Procurement for development projects

25.3.2004

WRITTEN QUESTION E-1046/04
by Ulpu Iivari (PSE)
to the Commission

The stated aims of the European Union's development cooperation policy include reducing poverty, supporting sustainable economic and social development in the least developed countries and gradual integration of developing countries into the world economy.

 

CONCORD, the umbrella organisation for European development cooperation organisations, is concerned that under the new Financial Regulation only products of European origin may be procured for use in projects funded by the Commission. If no European products are available, it is possible to resort to local products. However, before doing so it is necessary to request permission from the Commission two months in advance.

 

What will the Commission do to prevent the requirements of the Financial Regulation from jeopardising the objectives of development cooperation policy and favouring European products at the expense of local products?

 

What will the Commission do to ensure that in particular NGOs which receive support under budget heading 21-02-03 do not become enmeshed in red tape on account of the new Financial Regulation?