Maria João Rodrigues (S&D). – Madam President, the recent European Council proved that something is wrong in the European Union because we have in front of us a clear choice. On the one hand is the option of a Europe that exploits citizens’ fears and advises a return to national borders, or of foot-dragging on important reforms, such as that of the eurozone for which we have been waiting for 10 years. On the other hand is the option of finally putting on the table at the European Council the proposals which we know about and know should be adopted. The choice can no longer be delayed because if we delay until December, then forget it! We are just paving the way for the decline of European integration. It is easy to foresee that.

The European Council has come to a point where it needs to decide on another way: to use qualified majority voting, please, whenever this is possible, and it is possible on many of the blocked proposals. I would say to the Council: you have clear positions, majority positions from the European Parliament, giving you backing. Use this. Put on the table clear proposals for a clear definition from governments. We are in need of this.

There are four big proposals to be put on the table. The first is to organise a European border capable of protecting people in Europe and also of giving protection to those asking for refuge. A credible proposal for a partnership with Africa also needs to be put on the table because everybody knows that without this, there is no real solution. A proposal for agreement on the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), needs to be put on the table, providing cohesion and proper conditions for implementation of the European social pillar. And finally, on eurozone reform, yes, we have, so far, the only monetary zone in the world without fiscal capacity or deposit guarantee. The European Stability Mechanism needs to attain the capability framework and have the conditions for taking decisions. If these proposals are not put on the table, Mr Tusk and Mr Juncker, you will lose your own personal chance.

(The speaker agreed to take a blue-card question under Rule 162(8))