Access to European funding for job creation in New Caledonia after the 2018 referendum

10.10.2017

Question for written answer E-006345-17
to the Commission
Rule 130
Steeve Briois (ENF)

New Caledonia is a French overseas territory which is not part of the European Union, but which has an association arrangement with the EU. EC law does not apply in New Caledonia, but the territory is eligible for EU funding.

New Caledonia is to receive EUR 29.8 million (3.6 billion CFP francs) in support under the 11th European Development Fund. The operational phase of the programmes in question began in 2017. New Caledonia, which has an unemployment rate (estimated at 15%) higher than that of mainland France, has decided to use these funds primarily to boost job creation and measures to help people find employment.

A referendum on self-determination is due to take place in November 2018.

1. For what kinds of EU funding is New Caledonia currently eligible?

2. Should New Caledonia vote for independence, what implications would this have for its eligibility for EU funding?

3. Would New Caledonia still be eligible for EU funding at a similar level to now?