1 Amendments of Jim HIGGINS related to 2011/0273(COD)
Amendment 12 #
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) Cross-border cooperation should aim to tackle common challenges identified jointly in the border regions (such as poor accessibility, inappropriate business environment, lack of networks among local and regional administrations, research and innovation and take-up of information and communication technologies, environmental pollution, risk prevention, negative attitudes towards neighbouring country citizens) and exploit the untapped potentials in the border area (development of cross-border research and innovation facilities and clusters, cross-border labour market integration, cooperation among universities or health centres), while enhancing the cooperation process for the purpose of the overall harmonious development of the Union. The role of the EU, through the ERDF in contributing to lasting peace on the island of Ireland should not be underestimated. The ERDF has a key role to play in ensuring that the peace process in Ireland continues to function successfully, going forward. In the case of any cross-border programme between Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland in support of peace and reconciliation, the ERDF shall also contribute to promoting social and economic stability in the regions concerned, notably by actions to promote cohesion between communities.