Activities of Thijs BERMAN
Plenary speeches (82)
Parliament's new role and responsibilities in implementing the Lisbon Treaty - Institutional balance of the European Union - Relations between the European Parliament and national parliaments under the Treaty of Lisbon - Financial aspects of the Lisbon Treaty - Implementation of the citizens' initiative (debate)
Financing of actions other than Official Development Assistance in countries falling under Regulation (EC) 1905/2006 (A6-0036/2009, Thijs Berman) (vote)
Financing of actions other than Official Development Assistance in countries falling under Regulation (EC) 1905/2006 (debate)
Financing of actions other than Official Development Assistance in countries falling under Regulation (EC) 1905/2006 (debate)
Draft general budget 2009 (Section III) - Draft general budget 2009 (Sections I, II, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII and IX) (debate)
Preparation of the EU-India Summit (Marseille, 29/09/08) (debate)
Follow-up of the Monterrey Conference of 2002 on Financing for Development (short presentation)
Policy coherence for development and the effects of the EU's exploitation of certain biological natural resources on development in West Africa (debate)
Tragic situation in Burma (debate)
2009 budget: Parliament's estimates (debate)
Community Tobacco Fund (debate)
Human Rights in the World 2007 and the EU's policy on the matter - EU Election Observation Missions (debate)
2009 budget guidelines - (sections I, II, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII et IX) (debate)
Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment in Development Cooperation (debate)
Afghan journalist Perwiz Kambakhsh - The case of the Iranian citizen Seyed Mehdi Kazemi
Situation in Chad (debate)
Treaty of Lisbon (debate)
Situation in Kenya (debate)
Tenth Anniversary of the Mine Ban Treaty (Ottawa Convention) (debate)
EU-Africa relations (debate)
2008 draft general budget: Section III – 2008 draft general budget: Sections I, II, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII and IX (debate)
The humanitarian situation in Gaza
Consumer confidence in the digital environment (vote)
Via Baltica (debate)
Halting the loss of biodiversity by 2010 (debate)
Voluntary modulation of direct payments under the CAP (debate)
EU restrictions on liquids that passengers can carry on aircrafts (debate)
Circulation of compound feedingstuffs (debate)
Ombudsman's 2005 annual report (debate)
Explanations of vote
Seventh framework programme – Nuclear research and training activities (2007-2011) (debate)
Elections in Ukraine (debate)
Exceptional market support measures (avian sector) (debate)
Protection of chickens kept for meat production (debate)
Common organisation of the market in sugar – Support schemes for farmers (sugar) – Restructuring the sugar industry (continuation)
Bird flu - Veterinary expenditure (continuation)
Transport of animals
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Common rules and procedures for the implementation of the Union's instruments for external action - Instrument for stability - Financing instrument for the promotion of democracy and human rights worldwide - Partnership instrument for cooperation with third countries - Establishing a financing instrument for development cooperation - European neighbourhood instrument - Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (debate)
Common rules and procedures for the implementation of the Union's instruments for external action - Instrument for stability - Financing instrument for the promotion of democracy and human rights worldwide - Partnership instrument for cooperation with third countries - Establishing a financing instrument for development cooperation - European neighbourhood instrument - Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (debate)
Detention of Greenpeace activists in Russia (debate)
Detention of Greenpeace activists in Russia (debate)
Millennium development goals (debate)
Freedom of press and media in the world - Annual Report on human rights and democracy in the world 2012 and the European Union's policy on the matter - Promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief
Freedom of press and media in the world - Annual Report on human rights and democracy in the world 2012 and the European Union's policy on the matter - Promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief
Partnership and cooperation agreement with Afghanistan (debate)
2011 discharge
Future of EU development policy - 2015 - European Year for Development (debate)
A new strategy for Afghanistan (debate)
Discharge 2010 (debate)
Other business
Situation in Nigeria (debate)
EU-Morocco fisheries partnership agreement - Future protocol setting out the fishing opportunities and financial compensation provided for in the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Kingdom of Morocco (debate)
EU-Morocco fisheries partnership agreement - Future protocol setting out the fishing opportunities and financial compensation provided for in the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Kingdom of Morocco (debate)
Commission work programme for 2012 (debate)
Accountability report on financing for development (debate)
Question Time (Commission)
Question Time (Commission)
Famine in East Africa (debate)
A new Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for a competitive, sustainable and inclusive Europe (debate)
2009 discharge (debate)
EIB annual report for 2009 (debate)
Fourth United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries
Fourth United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries
Situation in Côte d’Ivoire
EU guarantee to the EIB against losses under loans and guarantees for projects outside the EU (debate)
EU guarantee to the EIB against losses under loans and guarantees for projects outside the EU (debate)
Financing instrument for development cooperation - Financing instrument for the promotion of democracy and human rights worldwide (amendment of Regulation (EC) No 1889/2006) - A financing instrument for development cooperation (amendment of Regulation (EC) No 1905/2006) - Establishment of a financing instrument for cooperation with industrialised countries (amendment of Regulation (EC) No 1934/2006) (debate)
A new strategy for Afghanistan (debate)
Instrument for Stability - Financing instrument for development cooperation - Financing instrument for the promotion of democracy and human rights worldwide - Financing instrument for cooperation with industrialised countries - Financing instrument for development cooperation (debate)
Development aspects of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty - Role of minimum income in combating poverty and promoting an inclusive society in Europe (debate)
Parliament's position on the 2011 draft budget as modified by the Council - all sections - Draft amending budget No 3/2010: Section III - Commission - BAM (Banana Accompanying Measures) (debate)
Failures in protection of human rights and justice in the Democratic Republic of Congo (debate)
Kenya: failure to arrest President Omar al-Bashir of Sudan
EU potato starch sector after 2012 (debate)
Humanitarian situation after the floods in Pakistan (debate)
European External Action Service (debate)
Mandate for the trilogue on the 2011 Draft Budget (debate)
European Investment Bank (EIB) - Annual Report 2008 (debate)
Mass atrocities in Jos, Nigeria, in January and March (debate)
Priorities for the 2011 budget – Section III – Commission - Budget guidelines: 2011 - other sections (debate)
Climate change and developing countries in the framework of the UN Conference on Climate Change in Copenhagen (debate)
Reports (4)
REPORT Report with recommendations to the Commission on financing of actions other than Official Development Assistance in countries falling under Regulation (EC) 1905/2006 PDF (256 KB) DOC (158 KB)
REPORT on the follow-up to the Monterrey Conference of 2002 on financing for Development PDF (192 KB) DOC (101 KB)
PDF (342 KB) DOC (226 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a financing instrument for development cooperation PDF (1 MB) DOC (885 KB)
Shadow reports (6)
REPORT on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget for the Eighth, Ninth and Tenth European Development Funds for the financial year 2012 PDF (262 KB) DOC (132 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the European Year of Development (2015) PDF (276 KB) DOC (425 KB)
REPORT concerning Special Report No 13/2011 of the Court of Auditors entitled 'Does the control of customs procedure 42 prevent and detect VAT evasion?' PDF (154 KB) DOC (89 KB)
REPORT on Special Report No 1/2012 (2011 discharge): 'Effectiveness of European Union development aid for food security in sub-Saharan Africa' PDF (155 KB) DOC (86 KB)
REPORT on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Eighth, Ninth and Tenth European Development Funds for the financial year 2009 PDF (250 KB) DOC (190 KB)
REPORT Report on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EC) No 1905/2006 establishing a financing instrument for development cooperation and Regulation (EC) No 1889/2006 on establishing a financing instrument for the promotion of democracy and human rights worldwide PDF (185 KB) DOC (228 KB)
Opinions (22)
OPINION development of the relations between the European Parliament and national Parliaments under the Treaty of Lisbon
OPINION Draft opinion on Mid-term Review of the 2007-2013 Financial Framework
OPINION Communication from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament and the Court of Auditors : final accounts for the financial year 2007 of the 7th, 8th and 9th European development funds
OPINION European Commission : Final annual accounts of the European Communities — Financial Year 2007
OPINION Annual Report on human rights in the world 2007 and the EU's policy on the matter
OPINION on the Treaty amending the Treaty on European Union and the Treaty establishing the European Community
OPINION Communication from the Commission: Halting the loss of biodiversity by 2010 — and beyond: Sustaining ecosystem services for human well–being
OPINION on the proposal for a European Parliament and Council decision concerning the seventh framework programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities (2007 to 2013)
OPINION on the European Investment Bank (EIB) – Annual Report 2012
OPINION on discharge in respect of the implementation of the European Union general budget for the financial year 2011, Section III - Commission
OPINION on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Eighth, Ninth and Tenth European Development Funds for the financial year 2011
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing common rules and procedures for the implementation of the Union's instruments for external action
OPINION on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Eighth, Ninth and Tenth European Development Funds for the financial year 2010
OPINION on discharge in respect of the implementation of the European Union general budget for the financial year 2010, Section III - Commission
OPINION on discharge in respect of the implementation of the European Union general budget for the financial year 2009, Section III - Commission
OPINION on discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the Eighth, Ninth and Tenth European Development Funds for the financial year 2009
OPINION on policy challenges and budgetary resources for a sustainable European Union after 2013
OPINION on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council granting an EU guarantee to the European Investment Bank against losses under loans and guarantees for projects outside the European Union
OPINION Parliament's position on the 2011 Draft Budget as modified by the Council - all sections
OPINION Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 on the Financial Regulation applicable to the general budget of the European Communities as regards the European External Action Service
OPINION on the mandate for the trialogue on the 2011 draft budget
OPINION on priorities for Budget 2011 – Section III – Commission
Shadow opinions (18)
OPINION on the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Council Directives 78/660/EEC and 83/349/EEC as regards disclosure of non-financial and diversity information by certain large companies and groups
OPINION on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on granting an EU guarantee to the European Investment Bank against losses under financing operations supporting investment projects outside the Union
OPINION on the external dimension of the Common Fisheries Policy
OPINION on the proposal for a Council decision on the conclusion of a new Protocol setting out the fishing opportunities and the financial contribution provided for by the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Mozambique
OPINION on the proposal for a Council decision on the conclusion of a Voluntary Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Central African Republic on forest law enforcement, governance and trade in timber and derived products to the European Union (FLEGT)
OPINION on the European Investment Bank (EIB) – Annual Report 2010
OPINION on EU and China: Unbalanced Trade?
OPINION on budgetary control of EU humanitarian aid managed by ECHO
OPINION on budgetary control of EU financial assistance to Afghanistan
OPINION on Parliament's position on the 2012 Draft Budget as modified by the Council- All sections
OPINION Towards a stronger European disaster response: the role of civil protection and humanitarian assistance
OPINION on the mandate for the trilogue on the 2012 draft budget
OPINION on the proposal for a Council decision on the conclusion of a new Protocol setting out the fishing opportunities and financial contribution provided for in the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Community and the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe
OPINION on the proposal for a Council decision on the conclusion of the Protocol to the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Community and Federated States of Micronesia
OPINION on the proposal for a Council decision on the conclusion of the Protocol setting out the fishing opportunities and financial contribution provided for in the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Community and the Union of the Comoros
OPINION on the ECA special reports in the context of the 2009 Commission discharge
OPINION Proposal for a Council decision on the application of certain guidelines in the field of officially supported export credits
OPINION Human rights, social and environmental standards in International Trade agreements
Written declarations (3)
Amendments (275)
Amendment 20 #
2013/2090(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Recognises and fully supports the good offices of the EU Special Representative for Sudan and South Sudan and other EU partners; calls on all EU institutions and Member States to maintain a constructive dialogue with the Republic of the Sudan and also to contribute to developing a positive outlook for the future of the people of Sudana genuine process of comprehensive national dialogue for the future of the people of Sudan; considers any sort of economic cooperation and rapprochement with the government of Sudan under the current circumstances of grave human rights violations, repression and war by the regime against its own civilians inappropriate;
Amendment 25 #
2013/2090(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Calls on key international partners, especially EU Members States, the Commission and the EEAS, to maintain their commitment to development and state-building and to human security for all South-Sudanese people; underlines the need to link peacebuilding, including the element of dealing with the past, to state building efforts to ensure sustainable state building; supports the engagement of the EU as a key partner in the context of the New Deal through a Peace- and State Building Compact;
Amendment 28 #
2013/2090(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Supports the focus of EU aid for South Sudan on agriculture, democratic governance and the rule of law, education, and health; notes that even though laws and regulations are in place, implementation is lagging behind; welcomes the Commission's efforts to provide support for capacity- building of the South Sudanese legal system, in particular, to provide technical assistance to the judiciary and the Supreme Court; welcomes EU support to the National Legislative Assembly of South Sudan;
Amendment 40 #
2013/2090(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Underlines the importance of replacing the Transitional Constitution by a permanent constitution based on popular consultation and support; is concerned by the lack of political will from the government of South Sudan, strongly reminds the government of its obligations under presidential decree to hold a constitutional review process and calls on the government to do so before the elections of 2015; calls on the EU and its Member States to accompany and support a locally owned and driven constitution- making process, which must involve all groups of society, including women and those living in peripheral regions;
Amendment 36 #
2013/0152(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 18
Recital 18
(18) While the EIB's strength remains its distinctiveness as an investment bank, EIB financing operations should contribute to the general principles guiding Union external action, as referred to in Article 21 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU), of promoting and consolidating democracy and the rule of law, human rights and fundamental freedoms, and to the implementation of international environmental agreements to which the Union is a party. In particular, iFurthermore, EIB actions should be in accordance with Article 3(5) of the EU Treaty, which, as confirmed by the ECJ on 21 December 2011 in its ATAA judgement, requires the Union to contribute to the strict observance of international law, and in particular the principles of the UN Charter. In relation to developing countries, EIB financing operations should foster their sustainable economic, social and environmental development, particularly in the most disadvantaged amongst them, their smooth and gradual integration into the world economy, the campaign against poverty, as well as compliance with objectives approved by the Union in the context of the United Nations and other competent international organisations. While contributing to the implementation of the measures necessary to further the objectives of Union development cooperation policy in accordance with Article 209(3) of the Treaty, the EIB should strive to support indirectly the achievement of the UN's 2015 Millennium Development Goals in all regions where it is active.
Amendment 42 #
2013/0152(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 22 a (new)
Recital 22 a (new)
(22 a) The EIB should expand its provision of technical assistance to SME's, with the aim of supporting innovative ideas and helping startups to attract funding from financial intermediaries.
Amendment 44 #
2013/0152(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 24 a (new)
Recital 24 a (new)
(24 a) The annual EIB report should in particular assess the compliance of EIB financing operations with this Decision, taking into account the regional technical operational guidelines. The report should also assess the extent to which the EIB has taken into account economic, financial, environmental and social sustainability in the design and monitoring of the projects financed. It should also contain a specific section devoted to a detailed evaluation of the measures taken by the EIB to comply with the current mandate, paying particular attention to the EIB financing operations using financial vehicles situated in non- cooperative jurisdictions. In its financing operations the EIB should adequately implement its policies towards weakly regulated or non-cooperative jurisdictions to contribute to the international fight against fraud and tax evasion. The report should also include an appraisal of social and development-related aspects of projects. It should be made public, thus allowing civil society and recipient countries to express their views.
Amendment 46 #
2013/0152(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 25
Recital 25
(25) The EIB financing operations in support of Union external policies should continue to be conducted in accordance with the principles of sound banking practice. They should continue to be managed in accordance with the EIB's own rules and procedures, including appropriate control measures and compliance with the EIB's statement on social and environmental standards, as well as with the relevant rules and procedures concerning the Court of Auditors and the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF). In its financing operations the EIB should adequately implement its policies towardsvoid any kind of direct or indirect cooperation with weakly regulated or non-cooperative jurisdictions in order to contribute to the international fight against tax fraud, tax evasion and money-laundering and should follow the European Commission's most recent criteria to identify jurisdictions which do not meet minimum standards of good governance.
Amendment 73 #
2013/0152(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 12 – paragraph 1
Article 12 – paragraph 1
In its financing operations, the EIB shall not tolerate any activities carried out for illegal purposes, including money laundering, financing of terrorism, tax fraud and tax evasion, corruption, and fraud affecting the financial interests of the EU. In particular the EIB shall not participate in any financing operation implemented in an eligible country through a foreign non-cooperative jurisdiction identified as such using the European Commission's criteria on identifying non- cooperative jurisdictions, as well as by the OECD, the Financial Action Task Force or other relevant international organisations.
Amendment 17 #
2013/0110(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 1 – point a
Article 1 – point 1 – point a
Directive 78/660/EEC
Article 46 – paragraph 1 – point b – subparagraph 2
Article 46 – paragraph 1 – point b – subparagraph 2
Where a company does not pursue policies in relation to one or more of these matters, it shall provide an reasoned explanation based on an assessment of risk for not doing so.
Amendment 28 #
2013/0110(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 3
Article 1 – point 3
Directive 78/660/EEC
Article 53a – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 53a – paragraph 1 a (new)
Amendment 31 #
2013/0110(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 2 – point 1 – point a
Article 2 – point 1 – point a
Directive 83/349/EEC
Article 36 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 4
Article 36 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 4
Where the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a whole do not pursue policies in relation to one or more of these matters, the company shall provide an reasoned explanation based on an assessment of risks for not doing so.
Amendment 35 #
2013/0110(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 2 – point 1 – point b
Article 2 – point 1 – point b
Enforcement Member States shall ensure that effective and adequate mechanisms are in place in order to ensure correct disclosure of non- financial information by companies, in accordance with the provisions of this Directive. Member States shall ensure that effective national procedures are in place to enforce compliance with the obligations of this Directive and that these procedures are available for all persons and legal entities having a legitimate interest, in accordance with national law, in ensuring that the provisions of this Directive are respected.
Amendment 120 #
2012/2289(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Stresses that the post-2015 sustainable development framework requires respect for the principle of democratic governance, effective, transparent and accountable institutions at all levels and a truly functioning and empowered civil society; insists that the framework must be driven by the key notions of participatory democracy and effective citizenship through the full and increased exercise of civic and political rights;
Amendment 4 #
2012/2222(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 12 a (new)
Citation 12 a (new)
- having regard to Article 32 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, ratified by the European Union on 23 December 2010,
Amendment 5 #
2012/2222(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 12 b (new)
Citation 12 b (new)
- having regard to the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly resolution on the inclusion of persons with disabilities in developing countries (ACP- EU/100.954/11),
Amendment 15 #
2012/2222(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Considers that, in order to meet that objective, it is essential to include the most vulnerable groups in society, such as, but not limited to, women, children, and persons with disabilities, in all projects aimed at poverty eradication, both in the programming and implementation and evaluation phases;
Amendment 40 #
2012/2222(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Calls without delay for the implementation of the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly resolution on the inclusion of persons with disabilities in developing countries, especially its articles 19, 20, 21 and 22, in order to ensure an 11th EDF that is inclusive and accessible to all;
Amendment 1 #
2012/2167(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Looks forward to seeing the first results of the Commission's new methodology for calculating the residual error rate, to be applied for the first time across the external relations directorates in the financial year 2012;
Amendment 2 #
2012/2167(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3 b. Joins the Court of Auditors in its strong concerns about the inadequacy of staff resources for aid management, in particular in EuropeAid's Internal Audit Unit and delegations, and the potential detrimental effects of the high turnover rate of contractual staff in headquarters and the Commission reorganisation of mid-2011 on aid management; appeals to Council, as the other arm of the budgetary authority, to take its responsibility in ensuring that aid can continue to be managed in accordance with the highest standards in future years;
Amendment 3 #
2012/2167(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Underlines that the envisaged reinforcement of EuropeAid staffing in the Neighbourhood region should not be achieved by a reduction and transfer to the Neighbourhood of staff managing EU aid to Least Developed Countries and other Low Income Countries in other regions; is rather of the opinion that if additional needs arise, these must be met with additional staff;
Amendment 1 #
2012/2166(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Is concerned at the persisting weaknesses in terms of efficiency (with 40.3% of reviewed interventions facing problems), effectiveness (43%) and sustainability (46%) of ongoing projects and programmes in Subsaharan Africa1 revealed by on-site assessments by independent experts; notes that similar performance concerns affected implementation in the Caribbean, where the overall percentage of projects performing well or very well had decreased from 74.6 % in 2009, to 72.9 % in 2010 and 61.5 % in 20112, as well as the Pacific region, where a significant share of the programs faced implementation difficulties3; __________________ 1 Commission Staff Working Document "Annual Report 2012 on the European Union's Development and external assistance policies and their implementation in 2011". Brussels, 6.8.2012. SWD(2012)242 final, p. 67. 2 Idem, p. 90 3 Idem, p. 113.
Amendment 2 #
2012/2166(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Notes that the Court of Auditors found most National Authorising Officers (NAOs) in EDF beneficiary countries to perform below the required standards of financial management; urges the Commission to intensify its technical assistance and training efforts to improve the monitoring and supervision capacities of NAOs;
Amendment 3 #
2012/2166(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Welcomes the introduction of the Financial Management Toolkit to improve contractors' and beneficiaries' knowledge of the EU's financial management and eligibility rules; urges the Commission to improve further the management of contract awarding procedures by clarifying the selection criteria and better documenting the evaluation process, and to enhance the quality of grant contract supervision, with a view to reducing the high number of errors found in project payments;
Amendment 4 #
2012/2166(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Welcomes the Commission's commitment to align the Parliament's scrutiny rights over the EDF to those it has over the EU general budget, in particular the Development Cooperation Instrument; urges the Commission to bring forward without delay concrete proposals to this effect and to initiate a dialogue to establish the precise modalities for Parliament's future scrutiny over strategic decision-making regarding the EDF;
Amendment 10 #
2012/2059(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Agrees with the Court that a longer implementation period for the Food Facility (2008-2010) would have been more appropriate given its objectives and the existing financing gap between the end of its programming period and the next EDF programming period (from 2014); stresses the importance of ensuring the continuity of aid given the continuous volatility and high level of commodity prices; stresses the need to seek, in close coordination with WFP, FAO and IFAD, complementarity and synergy between the EU food security programmes and programmes of those and other international donors;
Amendment 109 #
2012/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 b (new)
Paragraph 14 b (new)
14b. Expresses its hope that development cooperation will be a more prominent topic during the course of 2015, a key year in which deep reflection will be required, particularly with regard to following up on the MDGs; would like to see the Commission name 2015 the ‘European Year for Development’;
Amendment 2 #
2011/2212(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 (new)
Paragraph 5 (new)
5. Urges the Commission once again to help partner countries develop parliamentary control and audit capacities and increase transparency and public access to information, in particular when aid is provided via budget support, in line with the provisions of Article 25(1)(b) of the Development Cooperation Instrument (DCI) Regulation1and; invites the Commission to report regularly on progress achieved; _____________ 1 Regulation (EC) No 1905/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 December 2006 establishing a financing instrument for development cooperation (OJ L 378, 27.12.2006, p. 41.).
Amendment 3 #
2011/2212(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 (new)
Paragraph 6 (new)
6. Welcomes the Commission's swift and appropriate mobilisation of funding in reaction to the earthquake which struck Haiti on 12 January 2010 and the cholera epidemic which broke out in October 2011, with a total of EUR 122 000 000 allocated for the provision of humanitarian aid by the end of 2010;
Amendment 4 #
2011/2212(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 (new)
Paragraph 7 (new)
7. Regrets that DG ECHO's current system of checks and balances does not allow the Commission to uphold the same high accountability and control standards for the jointly managed operations with international organisations, which accounted for 46,4 % of contracts signed in 2010, as for operations under direct centralised management; urges the Commission to continue working with the UN organisations concerned to address the remaining issues, such as difficult access to internal audit reports and insufficient reporting on results, to allow the discharge authority to have sufficient information on the financial management of Union aid channelled through international organisations;
Amendment 5 #
2011/2212(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 (new)
Paragraph 8 (new)
8. Takes note of the revised ACP-EU Partnership Agreement (Cotonou Agreement), which has been provisionally applied since 1 November 2010; encourages the Commission to urgently launch an inclusive debate on the priorities, architecture and modalities of ACP-EU cooperation post 2020; recalls that Parliament has for many years been in favour of integrating the EDF into the Union budget, as a way to simplify procedures, to allow for better coordination of Union aid instruments and to increase parliamentary scrutiny, resulting in more coherent, efficient and accountable development spending in ACP countries; welcomes the Commission's commitment1 to propose EDF budgetisation for 2020, when the Cotonou Agreement expires; expects the Commission to honour this commitment and to take all necessary measures to start preparing for EDF budgetisation; ______________ 1 A budget for Europe 2020, COM(2011)0500, 29.6.2011, p. 20.
Amendment 7 #
2011/2212(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10 (new)
Paragraph 10 (new)
10. Reiterates its concern that Parliament does not have the right to scrutinise EDF operations in the same way as it does for other aid instruments such as the DCI; urges the Commission to bring forward concrete proposals to improve Parliament's democratic scrutiny over the EDF by bringing it into line with the DCI;
Amendment 1 #
2011/2201(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Encourages the Commission to further improve the effectiveness of Union aid to the basic education sector in Sub- Saharan Africa and South Asia1, in particular by establishing realistic indicators and targets to monitor results effectively, by ensuring that Delegations assign staff with sufficient expertise and seniority to maintain sector policy dialogue with partner governments and other donors, and by focusing more on the quality of education and the capacity of beneficiary governments to cope with increases in school enrolment;
Amendment 2 #
2011/2201(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Amendment 3 #
2011/2201(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
5c. Reiterates its call for greater involvement of parliaments and consultation of civil society and local authorities in partner countries when drawing up and reviewing Development Cooperation Instrument (DCI) Country Strategy Papers and Multiannual Indicative Programmes;
Amendment 1 #
2011/2198(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Urges the EEAS to appoint a special envoy for the protection of women in conflict zones, with the task to see to it that all efforts of the EU’s external action are coherent with this essential objective of respecting the rights of women; insists that this special envoy should additionally address gender identity and non- discrimination;
Amendment 14 #
2011/2198(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Asks the EEAS to pay a particular attention to the growing number of corrective rapes on LGBT women taking place in pre-conflict, conflict and post- conflict situations;
Amendment 21 #
2011/2198(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Suggests the appointment of a Standing Rapporteur in the European Parliament on gender equality and women’s rights in the EU’s external relations; also responsible for gender identity and non-discrimination issues;
Amendment 1 #
2011/2186(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Whereas EIB's activity outside the EU has developed primarily in middle income countries, with limited staff resources particularly for upstream work and for project monitoring, as well as limited local presence compared to the level and complexity of financing activities outside the EU;
Amendment 2 #
2011/2186(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1b. Notes that in 2010, the EIB lent EUR 5 bn of the total 72 bn EIB lending to developing countries (1.2 bn to Asia and Latin America (ALA), EUR1 bn to ACP (973m) and South Africa (50m), EUR 2.55 bn to the Mediterranean countries and EUR 328 mn to Central Asian countries) of which only EUR 467 mn for projects directly aiming at achieving the MDGs;
Amendment 4 #
2011/2186(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. CRecalls that a narrow focus on GDP-led growth does not automatically deliver inclusive and sustainable development and reduce inequality; in this context, calls on the EIB to link its financing projects more directly to poverty reduction and the achievement of the MDGs, human rights, corporate social responsibility, decent work and environmental principles and good governance, through the implementation of Decision No° 1080/2011/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council; accordingly, takes the view that adequate concessional finance and staff resource is necessary for enabling EIB to support more effectively EU development cooperation objectives;
Amendment 5 #
2011/2186(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Calls on the EIB to actively support projects aimed at financial inclusion, i.e. facilitating equal access to financial services such as loans and savings and insurance schemes, for instance through supporting microfinance institutions;
Amendment 6 #
2011/2186(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Welcomes EIB's commitments and policy developed regarding non- cooperative jurisdictions; however, expresses its concern about the lack of transparency regarding the way "global loans" are allocated and monitored in terms of tax governance; recalls that the EIB should ensure that recipients of its loans do not avail themselves of tax havens or use other harmful tax practises such as abusive transfer pricing which may lead to tax evasion or avoidance; in this context, calls on the EIB to request that financial intermediaries make public any use of the global loans they receive, including a report of their activities in any individual country in which they operate;
Amendment 7 #
2011/2186(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Regrets that the EIB is not prioritising investment in local companies in ACP countries; Deems that monitoring of global loans or loans for SMEs should be improved, to ensure that financial intermediaries properly implement properly the EIB's requirements, and to ensure accountability, transparency and environmental sustainability in the use of funds granted to local SMEs; takes the view that the definition of SMEs used in each external region should be clarified, taking into account of the structure of the local economies;
Amendment 8 #
2011/2186(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Welcomes the initiative of concluding a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation between the European Parliament and the EIB; in this context, stresses upon the need to involve closely the EP in the process of discussion on the setting-up of an "EU Platform for External Cooperation and Development" and to guarantee transparency in the process;
Amendment 2 #
2011/2073(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Recalls the opinion of the European Court of Auditors (ECA) in its annual reports according to which the overall ex- ante controls, monitoring and supervision systems, ex-post audit activity, the internal audit functions of DG ECHO are assessed as generally effective; stresses, meanwhilehowever, that in all these aspects there is room for improvement;
Amendment 3 #
2011/2073(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Welcomes the enhanced flexibility and efficiency facilitated by the FPA 2008 as compared to the FPA 2005, such as a more result-oriented approach, the introduction of the A- and P-control mechanisms, simplification and less ambiguity through developing guidelines; calls on the Commission to continue refining the measures which improve the efficiency of cooperation with the FPA partners through the upcoming FPA in 2012; stresses that improving the efficiency of cooperation and reducing the excessive administrative burden, meanwhile, shall should ensure a high level of accountability and transparency;
Amendment 7 #
2011/2073(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Believes that thanks to the audit and monitoring mechanisms in place there is higher accountability in terms of evaluating the efficiency and effectiveness of the FPA partners than in the case of the UN partners; however points out that an international organisation such as the UN cannot be compared to FPA partners;
Amendment 9 #
2011/2073(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Recalls that as a result of the ongoing revision of the Financial Regulation (FR), suggests theat EU funds channelled through the UN and IOs are to be managed in accordance with the provisions of indirect management;
Amendment 10 #
2011/2073(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Stresses that the control requirements for indirect management of the EU funds must be streamlined withas rigorous as those for shared management; insisexpects that the same level of accountability be established for the indirect management of EU funds by ECHO partners, notably in terms of providing the Commission with the documents mention to parallel that indicated in Article 57(5) of the Commission proposal for the FR; stresses thatand calls for access to the audit reports of ECHO partners is essential in verifying sound financial management of actions financed from the EU budget;
Amendment 12 #
2011/2073(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. DeploRegrets the excessively general character of UN reports, with insufficient information on results; points out that because of the single audit principle of the UN and the fact that the scope of the Commission's control is limited to verifications and monitoring, the UN reports are, however, an essential source of information for ensuring accountability and transparency;
Amendment 14 #
2011/2073(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Calls on the Commission to ensure that UN reports contain sufficient information concerning the results, i.e. the output and outcome, of projects within the reporting time scale; stresses that measurable output and impact indicators must be an integral part of the reporting criteria; deplores the fact that over 70 % of ECHO's replies to the ECA's questionnaires for its Special Report 15/2009 reveal that UN reports were late and asks the Commission to indicate the latest situation in this regard;
Amendment 23 #
2011/2073(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Recalls the ECA opinion expressed in its Special Report 15/2009 according to which the strategic and legal requirements to select partner in an objective and transparent way are insufficiently translated into practical criteria to support decision making in the case of UN partners; insists that the choice of a UN partner to implement humanitarian action must demonstrate that this approach is more efficient and effective than other ways of delivering aid; calls on the Commission to systematically carry out and document formal appraisals of, and comparisons with, alternative aid delivery mechanismbetween aid delivery mechanisms of the UN and other partners;
Amendment 25 #
2011/2073(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35
Paragraph 35
35. AcknowledgWelcomes that DG ECHO promotes disaster risk reduction (DRR) through the DIPECHO programme and as an integral part of humanitarian actions;
Amendment 30 #
2011/2073(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 47 a (new)
Paragraph 47 a (new)
47a. Points out that the Committee on Budgetary Control will undertake a delegation to Haiti in light of the problems reported in connection with the aid allocated to Haiti;
Amendment 43 #
2011/2056(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Asks the EIB and the Commission to consider more rigorously whether projects contribute to poverty eradication, sustainable development and inclusive growth whenbefore deciding on supporting the extractive industries sector in developing countries; calls for a moratorium on EU public financing for mining projects until the adoption of regulations against tax evasion, and in favour of transparency, due diligence and the respect of social and environmental standards;
Amendment 185 #
2011/2032(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. Underlines the need to build strong coalitions with other actors on the world stage such as the African Union and the Arab League in order to promote democratic values more effectively; urges the Union to actively pursue these coalitions, in particular with the United States of America, in the realm of the common efforts of the EU and the USA to better coordinate their development policies;
Amendment 5 #
2011/2019(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Questions the Commission's performance assessment of the Development Cooperation Instrument and firmly opposes any cut in DCI funding;
Amendment 10 #
2011/2019(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Considers that the emerging economies - India, China and Brazil - should no longer be reliant on official development assistance, given that poverty in those countries can be combated with own resources generated by high-growth economieUrges the European Commission to gradually fade out development aid in form of subsidies to emerging economies in a differentiated approach adapted to each of them, by various methods such as cofinancing and blending of loans and grants;
Amendment 17 #
2011/2019(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Rejects any attempt to merge the development cooperation and humanitarian aid budgets; considers that humanitarian aid and civil protection in non-EU countries are underfunded, especially in view of the growing number of humanitarian crises and natural disasters; takes the view that the ratio between the budget for humanitarian aid and the budget for development assistance should be about 10%;
Amendment 22 #
2011/2019(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Stresses the importance of zinc for the treatment and prevention of diarrhoea and malnutrition in order to improve the survival, growth and brain development of young children; urges the EU and the Member States to allocate the necessary funds to provide zinc supplementation in developing countries which could save the lives of 450,000 children under the age of five every year;
Amendment 2 #
2011/2014(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 – point a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point a (new)
(a) Emphasises that the effectiveness of aid to Afghanistan can only be improved if there is a radical change of approach to the problem of corruption, which has blighted the country since 2001, from the highest to the lowest level of the administration; emphasises that the corruption at the top, which was implicitly accepted in the years immediately after 2001, is now in the eyes of the Afghan people almost irreversibly undermining the authority of the institutions established by the Afghan constitution; stresses, therefore, the urgent and absolute need to break with this acceptance of corruption and to take steps to ensure that the Afghan judicial system and the Afghan Court of Auditors can vigorously address this major problem and rely on the European Union as a strong, credible and firm ally that will take the lead in combating this challenge that is crucial to the future of the country;
Amendment 232 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6 a (new)
Recital 6 a (new)
(6 a) In order to ensure the visibility of the Union's assistance towards the citizens of the partner countries and those of the Union, there should be proper and targeted communication and information via (inter)national, regional and local media, or by other adequate means, whenever relevant. Minimal and appropriate requirements in this regard should be defined by the Commission in close cooperation with beneficiaries, and compliance with those requirements should be monitored.
Amendment 236 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) The Union and the Member States should improve the consistency and the complementarity of their respective policies on development cooperation, in particular by responding to partner countries' and regions' priorities at country and regional level. To ensure that the Union's development cooperation policy and that of the Member States complement and reinforce each other, it isand to ensure cost-effective aid delivery while avoiding overlap as well as gaps, it is both urgent and appropriate to provide for joint programming procedures which should be implemented whenever possible and relevant.
Amendment 240 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) The Union should promotesee it as one of its highest priorities to operate with a comprehensive approach in response to crisis and disaster and to conflict-affected and fragile situations, including those of transition. This should in particular build on the Council conclusions on Security and Development on an EU response to situations of fragility on conflict prevention as well as any relevant subsequent conclusion and post-crisis. In those highly unstable situations where needs are most urgent and poverty is most difficult to eradicate, the Union should contribute to strengthening the resilience of vulnerable groups in response to shocks. This should be done by provideing the necessaryappropriate mix of approaches, responses and instruments in particular by ensuring an appropriate balance betweenthat the security- oriented, development and humanitarian approaches, and by linking short-term reaction with the long term supporthumanitarian and development approaches are balanced, consistent and effectively coordinated, in line with the efforts of the Union with regard to strategies concerning the link between relief, rehabilitation and development (LRRD).
Amendment 244 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) In the context of the overarching objective of the Union's development cooperation to contribute to poverty eradication, Union assistance should focus where it has more impact, having regard to its capacity to act on a global scale and respond to global challenges such as poverty eradication,. In particular, the Union's added value results from its capacity and its own experience in supporting sustainable and inclusive development and worldwide, promotion ofng democracy, good governance, human rights and the rule of law worldwide, its long-term and predictable commitment to development assistance and its role in promoting the coordinationg with its Member States, as enshrined in Article 210 TFEU. To ensure such impact, the principle of differentiation should be applied not only at the level of funds allocation, but also at the level of programming, to ensure that bilateralthe Union's development cooperation targets partner countries most in need, including fragile states and states with high vulnerability, and with limited capacity to have access to other sources of financing for supporting their own development, having regard to the potential impact of the Union assistance in partner countries. As a consequence, bilateralcountry-specific programming would target such countries, pursuant to the application of objective criteria based on the needs and capacities of these countries, as well as the impact of EU assistance. the assistance of the Union and its Member States. For countries no longer eligible for country-specific geographical programmes, it should be possible, in duly justified exceptional cases, to phase out assistance through a gradual approach and paying special attention to the needs of particularly vulnerable population groups. The Union should establish a strong political dialogue with these partner countries on its possible contribution to the establishment of national policies aiming at poverty reduction.
Amendment 250 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) Fighting climate change and protecting the environment are among the great challenges which face the Union and where the need for international action is urgent. In accordance with the intent stated in Commission Communication ‘A budget for Europe 2020’ of 29 June 2011, tThis Regulation should therefore contribute to the objective of addressing at least 20% of the EU budget to low carbon and climate resilient society, and the global public goods and challenges programme should use at least 25% of its funds to cover climate change and environenvironment and climate change aspects of development. Actions in these two areas should, wherever possible, be mutually supportive in order to reinforce their impacts. The Union and its Member States have committed to providing financing for climate change adaptation and mitigation in developing countries additional to their commitments of 0.7% of gross national income (GNI) to official development assistance (ODA), as provided for in Article 4.3 of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Financing for climate change under this Regulation should not undermine or jeopardise the fight against poverty and continued progress towards the MDGs. Funding with the specific objective of mitigating and adapting to climate change should therefore be subject to separate tracking and reporting and the Union should exclude these funds from its contribution to the target of 0.7% of GNI to ODA.
Amendment 265 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 d (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 d (new)
1d. In duly justified exceptional cases, existing country-specific geographic cooperation with non-eligible partner countries may be phased out in close coordination with other donors; ending this type of cooperation will, wherever appropriate, be accompanied by a policy dialogue with the country concerned focusing on the needs of the poorest and most vulnerable groups.
Amendment 279 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point c
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point c
(c) commitments and performance, based on criteria and indicators, including political, economic and social progress, progress in good governance and human rights and the effective use of aid, in particular the way a country uses scarce resources for development, beginning with its own resources.
Amendment 286 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 3
Article 3 – paragraph 3
3. The following cross-cutting issues shall be mainstreamed in all programmes: the promotion of human rights, gender equality, women empowerment of women, non- discrimination, democracy, good governance, peace and the prevention of violent conflict, the rights of the child and, indigenous peoples' rights, social inclusion and decent work, the rights of persons with disabilities, environmental sustainability including addressing climate change and combating HIV/AIDS.
Amendment 296 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 7 a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 7 a (new)
7 a. Relations between the Union and its Member States on the one hand and partner countries on the other hand are based on and will promote the shared values of human rights, democracy and rule of law as well as the principles of ownership and of mutual accountability. Furthermore, relations with partner countries shall take into account their commitment and track record in implementing international agreements and contractual relations with the Union.
Amendment 298 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 8 – introductory part
Article 3 – paragraph 8 – introductory part
8. The Union shall promote effective cooperation with partner countries and regions in line with international best practice. It shall increasingly align its support with partners' national or regional development strategies, reform policies and procedures, wherever possible. It shall contribute to strengthening the process of mutual accountability between partner governments and institutions and donors and promote local expertise and local employment and to deepening the democratic ownership of development policies and processes. To that end, it shall promote:
Amendment 300 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 8 – point a
Article 3 – paragraph 8 – point a
(a) a development process that is partner country or region led and owned, transparent, and respects the roles of national and regional parliaments, local authorities and other relevant public institutions, as well as civil society, in ensuring participation, oversight and accountability;
Amendment 309 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 5 – paragraph 2 – point b
(b) bilaterally withof a country-specific nature, with partner countries set out in Annex III, and - in duly justified exceptional cases, where appropriate, for a transitional period which shall not, in principle, exceed four years - with other partner countries set out in Annex III.
Amendment 316 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1
Article 7 – paragraph 1
1. The objective of Union assistance under the programme ‘'Global public goods and challenges’' shall be to support actions in areas such as thefrom among the following subthemes: environment and climate change, sustainable energy, human development, food security,and nutrition security, sustainable agriculture and migration and asylum.
Amendment 328 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 4
Article 10 – paragraph 4
4. Funds may be left unallocated. Subject to their subsequent allocation or re- allocation as provided forIn order to ensure an appropriate Union response in the event of unforeseen circumstances, as well as to allow for the synchronisation with partner countries strategy cycles and the modification of indicative allocations as a result of reviews, funds may be left unallocated. In crisis, post-crisis and fragility situations, these funds shall be primarily used in support of a specific strategy to ensure a smooth transition from emergency aid to long-term development. At the level of the instrument, the part of funds left unallocated shall not exceed 5%. In addition, at the level of each programme, the part of funds left unallocated shall not exceed 5%, except for the purpose of synchronisation and for countries referred to in Articles 11(5) and 13, the use of these funds shall be decided later in accordance with the Common Implementing Regulation. 2(1). The subsequent allocation and reallocation shall be decided later in accordance with Article 11(5), Article 13, and Article 14(1).
Amendment 340 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 5
Article 11 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 5
Amendment 348 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 a (new)
Article 13 a (new)
Article 13 a Programming documents for the Pan- African Programme 1. The Union documents referred to in this Article shall be considered strategic programming documents within the meaning of Article 2 of the Common Implementing Regulation and shall be adopted by means of a delegated act in accordance with Article 17 and 18. 2. The preparation, implementation and review of the programming documents under this Article shall comply with the principles of aid effectiveness: democratic ownership, partnership, coordination, harmonisation, transparency, mutual accountability and results orientation as laid down in Article 3(5) to (8). Programming shall be based on the dialogue undertaken in the context of the Joint Africa-EU Strategy and its working arrangements, involving all relevant stakeholders, including the Pan-African Parliament and the European Parliament. The multiannual indicative programme for the Pan-African programme, taking into account the Joint Africa-EU Strategy, shall set out the priorities jointly selected for financing by the Union, the specific objectives, the expected results, the performance indicators, the activities of the main partners. Where applicable, resources and intervention priorities shall be laid down for participation in global initiatives. Multiannual indicative programmes shall be coherent with geographic and thematic programmes under this Regulation and consistent with the documents referred to in Article 11(3), and shall be drawn up in accordance with a human rights-based approach. 3. The multiannual indicative programme shall give the indicative financial allocation, both overall and by priority area. Where appropriate, that allocation may be given in the form of a range. The multiannual indicative programme shall be reviewed at mid-term, and ad-hoc where necessary to respond to unforeseen challenges or implementation problems, and to take into account any review of the Joint Africa-EU strategy. The multiannual indicative programme shall include a chapter on aid effectiveness, describing the steps undertaken to enhance donor coordination, in particular between the Union and Member States.
Amendment 350 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 16 – paragraph 1
Article 16 – paragraph 1
Without prejudice to the provisions on suspension of aid in partnership and cooperation agreements with partner countries and regions, where a partner country fails to observe the principles referred to in Article 3(1), the Union shall invite the partner country to hold consultations in view of finding a solution acceptable to both parties, except in cases of special urgency. Where consultations with the partner country do not lead to a solution acceptable to both parties, or if consultations are refused or in cases of special urgency, the Council may take appropriate measures in accordance with Article 215(1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, which may include full or partial suspension of Union assistance. In case assistance to the partner country government is suspended, the Union will, to the extent possible, support civil society organisations with regard to measures aimed at supporting populations directly, in line with Article 2, and promoting human rights, democracy and the rule of law. Before adopting appropriate measures, the Union may conduct any consultations with the partner country or territory concerned.
Amendment 353 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 20 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 b (new)
Article 20 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 b (new)
Funding derived from this Instrument to the financing of actions covered by the "Erasmus for All" Regulation shall be used for actions in the partner countries covered by this Regulation. The provisions of the "Erasmus for All" Regulation shall apply to the use of those funds, while ensuring conformity with this Regulation. The Commission shall ensure that, for mobility actions: - nationals of developing countries study or carry out research in areas that are relevant to the problems of developing countries - researchers from Union universities carry out research or teaching in areas that are relevant to the problems of developing countries, - mechanisms are put in place which ensure that the selection criteria are based on merit and prioritise the assignation of scholarships to socio-economically disadvantaged groups and populations in vulnerable situations, - mechanisms are put in place to encourage nationals of developing countries to return to their countries of origin on the expiry of their periods of study or research to allow them to contribute to the economic development and welfare of the developing country concerned; - the evaluation includes follow-up with the nationals of developing countries following expiry of their periods of study or research in the Union to assess their subsequent contribution to the economic development and welfare of their country of origin.
Amendment 360 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex IV – Chapter A – paragraph I – point a
Annex IV – Chapter A – paragraph I – point a
(a) Democracy, human rights and the rule of law; - supporting democratisation and strengthening democracy, strengthening of the role of parliaments, - supporting the transparent and accountable functioning of institutions, decentralisation; promoting a participatory in-country dialogue on governance, - promoting media freedom, including for modern media, - promoting and protecting political and civil as well as social, economic and cultural rights and protection of minorities and most vulnerable groups, - strengthening the rule of law and judicial and protection systems and ensuring access to justice and protection.
Amendment 366 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex IV – Chapter A – paragraph I – point b
Annex IV – Chapter A – paragraph I – point b
(b) Gender equality and the empowerment of women; - promoting gender equality and equity, - protecting the rights of women and girls, including actions against any form of violence against women and girls and support for victims of gender-based violence, - promoting civil registration, especially birth registration; - promoting empowerment of women, including in their roles as development actors and peace-builders.
Amendment 367 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex IV – Chapter A – paragraph I – point c
Annex IV – Chapter A – paragraph I – point c
(c) Public sector management; , transparency and anti-corruption; - supporting development of the public sector for enhancing universal and non- discriminatory access to basic services, including at local and regional level, - supporting programmes to improve policy formulation, public financial management, including the setting up and reinforcement of audit, control and anti- fraud bodies and measures, and institutional development, including human resource management, - assisting partner countries in tackling all forms of corruption and tax evasion, through governance programmes that support advocacy, awareness-raising and reporting, and increasing the capacity of control and oversight bodies and the judiciary, - strengthening technical expertise of parliaments, enabling them to assess and contribute to the formulation and oversight of national budgets, including on domestic revenues from resource extraction and tax matters.
Amendment 368 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex IV – Chapter A – paragraph I – point c
Annex IV – Chapter A – paragraph I – point c
(c) Public sector management;, transparency and anti-corruption; - supporting development of the public sector for enhancing universal and non- discriminatory access to basic services, including at local and regional level, - supporting programmes to improve policy formulation, public financial management, including the setting up and reinforcement of audit, control and anti- fraud bodies and measures, and institutional development, including human resource management, - assisting partner countries in tackling all forms of corruption, through governance programmes that support advocacy, awareness-raising and reporting, - strengthening technical expertise of parliaments, enabling them to assess and contribute to the formulation and oversight of national budgets.
Amendment 373 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex IV – Chapter A – paragraph I – point d
Annex IV – Chapter A – paragraph I – point d
(d) Tax policy and administration; - supporting the building up or strengthening of fair, transparent, effective, progressive and sustainable domestic tax systems which promote equity, poverty reduction and social cohesion, - strengthening monitoring capacities in developing countries in the fight against tax evasion and illicit financial flows, - supporting national oversight bodies, parliaments and civil society organisations, to produce and disseminate work on tax fraud and its impact, - supporting multilateral and regional initiatives on tax administration and tax reforms, - supporting developing countries to participate more effectively in international tax cooperation structures and processes, allowing them to negotiate relevant agreements, improve tax information exchange, - promoting country by country and project-by-project reporting to enhance financial transparency.
Amendment 394 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex IV – Chapter A – paragraph II – point c
Annex IV – Chapter A – paragraph II – point c
(c) Sustainable agriculture and energy. , food security, nutrition and sustainable energy; - helping build developing countries' resilience to shocks (such as scarcity of resources and supply, price volatility) and tackling inequalities, by giving poor people better access to land, food, water, energy and finance without harming the environment, - supporting sustainable agricultural practices and relevant agricultural research, including the safeguarding of ecosystem services, giving priority to locally-developed practices and focusing on smallholder agriculture and rural livelihoods, formation of producer groups, the supply and marketing chain, and supporting women in agriculture, - supporting government efforts to facilitate responsible private investment, as well as to adopt responsible rules on large scale land acquisitions, - supporting strategic approaches to food security, with a focus on food availability, access (including markets, safety nets and gender awareness), nutrition, with a focus on combating malnutrition in the early ages, and stability, - addressing food insecurity in situations of transition and fragility, by supporting interventions to protect, maintain and recover productive and social assets vital for food security, to facilitate economic integration and longer-term rehabilitation, - supporting country-led, participatory, decentralised and environmentally sustainable territorial development, aimed at involving beneficiaries in the identification of investments, - improving access to modern, affordable, sustainable, efficient, clean (including renewable) energy services, with a priority for local and regional sustainable energy solutions, and decentralised energy production, so as to bring development priorities in line with environmental concerns, while prioritising the delivery of energy access for the poor.
Amendment 401 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex IV – Chapter A – paragraph III – point c
Annex IV – Chapter A – paragraph III – point c
(c) Transition from humanitarian aid and crisis response to long-term development cooperation; - reconstructing and rehabilitating, in the medium and long term, regions and countries affected by conflict, manmade and natural disasters, including support for demobilisation and reintegration actions, - carrying out medium- and long-term activities aimed at the self-sufficiency and integration or reintegration of uprooted people, ensuring that an integrated and consistent approach between humanitarian aid, rehabilitation, aid to uprooted people and development cooperation is pursued, - in situations of fragility, supporting the delivery of basic services and building legitimate, effective and resilient state institutions and an active and organised civil society, in partnership with the country concerned so as to maximise national ownership both at state and local levels, - in situations of fragility, supporting the delivery of basic services and building legitimate, effective and resilient state institutions and an active and organised civil society, in partnership with the country concerned so as to maximise national ownership both at state and local levels, - contributing to a prevention approach to state fragility, conflict, natural disasters and other types of crises by assisting partner countries' and regional organizations' efforts to strengthen early warning systems and democratic governance and institutional capacity building, -supporting disaster risk reduction, preparedness and prevention and the management of the consequences of such disasters.
Amendment 408 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex IV – Chapter B – paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
Annex IV – Chapter B – paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
(b a) Strengthening social cohesion in particular with the setting- up/strengthening of sustainable social protection systems, including social insurance, and fiscal reform, strengthening the capacity of tax systems and the fight against fraud and tax evasion which contributes to enhancing equality and wealth distribution.
Amendment 409 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex IV – Chapter B – paragraph 2 – point b
Annex IV – Chapter B – paragraph 2 – point b
(b) establishing inclusivedevelopment-oriented partnerships around private sector development, trade, investment, aid, migration, research, innovation and technology and the provision of public goods, aiming at poverty reduction and social inclusion;
Amendment 414 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex IV – Chapter B – paragraph 3 – point -a (new)
Annex IV – Chapter B – paragraph 3 – point -a (new)
(-a) as overarching objectives, contributing to sustainable and inclusive economic and social development, social cohesion and democracy;
Amendment 425 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex V – Chapter A – introductory part
Annex V – Chapter A – introductory part
In compliance with the conditions laid down in Article 6, the Global public goods and challenges programme aims at strengthening cooperation, exchange of knowledge and experience and partner countries' capacities with a view to adopting policies which contribute to poverty eradication, social cohesion and sustainable development. The programme mayshall be drawn inter alia from the following areas of cooperation, ensuring a maximum synergy amongst them in light of their strong interconnection:.
Amendment 445 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex V – Chapter A – paragraph 3 – point b – point ii
Annex V – Chapter A – paragraph 3 – point b – point ii
(ii) strengthening social cohesion in particular with the setting-up/strengthening of sustainable social protection systems, including related fiscal reformsocial insurance, and with fiscal reform, strengthening the capacity of tax systems and the fight against fraud and tax evasion, which contributes to enhancing equality and wealth distribution;
Amendment 484 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex VI – paragraph 1 a (new)
Annex VI – paragraph 1 a (new)
Areas of cooperation: - Peace and security - Democratic governance and human rights - Trade, regional integration and infrastructure (including transport) - MDGs and subsequent internationally agreed development targets - Energy - Climate change and environment - Migration, mobility and employment - Science, information society and space - Technical assistance
Amendment 1 #
2011/0378(NLE)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2, point a a (new)
Paragraph 2, point a a (new)
(aa) sustainable fishing practices should be promoted by ensuring that all fishing activities under the Fisheries Partnership Agreement meet the same sustainability criteria as fishing activities in EU waters;
Amendment 2 #
2011/0378(NLE)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2, point b
Paragraph 2, point b
(b) access by EU vessels to the surplus of fisheries resources should be limited in accordance with the maximum sustainable yield after food security has been guaranteed and the nutrition needs of the local populations have been met; to this end, the Commission is called on to ensure that European vessels only catch the surplus of the concerned fish stocks that is not able to be caught by the Mozambique fishing sector;
Amendment 3 #
2011/0378(NLE)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2, point d
Paragraph 2, point d
(d) the accountability of the local government should be reinforced and the local government must also guarantee the improvement of living conditions for local fishermen, the development of local, sustainable, artisanal fisheries and fish- processing industries and compliance with environmental and health standards;
Amendment 4 #
2011/0378(NLE)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2, point e
Paragraph 2, point e
(e) annual reports on the implementation of the Agreement - and in particular of the multiannual sectoral programme provided for in Article 3 of the Protocol - should be drawn up and sent to the Parliament and the Council and made publicly available in order to promote transparency and to make certain that the budget supporting the sectoral fisheries policy is indeed used for this purpose as well as to ensure policy coherence for development;
Amendment 24 #
2011/0308(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 33
Recital 33
(33) The reports should serve to facilitate governments of resource-rich countries in implementing the EITI Principles and Criteria and account' accountability to their citizens for payments such governmentsthey receive from undertakings active in the extractive industry or loggers of primary forests operating within their jurisdiction. The report should incorporate disclosures on a country and project basis, where a project is considered as the lowest level of operational reporting unit at which the undertaking prepares regular internal management reports, such as a concession, geographical basin, etc and wby country basis. For undertakings active in the extractive industry or loggers of natural forest disclosure shall also be on a project basis, where a project is considered as equivalent to activities governed by a license, lease, concession or similar legal agreement. Where any payments have been attributed to such project liabilities are incurred on a different basis, reporting shall be on that basis. In the light of the overall objective of promoting good governance in these countries, the materialityAll types of payments to shall be reported should be assessed in relation to the recipient government. Various criteria on materiality could be envisaged such as payments of an absolute amount, or a percentage threshold (such as payments in excess of a percentage of a country's GDP) andwhere they are deemed to have a significant impact on a country's economy or society on a local, regional or national level and any threshold shall capture such impacts. Rules shall be put in place to ensure that any threseholds cannot be defined through a delegated actcircumvented. The reporting regime should be subject to a review and a report by the Commission within fivetwo years of the entry into force of the Directive. The review should consider the effectiveness of the regime and take into account international developments including issues of competitiveness and energy security. The review should also take into account the experience of preparers and userstake into account international developments, progress towards global standards in this area and report ofn the payments information and consider whether it would be appropriate to include additional payment information such as effective tax rates and recipient details, such as bank account informationimpacts of this legislation on third countries, in particular in achieving the objectives of enhanced transparency of payments to governments.
Amendment 30 #
2011/0308(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 36 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 36 – paragraph 1 – point 1
1. ‘'Undertaking active in the extractive industry’ means an undertaking with any activity involving the exploration, discovery, development, and extraction of minerals, oil and natural gas deposits, as referred to in Section B-Divisions 05 to 08 of Annex I to Regulation (EC) No 1893/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council' means the highest level parent company publishing accounts within the European Union where the group of companies for which that parent company prepares consolidated financial statements, includes subsidiary companies, branches, permanent establishments, joint ventures and associates.
Amendment 32 #
2011/0308(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 36 – paragraph 1 – point 1 a (new)
Article 36 – paragraph 1 – point 1 a (new)
1a. 'Undertaking active in the extractive industry' means the highest level parent company publishing accounts within the European Union where the group of companies for which that parent company prepares consolidated financial statements, includes subsidiarity companies, branches, permanent establishments, joint ventures and associates undertaking with any activity involving the exploration, discovery, development, extraction, processing, export, transportation of, or any significant activity related to minerals, oil and natural gas deposits, as referred to in Section B-Divisions 05 to 08 of Annex I to Regulation (EC) No 1893/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council.
Amendment 34 #
2011/0308(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 36 – paragraph 1 – point 3
Article 36 – paragraph 1 – point 3
3. ‘'Government’' means any national, regional or local authority of a Member State or of a third country that has granted the right of incorporation to, undertakes the regulation of, hosts a permanent establishment for taxation purposes of or receives any payment of the the type noted in Article 38 from any constituent entity of an undertaking. It includes a department, agency or undertaking controlled by that authority as laid down in Article 23 (1) to (6) of this Directive.
Amendment 41 #
2011/0308(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 38 – paragraph 2 – point f
Article 38 – paragraph 2 – point f
(f) licence fees, rental fees, pipeline transit fees, entry fees and other considerations for licences and/or concessions;
Amendment 42 #
2011/0308(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 38 – paragraph 3
Article 38 – paragraph 3
3. Where payments in kind are made to a government, they shall be reported in value orand in volume. Where they are reported in terms of value, supporting notes shall be provided to explain how their value has been determined.
Amendment 44 #
2011/0308(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 39 – paragraph 3 – introductory part
Article 39 – paragraph 3 – introductory part
Amendment 46 #
2011/0308(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 41 – paragraph 1
Article 41 – paragraph 1
The Commission shall review and report on the implementation and effectiveness of this Chapter, in particular as regards the scope of the reporting obligations and the modalities of the reporting on a project basis. The review should also take into account international developments and consider the effects on competitiveness and security of energy supply, progress towards global standards in this area and report on the impact of this legislation on third countries, in particular in achieving the objectives of enhanced transparency of payments to governments. It should be completed at the latest fivetwo years after the date of entry into force of this Directive. The report shall be submitted to the European Parliament and the Council, together with a legislative proposal, if appropriate.
Amendment 7 #
2011/0307(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – point 5 a (new)
Article 1 – point 5 a (new)
(5a) The following Article 6a is inserted: 'Article 6a Principles for reporting on payments to governments For the purposes of transparency and investor protection, Member States shall require the following principles to apply for the reporting on payments to governments: (a) integrated reporting: the report on payments to governments shall form part of the annual financial report, shall be in an easily accessible and comparable format; in particular, it shall allow payments to be linked to projects; (b) materiality: any payment shall be reported which is deemed to have a significant impact on a country's economy or society on a local, regional or national level; any threshold shall reflect such impact; rules shall be put in place to ensure that any thresholds cannot be circumvented; (c) project-by-project reporting: reporting shall be done on a project-by-project basis, taking into account the local and regional impact for the purposes of defining a project; the project definition shall include criteria such as the existence of a licence, lease, concession or other similar legal agreement; (d) universality: all issuers shall be subject to the reporting requirements; no exemptions shall be made which might have a distortive impact and allow issuers to exploit lax transparency requirements; (e) comprehensiveness: all relevant payments and revenues paid to governments shall be reported, including payments in kind, operating costs and payments to significant suppliers of services, including the state provision of services; (f) comparability: the reporting on all payments to governments shall be such as to enable data in respect of different countries to be compared easily.'.
Amendment 34 #
2010/2301(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Is of the opinion that trade should promote human rights on a global level and that all trade partners of the EU should respect the ILO conventions, in particular the convention against forced labour, which means that products produced in prisons and prison camps (the Lao Gai) should not be permitted on the EU market;
Amendment 46 #
2010/2301(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. This should be done in dialogue with the Chinese authorities to ensure that the disadvantaged and poor people currently benefitting from EU development projects are not left behind;
Amendment 13 #
2010/2292(REG)
Parliament's Rules of Procedure
Rule 9 – title
Rule 9 – title
Members' financial interests, standards of conduct, mandatory transparency register and access to Parliament
Amendment 15 #
2010/2292(REG)
Parliament's Rules of Procedure
Annex I – Article 2 – paragraphs 2 and 3
Annex I – Article 2 – paragraphs 2 and 3
Members of Parliament shall refrain from accepting any other gift or benefit in the performance of their duties. The declarations in the register shall be made under the personal responsibility of the Member and must be updated every yearas soon as changes occur. Members shall bear full responsibility for the transparency of their financial interests.
Amendment 16 #
2010/2292(REG)
Parliament's Rules of Procedure
Annex I a (new)
Annex I a (new)
Amendment 17 #
2010/2292(REG)
Parliament's Rules of Procedure
Annex X – Part B – title (new)
Annex X – Part B – title (new)
B. Agreement between the European Parliament and the European Commission on the establishment of a mandatory ‘transparency register’ for independent organisations and self-employed persons who are involved in the drafting and implementation of the policies of the European Union.
Amendment 2 #
2010/2291(ACI)
Proposal for a decision
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Regards the agreement as an important step towards a compulsory register and greater transparency;
Amendment 4 #
2010/2291(ACI)
Proposal for a decision
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Regrets the fact that entry in the Transparency Register is not compulsory for interest representatives who obtain access to European Parliament buildings on the basis of a day pass;
Amendment 9 #
2010/2291(ACI)
Proposal for a decision
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Recalls its wish that the Council should become a party to the agreementPoints out again that it is crucial for the Council to be a party to the agreement in order to ensure transparency at all stages in the law-making process at EU level;
Amendment 29 #
2010/2291(ACI)
Proposal for a decision
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Regrets that the Transparency Register does not require members and staff of the EU institutions to identify, in a logbook, interest representatives with whom discussions have been held on items of legislation;
Amendment 36 #
2010/2239(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Insists that Member States better include the EU dimensEU secondary legislation in their policies with a view to improving the functioning of the internal market and facilitating workers‘ mobility;
Amendment 42 #
2010/2239(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Observes that pension reforms are necessaryoften required in the context of demographic ageing and the financial and economic crisis, but notes at the same time that the first objective of a reform should be to ensure adequate retirement income for all;
Amendment 47 #
2010/2239(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Calls for facilitating the social dialogue in order to set up collective work-related pension systems in Member States;
Amendment 54 #
2010/2239(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
Amendment 74 #
2010/2239(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Observes that even if more pension products exist on the market, not every European citizen has access to thesethough there is a great variety of pension provisions in the different Member States, not every European citizen has access to these; therefore calls on the Commission to facilitate, through the exchange of best practices, the setting up of supplementary pension institutions managed or supervised by the social partners;
Amendment 143 #
2010/2239(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Considers that Solvency II is a valuable starting point for developing a solvency regime for IORPs; underlines that such a regime needs to be adapted to the specificities of pensions, in particular as regards the conditionality of pension rights, the duration of pension portfolios and the dedicated purpose vehicle operating a homogenous product portfolioStresses that it is important to clearly differentiate between the solvency regime for insurers and a possible pension security regime; underlines that such a regime needs to be adapted to the specificities of pensions;
Amendment 168 #
2010/2239(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16a. Calls for due consideration to be given to the fact that IORPs are based on labour agreements and fulfil a social task and thus cannot be considered as financial institutions;
Amendment 36 #
2010/2205(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 – point 1 (new)
Paragraph 6 – point 1 (new)
(1) Calls on the Commission to promote the core ILO conventions in a more proactive way and to set up an EU child labour hotline where citizens can report European companies that make use of child labour anywhere in the world; this hotline should have a small but sufficient research capacity enabling it a) to publish an annual report on its findings and b) to assist European companies in their efforts to eliminate child labour from their supply chain.
Amendment 273 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 59
Paragraph 59
59. Emphasises the importance of human rights clauses and effective dispute mechanisms in trade policies, partnerships and trade agreements between the EU and third countries; proposes a ‘human rights assessment’ of non-EU countries that engage in trade relations with the EU as well as a 'human rights assessment' of the impact of EU-based companies in non-EU countries;
Amendment 382 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 80
Paragraph 80
80. Welcomes the establishment of human rights dialogues with each of the Central Asian states – Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan – in 2008; welcomes the first EU-Uzbek civil society seminar on human rights dialogue in October 2008; regrets that the EU-China human rights dialogues have consistently failed to deliver any improvements as regards specific human rights abuses in China; expresses its disappointment that EU-Russia human rights consultations have not yielded any substantial results; welcomes the launch in 2009 of human rights dialogues with Indonesia, and the holding of the first dialogue meetings with Georgia and Armenia; regrets the lack of results from the human rights dialogue with India and is disappointed that the issue of caste-based discrimination was not discussed during the last human rights dialogue;
Amendment 401 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 84
Paragraph 84
84. Stresses that human rights include the right to food, water, education, adequate housing, land, decent work, social security and the right to form a trade union; recognises that it is poverty and the lack of good governance that is behind most of the situations of non-compliance with such rights; calls for the EU to invest more efforts and money in achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), given the evidence that the world is falling far short of the goals set for 2015;
Amendment 3 #
2010/2151(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recalls once more the statement by the Commission that it wants to propose to incorporate the EDF into the Union budget during discussions on the next financial framework and that it will keep Parliament's Committee on Budgetary Control fully informed of this initiative; insists, however, that the incorporation of the EDF into the Union budget must not lead to any overall reduction in development spending with respect to the two current funding instruments;
Amendment 82 #
2010/2100(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Calls on the Commission to take into account the role of arid and semi arid lands (ASAL), with a special focus on live stock since the largest supply of meat for the more urbanised areas is provided by the ASAL regions;
Amendment 58 #
2010/2070(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 b (new)
Paragraph 34 b (new)
Amendment 59 #
2010/2070(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 c (new)
Paragraph 34 c (new)
34c. Calls on EU insurance companies, banks and the mutualist movement in the EU to take initiatives to transfer their vast knowledge and know-how, acquired in more than two centuries of insurance history, to new insurance systems in developing countries; calls on the Commission to actively support and facilitate such initiatives;
Amendment 1 #
2010/2048(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas, in substance, the Parliament is ready, in conciliation, to negotiate with the other branch of the budgetary authority, on the exact breakdown between redeployment and mobilisation of the flexibility instrument,
Amendment 3 #
2010/2048(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
Amendment 6 #
2010/2048(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the Commission to present a new proposal for the mobilisation of the flexibility instrument for the remaining part of EUR 56 774 124 470,
Amendment 1 #
2010/2002(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the agreement of EUR2.4 billion a year for mitigation and adaptation to climate change but insists that this 'fast start' climate finance package must be genuinely additional and does not come at the expense of existing development cooperation programmes; requests confirmation that the EU share of this package — EUR 65 million proposed for 2011 — is not redeployed from the Development Cooperation Instrument and is therefore additional; is concerned that the draft budget for 2011 foresees over EUR 1 million less for the environment and sustainable management of natural resources than in 2010;
Amendment 2 #
2010/2002(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Firmly rejects any attempts to finance the programme for ACP banana-producing countries through redeployment of development appropriations within heading 4, in particular from the budget lines for development cooperation; is particularly opposed to the proposal in the draft budget to redeploy for this purpose EUR 13 million from the Development Cooperation Instrument and EUR 5 million from the Civil Protection Financial Instrument;
Amendment 3 #
2010/2002(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Welcomes the proposal to amend the regulation creating an instrument for industrialised countries1 but resolutely opposes its being financed with appropriations programmed for use under the Development Cooperation Instrument; stresses that funds earmarked for development cooperation must target poverty alleviation; 1is extremely dissatisfied that of the EUR 70,6 million total appropriations earmarked for this new instrument in the draft budget, EUR 45 million are taken from the Development Cooperation Instrument; 1 Proposal for a Regulation amending Proposal for a Regulation amending Regulation EC N° 1934/2006 establishing a financing instrument for cooperation with industrialised countries and other high-income countries and territories
Amendment 5 #
2010/2002(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6a (new)
Paragraph 6a (new)
6a. Welcomes the proposed 30% increase in the contribution to the global fund to fight AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria but considers that supporting basic health services is ultimately more effective than such than vertical health funds when it comes to improving health standards in developing countries;
Amendment 6 #
2010/2002(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Insists that the Commission and Council refrain from reducing heading 4 administrative spending budget lines, as these are necessary for full and effective implementation of the multiannual programmes; sincerely regrets that the Commission's draft budget proposes significant cuts to administrative expenditure for development programmes.;
Amendment 128 #
2010/2002(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 50 a new
Paragraph 50 a new
50a. Welcomes the agreement of EUR2.4 billion a year for mitigation and adaptation to climate change but insists that this 'fast start' climate finance package must be genuinely additional and does not come at the expense of existing development cooperation programmes; requests confirmation that the EU share of this package — EUR 65 million proposed for 2011 — is not redeployed from the Development Cooperation Instrument and is therefore additional; is concerned that the draft budget for 2011 foresees over EUR 1 million less for the environment and sustainable management of natural resources than in 2010;
Amendment 133 #
2010/2002(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 51 a new
Paragraph 51 a new
51a. Firmly rejects any attempts to finance the programme for ACP banana- producing countries through redeployment of development appropriations within heading 4, in particular from the budget lines for development cooperation; is particularly opposed to the proposal in the draft budget to redeploy for this purpose EUR 13 million from the Development Cooperation Instrument and EUR 5 million from the Civil Protection Financial Instrument;
Amendment 134 #
2010/2002(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 51 b new
Paragraph 51 b new
51b. Welcomes the proposal to amend the regulation creating an instrument for industrialised countries1 but resolutely opposes its being financed with appropriations programmed for use under the Development Cooperation Instrument; stresses that funds earmarked for development cooperation must target poverty alleviation; is extremely dissatisfied that of the EUR 70,6 million total appropriations earmarked for this new instrument in the draft budget, EUR 45 million are taken from the Development Cooperation Instrument; 1 Proposal for a Regulation amending Regulation EC N° 1934/2006 establishing a financing instrument for cooperation with industrialised countries and other high-income countries and territories
Amendment 141 #
2010/2002(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 52 a new
Paragraph 52 a new
52a. Welcomes the recognition under the Treaty of Lisbon of humanitarian aid as a European policy in its own right; underlines the increasingly serious consequences of natural or man-made disasters, particularly those linked to climate change, to the changing nature of conflicts and to violations of international humanitarian law; calls therefore for an increase in humanitarian aid funding, incorporating disaster risk reduction;
Amendment 146 #
2010/2002(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 53 a new
Paragraph 53 a new
53a. Is surprised at the reduction in appropriations, over 2010, proposed in the 2011 draft budget for Article 23 03 06 on civil protection in third countries when the recent disaster in Haiti clearly demonstrated the need to bolster the Community civil protection mechanism; calls in addition on the Commission to provide details of the specific measures it proposes to put in hand in setting up a preparatory action for a European Voluntary Humanitarian Aid Corps;
Amendment 147 #
2010/2002(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 53 b new
Paragraph 53 b new
53b. Welcomes the proposed 30% increase in the contribution to the global fund to fight AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria but considers that supporting basic health services is ultimately more effective than such than vertical health funds when it comes to improving health standards in developing countries;
Amendment 148 #
2010/2002(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 53 c new
Paragraph 53 c new
53c. Notes the vital contribution played by improved access to financial services, such as microfinance schemes, in helping smallholder farmers, particularly women, achieve food self-sufficiency and food security; welcomes the success of financing in the 2009 and 2010 budgets to support such schemes and stresses the need for this to be continued and extended;
Amendment 149 #
2010/2002(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 53 d new
Paragraph 53 d new
53d. Calls on the Commission to extend and increase funding for existing preparatory actions that target developing countries' specific needs, such as improving water management and combating the economic and financial crisis in non-ACP developing countries; asks the Commission, where necessary, to change the legal basis of these initiatives in order to give them permanent status;
Amendment 150 #
2010/2002(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 53 e new
Paragraph 53 e new
53e. Points out to the Council the increasing discrepancy between the chronic underfunding of heading 4 and the Council's new political commitments, particularly where development policy is concerned; demands a revision of the heading 4 ceiling for the years 2011-13;
Amendment 151 #
2010/2002(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 53 f new
Paragraph 53 f new
53f. Insists that the Commission and Council refrain from reducing heading 4 administrative spending budget lines, as these are necessary for full and effective implementation of the multiannual programmes; sincerely regrets that the Commission's draft budget proposes significant cuts to administrative expenditure for development programmes;
Amendment 85 #
2010/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The Stability and Growth Pact is based on the objective of sound government finances as a means of strengthening the conditions for price stability and for strong sustainable growth underpinned by financial stability and conducive to employment creation and social inclusion.
Amendment 124 #
2010/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5 a (new)
Recital 5 a (new)
(5a) When evaluating the stability and convergence programmes an assessment of the social consequences of member states' policies should be included, since social protection systems have shown their mitigating effects as automatic stabilizers in times of economic downturn.
Amendment 130 #
2010/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5 b (new)
Recital 5 b (new)
(5b) When evaluating the stability and convergence programmes a balance should be struck between the Stability and Growth Pact and the Union's strategy for growth and jobs.
Amendment 237 #
2010/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation – amending act
Article 1 – point 2 – subpoint a
Article 1 – point 2 – subpoint a
Regulation (EC) No 1466/97
Article 3 – paragraph 1
Article 3 – paragraph 1
1. Each participating Member State shall submit to the Council and Commission information necessary for the purpose of multilateral surveillance at regular intervals under Article 121 of the Treaty in the form of a stability programme, which provides an essential basis for price stability and for strong sustainable growth conducive to employment creation and social inclusion.
Amendment 412 #
2010/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation – amending act
Article 1 – point 6 – subpoint a
Article 1 – point 6 – subpoint a
Regulation (EC) No 1466/97
Article 7 – paragraph 1
Article 7 – paragraph 1
1. Each Member State with a derogation shall submit to the Council and the Commission information necessary for the purpose of multilateral surveillance of regular intervals under Article 121 of the Treaty in the form of a convergence programme, which provides an essential basis for price stability and for strong sustainable growth conducive to employment creation and social inclusion.
Amendment 29 #
2010/0197(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9 a (new)
Recital 9 a (new)
(9a) Member States should ensure that Bilateral Investment Treaties are fully compatible with the EU principle of policy coherence for development.
Amendment 33 #
2010/0197(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
(ca) are compatible with the EU principle of policy coherence for development.
Amendment 35 #
2010/0197(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
(ca) an agreement is incompatible with the EU principle of policy coherence for development.
Amendment 37 #
2010/0197(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
(ca) be incompatible with the EU principle of policy coherence for development.
Amendment 39 #
2010/0197(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 2
Article 13 – paragraph 2
2. For all agreements falling within the scope of this Regulation, the Member State concerned shall inform the Commission without undue delay of any representations made to it that a particular measure is inconsistent with the agreement. The Member State shall also immediately inform the Commission of any request for dispute settlement lodged under the auspices of the agreement as soon as the Member State becomes aware of the request. The Member State and the Commission shall fully cooperate and take all the necessary measures to ensure an effective defence which may include, where appropriate, that t. The Commission shall participates in the procedure.
Amendment 3 #
2010/0094(NLE)
Draft legislative resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Requests the Commission to send it the conclusions of the meetings and proceedings of the Joint Committee provided for in Article 9 of the Agreement, as well as the multiannual sectoral programme referred to in Article 7(2) of the Protocol and the findings of the annual assessments; calls for representatives of its Committee on Fisheries and of its Committee on Development, acting as observers, to attend meetings and proceedings of the Joint Committee provided for in Article 9 of the Agreement; calls on the Commission to submit an implementation review of the Agreement to Parliament and the Council in the final year of application of the Protocol, before negotiations are opened on the renewal of the Agreement;
Amendment 1 #
2010/0054(COD)
Proposal for a regulation – amending act
Article 1 - point 7 a (new)
Article 1 - point 7 a (new)
Regulation (EC) No 1605/2002
Article 56 a (new)
Article 56 a (new)
(7a) A new Article 56a is added: "Article 56a The functioning of the Union Delegations shall be examined by the Department for Inspections of the EEAS which shall be responsible directly to the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy / Vice- President of the European Commission. The Department for Inspections shall cooperate with the Commission's internal audit service on the basis of service level agreements. These service level agreements shall in particular define the mutual exchange of information found during examinations. The Annual Report of the Inspection of the Delegations shall be made available to the Budgetary Authority in mutatis mutandis application of Article 60 paragraph 7."
Amendment 2 #
2010/0054(COD)
Proposal for a regulation – amending act
Article 1 - point 12 a (new)
Article 1 - point 12 a (new)
Regulation (EC) No 1605/2002
Article 95
Article 95
(12a) In Article 95 the following paragraph is added: "The Commission shall have a regular exchange of information with international organisations implementing EU funds with a view to jointly identifying actors whose lack of financial probity makes them unsuitable partners in the management of EU funds. This shall apply mutatis mutandis to the EEAS which is responsible for its own administrative budget."
Amendment 1 #
2009/2166(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2
Citation 2
– having regard to Articles 15, 126, 175, 208-209, 271, 308-309 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union and the Protocol No 5 on the Statute of the EIB,
Amendment 2 #
2009/2166(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 16 a (new)
Citation 16 a (new)
– having regard to the EIB’s Final Draft Transparency Report of 13 January 2010,
Amendment 4 #
2009/2166(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas the EIB’s operations outside the European Union are primarily undertaken to support the European Union’s external action policies,
Amendment 7 #
2009/2166(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I a (new)
Recital I a (new)
Ia. whereas, in comparison with 2007, the EIB’ s lending activity in 2008 showed a decrease of almost 40 % in Asia and Latin America and the ACP countries,
Amendment 7 #
2009/2166(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. welcomes the rearrangement of the priorities of the EIB in response to the crisis, in particular the strengthened focus on lending to SMEs; taking into account that the economic crisis is not yet over, with unemployment rates still rising; calls on the EIB to apply bolder risk-taking in its lending policy towards SMEs; without jeopardizing its triple A status; suggests that the EIB adapt the 2006 Risk Capital Mandate for the European Investment Fund in order better to take into account the current economic turmoil and the need to improve SMEs’ access to capital for risk-taking projects; demands that the EIB’s participation in the Jasmine programme, currently EUR 20 million, be at least doubled;
Amendment 10 #
2009/2166(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Asks the EIB to take into account the developmental aspects of its investments outside the European Union, since development cooperation forms an integral part of the European Union’s external action;
Amendment 11 #
2009/2166(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Is concerned about the reduced investments in Asia and Latin America and the ACP Countries, and demands that the EIB restore its investments in these regions to the level of 2007;
Amendment 12 #
2009/2166(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 b (new)
Paragraph 10 b (new)
10b. Asks the EIB to put more emphasis, through actions such as credit guarantees to local banks, on its role as a facilitator of ‘financial inclusion’, allowing access for citizens in developing countries to essential financial services including microfinancing, savings and insurance;
Amendment 15 #
2009/2166(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Is concerned about the reduced investments in Asia and Latin America and the ACP Countries (around 40 % less in 2008 compared to 2007); demands that the EIB restore its investments in these regions to the level of 2007;
Amendment 17 #
2009/2166(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Reiterates its regrets that the EIB’s annual report on the investment facility contains mainly financial information and very little — if any — information on the results of the different financed programmes; reminds the EIB of the Commission’s duty to report annually to Parliament on the EIB financing operations carried out under Decision No 633/2009/EC1;
Amendment 20 #
2009/2166(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Amendment 19 #
2009/2133(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 – point b
Paragraph 5 – point b
(b) the EEAS must deal with the CFSP and the common security and defence policy (CSDP) and with the tasks and policies currently dealt with by the Directorate- General for External Relations (DG Relex) in the Commission; in addition, the High Representative should present a comprehensive proposal on how other major external action-related policies will be organised in the new institutional set- up; enlargement, trade, development and humanitarian aid together constitute a substantial part of the EU's overall external policies; there are compelling reasons to include development policy in the new service;
Amendment 33 #
2009/2133(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. While the European Union delegations will be an integral part of the EEAS, and while they should take their instructions from and be subject to the supervision of the High Representative and should administratively belong to the Commission, requests the next High Representative to commit him/herself to informing Parliament's Committee on Foreign Affairs and Parliament's Committee on Development about his/her appointments to senior posts in the EEAS and to agreeing to the committee conducting hearings with the nominees, if the committee so decides; also requests that the next High Representative commit him/herself to renegotiating the current interinstitutional agreement with the European Parliament, in particular on access to sensitive information and other issues relevant for smooth interinstitutional cooperation;
Amendment 169 #
2009/0144(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 33
Recital 33
(33) Where appropriate, the Authority should consult interested parties on technical standards, guidelines and recommendations and provide them with a reasonable opportunity to comment on proposed measures. For reasons of efficiency, a Securities and Markets Stakeholder Group should be established for that purpose, representing in balanced proportions CommunityEU financial market participants (including as appropriate institutional investors and other financial institutions which themselves use financial services), their employees, and consumerrade unions, academia, consumer organizations and other retail users of financial services, including SMEs. The Securities and Markets Stakeholder Group should actively work as an interface with other user groups in the financial services area established by the Commission or CommunityUnion legislation.
Amendment 435 #
2009/0144(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 2 - subparagraph 1
Article 22 – paragraph 2 - subparagraph 1
2. The Securities and Markets Stakeholder Group shall be composed of 30 members, representing in balanced proportions CommunityEU financial market participants, their employees as well as consumerrade union representatives as well as representatives from consumer organizations, investors and users of financial services.
Amendment 456 #
2009/0144(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 22 – paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. For the fulfilment of its consultative tasks the Stakeholder Group shall be provided all necessary information by the Authority.
Amendment 437 #
2009/0143(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 22 – paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. For the fulfilment of its consultative tasks the Stakeholder Group shall be provided with all necessary information by the Authority.
Amendment 248 #
2009/0142(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 33
Recital 33
(33) Where appropriate, the Authority should consult interested parties on technical standards, guidelines and recommendations and provide them with a reasonable opportunity to comment on proposed measures. For reasons of efficiency, a Banking Stakeholder Group should be established for that purpose, representing in balanced proportions Community credit and investment institutions (including as appropriate institutional investors and other financial institutions which themselves use financial services), their employees, and consumerrade unions, academics, consumer organizations and other retail users of banking services, including SMEs. The Banking Stakeholder Group should actively work as an interface with other user groups in the financial services area established by the Commission or Community legislation.
Amendment 590 #
2009/0142(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Article 22 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
2. The Banking Stakeholder Group shall be composed of 30 members, representing in balanced proportions Community credit and investment institutions, their employees as well as consumers and users of banking servicerade union representatives as well as representatives from consumer organizations, users of banking services and representatives of SMEs.
Amendment 604 #
2009/0142(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 22 – paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. For the fulfilment of its consultative tasks the Stakeholder Group shall be provided all necessary information by the Authority.
Amendment 1 #
2008/2186(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Draws the attention to the Commission's commitment to ensure that by 2009 a benchmark of 20 % of its allocated assistance will be dedicated to basic and secondary education and basic health; calls on the Commission to provide detailed information on how this benchmark will be met through projects, programmes and budget support; calls for greater coherence between the Thematic, Country and Regional Strategy Papers in the areas of health and education, in particular when aid is provided via budget support;
Amendment 2 #
2008/2186(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Stresses that priority must be given to the enrolment of children from hard-to- reach groups in countries with critical MDG indicators, including disabled children;
Amendment 1 #
2008/2109(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Expresses concern at the findings contained in the Court of Auditors' Special Report N° 10/2008 on EC Development Assistance to Health Services in Sub-Saharan Africa, which points out that "Financial allocations to the health sector in sub-Saharan Africa have not increased since 2000 as a proportion of its total development assistance despite the Commission’s MDG commitments and the health crisis in sub- Saharan Africa"; calls on the Commission to prioritise support to health systems and identify the most appropriate aid delivery instruments for this area;
Amendment 2 #
2008/2109(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2b. Reiterates its support for EDF budgetisation, which will strengthen the democratic control, accountability and transparency of funding;
Amendment 1 #
2008/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas for the second time in history the UN is organising a World Summitthe Doha Follow-up International Conference on Financing for Development, aimed at bringing together not only development but also finance ministers, as well as representatives from the international financial organisations, private banking and business and civil society, to examine the progress that has been made since the first World Summit on Financing for Development held in 2002 in Monterrey,
Amendment 5 #
2008/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas, if current trends regarding Member States' ODA levels continue, Member States will not meet the collective targets to which they are committed of 0,51% (for the EU 15, i.e. the Member States part of the EU prior to the 2004 enlargement) and 0,17% (for the EU 12, i.e. the Member States which acceded to the EU on 1 May 2004 and 1 January 2007) of GNI by 2010,
Amendment 6 #
2008/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas programmable aid to Africa is rising despite the general decrease of ODA in 2007,
Amendment 8 #
2008/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas significant new challenges have emerged since 2002, including rising food prices, climate change and important new trends in South- South cooperation including support for infrastructure by China in Africa and lending by the Brazilian Development Bank BNDES1 in Latin America,
Amendment 12 #
2008/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Welcomes the fact that the EU met its binding ODA target of the Community average of 0,39% of GNI by 2006, but notes the alarming decrease of EU aid in 2007 from EUR 47,7 billion in 2006 (0,41% EU collective GNI) to EUR 46,61 billion in 2007 (0,38% EU collective GNI) and calls upon Member States to raise ODA volumes to achieve their promised target of 0,56% of GNI in 2010;
Amendment 15 #
2008/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Expresses serious concern that some Member States (especially Latvia, Italy, Portugal, Greece and the Czech Republic) are falling behind in reaching ODA commitments for 2010; calls on Member States to fulfil their ODA volumes as committed; notes with satisfaction that some Member States (Denmark, Ireland, Luxembourg and the Netherlands) are certain to reach the ODA targets for 2010, and is confident that these Member States will maintain their high levels of ODA;
Amendment 27 #
2008/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Fully endorses efforts by developing countries to maintain long-term debt sustainability and to implement the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative, which is of key importance to fulfil the MDGs; urges urgent international debate on the expansion of international debt relief measures to a further number of low-income and lower middle-income countries, which are now excluded from the HIPC initiative;
Amendment 33 #
2008/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Calls on all Member States to adhere to the code of conduct on debt sustainability; urges the EU to promote international efforts which aim to put in place some form of international insolvency procedures or fair and transparent arbitration procedure to deal efficiently and equitably with any future debt crisis;
Amendment 39 #
2008/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Welcomes the proposals for innovative financing mechanisms put forward by the Member States and calls on the Commission to examine them against the benchmarks of ease of practical implementation, sustainability, additionality, transaction costs and effectiveness; calls for finance mechanisms and instruments that provide new funding and do not put future financial flows at risk; calls on the Commission to study other existing proposals such as the Financial Transaction Tax (FTT), which lacks a clear development component and stresses therefore that EU policies should be coherent with development policy;
Amendment 45 #
2008/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Calls on the Commission to draw up an additional Climate Change Aid Fincrease the funding of climate change measures in developing countries, in particular to the Global Climate Change Alliance, but stresses the need to call for a separate climate change aid fund for Ddeveloping Ccountries, which is to be financed separately from ODA funds, andcomplementary to ODA funds, as ODA alone should not provide an adequate response to measures for climate change adaptation and mitigation in developing countries, but also for other measures for adapting and mitigating climate change by implementing a kerosene tax and/or CO2 sanauctions;
Amendment 1 #
2008/2026(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1.Welcomes the proposal of the Commission for a regulation establishing a facility for rapid response to soaring food prices in developing countries1, as a timely response to the real hardship caused by soaring food prices for the world’s poorest population and aimed at promptly increasing agricultural productivity; calls for the necessary funding to be made available, while safeguarding compliance with the rules of the budgetary procedure laid down in the Interinstitutional Agreement2 and addressing adequately the fact that some Member States fulfil their ODA commitments and others do not, provided that the funds allocated will be subject to recognised standards of control and accountability;
Amendment 2 #
2008/2026(BUD)
1. Considers that the EU institutions, following its request that they present realistic and fully cost-based budget drafts corresponding to real needs, have cooperated in a constructive way so as now to arrive at final proposals that take into account the expectations of citizens and the need for financial rigour;
Amendment 2 #
2008/2026(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Amendment 3 #
2008/2026(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses that, overall, there is still room for improvement and more effective use of budget resources in a number of areas and considers that these include increased inter- institutional cooperation, better use of performance targets, forecasting tools and benchmarking against best practice, further use of staff mobility and redeployment in order to keep increases in check and also demonstration of a solid grip on all expenses related to travel, allowances and, perhaps, translation, and especially, building costs;
Amendment 7 #
2008/2026(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Warmly welcomes the improved cooperation between the Bureau and the Committee on Budgets which has provided a solid foundation for the preparatory work leading up to the first reading of the budget, as well as during the guidelines and estimates stages; underlines the willingness of both parties to further continue and make a success of the pilot process in order to resolve differences at an early stage while, at the same time, maintaining the formal prerogatives of each body;
Amendment 8 #
2008/2026(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Considers nevertheless, that some practical difficulties will have to be ironed out in order to facilitate and further improve cooperation further, notably clear improvements on necessary information and reports being made available within appropriate time- limits and in at least two official languages before the first reading;
Amendment 9 #
2008/2026(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Acknowledges that significant developments, with a clear budgetary impact, have occurred since its adoption of the Estimates and that, in consequence, certain adjustments are now called for; stresses particularly, in this regard, budgetary changes brought about by the Irish referendumsuspension of the entry into force onf the Treaty of Lisbon, by further progress made concerning the neweparations for the implementation of the new Statute for Assistants' regime, by updated forecasts for the Members' Statute and, also, by the rise of energy prices;
Amendment 12 #
2008/2026(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Recognises that significant efforts of redeployment have been and will be made in order to limit staff increases and related costs; stresses, nevertheless, that the Bureau and the Administration will need to keep a consistent focus on this issue forin future years and will also need to communicate the Parliament's priorities much more effectively in order to make the underlying assumptions better understoodfurther balance the distribution of human resources between core legislative activities, direct services to Members and administrative support functions; as a first and significant step, welcomes the analytical and cleardetailed establishment plan presented, albeit later than plannedwith delay and after the deadline for tabling budgetary amendments for the first reading; wishes to be kept continually informed about this issue in the future;
Amendment 17 #
2008/2026(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Approves the changes to the Establishment Plan of the secretariat as contained in the tabled budgetary amendments, totalling _XX posts and __ upgradings; maintains in reserve the appropriations related to a limited number of posts pending further analysis of the needs and clarification regarding a better balance in the distribution of human resources between core legislative activities, direct services to Members and administrative support functions during 2009;
Amendment 22 #
2008/2026(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 c (new)
Paragraph 14 c (new)
14c. Considers that daily allowances for Members of the European Parliament for Fridays following plenary part-sessions in Strasbourg should be abolished, and asks the Bureau to act accordingly.
Amendment 30 #
2008/2026(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Decides to fix the general abatement rate at 3,5%, a level close to that which the Court itself is suggesting,% and restores the corresponding appropriations; notes that this should ensure the Court's full operability while still representing a saving on the original proposals;
Amendment 1 #
2008/2025(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Expresses deep concern at the consequences of soaring global food prices for the provision of food aid in developing countries, and takes note of the drastic shortfall that has already been highlighted by funding agencies; calls on the Commission to double the budget for food aid (budget line 23 02 02); notes that food prices stem from structural causes and are not expected to fall in 2009 or subsequent years and that under the European Consensus on Humanitarian Aid the European Union "aims to demonstrate its commitment to humanitarian response by mobilising adequate funding for humanitarian aid based on assessed need"; calls for additional resources to be provided for this purpose in 2009 by all budgetary means available, including traditional budgetary mechanisms such as the flexibility instrument or innovative means such as revision of the multiannual financial framework (MFF) to release 2008 underspends in Title 05;
Amendment 2 #
2008/2025(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Draws attention to the problem of the precarious financing situation in Heading 4 resulting from needs in Kosovo and Palestine that could not be foreseen when the MFF was established; believes that this problem can only be addressed through a comprehensive revision of the MFF leading to increases in the Heading 4 ceiling for the period 2009-2013; points out that the thematic programme "Investing in People" needs to serve a great number of policies and programme priorities and that some of these priorities (e.g. health) have seen a reduction in spending and have not reached their annual average, as programmed for the period 2007-2013;
Amendment 4 #
2008/2025(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Calls for a budget line on a climate change aid fund for developing countries under Heading 4 of the EU budget, on the condition that this Fund will be financed separately to the funds allocated to Official Development Assistance;
Amendment 5 #
2008/2025(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses the need for a comprehensive assessment of the results of EU development co-operation actions and their likely sustainability, including for assistance delivered as budget support; points out that transparency in this area is fundamental for parliamentary accountability; emphasises the need to meet the benchmark of dedicating, by 2009, 20% of its allocated assistance under country programmes covered by the Development Cooperation Instrument to basic and secondary education and basic health, through project, programme or budget support linked to these sectors; urges the Commission to strengthen its evaluation of results and forward its findings to Parliament.;
Amendment 2 #
2008/2021(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes the opening of the question of the voluntary 20% share of the Parliament presented in the Bureau's document; wishes to recall that successive budgets have shown surpluses at the end of the year and, although it is true that someready to consider additional expenditures that will certainly be needed for the particular demands of 2009, wishes to review all expenditure posts while smaintaying within the 20% share; 1 Including EUR 78 000 000 in staff contributions for pensionsing 20% as an upper limit; Or. en
Amendment 4 #
2008/2021(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Is of the opinion that a tendency to temperance is a virtue when establishing the budget, although this may not necessarily hold true in other circumstances; welcomes, therefore, the Secretary-General's intention to carefully examine all expenditure before making detailed proposals, especially since; insists that the forthcoming draft estimates reflect as closely as possible the final proposal for the EP expenditure from the administration and the Bureau, unless there are specific grounds for doing otherwise, especially now that the Bureau and COBU have adopted a new pilot conciliation procedure; belives that such an approach will send a good message to the taxpayer in the Euopean Union and, also, serve the Parliament well in the run- up to the review of the multi-annual financial framework; considers that this examination should be available in good time for the preparation of the 1st reading;
Amendment 5 #
2008/2021(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
Amendment 7 #
2008/2021(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Considers that all efforts should be made to fully assist members to carry out their responsibilities in this new context and that the appropriate structures and facilities must be put in place; underlines that such changes are not new to the Parliament and that growing co-decision powers have been smoothly integrated into its structures following previous treaty changes; stresses that the transition from consultation procedures to codecision procedures does not necessarily mean a doubling of the workload of parliamentary committees;
Amendment 9 #
2008/2021(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Wishes to see an assessment of the structure and capacity of the committee secretariats in order to ensure that they are ready to step up the quality of their legislative work; is surprised at recent claims that a mere 6% of staff work on committees and invites; calls for this percentage to be increased, where possible, by means of a staff redeployment; Calls on the Secretary- General to clarify this matterprovide, before 1 July 2008, and to suggest appropriate solutions in order to stre mid-term evaluation of human resource needs as well as a detailed organisation chart of all staff (officials and other agents) working in the administration; in this connection, believes that particular emphasis should be placed on analysing then this core activity staff assisting Members of the European Parliament in their legislative work;
Amendment 16 #
2008/2021(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Draws particular attention to the importance it attaches to decentralised communication measures that also involve regional and local media; considers this the most cost-effective way to achieve the targeted information necessary and, furthermore, insists that members should be able participate in and influenceshow a more proactive attitude towards such initiatives; sincerely hopes that the 2009 budget will reflect these concerns;
Amendment 18 #
2008/2021(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Will monitor in this regard the financing of three major information- related projects which are meant to be fully operational by 2009 and directed towards citizens, i.e. the visitors centre, and the audiovisual centre and; whereas the web-TV project; wishes to see a realistic and prudent approach concerning the mobilisation of resources required in function of the political decisions agreed, should be operational before 1 July 2008; while noting that this area has already seen substantial growth in recent years; requests to receive information on the expected orbelieves the web-TV project will achieved added value from the investment under communication policy, as it offers easy access to all Union citizens to the proceedings of the Parliament;
Amendment 21 #
2008/2021(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Also notes the proposal to earmark funds for a " House of European History" project in the Bureau's document and looks forward to receiving a more detailed analysis concerning the financial and budgetary elements; believes however that it is not the primary responsibility of the Parliament to finance a museum from its administrative budget; wishes to see support for this important project also from the Commission;
Amendment 22 #
2008/2021(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Attaches high importance to increased transparency and clarification concerning the work contractsCalls on the working group set up within the Bureau to put forward, together with the competent Commission services, proposals relating to a statute for Members' assistants to be forwarded as a matter of urgency to the Council for adoption under the French presidency so that it can become applicable ofn the assistants of Members of the European Parliament; awaits proposals from the Secretary General in this regarsame day as the new Members' Statute; believes that this proposed statute would ensure equal treatment of Members' assistants that is also transparent, and help ensure that tax and social obligations, such as salaries and social security rights, are fulfilled;
Amendment 30 #
2008/2021(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Insists that environmental concerns should be a key element of its policy; believes that further improvements in terms of energy efficiency are necessary, including thef a climate-neutral Parliament is to be achieved and a minimal carbon footprint which takes into consideration of green energy sources; awaits more detailed information on the results of the EMAS action plan on the possible use of solar panels as well as on improvements in renewing Parliament's car fleet with hybrid cars, as requested in its resolution on the 2008 budget guidelines;
Amendment 33 #
2008/2021(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Considers that staffing levels have now entered a phase of consolidation following the very significant increases made with the last enlargements; calls on all services and the political groups to provide realistic requests for staffinga detailed analysis and justification of staff deployment in Parliament´s various departments before making any requests for staffing and creating any new posts, and to use possibilities of re-deployment whenever posfeasible; considers that this budgetary exercise shall constitute a continuation of such efforts in 2008, while recognising the special challenges for 2009 and the fact that redeployment possibilities will vary from one year to the next;
Amendment 29 #
2008/0149(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) The same conditions which jeopardise the very right to food in developing countries and lead to the need for the present financing facility (the high food prices), also lead to lower agriculture market expenditure under Heading 2 of the Financial Framework. Current estimates also indicate a significant unallocated margin under the ceiling of Heading 2 in 2009.
Amendment 30 #
2008/0149(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) The measures adopted with this facility should help developing countries to boost agricultural productivity in the next seasons, to respond rapidly to immediate needs of the countries and their population and to take initial steps needed to prevent as far as possible further food insecurity situations, and also contribute to mitigating the effects of the high food prices globally, to the benefit of the poorest people but, of smallholder farmers, and also of the European consumers and farmers.
Amendment 32 #
2008/0149(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18 a (new)
Recital 18 a (new)
18a. This Regulation should also be the start of a long-term strategy for the target countries which are selected according to criteria laid down in the Annex and a follow up of actions financed under this regulation should be carried out in the following years.
Amendment 35 #
2008/0149(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. The list of beneficiary countries shall not exceed a maximum of 35 countries, in order to concentrate efforts efficiently. The target countries shall be selected on the basis of the set of criteria laid down in the Annex.
Amendment 36 #
2008/0149(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 3 b (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Wherever feasible, NGO involvement shall be guaranteed in the projects carried out by all international organisations.
Amendment 37 #
2008/0149(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 5 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Transparent monitoring and evaluations of the projects of the World Food Programme (WFP),the Food and Agriculture Organisation( FAO), the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the World Bank and other international and regional organisations in the beneficiary countries are necessary to ensure an efficient and effective implementation of this Regulation.
Amendment 38 #
2008/0149(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1
Article 2 – paragraph 1
1. The primary objectives of the assistance and cooperation under this Regulation shall be to encourage a positive supply response of agricultural sector, including small- holder farmers, in target countries and regions in the context of their sustainable development and to support activities to respond rapidly and directly to mitigate the negative effects of high food prices in line with food security objectives and UN standards for nutritional requirements.
Amendment 39 #
2008/0149(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 4
Article 2 – paragraph 4
4. The Commission shall ensure that measures adopted under this Regulation are consistent with the Community's overall strategic policy framework for the eligible country or countries concerned, and shall guarantee priority access for small-holder farmers to the food facility.
Amendment 52 #
2008/0149(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 3
Article 5 – paragraph 3
3. Participation in the appropriate contractual procedures shall be open to all natural and legal persons who are eligible pursuant to the geographical development instrument applicable to the country in which the action takes place, as well as to all natural and legal persons who are eligible pursuant to the rules of the implementing international organisation, care being taken to ensure that equal treatment is afforded to all donors. The same rules shall apply in respect of supplies and materials. Experts may be of any nationality. In addition, expertise in Member States' agricultural projects should be used and incorporated into the execution of the projects falling within the scope of this Regulation.
Amendment 54 #
2008/0149(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex
Annex
ANNEX ANNEX Indicative list of criteria to select target countries countries and criteria for financial allocations per country Indicative criteria to select target countries: - Food price inflation and its potential socio-economic and political impact: • Level of food price inflation (in comparison to general inflation) • Reliance on net food imports, including imports of food aid • Social vulnerability and political stability • Food production as a percentage of farm consumption • Agricultural production capacity - Capacity of the potentially eligible country to respond and implement appropriate response measures • Measures taken by Government, including supply side (such as enhancing infrastructure of rural areas) and trade measures • Export earnings • Fiscal vulnerability Account will also be taken of other sources of financing available to the target country, at short term, from the donor community, to respond to the Food crisis, and of the potential of the country to increase agricultural production, in a long term sustainable manner. Indicative criteria for financial allocations per country: • A sufficient level of good governance; • The real needs of the population concerned; • Sufficient capacity to set up social safety nets for poor and vulnerable groups; • Sufficient capacity to increase agricultural production rapidly and efficiently; • Sufficient infrastructure to accommodate a rapid increase in production and to supply local and regional markets.
Amendment 2 #
2007/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Amendment 3 #
2007/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 b (new)
Paragraph 8 b (new)
8b. Stresses the need to maintain the EU's crucial EU support for the mediation efforts led by Mr Kofi Annan in Kenya; emphasises the need to keep all parties involved in finding acceptable solutions in developing a post-election strategy aimed at reconciliation, prevention of ethnic cleansing and the return of all internally displaced persons to their place of origin;
Amendment 4 #
2007/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 c (new)
Paragraph 8 c (new)
Amendment 5 #
2007/2274(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 d (new)
Paragraph 8 d (new)
8d. Calls on the European Union and its Member States to ensure that efforts of stabilization, peace-building and protection of civilians in Afghanistan will be maintained and adequately resourced as long as needed, including the commitment of troops backed by the necessary mandate and equipment; warns that the price of failure in Afghanistan would be inordinately high in terms of human rights, particularly for women’s rights; emphasises that long-term improvement of civilian institutions is vital for reconstruction and reconciliation.
Amendment 20 #
2007/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Urges the Commission therefore to look into the matter and the clear link between migration levels of immigrants from West African countries to the European Union and the heavy decline of fish stocks off the West African coasts;
Amendment 21 #
2007/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 b (new)
Paragraph 8 b (new)
8b. Calls on the Commission and the governments of the West African countries to curb illegal fishing, and to monitor and control fish stocks in order to put an end to the heavy decline in fish stocks in the West African seas;
Amendment 23 #
2007/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10 a. Asks the Commission, in the light of the not yet fully agreed and signed Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with the West African countries, to proceed in line with the agenda on policy coherence for development when negotiating agreements for timber and fish as part of the EPA process;
Amendment 24 #
2007/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 b (new)
Paragraph 10 b (new)
10b. Exhorts the Commission once again to act on the ultimate objective of the EPAs, which is advancing regional integration and strengthening the economic position of the ACP countries, and in this context stresses in particular the position of the West African countries;
Amendment 15 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
Amendment 26 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital N
Recital N
Amendment 32 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O
Recital O
Amendment 52 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital AA
Recital AA
AA. whereas pursuant to the Espoo Convention every project of this kind should be preceded by an analysis of its alternatives, including in particular implementation costs and environmental safety, in this case an analysis of overland routes for the gas pipeline,
Amendment 63 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Recognises that, in order to satisfy the EU’s increasing demand for natural gas, a number of new pipelines and LNG facilities will be needed in addition to Nord Stream in the coming years and that Nord Stream would therefore operate in addition to, rather than in replacement of, existing pipelines;
Amendment 64 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1b. Recognises that Nord Stream was designated a project of European interest under the 2006 TEN-E guidelines, has reached a more advanced stage than any other planned gas pipeline route to Europe, and will help to meet the EU’s future energy needs;
Amendment 69 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
Amendment 71 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Expresses its resolute opposition to regarding large-scale transboundaryTakes note of the opposition expressed by certain Member States to the pipeline projects planned for the Baltic Sea area, which is a common asset of the states bordering the Baltic Sea, not as matters of bilateral relations between states;
Amendment 77 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Expresses its conviction that energy projects of this kindinvolving EU Member States and third countries should be subjects of common European interest and concern for the whole European Union and its citizens;
Amendment 80 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Underlines that the project has been designated a project of European interest in the latest guidelines on Trans- European Energy Networks (TENE-E) adopted in September 2006, and that it should be planned in the spirit of the common European foreign policy on energy;
Amendment 82 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Underlines that the project has been designated a project of European interest in the latest guidelines on Trans- European Energy Networks (TENE-E) adopted in September 2006, and that it should be planned in the spirit of the common European foreign policy on energy; Or.
Amendment 84 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Recognises that, in conformity with applicable international legislation, Nord Stream has commissioned an independent environmental impact assessment to be submitted to the “Parties of origin” (Russia, Finland, Sweden, Denmark and Germany) for their approval;
Amendment 95 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. RegretsWould welcome a decision of the Commission’s failure to accept the proposal contained in Parliament’s resolution of 16 November 2006 concerning the preparation of environmental impact assessments of proposed projects by the Commission, while reiterating its call for the preparation of such an assessment;
Amendment 111 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
Amendment 114 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Expresses profound concern at the reports that before commissioning the gas pipeline the investor intends to use a highly toxic compound known as glutaric aldehyde, which it is then planning to release into the Baltic,; underlines that any action that would result in a major environmental disaster with irreversible consequences; simultaneously calls on the Commission and the Council to take immediate action to prevent this scenario from taking placehould be avoided;
Amendment 118 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Emphasises that the construction and operation of the Gas Pipeline on the Baltic seabed willmay threaten many species of fish and birds as well as the existence of a population of porpoises numbering only 600, which are a species unique to this geographical region;
Amendment 131 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Emphasises that alternative gas pipeline routes, which do not disturb the marine environment, should be analysed first, and notes that it is possible to run such rouPoints out that all energy projects which have been designated projects of European interest in the TENE-E guidelines, including the North European gas pipeline (Nord Stream pipeline), the Yamal II project promoted by Poland and the Amber project, should be regarded as possible complementary energy projects designed to respond to the growing demand for European energy supply and should not be seen as alternative gas pipeline routes; notes tohat the Russian border overland, solely through European Union Member StatesCommission has not expressed any preference for one project over the other in this context;
Amendment 137 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
Amendment 143 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
Amendment 162 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a.Points out the importance of conducting a transparent communication strategy on steps concerning the results of the environmental impact assessment, and of communicating those results actively to all EU Member States, especially the Baltic littoral states;
Amendment 167 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
Amendment 171 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Expresses its beliefNotes that routing the North European gas pipeline through EU territory would enable it toshould meet the strategic and economic objectives set out in Decision 1364/2006/EC whilst avoiding extensive environmental damage;
Amendment 172 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19 a. Considers that it is of the utmost importance to avoid any unnecessary instrumentalisation of the environmental and security issues; reminds all Member States and governments to refrain from any unnecessary polarisation of its citizens and to underline that the project was designated a project of European interest in the TEN-E guidelines adopted in September 2006 by Parliament and by the Council;
Amendment 180 #
2007/2118(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Calls on the Council and Commission to use every legal means at their disposal to prevent the construction of the North European gas pipeline on the scale proposed by the investor if the environmental impact assessment concludes that the environmental and security concerns of littoral Baltic States are justified;
Amendment 7 #
2007/0228(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) The mobility of highly qualified third- country workers between the Community and their countries of origin should be fostered and sustained. Derogations from Council Directive 2003/109/EC of 25 November 2003 on the status of third- country nationals who are long-term residents should be foreseen in order to extend the period of absence from the territory of the Community which is not taken into account for the calculation of the period of legal and continuous residence necessary to be eligible for the EC long- term residence status. Longer periods of absence than those provided for in Council Directive 2003/109/EC should also be allowed after highly qualified third-country workers have acquired EC long-term residence status. In accordance with the Commission Communication of 12 April 2005 entitled "Policy Coherence for Development - Accelerating progress towards attaining the Millennium Development Goals" (COM(2005)0134), five targets need to be stressed in order to encourage circular migration, which are as follows: 1) training of workers in developing countries, 2) retention of highly skilled workers in developing countries, 3) promotion of voluntary return to the country of origin by facilitating social and financial security, 4) ethical recruitment by a legally binding code of conduct, and 5) enhancing circular migration by implementing standards on dual citizenship and mutual recognition of diplomas. In particular, to encourage the circular migration of highly qualified third-country workers originating from developing countries, Member States should take into consideration making use of the possibilities offered in Article 4(3), second subparagraph, and Article 9(2) of Council Directive 2003/109/EC to allow for longer periods of absence than those provided for in this Directive. In order to ensure consistency in particular with the underlying development objectives, these derogations should only be applicable if it can be proven that the person concerned has returned to his/her country of origin for work, study or volunteering activities.
Amendment 8 #
2007/0228(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 18
Recital 18
(18) Third-country highly qualified workers should enjoy equal treatment as regards social security. Branches of social security are defined in Council Regulation (EEC) No 1408/71 of 14 June 1971 on the application of social security schemes to employed persons, to self-employed persons and to members of their families moving within the Community. Council Regulation (EC) No 859/2003 of 14 May 2003 extending the provisions of Regulation (EEC) No 1408/71 and Regulation (EEC) No 574/72 to nationals of third countries who are not already covered by those provisions solely on the ground of their nationality extends the provisions of Regulation (EEC) No 1408/71 to third country nationals who are legally residing in the European Union and who are in a cross-border situation. The provisions on equal treatment as regards social security in this proposal also apply directly to persons coming to a Member State directly from a third country. Nevertheless, this Directive should not confer more rights than those already provided in existing Community legislation in the field of social security for third- country nationals who have cross-border elements between Member States. The Member States should provide at least basic social security, and together with the Commission develop the portability of social and pension rights to ensure return of long-term residents to their country of origin.
Amendment 10 #
2007/0228(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 20
Recital 20
(20) In implementing this Directive, Member States should refrain from pursuing active recruitment in developing countries in sectors suffering from lack of human resources. The Commission and Member States should develop and implement a legally binding code of conduct to protect certain sensitive sectors. Ethical recruitment policies and principles applicable to public and private sector employers should be developed in particular in the health sector, as underlined in the Council and Member States' conclusions of 14 May 2007 on the European Programme for Action to tackle the critical shortage of health workers in developing countries (2007-2013). These should be strengthened by the development of mechanisms, guidelines and other tools to facilitate circular and temporary migration, as well as other measures that would minimise negative and maximise positive impacts of highly skilled immigration on developing countries. The EU should make targeted investments to train, deploy and retain staff in sensitive sectors in developing countries such as education and health. Any such intervention must be taken along the lines of the Joint Africa-EU Declaration on Migration and Development agreed in Tripoli on 22 and 23 November 2006 and with a view of establishing a comprehensive migration policy as called for by the European Council of 14 and 15 December 2006.
Amendment 12 #
2007/0228(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 20 b (new)
Recital 20 b (new)
(20b) The Commission should provide adequate technical assistance and training to developing countries in order to build up effective strategies to retain highly skilled workers through, for instance, development programmes aimed at the improvement of local employment opportunities and improvements in working conditions.
Amendment 15 #
2007/0228(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) Specific reporting provisions should must be foreseen to monitor the implementation of the highly qualified scheme, also with a view to identifying and possibly counteracting its possible impacts in terms of brain drain the impacts of brain drain, which will probably increase with the application of the EU Blue Card proposal, in developing countries, especially in Sub- Saharan Africa. Data on the professions and the nationality of highly qualified immigrants admitted by Member States should therefore be transmitted annually by Member States through the network created for these purposes by Council Decision 2006/688/EC of 5 October 2006 on the establishment of a mutual information mechanism concerning Member States' measures in the areas of asylum and immigration. Therefore the Commission should carry out an impact assessment on the consequences for developing countries of applying the Blue Card proposal and provide these data to Members States and the European Parliament.
Amendment 19 #
2007/0228(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 27 a (new)
Recital 27 a (new)
(27a) In order to apply EU legislation and a common strategy for conditions of entry and residence of third-country nationals for the purpose of highly qualified employment, the Commission and the Council should express their regret at the non-participation of the UK, Denmark and Ireland in the Blue Card directive and implement a legally binding code of conduct on conditions for third-country nationals.
Amendment 20 #
2007/0228(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Article 6 a (new)
Article 6 a (new)
Article 6a Level of Official Development Assistance Member States shall fulfil their Official Development Assistance (ODA) commitments to allocate 0,7% of GDP to development cooperation in order to address the internal push factors for migration.
Amendment 5 #
2006/0167(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 1 a (new)
Recital 1 a (new)
(1a) The incorporation of the Arrangement into EU law provides export credit agencies of Member States with additional legal certainty. In recognition of this, export credit agencies should take the EU objectives into account when supporting European companies outside of the European Union.
Amendment 7 #
2006/0167(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 3 a (new)
Recital 3 a (new)
(3a) The OECD requires the disclosure of information on export credits from its member countries in order to prevent them from behaviour which is protectionist or market distorting. Within the Union, transparency should be ensured in order to guarantee a level playing field for the Member States.
Amendment 8 #
2006/0167(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 3 b (new)
Recital 3 b (new)
(3b) Policy coherence as enshrined in the Treaty is of the utmost importance for the achievement of the Union's external objectives. Export credit agencies should thus comply with EU objectives, especially in the field of environmental and social policy, development cooperation and respect for human rights.
Amendment 9 #
2006/0167(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 2 a (new)
Article 2 a (new)
Article 2a The Council shall report annually to the European Parliament and to the Commission on the implementation by each Member State of the Arrangement on Guidelines for Officially Supported Export Credits.