securitisation markets resulted in significant threats to the integrity of the financial system, namely due to excessive leverage, opaque and complex structures that made pricing problematic, mechanistic reliance on external ratings or misalignment between the interests of investors and originators ("agency risks").
Amendment 51 #
2015/0225(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) In recent years, securitisation issuance volumes in the Union have remained below their pre-crisis peak for a number of reasons, among them the stigma generally associated with these transactions. The recovery of securitisation markets should be based on sound and prudent market practices and should contribute to job creation to prevent a recurrence of the set of circumstances that triggered the financial crisis. To that end, Regulation [Securitisation Regulation] lays down the substantive elements of an overarching securitisation framework, with ad-hoc criteria to identify simple, transparent and standardised (“STS”) securitisations and a system of supervision to monitor the correct application of these criteria by originators, sponsors, issuers and institutional investors. Furthermore, Regulation [Securitisation Regulation] provides for a set of common requirements on risk retention, due diligence and disclosure for all financial services sectors.
Amendment 54 #
2015/0225(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) Consistent with the objectives of Regulation [Securitisation Regulation], the regulatory capital requirements laid down in Regulation (EU) No 575/2013 for institutions originating, sponsoring or investing in securitisations should be amended to reflect adequately the specific features of STS securitisations and address the shortcomings of the framework which became apparent during the financial crisis, namely its mechanistic reliance on external ratings, excessively low risk weights for highly-rated securitisation tranches and, conversely, excessively high risk weights for low-rated tranches, and insufficient risk sensitivity, owing to the lack of adequate risk factors in the approaches to defining the risk weights. On 11 December 2014 the Basel Committee for Banking Supervision ("BCBS") published its “Revisions to the securitisation framework” (the “Revised Basel Framework”) setting out various changes to the regulatory capital standards for securitisations to address specifically those shortcomings. The amendments to Regulation (EU) No 575/2013 should take into account the provisions of the Revised Basel Framework.
Amendment 60 #
2015/0225(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) Capital requirements for positions in a securitisation under Regulation (EU) No 575/2013 should be subject to the same calculation methods for all institutions. In the first instance and to remove any form of mechanistic reliance on external ratings, an institution should use its own calculation of regulatory capital requirements where the institution has permission to use the Internal Ratings Based approach (the "IRB") in relation to exposures of the same type as those underlying the securitisation and is able to calculate regulatory capital requirements in relation to the underlying exposures as if these had not been securitised ("Kirb"), in each case subject to certain pre-defined inputs (the "SEC-IRBA"). A Securitisation External Ratings-Based Approach (the "SEC-ERBA") should then be available to institutions that may not use the SEC- IRBA in relation to their positions in a given securitisation. Under the SEC- ERBA, capital requirements should be assigned to securitisation tranches on the basis of their external rating. When the first two approaches are not available or the use of the SEC-ERBA would result in incommensurate regulatory capital requirements relative to the credit risk embedded in the underlying exposures, institutions should be able to apply the Securitisation Standardised Approach (the "SEC-SA"), with a view to giving a fresh boost to securitisation markets, which should rely on a supervisory-provided formula using as an input the capital requirements that would be calculated under the Standardised Approach to credit risk (the "SA") in relation to the underlying exposures if these had not been securitised (“Ksa”).
Amendment 548 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 6
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 6
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 1– paragraph 1– Article 10 c
Article 1– paragraph 1– Article 10 c
1. By derogation from Article 10a(1) to (5), Member States which had in 2013 or in 2014 a GDP per capita in € at market prices below 60% of the Union average may give a transitional free allocation to installations for electricity production for the modernisation of the energy sector.
Amendment 624 #
2015/0148(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 7
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 7
Directive 2003/87/EC
Article 1 – paragraph 7 – Article 10 d – paragraph 1
Article 1 – paragraph 7 – Article 10 d – paragraph 1
A fund to support investments in modernising energy systems and improving energy efficiency in Member States with a GDP per capita below 60% of the Union average in 2013 or in 2014, shall be established for the period 2021-30 and financed as set out in Article 10.
Amendment 10 #
2015/0112(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
- having regard to the Protocol (No. 1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on the role of national Parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 11 #
2015/0112(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
Amendment 8 #
2014/2257(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers the European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) to be the first direct democratic instrument to enable citizens to become actively involved in the framing of European policies and legislation; considers that it should be made both transparent and effective;
Amendment 12 #
2014/2257(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Stresses the importance of European citizens participating in EU policy making in this difficult period of economic crisis;
Amendment 14 #
2014/2257(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1b. Stresses that all European citizens should be given the opportunity of collecting signatures for an ECI, independently of their Member State of residence;
Amendment 18 #
2014/2257(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Recalls that, in previous resolutions and annual reports prepared by the Committee on Petitions, Parliament pointed out the weaknesses of the existing legal framework and the bureaucratic burdens in the practical running of the ECI owing to a lack of IT support and disparate use in the national administrations; calls for simplified and harmonised personal data requirements andstresses the need for standardised forms in the various Member States and calls for simplified personal data procedures;
Amendment 38 #
2014/2257(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Stresses the need for services providing legal advice regarding ECIs and for the adoption of legal framework provisions to protect their members;
Amendment 10 #
2014/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas rights inherent to Union citizenship are incorporated in the Treaties and in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union; whereas the Treaty of Lisbon has strengthened the enforceability of fundamental rights with respect to the implementation of EU law by Member States at national level and in accordance with their respective Constitutions; whereas Article 51 of the Charter states that the Member States and the Commission must respect these rights;
Amendment 22 #
2014/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas almost one third of petitions received by Parliament relate to alleged breaches of fundamental rights referred to in the Charter, touching on issues such as citizenship, the four freedoms, employment, economic circumstances, justice systems, voting rights, disability and children’s rights; whereas some of those petitions raise questions related to health issues and worsened access to health care and health care services as a direct consequence of the economic crisis linked to the European policies; whereas petitions serve as an instrument for guaranteeing citizens their fundamental rights;
Amendment 27 #
2014/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the economic crisis and the general measures taken as a result thereof have also had an clearly negative impact on universal access to quality education, the right to fair and decent work and the right to property;
Amendment 46 #
2014/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Deplores instances of discrimination against minoritiesthe citizens of the Union, on the grounds that human dignity is inviolable; calls for the Anti-Discrimination Directive, which seeks to implement the principle of equal treatment between persons irrespective of religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation, to be unblocked in the Council; calls for this Anti- Discrimination Directive to refer to the rights, freedoms and responsibilities of the human person, as defined and protected by the constitutional traditions common to the Members States;
Amendment 59 #
2014/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that the role of Commission as the guardian of the Treaties is not limited to ensuring that legislation is transposed by the Member States, but also extends to the full and correct application of laws, in particular with a view to protecting citizens’ fundamental rights; notably defined by the Charter and the constitutional traditions common to the Members States;
Amendment 71 #
2014/2254(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls on the Member States with respect to the subsidiarity principle to adopt all necessary measures to ensure that the fundamental rights of universal access to quality health care and high quality education are restored to every EU citizen;
Amendment 6 #
2014/2253(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes that the right to petition the European Parliament is one of the building blockpillars of European citizenship, as laid down in Article 44 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union and Article 227 of The Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU); points out that this right provides the non-sufficient but necessary tools for increasing public participation in the European Union’s decision-making process; underlines, in the light of the above, the Committee on Petitions’ crucial role as the effective juncture between EU citizens, Parliament and, the Commission and the National Parliaments;
Amendment 7 #
2014/2253(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes that the right to petition the European Parliament is one of the building blockpillars of European citizenship, as laid down in Article 44 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union and Article 227 of The Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU); points out that this right provides the non-sufficient but necessary tools for increasing public participation in the European Union’s decision-making process; underlines, in the light of the above, the Committee on Petitions’ crucial role as the effective juncture between EU citizens, Parliament and the Commission;
Amendment 11 #
2014/2253(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Welcomes the fact that the Commission is attaching ever more importance to petitions as a source of information on citizens’ complaints against public authorities, including the European Union and potential infringements of EU law in its actual implementation, as evidenced by the fact that the two annual reports paid particular attention to petitions; notes that this has been accompanied by a corresponding increase in the number of petitions that were forwarded by the Committee on Petitions to the Commission with requests for information;
Amendment 22 #
2014/2253(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Welcomes the lower number of directives to be transposed in 2013 (74) in comparison with the 2011 figure (131); highlights, nevertheless, the higher number of directives to be transposed in comparison with the 2012 figure (56); therefore urges the European Commission to drastically reduce not only the production but also the volume of the existing Legal Acts, whether binding and non-binding, which now account for about 180,000 pages of EU standards , and reminds the strong recommendation made in Laeken by the European Council on 15 December 2001: ''what citizens understand by ''good governance'' is opening up fresh opportunities, not imposing further red tape. What they expect is more results, better responses to practical issues and not a European superstate or European institutions inveigling their way into every nook and cranny of life.''
Amendment 30 #
2014/2253(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes that a total of 731 infringement cases were closed because the Member State in question had demonstrated its compliance with EU law; points out that the Court of Justice delivered 52 judgments under Article 258 TFEU in 2013, of which 31 (59.6 %) were in favour of the Commission; in order to put these statistics for 2013 in perspective, reminds that until now 3274 (87,3%) infringement judgments delivered by the Court were in favour of the Commission.
Amendment 34 #
2014/2253(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
Amendment 1 #
2014/2248(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas all EU institutions without exception ought to be transparent and fully accountable to the citizens of the EU as regards the funds entrusted to them as EU institutions;
Amendment 3 #
2014/2248(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers that Parliament’s powers of oversight and monitoring of EU budget implementation are key to ensuring effective accountability of the institutions and should therefore be reinforced and extended immediately;
Amendment 3 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
Amendment 5 #
2014/2248(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Believes that for the UnionMember States to meet the objectives of the Europe 2020 strategy and to address current and new challenges effectively, it needs to be granted a budget that is commensurate with the mission it isthey are called on to accomplish; considers that the current level of the EU budget, which corresponds to 1 % of the EU-28 GDP, is not sufficient to achieve these goals;
Amendment 5 #
2014/2248(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes the fact that the list of institutions defined in Article 13 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) differs from that stated in Article 2 of the Financial Regulation; considers that having different meanings for the same concept enshrined in EU legislation is misleading; and urges the Commission and Council to correct this anomaly;
Amendment 5 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol (No 2) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 7 #
2014/2248(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Finds that there are a few instances where the letter of the TFEU diverges from the practice and the spirit of the Treaty; is of the opinion that these incoherencies need to be corrected in line with the principles of democracy and transparency;
Amendment 12 #
2014/2248(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Points out that effective supervision of the institutions’ and bodies’ implementation of the EU budget requires bona fide cooperation with Parliament, as well as an annual follow-up document from all the institutions on the discharge recommendations of Parliament; regrets that the Council hais not adhereding to this procedure;
Amendment 14 #
2014/2248(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Notes that the procedure of giving discharge separately to the individual EU institutions and bodies is a long-standing practice developed to guarantee transparency and democratic accountability towards EU taxpayers; underlines that this effectively guarantees Parliament’s right and duty to scrutinise the whole of the EU budget; recalls the Commission’s view, expressed in January 2014, that all institutions without exception are fully part of the follow-up process to the observations made by Parliament in the discharge exercise and should unfailingly cooperate to ensure the smooth functioning of the discharge procedure;
Amendment 15 #
2014/2248(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. In order to enable Parliament to take an informed decision on granting discharge, requires the institutions to provide Parliament with their annual activity reports and to give Parliament sufficient information in answers to to its questions during the discharge process;
Amendment 21 #
2014/2248(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Requests that the Financial Regulation be updated in order to clarify the objectives of the discharge procedure and to clearly define the sanctions to be imposed for not respecting this procedure; highlightstresses that this should be done in order to hold the EU institutions accountable with the aim of protecting the financial interests of EU citizens; stresses that there should be no exceptions;
Amendment 24 #
2014/2248(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Acknowledges the crucial role of the Court of Auditors in ensuring better, fairer and smarter spending of the EU budget; recalls the importance of the Court’s role as European public auditing authority;
Amendment 26 #
2014/2248(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Notes that the Court’s composition and its appointment procedure are laid down in Articles 285 and 286 TFEU; considers that Parliament and the Council should be on an equal footing when appointing Members of the Court of Auditors, in order to ensure democratic legitimacy, transparency and the complete independence of those Members; calls for the Council to respect in full the decisions taken by Parliament subsequent to hearings of candidates nominated as Members of the Court of Auditors;
Amendment 28 #
2014/2248(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Deplores the factNotes that certain appointment procedures have resulted in conflicts between Parliament and the Council on candidates; stresses that it is, as stipulated in the Treaty, Parliament’s duty to evaluate the nominees; emphasises that these conflicts might harm the good working relations of the Court with the aforementioned institutions and could possibly have serious negative consequences for the credibility, and hence the effectiveness, of the Court; is of the opinion that the Council should, in the spirit of good cooperation among the EU institutions, respect the decisions taken by Parliament subsequent to the hearings.
Amendment 31 #
2014/2248(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Is convinced that the EU budget needs to be endowed with a system of genuine own resources, with simplicity, fairness and transparency as guiding principles; considers that such a system should reduce the share of GNI contributions to the EU budget with a view to abandoning the ‘juste retour’ approach of Member States; insists, in this context, on the phasing-out of all forms of rebates;
Amendment 31 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Α
Recital Α
Α. whereas the ‘polycrisis’ currently faced by the Union, including its financial, economic, social and migratory consequences, as well as the choices made by its institutions to deals with these consequences have all led reasonably to the rejection by a growing part of the population of the current European Union;
Amendment 41 #
2014/2248(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Considers that the multiannual financial framework should allow for maximum flexibility in order to respond to crises and evolving political priorities; stresses, in this context, the need to make available in the budget all extraordinary revenue resulting from decommitments under the EU budget or competition fines;
Amendment 44 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
Β. whereas progress towards a Union that can really deliver on and achieve itsthe goals are impaired by a failure of governance owing to a continuous and systematic search for unanimity in the Council (which is still basof prosperity of the citizens of its Member States, is hampered onby the so- called Luxembourg Compromise) and the lack of a credible single executive authority enjoying full democratic legitimacy and competence to take effective action across a wide spectrum of policielf-serving interests served by its institutions, as well as the economic interests of wealthier Member States; whereas recent examples such as the uncontrolled migration flow, the slow clean-upuncontrolled activities of our banks after the outbreak of the financial crisis and the lack of an immediate common response to the internal and external threat of terrorism have aptly demonstrated the Union’s incapacity to respond effectively and quickly;
Amendment 49 #
2014/2248(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Underlines the need to safeguard the principle of unity of the budget, and is concerned aboutNotes the recent shift from the Community method to intergovernmental decision-making as observed in the setting- up of ad hoc satellite instruments outside the EU budget such as the Trust Funds; stresses the need to ensure parliamentary oversight over all EU expenditure.
Amendment 58 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas this problem, coupled with a lack of a common vision on the part of our Member States as regards the future of oEur continent,ope has given rise to unprecedented levels of ‘euroscepticism’ that risk a return to nationalism and the disintegration of the Uniona search by various political forces for solutions outside of the ‘European one-way integration’;
Amendment 68 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas, instead of fostering the Union, the system whereby Member States make progress at different speeds in accordance with their different capacities and circumstances, further reinforced in the Lisbon Treaty, which introduced new formal methods of enhanced cooperation, has increased the complexity of the Union and accentuated its ‘variable geometry’; whereas more and more Member States are declining to agree on the goals and prefer ‘à la carte’ solutions, some of them even unilaterally and accentuated its ‘variable geometry’;
Amendment 87 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
Ε. whereas, in the field of the euro and monetary policy, the United Kingdom obtained a permanent derogation from joining (Protocol No 15), Denmark has a constitutional exemption (Protocol No 16), Sweden has ceased to follow the euro convergence criteria and the possibility of Greece leaving the single currency has been openly discussed in the European Council;
Amendment 95 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas, as regards Schengen, the free movement of people and the resulting abolition of internal border controls, all formally integrated into the Treaties, ‘opt- outs’ were given to the UK and Ireland; whereas four other Member States are also not taking part, but have the obligation to do so, while ‘opt-ins’ were accorded to three countries outside the European Union; whereas this fragmentation not only prevents the total abolition of some remaining internal borders, but also hinders the establishment of a true internal market and of a fully integrated area of freedom, security and justiceBelgium, France, Austria and Germany have ceased to comply with the Schengen rules;
Amendment 102 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
Amendment 117 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas, since the Treaty of Lisbon, further accelerated by the financial and migration crises, the European Council has widened its role to include day-to-day management through the adoption of intergovernmental instruments outside the framework of the EU such as the European Stability Mechanism (ESM), the Treaty on Stability, Coordination and Governance in the Economic and Monetary Union (TSCG or the ‘Fiscal Compact’) and the deal with Turkey on migration; whereas the above mechanisms have not achieved their goals;
Amendment 123 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas, while Article 16 of the TSCG provides that within five years of the date of entry into force (before 1 January 2018) the necessary steps must have been taken to incorporate the Fiscal Compact into the legal framework of the Union, it is clear that the resilience of the euro area, including the completion of the banking union, cannot be achieved without further fiscal deepening steps together with the establishment of a more reliable, effective and democratic form of governance; whereas this will complete the current St the current Stability and Growth Pact is counterproductive and should be abiolity and Growth Pact, which, ever since it came into existence, even after its reform by the so-called six- pack and two-pack, has never been applied for any obvious political reasonsshed as soon as possible;
Amendment 142 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas thisprogress to a new system of governance implies a genuine governmentwith a government that will bypass national authorities, equipped to formulate and implement the common monetary, fiscal and macro- economic policies that the euro area desperately needs and must be endowed with a treasury and budget commensuattempted by some political forces desperately with the scale of the tasks at hll intensify the contradictions and; whereas this requires, in addition to measures within the existing primary law, a reform of the Lisbon Treatyill cause a chaotic disintegration of the European Union;
Amendment 149 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas this is also the case for the necessary reform and modernisation of the financial resources of the whole European Union; whereas the agreement on the current multiannual financial framework (MFF) was only reached after long and strenuous negotiations and was accompanied by the decision to establish a high-level group to review the Union’s revenue system of ‘own resources’, due to report in 2016; whereas the current MFF severely limits the financial autonomy of the Union, as most of the revenue consists of national contributions by the Member States and a large part of the expenditure is already preordained by means of returns to these same Member States;
Amendment 159 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L
Recital L
L. whereas the European Union is a constitutional system which must be based on the rule of law; whereas the Treaties must be changed to give the European Court of Justice (ECJ) jurisdiction over all aspects of EU law, in particular common foreign and security policy (Article 24(1) TEU) and monetary and economic policy (Article 126(10) TFEU);
Amendment 174 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital M
Recital M
Amendment 188 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital N
Recital N
N. whereas over the past decade the security situation in Europe has deteriorated markedly, especially in our neighbourhood: no longer can a single Member State guarantee its internal and external security alareas where neoliberal economic policies took place and where there was a lack of integration of populations originating from uncontrolled migratione;
Amendment 193 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O
Recital O
O. whereas the decline of Europe’s defence capabilities has limited its ability to project stability beyond our immediate borders; whereas this goes hand in hand with the reluctance of our US allies to intervene if Europe is not ready to take its fair share of responsibility; whereas this leads inevitably to the need for more intense cooperation among the Member States and an integration of some of their defence capacities into a European defence community, both in line with a new European security strategyfence sector is the sole responsibility of the Member States;
Amendment 204 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital P
Recital P
Amendment 212 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Q
Recital Q
Q. whereas clarifications are still needed as regards the European elections and on the matter of who leads the Union; whereas, despite the fact that the outcome of the 2014 European parliamentary elections having for the first time led directly to the nomination of the candidate for President of the Commission, a clear direct democratic link is still lacking, although the European Council has agreed to review the ‘Spitzenkandidat’ process in time for 201918; whereas, moreover, there is still confusion – not least among third parties – about the interrelationship of the Presidents of the Commission and the European Council; __________________ 18 EUCO conclusions of 27 June 2014. EUCO conclusions of 27 June 2014.
Amendment 226 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital R
Recital R
R. whereas, finally, the urgency for reform of the Union has been dramatically increased by the United Kingdom’s decision, through a referendum, to leave the European Union; whereas it is crystal clear that the negotiations to set out the arrangements for the UK’s withdrawal also need to take account of the framework for its future relationship with the Union; whereas this agreement must be negotiated in accordance with Article 218(3) TFEU and be concluded on behalf of the Union by the Council, acting by a qualified majority, after obtaining the consent of the European Parliament;
Amendment 245 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital S
Recital S
S. whereas the UK’s decision creates an opportunity to reduce and drastically simplify the ‘variable geometry’ and complexity of the Union; whereas it offers at least the opportunity to clarify what membership of the Union really means and what could be a clear structure in the future for the EU’s relationship with non- members in our periphery (the United Kingdom, Norway, Turkey, Ukraine, etc.); whereas the founding fathers of the Union had already envisaged a type of ‘associate status’;
Amendment 264 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers that the time of crisis management by means of ad hoc and incremental decisions has passed, as it only leads to measures that are too little, too late; is convinced that it is now time to address the shortcomings of the governance of the European Union by undertaking a comprehensive, in-depth reform of the Lisbon Treaty;
Amendment 280 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that the direction of the Union’s reform should lead towards its modernisation by estabrealishing new effective European capacities and instruments, rather than its renationalisationthe mistakes of the past that led to the Brexit and to the perpetuation of the financial crisis, while respective the need for renationalisation of the decisions taken in certain areas and by means of greater intergovernmentalism;
Amendment 299 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Underlines that recent Eurobarometer polling demonstrates that, contrary to popular belief, EU citizens are still fully aware of the importance of, and in support of, genuine European solutions in some areas19; __________________ 19 Standard Eurobarometer 84 - Autumn 2015 & Special Eurobarometer EP - June 2016.
Amendment 311 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Observes with great concernNotes the proliferation of subsets of Member States undermining the unity of the Union by causing a lack of transparency, as well as, which have been established as a result of the German- centred political direction that diominishingates in the EU so as to restore the trust of the peoplecitizens thereof;
Amendment 324 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Stresses that a comprehensive democratic reflection on the reform of the Treaties can and must only be achieved through a Convention, which guarantees inclusiveness through its composition of representatives of national parliaments, governments of all the Member States, entities of the society, the Commission and the European Parliament, and also provides the proper platform for such reflection and engagement with European citizestrictly the citizens of Member States of the EU, to ensure the absence of exclusions;
Amendment 336 #
Amendment 341 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Notes that the fracturing process of ‘variable geometry’ has found its way into the European decision-making process every time the European Council decides to apply intergovernmental methods and to bypass the ‘Union method’ as defined in the Treaties; this not only leads to less effective policy-making but also contributes to a growing lack of transparency, democratic accountability and control;
Amendment 355 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Considers that the ‘current Union method’ is the only method for legislating which ensures that all interests, especially the common European interest, are taken into accountoutmoded and deeply undemocratic; understands by ‘Union method’ that the Commission as the executive initiates legislation, Parliament and the Council representing respectively the citizens and the states decide by majority voting, and the Court of Justice oversees and provides ultimate judicial control;
Amendment 371 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Considers it essential in these circumstances to reaffirm the mission of an ‘ever-closer union among the peoples of Europe’ (Article 1 TEU) iIn order to mitigate any tendency towards disintegration and to clarify once morewith a view to redefining the moral, political and historical purpose of the European Union, as well as theits constitutional nature, of the European Unionconsiders that the method of decision- making within the European Union must change radically;
Amendment 383 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Proposes that the next revision of the Treaties should rationalise across the board the current disorderly ‘variable geometry’, i.e. ‘l’Europe à la carte’, by ending the disruptive practice ofand opt-outs, opt-ins and exceptions;
Amendment 419 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Notes that this new type of ‘associate status’ could also be one of the possible outcomes to respect the will of the majority of the citizens of the United Kingdom to leave the EU; stresses that this wish must be respected, given that the withdrawal of the United Kingdom, as one of the larger Member States, and as the largest non-euro-area member, affects the strength and the institutional balance of the Union – a new situation that adds to the need for revision of the Treaties, with the interests of citizens and democracy as the watchwords;
Amendment 438 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Underlines the fact that, until the Treaties cease to apply to the United Kingdom, it will continue to participate, in so far as it wishes to, in all decision- making of the Union throughout its institutions, with the exception of the negotiations and the agreement concerning its own withdrawal; considers that intermediate arrangements will need to be made concerning the UK’s participation in European decision-making, as it will be politically difficult to allow a Member State in the process of leaving to influence decisions affecting the Union of which it will soon cease to be a member;
Amendment 460 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Is greatly concerned by the lack of economic reform and convergence in the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU) as well as the loss of competitivenessrapid collapse of the economies of many of its Member States;
Amendment 485 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Considers that neither the Stability and Growth Pact nor the ‘no bail-out’ clause (Article 125 TFEU) provide the intended solutions, and that they have furthermore lost credibility in their current form, as the pact has been infringed by several Member States, including Germany, without political or legal consequences, while Greece has been bailed out on a large scale on three occasions;
Amendment 505 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Acknowledges the improvementBelieves that the changes brought by the European Semester, the six- pack and the two-pack aimed at addressing these issues, but concludes that they have not solved the problems; believes, moreover, that they have contributed to making the system overly complex, are not binding with regard to country-specific recommendations and do not cover spill- over effects between one Member State and another, or to the euro area or the EU as a whole and are not solving any problems;
Amendment 518 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Is acutely aware of the need to review the efficacy of the many recent crisis-management measures taken by the EU, and to codify in primary law certain decision-making procedures – such as ‘reverse qualified majority voting’ – as well as the need to entrench the legal bases of the new regulatory framework for the financial sector; agrees with the Five Presidents’ Report that the ‘open method of coordination’ as the basis for Europe’s economic strategy does not function and needs to be elevated into binding legal acts;
Amendment 532 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Proposes therefore merging the deficit and debt procedures, the macroeconomic imbalance procedure and the country-specific recommendations into a single ‘convergence code’ of a legally binding nature, setting minimum and maximum standards, where only compliance with this code would allow access to EU funds for investment projects or participation in new instruments that combine economic reform with fiscal incentives such as a fiscal capacity for the euro area or a common debt instrument; the coordination of economic policies as provided for in Article 5 TFEU would therefore become a ‘shared competence’ between the Union and the Member StatThe coordination of economic policies as provided for in Article 5 TFEU should not remove the sovereign rights of EU Member States to independently determine their economic policies;
Amendment 560 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Believes that, in order to reduce the still excessively high debt burden of Member States, such a common debt instrument needs to be established, inspired by the proposal by the German Council of Economic Experts of 9 November 2011, whereby euro-area members would undertake joint and several liability for a sinking fund, with strong individual commitments on structural reforms to reduce the debt-to-GDP ratio to the required maximum of 60 %; insists that euro-area members would only be able to participate when they are in compliance with the convergence codat the same time, calls on all the relevant national authorities in accordance with Article 7(9) of Regulation No 472/2013 to carry out a debt audit; believes that this audit should define the amounts of odious debt for each Member State, asnd this will prevent moral hazardat these should be immediately cancelled from the obligations of those States;
Amendment 562 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18a. Considers it necessary to open the debate at EU level concerning the subject of German war reparations where these are being demanded by Greece and the other EU Member States and considers that the satisfaction of these is not only an economic obligation incumbent on Germany but also an opportunity to stabilise the European economy and at the same time to restore justice;
Amendment 566 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
Amendment 616 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
Amendment 631 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
Amendment 645 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
Amendment 695 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
Amendment 726 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Recognises the geopolitical, economic and environmental need for the creation of a genuine Europeaneed for greater convergence at regional level and cooperation between energy union; notes that this will require thighbouring states in some aremovalas of the constraint that EU policyproduction chain; notes that this must not affect a state’s right to determine the conditions for exploiting its energy sources, its choice between different energy sources and the general structure of its energy supply (Article 194(2) TFEU);
Amendment 738 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Notes that the Treaties provide ample means to set up a humane, well- functioningfair migration management system including a European Border and Coast Guard; believes, however, that the Treaties, particularly Article 79(5) TFEU, are too restrictive regarding other aspects; considers it necessary to set up a pan-European system of distribution of immigration, especially on the establishment of a genuine European legal migration system; insists that democratic scrutiny by Parliament is needed on the implementation of border control, asylum and migration policies, and that the safeguarding of national security cannot be used as a pretext to circumvent European actionnts similar to the one applying to refugees; believes that the distribution of immigrants under this system should take account of the population, per capita GDP, the unemployment rate as well as the territorial extent and the growth of the economy of each Member State;
Amendment 765 #
Amendment 767 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. Regrets, as stated in its resolution of XXXXX on the improvement of the functioning of the European Union building on the potential of the Lisbon Treaty, that the EU has not made more progress in developing its capacity to agree and to implement a common foreign and security policy (CFSP); nNotes that its efforts in initiating a common security and defence policy have not been particularly successful;
Amendment 780 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Is of the opinion, while reiterating that more progress could and should be made under the terms of the Lisbon Treaty, including as regards use of the provisions to act by qualified majority voting, that the Vice-President / High Representative should be named EU Foreign Minister and be supported in her efforts to become the main external representative of the European Union in international fora, not least at the level of the UN; considers it essential that, owing to the broad and heavy workload, the Foreign Minister should be able to appoint political deputies; proposes a review of the functionality of the current European External Action Servicethat external policy is exercised by the national authorities;
Amendment 814 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34
Paragraph 34
34. Believes, finally, that it is essential that the restrictions in Article 24(1) TEU on the authority of the European Court of Justice in the field of CFSP be removed; calls, in the same spirit, for Parliament to gain greater powers of scrutiny and accountability over CFSP, including full co-decision powers over the budgetNotes that the new CFSP must be built around the solution of international controversies by peaceful means and respect strictly the strategic and diplomatic interests of all Member States;
Amendment 841 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35
Paragraph 35
Amendment 856 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36
Paragraph 36
Amendment 869 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 37
Paragraph 37
Amendment 887 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38
Paragraph 38
Amendment 900 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 39
Paragraph 39
39. Reiterates its call for a single seat for the European Parliament; proposes that Parliament and the Council each decide the location of their own seat after having obtained the consent of the other; further proposes that the seats of all the other EU institutions, agencies and bodies be determined by Parliament and the Council on a proposal by the European executive, acting in accordance with a special legislative procedure;
Amendment 912 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40
Paragraph 40
40. Notes that, despite the prohibition in Article 15(1) TEU, the European Council has undertaken various legislative initiatives; proposes abolishing Article 15(1) and integrating the European Council into a Council of States that could engage legitimately in the law- making process and provide direction and coherence to the other specialised Council configurations;
Amendment 919 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 41
Paragraph 41
Amendment 928 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 42
Paragraph 42
Amendment 934 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 43
Paragraph 43
Amendment 946 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 44
Paragraph 44
Amendment 969 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 46
Paragraph 46
Amendment 980 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 47
Paragraph 47
47. Proposes moreover that, in line with the common practice in a number of Member States, both chambers of the EU legislature, Parliament and the Council, should be given the right of legislative initiative, without prejudice to the basic legislative prerogative of the European executive or government;
Amendment 1016 #
2014/2248(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 52
Paragraph 52
52. Believes, finally, that the current Treaty ratification procedure is too rigid to befit such a supranational polity as the European Union; proposes allowing amendments to the Treaties to come into force if not by an EU-wide referendum then after being ratified by a qualified majority of four-fifths of the Member States, having obtained the consent of Parliament; correspondingly, once this threshold has been met,Proposes allowing amendments to the Treaties to come into force by referendum at each state; notes that Member States which still decline to ratify the amended Treaty should decide, in accordance with their own constitutional requirements, whether to start the process of secession or to opt for an associate status;
Amendment 6 #
2014/2239(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1α. Calls on the Commission to include the water as part of the Agenda for Change, together with sustainable agriculture;
Amendment 7 #
2014/2239(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1b. Calls on the Commission to participate in measures to achieve the sustainable development goals (SDGs) and post- 2015 (millennium development) goals, so as to uphold constantly the right to drinking water;
Amendment 15 #
2014/2239(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Calls on the Commission to support strongly efforts by Member States to develop and upgrade infrastructures providing access to irrigation, sewerage and drinking water supply services;
Amendment 9 #
2014/2218(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Α a (new)
Recital Α a (new)
Αa. whereas the number of petitions has increased due to the serious economic and social crisis in Europe;
Amendment 18 #
2014/2218(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the right to petition strengthens Parliament’s responsiveness to EU citizens and residents, providing them with an open, democratic and transparent mechanism;, in the aim of resolving problems relating primarily to the application of European legislation.
Amendment 26 #
2014/2218(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas petitions which have been addressed to the Committee on Petitions have often provided other European Parliament committees with useful input for their legislative work in their field; and for legislation at economic, social and environmental level.
Amendment 36 #
2014/2218(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas each petition is carefully assessed and dealt with and each petitioner has the right to receive a reply within a reasonableshort period of time;
Amendment 68 #
2014/2218(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O
Recital O
O. whereas the European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) is an extraordinary and innovative tool for participatory democracy in the European Union, whose potential must be exploited fully and further enhanced in order to achieve the best results; in terms of citizen protection.
Amendment 84 #
2014/2218(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses the fundamental role played by the Committee on Petitions in defending and promoting the rights of EU citizens and residents, ensuring that the concerns of petitioners are better recognised and their legitimate grievances, infringements of human rights, the free movement of persons and environmental law are resolved wherever possible and within a reasonable timeframe;,.
Amendment 105 #
2014/2218(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Stresses the need to improve correspondence with citizens in the aim of processing their demands.
Amendment 108 #
2014/2218(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Considers it essential that cooperation with the parliaments and governments of Member States be strengthened and that Member State authorities be encouraged to be fully transparent in transposing and applying EU law; stresses the importance of collaboration with the Commission and the Member States and welcomes the presence of representatives of some Member States at meetings;, in the aim of defending the rights of citizens more effectively and more transparently.
Amendment 160 #
2014/2218(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15a. Stresses the need to ensure more constructive information for citizens via the Committee on Petitions website by organising training seminars in the Member States.
Amendment 32 #
2014/2215(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H a (new)
Recital H a (new)
H a. whereas all participants in activities coordinated by Frontex, shall comply with International Law, European Union Law, National Law of both home and lost Member States.
Amendment 43 #
2014/2215(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital N a (new)
Recital N a (new)
N a. whereas the number of refugees who have arrived in Greece this year has topped half million.
Amendment 47 #
2014/2215(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital N b (new)
Recital N b (new)
N b. whereas that in the last 20 years at least 20,000 people have died in the attempt to reach Europe's coast.
Amendment 199 #
2014/2215(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 a (new)
Paragraph 30 a (new)
30 a. urges the International community to collaborate with EU in order to find solutions and offer assistance.
Amendment 4 #
2014/2159(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Β a (new)
Recital Β a (new)
Βα. whereas the financial crisis has brought about an economic and social crisis, thus undermining the credibility of the European institutions;
Amendment 25 #
2014/2159(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Gives its full support to the new Ombudsman’s stated ultimate goal, which is to help strengthen the structures and institutions of accountability and transparency at the European level, including the Eurogroup and the Troika, and to improve the quality of democracy in the European Union;·
Amendment 28 #
2014/2159(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 – point 1 (new)
Paragraph 4 – point 1 (new)
(1) Stresses the need to improve the social dialogue;
Amendment 39 #
2014/2159(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 – point 1 (new)
Paragraph 8 – point 1 (new)
(1) Stresses that trust between citizens and the institutions is of paramount importance in today's difficult economic situation;
Amendment 41 #
2014/2159(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 – point 1 (new)
Paragraph 9 – point 1 (new)
(1) Stresses the need for the European Ombudsman to investigate compliance by the Troika with the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU;
Amendment 50 #
2014/2159(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 – point 1 (new)
Paragraph 14 – point 1 (new)
(1) Stresses the need for the European Ombudsman to investigate the conflict of interest between the Commission's role in the Troika and its responsibility as guardian of the Treaties and the acquis communautaire;
Amendment 51 #
2014/2159(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 – point 2 (new)
Paragraph 14 – point 2 (new)
(2) Notes the need for an investigation by the European Ombudsman into the possible conflict of interest between the current role of the ECB as a 'technical advisor' in the Troika, its position as a creditor of the four EU Member States that adopted the Memorandum and its mandate under the Treaty on European Union and Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union;
Amendment 1 #
2014/2015(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
– having regard to Protocol No 1 to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the role of national parliaments in the European Union,
Amendment 2 #
2014/2015(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
– having regard to Protocol No 2 to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality,
Amendment 42 #
2014/2015(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Β
Recital Β
B. whereas in 2015 the employment rate for women reached an all-time high of 64.5 %, but remained well below that for men, which stood at 75.6 %; whereasdeploring the fact that women are four times more likely than men to engage and remain in part-time work; whereas many young people remain poor despite working, especially women in the countries of southern Europe, such as Greece, Spain, Portugal, Italy and others;
Amendment 48 #
2014/2015(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereasdeploring the fact that the economic crisis and austerity measures have disproportionately affected women, particularly young women and women suffering from multiple discrimination, and has led them into poverty and social marginalisation;
Amendment 53 #
2014/2015(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the feminisation of poverty persists in the EU, and whereas the increasing risk ofthe very high proportions of unemployment, poverty and social exclusion ofamong women isare closely linked to budget cutthe austerity policies of the Troika and specifically to budget cuts by the Member States of southern Europe, such as Greece, Spain, Portugal, Italy and others in public services such as healthcare, education, social services and welfare benefits;
Amendment 60 #
2014/2015(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas three quarters of household chores and two thirds of parental care in 2015 were performed by working women, who were therefore overwhelmingly bearing a double burden of responsibilities; whereas gendered division of care and family responsibilities are detrimental to women’s economic independence in the long term, while difficulties are still being encountered in achieving a balance between professional and personal life;
Amendment 63 #
2014/2015(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas there are types of family leave where discrimination is still apparent; whereas not all Member States have statutory provisions for paternity leave, and whereas a number of those that do have such provisions allow men to take leave for only one, two or several days; whereas in eight Member States paternity leave is not accompanied by any pay, while the average take-up of parental leave by fathers is poor, with only 10 % of fathers taking at least one day of leave and 97 % of women using the parental leave that is available for both parents;
Amendment 87 #
2014/2015(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas gender segregation in employment is still a prevalent phenomenon, with women occupying mostly low-paid sectors, while in workplaces in EU Member States discrimination is also observed in the hiring process;
Amendment 89 #
2014/2015(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas the pension gap, as the result of disadvantages accrued by women over time, is still persists in the EUincreasing in the EU and stands at an overwhelming 40.2 %;
Amendment 107 #
2014/2015(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O
Recital O
O. whereas population surveys on attitudes to violence against women show a worrying prevalence of the tendency to blame the victim; deploring the fact that in some countries a significant increase has been seen in the number of victims of violence and in the severity of its effects;
Amendment 127 #
2014/2015(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital T
Recital T
T. whereas sexual and reproductive health and rights are fundamental rights and an essential element of gender equality and self-determination and whereas access to them should therefore be guaranteed for all women and girls; and whereas they should be included, as basic human rights, in the EU Health Strategy in order to ensure coherence between the EU’s internal and external fundamental rights policies;
Amendment 138 #
2014/2015(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Is deeply concernedDeplores the fact that the EU remains only halfway towards achieving gender equality, according to the 2015 EIGE Gender Equality Index; strongly regrets the fact that the status and profile of gender equality and the combating of gender discrimination shows signs of decreasing in importance, being marginalised as a political goal and undermined it as a policy area;
Amendment 147 #
2014/2015(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Asks the Commission for a greater assessment of and measures to address the impact of public spending cuto take immediate steps to stop public spending cuts, which are having negative effects on women’s rights and gender equality in EU Member States;
Amendment 157 #
2014/2015(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6a. Calls on the Member States to ensure that the goals of their education systems include education in respect for fundamental rights and freedoms and in equal rights and opportunities for women and men and that their systems’ quality principles include the elimination of the obstacles to genuine equality between women and men and the promotion of full equality between them;
Amendment 196 #
2014/2015(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Is extremely concernedCondemns the fact that in more than half of the Member States the gender pension gap has increased; encourages Cyprus, Germany and the Netherlands to reduce the difference between male and female pensions, which is almost 50 %; calls on Malta, Spain, Belgium, Ireland, Greece, Italy and Austria to close the gender gap in pension coverage, as between 11 % and 36 % of women in those countries have no access to a pension;
Amendment 247 #
2014/2015(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Reiterates that the gender dimension of preventing and combating trafficking in human beings, which is now one of the most profitable activities of organised crime, must be consistently monitored in the implementation of EU anti-trafficking legislation, and repeats its call on the Commission to continue to monitor this in its assessment of Member States’ compliance with and implementation of the directive, while ensuring that the reporting obligations and timetable as outlined in the directive are met;