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Verbatim report of proceedings
Thursday, 7 July 2011 - Strasbourg Revised edition

Explanations of vote
MPphoto
 

  Alajos Mészáros (PPE). (HU) Mr President, the ageing population in the European Union is one of today’s major problems. At the same time, if we are able to handle this situation well, it could offer new possibilities. Nowadays we are able to live longer and healthier lives than ever before. Of course, this presents numerous challenges, especially in the area of employment and social protection. If we can ensure that people in their 50s and older remain on the labour market for a longer period, Europe could have an opportunity to accelerate revival, and exploit intergenerational social cohesion effectively.

The return of older generations to the labour market is also addressed by the Treaty of Lisbon. In many cases, these people are much more experienced and humble, and often work with more precision as well. The increase in life expectancy is an extraordinary social achievement and is one of the successes of our times. This is why we must ensure that these people can continue to participate actively in society and remain healthy and independent for as long as possible. However, this calls for governments, as well as the private sector, to take steps to be able to manage the ageing of the population. In my opinion, the approach proposed by the Commission, as well as the report which I supported with my vote, offer an excellent opportunity to realise this.

 
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