News & Press
EPAS Award Ceremony 2023 held in Cashel
09-05-2023
On Friday 5 May 2023, the European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland had the privilege of hosting the second EPAS Award Ceremony of 2023 for students in Ireland’s South constituency.
Read more : EPAS Award Ceremony 2023 held in Cashel
EPAS Award Ceremony 2023 held in Dublin
02-05-2023
On Friday 28 April, the European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland was delighted to host the European Parliament Ambassador School programme (EPAS) award ceremony 2023 for students in the Dublin constituency.
Read more : EPAS Award Ceremony 2023 held in Dublin
To celebrate National Poetry Day and Ireland's 50 year membership of the EU, the European Parliament in collaboration with the European Commission, Poetry Ireland and Iarnród Éireann are launching a new initiative titled ‘Poetry in Motion’.
Read more : National Poetry Day 2023: European poetry to be enjoyed by Dublin commuters
This info session will focus on the technical aspect of submitting proposals for the grants awarded by the Directorate General for Communication of the European Parliament. These grants are aimed at promoting public awareness of the European Parliament's role in delivering democracy, increasing civic participation, and mobilizing voters in the European Elections 2024.
Read more : Public session on new European Parliament Grants on Thursday, 27 April, 9am IST
The European Parliament (EP) is pleased to announce new grants in the area of communication to advance public awareness of the European Parliament's role in our lives delivering democracy, increase civic participation and mobilise voters in the European Elections 2024 (EE24). There are two rounds of applications: deadline 25 May 2023 at 17h00 (CET) and 29 September 2023.
Read more : European Parliament Grants for European Elections 2024
Scoil Muire agus Pádraig from Mayo has won first place at the 2023 Model Council of the European Union debating competition with second place going to European Parliament Ambassador School Programme (EPAS) school, Christ King Secondary School from Cork.
Read more : EU Model Council debate: EPAS school secures second place
Charlemagne Youth Prize 2023 announced
21-03-2023
The European Parliament Liaison Office is delighted to announce that The European Youth Parliament Summer Academy 2022 has been announced as the winner of the 2023 Charlemagne Youth Prize for Ireland.
Read more : Charlemagne Youth Prize 2023 announced
President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola will visit Dublin between 2nd and 3rd of February 2023. This will be the first visit of a European Parliament President to Ireland since 2012.
Read more : Parliament President Metsola to visit Dublin 2-3 February 2023
Eurobarometer: IE citizens satisfied with EU and government response to rising cost of living
12-01-2023
Irish citizens are significantly more satisfied with the EU’s response and the Government’s response to both the cost of living crisis and the ongoing war against Ukraine than the EU average.
Read more : Eurobarometer: IE citizens satisfied with EU and government response to rising cost of living
This is a call for EU action grants for communication activities in the field of media managed by DG Communication of the European Parliament, ahead of the 2024 European Elections.
Read more : Call for EU action: Grants for media activities 2024 European Elections
Today, at Dublin's Goethe Institute, the European Parliament presented the European Citizen’s Prize to the two Irish winners, Jigsaw and Nasc Migrant Youth.
Read more : Jigsaw and Nasc Migrant Youth win European Citizens' Prize
Media play a major role in informing Irish citizens on the activities of the European Union and its institutions. A dedicated Eurobarometer survey published today takes an in-depth look at media habits, trust in different media sources as well as attitudes towards the threat of disinformation.
Read more : Eurobarometer Survey: 59 percent of Irish people trust public TV and radio the most
This historic day follows Taoiseach Micheál Martin's speech in the EP in early June " And enlargement has been essential to strengthening our Union as a whole... I strongly support Ukraine’s application for membership and I look forward to the Commission’s Opinion." - Martin
Read more : EU candidate status will strengthen Ukraine and Europe – Metsola
According to the Eurobarometer survey published today, 86% of Irish people see EU membership as a good thing, compared with 65% of Europeans as a whole.
Read more : 62 percent of Irish people believe democracy must be the priority
On the occasion of the unveiling of the bust of John Hume on Wednesday, Chris Patten gave an insightful lecture on Hume's life and legacy. Find the transcript below.
Read more : Chris Patten Delivers Lecture on John Hume to EP
Taoiseach Micheál Martin to EP: Unilateral action on NI protocol would be deeply damaging
08-06-2022
Taoiseach Michéal Martin addressed plenary at the European Parliament this morning as part of the "This is Europe" series. This followed the unveiling of the bronze bust of John Hume by the Taoiseach and President Roberta Metsola yesterday. Find his speech below.
Read more : Taoiseach Micheál Martin to EP: Unilateral action on NI protocol would be deeply damaging
President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola and Taoiseach Micheál Martin will unveil a bronze bust of the late John Hume in Strasbourg. Following this, the Taoiseach will give an address to the European Parliament on Wednesday morning.
Read more : Roberta Metsola to unveil John Hume bust in European Parliament in Strasbourg
The European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland was delighted to host a special event on Friday 20th of May for the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) in Europe House.
Read more : Discussion on Mental Health and LGBTQI+ Youth in Europe House
The European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland was delighted to host in-person award ceremonies, marking the end of another successful year of the European Parliament Ambassador School programme in Ireland.
Read more : EPAS Award Ceremonies Held in Dublin, Cashel and Sligo
MEPs are calling for: A special UN tribunal for war crimes in Ukraine; Step up delivery of weapons to allow Ukraine to defend itself; Severe consequences in the case of weapons of mass destruction use by Russia
Read more : EP demands full embargo on Russian energy
The deadline to submit your project (18 April) for this year's European Citizen's Prize is quickly approaching and as this is the European Year of Youth, special consideration will be given to projects carried out by our young Europeans or projects dealing with youth.
Read more : European Citizen's Prize 2022: Submit or nominate a project!
The European Parliament Liaison Office is thrilled to announce that the Student Council Charter, represented by Reuban Murray of the Irish Second Level Student’s Union (ISSU), has been declared the winner of the 2022 Charlemagne Youth Prize for Ireland.
Read more : Ireland's National Winner of the Charlemagne Youth Prize Announced
European Parliament Ambassador School (EPAS) participant, Ard Scoil Rís, won this year’s Model Council of the EU while representing Ireland.
Read more : EPAS School Ard Scoil Rís Win Model Council of the EU 2022
The Institute of International and European Affairs (IIEA) will be hosting, as part of the Conference on the Future of Europe, some 200 European citizens from across the continent who will gather in Dublin Castle to partake in a European Citizens' Panel 25-27 February.
Read more : European Citizens' Panel to be held in Dublin Castle
Communicating Europe Initiative: €100k available to community and voluntary organizations
11-02-2022
The Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne, TD, has today invited voluntary organisations, educational bodies and civil society groups to apply for funding under the Department of Foreign Affairs’ Communicating Europe Initiative.
Read more : Communicating Europe Initiative: €100k available to community and voluntary organizations
President Metsola was elected, with 458 votes in the first round, on Tuesday as the youngest ever EP President. The day coincidentally also marked her 43rd birthday.
Read more : Roberta Metsola elected new President of the European Parliament
Following the sad news of the death of President David Maria Sassoli a book of condolence is available online (link below).Books of condolence have also been placed in Brussels and Strasbourg, in front of the hemicycle and in the EPLOs.
Read more : Books of condolences for former President David Sassoli
Honouring President David Sassoli
11-01-2022
European Parliament President David Sassoli passed away on 11 January. The Parliament will honour his memory in a ceremony on Monday in Strasbourg. In the coming days, a book of condolences will be available to sign in Europe House on Lower Mount Street in Dublin.
Read more : Honouring President David Sassoli
Interested in working for the EU? The European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO) is running an open competition for Irish-language (GA) lawyer-linguists. Recruited officials will mainly work at the Court of Justice of the EU, which is based in Luxembourg. The deadline for applications has been extended to 25 January 2022, 11:00 am (Irish time).
Read more : EPSO Competition for Irish-language lawyer-linguists
Students from four secondary schools across Ireland shared their ideas on the future of Europe at an event on 12 November. The schools are all taking part in the 2021-2022 European Parliament Ambassador School Programme, a network of secondary and vocational schools across the EU where students learn about European parliamentary democracy and European citizenship values.
Read more : EPAS students’ contribution to the Conference on the Future of Europe
The European Parliament’s Liaison Office in Ireland along with the Institute of International and European Affairs (IIEA), today hosted an event entitled ‘The EU’s Economic Recovery and Resilience: The Role of the European Parliament’.
Read more : The EU’s Economic Recovery and Resilience: The Role of the EP, 14 October 2021
The European Parliament Liaison Office in Dublin is seeking applications for this year’s Sakharov Student Journalism prize. The competition is open to students registered in a recognised 3rd-level institution in Ireland. Deadline for applications: 06 December 2021. The Sakharov Prize is awarded every year by the European Parliament to honour exceptional individuals and organisations that have defended human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Read more : Take part in our Sakharov Prize student journalism competition!
In the latest public opinion survey, four out of five respondents (81%) say the EU should only provide funds to Member States that respect the rule of law and democratic values.
Read more : EU recovery funds should only go to countries respecting Rule of Law
SOTEU 2021: What will it mean for Ireland?
08-09-2021
The European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland, European Movement Ireland and the European Commission Representation in Ireland held an online roundtable discussion this morning ahead of the upcoming State of the Union debate in the European Parliament, to be opened by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on 15 September 2021.
Read more : SOTEU 2021: What will it mean for Ireland?
The European Parliament just launched a call for proposals to select actions which will contribute to support the Conference on the Future of Europe. The grant will be given to select projects outlined by media outlets across the European Union.
Read more : The European Parliament is calling for proposals from media outlets for grants in support to the Conference on the Future of Europe
EU citizens support the EU but want reform
02-06-2021
Parliament’s latest survey of public opinion shows that support for the EU remains high, despite the pandemic and 70% of Irish people feel that the health benefits of the COVID-19 restrictions outweighed the economic damage.
Read more : EU citizens support the EU but want reform
Five Years of EPAS Programme across the EU!
31-05-2021
The European Parliament Ambassador School Programme (EPAS) is celebrating it's five year anniversary. That is 60 months of successful cooperation between teachers, schools and the European Parliament, teaching students across Ireland about democracy and their rights as EU citizens.
Read more : Five Years of EPAS Programme across the EU!
Today, to mark the 100th year anniversary of the birth of Andrei Sakharov and celebrate last year's winners of the prestigious prize for freedom of thought named by the European Parliament in Sakharov's honour, we held an event entitled 'EU standing with the people of Belarus on the Sakharov centenary’.
Read more : EU standing with the people of Belarus on the Sakharov Centenary
The inaugural event to launch the Conference on the Future of Europe will take place in the European Parliament in Strasbourg on Europe Day, Sunday 9 May.
Read more : Conference on the Future of Europe: inaugural event in Strasbourg on 9 May
Representing the Netherlands, St. Joseph's Secondary School, Tulla, Co. Clare, a former participant in the European Parliament Ambassador Schools Programme (EPAS), won the competition which this year was taking place virtually due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Read more : Former EPAS school St. Joseph's Tulla win this year's Model Council of the EU
The European Parliament in collaboration with Galway 2020, and youth organisations presents EYE on the Edge, an exciting new festival created and curated by young people. Originally planned as a 2-day festival in Galway the EYE on the Edge is now going fully online and will happen in multiple locations right across Galway, Ireland, Europe and beyond from the 23rd to the 25th of April!
Read more : The European Parliament and Galway 2020 preparing for EYE on the edge
The European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland is delighted to announce that Onus Magazine, represented by Angela Hajdukovic, Fashion Editor, has been declared the winner of the 2021 Charlemagne Youth Prize for Ireland.
Read more : Ireland’s winner of the Charlemagne Youth Prize announced
This year we are marking International Women's Day by celebrating inspirational women and female leadership. MEPs and some of Ireland's leading female influencers join us in a variety of events and activities.
Read more : IWD 2021: The EP celebrates female leadership
Today, against the background of several major money laundering scandals, Frances Fitzgerald MEP chaired an event orgnaised by EPLO Ireland entitled 'Anti-Money Laundering: a new Action Plan for Ireland and Europe'.
Read more : Anti-Money Laundering: a new Action Plan for Ireland and Europe
The European Citizen's Prize was launched by the European Parliament in 2008 to recognise exceptional achievements by Europeans. Thirty individuals and organisations from around Europe have been awarded the prize in the 2020 edition, including two from Ireland.
Read more : Irish Girl Guides and Family Carers Ireland awarded European Citizen's prize
The latest Parlemeter revealed that 74% of Irish citizens want to see the European Parliament play a greater role, this compares to 63% of Europeans as a whole.
Read more : 74 per cent Irish citizens want the European Parliament to play a greater role
The European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland warmly congratulates Helen English, Senior Ambassador in the European Parliament Ambassador School (EPAS) programme, who has been selected by the European Commission to feature in the #EUwomen4future campaign.
Read more : EPAS Senior Ambassador in #EUwomen4future campaign
We were very sad to learn of the passing of Joe Fahy on 9 February 2021. Joe was the first Head of the European Parliament Office in Ireland from 1973, having previously worked as a journalist at RTE. Even after his retirement, Joe called regularly at the office for a chat with his former colleagues, who remember him very fondly. Our thoughts are with his family. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
Read more : Death of Joe Fahy, former Head of the EP Office in Ireland
The European Parliament Liaison Office in Dublin was delighted to join with the European Parliament Liaison Office in Washington DC in bringing the Bridge the Pond initiative to Ireland. This initiative sees secondary school students in the European Union debate and discuss key topical issues with high school students from the United States.
Read more : Bridge the pond: Dublin school meets counterparts in Virginia
Today, on International Holocaust Memorial Day, the European Parliament remembers that 76 years ago the gates of Auschwitz-Birkenau were opened, revealing the horror of the Nazi genocide.
Read more : Holocaust Memorial Day: If understanding is impossible, knowing is necessary
A report by Frances Fitzgerald, MEP for Dublin and full Member of the Women’s Rights and Gender Equality Committee, on “The gender perspective in the COVID-19 crisis and post-crisis period” has today (Thursday) been adopted by the European Parliament by a large majority of 485 votes in favour, 86 votes against and 108 abstentions.
Read more : Report on COVID & Gender adopted by the European Parliament
The European Parliament Liaison Office in Dublin is proud to announce the winner of our Sakharov Prize Student Journalism Competition. Rory Clarke, Business and Law student from UCD, has been awarded a trip to Strasbourg for his article “Las Damas de Blanco & the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought”, published in UCD’s University Observer.
Read more : Sakharov Prize Student Journalism Competition: Winner announced
This week, the European Parliament has announced the award of €505,683 in grants to civil society and media organisations in Ireland. The grants are awarded to projects that will underpin civic engagement and European parliamentary democracy. They aim to help people understand how decisions taken by the European Parliament impact on the lives of citizens in Ireland and how active citizenship, good journalism and a strong civil society are vital to the health of a democracy.
Read more : European Parliament proud to grant over half a million Euro to Irish civil society and media organisations
The European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland, European Movement Ireland and the German Embassy in Ireland, this morning held an online discussion this morning entitled Investing in a Green Future – Ireland’s transition to a Green Economy.
Read more : Investing in a Green Future - Ireland’s transition to a Green Economy
Colm Markey confirmed as MEP
20-11-2020
Colm Markey, who previously served as Chairperson of Louth County Council, will be replacing former Vice-President Mairead McGuinness as MEP for Ireland's Midland-North-West constituency.
Read more : Colm Markey confirmed as MEP
58% of Irish residents believe the health benefits of COVID-19 measures outweigh the economic damage. This is the third highest figure in the European Union after Malta and Romania.
Read more : New EU survey (COVID-19): 59 per cent Irish citizens satisfied with EU solidarity during the pandemic
The annual Europe Direct Soapbox competition is a public speaking competition that is taking place throughout the month of November, and raises awareness of issues at heart of the EU. Regional winners will receive an iPad mini and then go on to compete in the national final, with a grand prize of €1,000 for the winners of each category. Contact your local Europe Direct Information Centre for all the details!
Read more : Enter the 2020 Europe Direct Soapbox Competition
Being young during the COVID-19 pandemic
27-10-2020
On Friday 23 October we, along with the European Parliament's office in Sweden and Eurofound, organised a thought provoking webinar entitled ' Being young in the COVID-19 pandemic'.
Read more : Being young during the COVID-19 pandemic
The European Parliament Liaison Office in Dublin is seeking applications for this year’s Sakharov Student Journalism prize. The competition is open to students registered in a recognised 3rd-level institution in Ireland. Deadline for applications: 27 November 2020. The Sakharov Prize is awarded every year by the European Parliament to honour exceptional individuals and organisations that have defended human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Read more : Sakharov Prize competition: Call for contributions from students
The European Parliament has elected Mairead McGuinness as Commissioner for Financial Services, Financial Stability and Capital Markets. The former Vice-President of the EP was given a strong mandate with 583 votes out of a total ballot of 695 going in her favour.
Read more : Mairead McGuinness elected as Commissioner for Financial Services, Financial Stability and Capital Markets
Today, along with the National Women's Council of Ireland (NWCI), the European Parliament hosted a webinar entitled 'Women in politics online abuse'.
Read more : Online Harassment Webinar: Women in Politics Online Abuse
The European Parliament has set the date for the committee hearings for Mairead McGuinness on 2 October with a confirmatory vote set for 7 October in the EP plenary.
Read more : Changes in Commission: Mairead McGuinness Committee hearing to take place on 2 October
The European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland, European Movement Ireland and the European Commission Representation in Ireland held a webinar this morning, 10 September, ahead of the upcoming State of the European Union address by President Von der Leyern in the European Parliament in Brussels on 16 September 2020.
Read more : Breakfast Webinar: 2020 State of the European Union Debate
Death of Brendan Halligan MEP
09-08-2020
The European Parliament would like to express its condolences following the death of former MEP Brendan Halligan on August 09.
Read more : Death of Brendan Halligan MEP
Yesterday, after a long illness, John Hume, former MEP and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, passed away in a Derry nursing home at the age of 83. John Hume was a legendary figure in Irish politics and one of the architects of the Good Friday Agreement.
Read more : John Hume: Nobel Peace Prize winner dies aged 83
The Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne, TD, has today invited voluntary organisations, educational bodies and civil society groups to apply for funding under the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Communicating Europe Initiative.
Read more : The Irish Government announce €100k available to promote dialogue on Europe
On Wednesday, 22 July, David McAllister MEP and Chair of the European Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee joined a webinar organised jointly with the Institute of International and European Affairs (IIEA) focusing on Brexit and the challenges ahead.
Read more : David McAllister MEP attends IIEA and EP Webinar
To mark Europe Day 2020, we teamed up with the Galway Film Centre and the European Commission Representation in Ireland to launch a competition in search of two educational videos illustrating Ireland’s relationship with Europe.
Read more : Europe Day 2020 Video competition: Winners announced
Today, Christine Bohan of TheJournal.ie, Nicola Aitken of FullFact, Per Enerud of the Europe External Action Service and Billy Kelleher MEP examined how Covid-19 brought misinformation on a huge scale to Ireland for the first time. The webinar, chaired by Sinéad O'Carroll, editor of thejournal.ie, discussed the biggest false news stories and whether such disinformation is here to stay.
Read more : How COVID-19 brought misinformation to Ireland
Today, in partnersip with European Movement Ireland, we held a seminar entitled 'Investing to connect Ireland and Europe'.
Read more : The Celtic Interconnector: Connecting Ireland and Europe
EU for Equality in Digital Pride Parade
29-06-2020
To mark Dublin Pride 2020, the European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland and the European Commission Representation in Ireland were very happy to join forces and take part in the Digital Dublin Pride Parade on 28 June 2020. The Parade took place virtually this year, which allowed us to continue to support the LGBTQ+ community and the work of Dublin Pride. We commit to continuing our work to promote respect and non-discrimination against LGBTQ+ persons.
Read more : EU for Equality in Digital Pride Parade
Today, in partnership with our colleagues in the European Parliament's Liaison Office in London, we held a very successful, informative and engaging webinar on Brexit and the profound impact this will have on the entire island of Ireland.
Read more : Engagement between all parties key to protecting Good Friday agreement post-Brexit
Europe is home to some of the world's most wonderful musicians, artists and designers but despite the difficulty COVID-19 poses to the sector we must do our utmost to protect it.
Read more : Protecting the arts must be a priority in good times and in bad
Over 80% of Irish citizens believe the EU sould have more competencies to deal with crises such as COVID-19 and three quarters of Irish citizens are satisfied with the EU's response to the pandemic.
Read more : Covid-19 response: Irish public want more EU according to new poll
The COVID-19 pandemic was a shock to us and to our economy. The European Parliament, together with other EU institutions, is working tirelessly to ensure a quick recovery and to rebuild our transport and tourism industry. In other words, our summer can still be saved.
Read more : European Parliament commits to rebuilding the transport and tourism industry
A team of scientists led by Professor Luke O’Neill, immunologist at Trinity College Dublin and a European Research Council (ERC) Advanced grant holder, is working to develop an antiviral drug against COVID-19. The research team is part of the European-wide Innovative Training network INITIATE, which is financed by the European Union, and is collaborating with labs in the Netherlands and Belgium.
Read more : Trinity lab working to develop anti-viral drug against COVID-19
The Internship Scheme in European Union Institutions will go ahead again this year it has been announced by the Minister of State for the Irish Language, the Gaeltacht and the Islands, Senator Seán Kyne. The scheme is focused on the provision of opportunities for graduates to acquire work placements in the special subject field of translation and proofreading. Deadline for applications: 17 June 2020, 12 noon
Read more : Ten graduates to be appointed for Internship Scheme in EU Institutions
COVID-19 is yet another reminder, to us all, of how important trusted news sources are for society and for democracy. During this crisis we have seen waves of fake news being spread by dubious online channels and repeated on our WhatsApp groups as well as other social media networks. With this in mind, the European Parliament has launched an advertisement campaign targeting sources of misinformation while also supporting our reliable local newspapers.
Read more : The European Parliament has launched a campaign against misinformation
Living and working during COVID-19
25-05-2020
Eurofound’s COVID-19 EU PolicyWatch collates information on national-level responses, aiming to map measures introduced to cushion the effects of the crisis. This database complements the launch of the ongoing e-survey ‘Living, working and COVID-19’. Join us this Thursday 28 May at 4pm where the findings of the survey and the impact of COVID-19 on work, life and well-being will be further discussed during the European Youth Event (EYE) online event.
Read more : Living and working during COVID-19
Irish firm developing rapid Covid-19 test
14-05-2020
An Irish company is receiving EU funding to help develop a rapid diagnostic test for Covid-19 that can deliver results in less than an hour. The project, called HG nCoV19 test from Dublin-based SME Hibergene Diagnostics, will allow health workers to make a speedy, accurate diagnosis, meaning patients can be isolated and quarantined quickly. It could also identify essential workers without Covid-19 so they can avoid unnecessary quarantine and continue to deliver vital services and supplies.
Read more : Irish firm developing rapid Covid-19 test
What's happening for Europe Day?
07-05-2020
Like all things this year, Europe Day will be different. But despite our usual cultural events not going ahead, much will be happening online to mark the 70th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration.
Read more : What's happening for Europe Day?
EU solidarity brings stranded Irish home
01-05-2020
The EU has helped hundreds of Irish citizens stranded abroad by Covid-19 travel restrictions to get home safely. The EU is providing assistance to the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) as part of an unprecedented global effort to repatriate citizens left without return flights due to the rapid spread of the pandemic.
Read more : EU solidarity brings stranded Irish home
The European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland is delighted to announce that the European Youth Parliament Ireland has been declared the winner of the 2020 Charlemagne Youth Prize for Ireland.
Read more : EYP Ireland - Ireland’s winner of the Charlemagne Youth Prize
President David Sassoli speaking at the opening of the European Parliament’s plenary session in Brussels, the second to be held remotely due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Read more : President Sassoli at opening of this week's Plenary session
EU Solidarity: Home and away
01-04-2020
Over 100 Irish citizens as well as citizens from thirteen other EU member states have been repatriated, by the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs, after being stranded in Peru due to COVID-19. The Irish government can avail of EU financial support in a true display of solidarity among the EU, citizens and member states alike.
Read more : EU Solidarity: Home and away
These are extraordinary times for citizens and countries alike. It is important we work together.
Read more : President Sassoli: Europe is ready to act in unison
Today, Frances Fitzgerald MEP, in collaboration with the European Parliament's Office in Ireland, organised and chaired an event entitled 'EU Trade Amidst Global Uncertainty' in the RIA on Dawson Street, Dublin.
Read more : Frances Fitzgerald MEP chairs event entitled 'EU Trade Amidst Global Uncertainty'
The EP issues COVID-19 outbreak measures
04-03-2020
EP President David Sassoli decides on further precautionary measures with regard to Coronavirus. Please rest assured that these are measures of a temporary nature. The Parliament is monitoring the situation in real time and will adapt its measures accordingly.
Read more : The EP issues COVID-19 outbreak measures
St Mary's College from Naas, who were representing Germany have won the 2020 Model Council of the European Union and will be awarded a trip with Euroscola to Strasbourg later this year. St Mary's College is also one of over 70 schools nationwide taking part in the European Parliament Ambassador School Programme (EPAS).
Read more : EPAS school victorious in Model Council climate crisis debate
The European Commission Representation in Ireland issued today the latest annual Eurobarometer report for Ireland. Compared to other EU Member States, the report finds that Irish people have the most positive image of the EU (63%) and 8% hold a negative image. 73% of people feel that the interests of Ireland are well taken account of in the EU. The data for the report was gathered in November 2019 as part of the 92nd edition of the Standard Eurobarometer.
Read more : Ireland remains most enthusiastic EU member state
Ireland officially gains two new MEPs
31-01-2020
Due to the UK’s departure of the EU, Barry Andrews (Fianna Fáil/ Renew Europe) and Deirdre Clune (Fine Gael/ EPP) will take their seats in the European Parliament on 1 February. Barry Andrews and Deirdre Clune were elected, in last May’s European elections, in the Dublin and Ireland South constituencies respectively.
Read more : Ireland officially gains two new MEPs
Following on from the process of creating an in-house security service already undertaken in Brussels and Strasbourg, the European Parliament is now preparing to recruit security staff for its Luxembourg premises. As part of this exercise, the European Parliament aims to employ a considerable number of experienced staff in the area of security in Luxembourg.
Read more : 115 new security staff to be hired by the EP in Luxembourg
The European Parliament today approved the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union at its plenary session in Brussels, paving the way for the UK to officially leave the EU on 31 January 2020.
Read more : European Parliament gives final approval to UK withdrawal agreement
Today we hosted an event entitled ‘European Investment Bank funding in the new decade’, focussing on loans available from the European Investment Bank (EIB) in Ireland for major projects tackling the climate crisis, enhancing skills and innovation, promoting small business and developing infrastructure.
Read more : European Investment Bank funding in the new decade
The European Parliament supported the DCU Brexit institute in hosting an event entitled ‘Brexit and the New EU Institutional Cycle’, on 12th December 2019. Gráinne Ní Aodha (thejournal.ie) chaired a panel including James Temple Smithson (Head of the European Parliament Information Office in Ireland), Dr. Veronica Corcodel (DCU), Amb. Michele Valensise (President of the German – Italian Centre for European Excellence at Villa Vigoni and Former Secretary General of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs) and Prof. Joachim Fischer (University of Limerick).
Read more : Former EP President Pöttering addresses the DCU Brexit institute
Emily O’Reilly re-elected European Ombudsman
18-12-2019
Emily O'Reilly has been re-elected as EU Ombudsman, securing 320 votes in the European Parliament in Strasbourg. The Irishwoman,preceded by Paraskevas Nikiforos Diamandouros and Jacob Söderman, first took office in 2013 becoming the first female European Ombudsman.
Read more : Emily O’Reilly re-elected European Ombudsman
The newly released Eurobarometer shows that Irish people are demanding more action from the European Parliament on key policy issues such as higher education and economic growth while also emphsising values the Parliament should promote such as the protection of human rights worldwide.
Read more : Eurobarometer: Irish citizens want more action from the European Parliament
The Lux Film Prize: A celebration of culture
04-12-2019
The European Parliament's prestigious Lux Film Prize has been celebrating creative directors and films annually since 2007. For 12 years the films have been shown simultaneously across the continent from Nicosia to Cork. In Ireland the 2019 finalists were shown during the Cork Film Festival and in the Light House Cinema in Dublin.
Read more : The Lux Film Prize: A celebration of culture
Newly released Eurobarometer figures show that citizens are demanding climate action on a European level and that Irish citizens in particular feel that youth activism, highlighting climate change, is impacting policy on a European and national level.
Read more : Eurobarometer: Youth activism making a difference
EYE Report chief-editors wanted
05-11-2019
The Youth Outreach Unit of the European Parliament is seeking to contract on a temporary basis two Editors in-Chief to assist the EYE Team in the production of the EYE2020 report (One Editor-in-Chief for reporting and one Editor-in-Chief for multimedia content).
Read more : EYE Report chief-editors wanted
The European Parliament will be partnering with the Cork Film Festival again this year for the free screening of the three short-listed films for the LUX Film Prize.
Read more : Cork Film Festival to partner with the EP's Lux Film prize 2019
Uyghur economist and human rights activist Ilham Tohti has been awarded this year’s European Parliament Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought.
Read more : Sakharov Prize 2019: Winner, Ilham Tohti, announced
The European Parliament's office in Ireland, has launched a nationwide competition for student journalists interested in human rights and the prestigious annual Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought awarded each year in Strasbourg. The deadline for submissions is Friday, 1 November.
Read more : Sakharov Prize 2019: European Parliament launches student journalism competition
Commissioners-designate hearings
27-09-2019
This note provides information on the election of the new Commission and the hearings of the Commissioners-designate, which start on 30 September the same date Commissioner-designate Phil Hogan's hearing will take place.
Read more : Commissioners-designate hearings
The newest edition of the Eurobarometer shows that Ireland is among the most pro-European member states with 89% of respondents stating that membership has benefitted the country and 69% saying that their voice counts in the EU that compares to an EU average of 68% and 56% respectively.
Read more : Eurobarometer: Ireland among most pro-European member states
The 11th annual Citizens’ Energy Forum
13-09-2019
The 11th annual Citizens’ Energy Forum took place in the Aviva Conference Centre in Dublin, on September 12th and 13th. Former European Parliament President Jerzy Buzek and Irish MEP Ciarán Cuffe were among the speakers over the two days.
Read more : The 11th annual Citizens’ Energy Forum
On Wednesday Christine Lagarde presented her priorities to MEPs in Parliament's Economics and Monetary Affairs Committee if confirmed President of the European Central Bank.
Read more : Lagarde sets out her stall to MEPs in Economics and Monetary Affairs Committee
The Brexit Steering Group has reiterated that an orderly exit is only possible with the backstop, that in all circumstances ensures no hardening of the border on the Island of Ireland, safeguards the Good Friday Agreement and protects the integrity of the Single Market.
Read more : Brexit: An orderly exit is only possible with the backstop
"Cold Case Hammarskjöld", "God Exists, Her Name is Petrunya" and "The Realm" will be competing for this year's Lux Prize, the European Parliament's film prize.
Read more : LUX Prize: Finalists competing for prestigious EP film award announced
The latest Eurobarometer indicates increased citizen engagement across the EU and confirms Irish positivity towards Europe with 89% of Irish citizens believing that EU membership has benefitted the country.
Read more : 68 per cent of EU citizens believe the EU is a benefit
Mairead McGuinness was the first of fourteen Vice-Presidents elected receiving 618 votes from a total of 702 votes cast.
Read more : Mairead McGuinness re-elected as Vice-President of the European Parliament
Today, David Sassoli (S&D, IT) MEP was elected as the President of the European Parliament, replacing Antonio Tajani, having won 345 out of 667 valid votes in the second round.
Read more : David Sassoli: The newly elected President of the European Parliament
On what committees do your MEPs sit on?
03-07-2019
On Wednesday, MEPs voted on the size of Parliament’s 20 committees and two sub-committees. Their composition was confirmed by political groups later on the same day.
Read more : On what committees do your MEPs sit on?
Start of the new Parliamentary term
28-06-2019
Following the recent European elections in which over 200 million European citizens voted, the European Parliament’s new legislative term will start on 2 July 2019.
Read more : Start of the new Parliamentary term
Over 200 million Europeans voted in the May elections which took place between 23-26 May with Irish citizens casting their ballots on 24 May. Turnout increased across the continent from 42,61% in 2014 to 51% in 2019.
Read more : What now after European Parliament elections?
For the 2019-2024 parliamentary term the following candidates have been elected in Ireland. Newly-elected MEPs will take their seats in the European Parliament on 2 July 2019, when Parliament's 9th term starts, and MEPs meet in Strasbourg for its constituent session.
Read more : Final results of the European Elections 2019 in Ireland
It's election day!
24-05-2019
It's finally election day! If you are voting in the capital chances are you will have seen the 'I Voted' stickers designed to reward those who have fulfilled their civic duty while prompting others to do the same.
Read more : It's election day!
We are proud to support the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia & Biphobia. Everyone has the right to equal treatment & opportunities regarding employment, social protection, education.
Read more : International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia & Biphobia 2019
With just one month until the European elections on 23-26 May, the European Parliament is launching a film - "Choose Your Future" - to encourage people to vote. In Ireland, the elections will take place on 24 May.
Read more : European Parliament launches short film to get out the vote for European Elections 2019
Statement by the Conference of Presidents and the Brexit Steering Group of the European Parliament in preparation of the European Council of 10 April 2019.
Read more : Statement by the European Parliament ahead of the 10 April Brexit Summit
St Leo’s College Carlow was chosen as this year's Irish representative at the Charlemagne Youth Prize in Aachen, Germany.
Read more : St. Leo’s College to represent Ireland in Charlemagne Youth Prize
Death of Richie Ryan former MEP
19-03-2019
The European Parliament would like to express its condolences following the death of former MEP Richie Ryan.
Read more : Death of Richie Ryan former MEP
The Ambassadors of EU countries to Ireland gathered at Europe House on Mount Street Lower for a photocall to encourage all EU citizens in Ireland to exercise their right to Vote on May 24.
Read more : EU Member States’ Ambassadors to Ireland promote this year’s EU Elections
International Women's Day 2019
06-03-2019
On Friday, 15 March, the European Commission and the European Parlaiment will be hosting an event in Europe House to mark International Women's Day 2019, celebrating female entrepreneurism in rural Ireland.
Read more : International Women's Day 2019
The Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee on Tuesday approved the candidature of Philip Lane, Governor of the Central Bank of Ireland, to the executive board of the European Central Bank (ECB).
Read more : MEPs back Philip Lane to join ECB executive board
European Elections:100 days to go
13-02-2019
Only 100 days to go before, we cast our ballot sheets, electing the new European Parliament. Much is at stake in these elections and it is more important than ever that we seize the opportunity to make our voices heard in what will be a generation defining election.
Read more : European Elections:100 days to go
The BSG reiterated that the Withdrawal Agreement is fair and cannot be re-negotiated applying especially to the the Irish backstop.
Read more : Brexit Steering Group: No deal without backstop
A crowd of over 100 men’s sheds members gathered at the Metropole Hotel in Cork to see the Irish Men’s Sheds Association awarded the European Citizens’ Prize on Friday January 18,2019.
Read more : Men’s Sheds awarded prestigious European Citizens’ Prize
Opening the European Parliament debate assessing the Westminster vote on the UK`s withdrawal from the EU on Tuesday evening, President Tajani stressed how important continued solidarity for the island of Ireland is.
Read more : President Tajani: 'We must continue to follow the Irish situation closely and stand by Ireland’s side'
A new mobile application, designed by the European Parliament to help citizens to discover what the EU has done, is doing and plans to do, is now available.
Read more : What has Europe ever done for us? Ask our Citizens’ App
Death of Mark Killilea, former MEP
03-01-2019
The European Parliament notes with regret the death of former MEP Mark Killilea who served in the European Parliament from 1987 to 1999 representing the Connacht-Ulster Constituency.
A former Minister of State, Mr Killilea represented his native Galway as a Senator and as a Teachta Dála from 1969 to 1987. Born in Tuam in 1939 he sadly passed away on New Years Eve 2018 and will be missed by family, friends and colleagues alike.
Read more : Death of Mark Killilea, former MEP
At the opening of a debate with the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nicos Anastasiades, on the future of Europe today in Strasbourg, President Antonio Tajani expressed his sorrow for the victims of yesterday’s terror attack on the city of Strasbourg - the seat of the European Parliament.
Read more : Freedom and democracy will always win over violence, crime and terror
President Tajani on Brexit agreement
15-11-2018
“Brexit is most of all about people. It is about safeguarding the rights of our citizens, preserving peace in Northern Ireland and protecting jobs affected by the UK’s departure,” stated European Parliament President, Antonio Tajani, following Brexit chief negotiator, Michel Barnier’s debrief on the Brexit agreement at the Conference of Presidents today.
Read more : President Tajani on Brexit agreement
Oleg Sentsov awarded the 2018 Sakharov Prize
25-10-2018
Ukrainian film director Oleg Sentsov has been awarded this year’s European Parliament Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought.
Read more : Oleg Sentsov awarded the 2018 Sakharov Prize
85% of the Irish public support the EU, however, the appreciation is in stark contrast to an underlying ambivalence towards voting in EU elections.
Read more : Eurobarometer: 85 per cent support for EU in Ireland
During a debate on the EU summit, MEPs welcomed the EU’s unified approach on Brexit and criticised the Council’s inaction on key dossiers, such as migration and social policies.
Read more : Brexit dominates the debate on October’s EU summit
In it's advisory capacity, the European Parliament Constituencies Committee has put forward it's recommendation, accomodating the two additional MEPs Ireland is gaining as a result of Brexit.
Read more : New European Constituencies Recommended by Committee
As well as emphasising the EU's solidarity with Ireland when it comes to the border, President Juncker called for the EU to speak and act as one on a global stage and defend its democratic values.
Read more : State of the Union debate: Strengthen EU as a global player
Continuing the PEACE and Interreg programmes after Brexit, as the EU Commission intends, is crucial to peaceful development in Northern Ireland, MEPs say.
Read more : Northern Ireland: Parliament wants to secure post-Brexit regional funding
Danuta Hübner MEP to vist DCU
03-09-2018
Danuta Hübner MEP, member of the European Parliament's Brexit Steering Group, is visiting Dublin City University's Brexit Institute on Thursday 6 September 2018.
Read more : Danuta Hübner MEP to vist DCU
European Constituencies to be redrawn
22-08-2018
The Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government, Eoghan Murphy, has signed an order establishing a European Parliament Constituencies Committee to consider the future boundaries of Ireland's European electoral districts.
Read more : European Constituencies to be redrawn
The European Parliament's Brexit Steering Group (BSG) is concerned by reports that the UK Home Office is considering processing applications for "settled status" by EU citizens on an alphabetical basis.
Read more : MEPs concerned over UK registration plans for EU27 citizens
Brexit: No withdrawal agreement without a 'backstop' for the Northern Ireland/Ireland border
27-07-2018
The European Parliament’s Brexit Steering Group insist that the withdrawal agreement must include a viable backstop for the Northern Ireland - Ireland border
Read more : Brexit: No withdrawal agreement without a 'backstop' for the Northern Ireland/Ireland border
The European Parliament Lux Film Prize casts an annual spotlight on films that go to the heart of European public debate.
Read more : Lux Film Prize 2018: The finalists announced in Rome
The EU is hiring
16-07-2018
The European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO) is organising an open competition for Irish language translators. The deadline for all applications is set for 4 September 2018.
Read more : The EU is hiring
Guy Verhofstadt, chair of the European Parliament's Brexit Steering Group (BSG), discussed their views on the White Paper released by the UK Government at Chequers, the Prime Minister's country residence, on 6 July 2018.
Read more : Statement by the Brexit Steering Group on UK government White Paper
In data released today by the European Commission, the European Parliament consolidates its position as the most trusted of all European Institutions
Read more : European Parliament the most trusted EU institution
The European Parliament will shrink from 751 to 705 MEPs when the United Kingdom leaves the EU, leaving room for new countries that may join in the future. 46 of the 73 UK seats freed up by Brexit will be available for possible EU enlargement with the remaining 27 UK seats shared out among 14 under-represented EU countries.
Read more : Two more seats for Ireland after EU elections in 2019
Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte debated the future of Europe with MEPs and EU Commission First Vice-President Frans Timmermans on Wednesday. This is the seventh in a series of debates between national leaders and MEPs on the future of Europe debates.
Read more : The EU needs to under-promise and over-deliver, says Dutch PM
We are pleased to announce that the 2018 European Citizens’ prize winners have been revealed!
Read more : European Citizens' Prize Irish winners announced
91 per cent of Irish citizens believe that Ireland has benefited from membership of the EU
23-05-2018
The latest Parliament Eurobarometer survey finds record support for the EU, despite the Brexit backdrop. The Eurobarometer published one year ahead of the European elections in May 2019, confirms citizens’ steadily growing support for the European Union.
Read more : 91 per cent of Irish citizens believe that Ireland has benefited from membership of the EU
The European Parliament notes with regret the death of the former President of the European Parliament Nicole Fontaine on 17 May 2018 at 76 years of age.
Read more : Death of former President of the European Parliament
We are proud to support the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia & Biphobia. Everyone has the right to equal treatment & opportunities regarding employment, social protection, education.
Read more : International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia & Biphobia
Death of Seán Treacy, former MEP
23-04-2018
The European Parliament notes with regret the death of former MEP Seán Treacy who served in the European Parliament from 1981 to 1984 representing the Munster Constituency. During his time in Parliament, Mr Treacy was Vice-Chair and Member of the Committee on Regional Policy and Regional Planning, and Vice-Chair of the Committee on Budgetary Control. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
Read more : Death of Seán Treacy, former MEP
The European Parliament Liaison Office in Dublin is delighted to announce that ISSU’s Tools for Inclusive Schools, a project headed by Ms Ellen O’Rourke, has been declared the winner of the Charlemagne Youth Prize for Ireland.
Read more : Winner of Charlemagne Youth Prize for Ireland announced
President Antonio Tajani, EP President, invites Facebook founder, Mark Zuckerberg, to the European Parliament following the Facebook data crisis involving London-based company Cambridge Analytica.
Read more : Parliament to look into alleged misuse of Facebook data
''Terrorism is an offence to our basic principles. Defending and honouring the victims of terror is equivalent to defending our values.''
Read more : Terrorism: Statement on the anniversary of the 22/3 attacks
''We welcome the UK's confirmation that the "backstop" solution to avoid any hardening of the Irish border, as proposed by the European Commission, will be incorporated into the withdrawal agreement.''
Read more : Brexit Steering Group reaction to Joint Draft Withdrawal Agreement
Plenary endorses a resolution laying out a possible association framework for future EU-UK relations after Brexit.
Read more : Brexit: EP recommends Association Agreement for future EU-UK relations
Any framework for the future relationship between EU and UK must respect the integrity of the EU single market and four freedoms, insist MEPs.
Read more : MEPs discuss EU-UK relations after Brexit including Irish border
Death of Séamus Pattison, former MEP
04-02-2018
The European Parliament notes with regret the death of former MEP Séamus Pattison who served in the European Parliament from 1981 to 1983 representing the Leinster Constituency. During his time in Parliament, Mr Pattison was Vice-Chair of the Committee on Social Affairs and Employment. He was a member of the Committee on Energy and Research and a member of the Delegation for relations with Latin-America. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
Read more : Death of Séamus Pattison, former MEP
Proposals approved by Parliament's Constitutional Affairs Committee would mean an extra two seats for Ireland following Brexit.
Read more : Proposal for two additional seats for Ireland post Brexit
“The government which I lead has been so determined to protect the Good Friday Agreement in all its parts, and we have insisted that there can be no hard border on the island of Ireland. [...] The Irish people are profoundly grateful for the unswerving support of this Parliament,” Taoiseach Leo Varadkar. Read the full speech
Read more : Taoiseach Leo Varadkar's speech to the European Parliament
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar will debate the Future of Europe with MEPs in the European Parliament in Strasbourg on Wednesday 17 January 2018 from 9:30 am. This is the first in a series of debates with heads of government on the future of the EU initiated by European Parliament President Antonio Tajani. Follow the debate live at the link indicated.
Read more : Taoiseach Leo Varadkar to address the European Parliament
On January 1, 2018, it will be 45 years since Denmark and Ireland - together with Britain - became members of the EC. Hear how Mairead McGuinness, Vice President of the European Parliament and her Danish colleague Jeppe Kofod assess the importance of EU membership for their own countries in a new video.
Read more : Ireland and Denmark - 45 years of membership of the EU
Speech by EP President Antonio Tajani at the European Council Meeting
Read more : "As regards the issue of the Irish border, Ireland’s problems are the Union’s problems"
European Parliament President statement on Brexit negotiations
Read more : European Parliament will closely follow solution proposed for Northern Ireland
Speaking from Cyprus today European Parliament President Antnio Tajani said
Read more : EP President Tajani on state of play on negotiations with the UK
Brexit progress but not enough
29-11-2017
Following their meeting today, MEPs on the European Parliament's Brexit Steering Group emphasise the need for more progress in citizens' rights and on the situation on the island of Ireland in a letter to Michel Barner, the EU's chief negotiator.
Read more : Brexit progress but not enough
Irish MEPs today presented (24/11/17) young people from Foróige with the European Citizen’s Prize 2017.
Read more : MEPs present European Citizen’s Prize 2017 to Foróige
“Sámi Blood” wins the 2017 LUX Film Prize
14-11-2017
“Sámi Blood”, a Swedish/Norwegian/Danish co-production, is 2017 winner of the LUX Film Prize
Read more : “Sámi Blood” wins the 2017 LUX Film Prize
The European Parliament’s Brexit Steering Group, chaired by Guy Verhofstadt met today & issued the statement oulined in the link below:
Read more : EP outlines red lines on UK proposals for citizens’ rights
EP Agriculture Comittee discussion on Brexit, EU farming policy and the agri-food sector
Read more : Minimising negative impact of Brexit on EU’s farming sector: Debate with experts
European Parliament President, Antonio Tajani, delivered a speech at the opening of the European Council meeting today. Among the subjects touched upon in his address: Dublin Regulation, migration policy and Schengen, digital agenda, security and defence, Brexit, and the future of Europe.
Read more : Speech by President Antonio Tajani at European Council meeting
Parlemeter opinion poll of citizens’ views on European Union and European Parliament. 80 % of Irish Citizens say EU membership is good for Ireland.
Read more : Latest study shows that public confidence in the EU and Parliament continues to grow
People and organisations from across EU came to Parliament on 11 October for the Citizen's Prize award ceremony in recognition of their contributions to Europe.
Read more : Two Irish Winners of European Parliament European Citizen’s Prize 2017
The European Parliament Information Office together with Seán Kelly MEP hosted a special briefing on "EU Funding Opportunities" last Friday 29 September 2017 in Cork, at which over one hundred people were present to hear a panel of speakers including representatives from the European Investment Bank, the European Commission, Ibec and the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland.
Read more : Seán Kelly MEP chairs EU Funding event in Cork
Progress on EU priorities in the first four rounds of talks with the UK has not been sufficient, says Parliament’s draft resolution
Read more : Lack of sufficient progress on divorce terms for Brexit
On a fact-finding mission to Belfast, the border area and Dublin EP coordinator for Brexit, Guy Verhofstadt, said “Ireland is crucial to the Union”
Read more : Guy Verhofstadt says Ireland must not pay the price for Brexit
"I am here to deliver a message of solidarity. Of solidarity with the Irish citizens, with the Irish people. We will never allow Ireland to suffer from the British decision to leave the EU. That is a commitment from the European Parliament" Read more.
Read more : Speech by EP Brexit Coordinator Guy Verhofstadt to Joint Oireachtas Committees
On a fact-finding mission to Dublin, Belfast, the border area, EP coordinator for Brexit, Guy Verhofstadt will meet with political leaders.
Read more : EP Brexit coordinator Guy Verhofstadt visit 20-21 September
A high-level conference on tourism organised by the President of the European Parliament is taking place on 27 September 2017 in Brussels. The conference will discuss "A European strategy to enhance the competiveness of the tourism industry, a key driver for job creation". The event will also be livestreamed.
Read more : High-level Conference on Tourism, 27 September 2017, Brussels
Applications are now open for traineeships for university graduates in the European Parliament for the period 1 March-31 July 2018. You can choose from several work places: Luxembourg, Brussels, Strasbourg or an EP Information Office in any EU Member State, including including here in Ireland in our office in Dublin. This is a great opportunity to learn more about what the European Parliament is and does. Apply by 15 October (midnight).
Read more : Apply for a traineeship in the European Parliament
The European Parliament's DG Communication has adopted a multi-annual work programme for grants in the area of communication covering the period 2016-2019 which is implemented through calls for proposals published on its website. Apply by 15 September 2017 for grants in the events category.
Read more : Call for proposals for grants in the events category COMM/SUBV/2017/E
The Brexit Steering group met Michel Barnier, EU negotiator for Brexit on Tuesday 25 July and issued this common statement after the 2nd round of negotiations between the EU and the UK.
Read more : Brexit: Statement by Guy Verhofstadt and the EP Brexit Steering Group
Three films have been selected to compete for the 2017 Lux Film Prize. BPM (Beats per minute) by Robin Campillo (France), Sámi Blood by Amanda Kernell (Sweden, Norway, Denmark) and Western by Valeska Grisebach (Germany, Bulgaria, Austria) are the films that will compete for this years' Lux Film Prize.
Read more : Lux Film Prize 2017: Finalists announced in Rome
Border Communities Against Brexit is one of the winners of the European Citizen's Prize 2017. The national award ceremony took place in the Garage Theatre, Monaghan Town on Friday 14th July.
Read more : Border Communities Against Brexit awarded European Citizen's Prize
On 27 June 2017, as part of a series of inter-faith dialogues with religious and philosphical organisations, the European Parliament in Brussels will host a dialogue with faith leaders on the future of Europe. The seminar will be opened by MEP Mairead McGuinness, Vice President of the European Parliament and Commissioner Frans Timmermans, Vice President of the European Commission.
Read more : Dialogue with faith leaders on the future of Europe
Two Irish organisations have been successfully nominated for the European Citizen’s Prize 2017. The youth organisation, Foróige and the campaigning group, Border Communities Against Brexit, are among the 50 winners of the European Citizen's Prize 2017.
Read more : Two Irish winners of the European Citizen's Prize 2017
Following news that U.S. President Donald J. Trump intends to withdraw his country from the Paris Agreement on climate change, the President of the European Parliament, Antonio Tajani has asserted that "the Paris Agreement must be respected. It is a matter of trust and leadership. This Agreement is alive and we will take it forward with or without the US administration"
Read more : Parliament remains committed to Climate Change Agreement
On the agenda in this week's plenary session of the European Parliament in Brussels, MEPs considered facilitating the deployment of 5G across the EU, reducting VAT on e-books, the recent surge in anti-Semitism in Europe and new proposals to boost the EU transport sector among other issues.
Read more : Highlights from this week's Plenary session in Brussels
In his speech on the State of the Union this morning at the European University Institute in Florence, European Parliament President, Antonio Tajani highlighted the results of the latest Eurobarometer survey and spoke about the management of migration flows, security and defence and Brexit.
Read more : European Parliament President Speech on the State of the Union
On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day (03/05/2017), read the statement issued by Antonio TAJANI, EP President.
Read more : President Antonio Tajani on World Press Freedom Day 2017
The April 2017 Eurobarometer survey of public attitudes in Europe shows that the number of people who feel that belonging to the EU is a good thing is increasing. The survey also identifies areas where citizens want the EU to do more and which countries feel that their voice counts most (and least) in EU decision-making. Results for Ireland, which are largely in line with Europe-wide trends, are included throughout.
Read more : Belonging to the EU is a good thing, say a growing number of citizens
Public Consultation
10-04-2017
Have you visited Europe House in Dublin to look for information or to attend debates? What do you think is the best way to ask or look for information about the EU? Thanks for taking the time to fill in this public consultation. Deadline: 8 May 2017
Read more : Public Consultation
We are delighted to announce that Europa International, a project run by students at UCD, has been declared the winner of the Charlemagne Youth Prize for Ireland
Read more : Europa International wins Irish section of Charlemagne Youth Prize
An overwhelming majority of the house (516 votes in favour, 133 against, with 50 abstentions) adopted a resolution officially laying down the European Parliament’s key principles and conditions for its approval of the UK's withdrawal agreement.
Read more : Brexit: MEPs agree on key conditions for approving UK withdrawal agreement
The Conference of Presidents endorsed a motion for a resolution drawn up by the leaders of four political groups and the Constitutional Affairs Committee, which sets out conditions for a final approval by the EP of any withdrawal agreement with the UK.
Read more : Brexit: MEPs set out conditions for approval of UK withdrawal agreement
Sixty years ago the leaders of the six founding member states gathered in Rome to put their signatures under the agreements that would create a European common market, but also pave the way for a union of peace and prosperity that has come to encompass most of our continent. Leading MEPs will join the anniversary celebrations in Rome this weekend, while heads of state and government will use the opportunity to deliberate on the next steps for the EU.
Read more : The EU turns 60: anniversary of the Treaty of Rome
Registration is now open to apply for traineeships with the European Parliament for the Autumn period (October 2017-February 2018). These traineeships are for university graduates (Robert Schuman traineeships). Deadline for application: 15 May 2017
Read more : Apply now for traineeships in the European Parliament
"Brexit will be a particular challenge for Ireland and its people," said Parliament President Antonio Tajani after welcoming Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny to the Parliament on 2 March.
Read more : Tajani: "Brexit will be a particular challenge for Ireland and its people"
CETA: MEPs back EU-Canada trade agreement
16-02-2017
The EU-Canada Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) was approved by the European Parliament on Wednesday 15.02.2017.
Read more : CETA: MEPs back EU-Canada trade agreement
Political group leaders reacted to President Donald Trump’s recent signing of an executive order banning nationals of seven countries from entering US territory.
Read more : MEPs firmly condemn US travel ban in debate with Federica Mogherini
The EU-Canada Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), aims to boost goods,services trade and investment flows, was approved by the INTA Committee.
Read more : CETA: Trade Committee MEPs back EU-Canada agreement
Irish MEP Mairead McGuinness was elected first Vice President of the European Parliament in Strasbourg on Wednesday January 18th.
Read more : Mairead McGuinness elected first Vice President of the European Parliament
The European Parliament will elect a new President, for the second half of this legislature, on 17 January. Outgoing President Martin Schulz will preside over the election of his successor, who will in turn oversee the election of the 14 Vice-Presidents and 5 Quaestors, on 18 January. For more information click on link below
Read more : Parliament to elect new President, Vice-Presidents & Quaestors
Martin Schulz summed up his five years as European Parliament President in a statement to the House on Wednesday 14 December.
Read more : End of term statement by Parliament President Martin Schulz
Islamic State survivors and Iraqi Yazidi activists Nadia Murad and Lamiya Aji Bashar received today Parliament’s Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought.
Read more : Nadia Murad & Lamiya Aji Bashar receive 2016 Sakharov Prize
The Commission has today announced plans to introduce a common consolidated corporate tax base (CCCTB) as part of a broader package of corporate tax reforms. Read the reaction of the chairman of Parliament’s Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee Roberto Gualtieri (S&D, IT).
Read more : Statement by Roberto Gualtieri on corporate tax proposal
CoderDojo at the European Citizen’s Prize
13-10-2016
Ireland's CoderDojo joined people and organisations from across Europe in the Parliament in Brussels on 12 October for the European Citizens’ Prize award ceremony that highlighted their contributions to Europe.
Read more : CoderDojo at the European Citizen’s Prize
“We have no problem with the 12,5% corporate tax rate in Ireland”, Commissioner Margrethe Vestager told Irish Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee members in a hearing on competition policy on Monday.
Read more : Commissioner Vestager on Ireland's 12,5% corporate tax rate
Committees meet in Brussels next week. Among the issues on the table will be: Energy Union/security of gas supply; 2017 EU budget, Countering foreign disinformation; Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). Read more.
Read more : What's on in Brussels next week ? 10 – 16 October 2016
MEPs voiced startlingly different views on the state of Greece’s economic adjustment programme, its impact and the prospects for future negotiations between Greece and its creditors, in a public debate with Commissioner Pierre Moscovici on Tuesday afternoon.
Read more : State of Greece's adjustment programme: contrasting views
Action to stop massacres in Syria, implement migration policies and border controls, and ensure a balanced approach to trade deals while defending EU industry are the key challenges that EU heads of state or government should tackle at their 20-21 October meeting in Brussels, said Parliament’s political group leaders in a debate with the Slovak Council Presidency and EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker on Wednesday.
Read more : Firm stance on Russia, trade deals and Brexit talks, EU leaders urged
The UNFCCC Paris Agreement on fighting climate change, the first-ever universal, legally binding global climate deal, will come into force next month, having met the necessary conditions much earlier than predicted, as Parliament agreed to its ratification by the EU in a historic vote on Tuesday.
Read more : MEPs’ green light for Paris climate agreement
The investigative journalists behind the “Panama Papers” revelations were welcomed with applause to the first public hearing of Parliament’s inquiry committee on Tuesday. They explained their findings, which are based on 2.6 terabytes of leaked information compromising banks, heads of state, ministers, criminals and other clients of Mossack Fonseca, a company offering anonymity services and low tax solutions.
Chair Werner Langen (EPP, DE) opened the meeting by saying that the committee’s task is to find out whether - and if so to what extent - member states broke EU law or failed to implement it.
Read more : Panama Papers: “This is so wrong, it has to stop”, investigative journalists tell MEPs
Among the items on the agenda in Brussels this week are The Panana Papers inquiry; Roaming;2017 Budget; car approval system; Counter-terrorism; the future of the Jewish communties in Europe and preparations for the plenary session in Strasbourg. In addition, ECB President Mario Draghi will present the ECB’s perspective on economic and monetary developments, in particular in the aftermath of the Brexit referendum, to the Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee on Monday.
Read more : What's on in Parliament this week: 26 September – 02 October 2016
What's on in Parliament this week
19-09-2016
Following a busy plenary session in Strasbourg, MEPs work this week in their constituency or take part in parliamentary delegations. Parliament President Martin Schulz travels to London to meet among others UK Prime Minister Theresa May, while some MEPs are in Lebanon to assess the country's response to the refugee crisis.
Read more : What's on in Parliament this week
Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager won wide support from MEPs, in a Wednesday afternoon debate, for the Commission’s state aid verdict that the tax benefits that Ireland granted to Apple Inc., enabling it to pay substantially less tax than other businesses over many years, were illegal.
Read more : Wide support for Commission’s state aid verdict on Ireland’s tax deal with Apple
2016 State of the Union debate
14-09-2016
Populism, unemployment and social injustice are among the key challenges for the EU, said Commission President Juncker in his annual State of the Union speech in the EP on Wednesday. The refugee crisis, Brexit and counter-terrorism were also debated with political groups’ leaders and other MEPs, who put forward their visions of how to address people’s deepest concerns about the future.
Read more : 2016 State of the Union debate
The European Commission's ruling that Apple should pay Ireland €13 billion in taxes has reignited the discussion of how much tax large companies should pay. We talked to Markus Ferber, one of the Parliament's leading members on tax issues, who said the Commission's decision enjoyed the Parliament's full backing.
Read more : Apple: "Attracting investment by granting tax deals is illegal in the EU"
Parliament will evaluate Commissioner-designate Sir Julian King for the portfolio of the Security Union during its plenary session in Strasbourg. The Civil Liberties Committee will first hold a public hearing with the candidate on Monday 12 September. The full House will take a vote on Thursday.
Read more : Assessment of UK candidate for Security Union Commissioner
The Week Ahead 05 – 11 September 2016
05-09-2016
Committee and political group meetings, Brussels The future financing of the EU, Car Emissions and refugees/resettlement are among the topics on the agenda for the European Parliament committee meetings this week.
Read more : The Week Ahead 05 – 11 September 2016
Two days ahead of the informal meeting of the EU heads of state and government (without the United Kingdom) in Bratislava, the European Parliament will hold the annual debate on the State of the European Union with Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker in Strasbourg.
Read more : State and future of the EU focus of EP plenary session
Parliamentary committees deal with anything from relations with Turkey to migration and car emissions this week. Parliament President Martin Schulz is due to visit Ankara, while MEPs discuss the EU-Canada trade agreement. In addition former commissioner Günter Verheugen answers questions from the Parliament's inquiry committee investigating car emission tests.
Read more : In Parliament this week: Turkey, EU-Canada trade deal, car emissions
The environment is something Europeans care deeply about: 67% of them would like to the EU to do more on environmental protection, according to a Eurobarometer survey commissioned by the European Parliament. Read on to find out more about what the EU is already doing and will be doing to protect your health, safeguard biodiversity and fight climate change.
Read more : Environment: 67% of Europeans want the EU to do more
From Brexit to the migration crisis: 2016 has proved a very eventful year, but Parliament's work is far from finished. Until the end of the year MEPs will be working on a broad range of issues, from tackling the terrorism threat to improving the digital single market. Read on for an overview of the challenges MEPs will be dealing with the coming months.
Read more : Priorities: what Parliament will be working on for the remainder of 2016
Lux Prize: discover this year's finalists
26-07-2016
The 2016 LUX Film Prize has selected the three films in its Official Competition. The 10th-anniversary edition of the award will have Leyla Bouzid’s As I Open My Eyes (France/Tunisia/Belgium/United Arab Emirates), Claude Barras’ My Life as a Courgette (Switzerland/France) and Maren Ade’s Toni Erdmann (Germany/Austria/Romania) as the final contenders. Chairwoman of the Committee on Culture and Education Silvia Costa and Vice-President of the European Parliament Antonio Tajani announced the titles in contention for the award today, at the Venice Days press conference.
Read more : Lux Prize: discover this year's finalists
The EPIO Dublin and member of the European Parliament’s Economic Committee, Brian Hayes, held a consultation in Dublin today (Tuesday 19 July) with leaders from a cross section of Irish society to update them on current state-of-play with the Pensions Directive and the implications for pension providers. The consultation took place at 13:00 19 July in the offices of the European Parliament at 12-14 Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2. Participants representing a broad range of stakeholders took part; these included pension scheme trustees, pension fund managers, financial advisors, legal advisors, regulators and civil servants.
Read more : Stakeholder Consultation discusses the Single Market for Personal Pensions.
Car emissions: Members of the Inquiry Committee on Emission Measurements in the automotive sector (EMIS) will visit the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC) facilities in Ispra, Italy. The JRC played a crucial role in developing on-road emission testing. MEPs will visit the laboratory, meet officials and researchers and attend a demonstration of tests using portable emission measurement systems. (Monday and Tuesday)
Read more : The Week Ahead: Agenda 18-24 July 2016 (Delegations and committee meeting)
This morning, I would like to express my deep sorrow following the attack last night in Nice. On behalf of the European Parliament, I would like to extend my condolences to the families and friends of the many victims. I send my wishes for a speedy recovery to the injured. I commend the courage and solidarity of both the emergency services and ordinary citizens of Nice.
Read more : President Schulz expresses his deep sorrow and condolences following the attack in Nice
EU countries will have to introduce stronger controls on “blank-firing” guns, to prevent them being converted to fire live ammunition, under Internal Market Committee amendments, voted on Wednesday, to a draft update of the EU firearms directive. The changes approved by MEPs ensure that any firearm which has been converted to firing blanks continues to be covered by EU gun control rules. This closes a legal loophole which became evident in the aftermath of last year’s terrorist attacks in Paris.
Read more : Gun control: MEPs clarify licensing rules and safeguards
Eurozone budget. Eurogroup President Jeroen Dijsselbloem and finance ministers Luis de Guindos (Spain), Michel Sapin (France) Euclid Tsakalotos (Greece) Pier Carlo Padoan (Italy) Pierre Gramegna (Luxembourg), Peter Kažimír (Slovakia) and Edward Scicluna (Malta) will join the committees on Budgets and Economic and Monetary Affairs to discuss ideas for a fiscal capacity for the Eurozone. Parliament will vote its position in October. (Monday)
Read more : The Week Ahead: Agenda 11-17 July 2016 (Committee meetings, Brussels)
EU Commission plans to allow claims that sugary drinks and energy drinks containing caffeine boost “alertness” or “concentration” were vetoed by the European Parliament on Thursday. Displaying these claims on drinks cans would have led to higher sugar consumption among adolescents, who are the largest group of energy drink consumers, said MEPs in their resolution.
Read more : Parliament vetoes energy drink “alertness” claims
Whistle-blowers leaking information in the public interest play a crucial role in upholding democracies, and must therefore be better protected from prosecution, reprisals and threats. This was the key message voiced by many MEPs in Wednesday evening’s debate with Commissioner Jyrki Katainen and Ivan Korčok from the Slovak Presidency of the Council on how to improve legal safeguards for people revealing illegal or unethical activities in the public or private sectors.
Read more : EU must provide legal protection to whistle-blowers, urge MEPs
A new, tougher, A to G scale showing the energy efficiency of household appliances should be introduced, to keep pace with technological progress, said MEPs voting on an EU Commission proposal on Wednesday. Most appliances on the market now meet the “class A” requirements first set in 2010, so ever more pluses (A+, A++, A+++) are being added, note MEPs, who argue that setting tougher requirements will create incentives to improve energy efficiency still further.
Read more : Energy efficiency of home appliances: MEPs call for more ambitious A to G scale
Parliament’s recommendations for making corporate taxation fairer and clearer were voted on Wednesday. MEPs call for an EU register of beneficial owners of companies, a tax havens blacklist, sanctions against non-cooperative tax jurisdictions, action against abuse of “patent box” regimes, a code of conduct for banks and tax advisors, tax good governance rules in EU trade agreements, a common consolidated corporate tax base (CCCTB) and a withholding tax on profits leaving the EU.
Read more : MEPs call for tax haven blacklist, patent box rules, CCCTB and more
Plans to set up an EU border control system, bringing together the EU’s Frontex border agency and national border management authorities, were endorsed by MEPs on Wednesday. Under these plans, national authorities will still manage their borders on a day-to-day basis but, if their EU external borders are under pressure, they will be able to seek help from the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (EBCG), to rapidly deploy pooled border guard teams to those borders.
Read more : MEPs back plans to pool policing of EU external borders
Firms supplying essential services, e.g. for energy, transport, banking and health, or digital ones, such as search engines and cloud services, will have to improve their ability to withstand cyber-attacks under the first EU-wide rules on cybersecurity, approved by MEPs on Wednesday.
Read more : Cybersecurity: MEPs back rules to help vital services resist online threats
EU leaders must respond to the UK's vote to leave the EU, by doing more to defend the EU project and to make it more transparent, social and responsive to citizens' concerns. This was a key message that came out of Parliament's Tuesday morning debate with European Council President Donald Tusk and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker, on last week's EU summit.
Read more : EU must do more to meet citizens' concerns, urge MEPs in debate on Brexit summit
The Lux Film Prize, which the European Parliament awards to the best film produced in Europe, is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. The nominations for 2016 have tonight been revealed at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival in the Czech Republic. The three films short-listed for the finals will be announced in the end of July and the prize ceremony will take place in November.
Read more : 10 years of Lux Film Prize: find out the nominations for 2016
The fight against terrorism should be the EU's number one priority followed by action on unemployment, the fight against tax fraud, migration, the protection of external borders and the environment, according to the vast majority of people surveyed in a special Eurobarometer carried out by the European Parliament. Those participating were asked if more or less common action is required on a range of different issues. Check out our interactive infographic.
Read more : Survey: people reveal their priorities for the EU
The Week Ahead: Agenda 4-10 July 2016
01-07-2016
Parliament will debate the outcome of the 28 - 29 EU summit with EU Council President Donald Tusk and Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker. Besides the consequences of the UK’s EU membership referendum, the heads of state or government also discussed digital single market and capital markets union proposals, “European Semester” country-specific economic policy recommendations and the EU’s global strategy for a common foreign and security policy. (Debate Tuesday)
Read more : The Week Ahead: Agenda 4-10 July 2016
Heated debate on Brexit and its consequences
28-06-2016
Opening the extraordinary session, European Parliament President Martin SCHULZ (S&D, DE) noted that this was the first time that a plenary session had been convened at such short notice, but also pointed out that the UK citizens’ decision to leave the EU was equally unprecedented. He warmly welcomed Lord Hill and thanked him for his work in the European Commission and his decision to step down after having campaigned for Britain to remain in the EU. His statement was followed by standing ovations from both MEPs and fellow Commissioners.
Read more : Heated debate on Brexit and its consequences
The UK must respect the wish of a majority of its citizens, entirely, fully and as soon as possible, by officially withdrawing from the EU before any new relationship arrangements can be made, says the European Parliament in a resolution voted after an extraordinary plenary debate on Tuesday. MEPs also stress the urgent need for reforms to ensure that the EU lives up to its citizens’ expectations.
Read more : MEPs call for swift Brexit to end uncertainty and for deep EU reform
Extraordinary PlenarySession relating to the results of the UK referendum: MEPs will meet in Brussels on Tuesday for an extraordinary plenary session at 10.00 to discuss and vote on a resolution assessing the outcome of the UK referendum and its consequences for the European Union.
Read more : The Week Ahead: Agenda 27 June - 3 July 2016 (Plenary, committee and political group meetings, Brussels)
EP President Martin Schulz, European Council President Donald Tusk and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte met Friday morning in Brussels at the invitation of EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker. They discussed the outcome of the United Kingdom referendum and made the following joint statement: "In a free and democratic process, the British people have expressed their wish to leave the European Union. We regret this decision but respect it.
Read more : Joint statement by Schulz, Tusk, Rutte and Juncker on UK referendum outcome
To follow up the UK’s EU membership referendum, Parliament's Conference of Presidents (EP President and political group leaders) decided on Friday morning, to convene an extraordinary plenary session for 28 June at 10:00. During this session, MEPs will vote a resolution analysing the outcome and ways forward. EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and Council representatives will take part.
Read more : Extraordinary plenary session Tuesday 28 June
The European Parliament named the 65 members of its “Panama Papers” Committee of Inquiry, into tax evasion and money laundering, on Thursday, after approving its remit on 8 June. The committee’s shorthand label will be “PANA”. The European Parliament agreed to set up an inquiry committee into the “Panama Papers” revelations on 8 June. The committee is to investigate alleged contraventions and maladministration in the application by the EU Commission or member states of EU laws on money laundering, tax avoidance and tax evasion. It will have twelve months to present its report.
Read more : Parliament names “Panama Papers” inquiry committee members
“The elected Israeli leadership has been and is in support of two states for two peoples solution”, President of the State of Israel Reuven Rivlin, told MEPs on Wednesday. However “at this time, a permanent agreement for peace between us and Palestinians cannot be achieved”, he added, calling on EU to help build trust between the parties. President Rivlin stressed that the political and regional circumstances which would enable Israelis and Palestinians to reach a permanent agreement “are failing to materialise.”
Read more : Israeli President calls on MEPs to help build trust in the Middle East
President Schulz opened the session by calling a minute’s silence for UK MP Jo Cox, who was so seriously injured in a brutal street attack in Birstall (UK) on 16 June that she died the same day. He also dedicated the minute’s silence to victims of the LGBTI nightclub shooting in Orlando (USA) on 13 June, and to two police officers stabbed to death in Magnanville (France), also on 13 June.
Read more : Opening: minute’s silence for Jo Cox and attack victims in USA and France
The creation of an EU border control system received a first green light from Parliament and Council negotiators on Tuesday night. The cornerstone of the deal is to upgrade today’s Frontex border agency, which, together with national border management authorities, will form a European Border and Coast Guard. It is now up to member states and Parliament as a whole to endorse the agreement.
Read more : European Border and Coast Guard: Parliament and Council strike provisional deal
The EU's agriculture, a victim of climate change, must also be a part of a solution to mitigate its effects, members of the Agriculture committee told Commissioner Miguel Arias Cañete on Tuesday. MEPs called for a fair and well-targeted 2030 emission reduction goals and highlighted the role EU forests play and could play in tackling climate change. Many also stressed EU should focus more on shortening supply chains and avoid imports of products from abroad with high environmental footprint.
Read more : Climate change: EU farming must be part of the solution but 2030 targets must be fair, Agriculture MEPs say
An EU Commission plan to systematically check all EU citizens entering or leaving the EU was endorsed by Civil Liberties Committee MEPs on Tuesday. Members amended the proposal to enable member states to run targeted checks, as an exception, in the event of lengthy delays and provided that security is not at risk.
Read more : Plan to check EU citizens at external borders backed by civil liberties MEPs
UK referendum. An extraordinary Conference of Presidents (EP President and political group leaders) will meet on Friday morning to discuss the outcome of the UK’s EU membership referendum, followed by press point at 9:30 (PHS ground floor). Later in the day, EP President Martin Schulz will meet European Council President Donald Tusk, Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and the Netherlands Prime-Minister Mark Rutte at the Berlaymont Building, also on the referendum outcome.
Read more : The Week Ahead: Agenda 20-26 June 2016 (Plenary and committee meetings, Brussels)
Plans for stricter monitoring and certification procedures to ensure full compliance and traceability of medical devices, such as breast or hip implants, were backed by Health Committee MEPs on Wednesday. MEPs also approved legislation to tighten up information and ethical requirements for diagnostic medical devices used for example in pregnancy or DNA testing. Both files were informally agreed with the Dutch Presidency of the Council.
Read more : Medical devices: Health Committee MEPs approve stricter EU safety requirements
Dutch finance minister and ECOFIN Chair Jeroen Dijsselbloem worries that the way in which the EU Commission applies Stability and Growth Pact rules may not be entirely objective, he told Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee MEPs on Tuesday. At a meeting reviewing the Dutch Presidency of the Council of Economy and Finance Ministers, he said he hoped that on Friday 17 June they would agree a road map for completing the Banking Union with a European Deposit Guarantee Scheme (EDIS).
Read more : Dijsselbloem concerned about flexible application of Stability and Growth Pact rules
If Turkey goes on undermining rule of law principles and stripping Members of the Turkish Parliament of their immunities, then it should not expect to be granted an EU visa-free regime, said Foreign Affairs Committee MEPs on Tuesday in a debate with Selahattin Demirtaş, co-chair of pro-Kurdish Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP). They also voiced solidarity with Mr Demirtaş’ efforts to revive the Kurdish peace process talks.
Read more : No EU visa-free travel for Turks, if rule of law is undermined, say MEPs
Should energy and sugary drinks be allowed to claim on their labels that the caffeine in them boosts alertness and concentration? Parliament's public health and food safety committee fears this could affect children and teenagers, who are the main consumers of energy drinks. On Wednesday 15 June, committee members discuss whether to vote against a European Commission proposal allowing this. We talked to Christel Schaldemose, in charge of steering the plans through Parliament, why she opposes it.
Read more : Schaldemose: "Energy drinks shouldn't have any kind of health claims on them"
Legal Affairs MEPs have approved new rules on Tuesday on property regimes for international married couples or registered partnerships. They will bring legal clarity in cases of divorce or death and bring an end to parallel and possibly conflicting proceedings in various member states, for instance on property or bank accounts. The rules would apply in 18 EU countries which were willing to join this initiative through an enhanced cooperation.
Read more : Clear rules for 16 million international couples
Health claims on caffeine. A proposal to veto a Commission draft plan to allow claims that caffeine helps boost alertness and concentration to be made on the labels of sugary drinks, and particularly energy drinks consumed mostly by adolescents, is up for a vote in the Environment and Public Health Committee. (Wednesday)
Read more : The Week Ahead: Agenda 13-19 June 2016 - Committee meetings, Brussels
The European Parliament agreed to set up an inquiry committee into the “Panama Papers” revelations, of detailed information on offshore companies and their ultimate beneficiaries, in a vote on Wednesday. The committee is to investigate alleged contraventions and maladministration in the application by the EU Commission or member states of EU laws on money laundering, tax avoidance and tax evasion. It will have 65 members and twelve months to present its report.
Read more : Parliament sets up “Panama Papers” inquiry committee
A majority of MEPs welcomed plans to step up cooperation with third countries, particularly in Africa, by increasing public and private investment there to support economic and social development and curb migration flows. But many MEPs also warned against replicating the EU deal with Turkey in Tuesday’s debate with EU Commission First Vice-President Frans Timmermans and foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini, who presented a proposal for a new “partnership framework with third countries”.
Read more : Migration: MEPs back cooperation with Africa but warn against new “Turkey deals”
The new European Commission proposals for a review of the “blue card” scheme for highly-skilled workers from third countries, which should simplify their admission and improve their living conditions, and for an action plan to promote successful integration of migrants within the EU, were debated on in plenary session on Tuesday with Commissioner Dimitris Avramopoulos.
Read more : Migration debate on review of the “blue card” and EU action plan on integration
MEPs urge the EU Commission to put forward proposals against unfair trading practices in the food supply chain, so as to ensure fair earnings for farmers and a wide choice for consumers, in a resolution voted on Tuesday. The aim should be to ensure fair and transparent trade relations among food producers, suppliers and distributors. Fair trading should in turn help to prevent overproduction and food waste, they add.
Read more : Parliament calls for EU action to help farmers fight unfair trading practices
The Week Ahead: Agenda 06-12 June 2016
03-06-2016
Migration compact. A new EU plan to address the root causes of migration will be presented by the EU Commission and debated in plenary on Tuesday afternoon. The “migration compact”, prepared by Commission First Vice-President Frans Timmermans and EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini, foresees using EU funds to promote private investment in migrants’ countries of origin, particularly in Africa.
Read more : The Week Ahead: Agenda 06-12 June 2016
The European Parliament Conference of Presidents, uniting the EP president and political group leaders, agreed on Thursday 2 June on a mandate for an inquiry committee to look into the so-called Panama Papers, which revealed detailed information on off-shore companies and their ultimate beneficiaries. The proposal by the Conference of Presidents will be voted by Parliament as a whole on 8 June during the plenary session in Strasbourg.
Read more : Parliament's political leadership agrees on mandate inquiry committee Panama Papers
CoderDojo is among the 50 winners of the European Citizen's Prize 2016 of the European Parliament. Since 2008, the prize has been awarded to citizens or organisations that contributed to promoting better mutual understanding and closer integration between citizens or to facilitating cross-border or transnational cooperation within the EU. The winners will receive a medal of honour at an award ceremony in their country and will be invited to a joint event in Brussels in October.
Read more : CoderDojo are Irish winners of the European Citizen’s Prize from the European Parliament
The Week Ahead: Agenda 30 May- 5 June 2016
27-05-2016
European Border and Coast Guard: Plans to create a European Border and Coast Guard Agency, bringing together the EU’s Frontex border agency and national border authorities, will be put to a vote in the Civil Liberties Committee. The new agency’s mandate would empower it to intervene at EU external frontiers where urgent action is required, even if the EU countries concerned have not asked for help. (Monday) Press conference by rapporteur Artis Pabriks (EPP, LV) on Tuesday at 09:00.
Read more : The Week Ahead: Agenda 30 May- 5 June 2016
Consumers should be given more power in the energy market, say MEPs in a resolution on a "new energy deal for energy consumers", voted on Thursday. They recommend collective buying, household power generation, better price comparison tools for all and making it easier to switch energy providers and tariffs. In a non-binding text, intended as an input to Energy Union legislation to be tabled by the EU Commission, MEPs also call for EU funds for energy efficiency to focus on energy poverty.
Read more : Boost consumer power in the energy market, urge MEPs
The EU Commission should set up a taskforce to monitor virtual currencies, like Bitcoin, to prevent their being used to launder money or finance terrorism, said Parliament in a non-binding resolution voted on Thursday. The proposal, set out in a resolution drafted by Jakob von Weizsäcker (S&D, DE) suggests that the taskforce, which would be overseen by the Commission, should build expertise in the underlying technology of virtual currencies
Read more : MEPs call for virtual currency watchdog to combat money laundering and terrorism
The EU Commission should go on negotiating with the USA to remedy “deficiencies” in proposed “Privacy Shield” protection for EU citizens’ data transferred to the US for commercial purposes, Parliament says in a non-legislative resolution passed on Thursday. In the resolution, passed by 501 votes to 119 with 31 abstentions, MEPs welcome the efforts of the Commission and the US administration to achieve "substantial improvements" in the Privacy Shield compared to the Safe Harbour decision which it is to replace.
Read more : EU-US “Privacy Shield” for data transfers: further improvements needed, MEPs say
The EU must quickly take further measures to stabilize milk prices and bring relief to struggling dairy farmers, urged MEPs in Thursday's plenary debate with Commissioner Phil Hogan and Dutch deputy farm minister Hans Hoogeveen. These measures should include an EU-wide lid on milk production to boost prices, a more efficient intervention system, to enable the EU to react more swiftly, and balancing the supply chain to enable farmers to earn fair returns, they said.
Read more : Milk price crisis: MEPs demand further action to rescue dairy farmers
EU must be more active in tackling the agriculture crisis and balancing the food supply chain, many MEPs said on Tuesday during the debate with Commissioner Phil Hogan. EU's executive must protect EU farmers in trade negotiations with the United States and Mercosur countries, simplify the EU's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) to cut red tape and resist any attempts to re-nationalise the CAP, they insisted.
Read more : Farm crisis and trade talks: Agriculture MEPs urge Phil Hogan to protect EU farmers
The Week Ahead: Agenda 23-29 May 2016
20-05-2016
For the first time since his accession to the throne in 2013, King Willem-Alexander will address Parliament in a formal sitting on Wednesday, following the opening of the Brussels plenary session at 15.00. The Dutch sovereign paid a visit to Parliament and met with EP President Martin Schulz on 3 November prior to his country's presidency of the European Council.
Read more : The Week Ahead: Agenda 23-29 May 2016
In a hurry? Twitter is the fastest way to get updates about decisions taken by the European Parliament. With its 140 character messages, the social network has become the platform of choice for politicians, journalists and other news junkies. But how do you find the best account to follow for you among the nearly 100 official Twitter accounts run by the Parliament? Our interactive and newly updated Twitter map shows the way.
Read more : Twitteropolis: interactive map to the European Parliament on Twitter
The Week Ahead: Agenda 15-22 May 2016
13-05-2016
EU-Turkey deal/Greece. Civil Liberties Committee MEPs will go on a fact-finding mission to Greece to check on the situation at the EU’s external borders and evaluate the implementation of the EU-Turkey deal on refugees. They will travel to the FYROM border to assess the situation there after the closure of the so-called Balkans route, and to Lesvos, to see how asylum applications are processed and visit both open and closed reception facilities. MEPs will also go to Athens to meet representatives of the Greek government, EU and international bodies, as well as NGOs. They will hold a press conference in Athens, on Friday at 10:00. (Wednesday to Friday)
Read more : The Week Ahead: Agenda 15-22 May 2016
EU member states should do more to protect victims of human trafficking, especially women, and take gender-specific prevention, assistance and support measures to help them, say MEPs in a resolution voted on Thursday. The text points out that EU legislation to protect victims of trafficking is not being properly enforced.
Read more : Human trafficking: MEPs call on EU member states to protect victims better
Country of origin labelling should be made mandatory for meat and milk, MEPs reiterate once again in a non-binding resolution voted on Thursday. Mandatory labelling would help improve consumer confidence in food products by making the food supply chain more transparent, they say.
Read more : MEPs renew call for mandatory country of origin labelling of meat and milk
The EU’s common rules on minimum parental leave should be better enforced EU-wide, says Parliament in a resolution voted on Thursday. Member states should guarantee working parents the right to take four months off, unpaid, regardless of where and how they are employed, and fathers in particular should be encouraged to apply for it, says the text.
Read more : Parental leave: MEPs call for common rules to be better enforced
Harmonised EU entry and residence rules to make it easier and more attractive for people from third countries to study or do research at EU universities were approved by Parliament on Wednesday. The new rules clarify and improve conditions for non-EU interns, volunteers, school pupils and au pairs.
Read more : Corporate tax: MEPs welcome plan for information sharing by national authorities
A strong traceability system for all fishery products sold in EU restaurants and shops would help to prevent cases of mislabelling, said MEPs in a resolution approved on Thursday. A sound EU fish labelling policy would in turn boost consumer confidence and the economic development of the EU fishing industry, they added.
Read more : Mislabelled fish: MEPs call for strong traceability system
The reimposition of checks at the Schengen area’s internal borders has put one of the greatest and most tangible achievements of the European project at risk, observed most MEPs speaking in a debate with the Commission and the Council on Wednesday. They agreed that, in order to restore the normal functioning of the passport-free zone, the EU’s external borders need to be properly secured.
Read more : Secure EU external borders to help save Schengen passport-free area, urge MEPs
The EU’s “Dublin” rules, which determine which country is responsible for processing asylum applications, are not working, said MEPs in Wednesday’s debate on an EU Commission proposal to overhaul them. These rules must be replaced with an efficient asylum system, based on solidarity among EU member states, to enable them to manage applications effectively, they urged.
Read more : Dublin rules: MEPs reiterate call for solidarity among EU member states
Harmonised EU entry and residence rules to make it easier and more attractive for people from third countries to study or do research at EU universities were approved by Parliament on Wednesday. The new rules clarify and improve conditions for non-EU interns, volunteers, school pupils and au pairs.
Read more : New rules to attract non-EU students, researchers and interns to the EU
The EU police agency Europol will soon be able to step up efforts to fight terrorism, cybercrime and other criminal offences and respond faster to threats, thanks to new governance rules approved by Parliament on Wednesday. The new powers come with strong data protection safeguards and democratic oversight tools.
Read more : Police cooperation: MEPs approve new powers for Europol to fight terrorism
In a heated debate about the state of play of the Greek macro-economic adjustment programme, the centre-left parties S&D, GUE, Greens/EFA, but also the conservative ECR, warned Greece's creditors and the IMF not to impose more reforms on the country and advocated debt relief. Some MEPs attacked the IMF for being too tough on reforms whereas the centre-right EPP underlined the need for them.
Read more : Heated debate over state of Greece's adjustment programme
The EU should make sure that all its requirements are met before granting Turkey visa-free access to the Schengen area, stressed Civil Liberties Committee MEPs in a debate with the EU Commission on Monday. Most MEPs criticised the Commission for proposing a visa waiver for Turkish nationals even though the country has not yet fulfilled all the criteria. Turkey should not be discriminated, but neither should it receive preferential treatment, they agreed.
Read more : Visa liberalisation for Turkey: EU criteria must be met, say MEPs
The fight for fair taxation in the EU is high on Parliament's agenda following the revelations as a result of LuxLeaks and the Panama papers. At a time when EU countries are struggling to recover from the crisis, MEPs are pushing for greater transparency and an end to tax unfair practices. Read on for our overview of Parliament initiatives.
Read more : Overview: the European Parliament's work on taxation
The award ceremony will take place at the Vatican on 6 May at 12:00. It will be introduced by “laudatio” speeches by European Parliament President Martin Schulz, Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and Council President Donald Tusk. On the previous day, the three EU Presidents will take part in a panel debate about the state of the EU, preceded by an address by Italian PM Matteo Renzi.
Read more : Pope Francis to be awarded Charlemagne Prize on 6 May
The Week Ahead: Agenda 02-08 May 2016
29-04-2016
Plenary preparations: Political groups will prepare for the 9-12 May plenary session in Strasbourg, where MEPs are to debate the new migration and asylum reform package to be presented by Commission and preparations for the World Humanitarian Summit. The EP will also vote on draft laws giving Europol new powers to fight terrorism and making residence/entry permits easier to obtain for au pairing and students from third countries. Members will also vote recommendations on how to protect women who are victims of human trafficking, improve existing rules on parental leave and help the development of EU mountain regions.
Read more : The Week Ahead: Agenda 02-08 May 2016
Domestic workers and carers, most of whom are migrant women, should be given an official status in the EU. Recognizing their work as "real" jobs would discourage exploitation, forced labour and human trafficking, say MEPs in a resolution voted on Thursday. MEPs recommend establishing easy-to-manage models for legal employer-worker relationships, citing examples in Belgium and France, to end precariousness and undeclared domestic work.
Read more : Recognizing rights of domestic workers and carers in the EU
The implementation of the EU-Turkey agreement on migration, its legal aspects and democratic control were debated by MEPs, First Vice-President of the Commission Frans Timmermans and Dutch Minister for Immigration Klaas Dijkhoff on Thursday morning. MEPs stressed that there must be no bargaining on visa liberalisation criteria.
Read more : No blank cheque for Turkey, say MEPs in debate on EU-Turkey deal
It is children who pay the price when EU member states fail to cooperate and protect children’s best interests in legal proceedings such as cross-border parental custody disputes and adoption decisions, Parliament points out in a non-binding resolution voted on Thursday. MEPs want specialised chambers within EU countries' family courts to ensure that transnational cases are processed faster.
Read more : Kids’ best interests must come first in cross-border custody cases, urge MEPs
All refugees face great hardship but women and girls are among the most vulnerable of those travelling to the EU in search of protection from war, human rights abuses and deprivation. Because of their gender, they are often the victims of violence and discrimination. On Friday 22 April, European Parliament Vice President Mairead McGuinness (EPP) and Mary Honeyball (UK S & D) hosted a roundtable meeting to discuss the specific needs of women refugees and what more can be done to assist women facing hazardous journeys across the continent. The event was organised jointly with the Immigrant Council of Ireland.
Read more : Women on the Move: Precarious Journeys - Protection for Women Refugees
EU-Turkey deal. The agreement to return migrants and asylum seekers from Greece to Turkey, decided at the EU-Turkey summit on 18 March, will be debated on Thursday morning, with the focus on its legal aspects, implementation and democratic control.
Read more : The Week Ahead: Agenda 25 April - 01 May 2016
Civil Liberties MEPs stress that Turkey must fulfil all criteria to get visa-free travel to the EU
21-04-2016
Turkey must fulfil all requirements established by the EU in order to be granted visa-free access to the Schengen area, stressed Civil Liberties MEPs during a debate on Thursday about the progress made by Ankara in its visa liberalisation roadmap. A majority of MEPs opposed the possibility of relaxing the criteria and called on the Commission to verify with care the Turkish compliance.
Read more : Civil Liberties MEPs stress that Turkey must fulfil all criteria to get visa-free travel to the EU
The Week Ahead: Agenda 18 - 24 April 2016
15-04-2016
Turkey visa liberalisation. The European Commission report on Turkey’s progress towards meeting EU visa liberalisation requirements will be debated by the Civil Liberties Committee. Parliament would need to agree with the Council to exempt Turkish nationals from EU visa requirements. (Thursday)
Read more : The Week Ahead: Agenda 18 - 24 April 2016
The new directive regulating the use of Passenger Name Record (PNR) data in the EU for the prevention, detection, investigation and prosecution of terrorist offences and serious crime was approved by Parliament on Thursday. It will oblige airlines to hand national authorities passengers' data for all flights from third countries to the EU and vice versa.
Read more : Parliament backs EU directive on use of Passenger Name Records (PNR)
Many MEPs speaking in Wednesday’s debate were convinced that the proposed EU law on the use of Passenger Name Records (PNR) will be a useful tool in the fight against terrorism and serious crime. But others voiced serious concerns about the adequacy of privacy safeguards and the proportionality of massive collection of data.
Read more : EU PNR: useful against terrorism, but privacy and proportionality worries remain
A large majority of MEPs welcomed the new EU data protection rules in Wednesday’s debate, ahead of the final plenary vote on Thursday. The revised rules aim to give citizens back control of their personal data and to create a high, uniform level of data protection across the EU fit for the digital era. The reform also sets minimum standards on use of data for policing and judicial purposes.
Read more : MEPs welcome “robust” new EU data protection rules ahead of final vote
Given concerns about the carcinogenicity and endocrine disruptive properties of the herbicide glyphosate, used in many farm and garden applications, the EU Commission should renew its marketing approval for just 7 years, instead of 15, and for professional uses only, Parliament says in a resolution voted on Wednesday. MEPs call for an independent review and the publication of all the scientific evidence that the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) used to assess glyphosate.
Read more : Glyphosate: authorise for just seven years and professional uses only, urge MEPs
MEPs urged the EU Commission and member states to step up their efforts to fight tax evasion and money laundering in a Tuesday afternoon debate prompted by the “Panama Papers” revelations about more than 200,000 offshore companies and their secret owners. The EPP group wants representatives of Mossack Fonseca, the company from which the information leaked, and of the Panamanian government, to appear before Parliament’s Special Committee on Taxation II.
Read more : MEPs call for crackdown on tax fraud in “Panama Papers” debate
Existing tools and possible new measures to prevent and fight terrorism, protect EU citizens and prosecute perpetrators were discussed on Tuesday with Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and the Dutch Minister of Defence Jeanine Hennis-Plaesschaert for the Council presidency, in the presence of EU Foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini.
Read more : Lessons to be learned from recent terrorist attacks
The EU must come up with more decisive actions to deliver relief fast to farmers in the worst-hit sectors, such as dairy and livestock, MEPs told EU Agriculture Commissioner, Phil Hogan, in Tuesday's debate on the ongoing crisis. They also called for structural reforms to better balance the supply chain, ensure fairer income for farmers and assist them to become more resilient to market shocks.
Read more : EU farm crisis: Structural reforms needed to stabilise the market, MEPs say
A centralised asylum system would allow the EU to better manage flows of migrants and asylum seekers, said the European Parliament on Tuesday. It also asked for safe and legal ways to be found for third country nationals to enter the Union without resorting to human smugglers at the risk of their lives. In a non-binding resolution, MEPs acknowledge the failure of the EU asylum system to cope with ever-rising numbers of migrant arrivals and call for a radical overhaul of the so-called Dublin rules.
Read more : Parliament advocates a centralised EU asylum system and legal ways to migrate
A traineeship at the European Parliament offers a unique opportunity to get hands-on experience in an international and multicultural environment. If you want to become a part of Parliament's day-to-day business, apply for a traineeship before the deadline of 15 May. As a trainee, you will contribute to the Parliament's everyday work and get an insight into the work of an institution that represents everyone in the EU.
Read more : Traineeships at the Parliament: don't miss your chance to apply before 15 May
"The European Parliament confirms that seven and six years ago, one of the perpetrators of the Brussels terrorist attacks worked for a period of one month for a cleaning company which was contracted by the European Parliament at the time. As a student, he held a summer holiday job cleaning at the Parliament for one month in 2009 and one month in 2010. Those were the only instances he worked at the Parliament.
Read more : Statement by the spokesman of the European Parliament
Dublin revision: Civil Liberties MEPs call for ambitious reform and centralised asylum system
06-04-2016
An upcoming proposal to reform the Dublin system must be ambitious and replace the current rules with a common distribution system for all EU member states to ensure fair and smooth processing of asylum claims, Parliament's lead MEP on Dublin and Civil Liberties Committee Chair say.
Read more : Dublin revision: Civil Liberties MEPs call for ambitious reform and centralised asylum system
The EPIO Dublin and Marian Harkin MEP Rapporteur for the EGF, held a consultation in the offices of the European Parliament at 12-14 Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2 today (Friday 1 April) with stakeholders from a cross section of Irish society to examine the operation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund and to look at recommendations to improve it for the future.
Read more : Stakeholder Consultation on the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund
The Week Ahead: Agenda 04 - 10 April 2016
01-04-2016
Plenary preparations. Political groups will prepare for the 11-14 April plenary session in Strasbourg. Amongst other topics, MEPs will prepare for debates and votes on a committee proposal for a centralised EU asylum system with national quotas, the progress made by Turkey, Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina towards EU membership, the protection of trade secrets, breeding animals and tools to foster mobility in vocational education.
Read more : The Week Ahead: Agenda 04 - 10 April 2016
Argentina. A delegation of MEPs of the Foreign Affairs committee led by chair Elmar Brok will go to Buenos Aires to meet with the recently elected Argentinian President, Mauricio Macri (tbc), Vice-President Gabriela Michetti, as well as with other members of the Argentinian government and representatives of Parliament and civil society. The visit aims to support the new government's efforts to strengthen relations with the European Union. (Tuesday-Wednesday)
Read more : The Week Ahead: Agenda 28 March - 03 April 2016
So long as serious concerns remain about the carcinogenicity and endocrine disruptive properties of the herbicide glyphosate, which is used in hundreds of farm, forestry, urban and garden applications, the EU Commission should not renew its authorisation. Instead, it should commission an independent review and disclose all the scientific evidence that the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) used to assess glyphosate, said Environment Committee MEPs on Tuesday.
Read more : Glyphosate herbicide: don’t renew its authorisation, urge MEPs
Heightened security at European Parliament
22-03-2016
The European Parliament has raised its alert level in Brussels to orange and heightened security in close cooperation with the Belgian authorities, following the terror attacks in Brussels on Tuesday. Staff have been requested to stay inside where they are until further notice. The Parliament remains open, but the visitors' entrance and the Parlamentarium have been closed.
Read more : Heightened security at European Parliament
The European Youth Media Days (EYMD) is one of the biggest events in Europe for young journalists. This year it takes place in Strasbourg between 19 and 21 May. Young journalists aged between 18 and 30 who are interested in applying must do so via the European Youth Press website until midnight of Sunday 20 March 2016.
Read more : European Youth Media Days 2016 - deadline for applications Sunday 20 March
The failure to date of the EU asylum system to cope with ever-rising numbers of migrant arrivals calls for a radical overhaul of the so-called Dublin rules, said Civil Liberties Committee MEPs on Wednesday. They propose establishing a central system for collecting and allocating asylum applications. The scheme, which could include a quota for each EU member state, would work on the basis of “hotspots” from which refugees would be distributed.
Read more : Centralised EU system for asylum claims with national quotas
EU-Turkey cooperation on migration should be uncoupled from the EU accession negotiating process, say Foreign Affairs Committee MEPs in a resolution voted on Tuesday.
Read more : Turkey: Joint refugee action plan and EU accession
Congratulations to Christian Brothers College, Sidney Hill, Wellington Road, Cork who are this year's Irish national winners of the European Charlemagne Youth Prize. Christian Brothers College is among the 28 projects nominated by national juries in the individual EU member states from which three overall winners will be chosen. The three winning projects will be awarded €5,000, €3,000, and €2,000 respectively. The three winning projects will be selected by the European jury by 7 April 2016.
Read more : Charlemagne Youth Prize - Irish national winner is Christian Brothers College Cork
To fight the growing resistance of bacteria to today’s antibiotics, the use of existing antimicrobial drugs should be restricted, and new ones should be developed, said the European Parliament on Thursday. In a vote on draft plans to update an EU law on veterinary medicines, MEPs advocate banning collective and preventive antibiotic treatment of animals, and back measures to stimulate research into new medicines.
Read more : Superbugs: MEPs want to curb use of antibiotics in farming
Under the tobacco deals the four largest tobacco firms together agreed to pay the EU and its member states a total of $2.15 billion, over the lifetime of the agreements, to drop legal proceedings against them to recover duties lost to illegal trade in cigarettes. Companies also agreed actively to combat smuggling and counterfeiting of tobacco products.
Read more : Cigarettes: MEPs oppose renewing EU anti-smuggling deals with tobacco firms
MEPs backed new rules on Wednesday to ensure that children who are suspected or accused of a crime get a fair trial. The directive, informally agreed with the Council last December, recognises the right of anyone under 18 to be assisted by a lawyer and to be accompanied by the holder of parental responsibility (or another appropriate adult) through most of the proceedings.
Read more : MEPs strengthen rights of children in criminal proceedings
Members of the Agriculture committee held a minute of silence on Monday evening for all farmers who committed suicide due to their dire situation arising from the ongoing crisis on agriculture markets.
Read more : Minute of silence for victims of EU farm crisis
MEPs demand details of the EU-Turkey deal
09-03-2016
MEPs demanded details on Wednesday of the deal struck by EU leaders with Turkey on the management of migrant and refugee flows, underlining that the international asylum rules must be respected.
Read more : MEPs demand details of the EU-Turkey deal
Measures to prevent and halt outbreaks of animal diseases such as avian flu or foot and mouth disease, informally agreed by MEPs and the EU Council of Ministers in June 2015, were endorsed by Parliament on Tuesday.
Read more : Transmissible animal diseases: MEPs approve updated rules
Children across the EU should soon get the benefit of better-funded school milk, fruit and vegetable schemes, along with better education on healthy eating.
Read more : MEPs endorse better schooling in healthier eating habits
Draft rules designed to boost the efficiency and cut the cost of services supplied at EU maritime ports, such as mooring and towage, were voted by Parliament on Tuesday.
Read more : Port services: improving efficiency to boost trade
"Ukraine's needs have not diminished but because of the urgency and weight of other events it has found itself displaced for public attention." So says former EP President Pat Cox in an interview ahead of Ukraine Week, a conference on good parliamentary practice and law-making at the European Parliament on 29 February-2 March. Attended by a 40-strong delegation of Ukrainian parliamentarians, the week opens with the presentation of a report on capacity-building by Cox.
Read more : Pat Cox: "There is still an enormous appetite for deeper transformation in Ukraine"
On the EP agenda this week in Brussels: -Border management and European coast guard, Women refugees and asylum seekers, Press seminar on women refugees, Emission inquiry committee constitutive meeting, Ukraine, FYROM, Plenary preparations, President's agenda, Pre-session press briefing.
Read more : On the Agenda: 29 February-4 March - Brussels
The European Parliament made the case on Thursday for EU-wide data sharing on the registration of cats and dogs to tackle the illegal trade in pets that are often badly bred and at risk of spreading diseases. Trafficking of pets, including wild and exotic animals, is increasingly linked to organised crime and poses a public health risk, say MEPs.
Read more : Step up the fight against pet trafficking, MEPs say
A law to revamp the European Employment Services (EURES) network with an EU-wide database of job seekers and vacancies was approved by Parliament on Thursday. The aim is to help fight unemployment by better matching labour market supply and demand. Updated rules, already agreed with the Council, will also pay more attention to cross-border regions and young people.
Read more : Matching job seekers and vacancies across Europe
Leaders of the main political groups in Parliament welcomed a fair EU-UK deal as an offer to the British people to remain in the EU. But it's an "in or out" vote some said, not another phase in the negotiations. During the plenary debate on the outcome of the recent EU summit with European Council President Donald Tusk and Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker, many UK MEPs voiced arguments for and against EU membership.
Read more : EU-UK deal: both sides better off with Britain in, say main group leaders
Measures to prevent and halt outbreaks of animal diseases such as avian flu or African swine fever, informally agreed by MEPs and the Council in June 2015, were backed by the Agriculture Committee on Tuesday. The draft EU law, on diseases that are transmissible among animals and potentially to humans too, will put more emphasis on prevention and help keep pace with scientific progress.
Read more : Containing animal disease outbreaks: agriculture MEPs endorse deal with Council
Plenary (Wednesday and Thursday); Summit conclusions/UK referendum/Migration. European Semester. Labour mobility. Trade with Tunisia. Tobacco industry. Registration of pet animals. Committees; Refugees/Mogherini. NATO. Transmissible animal diseases. Gun control. Montenegro and FYROM. President’s diary. Press briefing.
Read more : Agenda - Mini plenary session Brussels - 24-25 February 2016
Eurogroup President Jeroen Dijsselbloem will strive to strengthen the EU Banking Union, despite recent calls to loosen regulation in response to bank share volatility in in global markets, he told the Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee on Thursday. "There should be no doubt of the European Union's determination to apply these rules", he said in his capacity as Eurogroup President and chair of the Economic and Financial Affairs Council (ECOFIN).
Read more : Dijsselbloem pledges to strengthen EU Banking Union and tackle tax-avoidance
The Zika virus has hit the headlines all over the world as people fear it could be linked to microcephaly in babies, which causes them be born with abnormally small heads. On Wednesday Parliament’s public health committee discussed the issue with representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO). After the hearing we talked to Dr Roberto Bertollini, WHO’s chief scientist and EU representative, who assured that Zika was a "mild disease" that we were ready to deal with.
Read more : WHO chief scientist: We are ready to tackle Zika infection in Europe
To fight the growing resistance of bacteria to today’s antibiotics, the use of existing antimicrobial drugs should be restricted, and new ones should be developed, said Environment and Public Health Committee MEPs on Wednesday. In a vote on draft plans to update an EU law on veterinary medicines, they advocate banning collective and preventive antibiotic treatment of animals, and back measures to stimulate research into new medicines.
Read more : Superbugs: curb use of today’s antibiotics, and develop new ones, urge MEPs
Budgets Committee MEPs welcomed plans for the 3 billion Euro Refugee Facility for Turkey but voiced serious doubts about the proliferation of ad hoc instruments outside the EU budget and concerns whether the member states deliver on their commitments during a discussion with the Commission on the mid-term review of the EU long term spending plan (MFF) which, they believe, is under serious pressure amid the influx of the refugees and migrants to the EU and the geopolitical situation.
Read more : BUDG MEPs warn about loss of democratic control in refugee aid setup
EU recognition of the profession and value of domestic work and care as real work, as well as the introduction of common rules, should eliminate discrimination and tackle precarious and undeclared work, said MEPs from the Women’s Rights and Gender Equality Committee in a non-legislative resolution voted on Thursday. MEPs also called for the protection of migrant women which represent the majority of domestic workers and carers.
Read more : Domestic work and care: MEPs call for common rules in EU
Agenda- The Week Ahead 15 - 21 February 2016
12-02-2016
Committee meetings, Brussels
-UK referendum/Cameron
-ECB/Draghi
-Euro
-Economic governance
-Antibiotic resistance in veterinary medicine
-Iran/Mohammad Javad Zarif
-Zika outbreak
-President's agenda
-Press briefing
Read more : Agenda- The Week Ahead 15 - 21 February 2016
The European Parliament will welcome national MPs from across Europe on Tuesday 16 and Wednesday 17 February for joint debates with MEPs on the European Semester Cycles 2015/2016 (Tuesday) and on Stability, Economic Coordination and Governance in the European Union (Wednesday). Both events are being held as part of the 2016 edition of the European Parliamentary Week (#EPW16).
Read more : European Parliamentary Week: National MPs in Brussels to debate economy, jobs and budget
Agenda- The Week Ahead 8 - 14 February 2016
05-02-2016
Official delegation visits to Turkey, Germany, Saudi Arabia and Qatar are taking place this week. In Parliament's calendar, a certain number of weeks are set aside for external parliamentary activities allowing MEPs to undertake activities away from “base”.
Read more : Agenda- The Week Ahead 8 - 14 February 2016
MEPs debated the issue of sexual harassment and violence against women in public spaces on Wednesday evening, with Commissioner Corina Crețu. Everything possible must be done to find the perpetrators and bring them to justice, regardless of their culture or origin, they insisted.
Read more : Attacks against women: MEPs call for zero tolerance
The European Commission must table a communication on a new strategy for gender equality and women’s rights 2016-2020 as soon as possible and deliver on its political commitments, say MEPs in a resolution voted on Wednesday. The communication should address gender equality issues which is in line with the international agenda, they add.
Read more : Women's rights: MEPs urge Commission to table a new gender equality strategy
A move to veto a plan to temporarily raise NOx emission limits for diesel cars was rejected by MEPs on Wednesday, after the EU Commission promised a review clause and tabled a long-term legislative proposal to revamp the EU car approval regime. This followed pressure from Parliament in the wake of the Volkswagen scandal.
Read more : Parliament decides not to veto car emissions test update
The EU needs to overcome its paralysing fears and divisions and to manage migration and refugee flows effectively, said many MEPs in Tuesday's plenary debate with the Dutch Presidency and the Commission. Protecting the EU's external borders effectively is vital to safeguard the Schengen passport-free area, they observed. Some also called for zero tolerance of racist and violent attacks against migrants and refugees.
Read more : The EU needs to overcome fear and divisions to safeguard Schengen, say MEPs
What will the UK’s future in Europe be like? The day after European Council President Donald Tusk proposed a settlement in response to UK demands for reforms, MEPs discussed the issue as part of a debate on the EU summit on 18-19 February, which will be dedicated to the talks as well as the migration crisis. Most MEPs stressed that the UK staying in the EU would be better for both the country itself as well as for the other member states, but questioned some of the requested reforms.
Read more : UK in the EU: MEPs debate proposed reforms ahead of referendum
The EU Commission should withdraw its authorisations of the use of glyphosate-tolerant GM soybeans in food and feed, said Parliament on Wednesday. MEPs note that glyphosate, a herbicide, is classified as “probably carcinogenic” by the World Health Organisation (WHO), and that GMOs are being authorized in the EU without the support of member states.
Read more : MEPs object to three GM soybean authorisations
European platform to tackle undeclared work
02-02-2016
Parliament endorsed draft EU legislation establishing a “European platform” to enhance cooperation in combatting undeclared work in a vote on Tuesday. The platform would enhance cooperation among EU member states' labour ministries, trade unions and employers' associations about how best to tackle a problem that is damaging the EU economy and distorting the labour market. The undeclared economy accounts for 18% of EU GDP.
Read more : European platform to tackle undeclared work
European Central Bank President Mario Draghi defended the ECB's monetary policy decisions in a debate with MEPs on Monday evening, saying that the Bank will revise its monetary stance in March and acknowledging that the December 2015 inflation outlook was too rosy.
Read more : "ECB will reconsider its monetary stance in March", Mario Draghi tells MEPs
The protection of fundamental rights is one of the core values of the EU. However, it faces constant challenges, from concerns about data protection to possible failures to respect human dignity in the context of migration. On Monday 25 January, Director of the EU's fundamental rights agency Michael O'Flaherty presents to the LIBE committee a report on mass surveillance and citizen's privacy. We asked him to talk to us about the general situation of fundamental rights in the EU.
Read more : Michael O'Flaherty: "Fundamental rights are always under threat"
Here is what's coming up this week at committees: Danish law on asylum and refugees, Trade secrets, Port services, Fight against fraud, Serbia and Kosovo, ECB annual report, Plenary preparations, President's agenda, Pre-session press briefing, Press seminar on terrorism.
Read more : Political group and committee meetings, Brussels
Parliament appointed the 45 members of a committee of inquiry into car makers’ breaches of EU rules on car emission tests in a vote on Thursday. The committee will also investigate alleged failures by EU member states and the European Commission to enforce EU standards. It will present an interim report within 6 months, and a final one within 12 months, of starting its work.
Read more : Car emissions inquiry committee members and remit approved
As terrorists continue to strike across the globe, MEPs discussed the best way to tackle the increasing threat. During the debate on Thursday morning speakers stressed the importance of exchanging information as well as the need to strengthen border controls and called on member states to step up collaboration.
Read more : Terrorism debate: “The threat seems to be increasing in the EU and further afield”
The mutual defence clause, requiring EU countries to help a member state under attack, was invoked for the first time by France in November in the wake of the terrorist attacks in Paris. This has raised many questions about the procedure to follow and the EU's role in it. MEPs discuss this on 20 January and vote on а resolution the following day. Check out our infographic and learn more about the legal basis and its implications.
Read more : Mutual defence clause: what the requirement to help out other member states means
Draft EU rules that would allow baby foods to continue to contain up to three times more sugar than is recommended by the World Health Organisation were vetoed by the European Parliament on Wednesday, as they fail to protect infants and young children against obesity, say MEPs. Instead, they advocate reducing the EU sugar content limit to match the WHO recommendations.
Read more : MEPs move to reduce permitted sugar content in baby foods
"We must achieve concrete results and make sure they are visible to counter growing scepticism throughout Europe. (..) Keeping promises and sticking to agreements should be the new normal in Europe. A deal is a deal", said Prime Minister Mark Rutte in the kick-off debate of the Dutch Presidency in Strasbourg on Wednesday.
Read more : Dutch Presidency debate: "counter growing scepticism with visible results, refugee crisis top priority"
Many MEPs criticised EU leaders for their inability to deal with the migration and refugee crises in Tuesday’s plenary debate reviewing the December EU summit with Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and European Council president Donald Tusk. The upcoming EU referendum in the EU UK was also a hot topic.
Read more : Migration and UK EU referendum dominate post-summit debate
EU needs more women entrepreneurs
19-01-2016
MEPs urge EU member states to remove hurdles for women entrepreneurs, and table strategies for making full use of female entrepreneurship potential to boost growth and prosperity, say MEPs in a non-legislative resolution voted on Tuesday.
Read more : EU needs more women entrepreneurs
Members of the Parliament's Agriculture committee called on Monday evening on Commissioner Phil Hogan to do more to tackle ongoing crises in the milk, meat and other agricultural sectors. They welcomed efforts of EU's executive to simplify current Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) but some said more substantial initiatives, including legislative ones, should be considered.
Read more : EU must do more to help farmers tackle agriculture crises, MEPs tell Commissioner Hogan
If the European Commission decides that an EU member state should recover money from a company due to infringements of tax-related state aid rules, this money should be returned not to the same member state, but to member states that have suffered an erosion of their tax bases or to the EU budget, says the European Parliament in a resolution approved on Tuesday by 500 votes to 137, with 73 abstentions.
Read more : Illegal corporate tax deals: EP calls for compensation for countries that suffer
The EPIO Dublin and member of the European Parliament’s Economic Committee, Brian Hayes, held a stakeholder consultation in Dublin today (Friday 15th January) with leaders from a cross section of Irish society to update them on the EU investment plan, known as the Juncker Plan.
The consultation in cooperation with the European Commission happened today (Friday), 15th January, at 11 in the offices of the European Parliament at 12-14 Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2.
Read more : Stakeholder Consultation on Juncker’s €315 billion investment plan takes place in European Parliament Information office Ireland
Civil Liberties MEPs back deal on minimum EU standards to guarantee fair trials for children
14-01-2016
MEPs on the Committee on Civil Liberties endorsed on Thursday the agreement reached by the Parliament and the Council last December to set in the EU a minimum set of standards to guarantee the right of children to a fair trial.
Read more : Civil Liberties MEPs back deal on minimum EU standards to guarantee fair trials for children
Are treaty changes needed to meet UK demands, will the four freedoms be safeguarded and could current talks release an avalanche of reform requests from other countries? These questions were put by members of Parliament's constitutional affairs committee to Jonathan Faull, head of the Commission's task force for strategic issues related to the UK referendum, in a debate on Thursday morning.
Read more : MEPs quiz Commission's chief negotiator on progress ahead of UK referendum
Although 2016 has barely started, it is already proving to be a busy year for the European Parliament. MEPs are resuming work on a broad range of issues, from climate action to the refugee crisis. Also high on the agenda are giving law enforcement agencies more tools to counter the terrorist threat, making corporate taxation more fair and improving data protection rules. Read on for an overview of the main issues in 2016.
Read more : The year ahead: what Parliament will be dealing with in 2016
2016 should be the year of corporate tax reform and fiscal transparency, tax Commissioner Pierre Moscovici told MEPs from the Special Committee on Tax Rulings and the Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee at a hearing on Monday evening. “We have a serious problem with tax avoidance and lack of transparency. Too many people have looked the other way”, Mr Moscovici said.
Read more : 2016: year of corporate tax reform and fiscal transparency, Moscovici tells MEPs
New measures to strengthen and boost funding for an EU scheme to provide fruit, vegetables and milk products in schools were backed by the agriculture committee on Monday. They put more emphasis on educating children in healthy eating, increase the budget and merge into one the current separate schemes for milk and fruit in schools.
Read more : School milk and fruit: agriculture MEPs promote healthy eating
Ensaf Haidar accepted the 2015 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought on Wednesday on behalf of her husband Raif Badawi, a Saudi human rights activist who remains in prison. A day earlier, Eurogroup President Jeroen Dijsselbloem attended plenary for the first time to discuss the euro, while the European Commission presented its plan for reinforcing the EU's external borders.
"Raif Badawi was brave enough to raise his voice and say no to their barbarity. That is why they flogged him," said Haidar, when she accepted the 2015 Sakharov Prize on his behalf in Strasbourg on Wednesday 16 December.
Read more : Plenary highlights: Sakharov Prize, the euro and border controls
Ireland will get EU aid worth €400,000 for 108 redundant aircraft repair workers to help find new jobs, following a vote in Parliament on Wednesday. On 15 December, Parliament agreed to provide similar EU aid worth €2.6 million for 1,200 redundant IT workers in Finland. The two instances of European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) aid were approved by the EU Council of Ministers on 14 December
Read more : Parliament approves €3 million in job search aid for redundant Irish and Finnish workers
Parliament spells out the legal steps needed to improve corporate tax transparency, coordination and EU-wide policy convergence in a resolution voted on Wednesday., Parliament’s drive to persuade EU member states to act to counter aggressive corporate tax planning and evasion by multinationals in Europe was triggered by the November 2014 “Luxleaks” revelations about Luxembourg’s dubious tax deals with them.
Read more : EP spells out legal steps to fight aggressive corporate tax planning and evasion
Sakharov Prize award ceremony: "Raif Badawi was brave enough to say no to their barbarity"
16-12-2015
"Raif Badawi was brave enough to raise his voice and say no to their barbarity. That is why they flogged him," said Ensaf Haidar, the wife of jailed Saudi human rights activist Raif Badawi, accepting the 2015 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought on his behalf in Strasbourg on Wednesday 16 December. Badawi was honoured by the European Parliament for his fight for freedom of speech and thought in Saudi Arabia.
"Raif Badawi is not a criminal. He is a writer and a free thinker"
Read more : Sakharov Prize award ceremony: "Raif Badawi was brave enough to say no to their barbarity"
The EU Commission should withdraw its authorisation of the use of glyphosate-tolerant GM maize NK603xT25 in food and feed, says a resolution voted by Parliament on Wednesday. MEPs note that glyphosate, a herbicide, is classified as “probably carcinogenic” by the WHO. It urges the Commission to suspend any authorisations for GM food and feed as long as the authorisation procedure, currently under review, has not been improved.
Read more : MEPs object to new GM maize authorisation and invasive species list
Measures to strengthen and fund better EU schemes for the distribution of fruit, vegetables and milk products in schools and promote healthier eating were provisionally agreed by Parliament's negotiators, the Luxembourg presidency and the Commission on Thursday last week and confirmed by the Council on Wednesday. The informal deal, which still needs to be backed by MEPs and EU ministers, would merge today’s separate school milk and fruit schemes and put more emphasis on children's education.
Read more : School milk and fruit: MEPs and Council strike a deal to promote healthy eating
EU leaders meeting on 17 and18 December should support the creation of European border and coast guard and cooperate more closely over counter-terrorism, said MEPs in Wednesday’s debate with Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and Nicolas Schmit for the Council Presidency. Some MEPs stressed the need to see what could be done to keep the UK in the EU.
Read more : MEPs debate EU summit topics: migration, security and UK membership
The pioneering world climate change deal struck in Paris at the weekend could be “a turning point for the future of our planet”, said Parliament President Martin Schulz at the opening. He hailed the deal as “global, groundbreaking and trendsetting”, but stressed that it must now be put into practice.
Read more : Opening: Schulz hails world climate change deal in Paris
A new agreement establishing police cooperation between Europol and the United Arab Emirates to strengthen the mutual fight against organised crime, terrorism and other forms of serious, international crime was passed by Parliament on Tuesday by 490 votes to 159, with 44 abstentions.
Read more : International police cooperation: MEPs OK deal with United Arab Emirates to fight terrorism and crime
Updates to make registering trade marks cheaper, quicker and more reliable for firms were approved by the Parliament on Tuesday. These new rules, informally agreed with the Council of Ministers, will also make it possible to impound counterfeit goods in transit through EU territory.
Read more : Trade mark reform package approved by the European Parliament
Tax evasion costs the EU €1 trillion a year in lost tax revenue, according to the European Commission. The Lux leaks scandal showed that EU countries sometimes court multinationals with advantageous tax schemes. These practices were investigated by the Parliament's special committee on tax rulings. MEPs adopted its report last month and on 15 December MEPs will debate another report, demanding that the Commission introduces legislation to restrain tax competition between EU countries.
Read more : MEPs to Commission: make member states share tax information and protect whistle-blowers
The issue of differentiating between so-called “developed” and “developing” countries is the key to a Paris agreement and delegations should have the courage to move away from the 1992 “firewall” which is impeding progress, said the European Parliament delegation to COP21 on Friday. The Paris agreement would need Parliament’s consent to be ratified by the European Union.
Read more : Time to break down “firewall” between developing and developed world, say MEPs
Ireland and Finland should get EU aid worth €2.6 million to help find new jobs for 1,200 redundant Finnish IT workers and over €400,000 for 108 redundant Irish aircraft repair workers, following a vote by the budgets committee on Thursday. The European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) aid still needs to be approved by Parliament as a whole and by the Council of the EU.
Read more : €3 million in job search aid for redundant Irish and Finnish workers
The provisional deal reached by Parliament and Council negotiators last week on an EU directive regulating the use of Passenger Name Record (PNR) data for the prevention, detection, investigation and prosecution of terrorist offences and serious crime was endorsed by the Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs Committee on Thursday by 38 votes to 19, with 2 abstentions. The draft directive will be put to a vote by Parliament as a whole early next year.
Read more : EU Passenger Name Record (PNR): Civil Liberties Committee backs EP/Council deal
Officials from nearly 200 countries have been meeting in Paris since late November to negotiate a new climate change agreement for after 2020. This week a delegation of 15 MEPs also takes part in the COP21 conference. Members are participating in background talks with NGOs and delegations from across the world, while the EU commissioner for climate action Miguel Arias Cañete will brief them on the progress of the talks on a daily basis. Live updates from Paris are available on our Storify page.
Read more : COP21: parliamentary delegation attends climate change summit
Transport and energy companies will have to ensure that the digital infrastructure that they use to deliver essential services, such as traffic control or electricity grid management, is robust enough to withstand cyber-attacks, under new rules provisionally agreed by internal market MEPs and the Luxembourg Presidency of the EU Council of Ministers on Monday. Online marketplaces like eBay or Amazon, search engines and clouds will also be required to ensure that their infrastructure is secure.
Read more : MEPs close deal with Council on first ever EU rules on cybersecurity
A delegation of 15 MEPs will take part in the UN climate conference in Paris, France, from Monday to Friday. The European Parliament says that the 2015 Protocol must be legally binding and ambitious from the outset, with five-year commitment periods. In a resolution voted in October, MEPs also proposed that a share of revenues from the EU carbon market allowances should be earmarked for climate finance, and that aviation and shipping sectors should initiate measures to curb their emissions.
Read more : COP21 climate change talks: MEPs in Paris to push for 2°C target
Agenda- The Week Ahead 7-13 December 2015
04-12-2015
Political group and committee meetings, Brussels
-Migration/hotspots in Italy and Greece
-ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly
-Arms control
-Globalisation fund for Ireland and Finland
-Plenary preparations
-President's agenda
-Pre-session press briefing
-Press seminar on migration
Read more : Agenda- The Week Ahead 7-13 December 2015
Parliament's response to terrorist threat: Europol, passenger records, need for common action
04-12-2015
In the wake of the terrorists attacks in Paris on 13 November, the fight against terrorism remains at the top of the European Parliament's agenda. On Monday 30 November and Tuesday 1 December, the civil liberties committee discussed how the EU's strategy could be improved.
Read more : Parliament's response to terrorist threat: Europol, passenger records, need for common action
The European Parliament has done its work on a draft EU directive to ensure that by 2020 at least 40% of non-executive directors on listed company boards are women. Now it is up to the Council of Ministers to agree a position on the draft and start negotiations with Parliament, reiterated many MEPs in Wednesday’s debate, with a view to a Council meeting on 7 December.
Read more : Women on boards: MEPs urge ministers to agree a position at last
The work of Parliament’s Special Committee on Tax Rulings will be continued under a new mandate for six months, starting on 2 December. This was decided unanimously at Wednesday’s Conference of Presidents and endorsed by Parliament as a whole, by 561 votes to 69 with 5 abstentions. The committee's work will focus on harmful corporate tax regimes and practices at European and international level.
Read more : Special Committee on Tax Rulings II, "The Sequel"
A provisional deal on EU rules regulating the use of air passengers' data to fight terrorism and serious crime came within sight at the fifth "trilogue” (three-way talks between Parliament, Council and Commission negotiators) on Wednesday afternoon.
Read more : Parliament and Council close to a deal on EU Passenger Name Record (PNR) directive
All Members of the European Parliament will have access to all categories of confidential documents relating to the EU’s Transatlantic trade and investment partnership (TTIP) talks with the USA, under a European Parliament/European Commission agreement approved by the College of Commissioners on Wednesday. The accessible documents will include the so-called “consolidated texts”, which reflect the US position.
Read more : All MEPs to have access to all confidential TTIP documents
"I can assure you that Parliament will make its contribution wherever it can to protect Christians," said EP President Martin Schulz, closing Tuesday's conference on inter-faith dialogue and the situation of Christians around the world. The meeting, organised by EP vice-president Antonio Tajani, focused on the persecution of Christians around the globe and specific proposals for tackling it.
Read more : EP President Schulz promises to help protect Christians wherever possible
Two legislative proposals to tackle the migration and refugee crisis, one on a permanent mechanism for relocating people in need of international protection among EU member states under extreme pressure and another on an EU common list of safe countries of origin, were debated by the Civil Liberties Committee with the EU Commission, Council of Ministers, European Asylum Support Office (EASO) and Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA) on Tuesday afternoon.
Read more : Permanent relocation scheme and list of safe countries of origin: state of play
Civil Liberties Committee MEP Timothy Kirkhope (ECR, UK), who is leading three-way talks with the Council and Commission on the EU Passenger Name Record (PNR) proposal on the use of air passengers' data to fight terrorism and serious transnational crime, briefed the committee on their progress on Tuesday. The rapporteur who listed the key issues in the ongoing negotiations, was optimistic that a deal addressing Parliament’s concerns could be struck by the end of this year.
Read more : EU PNR: lead MEP optimistic on prospects of a deal meeting Parliament's concerns
Agriculture MEPs to US Secretary Vilsack: TTIP must respect EU standards and be mutually beneficial
01-12-2015
Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) talks on agricultural aspects will be tough but should focus on equivalent ways to achieve common goals, rather than pushing for identical standards, U.S. Secretary for Agriculture Tom Vilsack told EP's Agriculture committee on Monday. While many MEPs agreed that TTIP can and must be mutually beneficial they insisted that EU's standards and protection of its geographical indications (GIs) must not be undermined.
Read more : Agriculture MEPs to US Secretary Vilsack: TTIP must respect EU standards and be mutually beneficial
From January to September, the Parliament ran another edition of its annual guest photographer contest. Inspired by 2015 being the European Year for Development, a new theme was announced every month, such as education, health and migration. The winners were invited to the November plenary session in Strasbourg. Read on to find out what they thought of the experience.
Read more : Photo finish: guest photographer contest comes to an end
The EU Commission is asked to table measures to improve corporate tax transparency, coordination and EU-wide policy convergence in legislative recommendations voted by the Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee on Tuesday. These recommendations build on the work of Parliament’s Special Committee on Tax Rulings, set up in the wake of the “Luxleaks” revelations, whose recommendations were approved at the 26 November plenary session.
Read more : Economic affairs MEPs ask EU Commission to table corporate tax measures
More people are generally interested in EU policies (54%, up by 11 points since 2013) and more Europeans feel their countries have benefited from EU membership (60%, up 6% since June 2013), according to the latest Eurobarometer poll, commissioned by the European Parliament and published on Monday. The survey found marked differences among countries on all the issues addressed.
Read more : Interest in EU policies grew, says Eurobarometer poll
The EU police agency Europol will be able to step up efforts to fight terrorism, cybercrime and other criminal offences and respond faster, thanks to a deal struck by Parliament and Council on new governance rules endorsed by Civil Liberties Committee MEPs on Monday. The new powers come with strong data protection safeguards and democratic oversight.
Read more : Europol: deal on new powers to step up EU police cooperation and fight terrorism
The Conference of Presidents of political groups has decided today, with the vote in favour of all political groups, to set up a temporary committee to follow up on the work done by the Special Committee on Tax Rulings, which looked into the tax rulings practised by various EU member states. The new committee will last six months.
Read more : Successor to Special Committee on Tax Rulings
On Wednesday 25 November, International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, Parliament asked the Commission what new measures it planned to take to prevent gender-based violence against women in the EU and whether it could propose an EU directive on combating violence against women, as requested by Parliament in 2014.
Read more : Stop violence against women: EP lit up in orange
The terrorist attacks in Paris have highlighted once more the urgent need for coordinated action by the member states and the EU to prevent radicalisation and fight against terrorism, says Parliament in a non-binding resolution passed on Wednesday. The resolution sets out concrete proposals for a comprehensive strategy to tackle extremism, to be applied in particular in prisons, online and through education and social inclusion.
Read more : EP calls for joint EU strategy to fight radicalisation of young EU citizens
Parliament calls for corporate tax makeover
25-11-2015
Parliament sets out its ideas on how to make corporate taxes fairer across Europe in a resolution voted on Wednesday. MEPs urge EU member states to agree on mandatory country-by-country reporting by multinationals of profits and taxes, a common consolidated corporate tax base, common definitions for tax terms and more transparency and accountability with regard to their – so far secret - national tax “rulings” for companies.
Read more : Parliament calls for corporate tax makeover
“Political grandstanding” that equates refugees with terrorists only foments the hatred and disillusion that inspires those who join terrorist groups, argued many MEPs in Wednesday’s debate. Rather than allow Europe’s freedoms and tolerance to be eroded, EU countries must strive to strengthen security, by stepping up intelligence cooperation and data-sharing, and investing in the skills and technology needed to fight terrorism, MEPs urged.
Read more : Don’t equate refugees with terrorists – boost security instead, urge MEPs
President Martin Schulz announced that Mustang had won the 2015 European Parliament LUX Prize for cinema at a ceremony in the Chamber in Strasbourg at noon on Tuesday. Mustang tells the story of five sisters who have been promised to husbands through forced marriages but who, determined to live their own lives, break the yoke of tradition.
Read more : Mustang is the winner of this year's LUX Film Prize
More than one in four children in Europe are at risk of poverty and social exclusion, which will have repercussions for them throughout life. On Tuesday 24 November MEPs adopted a resolution urging EU countries to boost their efforts to combat child poverty and social inequalities. The text was adopted with 569 in favour, 77 against and 49 abstentions. Check out our map for the latest statistics on child poverty.
Read more : One in four children at risk of poverty in Europe
“Those who fail to reconcile freedom and security fail in everything”, said President Schulz, citing the credo of late German statesman Helmut Schmidt, whose funeral he had just attended. “Security has to be organised, but we must not let our freedom be curtailed by those who want to scare us”. The brutal attacks on France ten days ago targeted Parliament’s values too. MEPs held a minute’s silence for terror victims everywhere, including Mali, Syria and Iraq.
Read more : Opening: “Those who fail to reconcile freedom and security fail in everything”
The urgent need to step up information-sharing among EU member states and between them and Europol to fight terrorism, the work on the Passenger Name Records data (EU PNR) proposal and the de-radicalisation of EU citizens joining terrorist organisations were among the topics discussed by MEPs with Europol chief Rob Wainwright and Council and Commission representatives on Thursday.
Read more : Terrorist attacks: MEPs demand more information-sharing and coordination in EU
Harmonised EU entry and residence rules that will make it easier and more attractive for students and researchers from third countries to study or do research at EU universities were informally agreed by MEPs and ministers on Tuesday. The deal also has provisions to clarify and improve conditions for non-EU interns, volunteers, school pupils and au pairs, so as to facilitate cultural exchanges. These rules still need to be approved by Parliament as a whole and the Council of Ministers.
Read more : Deal on new rules to attract non-EU students, researchers and interns to the EU
MEPs grilled eleven multinational companies on their corporate tax practices in a five-hour debate with the Special Committee on Tax Rulings on Monday. These companies had declined the committee’s first invitation to appear before it, but later changed their minds and accepted its last chance invitation. Of the 13 original invitees, only Fiat Chrysler and Walmart declined the final invitation. The meeting started with a minute of silence for the victims of the Paris terrorist attacks.
Read more : Tough debate with multinational companies on corporate tax practices
The European Union is deeply shocked and in mourning after the terrorist attacks in Paris. It is an attack against us all. We will face this threat together with all necessary means and ruthless determination.
Read more : Joint statement on the terrorist attacks in Paris
Schulz condemns the Paris terrorist attacks
14-11-2015
On behalf of the European Parliament, I condemn in the clearest and strongest terms the heinous terrorist attacks which killed and wounded so many people in Paris yesterday. At this terrible moment our thoughts and sympathy are with the families and friends of the victims, together with the French authorities and with all French citizens. I have also expressed my condolences to President Hollande.
Read more : Schulz condemns the Paris terrorist attacks
Agenda: The Week Ahead 16 - 22 November 2015, Political group and committee meetings, Brussels
13-11-2015
Highlights of the agenda for the week ahead include: -Tax transparency and multinational companies -Improved conditions for non-EU students and researchers -Migration/Steinmeier -UK referendum -Frontex/fundamental rights -Enlargement/Neighbourhood Policy
Read more : Agenda: The Week Ahead 16 - 22 November 2015, Political group and committee meetings, Brussels
As of 2016, the European Parliament’s irreducible carbon emissions can be fully offset, making it the first EU institution to become 100% carbon-neutral, Parliament’s Bureau (President, Vice-Presidents and Quaestors), decided some weeks ahead of COP 21 in Paris. At the same time, Parliament is continuing to reduce its carbon dioxide emissions and make better use of energy, water and paper, in line with its environmental policy to first and foremost prevent or limit emissions.
Read more : Parliament is first EU institution to become 100 % carbon neutral
EU legislation is essential to tackle unfair trading practices (UTPs) and introduce more balance into the food supply chain, the Agriculture committee said on Thursday. MEPs in a vote on an opinion for the lead Internal Market committee also called for further actions to boost farmers' bargaining power and demanded better coordination at EU level of member states' efforts to tackle UTPs.
Read more : Agriculture committee demands an EU law to fight unfair trading practices
Parliament urged member states to fulfil their pledges and pay for the EU migration actions that have been agreed by EU leaders. In Wednesday's debate, MEPs proposed to use an unexpected windfall of €2.3 billion from EU fines and customs duties to finance some of the measures. The Commission earlier said the new trust funds set up for Syria and Africa were short of €2.22 billion in national contributions.
Read more : Syria and Africa Funds: Parliament urges member states to pay up
Schulz: The refugee crisis can only be tackled if all EU countries commit to dealing with it
12-11-2015
Martin Schulz called on member states to step up their efforts to relocate refugees from EU countries faced with a heavy influx. “European solidarity can work if we all commit to it, but not if we let a small number of countries do all the heavy lifting,” the EP President said at an informal meeting of leaders of EU countries in Malta on 12 November. The meeting took place following the Valletta summit on migration to discuss collaboration with other countries.
Read more : Schulz: The refugee crisis can only be tackled if all EU countries commit to dealing with it
European elections should be fought with formally endorsed, EU-wide lead candidates (“Spitzenkandidaten”) for the Commission presidency, Parliament said on Wednesday in a formal proposal for a change to EU electoral law. It says these candidates should stand for election to the EP themselves, and be formally nominated at least 12 weeks before the elections
Read more : EP elections: "Spitzenkandidaten", mandatory thresholds, right to vote abroad
MEPs reacted to the assessments published by World Health Organization (WHO)'s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifying the consumption of processed meat as carcinogenic to humans, and red meat as probably carcinogenic, during a debate on Tuesday with WHO EU representative Roberto Bertollini. The recording of the debate is available from this link (debate started at 11.40)
Read more : MEPs debate IARC studies on red and processed meat with WHO's Roberto Bertollini
The Parliament's Development Committee asked to include in the World Humanitarian Summit (WHS) outcome document "a five-year roadmap for the development and operationalisation of the concrete political commitments undertaken" and stressed the importance of increasing the complementarity between humanitarian and development aid in order to tackle the humanitarian financing gaps in a resolution adopted on Tuesday.
Read more : World Humanitarian Summit: a five-year roadmap for all political commitments is needed
The Parliament's Development Committee called on member states to support the European Commission's target of increasing the share of humanitarian funds for education of children in emergencies to 4% and asked all hosting countries to help integrate children refugees in their national education systems in a resolution adopted on Tuesday afternoon.
Read more : Access to education is crucial for children in emergency situations
The European Parliament LUX Prize casts an annual spotlight on films that go to the heart of European public debate and cinema is an ideal vehicle for debate and reflection on Europe and its future. The European Parliament and the Cork Film Festival believe that cinema can be used as a medium to discuss and debate topical issues.
Read more : The European Parliament and the Cork Film festival 2015
The Week Ahead 9 - 15 November 2015
06-11-2015
Plenary and committees meetings in Brussels Items on the agenda include:-EU funds for Syria and Africa.;
Aviation package.; EU electoral law; Greece: financial assistance.; ECB Draghi in ECON Committee; Energy Union.
Read more : The Week Ahead 9 - 15 November 2015
European Parliament President Martin Schulz urged EU member states and others today to honour their commitments and step up significantly their efforts to provide a safe and permanent shelter in Europe for refugees in a spirit of European solidarity.
Read more : Parliament President Schulz calls for safe and permanent shelter in Europe for refugees
EU budget MEPs: don’t pocket extra revenue, match your promises on refugee crisis instead
05-11-2015
A €9.4 billion reduction in member states' contributions to the 2015 European Union budget should be used to help solve the refugee crisis by paying for member state promises made at successive European Councils, said on Thursday MEPs in charge of negotiating next year’s budget.
Read more : EU budget MEPs: don’t pocket extra revenue, match your promises on refugee crisis instead
Raif Badawi is the laureate of this year's Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, following an October 29 decision by EP President Martin Schulz and the political group leaders. Badawi is a blogger from Saudi Arabia currently serving a 10-year prison sentence for insulting Islam on his website promoting social, political and religious debate. The Sakharov award ceremony will be held in Strasbourg on 16 December.
Read more : European Parliament awards Sakharov Prize to Raif Badawi
Parliament added extra funds for handling the unprecedented flow of refugees inside and outside the EU in Wednesday’s vote on the EU budget for 2016. It also topped up resources to fund help create jobs for young people, enhance the EU’s competitiveness and settle its unpaid bills. Parliament reversed all the cuts, including those on migration lines, made by EU ministers.
Read more : Budget 2016: Parliament adds extra funds for migration and competitiveness
A draft EU law that would enable any EU member state to restrict or prohibit the sale and use of EU-approved GMO food or feed on its territory was rejected by the European Parliament on Wednesday. Members are concerned that the law might prove unworkable or that it could lead to the reintroduction of border checks between pro- and anti-GMO countries. They call on the Commission to table a new proposal.
Read more : Parliament rejects national GMO bans proposal
EU Commission plans for more ambitious national caps on emissions of six key pollutants, including NOx, particulates and sulphur dioxide, were endorsed by Parliament on Wednesday. Air pollution causes about 400,000 premature deaths in the EU yearly, and the plans could save up to €40bn in air pollution costs by 2030.
Read more : Air quality: MEPs approve new national caps on pollutants
Migration debate: the real divide
27-10-2015
The real divide revealed by today’s migration challenges to the EU is between “pros”, who want to use the EU to solve these challenges, and “antis”, who want to use them to dissolve the EU, argued many MEPs in Tuesday’s debate. Most deplored EU member states’ slowness to deliver on their pledges to pay for more help for refugees, and more manpower to process them at EU borders. The €2.3 bn shortfall is the same as it was two months ago, noted Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker.
Read more : Migration debate: the real divide
The EU member states’ deal on plans for them to exchange details of their tax rulings for multinationals automatically was a “missed opportunity” to take a big step forward in fighting aggressive tax planning and unfair tax competition, says Parliament in an opinion voted on Tuesday. MEPs are unhappy that the 6 October deal unduly restricts both the scope of the draft “automatic exchange” directive and the European Commission’s access to this information.
Read more : Council deal on automatic exchange of tax rulings is a “missed opportunity”
A complete ban on roaming charges for using mobile phones abroad in the EU will take effect in June 2017 and clear rules on the right to internet access will become law following Parliament's final approval of the new telecoms package on Tuesday.
Read more : End in sight for mobile phone “roaming” fees and unequal internet access
Package holidays, consisting of a flight, hotel or car-hire and purchased online for an all-in price or through linked webpages, will get the same protection as packages bought in travel agencies under rules voted by MEPs on Tuesday. MEPs ensured that travellers will have more options to cancel a contract and get clear advance information on who is ultimately responsible if something goes wrong.
Read more : MEPs adapt package travel rules to the digital age
Parliament adopted its stance on a deal with Switzerland to make it harder for EU citizens to hide cash from the tax man in Swiss bank accounts, in a vote on Tuesday. Under the deal, the EU and Switzerland will automatically exchange information on the bank accounts of each other's residents, starting in 2018.
Read more : Ending EU citizens' bank secrecy in Switzerland
Parliament’s Special Committee on Tax Rulings recommended measures to make corporate taxes in the EU fairer and more transparent, after eight months of fact finding, in a vote Monday evening in Strasbourg.
Read more : Fairer corporate taxes: Special Committee on Tax Rulings votes recommendations
It has taken eight months of hard work, but the results are finally there: on Monday 26 October the special committee on tax rulings votes on its recommendations for achieving fair and transparent corporate taxation in Europe. MEPs vote on them during November's plenary session, although before that multinationals will still have a chance to share their views on the matter with the committee. Read on for more information and an overview of taxation levels in member states.
Read more : Tax rulings special committee finalises its recommendations
Net neutrality is crucial to the future development of the internet. It is the principle that all online traffic should be treated equally, regardless of the type of content or platforms involved. On 27 October MEPs are set to debate and vote on new rules on net neutrality, following an agreement reached with EU governments after two years of negotiations. Ahead of the vote, find out what it is all about.
Read more : Net neutrality: four things to know about new rules being voted on
Following this morning's announcements of the verdicts of Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager on the Dutch tax deal with Starbucks and the Luxembourgish tax agreement with Fiat Finance and Trade, key MEPs on taxation issues gave the following statements:
Read more : Verdicts tax rulings Starbucks (NL) and Fiat Finance (LUX) show need for transparency and strong role for Commission, say key TAXE MEPs
An estimated 5,000 European citizens have joined terrorist organisations fighting in Iraq and Syria. With the issue of foreign fighters posing challenges for governments across the EU, a report on preventing the radicalisation and recruitment of European citizens by terrorist organisations will be put to a vote in the civil liberties committee today. Ahead of the vote, we asked Rachida Dati, the French EPP member who drafted the report, why it is important to address this phenomenon at EU level.
Read more : Rachida Dati on the radicalisation of EU citizens: "A truly European response is needed"
Tackling unemployment and migration are for many Europeans the biggest challenges facing the EU, according to the latest Eurobarometer opinion poll commissioned by Parliament. Nearly two thirds think decisions on migration should be taken at the EU level rather than nationally, while eight out of ten said asylum seekers should be “better distributed among all EU member states”. However, the answers vary considerably from country to country.
Read more : Survey: Two out of every three Europeans want migrant crisis tackled at EU level
Agenda The Week Ahead 19 – 25 October 2015
16-10-2015
The coming week will see a range of topics on the European Parliament agenda to be discussed by political groups and committee meetings in Brussels. These topics include: 1. Radicalisation and jihad recruitment 2. Vetting EU budget spending for 2014 3. EU banking sector stability 4. Ukraine/elections 5. Plenary preparations 6. President's agenda 7. Youth Media Days 8. Pre-session press briefing
Read more : Agenda
The Week Ahead 19 – 25 October 2015
Immigration and terrorism are EU citizens’ fastest-growing concerns, according to the latest Eurobarometer poll, commissioned by the European Parliament and published on Wednesday. An EU average of 66% of respondents said that more decisions on migration should be taken at EU level, rather than by national governments alone, but the survey found marked differences among countries on all the issues addressed.
Read more : Migration challenges are best tackled at EU level, says Eurobarometer poll
Organic farmers, processors, traders and importers must meet higher but realistic sustainability criteria and undergo strict food fraud checks to boost trust in the EU organic label, said agriculture MEPs on Tuesday. They introduced measures to avoid contamination of organic food, including on mixed organic and conventional farms, and endorsed plans to help small farmers turn organic.
Read more : Organic food: boosting EU production and enhancing consumer trust
The budgets committee on Tuesday demanded more funds to handle the migration and refugee crisis, help young people into jobs, and fully offset the cuts to the EU's research and transport networks programs, in a political resolution on the 2016 budget. The committee had earlier reversed all the Council's cuts to the Commission's initial proposal.
Read more : Budgets MEPs want more money for migration and jobs in 2016
A draft EU law that would enable any member state to restrict or prohibit the sale and use of EU-approved GMO food or feed on its territory was opposed by Environment Committee MEPs on Tuesday. Members are concerned that the proposal might prove unworkable and lead to the reintroduction of border controls between pro and anti-GMO countries. The recommendation will be put to a vote by Parliament as a whole at the 26-29 October plenary session in Strasbourg.
Read more : Environment MEPs oppose national GMO import bans proposal
Agenda The Week Ahead 12 – 18 October 2015
09-10-2015
Plenary session and committees meetings, Brussels
Read more : Agenda
The Week Ahead 12 – 18 October 2015
Updating EU rules on payment services will cut the cost of paying bills, by enabling new market players to use mobile and online tools to make payments on a client’s behalf, said MEPs voting a law to this end on Thursday. These rules, informally agreed by MEPs and ministers last May, also aim to make online payments safer, by laying down data protection and liability rules for all online payment service providers.
Read more : Opening up the online payments market, so as to reduce fees and fraud risks
Death sentences fail to deter drug trafficking and retentionist countries should introduce alternatives to the death penalty for drug offences, say MEPs in a resolution voted on Thursday two days ahead the 13th World Day Against the Death Penalty. The abolition of the death penalty for drug-related offences should be made a prerequisite for EU financial and technical assistance to third countries, they added during the debate on an oral question tabled to the Council on Tuesday evening.
Read more : Death penalty abolition as a prerequisite for EU support
MEPs passed four resolutions on Thursday: urging Saudi Arabia to halt the execution of Ali Mohammed al-Nimr and calling for a moratorium on the death penalty; demanding measures to starve Boko Haram in Nigeria of its sources of illegal income; expressing fears of civil war in Central African Republic; and deploring human rights abuses in Thailand following the coup of May 2014.
Read more : Human rights: Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, Central African Republic and Thailand
Spanish King Felipe VI called on the EU to treat the current refugee crisis with "generosity, solidarity and responsibility" in an address to the plenary on Wednesday 7 October. The monarch stressed the suffering of those who come to Europe "fleeing violence and fanaticism". "[There are] hundreds of thousands of refugees who pursue a project of hope, and see the Union as a land area of peace, prosperity and justice," he said. "We cannot let them down."
Read more : King Felipe of Spain: Europe cannot let refugees down
The current situation in the European Union and challenges to be tackled together, and notably migration, were at the heart of Wednesday afternoon's debate between European Parliament political group leaders, President of the French Republic François Hollande and Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany Angela Merkel.
Read more : François Hollande and Angela Merkel face MEPs
More citizens and small firms will be able to use the simplified EU procedure to resolve low-value disputes across borders thanks to changes voted by Parliament on Wednesday. These changes, which still need to be formally approved by EU ministers, would raise the ceiling on debts recoverable using the procedure from €2,000 to €5,000.
Read more : MEPs approve measures to ease cross-border recovery of small debts
EU-wide protection of geographical indication should be extended from agricultural products to include regionally and locally manufactured goods and handicraft products, MEPs say in a non-binding resolution adopted on Tuesday. This would support local economic development, boost tourism, strengthen consumer confidence and help preserve cultural heritage and traditional know-how.
Read more : MEPs want better protection for local products rooted in traditional know-how
The new scheme to relocate asylum seekers from Greece and Italy to other EU member states, dialogue with Turkey on cooperation to stem and manage migration flows, and budget measures to respond to the unprecedented refugee crisis, were among the topics tackled in Tuesday morning’s debate with European Council President Donald Tusk and Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker on the outcome of the 23 September informal EU summit.
Read more : Refugees: MEPs call for humanitarian response and overhaul of asylum rules
Data deal with US must be immediately suspended and replaced by new, solid framework for data transfers, says Civil Liberties Committee Chair Claude Moraes
Read more : Data deal with US must be immediately suspended and replaced by new, solid framework for data transfers, says Civil Liberties Committee Chair Claude Moraes
A debate on the 3 October air strikes on a hospital in Kunduz, Afghanistan, which killed 12 Médecins Sans Frontières staff and 10 patients including three children, has been added to the agenda on Wednesday at 08.30, announced Vice-President Mairead McGuinness at the opening of the plenary session. It will start with a statement by EU foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini.
The extra debate was added at the request of Gabriele Zimmer (GUE/NGL, DE), seconded by Rebecca Harms (Greens/EFA, DE) and approved by MEPs.
Read more : Opening: air strikes against Afghan hospital added to debate with Mogherini
The nominations for Parliament´s 2015 Sakharov Prize were formally presented this Monday 28 September at a joint meeting of the Foreign Affairs and Development committees and the Human Rights subcommittee. The Sakharov prize is awarded every year to honour exceptional individuals who combat intolerance, fanaticism and oppression. The winner will be selected in late October.
Read more : Sakharov Prize: the nominations for 2015 presented
This week in Parliament, the Budgets committee members vote their amendments to next year's EU budget. The nominees for the Sakharov Prize are to be officially presented by the members sponsoring them, and Parliament's political groups are set to prepare for the plenary session to be held in Strasbourg this 5-8 October.
Read more : EP this week: the EU budget, novel food and the Sakharov Prize
The current system of corporate tax rules is unfit for purpose and unjust. Some companies are losing out, whereas others win by hiding behind a variety of national rules", Commission President Jean Claude Juncker told MEPs at a joint meeting of the committees for Tax Rulings and for Economic and Monetary Affairs on Thursday. "We need a better insight into how multinational companies behave and how they make use of the differences between countries. Then we should create some order!", he added.
Read more : Juncker to MEPs on current corporate tax rules: "We should create some order!"
The Commission's €500 million aid package revealed last week is a step in the right direction but it might be not enough to get farmers struggling with falling prices back on their feet, many MEPs told Commissioner Phil Hogan in a debate on Wednesday. Crisis management instruments should be improved, and the position of farmers in the food supply chain strengthened, said MEPs. Some also ask the Commission to immediately increase intervention prices to tackle the current crisis.
Read more : Agricultural crisis: €500m aid package not enough, say MEPs
An emergency proposal to relocate 120,000 asylum seekers from Italy, Greece and Hungary among EU member states was backed by Parliament on Thursday. The first temporary emergency rules for relocating an initial 40,000 over two years from Italy and Greece only were approved by Parliament on 9 September.
Read more : MEPs give go-ahead to relocate an additional 120,000 asylum seekers in the EU
"Member states have yet again failed to make tough decisions and provide a compassionate response to the refugee crisis", said the Chair of the European Parliament's Committee responsible for migration and asylum, Claude Moraes. "We are running out of time - the meeting on 8 October is the EU's final chance to agree an organised response to the biggest refugee crisis since World War II in Europe", he added.
Read more : Refugee crisis: EU ministers have yet again failed to act, regrets EP Civil Liberties Committee Chair
Traditional products from Calais lace to Scottish tartans could soon enjoy extra protection in the form of geographical indications, reassuring consumers about their origin and quality. This already exists for food products, but on Tuesday the EP's legal affairs committee votes on a proposal to extend this to non-agricultural products as well. French S&D member Virginie Rozière, who is in charge of steering the plans through Parliament, explains why the new rules are needed.
Read more : Protecting traditional products could boost demand and create jobs
The Commission's package of measures worth €500 million aimed at helping EU's dairy and meat farmers with the current market crisis is a step in the right direction, but not enough to alleviate impact of falling prices and stabilise the food production in Europe, says the Chair of the Parliament's Agriculture Committee Czesław Adam Siekierski (EPP, PL).
Read more : Agricultural crisis: Yes to €500 million aid package, but more actions needed, says chair of AGRI Committee
"The first priority today is and must be tackling the refugee crisis," said European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker during the 2015 State of the Union debate at the European Parliament on Wednesday 9 September. "The EU is facing migration, the economic crisis and wars in its neighbourhood. We have to contribute to a solution to these challenges," said EP President Martin Schulz, EP's President in his opening remarks.
Read more : Refugee crisis must be first priority, says Juncker in 2015 State of the Union debate
The challenges facing the EU will be discussed during the State of the Union debate on Wednesday 9 September. Jean-Claude Juncker, president of the European Commission, will first give his address and will then enter into debate with MEPs. Read on to find out how to best follow the debate live online.
Read more : State of the Union: how to follow the speech and the debate live online
Parliament beefed up the Commission’s initial proposal to ban animal cloning to include the cloning of all farm animals, their descendants and products derived from them, including imports into the EU, in a vote on Tuesday. "The technique of cloning is not fully mature, and in fact, no further progress has been made with it. The mortality rate remains equally high. Many of the animals which are born alive die in the first few weeks, and they die painfully. Should we allow that?" said the environment committee co-rapporteur, Renate Sommer (EPP, DE).
Read more : EP wants animal cloning ban extended to offspring and imports
The first-ever European Week of Sport kicked off in Brussels today and will be organised every year by the European Commission with the aim of promoting sport and physical activity across Europe. The new initiative was originally suggested in a report by MEP Santiago Fisas, a Spanish member of the EPP group, which was adopted by the European Parliament. As part of the event various activities take place in all member states and are open to anyone regardless of age, background or fitness level.
Read more : Be active: European Week of Sport kicks off
The agriculture committee on Thursday rejected the Commission's draft law that would give member states the power to restrict or prohibit the use of EU-approved GM food or feed on their territory. It fears that arbitrary national bans could distort competition on the EU's single market and jeopardise the Union's food production sectors which are heavily dependent on imports of GM feed.
Read more : Agriculture committee opposes national bans on Imports of GM food and feed
European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker will deliver his first State of the Union address to the European Parliament in Strasbourg on Wednesday 9 September, from 09:00 CET. His assessment and proposals for the future will be followed by a debate with MEPs, who will have their own analyses and proposals to make. They will also say what they expect from the Commission Work Programme for 2016. The migration crisis and Schengen, Greece and the Eurozone are likely to be among issues to be raised.
Read more : Juncker’s first State of the Union address in Parliament
The week ahead: 31 August-6 September 2015
31-08-2015
A Greek government request for EP involvement in the regular review of the country’s third loan programme is to be discussed on Thursday at a meeting of the President and political group chairs. In the committees, members are to discuss migration and vote on the use of genetically modified food and on the next year’s EU budget. Parliament’s political groups also prepare for the plenary, including Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker's first State of the European Union speech and debate.
Read more : The week ahead: 31 August-6 September 2015
The European Commission and the Council must adopt urgent and targeted measures to help EU dairy and livestock farmers and fruit and vegetable growers with falling prices and drops in global demand for their products and develop, in close cooperation with MEPs, a more responsive safety net to tackle future crises, says the chair of the Parliament's Agriculture Committee Czesław Adam Siekierski (EPP, PL).
Read more : The EU must now strengthen and speed up its actions to stabilise its agricultural markets, says chair of the Parliament's Agriculture Committee
Countries such as Italy and Greece dealing with an influx of asylum seekers should receive more support from other member states, MEPs said on a delegation visit to the Italian island of Sicily from 22 to 24 July. “Italy spends over €1 billion every year just to take care of those who make it across the Mediterranean. Italy’s borders are the EU's borders and a better management of the migratory flows is our common responsibility,” said French ALDE member Jean Arthuis, co-chair of the delegation.
Read more : Migration: MEPs call for more EU solidarity on visit to reception centres in Sicily
Today, at the Venice Days (Giornate degli Autori) press conference, the First Vice President of the European Parliament Mr Antonio TAJANI and the President of the Committee on Culture and Education, Mrs Silvia Costa, announced the 3 contending films to run for the 2015 LUX Film Prize. Directors will attend the upcoming Venice Film Festival to present the 3 films:
MEDITERRANEA, by Jonas Carpignano – Italy, United States, Germany, France, Qatar
MUSTANG, by Deniz Gamze Ergüven – France, Germany, Turkey, Qatar
UROK (THE LESSON), by Kristina Grozeva and Petar Valchanov – Bulgaria, Greece.
Read more : The Three Films Competing For The 2015 LUX Film Prize
Mr Jean Arthuis (ALDE, FR), co-chair of the delegation on part of the Committee on Budgets: "We praise the efforts by the Italian authorities to have put in place such a complex reception system and, more in general, to cope with an exceptional migratory pressure at Italy’s sea borders."
Read more : Statements by the co-chairs of the delegation to Sicily on migration as an unprecedented challenge requiring a holistic approach
The Week Ahead 20 - 26 July 2015 July 2015.
17-07-2015
The Week Ahead 20 - 26 July 2015: Migration, Taxation and economic affairs, Ukraine and Georgia.
- Migration. A joint delegation of the Budgets and the Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs committees will go to Sicily to examine how EU budget resources are spent to manage migration and refugee flows, as well as the system for reception, identification and retention of migrants. See what's on the rest of the agenda this week at the European Parliament
Read more : The Week Ahead 20 - 26 July 2015 July 2015.
The rescue package for Greece agreed at the 12-13 July Eurozone Summit on Greece was debated in the Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee on Thursday. Members gave their views on the deal struck by Greece and its creditors, the functioning of the Eurozone, the role played by the European Parliament and on Parliament’s future involvement in monitoring the implementation of the agreement.
Read more : Economic and Monetary Affairs MEPs debate Euro Summit deal with Greece
Draft EU rules on sharing and protecting the Passenger Name Record (PNR) data of people flying to or from the EU, and its use by member states and Europol to fight terrorism and serious transnational crime, were approved by the Civil Liberties Committee on Wednesday. This data must only be used to prevent, detect, investigate and prosecute these crimes, said MEPs, inserting safeguards to ensure "the lawfulness of any storage, analysis, transfer and use of PNR data".
Read more : Passenger Name Records: MEPs back EU system with data protection safeguards
Women face barriers, stereotypes, conscious and unconscious bias during their academic and scientific careers which often lead them to drop out of the career, said Women's rights and gender equality members in the text adopted on Tuesday. They call on Commission and member states to come up with EU strategy in order to tackle different barriers in professional development of women and to make science more inclusive.
Read more : "Break the glass ceiling for science and technology", say Women's Rights members
Statement from Martin Schulz, President of the European Parliament:
Read more : Iran nuclear agreement: good for Iran, for the region and for global security
The 10 films competing for this year's Lux Prize have been revealed at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, including five by first-time directors, a mix of genres and the selection's first-ever Icelandic film. The European Parliament awards the prize to the best European film every year. At the end of the month it will be announced which three films have been short-listed for the finals, meaning they will also be screened all over the EU as part of the Lux Film Days.
Read more : Lux Prize 2015: the ten nominated films have been revealed
The Week Ahead 13 - 19 July 2015
10-07-2015
What's on the agenda in the week ahead, June 29 - July 05, 2015. Committee meetings, Brussels.
Read more : The Week Ahead 13 - 19 July 2015
Forthcoming proposals to reform EU copyright law for the digital era must ensure a fair balance between the rights and interests of both creators and consumers, said MEPs on Thursday. They called for ways to improve access to online content across borders, while recognizing the importance of territorial licences, particularly for TV and film productions.
Read more : Copyright reform: promote cultural diversity and ensure access to it, say MEPs
The EU needs to use natural resources more efficiently - a 30% increase in resource productivity by 2030 could boost its GDP by nearly 1% and create an extra 2 million sustainable jobs, say MEPs in a resolution voted on Thursday. But to achieve this growth, it needs binding waste-reduction targets, revamped ecodesign laws and measures to uncouple growth from resource use, they add, calling on the European Commission to table legislation by the end of 2015.
Read more : Circular economy: MEPs call for “systemic change” to address resource scarcity
Large firms and listed companies should have to disclose information, country by country, on profits made, tax paid on profits and public subsidies received, said MEPs on Wednesday in amendments to draft rules intended to boost transparency and foster shareholders’ long-run commitment to companies. They also want to empower shareholders to vote at least every three years on directors' pay policy.
Read more : Corporate governance: MEPs vote to enforce tax transparency
A reform of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS), informally agreed with the Latvian Presidency of the Council, was endorsed by Parliament on Wednesday. The reform is intended to reduce the surplus of carbon credits available for trading in order to support the price of the emission rights. The scheme will start operating in 2019.
Read more : Parliament adopts CO2 market stability reserve
An EU-US trade deal must open up US market access for EU firms, but not undermine EU standards, say MEPs in recommendations, voted Wednesday, to EU trade negotiators. To settle trade-related investor-state disputes, a new justice system, run by publicly-appointed judges and subject to scrutiny and transparency rules, should replace private arbitration under the Investor-State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) system, they add.
Read more : TTIP: ease access to US market, protect EU standards, reform dispute settlement
The EU must do more to help farmers to earn a fair return from the food supply chain, introduce better tools for dealing with market disturbances and help farmers to find new outlets for produce shut out of the Russian market, MEPs say in two non-binding resolutions voted on Tuesday. Member states should help them join forces in producer organisations to boost their bargaining power, they add.
Read more : Milk, fruit, vegetables: help farmers earn fair incomes and resist market shocks
Three agencies managing migration flows into the EU and two EU funds for migration measures should get a €69.6 million budget boost for extra staff and other expenses for this year, after Parliament backed a European Commission proposal on Tuesday. Parliament has been calling for the bigger budgets in the wake of the April tragedies that cost the lives of around 1,200 migrants.
Read more : Parliament approves an extra €69.6 million to help cope with migrants
Greece and the referendum on the bail-out proposals were the focus of the 7 July plenary debate on the outgoing Latvian presidency of the Council. Latvian Prime Minister Laimdota Straujuma also discussed the challenges and the achievements of the outgoing Council presidency with MEPs and Jean-Claude Juncker, president of the European Commission
Read more : EU response to Greece dominates debate on outgoing Latvian presidency
Starting today, the rotating six-month presidency of the Council of the EU will be in the hands of one of the smallest, yet most experience member states. Luxembourg will have to deal with many pressing issues, including the Greek debt crisis, an increase in irregular migration and the preparation for the climate change conference in Paris in December. We asked all of the country's six MEPs what they see as the main challenges. Read on to find out what they said.
Read more : Luxembourg takes over Council presidency: Luxembourg MEPs share their expectations
An informal deal to ban surcharges ("roaming fees") for making mobile phone calls, sending text messages or using the internet while abroad in another EU country from 15 June 2017 was struck by MEPs and EU ministers in the small hours of Tuesday morning. MEPs also inserted guarantees that all internet traffic is treated equally, without discrimination. To enter into force, this informal deal needs to be formally endorsed by the full Parliament and the Council of Ministers.
Read more : Cheaper mobile calls and open internet: MEPs and ministers strike informal deal
The Week Ahead 29 June - 5 July 2015
26-06-2015
What's on the agenda in the week ahead, June 29 - July 05, 2015. Political group and committee meetings, Brussels
Read more : The Week Ahead 29 June - 5 July 2015
The European Commission’s weak response to the first EU citizens’ initiative (ECI) petition, on the “Right2Water”, could discredit the ECI system, warn Environment Committee MEPs in a resolution voted on Wednesday. It “lacks any real ambition and failed to meet the demands of the organizers”, they add. ECIs enable citizens to ask the Commission to propose laws in areas within its competence, if they can muster at least one million signatures from at least a quarter of EU member states.
Read more : Right2water citizens’ initative: Commission must act, say MEPs
The €315-billion “Juncker” investment plan, announced by the European Commission last November to encourage the financing of viable investments in Europe, was backed by the European Parliament in a vote on Wednesday. Parliament modified its financing structure, won a say in selecting its leadership and ensured more democratic oversight in negotiations with the Council.
Read more : Spurring economic recovery: Parliament approves Juncker Plan rules
The three EU agencies managing migration flows and various EU funds dealing with migration should get a €69.6 million budget boost , said the Budgets Committee on Tuesday as it approved proposed changes to this year's European budget. The budget increases still need to be approved by Parliament as a whole and the Council of Ministers.
Read more : Extra €69.6 million for migration measures approved in Budgets Committee
The Week Ahead 22 - 28 June 2015
19-06-2015
What's on the agenda in the week ahead, June 22 - 28, 2015. Plenary session and committee meetings, Brussels
Read more : The Week Ahead 22 - 28 June 2015
EP President Martin Schulz discussed British plans to renegotiate EU membership during a meeting with UK Prime Minister David Cameron today. They also talked about the migration crisis in the Mediterranean and the ongoing talks on trade deals. Afterwards Schulz said: I came to London to listen and to learn and I think we had an excellent and open-minded exchange of views.”
Read more : Schulz on Cameron meeting: “I came to London to listen and to learn”
Lydia Foy is among the 47 winners of the European Citizen's Prize 2015 of the European Parliament. Since 2008, the prize has been awarded to citizens or organisations having contributed to promoting better mutual understanding and closer integration between citizens or to facilitating cross-border or transnational cooperation within the EU. The winner will receive a medal of honour at an award ceremony in Ireland and will be invited to a joint event with all 47 winners in Brussels in October.
Read more : Lydia Foy receives the European Citizen's Prize 2015 from the European Parliament
A draft law to ban the cloning of all farm animals, their descendants and products derived from them, including imports, in the EU was voted by the Environment and Agriculture committees on Wednesday. MEPs beefed up the European Commission’s initial proposal, citing high mortality rates at all development stages of cloning and EU citizens’ animal welfare and ethical concerns.
Read more : Ban not just animal cloning, but cloned food, feed and imports too, say MEPs
Parliament looks forward to starting talks with ministers soon on reform to give the EU high common standards of data protection fit for the digital era, said its key negotiators on Monday, welcoming the Council's announcement that it had approved its negotiating mandate. The first meeting between the institutions is scheduled for 24 June and will be followed by a joint press conference.
Read more : Data protection: Parliament’s negotiators welcome Council negotiating brief
Parliament's International Trade Committee will hold an extraordinary meeting on 29 June in Brussels to decide whether the 116 amendments tabled to Parliament's draft recommendations to Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) negotiators should be put to a vote by Parliament as a whole, the political groups represented in the committee decided on Monday.
Read more : New TTIP timeline: Trade Committee to decide fate of 116 amendments on 29 June
The European Central Bank is doing all it can to facilitate a successful outcome of the ongoing talks with Greece, ECB President Mario Draghi assured Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee MEPs on Monday. But he also made it crystal clear that ultimately, disbursing any further financial assistance to Greece is "a political decision that will have to be taken by elected policymakers, not by central bankers".
Euro area support needed to lift cap on Greek banks’ T-bill holdings
Read more : "Ball now in Greek camp" Mario Draghi tells economic and monetary affairs MEPs
The Week Ahead 15 - 21 June 2015
12-06-2015
What's on the agenda in the week ahead, June 15 - 21, 2015. Political group and committee meetings, Brussels
Read more : The Week Ahead 15 - 21 June 2015
The European Parliament regrets that recent corruption allegations against the international football federation FIFA have seriously damaged the credibility and the integrity of global football. In a resolution voted on Thursday, MEPs call for a zero-tolerance policy on corruption in football, underlining that in-depth structural reforms within the organisation are now urgently needed.
Read more : FIFA: Parliament calls for new interim president
The EU must critically re-assess its relations with Russia, which are profoundly damaged by Russia's deliberate violation of democratic principles, fundamental values and international law with its violent action and destabilisation of its neighbours , MEPs said on Wednesday. The EU must now devise a soft-power contingency plan to counter Russia’s aggressive and divisive policies, they said.
Read more : Russia is no longer a strategic partner of the EU, say MEPs
European Parliament President Martin Schulz decided on Tuesday to postpone the plenary vote on the EP recommendations to the negotiators of the Transatlantic trade and investment partnership (TTIP), scheduled for noon the following day. In line with Rule 175 of the EP Rules of Procedure, he decided to refer the 116 amendments tabled to the report back to the Committee on International Trade, for consideration and a vote on whether they are to be put to a plenary vote.
Read more : TTIP: Rapporteur Lange welcomes postponement of vote
EU must bring more balance into the supply chain, introduce better tools against market disturbances and help farmers find new outlets for their produce, says the agriculture committee in a draft non-binding resolution adopted Monday night. To ensure viable, sustainable and a competitive dairy sector across the EU for all - including small farmers and producers in disadvantaged areas - member states must also make better use of tools from the so-called Milk Package.
Read more : Milk: Agriculture MEPs want to better equip dairy farmers to face current challenges
What's on the agenda in the week ahead, June 8 - 14, 2015. Plenary session in Strasbourg. TTIP, EU-Russia relations, FIFA, and more.
Read more : The week ahead. June 08 - 14. Plenary session in Strasbourg
European Parliament's relations with Russia
03-06-2015
Following the publication of the blacklist of European politicians and officials, the President of the European Parliament, Martin Schulz, on Tuesday informed the Russian Ambassador to the EU that insofar as the Russian authorities have failed to ensure transparency in their decisions, in line with international law and legal obligations, and allow the targeted individuals the right of defence and of appeal, he considers that it is now justified to take appropriate measures in response.
Read more : European Parliament's relations with Russia
Development MEPs called on companies in all countries to adopt country-by-country reporting and make all information public in order to fight tax evasion and illicit money flows in developing countries, in a resolution adopted on Monday afternoon. It also called on the EU's financial institutions to ensure that companies receiving EU support do not participate in tax evasion and avoidance.
Read more : Development MEPs call for action to target tax evasion in developing countries
The Week Ahead. June 1 - 7 2015
29-05-2015
What's on the agenda in the week ahead, June 1 - 7, 2015. Political group and committee meetings, Brussels
Read more : The Week Ahead. June 1 - 7 2015
An EU-US trade deal should deepen EU access to the US market, but must not undermine EU standards or the right to regulate in the public interest, say Trade Committee MEPs in draft recommendations voted on Thursday. Tools for resolving disputes between investors and states should be reformed and improved, they add.
Read more : TTIP: more US market access, reform investment protection, retain EU standards
A deal struck by MEPs and Council of Ministers negotiators in the small hours of Thursday morning means the architecture of the Juncker plan to unlock €315 billion public and private investments in the real economy in 2015-2017 can now be put to a European Parliament vote on 24 June and the investment programme can kick off in the summer.
Read more : Juncker plan: MEPs and ministers strike informal deal to bridge investment gap
Healthy eating habits start young, so the EU and its member states should do and spend more to encourage kids to eat healthy and local foods, Parliament said on Wednesday. To ensure that they get healthy eating lessons, as well as school milk, fruit, and vegetables from EU schemes, Parliament amended draft rules and approved a mandate for MEPs to negotiate their final form with EU member states.
Read more : School milk and fruit: MEPs back measures to teach healthier eating habits
Budgets MEPs welcome draft budget for 2016
27-05-2015
Budgets MEPs welcomed next year's "restricted" but well focused draft budget presented by Commission Vice-President Kristalina Georgieva on Wednesday immediately after it was approved by the Commission.
Read more : Budgets MEPs welcome draft budget for 2016
Things we learnt in plenary: conflict minerals, migration, maternity leave, digital single market
25-05-2015
MEPs approved measures to prevent proceeds from conflict minerals being used to fund armed conflicts and called on governments to break the deadlock on plans to harmonise maternity leave across Europe. They also debated measures to tackle irregular migrants coming to the EU during the plenary in Strasbourg on 18-21 May as well as green-lit tougher rules to prevent money laundering. Read on for an overview of the plenary.
Read more : Things we learnt in plenary: conflict minerals, migration, maternity leave, digital single market
The Week Ahead. May 25 - 31 2015
22-05-2015
What's on the agenda in the week ahead, May 25 - 31, 2015. Plenary and committee meetings in Brussels. Special Committee on Tax Rulings to visit Dublin.
Read more : The Week Ahead. May 25 - 31 2015
A delegation of members of the Special Committee on Tax Rulings of the European Parliament will visit Ireland on Thursday 28 May where they will meet Minister of Finance Michael Noonan and members of the Finance Committee of the Dail. The delegation will also meet, inter alia, experts representing accountancy firms, business associations, NGO's and companies.
The Committee was established in the wake of what has become known as the luxleaks revelations.
Read more : 28 May: Members of the Special Committee on Tax Rulings visit Ireland
The ultimate owners of companies will have to be listed in central registers in EU countries, open both to the authorities and to people with a "legitimate interest", such as investigative journalists, under new rules already agreed with the Council and endorsed by Parliament on Wednesday. The new anti-money laundering directive aims to step up the fight against tax crimes and terrorist financing. New rules to make it easier to trace transfers of funds were also approved.
Read more : Tougher rules on money laundering to fight tax evasion and terrorist financing
MEPs propose blueprint for safer healthcare
19-05-2015
Suggested ways to improve patient safety, including tackling growing resistance to human and veterinary antibiotics, using today’s treatments more responsibly and promoting innovation, are set out in a resolution voted on Tuesday. MEPs note that 8 - 12% of patients in EU hospitals suffer adverse events, such as healthcare-related infections, which are implicated in 37,000 deaths a year and place a heavy burden on limited health service budgets.
Read more : MEPs propose blueprint for safer healthcare
@RealTime WW1, a Twitter project from Luxembourg, was awarded first prize at the 2015 European Charlemagne Youth Prize ceremony in Aachen University on 12 May. Second prize went to the Fronterras-European (border) line project (France) and third prize jointly to Social Soccer Club (Austria), Entrepreneurship, the Solution against Unemployment (Cyprus) and Infoactualidad (Spain). The annual prize goes to projects that foster a shared sense of European identity and integration among young people.
Read more : 2015 European Charlemagne Youth Prize awarded to @RealTime WW1
"Whistleblowers should receive protection when they reveal behaviour that goes against the public interest and not only when they reveal illegal activities. There should also be more openness about tax rulings and similar arrangements and countries which defraud other countries should be sanctioned", suggested Richard Brooks of the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists in a hearing with Parliament's Special Tax Rulings Committee on Monday.
Read more : Tax: warm welcome for whistleblowers and investigative journalists
Tax rulings, EU-Russia relations, Turkey’s reform progress, boosting free trade with the US, empowering women in Africa and the current situation in Georgia are all on the Parliament's agenda when MEPs gather this week in Brussels. Political groups will also prepare for the plenary session in Strasbourg on 18-21 May. Meanwhile Parliament President Martin Schulz will be awarded the Charlemagne Prize in Aachen on Thursday.
Read more : EP this week: tax rulings, Russia, Turkey, Georgia, EU-US trade agreement
European Parliament Martin Schulz: "Celebrating Europe is synonymous to celebrating peace"
08-05-2015
Ahead of Europe Day, 9 May, the President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz stated: "This year's Europe Day which we will celebrate tomorrow is a special one with 2015 marking the 70th anniversary of the end of the Second World War."
Read more : European Parliament Martin Schulz: "Celebrating Europe is synonymous to celebrating peace"
Following a series of debates and hearings with experts, Commission- and Council representatives and international bodies like the OECD, the Special Committee on Tax Rulings will have another full week ahead:
Read more : Next week in Special Tax Rulings Committee: Public hearing and visit to Belgium
The Week Ahead 11 - 17 May 2015
08-05-2015
What's on the agenda next week at the European Parliament: Political group and committee meetings, Brussels
Read more : The Week Ahead 11 - 17 May 2015
Why did the EU Commission take so long to launch investigations into member states’ tax rulings? Is its strategy to go only after small countries, such as Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg and Ireland? Will the instruments available to it suffice? And if not, what would it take to do away with unfair tax competition? These questions were raised by MEPs in Tuesday’s Special Tax Rulings Committee debate with competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager.
Read more : Tax rulings: “We need a common corporate tax base”, says Commissioner Vestager
People who are suspected or accused of a crime, or are named in a European Arrest Warrant, but cannot afford a lawyer or court proceedings, should have access to EU member state funding and assistance for both “provisional” and "ordinary” legal aid, say Civil Liberties MEPs in amendments, voted on Wednesday, to a proposed EU directive on fair trial rights.
Read more : Fair trials: MEPs strengthen EU-wide standards for legal aid
Fresh suggestions on how to best resolve disputes arising between foreign investors and states on the implementation of the Transatlantic Trade and investment partnership deal, currently being negotiated between the EU and the United states, will be debated by Trade MEPs and the EU Trade Commissioner Malmström on Wednesday afternoon starting from 16.30.
Read more : Investor and state disputes in TTIP: MEPs to debate new settlement proposals with Commissioner Malmström
Travellers putting together their own package holidays online will get the same protection as those buying from traditional travel agents under a provisional deal struck by MEPs and Council negotiators on Tuesday. The deal also strengthens holidaymakers’ rights, by enabling them to cancel a package deal contract if its price rises by more than 8%, get help if they encounter difficulties or get transport home if a tour operator goes bust.
Read more : Package holiday protection: MEPs strike a deal with Council
Plans for labelling the calorie content of alcoholic beverages should be tabled by the European Commission at the latest in 2016, said MEPs on Wednesday. The resolution calls for a new EU Alcohol Strategy focusing on alcohol consumption by minors and EU-wide labelling to discourage drink driving and drinking while pregnant.
Read more : Alcoholic drinks should state calorie content, say MEPs
The EU should do everything possible to prevent further loss of life at sea, e.g. by expanding the mandate of “Triton” operation in the Mediterranean to include "search and rescue operations at EU level", says a resolution voted by Parliament on Wednesday. MEPs also call for a binding quota for distributing asylum seekers among all EU countries, bigger contributions to resettlement programmes, better cooperation with third countries and tougher measures against people smugglers.
Read more : Migration: Parliament calls for urgent measures to save lives