342 Amendments of Juozas IMBRASAS
Amendment 20 #
2013/2098(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Considers that the introduction of European quality branding will help the Member States achieve swift and harmonious integration of the regional transport sector into the EU system;
Amendment 13 #
2013/2061(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Is convinced that health literacy of patients, encouraging them to monitor and measure their health, to understand and control their health data and to eliminate the prevailing unequal specialist-patient relationship, is a crucial factor needed to improve quality of health services, increase transparency of health institutions, fight corruption and to ensure that patients allow re-use of their data for creating new knowledge;
Amendment 22 #
2013/2061(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. SCalls on Member States and the Commission to take an urgent action to create a coherent legal framework to manage different types of health data and their use; the rapid success of social networking tools show that individuals willingly share personal information and are not always aware of the implications of their decisions, while the terms and conditions of the new applications and tools collecting data are set by providers, often without adequate safeguards and protection; stresses that citizens' confidence is essential for both domestic and crossborder eHealth services; emphasises the need to comply with the rules on personal data protection, since this is an essential prerequisite for the protection of citizens, for patients' trust in eHealth services, and for the proper functioning and increased use of electronic communications in the health sector; sensitive data, in particular medical data, must be protected from hacking, leaks, privacy breaches and other forms of abuse;
Amendment 4 #
2013/2017(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Is concerned that the uncertainty linked to the adoption of the MFF constitutes an obstacle for any serious budgetary planning, which is quite worrying as 2014 is the start of the new programming period and affects Cohesion Policy in particular;
Amendment 27 #
2013/0187(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
Amendment 106 #
2013/0187(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – point 39
Article 1 – point 39
Regulation (EC) No 216/2008
Article 39 – point 1 – subparagraph 3
Article 39 – point 1 – subparagraph 3
The annual and multi-annual work programmes shall aim to promote the continuous improvementmaintenance of European aviation safety and comply with the objectives, mandates and tasks of the Agency, as set out in this Regulation.
Amendment 113 #
2013/0186(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) Implementation of the common transport policy and the improvement, in all Member States, of air traffic control systems requires an efficient air transport system allowing safe and regular operation of air transport services, thus facilitating the free movement of goods, persons and services.;
Amendment 114 #
2013/0186(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) Implementation of the common transport policy and the improvement, in all Member States, of air traffic control systems requires an efficient air transport system allowing the safe, regular and sustainable operation of air transport services, optimising capacity and facilitating the free movement of goods, persons and services.;
Amendment 119 #
2013/0186(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) To ensure the consistent and sound oversight of service provision across Europe, the national supervisory authorities should be guaranteed sufficient independence and resources. This independence should not prevent those authorities from exercising their tasks within an administrative framework.Does not affect English version.)
Amendment 134 #
2013/0186(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 25
Recital 25
(25) The ongoing creation and integration of functional airspace blocks shwould operate in a flexible manner, bringmake it possible to bring together service providers across Europe to capitalise on each other's strengths. This flexibility should allow for seeking synergies between providers regardless of their geographical location or nationality and allow for variable formats of service provision to emerge in the search for performance improvements.;
Amendment 74 #
2013/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 6 a (new)
Recital 6 a (new)
(6a) Member States entering into agreements that allow longer and heavier vehicles to be used in cross-border transport should ensure that the 2030 and 2050 goals regarding the targets of 30% and 50%8a respectively are not burdensome to the economy and acknowledge that, long-haul road freight is economically positive. It should be proven, documented and reported to the Commission for its approval that the present and future role of longer and heavier vehicles is complementing rather than competing with rail and waterborne transport. ___________ 8a OJ C 168 E, 14.6.2013, p. 72.
Amendment 431 #
2013/0072(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 9 – point b
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 9 – point b
Regulation (EC) No 261/2004
Article 9 – paragraph 5
Article 9 – paragraph 5
5. The obligation to offer accommodation under paragraph 1(b) shall not apply where the flight concerned is of 2500 km or less and scheduled to be operated by an aircraft with a maximum capacity of 80 seats or less, except where the flight is a connecting flight. If the operating air carrier chooses to apply this limitation, it shall nevertheless provide the passengers with information about available accommodation after the three nights.
Amendment 446 #
2013/0072(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 13
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 13
Regulation (EC) No 261/2004
Article 14 – paragraph 1
Article 14 – paragraph 1
1. The airport managing body and the operating air carrier shall ensure that at the check-in desks (including at self-service check-in machines) and at the boarding gate, a clearly legible notice containing the following text is displayed in a manner clearly visible to passengers: «If you are denied boarding or if your flight is cancelled or delayed for at least two hours, ask at the check-in counter or boarding gate for the notice stating your rights, particularly with regard to assistance and possible compensationthe place where you can obtain assistance and with regard to any compensation for which you are eligible».
Amendment 82 #
2013/0012(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) BIn recent decades it has become increasingly clear that oil is a finite resource and, based on the consultation of stakeholders and national experts, as well as expertise electricity, hydrogen, biofuels, natural gas, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) were identified as the main alternative fuels with a potential for long- term oil substitution and decarbonisation.
Amendment 349 #
2013/0012(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 10 – paragraph 1
Article 10 – paragraph 1
1. Each Member State shall submit a report to the Commission on the national policy framework and its implementation by [two years after the entry into force of this Directive], and every 23 years thereafter. These reports shall include information set out in Annex I.
Amendment 350 #
2013/0012(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 10 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Article 10 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
The Commission shall submit a report on the application of this Directive to the European Parliament and the Council every twohree years with effect from [two years after the transposition date of this Directive].
Amendment 29 #
2012/2302(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Points to the fact that the cultural and creative industries contribute to maintaining Europe’s immense cultural, historical and architectural heritage; highlights that the cultural and creative sectors are of huge interest to tourists from both the EU and non-EU countries; believes that, in view of this added value, the cultural and in particular the creative sectors should be strongly supported by the future EU budget as they bring with them important economic opportunities;
Amendment 23 #
2012/2299(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Emphasises the importance of airport hubs and the urgent need forurges businesses to investments in airport infrastructure;
Amendment 45 #
2012/2299(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Calls on the Commission to complete as soon as possible the negotiations of comprehensive air agreements with key partners, including the Russian Federation, and on the Council to grant the Commission a mandate to negotiate such agreements with fast- growing economies such as China and India;
Amendment 51 #
2012/2299(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Calls on the Commission to complete as soon as possible a fair agreement with the Russian Federation regarding the modernisation of the existing system of utilisation of Trans-Siberian Routes;
Amendment 16 #
2012/2298(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Maintains that investments under the EU Structural Funds and investment funds could be of great help in developing scientific research and smart specialisation applied to sustainable mobility;
Amendment 78 #
2012/2298(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Puts the focus on health and quality of life, in terms of a fair share of space for all, noise reduction and cleaner air, when it comes to developing innovation for transport and mobility in urban and residential areas; draws attention to the electric buses which are already to be placed on the market in the European Union this year;
Amendment 1 #
2012/2296(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas road charging is going to become a reality in more and more Member States in the very near future; whereas the EU has a responsibility to ensure that road safety is guaranteed and that this new development does not impact on cross-border travel or trade;
Amendment 48 #
2012/2296(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Believes that, while the ultimate power to raise revenue rests with the Member States, the EU should favour a system of distance- based tolling over vignette-type systems, since the former is a much fairer, non- discriminatory type of system, whereas the latter has caused problems in the past in terms of efficiency and discrimination and should be avoided whenever possible;
Amendment 27 #
2012/2293(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Calls on the European Investment Bank, in close consultation with local and regional authorities, to increase investment in the social housing sector;
Amendment 49 #
2012/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on carriers to make greater efforts to inform passengers more fully; considers that information must be provided in five languages (English, German, French, Italian, and the national language) in time and be readily understandable, exact, and complete, and that, as regards possible travel problems, passengers must be made aware of their rights at the outset, when they book a trip;
Amendment 72 #
2012/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Recommends that adequately staffed info points and help desks be set up at places of departure and arrival (airports, railway stations, bus terminals, and ports) and that both carriers and the operators of the above facilities provide more comprehensive assistance to passengers in the event of individual or massive travel disruption;
Amendment 108 #
2012/2067(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Calls on the Commission to collect as much information as possible on the previous infringements by carriers and review the current regulations, amending them in the light of the new information collected;
Amendment 24 #
2012/2031(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Considers that good training and testing for transporters is the basis of animal welfare, as it is the main guarantee of the proper handling of animals, and therefore calls on the Member States to step up training programmes where necessary and test transporters’ knowledge;
Amendment 12 #
2012/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Title
Title
Proposal for a REGULATION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL amending Regulation (EU) No 510/2011 to define the modalities for reaching the 20205 target to reduce CO2 emissions from new light commercial vehicles (Text with EEA relevance)
Amendment 21 #
2012/0190(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Title
Title
Proposal for a REGULATION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL amending Regulation (EC) No 443/2009 to define the modalities for reaching the 20205 target to reduce CO2 emissions from new passenger cars
Amendment 85 #
2012/0186(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5
Article 5
Each Member State shall carry out in every calendar year a total number of initial roadside inspections , corresponding to at least 53% of the total number of vehicles referred to in Article 3(1) that are registered in its territory .
Amendment 9 #
2012/0185(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The possibility of cancelling a registration of a vehicle in the Member State of its registration in cases where inter alia a vehicle has been re-registered in another Member State or dismantled and scrapped should be introduced.
Amendment 221 #
2012/0184(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2
Article 5 – paragraph 2
2. In the case where a vehicle of categories M1 or N1 reaches a mileage of 16200 000 km on the first roadworthiness test after the vehicle was first registered, it shall be subject to a roadworthiness test thereafter annually.
Amendment 230 #
2012/0184(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 4 – indent 3
Article 5 – paragraph 4 – indent 3
Amendment 7 #
2011/2288(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Highlights that the EU’s cohesion policy makes an important contribution to the European economy and competitiveness and is the Community’s largest source of investment;
Amendment 18 #
2011/2288(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that in most European countries, industrial undertakings and large firms generate a substantive part of the business sector value added, and insists that for geographically targeted support, the size of the enterprise should not matter as the only criterion should be the quality and required sustainability of the project;
Amendment 23 #
2011/2191(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the conclusion of the accession negotiations with Croatia, bringing to an end almost six years of negotiations and several years of preparations that have significantly altered the country’s socio-political, economic and cultural landscape; calls on the authorities and civil society to continue to impress upon the people that European unification is to their advantage; stresses the need to keep up the reform momentum and considers that this process is not complete but should continue with the same vigour and hard work after the conclusion of negotiations and beyond accession;
Amendment 6 #
2011/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Underlines that pan-European eGovernment platforms improve access to public service information (PSI), policies, government communication, culture and education, as well as contributing to government efficiency and efforts to control bureaucracy, fight corruption and bring about more effective cooperation with undertakings and enhancing democratisation by empowering citizens in the policy-making process;
Amendment 24 #
2011/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on Member States and the Commission to publish publicly funded data in machine-readable form (and in real time) under open licences, to enablin accordance with the general guidelines adopted, including with obligations relating to structure and content, under open licences, in order to facilitate innovative re-use of public sector information by academia and for research, business development and the general public;
Amendment 172 #
2011/2177(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 43
Paragraph 43
43. Recalls that, in order to create an open and competitive market for purchases in the sphere of European defence and security and to increase the competitiveness of the European defence industry, as well as to make sure that the interests of the taxpayer are adequately safeguarded and that suppliers from all Member States have equal access to the market, Member States urgently need to improve the transparency and openness of their defence markets; recalls that the deadline for the transposition of Directive 2009/81/EC on defence and sensitive security procurement expired on 21 August 2011; points out that by transposing the directive’s provisions properly into national law and implementing them, transparency and openness in military and security procurement procedures as well as more effective use of Member States’ budgets will be ensured, small and medium-sized companies’ participation in public procurement for defence and security will be facilitated, and innovation, with a view to strengthening the defence industry, will be fostered; therefore, calls on the Commission to report in due time on the transposition measures taken by the Member States, and to take all necessary action to ensure correct implementation;
Amendment 12 #
2011/2175(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas food waste has not just ethical but also economic, environmental, social, nu, economic, social and nutritional but also health and environmental implications, since unconsumed food mountains make a major contributional and health implications to global warming and food waste produces methane, which as a greenhouse gas is 21 times more powerful than carbon dioxide,
Amendment 45 #
2011/2175(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Is aware that in Europe, where the main food waste takes place at the retail and consumption levels, there is relatively little scope for regulation and legislation to improve the situation and that the main benefit must come from an exchange of best practice, improved routines in the treatment of food and a change in behaviour on the part of companies and individuals; urges the Commission and the Member States, therefore, to lend their support to campaigns aimed at those goals; urges the Commission and the Member States, therefore, to lend their support to campaigns aimed at those goals, particularly stressing educational initiatives which cultivate awareness among producers and consumers of the connection which exists between consumption and production and their awareness of costs, waste, the environment and health;
Amendment 13 #
2011/2157(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Affirms that the EU programmes for young people have had a great impact on enhancing educational opportunities for youth and promoting mutual understanding between peoples; appeals to the Member States, therefore, to enable students from ENP countries to have access to education in Europe;
Amendment 219 #
2011/2156(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Calls, in line with the Court of Auditors reports, on more transparency and accountability when it comes to documentation of decisions concerning the recruitment procedures as well as salaries and bonus reviews;
Amendment 4 #
2011/2151(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 – point c
Paragraph 2 – point c
(c) awareness of the need for gender balance in decision-making processes, to be achieved by increasing the representation of women on Parliament’s governing bodies, on the bureaus of committees and delegations, in the composition of delegations and in other missions, such as election observation, as well as ensuring the representation of men in areas where they are under-represented; notes, however, that this balance should not be sought at any price, and that criteria relating to the ability of the person concerned to carry out the relevant duties should be taken into account;
Amendment 5 #
2011/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. RecallPoints out that the services which the space industry provides to the public sector and the general public enhance the effectiveness of public administration and improve people’s quality of life; emphasises that the transport sector has a key role to play in achieving the objectives of the Europe 2020 Strategy and that sustainable growth cannot be achieved without an efficient transport sector;
Amendment 6 #
2011/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes that the seven Space Councils to date have made only one passing reference to transport in Europe and that the significance of space policy for transport has not been given detailed consideration in the deliberations of the Space Council as reflected in its outcome of proceedings; draws attention to the almost infinite prospects for developing space activities and the fact that they are a significant driver for a growth economy;
Amendment 23 #
2011/2148(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Underlines that the costs relating to GMES are already covered until 2013, totalling EUR 3 billion (approximately EUR 2.3 billion for the satellites and EUR 700 million for related services) and that it is estimated that the programme’s maintenance costs for the period 2014 - 2020 will average EUR 850 million per year; calls on the Commission to promote public-private partnership and attract more private-sector capital;
Amendment 35 #
2011/2147(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. CallsStresses that workers’ conduct in dangerous situations can increase the probability of an accident, and that the provision of appropriate information and training can be helpful in identifying inappropriate and dangerous behaviour and issuing warnings; calls, therefore, for the ring-fencing of resources for labour inspection, high-quality standards in the education and training of labour inspectors, and tighter controls; calls for guarantees that labour inspection is carried out independently of businesses;
Amendment 1 #
2011/2139(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the European Union has set up the appropriate legislative and budgetary instrumentsGlobalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) was established to provide additional supportassistance to workers who are suffering from the consequencesmade redundant as a result of major structural changes in world trade patterns due to globalisation and to assist their reintegration into the labour market,
Amendment 1 #
2011/2138(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the European Union has set up the appropriate legislative and budgetary instrumentsGlobalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) was established to provide additional supportassistance to workers who are suffering from the consequencesmade redundant as a result of major structural changes in world trade patterns due to globalisation and to assist their reintegration into the labour market,
Amendment 1 #
2011/2137(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the European Union has set up the appropriate legislative and budgetary instrumentsGlobalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) was established to provide additional supportassistance to workers who are suffering from the consequencesmade redundant as a result of major structural changes in world trade patterns due to globalisation and to assist their reintegration into the labour market,
Amendment 1 #
2011/2136(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the European Union has set up the appropriate legislative and budgetary instrumentsGlobalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) was established to provide additional supportassistance to workers who are suffering from the consequencesmade redundant as a result of major structural changes in world trade patterns due to globalisation and to assist their reintegration into the labour market,
Amendment 11 #
2011/2133(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. to encourage Georgia to pursue pro- business reforms, to improve its tax collection capacity and its contractual dispute settlement mechanism, to continue investing in its infrastructure and to fight existing inequalities, particularly in rural areas, in addition to promoting cooperation with experts from throughout the EU, cooperating daily with partners in the partner countries, helping to step up the pace of reform and sharing best practices and the EU's experience in various fields.
Amendment 23 #
2011/2132(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. to ensure that the EU consistently makes similar progress with the other Eastern Partners willing to comply with democratic values and trade openness; to encourage Ukraine to promote cooperation with experts from all over the EU that cooperate with partners from the partner states on a daily basis, help them speed up reforms and share their EU practical experience and best practices acquired in various fields;
Amendment 32 #
2011/2132(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the Ukrainian political and state leadership has repeatedly confirmed its commitment to European integration and its long-term ambition to enable Ukraine to become a Member State of the European Union; whereas this goal continues to be supported by all actors on the Ukrainian political stage; whereas the increase in cooperation between the Ukraine and Members of the European Parliament, and between the Ukraine and parliaments of the EU Member States, for example by establishing an interparliamentary assembly between Lithuania, Poland and Ukraine, is a commendable example of different political forces working together to advance Ukraine’s integrationgradually and harmoniously integrate Ukraine with the EU,
Amendment 56 #
2011/2132(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H a (new)
Recital H a (new)
Ha. whereas the Eastern Partnership initiative, in which Ukraine is also participating, will be able to successfully provide additional resources for integration into the EU only if it is properly financed and based on solid projects;
Amendment 108 #
2011/2132(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point k
Paragraph 1 – point k
(k) to reinforce, within the framework of the agreement, cooperation between Ukraine and the EU in the field of energy; to strive for the conclusion of further agreements between the EU and Ukraine aimed at securing energy supplies for both sides, including a reliable and diversified transit system for oil and gas and a common response mechanism in case of disturbances or interruptions of oil and gas deliveries from the Russian Federation; to provide the requisite technical assistance with a view to improving significantly the energy efficiency of Ukraine’s electricity grid and step up cooperation in the implementation of the reform of the gas sector;
Amendment 117 #
2011/2132(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point l
Paragraph 1 – point l
(l) to enhance cooperation with regard to youth and student exchanges and the development of scholarship programmes, which will enable Ukrainians to become acquainted with the European Union and its Member States and vice versa;
Amendment 128 #
2011/2132(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point o
Paragraph 1 – point o
(o) to establish concrete deadlines for the establishment of a visa-free regime between Ukraine and the European Union rather than maintaining a long-term perspective, provided that Ukraine fulfils the necessary technical criteria set out in the action plan on visa liberalisation; to estabolish the intermediate objective of abolishing existing visa fenational and Schengen visa fees in all Member States; and to introduce special measures during the European Football Championship, with a view to using this special occasion as a testing period for a visa-free regime;
Amendment 16 #
2011/2117(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Supports the Commission’s intention to encourage the use of alternative means of dispute resolution that are swift, effective and cheap and apt to enable th; notes that national initiatives of this type help to make dispute restablishment of quality commercial relationsolution more effective and reduce the courts’ workload;
Amendment 37 #
2011/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Sees potential for ADR within the ongoing discussion on collective redress, in particular as a preliminary stage to any collective redress action; considers that offering consumers the same possibilities of defending their interests by means of collective redress would increase the competitiveness of the EU internal market and make more solutions available to consumers, which would be of major added value in terms of the uniform implementation of EU legislative acts; encourages the Commission to explore this issue thoroughly;
Amendment 3 #
2011/2116(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Highlights the potential of the SCE for promoting gender equality through the implementation of policies and programmes, training and education and decent work at various levels; calls on the Commission to design a mechanism for the exchange of best gender equality practices between the Member States;
Amendment 8 #
2011/2115(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. whereas public procurement procedures in the EU’s strategic partner countries tend to be closed to foreign participants and are still relatively unaffected by international commitments, while the EU is much more open than other countries in this regard;
Amendment 53 #
2011/2115(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Urges the Commission to promote the spread of public procurement disciplines based on international standards as developed in the Government Procurement Agreement and to use or expand existing regulatory dialogues, as well as increasing the number of parties to the Agreement, in order to enhance cooperation on the regulatory framework and the removal of existing direct and indirect discriminatory practices;
Amendment 56 #
2011/2115(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. agrees with the Commission on the need to strengthen the EU’s position in negotiations on application of the principle of reciprocity in the public procurement sector and on fair access for EU companies to third countries’ markets, and to clarify the rules governing conditions of access for third- country companies, products or services in public procurement in the EU;
Amendment 126 #
2011/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls for the new rural development policy to include specific support measures for better resource management and for sustainable practices which reduce input costs and vulnerability to price volatility, and which specifically support short input and food chains; calls for harmonisation of direct payments in all EU countries without any transition period, thus creating equal conditions for farmers from the various EU Member States;
Amendment 25 #
2011/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas the Group of 20 (G20), whose member countries account for 88 % of global GDP and 65 % of the world's population, has become an important forum for cooperation at global level, but whereas the problem of its representativeness needs to be resolved and its precise role in the multilateral architecture determined;
Amendment 1 #
2011/2107(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Emphasises the role of research and development for competitive sustainable growth in Europe, with a view to strengthening territorial cohesion; considers that the financing of research and technological development should be made more effective at national and EU level; stresses that the current EU budget for research, which amounts to only 4% of that of research funded by the public sector in Europe, is inadequate; considers it essential to increase this budget and to integrate national programmes and the Europan framework programme more effectively;
Amendment 4 #
2011/2107(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Shares, in the context of the Europe 2020 Strategy, the objective of increasing spending on R&D to reach 3 % GDP by 2020; notes that the EU’s overall strategic policy on research and technological development should be based on coherent strategic objectives, clearly supported by all stakeholders;
Amendment 6 #
2011/2107(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Believes that agriculture will need to respond to specific challenges in the coming decades: catering for the food needs of a growing population, with more resource-efficient and environmentally sustainable practices in response to growing scarcities (water, energy, soil depletion, etc.), taking into account the need to mitigate, and adapt to, climate change; points out that the local and regional level is the appropriate one for developing synergy between research and technological development policies and cohesion policy, which will have an impact on economic and industrial activities and social practices;
Amendment 11 #
2011/2107(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Takes the view that specific budget allocations for calls for proposals within the new Framework Programme and actions deriving from it would help to combat many of the sector’s weaknesses and would also help build a stronger position for fisheries researchers. S; stresses also that building a strong research base would help to further develop a sustainable fisheries and aquaculture sector; stresses that since the European Commission represents the position of the Member States within regional fisheries management organisations, the adoption of unilateral decisions without seeking the Member States’ opinions is unacceptable;
Amendment 13 #
2011/2107(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. In the light of the future gearing of cohesion policy to the Europe 2020 Strategy, calls for the ‘innovation’ priority to be binding on the regions, which must also be reflected in the funding allocated, believes that this is how the widely supported Europe 2020 objectives of smart, sustainable and inclusive growth based on research and innovation, as key drivers of social and economic prosperity and sustainable development, will be achieved;
Amendment 20 #
2011/2107(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. CNotes that 97% of the Member States’ economic activities are still characterised by weak or moderate technological and research intensity; considers it crucial that the investment in science should be coupled with investment in the skills of people. Education, training and advisory services are essential components driving knowledge-based growth of rural businesses. It is therefore necessary to focus advisory and training services on the drive for innovation at every level (product innovation, process innovation and management innovation);
Amendment 23 #
2011/2107(INI)
Paragraphe 3
3. Calls on the regions, in line with the ‘smart specialisation’ approach, to develop tailored innovation strategies; stresses that territorial cooperation must be optimised with a view to greater complementarity between regions; believes that research and innovation should be better linked, that the EU needs to break away from traditional compartmentalised approaches and focus more on challenges and outcomes to be achieved, linking our research and innovation funding closer to our policy objectives, and that developing a simplified set of instruments and rules, while leaving room for flexibility where it is needed, is equally crucial;
Amendment 24 #
2011/2107(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Insists on using the Cohesion Funds to finance initiatives aimed at increasing female employment in technology and innovation and educating female researchers; recalls that the EU should not provide support for any research involving the destruction of human embryos or the use of parts of human embryos whose harvesting would result in their death;
Amendment 28 #
2011/2107(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Strongly supports – while still concentrating on three interdependent objectives, namely creating the world’s best scientific basis within the European Union, promoting global competitiveness and responding to major challenges such as climate change, the effective use of resources, security of energy supplies and food security, health and the ageing of the population – a further increase in the EU’s annual budgets for research and innovation, as these have been proven to deliver excellent European added value and to aid recovery from the economic crisis; emphasises that the Europe 2020 strategy for growth and jobs, adopted by the Council, clearly states the need for additional funds for research and innovation.
Amendment 64 #
2011/2107(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Commission, despite the differences in systems of governance, to aim to achieve maximum harmonisation of rules for the funding of programmes; stresses that funding for research and innovation at national and EU levels needs to be more efficient and effective;
Amendment 236 #
2011/2107(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Recognises that particular attention should be devoted to SMEs’ involvement, in order to enable the exploitation of new ideas and opportunities in a flexible and effective way as they emerge, opening new avenues for innovation; also emphasises that the level of innovation activity affects the innovation climate, confirming the idea that innovative activities should be concentrated in small structural units; notes, moreover, that the success of innovation activities depends to a great extent on the skills and experience of management staff;
Amendment 298 #
2011/2107(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Favours the idea that innovation should meet consumers’ needs and the idea of moving towards a ‘science- based’ approach, and calls for a trust-based and risk-tolerant attitude towards participants at all stages of the funding system;
Amendment 2 #
2011/2096(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. NIs convinced that the transport sector, and transport infrastructure in particular, have an influence on countries' economic and social development, and encourages all countries' governments to invest in this sector; notes that large divergences exist in terms of transport infrastructure and geographical accessibility on the one hand between the eastern and western parts of the EU and on the other hand between central and peripheral regions, which need to be tackled; takes the view that the transport system of the EU should support balanced regional development and territorial cohesion, which will lead to the creation of a Single European Transport Area;
Amendment 398 #
2011/2096(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 – indent 3 a (new)
Paragraph 18 – indent 3 a (new)
- inclusive national rail governance structures to ensure a high level of railway efficiency, in addition to opportunities to compete in international freight markets, to minimise public funding for the railways and even for the state to receive income from the railways;
Amendment 22 #
2011/2095(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recalls that the action on climate change and the need to ensure global food security are dual challenges which need to be pursued together; in the light of the fact that water, in particular drinking water, will be a scarce resource in future, considers it necessary to develop efficient irrigation systems in order to enable efficient agricultural production methods in the Member States, which will permit the population’s food needs to be met and ensure that agricultural products are able to be exported;
Amendment 13 #
2011/2094(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Stresses the need to ensure the independence of rail-related service providers from railway undertakings; notes that the full management structure of the national railways ensures that the rail sector performs well and is therefore in a good competitive position on the international freight market, enabling the public financing of railways to be limited and even providing revenue;
Amendment 2 #
2011/2090(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas unilateral statements by the Council might adversely affect Parliament’s legislative powers, are damaging to the quality of Union legislation, destroy the credibility and prestige of the EU, and undermine the very principle of legal certainty by detracting from the EU’s honour,
Amendment 31 #
2011/2089(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Underlines that there is current situation is not only detrimental for consumers who are the weaker party in market transactions but also imposes unequal market conditions on those businesses who abide by the rules due to unfair competitily no effective legal system governing the payment of compensation for damage caused by violations of competition law to individuals in cases of redress; notes that the competition authorities punish breaches of competition law, but that victims are only able to be compensated on an individual basis by national courts in accordance with national procedural rules, as a result of which, in general, consumers directly affected by a violation of competition law do not receive compensation, whilst fines are paid to the State, which means that justice is not being done;
Amendment 4 #
2011/2088(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that the percentage of early school leavers in the EU currently stands at 14.4% and that 17.4% of these have only completed primary school; takes the view that early school leaving translates into missed opportunities for young people and a loss of social and economic potential for the EU as a whole;
Amendment 12 #
2011/2088(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that a reduction to 10% would have an effect in reducing youth unemployment and in improving the employment rate, since currently 52% of school leavers are unemployed; considers that reducing the early school leaving rate by only 1% could boost the number of qualified potential employees by 500 000; maintains that improving educational attainment will help to achieve two aims to the extent that higher skill levels will make for ‘smart growth’ and tackling one of the main risk factors involved in unemployment and poverty will pave the way to ‘inclusive growth’, and that drastically reducing the numbers of early school leavers constitutes an investment whose significance extends not only to the prospects of the young people concerned, but also to the future prosperity and social cohesion of the EU in general;
Amendment 33 #
2011/2088(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Urges the Member States to carry out an analysis of the problem of early school leaving, while taking due account of data protection, and to develop appropriate packages of measures for prevention, intervention and compensation; believes that strategies to tackle early school leaving must proceed from analysis of the specific national, regional, and local dimensions of the phenomenon and that data should serve to focus research on the reasons for the exceptionally high drop- out rates among given categories of pupils and in the regions, localities, and schools most affected;
Amendment 41 #
2011/2088(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Recalls that ESL can have a detrimental effect on access to high-quality lifelong learning; further recalls that people who have left school early are more likely to be unemployed and dependent on social security benefits;
Amendment 51 #
2011/2088(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Advocates flexible, needs-based forms of learning at schools and stresses that this challenge must be addressed in particular by primary schools and in the early years of secondary schooling; takes the view that teaching staff should be qualified for this purpose; points out that education and vocational training institutions must exchange experiences and tried and tested practice and develop effective means of support for pupils in danger of dropping out;
Amendment 109 #
2011/2088(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Proposes, in the context of the 2012 EU budget, a pilot project aimed at integrating early school leavers successfully into the labour market; believes that, for the purposes of tackling early school leaving, greater focus and rigour need to be brought to European Social Fund assistance so as to enhance its cost- effectiveness;
Amendment 156 #
2011/2088(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Calls on Member States to take account of the requirements of the labour market and to take steps to raise the status of vocational qualifications so that they are seen as a viable option for students of all abilities;
Amendment 10 #
2011/2087(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on the Member States to assign an important role to physical activity, from an extremely early age, in national education programmes; calls on the Council to draw up a recommendation along those lines; calls on Member States to encourage undertakings to organise sports activities for their employees;
Amendment 2 #
2011/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas activities covered by the Services Directive account for 40% of EU GDP and jobs, but whereas these activities also represent some of the most important untapped potential for economic growth and job creation in the EU, since many obstacles to trade in services still exist in the Internal Market,
Amendment 3 #
2011/2084(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Points out that whilst Member States’ attitudes towards online gambling vary, the sector is an economic activity to which internal market rules, namely freedom of establishment and freedom to provide services, must apply; considers that, in view of the widening use of the Internet and the growth in provision of online gambling services, the coexistence of different regulatory models on national markets presents problems, given that the online gambling market is the fastest growing sector in the overall gambling market;
Amendment 25 #
2011/2084(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Believes that the lack of action by the Commission is leading to further fragmentation of the internal market and denying consumers access to safe and properly regulated online services; calls, therefore, on the Commission to launch an extensive public consultation on all relevant public policy challenges and on possible internal market issues resulting from the rapid growth in both legal and unlawful online gambling services for EU citizens;
Amendment 29 #
2011/2084(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas market fragmentation not only makes it difficult for regulated providers to supply legal offerings on a cross-border basis, but also makes it virtually impossible to protect consumers, stop people from using the Internet anonymously for unlawful purposes and combat the crime associated with gambling,
Amendment 33 #
2011/2084(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Calls on the Commission to bring forward meaningful legislative proposals to provide a legal framework that will create legal certainty for legitimate European businesses and protect consumers. ; considers that the views of all interested parties should be sought, in order to have a better understanding of the specific problems resulting from the growth in both legal and unlawful online gambling services offered to EU consumers; considers that information should be sought on the regulatory and technical means which are being used or could be used by the Member States in order to ensure consumer protection, preserve public order and protect other public interests, and on the effectiveness of such means, taking into account the need to implement policy in the area of online gambling in a proportionate, systematic and coherent way;
Amendment 86 #
2011/2084(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. stresses that on-line gambling is a major source of funding for the sports industry; recalls that on-line betting is one form of the commercial exploitation of sporting events; calls on the Commission to look at ways in which revenues from sports betting might be routinely used to safeguard the integrity of popular sport and develop it; calls on the Commission to ensure that there is a high level of legal security, particularly regarding application of the rules on state aid.; also proposes that Member States should encourage undertakings to organise sporting activities for their employees;
Amendment 115 #
2011/2084(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Is of the opinion that attractive, legal gambling offerings on the Internet could considerably rein in the unlicensed black market and also increase government revenueensure that the interests of society as a whole and children in particular are better protected, considerably rein in the unlicensed black market and also increase government revenue; takes the view that this would encourage people in the EU to make use of the services offered by gambling providers whose operations are governed by EU law, since this would afford them adequate legal protection;
Amendment 141 #
2011/2084(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Stresses that, before any restrictions are placed on the free provision of on-line gambling services, due consideration must be given to the case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union and the proportionality requirements that it lays down; notes that restrictions on the free provision of gambling services are justifiable in cases where they are essential in order to protect consumers, maintain public order and prevent gambling from being a source of private profit; notes that restrictions on gambling services must be applied without discrimination and proportionately;
Amendment 150 #
2011/2084(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Insists, however, that Member States which open up the Internet gambling market must ensure complete transparency and make non-discriminatory competition possible; notes that Members States should cut red tape, introduce new gambling products and services and establish consultation-based supervision arrangements; suggest, in this instance, to the Member States that they introduce a licensing model which makes it possible for any European gambling provider meeting the conditions imposed by Member States to apply for a licence; draws attention to the need to introduce electronic certification and rating schemes with a view to reducing the risk of consumer fraud;
Amendment 189 #
2011/2084(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Calls on the Commission and the Member States, in concert, to carry out effective checks on compliance with the conditions set by Member States and to penalise infringements by imposing financial penalties;
Amendment 12 #
2011/2083(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Welcomes the simplified customs control system that was introduced in 2009 and recognises its importance in facilitating international trade; notes with concern that the Court of Auditors has revealed an insufficient control and audit of these simplified procedures in Member States; therefore emphasises the importance of suitable implementation of this control system and encourages the Commission to closely follow this process in order to avoid losses to the EU budget as well as breaches of trade policy provisions;
Amendment 2 #
2011/2082(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the Commission’s aim to achieve a comprehensive VAT system that is solid enough to resist attacks of fraud, of which the estimated annual cost for the EU27 is around 80 to 100 billion euro; notes that VAT is a key source of revenue for national budgets, accounting for approximately one-fifth of the Member States’ income, and that it is therefore essential to identify more effective means of collection;
Amendment 5 #
2011/2082(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Underlines the need to improve cross- border prosecution of intra-Community VAT fraud in the Member States; emphasises that it is essential to simplify the VAT system, reduce the associated administrative burden and thereby protect against fraud, given that these problems stem from the large number of complex rules and the current method of collecting VAT;
Amendment 8 #
2011/2082(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses the importance of more intensive and rapid cooperation between Member States, more direct contacts between local tax offices, and better monitoring of exchanges of information, ensuring that Member States provide efficient assistance to each other; considers it essential to develop a new, modern VAT system geared to the current challenges and needs of the common market, so that this tax can duly fulfil its role in providing the Member States with long-term income at minimal cost to business;
Amendment 10 #
2011/2082(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Commission to urge Member States to simplify and consolidate their VAT legislation, to make their legislative texts more easily available and to translate them in at least English, French and Germanto all the official languages of the EU; takes the view that simplifying the VAT system would substantially reduce the potential for fraud;
Amendment 10 #
2011/2082(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Underlines the need, given the impact of ageing societies on labour markets, savings and consumption patterns and public expenditure in the years to come, to shift from direct taxation further to indirect taxation, but considers that VAT rates should nonetheless not be raised.
Amendment 16 #
2011/2082(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Urges the Commission to consider legislative proposals that would tackle VAT carousels at root level by introducing an EU wide mechanism of reverse charge of VAT, which, besides being an effective anti-fraud measure, would also mean an administrative simplification for producers and traders; therefore calls on the Commission to come forth with legislative proposals to establish a mechanism of reverse charge for the 6 most sensitive sectors, — audio and video equipment, food and beverage, computer hardware and microprocessors, and accessories, mobile telephones and accessories, textiles and automobiles; notes that the legislative proposal must be drafted in a transparent manner in consultation with national tax authorities and the economic and social partners, including the business sector.
Amendment 23 #
2011/2082(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that, as a result of the complexity of rules and administrative constraints, businesses often see the current VAT system as an obstacle to the completion of the internal market; notes that the current VAT arrangements for intra-EU trade tend to reflect negatively on SMEs; observes that the public and private sectors should be subject to the same rates of VAT for the same action.
Amendment 39 #
2011/2082(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Observes that the establishment of an overall VAT system should reduce the operating costs of users and the administrative costs of the authorities and that this should make it possible to prevent fraud, tax evasion, crime and the associated money laundering, which are a serious threat to society on an international scale.
Amendment 53 #
2011/2082(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Notes that according to the subsidiarity principle Member States should keep their possibility to decide on reduced levels of VAT in certain sectors in order to better implement European and national policies or on the basis of national historical, economic, social or environmental factors; points out that VAT exemptions applied in sectors of general interest and in other sectors help to improve national policy on growth and employment.
Amendment 2 #
2011/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Supports the opening of negotiations on the establishment of a deep and comprehensive free trade area (DCFTA) with Moldova as part of the association agreement, because Moldova needs to attract foreign investment and become more productive in order to end its dependence on remittances and make the transition to an export-competitive market economy; recognises, nevertheless, that Moldova should first demonstrate that it has enough capacity to adapt its legal and economic structures to the demands of trade integration with the EU; emphasises the importance the EU places on Moldova’s stability, security and economic development, and on consolidation of the principle of equality before the law and defence of human rights;
Amendment 4 #
2011/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes the positive impact the autonomous trade preferences granted to Moldova in 2008 have had on the country’s exports; regrets the fact that their use has been hampered by the differences in standards between the two parties; considers that Moldova needs to continue to encourage faster economic development and European integration;
Amendment 6 #
2011/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Highlights the need for Moldova to pursue further domestic reforms, thereby enhancing its business and investment climate, and to solve internal issues impeding economic and trade relations with the EU, such as the fact that the country has no President and the dispute over Transnistria; welcomes the introduction of the extensive reform programme, with its aim of strengthening democracy, the market economy and the rule of law;
Amendment 7 #
2011/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Encourages the ongoing Visa Dialogue, and hopes that a visa-free regime, which would further integrate Moldovans into the EU, can be established quickly; points out that the EU needs to continue to support democratic and economic reforms in Moldova and to play an active part in the settlement of the Transnistria conflict.
Amendment 5 #
2011/2071(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that resource efficiency and energy efficiency are fundamental to promoting sustainable growth and combating climate change, and arewhile improving energy security and consumer access to energy; considers, therefore, that in the medium and long term, efficient energy and resource use has to be a key components of Europe’s economic competitiveness;
Amendment 10 #
2011/2071(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that recent Commission estimates suggest that the EU is on course to achieve only half of the 20 % objective and that current plans by Member States risk falling far short of the overall 20 % energy efficiency target set in the Europe 2020 strategy, which would lead to lost opportunities for growth across many sectors and regions and loss of employment-creation possibilities; calls on the Commission to lay down guidelines on the method of setting national targets; calls on the Member States to take greater responsibility for meeting the energy efficiency target and to supply more detailed information to the Commission;
Amendment 10 #
2011/2071(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Suggests involving the European Institute for Gender Equality more closely in the European Semester; hopes that as soon as it becomes operational the Institute will be able to address the problem of a lack of systematic and comparative data broken down by gender;
Amendment 16 #
2011/2071(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. While stressing the need for much more ambitious goals, notes the common target to reduce early school leaving to lApproves the Europe 2020 strategy target of reducing to under 10% the proportion of 18-24-year-olds who leave the education system, and urges the Member States to bring forward, as soon as possible, practical reform measures and plans for achieving that target; stresses than 10% by 2020 ande need for much more ambitious goals in the future; urges the Commission to consider the vast differences among the Member States and therefore ensure that any criteria that measure achievements are comparable and that it takes into account the long-term perspective;
Amendment 20 #
2011/2071(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Encourages universities to conduct more basic research, which forms the foundation for a knowledge- and innovation-based economy, where the number of young people with a university degree or diploma must be increased to 40% by 2020.; is concerned by the finding in the Commission’s Annual Growth Survey that the Member States’ targets and measures for realising the overall EU target of increasing the proportion of young people with a university degree or diploma to 40% by 2020 are insufficient; urges the Member States to review their commitments in this field, given the need to have enough workers with degrees or other qualifications to promote innovation and sustainable growth;
Amendment 71 #
2011/2071(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Calls on Member States which have not set national targets, or which have not sufficiently committed themselves to taking the necessary action to help meet the overall EU objective of achieving an employment rate in Europe for men and women of 75% by 2020, to undertake to pursue this objective and remove obstacles on the labour market, focusing, in particular, on tackling the key European structural weakness, namely the low participation of certain population groups in the labour market;
Amendment 100 #
2011/2071(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Calls on the Commission clearly to identifyassess, in the Annual Growth Survey, the main economic problems of the EU and individual Member States, to propose priority measures to overcome those problems, and to identify the initiatives taken by the Union and the Member States to support long-term investment, the removal of obstacles to growth, achievement of the Europe 2020 targets and the reduction of macroeconomic imbalances;
Amendment 5 #
2011/2068(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the flagship initiative on resource efficiency and points to its crucial influence on the quality of life for present and future generation; takes the view that cohesion policy, together with a new and powerful CAP, will release the economic potential of rural areas and generate secure jobs, guaranteeing the sustainable development of these areas;
Amendment 24 #
2011/2068(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Points to the crucial role of regional policy in supporting initiatives aiming at efficient use of resources, owing to its long-term development programmes, decentralised administration system and the incorporation of the EU’s priorities for sustainable development; stresses that appropriate infrastructure is required for the development and dissemination of agricultural knowledge and innovation systems, including education and training opportunities, farm advisory services and exchanges of best practices, in order to modernise agriculture, help innovative farmers to pass on their experience and improve added value chains in rural areas; believes that such programmes should be made available in all Member States;
Amendment 7 #
2011/2067(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the Agenda for new skills and jobs as part of the 2020 strategy, pointing out that only a workforce that is skilled is of fundamental importance for the development of a competitive, sustainable and innovative economy; underlines that the EU must achieve its employment objective: to ensure a 75% employment rate for its population aged between 20 and 64 by 2020;
Amendment 20 #
2011/2067(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Endorses the more effective use of funds for the development of new skills and the creation of new jobs, including in the burgeoning 'green economy’; this involves principally the European Social Fund (ESF), the European Fund for Regional Development (EFRD), the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD), the Lifelong Learning programme and the Progress programme; believes there is also a need to give individuals and enterprises suitable incentives to invest in training to improve staff skills in order to respond to labour market requirements;
Amendment 21 #
2011/2067(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that, in order to have highly qualified and skilled women workers on the labour market, it is necessary to provide women who face structural unemployment and difficulties with returning to work after maternity or parental leave with retraining opportunities and access to vocational training, regardless of the type of work contract, with the aim of improving their qualifications; stresses the importance of orienting vocational training in higher education establishments more towards the needs of the labour market; stresses furthermore that it is necessary to provide women with access to active participation in life-long learning at every stage of their careers, and to promote technical and engineering studies among girls with a view to flexible adaptation of education and training to the needs of the labour market;
Amendment 29 #
2011/2067(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Recalls that universities can play a key role in the regional economies of Member States and that universities are unique places where innovation, education and research come together and can lead to job creation; points out that cooperation between universities, regions, governments and businesses is fundamental; also notes that the internationalisation of education is of social, cultural and economic significance, and consequently urges the Commission to facilitate international mobility among researchers, students, scientists and lecturers, both within and outside the EU;
Amendment 32 #
2011/2067(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Supports policies designed to promote job creation taking into account the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises, which provide two thirds of all jobs in the private sector; believes reform of the labour market should be encouraged in order to improve its flexibility and flexicurity; stresses the need to develop the skills needed for work in today’s and tomorrow’s world, improve job quality, ensure better working conditions and enable the creation of new jobs;
Amendment 39 #
2011/2067(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Commission to raise the profile of Leonardo da Vinci, a programme which enables people to acquire new skills, knowledge and qualifications, and which makes vocational education more attractive to everyone; notes that the Erasmus sub- programme has an implementation rate of close to 100 %; recalls the well- documented evidence that Erasmus considerably facilitates study abroad and provides students with a wider range of skills, and that this, in turn, significantly improves subsequent employment prospects for those students participating in Erasmus and thereby contributes substantially to Europe’s competitiveness;
Amendment 47 #
2011/2067(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses that the exchange of experience and the creation of networks between higher education institutions, research establishments and business centres is important for raising skills levels and adapting to the needs of the labour market; believes there is a need to ensure labour market conditions which will facilitate job creation, such as a reduction in the administrative burden or taxes linked to work and mobility, which are particularly important in fast-growing sectors that depend heavily on technological research and development; considers that entrepreneurship should be encouraged, for example by sharing best practices in the development of entrepreneurship and implementing the Erasmus programme for young entrepreneurs;
Amendment 19 #
2011/2066(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Welcomes the establishment of the Committee on Equal Opportunities for Men and Women within the Turkish Parliament, which is making successful efforts, in connection with important matters such as violence against women and child marriages, to conduct investigations, draw up reports and hold consultations with a range of organisations, including NGOs;
Amendment 26 #
2011/2066(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Emphasises the need to translate existing gender-sensitive legislation into practice throughout the country by allocating sufficient financial and human resources, providing for consistency and developing monitoring mechanisms based on clear, measurable objectives;
Amendment 57 #
2011/2066(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. WCalls for the problem of the lack of shelters and other preventive and protective measures to be solved quickly; emphasises the failure to supervise shelters properly and therefore welcomes the initiatives of the Turkish Government in reorganising the system of shelters in consultation with all stakeholders;
Amendment 88 #
2011/2066(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Welcomes the establishment of the Gender Equality Commission within the Ministry of Education and its achievemencalls on it to continue its efforts into eliminatinge sexist language, pictures and expressions from educational material;
Amendment 12 #
2011/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Invites the Member States, after consulting civil society and stakeholders, to establish national targets to define their contribution to this Europe 2020 target, to supply information on how the initiatives proposed complement existing European, national and local initiatives, and to inform the Commission, within the European Semester procedure, of the exact amount of resources they will allocate to fighting poverty and social exclusion.
Amendment 21 #
2011/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Calls on the Union to carry out a comprehensive analysis of poverty and social exclusion and to compile the statistics through a qualitative and participative approach broken down by gender; hopes that the Institute for Gender Equality will, as soon as it is fully operational, contribute to resolving the problem of inadequate systematic and comparative data broken down by gender;
Amendment 45 #
2011/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Takes the view that voluntary work can play a very important role in combating poverty, social exclusion and gender inequality; points out that 2011 has been designated as European Year of Volunteering and urges Member States to step up their exchanges of good practice and take effective action to support voluntary work and widen the scope thereof;
Amendment 1 #
2011/2051(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Takes the view that, as a result of growing concerns about food security in the European Union and the world, globalisation and rising food prices, Europe and its regions need a new, strong CAP that will bofoster balanced and sustainable development and improve competitiveness on the international market, will be more market-oriented while at the same time protecting agricultural protection throughout the Union and will take account of public goods including food security, biodiversity and soil conservation, sound water and forest management and sustainable development based on education and knowledge, as well as driving cohesion; advocates a more sustainable, balanced, target-oriented, simple and efficient CAP that is better able to satisfy the needs and live up to the expectations of EU citizens;
Amendment 24 #
2011/2051(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that the direct payments scheme should be retained in order to continue to ensure competitiveness, economic stability, decent farm incomes and the sustainable development of the EU farm sector, as well as EU food and environmental security, thus ensuring that other policies and strategies, including the Europe 2020 strategy, may be properly implemented; considers, in this connection, that objective and transparent criteria need to be drawn up to ensure the provision of an appropriate, harmonised and balanced level of direct support throughout the EU, to reduce the differences between the newer and the more established EU Member States and to move away from the inefficient criteria used to date for allocating funding under the direct payments scheme;
Amendment 39 #
2011/2051(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. CEmphasises that the implementation procedures of the CAP should be further simplified, its control requirements should be tightened and the administrative burden on its beneficiaries should be reduced, and considers that the CAP should take greater account of the potential, problems and needs of small family holdings; stresses the need to diversify the incomes of such holdings and to develop entrepreneurial skills and create new jobs in rural areas;
Amendment 1 #
2011/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Takes the view that transparent and credible public procurement practices play an particularly important role in the efficiency of public spending and also in the impact of public investment on the economy, particularly on growth and innovation, all of which are overarching aims of; calls on the Commission to examine whether the criterion of the most economically advantageous tender may be applied to certain contracts and sectors, as the lowest price is not the optimal criterion when it cohmesion policy to pursuing policy objectives such as promoting innovation and efficient use of funds;
Amendment 3 #
2011/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the fact that the Commission regards public procurement as an important component in achieving the targets of the EU 2020 Strategy; supports the Commission’s intention to make public procurement procedures more efficient by simplifying them and paying greater attention to the needs of small contracting authorities and society’s common goals, as this is the only way to ensure that public procurement achieves the best and most sustainable results possible for the smallest possible investment of time and public funds;
Amendment 5 #
2011/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Appeals to the European Commission to present a thoroughgoing legislative initiative on public procurement which will bring more flexibility, transparency and certainty to the sector, reduce errors in the transposition of EU law into national law and the risk of unfair trade practices and thus avoid frequent reforms in the future, which is the main reason for high costs and administrative burdens for participants, which significantly and disproportionately narrow SME access to public contracts;
Amendment 6 #
2011/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Considers that the requirements in respect of transparency of procedures laid down in EU directives on public procurement and intended to ensure that all bidders are treated equally are not sufficient to properly reduce the risk of unsound business practices, such as conflicts of interest, favouritism or corruption; calls on the Commission to examine the possibility of incorporating more stringent measures to protect against corruption into tender procedures;
Amendment 7 #
2011/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. stresses that in a context of increased international competition, European undertakings stand out through their capacity for innovation, the high technology they develop and the quality of the social and environmental standards they apply; calls for the Commission to encourage the recognition within the GPA of other criteria in addition to pricethe ‘lowest price’ criterion in the award of public procurement contracts; considers that better rules on public procurement, which should, moreover, be oriented more strongly towards smaller economic entities responding to open invitations to tender, would make for the creation of more high- quality jobs, support for European industrial policy and the promotion of sustainable environmental and social development; calls on the Commission to examine the possibility of incorporating more stringent safeguards against corruption into tendering procedures;
Amendment 10 #
2011/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses the importance of education for the contracting authorities and of information dissemination campaigns in the area of applicable public procurement rules as an important tool in ensuring informed participation in the procedures and avoiding errors; suggests to setting up a central helpdesk service in each Member State that would pay particular attention to SMEs;
Amendment 19 #
2011/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to conduct training and awareness-raising campaigns and engage in consultation targeted at regional and local authorities and SMEs and also to involve other interested parties, in order to ensure informed participation in public procurement and reduce the frequency of errors;
Amendment 27 #
2011/2048(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Points out that public procurement rules have become overly complex and too detailed, leading to costly and burdensome administrative procedures;, frequent cases of inadequate transposition of the rules into national legislation and the development of conditions that are conducive to unfair commercial practices; thus recommends simplification as far as possible, with clarifications where necessary; points out that the increased use of information technology will also play a major role in reducing administration and costs, and that European initiatives on e- procurement should therefore be aligned with the reform of the procurement rules;
Amendment 29 #
2011/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Asks the Commission to investigate and effectively address the serious failures to comply with public procurement rules repeatedly identified by the Court of Auditors in the implementation of projects under the ERDF and the Cohesion Fund, which account for 43 % of all quantifiable errors according to the Court’s Report for 2009; and are frequently the result of incorrect implementation of EU legislation into national law; endorses, therefore, the Commission's measures aimed at cooperating with the Member States and regional and local authorities in reviewing legislation on public procurement in order to simplify it and reduce the risk of errors and ensure more efficient use of structural funds;
Amendment 37 #
2011/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Recognises that the up-front cost of energy-efficient products or services may come into conflict with public procurement rules concerning the use of the ‘lowest price’ criterion in the award of contracts, but considers that simplified rules could be introduced to allow contracting authorities toalls on the Commission to establish rules whereby contracting authorities could apply criteria for the most economically advantageous bid, i.e. measure costs in relation to the energy-saving potential of a given product or service;
Amendment 43 #
2011/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Amendment 45 #
2011/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes that SMEs are the backbone of the EU economy and have a huge potential for job creation, growth and innovation and that greater access to procurement markets can assist SMEs in unlocking this potential; calls on the Commission, in the review of public procurement rules, to provide for further instruments to encourage the involvement of SMEs in public procurement and to reduce the administrative burden on them, particularly at the selection stage;
Amendment 63 #
2011/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Stresses how important it is for the Member States and the Commission to promote the development of international climate and environmental standards based on life-cycle thinking, thus both facilitating environmentally friendly procurement for the public sector and making it easier for businesses to compete for contracts in different countries; draws attention to the great importance of public procurement for climate protection, energy efficiency, the environment and innovation and reiterates that public authorities should be encouraged and put in a position to base public procurement on ecological and other criteria; calls on the Commission to explore the possibility of using green public contracts as a tool to promote sustainable development;
Amendment 142 #
2011/2048(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Advocates clear and simple rules with a reduction in the level of detail and greater reliance upon the general principles of transparency, equal treatment and non- discrimination; considers that simplification of the rules on public procurement would make it possible to reduce the risk of error and pay greater heed to the needs of small contracting authorities;
Amendment 175 #
2011/2048(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Emphasises that ready access to public procurement for SMEs is crucial in order to maintain employment and sustainable development; stresses that simplifying the procedures and organising awareness- raising campaigns and consultation exercises will facilitate SMEs’ access and enable them to participate on a more equal and fairer footing;
Amendment 88 #
2011/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Points out that students who hold the European baccalaureate can apply to any university in the EU and urges the Member States to ensure that the relevant provisions are complied withchool-leaving certificates must be recognised in all the EU Member States without further approval and that final school results must not be artificially lowered on account of any differences in assessment methods;
Amendment 128 #
2011/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. SeesCalls on Member States to pay greater attention to the implementation of macroregional strategies, as affording a major opportunitythis would make it possible to harness forms of trans- regional potential and adopt a joint approach tomaster challenges stemming from the natural environment, e.g. in relation to environmental protection that have arisen in a specific region; considers that better coordination of existing support mechanisms and more long-term planning at intergovernmental and interregional level can create scope for more targeted use of the EU structural funds;
Amendment 163 #
2011/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Stresses the key role of towns and cities in achieving the economic, environmental and social EU 2020 objectives; calls for support for ideas and projects which can serve as models, on the basis of integrated development plans, and for the; calls on the Member States, given the dynamic influence of towns and cities on economic development in the regions and in stimulating the economy in surrounding rural areas, to guarantee the resources needed to implement the urban and suburban projects required, and to consider the possibility of creating a special EU action; considers that further upgrading of urban- rural links is necessary;
Amendment 307 #
2011/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. TRejects absolutely all proposals to nationalise or sectoralise cohesion policy; takes the view that new issue-oriented funds (for climate, energy and transport) would undermine the tried and tested principle of multi-level governance and jeopardise the regions’ contribution to the achievement of the EU 2020 objectives;
Amendment 387 #
2011/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36
Paragraph 36
36. Calls for delays in launching programmes to be avoided and for decision-making and evaluation processes to be expedited as a matter of course; calls, too, for the technical equipment available to the relevant administrative authorities to be improved and for them to be more closely networked, for disclosure requirements to be reduced, and for a significant shortening of deadlines for putting the necessary expert reports out to tender and for their delivery, which, however, must on no account be to the detriment of transparency;
Amendment 475 #
2011/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 46 a (new)
Paragraph 46 a (new)
46a. Welcomes the effective cooperation between the EIB and the Commission in implementing three joint initiatives – JESSICA, JEREMIE and JASMINE – which should increase the efficiency and effectiveness of cohesion policy and improve the functioning of the Structural Funds; calls on the Commission to continue to actively adopt joint initiatives with the EIB, particularly in the field of cohesion policy and to ensure financial support for SMEs;
Amendment 7 #
2011/2034(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Underlines that the upgrading and renewal of energy infrastructure are essential factors for achieving the objectives of the Europe 2020 Strategy, and that priority must therefore be given to developing integrated and reliable energy networks with effective internal connections; stresses that EU energy infrastructure policy must be coordinated and defined at continental level, and that the operation of European networks connected to neighbouring countries would stimulate competition on the common European energy market and increase solidarity among the Member States; notes that regional and local authorities play the most important role in the authorisation processes as well as in promoting EIPs to the general population;
Amendment 10 #
2011/2026(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Points out that some Member States have chosen to go beyond the core requirements of the Directive in two areas, namely financial incentives for participation in mediation and mandatory mediation requirements; notes that national initiatives of this type help to make dispute resolution more effective and reduce the courts’ workload;
Amendment 140 #
2011/2024(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Calls on the Commission, prior to the introduction of any card, and after precisely defining the information which it should contain, to provide evidence, through a thorough impact assessment, of the possible added value for the recognition process, beyond that provided by an enhanced IMI, of a voluntary card for certain professionals and competent authorities; argues that the impact assessment must address the concerns raised in the consultation and by numerous other stakeholders, assess the merits of an ‘e-card’, provide a cost-benefit analysis, specify its potential features and explain exactly how data protection and consumer safety would be ensured;
Amendment 2 #
2011/2023(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Invites the Commission, when setting up the European disaster response, to take into account the Solidarity Clause and its implementation arrangements, which are due to be adopted; considers that there is room to improve the overall effectiveness, efficiency, coherence and visibility of the assistance provided; considers that an integrated all-hazards approach linking disaster prevention (including mitigation and risk reduction), preparedness, response and recovery is the most effective strategy for dealing with disasters;
Amendment 10 #
2011/2023(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on the Commission to aim towards an additional EU involvement in terms of resources and capacities for disasters taking place within the EU and directly affecting its citizens and, incidentally, EU taxpayers, and to ensure that appropriate and effective assistance reaches the people affected by disasters without delay;
Amendment 12 #
2011/2023(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. In this context, reiterates its call to use existing EU resources and pool the requisite resources for providing emergency humanitarian assistance to disaster victims, such as the EU Solidarity Fund; urges the Commission to present a new proposal enabling the EU’s Solidarity Fund to increase its flexibility and to simplify its administrative rules, while keeping in mind its original objective of allowing ‘a rapid decision to be taken to commit specific financial resources and mobilise them as quickly as possible’; underlines the need to simplify the functioning of the current European disaster response and to optimise the available resources, in the common interest, whilst encouraging all Member States to contribute and thus guarantee European solidarity; endorses the need for a qualitative shift from the current ad hoc coordination to a predictable and pre- planned system within the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, based on pre- identified assets available for immediate deployment in EU disaster relief operations;
Amendment 20 #
2011/2023(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Supports the Commission’s efforts to include prevention aspects in its disaster response since the very beginning; points out, therefore, that regional and local authorities play a key role in disaster prevention by implementing, through the Cohesion Policy, risk prevention strategies at territorial level; endorses the need for a qualitative shift from the current ad hoc coordination to a predictable and pre- planned system within the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, based on pre- identified assets available for immediate deployment in EU disaster relief operations;
Amendment 29 #
2011/2023(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Points to the key role of the regional and local authorities, which are in the front line when disasters occur and whose involvement can raise the EU’s visibility among its citizens; calls for a comprehensive communications strategy, involving all EU institutions and Member States, that will improve the overall visibility of the European actions;
Amendment 1 #
2011/2020(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers that the budgetary resources requested by the European Ombudsman will enable him to meet the obligations under his Statute, the implementing provisions and the co-operation agreements and will allow him to perform his tasks effectively; notes that very positive results have been recorded in recent years, with inquiries having been closed in shorter deadlines without affecting quality; points out that these results have been achieved through an increase in human resources and the use of new methods of inquiry; encourages the Ombudsman to continue his efforts in order to keep up these excellent results;
Amendment 2 #
2011/2020(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Asks the Commission not to increase, during the current economic crisis, the level of appropriations earmarked for administrative expenditure in the field of trade policy under budget heading 20 01;
Amendment 2 #
2011/2020(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes with satisfaction that the increase in the Ombudsman’s budget estimates for 2012 is limited to 0.47% (+ EUR 44,605) and that the Ombudsman does not request any new posts; notes that, given the current financial and economic crisis and with a view to showing solidarity with his national and regional counterparts going through a difficult budgetary period, the Ombudsman has endeavoured, as far as possible, to limit budget increases;
Amendment 3 #
2011/2020(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that the effective and efficient implementation of regional policy is key to the achievement of the objectives of the Europe 2020 Strategy in the present context of economic adversity and fiscal consolidation, as it contributes not only to the effective reduction of regional disparities, but also to creating the right framework to stable and sustainable economic growth and job creation;
Amendment 3 #
2011/2020(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Commends the Commission on its efforts to maintain overall payment appropriations for fisheries at the same level as in the previous financial year; takes the view that, even in a context of economic difficulties, efforts towards the sustainable development of the fisheries sector must be supported and social and economic problems in the sector prevented;
Amendment 3 #
2011/2020(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Commends the Ombudsman for exercising restraint in his budget estimates and showing solidarity with his partners in the Member States; takes note of the Ombudsman’s intention to exercise the maximum possible level of restraint in future budgets; welcomes the restraint exercised by the Ombudsman and the solidarity he has shown with his national and regional counterparts who, as a result of the current financial and economic crisis, are facing budgetary difficulties;
Amendment 5 #
2011/2020(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Considers it particularly important to extend the current ongoing pilot projects and measures related to implementation of the macro-regional strategies, given that if those strategies were implemented more effectively, the potential of the regions could be exploited to greater advantage, the EU Structural Funds could be turned to account in a more purposeful way, and the best possible response could be found to the challenges posed in a given region, for instance in the field of environmental protection;
Amendment 5 #
2011/2020(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes with satisfaction that the Ombudsman continues his policy of multiannual planning, systematically scrutinising budget lines and redeploying means with a view to generating savings; is aware that, in view of the new responsibilities given to the Ombudsman under the Lisbon Treaty, there is a risk that the limited growth in the institution's budget as currently planned will not be sustainable; encourages the Ombudsman to continue to present a realistic budget estimate based on costs, taking full account of the need to manage limited resources optimally;
Amendment 7 #
2011/2020(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Points out that the proper functioning of the external European business centres (Beijing, four locations in India and ASEAN trade Centre in Thailand) must be secured, but asks the Commission to ensure that the activities of these business centres do not duplicate those already being undertaken by trade organisations, private consultancy firms and national embassies; to this end, supports the proposed preparatory action for launching a cost effective coordination platform aiming to help European businesses, SMEs in particular, to expand their capacity for international action and to gain market access in fast growing third countries;
Amendment 8 #
2011/2020(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Reiterates its calls on the Commission and the Member States to co-fund further joint market surveillance actions; recognises the role of customs in market surveillance and supports the strengthening of the cooperation between customs administrations and market surveillance authorities, promoting the exchange of good practices and technical assistance; calls on the Member States to allocate necessary financial and human resources in order to fulfil their respective obligations for the implementation of Customs 2013 Programme (budget lines 14 01 04 02 and 14 04 02), paying particular attention to protecting external borders and combating trafficking and fraud;
Amendment 11 #
2011/2020(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Notes the key messages of the recent evaluation of the European Consumer Centers (ECC) Network's functioning, especially with regard to the limited resources available so far and performance- based incentives proposed for the future; maintains its support for the Consumer Protection Cooperation (CPC) Network, notwithstanding the forthcoming evaluation and assessment of its effectiveness.. which seeks to ensure that effective cooperation mechanisms for consumer protection enforcement authorities are defined and applied in the Member States;
Amendment 11 #
2011/2020(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Amendment 18 #
2011/2020(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Calls on the Council to reconsider its position on the volume of commitments and payments against the lines in Title 11, in particular those relating to the EFF; highlights the EFF's importance in terms of adapting fishing communities to new industrial developments, their transition to more environmentally friendly production methods and their sustainable economic diversification.
Amendment 20 #
2011/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Is convinced that in order to target global trade imbalances multilateral rules are urgently needed with regard to exchange rate setting, the role of reserve currencies, and the limitation of excessive capital flows, including forms of capital control, and excessive price volatilities, including forms of supply-side management for particularly important products; supports the establishment of a world trade system which, in the event of one national government’s economic policy causing a global imbalance, would encourage the other countries to take joint measures to address the problem;
Amendment 32 #
2011/2011(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the EU to take the lead in implementing G8/G20 summits' declarations, in particular with regard to tackling fossil fuels subsidies, undue links between public support and agriculture in OECD agricultural and trade policies, and the instability and price volatility in food and commodities markets; considers that the global economy needs to be reorientated towards consistent, sustainable growth, that additional measures – including a cap on bankers’ earnings – are required to restore confidence in the world banking system, and that a global agreement must be reached on supporting world economic recovery.
Amendment 3 #
2011/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that development cooperation with the Central Asian states can only yield results if these states comply with international standards of democracy, governance, rule of law and human rights; recalls likewise that EU development cooperation must not be subordinated to economic or security interests and must be aimed in particular at reducing the poverty of the region's population, neutralising threats to public security and stability and reducing conflict risks;
Amendment 7 #
2011/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. TakStresses the view that their poor recordimportance of stepping up regional cooperation, particularly in the areas of combating terrorism and extremism, combating human trafficking, and water management; takes the view that their limited achievements in governance and regional cooperation are important reasons for the unfavourableak political, social and economic situation and for the limited achievements of development cooperation in the Central Asian states; therefore invites these states Commission to give these states its technical aid, share its skills and serve as an intermediary to promote mutual dialogue, helping them to improve their levels of governance and to enhance their regional cooperation;
Amendment 8 #
2011/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Insists on continuation of the efforts towards modernisation of the education sector, including business education; considers that the Commission should cooperate more closely with Central Asian countries in the planning and implementation of education system reforms; encourages the EU to provide students from Central Asia with greater opportunities to study in Europe;
Amendment 19 #
2011/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Encourages the Commission to provide qualified technical assistance and advice to Central Asian countries aimed at boosting their economic and administrative capacities, in order to bolster local and regional authorities, create a firmer economic fabric and better integrate those countries into the world trading system;
Amendment 2 #
2011/2006(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas what is fundamentally required is to establish all the assets of a debtor and his liabilities in order to be able to assess his solvency or insolvency; whereas disparities between national insolvency laws create competitive advantages or disadvantages and difficulties for companies with cross- border activities which could become obstacles to a successful restructuring of insolvent companies; whereas those disparities favour forum-shopping; whereas the internal market would benefit from a level playing field,
Amendment 16 #
2011/0437(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 23
Recital 23
(23) In order to make it possible for all interested operators to submit applications and tenders, contracting authorities and contracting entities should be obliged to respect a minimumreasonable time limit for the receipt of such applications.
Amendment 17 #
2011/0437(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 27
Recital 27
(27) Concessions are usually long term, complex arrangements where the contractor assumes responsibilities and risks traditionally born by the contracting authorities and normally falling within their remit and contracting entities. For this reason, contracting authorities or entities should maintain a margin of flexibility in organising the awarding process, involving also a possibility to negotiate the content of the contract with the candidates. However, in order to ensure equal treatment, mutual benefit and transparency throughout the awarding procedure, it is appropriate to provide for certain requirements as to the structure of the awarding process, including negotiations, the dissemination of information and the availability of written records. It is also necessary to provide that the initial terms of the concession notice should not be deviated from, in order to prevent unfair treatment of any potential candidates.
Amendment 22 #
2011/0437(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 2
(2) a 'public works concession' means a contract for pecuniary interest concluded in writing between one or more economic operators and one or more contracting authorities and having as their object the execution of works, where the consideration for the the works to be carried out consists either solely in the right to exploit the works that are the subject of the contract or in that righthe contracting authority acting on behalf of the State or a regional or local authority and the concessionaire, in which the rights and obligations of the contracting authority and the concessionaire with respect toge ther with payment concession are regulated.
Amendment 6 #
2011/0301(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) The Europe 2020 Project Bond Initiative has a double objective : first to help finance projects of European policy priorities, and second, to facilitatprovide the greater private sector involvement inquisite credit enhancement to attract capital market investors to the long-term capital market financing of infrastructure projects. It will redirect some EU budget spending towards growth-enhancing areas, taking into account the Unions budgetary discipline and the ceilings under the current Multiannual Financial Framework.
Amendment 17 #
2011/0300(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18
Recital 18
(18) Projects of common interest should be implemented as quickly as possible and should be closely monitored and evaluated, while keeping the administrative burden for projects promoters to a minimum. The Commission should nominate European coordinators for projects facing particular difficulties.
Amendment 36 #
2011/0300(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
Article 8 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
With the objective of meeting the time limits set out in Article 11 and reducing the administrative burden for the completion of projects of common interest, Member States shall, within nintwelve months from the entry into force of this Regulation, take measures to streamline the environmental assessment procedures. These measures shall be without prejudice to obligations resulting from Union legislation.
Amendment 337 #
2011/0288(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 42 – paragraph 2 — subparagraph 1 a (new)
Article 42 – paragraph 2 — subparagraph 1 a (new)
(1a) The Commission shall establish by means of implementing acts those cases of force majeure and exceptional cases in which beneficiaries do not have to be paid default interest if aid has been paid later than the payment date provided for in the EU legislation.
Amendment 389 #
2011/0288(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 56 – paragraph 1
Article 56 – paragraph 1
1. For any undue payment following the occurrence of irregularity or negligence, Member States shall request recovery from the beneficiary within one year of the firsapproval of the first inspection report indicationg that such an irregular has taken placean irregularity as defined in Article 1(2) of Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 2988/95 on the protection of the European Communities’ financial interests has taken place, or, where applicable, from the reception of that report by the paying agency or body responsible for the recovery, and shall record the corresponding amounts in the debtors' ledger of the paying agency.
Amendment 413 #
2011/0288(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 57 – paragraph 2
Article 57 – paragraph 2
When the Union budget is credited as referred in the first paragraph, the Member State may retain 120% of the corresponding amounts as flat rate recovery costs, except in cases of irregularity or negligence attributable to its administrative authorities or other official bodies.
Amendment 462 #
2011/0288(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 70 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 70 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
This database shall in particular allow consultation through the competent authority of the Member State, of the data relating to the calendar and/or marketing years, starting from 2000. However, the Member States which acceded to the EU in 2004 can ensure consultation of the data only from 2004. It shall also allow direct and immediate consultation of the data relating to at least the previous five consecutive calendar years.
Amendment 467 #
2011/0288(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 71 – paragraph 1
Article 71 – paragraph 1
The identification system for agricultural parcels shall be established on the basis of maps or land registry documents or other cartographic references. Use shall be made of computerised geographical information system techniques, including aerial or spatial orthoimagery, with a homogenous standard guaranteeing accuracy at least equivalent to cartography at a scale of 1:51000.
Amendment 520 #
2011/0288(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 77 – paragraph 3 – point b
Article 77 – paragraph 3 – point b
(b) provisions to ensure a harmonised and proportionate treatment of intentionalgrave irregularities, situations of minor errors, accumulation of reductions and simultaneous application of different reductions;
Amendment 636 #
2011/0288(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 99 – paragraph 3
Article 99 – paragraph 3
3. In the case of intentional non- compliance, the percentage of reduction shall in principle not be less than 20 % and mapayments may be reduced or increased according to the severity, extent, duration and reoccurrence of the non-compliance, possibly going as far as total exclusion from one or several aid schemes and applying for one or more calendar years.
Amendment 645 #
2011/0288(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 100 – paragraph 1
Article 100 – paragraph 1
Member States may retain 1025% of the amounts resulting from the application of the reductions and exclusions referred to in Article 99.
Amendment 155 #
2011/0282(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 28
Recital 28
(28) Agri-environment-climate payments should continue to play a prominent role in supporting the sustainable development of rural areas and in responding to society's increasing demands for environmental services. They should further encourage farmers and other land managers to serve society as a whole by introducing or continuing to apply agricultural practices contributing to climate change mitigation and adaptation and compatible with the protection and improvement of the environment, the landscape and its features, natural resources, the soil and genetic diversity. In this context the conservation of genetic resources in agriculture and the additional needs of farming systems that are of high nature value should be given specific attention. Payments should contribute to covering additional costs and income foregone resulting from the commitments undertaken and should only cover commitments going beyond relevant mandatory standards and requirements, in accordance with the "polluter pays" principle. In many situations the synergies resulting from commitments undertaken jointly by a group of farmers multiply the environmental and climate benefit. However, joint action brings additional transaction costs which should be compensated adequately. In order to ensure that farmers and other land managers are in a position to correctly implement the commitments they have undertaken, Member States should endeavour to provide them with the required skills and knowledge. Member States should maintain the level of efforts made during the 2007-2013 programming period and have to spend a minimum of 25%The establishment of the part of the total contribution from the EAFRD to each rural development programme lies within the competence of the member state and is intended for climate change mitigation and adaptation and land management, through the agri- environment-climate, organic farming and payments to areas facing natural or other specific constraints measures.
Amendment 764 #
2011/0282(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 17 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
1. Support under this measure shall cover farmers who have extended their activities – who, after a fixed five-year period, have broadened the scope of their activities and have started to produce new types of products – and new participation by farmers in:
Amendment 796 #
2011/0282(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Article 17 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Support shall be granted as an annual incentive payment, the level of which shall be determined according to the level of the fixed costs arising from participation in supported schemes, for a maximum duration of five years. However, farmers who have extended their activities – who, after a fixed five-year period, have broadened the scope of their activities and have started to produce new types of products – should be eligible for further support.
Amendment 1442 #
2011/0282(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 33 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
Article 33 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
In order to be eligible for payments under Article 32, areas, other than mountain areas, shall be considered as facing significant natural constraints if at least 6650% of the UAA meets at least one of the criteria listed in Annex II at the threshold value indicated. Respect of this condition shall be ensured at the appropriate level of local administrative units ("LAU 2" level).
Amendment 933 #
2011/0281(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 24 – paragraph 1
Article 24 – paragraph 1
1. Union aid shall be granted for supplying to children in educational establishments certain products of the milk and milk products sector and for publicising such supply schemes.
Amendment 935 #
2011/0281(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 24 – paragraph 2
Article 24 – paragraph 2
Amendment 2185 #
2011/0281(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – Part IV – point 2
Annex II – Part IV – point 2
2. ‘adult bovine animals’ means bovine animals aged 812 months or more.
Amendment 189 #
2011/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) Due to the successive integration of various sectors into the single payment scheme and the ensuing period of adjustment granted to farmers, it has become increasingly difficult to justify the presence of significant individual differences in the level of support per hectare resulting from use of historical references. Therefore direct income support should be more equitably distributed between Member States, by reducing the link to historical references and having regard to the overall context of the Union budget. To ensure amore fair and more equal distribution of direct support, while taking account of the differences that still exist in wage levels and input costs, but also considering that all European farmers are working in single market, and especially single labour market the levels of direct support per hectare should be progressively adjusted. Member States with direct paymenTo avoid further distortion of competition which has social implications for a number of Member States, especially the Baltic countries, taking into account not only farmers' interests, below the level ofut also the needs of consumers and of the public in general. Member States with a current level of direct payments per hectare below 90 % of the EU average should close one third of the gap between their current level and this level at the beginning of the 2014-2020 financial period. Member States with a level of direct payments above 90% but below the EU average should close this gap by 10 % During the Multiannual Financial Framework. This convergence should be financed proportionally by all Member States with direct payments above the Union average. In addition, all payment entitlements activated in 2019 in a Member State or in a region should have a uniform unit value following a convergence towards this value that should take place during the transition period in linear steps. However, in order to avoid disruptive financial consequences for farmers, Member States having used the single payment scheme, and in particular the historical model, should be allowed to partially take historical factors into account when calculating the value of payment entitlements in the first year of application of the new scheme. The debate on the next Multiannual Financial Framework for the period starting in 2021 should also focus on the objective of complete convergence through the equal distribution of direct support across the European Union during that period.
Amendment 652 #
2011/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 2
Article 9 – paragraph 2
2. Paragraph 1 shallMember States should be given flexibility not to apply toparagraph 1 and 2a to the farmers who received less than EUR 5 000certain amount of direct payments for the previous year. The certain amount shall also be decided by Member States.
Amendment 658 #
2011/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 9 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Member States shall establish appropriate objective and non- discriminatory criteria to ensure that no direct payments are granted to a natural or legal person whose agricultural activities form only an insignificant part of its overall economic activities, and whose income from agricultural activities form less than a certain percentage of total incomes of the beneficiary.
Amendment 909 #
2011/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 19 – paragraph 1
Article 19 – paragraph 1
1. The Commission shall, by means of implementing acts, set, for each Member State, the annual national ceiling for the basic payment scheme by deducting from the annual national ceiling established in Annex II the annual amounts to be usetd in accordance with Articles 33, 35, 37 and 39. Those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in Article 56(2).
Amendment 1626 #
2011/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 31 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
Article 31 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
Member States shall ensure the maintenance of the ratio of the land under permanent grassland in relation to the total agricultural area. That obligation shall apply at national or regional level. The reference ratio shall be established as relation between the land under permanent grassland and total agricultural area declared by the farmers in 2014.
Amendment 1644 #
2011/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 31 – paragraph 2
Article 31 – paragraph 2
2. Farmers shall be allowed to convert a maximum of 5 % of their reference areas under permanent grassland. That limit shall not appMember States shall ensure that the ratio under this Article shall not decrease to the detriment of land under permanent grassland by more than 10 % relatively into the case of force majeure or exceptional circumstancesratio for the relevant reference year.
Amendment 1668 #
2011/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 31 – paragraph 3
Article 31 – paragraph 3
3. The Commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 55 laying down rules concerning the increase of reference areas under permanent grassland as laid down in the second subparagraph of paragraph 1, the renewal of permanent grassland, the reconversion of agricultural area into permanent grassland in case the authorised decrease referred to in paragraph 2 is exceeded, as well as the modification of the reference areas under permanent grassland in case of transfer of land. For the purposes of paragraph 2, the Commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 55 laying down rules on maintenance of permanent grassland, in particular to ensure that measures are taken to maintain the ratio, including individual obligations to be respected such as obligation to reconvert areas into permanent grassland where it is established that the ratio of land under permanent grassland is decreasing.
Amendment 1714 #
2011/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 32 – paragraph 1
Article 32 – paragraph 1
1. FWhere the arable land and area covers more than 20 hectares, farmers shall ensure that at least 74 % of their eligible hectares as defined in Article 25(2), excluding areas under permanent grassland and permanent crops, is ecological focus area such as land left fallow, terraces, landscape features, buffer strip like hedges or stone walls, buffer strips, land planted with nitrogen-fixing crops, land cultivated according to environmentally friendly methods and afforested areas as referred to in article 25(2)(b)(ii).
Amendment 1764 #
2011/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 32 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 32 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Amendment 2049 #
2011/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 38 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 38 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Coupled support may be granted to the following sectors and productions: cereals, oilseeds, protein crops, grain legumes, flax, hemp, rice, nuts, starch potato, milk and milk products, seeds, sheepmeat and goatmeat, pigmeat, beef and veal, olive oil, silk worms, dried fodder, hops, sugar beet, cane and chicory, fruit and vegetables and short rotation coppice.
Amendment 2113 #
2011/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 39 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
Article 39 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
2. By way of derogation from paragraph 1, Member States may decide to use up to 10 % of the annual national ceiling set out in Annex II provided that:
Amendment 2125 #
2011/0280(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 39 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 39 – paragraph 2 – point b
(b) up to 10% provided that they allocated, during at least one year in the period 2010- 2013, more than 5 % of their amount available for granting the direct payments provided for in Titles III, IV and V of Regulation (EC) No 73/2009, with the exception of Section 6 of Chapter 1 of Title IV, for financing the measures laid down in Section 2 of Chapter 2 of Title III of Regulation (EC) No 73/2009, the support provided for in points (i) to (iv) of paragraph 1(a) and paragraphs 1(b) and (e) of Article 68 of that Regulation, or the measures under Chapter 1, with the exception of Section 6, of Title IV of that Regulation.
Amendment 37 #
2011/0239(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) TIt is essential to improve the training of seafarers so as to make the maritime professions more attractive within the Union and improve safety and security at sea, given that the STCW Convention has been integrated into Union law for the first time by Council Directive 94/58/EC of 22 November 1994 on the minimum level of training of seafarers; afterwards the EU rules on training and certification of seafarers have been adapted to the subsequent amendments to the Convention, while a common EU mechanism for the recognition of the systems of training and certification of seafarers in the third countries has been set up; lately, the rules of the Union on this matter have through a recast become Directive 2008/106/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 November 2008.
Amendment 3 #
2011/0167(NLE)
Draft opinion
Short justification – Paragraph 1
Short justification – Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the aims expressed by the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA) negotiating parties to tackle the trade in counterfeited goods but regrets that a right balance with regard to the rights to privacy and data protection has not been found; questions ACTA's utility due to the restricted number of signatories;
Amendment 9 #
2011/0167(NLE)
Draft opinion
Short justification – Paragraph 2
Short justification – Paragraph 2
2. Notes that counterfeiting, copyright and trademark infringements are covered by ACTA thus creating a one-size-fits-all instrument of enforcement which doesn't meet the unique needs of each sector; is concerned by the lack of definition of key terminologies on which the ACTA enforcement mechanisms are based; fears that this creates legal uncertainty for European companies and in particular SMEs, technology users, online platform and internet service providers and could have unacceptable side effects on the fundamental rights of individuals if its provisions are not correctly implemented; doubts, in this regard, that ACTA provides for sufficient safeguards such as sufficient judicial protection, due process and the principle of the presumption of innocence;
Amendment 19 #
2011/0167(NLE)
Draft opinion
Short justification – Paragraph 3
Short justification – Paragraph 3
3. Notes that while the ambition ofEuropean Commission's ambition when signing ACTA is to strengthen EU industries, it appears to beis contrary to the ambition of the EP in the Digital Agenda to make Europe the scene for cutting edge internet innovation, as well as the strong ambition to promote net neutrality and access to the online digital market for SMEs;
Amendment 33 #
2011/0167(NLE)
Draft opinion
Short justification – Paragraph 5 a new
Short justification – Paragraph 5 a new
5a. Considers that any measures that could imply surveillance on a large-scale of Internet users behaviour and electronic communications in relation to small-scale non-profit infringement would be disproportionate and in breach of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union;
Amendment 46 #
2011/0135(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 4
Article 8 – paragraph 4
4. The Commission shall transmit the evaluation report to the European Parliament and the Council and, the Council and the European Economic and Social Committee and shall undertake a broad consultation among stakeholders on the evaluation report.
Amendment 12 #
2011/0092(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) It is necessary to ensure that the internal market continues to function properly in a context of new requirements relating to the limitation of climate change, to the use of renewable energy sources and to energy savings, as endorsed by the Presidency Conclusions of the European Council of 8-9 March 2007 and of 11-12 December 2008. Consistent treatment of energy sources under this Directive must therefore be guaranteed in order to provide a genuine level playing field for energy consumers regardless of the energy source used.
Amendment 15 #
2011/0092(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The primary purpose of energy taxation is to encourage consumers to use energy more efficiently and to obtain it from cleaner sources. Taxation related to CO2 emissions can be a cost-effective means for Member States to achieve the reductions of greenhouse gasses necessary according to Decision 406/2009/EC of the European Parliament and the Council of 23 April 2009 on the effort of Member States to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions to meet the Union’s greenhouse gas emission reduction commitments up to 2020 as regards sources not covered by the Union scheme under Directive 2003/87/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 October 2003 establishing a scheme for greenhouse gas emission allowance trading within the Community and amending Council Directive 96/61/EC. In view of the potential role of CO2-related taxation, the proper functioning of the internal market requires common rules on that taxation.
Amendment 16 #
2011/0092(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) EGiven that an appropriate framework for energy taxation needs to be put in place, each of those components should be calculated on the basis of objective criteria, allowing for equal treatment of different energy sources. For the purposes of CO2- related taxation, reference should be made to CO2- emissions caused by the use of each energy product concerned, using the reference CO2 emission factors set out in Commission Decision 2007/589/EC of 18 July 2007 establishing guidelines for the monitoring and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions pursuant to Directive 2003/87/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council. For the purposes of general energy consumption taxation, reference should be made to the energy content of the various energy products and of electricity as referred to in Directive 2006/32/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 April 2006 on energy end-use efficiency and energy services and repealing Council Directive 93/76/EEC. In this context, account should be taken of the environmental advantages of biomass or products made of biomass. These products should be taxed on the basis of the CO2 emission factors specified in Decision 2007/589/EC for biomass or products made of biomass and of their energy content as specified in Annex III to Directive 2009/28/EC. Biofuels and bioliquids defined in Article 2(h) and (i) of Directive 2009/28/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 April 2009 on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources are by far the most important category concerned. Since the environmental advantages of these products vary, depending on whether they comply with the sustainability criteria laid down in Article 17 of that Directive, the specific reference values for biomass and products made of biomass should only apply where these criteria are met.
Amendment 14 #
2011/0046(NLE)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) The Framework Programme (2012- 2013) should contribute to the implementation of the Innovation Union, one of the Europe 2020 flagship initiative, which was adopted by the Communication from the Commission of 6 October 2010 entitled Europe 2020 Flagship Initiative Innovation Union, and the Resource Efficient Europe flagship initiative as part of the Europe 2020 strategy, by enhancing competition for scientific excellence and accelerating the transfer and deployment of key innovations in the nuclear energy field between universities and industry to tackle energy and climate change challenges. and generally improve the sustainability of nuclear power;
Amendment 17 #
2011/0046(NLE)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) The Energy Policy for Europe recognises the significant potential contribution from nuclear power in the areas of competitiveness, CO2 emission reduction and, security of supply and decreased dependence on energy supplies from unstable parts of the world. The European Strategic Energy Technology Plan (SET- Plan) set out in the Communication from the Commission of 22 November 2007 entitled European Strategic Energy Technology Plan (SET- Plan) – Towards a low carbon future is accelerating the development of a portfolio of low carbon technologies. Nuclear energy technologies are included in this portfolio as they have the greatest potential to meet the energy and climate objectives in both the short and longer term.
Amendment 28 #
2011/0046(NLE)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) The Joint Research Centre (JRC) should contribute to providing customer- driven scientific and technological support for the formulation, development, implementation and monitoring of the Union's policies. In this regard, the JRC should continue to function as an independent reference centre of science and technology and of the latest expertise in nuclear and reactor safety in the Union in the areas of its specific competence;
Amendment 30 #
2011/0038(COD)
Proposal for a directive – amending act
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) Businesses increasingly expand beyond national borders using the opportunities offered by the internal market. Cross- border groups as well as a many restructuring operations, such as mergers and divisions involve companies from different Member States. Consequently, there is an increasing demand for access to information on companies in a cross-border context. Official information on companies is, however, not always easily available on a cross-border basis. Improving access to up-to-date and trustworthy information on companies could encourage greater confidence and transparency in the market, help recovery and increase the competitiveness of European business.
Amendment 31 #
2011/0038(COD)
Proposal for a directive – amending act
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The Eleventh Council Directive 89/666/EEC of 21 December 1989 concerning disclosure requirements in respect of branches opened in a Member State by certain types of company governed by the law of another State22 establishes the list of documents and particulars that companies have to disclose in the register of their branch. However, there is no legal obligation on the registers to exchange data concerning foreign branches. This leads to legal uncertainty for third parties in the country of the branch where important changes regarding the company are not reflected in the register. Existing cooperation between the registers is not sufficient to satisfy the information needs induced by the business activity in the single market. But efficient cross-border cooperation between business registers is essential for the smooth functioning of the single market.
Amendment 33 #
2011/0038(COD)
Proposal for a directive – amending act
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) Operations such as cross-border mergers or transfers of registered office have made day-to-day cooperation of business registers a necessity. Directive 2005/56/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 October 2005 on cross-border mergers of limited liability companies23 requires the registers to cooperate across borders. There are, however, no established channels of communication that could accelerate procedures, help overcome the language problems and enhance legal certainty. The establishment of such channels would also reduce the costs borne by companies that operate in several countries.
Amendment 34 #
2011/0038(COD)
Proposal for a directive – amending act
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) Directive 2009/101/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 September 2009 on coordination of safeguards which, for the protection of the interests of members and third parties, are required by Member States of companies within the meaning of the second paragraph of Article 48 of the Treaty, with a view to making such safeguards equivalent24 ensures, inter alia, that documents and particulars stored in the register can be accessed by paper or by electronic means. However, citizens and companies still need to search country-by- country, in particular as the current voluntary cooperation between registers has not proved to be sufficient. Cross- border cooperation and the interoperability of the registers throughout the European Union must be guaranteed.
Amendment 35 #
2011/0038(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) The Commission Communication on the Single Market Act25 identified the interconnection of central, commercial and companies registers as a measure to create a more business-friendly legal and fiscal environment. The interconnection should contribute to foster the competitiveness of European business by reducing administrative burdens and increasing legal certainty and transparency and thus contribute to exiting the crisis, one of the priorities of the agenda Europe 202026. It should also improve cross-border communication between registers by using the innovations of information and communication technology and facilitate cross-border access to official business information by setting up an electronic network of registers and determining a common minimum set of up-to-date information to be made available to third parties by electronic means in every Member State.
Amendment 37 #
2011/0038(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The Council Conclusions of 25 May 2010 on the interconnection of business registers27 confirmed that improving access to up-to-date and trustworthy information on companies could encourage greater confidence in the market, help recovery and, increase the competitiveness of European business, ensure a safer business environment for consumers, creditors and other business partners, and increase legal certainty and market transparency.
Amendment 39 #
2011/0038(COD)
Proposal for a directive – amending act
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) The European e-Justice Action Plan29 provides for the development of a European e-Justice Portal as the single access point for legal information, legal and administrative institutions, registers, databases and other services and considers the interconnection of central, commercial and companies registers as an important element, as this will help create a supportive legal framework, increase confidence in the common market, and thus contribute to the aims of the Europe 2020 strategy.
Amendment 41 #
2011/0038(COD)
Proposal for a directive – amending act
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) Cross-border access to business information can only be improved if all Member States engage in building an electronic network of registers and transmit information to business information users in a standardised way (similar content and forms and interoperable technologies) all over the Union. The users should be able to access information through a single European electronic platform that forms part of the electronic network. This will contribute to greater transparency throughout the European Union.
Amendment 297 #
2011/0006(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The establishment of three ESAs should be accompanied by the development of a single rule book to ensure consistent harmonisation and uniform application and thus contribute to athe even more effective functioning of the internal market and the more effective implementation of micro-level supervision. The regulations establishing the ESFS provide that the ESAs may develop draft technical standards in the areas specifically set out in the relevant legislation, to be submitted to the Commission for adoption in accordance with Articles 290 and 291 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) by means of delegated or implementing acts. Whereas Directive …/…. [Omnibus I] has identified a first set of such areas, this Directive should identify a further set of areas, in particular for Directive 2003/71/EC and Directive 2009/138/EC, without prejudice to adding further areas in the future.
Amendment 5 #
2011/0002(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) In order to prevent Union legislation from prescribing technical requirements which cannot be met yet and in order to prevent that tractors of categories T2, C2 and T4.1. can no longer be type-approved and placed on the market or put into service, it is therefore necessary to provide for a transitional period of threfive years, within which tractors classified in categories T2, C2 and T4.1 may still be type-approved and placed on the market or put into service.
Amendment 8 #
2011/0002(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1
Directive 2000/25/EC
Article 4 - paragraph 9 (new)
Article 4 - paragraph 9 (new)
"9. By way of derogation from points (d) and (e) of paragraph 2 and from paragraph 3, for tractors of categories T2, C2 and T4.1, as defined in Annex II, Chapter A, point A.1 and Annex II, Chapter B, Appendix 1, Part I, point 1.1 of Directive 2003/37/EC and equipped with engines of categories L to R, the dates set out in points (d) and (e) of paragraph 2 and in paragraph 3 shall be postponed for threfive years. Until such dates, the requirements of Stage IIIA in this Directive shall continue to apply. "
Amendment 10 #
2011/0002(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Member States shall adopt and publish, by [6 months minus 1day as from entry into force] at the latest, the laws, regulations and administrative provisions necessary to comply with necessary to ensure the implementation of this Directive. They shall forthwith communicate to the Commission the text of those provisions.
Amendment 12 #
2011/0002(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 2 – paragraph 2
Article 2 – paragraph 2
2. Member States shall forthwith communicate to the Commission the text of the main provisions of national law which they adopt in the field covered by this Directive.
Amendment 193 #
2010/2306(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Encourages Member States to promote and support the dissemination and the circulation of European films on their territories through dedicated events and festivals; encourages the Member States to support also the various film schools in existence in Europe;
Amendment 4 #
2010/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas the EU’s cohesion policy is crucial for promoting the harmonious development of the EU and whereas, despite the progress achieved in reducing inequalities in development between regions, there remain major differences in terms of their level of economic, social and regional development,
Amendment 20 #
2010/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the rules relating to Structural and Cohesion Funds are complex and therefore difficult to transpose properly into national law and to comply with, causing errors, so that Member States spend a disproportionate amount of time trying to manage and control these errors,
Amendment 22 #
2010/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. whereas, in spite of a reduction in the number of errors and in the misappropriation of structural funding, there is a need to reinforce the measures taken by the Member States to reduce the misappropriation of funding and recover sums unduly paid,
Amendment 29 #
2010/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Points to the acceleration in absorption capacities and budgetary implementation of cohesion policy during 2010 and acknowledges the positive effect of the cohesion-policy-related interventions by the European Economic Recovery Plan in speeding up implementation of programmes and accelerating provision of financing to beneficiaries; calls on the Commission to examine the possibility of using, even beyond 2010, accelerated versions of procedures in connection with the Structural Funds and an extension of the temporary increase in thresholds;
Amendment 30 #
2010/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Believes the cohesion policy lacks the flexibility to adapt to the social and economic realities of different regions; draws attention to those regions with unfavourable demographic development and suggests considering the introduction of special funding for such regions;
Amendment 58 #
2010/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses that proportionality between the volume ofmore attention should be paid to the principle of proportionality by simplifying the requirements governing information to be supportlied and cmontrol requirements should be strengthened, and emphasises thatitoring when implementing small- scale projects and programmes; points out, however, that simplified rules must not have a negative impact on transparency and responsibility; calls for the coordination of audit activity should be enhanto be reinforced and the single audit principle followto be adopted in the next programming period;
Amendment 83 #
2010/2305(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Calls on the Commission to cooperate actively with the EIB, in particular on setting up Community initiatives aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the cohesion policy and strengthening the impact of the Structural Funds by guaranteeing funding to support the financing of SMEs;
Amendment 2 #
2010/2304(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the EU-wide provision of fast broadband networks is vital if the objectives of the EU 2020 strategy – including the smart, sustainable, and inclusive growth that the strategy is designed to bring about – are to be achieved, in terms of promoting economic growth, strengthening Europe's competitiveness, improving the employment situation, and enabling all regions and sectors of society to benefit from the digital environment,
Amendment 13 #
2010/2304(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers that full broadband coverage must be made a universal service, as it is essential to helping create equal living conditions in Europethe whole of Europe, rural areas included;
Amendment 25 #
2010/2304(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that the cost in administrative and planning terms of implementing national and European broadband support programmes is considerable; calls, therefore, on the Commission and the Member States to simplify conditions for support as well as procedures as far as possible, in order to step up the flow of funds and hence provide all market players with sufficient incentives to invest;
Amendment 33 #
2010/2304(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes that European law on aid, as it currently stands, frequently leads in practice to legal uncertainty, hampering planned investment; calls, therefore, on the Commission to examine to what extent the rules could be simplified and made more investment-friendly so as to promote investment and innovation and remove obstacles to broadband roll-out;
Amendment 43 #
2010/2304(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Points out that the definition of basic provision will have to be adjusted in future in line with changed requirements; calls, therefore, on the Commission, in view of the likely failure of the market to supply rural areas with NGA networks, to incorporate new organisational models for the provision and financing of high-speed and ultra-high-speed networks as an option into the broadband guidelines in order to make broadband functions accessible to all Europeans;
Amendment 15 #
2010/2301(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. HConsiders that the European Union's institutional framework needs to be simplified and better coordinated in order to develop a harmonised and effective strategy for economic and trade relations with China; highlights the importance of the EU- China High-Level Economic and Trade Dialogue, but calls on the Commission to review the usefulness of, and need for, the other working groups and dialogue arrangements which are in place at various levels; calls for the EU and China to meet twice each year to strengthen their dialogue, in particular on investments, provision of services, intellectual property rights, standards, public procurement, product safety and access to raw materials;
Amendment 45 #
2010/2301(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls on the EU and China to develop partnerships in relation to R&D and industrial, cooperationg in the various industrial growth areas within the green economy, such as recycling, efficient management of rare earth elements and other strategic resources throughout the economic cycle, renewable energies and energy efficiency. , the development of near-zero emissions coal technologies and energy efficiency; voices its active support for cooperation on improving the transparency and reliability of energy- related data and information exchanges.
Amendment 115 #
2010/2210(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Is alarmed at the use of such criminal activities as human trafficking, money laundering, corruption, handling of stolen goods, tax evasion and customs fraud by those engaged in IUU fishing; reiterates that controls on imports from illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing should be strengthened and improved;
Amendment 16 #
2010/2181(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Calls on the College to consult Parliament regularly and to continue to update Parliamenit with its progress report on the MAP implementation;
Amendment 11 #
2010/2173(DEC)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 – introductory part
Paragraph 3 – introductory part
3. Notes, in particular, that the Agency should continue to informconsult the discharge authority regularly and inform it on the following issues:
Amendment 34 #
2010/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the regions to also consider the divergent development levels of the regions and also demographic indicators when allocating and distributing EU structural funds;
Amendment 57 #
2010/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Believes that, if depopulation is to be prevented, then child- and family-friendly towns and cities need to be developed, one feature of which and adapted to the needs of people with disabilities and with restricted mobility; one feature of such towns and cities is that everything is close at hand, with workplaces, housing and recreational areas being close together; calls on the regions to ensure, in the field of urban planning, that residential, commercial and green areas are alternated and developed in a balanced and harmonious way;
Amendment 79 #
2010/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Encourages the Member States to adapt welfare and healthcare benefits in line with needs and provide funding to ensure the availability of care at home and universal healthcare for elderly people, irrespective of their income, age and social status, so as to prevent depopulation of rural areas and peripheral regions;
Amendment 105 #
2010/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Calls on the regions and municipalities to create the conditions for achievement of a work/family/private life balance and, for example, to provide universally available, reliable and free all-day childcare facilities for children of all ages to prevent depopulation and a fall in the birth rate;
Amendment 112 #
2010/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16 a. Recognises that in view of the ongoing crisis it is essential to ensure that pension systems remain reliable and sustainable; calls on the Member States to make efforts to ensure that state pensions (first pillar), which in most countries are the most important source of income for elderly people, stay above the poverty threshold;
Amendment 120 #
2010/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Calls on the Member States to agree on a common migration strategy, since Europe is reliant upon the immigration of skilled workers for demographic reasons; considers that the Member States must seek to ensure that skilled workers are retained in order to contribute to the balanced development of the regions and to alleviate the effects of demographic change;
Amendment 135 #
2010/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Calls on the Commission to orientate the ESF more towards ensuring that its potential is sufficient to deal with the challenges of demographic change; notes that the experience and know-how of older people should be utilised, for example for coaching projects, and that structures are required for this purpose;
Amendment 139 #
2010/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19 a. Calls on the Member States to take action against discrimination on grounds of age, to ensure that older people who wish to remain in employment can do so and to encourage them accordingly by means of exemption from taxes and social charges and by means of flexible work contracts; does not consider raising the statutory pension age to be an appropriate solution, despite demographic trends;
Amendment 145 #
2010/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Believes that the regions should use ESF funds more effectively to combat unemployment amongst young people in order to give them the opportunity to take up a suitable profession and that young people must be given support when they embark on their working lives so that they can provide for their future and furthermore contribute to economic growth and prosperity; considers that young people must be put in a position to develop skills, abilities and knowledge that will allow them to make an active contribution to the growth and sustainable future of the European Union and that will make it possible to achieve the objectives set out in the European Union's growth strategy;
Amendment 147 #
2010/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Believes that the regions should use ESF funds to combat unemployment amongst young people in order to give them the opportunity to take up a suitable profession; considers that special attention should be devoted to the start of young people’s professional lives, since a career failure at the start can have an impact on the entire future working life of a young person;
Amendment 153 #
2010/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Believes that the female employment rate should be increased; demands, therefore, that more women should be given access to skilled jobs and life-long learning programmes, provided that the qualifications obtained correspond to the needs of the labour market;
Amendment 43 #
2010/2100(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Welcomes the coherence of the two Communications from the Commission on humanitarian food assistance and food security; calls for stronger coordination in order to better address the root causes of hunger and food insecurity; welcomes the fact that special attention is paid to those who are hardest hit in disasters, namely, women and children; considers that when a crisis occurs, it is essential to ensure the community’s capacity to obtain food in the short and the long term;
Amendment 60 #
2010/2100(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Agrees that EU assistance programmes should focus on sustainable small-scale food production andincreases in the productivity of smallholder farms, sustainable small-scale food production and enhanced resilience of rural communities; considers that priority should be given to ‘ecologically-efficient’ approaches that strengthen biodiversity, prevent the degradation of fertile land, promote agro- ecological and low-external- input (LEI) practices, and excludes GMOs;
Amendment 76 #
2010/2100(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Stresses that the fair integration of smallholder farmers in the value chain context can only be successful if conditions are created to facilitate their access to the means of production, processing and trade opportunities; calls on the EU and the developing countries to facilitate access to microcredit for small-scale farmers and local communities and to provide for other investments to increase their capacities, for example to supply them with seeds;
Amendment 360 #
2010/0395(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Part 1 – article 58 – paragraph 2
Part 1 – article 58 – paragraph 2
2. When choosing an entity from within a category listed in points (ii), (iii), (vi) and (vii) of Article 55(1)(b) the Commission shall take due account ofassess the nature of the tasks to be entrusted as well as the experience and the operational and financial capacity of the entities concerned. The choice shall be justified on objective grounds and may not give rise to a conflict of interest.
Amendment 361 #
2010/0395(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Part 1 – article 62 – paragraph 4
Part 1 – article 62 – paragraph 4
4. The powers of authorising officer shall be delegated or subdelegated only to staff with an appropriate level of seniority.
Amendment 60 #
2010/0383(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The Union has set itself the objective of maintaining and developing an area of freedom, security and justice, facilitating access to justice, in particular through the principle of mutual recognition of judicial and extra-judicial decisions in civil matters. In order to establish progressively such an area, the Union should adopt, amongst other things, the measures relating to judicial cooperation in civil matters, particularly when necessary for the proper functioningin order to ensure a better functioning of the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice and of the internal market.
Amendment 30 #
2010/0377(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) Major accidents often have serious consequences, as evidenced by accidents like Seveso, Bhopal, Schweizerhalle, Enschede, Toulouse and Buncefield. Moreover the impact can extend beyond national borders. This underlines the need to ensure that appropriate precautionary action is taken to ensure a high level of protection throughout the Union for citizens, communities and the environment. There is therefore a need to ensure that existing high levels of protection are maintained and if possible further improved.
Amendment 32 #
2010/0377(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) It is therefore appropriate to replace Directive 96/82/EC to ensure that that existing levels of protection are maintained and further improved, by making the provisions more effective and efficient, and where possible reducing unnecessary administrative burdens by streamlining or simplification without compromising safety. At the same time, the new provisions should be clear, coherent and easy to understand to help improve implementation and enforceability, and the level of health and environmental protection should be maintained or even increased.
Amendment 50 #
2010/0377(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) Major accidents often have serious consequences, as evidenced by accidents like Seveso, Bhopal, Schweizerhalle, Enschede, Toulouse and Buncefield. Moreover the impact can extend beyond national borders. This underlines the need to ensure that appropriate precautionary action is taken to ensure a high level of protection throughout the Union for citizens, communities and the environment. The existing high level of protection must, therefore, continue to be maintained and if possible improved.
Amendment 53 #
2010/0377(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) It is therefore appropriate to replace Directive 96/82/EC to ensure that that existing levels of protection are maintained and further improved, by making the provisions more effective and efficient, and where possible reducing unnecessary administrative burdens by streamlining or simplification without compromising safety. At the same time, the new provisions should be clear, coherent and easy to understand to help improve implementation and enforceability, while the level of protection for health and the environment remains at least equal or increases.
Amendment 43 #
2010/0370(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) The problems experienced by the smaller Aegean islands are accentuated by the small size of the islands. In order to guarantee the effectiveness of the measures envisaged, such measures should only apply to small islands. with the status of outermost regions.
Amendment 54 #
2010/0370(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20
Recital 20
(20) Since 2007, requirements in essential products have increased in the smaller Aegean islands as a result of the increasing livestock population and demographic pressure. The proportion of the budget which Greece may use for the specific supply arrangements for the smaller Aegean islands should therefore be increased accordingly.
Amendment 53 #
2010/0303(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) Recent events highlighted the risks of offshore oil and gas exploration and production activities to maritime transport and the marine environment. The use of the Agency's response capabilities should be explicitly extended to cover response to pollution originating from such activities. In addition, the Agency should, within the limits of its remit, assist the Commission in analysing, inside and outside the territory of the Union, the safety of mobile offshore gas and oil installations, in order to identify possible weaknesses, basing its contribution on the expertise it has developed with regard to maritime safety, maritime security, the prevention of pollution caused by ships and response to marine pollution.
Amendment 129 #
2010/0303(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – point 2
Article 1 – point 2
Regulation (EC) No 1406/2002
Article 5 – paragraph 3
Article 5 – paragraph 3
3. At the request of the Commission, the Administrative Board may decide, with the agreement of the Member States concerned, to establish the regional centres necessary in order to carry out the Agency's tasks in the most efficient and effective way. The Administrative Board may decide to establish such regional centres only if the State concerned finances their establishment and maintenance.
Amendment 98 #
2010/0271(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) This Regulation constitutes a set of specific safety and environmental requirements. Therefore, it is important to establish provisions to ensure that, in cases where a vehicle presents a serious risk for users or the environment, the manufacturer or any other economic operator in the supply chain has taken effective protective measures, including the recall of vehicles, within the meaning of Article 20 of Regulation 765/2008/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 July 2008 setting out the requirements for accreditation and market surveillance relating to the marketing of products. Approval authorities should therefore be able to assess whether these measures are sufficient or not. Other requirements should guarantee a level of functional safety and environmental protection equivalent, as far as possible, to that guaranteed by the applicable act or acts referred to in Articles 20, 21 and 22.
Amendment 83 #
2010/0256(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) With regard to out-of-quota sugar to be supplied to the Azores, Madeira and the Canary Islands, the scheme of exemption from import duties will continue to apply. In particular, the Azores should be also authorised to benefit from the exemption from import duties for raw cane sugar, within the limit of their forecast supply balance a ceiling equal to 5% of the previous year’s imports.
Amendment 330 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 7 – paragraph 2
Article 7 – paragraph 2
2. Where the infrastructure manager, in its legal form, organisation or decision- making functions, is not independent of any railway undertaking, the functionsrelated to allocation of capacity and charge setting described in Sections 32 and 43 of Chapter IV shall be performed respectively by a charging body and by an allocation body that are independent in their legal form, organisation and decision-making from any railway undertaking.
Amendment 330 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 7 – paragraph 2
Article 7 – paragraph 2
2. Where the infrastructure manager, in its legal form, organisation or decision- making functions, is not independent of any railway undertaking, the functionsrelated to allocation of capacity and charge setting described in Sections 32 and 43 of Chapter IV shall be performed respectively by a charging body and by an allocation body that are independent in their legal form, organisation and decision-making from any railway undertaking.
Amendment 389 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 13 – paragraph 1
Article 13 – paragraph 1
1. RInfrastructure managers shall supply to railway undertakings shall, on a non- discriminatory basis, be entitled to the minimum access package laid down in Annex III, point 1.
Amendment 389 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 13 – paragraph 1
Article 13 – paragraph 1
1. RInfrastructure managers shall supply to railway undertakings shall, on a non- discriminatory basis, be entitled to the minimum access package laid down in Annex III, point 1.
Amendment 395 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Amendment 395 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Amendment 404 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Amendment 404 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Amendment 412 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 3
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 3
Requests by railway undertakings for access to the service facility may only be rejected if there are viable alternatives allowing them applying railway undertaking to operate the freight or passenger service concerned on the same or alternative routes under economically acceptable conditions. This shall not oblige the operator of the service facility to make investments in order to accommodate all requests by railway undertakings. The burden of provingof for the existence of a viable alternative lies with the operator of the service facilityregulatory body. The service provider shall be required to provide a justification of any denial of access to its facility or to the supply of the service concerned.
Amendment 412 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 3
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 3
Requests by railway undertakings for access to the service facility may only be rejected if there are viable alternatives allowing them applying railway undertaking to operate the freight or passenger service concerned on the same or alternative routes under economically acceptable conditions. This shall not oblige the operator of the service facility to make investments in order to accommodate all requests by railway undertakings. The burden of provingof for the existence of a viable alternative lies with the operator of the service facilityregulatory body. The service provider shall be required to provide a justification of any denial of access to its facility or to the supply of the service concerned.
Amendment 424 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 4
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 4
When the operator of the service facility encounters conflicts between different requests, he shall attempt the best possible matching of all requirements. If no viable alternative is available, and it is not possible to accommodate all requests for capacity for the relevant facility on the basis of demonstrated needs, the regulatory body referred to in Article 55 shall on its own initiative or on the basis of a complaint take appropriate action to ensure that an appropriate part of the capacity is devoted to railway undertakings other than the ones which are part of the body or firm to which the facility operator also belongs. However newly built maintenance and other technical facilities developed for specific new rolling stock may be reserved to the use of one railway undertaking for a period of five years from the start of their operation.
Amendment 424 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 4
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 4
When the operator of the service facility encounters conflicts between different requests, he shall attempt the best possible matching of all requirements. If no viable alternative is available, and it is not possible to accommodate all requests for capacity for the relevant facility on the basis of demonstrated needs, the regulatory body referred to in Article 55 shall on its own initiative or on the basis of a complaint take appropriate action to ensure that an appropriate part of the capacity is devoted to railway undertakings other than the ones which are part of the body or firm to which the facility operator also belongs. However newly built maintenance and other technical facilities developed for specific new rolling stock may be reserved to the use of one railway undertaking for a period of five years from the start of their operation.
Amendment 432 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 5
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 5
Amendment 432 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 5
Article 13 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 5
Amendment 450 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 13 – paragraph 5
Article 13 – paragraph 5
Amendment 450 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 13 – paragraph 5
Article 13 – paragraph 5
Amendment 510 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 31 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
Article 31 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
Without prejudice to paragraphs 4 or 5 of this Article or to Article 32, the charges for the minimum access package shall be set at the cost that is directly incurred as a result of operating the train service, according to Annex VIII, point 1. Member States may not apply this requirement to transportation of freight to or from third countries on a network whose track gauge is different from the main rail network within the Union.
Amendment 510 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 31 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
Article 31 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
Without prejudice to paragraphs 4 or 5 of this Article or to Article 32, the charges for the minimum access package shall be set at the cost that is directly incurred as a result of operating the train service, according to Annex VIII, point 1. Member States may not apply this requirement to transportation of freight to or from third countries on a network whose track gauge is different from the main rail network within the Union.
Amendment 563 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 40 – paragraph 5 a (new)
Article 40 – paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Member States may lay down different rules for networks technologically separated from the main EU railway network if specific cooperation in the allocation of infrastructure capacities for traffic originating from or destined for third countries is needed.
Amendment 563 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 40 – paragraph 5 a (new)
Article 40 – paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Member States may lay down different rules for networks technologically separated from the main EU railway network if specific cooperation in the allocation of infrastructure capacities for traffic originating from or destined for third countries is needed.
Amendment 568 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 43 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 43 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
The infrastructure manager shall adhere to the schedule for capacity allocation set out in Annex IX. Member States may adopt different schedules for capacity allocation for networks technologically separated from main EU railway network and to allow coordination with third countries' railway networks.
Amendment 568 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 43 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 43 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
The infrastructure manager shall adhere to the schedule for capacity allocation set out in Annex IX. Member States may adopt different schedules for capacity allocation for networks technologically separated from main EU railway network and to allow coordination with third countries' railway networks.
Amendment 658 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex 2 – indent 2
Annex 2 – indent 2
– decision making on infrastructure charging, including determination and collection of the charges,
Amendment 658 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex 2 – indent 2
Annex 2 – indent 2
– decision making on infrastructure charging, including determination and collection of the charges,
Amendment 697 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex 6 – point 7 – subparagraph 1 (new)
Annex 6 – point 7 – subparagraph 1 (new)
If the conditions of competition with third countries so require, respective Member States may adopt different rules for charges on those networks where the track gauge is different from that of the main rail network within the Union. Such rules may be published within shorter time limits than laid down in this Directive and which are compatible with those in the relevant third countries.
Amendment 697 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex 6 – point 7 – subparagraph 1 (new)
Annex 6 – point 7 – subparagraph 1 (new)
If the conditions of competition with third countries so require, respective Member States may adopt different rules for charges on those networks where the track gauge is different from that of the main rail network within the Union. Such rules may be published within shorter time limits than laid down in this Directive and which are compatible with those in the relevant third countries.
Amendment 716 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex 8 – point 4 – subpoint b
Annex 8 – point 4 – subpoint b
(b) The infrastructure manager shall communicate to the railway undertakings the timetable, on the basis of which delays will be calculated, at least five days before the train run;. Member States may adopt different deadlines for networks technologically separated from the main EU railway network and to allow coordination with third countries railway networks.
Amendment 716 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex 8 – point 4 – subpoint b
Annex 8 – point 4 – subpoint b
(b) The infrastructure manager shall communicate to the railway undertakings the timetable, on the basis of which delays will be calculated, at least five days before the train run;. Member States may adopt different deadlines for networks technologically separated from the main EU railway network and to allow coordination with third countries railway networks.
Amendment 721 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex 9 – point 5 a (new)
Annex 9 – point 5 a (new)
5 a. Notwithstanding the above, in networks, connecting Member States and third countries, and whose track gauge is different from that of the main rail network within the Union, the scheduling and allocation process may be done under the specific procedures and terms which apply on this specific network.
Amendment 721 #
2010/0253(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex 9 – point 5 a (new)
Annex 9 – point 5 a (new)
5 a. Notwithstanding the above, in networks, connecting Member States and third countries, and whose track gauge is different from that of the main rail network within the Union, the scheduling and allocation process may be done under the specific procedures and terms which apply on this specific network.
Amendment 9 #
2010/0246(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The Standing Committee on Precursors, established by the Commission in 2008, identified various explosives precursors that are susceptible to being used to commit terrorist attacks and other criminal acts and recommended appropriate action at Union level.
Amendment 16 #
2010/0246(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) Concentration limits on hexamine in fuel tablets are technically not feasible. Measures should be adopted to facilitate the reporting of thefts or suspicious transactions at the retail stage for hexamine fuel tablets and other precursors that do not have safe and suitable alternatives.
Amendment 52 #
2010/0210(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) It should only be possible to apply for admission as a seasonal worker while the applicantThe application should only considered and examined if the third- country national is residing outside the territory of the Member States to which admission is sought.
Amendment 63 #
2010/0210(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The Treaty provides that the Union is to develop a common immigration policy aimed at ensuring, at all stages, the efficient management of migration flows and fair treatment of third-country nationals residing legally in Member States. The Hague Programme, adopted by the European Council on 4 and 5 November 2004, recognised that legal migration will play an important role in advancing economic development, and asked the Commission to present a policy plan on legal migration, including admission procedures, capable of responding promptly to fluctuating demands for migrant labour in the labour market.
Amendment 32 #
2010/0209(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) These intra-corporate transfers of key personnel result in new skills and knowledge, innovation and enhanced economic opportunities for the host companies, thus advancing the knowledge- based economy in Europe while fostering investment flowthe enhancement of economic competitiveness across the Union. Well- managed transfers from third countries also have the potential to facilitate transfers from Union to third-country companies and to put the Union in a stronger position in its relationship with international partners. Facilitation of intra-corporate transfers enables multinational groups to tap their human resources best.
Amendment 43 #
2010/0209(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) These intra-corporate transfers of key personnel result in new skills and knowledge, innovation and enhanced economic opportunities for the host companies, thus advancing the knowledge- based economy in Europe while fostering investment flows across the Union. Well- managed tTransfers from third countries also have the potential to facilitate transfers from Union to third-country companies and to put the Union in a stronger position in its relationship with international partners. Facilitation of intra-corporate transfers enables multinational groups to tap their human resources best.
Amendment 120 #
2010/0209(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 3 – point f
Article 3 – point f
(f) ‘specialist’ means any person possessing uncommon knowledge essential and specific to the host entity, taking account not only of knowledge specific to the host entity, but also of whether the person has a high level of qualification referring to a type of work or trade requiring specific technical knowledge;
Amendment 128 #
2010/0209(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 3 – point g
Article 3 – point g
(g) ‘graduate trainee’ means any person with a higher education qualification who is transferred to broaden his/her knowledge of and experience in a company in preparation for a managerial positionemployment within the company;
Amendment 136 #
2010/0209(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 6 – paragraph 1
Article 6 – paragraph 1
1. Member States shall reject an application where the conditions set out in Article 5 are not met or where it is established that the documents presented have been fraudulently acquired, falsified or tampered with.
Amendment 144 #
2010/0209(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 10 – paragraph 3
Article 10 – paragraph 3
3. The application shall be lodged to the authorities of the Member State where the intra-corporate transfer mainly takes place.
Amendment 72 #
2008/0090(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 3
Article 2 – paragraph 3
3. Without prejudice to Articles 4 and 9, documents shall be made accessible to the public either following a written application or directly in electronic form or through a registerin electronic form in the Official Journal of the European Union, in the official register of an institution, body, office or agency or following a written application. In particular, documents drawn up or received in the course of a legislative procedure shall be made directly accessible in accordance with Article 12.
Amendment 37 #
2008/0062(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) Member States should be able to contact the owner, the holder of the vehicle or the otherwise identified person suspected of committing the road safety related traffic offence in order to keep him informed of the applicable procedures and the legal consequences under the law of the Member State of the offence . In doing so, Member States should consider sending the information concerning road safety related traffic offences in the language of the registration documents or the language most likely to be understood by the person concerned, to ensure that that person has a clear understanding of the information which is being shared with him. This will allow that person to respond to the information in an appropriate way, in particular by asking for more information, settling the fine or by exercising their rights of defence, in particular in the case of mistaken identity. Further proceedings are covered by applicable legal instruments, including instruments on mutual assistance and on mutual recognition.
Amendment 42 #
2008/0062(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) Closer cooperation between law enforcement authorities should go hand in hand with respect for fundamental rights, in particular the right to respect for privacy and to protection of personal data, to be guaranteed by special data protection arrangements which should take particular account of the specific nature of cross- border online access to databases. Such requirThe personal data processing and software managements are satisfied by the Prüm Decisionrangements should guarantee that the data collected will not be used for other purposes.
Amendment 54 #
2008/0062(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 5 – paragraph 1
Article 5 – paragraph 1
1. Where the Member State of the offence decides to initiate follow-up proceedings in relation to thefinds that a road safety related traffic offences referred to in Article 2 has been committed, it informs, in accordance with its law, the owner, the holder of the vehicle or the otherwise identified person suspected of committing the road safety related traffic offence of the legal consequences thereof within the territory of the Member State of the offence under the law of that Member State.
Amendment 59 #
2008/0062(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 6
Article 6
Member States shall send a report to the Commission by …* and every two years thereafter. The report shall indicate the number of automated searches conducted by the Member State of the offence addressed to the national contact point of the Member State of registration following offences committed on its territory, together with the number of failed requests and the nature ofreasons for such requests. * OLJ: Date: fifty fourPlease insert the date – 36 months after the date of entry into force of this Directive.