Texts adopted - Specific provisions for the European territorial cooperation goal (Interreg) ***I

Choisissez la langue de votre document :

Index

Full text

Procedure : 2018/0199(COD)

Document stages in plenary

Document selected : A8-0470/2018
Texts tabled : A8-0470/2018		Debates : PV 15/01/2019 - 21 CRE 15/01/2019 - 21		Votes : PV 16/01/2019 - 12.8 CRE 16/01/2019 - 12.8 Explanations of votes PV 26/03/2019 - 7.18 CRE 26/03/2019 - 7.18		Texts adopted : P8_TA(2019)0021 P8_TA(2019)0238

Texts adopted

286k

95k

Wednesday, 16 January 2019 - Strasbourg

Specific provisions for the European territorial cooperation goal (Interreg) ***I

P8_TA(2019)0021

A8-0470/2018

Amendments adopted by the European Parliament on 16 January 2019 on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on specific provisions for the European territorial cooperation goal (Interreg) supported by the European Regional Development Fund and external financing instruments (COM(2018)0374 – C8-0229/2018 – 2018/0199(COD))(1)

(Ordinary legislative procedure: first reading)

Text proposed by the Commission		Amendment
Amendment 1 Proposal for a regulation Recital 1
(1) Article 176 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union ('TFEU') provides that the European Regional Development Fund ('ERDF') is intended to help to redress the main regional imbalances in the Union. Under that Article and the second and third paragraphs of Article 174 of the TFEU, the ERDF is to contribute to reducing disparities between the levels of development of the various regions and to reducing the backwardness of the least favoured regions, among which particular attention is to be paid to certain categories of regions, among which cross-border regions are explicitly listed.		(1) Article 176 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union ('TFEU') provides that the European Regional Development Fund ('ERDF') is intended to help to redress the main regional imbalances in the Union. Under that Article and the second and third paragraphs of Article 174 of the TFEU, the ERDF is to contribute to reducing disparities between the levels of development of the various regions and to reducing the backwardness of the least favoured regions, rural areas, areas affected by an industrial transition, areas with a low population density, islands and mountain regions.
Amendment 2 Proposal for a regulation Recital 2
(2) Regulation (EU) [new CPR] of the European Parliament and of the Council21 sets out provisions common to the ERDF and certain other funds and Regulation (EU) [new ERDF] of the European Parliament and of the Council22 sets out provisions concerning the specific objectives and the scope of the ERDF support. It is now necessary to adopt specific provisions in relation to the European territorial cooperation goal (Interreg) where one or more Member States cooperate across borders with regard to effective programming including provisions on technical assistance, monitoring, evaluation, communication, eligibility, management and control, as well as financial management.		(2) Regulation (EU) [new CPR] of the European Parliament and of the Council21 sets out provisions common to the ERDF and certain other funds and Regulation (EU) [new ERDF] of the European Parliament and of the Council22 sets out provisions concerning the specific objectives and the scope of the ERDF support. It is now necessary to adopt specific provisions in relation to the European territorial cooperation goal (Interreg) where one or more Member States and their regions cooperate across borders with regard to effective programming including provisions on technical assistance, monitoring, evaluation, communication, eligibility, management and control, as well as financial management.
_________________		_________________
21 [Reference]		21 [Reference]
22 [Reference]		22 [Reference]
Amendment 3 Proposal for a regulation Recital 3
(3) In order to support the harmonious development of the Union's territory at different levels, the ERDF should support cross-border cooperation, transnational cooperation, maritime cooperation, outermost regions’ cooperation and interregional cooperation under the European territorial cooperation goal (Interreg).		(3) In order to support a cooperative and harmonious development of the Union's territory at different levels and to reduce existing disparities, the ERDF should support cross-border cooperation, transnational cooperation, maritime cooperation, outermost regions’ cooperation and interregional cooperation under the European territorial cooperation goal (Interreg). In the process, the principles of multi-level governance and partnership should be taken into account, and place-based approaches should be strengthened.
Amendment 4 Proposal for a regulation Recital 3 a (new)
		(3 a) The different components of Interreg should contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as described in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development adopted in September 2015.
Amendment 5 Proposal for a regulation Recital 4
(4) The cross-border cooperation component should aim to tackle common challenges identified jointly in the border regions, and to exploit the untapped growth potential in border areas as evidenced in the Communication of the Commission 'Boosting Growth and Cohesion in EU Border Regions’23 ('Border Regions Communication'). Consequently, the cross-border component should be limited to cooperation on land borders and cross-border cooperation on maritime borders should be integrated into the transnational component.		(4) The cross-border cooperation component should aim to tackle common challenges identified jointly in the border regions, and to exploit the untapped growth potential in border areas as evidenced in the Communication of the Commission 'Boosting Growth and Cohesion in EU Border Regions’23 ('Border Regions Communication'). Therefore, the cross-border component should include cooperation on both land or maritime borders, without prejudice to the new component for outermost regions cooperation.
__________________		__________________
23 Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament 'Boosting growth and cohesion in EU border regions' - COM(2017)0534, 20.9.2017.		23 Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament 'Boosting growth and cohesion in EU border regions' - COM(2017)0534, 20.9.2017.
Amendment 6 Proposal for a regulation Recital 5
(5) The cross-border cooperation component should also involve cooperation between one or more Member States and one or more countries or other territories outside the Union. Covering internal and external cross-border cooperation under this Regulation should result in a major simplification and streamlining of applicable provisions for the programme authorities in the Member States and for the partner authorities and beneficiaries outside the Union compared to the programming period 2014-2020.		(5) The cross-border cooperation component should also involve cooperation between one or more Member States or their regions, and one or more countries or regions, or other territories outside the Union. Covering internal and external cross-border cooperation under this Regulation should result in a major simplification and streamlining of applicable provisions for the programme authorities in the Member States and for the partner authorities and beneficiaries outside the Union compared to the programming period 2014-2020.
Amendment 7 Proposal for a regulation Recital 6
(6) The transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation component should aim to strengthen cooperation by means of actions conducive to integrated territorial development linked to the Union's cohesion policy priorities, and should also include maritime cross-border cooperation. Transnational cooperation should cover larger territories on the mainland of the Union, whereas maritime cooperation should cover territories around sea-basins and integrate cross-border cooperation on maritime borders during the programming period 2014-2020. Maximum flexibility should be given to continue implementing previous maritime cross-border cooperation within a larger maritime cooperation framework, in particular by defining the territory covered, the specific objectives for such cooperation, the requirements for a project partnership and the setting-up of sub-programmes and specific steering committees.		(6) The transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation component should aim to strengthen cooperation by means of actions conducive to integrated territorial development linked to the Union's cohesion policy priorities, in full respect of subsidiarity. Transnational cooperation should cover larger transnational territories and, where appropriate, territories around sea-basins that extend geographically beyond those covered by cross-border programmes.
Amendment 8 Proposal for a regulation Recital 7
(7) Based on the experience with cross-border and transnational cooperation during the programming period 2014-2020 in outermost regions, where the combination of both components within a single programme per cooperation area has not brought about sufficient simplification for programme authorities and beneficiaries, a specific outermost regions’ component should be established in order to enable outermost regions to cooperate with their neighbouring countries and territories in the most effective and simple way.		(7) Based on the experience with cross-border and transnational cooperation during the programming period 2014-2020 in outermost regions, where the combination of both components within a single programme per cooperation area has not brought about sufficient simplification for programme authorities and beneficiaries, a specific additional outermost regions’ component should be established in order to enable outermost regions to cooperate with third countries, overseas countries and territories (OCTs), or regional integration and cooperation organisations in the most effective and simple way that takes into account their individual characteristics.
Amendment 9 Proposal for a regulation Recital 8
(8) Based on the experience with the interregional cooperation programmes under Interreg and the lack of such cooperation within programmes under the Investment for jobs and growth goal during the programming period 2014-2020, the interregional cooperation component should focus more specifically on boosting the effectiveness of cohesion policy. That component should therefore be limited to two programmes, one to enable all kind of experience, innovative approaches and capacity building for programmes under both goals and to promote European groupings of territorial cooperation ('EGTCs') set up or to be set up pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 1082/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council24 and one to improve the analysis of development trends. Project-based cooperation throughout the Union should be integrated into the new component on interregional innovation investments and closely linked to the implementation of the Communication from the Commission 'Strengthening Innovation in Europe's Regions: Strategies for resilient, inclusive and sustainable growth'25 , in particular to support thematic smart specialisation platforms on fields such as energy, industrial modernisation or agrifood. Finally, integrated territorial development focusing on functional urban areas or urban areas should be concentrated within programmes under the Investment for jobs and growth goal and in one accompanying instrument, the ‘European Urban Initiative”. The two programmes under the interregional cooperation component should cover the whole Union and should also be open for the participation of third countries.		(8) Based on the positive experience with the interregional cooperation programmes under Interreg, on the one hand, and the lack of such cooperation within programmes under the Investment for jobs and growth goal during the programming period 2014-2020, on the other, interregional cooperation, through the exchange of experience, the development of capacities for programmes under both goals (European territorial cooperation and Investment for growth and jobs) among cities and regions is an important component with a view to finding common solutions in the cohesion policy field and building lasting partnerships. Existing programmes and, in particular, promotion of project-based cooperation, including promoting European groupings of territorial cooperation (‘EGTCs’), as well as macro-regional strategies should therefore be continued.
__________________
24 Regulation (EC) No 1082/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 July 2006 on a European grouping of territorial cooperation (EGTC) (OJ L 210, 31.7.2006, p. 19).
25 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions 'Strengthening Innovation in Europe's Regions: Strategies for resilient, inclusive and sustainable growth' - COM(2017)0376, 18.7.2017.
Amendment 10 Proposal for a regulation Recital 8 a (new)
		(8a) The new initiative on interregional innovation investments should be based on smart specialisation, and used to support thematic smart specialisation platforms on fields such as energy, industrial modernisation, circular economy, social innovation, the environment or agrifood, and to help those involved in smart specialisation strategies to cluster together, in order to scale up innovation and bring innovative products, processes and ecosystems to the European market. The evidence suggests that a persistent systemic failure remains at the testing and validation stage of demonstration of new technologies (e.g. Key Enabling Techologies), especially when innovation is the result of the integration of complementary regional specialisations creating innovative value chains. That failure is particularly critical in the phase between piloting and full market uptake. In some strategic technology and industrial areas, SMEs cannot currently count on excellent and open, connected pan-European demonstration infrastructure. The programmes under the interregional cooperation initiative should cover the whole European Union and should also be open for the participation of OCTs, third countries, their regions, and regional integration and cooperation organisations, including the outermost neighbouring regions. Synergies between interregional innovation investments and other relevant EU programmes such as those under the European Structural and Investment Funds, Horizon 2020, Digital Market Europe and the single market programme should be encouraged, as they will amplify the impact of investments and provide better value for citizens.
Amendment 11 Proposal for a regulation Recital 9
(9) Objective criteria for designating eligible regions and areas should be established. To that end, the identification of eligible regions and areas at Union level should be based on the common system of classification of the regions established by Regulation (EC) No 1059/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council26 .		(9) Common objective criteria for designating eligible regions and areas should be established. To that end, the identification of eligible regions and areas at Union level should be based on the common system of classification of the regions established by Regulation (EC) No 1059/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council26 .
__________________		__________________
26 Regulation (EC) No 1059/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 May 2003 on the establishment of a common classification of territorial units for statistics (NUTS) (OJ L 154, 21.6.2003, p. 1).		26 Regulation (EC) No 1059/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 May 2003 on the establishment of a common classification of territorial units for statistics (NUTS) (OJ L 154, 21.6.2003, p. 1).
Amendment 12 Proposal for a regulation Recital 10
(10) It is necessary to continue supporting or, as appropriate, to establish cooperation in all its dimensions with the Union's neighbouring third countries, as such cooperation is an important regional development policy tool and should benefit the regions of the Member States which border third countries. To that effect, the ERDF and the external financing instruments of the Union, IPA27 , NDICI28 and OCTP29 , should support programmes under cross-border cooperation, transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation, outermost regions’ cooperation and interregional cooperation. The support from the ERDF and from the external financing instruments of the Union should be based on reciprocity and proportionality. However, for IPA III CBC and NDICI CBC, the ERDF support should be complemented by at least equivalent amounts under IPA III CBC and NDICI CBC, subject to a maximum amount set out in the respective legal act, that is to say, up to 3 % of the financial envelope under IPA III and up to 4 % of the financial envelope of the Neighbourhood geographic programme under Article 4(2)(a) of the NDICI.		(10) It is necessary to continue supporting or, as appropriate, to establish cooperation in all its dimensions with the Union's neighbouring third countries, as such cooperation is an important regional development policy tool and should benefit the regions of the Member States which border third countries. To that effect, the ERDF and the external financing instruments of the Union, IPA27 , NDICI28 and OCTP29 , should support programmes under cross-border cooperation, transnational cooperation, outermost regions’ cooperation and interregional cooperation. The support from the ERDF and from the external financing instruments of the Union should be based on reciprocity and proportionality. However, for IPA III CBC and NDICI CBC, the ERDF support should be complemented by at least equivalent amounts under IPA III CBC and NDICI CBC, subject to a maximum amount set out in the respective legal act.
__________________		__________________
27 Regulation (EU) XXX establishing the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (OJ L xx, p. y).		27 Regulation (EU) XXX establishing the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (OJ L xx, p. y).
28 Regulation (EU) XXX establishing the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (OJ L xx, p. y).		28 Regulation (EU) XXX establishing the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (OJ L xx, p. y).
29 Council Decision (EU) XXX on the association of the Overseas Countries and Territories with the European Inion including relations between the European Union on the one hand and Greenland and the Kingdom of Denmark on the other (OJ L xx, p. y).		29 Council Decision (EU) XXX on the association of the Overseas Countries and Territories with the European Inion including relations between the European Union on the one hand and Greenland and the Kingdom of Denmark on the other (OJ L xx, p. y).
Amendment 13 Proposal for a regulation Recital 10 a (new)
		(10 a) Particular attention should be paid to regions which become new external borders of the Union to ensure the adequate continuity of ongoing cooperation programmes.
Amendment 14 Proposal for a regulation Recital 11
(11) IPA III assistance should mainly focus on assisting the IPA beneficiaries to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law, reform the judiciary and public administration, respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality, tolerance, social inclusion and non-discrimination. IPA assistance should continue to support the efforts of the IPA beneficiaries to advance regional, macro-regional and cross-border cooperation as well as territorial development, including through the implementation of Union macro-regional strategies. In addition, IPA assistance should address security, migration and border management, ensuring access to international protection, sharing relevant information, enhancing border control and pursuing common efforts in the fight against irregular migration and migrant smuggling.		(11) IPA III assistance should mainly focus on assisting the IPA beneficiaries to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law, reform the judiciary and public administration, respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality, tolerance, social inclusion and non-discrimination as well as regional and local development. IPA assistance should continue to support the efforts of the IPA beneficiaries to advance regional, macro-regional and cross-border cooperation as well as territorial development, including through the implementation of Union macro-regional strategies. In addition, IPA assistance should address security, migration and border management, ensuring access to international protection, sharing relevant information, enhancing border control and pursuing common efforts in the fight against irregular migration and migrant smuggling.
Amendment 15 Proposal for a regulation Recital 12 a (new)
		(12 a) Developing synergies with Union external action and development programmes should also help to ensure maximum impact whilst fulfilling the principle of policy coherence for development as provided for by Article 208 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU). Achieving coherence across all Union policies is crucial for achieving the SDGs.
Amendment 16 Proposal for a regulation Recital 14
(14) In view of the specific situation of outmost regions of the Union, it is necessary to adopt measures concerning the conditions under which those regions may have access to structural funds. Consequently, certain provisions of this Regulation should be adapted to the specificities of the outermost regions in order to simplify and foster cooperation with their neighbors, while taking into account the Communication from the Commission 'A stronger and renewed strategic partnership with the EU's outermost regions'31.		(14) In view of the specific situation of outmost regions of the Union, it is necessary to adopt measures concerning the improvement of conditions under which those regions may have access to structural funds. Consequently, certain provisions of this Regulation should be adapted to the specificities of the outermost regions in order to simplify and foster their cooperation with third countries and OCTs, while taking into account the Communication from the Commission 'A stronger and renewed strategic partnership with the EU's outermost regions'31.
_________________		_________________
31 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee, the Committee of the Regions and the European Investment Bank 'A stronger and renewed strategic partnership with the EU's outermost regions', - COM(2017)0623, 24.10.2017.		31 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee, the Committee of the Regions and the European Investment Bank 'A stronger and renewed strategic partnership with the EU's outermost regions', - COM(2017)0623, 24.10.2017.
Amendment 17 Proposal for a regulation Recital 14 a (new)
		(14 a) This Regulation lays down the possibility of the OCTs to participate in Interreg programmes. The specificities and challenges of the OCTs should be taken into consideration in order to facilitate their effective access and participation.
Amendment 18 Proposal for a regulation Recital 15
(15) It is necessary to set out the resources allocated to each of the different components of Interreg, including each Member State's share of the global amounts for the cross-border cooperation, the transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation, the outermost regions’ cooperation and the interregional cooperation, the potential available to Member States concerning flexibility between those components. Compared to the programming period 2014-2020, the share for cross-border cooperation should be reduced, while the share for transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation should be increased because of the integration of maritime cooperation, and a new outermost regions’ cooperation component should be created.		(15) It is necessary to set out the resources allocated to each of the different components of Interreg, including each Member State's share of the global amounts for the cross-border cooperation, the transnational cooperation, the outermost regions’ cooperation and the interregional cooperation, the potential available to Member States concerning flexibility between those components. Given globalisation, cooperation aimed to boost investments in more jobs and growth and joint investments with other regions should, however, also be determined by the regions common characteristics and ambitions and not necessarily by borders, therefore sufficient additional funds for the new initiative on interregional innovation investments should be made available to respond to the global market condition.
Amendment 19 Proposal for a regulation Recital 18
(18) Within the context of the unique and specific circumstances on the island of Ireland, and with a view to supporting North-South cooperation under the Good Friday Agreement, a new 'PEACE PLUS' cross-border programme should continue and build on the work of previous programmes between the border counties of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Taking into account its practical importance, it is necessary to ensure that, where the programme is acting in support of peace and reconciliation, the ERDF should also contribute to promoting social, economic and regional stability in the regions concerned, in particular through actions to promote cohesion between communities. Given the specificities of the programme it should be managed in an integrated manner with the United Kingdom contribution being integrated into the programme as external assigned revenue. Furthermore, certain rules on the selection of operations in this Regulation should not apply to that programme in relation to operations in support of peace and reconciliation.		(18) Within the context of the unique and specific circumstances on the island of Ireland, and with a view to supporting North-South cooperation under the Good Friday Agreement, a new 'PEACE PLUS' cross-border programme is to continue and build on the work of previous programmes between the border counties of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Taking into account its practical importance, it is necessary to ensure that, where the programme is acting in support of peace and reconciliation, the ERDF should also contribute to promoting social, economic and regional stability and cooperation in the regions concerned, in particular through actions to promote cohesion between communities. Given the specificities of the programme it should be managed in an integrated manner with the United Kingdom contribution being integrated into the programme as external assigned revenue. Furthermore, certain rules on the selection of operations in this Regulation should not apply to that programme in relation to operations in support of peace and reconciliation.
Amendment 20 Proposal for a regulation Recital 20
(20) The major part of the Union support should be concentrated on a limited number of policy objectives in order to maximise the impact of Interreg.		(20) The major part of the Union support should be concentrated on a limited number of policy objectives in order to maximise the impact of Interreg. Synergies and complementarities between the components of INTERREG should be strengthened.
Amendment 21 Proposal for a regulation Recital 21
(21) Provisions on the preparation, approval and amendment of Interreg programmes as well as on territorial development, on the selection of operations, on monitoring and evaluation, on the programme authorities, on audit of operations, and on transparency and communication should be adapted to the specificities of Interreg programmes compared to the provisions set out in Regulation (EU) [new CPR].		(21) Provisions on the preparation, approval and amendment of Interreg programmes as well as on territorial development, on the selection of operations, on monitoring and evaluation, on the programme authorities, on audit of operations, and on transparency and communication should be adapted to the specificities of Interreg programmes compared to the provisions set out in Regulation (EU) [new CPR]. These specific provisions should be kept simple and clear in order to avoid gold-plating and additional administrative burdens for Member States and beneficiaries.
Amendment 22 Proposal for a regulation Recital 22
(22) The provisions on the criteria for operations to be considered as genuinely joint and cooperative, on the partnership within an Interreg operation and on the obligations of the lead partner as set out during the programme period 2014-2020 should on be continued. However, Interreg partners should cooperate in all four dimensions (development, implementation, staffing and financing) and, under outermost regions’ cooperation, in three out of four, as it should be simpler to combine support from the ERDF and external financing instruments from the Union both on the level of programmes and operations.		(22) The provisions on the criteria for operations to be considered as genuinely joint and cooperative, on the partnership within an Interreg operation and on the obligations of the lead partner as set out during the programme period 2014-2020 should be continued. Interreg partners should cooperate in development and implementation as well as staffing or financing, or both, and, under outermost regions’ cooperation, in three out of four, as it should be simpler to combine support from the ERDF and external financing instruments from the Union both on the level of programmes and operations.
Amendment 23 Proposal for a regulation Recital 22 a (new)
		(22 a) Under cross-border cooperation programmes, people-to-people (P2P) and small-scale projects are an important and successful instrument for eliminating border and cross border obstacles, fostering contacts between people locally and, in so doing, bringing border regions and their citizens closer together. P2P projects and small-scale projects are carried out in many areas such as, inter alia, culture, sport, tourism, general education and vocational training, the economy, science, environmental protection and ecology, healthcare, transport and small-scale infrastructure projects, administrative cooperation and public-relations work. As also set forth in the opinion of the Committee of the Regions ‘People-to-people and small-scale projects in cross-border cooperation programmes’32, P2P projects and small-scale projects have high European added value and make a considerable contribution towards realising the overall objective of cross-border cooperation programmes.
		__________________ 32 Opinion of the European Committee of the Regions ‘People-to-people and small-scale projects in cross-border cooperation programmes’ of 12 July 2017 (OJ C 342, 12.10.2017, p. 38).
Amendment 24 Proposal for a regulation Recital 23
(23) It is necessary to clarify the rules governing small project funds which have been implemented since Interreg has existed, but have never been covered by specific provisions. As also set out in the Opinion of the Committee of the Regions ‘People-to-people and small-scale projects in cross-border cooperation programmes’32 , such small project funds play an important role in building up trust between citizens and institutions, offer great European added value and contribute considerably to the overall objective of cross-border cooperation programmes by overcoming border obstacles and integrating border areas and their citizens. In order to simplify the management of the financing of small projects by the final recipients, who are often not used to applying for Union funds, the use of simplified cost options and of lump sums should be made obligatory below a certain threshold.		(23) Since Interreg has existed, P2P projects and small-scale projects have been supported via small-project funds or similar instruments that have never been covered by specific provisions, making it necessary to clarify the rules governing those funds. In order to maintain the added value and advantages of P2P and small-scale projects, also with regard to local and regional development, and to simplify the management of the financing of small projects by the final recipients, who are often not used to applying for Union funds, the use of simplified cost options and of lump sums should be made obligatory below a certain threshold.
__________________
32 Opinion of the European Committee of the Regions ‘People-to-people and small-scale projects in cross-border cooperation programmes’ of 12 July 2017 (OJ C 342, 12.10.2017, p. 38).
Amendment 25 Proposal for a regulation Recital 24
(24) Due to the involvement of more than one Member State, and the resulting higher administrative costs, in particular in respect of controls and translation, the ceiling for technical assistance expenditure should be higher than that under the Investment for jobs and growth goal. In order to offset the higher administrative costs, Member States should be encouraged to reduce the administrative burden with regard to the implementation of joint projects wherever possible. In addition, Interreg programmes with limited Union support or external cross-border cooperation programmes should receive a certain minimum amount for technical assistance to ensure sufficient funding for effective technical assistance activities.		(24) Due to the involvement of more than one Member State, and the resulting higher administrative costs, including for regional points of contact (or ‘antennae’), which are important points of contact for those proposing and implementing projects, and therefore function as a direct line to the joint secretariats or the relevant authorities, but in particular in respect of controls and translation, the ceiling for technical assistance expenditure should be higher than that under the Investment for jobs and growth goal. In order to offset the higher administrative costs, Member States should be encouraged to reduce the administrative burden with regard to the implementation of joint projects wherever possible. In addition, Interreg programmes with limited Union support or external cross-border cooperation programmes should receive a certain minimum amount for technical assistance to ensure sufficient funding for effective technical assistance activities.
Amendment 26 Proposal for a regulation Recital 25 a (new)
		(25a) In connection with reducing administrative burden, the Commission, Member States and regions should cooperate closely in order to be able to make use of the enhanced proportionate arrangements for the management and control system for an Interreg programme that are referred to in Article 77 of Regulation (EU) .../... [new CPR].
Amendment 27 Proposal for a regulation Recital 27
(27) Member States should be encouraged to assign the functions of the managing authority to an EGTC or to make such a grouping, like other cross-border legal bodies, responsible for managing a sub-programme, an integrated territorial investment or one or more small project funds, or to act as sole partner.		(27) Member States should, where appropriate, delegate the functions of the managing authority to a new or, where applicable, an existing EGTC or to make such a grouping, like other cross-border legal bodies, responsible for managing a sub-programme, an integrated territorial investment, or to act as sole partner. Member States should enable regional and local authorities and other public bodies from different Member States to set up such cooperation groupings with a legal personality and should involve local and regional authorities in their functioning.
Amendment 28 Proposal for a regulation Recital 28
(28) In order to continue the payment chain established for the programming period 2014-2020, i.e. from the Commission to the lead partner via the certifying authority, that payment chain should be continued under the accounting function. The Union support should be paid to the lead partner, unless this would result in double fees for conversion into euro and back into another currency or vice versa between the lead partner and the other partners.		(28) In order to continue the payment chain established for the programming period 2014-2020, i.e. from the Commission to the lead partner via the certifying authority, that payment chain should be continued under the accounting function. The Union support should be paid to the lead partner, unless this would result in double fees for conversion into euro and back into another currency or vice versa between the lead partner and the other partners. If not otherwise specified, the lead partner should ensure that the other partners receive the total amount of the contribution from the respective Union fund in full and within the timeframe agreed by all partners and following the same procedure applied in respect of the lead partner.
Amendment 29 Proposal for a regulation Recital 29
(29) Pursuant to Article [63(9)] of Regulation (EU, Euratom) [FR-Omnibus] sector-specific rules are to take account of the needs of European Territorial Cooperation (Interreg) programmes as regards, in particular the audit function. The provisions on the annual audit opinion, the annual control report and the audits of operations should therefore be simplified and adapted to those programmes involving more than one Member States.		(29) Pursuant to Article [63(9)] of Regulation (EU, Euratom) [FR-Omnibus] sector-specific rules are to take account of the needs of European Territorial Cooperation (Interreg) programmes, as regards in particular the audit function. The provisions on the annual audit opinion, the annual control report and the audits of operations should therefore be simplified and adapted to those programmes involving more than one Member State.
Amendment 30 Proposal for a regulation Recital 30
(30) A clear chain of financial liability in respect of recovery for irregularities should be established from sole or other partners via the lead partner and the managing authority to the Commission. Provision should be made for liability of Member States, third countries, partner countries or Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs), where obtaining recovery from the sole or other or lead partner is not successful, meaning that the Member State reimburses the managing authority. Consequently, under Interreg programmes there is no scope for irrecoverable amounts on the level of beneficiaries. It is, however, necessary to clarify the rules, should a Member State, third country, partner country or OCT not reimburse the managing authority. The obligations of the lead partner for recovery should also be clarified. In particular, the managing authority should not be allowed to oblige the lead partner to launch a judicial procedure in a different country.		(30) A clear chain of financial liability in respect of recovery for irregularities should be established from sole or other partners via the lead partner and the managing authority to the Commission. Provision should be made for liability of Member States, third countries, partner countries or Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs), where obtaining recovery from the sole or other or lead partner is not successful, meaning that the Member State reimburses the managing authority. Consequently, under Interreg programmes there is no scope for irrecoverable amounts on the level of beneficiaries. It is necessary, however, to clarify the rules, should a Member State, third country, partner country or OCT not reimburse the managing authority. The obligations of the lead partner for recovery should also be clarified. Moreover, the procedures related to recoveries should be established and agreed by the monitoring committee. However, the managing authority should not be allowed to oblige the lead partner to launch a judicial procedure in a different country.
Amendment 31 Proposal for a regulation Recital 30 a (new)
		(30 a) It is appropriate to encourage financial discipline. At the same time, arrangements for decommitment of budgetary commitments should take into account the complexity of Interreg programmes and their implementation.
Amendment 32 Proposal for a regulation Recital 32
(32) Although Interreg programmes with the participation of third countries, partner countries or OCTs should be implemented under shared management, outermost regions’ cooperation may be implemented under indirect management. Specific rules should be set out how to implement those programmes as a whole or partially under indirect management.		(32) Although Interreg programmes with the participation of third countries, partner countries or OCTs should be implemented under shared management, outermost regions’ cooperation may be implemented under indirect management. Specific rules should be set out on how to implement those programmes as a whole or partially under indirect management.
Amendment 33 Proposal for a regulation Recital 35
(35) In order to ensure uniform conditions for the adoption or amendment of Interreg programmes, implementing powers should be conferred on the Commission. However, external cross-border cooperation programmes should respect, where applicable, Committee procedures established under Regulations (EU) [IPA III] and [NDICI] with regard to the first approval decision of those programmes.		(35) In order to ensure uniform conditions for the adoption or amendment of Interreg programmes, implementing powers should be conferred on the Commission. However, where applicable, external cross-border cooperation programmes should respect Committee procedures established under Regulations (EU) [IPA III] and [NDICI] with regard to the first approval decision of those programmes.
Amendment 34 Proposal for a regulation Recital 36 a (new)
		(36 a) The promotion of European Territorial Cooperation (ETC) is a major priority of Union cohesion policy. Support for SMEs for costs incurred in ETC projects is already block-exempted under the Commission Regulation (EU) No 651/20141a (General block exemption Regulation (GBER)). Special provisions in relation to regional aid for investments by undertakings of all sizes are also included in the Guidelines on regional State aid for 2014-20202a and in the regional aid section of the GBER. In the light of experience gained, aid for European Territorial Cooperation projects should only have limited effects on competition and trade between Member States, and thus the Commission should be able to declare that such aid is compatible with the internal market and that financing provided in support of ETC projects is able to be block-exempted.
		_____________________
		1a Commission Regulation (EU) No 651/2014 of 17 June 2014 declaring certain categories of aid compatible with the internal market in application of Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty (OJ L 187, 26.6.2014, p. 1). 2a Guidelines on regional State aid for 2014-2020 (OJ C 209, 23.07.2013, p. 1).
Amendment 35 Proposal for a regulation Article 1 – paragraph 1
1. This Regulation lays down rules for the European territorial cooperation goal (Interreg) with a view to fostering cooperation between Member States inside the Union and between Member States and adjacent third countries, partner countries, other territories or overseas countries and territories ('OCTs') respectively.		1. This Regulation lays down rules for the European territorial cooperation goal (Interreg) with a view to fostering cooperation between Member States and their regions inside the Union and between Member States, their regions and third countries, partner countries, other territories or overseas countries and territories('OCTs'), or regional integration and cooperation organisations, or group of third countries forming part of a regional organisation, respectively.
Amendment 36 Proposal for a regulation Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 4
(4) 'cross-border legal body' means a legal body established under the laws of one of the participating countries in an Interreg programme provided that it is set up by territorial authorities or other bodies from at least two participating countries.		(4) 'cross-border legal body' means a legal body including a euroregion, established under the laws of one of the participating countries in an Interreg programme provided that it is set up by territorial authorities or other bodies from at least two participating countries.
Amendment 37 Proposal for a regulation Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 4 a (new)
		(4 a) ’regional integration and cooperation organisation’ means a group of Member States or regions in the same geographical area that aim to cooperate closely on issues of common interest.
Amendment 38 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – introductory part
(1) cross-border cooperation between adjacent regions to promote integrated regional development (component 1):		(1) cross-border cooperation between adjacent regions to promote integrated and harmonious regional development (component 1):
Amendment 39 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point a
(a) internal cross-border cooperation between adjacent land border regions of two or more Member States or between adjacent land border regions of at least one Member State and one or more third countries listed in Article 4(3); or		(a) internal cross-border cooperation between adjacent land or maritime border regions of two or more Member States or between adjacent land or maritime border regions of at least one Member State and one or more third countries listed in Article 4(3); or
Amendment 40 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point b – introductory part
(b) external cross-border cooperation, between adjacent land border regions of at least one Member State and of one or more of the following:		(b) external cross-border cooperation, between adjacent land or maritime border regions of at least one Member State and of one or more of the following:
Amendment 41 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 2
(2) transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation over larger transnational territories or around sea-basins, involving national, regional and local programme partners in Member States, third countries and partner countries and in Greenland, with a view to achieving a higher degree of territorial integration ('component 2'; where referring only to transnational cooperation: 'component 2A'; where referring only to maritime cooperation: 'component 2B');		(2) transnational cooperation over larger transnational territories or around sea-basins, involving national, regional and local programme partners in Member States, third countries and partner countries and OCTs, with a view to achieving a higher degree of territorial integration ('component 2');
Amendment 42 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 3
(3) outermost regions' cooperation among themselves and with their neighbouring third or partner countries or OCTs, or several thereof, to facilitate their regional integration in their neighbourhood ('component 3');		(3) outermost regions' cooperation among themselves and with their neighbouring third or partner countries or OCTs, or regional integration and cooperation organisations, or several thereof, to facilitate their regional integration and harmonious development in their neighbourhood ('component 3');
Amendment 43 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 4 – point a – point i a (new)
		(i a) the implementation of common interregional development projects;
Amendment 44 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 4 – point a – point i b (new)
		(i b) the development of capacities between partners throughout the Union in connection with:
Amendment 45 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 4 – point a – point ii a (new)
		(ii a) the identification and dissemination of good practices with a view to their transfer principally to operational programmes under the Investment for growth and jobs goal;
Amendment 46 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 4 – point a – point ii b (new)
		(ii b) the exchange of experiences concerning the identification, transfer and dissemination of best practice on sustainable urban development, including linkages between urban and rural areas;
Amendment 47 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 4 – point a – point iii a (new)
		(iii a) the setting-up, functioning and use of the European Cross-Border Mechanism as referred to in Regulation (EU) .../... [new European Cross-Border Mechanism];
Amendment 48 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 5
(5) interregional innovation investments through the commercialisation and scaling up of interregional innovation projects having the potential to encourage the development of European value chains ('component 5').		deleted
Amendment 49 Proposal for a regulation Article 4 – paragraph 1
1. For cross-border cooperation, the regions to be supported by the ERDF shall be the NUTS level 3 regions of the Union along all internal and external land borders with third countries or partner countries.		1. For cross-border cooperation, the regions to be supported by the ERDF shall be the NUTS level 3 regions of the Union along all internal and external land or maritime borders with third countries or partner countries, without prejudice to potential adjustments to ensure the coherence and continuity of cooperation programme areas established for the 2014-2020 programming planning period.
Amendment 50 Proposal for a regulation Article 4 – paragraph 2
2. Regions on maritime borders which are connected over the sea by a fixed link shall also be supported under cross-border cooperation.		deleted
Amendment 51 Proposal for a regulation Article 4 – paragraph 3
3. Internal cross-border cooperation Interreg programmes may cover regions in Norway, Switzerland and the United Kingdom which are equivalent to NUTS level 3 regions as well as Liechtenstein, Andorra and Monaco.		3. Internal cross-border cooperation Interreg programmes may cover regions in Norway, Switzerland and the United Kingdom which are equivalent to NUTS level 3 regions as well as Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco and San Marino.
Amendment 52 Proposal for a regulation Article 4 – paragraph 4
4. For external cross-border cooperation, the regions to be supported by IPA III or NDICI shall be NUTS level 3 regions of the respective partner country or, in the absence of NUTS classification, equivalent areas along all land borders between Member States and partner countries eligible under IPA III or NDICI.		4. For external cross-border cooperation, the regions to be supported by IPA III or NDICI shall be NUTS level 3 regions of the respective partner country or, in the absence of NUTS classification, equivalent areas along all land or maritime borders between Member States and partner countries eligible under IPA III or NDICI.
Amendment 53 Proposal for a regulation Article 5 – title
5 Geographical coverage for transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation		Geographical coverage for transnational cooperation
Amendment 54 Proposal for a regulation Article 5 – paragraph 1
1. For transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation, the regions to be supported by the ERDF shall be the NUTS level 2 regions of the Union covering contiguous functional areas, taking into account, where applicable, macro-regional strategies or sea basin strategies.		1. For transnational cooperation, the regions to be supported by the ERDF shall be the NUTS level 2 regions of the Union covering contiguous functional areas, without prejudice to potential adjustments to ensure the coherence and continuity of such cooperation in larger coherent areas based on the 2014-2020 programming planning period and taking into account, where applicable, macro-regional strategies or sea basin strategies.
Amendment 55 Proposal for a regulation Article 5 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – introductory part
Transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation Interreg programmes may cover:		Transnational cooperation Interreg programmes may cover:
Amendment 56 Proposal for a regulation Article 5 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point b
(b) Greenland;		(b) OCTs benefit from the support provided by the OCT programme;
Amendment 57 Proposal for a regulation Article 5 – paragraph 3
3. The regions, third countries or partner countries listed in paragraph 2 shall be NUTS level 2 regions or, in the absence of NUTS classification, equivalent areas.		3. The regions, third countries, partner countries, or OCTs listed in paragraph 2 shall be NUTS level 2 regions or, in the absence of NUTS classification, equivalent areas.
Amendment 58 Proposal for a regulation Article 6 – paragraph 2
2. The outermost regions' Interreg programmes may cover neighbouring partner countries supported by the NDICI or OCTs supported by the OCTP, or both.		2. The outermost regions' Interreg programmes may cover partner countries supported by the NDICI, OCTs supported by the OCTP, regional cooperation organisations, or a combination of two or all three of these.
Amendment 59 Proposal for a regulation Article 7 – title
Geographical coverage for interregional cooperation and interregional innovation investments		Geographical coverage for interregional cooperation
Amendment 60 Proposal for a regulation Article 7 – paragraph 1
1. For any component 4 Interreg programme or for interregional innovation investments under component 5, the entire territory of the Union shall be supported by the ERDF.		1. For any component 4 Interreg programme the entire territory of the Union shall be supported by the ERDF including the outermost regions.
Amendment 61 Proposal for a regulation Article 7 – paragraph 2
2. Component 4 Interreg programmes may cover the whole or part of the third countries, partner countries, other territories or OCTs referred to in Articles 4, 5 and 6, whether or not they are supported by the external financing instruments of the Union.		2. Component 4 Interreg programmes may cover the whole or part of the third countries, partner countries, other territories or OCTs referred to in Articles 4, 5 and 6, whether or not they are supported by the external financing instruments of the Union. Third countries may participate in those programmes, provided that they make a funding contribution in the form of externally allocated revenue.
Amendment 62 Proposal for a regulation Article 8 – paragraph 2
2. The implementing act referred to in paragraph 1 shall also contain a list specifying those NUTS level 3 regions of the Union taken into account for the ERDF allocation for cross-border cooperation at all internal borders and those external borders covered by the external financing instruments of the Union as well as a list specifying those NUTS level 3 regions taken into account for allocation purposes under component 2B referred to in point (a) of Article 9(3).		2. The implementing act referred to in paragraph 1 shall also contain a list specifying those NUTS level 3 regions of the Union taken into account for the ERDF allocation for cross-border cooperation at all internal borders and those external borders covered by the external financing instruments of the Union.
Amendment 63 Proposal for a regulation Article 8 – paragraph 3
3. Regions of third or partner countries or territories outside the Union which do not receive supported from the ERDF or an external financing instrument of the Union shall also be mentioned in the list referred to in paragraph 1.		3. Regions of third or partner countries or territories outside the Union which do not receive support from the ERDF or an external financing instrument of the Union shall also be mentioned in the list referred to in paragraph 1.
Amendment 64 Proposal for a regulation Article 9 – paragraph 1
1. The ERDF resources for the European territorial cooperation goal (Interreg) shall amount to EUR 8 430 000 000 of the global resources available for budgetary commitment from the ERDF, ESF+ and the Cohesion Fund for the 2021-2027 programming period and set out in Article [102(1)] of Regulation (EU) [new CPR].		1. Resources for the European territorial cooperation goal (Interreg) shall amount to EUR 11 165 910 000 (2018 prices) of out the global resources available for budgetary commitment from the ERDF, ESF+ and the Cohesion Fund for the 2021-2027 programming period and set out in Article [103(1)] of Regulation (EU) [new CPR].
Amendment 65 Proposal for a regulation Article 9 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
2. The resources referred to in paragraph 1 shall be allocated as follows:		2. EUR 10 195 910 000 (91,31 %) of the resources referred to in paragraph 1 shall be allocated as follows:
Amendment 66 Proposal for a regulation Article 9 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) 52.7 % (i.e., a total of EUR 4 440 000 000) for cross-border cooperation (component 1);		(a) EUR 7 500 000 000 (67,16 %) for cross-border cooperation (component 1);
Amendment 67 Proposal for a regulation Article 9 – paragraph 2 – point b
(b) 31.4 % (i.e., a total of EUR 2 649 900 000) for transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation (component 2);		(b) EUR 1 973 600 880 (17,68 %) for transnational cooperation (component 2);
Amendment 68 Proposal for a regulation Article 9 – paragraph 2 – point c
(c) 3.2 % (i.e., a total of EUR 270 100 000) for outermost regions' cooperation (component 3);		(c) EUR 357 309 120 (3,2 %) for outermost regions' cooperation (component 3);
Amendment 69 Proposal for a regulation Article 9 – paragraph 2 – point d
(d) 1.2 % (i.e., a total of EUR 100 000 000) for interregional cooperation (component 4);		(d) EUR 365 000 000 (3,27%) for interregional cooperation (component 4);
Amendment 70 Proposal for a regulation Article 9 – paragraph 2 – point e
(e) 11.5 % (i.e., a total of EUR 970 000 000) for interregional innovation investments (component 5).		deleted
Amendment 71 Proposal for a regulation Article 9 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2 – point a
(a) NUTS level 3 regions for component 1 and those NUTS level 3 regions for component 2B listed in the implementing act under Article 8(2);		(a) NUTS level 3 regions for component 1 listed in the implementing act under Article 8(2);
Amendment 72 Proposal for a regulation Article 9 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2 – point b
(b) NUTS level 2 regions for components 2A and 3.		(b) NUTS level 2 regions for component 2.
Amendment 73 Proposal for a regulation Article 9 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2 – point b a (new)
		(b a) NUTS level 2 and 3 regions for component 3.
Amendment 74 Proposal for a regulation Article 9 – paragraph 5 a (new)
		5 a. EUR 970 000 000 (8,69 %) of the resources referred to in paragraph 1 shall be allocated to the new initiative on interregional innovation investments as referred to in Article 15 a (new).
		If by 31 December 2026, the Commission has not committed all of the available resources referred to in paragraph 1 on projects selected under that initiative, the remaining uncommitted balances shall be re-allocated prorata among components 1 to 4.
Amendment 75 Proposal for a regulation Article 10 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
Support from the ERDF shall be granted to individual external cross-border Interreg programmes provided that equivalent amounts are provided by IPA III CBC and NDICI CBC under the relevant strategic programming document. That equivalence shall be subject to a maximum amount set out in the IPA III or NDICI legislative act.		Support from the ERDF shall be granted to individual external cross-border Interreg programmes provided that at least equivalent amounts are provided by IPA III CBC and NDICI CBC under the relevant strategic programming document. That contribution shall be subject to a maximum amount set out in the IPA III or NDICI legislative act.
Amendment 76 Proposal for a regulation Article 12 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 – point b
(b) the Interreg programme cannot be implemented as planned due to problems in relations between the participating countries.		(b) In duly justified cases, where the Interreg programme cannot be implemented as planned due to problems in relations between the participating countries.
Amendment 77 Proposal for a regulation Article 12 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
With regard to a component 2 Interreg programme already approved by the Commission, the participation of a partner country or of Greenland shall be discontinued, if one of the situations set out in points (a) and (b) of the first subparagraph of paragraph 3 is fulfilled.		With regard to a component 2 Interreg programme already approved by the Commission, the participation of a partner country or of an OCT shall be discontinued, if one of the situations set out in points(a) and (b) of the first subparagraph of paragraph 3 is fulfilled.
Amendment 78 Proposal for a regulation Article 12 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 2 – point a
(a) that the Interreg programme be discontinued in total, in particular where the main joint development challenges thereof cannot be achieved without the participation of that partner country or of Greenland;		(a) that the Interreg programme be discontinued in total, in particular where the main joint development challenges thereof cannot be achieved without the participation of that partner country or OCT;
Amendment 79 Proposal for a regulation Article 12 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 2 – point c
(c) that the Interreg programme continue without the participation of that partner country or of Greenland.		(c) that the Interreg programme continue without the participation of that partner country or of an OCT.
Amendment 80 Proposal for a regulation Article 12 – paragraph 6
6. Where a third country or partner country contributing to an Interreg programme with national resources, which do not constitute the national cofinancing of support from the ERDF or from an external financing instrument of the Union, reduces that contribution during the implementation of the Interreg programme, either globally or with regard to joint operations already selected and having received the document provided for in Article 22(6), the participating Member State or Member States shall request one of the options set out in the second subparagraph of paragraph 4.		6. Where a third country, partner country or OCTs contributing to an Interreg programme with national resources, which do not constitute the national cofinancing of support from the ERDF or from an external financing instrument of the Union, reduces that contribution during the implementation of the Interreg programme, either globally or with regard to joint operations already selected and having received the document provided for in Article22(6), the participating Member State or Member States shall request one of the options set out in the second subparagraph of paragraph 4 of this Article.
Amendment 81 Proposal for a regulation Article 13 – paragraph 1
The co-financing rate at the level of each Interreg programme shall be not higher than 70 %, unless, with regard to external cross-border or component 3 Interreg programmes, a higher percentage is fixed in Regulations (EU) [IPA III], [NDICI] or Council Decision (EU) [OCTP] respectively or in any act adopted thereunder.		The co-financing rate at the level of each Interreg programme shall be not higher than 80 %, unless, with regard to external cross-border or component 3 Interreg programmes, a higher percentage is fixed in Regulations (EU) [IPA III], [NDICI] or Council Decision (EU) [OCTP] respectively or in any act adopted thereunder.
Amendment 82 Proposal for a regulation Article 14 – paragraph 3 – introductory part
3. In addition to the specific objectives for the ERDF as set out in Article [2] of Regulation (EU) [new ERDF], the ERDF and, where applicable, the external financing instruments of the Union may also contribute to the specific objectives under PO 4 as follows:		3. In addition to the specific objectives for the ERDF as set out in Article [2] of Regulation (EU) [new ERDF], the ERDF and, where applicable, the external financing instruments of the Union shall also contribute to the specific objectives under PO 4 as follows:
Amendment 83 Proposal for a regulation Article 14 – paragraph 4 – point a – introductory part
(a) under component 1 and 2B Interreg programmes:		(a) under component 1 and 2 Interreg programmes:
Amendment 84 Proposal for a regulation Article 14 – paragraph 4 – point a – point ii
(ii) enhance efficient public administration by promoting legal and administrative cooperation and cooperation between citizens and institutions, in particular, with a view to resolving legal and other obstacles in border regions;		(ii) enhance efficient public administration by promoting legal and administrative cooperation and cooperation between citizens, including people-to-people projects, civil society actors and institutions, in particular, with a view to resolving legal and other obstacles in border regions;
Amendment 85 Proposal for a regulation Article 14 – paragraph 5
5. Under external cross-border and component 2 and 3 Interreg programmes the ERDF and, where applicable, the external financing instruments of the Union shall also contribute to the external Interreg-specific objective 'a safer and more secure Europe', in particular by actions in the fields of border crossing management and mobility and migration management, including the protection of migrants.		5. Under component 1, 2 and 3 Interreg programmes the ERDF and, where applicable, the external financing instruments of the Union may also contribute to the Interreg-specific objective 'a safer and more secure Europe', in particular by actions in the fields of border crossing management and mobility and migration management, including the protection, economic and social integration of migrants and refugees under international protection.
Amendment 86 Proposal for a regulation Article 15 – paragraph 2
2. An additional 15% of the ERDF and, where applicable, of the external financing instruments of the Union allocations under priorities other than for technical assistance to each Interreg programme under components 1, 2 and 3, shall be allocated on the Interreg-specific objective of 'a better Interreg governance' or on the external Interreg-specific objective of 'a safer and more secure Europe'.		2. Of the ERDF and, where applicable, of the external financing instruments of the Union allocations under priorities other than for technical assistance to each Interreg programme under components 1, 2 and 3, up to15 % shall be allocated on the Interreg-specific objective of 'a better Interreg governance' and up to 10 % may be allocated on the Interreg-specific objective of 'a safer and more secure Europe'.
Amendment 87 Proposal for a regulation Article 15 – paragraph 3
3. Where a component 2A Interreg programme supports a macro-regional strategy, the total ERDF and, where applicable, the total external financing instruments of the Union allocations under priorities other than for technical assistance shall be programmed on the objectives of that strategy.		3. Where a component 1 or 2 Interreg programme supports a macro-regional strategy or a sea-basin strategy, at least 80 % the ERDF and, where applicable, part of the external financing instruments of the Union allocations under priorities other than for technical assistance shall contribute to the objectives of that strategy.
Amendment 88 Proposal for a regulation Article 15 – paragraph 4
4. Where a component 2B Interreg programme supports a macro-regional strategy or sea-basin strategy, at least 70% of the total ERDF and, where applicable, of the external financing instruments of the Union allocations under priorities other than for technical assistance shall be allocated on the objectives of that strategy.		deleted
Amendment 89 Proposal for a regulation Article 15 a (new)
		Article 15 a
		Interregional innovation investments
		1. The resources referred to in Article 9 (5 a) (new) shall be allocated to a new initiative on interregional innovation investments that is earmarked for:
		(a) the commercialisation and scaling up of common innovation projects that are likely to encourage the development of European value chains;
		(b) the bringing together of researchers, businesses, civil society organisations, and public administrations involved in smart specialisation and social innovation strategies at national or regional level;
		(c) pilot projects aimed at identifying or testing new development solutions at regional and local level which are based on smart specialisation strategies; or
		(d) sharing innovation experiences with the aim of benefiting from the experience gained in regional or local development.
		2. To maintain the European territorial cohesion principle, with an approximate equal share of financial resources, those investments shall focus on creating linkages between less developed regions with those in lead regions by increasing the capacity of regional innovation eco-systems in less developed regions to integrate in and move up the existing or emerging EU value as well as the capacity to participate in partnerships with other regions.
		3. The Commission shall implement those investments under direct or indirect management. It shall be supported by an expert group in defining a long-term work programme and related calls.
		4. The entire territory of the Union shall be supported by the ERDF for interregional innovation investments. Third countries may participate in those investments, provided that they make a funding contribution in the form of externally allocated revenue.
Amendment 90 Proposal for a regulation Article 16 – paragraph 1
1. The European territorial cooperation goal (Interreg) shall be implemented through Interreg programmes under shared management with the exception of component 3, which may be implemented as a whole or partially under indirect management, and of component 5 which shall be implemented under direct or indirect management.		1. The European territorial cooperation goal (Interreg) shall be implemented through Interreg programmes under shared management with the exception of component 3, which may be implemented as a whole or partially under indirect management after consulting stakeholders.
Amendment 91 Proposal for a regulation Article 16 – paragraph 2
2. The participating Member States and, where applicable, third countries, partner countries or OCTs, shall prepare an Interreg programme in accordance with the template set out in the Annex for the period from 1 January 2021 to 31 December 2027.		2. The participating Member States and, where applicable, third countries, partner countries, OCTs, or regional integration and cooperation organisations shall prepare an Interreg programme in accordance with the template set out in the Annex for the period from 1 January 2021 to 31 December 2027.
Amendment 92 Proposal for a regulation Article 16 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
The participating Member States shall prepare an Interreg programme in cooperation with the programme partners referred to in Article [6] of Regulation (EU) [the new CPR].		The participating Member States shall prepare an Interreg programme in cooperation with the programme partners referred to in Article [6] of Regulation (EU) [the new CPR]. In the preparation of the Interreg programmes, covering macro-regional or sea basin strategies, the Member States and the programme partners should take into account the thematic priorities of the relevant macro-regional and sea basins strategies and consult the relevant actors. An ex ante mechanism shall be set up by the Member States and the programme partners to ensure that all actors at macro-region and sea basin level, ETC programme authorities, regions and countries are brought together at the start of the programming period to decide jointly on the priorities for each programme. Those priorities shall be aligned with macro-regional or sea basin strategies’ Action Plans wherever relevant.
Amendment 93 Proposal for a regulation Article 16 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
The Member State hosting the prospective managing authority, shall submit an Interreg programme to the Commission by [date of entry into force plus nine months;] on behalf of all participating Member States and, where applicable, third countries, partner countries or OCTs.		The Member State hosting the prospective managing authority, shall submit one or more Interreg programmes to the Commission by [date of entry into force plus twelvemonths;] on behalf of all participating Member States and, where applicable, third countries, partner countries, OCTs, or regional integration and cooperation organisations.
Amendment 94 Proposal for a regulation Article 16 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 2
However, an Interreg programme covering support from an external financing instrument of the Union shall be submitted by the Member State hosting the prospective managing authority no later than six months after the adoption by the Commission of the relevant strategic programming document under Article 10(1) or where required under the respective basic act of one or more of an external financing instrument of the Union.		However, an Interreg programme covering support from an external financing instrument of the Union shall be submitted by the Member State hosting the prospective managing authority no later than twelve months after the adoption by the Commission of the relevant strategic programming document under Article 10(1) or where required under the respective basic act of one or more of an external financing instrument of the Union.
Amendment 95 Proposal for a regulation Article 17 – paragraph 3
3. In duly justified cases and in agreement with the Commission, in order to increase the efficiency of programme implementation and to achieve larger-scale operations, the Member State concerned may decide to transfer to Interreg programmes up to [x]% of the amount of the ERDF allocated to the corresponding programme under the Investment for jobs and growth goal for the same region. The amount transferred shall constitute a separate priority or separate priorities.		3. In order to increase the efficiency of programme implementation and to achieve larger-scale operations, the Member State concerned may decide to transfer to Interreg programmes up to 20 % of the amount of the ERDF allocated to the corresponding programme under the Investment for jobs and growth goal for the same region. Each Member State shall inform the Commission in advance that it intends to make use of the transfer option, and shall give the Commission reasons for its decision. The amount transferred shall constitute a separate priority or separate priorities.
Amendment 96 Proposal for a regulation Article 17 – paragraph 4 – point b – introductory part
(b) a summary of the main joint challenges, taking into account:		(b) a summary of the main joint challenges, particularly taking into account:
Amendment 97 Proposal for a regulation Article 17 – paragraph 4 – point b – point ii
(ii) joint investment needs and complementarity with other forms of support;		(ii) joint investment needs and complementarity with other forms of support and potential synergies to be achieved;
Amendment 98 Proposal for a regulation Article 17 – paragraph 4 – point b – point iii
(iii) lessons learnt from past experience;		(iii) lessons learnt from past experience and how they have been taken into account into the programme;
Amendment 99 Proposal for a regulation Article 17 – paragraph 4 – point c
(c) a justification for the selected policy objectives and Interreg-specific objectives, corresponding priorities, specific objectives and the forms of support, addressing, where appropriate, missing links in cross-border infrastructure;		(c) a justification for the selected policy objectives and Interreg-specific objectives, corresponding priorities, and addressing, where appropriate, missing links in cross-border infrastructure;
Amendment 100 Proposal for a regulation Article 17 – paragraph 4 – point e – point i
(i) the related types of actions, including a list of planned operations of strategic importance, and their expected contribution to those specific objectives and to macro-regional strategies and sea-basin strategies, where appropriate;		(i) the related types of actions, including a list of planned operations of strategic importance, and their expected contribution to those specific objectives and to macro-regional strategies and sea-basin strategies, where appropriate, respectively the set of criteria and the corresponding transparent selection criteria for such operation;
Amendment 101 Proposal for a regulation Article 17 – paragraph 4 – point e – point iii
(iii) the main target groups;		deleted
Amendment 102 Proposal for a regulation Article 17 – paragraph 4 – point e – point v
(v) the planned use of financial instruments;		deleted
Amendment 103 Proposal for a regulation Article 17 – paragraph 5 – point a – point iii
(iii) for component 2 Interreg programmes supported by OCTP concerning split per financing instrument ('ERDF' and 'OCTP Greenland');		(iii) for component 2 Interreg programmes supported by OCTP concerning split per financing instrument ('ERDF' and 'OCTP');
Amendment 104 Proposal for a regulation Article 17 – paragraph 5 – point b
(b) with regard to the table referred to in point (g)(ii) of paragraph 4, it shall include the amounts for the years 2021 to 2025 only.		deleted
Amendment 105 Proposal for a regulation Article 17 – paragraph 7 – point b
(b) lay down the procedure for setting up the joint secretariat;		(b) lay down the procedure for setting up the joint secretariat and, where applicable, supporting management structures in the Member States or third countries;
Amendment 106 Proposal for a regulation Article 18 – paragraph 1
1. The Commission shall assess each Interreg programme and its compliance with Regulation (EU) [new CPR], Regulation (EU) [new ERDF] and this Regulation and, in the case of support from an external financing instrument of the Union and where relevant, its consistency with the multi-annual strategy document under Article 10(1) or the relevant strategic programming framework under the respective basic act of one or more of those instruments.		1. The Commission shall assess with full transparency each Interreg programme and its compliance with Regulation (EU) [new CPR], Regulation (EU) [new ERDF] and this Regulation and, in the case of support from an external financing instrument of the Union and where relevant, its consistency with the multi-annual strategy document under Article 10(1) of this Regulation or the relevant strategic programming framework under the respective basic act of one or more of those instruments.
Amendment 107 Proposal for a regulation Article 18 – paragraph 3
3. The participating Member States and, where applicable, third or partner countries or OCTs shall review the Interreg programme taking into account the observations made by the Commission.		3. The participating Member States and, where applicable, third or partner countries, OCTs, or regional integration and cooperation organisations shall review the Interreg programme taking into account the observations made by the Commission.
Amendment 108 Proposal for a regulation Article 18 – paragraph 4
4. The Commission shall adopt a decision by means of an implementing act approving each Interreg programme no later than six months after the date of submission of that programme by the Member State hosting the prospective managing authority.		4. The Commission shall adopt a decision by means of an implementing act approving each Interreg programme no later than three months after the date of submission of the revised version of that programme by the Member State hosting the prospective managing authority.
Amendment 109 Proposal for a regulation Article 19 – paragraph 1
1. The Member State hosting the managing authority may submit a motivated request for an amendment of an Interreg programme together with the amended programme, setting out the expected impact of that amendment on the achievement of the objectives.		1. Following consultation with the local and regional authorities and in compliance with Article 6 of Regulation (EU).../... [new CPR], the Member State hosting the managing authority may submit a motivated request for an amendment of an Interreg programme together with the amended programme, setting out the expected impact of that amendment on the achievement of the objectives.
Amendment 110 Proposal for a regulation Article 19 – paragraph 2
2. The Commission shall assess the compliance of the amendment with Regulation (EU) [new CPR], Regulation (EU) [new ERDF] and this Regulation and may make observations within three months of the submission of the amended programme.		2. The Commission shall assess the compliance of the amendment with Regulation (EU) [new CPR], Regulation (EU) [new ERDF] and this Regulation and may make observations within one month of the submission of the amended programme.
Amendment 111 Proposal for a regulation Article 19 – paragraph 3
3. The participating Member States and, where applicable, third countries, partner countries or OCTs shall review the amended programme and take into account the observations made by the Commission.		3. The participating Member States and, where applicable, third countries, partner countries, OCTs, or regional integration and cooperation organisations shall review the amended programme and take into account the observations made by the Commission.
Amendment 112 Proposal for a regulation Article 19 – paragraph 4
4. The Commission shall approve the amendment of a Interreg programme no later than six months after its submission by the Member State.		4. The Commission shall approve the amendment of a Interreg programme no later than three months after its submission by the Member State.
Amendment 113 Proposal for a regulation Article 19 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 1
The Member State may transfer during the programming period an amount of up to 5% of the initial allocation of a priority and no more than 3% of the programme budget to another priority of the same Interreg programme.		Following consultation with the local and regional authorities and in compliance with Article 6 of Regulation (EU).../... [new CPR], the Member State may transfer during the programming period an amount of up to 10 % of the initial allocation of a priority and no more than 5 % of the programme budget to another priority of the same Interreg programme.
Amendment 114 Proposal for a regulation Article 22 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
That monitoring committee may set up one or, in particular in the case of sub-programmes, more steering committees which act under its responsibility for the selection of operations.		That monitoring committee may set up one or, in particular in the case of sub-programmes, more steering committees which act under its responsibility for the selection of operations. Steering committees shall apply the partnership principle as set out in Article 6 of Regulation (EU).../... [new CPR] and shall involve partners from all participating Member States.
Amendment 115 Proposal for a regulation Article 22 – paragraph 3
3. The managing authority shall consult the Commission and take its comments into account prior to the initial submission of the selection criteria to the monitoring committee or, where applicable, the steering committee. The same shall apply for any subsequent changes to those criteria.		3. The managing authority shall notify the Commission prior to the initial submission of the selection criteria to the monitoring committee or, where applicable, the steering committee. The same shall apply for any subsequent changes to those criteria.
Amendment 116 Proposal for a regulation Article 22 – paragraph 4 – introductory part
4. In selecting operations, the monitoring committee or, where applicable, the steering committee shall:		4. Before the monitoring committee or, where applicable, the steering committee selects operations, the managing authority shall:
Amendment 117 Proposal for a regulation Article 22 – paragraph 6 – subparagraph 2
That document shall also set out the lead partner's obligations with regard to recoveries pursuant to Article 50. Those obligations shall be defined by the monitoring committee. However, a lead partner located in a different Member State, third country, partner country or OCT from the partner shall not be obliged to recover through a judicial procedure.		That document shall also set out the lead partner's obligations with regard to recoveries pursuant to Article 50. Procedures related to recoveries shall be defined and agreed by the monitoring committee. However, a lead partner located in a different Member State, third country, partner country or OCT from the partner shall not be obliged to recover through a judicial procedure.
Amendment 118 Proposal for a regulation Article 23 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Operations selected under components 1, 2 and 3 shall involve actors from at least two participating countries, at least one of which shall be a beneficiary from a Member State.		Operations selected under components 1, 2 and 3 shall involve actors from at least two participating countries or OCTs, at least one of which shall be a beneficiary from a Member State.
Amendment 119 Proposal for a regulation Article 23 – paragraph 2
2. An Interreg operation may be implemented in a single country, provided that the impact on and the benefits for the programme area are identified in the operation application.		2. An Interreg operation may be implemented in a single country or OCT, provided that the impact on and the benefits for the programme area are identified in the operation application.
Amendment 120 Proposal for a regulation Article 23 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1
Partners shall cooperate in the development, implementation, staffing and financing of Interreg operations.		Partners shall cooperate in the development and implementation of Interreg operations, as well as in the staffing and/or financing thereof. An effort shall be made to limit the number of partners for each Interreg operation to no more than ten.
Amendment 121 Proposal for a regulation Article 23 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 2
For Interreg operations under component 3 Interreg programmes, the partners from outermost regions and third countries, partner countries or OCTs shall be required to cooperate only in three of the four dimensions listed in the first subparagraph.		For Interreg operations under component 3 Interreg programmes, the partners from outermost regions and third countries, partner countries or OCTs shall be required to cooperate only in two of the four dimensions listed in the first subparagraph.
Amendment 122 Proposal for a regulation Article 23 – paragraph 6 – subparagraph 1
A cross-border legal body or an EGTC may be the sole partner of an Interreg operation under component 1, 2 and 3 Interreg programmes, provided that the members thereof involve partners from at least two participating countries.		A cross-border legal body or an EGTC may be the sole partner of an Interreg operation under component 1, 2 and 3 Interreg programmes, provided that the members thereof involve partners from at least two participating countries or OCTs.
Amendment 123 Proposal for a regulation Article 23 – paragraph 7 – subparagraph 2
However, a sole partner may be registered in a Member State not participating in that programme, provided the conditions set out in Article 23 are satisfied.		deleted
Amendment 124 Proposal for a regulation Article 24 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
The contribution from the ERDF or, where applicable, an external financing instrument of the Union, to a small project fund within an Interreg programme shall not exceed EUR 20 000 000 or 15% of the total allocation of the Interreg programme, whichever is lower.		The total contribution from the ERDF or, where applicable, an external financing instrument of the Union, to one or more small project funds within an Interreg programme shall not exceed 20 % of the total allocation of the Interreg programme and shall, in the case of an Interreg programme for cross-border cooperation, be at least 3 % of the total allocation.
Amendment 125 Proposal for a regulation Article 24 – paragraph 2
2. The beneficiary of a small project fund shall be a cross-border legal body or an EGTC.		2. The beneficiary of a small project fund shall be a public or private law body, an entity with or without legal personality or a natural person, that is responsible for initiating or both initiating and implementing operations.
Amendment 126 Proposal for a regulation Article 24 – paragraph 5
5. Staff and indirect costs generated at the level of the beneficiary for the management of the small project fund shall not exceed 20% of the total eligible cost of the respective small project fund.		5. Staff and other direct costs corresponding to the cost categories in Articles 39 to 42, as well as indirect costs generated at the level of the beneficiary for the management of the small project fund or funds, shall not exceed 20 % of the total eligible cost of the respective small project fund or funds.
Amendment 127 Proposal for a regulation Article 24 – paragraph 6 – subparagraph 1
Where the public contribution to a small project does not exceed EUR 100 000, the contribution from the ERDF or, where applicable, an external financing instrument of the Union shall take the form of unit costs or lump sums or include flat rates, except for projects for which the support constitutes State aid.		Where the public contribution to a small project does not exceed EUR 100 000, the contribution from the ERDF or, where applicable, an external financing instrument of the Union shall take the form of unit costs or lump sums or include flat rates.
Amendment 128 Proposal for a regulation Article 24 – paragraph 6 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
		Where the total costs of each operation do not exceed EUR 100 000, the amount of support for one or more small projects may be set out on the basis of a draft budget which is established on a case-by-case basis and agreed ex ante by the body selecting the operation.
Amendment 129 Proposal for a regulation Article 25 – paragraph 2
2. If not otherwise specified in the arrangements laid down pursuant to point (a) of paragraph 1 the lead partner shall ensure that the other partners receive the total amount of the contribution from the respective Union fund as quickly as possible and in full. No amount shall be deducted or withheld and no specific charge or other charge with equivalent effect shall be levied that would reduce that amount for the other partners.		2. If not otherwise specified in the arrangements laid down pursuant to point (a) of paragraph 1 the lead partner shall ensure that the other partners receive the total amount of the contribution from the respective Union fund in full and within timeframe agreed by all partners and following the same procedure applied in respect of the lead partner. No amount shall be deducted or withheld and no specific charge or other charge with equivalent effect shall be levied that would reduce that amount for the other partners.
Amendment 130 Proposal for a regulation Article 25 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
Any beneficiary in a Member State, third country, partner country or OCT participating in an Interreg programme may be designated as the lead partner.		Any beneficiary in a Member State participating in an Interreg programme may be designated as the lead partner.
Amendment 131 Proposal for a regulation Article 25 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2
However, Member States, third countries, partner countries or OCTs participating in an Interreg programme may agree that a partner not receiving support from the ERDF or an external financing instrument of the Union may be designated as the lead partner.		deleted
Amendment 132 Proposal for a regulation Article 26 – paragraph 1
1. Technical assistance to each Interreg programme shall be reimbursed as a flat rate by applying the percentages set out in paragraph 2 to the eligible expenditure included in each payment application pursuant to [points (a) or (c) of Article 85(3)] of Regulation (EU) [new CPR] as appropriate.		1. Technical assistance to each Interreg programme shall be reimbursed as a flat rate by applying the percentages set out in paragraph 2 for 2021 and 2022 to the yearly instalments of the pre-financing pursuant to points (a) and (b) of Article 49(2) of this Regulation and then to the eligible expenditure included in each payment application pursuant to [points (a) or (c) of Article 85(3)] of Regulation (EU) [new CPR] as appropriate for subsequent years.
Amendment 133 Proposal for a regulation Article 26 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) for internal cross-border cooperation Interreg programmes supported by the ERDF: 6%;		(a) for internal cross-border cooperation Interreg programmes supported by the ERDF: 7%;
Amendment 134 Proposal for a regulation Article 26 – paragraph 2 – point c
(c) for component 2, 3 and 4 Interreg programmes, both for the ERDF and, where applicable, for the external financing instruments of the Union: 7%.		(c) for component 2, 3 and 4 Interreg programmes, both for the ERDF and, where applicable, for the external financing instruments of the Union: 8 %.
Amendment 135 Proposal for a regulation Article 27 – paragraph 1
1. The Member States and, where applicable, the third countries, partner countries and OCTs participating in that programme shall set up, in agreement with the managing authority, a committee to monitor implementation of the respective Interreg programme ('monitoring committee') within three months of the date of notification to the Member States of the Commission decision adopting an Interreg programme,		1. The Member States and, where applicable, the third countries, partner countries, OCTs or regional integration cooperation organisations participating in that programme shall set up, in agreement with the managing authority, a committee to monitor implementation of the respective Interreg programme ('monitoring committee') within three months of the date of notification to the Member States of the Commission decision adopting an Interreg programme,
Amendment 136 Proposal for a regulation Article 27 – paragraph 2
2. The monitoring committee shall be chaired by a representative of the Member State hosting the managing authority or of the managing authority.		deleted
Where the rules of procedure of the monitoring committee establish a rotating chair, the monitoring committee may be chaired by a representative of a third country, partner country or OCT, and co-chaired by a representative of the Member State or of the managing authority, and vice-versa.
Amendment 137 Proposal for a regulation Article 27 – paragraph 6
6. The managing authority shall publish the rules of procedures of the monitoring committee and all the data and information shared with the monitoring committee on the website referred to in Article 35(2).		6. The managing authority shall publish the rules of procedures of the monitoring committee, the summary of data and information as well as all the decisions shared with the monitoring committee on the website referred to in Article 35(2).
Amendment 138 Proposal for a regulation Article 28 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
The composition of the monitoring committee of each Interreg programme shall be agreed by the Member States and, where applicable, by the third countries, partner countries and OCTs participating in that programme and shall ensure a balanced representation of the relevant authorities, intermediate bodies and representatives of the programme partners referred to in Article [6] of Regulation (EU) [new CPR] from Member States, third countries, partner countries and OCTs.		The composition of the monitoring committee of each Interreg programme may be agreed by the Member States and, where applicable, by the third countries, partner countries and OCTs participating in that programme and shall aim for a balanced representation of the relevant authorities, intermediate bodies and representatives of the programme partners referred to in Article [6] of Regulation (EU) [new CPR] from Member States, third countries, partner countries and OCTs.
Amendment 139 Proposal for a regulation Article 28 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
The composition of the monitoring committee shall take into account the number of participating Member States, third countries, partner countries and OCTs in the Interreg programme concerned.		deleted
Amendment 140 Proposal for a regulation Article 28 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 3
The monitoring committee shall also include representatives of bodies jointly set up in the whole programme area or covering a part thereof, including EGTCs.		The monitoring committee shall also include representatives of regions and local governments as well as other bodies jointly set up in the whole programme area or covering a part thereof, including EGTCs.
Amendment 141 Proposal for a regulation Article 28 – paragraph 2
2. The managing authority shall publish a list of the members of the monitoring committee on the website referred to in Article 35(2).		2. The managing authority shall publish a list of authorities or bodies appointed as members of the monitoring committee on the website referred to in Article 35(2).
Amendment 142 Proposal for a regulation Article 28 – paragraph 3
3. Representatives of the Commission shall participate in the work of the monitoring committee in an advisory capacity.		3. Representatives of the Commission may participate in the work of the monitoring committee in an advisory capacity.
Amendment 143 Proposal for a regulation Article 28 – paragraph 3 a (new)
		3 a. Representatives of bodies established throughout the area of the programme or which cover a part of it, including EGTCs, may participate in the work of the monitoring committee in an advisory capacity.
Amendment 144 Proposal for a regulation Article 29 – paragraph 1 – point g
(g) the progress in administrative capacity building for public institutions and beneficiaries, where relevant.		(g) the progress in administrative capacity building for public institutions and beneficiaries, where relevant and propose any further support measures if necessary.
Amendment 145 Proposal for a regulation Article 29 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) the methodology and criteria used for the selection of operations, including any changes thereto, after consultation with the Commission pursuant to Article 22(2), without prejudice to [points (b), (c) and (d) of Article 27(3)] of Regulation (EU) [new CPR];		(a) the methodology and criteria used for the selection of operations, including any changes thereto, after notifying the Commission pursuant to Article 22(2) of this Regulation, without prejudice to [points (b), (c) and (d)of Article 27(3)] of Regulation (EU) [new CPR];
Amendment 146 Proposal for a regulation Article 30 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
2. At the request of the Commission, the managing authority shall, within one month, provide the Commission with the information on the elements listed in Article 29(1):		2. At the request of the Commission, the managing authority shall, within three months, provide the Commission with the information on the elements listed in Article 29(1):
Amendment 147 Proposal for a regulation Article 31 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Each managing authority shall electronically transmit to the Commission cumulative data for the respective Interreg programme by 31 January, 31 March, 31 May, 31 July, 30 September and 30 November of each year in accordance with the template in Annex [VII] to Regulation (EU) [new CPR].		Each managing authority shall electronically transmit to the Commission data for the respective Interreg programme pursuant to point (a) of Article 31(2) of this Regulation by 31 January, 31 May and 30 September of each year as well as data pursuant to point (b) of Article 31(2) of this Regulation once a year in accordance with the template in Annex [VII] to Regulation (EU) [new CPR].
Amendment 148 Proposal for a regulation Article 31 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 a (new)
		The transmission of data shall be carried out using existing data-reporting systems insofar as those systems have proven to be reliable during the previous programming period.
Amendment 149 Proposal for a regulation Article 31 – paragraph 2 – point b
(b) the values of output and result indicators for selected Interreg operations and values achieved by Interreg operations.		(b) the values of output and result indicators for selected Interreg operations and values achieved by finalised Interreg operations.
Amendment 150 Proposal for a regulation Article 33 – paragraph 1
1. Common output and common result indicators, as set out in Annex [I] to Regulation (EU) [new ERDF], and, where necessary, programme-specific output and result indicators shall be used in accordance with Article [12(1)] of Regulation (EU) [new CPR], and point (d)(ii) of Article 17(3) and point (b) of Article 31(2) of this Regulation.		1. Common output and common result indicators, asset out in Annex [I] to Regulation (EU) [new ERDF], which are found to be most suited to measure progress towards the goals of the European territorial cooperation goal (Interreg) programme, shall be used in accordance with Article[12(1)] of Regulation (EU) [new CPR], and point (e)(ii) of Article 17(4) and point (b) of Article 31(2) of this Regulation.
Amendment 151 Proposal for a regulation Article 33 – paragraph 1 a (new)
		1 a. Where necessary and in cases duly justified by the managing authority, programme-specific output and result indicators shall be used in addition to the indicators which were selected in accordance with the paragraph 1 .
Amendment 152 Proposal for a regulation Article 34 – paragraph 1
1. The managing authority shall carry out evaluations of each Interreg programme. Each evaluation shall assess the programme’s effectiveness, efficiency, relevance, coherence and EU added value with the aim to improve the quality of the design and implementation of the respective Interreg programme.		1. The managing authority shall carry out evaluations of each Interreg programme, no more than once a year. Each evaluation shall assess the programme’s effectiveness, efficiency, relevance, coherence and EU added value with the aim to improve the quality of the design and implementation of the respective Interreg programme.
Amendment 153 Proposal for a regulation Article 34 – paragraph 4
4. The managing authority shall ensure the necessary procedures to produce and collect the data necessary for evaluations.		4. The managing authority aims to ensure the necessary procedures to produce and collect the data necessary for evaluations.
Amendment 154 Proposal for a regulation Article 35 – paragraph 3
3. Article [44(2) to (7)] of Regulation (EU) [new CPR] on the responsibilities of the managing authority shall apply.		3. Article [44(2) to (6)] of Regulation (EU) [new CPR] on the responsibilities of the managing authority shall apply.
Amendment 155 Proposal for a regulation Article 35 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1 – point c
(c) publicly displaying public plaques or billboards as soon as the physical implementation of an Interreg operation involving physical investment or the purchase of equipment starts, the total cost of which exceeds EUR 100 000;		(c) publicly displaying public plaques or billboards as soon as the physical implementation of an Interreg operation involving physical investment or the purchase of equipment starts, the total cost of which exceeds EUR 50 000;
Amendment 156 Proposal for a regulation Article 35 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1 – point d
(d) for Interreg operations not falling under point (c), publicly displaying at least one printed or electronic display of a minimum size A3 with information about the Interreg operation highlighting the support from an Interreg fund;		(d) for Interreg operations not falling under point (c), publicly displaying at least one printed and, where applicable, electronic display of a minimum size A2 with information about the Interreg operation highlighting the support from an Interreg fund;
Amendment 157 Proposal for a regulation Article 35 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1 – point e
(e) for operations of strategic importance and operations whose total cost exceed EUR 10 000 000 organising a communication event and involving the Commission and the responsible managing authority in a timely manner.		(e) for operations of strategic importance and operations whose total cost exceed EUR 5 000 000 organising a communication event and involving the Commission and the responsible managing authority in a timely manner.
Amendment 158 Proposal for a regulation Article 35 – paragraph 6
6. Where the beneficiary does not comply with its obligations under Article [42] of Regulation (EU) [new CPR] or paragraphs 1 and 2 of this Article, the Member State shall apply a financial correction by cancelling up to 5% of the support from the Funds to the operation concerned.		6. Where the beneficiary does not comply with its obligations under Article [42] of Regulation (EU) [new CPR] or paragraphs 1 and 2 of this Article, or does not remedy its omission in good time, the managing authority shall apply a financial correction by cancelling up to 5 % of the support from the Funds to the operation concerned.
Amendment 159 Proposal for a regulation Article 38 – paragraph 3 – point c
(c) as a flat rate in accordance with Article [50(1)] of Regulation (EU) [new CPR].		(c) direct staff costs of an operation may be calculated at a flat rate of up to 20 % of the direct costs other than the direct staff costs of that operation, without there being a requirement for the Member State to perform a calculation to determine the applicable rate.
Amendment 160 Proposal for a regulation Article 38 – paragraph 5 – point a
(a) dividing the monthly gross employment cost by the monthly working time fixed in the employment document expressed in hours; or		(a) Dividing the latest documented monthly gross employment costs by the monthly working time of the person concerned in accordance with applicable law as referred to in the employment contract and paragraph 2 (b) of Article 50 of Regulation (EU) .../...[New CPR]; or
Amendment 161 Proposal for a regulation Article 38 – paragraph 6
6. As regards staff costs related to individuals who, according to the employment document, work on an hourly basis, such costs shall be eligible applying the number of hours actually worked on the operation to the hourly rate agreed in the employment document based on a working time registration system.		6. As regards staff costs related to individuals who, according to the employment document, work on an hourly basis, such costs shall be eligible applying the number of hours actually worked on the operation to the hourly rate agreed in the employment document based on a working time registration system. If not yet included in the agreed hourly rate, salary costs as referred to under point (b) of Article 38 (2) may be added to that hourly rate, in line with applicable national law.
Amendment 162 Proposal for a regulation Article 39 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Office and administrative costs shall be limited to the following elements:		Office and administrative costs shall be limited to 15 % of total direct costs of an operation and to the following elements:
Amendment 163 Proposal for a regulation Article 40 – paragraph 4
4. Direct payment of expenditure for costs under this Article by an employee of the beneficiary shall be supported by a proof of reimbursement by the beneficiary to that employee.		4. Direct payment of expenditure for costs under this Article by an employee of the beneficiary shall be supported by a proof of reimbursement by the beneficiary to that employee. That cost category may be used for the travel expenses of operation staff and other stakeholders for the purpose of implementation and promotion of the Interreg operation and Programme.
Amendment 164 Proposal for a regulation Article 40 – paragraph 5
5. Travel and accommodation costs of an operation may be calculated at a flat rate of up to 15 % of the direct costs other than the direct staff costs of that operation.		5. Travel and accommodation costs of an operation may be calculated at a flat rate of up to 15 % of the direct costs of that operation.
Amendment 165 Proposal for a regulation Article 41 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
External expertise and service costs shall be limited to the following services and expertise provided by a public or private law body or a natural person other than the beneficiary of the operation:		External expertise and service costs shall be composed but not limited to the following services and expertise provided by a public or private law body or a natural person other than the beneficiary, including all partners, of the operation:
Amendment 166 Proposal for a regulation Article 41 – paragraph 1 – point o
(o) travel and accommodation for external experts, speakers, chairpersons of meetings and service providers;		(o) travel and accommodation for external experts;
Amendment 167 Proposal for a regulation Article 42 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
1. Costs for equipment purchased, rented or leased by the beneficiary of the operation other than those covered by Article 39 shall be limited to the following:		1. Costs for equipment purchased, rented or leased by the beneficiary of the operation other than those covered by Article 39 shall be composed but not limited to the following:
Amendment 168 Proposal for a regulation Article 43 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) purchase of land in accordance with [point (c) of Article 58(1)] of Regulation (EU) [new CPR];		(a) purchase of land in accordance with [point (b) of Article 58(1)] of Regulation (EU) [new CPR];
Amendment 169 Proposal for a regulation Article 44 – paragraph 1
1. Member States and, where applicable, third countries, partner countries and OCTs participating in an Interreg programme shall identify, for the purposes of Article [65] of Regulation (EU) [new CPR], a single managing authority and a single audit authority.		1. Member States and, where applicable, third countries, partner countries, OCTs, and regional integration cooperation organisations participating in an Interreg programme shall identify, for the purposes of Article [65] of Regulation (EU) [new CPR], a single managing authority and a single audit authority.
Amendment 170 Proposal for a regulation Article 44 – paragraph 2
2. The managing authority and the audit authority shall be located in the same Member State.		2. The managing authority and the audit authority may be located in the same Member State.
Amendment 171 Proposal for a regulation Article 44 – paragraph 5
5. With regard to an Interreg programme under component 2B or under component 1 where the latter covers long borders with heterogenous development challenges and needs, Member States and, where applicable, third countries, partner countries and OCTs participating in an Interreg programme may define sub-programme areas.		5. With regard to an Interreg programme under component 1 where the latter covers long borders with heterogenous development challenges and needs, Member States and, where applicable, third countries, partner countries and OCTs participating in an Interreg programme may define sub-programme areas.
Amendment 172 Proposal for a regulation Article 44 – paragraph 6
6. Where the managing authority identifies an intermediate body under an Interreg programme in accordance with Article [65(3)] of Regulation (EU) [new CPR], the intermediate body shall carry out those tasks in more than one participating Member State or, where applicable, third country, partner country or OCT.		6. Where the managing authority identifies one or more intermediate bodies under an Interreg programme in accordance with Article [65(3)] of Regulation (EU) [new CPR], the intermediate body or bodies concerned shall carry out those tasks in more than one participating Member State, or in their respective Member States, or, where applicable, in more than one third country, partner country or OCT.
Amendment 173 Proposal for a regulation Article 45 – paragraph 1 a (new)
		1 a. By way of derogation from Article 87(2) of Regulation (EU) .../... [new CPR], the Commission shall reimburse as interim payments 100 % of the amounts included in the payment application which result from applying the cofinancing rate of the programme to the total eligible expenditure or to the public contribution, as appropriate.
Amendment 174 Proposal for a regulation Article 45 – paragraph 1 b (new)
		1b. Where the managing authority does not carry out verification under point (a) of Article 68(1) of Regulation (EU) .../... [new CPR] throughout the whole programme area, each Member State shall designate the body or person responsible for carrying out such verification in relation to beneficiaries on its territory.
Amendment 175 Proposal for a regulation Article 45 – paragraph 1 c (new)
		1c. By way of derogation from Article 92 of Regulation (EU) .../... [new CPR], Interreg programmes are not subject to the annual clearance of accounts. Accounts are cleared at the end of a programme, on the basis of the final performance report.
Amendment 176 Proposal for a regulation Article 48 – paragraph 7
7. Where the global extrapolated error rate referred to in paragraph 6 is above 2% of the total expenditure declared for the Interreg programmes included in the population from which the common sample was selected, the Commission shall calculate a global residual error rate, taking account of financial corrections applied by the respective Interreg programme authorities for individual irregularities detected by the audits of operations selected pursuant to paragraph 1.		7. Where the global extrapolated error rate referred to in paragraph 6 is above 3.5 % of the total expenditure declared for the Interreg programmes included in the population from which the common sample was selected, the Commission shall calculate a global residual error rate, taking account of financial corrections applied by the respective Interreg programme authorities for individual irregularities detected by the audits of operations selected pursuant to paragraph 1.
Amendment 177 Proposal for a regulation Article 48 – paragraph 8
8. Where the global residual error rate referred to in paragraph 7 is above 2% of the expenditure declared for the Interreg programmes included in the population from which the common sample was selected, the Commission shall determine whether it is necessary to request the audit authority of a specific Interreg programme or a group of Interreg programmes most affected to carry out additional audit work in order to further evaluate the error rate and assess the required corrective measures for the Interreg programmes affected by the irregularities detected.		8. Where the global residual error rate referred to in paragraph 7 is above 3.5 % of the expenditure declared for the Interreg programmes included in the population from which the common sample was selected, the Commission shall determine whether it is necessary to request the audit authority of a specific Interreg programme or a group of Interreg programmes most affected to carry out additional audit work in order to further evaluate the error rate and assess the required corrective measures for the Interreg programmes affected by the irregularities detected.
Amendment 178 Proposal for a regulation Article 49 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) 2021: 1%;		(a) 2021: 3 %;
Amendment 179 Proposal for a regulation Article 49 – paragraph 2 – point b
(b) 2022: 1%;		(b) 2022: 2,25%;
Amendment 180 Proposal for a regulation Article 49 – paragraph 2 – point c
(c) 2023: 1%;		(c) 2023: 2,25%;
Amendment 181 Proposal for a regulation Article 49 – paragraph 2 – point d
(d) 2024: 1%;		(d) 2024: 2,25%;
Amendment 182 Proposal for a regulation Article 49 – paragraph 2 – point e
(e) 2025: 1%;		(e) 2025: 2,25%;
Amendment 183 Proposal for a regulation Article 49 – paragraph 2 – point f
(f) 2026: 1%.		(f) 2026: 2,25%.
Amendment 184 Proposal for a regulation Article 49 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
Where external cross-border Interreg programmes are supported by the ERDF and IPA III CBC or NDICI CBC, the pre-financing for all funds supporting such an Interreg programme shall be made in accordance with Regulation (EU) [IPA III] or [NDICI] or of any act adopted thereunder.		Where external Interreg programmes are supported by the ERDF and IPA III CBC or NDICI CBC, the pre-financing for all funds supporting such an Interreg programme shall be made in accordance with Regulation (EU) [IPA III] or [NDICI] or of any act adopted thereunder.
Amendment 185 Proposal for a regulation Article 49 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 3
The total amount paid as pre-financing shall be reimbursed to the Commission if no payment application under the cross-border Interreg programme is sent within 24 months of the date on which the Commission pays the first instalment of the pre-financing amount. Such reimbursement shall constitute internal assigned revenue and shall not reduce the support from the ERDF, IPA III CBC or NDICI CBC to the programme.		The total amount paid as pre-financing shall be reimbursed to the Commission if no payment application under the cross-border Interreg programme is sent within 36 months of the date on which the Commission pays the first instalment of the pre-financing amount. Such reimbursement shall constitute internal assigned revenue and shall not reduce the support from the ERDF, IPA III CBC or NDICI CBC to the programme.
Amendment 186 Proposal for a regulation Chapter 8 – title
Participation of third countries or partner countries or OCTs in Interreg programmes under shared management		Participation of third countries or partner countries, OCTs, or regional integration or cooperation organisations in Interreg programmes under shared management
Amendment 187 Proposal for a regulation Article 51 – paragraph 1
Chapters I to VII and Chapter X shall apply to the participation of third countries, partner countries and OCTs in Interreg programmes subject to the specific provisions set out in this Chapter.		Chapters I to VII and Chapter X shall apply to the participation of third countries, partner countries, OCTs, or regional integration or cooperation organisations in Interreg programmes subject to the specific provisions set out in this Chapter.
Amendment 188 Proposal for a regulation Article 52 – paragraph 3
3. Third countries, partner countries and OCTs participating in an Interreg programme shall delegate staff to the joint secretariat of that programme or shall set up a branch office in its respective territory, or shall do both.		3. Third countries, partner countries and OCTs participating in an Interreg programme may delegate staff to the joint secretariat programme or, in agreement with the managing authority, shall set up a branch office of the Joint Secretariat in its respective territory, or shall do both.
Amendment 189 Proposal for a regulation Article 52 – paragraph 4
4. The national authority or a body equivalent to the Interreg programme communication officer as provided for in Article 35(1), shall support the managing authority and partners in the respective third country, partner country or OCT with regard to the tasks provided for in Article 35(2) to (7).		4. The national authority or a body equivalent to the Interreg programme communication officer as provided for in Article 35(1), may support the managing authority and partners in the respective third country, partner country or OCT with regard to the tasks provided for in Article 35(2) to (7).
Amendment 190 Proposal for a regulation Article 53 – paragraph 2
2. Component 2 and 4 Interreg programmes combining contributions from the ERDF and from one or more external financing instrument of the Union shall be implemented under shared management both in the Member States and in any participating third country or partner country or, with regard to component 3, in any OCT, whether or not that OCT receives support under one or more external financing instruments of the Union.		2. Component 2 and 4 Interreg programmes combining contributions from the ERDF and from one or more external financing instrument of the Union shall be implemented under shared management both in the Member States and in any participating third country, partner country, participating OCT or, with regard to component 3, in any OCT, whether or not that OCT receives support under one or more external financing instruments of the Union.
Amendment 191 Proposal for a regulation Article 53 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 – point a
a) under shared management both in the Member States and in any participating third country or OCT;		a) under shared management both in the Member States and in any participating third country or OCT or group of third countries forming part of a regional organisation;
Amendment 192 Proposal for a regulation Article 53 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 – point b
b) under shared management only in the Member States and in any participating third country or OCT with regard to ERDF expenditure outside the Union for one or more operations, whereas the contributions from one or more external financing instruments of the Union are managed under indirect management;		b) under shared management only in the Member States and in any participating third country or OCT, or group of third countries forming part of a regional organisation, with regard to ERDF expenditure outside the Union for one or more operations, whereas the contributions from one or more external financing instruments of the Union are managed under indirect management;
Amendment 193 Proposal for a regulation Article 53 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 – point c
c) under indirect management both in the Member States and in any participating third country or OCT.		c) under indirect management both in the Member States and in any participating third country or OCT or group of third countries forming part of a regional organisation.
Amendment 194 Proposal for a regulation Article 53 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2
Where all or part of a component 3 Interreg programme is implemented under indirect management, Article 60 shall apply.		Where all or part of a component 3 Interreg programme is implemented under indirect management, a prior agreement between Member States and regions concerned is required and Article 60 shall apply.
Amendment 195 Proposal for a regulation Article 53 – paragraph 3 a (new)
		3 a. Joint calls for proposals mobilising funding from bilateral or multi-country NDICI programmes and ETC programmes may be launched if the respective managing authorities agree to do so. The content of the call shall specify its geographical scope, and its expected contribution to the objectives of the respective programmes. Managing authorities shall decide whether NDICI or ETC rules are applicable to the call. They may decide to appoint a lead managing authority responsible for the tasks of management and control related to the call.
Amendment 196 Proposal for a regulation Article 55 – paragraph 3
3. Where the selection of one or more large infrastructure projects is on the agenda of a monitoring committee or, where applicable, steering committee meeting, the managing authority shall transmit a concept note for each such project to the Commission at the latest two months before the date of the meeting. The concept note shall be a maximum of three pages and shall indicate the name, the location, the budget, the lead partner and the partners as well as the main objectives and deliverables thereof. If the concept note concerning one or more large infrastructure projects is not transmitted to the Commission by that deadline, the Commission may request that the chair of the monitoring committee or steering committee remove the projects concerned from the agenda of the meeting.		3. Where the selection of one or more large infrastructure projects is on the agenda of a monitoring committee or, where applicable, steering committee meeting, the managing authority shall transmit a concept note for each such project to the Commission at the latest two months before the date of the meeting. The concept note shall be a maximum of five pages and shall indicate the name, the location, the budget, the lead partner and the partners as well as the main objectives and deliverables thereof, as well as including a credible business plan which demonstrates that the project or projects’ continuation is secure even without the provision of Interreg funds. If the concept note concerning one or more large infrastructure projects is not transmitted to the Commission by that deadline, the Commission may request that the chair of the monitoring committee or steering committee remove the projects concerned from the agenda of the meeting.
Amendment 197 Proposal for a regulation Article 60 – paragraph 1
1. Where part or all of a component 3 Interreg programme is implemented under indirect management pursuant to point (b) or (c) respectively of Article 53(3), implementation tasks shall be entrusted to one of the bodies listed in point [(c) of the first subparagraph of Article 62(1)] of Regulation (EU, Euratom) [FR-Omnibus], in particular to such a body located in the participating Member State, including the managing authority of the Interreg programme concerned.		1. Where, after consulting stakeholders, part or all of a component 3 Interreg programme is implemented under indirect management pursuant to point (b) or (c) respectively of Article 53(3) of this Regulation, implementation tasks shall be entrusted to one of the bodies listed in point [(c) of the first subparagraph of Article 62(1)] of Regulation (EU, Euratom) [FR-Omnibus], in particular to such a body located in the participating Member State, including the managing authority of the Interreg programme concerned.
Amendment 198 Proposal for a regulation Article 61
Article 61		deleted
Interregional innovation investments
At the initiative of the Commission, the ERDF may support interregional innovation investments, as set out in point 5 of Article 3, bringing together researchers, businesses, civil society and public administrations involved in smart specialisation strategies established at national or regional levels.
Amendment 199 Proposal for a regulation Article 61 a (new)
		Article 61 a
		Exemption from reporting requirements under Article 108(3) TFEU
		The Commission may declare that aid in favour of projects supported by EU European territorial cooperation are compatible with the internal market and are not subject to the notification requirements of Article 108(3) TFEU.

(1)	The matter was referred back for interinstitutional negotiations to the committee responsible, pursuant to Rule 59(4), fourth subparagraph (A8-0470/2018).

Last updated: 13 December 2019

Legal notice - Privacy policy