(Consultation procedure)

The European Parliament,

–   having regard to the Commission proposal to the Council (COM(2005)0304)(1),

–   having regard to Article 37 of the EC Treaty, pursuant to which the Council consulted Parliament (C6-0349/2005),

–   having regard to Rule 51 of its Rules of Procedure,

–   having regard to the report of the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development and the opinion of the Committee on Regional Development (A6-0023/2006),

1.  Approves the Commission proposal as amended;

2.  Calls on the Commission to alter its proposal accordingly, pursuant to Article 250(2) of the EC Treaty;

3.  Calls on the Council to notify Parliament if it intends to depart from the text approved by Parliament;

4.  Asks the Council to consult Parliament again if it intends to amend the Commission proposal substantially;

5.  Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council and Commission.

Text proposed by the Commission   Amendments by Parliament Amendment 1 Recital 1 a (new) (1a) The Community strategic guidelines take account of the multifunctional role of agriculture and of the wide diversity between the regions of the enlarged EU, which require the Member States to be allowed the necessary flexibility during the planning and implementation of the rural development programmes. Amendment 2 Recital 2 (2)  The strategic guidelines identify the areas important for the realisation of Community priorities, in particular in relation to the Göteborg sustainability goals and to the renewed Lisbon strategy for growth and jobs, (2)   These strategic guidelines should identify the areas important for the realisation of Community priorities, in particular in relation to the Göteborg sustainability goals and to the renewed Lisbon strategy for growth and jobs, also taking into account the needs of the new CAP and developments arising from the EU's international negotiations. Amendment 3 Recital 2a (new) (2a) The integration of women into the labour market should be a horizontal priority in the implementation of the strategic guidelines set out in the Annex. Amendment 4 Annex, point 1, paragraph 2, indent 4 - accompany the implementation of the new market oriented Common Agricultural Policy and the necessary restructuring it will entail in the old and new Member States. - accompany the implementation of the new market oriented Common Agricultural Policy and the necessary restructuring it will entail in the old and new Member States, while also taking account of consumer expectations in terms of health, safety and quality. Amendment 5 Annex, point 1, paragraph 2, indent 4 a (new) - ensure continuity between current rural development programmes and the programmes starting from 2007. Amendment 6 Annex, point 2.1, title The CAP and Rural Development Rural Development within the CAP Amendment 7 Annex, point 2.1, paragraph 1 Agriculture continues to be the largest user of rural land as well as a key determinant of the quality of the countryside and the environment. The importance and relevance of the CAP and rural development have increased with the recent enlargement of the European Union. Agriculture continues to be the largest user of rural land as well as a key determinant of the quality of the countryside and the environment. The importance and relevance of the first pillar of the CAP and rural development have increased with the recent enlargement of the European Union. Amendment 8 Annex, point 2.1, paragraph 2 Without the two pillars of the CAP, market policy and rural development, many rural areas of Europe would face increasing economic, social and environmental problems. The European Model of Agriculture reflects the multifunctional role farming plays in the richness and diversity of landscapes, food products and cultural and natural heritage. Without the two pillars of the CAP, market policy and rural development, many rural areas of Europe would face increasing economic, social and environmental problems. The European Model of Agriculture reflects the multifunctional role farming plays in the richness and diversity of landscapes, food products and cultural and natural heritage and is thus adaptable to new social demands, such as for quality products, food safety, green tourism, the enhancement of the natural heritage, and alternative energy sources. Amendment 9 Annex, point 2.2 The 2003 and 2004 CAP reforms represent a major step forward to improve the competitiveness and sustainable development of farming activity in the EU and set the framework for future reforms. Successive reforms have boosted the competitiveness of European agriculture by reducing price support guarantees. The introduction of decoupled direct payments encourages farmers to respond to market signals generated by consumer demand rather than by quantity related policy incentives. The inclusion of environment, food safety, animal health and welfare standards in cross-compliance reinforces consumer confidence and increases the environmental sustainability of farming. The 2003 and 2004 CAP reforms represent a major step forward to improve the regional and local competitiveness and sustainable development of farming activity in the EU and set the framework for future reforms. Successive reforms have boosted the competitiveness of European agriculture by reducing price support guarantees. The introduction of decoupled direct payments encourages farmers to respond to market signals generated by consumer demand and the needs of society rather than by quantity related policy incentives and the practice of intensive farming. The inclusion of environment, food safety, animal health and welfare standards in cross-compliance reinforces consumer confidence and increases the environmental sustainability of farming. Amendment 10 Annex, point 2.3, paragraph 1 The future Rural Development policy focuses on three key areas: the agrifood economy, the environment and the broader rural economy and population. The new generation of rural development strategies and programmes will be built around a competitiveness axis for agriculture, food and forestry, a land management-environment axis and a quality of life/diversification axis in rural areas. The future Rural Development policy focuses on three key areas: agriculture and food processing, the environment and the broader rural economy and population. The new generation of rural development strategies and programmes will be built around a competitiveness axis for agriculture, food and forestry, a land management-environment axis and a quality of life/diversification axis in rural areas. Amendment 11 Annex, point 2.4, paragraph 1 Rural areas are characterised by a very large diversity of situations, ranging from remote rural areas suffering from depopulation and decline to peri-urban areas under increasing pressure from urban centres. Rural areas are characterised by a very large diversity of situations, ranging from remote rural, mountainous, and disadvantaged areas suffering from depopulation and decline to peri-urban areas under increasing pressure from urban centres. Differentiated rural development strategies are thus required. Amendments 12 and 13 Annex, point 2.4, paragraph 2 According to the OECD definition, which is based on population density6, rural regions represent in the EU-25 92% of the territory. Furthermore, 19% of the population live in predominantly rural regions and 37% live in significantly rural regions. These regions generate 45% of Gross Value Added (GVA) in the EU-25 and provide 53% of the employment, but tend to lag as regards a number of socio-economic indicators, including Structural Indicators, compared to non-rural areas. In rural areas, income per inhabitant is around a third less, activity rates for women are lower, the service sector is less developed, higher education levels are generally lower, and a lower percentage of households has access to "broadband" internet. Remoteness and peripherality are major problems in some rural regions. These disadvantages tend to be even more significant in predominantly rural regions, although the general picture at EU level can vary substantially between Member States. Lack of opportunities, contacts and training infrastructure are a particular problem for women and young people in remote rural areas. According to the OECD definition6, which is based on population density, rural regions represent in the EU-25 92% of the territory. Furthermore, 19% of the population live in predominantly rural regions and 37% live in significantly rural regions. These regions generate 45% of Gross Value Added (GVA) in the EU-25 and provide 53% of the employment, but tend to lag behind as regards a number of socio-economic indicators, including Structural Indicators, compared to non-rural areas. In rural areas, income per inhabitant is around a third less, activity rates for women are lower, the service sector is less developed, higher education levels are generally lower, and a lower percentage of households has access to "broadband" internet. Remoteness and peripherality are major problems in some rural regions. These disadvantages tend to be even more significant in predominantly rural regions and in the outermost regions, where farms are small, isolated, exposed to severe climate conditions and limited in their range of produce. Lack of opportunities, contacts and training infrastructure are a particular problem for women and young people in remote rural areas. _____________________ 6The OECD definition is based on the share of population living in rural communes (i.e. with less than 150 inhabitants per km²) in a given NUTS III region. See Extended Impact Assessment - SEC(2004) 931. This is the only definition of rural areas internationally recognised. However, in some cases, it does not fully take into account the population living in more densely populated rural areas, particularly in peri-urban zones. ___________________ 6The OECD definition is based on the share of population living in rural communes (i.e. with less than 150 inhabitants per km²) in a given NUTS III region. See Extended Impact Assessment - SEC(2004) 931. This is the only definition of rural areas internationally recognised. However, in some cases, it does not fully take into account the population living in more densely populated rural areas, particularly in peri-urban zones. In the context of these guidelines, the OECD definition is used only for statistical and descriptive purposes. Amendment 14 Annex, point 2.4, paragraph 3 In EU-15 agriculture accounts for 2% of GDP, in the new Member States for 3% and more than 10% in Romania and Bulgaria. In the new Member states three times as many people work in agriculture (12%) compared to the old member states (4%). In Bulgaria and Romania agricultural employment levels are considerably higher. In EU-15 agriculture accounts for 2% of GDP, in the new Member States for 3% and more than 10% in Romania and Bulgaria. In the new Member states three times as many people work in agriculture (12%) compared to the old member states (4%). In Bulgaria and Romania agricultural employment levels are considerably higher. The new Member States are characterised by the significant under funding of the agricultural sector and huge disparities in income levels in comparison with the other Member States. The cohesion principle must therefore also be implemented in rural areas. Amendment 15 Annex, point 2.4, paragraph 7a (new) The importance of crafts in the countryside must also be stressed. Crafts are linked to all sectors of activity: construction, food, transport, textiles, etc. They enable job creation, training of young people through apprenticeships, the transmission of traditional skills and the creation of social ties in the most remote areas. Amendment 16 Annex, point 2.4, paragraph 8 On the occasion of the relaunch of the Lisbon Strategy, the European Council has reaffirmed that the Lisbon Strategy is to be seen in the wider context of sustainable development, that present needs must be met without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. The new programming period provides a unique opportunity to refocus support from the new rural development fund on growth, jobs and sustainability. In this respect, it is fully in line with the Declaration on the Guiding Principles for Sustainable Development and the renewed Lisbon Action Programme which seeks to target resources at making Europe a more attractive place to invest and work, promoting knowledge and innovation for growth and creating more and better jobs. On the occasion of the relaunch of the Lisbon Strategy, the European Council has reaffirmed that the Lisbon Strategy is to be seen in the wider context of sustainable development, that present needs must be met without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.The new programming period provides a unique opportunity to refocus support from the new rural development fund on growth, jobs and sustainability. In this respect, it is fully in line with the Declaration on the Guiding Principles for Sustainable Development and the renewed Lisbon Action Programme which seeks to target resources at making Europe a more attractive place to invest and work, promoting knowledge and innovation for growth and creating more and better jobs. Rural areas are disadvantaged as they do not have access to the same level and quality of services as are available in urban areas. This deficit in the provision of services, such as road, public transport, information technology etc. makes it difficult for people wishing to live and work in rural areas to do so. Amendment 17 Annex, point 2.4, paragraph 9 Rural development policy must help rural areas meet these objectives in the period 2007–2013. This requires a more strategic approach to competitiveness, job creation and innovation in rural areas and improved governance in the delivery of programmes. There must be an increased focus on forward-looking investments in people, know-how and capital in the farm and forestry sectors, on new ways of delivering win-win environmental services and on creating more and better jobs through diversification, particularly for women and young people. By helping the EU's rural areas to fulfil their potential as attractive places to invest, work and live, rural development policy can play its part in the sustainable development of Europe's territory. Rural development policy must help people in rural areas to make use of their abilities in partnerships between government agencies and civil society in pursuit of these objectives in the period 2007–2013. This requires a more strategic approach by the EU and the Member States in order to attain the three objectives of cohesion, competitiveness and sustainability. This will lead to the creation of jobs and innovation and improved governance in the delivery of programmes in rural areas. There must be an increased focus on forward-looking investments in people, know-how and capital in the farm and forestry sectors, on new ways of delivering win-win environmental services and on creating more and better jobs through diversification, particularly for women and young people. By helping the EU's rural areas to fulfil their potential as attractive places to invest, work and live, rural development policy can play its part in the sustainable development of Europe's territory. Support for rural areas should involve, in particular, the provision of essential funding to the new Member States in order to reduce the gap between them and the EU15. Amendment 18 Annex, point 3 Within the framework of the objectives established in the Rural Development regulation, these guidelines identify priorities for the Community, aimed at the integration of major policy priorities as spelled out in the conclusions of the Lisbon and Göteborg European Councils. For each set of priorities, key actions are presented. Member States shall prepare their national rural development strategies, constituting the reference framework for the preparation of rural development programmes, on the basis of these strategic guidelines. Within the framework of the objectives established in the Rural Development regulation, the strategic guidelines set out below identify priorities for the Community pursuant to Article 9 of Regulation (EC) No 1698/2005. The guidelines are aimed at the integration of major policy priorities as spelled out in the conclusions of the Lisbon, Göteborg and Luxembourg European Councils. For each set of priorities, key actions are presented for illustrative purposes. Member States shall prepare their national rural development strategies, constituting the reference framework for the preparation of rural development programmes, on the basis of these strategic guidelines. When drawing up rural development programmes, Member States shall have the necessary flexibility to adapt Community priorities in order to tailor them to the particular conditions prevailing on their territory. They shall also be able to make readjustments, where sufficiently justified. Amendment 19 Annex, point 3.1, Guideline, paragraph 2 The resources devoted to axis 1 should contribute to a strong and dynamic European agrifood sector by focusing on the priorities of knowledge transfer and innovation in the food chain and priority sectors for investment in physical and human capital. The resources devoted to axis 1 should contribute to strong and dynamic European agriculture, forestry and food sectors by focusing on the priorities of knowledge transfer, modernisation and innovation in the farming and food chain and priority sectors for investment in physical and human capital, including promoting the use of ICT and responding to the specific needs of young farmers. Amendment 21 Annex, point 3.1, paragraph 1, introduction In order to meet these priorities, Member States should focus support on key actions such as: In order to meet these priorities, Member States are encouraged to focus support on key actions. Such key actions may include the following: Amendment 22 Annex, point 3.1, paragraph 1, indent 1 - facilitating innovation and access to R&D. Innovation is increasingly important for Europe's farming, agrifood and forestry sectors. While Europe's large agrifood companies are often at the cutting edge of new trends, the introduction of new products and processes could significantly contribute to the performance of smaller processors and farm businesses. In particular, new forms of cooperation could facilitate access to R&D, innovation and actions undertaken under the 7th Framework Programme; - facilitating innovation and access to R&D. Innovation is increasingly important for Europe's farming, agrifood and forestry sectors. While Europe's large agrifood companies are often at the cutting edge of new trends, the introduction of new products and processes could significantly contribute to the performance of smaller processors and farm businesses. In particular, new forms of cooperation could facilitate access to R&D and innovation, providing, inter alia, access to external laboratories for quality assessment and improvement, and to other actions undertaken under both the 7th Framework Programme and the Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Programme (2007-2013); Amendment 23 Annex, point 3.1, paragraph 1, indent 2 - improving integration in the agrifood chain. Europe's food industry is one of the world's most competitive and innovative, but it is facing increasing global competition. There is considerable scope in the rural economy to create and market new products, to retain more value in rural areas through quality schemes and to raise the profile of European products overseas. The use of advisory services and support to meet Community standards will contribute to this integration process. A market oriented agricultural sector will help further consolidate the position of Europe's agrifood sector as a major employer and source of economic growth; - adapting supply to demand and improving integration in the agrifood chain. Europe's food industry is one of the world's most competitive and innovative, but it is facing increasing global competition. There is considerable scope in the rural economy to create and market new products, to retain more value in rural areas.This can be achieved, in particular, by means of quality control schemes, the development and application of common standards, information for consumers and making agricultural products more recognisable. Such actions will also raise the profile of European products overseas. In particular, local and regional products should be promoted. The use of advisory services and support to meet Community standards will contribute to this integration process. A market oriented agricultural sector will help further consolidate the position of Europe's agrifood sector as a major employer and source of economic growth;· Amendment 24 Annex, point 3.1, paragraph 1, indent 4 - fostering dynamic entrepreneurship. The recent reforms have created a market oriented environment for European farming. This brings new opportunities for farm businesses. But the realisation of this economic potential will depend on the development of strategic and organisational skills; - fostering dynamic entrepreneurship. The recent reform, and intensified international competition, have created a market oriented environment for European farming. This brings both new challenges and new opportunities for farm businesses. The realisation of this economic potential will depend on the development of the strategic, business and organisational skills of farmers and their families and, particularly, on the entry of young farmers into the profession; Amendment 25 Annex, point 3.1, paragraph 1, indent 5 - development of new outlets for agricultural and forestry products. New outlets can offer higher value added. Support for investment and training in the field of non-food production under rural development can complement measures taken under the first pillar by creating innovative new outlets for production or helping the development of renewable energy materials, biofuels and processing capacity; - development of new outlets for agricultural products and the forestry sector. New outlets can offer higher value added. Measures to promote information, awareness and networking will open up new opportunities and possibilities on the internal market of each country as well as for new export activities. Support for investment and training in the field of non-food production under rural development can complement measures taken under the first pillar by creating innovative new outlets for production, making use of waste, or helping the development of renewable energy materials, organic materials, biofuels and processing capacity or promoting products with special properties, including quality products and products of designated origin; Amendment 26 Annex, point 3.1, paragraph 1, indent 6 – improving the environmental performance of farms and forestry. Long term sustainability will depend on the ability to produce products that consumers wish to buy, while achieving high environmental standards. Investing in increased environmental performance can also lead to efficiency gains in production, creating a win-win situation; – improving the environmental performance of farms and forestry. Long term sustainability will depend on the ability to produce products that consumers wish to buy, while achieving high environmental standards. Investing in increased environmental performance can also lead to efficiency gains in production, creating a win-win situation. Encouragement should also be given to organic farming and production by means of traditional methods relating to regional specialities; Amendment 27 Annex, point 3.1, paragraph 1, indent 7 - restructuring of the agriculture sector. Rural development is a key tool for restructuring, particularly in the New Member States. Enlargement has changed the agricultural map. Successful agricultural adjustment can be the key to improving the competitiveness and environmental sustainability of the agricultural sector and boosting jobs and growth in related areas of the economy. All Member States should promote the anticipation of change within the agricultural sector in the context of restructuring, and develop a proactive approach to training and retraining of farmers, particularly as regards transferable skills. - restructuring and modernisation of the agriculture sector. Rural development is a key tool for restructuring and modernisation in the agricultural and forestry sectors. Investment in farms needs to be continued both in the old and in the new Member States. Enlargement and developments on the international and internal markets, together with varying consumer preferences and demands, have changed the agricultural map and the new Member States should be able to benefit from the transitional measures on semi-subsistence farming and producer groups. Successful agricultural adjustment can be the key to improving the competitiveness and environmental sustainability of the agricultural sector and boosting jobs and growth in related areas of the economy. All Member States should promote the anticipation of change within the agricultural sector, support investment in the context of restructuring and modernisation, and develop a proactive approach to training and retraining of farmers, particularly as regards transferable skills and the creation of alternative sources of income; Amendment 28 Annex, point 3.1, paragraph 1, indent 7a (new) - supporting local initiatives such as local farmers' markets and local food-quality procurement schemes; Amendment 29 Annex, point 3.1, paragraph 1, indent 7 b (new) - improving the transfer between generations. If this activity is to be preserved lastingly in the Member States, the transfer between generations must be ensured. The EU needs to reduce to a minimum the red tape which young farmers have encountered in the past when applying for rural development aid. The transfer between generations needs to be a priority objective for all the rural development axes; Amendment 30 Annex, point 3.1, paragraph 2 To enhance generational renewal in agriculture combinations of measures available under axis 1 tailored to the needs of young farmers should be considered. To enhance generational renewal in agriculture combinations of measures available under axis 1 tailored to the needs of young farmers should be considered. These may include, in particular, aid for the establishment and handover of farms. Amendment 31 Annex, point 3.2, Guideline To protect and enhance the EU's natural resources and landscapes in rural areas, the resources devoted to axis 2 should contribute to three EU level priority areas: biodiversity and preservation of high nature value farming and forestry systems, water, and climate change. The measures available under axis 2 should be used to integrate these environmental objectives and contribute to the implementation of the agricultural and forestry Natura 2000 network, to the Göteborg commitment to reverse biodiversity decline by 2010, to the Water Framework Directive objectives and to the Kyoto Protocol targets for climate change mitigation. To protect and enhance the EU's natural resources and landscapes in rural areas, through cooperation with farmers and other land managers to the greatest extent possible, the resources devoted to axis 2 should contribute to four EU level priority areas: biodiversity and the preservation of high nature value farming and forestry systems and traditional agricultural landscapes, the sustainable use of water resources, soil conservation and protection, and climate change. The measures available under axis 2 should be used to integrate these environmental objectives, with particular regard to less-favoured rural areas, and contribute to the implementation of the agricultural and forestry Natura 2000 network, to the Göteborg commitment to reverse biodiversity decline by 2010, to the Water Framework Directive objectives and to the Kyoto Protocol targets for climate change mitigation. Amendment 32 Annex, point 3.2, introduction In order to meet these priorities, Member States should focus support on key actions such as: In order to meet these priorities, Member States are encouraged to focus support on key actions. These key actions may include the following: Amendment 33 Annex, point 3.2, indent 1 - promoting environmental services and animal friendly farming practices. European citizens expect farmers to respect mandatory standards. But many also agree that farmers should be remunerated for signing up to commitments which go further, delivering services that the market will not provide alone, particularly when focused on specific resources such as water and soil; - promoting environmental services and farming practices that are friendly to biodiversity and the environment. European citizens expect farmers to respect mandatory standards. But many also agree that farmers should be remunerated for signing up to commitments which go further, delivering services that the market will not provide alone, particularly when focused on specific resources such as water and soil; Amendment 34 Annex, point 3.2, indent 2 - preserving the farmed landscape. In Europe, much of the valued rural environment is the product of agriculture. Appropriate farming systems help to preserve landscapes and habitats ranging from wetlands to dry meadows and mountain pastures. In many areas, this is an important part of cultural and natural heritage and of the overall attractiveness of rural areas as places to live and work; - preserving the natural and farmed landscape. In Europe, much of the valued rural environment is the product of agriculture and forestry. Appropriate farming systems help to preserve landscapes and habitats ranging from wetlands to dry meadows and mountain pastures. Where farming practices are imposed or restricted and the outcome of this is to preserve or enhance landscapes and habitats, a partnership between farmers, landowners and public bodies should be put in place in order to ensure consultation, cooperation and, where appropriate, compensation. In many areas, this is an important part of cultural and natural heritage and of the overall attractiveness of rural areas as places to live, visit as a tourist and work. If the humanised landscape is to be preserved, it is necessary to promote traditional techniques of agricultural production and the entire rural culture associated with them. Special assistance should be provided to prevent disasters such as floods, droughts, scarcity and forest fires, which often occur in neglected areas, as well as to prevent desertification; Amendment 35 Annex, point 3.2, indent 2 a (new) - promoting the forestry sector. Forests have a specific contribution to make to environmental protection because they regulate water , store the main greenhouse gases and certain soil pollutants, preserve biomass , and prevent natural disasters such as fires and landslips; Amendment 36 Annex, point 3.2, indent 3 - combating climate change. Agriculture and forestry are at the forefront of the development of renewable energy and material sources for bio-energy installations. The development of these energy sources must take into account reduction of emissions of greenhouse gases and preservation of the carbon sink effect of forests and organic matter in soil composition; - promoting renewable energies in order to combat climate change. Agriculture and forestry are at the forefront of the development of renewable energy and material sources for bio-energy installations. The development of these energy sources must take into account reduction of emissions of greenhouse gases and the need to increase the preservation of the carbon sink effect of forests and organic matter in soil composition. In all support measures, account should be taken of the global food-supply situation and competition for land between renewable energies and food; Amendment 37 Annex, point 3.2, indent 3 a (new) - preventing natural and other disasters and repairing the damage they cause, by protecting the forests, combating desertification and preventing flooding; Amendment 38 Annex, point 3.2, indent 4 a (new) - supporting research into energy crops and the process of producing biofuels, with a view to reducing production costs and increasing profit margins in order to make biofuel production competitive compared with conventional fuels; Amendment 39 Annex, point 3.2, indent 6 - promoting territorial balance. Rural development programmes can make a vital contribution to the attractiveness of rural areas. They can also help ensure that in a competitive, knowledge-based economy, a sustainable balance between urban and rural areas is maintained. In combination with other programme axes, land management measures can make a positive contribution to the spatial distribution of economic activity and territorial cohesion. - promoting territorial balance. Rural development programmes can make a vital contribution to the attractiveness of rural areas. They can also help ensure that in a competitive, knowledge-based economy, a sustainable balance between urban and rural areas is maintained. In combination with other programme axes, land management measures can make a positive contribution to the spatial distribution of economic activity and territorial cohesion. To ensure balanced land use it is also necessary to grant specific support to activities located in the least-favoured areas or areas with disadvantages of a natural or permanent nature. Amendment 40 Annex, point 3.3, title 3.3.  Improving the quality of life in rural areas and encouraging diversification 3.3.  Improving the quality of life in rural areas and encouraging diversification of the rural economy Amendment 41 Annex, point 3.3, Guideline The resources devoted to the fields of diversification of the rural economy and quality of life in rural areas under axis 3 should contribute to the overarching priority of the creation of employment opportunities. The range of measures available under axis 3 should in particular be used to promote capacity building, skills acquisition and organisation for local strategy development and also help ensure that rural areas remain attractive for future generations. In promoting training, information and entrepreneurship, the particular needs of women and young people should be considered. The resources devoted to the fields of diversification of the rural economy and quality of life in rural areas under axis 3 should contribute to the overarching priority of the creation of new employment opportunities as well as helping to consolidate current employment levels, and creating conditions for growth. The range of measures available under axis 3 should in particular be used to promote capacity building, skills acquisition and organisation for local strategy development and also help ensure that rural areas remain attractive for future generations and that villages remain the centre of rural development. In promoting training, information and entrepreneurship, particular attention should be paid to the removal of barriers for those whose access to the labour market is currently hampered because of their gender, age or disability. Amendment 42 Annex, point 3.3, introductory part In order to meet these priorities, Member States should focus support on key actions such as: In order to meet these priorities, Member States are encouraged to focus support on key actions. These key actions may include the following: Amendment 43 Annex, point 3.3, indent 1 – raising economic activity and employment rates in the wider rural economy. Diversification is necessary for growth, employment and sustainable development in rural areas, and thereby contributes to a better territorial balance, both in economic and social terms. Tourism, crafts and the provision of rural amenities are growth sectors in many regions and offer opportunities both for on-farm diversification and the development of micro-businesses in the broader rural economy; – raising economic activity and employment rates in the wider rural economy. Diversification is necessary for growth, employment and sustainable development in rural areas, and thereby contributes to a better territorial balance and greater cohesion between rural and urban areas, both in economic and social terms. Tourism, crafts and the provision of rural amenities are growth sectors in many regions and offer opportunities both for on-farm diversification and the development of micro-businesses in the broader rural economy; Amendment 44 Annex, point 3.3, indent 1 a (new) - maintaining and developing services aimed at maintaining populations and welcoming new dwellers. Depending on the needs of localities, communities and socio-economic agents, this may involve neighbourhood businesses, childcare and old people's centres, subsidised housing and rented accommodation, cultural centres, transport, services of general interest (e.g. healthcare) etc. Amendment 45 Annex, point 3.3, indent 2 - encouraging the entry of women into the labour market. Local initiatives to develop childcare facilities in rural areas can improve employment opportunities and facilitate access of women to the labour market. This can include the development of child-care infrastructure, potentially in combination with initiatives to encourage the creation of small businesses related to rural activities; - encouraging the entry of women into the labour market. Local initiatives to develop high-quality, appropriate and affordable childcare in rural areas can improve employment opportunities and facilitate access of women to the labour market. This can include the development of childcare infrastructure, the training of workers involved in childcare, the provision of training and access to microcredit for business creation and development and the establishment of women's networks; Amendment 46 Annex, point 3.3, indent 2 a (new) - encouraging village renewal and development. Integrated approaches to diversification of economic activities, safeguarding of the rural cultural heritage and investing in infrastructure for local services can contribute to improving the quality of life in rural areas and, in so doing, help to counter rural depopulation; Amendment 47 Annex, point 3.3, indent 3 - developing micro-business and crafts can build on traditional skills or bring new competencies, particularly when combined with purchase of equipment, training and coaching, helping to promote entrepreneurship and develop the economic fabric; - developing micro-business, crafts and cottage industries can build on traditional skills or bring new competencies, particularly when combined with purchase of equipment, training and coaching, helping to promote entrepreneurship and develop the economic fabric; Amendment 48 Annex, point 3.3, indent 4 - training young people in traditional rural skills can tap into demand for tourism, recreation, environmental services and quality products; - prioritising traditional rural skills and quality-oriented measures such as charters or labels, and training young people in these matters. This will make it possible to tap into demand for tourism, recreation, environmental services and quality, and, in particular, traditional products. It can also provide an opportunity for the older generation to pass on their skills to the younger generation; Amendment 49 Annex, point 3.3, indent 5 - encouraging the take-up and diffusion of ICT. Take up and diffusion of ICT is essential in rural areas for diversification, as well as for local development, the provision of local services and the promotion of e-inclusion. Economies of scale can be achieved through village ICT initiatives combining IT equipment, networking and eSkills training through community structures. Such initiatives can greatly facilitate IT take-up by local farms and rural businesses and the adoption of eBusiness and eCommerce. Full advantage needs to be taken of the possibilities afforded by the internet and broadband communications, for example supported by regional programmes under the Structural Funds, to overcome the disadvantages of location; - encouraging the take-up and diffusion of ICT. ICT creates new opportunities for life and employment in rural areas. The possibility of teleworking and connections to global information networks make rural areas more attractive to innovative businesses. Take up and diffusion of ICT is essential in rural areas for diversification, as well as for local development, the provision of local services and the promotion of e-inclusion. Economies of scale can be achieved through village ICT initiatives combining IT equipment, networking and eSkills training through community structures. Such initiatives can greatly facilitate IT take-up by local farms and rural businesses and the adoption of eBusiness and eCommerce. Full advantage needs to be taken of the possibilities afforded by the internet and broadband communications, for example supported by regional programmes under the Structural Funds, to overcome the disadvantages of location; Amendment 50 Annex, point 3.3, indent 6 - developing the provision and innovative use of renewable energy sources can contribute to creating new outlets for agricultural and forestry products, the provision of local services and the diversification of the rural economy; - developing the provision and innovative use of renewable energy sources and organic materials and promoting energy efficiency systems and energy services for producers can contribute to creating new outlets for agricultural and forestry products, the provision of local services and the diversification of the rural economy; Amendment 51 Annex, point 3.3, indent 7 - encouraging the development of Tourism. Tourism is a major growth sector in many rural areas. Increased use of ITC in tourism for bookings, promotion, marketing, service design and recreational activities can help improve visitor number and length of stays, particularly where this provides links to smaller facilities and encourages agri-tourism; - encouraging the development of Tourism. Tourism is a major growth sector in many rural areas and should be based upon the existing natural and cultural heritage. Increased use of ITC in tourism for bookings, promotion, marketing, service design and recreational activities can help improve visitor number and length of stays, particularly where this provides links to smaller facilities and encourages agri-tourism, other forms of environmentally sustainable tourism and tourism related to sport; Amendment 52 Annex, point 3.3, indent 7a (new) - preserving rural culture. The culture of rural communities can provide economic added value, notably for tourism. Crafts, food and drink, agricultural specialities and the related traditional production techniques, folklore and rural architecture are among the elements that need to be protected and, in some cases, revived. These traditions, despite the added value that they offer, are in danger of extinction because of rural depopulation, the ageing of rural populations and the lack of interest of the young, especially in the most depressed regions. Amendment 53 Annex, point 3.3, indent 8 - upgrading of local infrastructure, particularly in the New Member States. Significant investment will be undertaken in major telecommunications, transport, energy and water infrastructure over the coming years. Considerable support will be available from the Structural Funds ranging from trans-European networks to the development of connections to business or science parks. For the multiplier effect to be fully realised in terms of jobs and growth, small-scale local infrastructure supported within rural development programmes can play a vital role in connecting these major investments to local strategies for diversification and development of agricultural and food-sector potential. - upgrading of local infrastructure, particularly in the New Member States. Significant investment will be undertaken in major telecommunications, transport, energy and water infrastructure over the coming years. Considerable support will be available from the Structural Funds ranging from trans-European networks to the development of connections to business or science parks. An equitable share of these resources should be directed towards rural areas in order to ensure a significant balance of development between rural and urban areas. For the multiplier effect to be fully realised in terms of jobs and growth, small-scale local infrastructure supported within rural development programmes can play a vital role in connecting these major investments to local strategies for diversification and development of agricultural and food-sector potential. Amendment 54 Annex, point 3.4, Guideline The resources devoted to axis 4 (Leader) should contribute to the priorities of axis 1 and 2 and in particular of axis 3, but also play an important role in the priority of improving governance and mobilising the endogenous development potential of rural areas. The resources devoted to axis 4 (Leader) should contribute to the priorities of axis 1 and 2 and in particular of axis 3, but also play an important role in the priority of improving governance and encouraging people to stimulate sustainable development and mobilising the potential inherent in the local area. Amendment 55 Annex, point 3.4, paragraph 1 Support under the Leader axis offers the possibility, in the context of a local development strategy building on local needs and strengths, to combine all three objectives – competitiveness, environment and quality of life/diversification. Integrated approaches involving farmers, foresters and other rural actors can safeguard and enhance local natural and cultural heritage, raise environmental awareness and invest in and promote specialty products, tourism and renewable resources and energy. Support under the Leader axis offers the possibility, in the context of a local development strategy building on local needs and strengths, to combine all three objectives – competitiveness, environment and quality of life/diversification. Integrated approaches involving farmers, foresters and other rural actors can safeguard and enhance local natural and cultural heritage, raise environmental awareness and invest in and promote specialty products, tourism and renewable resources and energy. The Leader projects should be focused around priority themes and on the delivery of outcomes. Amendment 56 Annex, point 3.4, paragraph 2, indent 1 - building local partnership capacity, animation and promoting skills acquisition can help mobilise local potential; - building local partnership capacity, animation and promoting skills acquisition can help mobilise local potential to prevent social exclusion and combat depopulation; Amendment 57 Annex, point 3.4, paragraph 2, indent 2 - promoting private-public partnership. In particular, Leader will continue to play and important role in encouraging innovative approaches to rural development and bringing the private and public sectors together; - promoting private-public partnership. In particular, Leader will continue to play and important role in ensuring community participation and encouraging innovative approaches to rural development and bringing the private and public sectors together; Amendment 58 Annex, point 3.4, paragraph 2, indent 3 - promoting cooperation and innovation. Local initiatives such as Leader and support for diversification can play an essential role in connecting people to new ideas and approaches, encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship and promote inclusiveness and the provision of local services. On-line communities can help in the dissemination of knowledge, the exchange of good practices and innovation in rural products and services; - promoting cooperation and innovation. Local initiatives such as Leader and support for diversification can play an essential role in connecting people to new ideas and approaches, encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship and promote inclusiveness and the provision of local services. Special attention should be devoted to integrating new population groups. On-line communities can help in the dissemination of knowledge, the exchange of good practices and innovation in rural products and services; Amendment 59 Annex, point 3.4, paragraph 2, indent 4 - improving local governance. Leader can help foster innovative approaches to linking agriculture, forestry and the local economy thereby helping to diversify the economic base and strengthen the socio-economic tissue of rural areas. - improving local governance. Leader can help foster innovative approaches to linking agriculture, forestry and the local economy, thereby helping to diversify the economic base and strengthen the socio-economic fabric of rural areas in particular. Amendment 60 Annex, point 3.4, paragraph 2, indent 4 a (new) - promoting the Local Agenda 21 in the countryside and adapting to the strengths and drawbacks of each locality in the light of the diversity of the countryside, with the participation of local agents and supporting full-scale local endogenous development projects. A culture of local participation needs to be developed on the basis of strategic development plans based on the Local Agenda 21. These plans, more comprehensive than the rural development plans, should involve a discussion of a shared vision for the communities' future, strategic areas for action, methods for environmental mainstreaming in the different areas of society, and actions to improve the local quality of life. Amendment 61 Annex, point 3.5, paragraph 1 The resources devoted to the Community rural development priorities (within the regulatory minimum funding limits for each axis) will depend on the specific situation, strengths and weaknesses of each programme area. Each of the Community priorities, and their contribution to Lisbon and Göteborg objectives, will need to be translated into the Member State context in the national strategy plan and rural development programmes. In many cases, there will be national or regional priorities for specific problems related to the agrifood sector or the environmental, climatic and geographical situation of agriculture and forestry. Rural areas may have to deal with other specific issues such as peri-urban pressure, unemployment, remoteness or low population density. The resources devoted to the Community rural development priorities (within the regulatory minimum funding limits for each axis) will depend on the specific situation, strengths and weaknesses of each programme area and the specific characteristics of the regions, in accordance with the Treaty. Each of the Community priorities, and their contribution to Lisbon and Göteborg objectives, will need to be translated into the Member State context in the national strategy plan and rural development programmes. In many cases, there will be national or regional priorities for specific problems related to the agrifood sector or the environmental, climatic and geographical situation of agriculture and forestry. Rural areas may have to deal with other specific issues such as peri-urban pressure, unemployment, remoteness, mountainous or island characteristics, or low population density. Amendment 62 Annex, point 3.5, Guideline In working out their national strategies, Member States should ensure that synergies between and within the axes are maximised and potential contradictions avoided. They will also wish to reflect on how to take into account other EU level strategies such as the Action Plan for Organic Farming, the latest Commission Communication on Renewable Energy, the Commission's recent Communication on Climate Change and the need to anticipate the likely effects on farming and forestry, and the Commission's report on the EU Forestry Strategy (which can help deliver on both the growth and employment and the sustainability objectives) and the forthcoming thematic environmental strategies. In working out their national strategies, Member States should take an integrated approach, embodying appropriate spatial planning and maximising synergies between the axes and should seek the broadest possible involvement of all appropriate bodies, under the Partnership Principle as identified by Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 1698/2005. They will also wish to reflect on how to take into account other EU level strategies such as the Action Plan for Organic Farming, the Commission Communication of 12 October 2005 on More Research and Innovation - Investing for Growth and Employment: A Common Approach, the latest Commission Communication on Renewable Energy, the Commission's recent Communication on Climate Change and the need to anticipate the likely effects on farming and forestry, and the Commission's report on the EU Forestry Strategy (which can help deliver on both the growth and employment and the sustainability objectives) and the forthcoming thematic environmental strategies. Amendment 63 Annex, point 3.5, paragraph 2 Several means are available at EU and Member State level to improve governance and policy delivery. Technical assistance can be used to build up European and national networks for rural development, as a platform for exchange of best practice and expertise on all aspects of policy design, management and implementation between stakeholders. Information and publicity to ensure early involvement of the different actors will need to be considered in the preparation of the national strategies and worked out for the later stages of implementation. Several means are available at EU and Member State level to improve governance and policy delivery. Technical assistance must be used to build up European and national networks for rural development, as a platform for exchange of best practice and expertise on all aspects of policy design, management and implementation between stakeholders. The experience of the LEADER Observatory and the national networks as regards strengthening local partnerships and exchanges of best practices should be taken into account in establishing and supporting the networks. Information and publicity to ensure early involvement of the different actors will need to be considered in the preparation of the national strategies and worked out for the later stages of implementation. Care should be taken to ensure that the periods allowed for the involvement of the actors are sufficiently long and to seek continuity of participation. Amendment 64 Annex, point 3.6, Guideline The synergy between structural, employment and rural development policies needs to be encouraged. In this context, Member States should ensure complementarity and coherence between actions to be financed by the ERDF, Cohesion Fund, ESF, EFF and EAFRD on a given territory and in a given field of activity. The main guiding principles as regards the demarcation line and the coordination mechanisms between actions supported by the different Funds should be defined at the level of national strategic reference framework/national strategy plan. The synergy between structural, employment and rural development policies needs to be encouraged as well as, consequently, cooperation between the different regional partners. In this context, Member States should ensure complementarity and coherence between actions to be financed by the 7th Framework Programme, the Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Programme,TEN-T, LIFE +, the ERDF, Cohesion Fund, ESF, EFF and EAFRD on a given territory and in a given field of activity. The main guiding principles as regards the demarcation line and the coordination mechanisms between actions supported by the different Funds should be defined at the level of regional or national strategic reference framework, or regional or national strategy plan, whichever is the more appropriate for the Member State concerned. Amendment 65 Annex, point 3.6, paragraph 1a (new) A number of different demarcation criteria may be employed, such as project size, territorial impact (at regional and local level), investment type, beneficiary type, etc. Amendment 66 Annex, point 3.6, paragraph 2 As regards the development of human capital, support under rural development would target farmers and the economic actors involved in the diversification of the rural economy. The population of rural areas could receive support as part of an integrated, bottom-up approach. Actions in these fields should be implemented in full compliance with the objectives of the European Employment Strategy, as set out in the Integrated Guidelines for Growth and Jobs and coherent with the actions taken under the national reform programmes in the framework of the Lisbon process. The Education and Training 2010 work programme seeks to achieve the education and the training side of the Lisbon goals. Lifelong learning is at the heart of this programme and applies to all levels and types of education and training, including the agricultural, forestry and agrifood sectors. As regards the development of human capital, support under rural development would target farmers and their families and the economic actors involved in the diversification of the rural economy. It would also be coordinated with support afforded under other structural instruments. The population of rural areas could receive support as part of an integrated, bottom-up approach. Actions in these fields should be implemented in full compliance with the objectives of the European Employment Strategy, as set out in the Integrated Guidelines for Growth and Jobs and coherent with the actions taken under the national reform programmes in the framework of the Lisbon process. The Education and Training 2010 work programme seeks to achieve the education and the training side of the Lisbon goals. Lifelong learning is at the heart of this programme and applies to all levels and types of education and training, including the agricultural, forestry and agrifood sectors. Amendment 67 Annex, point 4, paragraph 2 The framework will provide a limited set of common indicators and a common methodology. It will be supplemented by programme-specific indicators to reflect the character of each programme area. The framework will provide a limited set of common indicators, in particular territorial indicators as called for by Parliament in its resolution of 28 September 2005 on the role of territorial cohesion in regional development1, as well as a common methodology. It will be supplemented by programme-specific indicators to reflect the character of each programme area. _____________ 1 Texts Adopted, P6_TA(2005)0358.

(1) Not yet published in OJ.