Ioan Enciu (S&D). – (RO) The effects of the economic crisis have been felt since 2008. The main problems we are currently facing are unemployment, a decline in living standards and poverty. In terms of the European Union’s policies, constant efforts have been made to expand and improve the instruments available for tackling these effects, which also means encouraging economic growth in Europe. Mr Kirilov’s report is a good example of this. It has been drafted on the basis of some excellent, welcome proposals from the Commission intended to simplify the application procedure enabling Member States to access the relevant funds.

I welcome and support the report drafted by Mr Kirilov in terms of both pooling the amounts offered for major projects and of adapting specific technical criteria and conditions in order to facilitate the management of the funds available. These amendments are in line with the Europe 2020 strategy, which encourages job creation and supports investment geared towards environmental protection.