Text tabled : A6-0149/2009

  Anna Záborská (PPE-DE), in writing. – (SK) I voted with the PPE-DE against the non-discrimination directive because it would have a negative impact on EU citizens. The left wing majority has shown today that European institutions do not want to reduce the bureaucracy funded by taxpayers’ money. This resolution provides proof that the EU wants to extend rules into all areas of people’s lives in the Member States. It is a bad signal.

However, this resolution has no impact on the legislative process. It is up to the Council to reach a unanimous decision.

I am opposed to any form of discrimination. Originally the directive was expected to deal with discrimination against physically disabled and older people. I have also always been involved in protecting these people. However, this directive lacks clarity and in my opinion it will therefore not help people.

The lobby made a hostage of genuine discrimination when it added sexual orientation and religion or belief. These forms of discrimination have never been defined in any EU documents. The consequences may be dramatic.

Nobody can precisely define sexual orientation or discrimination based on sexual orientation. This represents a potential danger for the interpretation of this directive. Non-discrimination based on “belief” is also problematic. Sects or political extremists may exploit this directive and the mass media will not be able to refuse them. Church schools will not be able to select teachers on the basis of their religion. Insurance companies will not be able to take account of information in order to determine insurance risks. Insurance premiums will become more expensive.

Besides, there are some directives and international documents protecting older and physically disabled people and these have not been applied by the Member States.