# Official Journal C 294/12 A

| | ISSN 1977-091X |
| --- | --- |
| Official Journal
  of the European Union | C 294 |
| | |
| English edition | Information and Notices | Volume 5912 August 2016 |

ISSN 1977-091X

Official Journal

of the European Union

C 294

English edition

Information and Notices

Volume 5912 August 2016

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| Notice No | Contents | page |
| --- | --- | --- |
| | |
| | EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT
  2014-2015 SESSIONSittings of 15 to 18 December 2014
  The Minutes of this session have been published in
  OJ C 63, 18.2.2016 .TEXTS ADOPTED | 1 |

Notice No

Contents

page

EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT
  2014-2015 SESSIONSittings of 15 to 18 December 2014
  The Minutes of this session have been published in
  OJ C 63, 18.2.2016 .TEXTS ADOPTED

EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT

The Minutes of this session have been published in

OJ C 63, 18.2.2016

1

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| | I   Resolutions, recommendations and opinions |
| --- | --- |
| | RESOLUTIONS |
| | European Parliament |
| | Wednesday 17 December 2014 |
| 2016/C 294/01 | European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the draft Commission regulation supplementing Regulation (EC) No 1071/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to the classification of serious infringements of the Union rules, which may lead to the loss of good repute by the road transport operator and amending Annex III to Directive 2006/22/EC of the European Parliament (D034120/02 — 2014/2859(RPS)) | 2 |
| 2016/C 294/02 | European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on renewing the EU Internal Security Strategy (2014/2918(RSP)) | 5 |
| 2016/C 294/03 | European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on recognition of Palestine statehood (2014/2964(RSP)) | 9 |
| 2016/C 294/04 | European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the steel sector in the EU: protecting workers and industries (2014/2976(RSP)) | 11 |
| 2016/C 294/05 | European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the situation in the Mediterranean and the need for a holistic EU approach to migration (2014/2907(RSP)) | 18 |
| | Thursday 18 December 2014 |
| 2016/C 294/06 | European Parliament resolution of 18 December 2014 on the persecution of the democratic opposition in Venezuela (2014/2998(RSP)) | 21 |
| 2016/C 294/07 | European Parliament resolution of 18 December 2014 on Mauritania, in particular the case of Biram Dah Abeid (2014/2999(RSP)) | 25 |
| 2016/C 294/08 | European Parliament resolution of 18 December 2014 on Sudan: the case of Dr Amin Mekki Medani (2014/3000(RSP)) | 28 |
| 2016/C 294/09 | European Parliament non-legislative resolution of 18 December 2014 on the draft Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the Association Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community and their Member States, of the one part, and Georgia, of the other part (09827/2014 — C8-0129/2014 — 2014/0086(NLE) — 2014/2816(INI)) | 31 |

I   Resolutions, recommendations and opinions

RESOLUTIONS

European Parliament

Wednesday 17 December 2014

2016/C 294/01

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the draft Commission regulation supplementing Regulation (EC) No 1071/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to the classification of serious infringements of the Union rules, which may lead to the loss of good repute by the road transport operator and amending Annex III to Directive 2006/22/EC of the European Parliament (D034120/02 — 2014/2859(RPS))

2

2016/C 294/02

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on renewing the EU Internal Security Strategy (2014/2918(RSP))

5

2016/C 294/03

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on recognition of Palestine statehood (2014/2964(RSP))

9

2016/C 294/04

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the steel sector in the EU: protecting workers and industries (2014/2976(RSP))

11

2016/C 294/05

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the situation in the Mediterranean and the need for a holistic EU approach to migration (2014/2907(RSP))

18

Thursday 18 December 2014

2016/C 294/06

European Parliament resolution of 18 December 2014 on the persecution of the democratic opposition in Venezuela (2014/2998(RSP))

21

2016/C 294/07

European Parliament resolution of 18 December 2014 on Mauritania, in particular the case of Biram Dah Abeid (2014/2999(RSP))

25

2016/C 294/08

European Parliament resolution of 18 December 2014 on Sudan: the case of Dr Amin Mekki Medani (2014/3000(RSP))

28

2016/C 294/09

European Parliament non-legislative resolution of 18 December 2014 on the draft Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the Association Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community and their Member States, of the one part, and Georgia, of the other part (09827/2014 — C8-0129/2014 — 2014/0086(NLE) — 2014/2816(INI))

31

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| | III   Preparatory acts |
| --- | --- |
| | EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT |
| | Tuesday 16 December 2014 |
| 2016/C 294/10 | European Parliament decision of 16 December 2014 electing the European Ombudsman (2014/2092(INS)) | 39 |
| 2016/C 294/11 | P8_TA(2014)0074Scientific examination of questions relating to food ***IEuropean Parliament legislative resolution of 16 December 2014 on the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council repealing Council Directive 93/5/EEC of 25 February 1993 on assistance to the Commission and cooperation by the Member States in the scientific examination of questions relating to food (COM(2014)0246 — C8-0005/2014 — 2014/0132(COD))P8_TC1-COD(2014)0132Position of the European Parliament adopted at first reading on 16 December 2014 with a view to the adoption of Directive (EU) 2015/... of the European Parliament and of the Council repealing Council Directive 93/5/EEC on assistance to the Commission and cooperation by the Member States in the scientific examination of questions relating to food | 40 |
| 2016/C 294/12 | European Parliament legislative resolution of 16 December 2014 on the draft Council decision concerning the accession of the European Union to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) (09412/2014 — C8-0042/2014 — 2013/0418(NLE)) | 41 |
| 2016/C 294/13 | European Parliament legislative resolution of 16 December 2014 on the draft Council decision on the conclusion of the Cooperation Agreement on a Civil Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) between the European Community and its Member States and the Kingdom of Morocco (10437/2014 — C8-0108/2014 — 2013/0414(NLE)) | 42 |
| 2016/C 294/14 | European Parliament legislative resolution of 16 December 2014 on the draft Council decision concerning the renewal of the Agreement on cooperation in science and technology between the European Community and Ukraine (11047/2014 — C8-0114/2014 — 2014/0154(NLE)) | 43 |
| 2016/C 294/15 | European Parliament legislative resolution of 16 December 2014 on the draft Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of an Agreement on the participation of the Republic of Croatia in the European Economic Area, and of three related agreements (06698/2014 — C8-0002/2014 — 2014/0047(NLE)) | 44 |
| 2016/C 294/16 | European Parliament legislative resolution of 16 December 2014 on the proposal for a Council decision concerning the dock dues in the French outermost regions (COM(2014)0666 — C8-0242/2014 — 2014/0308(CNS)) | 45 |
| 2016/C 294/17 | European Parliament resolution of 16 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/010 IT/Whirpool, from Italy) (COM(2014)0672 — C8-0231/2014 — 2014/2170(BUD)) | 46 |
| 2016/C 294/18 | European Parliament resolution of 16 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2013/006 PL/Fiat Auto Poland S.A., from Poland) (COM(2014)0699 — C8-0243/2014 — 2014/2181(BUD)) | 49 |
| 2016/C 294/19 | European Parliament resolution of 16 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/013 EL/Odyssefs Fokas, from Greece) (COM(2014)0702 — C8-0245/2014 — 2014/2183(BUD)) | 53 |
| 2016/C 294/20 | European Parliament resolution of 16 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2013/014 FR/Air France, from France) (COM(2014)0701 — C8-0247/2014 — 2014/2185(BUD)) | 57 |
| 2016/C 294/21 | European Parliament decision of 16 December 2014 on the proposal of the Commission for the appointment of the Chair, Vice-Chair and Members of the Board of the Single Resolution Board (C(2014)9456 — C8-0284/2014 — 2014/0901(NLE)) | 60 |
| | Wednesday 17 December 2014 |
| 2016/C 294/22 | European Parliament decision to raise no objections to the Commission delegated regulation of 14 November 2014 amending Annex I to Council Regulation (EC) No 1528/2007 applying the arrangements for products originating in certain states which are part of the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group of States provided for in agreements establishing, or leading to the establishment of, Economic Partnership Agreements (C(2014)08355 — 2014/2954(DEA)) | 62 |
| 2016/C 294/23 | P8_TA(2014)0086Autonomous trade preferences for the Republic of Moldova ***IEuropean Parliament legislative resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Council Regulation (EC) No 55/2008 introducing autonomous trade preferences for the Republic of Moldova (COM(2014)0542 — C8-0128/2014 — 2014/0250(COD))P8_TC1-COD(2014)0250Position of the European Parliament adopted at first reading on 17 December 2014 with a view to the adoption of Regulation (EU) No .../2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Council Regulation (EC) No 55/2008 introducing autonomous trade preferences for the Republic of Moldova | 63 |
| 2016/C 294/24 | P8_TA(2014)0087Tariff treatment for goods originating from Ecuador ***IEuropean Parliament legislative resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the tariff treatment for goods originating from Ecuador (COM(2014)0585 — C8-0172/2014 — 2014/0287(COD))P8_TC1-COD(2014)0287Position of the European Parliament adopted at first reading on 17 December 2014 with a view to the adoption of Regulation (EU) No .../2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the tariff treatment for goods originating in Ecuador | 64 |
| 2016/C 294/25 | European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on mobilisation of the Contingency Margin, in accordance with point 14 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (COM(2014)0328 — C8-0020/2014 — 2014/2037(BUD)) | 65 |
| 2016/C 294/26 | European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 3/2014 of the European Union for the financial year 2014, Section III — Commission (16740/2014 — C8-0289/2014 — 2014/2036(BUD)) | 67 |
| 2016/C 294/27 | European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 4/2014 of the European Union for the financial year 2014, Section III — Commission (16741/2014 — C8-0290/2014 — 2014/2053(BUD)) | 70 |
| 2016/C 294/28 | European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund, in accordance with point 11 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (floods in Italy, earthquake in Greece, ice in Slovenia and ice and floods in Croatia) (COM(2014)0565 — C8-0137/2014 — 2014/2072(BUD)) | 72 |
| 2016/C 294/29 | European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 5/2014 of the European Union for the financial year 2014, Section III — Commission (16742/2014 — C8-0291/2014 — 2014/2073(BUD)) | 73 |
| 2016/C 294/30 | European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 6/2014 of the European Union for the financial year 2014, Section III — Commission (16743/2014 — C8-0288/2014 — 2014/2162(BUD)) | 75 |
| 2016/C 294/31 | European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund, in accordance with point 11 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (Floods in Serbia, Croatia and Bulgaria) (COM(2014)0648 — C8-0223/2014 — 2014/2161(BUD)) | 77 |
| 2016/C 294/32 | European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 7/2014 of the European Union for the financial year 2014, Section III — Commission (16744/2014 — C8-0292/2014 — 2014/2163(BUD)) | 78 |
| 2016/C 294/33 | European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 8/2014 of the European Union for the financial year 2014, Section III — Commission (16745/2014 — C8-0293/2014 — 2014/2225(BUD)) | 80 |
| 2016/C 294/34 | European Parliament legislative resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a Council regulation amending Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1150/2000 implementing Decision 2007/436/EC, Euratom on the system of the European Communities' own resources (COM(2014)0704 — C8-0250/2014 — 2014/0332(NLE)) | 82 |
| 2016/C 294/35 | European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund, in accordance with point 11 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (COM(2014)0348 — C8-0021/2014 — 2014/2038(BUD)) | 85 |
| 2016/C 294/36 | European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument, in accordance with point 12 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (COM(2014)0349 — C8-0022/2014 — 2014/2039(BUD)) | 86 |
| 2016/C 294/37 | European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the Council position on the new draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015 (16739/2014 — C8-0287/2014 — 2014/2224(BUD)) | 88 |
| | Thursday 18 December 2014 |
| 2016/C 294/38 | European Parliament decision of 18 December 2014 to raise no objections to the Commission delegated regulation of 21 October 2014 supplementing Directive 2014/59/EU of the European Parliament and the Council of 15 May 2014 with regard to ex ante contributions to resolution financing arrangements (C(2014)07674 — 2014/2923(DEA)) | 109 |
| 2016/C 294/39 | European Parliament legislative resolution of 18 December 2014 on the draft Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the Association Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community and their Member States, of the one part, and Georgia, of the other part (09827/2014 — C8-0129/2014 — 2014/0086(NLE)) | 111 |

III   Preparatory acts

EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT

Tuesday 16 December 2014

2016/C 294/10

European Parliament decision of 16 December 2014 electing the European Ombudsman (2014/2092(INS))

39

2016/C 294/11

P8_TA(2014)0074Scientific examination of questions relating to food ***IEuropean Parliament legislative resolution of 16 December 2014 on the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council repealing Council Directive 93/5/EEC of 25 February 1993 on assistance to the Commission and cooperation by the Member States in the scientific examination of questions relating to food (COM(2014)0246 — C8-0005/2014 — 2014/0132(COD))P8_TC1-COD(2014)0132Position of the European Parliament adopted at first reading on 16 December 2014 with a view to the adoption of Directive (EU) 2015/... of the European Parliament and of the Council repealing Council Directive 93/5/EEC on assistance to the Commission and cooperation by the Member States in the scientific examination of questions relating to food

40

2016/C 294/12

European Parliament legislative resolution of 16 December 2014 on the draft Council decision concerning the accession of the European Union to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) (09412/2014 — C8-0042/2014 — 2013/0418(NLE))

41

2016/C 294/13

European Parliament legislative resolution of 16 December 2014 on the draft Council decision on the conclusion of the Cooperation Agreement on a Civil Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) between the European Community and its Member States and the Kingdom of Morocco (10437/2014 — C8-0108/2014 — 2013/0414(NLE))

42

2016/C 294/14

European Parliament legislative resolution of 16 December 2014 on the draft Council decision concerning the renewal of the Agreement on cooperation in science and technology between the European Community and Ukraine (11047/2014 — C8-0114/2014 — 2014/0154(NLE))

43

2016/C 294/15

European Parliament legislative resolution of 16 December 2014 on the draft Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of an Agreement on the participation of the Republic of Croatia in the European Economic Area, and of three related agreements (06698/2014 — C8-0002/2014 — 2014/0047(NLE))

44

2016/C 294/16

European Parliament legislative resolution of 16 December 2014 on the proposal for a Council decision concerning the dock dues in the French outermost regions (COM(2014)0666 — C8-0242/2014 — 2014/0308(CNS))

45

2016/C 294/17

European Parliament resolution of 16 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/010 IT/Whirpool, from Italy) (COM(2014)0672 — C8-0231/2014 — 2014/2170(BUD))

46

2016/C 294/18

European Parliament resolution of 16 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2013/006 PL/Fiat Auto Poland S.A., from Poland) (COM(2014)0699 — C8-0243/2014 — 2014/2181(BUD))

49

2016/C 294/19

European Parliament resolution of 16 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/013 EL/Odyssefs Fokas, from Greece) (COM(2014)0702 — C8-0245/2014 — 2014/2183(BUD))

53

2016/C 294/20

European Parliament resolution of 16 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2013/014 FR/Air France, from France) (COM(2014)0701 — C8-0247/2014 — 2014/2185(BUD))

57

2016/C 294/21

European Parliament decision of 16 December 2014 on the proposal of the Commission for the appointment of the Chair, Vice-Chair and Members of the Board of the Single Resolution Board (C(2014)9456 — C8-0284/2014 — 2014/0901(NLE))

60

Wednesday 17 December 2014

2016/C 294/22

European Parliament decision to raise no objections to the Commission delegated regulation of 14 November 2014 amending Annex I to Council Regulation (EC) No 1528/2007 applying the arrangements for products originating in certain states which are part of the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group of States provided for in agreements establishing, or leading to the establishment of, Economic Partnership Agreements (C(2014)08355 — 2014/2954(DEA))

62

2016/C 294/23

P8_TA(2014)0086Autonomous trade preferences for the Republic of Moldova ***IEuropean Parliament legislative resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Council Regulation (EC) No 55/2008 introducing autonomous trade preferences for the Republic of Moldova (COM(2014)0542 — C8-0128/2014 — 2014/0250(COD))P8_TC1-COD(2014)0250Position of the European Parliament adopted at first reading on 17 December 2014 with a view to the adoption of Regulation (EU) No .../2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Council Regulation (EC) No 55/2008 introducing autonomous trade preferences for the Republic of Moldova

63

2016/C 294/24

P8_TA(2014)0087Tariff treatment for goods originating from Ecuador ***IEuropean Parliament legislative resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the tariff treatment for goods originating from Ecuador (COM(2014)0585 — C8-0172/2014 — 2014/0287(COD))P8_TC1-COD(2014)0287Position of the European Parliament adopted at first reading on 17 December 2014 with a view to the adoption of Regulation (EU) No .../2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the tariff treatment for goods originating in Ecuador

64

2016/C 294/25

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on mobilisation of the Contingency Margin, in accordance with point 14 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (COM(2014)0328 — C8-0020/2014 — 2014/2037(BUD))

65

2016/C 294/26

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 3/2014 of the European Union for the financial year 2014, Section III — Commission (16740/2014 — C8-0289/2014 — 2014/2036(BUD))

67

2016/C 294/27

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 4/2014 of the European Union for the financial year 2014, Section III — Commission (16741/2014 — C8-0290/2014 — 2014/2053(BUD))

70

2016/C 294/28

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund, in accordance with point 11 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (floods in Italy, earthquake in Greece, ice in Slovenia and ice and floods in Croatia) (COM(2014)0565 — C8-0137/2014 — 2014/2072(BUD))

72

2016/C 294/29

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 5/2014 of the European Union for the financial year 2014, Section III — Commission (16742/2014 — C8-0291/2014 — 2014/2073(BUD))

73

2016/C 294/30

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 6/2014 of the European Union for the financial year 2014, Section III — Commission (16743/2014 — C8-0288/2014 — 2014/2162(BUD))

75

2016/C 294/31

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund, in accordance with point 11 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (Floods in Serbia, Croatia and Bulgaria) (COM(2014)0648 — C8-0223/2014 — 2014/2161(BUD))

77

2016/C 294/32

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 7/2014 of the European Union for the financial year 2014, Section III — Commission (16744/2014 — C8-0292/2014 — 2014/2163(BUD))

78

2016/C 294/33

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 8/2014 of the European Union for the financial year 2014, Section III — Commission (16745/2014 — C8-0293/2014 — 2014/2225(BUD))

80

2016/C 294/34

European Parliament legislative resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a Council regulation amending Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1150/2000 implementing Decision 2007/436/EC, Euratom on the system of the European Communities' own resources (COM(2014)0704 — C8-0250/2014 — 2014/0332(NLE))

82

2016/C 294/35

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund, in accordance with point 11 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (COM(2014)0348 — C8-0021/2014 — 2014/2038(BUD))

85

2016/C 294/36

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument, in accordance with point 12 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (COM(2014)0349 — C8-0022/2014 — 2014/2039(BUD))

86

2016/C 294/37

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the Council position on the new draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015 (16739/2014 — C8-0287/2014 — 2014/2224(BUD))

88

Thursday 18 December 2014

2016/C 294/38

European Parliament decision of 18 December 2014 to raise no objections to the Commission delegated regulation of 21 October 2014 supplementing Directive 2014/59/EU of the European Parliament and the Council of 15 May 2014 with regard to ex ante contributions to resolution financing arrangements (C(2014)07674 — 2014/2923(DEA))

109

2016/C 294/39

European Parliament legislative resolution of 18 December 2014 on the draft Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the Association Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community and their Member States, of the one part, and Georgia, of the other part (09827/2014 — C8-0129/2014 — 2014/0086(NLE))

111

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| Key to symbols used






  - | Consultation procedure |
| --- | --- |
| *** | Consent procedure |
| ***I | Ordinary legislative procedure: first reading |
| ***II | Ordinary legislative procedure: second reading |
| ***III | Ordinary legislative procedure: third reading |

Key to symbols used

*

Consultation procedure

***

Consent procedure

***I

Ordinary legislative procedure: first reading

***II

Ordinary legislative procedure: second reading

***III

Ordinary legislative procedure: third reading

(The type of procedure depends on the legal basis proposed by the draft act.)

Amendments by Parliament:

New text is highlighted in
  bold italics
  . Deletions are indicated using either the ▌symbol or strikeout. Replacements are indicated by highlighting the new text in
  bold italics
  and by deleting or striking out the text that has been replaced.

bold italics

bold italics

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EN

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12.8.2016

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/1 |
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EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/1

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EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT

2014-2015 SESSION

Sittings of 15 to 18 December 2014

The Minutes of this session have been published in

  OJ C 63, 18.2.2016
  .

TEXTS ADOPTED

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I Resolutions, recommendations and opinions

RESOLUTIONS

European Parliament

Wednesday 17 December 2014

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/2 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/2

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P8_TA(2014)0101

Classification of serious infringements in road transport

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the draft Commission regulation supplementing Regulation (EC) No 1071/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to the classification of serious infringements of the Union rules, which may lead to the loss of good repute by the road transport operator and amending Annex III to Directive 2006/22/EC of the European Parliament (D034120/02 — 2014/2859(RPS))

(2016/C 294/01)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the draft Commission regulation (D034120/02), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the draft Commission regulation (D034120/02),

| — | having regard to Regulation (EC) No 1071/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 October 2009 establishing common rules concerning the conditions to be complied with to pursue the occupation of road transport operator and repealing Council Directive 96/26/EC (1), and in particular Article 6(2) thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Regulation (EC) No 1071/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 October 2009 establishing common rules concerning the conditions to be complied with to pursue the occupation of road transport operator and repealing Council Directive 96/26/EC (1), and in particular Article 6(2) thereof,

| — | having regard to Directive 2006/22/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 March 2006 on minimum conditions for the implementation of Council Regulation (EEC) No 3820/85 and (EEC) No 3821/85 concerning social legislation relating to road transport activities and repealing Council Directive 88/599/EEC (2), and in particular Article 9(3) thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Directive 2006/22/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 March 2006 on minimum conditions for the implementation of Council Regulation (EEC) No 3820/85 and (EEC) No 3821/85 concerning social legislation relating to road transport activities and repealing Council Directive 88/599/EEC (2), and in particular Article 9(3) thereof,

| — | having regard to the opinion delivered on 30 June 2014 by the committee referred to in Article 18(1) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 3821/85 (3), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the opinion delivered on 30 June 2014 by the committee referred to in Article 18(1) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 3821/85 (3),

| — | having regard to Article 5a(3)(b) of Council Decision 1999/468/EC of 28 June 1999 laying down the procedures for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission (4), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 5a(3)(b) of Council Decision 1999/468/EC of 28 June 1999 laying down the procedures for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission (4),

| — | having regard to Rule 106(2), (3) and (4)(c) of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rule 106(2), (3) and (4)(c) of its Rules of Procedure,

| A. | whereas the aim of Regulation (EC) No 1071/2009 is the completion of an internal market in road transport with fair conditions of competition, which requires the uniform application of common rules on admission to the occupation of road haulage operator or road passenger transport operator; |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas the aim of Regulation (EC) No 1071/2009 is the completion of an internal market in road transport with fair conditions of competition, which requires the uniform application of common rules on admission to the occupation of road haulage operator or road passenger transport operator;

| B. | whereas such common rules will contribute to the achievement of a higher level of professional qualification for road transport operators, the rationalisation of the market, and an improved quality of service, in the interests of road transport operators, their customers and the economy as a whole, together with improvements in road safety; |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas such common rules will contribute to the achievement of a higher level of professional qualification for road transport operators, the rationalisation of the market, and an improved quality of service, in the interests of road transport operators, their customers and the economy as a whole, together with improvements in road safety;

| C. | whereas Article 6 provides a non-exhaustive list of EU rules relevant to assessing good repute, which includes: rules on driving and working time of drivers; use of tachographs; maximum weights and dimensions of commercial vehicles used in international traffic; qualification and training of drivers; the roadworthiness of commercial vehicles; access to the market in international road haulage or, as appropriate, access to the market in road passenger transport; safety in the carriage of dangerous goods by road; the installation and use of speed-limiting devices; driving licences; admission to the occupation; and animal transport; |
| --- | --- |

C.

whereas Article 6 provides a non-exhaustive list of EU rules relevant to assessing good repute, which includes: rules on driving and working time of drivers; use of tachographs; maximum weights and dimensions of commercial vehicles used in international traffic; qualification and training of drivers; the roadworthiness of commercial vehicles; access to the market in international road haulage or, as appropriate, access to the market in road passenger transport; safety in the carriage of dangerous goods by road; the installation and use of speed-limiting devices; driving licences; admission to the occupation; and animal transport;

| D. | whereas under Article 6(2) of Regulation (EC) No 1071/2009 the Commission is required to draw up a list of categories, types and degrees of seriousness of serious infringements of these Community rules, which, in addition to those set out in Annex IV, may lead to the loss of good repute; |
| --- | --- |

D.

whereas under Article 6(2) of Regulation (EC) No 1071/2009 the Commission is required to draw up a list of categories, types and degrees of seriousness of serious infringements of these Community rules, which, in addition to those set out in Annex IV, may lead to the loss of good repute;

| E. | whereas Member States are required to take into account information on those infringements, including information received from other Member States, when setting the priorities for checks pursuant to Article 12(1); |
| --- | --- |

E.

whereas Member States are required to take into account information on those infringements, including information received from other Member States, when setting the priorities for checks pursuant to Article 12(1);

| F. | whereas under Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 1071/2009 the Commission, when preparing these measures, is required to lay down the categories and types of infringement which are most frequently encountered; |
| --- | --- |

F.

whereas under Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 1071/2009 the Commission, when preparing these measures, is required to lay down the categories and types of infringement which are most frequently encountered;

| G. | whereas, taking into consideration the basic legal act, the measure to be adopted by the Commission was expected to include a full list of both harmonised infringements and harmonised degree of seriousness which may lead to the loss of the good repute by the road transport operator; |
| --- | --- |

G.

whereas, taking into consideration the basic legal act, the measure to be adopted by the Commission was expected to include a full list of both harmonised infringements and harmonised degree of seriousness which may lead to the loss of the good repute by the road transport operator;

| H. | whereas the Commission, when preparing these measures, must define the degree of seriousness of infringements according to their potential to create a risk of fatalities or serious injuries; |
| --- | --- |

H.

whereas the Commission, when preparing these measures, must define the degree of seriousness of infringements according to their potential to create a risk of fatalities or serious injuries;

| I. | whereas the list to be prepared by the Commission could only consider those infringements which could create a risk of fatalities or serious injuries, while serious infringements of Regulation (EC) No 1072/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 October 2009 on common rules for access to the international road haulage market (5) have an important impact on working and living conditions which certainly may have a high potential to create a risk of fatalities or serious injuries; |
| --- | --- |

I.

whereas the list to be prepared by the Commission could only consider those infringements which could create a risk of fatalities or serious injuries, while serious infringements of Regulation (EC) No 1072/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 October 2009 on common rules for access to the international road haulage market (5) have an important impact on working and living conditions which certainly may have a high potential to create a risk of fatalities or serious injuries;

| J. | whereas the list has failed to include a complete list of serious infringements of Regulation (EC) No 1072/2009, since point 10 of Annex 1 to the draft Commission regulation does not include illegal cabotage, which, given its negative impact on drivers, should clearly be regarded as a serious infringement; |
| --- | --- |

J.

whereas the list has failed to include a complete list of serious infringements of Regulation (EC) No 1072/2009, since point 10 of Annex 1 to the draft Commission regulation does not include illegal cabotage, which, given its negative impact on drivers, should clearly be regarded as a serious infringement;

| K. | whereas other rules related to illegal cabotage, e.g. relating to the performance of cabotage in a form not in line with national requirements relating to social legislation applicable to the contract, should be included in the list as serious infringements, in view of their potential to create a risk of fatalities or serious injuries; |
| --- | --- |

K.

whereas other rules related to illegal cabotage, e.g. relating to the performance of cabotage in a form not in line with national requirements relating to social legislation applicable to the contract, should be included in the list as serious infringements, in view of their potential to create a risk of fatalities or serious injuries;

| L. | whereas the list of categories, types and degrees of seriousness of serious infringements that has been added uses very ordinary words such as ‘in accordance’ or ‘valid’, and this further complicates the interpretation by the competent authorities of the types and degrees of serious infringements; |
| --- | --- |

L.

whereas the list of categories, types and degrees of seriousness of serious infringements that has been added uses very ordinary words such as ‘in accordance’ or ‘valid’, and this further complicates the interpretation by the competent authorities of the types and degrees of serious infringements;

| M. | whereas the existing regulations already include clear provisions regarding the responsibility of carriers, drivers and the company in charge with respect to the transport of dangerous goods; |
| --- | --- |

M.

whereas the existing regulations already include clear provisions regarding the responsibility of carriers, drivers and the company in charge with respect to the transport of dangerous goods;

| N. | whereas the liability and responsibilities of the different actors regarding the transport of dangerous goods can be undermined, in regard to the groups of infringements against Directive 2008/68/EC as in point 9 of Annex 1 to the proposed measure; |
| --- | --- |

N.

whereas the liability and responsibilities of the different actors regarding the transport of dangerous goods can be undermined, in regard to the groups of infringements against Directive 2008/68/EC as in point 9 of Annex 1 to the proposed measure;

| O. | whereas, therefore, the draft measure submitted by the Commission should not be considered compatible with the aim or content of the basic legislative act; |
| --- | --- |

O.

whereas, therefore, the draft measure submitted by the Commission should not be considered compatible with the aim or content of the basic legislative act;

| 1. | Opposes adoption of the draft Commission regulation; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Opposes adoption of the draft Commission regulation;

| 2. | Considers that the draft Commission regulation is not compatible with the aim and content of Regulation (EC) No 1071/2009; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Considers that the draft Commission regulation is not compatible with the aim and content of Regulation (EC) No 1071/2009;

| 3. | Calls on the Commission to withdraw the draft regulation and submit to the committee a new list of serious infringements of the Union rules which may lead to the loss of good repute by the road transport operator; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Calls on the Commission to withdraw the draft regulation and submit to the committee a new list of serious infringements of the Union rules which may lead to the loss of good repute by the road transport operator;

| 4. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission and the governments and parliaments of the Member States. |
| --- | --- |

4.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission and the governments and parliaments of the Member States.

---

(1)  OJ L 300, 14.11.2009, p. 51.

(2)  OJ L 102, 15.3.2006, p. 35.

(3)  OJ L 370, 31.12.1985, p. 8.

(4)  OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23.

(5)  OJ L 300, 14.11.2009, p. 72.

---

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/5 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/5

---

P8_TA(2014)0102

Renewing the EU Internal Security Strategy

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on renewing the EU Internal Security Strategy (2014/2918(RSP))

(2016/C 294/02)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to Articles 2, 3, 6, 7 and 21 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU) and to Articles 4, 16, 20, 67, 68, 70, 71, 72, 75, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87 and 88 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Articles 2, 3, 6, 7 and 21 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU) and to Articles 4, 16, 20, 67, 68, 70, 71, 72, 75, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87 and 88 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU),

| — | having regard to the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, in particular Articles 6, 7, 8, 10(1), 11, 12, 21, 47-50, 52 and 53 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, in particular Articles 6, 7, 8, 10(1), 11, 12, 21, 47-50, 52 and 53 thereof,

| — | having regard to the Commission communication of 20 June 2014 on the final implementation report of the EU Internal Security Strategy 2010-2014 (COM(2014)0365), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission communication of 20 June 2014 on the final implementation report of the EU Internal Security Strategy 2010-2014 (COM(2014)0365),

| — | having regard to Europol's EU Terrorism Situation and Trend Report (TE-SAT) for 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Europol's EU Terrorism Situation and Trend Report (TE-SAT) for 2014,

| — | having regard to Europol's Internet Organised Crime Threat Assessment (iOCTA) for 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Europol's Internet Organised Crime Threat Assessment (iOCTA) for 2014,

| — | having regard to Europol's EU Serious and Organised Crime Threat Assessment (SOCTA) for 2013, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Europol's EU Serious and Organised Crime Threat Assessment (SOCTA) for 2013,

| — | having regard to Opinion 01/2014 of the Article 29 Data Protection Working Party on the application of necessity and proportionality concepts and data protection within the law enforcement sector, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Opinion 01/2014 of the Article 29 Data Protection Working Party on the application of necessity and proportionality concepts and data protection within the law enforcement sector,

| — | having regard to the resolution adopted by the UN Security Council on 24 September 2014 on threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts (Resolution 2178 (2014)), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the resolution adopted by the UN Security Council on 24 September 2014 on threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts (Resolution 2178 (2014)),

| — | having regard to its resolution of 2 April 2014 on the mid-term review of the Stockholm Programme (1), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its resolution of 2 April 2014 on the mid-term review of the Stockholm Programme (1),

| — | having regard to its resolution of 12 March 2014 on the US NSA surveillance programme, surveillance bodies in various Member States and impact on EU citizens' fundamental rights (2), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its resolution of 12 March 2014 on the US NSA surveillance programme, surveillance bodies in various Member States and impact on EU citizens' fundamental rights (2),

| — | having regard to its resolution of 27 February 2014 on the situation of fundamental rights in the European Union (2012) (3), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its resolution of 27 February 2014 on the situation of fundamental rights in the European Union (2012) (3),

| — | having regard to its resolution of 12 September 2013 on the second report on the implementation of the EU Internal Security Strategy (4), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its resolution of 12 September 2013 on the second report on the implementation of the EU Internal Security Strategy (4),

| — | having regard to the EU Internal Security Strategy, as adopted by the Council on 25 February 2010, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the EU Internal Security Strategy, as adopted by the Council on 25 February 2010,

| — | having regard to the questions to the Council and to the Commission on renewing the EU Internal Security Strategy (O-000089/2014 — B8-0044/2014 and O-000090/2014 — B8-0045/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the questions to the Council and to the Commission on renewing the EU Internal Security Strategy (O-000089/2014 — B8-0044/2014 and O-000090/2014 — B8-0045/2014),

| — | having regard to Rules 128(5) and 123(2) of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rules 128(5) and 123(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

| A. | whereas the Treaty of Lisbon laid the foundations for the development of an EU security policy that is closely shared by the EU and its Member States, is based on the rule of law, respect for fundamental rights, and solidarity, and is subject to democratic oversight at European and national level, while upholding the principle of subsidiarity; whereas the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty made Parliament a fully fledged actor in the field of security policy so as to ensure democratic control, thus entitling it to participate actively in determining priorities in this field and to engage with all relevant actors at EU and national level in order to achieve a comprehensive, targeted and effective EU security policy; |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas the Treaty of Lisbon laid the foundations for the development of an EU security policy that is closely shared by the EU and its Member States, is based on the rule of law, respect for fundamental rights, and solidarity, and is subject to democratic oversight at European and national level, while upholding the principle of subsidiarity; whereas the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty made Parliament a fully fledged actor in the field of security policy so as to ensure democratic control, thus entitling it to participate actively in determining priorities in this field and to engage with all relevant actors at EU and national level in order to achieve a comprehensive, targeted and effective EU security policy;

| B. | whereas the security situation in Europe has changed dramatically in recent years owing to new conflicts and upheavals in the EU’s immediate neighbourhood, the rapid development of new technologies, and growing radicalisation that is leading to violence and terrorism; whereas many of today’s security challenges are cross-border and cross-sectoral in nature, going beyond the capacity of any individual Member State to respond effectively to them, and whereas this calls for a common European approach; |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas the security situation in Europe has changed dramatically in recent years owing to new conflicts and upheavals in the EU’s immediate neighbourhood, the rapid development of new technologies, and growing radicalisation that is leading to violence and terrorism; whereas many of today’s security challenges are cross-border and cross-sectoral in nature, going beyond the capacity of any individual Member State to respond effectively to them, and whereas this calls for a common European approach;

| C. | whereas the EU and its Member States have a common responsibility to ensure the safety and freedom of European citizens; whereas freedom, security and justice are objectives that must be pursued in parallel, and whereas, in order to achieve freedom and justice, security measures should therefore always be evidence-based, in accordance with the principles of necessity, proportionality and respect for fundamental rights and on the basis of proper democratic oversight and accountability; |
| --- | --- |

C.

whereas the EU and its Member States have a common responsibility to ensure the safety and freedom of European citizens; whereas freedom, security and justice are objectives that must be pursued in parallel, and whereas, in order to achieve freedom and justice, security measures should therefore always be evidence-based, in accordance with the principles of necessity, proportionality and respect for fundamental rights and on the basis of proper democratic oversight and accountability;

| D. | whereas special attention should be paid to supporting and protecting all victims of crime across the EU; |
| --- | --- |

D.

whereas special attention should be paid to supporting and protecting all victims of crime across the EU;

| E. | whereas the Internal Security Strategy (ISS) for the 2010-2014 period is coming to an end and a new ISS for the 2015-2019 period is being prepared; |
| --- | --- |

E.

whereas the Internal Security Strategy (ISS) for the 2010-2014 period is coming to an end and a new ISS for the 2015-2019 period is being prepared;

| 1. | Welcomes the preparation of a new ISS for the coming four years; points out that new security threats have emerged since the establishment of the current ISS, while others call for a different policy response; reiterates, furthermore, that the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty incorporated the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights into EU law; believes, therefore, that the current ISS should be thoroughly assessed, updated and revamped; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Welcomes the preparation of a new ISS for the coming four years; points out that new security threats have emerged since the establishment of the current ISS, while others call for a different policy response; reiterates, furthermore, that the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty incorporated the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights into EU law; believes, therefore, that the current ISS should be thoroughly assessed, updated and revamped;

| 2. | Believes that essential prerequisites for an effective ISS include a thorough analysis of the security threats to be addressed, to be performed by Europol in close cooperation with other relevant EU bodies and the Member States; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Believes that essential prerequisites for an effective ISS include a thorough analysis of the security threats to be addressed, to be performed by Europol in close cooperation with other relevant EU bodies and the Member States;

| 3. | Regrets the fact that the Commission's communication does not contain an evaluation of the current instruments and a corresponding assessment of remaining gaps; calls as a matter of urgency on the Commission to perform such a stock-taking exercise and to focus its efforts on the proper implementation and better use of existing legislation and instruments before proposing the creation of new ones; specifically, calls on the Council, in cooperation with the Commission, to comprehensively evaluate the implementation of the measures adopted in the area of internal security before the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty, making use of the procedure provided for in Article 70 TFEU; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Regrets the fact that the Commission's communication does not contain an evaluation of the current instruments and a corresponding assessment of remaining gaps; calls as a matter of urgency on the Commission to perform such a stock-taking exercise and to focus its efforts on the proper implementation and better use of existing legislation and instruments before proposing the creation of new ones; specifically, calls on the Council, in cooperation with the Commission, to comprehensively evaluate the implementation of the measures adopted in the area of internal security before the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty, making use of the procedure provided for in Article 70 TFEU;

| 4. | Calls for the new ISS to be forward-looking and strategic, and easily adaptable to evolving situations, by focusing not only on existing security threats but also on emerging ones and taking an integrated, comprehensive and holistic approach to priority areas such as cybersecurity, trafficking in human beings and counter-terrorism, and to interlinked issues such as organised crime, money laundering and corruption; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Calls for the new ISS to be forward-looking and strategic, and easily adaptable to evolving situations, by focusing not only on existing security threats but also on emerging ones and taking an integrated, comprehensive and holistic approach to priority areas such as cybersecurity, trafficking in human beings and counter-terrorism, and to interlinked issues such as organised crime, money laundering and corruption;

| 5. | Notes with concern the rapidly rising number of EU nationals who travel to conflict areas to join terrorist organisations and subsequently return to EU territory, presenting new types of risks to EU internal security; intends to address this worrying trend with a multi-dimensional approach, including by (i) comprehensively addressing underlying factors such as radicalisation, intolerance and discrimination by promoting political and religious tolerance, developing social cohesion and inclusiveness and facilitating reintegration, (ii) analysing and counterbalancing incitement to perform terrorist acts motivated by extremism and departures to join terrorist organisations, (iii) preventing and stemming recruitment and engagement in conflict, including the actual travel of foreign fighters to conflict areas, within the appropriate legal frameworks, (iv) disrupting financial support to terrorist organisations and individuals aiming to join them, and (v) providing for legal prosecution where appropriate; |
| --- | --- |

5.

Notes with concern the rapidly rising number of EU nationals who travel to conflict areas to join terrorist organisations and subsequently return to EU territory, presenting new types of risks to EU internal security; intends to address this worrying trend with a multi-dimensional approach, including by (i) comprehensively addressing underlying factors such as radicalisation, intolerance and discrimination by promoting political and religious tolerance, developing social cohesion and inclusiveness and facilitating reintegration, (ii) analysing and counterbalancing incitement to perform terrorist acts motivated by extremism and departures to join terrorist organisations, (iii) preventing and stemming recruitment and engagement in conflict, including the actual travel of foreign fighters to conflict areas, within the appropriate legal frameworks, (iv) disrupting financial support to terrorist organisations and individuals aiming to join them, and (v) providing for legal prosecution where appropriate;

| 6. | Points out that security threats have become more varied, international, multiple and asymmetrical, requiring closer cross-border and inter-agency cooperation; calls for more effective operational cooperation among Member States through greater use of valuable existing instruments, such as joint investigation teams, and more expeditious and efficient sharing of relevant data and information, subject to the appropriate data protection and privacy safeguards; in this connection, underlines the utmost importance of the swift adoption of the proposed data protection directive in order to provide a comprehensive legal framework for the sharing of data in the law enforcement field; points out that, in order to further promote operational cooperation among Member States, additional trust-building measures are necessary; supports, therefore, the strengthening of European training and exchange programmes for national practitioners in order to further foster a European law enforcement culture; |
| --- | --- |

6.

Points out that security threats have become more varied, international, multiple and asymmetrical, requiring closer cross-border and inter-agency cooperation; calls for more effective operational cooperation among Member States through greater use of valuable existing instruments, such as joint investigation teams, and more expeditious and efficient sharing of relevant data and information, subject to the appropriate data protection and privacy safeguards; in this connection, underlines the utmost importance of the swift adoption of the proposed data protection directive in order to provide a comprehensive legal framework for the sharing of data in the law enforcement field; points out that, in order to further promote operational cooperation among Member States, additional trust-building measures are necessary; supports, therefore, the strengthening of European training and exchange programmes for national practitioners in order to further foster a European law enforcement culture;

| 7. | Reminds the European Council of its obligation under Article 222 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union to conduct a regular EU threat assessment, and invites the Commission to come forward with concrete proposals on how best to implement this obligation, drawing together the current fragmented and narrowly focused threat and risk assessments at EU and national level; |
| --- | --- |

7.

Reminds the European Council of its obligation under Article 222 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union to conduct a regular EU threat assessment, and invites the Commission to come forward with concrete proposals on how best to implement this obligation, drawing together the current fragmented and narrowly focused threat and risk assessments at EU and national level;

| 8. | Calls for the right balance to be sought between prevention policies and repressive measures in order to preserve freedom, security and justice; stresses that security measures should always be pursued in accordance with the principles of the rule of law and the protection of all fundamental rights; calls on the Commission, therefore, when devising and implementing the new ISS, to take due account of the recent Court of Justice ruling on the data retention directive, which requires all instruments to comply with the principles of proportionality, necessity and legality, and to include the appropriate safeguards of accountability and judicial redress; |
| --- | --- |

8.

Calls for the right balance to be sought between prevention policies and repressive measures in order to preserve freedom, security and justice; stresses that security measures should always be pursued in accordance with the principles of the rule of law and the protection of all fundamental rights; calls on the Commission, therefore, when devising and implementing the new ISS, to take due account of the recent Court of Justice ruling on the data retention directive, which requires all instruments to comply with the principles of proportionality, necessity and legality, and to include the appropriate safeguards of accountability and judicial redress;

| 9. | Considers it regrettable that the ISS still lacks a proper ‘justice dimension’; recalls that, in line with the Stockholm programme, mutual trust must be strengthened by progressively developing a European judicial culture based on the diversity of legal systems and traditions, through European cooperation and legislation in this area and, specifically, the development of judicial cooperation in criminal matters; |
| --- | --- |

9.

Considers it regrettable that the ISS still lacks a proper ‘justice dimension’; recalls that, in line with the Stockholm programme, mutual trust must be strengthened by progressively developing a European judicial culture based on the diversity of legal systems and traditions, through European cooperation and legislation in this area and, specifically, the development of judicial cooperation in criminal matters;

| 10. | Points out that proper implementation of the new ISS is of critical importance, that a clear division of tasks between the EU level and the national level is necessary, and that both the European Parliament and the national parliaments need to be part of this monitoring process; intends, therefore, to perform regular monitoring exercises, in close cooperation with national parliaments, on the proper implementation of the ISS; |
| --- | --- |

10.

Points out that proper implementation of the new ISS is of critical importance, that a clear division of tasks between the EU level and the national level is necessary, and that both the European Parliament and the national parliaments need to be part of this monitoring process; intends, therefore, to perform regular monitoring exercises, in close cooperation with national parliaments, on the proper implementation of the ISS;

| 11. | Underlines the importance of coherence between the internal and external aspects of security; believes that synergies between the common foreign and security policy and justice and home affairs (JHA) tools, including information exchange and police and judicial cooperation with third countries, especially through the use of mutual legal assistance agreements, should be maximised, in full compliance with the principles laid down in Articles 2, 3, 6 and 21 TEU; stresses in this context that all relevant actors, including the EU Counter-terrorism Coordinator and the EU Anti-Trafficking Coordinator, should work closely together, integrating the internal and external aspects; |
| --- | --- |

11.

Underlines the importance of coherence between the internal and external aspects of security; believes that synergies between the common foreign and security policy and justice and home affairs (JHA) tools, including information exchange and police and judicial cooperation with third countries, especially through the use of mutual legal assistance agreements, should be maximised, in full compliance with the principles laid down in Articles 2, 3, 6 and 21 TEU; stresses in this context that all relevant actors, including the EU Counter-terrorism Coordinator and the EU Anti-Trafficking Coordinator, should work closely together, integrating the internal and external aspects;

| 12. | Stresses the need to provide for appropriate financial resources for the proper implementation of the measures set out in the ISS, and in particular to ensure that EU agencies such as Europol and Eurojust are sufficiently equipped to fulfil the tasks assigned to them; acknowledges, in this connection, the important role that research and innovation can play in developing tools to help tackle terrorism and serious and organised crime; |
| --- | --- |

12.

Stresses the need to provide for appropriate financial resources for the proper implementation of the measures set out in the ISS, and in particular to ensure that EU agencies such as Europol and Eurojust are sufficiently equipped to fulfil the tasks assigned to them; acknowledges, in this connection, the important role that research and innovation can play in developing tools to help tackle terrorism and serious and organised crime;

| 13. | Points out that, in practice, the ISS also has consequences in terms of prioritising the operations of European agencies and European funding in the JHA field, in which Parliament is a co-legislator; urges the Council, therefore, to take due account of Parliament’s input into the new ISS before adopting the new strategy; |
| --- | --- |

13.

Points out that, in practice, the ISS also has consequences in terms of prioritising the operations of European agencies and European funding in the JHA field, in which Parliament is a co-legislator; urges the Council, therefore, to take due account of Parliament’s input into the new ISS before adopting the new strategy;

| 14. | Intends to further elaborate its position on priorities and actions in the field of internal security, including on the basis of the expected Commission communication on the new ISS, and to enter into a fruitful dialogue with the Council and the Commission on this issue in the spirit of the Treaty of Lisbon; |
| --- | --- |

14.

Intends to further elaborate its position on priorities and actions in the field of internal security, including on the basis of the expected Commission communication on the new ISS, and to enter into a fruitful dialogue with the Council and the Commission on this issue in the spirit of the Treaty of Lisbon;

| 15. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Commission and the Council, and to the parliaments of the Member States. |
| --- | --- |

15.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Commission and the Council, and to the parliaments of the Member States.

---

(1)  Texts adopted, P7_TA(2014)0276.

(2)  Texts adopted, P7_TA(2014)0230.

(3)  Texts adopted, P7_TA(2014)0173.

(4)  Texts adopted, P7_TA(2013)0384.

---

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/9 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/9

---

P8_TA(2014)0103

Recognition of Palestine statehood

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on recognition of Palestine statehood (2014/2964(RSP))

(2016/C 294/03)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to its previous resolutions on the Middle East peace process, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its previous resolutions on the Middle East peace process,

| — | having regard to the conclusions of the Foreign Affairs Council on the Middle East Peace Process of 17 November 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the conclusions of the Foreign Affairs Council on the Middle East Peace Process of 17 November 2014,

| — | having regard to the statements of the High Representative/Vice-President on the attack in the Har Nof synagogue of 18 November 2014, on the terrorist attack in Jerusalem of 5 November 2014, and to the statement by the Spokesperson of the EU High Representative on the latest developments in the Middle East of 10 November 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the statements of the High Representative/Vice-President on the attack in the Har Nof synagogue of 18 November 2014, on the terrorist attack in Jerusalem of 5 November 2014, and to the statement by the Spokesperson of the EU High Representative on the latest developments in the Middle East of 10 November 2014,

| — | having regard to the announcement of the Swedish government on the recognition of the State of Palestine of 30 October 2014, as well as the earlier recognition by other Member States before joining the European Union, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the announcement of the Swedish government on the recognition of the State of Palestine of 30 October 2014, as well as the earlier recognition by other Member States before joining the European Union,

| — | having regard to the motions on the recognition of the State of Palestine approved in the House of Commons of the United Kingdom on 13 October 2014, the Irish Senate on 22 October 2014, the Spanish Parliament on 18 November 2014, the French National Assembly on 2 December 2014, and the Portuguese Assembly on 12 December 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the motions on the recognition of the State of Palestine approved in the House of Commons of the United Kingdom on 13 October 2014, the Irish Senate on 22 October 2014, the Spanish Parliament on 18 November 2014, the French National Assembly on 2 December 2014, and the Portuguese Assembly on 12 December 2014,

| — | having regard to International Law, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to International Law,

| — | having regard to Rule 123(2) of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rule 123(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

| A. | whereas the EU has repeatedly confirmed its support for the two-state solution on the basis of the 1967 borders, with Jerusalem as the capital of both states with the secure State of Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous and viable State of Palestine living side by side in peace and security and called for the resumption of direct peace talks between Israel and the Palestinian Authority; |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas the EU has repeatedly confirmed its support for the two-state solution on the basis of the 1967 borders, with Jerusalem as the capital of both states with the secure State of Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous and viable State of Palestine living side by side in peace and security and called for the resumption of direct peace talks between Israel and the Palestinian Authority;

| B. | whereas finding a just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians, has been a key concern for the international community, including the European Union, for more than half-a-century; |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas finding a just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians, has been a key concern for the international community, including the European Union, for more than half-a-century;

| C. | whereas direct peace talks between the parties are stalled; whereas the EU has called on the parties to pursue actions conducive to an environment of confidence necessary to ensure meaningful negotiations, to refrain from actions that undermine the credibility of the process and to prevent incitement; |
| --- | --- |

C.

whereas direct peace talks between the parties are stalled; whereas the EU has called on the parties to pursue actions conducive to an environment of confidence necessary to ensure meaningful negotiations, to refrain from actions that undermine the credibility of the process and to prevent incitement;

| D. | whereas in its resolution of 22 November 2012, the European Parliament stressed that peaceful and non-violent means are the only way to achieve a just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians, called for the creation of the conditions for the resumption of direct peace talks between the two parties, supported, in this connection, Palestine’s bid to become a UN non-member observer, considered this an important step in making Palestinian claims more visible, stronger and more effective, and called on, in this connection, the EU Member States and the international community to find an agreement in this direction; |
| --- | --- |

D.

whereas in its resolution of 22 November 2012, the European Parliament stressed that peaceful and non-violent means are the only way to achieve a just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians, called for the creation of the conditions for the resumption of direct peace talks between the two parties, supported, in this connection, Palestine’s bid to become a UN non-member observer, considered this an important step in making Palestinian claims more visible, stronger and more effective, and called on, in this connection, the EU Member States and the international community to find an agreement in this direction;

| E. | whereas the United Nations General Assembly decided on 29 November 2012 to grant Palestine non-member observer state status in the UN; |
| --- | --- |

E.

whereas the United Nations General Assembly decided on 29 November 2012 to grant Palestine non-member observer state status in the UN;

| F. | whereas the recognition of the State of Palestine falls in the competence of the Member States; |
| --- | --- |

F.

whereas the recognition of the State of Palestine falls in the competence of the Member States;

| G. | recalling the commitment of the PLO to recognise the state of Israel since 1993; |
| --- | --- |

G.

recalling the commitment of the PLO to recognise the state of Israel since 1993;

| 1. | Supports in principle recognition of Palestinian statehood and the two state solution, and believes these should go hand in hand with the development of peace talks, which should be advanced; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Supports in principle recognition of Palestinian statehood and the two state solution, and believes these should go hand in hand with the development of peace talks, which should be advanced;

| 2. | Supports the efforts of President Abbas and the Palestinian national consensus government; stresses again the importance of consolidating the authority of the Palestinian consensus government and its administration in the Gaza Strip; urges all Palestinian factions, including Hamas, to accept the commitments of the PLO and end internal divisions; calls for continued EU support and assistance for Palestinian institutional capacity-building; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Supports the efforts of President Abbas and the Palestinian national consensus government; stresses again the importance of consolidating the authority of the Palestinian consensus government and its administration in the Gaza Strip; urges all Palestinian factions, including Hamas, to accept the commitments of the PLO and end internal divisions; calls for continued EU support and assistance for Palestinian institutional capacity-building;

| 3. | Expresses grave concern at the growing tensions and increasing violence in the region; condemns in the strongest terms all acts of terrorism or violence, and extends its condolences to the families of the victims; warns about the risks of further escalation of violence involving holy sites, which could transform the Israeli-Palestinian conflict into a religious conflict; calls on political leaders from all sides to work together through visible actions to de-escalate the situation and stresses that non-violent means and respect for human rights and humanitarian law are the only way to achieve a sustainable solution and a just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians; underlines that any violent action can only fuel extremism on both sides; urges all parties to refrain from any action that would worsen the situation by way of incitement, provocation, excessive use of force or retaliation; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Expresses grave concern at the growing tensions and increasing violence in the region; condemns in the strongest terms all acts of terrorism or violence, and extends its condolences to the families of the victims; warns about the risks of further escalation of violence involving holy sites, which could transform the Israeli-Palestinian conflict into a religious conflict; calls on political leaders from all sides to work together through visible actions to de-escalate the situation and stresses that non-violent means and respect for human rights and humanitarian law are the only way to achieve a sustainable solution and a just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians; underlines that any violent action can only fuel extremism on both sides; urges all parties to refrain from any action that would worsen the situation by way of incitement, provocation, excessive use of force or retaliation;

| 4. | Stresses also that actions, which call into question stated commitments to a negotiated solution must be avoided; underlines that settlements are illegal under international law; calls on both parties to refrain from any action which may undermine the viability and the prospects of the two-state solution; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Stresses also that actions, which call into question stated commitments to a negotiated solution must be avoided; underlines that settlements are illegal under international law; calls on both parties to refrain from any action which may undermine the viability and the prospects of the two-state solution;

| 5. | Reiterates its strong support for the two-state solution on the basis of the 1967 borders, with Jerusalem as the capital of both states, with the secure State of Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous and viable Palestinian State living side by side in peace and security on the basis of the right of self-determination and full respect of international law; |
| --- | --- |

5.

Reiterates its strong support for the two-state solution on the basis of the 1967 borders, with Jerusalem as the capital of both states, with the secure State of Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous and viable Palestinian State living side by side in peace and security on the basis of the right of self-determination and full respect of international law;

| 6. | Welcomes the recent visit of the High Representative/Vice-President to Israel and to Palestine and her commitment to engage proactively in a positive process aimed at breaking the circle of the conflict and creating the conditions for genuine progress in the peace process; believes that the European Union should take its responsibility and become a genuine actor and facilitator in the Middle East peace process, also with a view to the need of the resumption of the peace talks, including through a common approach and a comprehensive strategy for a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict; reiterates that a diplomatic approach under the auspices of the Middle East Quartet is necessary and recalls the importance of the Arab Peace Initiative; |
| --- | --- |

6.

Welcomes the recent visit of the High Representative/Vice-President to Israel and to Palestine and her commitment to engage proactively in a positive process aimed at breaking the circle of the conflict and creating the conditions for genuine progress in the peace process; believes that the European Union should take its responsibility and become a genuine actor and facilitator in the Middle East peace process, also with a view to the need of the resumption of the peace talks, including through a common approach and a comprehensive strategy for a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict; reiterates that a diplomatic approach under the auspices of the Middle East Quartet is necessary and recalls the importance of the Arab Peace Initiative;

| 7. | Calls on the HR/VP to facilitate a common EU position in this regard; |
| --- | --- |

7.

Calls on the HR/VP to facilitate a common EU position in this regard;

| 8. | Underlines the need for a comprehensive peace, ending all claims and fulfilling the legitimate aspirations of both parties, including those of Israelis for security and those of Palestinians for statehood; stresses that the only possible solution to the conflict is the coexistence of two States, Israel and Palestine; |
| --- | --- |

8.

Underlines the need for a comprehensive peace, ending all claims and fulfilling the legitimate aspirations of both parties, including those of Israelis for security and those of Palestinians for statehood; stresses that the only possible solution to the conflict is the coexistence of two States, Israel and Palestine;

| 9. | Decides to launch a ‘Parliamentarians for Peace’ initiative aiming to bring together cross-party Members of European, Israeli and Palestinian Parliaments to help advance an agenda for peace and to complement EU diplomatic efforts; |
| --- | --- |

9.

Decides to launch a ‘Parliamentarians for Peace’ initiative aiming to bring together cross-party Members of European, Israeli and Palestinian Parliaments to help advance an agenda for peace and to complement EU diplomatic efforts;

| 10. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the European Commission, the governments and parliaments of the Member States, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, the Middle East Quartet Envoy, the Knesset and the Government of Israel, the President of the Palestinian Authority and the Palestinian Legislative Council. |
| --- | --- |

10.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the European Commission, the governments and parliaments of the Member States, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, the Middle East Quartet Envoy, the Knesset and the Government of Israel, the President of the Palestinian Authority and the Palestinian Legislative Council.

---

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/11 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/11

---

P8_TA(2014)0104

Steel sector in the EU: protecting workers and industries

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the steel sector in the EU: protecting workers and industries (2014/2976(RSP))

(2016/C 294/04)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Coal and Steel Community, which is the root of the Treaty on European Union, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Coal and Steel Community, which is the root of the Treaty on European Union,

| — | having regard to the Commission communication of 14 October 2011 entitled ‘Industrial policy: reinforcing competitiveness’ (COM(2011)0642), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission communication of 14 October 2011 entitled ‘Industrial policy: reinforcing competitiveness’ (COM(2011)0642),

| — | having regard to the Commission communication of 10 October 2012 entitled ‘A stronger European industry for growth and economic recovery — Industrial policy communication update’ (COM(2012)0582), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission communication of 10 October 2012 entitled ‘A stronger European industry for growth and economic recovery — Industrial policy communication update’ (COM(2012)0582),

| — | having regard to the Commission communication of 11 June 2013 entitled ‘Action Plan for a competitive and sustainable steel industry in Europe’ (COM(2013)0407), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission communication of 11 June 2013 entitled ‘Action Plan for a competitive and sustainable steel industry in Europe’ (COM(2013)0407),

| — | having regard to its resolution of 4 February 2014 on the Action Plan for a competitive and sustainable steel industry in Europe (1), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its resolution of 4 February 2014 on the Action Plan for a competitive and sustainable steel industry in Europe (1),

| — | having regard to its previous resolutions on the steel industry, and on the restructuring, transfer and closure of companies in the EU, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its previous resolutions on the steel industry, and on the restructuring, transfer and closure of companies in the EU,

| — | having regard to its resolution of 25 November 2014 on the employment and social aspects of the Europe 2020 strategy (2), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its resolution of 25 November 2014 on the employment and social aspects of the Europe 2020 strategy (2),

| — | having regard to its resolution of 15 January 2013 with recommendations to the Commission on information and consultation of workers, anticipation and management of restructuring (3), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its resolution of 15 January 2013 with recommendations to the Commission on information and consultation of workers, anticipation and management of restructuring (3),

| — | having regard to the question to the Commission on the steel plant Acciai Speciali Terni (AST) in Italy (O-000087/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the question to the Commission on the steel plant Acciai Speciali Terni (AST) in Italy (O-000087/2014),

| — | having regard to Rule 123(2) and (4) of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rule 123(2) and (4) of its Rules of Procedure,

General challenges

| A. | whereas the European steel sector has played a historically significant role in the European integration process and forms the basis for the generation of European industrial added value; |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas the European steel sector has played a historically significant role in the European integration process and forms the basis for the generation of European industrial added value;

| B. | whereas the steel sector plays an essential role in Europe’s economy and industry and is currently suffering from a substantial drop in demand, leading to a continuous loss of jobs and competitiveness which does not bode well for the necessary recovery of the European economy; |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas the steel sector plays an essential role in Europe’s economy and industry and is currently suffering from a substantial drop in demand, leading to a continuous loss of jobs and competitiveness which does not bode well for the necessary recovery of the European economy;

| C. | whereas the EU should promote a policy of developing industrial production in all the Member States in order to safeguard jobs within the EU and should strive towards its indicative objective of raising the share of GDP coming from industry to 20 % by 2020; |
| --- | --- |

C.

whereas the EU should promote a policy of developing industrial production in all the Member States in order to safeguard jobs within the EU and should strive towards its indicative objective of raising the share of GDP coming from industry to 20 % by 2020;

| D. | whereas one of the EU’s objectives is to support the steel industry, to remove obstacles and threats to its competitiveness and to make it responsive to changing European and non-European market conditions; |
| --- | --- |

D.

whereas one of the EU’s objectives is to support the steel industry, to remove obstacles and threats to its competitiveness and to make it responsive to changing European and non-European market conditions;

| E. | whereas in recent years the steel industry has faced severe challenges in terms of restructuring and industrial mergers, with corresponding social costs, and also in terms of new requirements to meet the EU’s climate targets; |
| --- | --- |

E.

whereas in recent years the steel industry has faced severe challenges in terms of restructuring and industrial mergers, with corresponding social costs, and also in terms of new requirements to meet the EU’s climate targets;

| F. | whereas a number of large steelmakers, in particular, have been pursuing strategies focusing on short-term financial returns to the detriment of innovation, investments in R&D, employment and skill renewal; |
| --- | --- |

F.

whereas a number of large steelmakers, in particular, have been pursuing strategies focusing on short-term financial returns to the detriment of innovation, investments in R&D, employment and skill renewal;

| G. | whereas the European steel industry is facing an investment crisis which is endangering its own future, while at the same time steel materials are expected to play a crucial role in providing sustainable industrial solutions for urbanisation, mobility and demographic change; |
| --- | --- |

G.

whereas the European steel industry is facing an investment crisis which is endangering its own future, while at the same time steel materials are expected to play a crucial role in providing sustainable industrial solutions for urbanisation, mobility and demographic change;

| H. | whereas a limited increase in demand will see Europe shift from being a net exporter to a net importer of steel, especially flat products and high-added-value products; |
| --- | --- |

H.

whereas a limited increase in demand will see Europe shift from being a net exporter to a net importer of steel, especially flat products and high-added-value products;

| I. | whereas according to the Commission plant closures have led to 60 000 job losses since 2007, and production dropped from 210 million tonnes in 2007 to 166 million tonnes in 2013 (4); |
| --- | --- |

I.

whereas according to the Commission plant closures have led to 60 000 job losses since 2007, and production dropped from 210 million tonnes in 2007 to 166 million tonnes in 2013 (4);

Competitiveness and trade

| J. | whereas reconciling the need for high environmental performance with increased global competitiveness while alleviating carbon leakage concerns and improving access to raw materials remain fundamental challenges for the steel sector, taking into account the fact that different competitors are bound by differing standards; |
| --- | --- |

J.

whereas reconciling the need for high environmental performance with increased global competitiveness while alleviating carbon leakage concerns and improving access to raw materials remain fundamental challenges for the steel sector, taking into account the fact that different competitors are bound by differing standards;

| K. | whereas energy costs have to be taken into account in a global approach to the steel industry, and whereas energy prices for industrial consumers in the EU could have a direct impact on competitiveness; |
| --- | --- |

K.

whereas energy costs have to be taken into account in a global approach to the steel industry, and whereas energy prices for industrial consumers in the EU could have a direct impact on competitiveness;

| L. | whereas further improvements in energy and resource efficiency could equate to further cost savings and emission reductions for the industry; |
| --- | --- |

L.

whereas further improvements in energy and resource efficiency could equate to further cost savings and emission reductions for the industry;

| M. | whereas demand from the automotive sector is limited on account of structural over-capacity, while other sectors, such as renewable energy and energy infrastructure, represent real opportunities for the sector (for example, one 3mW wind turbine represents the equivalent of 500 cars); |
| --- | --- |

M.

whereas demand from the automotive sector is limited on account of structural over-capacity, while other sectors, such as renewable energy and energy infrastructure, represent real opportunities for the sector (for example, one 3mW wind turbine represents the equivalent of 500 cars);

Social aspects

| N. | whereas high unemployment rates in the EU correlate with its shrinking industrial and manufacturing production base, and whereas the current crisis has generated deep social hardship for the workers and regions affected; |
| --- | --- |

N.

whereas high unemployment rates in the EU correlate with its shrinking industrial and manufacturing production base, and whereas the current crisis has generated deep social hardship for the workers and regions affected;

| O. | whereas the EU steel industry is a major employer, accounting for more than 350 000 direct jobs and several million more in related industries, including the recycling supply chain; |
| --- | --- |

O.

whereas the EU steel industry is a major employer, accounting for more than 350 000 direct jobs and several million more in related industries, including the recycling supply chain;

| P. | whereas the situation of some steel plants in Europe is causing serious concern to workers and to national and local authorities; |
| --- | --- |

P.

whereas the situation of some steel plants in Europe is causing serious concern to workers and to national and local authorities;

| Q. | whereas companies involved in restructuring should act in a socially responsible manner, experience having shown that socially and economically sustainable restructuring requires sufficient social dialogue, with a special focus on informing and consulting workers, as outlined in Parliament’s aforementioned resolution of 15 January 2013; |
| --- | --- |

Q.

whereas companies involved in restructuring should act in a socially responsible manner, experience having shown that socially and economically sustainable restructuring requires sufficient social dialogue, with a special focus on informing and consulting workers, as outlined in Parliament’s aforementioned resolution of 15 January 2013;

| R. | whereas comprehensive involvement of the social partners at all levels and the strengthening of social dialogue at EU level are crucial in order to safeguard the interests of both steel companies and their employees; |
| --- | --- |

R.

whereas comprehensive involvement of the social partners at all levels and the strengthening of social dialogue at EU level are crucial in order to safeguard the interests of both steel companies and their employees;

| S. | whereas numerous plants, representing 20 million tonnes of capacity, have been temporarily idled for more than three years; whereas, at the same time, the workforces of many plants in Europe are characterised by ageing skilled workers who have nearly reached retirement; |
| --- | --- |

S.

whereas numerous plants, representing 20 million tonnes of capacity, have been temporarily idled for more than three years; whereas, at the same time, the workforces of many plants in Europe are characterised by ageing skilled workers who have nearly reached retirement;

R&D/technology

| T. | whereas high-technology industries — for instance in the steel sector — have been used as a model of technological know-how that must be protected, and whereas immediate action is necessary to avoid these industries being outsourced outside the EU; |
| --- | --- |

T.

whereas high-technology industries — for instance in the steel sector — have been used as a model of technological know-how that must be protected, and whereas immediate action is necessary to avoid these industries being outsourced outside the EU;

| U. | whereas R&D is strategic for an industry which must find a way to reduce its emissions, especially (but not exclusively) of CO2; |
| --- | --- |

U.

whereas R&D is strategic for an industry which must find a way to reduce its emissions, especially (but not exclusively) of CO2;

Challenges

| 1. | Stresses that European economic recovery is highly dependent on a strong manufacturing industry, with the steel industry playing a key role, and that manufacturing depends on domestic demand and growth; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Stresses that European economic recovery is highly dependent on a strong manufacturing industry, with the steel industry playing a key role, and that manufacturing depends on domestic demand and growth;

| 2. | Reaffirms the need to preserve the know-how and expertise developed in important industrial districts which will ensure diversification, environmental safeguards and innovative products; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Reaffirms the need to preserve the know-how and expertise developed in important industrial districts which will ensure diversification, environmental safeguards and innovative products;

| 3. | Urges the Commission to speed up its preparation of the industrial policy roadmap announced for the first part of 2015 in order to revive European industry vis-à-vis the global market with a view to guaranteeing an effective level playing field while ensuring high social and environmental standards in the EU and working towards reciprocity in third countries; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Urges the Commission to speed up its preparation of the industrial policy roadmap announced for the first part of 2015 in order to revive European industry vis-à-vis the global market with a view to guaranteeing an effective level playing field while ensuring high social and environmental standards in the EU and working towards reciprocity in third countries;

| 4. | Considers an ambitious approach to reindustrialisation in the context of the mid-term review of the Europe 2020 strategy to be of paramount importance for achieving a genuine EU industrial policy and relaunching the EU’s industrial competitiveness at the global level; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Considers an ambitious approach to reindustrialisation in the context of the mid-term review of the Europe 2020 strategy to be of paramount importance for achieving a genuine EU industrial policy and relaunching the EU’s industrial competitiveness at the global level;

| 5. | Calls on the Commission to study the European steel industry’s strategic position in the world, steelmaking being considered to be strategic in a large number of countries, and to specifically develop a clear roadmap for the medium- and long-term initiatives it intends to propose to support the steel industry in Europe; emphasises that such a roadmap must entail the comprehensive and early involvement of the social partners at all levels; considers that, given the continuation of the crisis, an annual report on the implementation of the steel action plan should also be presented in order to build on the positive achievements of this past year and not to lose momentum; |
| --- | --- |

5.

Calls on the Commission to study the European steel industry’s strategic position in the world, steelmaking being considered to be strategic in a large number of countries, and to specifically develop a clear roadmap for the medium- and long-term initiatives it intends to propose to support the steel industry in Europe; emphasises that such a roadmap must entail the comprehensive and early involvement of the social partners at all levels; considers that, given the continuation of the crisis, an annual report on the implementation of the steel action plan should also be presented in order to build on the positive achievements of this past year and not to lose momentum;

| 6. | Asks the Commission to establish an in-depth steel market analysis instrument which could provide precise information on the European and global steel supply-demand balance, distinguishing between structural and cyclical components of the development of this market; believes that monitoring the steel market could contribute significantly to the transparency of steel and scrap markets and provide valuable inputs to corrective and proactive measures, which are inevitable given the cyclical nature of the steel industry; asks the Commission to use this market analysis instrument to anticipate risks and to investigate how plant closures are affecting the sector’s recovery; |
| --- | --- |

6.

Asks the Commission to establish an in-depth steel market analysis instrument which could provide precise information on the European and global steel supply-demand balance, distinguishing between structural and cyclical components of the development of this market; believes that monitoring the steel market could contribute significantly to the transparency of steel and scrap markets and provide valuable inputs to corrective and proactive measures, which are inevitable given the cyclical nature of the steel industry; asks the Commission to use this market analysis instrument to anticipate risks and to investigate how plant closures are affecting the sector’s recovery;

| 7. | Requests that the Commission provide in the short term a report on the major challenges facing the steel industry in Europe, including social, economic and environmental aspects; recalls in this connection that, following the expiry of the Treaty establishing the European Coal and Steel Community, the Commission is entitled to address the economic and social impact of developments in the European steel industry; calls on the Commission to take on board positive experience, in particular as regards the tripartite strategic considerations and research; |
| --- | --- |

7.

Requests that the Commission provide in the short term a report on the major challenges facing the steel industry in Europe, including social, economic and environmental aspects; recalls in this connection that, following the expiry of the Treaty establishing the European Coal and Steel Community, the Commission is entitled to address the economic and social impact of developments in the European steel industry; calls on the Commission to take on board positive experience, in particular as regards the tripartite strategic considerations and research;

| 8. | Asks for the urgent relaunching of the High Level Group on Steel in the context of the newly elected College of Commissioners, with the full participation of Parliament, and for the setting-up of a meeting within that framework to inform relevant stakeholders of the progress made in implementing the 40 actions set out in the Commission action plan for steel; calls on the Commission to hold, wherever appropriate or possible, High Level Group meetings at suitable times so that its work can feed into Competitiveness Council discussions; calls on the Commission to organise thematic meetings once a year with other energy-intensive industries on competition, trade, energy or climate policies, given that some of the steel sector’s concerns are also relevant to other energy-intensive industries; |
| --- | --- |

8.

Asks for the urgent relaunching of the High Level Group on Steel in the context of the newly elected College of Commissioners, with the full participation of Parliament, and for the setting-up of a meeting within that framework to inform relevant stakeholders of the progress made in implementing the 40 actions set out in the Commission action plan for steel; calls on the Commission to hold, wherever appropriate or possible, High Level Group meetings at suitable times so that its work can feed into Competitiveness Council discussions; calls on the Commission to organise thematic meetings once a year with other energy-intensive industries on competition, trade, energy or climate policies, given that some of the steel sector’s concerns are also relevant to other energy-intensive industries;

| 9. | Considers it essential for regional and local authorities and trade unions representing the areas in which steel plants are located to be closely involved, so as to promote cooperation and exchanges of information and best practice among major stakeholders in the Member States; |
| --- | --- |

9.

Considers it essential for regional and local authorities and trade unions representing the areas in which steel plants are located to be closely involved, so as to promote cooperation and exchanges of information and best practice among major stakeholders in the Member States;

| 10. | Highlights the need to study how the investment crisis can be addressed in order to transform European industry into a sustainable and profitable industry, bearing in mind that investments in the steel industry are characterised by long-term returns; urges the Commission, therefore, to consider dedicating part of its investment package to viable long-term infrastructure projects, and to innovation in respect of large-scale industrial projects, including energy efficiency and low-carbon projects, which could also give a significant boost to demand for steel in the EU; |
| --- | --- |

10.

Highlights the need to study how the investment crisis can be addressed in order to transform European industry into a sustainable and profitable industry, bearing in mind that investments in the steel industry are characterised by long-term returns; urges the Commission, therefore, to consider dedicating part of its investment package to viable long-term infrastructure projects, and to innovation in respect of large-scale industrial projects, including energy efficiency and low-carbon projects, which could also give a significant boost to demand for steel in the EU;

| 11. | Encourages, furthermore, the use of other innovative financial instruments such as risk-sharing finance facilities which prioritise steel industries in crisis; calls on the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to design a long-term financing framework for steel projects; |
| --- | --- |

11.

Encourages, furthermore, the use of other innovative financial instruments such as risk-sharing finance facilities which prioritise steel industries in crisis; calls on the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to design a long-term financing framework for steel projects;

| 12. | Stresses that support for the steel sector is crucial, including the strategic development of new key steel-using sectors, for instance in the energy sector (generation and distribution of renewable energy), the transport sector and resource-efficient construction projects, thereby creating incentives for efficient production processes, strengthening the internal market and incentivising skills development; |
| --- | --- |

12.

Stresses that support for the steel sector is crucial, including the strategic development of new key steel-using sectors, for instance in the energy sector (generation and distribution of renewable energy), the transport sector and resource-efficient construction projects, thereby creating incentives for efficient production processes, strengthening the internal market and incentivising skills development;

| 13. | Calls for the application of the ‘life cycle assessment’ approach in order to evaluate environmental impacts and reduced use of resources across all life cycle stages, which include raw material extraction and conversion, followed by manufacture and distribution, through to use and/or consumption, in order to foster reuse, recycling of materials and energy recovery and to reduce ultimate disposal; |
| --- | --- |

13.

Calls for the application of the ‘life cycle assessment’ approach in order to evaluate environmental impacts and reduced use of resources across all life cycle stages, which include raw material extraction and conversion, followed by manufacture and distribution, through to use and/or consumption, in order to foster reuse, recycling of materials and energy recovery and to reduce ultimate disposal;

| 14. | Calls on the Commission to check whether the application of competition rules has led to unfair solutions in the European steel market, with potential adverse effects on its efficiency, and, should that be the case, encourages the Commission to present corrective measures and to prevent such situations in the future; stresses that Commission decisions or remedies in the field of competition law should not jeopardise the economic viability of individual steelmaking sites, especially in the context of increased global competition; adds that the Commission should also act to protect key industrial infrastructure and production capacity from asset-stripping ventures; |
| --- | --- |

14.

Calls on the Commission to check whether the application of competition rules has led to unfair solutions in the European steel market, with potential adverse effects on its efficiency, and, should that be the case, encourages the Commission to present corrective measures and to prevent such situations in the future; stresses that Commission decisions or remedies in the field of competition law should not jeopardise the economic viability of individual steelmaking sites, especially in the context of increased global competition; adds that the Commission should also act to protect key industrial infrastructure and production capacity from asset-stripping ventures;

| 15. | Urges the Commission to ensure that the current scheme of State aid for energy-intensive industries does not generate distortions in the internal market, and thereby to secure a level playing field for companies; takes the view that energy-intensive industries need a stable framework for their investments in order to guarantee a high level of employment; |
| --- | --- |

15.

Urges the Commission to ensure that the current scheme of State aid for energy-intensive industries does not generate distortions in the internal market, and thereby to secure a level playing field for companies; takes the view that energy-intensive industries need a stable framework for their investments in order to guarantee a high level of employment;

Trade and competitiveness

| 16. | Encourages the Commission to place greater importance on industrial policy by adopting measures that will enable the revival of the European industry’s competitiveness in a global market, and to ensure an effective level playing field for all economic actors; |
| --- | --- |

16.

Encourages the Commission to place greater importance on industrial policy by adopting measures that will enable the revival of the European industry’s competitiveness in a global market, and to ensure an effective level playing field for all economic actors;

| 17. | Calls on the Commission to tackle, in a timely and effective manner, steel imports into the EU market which have been illegally subsidised and dumped, and to use, where appropriate, the EU trade remedy instruments in line with existing EU law; |
| --- | --- |

17.

Calls on the Commission to tackle, in a timely and effective manner, steel imports into the EU market which have been illegally subsidised and dumped, and to use, where appropriate, the EU trade remedy instruments in line with existing EU law;

| 18. | Asks the Commission to examine the feasibility of a border carbon adjustment (payment of ETS allowances for steel coming from outside the EU) with a view to creating a level playing field in terms of CO2 emissions, thus eliminating the phenomenon of carbon leakage; |
| --- | --- |

18.

Asks the Commission to examine the feasibility of a border carbon adjustment (payment of ETS allowances for steel coming from outside the EU) with a view to creating a level playing field in terms of CO2 emissions, thus eliminating the phenomenon of carbon leakage;

| 19. | Calls on the Commission to ensure that future trade agreements include provisions which significantly improve export opportunities and market access for European steel and steel-based products; stresses that fair trade in steel products can only work on the basis of compliance with basic employment rights and environmental standards, and points out that imports at dumping price levels lead to unfair competition, in particular for stainless steel producers in Europe; emphasises the urgent need to modernise the EU’s trade defence instruments, and calls on the Commission to encourage the Member States to take concrete action to bring forward this modernisation process, thereby ensuring fair competition and enabling the EU to take swift and proportionate measures in the fight against unfair trading practices; |
| --- | --- |

19.

Calls on the Commission to ensure that future trade agreements include provisions which significantly improve export opportunities and market access for European steel and steel-based products; stresses that fair trade in steel products can only work on the basis of compliance with basic employment rights and environmental standards, and points out that imports at dumping price levels lead to unfair competition, in particular for stainless steel producers in Europe; emphasises the urgent need to modernise the EU’s trade defence instruments, and calls on the Commission to encourage the Member States to take concrete action to bring forward this modernisation process, thereby ensuring fair competition and enabling the EU to take swift and proportionate measures in the fight against unfair trading practices;

| 20. | Believes that the positive measures proposed herein would allow the steel industry to become more competitive internationally, showing that EU steel products meet higher social, environmental and economic standards than those from anywhere else, and highlighting the quality of EU steel producers, which would at the same time improve consumer perceptions; |
| --- | --- |

20.

Believes that the positive measures proposed herein would allow the steel industry to become more competitive internationally, showing that EU steel products meet higher social, environmental and economic standards than those from anywhere else, and highlighting the quality of EU steel producers, which would at the same time improve consumer perceptions;

| 21. | Emphasises that high European standards of climate and environmental protection could become worldwide standards, thereby ensuring fair conditions of competition; |
| --- | --- |

21.

Emphasises that high European standards of climate and environmental protection could become worldwide standards, thereby ensuring fair conditions of competition;

| 22. | Notes the difficulties facing the steel sector in many Member States, driven in part by a significant fall in global demand, a rise in energy costs and increasing offshoring of European manufacturing; calls on the Commission, therefore, to fully implement the Roadmap to a Resource Efficient Europe (COM(2011)0571) and the European Resource Efficiency Platform policy recommendations; |
| --- | --- |

22.

Notes the difficulties facing the steel sector in many Member States, driven in part by a significant fall in global demand, a rise in energy costs and increasing offshoring of European manufacturing; calls on the Commission, therefore, to fully implement the Roadmap to a Resource Efficient Europe (COM(2011)0571) and the European Resource Efficiency Platform policy recommendations;

| 23. | Believes that waste legislation should be improved to sustain the functioning of the EU steel scrap market, for instance through a revision of the End-of-Life Vehicles Directive; recalls the importance of a well-functioning scrap market, which should be further enhanced and stimulated in the light of the strategy for an EU circular economy, in order to prevent excessive price increases as a result of the presence of non-EU industries in the EU market; calls on the Commission, in this connection, to consider applying export duties on the EU scrap market in order to prevent the environmental dumping that normally occurs; |
| --- | --- |

23.

Believes that waste legislation should be improved to sustain the functioning of the EU steel scrap market, for instance through a revision of the End-of-Life Vehicles Directive; recalls the importance of a well-functioning scrap market, which should be further enhanced and stimulated in the light of the strategy for an EU circular economy, in order to prevent excessive price increases as a result of the presence of non-EU industries in the EU market; calls on the Commission, in this connection, to consider applying export duties on the EU scrap market in order to prevent the environmental dumping that normally occurs;

Social aspects

| 24. | Recalls the need to invest in workers’ education and training, and stresses the relevance of careful monitoring by the Commission of ongoing developments in order to safeguard the industrial heritage and the workforce concerned; |
| --- | --- |

24.

Recalls the need to invest in workers’ education and training, and stresses the relevance of careful monitoring by the Commission of ongoing developments in order to safeguard the industrial heritage and the workforce concerned;

| 25. | Asks the Commission to take steps to ensure that Member States are not played off against one another when a large steelmaker running plants in several countries announces restructuring; furthermore, given the importance of coordinating policies to ensure a sustainable, resource-efficient and competitive steel industry which is responsive to changing European and non-European market conditions, calls for a pan-European solution which safeguards and creates good jobs and industrial activity in Europe’s regions; |
| --- | --- |

25.

Asks the Commission to take steps to ensure that Member States are not played off against one another when a large steelmaker running plants in several countries announces restructuring; furthermore, given the importance of coordinating policies to ensure a sustainable, resource-efficient and competitive steel industry which is responsive to changing European and non-European market conditions, calls for a pan-European solution which safeguards and creates good jobs and industrial activity in Europe’s regions;

| 26. | Stresses the need for industry, the social partners and local authorities to anticipate the training requirements stemming from a possible reboot of the temporarily idled plants; |
| --- | --- |

26.

Stresses the need for industry, the social partners and local authorities to anticipate the training requirements stemming from a possible reboot of the temporarily idled plants;

| 27. | Advocates the promotion of a know-how transfer programme to allow skilled older workers to transmit their knowledge and skills to newcomers in European steel plants; |
| --- | --- |

27.

Advocates the promotion of a know-how transfer programme to allow skilled older workers to transmit their knowledge and skills to newcomers in European steel plants;

| 28. | Stresses that EU standards of corporate social responsibility and employee participation should also be implemented by European companies in third countries; |
| --- | --- |

28.

Stresses that EU standards of corporate social responsibility and employee participation should also be implemented by European companies in third countries;

| 29. | Stresses that involving workers in innovation and restructuring measures is essential in order to drive economic success, and calls on the Commission, therefore, to create a platform including the social partners to advise on, implement and monitor the European steel action plan; |
| --- | --- |

29.

Stresses that involving workers in innovation and restructuring measures is essential in order to drive economic success, and calls on the Commission, therefore, to create a platform including the social partners to advise on, implement and monitor the European steel action plan;

| 30. | Calls for the social partners of steel plants that are in a critical economic situation to consider options for collectively reducing working time in order to respond to crisis situations and avoid dismissals and job losses; |
| --- | --- |

30.

Calls for the social partners of steel plants that are in a critical economic situation to consider options for collectively reducing working time in order to respond to crisis situations and avoid dismissals and job losses;

| 31. | Calls on the Commission to streamline relevant EU funds, such as the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) and the European Social Fund (ESF), and policy instruments in order to alleviate the social costs of adjustment and ensure that the relevant skills are retained and developed for the future competitiveness of the industry; |
| --- | --- |

31.

Calls on the Commission to streamline relevant EU funds, such as the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) and the European Social Fund (ESF), and policy instruments in order to alleviate the social costs of adjustment and ensure that the relevant skills are retained and developed for the future competitiveness of the industry;

| 32. | Proposes that the product of companies’ sale of their free allowances should be entirely reinvested in the low-carbon economy (equipment, technologies, R&D and workforce formation); |
| --- | --- |

32.

Proposes that the product of companies’ sale of their free allowances should be entirely reinvested in the low-carbon economy (equipment, technologies, R&D and workforce formation);

| 33. | Believes that future severe changes in the steel and other industrial sectors should be anticipated; considers, in this connection, that the Member States should align education and training policies more closely with labour market needs so as to be able to cope with similar situations and promote the appeal of the technical and scientific fields, in order to ensure that there are specialised professionals in the steel sector to drive innovation; |
| --- | --- |

33.

Believes that future severe changes in the steel and other industrial sectors should be anticipated; considers, in this connection, that the Member States should align education and training policies more closely with labour market needs so as to be able to cope with similar situations and promote the appeal of the technical and scientific fields, in order to ensure that there are specialised professionals in the steel sector to drive innovation;

| 34. | Stresses the need for qualified and skilled people to cope with the transition towards more sustainable production processes and products, and calls for a European training and education strategy; welcomes the Greening Technical Vocational Education and Training project for the steel sector, whereby steel companies, research institutes and the social partners jointly investigated skill needs for environmental sustainability; calls on the Commission to further support the implementation of the project findings; |
| --- | --- |

34.

Stresses the need for qualified and skilled people to cope with the transition towards more sustainable production processes and products, and calls for a European training and education strategy; welcomes the Greening Technical Vocational Education and Training project for the steel sector, whereby steel companies, research institutes and the social partners jointly investigated skill needs for environmental sustainability; calls on the Commission to further support the implementation of the project findings;

R&D/technology

| 35. | Recognises the need to develop and disseminate the best available technologies (BATs) across the EU, supporting — where possible — the replacement of minerals with ferrous scraps, as well as increasing the use of electric arc furnaces (EAFs) and replacing coke coal by gas; |
| --- | --- |

35.

Recognises the need to develop and disseminate the best available technologies (BATs) across the EU, supporting — where possible — the replacement of minerals with ferrous scraps, as well as increasing the use of electric arc furnaces (EAFs) and replacing coke coal by gas;

| 36. | Calls for investment to be oriented towards technologies which maximise the utilisation of energy input, for instance by optimising the use of process gases and waste heat for steam and electricity production; |
| --- | --- |

36.

Calls for investment to be oriented towards technologies which maximise the utilisation of energy input, for instance by optimising the use of process gases and waste heat for steam and electricity production;

| 37. | Urges the Member States to ensure adequate social protection, working conditions and decent wages, by means of either law or collective agreements, and effective protection against unfair dismissal; |
| --- | --- |

37.

Urges the Member States to ensure adequate social protection, working conditions and decent wages, by means of either law or collective agreements, and effective protection against unfair dismissal;

| 38. | Stresses the need for investment in research and innovation as crucial aspects for the relaunching and renewal of the European economy in general, and of the steel industry in particular, which is based on long life cycles and great recycling potential; mentions, in this connection, the existing and new hydrogen-base iron-ore reduction technologies, which have the potential to reduce or eliminate large amounts of carbon dioxide emissions; calls for the establishment and promotion of a trademark for fair steel products ‘made in Europe’; |
| --- | --- |

38.

Stresses the need for investment in research and innovation as crucial aspects for the relaunching and renewal of the European economy in general, and of the steel industry in particular, which is based on long life cycles and great recycling potential; mentions, in this connection, the existing and new hydrogen-base iron-ore reduction technologies, which have the potential to reduce or eliminate large amounts of carbon dioxide emissions; calls for the establishment and promotion of a trademark for fair steel products ‘made in Europe’;

| 39. | Believes that joint research and development efforts will promote low-carbon and low-impact steelmaking, thus favouring a more sustainable and competitive industry; |
| --- | --- |

39.

Believes that joint research and development efforts will promote low-carbon and low-impact steelmaking, thus favouring a more sustainable and competitive industry;

| 40. | Underlines, in this connection, the crucial importance of the Horizon 2020 and Sustainable Process Industry through Resource and Energy Efficiency (SPIRE) programmes, together with the need for European Investment Bank and future NER400 financing of the most risky innovation and research programmes; |
| --- | --- |

40.

Underlines, in this connection, the crucial importance of the Horizon 2020 and Sustainable Process Industry through Resource and Energy Efficiency (SPIRE) programmes, together with the need for European Investment Bank and future NER400 financing of the most risky innovation and research programmes;

| 41. | Calls on the Commission to implement an ambitious innovation policy which clears the way for the development of high-quality, energy-efficient and innovative products and processes enabling the EU to hold its own in the face of ever more severe global competition; emphasises that innovation in new products, such as mass steel products, including high-strength, high-resistance steel sheets for car production as well as high-alloyed steels with different physical and chemical properties, and new production processes, especially hydrogen metallurgy and re-melt metallurgy, hold the key to improving the competitiveness of the European steel industry vis-à-vis third-country suppliers, and that this area should receive particular support; |
| --- | --- |

41.

Calls on the Commission to implement an ambitious innovation policy which clears the way for the development of high-quality, energy-efficient and innovative products and processes enabling the EU to hold its own in the face of ever more severe global competition; emphasises that innovation in new products, such as mass steel products, including high-strength, high-resistance steel sheets for car production as well as high-alloyed steels with different physical and chemical properties, and new production processes, especially hydrogen metallurgy and re-melt metallurgy, hold the key to improving the competitiveness of the European steel industry vis-à-vis third-country suppliers, and that this area should receive particular support;

| 42. | Recalls that innovation must be encouraged by supporting not only research and development and knowledge transfer but also market introduction and innovation clusters, through the promotion of public-private partnerships in strategic sectors such as the steel industry in order to mobilise more private capital; |
| --- | --- |

42.

Recalls that innovation must be encouraged by supporting not only research and development and knowledge transfer but also market introduction and innovation clusters, through the promotion of public-private partnerships in strategic sectors such as the steel industry in order to mobilise more private capital;

| 43. | Supports the financing of industrial pilots to reduce CO2 emissions with a view to meeting the urgent need for a transition to a sustainable, decarbonised economy with energy efficiency, renewables and smart infrastructure forming its backbone, and to transform the ultra-low CO2 steelmaking (ULCOS) technology into an energy-efficient and environmentally efficient industrial policy tool; |
| --- | --- |

43.

Supports the financing of industrial pilots to reduce CO2 emissions with a view to meeting the urgent need for a transition to a sustainable, decarbonised economy with energy efficiency, renewables and smart infrastructure forming its backbone, and to transform the ultra-low CO2 steelmaking (ULCOS) technology into an energy-efficient and environmentally efficient industrial policy tool;

| 44. | Believes that abatement options, in particular for the steel industry sectors, will heavily depend on new technologies, and therefore emphasises the important role that EU-funded research and innovation programmes could play in boosting the European economy through Horizon 2020, as well as their role in ensuring the competitiveness of the European steel sector and the high quality of its production; recalls that research and innovation are important driving forces for economic growth and competitive industry; |
| --- | --- |

44.

Believes that abatement options, in particular for the steel industry sectors, will heavily depend on new technologies, and therefore emphasises the important role that EU-funded research and innovation programmes could play in boosting the European economy through Horizon 2020, as well as their role in ensuring the competitiveness of the European steel sector and the high quality of its production; recalls that research and innovation are important driving forces for economic growth and competitive industry;

| 45. | Calls on the Commission to implement the SustSteel initiative, as proposed in the steel action plan and which is fully supported by Parliament, the Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions, and to do so as soon as possible; |
| --- | --- |

45.

Calls on the Commission to implement the SustSteel initiative, as proposed in the steel action plan and which is fully supported by Parliament, the Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions, and to do so as soon as possible;

o

o o

| 46. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Commission, the Council, and the governments and parliaments of the Member States. |
| --- | --- |

46.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Commission, the Council, and the governments and parliaments of the Member States.

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(1)  Texts adopted, P7_TA(2014)0069.

(2)  Texts adopted, P8_TA(2014)0060.

(3)  Texts adopted, P7_TA(2013)0005.

(4)  Commission staff working document entitled ‘State of play on implementation of the Commission Communication Action Plan for a competitive and sustainable steel industry in Europe of 11 June 2013 (COM(2013)0407)’ (SWD(2014)0215).

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| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/18 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/18

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P8_TA(2014)0105

Situation in the Mediterranean and the need for a holistic EU approach to migration

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the situation in the Mediterranean and the need for a holistic EU approach to migration (2014/2907(RSP))

(2016/C 294/05)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union,

| — | having regard to the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms,

| — | having regard to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948,

| — | having regard to the Geneva Convention of 1951 and the additional protocol thereto, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Geneva Convention of 1951 and the additional protocol thereto,

| — | having regard to its resolution of 9 October 2013 on EU and Member State measures to tackle the flow of refugees as a result of the conflict in Syria (1), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its resolution of 9 October 2013 on EU and Member State measures to tackle the flow of refugees as a result of the conflict in Syria (1),

| — | having regard to its resolution of 23 October 2013 on migratory flows in the Mediterranean, with particular attention to the tragic events off Lampedusa (2), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its resolution of 23 October 2013 on migratory flows in the Mediterranean, with particular attention to the tragic events off Lampedusa (2),

| — | having regard to the speech held by the President of the European Parliament during his visit to Lampedusa on 2 and 3 October 2014, to mark the anniversary of the tragedy of 3 October 2013, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the speech held by the President of the European Parliament during his visit to Lampedusa on 2 and 3 October 2014, to mark the anniversary of the tragedy of 3 October 2013,

| — | having regard to the reports of its Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs on the visits by its delegations to Lampedusa in November 2011, to Jordan on refugees from Syria in February 2013, and to Bulgaria on the situation of asylum seekers and refugees, in particular from Syria in January 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the reports of its Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs on the visits by its delegations to Lampedusa in November 2011, to Jordan on refugees from Syria in February 2013, and to Bulgaria on the situation of asylum seekers and refugees, in particular from Syria in January 2014,

| — | having regard to the debates in the European Parliament plenary sessions held on 9 October 2013, on EU migratory policies in the Mediterranean, with particular attention to the tragic events off Lampedusa, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the debates in the European Parliament plenary sessions held on 9 October 2013, on EU migratory policies in the Mediterranean, with particular attention to the tragic events off Lampedusa,

| — | having regard to the debates held, since the beginning of the current legislature, in the European Parliament Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs on 22 July 2014 on the Implementation of the Communication on the Work of the Task Force Mediterranean; on 4 September 2014 on Frontex Activities in the Mediterranean and on the Task Force Mediterranean; on 24 September 2014 on the Commission 5th Annual Report on Immigration and Asylum (2013) (3) and on EASO Annual report on the situation of Asylum in the European Union (2013), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the debates held, since the beginning of the current legislature, in the European Parliament Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs on 22 July 2014 on the Implementation of the Communication on the Work of the Task Force Mediterranean; on 4 September 2014 on Frontex Activities in the Mediterranean and on the Task Force Mediterranean; on 24 September 2014 on the Commission 5th Annual Report on Immigration and Asylum (2013) (3) and on EASO Annual report on the situation of Asylum in the European Union (2013),

| — | having regard to the Commission Communication on the work of the Task Force Mediterranean of 4 December 2013 (4), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission Communication on the work of the Task Force Mediterranean of 4 December 2013 (4),

| — | having regard to the European Council conclusions of 20 December 2013, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the European Council conclusions of 20 December 2013,

| — | having regard to the Commission working document of 22 May 2014 on the implementation of the Communication on the work of the Task Force Mediterranean (5), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission working document of 22 May 2014 on the implementation of the Communication on the work of the Task Force Mediterranean (5),

| — | having regard to the conclusions adopted by the European Council at its meeting of 26-27 June 2014, in which it defined the strategic guidelines for legislative and operational planning for the coming years within the area of freedom, security and justice (6), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the conclusions adopted by the European Council at its meeting of 26-27 June 2014, in which it defined the strategic guidelines for legislative and operational planning for the coming years within the area of freedom, security and justice (6),

| — | having regard to the Political Guidelines for the next European Commission, presented by President Juncker at the European Parliament’s plenary on 15 July 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Political Guidelines for the next European Commission, presented by President Juncker at the European Parliament’s plenary on 15 July 2014,

| — | having regard to the Opinion of the European Economic and Social committee on European immigration policies of 11 September 2014 (7), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Opinion of the European Economic and Social committee on European immigration policies of 11 September 2014 (7),

| — | having regard to the commitments made by the Commissioner for Migration, Home Affairs and Citizenship, Mr Avramopoulos, at his hearing in front of the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, on 30 September 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the commitments made by the Commissioner for Migration, Home Affairs and Citizenship, Mr Avramopoulos, at his hearing in front of the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, on 30 September 2014,

| — | having regard to the Council conclusions on ‘‘Taking action to better manage migratory flows’’ adopted on 10 October 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Council conclusions on ‘‘Taking action to better manage migratory flows’’ adopted on 10 October 2014,

| — | having regard to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) April 2012 report ‘Lives lost in the Mediterranean Sea’, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) April 2012 report ‘Lives lost in the Mediterranean Sea’,

| — | having regard to the annual reports of the UN Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Migrants, in particular the report, published in April 2013, on the management of the EU’s external borders and its impact on the human rights of migrants, and the report published in April 2014, on Labour exploitation of migrants, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the annual reports of the UN Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Migrants, in particular the report, published in April 2013, on the management of the EU’s external borders and its impact on the human rights of migrants, and the report published in April 2014, on Labour exploitation of migrants,

| — | having regard to the Address by His Holiness Pope Francis during His visit to the European Parliament on 25 November 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Address by His Holiness Pope Francis during His visit to the European Parliament on 25 November 2014,

| — | having regard to the questions to the Council and to the Commission on the situation in the Mediterranean and the need for a holistic EU approach to migration (O-000078/2014 — B8-0037/2014 and O-000079/2014 — B8-0038/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the questions to the Council and to the Commission on the situation in the Mediterranean and the need for a holistic EU approach to migration (O-000078/2014 — B8-0037/2014 and O-000079/2014 — B8-0038/2014),

| — | having regard to the Debate on the situation in the Mediterranean and the need for a holistic EU approach to migration, held in the European Parliament on 25 November 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Debate on the situation in the Mediterranean and the need for a holistic EU approach to migration, held in the European Parliament on 25 November 2014,

| — | having regard to the motion for a resolution of the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the motion for a resolution of the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs,

| — | having regard to Rules 128(5) and 123(2) of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rules 128(5) and 123(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

| A. | whereas in the first nine months of 2014 at least 3 072 persons have died in the Mediterranean sea according to the International Organisation for Migration (8), pointing once more to the need to do everything possible to save the lives of people in danger and to the need for Member States to abide by their international sea-rescue obligations; |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas in the first nine months of 2014 at least 3 072 persons have died in the Mediterranean sea according to the International Organisation for Migration (8), pointing once more to the need to do everything possible to save the lives of people in danger and to the need for Member States to abide by their international sea-rescue obligations;

| B. | whereas about 500 migrants were reportedly murdered after the boat carrying them from Egypt to the European Union was apparently rammed and deliberately sunk by traffickers; whereas smugglers and human traffickers exploit irregular migration and whereas those networks pose a serious risk to the lives of migrants and a challenge for the EU; |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas about 500 migrants were reportedly murdered after the boat carrying them from Egypt to the European Union was apparently rammed and deliberately sunk by traffickers; whereas smugglers and human traffickers exploit irregular migration and whereas those networks pose a serious risk to the lives of migrants and a challenge for the EU;

| C. | whereas the ‘Mare Nostrum’ patrolling, rescue and surveillance operation launched by Italy to enhance the humanitarian rescue activities in the Mediterranean, has during 364 days rescued 150 810 migrants (9); whereas the Italian Government has announced its intention to phase out its Mare Nostrum; |
| --- | --- |

C.

whereas the ‘Mare Nostrum’ patrolling, rescue and surveillance operation launched by Italy to enhance the humanitarian rescue activities in the Mediterranean, has during 364 days rescued 150 810 migrants (9); whereas the Italian Government has announced its intention to phase out its Mare Nostrum;

| D. | whereas the joint operation ‘Triton’ coordinated by Frontex has become fully operational on 1 November 2014 and it is unclear as to what contributions will be made by Member States in the future; |
| --- | --- |

D.

whereas the joint operation ‘Triton’ coordinated by Frontex has become fully operational on 1 November 2014 and it is unclear as to what contributions will be made by Member States in the future;

| 1. | Recognises that it is important to develop a holistic approach to migration; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Recognises that it is important to develop a holistic approach to migration;

| 2. | Reiterates the need for the EU to step up fair sharing of responsibility and solidarity towards Member States which receive the highest numbers of refugees and asylum seekers in either absolute or proportional terms (in compliance with Article 80 TFEU); recalls the obligations deriving from Art. 78 and 79 TFEU; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Reiterates the need for the EU to step up fair sharing of responsibility and solidarity towards Member States which receive the highest numbers of refugees and asylum seekers in either absolute or proportional terms (in compliance with Article 80 TFEU); recalls the obligations deriving from Art. 78 and 79 TFEU;

| 3. | Regrets the tragic loss of life in the Mediterranean; urges the European Union and the Member States to do everything possible to prevent further loss of life at sea; is aware of the need to ensure that search and rescue obligations are effectively fulfilled and therefore that they are properly funded in the medium- and long-term; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Regrets the tragic loss of life in the Mediterranean; urges the European Union and the Member States to do everything possible to prevent further loss of life at sea; is aware of the need to ensure that search and rescue obligations are effectively fulfilled and therefore that they are properly funded in the medium- and long-term;

| 4. | Considers it necessary to reflect on the strengthening of border policy and security and on how to improve the future role of Frontex and EASO; calls on Member States to continue to show solidarity and commitment by making sufficient contributions to these agencies’ budgets and operations; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Considers it necessary to reflect on the strengthening of border policy and security and on how to improve the future role of Frontex and EASO; calls on Member States to continue to show solidarity and commitment by making sufficient contributions to these agencies’ budgets and operations;

| 5. | Recalls that Member States should lay down strong criminal sanctions against human trafficking and smuggling both into and across the EU, and also against individuals or groups exploiting vulnerable migrants in the EU, and set up wide-ranging information campaigns to raise awareness of the kinds of risks faced by those who put their lives into the hands of smugglers and those who are the victims of human trafficking; |
| --- | --- |

5.

Recalls that Member States should lay down strong criminal sanctions against human trafficking and smuggling both into and across the EU, and also against individuals or groups exploiting vulnerable migrants in the EU, and set up wide-ranging information campaigns to raise awareness of the kinds of risks faced by those who put their lives into the hands of smugglers and those who are the victims of human trafficking;

| 6. | Considers that further avenues of legal migration should be explored; |
| --- | --- |

6.

Considers that further avenues of legal migration should be explored;

| 7. | Considers the need to explore future initiatives that follow good examples of resettlement, including the voluntary resettlement programme laid down in Article 17 of the Regulation establishing the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund; recalls that EU funding offers assistance to those Member States who are willing to implement resettlement programmes; |
| --- | --- |

7.

Considers the need to explore future initiatives that follow good examples of resettlement, including the voluntary resettlement programme laid down in Article 17 of the Regulation establishing the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund; recalls that EU funding offers assistance to those Member States who are willing to implement resettlement programmes;

| 8. | Stresses the need to examine the overall strategy on cooperation with third countries, including Sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa and the Middle East, as regards humanitarian, financial and political assistance, including in the field of law enforcement where appropriate; furthermore seeks clarification on the role of regional protection, resettlement and returns policies, including migration management agreements of both countries of origin and transit countries, in order to address the root causes of migration; stresses the need for third countries to respect international law with regard to saving lives at sea, and to ensure the protection of refugees and respect for fundamental rights; |
| --- | --- |

8.

Stresses the need to examine the overall strategy on cooperation with third countries, including Sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa and the Middle East, as regards humanitarian, financial and political assistance, including in the field of law enforcement where appropriate; furthermore seeks clarification on the role of regional protection, resettlement and returns policies, including migration management agreements of both countries of origin and transit countries, in order to address the root causes of migration; stresses the need for third countries to respect international law with regard to saving lives at sea, and to ensure the protection of refugees and respect for fundamental rights;

| 9. | Should consider the possibility of swift processing in collaboration with third countries of transit and origin and of return for those who do not qualify for asylum and protection in the EU, ensuring that resources are best utilised for those who require protection; stresses the need to encourage voluntary return policies, while guaranteeing the protection of rights for all migrants and ensuring safe and legal access to the EU asylum system; |
| --- | --- |

9.

Should consider the possibility of swift processing in collaboration with third countries of transit and origin and of return for those who do not qualify for asylum and protection in the EU, ensuring that resources are best utilised for those who require protection; stresses the need to encourage voluntary return policies, while guaranteeing the protection of rights for all migrants and ensuring safe and legal access to the EU asylum system;

| 10. | Considers that an analysis should be carried out on how Home Affairs Funds are spent in this context including emergency funds, in particular for actions in the field of migration and asylum, border control, fighting smuggling and trafficking and returns, as well as an analysis of funds relating to EU foreign and development policy; |
| --- | --- |

10.

Considers that an analysis should be carried out on how Home Affairs Funds are spent in this context including emergency funds, in particular for actions in the field of migration and asylum, border control, fighting smuggling and trafficking and returns, as well as an analysis of funds relating to EU foreign and development policy;

| 11. | Expresses concern about how to ensure an effective implementation of the CEAS — including where necessary and if required the launching of the Mechanism for early warning, preparedness and crisis-management (Art. 33 of Regulation (EU) No 604/2013) or by infringement procedures where EU legislation is not properly implemented — and how to guarantee effective common standards for reception, procedures and qualification throughout the EU protecting the most vulnerable and encouraging the social inclusion of refugees; |
| --- | --- |

11.

Expresses concern about how to ensure an effective implementation of the CEAS — including where necessary and if required the launching of the Mechanism for early warning, preparedness and crisis-management (Art. 33 of Regulation (EU) No 604/2013) or by infringement procedures where EU legislation is not properly implemented — and how to guarantee effective common standards for reception, procedures and qualification throughout the EU protecting the most vulnerable and encouraging the social inclusion of refugees;

| 12. | Instructs its competent committee to assess the various policies at stake, with additional resources such as resources for conducting hearings and ad hoc delegations, develop a set of recommendations and to report to Plenary in the form of a strategic initiative report before the end of 2015; |
| --- | --- |

12.

Instructs its competent committee to assess the various policies at stake, with additional resources such as resources for conducting hearings and ad hoc delegations, develop a set of recommendations and to report to Plenary in the form of a strategic initiative report before the end of 2015;

| 13. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution to Council, Commission and the governments and parliaments of the Member States. |
| --- | --- |

13.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution to Council, Commission and the governments and parliaments of the Member States.

---

(1)  Texts adopted, P7_TA(2013)0414.

(2)  Texts adopted, P7_TA(2013)0448.

(3)  COM(2014)0288.

(4)  COM(2013)0869.

(5)  SWD(2014)0173, Parts 1 and 2.

(6)  EUCO 79/14.

(7)  REX/414.

(8)  Fatal Journeys: Tracking Lives Lost during Migration, IOM, 2014.

(9)  http://www.marina.difesa.it/EN/operations/Pagine/MareNostrum.aspx

---

Thursday 18 December 2014

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/21 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/21

---

P8_TA(2014)0106

Persecution of the democratic opposition in Venezuela

European Parliament resolution of 18 December 2014 on the persecution of the democratic opposition in Venezuela (2014/2998(RSP))

(2016/C 294/06)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to its previous resolutions on the situation in Venezuela, including those of 24 May 2007 on the Radio Caracas TV channel case in Venezuela (1), 23 October 2008 on political disqualifications in Venezuela (2), 7 May 2009 on the case of Manuel Rosales (3), 11 February 2010 on Venezuela (4), 8 July 2010 on Venezuela, in particular the case of Maria Lourdes Afiuni (5), 24 May 2012 on the withdrawal of Venezuela from the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (6), and 27 February 2014 on the political situation in Venezuela (7), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its previous resolutions on the situation in Venezuela, including those of 24 May 2007 on the Radio Caracas TV channel case in Venezuela (1), 23 October 2008 on political disqualifications in Venezuela (2), 7 May 2009 on the case of Manuel Rosales (3), 11 February 2010 on Venezuela (4), 8 July 2010 on Venezuela, in particular the case of Maria Lourdes Afiuni (5), 24 May 2012 on the withdrawal of Venezuela from the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (6), and 27 February 2014 on the political situation in Venezuela (7),

| — | having regard to the press statements by the spokesperson of EU High Representative/Vice-President Catherine Ashton of 28 March 2014 and 15 April 2014 on the situation in Venezuela, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the press statements by the spokesperson of EU High Representative/Vice-President Catherine Ashton of 28 March 2014 and 15 April 2014 on the situation in Venezuela,

| — | having regard the opinion of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detentions of the Commission on Human Rights of the UN General Assembly of 26 August 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard the opinion of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detentions of the Commission on Human Rights of the UN General Assembly of 26 August 2014,

| — | having regard to the Statement by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights of 20 October 2014 on the detention of protesters and politicians in Venezuela, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Statement by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights of 20 October 2014 on the detention of protesters and politicians in Venezuela,

| — | having regard to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Venezuela is a party, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Venezuela is a party,

| — | having regard to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948,

| — | having regard to Rules 135(5) and 123(4) of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rules 135(5) and 123(4) of its Rules of Procedure,

| A. | whereas the economic crisis, high rates of corruption, the chronic shortage of basic goods, the violence and political divisions have triggered peaceful protests against the government of President Nicolás Maduro since February 2014, which are still ongoing; whereas the protestors have been met with disproportionate use of force and violence by the police, members of the National Guard and violent and uncontrolled armed pro-government groups; whereas according to local and international organisations over 1 700 protesters are awaiting trial and more than 69 remain jailed, and at least 40 people have been killed in the protests, while their murderers remain unaccountable; whereas the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights confirms that it has received reports of more than 150 cases of ill-treatment during detention, including torture; whereas, according to several sources, persecution of the democratic opposition by the security forces is still continuing; |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas the economic crisis, high rates of corruption, the chronic shortage of basic goods, the violence and political divisions have triggered peaceful protests against the government of President Nicolás Maduro since February 2014, which are still ongoing; whereas the protestors have been met with disproportionate use of force and violence by the police, members of the National Guard and violent and uncontrolled armed pro-government groups; whereas according to local and international organisations over 1 700 protesters are awaiting trial and more than 69 remain jailed, and at least 40 people have been killed in the protests, while their murderers remain unaccountable; whereas the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights confirms that it has received reports of more than 150 cases of ill-treatment during detention, including torture; whereas, according to several sources, persecution of the democratic opposition by the security forces is still continuing;

| B. | whereas freedom of expression and the right to take part in peaceful demonstrations are cornerstones of democracy and are recognised in the Venezuelan Constitution; whereas equality and justice for all are impossible without respect for the fundamental freedoms and rights of every citizen; whereas there are numerous reports confirming that the media are being subjected to increasing censorship and intimidation; whereas during the 70th General Assembly of the American Press Association (IAPA) in Santiago (Chile), that organisation declared that Venezuela is putting independent media under greater pressure and has urged Venezuela to respect freedom of expression and warned of the further loss of democratic freedom; |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas freedom of expression and the right to take part in peaceful demonstrations are cornerstones of democracy and are recognised in the Venezuelan Constitution; whereas equality and justice for all are impossible without respect for the fundamental freedoms and rights of every citizen; whereas there are numerous reports confirming that the media are being subjected to increasing censorship and intimidation; whereas during the 70th General Assembly of the American Press Association (IAPA) in Santiago (Chile), that organisation declared that Venezuela is putting independent media under greater pressure and has urged Venezuela to respect freedom of expression and warned of the further loss of democratic freedom;

| C. | whereas opposition leader Leopoldo López was arbitrarily detained on 18 February 2014 on charges of conspiracy, instigating violent demonstrations, arson and damage to property; whereas since his detention he has suffered physical and psychological torture and undergone solitary confinement; whereas opposition mayors Daniel Ceballos and Vicencio Scarano, as well as police officer Salvatore Lucchese, have been arrested for failing to end protests and civil rebellion in their cities, and have been sentenced to several years in prison; whereas opposition congressmen Juan Carlos Caldera, Ismael García and Richard Mardo are facing investigations and trial proceedings aimed at their suspension and disqualification from Congress; |
| --- | --- |

C.

whereas opposition leader Leopoldo López was arbitrarily detained on 18 February 2014 on charges of conspiracy, instigating violent demonstrations, arson and damage to property; whereas since his detention he has suffered physical and psychological torture and undergone solitary confinement; whereas opposition mayors Daniel Ceballos and Vicencio Scarano, as well as police officer Salvatore Lucchese, have been arrested for failing to end protests and civil rebellion in their cities, and have been sentenced to several years in prison; whereas opposition congressmen Juan Carlos Caldera, Ismael García and Richard Mardo are facing investigations and trial proceedings aimed at their suspension and disqualification from Congress;

| D. | whereas student leaders such as Sairam Rivas, President of the Students’ Centre of the School of Social Work at the Central University of Venezuela, Cristian Gil and Manuel Cotiz have been unjustly held on premises belonging to the Bolivarian Intelligence Service for more than 120 days and have been subjected to torture and ill-treatment in connection with the protests that took place between February and May 2014, having been accused of the offences of instigating crimes and using minors to commit crimes; |
| --- | --- |

D.

whereas student leaders such as Sairam Rivas, President of the Students’ Centre of the School of Social Work at the Central University of Venezuela, Cristian Gil and Manuel Cotiz have been unjustly held on premises belonging to the Bolivarian Intelligence Service for more than 120 days and have been subjected to torture and ill-treatment in connection with the protests that took place between February and May 2014, having been accused of the offences of instigating crimes and using minors to commit crimes;

| E. | whereas on 20 October 2014, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, voiced concern at the detention of protesters and called for the release of all those detained for exercising their right to peaceful protest; whereas on 8 October 2014 the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention described the detention of Leopoldo López as illegal, arbitrary and politically motivated, and called for the release of López and all those who remain arbitrarily detained; |
| --- | --- |

E.

whereas on 20 October 2014, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, voiced concern at the detention of protesters and called for the release of all those detained for exercising their right to peaceful protest; whereas on 8 October 2014 the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention described the detention of Leopoldo López as illegal, arbitrary and politically motivated, and called for the release of López and all those who remain arbitrarily detained;

| F. | whereas the Venezuelan Government has a particular responsibility to comply with the rule of law and international law, bearing in mind that it has been a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council since 16 October 2014; |
| --- | --- |

F.

whereas the Venezuelan Government has a particular responsibility to comply with the rule of law and international law, bearing in mind that it has been a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council since 16 October 2014;

| G. | whereas the remarks in the recent report of the UN Committee against Torture on the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela explicitly expressed concern at the prevailing impunity, torture and ill-treatment of political prisoners, excessive use of force, acquiescence and complicity with the actions of pro-government armed groups, arbitrary detention and the absence of fundamental procedural guarantees; whereas this report called for the immediate release of all those held in arbitrary detention, including Leopoldo López and Daniel Ceballos, who were arrested for exercising their right to express themselves and protest peacefully, and furthermore expressed concern at the attacks on journalists and human rights activists, extrajudicial executions and the complete lack of an independent judiciary; |
| --- | --- |

G.

whereas the remarks in the recent report of the UN Committee against Torture on the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela explicitly expressed concern at the prevailing impunity, torture and ill-treatment of political prisoners, excessive use of force, acquiescence and complicity with the actions of pro-government armed groups, arbitrary detention and the absence of fundamental procedural guarantees; whereas this report called for the immediate release of all those held in arbitrary detention, including Leopoldo López and Daniel Ceballos, who were arrested for exercising their right to express themselves and protest peacefully, and furthermore expressed concern at the attacks on journalists and human rights activists, extrajudicial executions and the complete lack of an independent judiciary;

| H. | whereas José Miguel Insulza, Secretary-General of the Organisation of American States (OAS), has called for the release of those imprisoned for their participation in the protests; whereas the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights has expressed deep concern over the situation with respect to freedom of association and freedom of expression in Venezuela; |
| --- | --- |

H.

whereas José Miguel Insulza, Secretary-General of the Organisation of American States (OAS), has called for the release of those imprisoned for their participation in the protests; whereas the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights has expressed deep concern over the situation with respect to freedom of association and freedom of expression in Venezuela;

| I. | whereas the decision of Venezuela to withdraw from the American Convention on Human Rights took effect on 10 September 2013; whereas as a result of this action citizens and residents of Venezuela cannot bring any complaint before the Inter-American Court of Human Rights; |
| --- | --- |

I.

whereas the decision of Venezuela to withdraw from the American Convention on Human Rights took effect on 10 September 2013; whereas as a result of this action citizens and residents of Venezuela cannot bring any complaint before the Inter-American Court of Human Rights;

| J. | whereas in March 2014 María Corina Machado, the Member of the National Assembly who had obtained the largest popular vote in Venezuela, was unlawfully and arbitrarily removed from office, deprived of her mandate and expelled from Parliament by the President of the National Assembly, Diosdado Cabello, who accused her of treason because she had spoken out against the massive and systematic violation of human rights in Venezuela before the Permanent Council of the OAS; |
| --- | --- |

J.

whereas in March 2014 María Corina Machado, the Member of the National Assembly who had obtained the largest popular vote in Venezuela, was unlawfully and arbitrarily removed from office, deprived of her mandate and expelled from Parliament by the President of the National Assembly, Diosdado Cabello, who accused her of treason because she had spoken out against the massive and systematic violation of human rights in Venezuela before the Permanent Council of the OAS;

| K. | whereas in the course of her political and parliamentary activity María Corina Machado was subjected to a series of criminal proceedings, political persecution, threats, intimidation, harassment and even physical violence from government supporters inside the Chamber of the National Assembly; whereas she was recently charged with attempting to assassinate President Maduro and may face up to 16 years in prison; |
| --- | --- |

K.

whereas in the course of her political and parliamentary activity María Corina Machado was subjected to a series of criminal proceedings, political persecution, threats, intimidation, harassment and even physical violence from government supporters inside the Chamber of the National Assembly; whereas she was recently charged with attempting to assassinate President Maduro and may face up to 16 years in prison;

| L. | whereas the judiciary has failed to function as an independent branch of government; whereas this judicial system cannot be expected to carry out impartial investigations or to pass fair judgments on allegations against the opposition; |
| --- | --- |

L.

whereas the judiciary has failed to function as an independent branch of government; whereas this judicial system cannot be expected to carry out impartial investigations or to pass fair judgments on allegations against the opposition;

| M. | whereas only respect for fundamental rights and freedoms and constructive and respectful dialogue conducted in a spirit of tolerance can help the country emerge from this serious crisis and overcome future difficulties; |
| --- | --- |

M.

whereas only respect for fundamental rights and freedoms and constructive and respectful dialogue conducted in a spirit of tolerance can help the country emerge from this serious crisis and overcome future difficulties;

| N. | whereas a negotiation about the protests between the government and the opposition, called ‘Mesa de Diálogo’, was initiated in April 2014 but was unfortunately interrupted a month later without having achieved any success; |
| --- | --- |

N.

whereas a negotiation about the protests between the government and the opposition, called ‘Mesa de Diálogo’, was initiated in April 2014 but was unfortunately interrupted a month later without having achieved any success;

| O. | whereas Venezuela is the country with the largest energy reserves in Latin America; whereas the people of Venezuela are suffering from a grave shortage of basic commodities, food prices have doubled and food rationing has started; whereas oil prices continue to drop significantly, deepening the economic downturn and threatening the country’s fragile oil-dependent economy; |
| --- | --- |

O.

whereas Venezuela is the country with the largest energy reserves in Latin America; whereas the people of Venezuela are suffering from a grave shortage of basic commodities, food prices have doubled and food rationing has started; whereas oil prices continue to drop significantly, deepening the economic downturn and threatening the country’s fragile oil-dependent economy;

| P. | whereas the state’s failure to maintain law and order has led to Venezuela becoming one of the most violent countries in the world; whereas the ongoing political and economic crisis in Venezuela has contributed to a surging murder rate and citizen insecurity, according to the UN Office on Drugs and Crime; |
| --- | --- |

P.

whereas the state’s failure to maintain law and order has led to Venezuela becoming one of the most violent countries in the world; whereas the ongoing political and economic crisis in Venezuela has contributed to a surging murder rate and citizen insecurity, according to the UN Office on Drugs and Crime;

| 1. | Is deeply concerned at the worsening situation in Venezuela and condemns the imprisonment of peaceful protesters, students and opposition leaders; urges the immediate release of those arbitrarily detained prisoners, in line with the demands made by several UN bodies and international organisations; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Is deeply concerned at the worsening situation in Venezuela and condemns the imprisonment of peaceful protesters, students and opposition leaders; urges the immediate release of those arbitrarily detained prisoners, in line with the demands made by several UN bodies and international organisations;

| 2. | Strongly condemns the political persecution and repression of the democratic opposition, the violations of freedom of expression and of demonstration, and the existence of media and web censorship; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Strongly condemns the political persecution and repression of the democratic opposition, the violations of freedom of expression and of demonstration, and the existence of media and web censorship;

| 3. | Strongly condemns the use of violence against protesters; expresses its sincere condolences to the families of the victims; calls on the Venezuelan authorities to investigate these crimes and to hold those responsible fully accountable with no margin of impunity; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Strongly condemns the use of violence against protesters; expresses its sincere condolences to the families of the victims; calls on the Venezuelan authorities to investigate these crimes and to hold those responsible fully accountable with no margin of impunity;

| 4. | Encourages all parties to pursue peaceful dialogue reaching out to all segments of Venezuelan society, in order to define points of convergence and allow political actors to discuss the most serious problems facing the country; calls on all parties concerned to avoid further escalation of violence, and reminds the Government of Venezuela that a constructive dialogue is impossible as long as opposition leaders are still arbitrarily held in jail; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Encourages all parties to pursue peaceful dialogue reaching out to all segments of Venezuelan society, in order to define points of convergence and allow political actors to discuss the most serious problems facing the country; calls on all parties concerned to avoid further escalation of violence, and reminds the Government of Venezuela that a constructive dialogue is impossible as long as opposition leaders are still arbitrarily held in jail;

| 5. | Calls on the Venezuelan authorities to immediately disarm and dissolve the uncontrolled armed pro-government associations and groups, putting an end to their impunity; |
| --- | --- |

5.

Calls on the Venezuelan authorities to immediately disarm and dissolve the uncontrolled armed pro-government associations and groups, putting an end to their impunity;

| 6. | Reminds the Government of Venezuela of its responsibility to ensure that all trials conform to international standards; recalls that respect for the principle of separation of powers is fundamental in a democracy and that the justice system cannot be used by the authorities as a means of political persecution and repression of the democratic opposition; calls on the Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the unfounded charges and arrest warrants against opposition politicians and to ensure the security of all citizens in the country, regardless of their political views or affiliations; |
| --- | --- |

6.

Reminds the Government of Venezuela of its responsibility to ensure that all trials conform to international standards; recalls that respect for the principle of separation of powers is fundamental in a democracy and that the justice system cannot be used by the authorities as a means of political persecution and repression of the democratic opposition; calls on the Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the unfounded charges and arrest warrants against opposition politicians and to ensure the security of all citizens in the country, regardless of their political views or affiliations;

| 7. | Calls on the Government of Venezuela to comply with its own constitution and its international obligations with respect to the independence of the judiciary, the rights of freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly and political pluralism, since these are cornerstones of democracy, and to ensure that people are not penalised for exercising their rights of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression; |
| --- | --- |

7.

Calls on the Government of Venezuela to comply with its own constitution and its international obligations with respect to the independence of the judiciary, the rights of freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly and political pluralism, since these are cornerstones of democracy, and to ensure that people are not penalised for exercising their rights of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression;

| 8. | Calls on the Government of Venezuela to respect human rights, to conduct effective investigations into alleged human rights violations, and to enable an environment in which human rights defenders and independent non-governmental organisations can carry out their legitimate work of promoting human rights and democracy; |
| --- | --- |

8.

Calls on the Government of Venezuela to respect human rights, to conduct effective investigations into alleged human rights violations, and to enable an environment in which human rights defenders and independent non-governmental organisations can carry out their legitimate work of promoting human rights and democracy;

| 9. | Asks the EEAS and the EU Delegation, as well as the Member States’ delegations, to continue to observe the investigations and the trial hearings of opposition leaders; |
| --- | --- |

9.

Asks the EEAS and the EU Delegation, as well as the Member States’ delegations, to continue to observe the investigations and the trial hearings of opposition leaders;

| 10. | Calls on the Government of Venezuela to enter into a strong and open dialogue on human rights with the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

10.

Calls on the Government of Venezuela to enter into a strong and open dialogue on human rights with the European Union;

| 11. | Calls on the EU, its Member States, and High Representative/Vice-President Federica Mogherini to call for the immediate release of the protesters who have been arbitrarily arrested since the start of the protests; |
| --- | --- |

11.

Calls on the EU, its Member States, and High Representative/Vice-President Federica Mogherini to call for the immediate release of the protesters who have been arbitrarily arrested since the start of the protests;

| 12. | Recalls its demand for an ad hoc European Parliament delegation to be sent to assess the situation in Venezuela and hold a dialogue with all sectors involved in the conflict, as soon as possible; |
| --- | --- |

12.

Recalls its demand for an ad hoc European Parliament delegation to be sent to assess the situation in Venezuela and hold a dialogue with all sectors involved in the conflict, as soon as possible;

| 13. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the Government and National Assembly of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, the Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly and the Secretary-General of the Organisation of American States. |
| --- | --- |

13.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the Government and National Assembly of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, the Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly and the Secretary-General of the Organisation of American States.

---

(1)  OJ C 102 E, 24.4.2008, p. 484.

(2)  OJ C 15 E, 21.1.2010, p. 85.

(3)  OJ C 212 E, 5.8.2010, p. 113.

(4)  OJ C 341 E, 16.12.2010, p. 69.

(5)  OJ C 351 E, 2.12.2011, p. 130.

(6)  OJ C 264 E, 13.9.2013, p. 88.

(7)  Texts adopted, P7_TA(2014)0176.

---

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/25 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/25

---

P8_TA(2014)0107

Mauritania, in particular the case of Biram Dah Abeid

European Parliament resolution of 18 December 2014 on Mauritania, in particular the case of Biram Dah Abeid (2014/2999(RSP))

(2016/C 294/07)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to its previous resolutions on Mauritania, including those of 14 June 2012 on human rights and the security situation in the Sahel region (1) and of 22 October 2013 on the situation of human rights in the Sahel region (2), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its previous resolutions on Mauritania, including those of 14 June 2012 on human rights and the security situation in the Sahel region (1) and of 22 October 2013 on the situation of human rights in the Sahel region (2),

| — | having regard to the Foreign Affairs Council conclusions of 17 March 2014 on the implementation of the EU strategy for security and development in the Sahel, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Foreign Affairs Council conclusions of 17 March 2014 on the implementation of the EU strategy for security and development in the Sahel,

| — | having regard to the statement of 25 June 2014 by the spokesperson of the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy on the presidential elections in the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the statement of 25 June 2014 by the spokesperson of the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy on the presidential elections in the Islamic Republic of Mauritania,

| — | having regard to Article 1 of the Mauritanian Constitution, which ‘guarantees equality before the law to all of its citizens without distinction as to origin, race, sex, or social condition’, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 1 of the Mauritanian Constitution, which ‘guarantees equality before the law to all of its citizens without distinction as to origin, race, sex, or social condition’,

| — | having regard to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ratified by Mauritania in 1986), Article 5 of which expressly prohibits slavery, and to Mauritania’s accession to international instruments which prohibit contemporary forms of slavery, namely the Slavery Convention of 1926 and the amending protocol thereto, and the Supplementary Convention on the Abolition of Slavery, the Slave Trade, and Institutions and Practices Similar to Slavery of 1956, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ratified by Mauritania in 1986), Article 5 of which expressly prohibits slavery, and to Mauritania’s accession to international instruments which prohibit contemporary forms of slavery, namely the Slavery Convention of 1926 and the amending protocol thereto, and the Supplementary Convention on the Abolition of Slavery, the Slave Trade, and Institutions and Practices Similar to Slavery of 1956,

| — | having regard to the Partnership Agreement between the members of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (ACP), of the one part, and the European Community and its Member States, of the other part, signed in Cotonou on 23 June 2000 (the Cotonou Agreement), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Partnership Agreement between the members of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (ACP), of the one part, and the European Community and its Member States, of the other part, signed in Cotonou on 23 June 2000 (the Cotonou Agreement),

| — | having regard to the concluding observations on Mauritania of 24 July 2014 of the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the concluding observations on Mauritania of 24 July 2014 of the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women,

| — | having regard to International Labour Organisation (ILO) Convention 105 on the abolition of forced labour, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to International Labour Organisation (ILO) Convention 105 on the abolition of forced labour,

| — | having regard to Rules 135(5) and 123(4) of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rules 135(5) and 123(4) of its Rules of Procedure,

| A. | whereas Biram Dah Abeid, the son of freed slaves, is engaged in an advocacy campaign to eradicate slavery; whereas in 2008 he founded the Initiative for the Resurgence of the Abolitionist Movement (Initiative pour la Résurgence du Mouvement Abolitionniste); whereas this organisation is seeking to draw attention to the issue and to help take specific cases before courts of law; whereas Biram Dah Abeid was awarded the United Nations Human Rights Prize for 2013; |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas Biram Dah Abeid, the son of freed slaves, is engaged in an advocacy campaign to eradicate slavery; whereas in 2008 he founded the Initiative for the Resurgence of the Abolitionist Movement (Initiative pour la Résurgence du Mouvement Abolitionniste); whereas this organisation is seeking to draw attention to the issue and to help take specific cases before courts of law; whereas Biram Dah Abeid was awarded the United Nations Human Rights Prize for 2013;

| B. | whereas on 11 November 2014, Biram Dah Abeid, a leading Mauritanian anti-slavery activist and founder of the Initiative for the Resurgence of the Abolitionist Movement, was arrested following a peaceful anti-slavery march; whereas Biram Dah Abeid has been charged with calling for a demonstration, participating in a demonstration and belonging to an illegal organisation, and whereas some reports suggest that he is at risk of facing the death penalty; whereas the death penalty is still provided for in the Mauritanian Criminal Code, is not restricted to the most serious crimes, and is imposed following convictions based on confessions obtained under torture; |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas on 11 November 2014, Biram Dah Abeid, a leading Mauritanian anti-slavery activist and founder of the Initiative for the Resurgence of the Abolitionist Movement, was arrested following a peaceful anti-slavery march; whereas Biram Dah Abeid has been charged with calling for a demonstration, participating in a demonstration and belonging to an illegal organisation, and whereas some reports suggest that he is at risk of facing the death penalty; whereas the death penalty is still provided for in the Mauritanian Criminal Code, is not restricted to the most serious crimes, and is imposed following convictions based on confessions obtained under torture;

| C. | whereas other anti-slavery campaigners have also been arrested and detained, bringing the total number of imprisoned activists from the Mauritanian Initiative for the Resurgence of the Abolitionist Movement to 17; whereas it is alleged that during the arrests the Mauritanian gendarmerie used excessive force, including beatings with batons, physical dragging along the floor and humiliation techniques, which included forcing detainees to strip naked; whereas there are also allegations of prison guards having attempted to coerce some of the activists into signing confessions; |
| --- | --- |

C.

whereas other anti-slavery campaigners have also been arrested and detained, bringing the total number of imprisoned activists from the Mauritanian Initiative for the Resurgence of the Abolitionist Movement to 17; whereas it is alleged that during the arrests the Mauritanian gendarmerie used excessive force, including beatings with batons, physical dragging along the floor and humiliation techniques, which included forcing detainees to strip naked; whereas there are also allegations of prison guards having attempted to coerce some of the activists into signing confessions;

| D. | whereas Biram Dah Abeid was voted runner-up in the 2014 Mauritanian presidential elections; whereas his reputation has made him a prime target for the Mauritanian authorities; whereas his arrest and those of his colleagues represent a crackdown on political opposition as well as civil society; |
| --- | --- |

D.

whereas Biram Dah Abeid was voted runner-up in the 2014 Mauritanian presidential elections; whereas his reputation has made him a prime target for the Mauritanian authorities; whereas his arrest and those of his colleagues represent a crackdown on political opposition as well as civil society;

| E. | whereas, although officially abolished in 1981 and criminalised in 2007, the practice of slavery persists in Mauritania; whereas according to the Global Slavery Index 2014, Mauritania is the biggest offender, with the highest proportion of its population (up to 4 %) enslaved; whereas some figures estimate the prevalence of slavery at up to 20 %; whereas the recently adopted Slavery Act does not cover all forms of slavery in Mauritania, excluding all forms of serfdom, for example; |
| --- | --- |

E.

whereas, although officially abolished in 1981 and criminalised in 2007, the practice of slavery persists in Mauritania; whereas according to the Global Slavery Index 2014, Mauritania is the biggest offender, with the highest proportion of its population (up to 4 %) enslaved; whereas some figures estimate the prevalence of slavery at up to 20 %; whereas the recently adopted Slavery Act does not cover all forms of slavery in Mauritania, excluding all forms of serfdom, for example;

| F. | whereas slavery in Mauritania is explicitly racialised, with slaves almost universally drawn from the (black) Haratin community, which comprises between 40 % and 60 % of the Mauritanian population, as well as from other communities, as acknowledged by the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of slavery; whereas the Haratin, even those not in slavery, are frequently denied access to higher-status work or prominent positions in public life; |
| --- | --- |

F.

whereas slavery in Mauritania is explicitly racialised, with slaves almost universally drawn from the (black) Haratin community, which comprises between 40 % and 60 % of the Mauritanian population, as well as from other communities, as acknowledged by the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of slavery; whereas the Haratin, even those not in slavery, are frequently denied access to higher-status work or prominent positions in public life;

| G. | whereas slavery is usually hereditary, and babies born to enslaved women are frequently considered to be the property of a master’s family for their whole lives; whereas female slaves are routinely subjected to sexual violence; whereas most slaves are denied a formal education and are taught that their destiny is to belong to their masters, thus perpetuating so-called psychological slavery; whereas women slaves require their masters’ permission to marry; whereas many slaves are born as the product of rape; whereas even slaves who have been released have few opportunities to find meaningful employment; |
| --- | --- |

G.

whereas slavery is usually hereditary, and babies born to enslaved women are frequently considered to be the property of a master’s family for their whole lives; whereas female slaves are routinely subjected to sexual violence; whereas most slaves are denied a formal education and are taught that their destiny is to belong to their masters, thus perpetuating so-called psychological slavery; whereas women slaves require their masters’ permission to marry; whereas many slaves are born as the product of rape; whereas even slaves who have been released have few opportunities to find meaningful employment;

| H. | whereas Mauritania has ratified conventions such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, as well as the ACP-EU Cotonou Agreement; |
| --- | --- |

H.

whereas Mauritania has ratified conventions such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, as well as the ACP-EU Cotonou Agreement;

| 1. | Condemns strongly the arrest and ongoing detention of anti-slavery activist Biram Dah Abeid and his fellow campaigners, and calls for their immediate release; expresses concern about reports of violence used against some of the activists, and urges the Mauritanian authorities to prosecute those officials who have been involved in the abuse and torture of prisoners; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Condemns strongly the arrest and ongoing detention of anti-slavery activist Biram Dah Abeid and his fellow campaigners, and calls for their immediate release; expresses concern about reports of violence used against some of the activists, and urges the Mauritanian authorities to prosecute those officials who have been involved in the abuse and torture of prisoners;

| 2. | Calls upon the Mauritanian Government to stop using violence against civilians who participate in peaceful public protests and media campaigns in support of Biram Dah Abeid, to cease its crackdown on civil society and political opposition, and to permit anti-slavery activists to pursue their non-violent work without fear of harassment or intimidation; urges the Mauritanian authorities to allow freedom of speech and assembly, in accordance with international conventions and Mauritania’s own domestic law; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Calls upon the Mauritanian Government to stop using violence against civilians who participate in peaceful public protests and media campaigns in support of Biram Dah Abeid, to cease its crackdown on civil society and political opposition, and to permit anti-slavery activists to pursue their non-violent work without fear of harassment or intimidation; urges the Mauritanian authorities to allow freedom of speech and assembly, in accordance with international conventions and Mauritania’s own domestic law;

| 3. | Condemns strongly all forms of slavery, and specifically the reported high prevalence of slavery, slavery-related practices and the trafficking of human beings within Mauritania; welcomes the Mauritanian Government’s criminalisation of slavery, the existence of a special court for slavery and the government’s announcement in March 2014 of the introduction of a roadmap for the abolition of slavery; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Condemns strongly all forms of slavery, and specifically the reported high prevalence of slavery, slavery-related practices and the trafficking of human beings within Mauritania; welcomes the Mauritanian Government’s criminalisation of slavery, the existence of a special court for slavery and the government’s announcement in March 2014 of the introduction of a roadmap for the abolition of slavery;

| 4. | Notes with regret that there has only been one prosecution for slavery; calls on the Mauritanian Government to end all forms of slavery, to enact anti-slavery laws and to pass legislation aimed at amending or repealing discriminatory legislation, including the discriminatory provisions of its penal, personal status and nationality codes; stresses that allegations of slavery and slavery-like practices should be investigated and prosecuted effectively; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Notes with regret that there has only been one prosecution for slavery; calls on the Mauritanian Government to end all forms of slavery, to enact anti-slavery laws and to pass legislation aimed at amending or repealing discriminatory legislation, including the discriminatory provisions of its penal, personal status and nationality codes; stresses that allegations of slavery and slavery-like practices should be investigated and prosecuted effectively;

| 5. | Calls on the Mauritanian authorities to raise awareness in terms of people’s attitudes and beliefs regarding slavery at all levels of society; encourages strongly the Mauritanian authorities to help change social attitudes towards race and slavery, particularly as regards the Haratin population; stresses that discrimination on the grounds of ethnicity, especially in the realms of education and employment, should be outlawed; calls also on the Mauritanian authorities fully to dismantle the caste-based system of enslavement, in particular in respect of women in domestic work; |
| --- | --- |

5.

Calls on the Mauritanian authorities to raise awareness in terms of people’s attitudes and beliefs regarding slavery at all levels of society; encourages strongly the Mauritanian authorities to help change social attitudes towards race and slavery, particularly as regards the Haratin population; stresses that discrimination on the grounds of ethnicity, especially in the realms of education and employment, should be outlawed; calls also on the Mauritanian authorities fully to dismantle the caste-based system of enslavement, in particular in respect of women in domestic work;

| 6. | Urges the development of universal formal education, so that current and former slaves, as well as their children, can improve their literacy and become equipped with the tools to find meaningful employment; notes that all Mauritanian citizens should be entitled to own land, particularly when they have occupied and cultivated it for generations, a right which Biram Dah Abeid and the Mauritanian Initiative for the Resurgence of the Abolitionist Movement are proposing as the key means to end the cycle of slavery; encourages the Mauritanian Government, in this connection, to ratify ILO Convention 169, which recognises the forms of land use of indigenous peoples; |
| --- | --- |

6.

Urges the development of universal formal education, so that current and former slaves, as well as their children, can improve their literacy and become equipped with the tools to find meaningful employment; notes that all Mauritanian citizens should be entitled to own land, particularly when they have occupied and cultivated it for generations, a right which Biram Dah Abeid and the Mauritanian Initiative for the Resurgence of the Abolitionist Movement are proposing as the key means to end the cycle of slavery; encourages the Mauritanian Government, in this connection, to ratify ILO Convention 169, which recognises the forms of land use of indigenous peoples;

| 7. | Underlines the importance of a fruitful relationship between the EU and Mauritania, with the aim of contributing to democracy, stability and development in the country; stresses that Mauritania is a significant partner in the EU strategy for security and development in the Sahel; |
| --- | --- |

7.

Underlines the importance of a fruitful relationship between the EU and Mauritania, with the aim of contributing to democracy, stability and development in the country; stresses that Mauritania is a significant partner in the EU strategy for security and development in the Sahel;

| 8. | Urges the Vice-President/High Representative, the European External Action Service and the Member States to step up their efforts to address slavery in Mauritania, specifically by ensuring a clear and workable foreign affairs and human rights policy which is in line with the EU strategic framework on human rights and democracy, and by promoting a human rights dimension as part of the EU’s Sahel strategy and in dialogues with the Mauritanian Government, including in the context of formal bilateral agreements; |
| --- | --- |

8.

Urges the Vice-President/High Representative, the European External Action Service and the Member States to step up their efforts to address slavery in Mauritania, specifically by ensuring a clear and workable foreign affairs and human rights policy which is in line with the EU strategic framework on human rights and democracy, and by promoting a human rights dimension as part of the EU’s Sahel strategy and in dialogues with the Mauritanian Government, including in the context of formal bilateral agreements;

| 9. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the Council, the Commission, the Member States, the Mauritanian authorities, the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly, the Council of Europe, the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the UN Human Rights Council, the Economic Community of West African States, the Arab League and the African Union. |
| --- | --- |

9.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the Council, the Commission, the Member States, the Mauritanian authorities, the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly, the Council of Europe, the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the UN Human Rights Council, the Economic Community of West African States, the Arab League and the African Union.

---

(1)  OJ C 322 E, 15.11.2013, p. 94.

(2)  Texts adopted, P7_TA(2013)0431.

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| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/28 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/28

---

P8_TA(2014)0108

Sudan: the case of Dr Amin Mekki Medani

European Parliament resolution of 18 December 2014 on Sudan: the case of Dr Amin Mekki Medani (2014/3000(RSP))

(2016/C 294/08)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to its previous resolutions on Sudan, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its previous resolutions on Sudan,

| — | having regard to the report of 18 September 2013 by the UN Human Rights Council Independent Expert on the situation of human rights in Sudan, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of 18 September 2013 by the UN Human Rights Council Independent Expert on the situation of human rights in Sudan,

| — | having regard to the EU statement of 15 July 2014 on the release of political detainees in Sudan, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the EU statement of 15 July 2014 on the release of political detainees in Sudan,

| — | having regard to the EU Foreign Affairs Council conclusions on Sudan of 11 November 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the EU Foreign Affairs Council conclusions on Sudan of 11 November 2014,

| — | having regard to the report of 4 September 2014 by the UN Human Rights Council Independent Expert on the situation of human rights in Sudan, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of 4 September 2014 by the UN Human Rights Council Independent Expert on the situation of human rights in Sudan,

| — | having regard to the Agreements on the National Dialogue and Constitutional Process signed in Addis Ababa on 4 September 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Agreements on the National Dialogue and Constitutional Process signed in Addis Ababa on 4 September 2014,

| — | having regard to the ‘Sudan Call’ declaration on the ‘Establishment of a State of Citizenship and Democracy’, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the ‘Sudan Call’ declaration on the ‘Establishment of a State of Citizenship and Democracy’,

| — | having regard to Sudan’s national human rights plan adopted in 2013, based on the principles of universality and equality of all people, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Sudan’s national human rights plan adopted in 2013, based on the principles of universality and equality of all people,

| — | having regard to its resolution of 25 November 2014 on the EU and the global development framework after 2015 (1), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its resolution of 25 November 2014 on the EU and the global development framework after 2015 (1),

| — | having regard to the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights,

| — | having regard to the 1966 International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the 1966 International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights,

| — | having regard to the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) of 18 December 1979, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) of 18 December 1979,

| — | having regard to the Johannesburg Principles on National Security, Freedom of Expression and Access to Information, UN Doc. E/CN.4/1996/39 (1996), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Johannesburg Principles on National Security, Freedom of Expression and Access to Information, UN Doc. E/CN.4/1996/39 (1996),

| — | having regard to the Sudanese Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) of 2005, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Sudanese Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) of 2005,

| — | having regard to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights,

| — | having regard to the Cotonou Agreement, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Cotonou Agreement,

| — | having regard to Rules 135(5) and 123(4) of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rules 135(5) and 123(4) of its Rules of Procedure,

| A. | whereas on 6 December 2014, the Sudanese National Intelligence and Security Services (NISS) arrested Dr Amin Mekki Medani, a renowned human rights activist and former President of the Sudan Human Rights Monitor (SHRM), at his house in Khartoum; |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas on 6 December 2014, the Sudanese National Intelligence and Security Services (NISS) arrested Dr Amin Mekki Medani, a renowned human rights activist and former President of the Sudan Human Rights Monitor (SHRM), at his house in Khartoum;

| B. | whereas there are serious concerns for the safety of Dr Medani, who is 76 years of age and in poor health; whereas the NISS allegedly refused to allow him to take his medication with him when he was arrested; |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas there are serious concerns for the safety of Dr Medani, who is 76 years of age and in poor health; whereas the NISS allegedly refused to allow him to take his medication with him when he was arrested;

| C. | whereas Dr Medani symbolises a strong commitment to human rights, humanitarianism and the rule of law, having held high-level positions within a range of different national and international institutions, including the Sudan judiciary, the democratic transitional government of Sudan (as Cabinet Minister for Peace), and the UN; whereas he has represented victims of violations and has persistently spoken out against abuse of power, and was awarded the ‘Heroes for Human Rights Award 2013’ by the EU Delegation in Sudan for his local and international efforts in promoting human rights; |
| --- | --- |

C.

whereas Dr Medani symbolises a strong commitment to human rights, humanitarianism and the rule of law, having held high-level positions within a range of different national and international institutions, including the Sudan judiciary, the democratic transitional government of Sudan (as Cabinet Minister for Peace), and the UN; whereas he has represented victims of violations and has persistently spoken out against abuse of power, and was awarded the ‘Heroes for Human Rights Award 2013’ by the EU Delegation in Sudan for his local and international efforts in promoting human rights;

| D. | whereas Dr Medani was arrested shortly after his return from Addis Ababa, having signed the ‘Sudan Call’ on behalf of civil society organisations — a commitment to work towards the end of the conflicts raging in different regions of Sudan and towards legal, institutional and economic reforms; whereas Farouk Abu Issa, leader of the opposition National Consensus Forum, and Dr Farah Ibrahim Mohamed Alagar were arrested in a similar manner, on 6 and 7 December 2014 respectively, following their involvement with the ‘Sudan Call’; |
| --- | --- |

D.

whereas Dr Medani was arrested shortly after his return from Addis Ababa, having signed the ‘Sudan Call’ on behalf of civil society organisations — a commitment to work towards the end of the conflicts raging in different regions of Sudan and towards legal, institutional and economic reforms; whereas Farouk Abu Issa, leader of the opposition National Consensus Forum, and Dr Farah Ibrahim Mohamed Alagar were arrested in a similar manner, on 6 and 7 December 2014 respectively, following their involvement with the ‘Sudan Call’;

| E. | whereas the declaration, which commits signatories to end wars and conflicts, was signed by representatives from political and opposition parties, including the National Umma Party, the National Consensus Forces and the Sudan Revolutionary Front (SRF); whereas this declaration is an extension of the Paris Declaration of 8 August 2014, signed by the SRF and the National Umma Party, the latter represented by Sadiq Al Mahdi; |
| --- | --- |

E.

whereas the declaration, which commits signatories to end wars and conflicts, was signed by representatives from political and opposition parties, including the National Umma Party, the National Consensus Forces and the Sudan Revolutionary Front (SRF); whereas this declaration is an extension of the Paris Declaration of 8 August 2014, signed by the SRF and the National Umma Party, the latter represented by Sadiq Al Mahdi;

| F. | whereas Dr Medani’s arrest is representative of the repressive policies exercised by the Sudanese authorities to prevent legitimate peaceful political debate, which they have used to restrict freedom of opinion, expression and association, and is yet another example of unlawful arbitrary detention exercised by the NISS; |
| --- | --- |

F.

whereas Dr Medani’s arrest is representative of the repressive policies exercised by the Sudanese authorities to prevent legitimate peaceful political debate, which they have used to restrict freedom of opinion, expression and association, and is yet another example of unlawful arbitrary detention exercised by the NISS;

| G. | whereas governments have the prime responsibility to address the political, economic and social concerns of their citizens; whereas conflict between government and citizens must be solved by political means through negotiations; |
| --- | --- |

G.

whereas governments have the prime responsibility to address the political, economic and social concerns of their citizens; whereas conflict between government and citizens must be solved by political means through negotiations;

| H. | whereas Sudan is at a critical period of political dialogue, for which figures such as Dr Medani are very much needed to bring their expertise to the reform process; |
| --- | --- |

H.

whereas Sudan is at a critical period of political dialogue, for which figures such as Dr Medani are very much needed to bring their expertise to the reform process;

| 1. | Strongly condemns the arbitrary arrest and detention of Dr Medani and other peaceful activists as an unlawful breach of their peaceful and legitimate political and human rights activities; calls for their immediate and unconditional release; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Strongly condemns the arbitrary arrest and detention of Dr Medani and other peaceful activists as an unlawful breach of their peaceful and legitimate political and human rights activities; calls for their immediate and unconditional release;

| 2. | Remains concerned about the ongoing detention and condition of opposition party members, youth activists, human rights defenders and journalists in Sudan; urges the Government of Sudan to guarantee the peaceful exercise of the freedoms of expression, association and assembly; calls on the Sudanese authorities to put an end to all acts of harassment and intimidation against human rights defenders and political activists and to comply with the relevant international norms and standards; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Remains concerned about the ongoing detention and condition of opposition party members, youth activists, human rights defenders and journalists in Sudan; urges the Government of Sudan to guarantee the peaceful exercise of the freedoms of expression, association and assembly; calls on the Sudanese authorities to put an end to all acts of harassment and intimidation against human rights defenders and political activists and to comply with the relevant international norms and standards;

| 3. | Calls on the Sudanese authorities to restore and respect human rights and fundamental freedoms under international law, including freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, freedom of religion, women’s rights and gender equality; emphasises the importance of an independent, impartial and accessible judiciary to enhance respect for the rule of law and the fundamental rights of the population; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Calls on the Sudanese authorities to restore and respect human rights and fundamental freedoms under international law, including freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, freedom of religion, women’s rights and gender equality; emphasises the importance of an independent, impartial and accessible judiciary to enhance respect for the rule of law and the fundamental rights of the population;

| 4. | Calls on the Sudanese Government to review its National Security Act, which allows the detention of suspects for up to four and a half months without any form of judicial review, and also calls on the Sudanese Government to reform its legal system in accordance with international human rights standards; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Calls on the Sudanese Government to review its National Security Act, which allows the detention of suspects for up to four and a half months without any form of judicial review, and also calls on the Sudanese Government to reform its legal system in accordance with international human rights standards;

| 5. | Welcomes the signing of the Agreements on the National Dialogue and Constitutional Process urging all groups to renounce violence as a means for political change and committing to national dialogue and negotiation without delay; stresses the importance of the National Dialogue process, which is the best opportunity to make progress towards national peace, reconciliation and democratic governance in Sudan; |
| --- | --- |

5.

Welcomes the signing of the Agreements on the National Dialogue and Constitutional Process urging all groups to renounce violence as a means for political change and committing to national dialogue and negotiation without delay; stresses the importance of the National Dialogue process, which is the best opportunity to make progress towards national peace, reconciliation and democratic governance in Sudan;

| 6. | Remains deeply concerned, nevertheless, at the ongoing conflicts in Sudan, notably in Darfur, Southern Kordofan and Blue Nile, and the accompanying violations of humanitarian and human rights law, together with a serious humanitarian emergency, which continue to cause enormous human suffering and internal displacements, and pose a risk to regional stability; |
| --- | --- |

6.

Remains deeply concerned, nevertheless, at the ongoing conflicts in Sudan, notably in Darfur, Southern Kordofan and Blue Nile, and the accompanying violations of humanitarian and human rights law, together with a serious humanitarian emergency, which continue to cause enormous human suffering and internal displacements, and pose a risk to regional stability;

| 7. | Reiterates, in line with the National Dialogue, that there should be meaningful dialogue with participation of the opposition parties and civil society, including women’s groups; stresses that the dialogue should include stakeholders from all of Sudan’s regions and reflect the full ethnic, religious and cultural diversity of Sudan; |
| --- | --- |

7.

Reiterates, in line with the National Dialogue, that there should be meaningful dialogue with participation of the opposition parties and civil society, including women’s groups; stresses that the dialogue should include stakeholders from all of Sudan’s regions and reflect the full ethnic, religious and cultural diversity of Sudan;

| 8. | Encourages all parties to address Sudan’s internal conflicts, issues such as socio-economic marginalisation, unequal distribution of resources, political exclusion and lack of access to public services through the National Dialogue, including identity and social equality of all groups; supports, in this context, new and inclusive governance arrangements, a definitive constitution and a roadmap for the holding of national elections; |
| --- | --- |

8.

Encourages all parties to address Sudan’s internal conflicts, issues such as socio-economic marginalisation, unequal distribution of resources, political exclusion and lack of access to public services through the National Dialogue, including identity and social equality of all groups; supports, in this context, new and inclusive governance arrangements, a definitive constitution and a roadmap for the holding of national elections;

| 9. | Underlines the fact that the National Dialogue will only succeed if carried out in an atmosphere where the freedoms of expression, the media, association and assembly are guaranteed; calls, therefore, for all political prisoners to be released and arbitrary detention practices immediately stopped; calls on the Sudanese Government to abolish the death penalty, which is still in force, and to commute death sentences to appropriate alternative sanctions; |
| --- | --- |

9.

Underlines the fact that the National Dialogue will only succeed if carried out in an atmosphere where the freedoms of expression, the media, association and assembly are guaranteed; calls, therefore, for all political prisoners to be released and arbitrary detention practices immediately stopped; calls on the Sudanese Government to abolish the death penalty, which is still in force, and to commute death sentences to appropriate alternative sanctions;

| 10. | Calls on the Commission and the EEAS to continue their support for dialogue between Sudan and South Sudan and neighbouring countries, to implement the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement in full, as well as the 2012 Addis Ababa Agreements, and to address any outstanding issues; |
| --- | --- |

10.

Calls on the Commission and the EEAS to continue their support for dialogue between Sudan and South Sudan and neighbouring countries, to implement the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement in full, as well as the 2012 Addis Ababa Agreements, and to address any outstanding issues;

| 11. | Calls on the Commission and the EEAS to support the National Dialogue, the African Union High-Level Implementation Panel (AUHIP) and the Joint UN-African Union Special Representative in Darfur, and commends President Mbeki for his efforts to promote a genuine National Dialogue; |
| --- | --- |

11.

Calls on the Commission and the EEAS to support the National Dialogue, the African Union High-Level Implementation Panel (AUHIP) and the Joint UN-African Union Special Representative in Darfur, and commends President Mbeki for his efforts to promote a genuine National Dialogue;

| 12. | Expresses its concern about the continuing and frequent violations of women’s rights in Sudan, particularly under Article 152 of the Penal Code; exhorts the Sudanese authorities to sign without delay and ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women; |
| --- | --- |

12.

Expresses its concern about the continuing and frequent violations of women’s rights in Sudan, particularly under Article 152 of the Penal Code; exhorts the Sudanese authorities to sign without delay and ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women;

| 13. | Calls on the Government of Sudan, the opposition and the armed movements to use the momentum of the National Dialogue to demonstrate the leadership necessary to put Sudan on a path to peace, prosperity and justice; underlines, once again, the importance of fighting impunity; |
| --- | --- |

13.

Calls on the Government of Sudan, the opposition and the armed movements to use the momentum of the National Dialogue to demonstrate the leadership necessary to put Sudan on a path to peace, prosperity and justice; underlines, once again, the importance of fighting impunity;

| 14. | Expresses concern about the worsening humanitarian situation in numerous regions of Sudan, and in particular the access restrictions still imposed on international humanitarian agencies and organisations; calls, once again, on the Government of Sudan and on armed movements to guarantee safe, timely and unhindered humanitarian access to all areas by humanitarian agencies, in particular to conflict-affected areas, in line with international humanitarian principles; |
| --- | --- |

14.

Expresses concern about the worsening humanitarian situation in numerous regions of Sudan, and in particular the access restrictions still imposed on international humanitarian agencies and organisations; calls, once again, on the Government of Sudan and on armed movements to guarantee safe, timely and unhindered humanitarian access to all areas by humanitarian agencies, in particular to conflict-affected areas, in line with international humanitarian principles;

| 15. | Denounces the government’s NGO bill, which restricts the ability of NGOs to deliver much-needed humanitarian relief to Sudan and compounds the already difficult circumstances NGOs face in the country — an increasingly worrying trend of harassment and interference targeting humanitarian workers, as well as crackdowns on civil society and democratic freedoms; |
| --- | --- |

15.

Denounces the government’s NGO bill, which restricts the ability of NGOs to deliver much-needed humanitarian relief to Sudan and compounds the already difficult circumstances NGOs face in the country — an increasingly worrying trend of harassment and interference targeting humanitarian workers, as well as crackdowns on civil society and democratic freedoms;

| 16. | Calls on the EU and its Member States to continue its commitment to supporting Sudan and the Sudanese people in their transition to an internally reformed democracy; |
| --- | --- |

16.

Calls on the EU and its Member States to continue its commitment to supporting Sudan and the Sudanese people in their transition to an internally reformed democracy;

| 17. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Government of Sudan, the African Union, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, the Co-Presidents of the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly and the Pan-African Parliament (PAP). |
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17.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Government of Sudan, the African Union, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, the Co-Presidents of the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly and the Pan-African Parliament (PAP).

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(1)  Texts adopted, P8_TA(2014)0059.

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| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/31 |
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12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/31

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P8_TA(2014)0110

Conclusion of the Association agreement with Georgia

European Parliament non-legislative resolution of 18 December 2014 on the draft Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the Association Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community and their Member States, of the one part, and Georgia, of the other part (09827/2014 — C8-0129/2014 — 2014/0086(NLE) — 2014/2816(INI))

(2016/C 294/09)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the draft Council decision (09827/2014), |
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—

having regard to the draft Council decision (09827/2014),

| — | having regard to the Association Agreement (‘Agreement’) of 27 June 2014 between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community and their Member States, of the one part, and Georgia, of the other part (17901/2013), |
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—

having regard to the Association Agreement (‘Agreement’) of 27 June 2014 between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community and their Member States, of the one part, and Georgia, of the other part (17901/2013),

| — | having regard to the request for consent submitted by the Council in accordance with Article 217 and Article 218(6), second subparagraph, point (a), and paragraphs 7 and 8, second subparagraph, of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (C8-0129/2014), |
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—

having regard to the request for consent submitted by the Council in accordance with Article 217 and Article 218(6), second subparagraph, point (a), and paragraphs 7 and 8, second subparagraph, of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (C8-0129/2014),

| — | having regard to the ceasefire agreement of 12 August 2008, mediated by the EU and signed by Georgia and the Russian Federation, and the implementation agreement of 8 September 2008, |
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—

having regard to the ceasefire agreement of 12 August 2008, mediated by the EU and signed by Georgia and the Russian Federation, and the implementation agreement of 8 September 2008,

| — | having regard to the Joint Declaration of the Prague Eastern Partnership Summit of 7 May 2009, the Warsaw Eastern Partnership Summit of 30 September 2011, and the Vilnius Eastern Partnership Summit of 29 November 2013, |
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—

having regard to the Joint Declaration of the Prague Eastern Partnership Summit of 7 May 2009, the Warsaw Eastern Partnership Summit of 30 September 2011, and the Vilnius Eastern Partnership Summit of 29 November 2013,

| — | having regard to the EU-Georgia visa facilitation and readmission agreements that entered into force on 1 March 2011, |
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—

having regard to the EU-Georgia visa facilitation and readmission agreements that entered into force on 1 March 2011,

| — | having regard to its resolution of 17 November 2011 containing the European Parliament’s recommendations to the Council, the Commission and the EEAS on the negotiations between the EU and Georgia on the Association Agreement (1), |
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—

having regard to its resolution of 17 November 2011 containing the European Parliament’s recommendations to the Council, the Commission and the EEAS on the negotiations between the EU and Georgia on the Association Agreement (1),

| — | having regard to the Joint Staff Working Document on Implementation of the European Neighbourhood Policy in Georgia — Progress in 2013 and recommendations for action (annual Progress Report) of 27 March 2014 (SWD(2014)0072), |
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—

having regard to the Joint Staff Working Document on Implementation of the European Neighbourhood Policy in Georgia — Progress in 2013 and recommendations for action (annual Progress Report) of 27 March 2014 (SWD(2014)0072),

| — | having regard to its position at first reading of 11 December 2013 on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a European Neighbourhood Instrument (2), |
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—

having regard to its position at first reading of 11 December 2013 on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a European Neighbourhood Instrument (2),

| — | having regard to its resolution of 17 April 2014 on Russian pressure on Eastern Partnership countries and in particular destabilisation of eastern Ukraine (3), |
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—

having regard to its resolution of 17 April 2014 on Russian pressure on Eastern Partnership countries and in particular destabilisation of eastern Ukraine (3),

| — | having regard to its resolution of 12 March 2014 on assessing and setting priorities for EU relations with the Eastern Partnership countries (4), |
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—

having regard to its resolution of 12 March 2014 on assessing and setting priorities for EU relations with the Eastern Partnership countries (4),

| — | having regard to the Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly report of 5 September 2014 on the functioning of democratic institutions in Georgia, |
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—

having regard to the Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly report of 5 September 2014 on the functioning of democratic institutions in Georgia,

| — | having regard to the work of Thomas Hammarberg as EU Special Adviser on Constitutional and Legal Reform and Human Rights in Georgia, and his report and recommendations ‘Georgia in Transition. Report on the human rights dimension: background, steps taken and remaining challenges’ of September 2013, and the report of 10 July 2014 on the follow-up mission, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the work of Thomas Hammarberg as EU Special Adviser on Constitutional and Legal Reform and Human Rights in Georgia, and his report and recommendations ‘Georgia in Transition. Report on the human rights dimension: background, steps taken and remaining challenges’ of September 2013, and the report of 10 July 2014 on the follow-up mission,

| — | having regard to its position of 16 April 2014 on the draft Council decision on the conclusion of a Protocol to the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and Georgia, of the other part, on a Framework Agreement between the European Union and Georgia on the general principles for the participation of Georgia in Union programmes (5), |
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—

having regard to its position of 16 April 2014 on the draft Council decision on the conclusion of a Protocol to the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and Georgia, of the other part, on a Framework Agreement between the European Union and Georgia on the general principles for the participation of Georgia in Union programmes (5),

| — | having regard to the Association Agenda (‘Agenda’) which will substitute the ENP Action Plan, |
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—

having regard to the Association Agenda (‘Agenda’) which will substitute the ENP Action Plan,

| — | having regard to Article 49 of the Treaty on European Union, |
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—

having regard to Article 49 of the Treaty on European Union,

| — | having regard to its legislative resolution of 18 December 2014 on the draft decision (6), |
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—

having regard to its legislative resolution of 18 December 2014 on the draft decision (6),

| — | having regard to Rule 99(1), second subparagraph, of its Rules of Procedure, |
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—

having regard to Rule 99(1), second subparagraph, of its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the opinion of the Committee on International Trade (A8-0042/2014), |
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—

having regard to the report of the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the opinion of the Committee on International Trade (A8-0042/2014),

| A. | whereas there is strong national and cross-party consensus in Georgia in favour of integration with the West, including with the EU and NATO; whereas, according to a recent study by the National Democratic Institute for International Affairs, 69 % of the population of Georgia approve the signing of the association agreement with the European Union; whereas such consensus should pave the way towards defusing the current polarisation of the political landscape and create the necessary conditions for a constructive dialogue between majority and minority forces; |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas there is strong national and cross-party consensus in Georgia in favour of integration with the West, including with the EU and NATO; whereas, according to a recent study by the National Democratic Institute for International Affairs, 69 % of the population of Georgia approve the signing of the association agreement with the European Union; whereas such consensus should pave the way towards defusing the current polarisation of the political landscape and create the necessary conditions for a constructive dialogue between majority and minority forces;

| B. | whereas the 2012 parliamentary and 2013 presidential elections in Georgia were conducted smoothly and in line with European standards; whereas the peaceful and democratic handover of power after these elections represented a first in Georgia’s recent history and could serve as an example for the entire region; |
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B.

whereas the 2012 parliamentary and 2013 presidential elections in Georgia were conducted smoothly and in line with European standards; whereas the peaceful and democratic handover of power after these elections represented a first in Georgia’s recent history and could serve as an example for the entire region;

| C. | whereas Europe should show its solidarity with the countries that regained their independence after the collapse of the Soviet Union and its support for their sovereignty; |
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C.

whereas Europe should show its solidarity with the countries that regained their independence after the collapse of the Soviet Union and its support for their sovereignty;

| D. | whereas Russia continues to occupy the Georgian regions of Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia, in violation of the fundamental norms and principles of international law; whereas ethnic cleansing and forcible demographic changes have taken place in the areas under the effective control of the occupying forces, which bear the responsibility for human rights violations in these areas, including violations of the rights to free movement, people-to-people contacts and education in one’s native language; |
| --- | --- |

D.

whereas Russia continues to occupy the Georgian regions of Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia, in violation of the fundamental norms and principles of international law; whereas ethnic cleansing and forcible demographic changes have taken place in the areas under the effective control of the occupying forces, which bear the responsibility for human rights violations in these areas, including violations of the rights to free movement, people-to-people contacts and education in one’s native language;

| E. | whereas since the Rose revolution, Georgia has made significant progress in terms of reforms and strengthening its relations with the EU; whereas as a result of the progress made on reforms which promote human rights and democracy, Georgia has benefitted from an additional financial allocation under the Eastern Partnership Integration and Cooperation programme; whereas the signing of the Association Agreement also constitutes a strong acknowledgement of this progress while also recognising Georgia’s ambition and commitment to a European path; |
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E.

whereas since the Rose revolution, Georgia has made significant progress in terms of reforms and strengthening its relations with the EU; whereas as a result of the progress made on reforms which promote human rights and democracy, Georgia has benefitted from an additional financial allocation under the Eastern Partnership Integration and Cooperation programme; whereas the signing of the Association Agreement also constitutes a strong acknowledgement of this progress while also recognising Georgia’s ambition and commitment to a European path;

| F. | whereas the signing of the Association Agreements between the European Union and Georgia, the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine took place on 27 June 2014 on the occasion of the European Council meeting in Brussels; whereas the ratification by the European Parliament of the Association Agreement with Georgia, following the ratification of the agreements with the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine, brings to a close an entire process while opening a new chapter in relation to the desire and determination of these countries to come closer to the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

F.

whereas the signing of the Association Agreements between the European Union and Georgia, the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine took place on 27 June 2014 on the occasion of the European Council meeting in Brussels; whereas the ratification by the European Parliament of the Association Agreement with Georgia, following the ratification of the agreements with the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine, brings to a close an entire process while opening a new chapter in relation to the desire and determination of these countries to come closer to the European Union;

| G. | whereas within the ENP the Eastern Partnership has created a meaningful political framework for deepening relations, accelerating political association and furthering economic integration between the EU and Georgia, which are linked by strong geographical, historical and cultural ties, by supporting political and socio-economic reforms and facilitating approximation towards the EU; |
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G.

whereas within the ENP the Eastern Partnership has created a meaningful political framework for deepening relations, accelerating political association and furthering economic integration between the EU and Georgia, which are linked by strong geographical, historical and cultural ties, by supporting political and socio-economic reforms and facilitating approximation towards the EU;

| H. | whereas regional frameworks, including the Euronest Parliamentary Assembly and the EU Black Sea Synergy, constitute additional forums in which to share experiences, information and best practices as regards the implementation of the Association Agenda; |
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H.

whereas regional frameworks, including the Euronest Parliamentary Assembly and the EU Black Sea Synergy, constitute additional forums in which to share experiences, information and best practices as regards the implementation of the Association Agenda;

| I. | whereas the EU stresses the right of Georgia to join any international organisation or alliance, while respecting international law, and reiterates its firm belief in the principle that no third country has a veto over the sovereign decision of another country on such matters; |
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I.

whereas the EU stresses the right of Georgia to join any international organisation or alliance, while respecting international law, and reiterates its firm belief in the principle that no third country has a veto over the sovereign decision of another country on such matters;

| J. | whereas Parliament fully supports visa liberalisation for Georgia as an immediate sign of closer EU-Georgia relations and a direct benefit for the population; |
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J.

whereas Parliament fully supports visa liberalisation for Georgia as an immediate sign of closer EU-Georgia relations and a direct benefit for the population;

| K. | whereas the conclusion of the Agreement is not an end in itself, but part of a broader process to bring the country into the European mainstream legally, economically, politically and socially and, to this end, implementation is essential; |
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K.

whereas the conclusion of the Agreement is not an end in itself, but part of a broader process to bring the country into the European mainstream legally, economically, politically and socially and, to this end, implementation is essential;

| L. | whereas the EU-Georgia Association Agreement — especially its section on trade negotiated within the framework of the Eastern Partnership in 2012 and 2013 — is, inter alia, one of the most ambitious free trade agreements that the EU has ever negotiated with a third country; |
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L.

whereas the EU-Georgia Association Agreement — especially its section on trade negotiated within the framework of the Eastern Partnership in 2012 and 2013 — is, inter alia, one of the most ambitious free trade agreements that the EU has ever negotiated with a third country;

| M. | whereas the creation of a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) between the EU and Georgia represents one of the most significant mutual benefits of the Agreement; whereas the importance of trade for growth, job creation, prosperity and stability is indisputable; |
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M.

whereas the creation of a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) between the EU and Georgia represents one of the most significant mutual benefits of the Agreement; whereas the importance of trade for growth, job creation, prosperity and stability is indisputable;

| N. | whereas by establishing a DCFTA with the EU Georgia will, in order to enhance its access to the EU market, need to make binding commitments vis-à-vis adapting its laws and standards so as to respect common norms and values; |
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N.

whereas by establishing a DCFTA with the EU Georgia will, in order to enhance its access to the EU market, need to make binding commitments vis-à-vis adapting its laws and standards so as to respect common norms and values;

| O. | whereas the EU will benefit from smoother commercial flows and better investment conditions in Georgia; |
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O.

whereas the EU will benefit from smoother commercial flows and better investment conditions in Georgia;

| P. | whereas the DCFTA includes several provisions aimed at reforming Georgia’s trade legislation and trade-related policies in line with, and on the basis of, the EU acquis, which will lead to the modernisation of the country’s economy and an improved and more predictable business environment, including for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs); |
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P.

whereas the DCFTA includes several provisions aimed at reforming Georgia’s trade legislation and trade-related policies in line with, and on the basis of, the EU acquis, which will lead to the modernisation of the country’s economy and an improved and more predictable business environment, including for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs);

| Q. | whereas by granting GSP+ preferences to Georgia, the EU has afforded substantial benefits to the country’s economy; |
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Q.

whereas by granting GSP+ preferences to Georgia, the EU has afforded substantial benefits to the country’s economy;

| R. | whereas the provisional application of the Association Agreement, which started on 1 September 2014, contributes to the swifter implementation of the Association Agenda; |
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R.

whereas the provisional application of the Association Agreement, which started on 1 September 2014, contributes to the swifter implementation of the Association Agenda;

| S. | whereas the active engagement of Georgia and a commitment to shared values and principles, including freedom, equality, democracy, pluralism, the rule of law, good governance and respect for human rights, inspired by a common vision of the unique value of each person, are essential to take the process forward and make the implementation of the Agreement a success, and to ensure that it has a sustainable impact on the development of the country; |
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S.

whereas the active engagement of Georgia and a commitment to shared values and principles, including freedom, equality, democracy, pluralism, the rule of law, good governance and respect for human rights, inspired by a common vision of the unique value of each person, are essential to take the process forward and make the implementation of the Agreement a success, and to ensure that it has a sustainable impact on the development of the country;

| T. | whereas stronger political and economic ties will bring greater stability, security and prosperity to the whole European continent; whereas stronger ties with the EU should not exclude or cut off Georgia from its traditional, historical, political and economic ties with other countries in the region but, on the contrary, should create the conditions which would allow the country to benefit fully from all of its potential; |
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T.

whereas stronger political and economic ties will bring greater stability, security and prosperity to the whole European continent; whereas stronger ties with the EU should not exclude or cut off Georgia from its traditional, historical, political and economic ties with other countries in the region but, on the contrary, should create the conditions which would allow the country to benefit fully from all of its potential;

| U. | whereas Georgia is an important part of the common energy market supply chain that brings energy resources from the Caspian Sea region to the EU; |
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U.

whereas Georgia is an important part of the common energy market supply chain that brings energy resources from the Caspian Sea region to the EU;

| 1. | Welcomes warmly the signature of the Association Agreement as constituting a significant step forward in EU-Georgia relations and embodying a commitment to the path of political association and economic integration; welcomes the financial assistance granted to Georgia in 2014 in accordance with the principle of ‘more funds for more reform’; stresses that the ratification of the Agreement is not the final goal in itself and that full implementation thereof in as short a timeframe as possible is key; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Welcomes warmly the signature of the Association Agreement as constituting a significant step forward in EU-Georgia relations and embodying a commitment to the path of political association and economic integration; welcomes the financial assistance granted to Georgia in 2014 in accordance with the principle of ‘more funds for more reform’; stresses that the ratification of the Agreement is not the final goal in itself and that full implementation thereof in as short a timeframe as possible is key;

| 2. | Welcomes the rapid, unanimous ratification of the Agreement by the Georgian Parliament and calls on the Member States also to proceed swiftly with its ratification; |
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2.

Welcomes the rapid, unanimous ratification of the Agreement by the Georgian Parliament and calls on the Member States also to proceed swiftly with its ratification;

| 3. | Notes that, under Article 49 TEU, Georgia — like any other European state — has a European perspective and may apply to become a member of the Union provided that it adheres to the principles of democracy, respects fundamental freedoms and human and minority rights, and ensures the rule of law; |
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3.

Notes that, under Article 49 TEU, Georgia — like any other European state — has a European perspective and may apply to become a member of the Union provided that it adheres to the principles of democracy, respects fundamental freedoms and human and minority rights, and ensures the rule of law;

| 4. | Stresses that the Agreement covers the entire internationally recognised territory of Georgia, and that it is for the benefit of the whole population and serves as a framework for sustainable development and democracy in Georgia; |
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4.

Stresses that the Agreement covers the entire internationally recognised territory of Georgia, and that it is for the benefit of the whole population and serves as a framework for sustainable development and democracy in Georgia;

| 5. | Calls on Georgia to ensure that reforms are anchored and deeply rooted in the institutional framework in order to build a society characterised by pluralism, non-discrimination, tolerance, justice, solidarity and equality between women and men; |
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5.

Calls on Georgia to ensure that reforms are anchored and deeply rooted in the institutional framework in order to build a society characterised by pluralism, non-discrimination, tolerance, justice, solidarity and equality between women and men;

| 6. | Underlines, in this regard, the importance of a cross-party constructive dialogue for the adoption of the basic reforms and obligations which stem from the Association Agreement, in the spirit of a consensual European choice; calls on the Georgian political forces to avoid the ‘winner takes all’ approach that has characterised the previous governments, in order to overcome the long-standing polarisation of Georgian society; |
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6.

Underlines, in this regard, the importance of a cross-party constructive dialogue for the adoption of the basic reforms and obligations which stem from the Association Agreement, in the spirit of a consensual European choice; calls on the Georgian political forces to avoid the ‘winner takes all’ approach that has characterised the previous governments, in order to overcome the long-standing polarisation of Georgian society;

| 7. | Welcomes the Association Agenda which creates a practical framework to achieve the overriding objectives of the Agreement and should be the guiding framework for the development of EU-Georgia relations; |
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7.

Welcomes the Association Agenda which creates a practical framework to achieve the overriding objectives of the Agreement and should be the guiding framework for the development of EU-Georgia relations;

| 8. | Stresses that both Georgia and the EU should be involved in the implementation of the Agenda, and that the priorities set out therein should receive appropriate technical and financial support so that Georgia has the means to continue its democratic and economic reforms; calls on the Commission and the Member States to coordinate their assistance and to use the priorities of the Agenda as guiding principles when programming financing for Georgia; |
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8.

Stresses that both Georgia and the EU should be involved in the implementation of the Agenda, and that the priorities set out therein should receive appropriate technical and financial support so that Georgia has the means to continue its democratic and economic reforms; calls on the Commission and the Member States to coordinate their assistance and to use the priorities of the Agenda as guiding principles when programming financing for Georgia;

| 9. | Calls on the parties to identify training needs to ensure that Georgia is able to carry out the obligations of the Agreement and the Agenda; |
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9.

Calls on the parties to identify training needs to ensure that Georgia is able to carry out the obligations of the Agreement and the Agenda;

| 10. | Reaffirms its support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia and calls for the applicability and benefits of the Agreement to the entire internationally recognised territory of Georgia to be ensured; calls, in this connection, for the EU to continue to engage actively in conflict resolution, through the EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the Crisis in Georgia, co-chairing the Geneva Talks, and through the EU Monitoring Mission (EUMM); encourages more decisive efforts as regards the revision of the restrictive aspects of the law on occupied territories in order to maximise the benefits of the Agreement and the DCFTA; |
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10.

Reaffirms its support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia and calls for the applicability and benefits of the Agreement to the entire internationally recognised territory of Georgia to be ensured; calls, in this connection, for the EU to continue to engage actively in conflict resolution, through the EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the Crisis in Georgia, co-chairing the Geneva Talks, and through the EU Monitoring Mission (EUMM); encourages more decisive efforts as regards the revision of the restrictive aspects of the law on occupied territories in order to maximise the benefits of the Agreement and the DCFTA;

| 11. | Calls on Russia to respect fully the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia, as well as the inviolability of its internationally recognised borders, to reverse its recognition of the separation of Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia and to end its occupation thereof, and to reciprocate the commitment to the non-use of force vis-à-vis Georgia; condemns, in this regard, the conclusion of the ‘alliance and strategic partnership’ treaty between the occupied territory of Abkhazia and Russia; views this as a step taken by Russia to conclude the full annexation of Abkhazia; expresses further concern that a similar ‘treaty’ may be concluded with the occupied territory of Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia as well; in this regard, calls on the Russian Federation to withdraw the so called ‘treaty’ and comply with its obligations under the 12 August 2008 Ceasefire Agreement; |
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11.

Calls on Russia to respect fully the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia, as well as the inviolability of its internationally recognised borders, to reverse its recognition of the separation of Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia and to end its occupation thereof, and to reciprocate the commitment to the non-use of force vis-à-vis Georgia; condemns, in this regard, the conclusion of the ‘alliance and strategic partnership’ treaty between the occupied territory of Abkhazia and Russia; views this as a step taken by Russia to conclude the full annexation of Abkhazia; expresses further concern that a similar ‘treaty’ may be concluded with the occupied territory of Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia as well; in this regard, calls on the Russian Federation to withdraw the so called ‘treaty’ and comply with its obligations under the 12 August 2008 Ceasefire Agreement;

| 12. | Welcomes recent reforms by the Georgian authorities designed to further strengthen the stability, independence and effectiveness of institutions responsible for guaranteeing democracy (particularly that of the judicial institutions), the rule of law and good governance, and as regards consolidating the system of protection for human rights and fundamental freedoms; reiterates the importance of ensuring that all three branches of power remain separated; calls for the effective use of the checks and balances system, together with oversight mechanisms; |
| --- | --- |

12.

Welcomes recent reforms by the Georgian authorities designed to further strengthen the stability, independence and effectiveness of institutions responsible for guaranteeing democracy (particularly that of the judicial institutions), the rule of law and good governance, and as regards consolidating the system of protection for human rights and fundamental freedoms; reiterates the importance of ensuring that all three branches of power remain separated; calls for the effective use of the checks and balances system, together with oversight mechanisms;

| 13. | Notes the efforts by the Georgian authorities in the area of democratic reforms, including tackling the reform of the judiciary, and the need to investigate properly and fully all allegations of violations of human rights; reiterates that justice-sector reform in Georgia remains a priority for both Georgia and the European Union; recognises the fundamental principle of equality before the law and the guarantee of procedural rights; emphasises the need to build up an enforcement record of cases of prosecutions and convictions against which progress can be measured; calls for the unification of jurisprudence in order to ensure a predictable judicial system and public trust; recalls that the effective implementation of the justice sector reform strategy should be continued; |
| --- | --- |

13.

Notes the efforts by the Georgian authorities in the area of democratic reforms, including tackling the reform of the judiciary, and the need to investigate properly and fully all allegations of violations of human rights; reiterates that justice-sector reform in Georgia remains a priority for both Georgia and the European Union; recognises the fundamental principle of equality before the law and the guarantee of procedural rights; emphasises the need to build up an enforcement record of cases of prosecutions and convictions against which progress can be measured; calls for the unification of jurisprudence in order to ensure a predictable judicial system and public trust; recalls that the effective implementation of the justice sector reform strategy should be continued;

| 14. | Stresses that all prosecutions must be transparent, proportionate and free from political motivation, and should adhere strictly to investigatory procedures and due process and be conducted in full respect of the principles of a fair trial, as enshrined in the European Convention on Human Rights; remains concerned about the lack of accountability of the prosecutor’s office and the blurred criteria according to which prosecutors and investigators are appointed; recalls that integrity and professionalism must be the key criteria in filling such positions; |
| --- | --- |

14.

Stresses that all prosecutions must be transparent, proportionate and free from political motivation, and should adhere strictly to investigatory procedures and due process and be conducted in full respect of the principles of a fair trial, as enshrined in the European Convention on Human Rights; remains concerned about the lack of accountability of the prosecutor’s office and the blurred criteria according to which prosecutors and investigators are appointed; recalls that integrity and professionalism must be the key criteria in filling such positions;

| 15. | Stresses the need for the Georgian authorities to seek to bring about national reconciliation; expresses concern that numerous officials who had served under the previous government and some members of the current opposition have been charged with criminal offences and are imprisoned or placed in pre-trial detention; expresses concern, also, about the potential use of the judicial system to fight against political opponents, which could undermine Georgia’s European course and the efforts of the Georgian authorities in the area of democratic reform; recalls that the existence of a valuable political opposition is paramount to the creation of a balanced and mature political system, to which Georgia is aspiring; |
| --- | --- |

15.

Stresses the need for the Georgian authorities to seek to bring about national reconciliation; expresses concern that numerous officials who had served under the previous government and some members of the current opposition have been charged with criminal offences and are imprisoned or placed in pre-trial detention; expresses concern, also, about the potential use of the judicial system to fight against political opponents, which could undermine Georgia’s European course and the efforts of the Georgian authorities in the area of democratic reform; recalls that the existence of a valuable political opposition is paramount to the creation of a balanced and mature political system, to which Georgia is aspiring;

| 16. | Acknowledges that accusations of cases of so-called selective justice have had a negative impact; calls on the Georgian authorities to avoid instrumentalising the justice system as a tool of political retribution; calls on all political forces in Georgia to take the utmost care to avoid accusations in the future, while pursuing a serious fight to rule out corruption and the misuse of public office; |
| --- | --- |

16.

Acknowledges that accusations of cases of so-called selective justice have had a negative impact; calls on the Georgian authorities to avoid instrumentalising the justice system as a tool of political retribution; calls on all political forces in Georgia to take the utmost care to avoid accusations in the future, while pursuing a serious fight to rule out corruption and the misuse of public office;

| 17. | Welcomes the OSCE/ODIHR ‘Trial Monitoring Report Georgia’ issued on 9 December 2014 and calls on the Georgian government to seriously undertake efforts to meet the shortcomings identified therein; |
| --- | --- |

17.

Welcomes the OSCE/ODIHR ‘Trial Monitoring Report Georgia’ issued on 9 December 2014 and calls on the Georgian government to seriously undertake efforts to meet the shortcomings identified therein;

| 18. | Welcomes the work carried out by Thomas Hammarberg as the EU Special Adviser and his report ‘Georgia in Transition’, and the report of 10 July 2014 on the follow-up visit; calls on the Georgian authorities to implement fully the recommendations contained in the reports; |
| --- | --- |

18.

Welcomes the work carried out by Thomas Hammarberg as the EU Special Adviser and his report ‘Georgia in Transition’, and the report of 10 July 2014 on the follow-up visit; calls on the Georgian authorities to implement fully the recommendations contained in the reports;

| 19. | Highlights the fact that the presidential elections of October 2013 were considered by the election observation mission of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (OSCE/ODIHR) in a largely positive light and as the best in Georgia’s post-independence history, building on the encouraging steps of the 2012 parliamentary elections; notes, in this regard, the participation of Parliament’s Election Observation Delegation; |
| --- | --- |

19.

Highlights the fact that the presidential elections of October 2013 were considered by the election observation mission of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (OSCE/ODIHR) in a largely positive light and as the best in Georgia’s post-independence history, building on the encouraging steps of the 2012 parliamentary elections; notes, in this regard, the participation of Parliament’s Election Observation Delegation;

| 20. | Encourages the European Union to ensure synergies between the various opportunities for support afforded by the European Endowment for Democracy, the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights, the Instrument for Stability and the Civil Society Facility in order to bolster the democratic process in Georgia; |
| --- | --- |

20.

Encourages the European Union to ensure synergies between the various opportunities for support afforded by the European Endowment for Democracy, the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights, the Instrument for Stability and the Civil Society Facility in order to bolster the democratic process in Georgia;

| 21. | Calls on the Georgian authorities to continue the fight against organised crime, corruption, fraud, and money laundering at all levels and in all spheres of life, and to develop a fully functioning, properly staffed, independent judiciary, inter alia, to increase public trust in the judiciary and to defend the licit economy; stresses, furthermore, the importance of the depoliticisation of the public administration in order to make it more efficient and free from political interference; |
| --- | --- |

21.

Calls on the Georgian authorities to continue the fight against organised crime, corruption, fraud, and money laundering at all levels and in all spheres of life, and to develop a fully functioning, properly staffed, independent judiciary, inter alia, to increase public trust in the judiciary and to defend the licit economy; stresses, furthermore, the importance of the depoliticisation of the public administration in order to make it more efficient and free from political interference;

| 22. | Recognises Georgia’s determination and achievements in building a free society based on the rule of law, democracy and social pluralism; draws attention to the strong support for this process within Georgian society; highlights the importance of anti-discrimination legislation in securing equal rights and protection for all minorities, in particular for ethnic, religious and LGBT minorities; welcomes the adoption of the law on anti-discrimination by the Georgian Parliament, and calls for the full observation and implementation thereof in the letter and spirit of EU legislation and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union; notes that this is an important step in the visa liberalisation process; encourages the Georgian authorities to conduct information campaigns on the subject; |
| --- | --- |

22.

Recognises Georgia’s determination and achievements in building a free society based on the rule of law, democracy and social pluralism; draws attention to the strong support for this process within Georgian society; highlights the importance of anti-discrimination legislation in securing equal rights and protection for all minorities, in particular for ethnic, religious and LGBT minorities; welcomes the adoption of the law on anti-discrimination by the Georgian Parliament, and calls for the full observation and implementation thereof in the letter and spirit of EU legislation and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union; notes that this is an important step in the visa liberalisation process; encourages the Georgian authorities to conduct information campaigns on the subject;

| 23. | Takes note of the steps taken by Georgia against Islamophobia and homophobia, in line with its international commitments; stresses, however, the need to bring perpetrators of violent acts of Islamophobia and homophobia to justice in an effective way; |
| --- | --- |

23.

Takes note of the steps taken by Georgia against Islamophobia and homophobia, in line with its international commitments; stresses, however, the need to bring perpetrators of violent acts of Islamophobia and homophobia to justice in an effective way;

| 24. | Welcomes the work carried out by Georgia in implementing the visa facilitation and readmission agreements; welcomes, also, the significant progress made in the visa dialogue; supports the timely introduction of a visa-free regime for Georgia once all of the conditions have been met as a tangible positive development for the benefit of Georgian citizens; |
| --- | --- |

24.

Welcomes the work carried out by Georgia in implementing the visa facilitation and readmission agreements; welcomes, also, the significant progress made in the visa dialogue; supports the timely introduction of a visa-free regime for Georgia once all of the conditions have been met as a tangible positive development for the benefit of Georgian citizens;

| 25. | Calls on the Georgian Government to create a favourable environment for free media which promotes the freedom of expression and media pluralism, and to allow the media to report independently and objectively without political or economic pressure; calls, in this regard, for the full implementation of the law on transparency of media ownership; |
| --- | --- |

25.

Calls on the Georgian Government to create a favourable environment for free media which promotes the freedom of expression and media pluralism, and to allow the media to report independently and objectively without political or economic pressure; calls, in this regard, for the full implementation of the law on transparency of media ownership;

| 26. | Encourages the government to continue to make progress as regards the rule of law and access to justice by adopting the new Juvenile Justice Code in line with international standards to promote access to justice for all children; stresses the need for urgent reforms of the social protection system to reduce the growing social inequalities that affect children in particular, as reflected by the increasing percentage of children who are living below the national poverty line (27 % in 2013 compared to 25 % in 2011) and in extreme poverty (6 % vs 3,9 % among the general population), surviving on less than USD 1,25 per day; |
| --- | --- |

26.

Encourages the government to continue to make progress as regards the rule of law and access to justice by adopting the new Juvenile Justice Code in line with international standards to promote access to justice for all children; stresses the need for urgent reforms of the social protection system to reduce the growing social inequalities that affect children in particular, as reflected by the increasing percentage of children who are living below the national poverty line (27 % in 2013 compared to 25 % in 2011) and in extreme poverty (6 % vs 3,9 % among the general population), surviving on less than USD 1,25 per day;

| 27. | Notes positively the adoption of the new labour code, and stresses the need to implement it and to continue improving labour standards and social dialogue in order to comply with the labour rights and standards set out by the International Labour Organization; |
| --- | --- |

27.

Notes positively the adoption of the new labour code, and stresses the need to implement it and to continue improving labour standards and social dialogue in order to comply with the labour rights and standards set out by the International Labour Organization;

| 28. | Commends Georgia’s determination to pursue closer economic ties with the EU by undertaking deep and difficult economic reforms; |
| --- | --- |

28.

Commends Georgia’s determination to pursue closer economic ties with the EU by undertaking deep and difficult economic reforms;

| 29. | Congratulates Georgia on having been able to sustain external pressure, inter alia from Russia, and redirect its exports towards new markets, and encourages Georgia to continue on this path also in the future; condemns the policy of economic pressure employed by Russia against Georgia prior to and after the signature of the DCFTA in June 2014; |
| --- | --- |

29.

Congratulates Georgia on having been able to sustain external pressure, inter alia from Russia, and redirect its exports towards new markets, and encourages Georgia to continue on this path also in the future; condemns the policy of economic pressure employed by Russia against Georgia prior to and after the signature of the DCFTA in June 2014;

| 30. | Believes strongly that the DCFTA will have a long-term beneficial effect on Georgia’s economy and will thus contribute to raising the quality of life of its citizens; |
| --- | --- |

30.

Believes strongly that the DCFTA will have a long-term beneficial effect on Georgia’s economy and will thus contribute to raising the quality of life of its citizens;

| 31. | Notes with satisfaction the ratification of the agreement by the Georgian Parliament on 18 July 2014, which triggered the provisional application of the DCFTA as from 1 September 2014; |
| --- | --- |

31.

Notes with satisfaction the ratification of the agreement by the Georgian Parliament on 18 July 2014, which triggered the provisional application of the DCFTA as from 1 September 2014;

| 32. | Calls on the Parliaments of the Member States to ratify the Association Agreement, including the DCFTA, as soon as possible, so that all economic and trade provisions of the Agreement can enter into force in full without delay; |
| --- | --- |

32.

Calls on the Parliaments of the Member States to ratify the Association Agreement, including the DCFTA, as soon as possible, so that all economic and trade provisions of the Agreement can enter into force in full without delay;

| 33. | Underlines the fact that the success of the DCFTA will be dependent on the thorough implementation by both parties of the commitments set out in the Agreement; calls, in this respect, for the EU to provide Georgia with all necessary assistance, also with a view to alleviating the short-term costs for Georgia; invites the Member States to share with Georgia their know-how in the field of economic reforms and approximation; |
| --- | --- |

33.

Underlines the fact that the success of the DCFTA will be dependent on the thorough implementation by both parties of the commitments set out in the Agreement; calls, in this respect, for the EU to provide Georgia with all necessary assistance, also with a view to alleviating the short-term costs for Georgia; invites the Member States to share with Georgia their know-how in the field of economic reforms and approximation;

| 34. | Believes that parliamentary scrutiny is a fundamental condition for democratic support for EU policies; calls on the Commission, therefore, to facilitate the regular and detailed monitoring of the implementation of the DCFTA by the European Parliament in a timely manner; |
| --- | --- |

34.

Believes that parliamentary scrutiny is a fundamental condition for democratic support for EU policies; calls on the Commission, therefore, to facilitate the regular and detailed monitoring of the implementation of the DCFTA by the European Parliament in a timely manner;

| 35. | Calls on the Commission to monitor closely the implementation of the DCFTA in order to prevent social and environmental dumping, especially during the transition period for some sectors; |
| --- | --- |

35.

Calls on the Commission to monitor closely the implementation of the DCFTA in order to prevent social and environmental dumping, especially during the transition period for some sectors;

| 36. | Calls on the Commission to step up the provision of assistance and expertise to civil society organisations in Georgia in order to enable them to provide for the internal monitoring of, and greater accountability for, the reforms and commitments that the government has undertaken, particularly under the Agreement and the Agenda; |
| --- | --- |

36.

Calls on the Commission to step up the provision of assistance and expertise to civil society organisations in Georgia in order to enable them to provide for the internal monitoring of, and greater accountability for, the reforms and commitments that the government has undertaken, particularly under the Agreement and the Agenda;

| 37. | Calls on the Georgian Government to cooperate with civil society organisations and NGOs through consistent dialogue; |
| --- | --- |

37.

Calls on the Georgian Government to cooperate with civil society organisations and NGOs through consistent dialogue;

| 38. | Welcomes Georgia’s active participation in the crisis management operations under the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy and calls on the European External Action Service (EEAS) to invite Georgia to the relevant exercises and training sessions; |
| --- | --- |

38.

Welcomes Georgia’s active participation in the crisis management operations under the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy and calls on the European External Action Service (EEAS) to invite Georgia to the relevant exercises and training sessions;

| 39. | Highlights the essential role of the EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the Crisis in Georgia and of the EUMM in contributing to security and stability in the areas adjacent to the regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, and calls for the prolongation of its mandate beyond 2016; calls also for the EU to ensure that it is given an adequate budget to carry out its mandate; |
| --- | --- |

39.

Highlights the essential role of the EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the Crisis in Georgia and of the EUMM in contributing to security and stability in the areas adjacent to the regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, and calls for the prolongation of its mandate beyond 2016; calls also for the EU to ensure that it is given an adequate budget to carry out its mandate;

| 40. | Finds regrettable, in this regard, the lack of substantial progress in the Geneva talks despite the efforts of the Georgian authorities to engage constructively to address all security and humanitarian concerns in the conflict areas; calls for a more effective role for the EU in the process; condemns the process of the so-called borderisation along the administrative border line with Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia, which has led to the expansion of the area of occupied territories, to the detriment of Georgia, and which has had devastating humanitarian consequences for the local population and is hindering confidence building; |
| --- | --- |

40.

Finds regrettable, in this regard, the lack of substantial progress in the Geneva talks despite the efforts of the Georgian authorities to engage constructively to address all security and humanitarian concerns in the conflict areas; calls for a more effective role for the EU in the process; condemns the process of the so-called borderisation along the administrative border line with Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia, which has led to the expansion of the area of occupied territories, to the detriment of Georgia, and which has had devastating humanitarian consequences for the local population and is hindering confidence building;

| 41. | Supports the positive steps taken by the Georgian Government towards the improvement of relations with Russia; calls on Russia, as an important actor in the region, to engage constructively in finding a peaceful resolution to the conflicts and particularly with the Geneva Talks, which were mandated to monitor the implementation of the cease-fire agreement of 12 August 2008 between Russia and Georgia; believes that all of the provisions of the ceasefire agreement must be fully respected by both sides, particularly the commitment by Russia to withdraw all of its military forces and the provision which states that Russia must guarantee the EUMM full, unlimited access to the breakaway territories of Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia; stresses the need for the safe and dignified return of refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their places of permanent residence; |
| --- | --- |

41.

Supports the positive steps taken by the Georgian Government towards the improvement of relations with Russia; calls on Russia, as an important actor in the region, to engage constructively in finding a peaceful resolution to the conflicts and particularly with the Geneva Talks, which were mandated to monitor the implementation of the cease-fire agreement of 12 August 2008 between Russia and Georgia; believes that all of the provisions of the ceasefire agreement must be fully respected by both sides, particularly the commitment by Russia to withdraw all of its military forces and the provision which states that Russia must guarantee the EUMM full, unlimited access to the breakaway territories of Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia; stresses the need for the safe and dignified return of refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their places of permanent residence;

| 42. | Stresses the importance of enhancing people-to-people contacts at all levels in the conflict areas in order to create the necessary conditions for a sustained dialogue and further promote confidence building with a view to stepping up the peace process and achieving reconciliation between the parties; |
| --- | --- |

42.

Stresses the importance of enhancing people-to-people contacts at all levels in the conflict areas in order to create the necessary conditions for a sustained dialogue and further promote confidence building with a view to stepping up the peace process and achieving reconciliation between the parties;

| 43. | Reiterates its conviction that the association process is not a threat to Russia’s political and economic interests and finds it regrettable that the Russian leadership regards it as such; points out that each country has every right to make its own political choices, but that the EU’s engagement with the Eastern partners aims to spread prosperity and increase political and social stability, from which all countries in the region will gain; |
| --- | --- |

43.

Reiterates its conviction that the association process is not a threat to Russia’s political and economic interests and finds it regrettable that the Russian leadership regards it as such; points out that each country has every right to make its own political choices, but that the EU’s engagement with the Eastern partners aims to spread prosperity and increase political and social stability, from which all countries in the region will gain;

| 44. | Points out that the entry into force of the EU-Georgia Association Agreement, the likely inclusion of Armenia in the Customs Union, and the fact that Azerbaijan remains outside the main economic blocs, including the WTO, could disrupt traditional economic relations in the region; fully supports the progressive differentiation provided for within the Eastern Partnership framework — insofar as it matches the partners’ varying levels of ambition and capacity — but nonetheless believes that a regional approach is essential for the EU to contribute effectively to the stability and economic development of the South Caucasus; calls, therefore, on the Commission to assist the countries of the region in dealing with the possible problems which may arise from such a situation and help Georgia to make renewed efforts to promote new forms of cooperation in the South Caucasus; |
| --- | --- |

44.

Points out that the entry into force of the EU-Georgia Association Agreement, the likely inclusion of Armenia in the Customs Union, and the fact that Azerbaijan remains outside the main economic blocs, including the WTO, could disrupt traditional economic relations in the region; fully supports the progressive differentiation provided for within the Eastern Partnership framework — insofar as it matches the partners’ varying levels of ambition and capacity — but nonetheless believes that a regional approach is essential for the EU to contribute effectively to the stability and economic development of the South Caucasus; calls, therefore, on the Commission to assist the countries of the region in dealing with the possible problems which may arise from such a situation and help Georgia to make renewed efforts to promote new forms of cooperation in the South Caucasus;

| 45. | Draws attention to the crucial position of Georgia as regards the development of the Southern Corridor and the transit of oil and gas pipelines that could be of strategic importance for European energy security; calls, in this regard, for EU environmental standards to be fully respected in the construction of energy infrastructure; stresses, furthermore, the importance of diversifying energy sources with regard, in particular, to renewables, and of aligning climate-change policies and targets with those of the EU; |
| --- | --- |

45.

Draws attention to the crucial position of Georgia as regards the development of the Southern Corridor and the transit of oil and gas pipelines that could be of strategic importance for European energy security; calls, in this regard, for EU environmental standards to be fully respected in the construction of energy infrastructure; stresses, furthermore, the importance of diversifying energy sources with regard, in particular, to renewables, and of aligning climate-change policies and targets with those of the EU;

| 46. | Calls on the Commission to assist and monitor closely the Georgian authorities in their investment programme for the construction, rehabilitation and reconstruction of hydropower plants, urging them to comply fully with EU standards and norms with regard, in particular, to the environmental impact assessment of the larger plants; |
| --- | --- |

46.

Calls on the Commission to assist and monitor closely the Georgian authorities in their investment programme for the construction, rehabilitation and reconstruction of hydropower plants, urging them to comply fully with EU standards and norms with regard, in particular, to the environmental impact assessment of the larger plants;

| 47. | Stresses the importance of its cooperation with the Parliament of Georgia as a way to monitor the implementation of the Agreement and the Agenda; believes that the entry into force of the Agreement and the creation of the new institutional framework for cooperation, which includes the Association Council, calls for a similar upgrade of the situation at parliamentary level; believes, therefore, that it is necessary to create a specific EU-Georgia parliamentary association committee, considering the varying scope of relations with Armenia and Azerbaijan; |
| --- | --- |

47.

Stresses the importance of its cooperation with the Parliament of Georgia as a way to monitor the implementation of the Agreement and the Agenda; believes that the entry into force of the Agreement and the creation of the new institutional framework for cooperation, which includes the Association Council, calls for a similar upgrade of the situation at parliamentary level; believes, therefore, that it is necessary to create a specific EU-Georgia parliamentary association committee, considering the varying scope of relations with Armenia and Azerbaijan;

| 48. | Calls on Georgia to provide comprehensive information related to the Association Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community and their Member States, of the one part, and Georgia, of the other part, to Georgian society, including the territories of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, in cooperation with the EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the Crisis in Georgia and the EUMM; |
| --- | --- |

48.

Calls on Georgia to provide comprehensive information related to the Association Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community and their Member States, of the one part, and Georgia, of the other part, to Georgian society, including the territories of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, in cooperation with the EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the Crisis in Georgia and the EUMM;

| 49. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission and the governments and parliaments of the Member States and the Government and Parliament of Georgia. |
| --- | --- |

49.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission and the governments and parliaments of the Member States and the Government and Parliament of Georgia.

---

(1)  OJ C 153 E, 31.5.2013, p. 137.

(2)  Texts adopted, P7_TA(2013)0567.

(3)  Texts adopted, P7_TA(2014)0457.

(4)  Texts adopted, P7_TA(2014)0229.

(5)  Texts adopted, P7_TA(2014)0404.

(6)  Texts adopted, P8_TA(2014)0111.

---

III Preparatory acts

EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT

Tuesday 16 December 2014

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/39 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/39

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P8_TA(2014)0073

Election of the Ombudsman

European Parliament decision of 16 December 2014 electing the European Ombudsman (2014/2092(INS))

(2016/C 294/10)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular the third paragraph of Article 24 and Article 228 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular the third paragraph of Article 24 and Article 228 thereof,

| — | having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community, and in particular Article 106a thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community, and in particular Article 106a thereof,

| — | having regard to its Decision 94/262/ECSC, EC, Euratom of 9 March 1994 on the regulations and general conditions governing the performance of the Ombudsman's duties (1), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its Decision 94/262/ECSC, EC, Euratom of 9 March 1994 on the regulations and general conditions governing the performance of the Ombudsman's duties (1),

| — | having regard to Rule 219 of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rule 219 of its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the call for nominations (2), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the call for nominations (2),

| — | having regard to its vote of 16 December 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its vote of 16 December 2014,

| 1. | Elects Emily O'REILLY to exercise the function of European Ombudsman until the end of the parliamentary term; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Elects Emily O'REILLY to exercise the function of European Ombudsman until the end of the parliamentary term;

| 2. | Requests Emily O'REILLY to take an oath before the Court of Justice; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Requests Emily O'REILLY to take an oath before the Court of Justice;

| 3. | Instructs its President to have the annexed decision published in the Official Journal of the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Instructs its President to have the annexed decision published in the Official Journal of the European Union;

| 4. | Instructs its President to forward this Decision to the Council, the Commission and the Court of Justice. |
| --- | --- |

4.

Instructs its President to forward this Decision to the Council, the Commission and the Court of Justice.

---

(1)  OJ L 113, 4.5.1994, p. 15.

(2)  OJ C 293, 2.9.2014, p. 13.

---

ANNEX

DECISION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT

of 16 December 2014

electing the European Ombudsman

(The text of this annex is not reproduced here since it corresponds to the final act, Decision 2014/949/EU, Euratom.)

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| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/40 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/40

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P8_TA(2014)0074

Scientific examination of questions relating to food ***I

European Parliament legislative resolution of 16 December 2014 on the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council repealing Council Directive 93/5/EEC of 25 February 1993 on assistance to the Commission and cooperation by the Member States in the scientific examination of questions relating to food (COM(2014)0246 — C8-0005/2014 — 2014/0132(COD))

(Ordinary legislative procedure: first reading)

(2016/C 294/11)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the Commission proposal to Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0246), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission proposal to Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0246),

| — | having regard to Article 294(2) and Article 114 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, pursuant to which the Commission submitted the proposal to Parliament (C8-0005/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 294(2) and Article 114 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, pursuant to which the Commission submitted the proposal to Parliament (C8-0005/2014),

| — | having regard to Article 294(3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 294(3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

| — | having regard to the opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee of 9 July 2014 (1), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee of 9 July 2014 (1),

| — | having regard to the undertaking given by the Council representative by letter of 26 November 2014 to approve Parliament’s position, in accordance with Article 294(4) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the undertaking given by the Council representative by letter of 26 November 2014 to approve Parliament’s position, in accordance with Article 294(4) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

| — | having regard to Rules 59 and 50(1) of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rules 59 and 50(1) of its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (A8-0059/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (A8-0059/2014),

| 1. | Adopts its position at first reading hereinafter set out; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Adopts its position at first reading hereinafter set out;

| 2. | Calls on the Commission to refer the matter to Parliament again if it intends to amend its proposal substantially or replace it with another text; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Calls on the Commission to refer the matter to Parliament again if it intends to amend its proposal substantially or replace it with another text;

| 3. | Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments. |
| --- | --- |

3.

Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments.

---

(1)  Not yet published in the Official Journal.

---

P8_TC1-COD(2014)0132

Position of the European Parliament adopted at first reading on 16 December 2014 with a view to the adoption of Directive (EU) 2015/... of the European Parliament and of the Council repealing Council Directive 93/5/EEC on assistance to the Commission and cooperation by the Member States in the scientific examination of questions relating to food

(As an agreement was reached between Parliament and Council, Parliament's position corresponds to the final legislative act, Directive (EU) 2015/254.)

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| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/41 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/41

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P8_TA(2014)0075

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) ***

European Parliament legislative resolution of 16 December 2014 on the draft Council decision concerning the accession of the European Union to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) (09412/2014 — C8-0042/2014 — 2013/0418(NLE))

(Consent)

(2016/C 294/12)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the draft Council decision (09412/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the draft Council decision (09412/2014),

| — | having regard to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES),

| — | having regard to the request for consent submitted by the Council in accordance with Article 192(1) and Article 218(6), second subparagraph, point (a), of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (C8-0042/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the request for consent submitted by the Council in accordance with Article 192(1) and Article 218(6), second subparagraph, point (a), of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (C8-0042/2014),

| — | having regard to Article 192(1), Article 207 and Article 218(6), second subparagraph, point (a), of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 192(1), Article 207 and Article 218(6), second subparagraph, point (a), of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

| — | having regard to the opinion of the Committee on Legal Affairs on the proposed legal basis, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the opinion of the Committee on Legal Affairs on the proposed legal basis,

| — | having regard to Rule 99(1), first and third subparagraphs, Rule 99(2), Rule 108(7) and Rule 39 of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rule 99(1), first and third subparagraphs, Rule 99(2), Rule 108(7) and Rule 39 of its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the recommendation of the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (A8-0036/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the recommendation of the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (A8-0036/2014),

| 1. | Gives its consent to accession to the Convention; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Gives its consent to accession to the Convention;

| 2. | Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the governments and parliaments of the Member States. |
| --- | --- |

2.

Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the governments and parliaments of the Member States.

---

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/42 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/42

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P8_TA(2014)0076

Cooperation agreement on a civil Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) with Morocco ***

European Parliament legislative resolution of 16 December 2014 on the draft Council decision on the conclusion of the Cooperation Agreement on a Civil Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) between the European Community and its Member States and the Kingdom of Morocco (10437/2014 — C8-0108/2014 — 2013/0414(NLE))

(Consent)

(2016/C 294/13)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to draft Council decision (10437/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to draft Council decision (10437/2014),

| — | having regard to the draft Cooperation Agreement on a Civil Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) between the European Community and its Member States and the Kingdom of Morocco (10717/2006), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the draft Cooperation Agreement on a Civil Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) between the European Community and its Member States and the Kingdom of Morocco (10717/2006),

| — | having regard to the request for consent submitted by the Council in accordance with Article 172 and Article 218(6), second subparagraph, point (a), of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (C8-0108/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the request for consent submitted by the Council in accordance with Article 172 and Article 218(6), second subparagraph, point (a), of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (C8-0108/2014),

| — | having regard to Rule 99(1), first and third subparagraphs, Rule 99(2), Rule 108(7) and Rule 50(1) of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rule 99(1), first and third subparagraphs, Rule 99(2), Rule 108(7) and Rule 50(1) of its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the recommendation of the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (A8-0045/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the recommendation of the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (A8-0045/2014),

| 1. | Gives its consent to conclusion of the Agreement; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Gives its consent to conclusion of the Agreement;

| 2. | Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the governments and parliaments of the Member States and of the Kingdom of Morocco. |
| --- | --- |

2.

Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the governments and parliaments of the Member States and of the Kingdom of Morocco.

---

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/43 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/43

---

P8_TA(2014)0077

Renewal of the Agreement on cooperation in science and technology with Ukraine ***

European Parliament legislative resolution of 16 December 2014 on the draft Council decision concerning the renewal of the Agreement on cooperation in science and technology between the European Community and Ukraine (11047/2014 — C8-0114/2014 — 2014/0154(NLE))

(Consent)

(2016/C 294/14)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the draft Council decision concerning the renewal of the Agreement on cooperation in science and technology between the European Community and Ukraine (11047/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the draft Council decision concerning the renewal of the Agreement on cooperation in science and technology between the European Community and Ukraine (11047/2014),

| — | having regard to the Agreement on cooperation in science and technology between the European Community and Ukraine (1), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Agreement on cooperation in science and technology between the European Community and Ukraine (1),

| — | having regard to the request for consent submitted by the Council in accordance with Article 186 and Article 218(6), second subparagraph, point (a)(v), of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (C8-0114/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the request for consent submitted by the Council in accordance with Article 186 and Article 218(6), second subparagraph, point (a)(v), of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (C8-0114/2014),

| — | having regard to Rule 99(1), first and third subparagraphs, Rule 99(2), Rule 108(7) and Rule 50(1) of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rule 99(1), first and third subparagraphs, Rule 99(2), Rule 108(7) and Rule 50(1) of its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the recommendation of the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (A8-0039/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the recommendation of the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (A8-0039/2014),

| 1. | Gives its consent to renewal of the agreement; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Gives its consent to renewal of the agreement;

| 2. | Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the governments and parliaments of the Member States and of Ukraine. |
| --- | --- |

2.

Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the governments and parliaments of the Member States and of Ukraine.

---

(1)  OJ L 36, 12.2.2003, p. 32.

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| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/44 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/44

---

P8_TA(2014)0078

Participation of Croatia in the European Economic Area ***

European Parliament legislative resolution of 16 December 2014 on the draft Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of an Agreement on the participation of the Republic of Croatia in the European Economic Area, and of three related agreements (06698/2014 — C8-0002/2014 — 2014/0047(NLE))

(Consent)

(2016/C 294/15)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the draft Council decision (06698/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the draft Council decision (06698/2014),

| — | having regard to the Agreement on the participation of the Republic of Croatia in the European Economic Area and three related agreements (06696/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Agreement on the participation of the Republic of Croatia in the European Economic Area and three related agreements (06696/2014),

| — | having regard to the request for consent submitted by the Council in accordance with Articles 217, 218(6) and the second subparagraph of Article 218(8) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (C8-0002/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the request for consent submitted by the Council in accordance with Articles 217, 218(6) and the second subparagraph of Article 218(8) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (C8-0002/2014),

| — | having regard to Rule 99(1), first and third subparagraphs, Rule 99(2), and Rule 108(7) of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rule 99(1), first and third subparagraphs, Rule 99(2), and Rule 108(7) of its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the recommendation of the Committee on International Trade (A8-0026/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the recommendation of the Committee on International Trade (A8-0026/2014),

| 1. | Gives its consent to the conclusion of the Agreement and of the three related agreements; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Gives its consent to the conclusion of the Agreement and of the three related agreements;

| 2. | Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the governments and parliaments of the Member States and of the Republic of Iceland, the Principality of Liechtenstein and the Kingdom of Norway. |
| --- | --- |

2.

Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the governments and parliaments of the Member States and of the Republic of Iceland, the Principality of Liechtenstein and the Kingdom of Norway.

---

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/45 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/45

---

P8_TA(2014)0079

Dock dues in the French outermost regions *

European Parliament legislative resolution of 16 December 2014 on the proposal for a Council decision concerning the dock dues in the French outermost regions (COM(2014)0666 — C8-0242/2014 — 2014/0308(CNS))

(Special legislative procedure — consultation)

(2016/C 294/16)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the Commission proposal to the Council (COM(2014)0666), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission proposal to the Council (COM(2014)0666),

| — | having regard to Article 349 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, pursuant to which the Council consulted Parliament (C8-0242/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 349 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, pursuant to which the Council consulted Parliament (C8-0242/2014),

| — | having regard to Rules 59 and 50(1) of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rules 59 and 50(1) of its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on Regional Development (A8-0054/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on Regional Development (A8-0054/2014),

| 1. | Approves the Commission proposal; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Approves the Commission proposal;

| 2. | Calls on the Council to notify Parliament if it intends to depart from the text approved by Parliament; |
| --- | --- |

2.

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

| 3. | Asks the Council to consult Parliament again if it intends to substantially amend the text approved by Parliament; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Asks the Council to consult Parliament again if it intends to substantially amend the text approved by Parliament;

| 4. | Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments. |
| --- | --- |

4.

Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments.

---

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/46 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/46

---

P8_TA(2014)0080

Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2014/010 IT/Whirlpool — Italy

European Parliament resolution of 16 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/010 IT/Whirpool, from Italy) (COM(2014)0672 — C8-0231/2014 — 2014/2170(BUD))

(2016/C 294/17)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the Commission proposal to the European Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0672 — C8-0231/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission proposal to the European Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0672 — C8-0231/2014),

| — | having regard to Regulation (EU) No 1309/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 on the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (2014-2020) and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1927/2006 (1) (EGF Regulation), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Regulation (EU) No 1309/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 on the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (2014-2020) and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1927/2006 (1) (EGF Regulation),

| — | having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (2), and in particular Article 12 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (2), and in particular Article 12 thereof,

| — | having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (3) (IIA of 2 December 2013), and in particular point 13 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (3) (IIA of 2 December 2013), and in particular point 13 thereof,

| — | having regard to the trilogue procedure provided for in point 13 of the IIA of 2 December 2013, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the trilogue procedure provided for in point 13 of the IIA of 2 December 2013,

| — | having regard to the letter of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the letter of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs,

| — | having regard to the letter of the Committee on Regional Development, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the letter of the Committee on Regional Development,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0064/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0064/2014),

| A. | whereas the Union has set up legislative and budgetary instruments to provide additional support to workers who are suffering from the consequences of major structural changes in world trade patterns and to assist their reintegration into the labour market, |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas the Union has set up legislative and budgetary instruments to provide additional support to workers who are suffering from the consequences of major structural changes in world trade patterns and to assist their reintegration into the labour market,

| B. | whereas the Union’s financial assistance to workers made redundant should be dynamic and made available as quickly and efficiently as possible, in accordance with the Joint Declaration of the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission adopted during the conciliation meeting on 17 July 2008, and having due regard to the IIA of 2 December 2013 in respect of the adoption of decisions to mobilise the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF), |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas the Union’s financial assistance to workers made redundant should be dynamic and made available as quickly and efficiently as possible, in accordance with the Joint Declaration of the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission adopted during the conciliation meeting on 17 July 2008, and having due regard to the IIA of 2 December 2013 in respect of the adoption of decisions to mobilise the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF),

| C. | whereas the adoption of the EGF Regulation reflects the agreement reached between the Parliament and the Council to reintroduce the crisis mobilisation criterion, to increase the Union financial contribution to 60 % of the total estimated cost of proposed measures, to increase efficiency for the treatment of EGF applications in the Commission and by the Parliament and the Council by shortening the time for assessment and approval, to widen eligible actions and beneficiaries by introducing self-employed persons and young people and to finance incentives for setting up own businesses, |
| --- | --- |

C.

whereas the adoption of the EGF Regulation reflects the agreement reached between the Parliament and the Council to reintroduce the crisis mobilisation criterion, to increase the Union financial contribution to 60 % of the total estimated cost of proposed measures, to increase efficiency for the treatment of EGF applications in the Commission and by the Parliament and the Council by shortening the time for assessment and approval, to widen eligible actions and beneficiaries by introducing self-employed persons and young people and to finance incentives for setting up own businesses,

| D. | whereas the Italian authorities submitted application EGF/2014/010 IT/Whirlpool on 18 June 2014 following the dismissal of 608 workers in Whirlpool Europe S.r.l., an enterprise which operated in the economic sector classified under NACE Rev. 2 division 27 (‘Manufacture of electrical equipment’), and five providers and downstream producers, |
| --- | --- |

D.

whereas the Italian authorities submitted application EGF/2014/010 IT/Whirlpool on 18 June 2014 following the dismissal of 608 workers in Whirlpool Europe S.r.l., an enterprise which operated in the economic sector classified under NACE Rev. 2 division 27 (‘Manufacture of electrical equipment’), and five providers and downstream producers,

| E. | whereas the application fulfils the eligibility criteria set up by the EGF Regulation, |
| --- | --- |

E.

whereas the application fulfils the eligibility criteria set up by the EGF Regulation,

| 1. | Notes that the Italian authorities submitted the application under the intervention criterion of Article 4(1)(a) of the EGF Regulation, which requires at least 500 workers being made redundant or self-employed persons' activity ceasing, over a reference period of four months in an enterprise in a Member State, including workers made redundant or self-employed persons' activity ceasing in its suppliers and downstream producers; agrees with the Commission that the conditions set out in that Regulation are met and that, therefore, Italy is entitled to a financial contribution under that Regulation; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Notes that the Italian authorities submitted the application under the intervention criterion of Article 4(1)(a) of the EGF Regulation, which requires at least 500 workers being made redundant or self-employed persons' activity ceasing, over a reference period of four months in an enterprise in a Member State, including workers made redundant or self-employed persons' activity ceasing in its suppliers and downstream producers; agrees with the Commission that the conditions set out in that Regulation are met and that, therefore, Italy is entitled to a financial contribution under that Regulation;

| 2. | Notes that the Italian authorities submitted the application for EGF financial contribution on 18 June 2014, and that its assessment was made available by the Commission on 28 October 2014; welcomes the Commission's compliance with the tight deadline of 12 weeks set out in the EGF Regulation; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Notes that the Italian authorities submitted the application for EGF financial contribution on 18 June 2014, and that its assessment was made available by the Commission on 28 October 2014; welcomes the Commission's compliance with the tight deadline of 12 weeks set out in the EGF Regulation;

| 3. | Notes that the Italian authorities argue that the global financial and economic crisis has had a profound effect on the consumption choices of Italian households which have reconsidered their buying decisions, in particular those related to buying durable goods, including domestic appliances; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Notes that the Italian authorities argue that the global financial and economic crisis has had a profound effect on the consumption choices of Italian households which have reconsidered their buying decisions, in particular those related to buying durable goods, including domestic appliances;

| 4. | Highlights that, due to the financial and economic crisis resulting in a significant decline in household consumption, the Italian market for big household appliances has dropped from EUR 3 174 billion in 2010 to EUR 2 649 billion in 2013, representing a decline of 16,5 %; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Highlights that, due to the financial and economic crisis resulting in a significant decline in household consumption, the Italian market for big household appliances has dropped from EUR 3 174 billion in 2010 to EUR 2 649 billion in 2013, representing a decline of 16,5 %;

| 5. | Agrees that the sharp decline in the production of electrical equipment over the period 2008-2012 is linked to the global financial and economic crisis addressed in Regulation (EC) No 546/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council (4) and that Italy is therefore entitled to EGF financial contribution; |
| --- | --- |

5.

Agrees that the sharp decline in the production of electrical equipment over the period 2008-2012 is linked to the global financial and economic crisis addressed in Regulation (EC) No 546/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council (4) and that Italy is therefore entitled to EGF financial contribution;

| 6. | Notes that, to date, the ‘Manufacture of electrical equipment’ sector has been the subject of two other EGF applications (5), also based on the global financial and economic crisis; |
| --- | --- |

6.

Notes that, to date, the ‘Manufacture of electrical equipment’ sector has been the subject of two other EGF applications (5), also based on the global financial and economic crisis;

| 7. | Notes that these redundancies will further aggravate the unemployment situation in the province of Trento, where the unemployment rate has doubled since the beginning of the crisis, rising from 2,9 % in 2007 to 6,1 % in 2013; underlines that the decline in employment has affected both the construction (-10,3 %) and the industry (-2,4 %) sectors and that in Trentino the number of unemployed, surveyed by ISTAT in the first quarter of 2014, is approximately 18 700, while the number of those registered in the employment offices of the Province is about 41 800; |
| --- | --- |

7.

Notes that these redundancies will further aggravate the unemployment situation in the province of Trento, where the unemployment rate has doubled since the beginning of the crisis, rising from 2,9 % in 2007 to 6,1 % in 2013; underlines that the decline in employment has affected both the construction (-10,3 %) and the industry (-2,4 %) sectors and that in Trentino the number of unemployed, surveyed by ISTAT in the first quarter of 2014, is approximately 18 700, while the number of those registered in the employment offices of the Province is about 41 800;

| 8. | Notes that, in addition to the 502 redundancies in Whirlpool, considered as the primary enterprise, within the reference period, 106 workers made redundant in five suppliers and downstream producers are also included in the number of eligible beneficiaries, which amounts to 608 persons in total, all of them being counted as targeted beneficiaries of the EGF measures; |
| --- | --- |

8.

Notes that, in addition to the 502 redundancies in Whirlpool, considered as the primary enterprise, within the reference period, 106 workers made redundant in five suppliers and downstream producers are also included in the number of eligible beneficiaries, which amounts to 608 persons in total, all of them being counted as targeted beneficiaries of the EGF measures;

| 9. | Notes that the estimated total costs are EUR 3 150 000, out of which EUR 126 000 is dedicated to implementation, and that the financial contribution from the EGF amounts to EUR 1 890 000, which represents 60 % of the total costs; |
| --- | --- |

9.

Notes that the estimated total costs are EUR 3 150 000, out of which EUR 126 000 is dedicated to implementation, and that the financial contribution from the EGF amounts to EUR 1 890 000, which represents 60 % of the total costs;

| 10. | Welcomes the fact that, in order to provide workers with speedy assistance, the Italian authorities decided to initiate the implementation of the personalised services to the affected workers on 4 February 2014, ahead of the final decision on the granting of EGF support for the proposed coordinated package and even of the application for a financial contribution from the EGF; |
| --- | --- |

10.

Welcomes the fact that, in order to provide workers with speedy assistance, the Italian authorities decided to initiate the implementation of the personalised services to the affected workers on 4 February 2014, ahead of the final decision on the granting of EGF support for the proposed coordinated package and even of the application for a financial contribution from the EGF;

| 11. | Welcomes the fact that social partners were involved in negotiating the measures to be supported; appreciates furthermore that trade unions are involved in the monitoring of the implementation and possible redesign of the measures, as well as being associated with the evaluation of the results; welcomes also the fact that the planned measures, their content and relevant aspects of their implementation (including the timeline) were presented and discussed with the former workers of the Whirpool plant of Spini di Gargarolo during several meetings (15 in total) held between February and March 2014 and that, of the total number of workers participating in these meetings, 393 have registered as participants in these measures; |
| --- | --- |

11.

Welcomes the fact that social partners were involved in negotiating the measures to be supported; appreciates furthermore that trade unions are involved in the monitoring of the implementation and possible redesign of the measures, as well as being associated with the evaluation of the results; welcomes also the fact that the planned measures, their content and relevant aspects of their implementation (including the timeline) were presented and discussed with the former workers of the Whirpool plant of Spini di Gargarolo during several meetings (15 in total) held between February and March 2014 and that, of the total number of workers participating in these meetings, 393 have registered as participants in these measures;

| 12. | Notes that the personalised services which are to be provided consist of: information sessions, intake and registration, counselling and guidance, skills assessment, general training and re-training, vocational training, coaching, accompaniment after reintegration into work and accompaniment towards entrepreneurship, job search allowances, participation allowances and contributions to commuting expenses and hiring benefits; |
| --- | --- |

12.

Notes that the personalised services which are to be provided consist of: information sessions, intake and registration, counselling and guidance, skills assessment, general training and re-training, vocational training, coaching, accompaniment after reintegration into work and accompaniment towards entrepreneurship, job search allowances, participation allowances and contributions to commuting expenses and hiring benefits;

| 13. | Notes that 16,78 % of the targeted beneficiaries are non-EU citizens; considers that certain elements of the coaching activity could be particularly useful in helping those beneficiaries to re-integrate into the labour market; |
| --- | --- |

13.

Notes that 16,78 % of the targeted beneficiaries are non-EU citizens; considers that certain elements of the coaching activity could be particularly useful in helping those beneficiaries to re-integrate into the labour market;

| 14. | Advocates for assessing the concrete results of training, re-training and vocational activities provided to the participants in order to have a better view on the efficiency of the measures provided; |
| --- | --- |

14.

Advocates for assessing the concrete results of training, re-training and vocational activities provided to the participants in order to have a better view on the efficiency of the measures provided;

| 15. | Welcomes the measures of accompaniment after reintegration into work and accompaniment towards entrepreneurship;






  16. | Considers that the hiring benefit serves as an incentive to new employers to re-employ the participants under permanent or at least 12-month contracts; notes that less than half (250) of all beneficiaries are estimated to participate in this measure; |
| --- | --- | --- |

15.

Welcomes the measures of accompaniment after reintegration into work and accompaniment towards entrepreneurship;

16.

Considers that the hiring benefit serves as an incentive to new employers to re-employ the participants under permanent or at least 12-month contracts; notes that less than half (250) of all beneficiaries are estimated to participate in this measure;

| 17. | Welcomes that the principles of equality of treatment and non-discrimination will be respected in the access to the proposed actions and their implementation; |
| --- | --- |

17.

Welcomes that the principles of equality of treatment and non-discrimination will be respected in the access to the proposed actions and their implementation;

| 18. | Recalls that, in line with Article 7 of the EGF Regulation, the design of the coordinated package of personalised services should anticipate future labour market perspectives and required skills and should be compatible with the shift towards a resource-efficient and sustainable economy; |
| --- | --- |

18.

Recalls that, in line with Article 7 of the EGF Regulation, the design of the coordinated package of personalised services should anticipate future labour market perspectives and required skills and should be compatible with the shift towards a resource-efficient and sustainable economy;

| 19. | Approves the decision annexed to this resolution; |
| --- | --- |

19.

Approves the decision annexed to this resolution;

| 20. | Instructs its President to sign the decision with the President of the Council and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

20.

Instructs its President to sign the decision with the President of the Council and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union;

| 21. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution, including its annex, to the Council and the Commission. |
| --- | --- |

21.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution, including its annex, to the Council and the Commission.

---

(1)  OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 855.

(2)  OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 884.

(3)  OJ C 373, 20.12.2013, p. 1.

(4)  Regulation (EC) No 546/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 June 2009 amending Regulation (EC) No 1927/2006 on establishing the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, OJ L 167, 29.6.2009, p. 26.

(5)  EGF/2009/010 LT AB Snaige COM(2010)0008, EGF/2011/023 IT Antonio Merloni COM(2013)0090.

---

ANNEX

DECISION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL

on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/010 IT/Whirlpool, from Italy)

(The text of this annex is not reproduced here since it corresponds to the final act, Decision (EU) 2015/42.)

---

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/49 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/49

---

P8_TA(2014)0081

Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2013/006 PL/Fiat Auto Poland S.A. — Poland

European Parliament resolution of 16 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2013/006 PL/Fiat Auto Poland S.A., from Poland) (COM(2014)0699 — C8-0243/2014 — 2014/2181(BUD))

(2016/C 294/18)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the Commission proposal to the European Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0699 — C8-0243/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission proposal to the European Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0699 — C8-0243/2014),

| — | having regard to Regulation (EC) No 1927/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 December 2006 on establishing the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (1) (EGF Regulation), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Regulation (EC) No 1927/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 December 2006 on establishing the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (1) (EGF Regulation),

| — | having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (2), and in particular Article 12 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (2), and in particular Article 12 thereof,

| — | having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (3) (IIA of 2 December 2013), and in particular point 13 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (3) (IIA of 2 December 2013), and in particular point 13 thereof,

| — | having regard to the trilogue procedure provided for in point 13 of the IIA of 2 December 2013, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the trilogue procedure provided for in point 13 of the IIA of 2 December 2013,

| — | having regard to the letter of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the letter of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs,

| — | having regard to the letter of the Committee on Regional Development, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the letter of the Committee on Regional Development,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0062/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0062/2014),

| A. | whereas the Union has set up legislative and budgetary instruments to provide additional support to workers who are suffering from the consequences of major structural changes in world trade patterns and to assist their reintegration into the labour market, |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas the Union has set up legislative and budgetary instruments to provide additional support to workers who are suffering from the consequences of major structural changes in world trade patterns and to assist their reintegration into the labour market,

| B. | whereas the Union’s financial assistance to workers made redundant should be dynamic and made available as quickly and efficiently as possible, in accordance with the Joint Declaration of the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission adopted during the conciliation meeting on 17 July 2008, and having due regard to the IIA of 2 December 2013 in respect of the adoption of decisions to mobilise the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF), |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas the Union’s financial assistance to workers made redundant should be dynamic and made available as quickly and efficiently as possible, in accordance with the Joint Declaration of the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission adopted during the conciliation meeting on 17 July 2008, and having due regard to the IIA of 2 December 2013 in respect of the adoption of decisions to mobilise the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF),

| C. | whereas the adoption of Regulation (EU) No 1309/2013 (4) reflects the agreement reached between the Parliament and the Council to reintroduce the crisis mobilisation criterion, to increase the Union financial contribution to 60 % of the total estimated cost of proposed measures, to increase efficiency for the treatment of EGF applications in the Commission and by the Parliament and the Council by shortening the time for assessment and approval, to widen eligible actions and beneficiaries by introducing self-employed persons and young people and to finance incentives for setting up own businesses, |
| --- | --- |

C.

whereas the adoption of Regulation (EU) No 1309/2013 (4) reflects the agreement reached between the Parliament and the Council to reintroduce the crisis mobilisation criterion, to increase the Union financial contribution to 60 % of the total estimated cost of proposed measures, to increase efficiency for the treatment of EGF applications in the Commission and by the Parliament and the Council by shortening the time for assessment and approval, to widen eligible actions and beneficiaries by introducing self-employed persons and young people and to finance incentives for setting up own businesses,

| D. | whereas Poland submitted application EGF/2013/006 PL/Fiat for a financial contribution from the EGF, following 1 079 redundancies, 829 in Fiat Auto Poland and 250 from 21 suppliers and downstream producers, with 777 persons expected to participate in EGF measures, linked to a decrease in production at the Tychy plant of Fiat Auto Poland S.A. (‘Tychy plant of Fiat’) located in the province of Slaskie, Poland, during the reference period from 21 January 2013 to 21 May 2013, |
| --- | --- |

D.

whereas Poland submitted application EGF/2013/006 PL/Fiat for a financial contribution from the EGF, following 1 079 redundancies, 829 in Fiat Auto Poland and 250 from 21 suppliers and downstream producers, with 777 persons expected to participate in EGF measures, linked to a decrease in production at the Tychy plant of Fiat Auto Poland S.A. (‘Tychy plant of Fiat’) located in the province of Slaskie, Poland, during the reference period from 21 January 2013 to 21 May 2013,

| E. | whereas the application fulfils the eligibility criteria laid down in the EGF Regulation, |
| --- | --- |

E.

whereas the application fulfils the eligibility criteria laid down in the EGF Regulation,

| 1. | Notes that the conditions set out in Article 2(a) of the EGF Regulation are met, therefore agrees with the Commission that Poland is entitled to a financial contribution under that Regulation; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Notes that the conditions set out in Article 2(a) of the EGF Regulation are met, therefore agrees with the Commission that Poland is entitled to a financial contribution under that Regulation;

| 2. | Notes that the Polish authorities submitted the application for EGF financial contribution on 29 July 2013, supplemented it by additional information up to 16 June 2014 and that its assessment was made available by the Commission on 10 November 2014; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Notes that the Polish authorities submitted the application for EGF financial contribution on 29 July 2013, supplemented it by additional information up to 16 June 2014 and that its assessment was made available by the Commission on 10 November 2014;

| 3. | Welcomes the fact that, in order to provide workers with speedy assistance, the Polish authorities decided to initiate the implementation of the personalised services to the affected workers on 21 January 2013, well ahead of the decision on the granting of EGF support for the proposed coordinated package; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Welcomes the fact that, in order to provide workers with speedy assistance, the Polish authorities decided to initiate the implementation of the personalised services to the affected workers on 21 January 2013, well ahead of the decision on the granting of EGF support for the proposed coordinated package;

| 4. | Notes that the European automotive industry has lost market share since 2007, when European passenger car production accounted for 32,2 % of global production, a percentage which fell to 23,2 % in 2012; highlights, furthermore, the decrease in EU-27 production by 7 % from 2011 to 2012, while world production levels increased by 5,3 %, in the same period; stresses that the situation was even worse at national level where production volume decreased by almost a third in 2012 compared to 2011 levels; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Notes that the European automotive industry has lost market share since 2007, when European passenger car production accounted for 32,2 % of global production, a percentage which fell to 23,2 % in 2012; highlights, furthermore, the decrease in EU-27 production by 7 % from 2011 to 2012, while world production levels increased by 5,3 %, in the same period; stresses that the situation was even worse at national level where production volume decreased by almost a third in 2012 compared to 2011 levels;

| 5. | Consequently agrees with the Commission that the redundancies in the Tychy plant of Fiat and its suppliers and downstream producers are linked to major structural changes in world trade patterns due to globalisation; underlines that the impact of globalisation has been worsened by the effect of the financial crisis, which has reduced the sales of new passenger cars in the Union to the lowest level since records began; |
| --- | --- |

5.

Consequently agrees with the Commission that the redundancies in the Tychy plant of Fiat and its suppliers and downstream producers are linked to major structural changes in world trade patterns due to globalisation; underlines that the impact of globalisation has been worsened by the effect of the financial crisis, which has reduced the sales of new passenger cars in the Union to the lowest level since records began;

| 6. | Notes that the redundancies at the Tychy plant of Fiat are expected to have a negative impact on the region, as the former workers of Fiat Auto Poland, suppliers and downstream producers represent 10 % of all the unemployed people living in the area; |
| --- | --- |

6.

Notes that the redundancies at the Tychy plant of Fiat are expected to have a negative impact on the region, as the former workers of Fiat Auto Poland, suppliers and downstream producers represent 10 % of all the unemployed people living in the area;

| 7. | Points out that the unemployment rate in Slaskie region has risen since 2011; notes, moreover, an increase in collective redundancies in the region that almost doubled between 2011 and 2012; |
| --- | --- |

7.

Points out that the unemployment rate in Slaskie region has risen since 2011; notes, moreover, an increase in collective redundancies in the region that almost doubled between 2011 and 2012;

| 8. | Notes that, to date, the automotive sector has been the subject of 21 EGF applications, of which 12 are based on trade related globalisation, while the other 9 are based on the crisis criterion; |
| --- | --- |

8.

Notes that, to date, the automotive sector has been the subject of 21 EGF applications, of which 12 are based on trade related globalisation, while the other 9 are based on the crisis criterion;

| 9. | Notes that the coordinated package of personalised services to be co-funded includes the following measures for the reintegration of 777 redundant workers into employment: training and training related costs, entrepreneurial training, training scholarships, internship scholarships, internship costs, intervention works, grants for self-employment, hiring incentives; |
| --- | --- |

9.

Notes that the coordinated package of personalised services to be co-funded includes the following measures for the reintegration of 777 redundant workers into employment: training and training related costs, entrepreneurial training, training scholarships, internship scholarships, internship costs, intervention works, grants for self-employment, hiring incentives;

| 10. | Notes that the provision of grants for self-employment (up to EUR 4 995 per worker) is conditional and is linked to the success of the self-employed activity; points out that this conditionality should not discourage participants from applying for this support measure; |
| --- | --- |

10.

Notes that the provision of grants for self-employment (up to EUR 4 995 per worker) is conditional and is linked to the success of the self-employed activity; points out that this conditionality should not discourage participants from applying for this support measure;

| 11. | Notes that the implementation of the personalised services was completed at the end of 2013 and that, according to the provisional data, 269 persons participated in 313 different activities in the framework of the package, out of which 219 persons have found employment as a result of the provided support; |
| --- | --- |

11.

Notes that the implementation of the personalised services was completed at the end of 2013 and that, according to the provisional data, 269 persons participated in 313 different activities in the framework of the package, out of which 219 persons have found employment as a result of the provided support;

| 12. | Notes that, according to the provisional data, the total cost of the implementation of the personalised services was significantly lower than the estimated one due to the reduced number of workers who participated in the services; |
| --- | --- |

12.

Notes that, according to the provisional data, the total cost of the implementation of the personalised services was significantly lower than the estimated one due to the reduced number of workers who participated in the services;

| 13. | Stresses that despite the lower than initially estimated number of workers participating in the actions, according to the provisional data, the number of unemployed workers covered by the package still registered in the Labour Office amounts to 85, which proves that the vast majority of the workers affected by the redundancies in Fiat Auto Poland have found employment; |
| --- | --- |

13.

Stresses that despite the lower than initially estimated number of workers participating in the actions, according to the provisional data, the number of unemployed workers covered by the package still registered in the Labour Office amounts to 85, which proves that the vast majority of the workers affected by the redundancies in Fiat Auto Poland have found employment;

| 14. | Welcomes the fact that the Regional Employment Council was involved in the preparation of the application of the EGF and its role in deciding the package of activities of the project; |
| --- | --- |

14.

Welcomes the fact that the Regional Employment Council was involved in the preparation of the application of the EGF and its role in deciding the package of activities of the project;

| 15. | Recalls the importance of improving the employability of all workers by means of adapted training and the recognition of skills and competences gained throughout a worker's professional career; expects the training on offer in the coordinated package to be adapted not only to the needs of the dismissed workers but also to the actual business environment; believes that the design of the coordinated package of personalised services should anticipate future labour market perspectives and required skills and should be compatible with the shift towards a resource-efficient and sustainable economy; |
| --- | --- |

15.

Recalls the importance of improving the employability of all workers by means of adapted training and the recognition of skills and competences gained throughout a worker's professional career; expects the training on offer in the coordinated package to be adapted not only to the needs of the dismissed workers but also to the actual business environment; believes that the design of the coordinated package of personalised services should anticipate future labour market perspectives and required skills and should be compatible with the shift towards a resource-efficient and sustainable economy;

| 16. | Stresses that, in accordance with Article 6 of the EGF Regulation, it shall be ensured that the EGF supports the reintegration of individual redundant workers into stable employment; stresses, furthermore, that EGF assistance can co-finance only active labour market measures which lead to durable, long-term employment; reiterates that assistance from the EGF must not replace actions which are the responsibility of companies by virtue of national law or collective agreements nor measures restructuring companies or sectors; |
| --- | --- |

16.

Stresses that, in accordance with Article 6 of the EGF Regulation, it shall be ensured that the EGF supports the reintegration of individual redundant workers into stable employment; stresses, furthermore, that EGF assistance can co-finance only active labour market measures which lead to durable, long-term employment; reiterates that assistance from the EGF must not replace actions which are the responsibility of companies by virtue of national law or collective agreements nor measures restructuring companies or sectors;

| 17. | Welcomes that, among other measures, intervention work specifically targets the group of workers over 50 years of age which constitutes a significant proportion of the beneficiaries; notes that this age group is at a higher risk of prolonged unemployment and exclusion from the labour market; |
| --- | --- |

17.

Welcomes that, among other measures, intervention work specifically targets the group of workers over 50 years of age which constitutes a significant proportion of the beneficiaries; notes that this age group is at a higher risk of prolonged unemployment and exclusion from the labour market;

| 18. | Underlines the high level of older people and people with lower qualifications affected by the redundancies which represent 18,7 % and 62,6 % respectively of all affected workers; calls for special attention for those two groups and for special EGF measures targeted at them; |
| --- | --- |

18.

Underlines the high level of older people and people with lower qualifications affected by the redundancies which represent 18,7 % and 62,6 % respectively of all affected workers; calls for special attention for those two groups and for special EGF measures targeted at them;

| 19. | Considers that the six workers with longstanding health problems or disabilities may have specific needs when it comes to providing them with a personalised approach; |
| --- | --- |

19.

Considers that the six workers with longstanding health problems or disabilities may have specific needs when it comes to providing them with a personalised approach;

| 20. | Welcomes the fact that the principle of equality between women and men as well as of non-discrimination has been, and will continue to be, applied during the various stages of implementation of and access to the EGF measures; |
| --- | --- |

20.

Welcomes the fact that the principle of equality between women and men as well as of non-discrimination has been, and will continue to be, applied during the various stages of implementation of and access to the EGF measures;

| 21. | Notes that on 20 December 2012, Fiat Auto Poland reached an agreement with the trade unions by which they set the criteria for the selection of workers to be made redundant and agreed on the incentives that would be granted to workers who agreed to leave the firm voluntarily; |
| --- | --- |

21.

Notes that on 20 December 2012, Fiat Auto Poland reached an agreement with the trade unions by which they set the criteria for the selection of workers to be made redundant and agreed on the incentives that would be granted to workers who agreed to leave the firm voluntarily;

| 22. | Notes that the information provided on the coordinated package of personalised services to be funded from the EGF includes information on complementarity with actions funded by the Structural Funds; stresses that the Polish authorities confirm that the eligible actions do not receive assistance from other Union financial instruments; reiterates its call to the Commission to present a comparative evaluation of those data in its annual reports in order to ensure full respect for the existing regulations and that no duplication of Union-funded services can occur; |
| --- | --- |

22.

Notes that the information provided on the coordinated package of personalised services to be funded from the EGF includes information on complementarity with actions funded by the Structural Funds; stresses that the Polish authorities confirm that the eligible actions do not receive assistance from other Union financial instruments; reiterates its call to the Commission to present a comparative evaluation of those data in its annual reports in order to ensure full respect for the existing regulations and that no duplication of Union-funded services can occur;

| 23. | Approves the decision annexed to this resolution; |
| --- | --- |

23.

Approves the decision annexed to this resolution;

| 24. | Instructs its President to sign the decision with the President of the Council and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

24.

Instructs its President to sign the decision with the President of the Council and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union;

| 25. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution, including its annex, to the Council and the Commission. |
| --- | --- |

25.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution, including its annex, to the Council and the Commission.

---

(1)  OJ L 406, 30.12.2006, p. 1.

(2)  OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 884.

(3)  OJ C 373, 20.12.2013, p. 1.

(4)  Regulation (EU) No 1309/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 on the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (2014-2020) and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1927/2006 (OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 855).

---

ANNEX

DECISION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL

on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2013/006 PL/Fiat Auto Poland S.A., from Poland)

(The text of this annex is not reproduced here since it corresponds to the final act, Decision (EU) 2015/41.)

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| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/53 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/53

---

P8_TA(2014)0082

Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2014/013 EL/Odyssefs Fokas — Greece

European Parliament resolution of 16 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/013 EL/Odyssefs Fokas, from Greece) (COM(2014)0702 — C8-0245/2014 — 2014/2183(BUD))

(2016/C 294/19)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the Commission proposal to the European Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0702 — C8-0245/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission proposal to the European Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0702 — C8-0245/2014),

| — | having regard to Regulation (EU) No 1309/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 on the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (2014-2020) and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1927/2006 (1) (EGF Regulation), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Regulation (EU) No 1309/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 on the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (2014-2020) and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1927/2006 (1) (EGF Regulation),

| — | having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (2), and in particular Article 12 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (2), and in particular Article 12 thereof,

| — | having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (3) (IIA of 2 December 2013), and in particular point 13 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (3) (IIA of 2 December 2013), and in particular point 13 thereof,

| — | having regard to the trilogue procedure provided for in point 13 of the IIA of 2 December 2013, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the trilogue procedure provided for in point 13 of the IIA of 2 December 2013,

| — | having regard to the letter of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the letter of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs,

| — | having regard to the letter of the Committee on Regional Development, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the letter of the Committee on Regional Development,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0063/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0063/2014),

| A. | whereas the Union has set up legislative and budgetary instruments to provide additional support to workers who are suffering from the consequences of major structural changes in world trade patterns or that of a global financial and economic crisis and to assist the reintegration of those workers into the labour market, |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas the Union has set up legislative and budgetary instruments to provide additional support to workers who are suffering from the consequences of major structural changes in world trade patterns or that of a global financial and economic crisis and to assist the reintegration of those workers into the labour market,

| B. | whereas the Union’s financial assistance to workers who have been made redundant should be dynamic and made available as quickly and efficiently as possible, in accordance with the Joint Declaration of the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission adopted during the conciliation meeting on 17 July 2008, and having due regard to the IIA of 2 December 2013 in respect of the adoption of decisions to mobilise the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF), |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas the Union’s financial assistance to workers who have been made redundant should be dynamic and made available as quickly and efficiently as possible, in accordance with the Joint Declaration of the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission adopted during the conciliation meeting on 17 July 2008, and having due regard to the IIA of 2 December 2013 in respect of the adoption of decisions to mobilise the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF),

| C. | whereas the adoption of the EGF Regulation reflects the agreement reached between the Parliament and the Council to reintroduce the crisis mobilisation criterion, to set the Union financial contribution to 60 % of the total estimated cost of the proposed measures, to increase efficiency for the treatment of EGF applications in the Commission and by the Parliament and the Council by shortening the time for assessment and approval, to widen eligible actions and beneficiaries by introducing self-employed persons and young people and to finance incentives for setting up own businesses, |
| --- | --- |

C.

whereas the adoption of the EGF Regulation reflects the agreement reached between the Parliament and the Council to reintroduce the crisis mobilisation criterion, to set the Union financial contribution to 60 % of the total estimated cost of the proposed measures, to increase efficiency for the treatment of EGF applications in the Commission and by the Parliament and the Council by shortening the time for assessment and approval, to widen eligible actions and beneficiaries by introducing self-employed persons and young people and to finance incentives for setting up own businesses,

| D. | whereas the Greek authorities submitted application EGF/2014/013 EL/Odyssefs Fokas on 29 July 2014 following the dismissal of 551 workers in Odyssefs Fokas S.A., an enterprise which operated in the economic sector classified under NACE Rev. 2 division 47 (‘Retail trade, except of motor vehicles and motorcycles’), |
| --- | --- |

D.

whereas the Greek authorities submitted application EGF/2014/013 EL/Odyssefs Fokas on 29 July 2014 following the dismissal of 551 workers in Odyssefs Fokas S.A., an enterprise which operated in the economic sector classified under NACE Rev. 2 division 47 (‘Retail trade, except of motor vehicles and motorcycles’),

| E. | whereas the application fulfils the eligibility criteria set up by the EGF Regulation, |
| --- | --- |

E.

whereas the application fulfils the eligibility criteria set up by the EGF Regulation,

| 1. | Welcomes the fact that the Greek authorities take into consideration the great benefits of this budgetary instrument and have already made use of it several times as a means to tackle negative effects of the financial and economic crisis; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Welcomes the fact that the Greek authorities take into consideration the great benefits of this budgetary instrument and have already made use of it several times as a means to tackle negative effects of the financial and economic crisis;

| 2. | Notes that the Greek authorities submitted the application under the intervention criterion of point (a) of Article 4(1) of the EGF Regulation, which requires at least 500 workers being made redundant or self-employed persons' activity ceasing, over a reference period of four months in an enterprise in a Member State, including workers made redundant or self-employed persons' activity ceasing in its suppliers and downstream producers; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Notes that the Greek authorities submitted the application under the intervention criterion of point (a) of Article 4(1) of the EGF Regulation, which requires at least 500 workers being made redundant or self-employed persons' activity ceasing, over a reference period of four months in an enterprise in a Member State, including workers made redundant or self-employed persons' activity ceasing in its suppliers and downstream producers;

| 3. | Notes that the Greek authorities submitted the application for an EGF financial contribution on 29 July 2014, and that its assessment was made available by the Commission on 11 November 2014; welcomes the speedy evaluation procedure of less than five months; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Notes that the Greek authorities submitted the application for an EGF financial contribution on 29 July 2014, and that its assessment was made available by the Commission on 11 November 2014; welcomes the speedy evaluation procedure of less than five months;

| 4. | Notes that the Greek authorities argue that there were primarily two events giving rise to the redundancies: the decrease in available household income — due to the increase in the tax burden, decreasing salaries (of both private and public employees) and rising unemployment — resulting in a huge drop in purchasing power; and the drastic reduction in loans to enterprises and individuals due to the lack of cash in the Greek banks; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Notes that the Greek authorities argue that there were primarily two events giving rise to the redundancies: the decrease in available household income — due to the increase in the tax burden, decreasing salaries (of both private and public employees) and rising unemployment — resulting in a huge drop in purchasing power; and the drastic reduction in loans to enterprises and individuals due to the lack of cash in the Greek banks;

| 5. | Agrees that these factors are linked to the global financial and economic crisis addressed in Regulation (EC) No 546/2009 (4) and that Greece is therefore entitled to an EGF contribution; |
| --- | --- |

5.

Agrees that these factors are linked to the global financial and economic crisis addressed in Regulation (EC) No 546/2009 (4) and that Greece is therefore entitled to an EGF contribution;

| 6. | Notes that to date, the retail sector has been the subject of another three EGF applications, two of them from Greece, which were also based on the global financial and economic crisis; |
| --- | --- |

6.

Notes that to date, the retail sector has been the subject of another three EGF applications, two of them from Greece, which were also based on the global financial and economic crisis;

| 7. | Notes that these redundancies will further aggravate the unemployment situation in a country where, during the period 2008-2013, the number of unemployed people increased four-fold and which presents the highest unemployment rate among Member States and the fifth highest worldwide; is especially concerned about the regions of Attica and Central Macedonia, in which 90 % of the redundancies are concentrated and which already have unemployment rates above the national average of 27,5 %; |
| --- | --- |

7.

Notes that these redundancies will further aggravate the unemployment situation in a country where, during the period 2008-2013, the number of unemployed people increased four-fold and which presents the highest unemployment rate among Member States and the fifth highest worldwide; is especially concerned about the regions of Attica and Central Macedonia, in which 90 % of the redundancies are concentrated and which already have unemployment rates above the national average of 27,5 %;

| 8. | Notes that in addition to the 551 redundancies within the reference period, 49 workers dismissed before the reference period of four months are also included in the number of eligible beneficiaries, which amounts in total to 600 persons; notes that 89,17 % of the redundant workers eligible for EGF support are women; |
| --- | --- |

8.

Notes that in addition to the 551 redundancies within the reference period, 49 workers dismissed before the reference period of four months are also included in the number of eligible beneficiaries, which amounts in total to 600 persons; notes that 89,17 % of the redundant workers eligible for EGF support are women;

| 9. | Welcomes that, additionally, the Greek authorities will provide personalised services co-financed by the EGF for up to 500 young people not in employment, education or training (NEETs) under the age of 30 on the date of submission of the application, given that all of the redundancies referred to in paragraph 8 occur in the NUTS level 2 regions of Κεντρική Μακεδονία (Central Macedonia) (EL12), Θεσσαλία (Thessaly) (EL14) and Aττική (Attica) (EL30), which are eligible under the Youth Employment Initiative, hence the total number of beneficiaries is 1 100; |
| --- | --- |

9.

Welcomes that, additionally, the Greek authorities will provide personalised services co-financed by the EGF for up to 500 young people not in employment, education or training (NEETs) under the age of 30 on the date of submission of the application, given that all of the redundancies referred to in paragraph 8 occur in the NUTS level 2 regions of Κεντρική Μακεδονία (Central Macedonia) (EL12), Θεσσαλία (Thessaly) (EL14) and Aττική (Attica) (EL30), which are eligible under the Youth Employment Initiative, hence the total number of beneficiaries is 1 100;

| 10. | Notes that the Greek authorities decided to provide personalised services co-financed by the EGF to up to 500 NEETs under the age of 30; notes that, according to the application, the Greek authorities will use — among others — criteria aligned with the criteria included in the Greek Youth Guarantee Implementation Plan (i.e. young people at risk of exclusion, level of household income, education level, duration of unemployment, etc.), as well as expressions of interest; calls on the Greek authorities to bear in mind the social criteria and to ensure that the selection of the recipients of EGF support fully respects the principles of non-discrimination and equal opportunities; |
| --- | --- |

10.

Notes that the Greek authorities decided to provide personalised services co-financed by the EGF to up to 500 NEETs under the age of 30; notes that, according to the application, the Greek authorities will use — among others — criteria aligned with the criteria included in the Greek Youth Guarantee Implementation Plan (i.e. young people at risk of exclusion, level of household income, education level, duration of unemployment, etc.), as well as expressions of interest; calls on the Greek authorities to bear in mind the social criteria and to ensure that the selection of the recipients of EGF support fully respects the principles of non-discrimination and equal opportunities;

| 11. | Supports the social criteria applied by the Greek authorities to identify the NEETs to be targeted by EGF measures, taking into account data on household income, education level and duration of unemployment; calls for the selection of the recipients to fully respect the principles of non-discrimination so as to give opportunities to those furthest away from the labour market; |
| --- | --- |

11.

Supports the social criteria applied by the Greek authorities to identify the NEETs to be targeted by EGF measures, taking into account data on household income, education level and duration of unemployment; calls for the selection of the recipients to fully respect the principles of non-discrimination so as to give opportunities to those furthest away from the labour market;

| 12. | Calls on the Greek authorities to provide detailed information on the funded actions and outcomes in view of sharing best practices, especially with regard to the selection of and support provided to NEETs; |
| --- | --- |

12.

Calls on the Greek authorities to provide detailed information on the funded actions and outcomes in view of sharing best practices, especially with regard to the selection of and support provided to NEETs;

| 13. | Notes that the estimated total costs are EUR 10 740 000, of which EUR 210 000 is dedicated to implementation, and that the financial contribution of the EGF amounts to EUR 6 444 000, which represents 60 % of the total costs; |
| --- | --- |

13.

Notes that the estimated total costs are EUR 10 740 000, of which EUR 210 000 is dedicated to implementation, and that the financial contribution of the EGF amounts to EUR 6 444 000, which represents 60 % of the total costs;

| 14. | Notes that the contribution for preparatory activities, management, information and publicity, and control and reporting constitutes 1,96 % of the total budget; notes furthermore that it is planned to use almost half of this contribution for information and publicity; |
| --- | --- |

14.

Notes that the contribution for preparatory activities, management, information and publicity, and control and reporting constitutes 1,96 % of the total budget; notes furthermore that it is planned to use almost half of this contribution for information and publicity;

| 15. | Welcomes the fact that, in order to provide workers with speedy assistance, the Greek authorities decided to initiate the implementation of the personalised services to the affected workers on 20 October 2014, ahead of the final decision on the granting of EGF support for the proposed coordinated package; |
| --- | --- |

15.

Welcomes the fact that, in order to provide workers with speedy assistance, the Greek authorities decided to initiate the implementation of the personalised services to the affected workers on 20 October 2014, ahead of the final decision on the granting of EGF support for the proposed coordinated package;

| 16. | Notes that the Greek authorities have indicated that the co-ordinated package of personalised services has been drawn up in consultation with representatives of the targeted beneficiaries (former Fokas employees and lawyers of the employees) and the Federation of Private Employees in Greece; |
| --- | --- |

16.

Notes that the Greek authorities have indicated that the co-ordinated package of personalised services has been drawn up in consultation with representatives of the targeted beneficiaries (former Fokas employees and lawyers of the employees) and the Federation of Private Employees in Greece;

| 17. | Notes that the personalised services which are to be provided have been designed to take into account the specific needs of NEETs and consist of the following measures: occupational guidance, training, retraining and vocational training, contributions to business start-ups, job-search allowances, training allowances and mobility allowances; |
| --- | --- |

17.

Notes that the personalised services which are to be provided have been designed to take into account the specific needs of NEETs and consist of the following measures: occupational guidance, training, retraining and vocational training, contributions to business start-ups, job-search allowances, training allowances and mobility allowances;

| 18. | Underlines the importance of personalised services that aim to help the targeted beneficiaries to identify their skills and to establish a realistic career plan based on their interests and qualifications; |
| --- | --- |

18.

Underlines the importance of personalised services that aim to help the targeted beneficiaries to identify their skills and to establish a realistic career plan based on their interests and qualifications;

| 19. | Welcomes that monitoring is included among the measures proposed, providing for a follow-up of the participants during the six months that follow the end of the implementation of the measures; |
| --- | --- |

19.

Welcomes that monitoring is included among the measures proposed, providing for a follow-up of the participants during the six months that follow the end of the implementation of the measures;

| 20. | Notes that most of the requested funds are to support contribution to business start-ups (EUR 3 000 000) and training measures (EUR 2 960 000); |
| --- | --- |

20.

Notes that most of the requested funds are to support contribution to business start-ups (EUR 3 000 000) and training measures (EUR 2 960 000);

| 21. | Notes that the maximum eligible amount of EUR 15 000 will be granted to up to 200 selected workers and NEETs as a contribution to setting up their own businesses; underlines that the aim of this measure is to promote entrepreneurship by providing funding to viable business initiatives, which should result in the creation of further workplaces in the medium term; notes that this maximum eligible amount will be granted subject to specific conditions and the viability of the supported business start-ups; |
| --- | --- |

21.

Notes that the maximum eligible amount of EUR 15 000 will be granted to up to 200 selected workers and NEETs as a contribution to setting up their own businesses; underlines that the aim of this measure is to promote entrepreneurship by providing funding to viable business initiatives, which should result in the creation of further workplaces in the medium term; notes that this maximum eligible amount will be granted subject to specific conditions and the viability of the supported business start-ups;

| 22. | Emphasises the genuine added value and recommends the offer of active labour market measures; notes that approximately one third of the planned support consists of allowances and thus passive labour market measures; |
| --- | --- |

22.

Emphasises the genuine added value and recommends the offer of active labour market measures; notes that approximately one third of the planned support consists of allowances and thus passive labour market measures;

| 23. | Notes that the cost of the training measures in this application is at a comparable level with previous applications from Greece; points out that there is a variation in these costs in similar applications from other Member States; |
| --- | --- |

23.

Notes that the cost of the training measures in this application is at a comparable level with previous applications from Greece; points out that there is a variation in these costs in similar applications from other Member States;

| 24. | Calls on the European Social Fund (ESF) measures planned within the new ESF programming period to complement the EGF plan and to facilitate the workers' reintegration into future-oriented and sustainable economic sectors; recalls that, in line with Article 7 of the EGF Regulation, the design of the coordinated package of personalised services supported by the EGF should anticipate future labour market perspectives and required skills and should be compatible with the shift towards a resource-efficient economy; |
| --- | --- |

24.

Calls on the European Social Fund (ESF) measures planned within the new ESF programming period to complement the EGF plan and to facilitate the workers' reintegration into future-oriented and sustainable economic sectors; recalls that, in line with Article 7 of the EGF Regulation, the design of the coordinated package of personalised services supported by the EGF should anticipate future labour market perspectives and required skills and should be compatible with the shift towards a resource-efficient economy;

| 25. | Welcomes that the principles of equality of treatment and non-discrimination will be respected in the access to the proposed actions and their implementation; |
| --- | --- |

25.

Welcomes that the principles of equality of treatment and non-discrimination will be respected in the access to the proposed actions and their implementation;

| 26. | Approves the decision annexed to this resolution; |
| --- | --- |

26.

Approves the decision annexed to this resolution;

| 27. | Instructs its President to sign the decision with the President of the Council and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

27.

Instructs its President to sign the decision with the President of the Council and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union;

| 28. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution, including its annex, to the Council and the Commission. |
| --- | --- |

28.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution, including its annex, to the Council and the Commission.

---

(1)  OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 855.

(2)  OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 884.

(3)  OJ C 373, 20.12.2013, p. 1.

(4)  OJ L 167, 29.6.2009, p. 26.

---

ANNEX

DECISION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL

on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2014/013 EL/Odyssefs Fokas, from Greece)

(The text of this annex is not reproduced here since it corresponds to the final act, Decision (EU) 2015/43.)

---

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/57 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/57

---

P8_TA(2014)0083

Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2013/014 FR/Air France — France

European Parliament resolution of 16 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2013/014 FR/Air France, from France) (COM(2014)0701 — C8-0247/2014 — 2014/2185(BUD))

(2016/C 294/20)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the Commission proposal to the European Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0701 — C8-0247/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission proposal to the European Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0701 — C8-0247/2014),

| — | having regard to Regulation (EC) No 1927/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 December 2006 on establishing the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (1) (EGF Regulation), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Regulation (EC) No 1927/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 December 2006 on establishing the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (1) (EGF Regulation),

| — | having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (2), and in particular Article 12 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (2), and in particular Article 12 thereof,

| — | having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (3) (IIA of 2 December 2013), and in particular point 13 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (3) (IIA of 2 December 2013), and in particular point 13 thereof,

| — | having regard to the trilogue procedure provided for in point 13 of the IIA of 2 December 2013, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the trilogue procedure provided for in point 13 of the IIA of 2 December 2013,

| — | having regard to the letter of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the letter of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs,

| — | having regard to the letter of the Committee on Regional Development, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the letter of the Committee on Regional Development,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0065/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0065/2014),

| A. | whereas the Union has set up legislative and budgetary instruments to provide additional support to workers who are suffering from the consequences of major structural changes in world trade patterns and to assist their reintegration into the labour market, |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas the Union has set up legislative and budgetary instruments to provide additional support to workers who are suffering from the consequences of major structural changes in world trade patterns and to assist their reintegration into the labour market,

| B. | whereas the Union’s financial assistance to workers made redundant should be dynamic and made available as quickly and efficiently as possible, in accordance with the Joint Declaration of the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission adopted during the conciliation meeting on 17 July 2008, and having due regard to the IIA of 2 December 2013 in respect of the adoption of decisions to mobilise the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF), |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas the Union’s financial assistance to workers made redundant should be dynamic and made available as quickly and efficiently as possible, in accordance with the Joint Declaration of the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission adopted during the conciliation meeting on 17 July 2008, and having due regard to the IIA of 2 December 2013 in respect of the adoption of decisions to mobilise the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF),

| C. | whereas the adoption of Regulation (EU) No 1309/2013 (4) reflects the agreement reached between the Parliament and the Council to reintroduce the crisis mobilisation criterion, to increase Union financial contribution to 60 % of the total estimated cost of proposed measures, to increase efficiency for the treatment of EGF applications in the Commission and by the Parliament and the Council by shortening the time for assessment and approval, to widen eligible actions and beneficiaries by introducing self-employed persons and young people and to finance incentives for setting up own businesses, |
| --- | --- |

C.

whereas the adoption of Regulation (EU) No 1309/2013 (4) reflects the agreement reached between the Parliament and the Council to reintroduce the crisis mobilisation criterion, to increase Union financial contribution to 60 % of the total estimated cost of proposed measures, to increase efficiency for the treatment of EGF applications in the Commission and by the Parliament and the Council by shortening the time for assessment and approval, to widen eligible actions and beneficiaries by introducing self-employed persons and young people and to finance incentives for setting up own businesses,

| D. | whereas France submitted application EGF/2013/014 FR/Air France for a financial contribution from the EGF, following 5 213 redundancies, with 3 886 persons expected to participate in the measures, during and after the reference period from 1 July 2013 to 31 October 2013, linked to a decline in the Union's market share in air transport, |
| --- | --- |

D.

whereas France submitted application EGF/2013/014 FR/Air France for a financial contribution from the EGF, following 5 213 redundancies, with 3 886 persons expected to participate in the measures, during and after the reference period from 1 July 2013 to 31 October 2013, linked to a decline in the Union's market share in air transport,

| E. | whereas the application fulfils the eligibility criteria laid down in the EGF Regulation, |
| --- | --- |

E.

whereas the application fulfils the eligibility criteria laid down in the EGF Regulation,

| 1. | Notes that the conditions set out in Article 2(a) of the EGF Regulation are met; therefore agrees with the Commission that France is entitled to a financial contribution under that Regulation; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Notes that the conditions set out in Article 2(a) of the EGF Regulation are met; therefore agrees with the Commission that France is entitled to a financial contribution under that Regulation;

| 2. | Notes that the French authorities submitted the application for EGF financial contribution on 20 December 2013, supplemented it by additional information up to 24 July 2014 and that its assessment was made available by the Commission on 11 November 2014; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Notes that the French authorities submitted the application for EGF financial contribution on 20 December 2013, supplemented it by additional information up to 24 July 2014 and that its assessment was made available by the Commission on 11 November 2014;

| 3. | Welcomes the fact that, in order to provide workers with speedy assistance, the French authorities decided to initiate the implementation of the personalised services to the affected workers on 6 November 2012, well ahead of the decision and even the application on the granting of EGF support for the proposed coordinated package; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Welcomes the fact that, in order to provide workers with speedy assistance, the French authorities decided to initiate the implementation of the personalised services to the affected workers on 6 November 2012, well ahead of the decision and even the application on the granting of EGF support for the proposed coordinated package;

| 4. | Considers that the redundancies in Air France are linked to major structural changes in world trade patterns due to globalisation, with the Union market share in air transport falling, notably in the face of a spectacular rise of three major companies in the Persian Gulf, a trend which is aggravated by the global financial and economic crisis; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Considers that the redundancies in Air France are linked to major structural changes in world trade patterns due to globalisation, with the Union market share in air transport falling, notably in the face of a spectacular rise of three major companies in the Persian Gulf, a trend which is aggravated by the global financial and economic crisis;

| 5. | Notes that the redundancies at Air France are expected to have a negative impact on the Île-de-France region, which is also faced with another mass redundancy as the Peugeot Citroën Automobile (PSA) production plant in Aulnay is being closed entirely in 2014; |
| --- | --- |

5.

Notes that the redundancies at Air France are expected to have a negative impact on the Île-de-France region, which is also faced with another mass redundancy as the Peugeot Citroën Automobile (PSA) production plant in Aulnay is being closed entirely in 2014;

| 6. | Notes that the coordinated package of personalised services to be co-funded includes the following measures for the reintegration of 3 886 redundant workers into employment: advisory services and vocational guidance for workers, training, contributions to business creation, regular information and communication activities, redeployment allowances, mobility allowances; |
| --- | --- |

6.

Notes that the coordinated package of personalised services to be co-funded includes the following measures for the reintegration of 3 886 redundant workers into employment: advisory services and vocational guidance for workers, training, contributions to business creation, regular information and communication activities, redeployment allowances, mobility allowances;

| 7. | Welcomes the amount of EUR 21 580 020 devoted to the redeployment allowance which will be paid until the end of the ‘congé de reclassement’ and amounts to 70 % of the worker's last gross salary; notes the fact that Regulation (EU) No 1309/2013 limits the share of such allowances to 35 % of the total EGF amount mobilised for a given case but stresses that France submitted the application in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 546/2009 (5), which applies to applications submitted until the end of 2013 and which allows for a much more generous use of funds for specific allowances, such as redeployment allowances and contributions to business creation; |
| --- | --- |

7.

Welcomes the amount of EUR 21 580 020 devoted to the redeployment allowance which will be paid until the end of the ‘congé de reclassement’ and amounts to 70 % of the worker's last gross salary; notes the fact that Regulation (EU) No 1309/2013 limits the share of such allowances to 35 % of the total EGF amount mobilised for a given case but stresses that France submitted the application in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 546/2009 (5), which applies to applications submitted until the end of 2013 and which allows for a much more generous use of funds for specific allowances, such as redeployment allowances and contributions to business creation;

| 8. | Opposes the use of the EGF as a way to funding redundancies; advocates that this fund should be used to assist the reintegration of workers into the labour market; |
| --- | --- |

8.

Opposes the use of the EGF as a way to funding redundancies; advocates that this fund should be used to assist the reintegration of workers into the labour market;

| 9. | Recalls that funds should help the reintegration of beneficiaries into the labour market instead of providing them with salary replacement after being dismissed; notes that this purpose can be much better achieved through the provisions of Regulation (EU) No 1309/2013 which is currently in force; |
| --- | --- |

9.

Recalls that funds should help the reintegration of beneficiaries into the labour market instead of providing them with salary replacement after being dismissed; notes that this purpose can be much better achieved through the provisions of Regulation (EU) No 1309/2013 which is currently in force;

| 10. | Welcomes the fact that the co-ordinated package of personalised services has been drawn up in consultation with the representatives of the targeted beneficiaries and the social partners: training, advisory services for workers, contributions to business creation, redeployment allowances, mobility allowances; |
| --- | --- |

10.

Welcomes the fact that the co-ordinated package of personalised services has been drawn up in consultation with the representatives of the targeted beneficiaries and the social partners: training, advisory services for workers, contributions to business creation, redeployment allowances, mobility allowances;

| 11. | Recalls the importance of improving the employability of all workers by means of adapted training and the recognition of skills and competences gained throughout a worker's professional career; expects the training on offer in the coordinated package to be adapted not only to the needs of the dismissed workers but also to the actual business environment; |
| --- | --- |

11.

Recalls the importance of improving the employability of all workers by means of adapted training and the recognition of skills and competences gained throughout a worker's professional career; expects the training on offer in the coordinated package to be adapted not only to the needs of the dismissed workers but also to the actual business environment;

| 12. | Notes with regret that the majority of redundant workers are aged between 55 and 64 years; welcomes the differentiated incentive within the business creation contribution measure to recruit workers aged above 55; |
| --- | --- |

12.

Notes with regret that the majority of redundant workers are aged between 55 and 64 years; welcomes the differentiated incentive within the business creation contribution measure to recruit workers aged above 55;

| 13. | Stresses that, in accordance with Article 6 of the EGF Regulation, it shall be ensured that the EGF supports the reintegration of individual redundant workers into stable employment; stresses, furthermore, that EGF assistance can co-finance only active labour market measures which lead to durable, long-term employment; reiterates that assistance from the EGF must not replace actions which are the responsibility of companies by virtue of national law or collective agreements nor measures restructuring companies or sectors; |
| --- | --- |

13.

Stresses that, in accordance with Article 6 of the EGF Regulation, it shall be ensured that the EGF supports the reintegration of individual redundant workers into stable employment; stresses, furthermore, that EGF assistance can co-finance only active labour market measures which lead to durable, long-term employment; reiterates that assistance from the EGF must not replace actions which are the responsibility of companies by virtue of national law or collective agreements nor measures restructuring companies or sectors;

| 14. | Notes that the information provided on the coordinated package of personalised services to be funded from the EGF does not include information on complementarity with actions funded by the Structural Funds but refers to a written agreement with the dismissing enterprise to the effect that, in implementing the measures described above, it will not also receive financial contributions from other Union financial instruments for the same measures; reiterates its call to the Commission to present a comparative evaluation of those data in its annual reports in order to ensure full respect for the existing regulations and that no duplication of Union-funded services can occur; |
| --- | --- |

14.

Notes that the information provided on the coordinated package of personalised services to be funded from the EGF does not include information on complementarity with actions funded by the Structural Funds but refers to a written agreement with the dismissing enterprise to the effect that, in implementing the measures described above, it will not also receive financial contributions from other Union financial instruments for the same measures; reiterates its call to the Commission to present a comparative evaluation of those data in its annual reports in order to ensure full respect for the existing regulations and that no duplication of Union-funded services can occur;

| 15. | Approves the decision annexed to this resolution; |
| --- | --- |

15.

Approves the decision annexed to this resolution;

| 16. | Instructs its President to sign the decision with the President of the Council and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

16.

Instructs its President to sign the decision with the President of the Council and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union;

| 17. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution, including its annex, to the Council and the Commission. |
| --- | --- |

17.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution, including its annex, to the Council and the Commission.

---

(1)  OJ L 406, 30.12.2006, p. 1.

(2)  OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 884.

(3)  OJ C 373, 20.12.2013, p. 1.

(4)  Regulation (EU) No 1309/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 on the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (2014-2020) and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1927/2006 (OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 855).

(5)  Regulation (EC) No 546/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 June 2009 amending Regulation (EC) No 1927/2006 on establishing the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, OJ L 167, 29.6.2009, p. 26.

---

ANNEX

DECISION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL

on the mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 13 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (application EGF/2013/014 FR/Air France, from France)

(The text of this annex is not reproduced here since it corresponds to the final act, Decision (EU) 2015/44.)

---

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/60 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/60

---

P8_TA(2014)0084

Appointment of Members of the Single Resolution Board *

European Parliament decision of 16 December 2014 on the proposal of the Commission for the appointment of the Chair, Vice-Chair and Members of the Board of the Single Resolution Board (C(2014)9456 — C8-0284/2014 — 2014/0901(NLE))

(Approval)

(2016/C 294/21)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the Commission proposal of 5 December 2014 for the appointment of the Chair, Vice-Chair and Members of the Board of the Single Resolution Board (C(2014)9456), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission proposal of 5 December 2014 for the appointment of the Chair, Vice-Chair and Members of the Board of the Single Resolution Board (C(2014)9456),

| — | having regard to the third subparagraph of Article 56(6) of Regulation (EU) No 806/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 July 2014 establishing uniform rules and a uniform procedure for the resolution of credit institutions and certain investment firms in the framework of a Single Resolution Mechanism and a Single Resolution Fund and amending Regulation (EU) No 1093/2010 (1), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the third subparagraph of Article 56(6) of Regulation (EU) No 806/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 July 2014 establishing uniform rules and a uniform procedure for the resolution of credit institutions and certain investment firms in the framework of a Single Resolution Mechanism and a Single Resolution Fund and amending Regulation (EU) No 1093/2010 (1),

| — | having regard to its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs (A8-0070/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs (A8-0070/2014),

| A. | whereas Article 56(4) of Regulation (EU) No 806/2014 provides that the Chair, Vice-Chair and the Members of the Single Resolution Board (the Board) referred to in Article 43(1)(b) of that Regulation are to be appointed on the basis of merit, skills, knowledge of banking and financial matters, and of experience relevant to financial supervision, regulation, and bank resolution; |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas Article 56(4) of Regulation (EU) No 806/2014 provides that the Chair, Vice-Chair and the Members of the Single Resolution Board (the Board) referred to in Article 43(1)(b) of that Regulation are to be appointed on the basis of merit, skills, knowledge of banking and financial matters, and of experience relevant to financial supervision, regulation, and bank resolution;

| B. | whereas Article 56(4) of Regulation (EU) No 806/2014 provides that the appointments to the Board are to respect the principles of gender balance, experience and qualification; |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas Article 56(4) of Regulation (EU) No 806/2014 provides that the appointments to the Board are to respect the principles of gender balance, experience and qualification;

| C. | whereas in accordance with Article 56(6) of Regulation (EU) No 806/2014, the Commission adopted on 19 November 2014 a shortlist of candidates for the functions of Chair and Vice-Chair of the Board; |
| --- | --- |

C.

whereas in accordance with Article 56(6) of Regulation (EU) No 806/2014, the Commission adopted on 19 November 2014 a shortlist of candidates for the functions of Chair and Vice-Chair of the Board;

| D. | whereas in accordance with Article 56(6) of Regulation (EU) No 806/2014, the Commission adopted on 1 December 2014 a shortlist of candidates for the functions of the Members of the Board referred to in Article 43(1)(b) of that Regulation; |
| --- | --- |

D.

whereas in accordance with Article 56(6) of Regulation (EU) No 806/2014, the Commission adopted on 1 December 2014 a shortlist of candidates for the functions of the Members of the Board referred to in Article 43(1)(b) of that Regulation;

| E. | whereas in accordance with Article 56(6) of Regulation (EU) No 806/2014, the two shortlists were transmitted to the Parliament; |
| --- | --- |

E.

whereas in accordance with Article 56(6) of Regulation (EU) No 806/2014, the two shortlists were transmitted to the Parliament;

| F. | whereas, on 5 December 2014, the Commission adopted a proposal for the appointment of the Chair, Vice-Chair and Members of the Board of the Single Resolution Board and transmitted this proposal to the Parliament; |
| --- | --- |

F.

whereas, on 5 December 2014, the Commission adopted a proposal for the appointment of the Chair, Vice-Chair and Members of the Board of the Single Resolution Board and transmitted this proposal to the Parliament;

| G. | whereas Parliament’s Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs then proceeded to evaluate the credentials of the proposed candidates for the functions of Chair, Vice-Chair and Members of the Board, in particular in view of the requirements laid down in Article 56(4) of Regulation (EU) No 806/2014; |
| --- | --- |

G.

whereas Parliament’s Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs then proceeded to evaluate the credentials of the proposed candidates for the functions of Chair, Vice-Chair and Members of the Board, in particular in view of the requirements laid down in Article 56(4) of Regulation (EU) No 806/2014;

| H. | whereas, on 8 December 2014, the Committee held a hearing with Elke König, the proposed candidate for the function of Chair of the Board, at which she made an opening statement and then responded to questions from the members of the Committee; |
| --- | --- |

H.

whereas, on 8 December 2014, the Committee held a hearing with Elke König, the proposed candidate for the function of Chair of the Board, at which she made an opening statement and then responded to questions from the members of the Committee;

| I. | whereas, on 9 December 2014, the Committee held a hearing with Timo Löyttyniemi, the proposed candidate for the function of Vice-Chair of the Board, as well as with Mauro Grande, Antonio Carrascosa, Joanne Kellermann and Dominique Laboureix, as the four candidates each proposed for the function of Member of the Board. All five proposed candidates made an opening statement at that hearing and then responded to questions from the members of the Committee; |
| --- | --- |

I.

whereas, on 9 December 2014, the Committee held a hearing with Timo Löyttyniemi, the proposed candidate for the function of Vice-Chair of the Board, as well as with Mauro Grande, Antonio Carrascosa, Joanne Kellermann and Dominique Laboureix, as the four candidates each proposed for the function of Member of the Board. All five proposed candidates made an opening statement at that hearing and then responded to questions from the members of the Committee;

| 1. | Approves the Commission's proposal for the appointment of the following proposed candidates:






  (a) | Elke König for the function of Chair of the Board, |
| --- | --- | --- |

1.

Approves the Commission's proposal for the appointment of the following proposed candidates:

(a)

Elke König for the function of Chair of the Board,

| (b) | Timo Löyttyniemi for the function of Vice-Chair of the Board, |
| --- | --- |

(b)

Timo Löyttyniemi for the function of Vice-Chair of the Board,

| (c) | Mauro Grande for the function of Member of the Board, |
| --- | --- |

(c)

Mauro Grande for the function of Member of the Board,

| (d) | Antonio Carrascosa for the function of Member of the Board, |
| --- | --- |

(d)

Antonio Carrascosa for the function of Member of the Board,

| (e) | Joanne Kellermann for the function of Member of the Board, |
| --- | --- |

(e)

Joanne Kellermann for the function of Member of the Board,

| (f) | Dominique Laboureix for the function of Member of the Board; |
| --- | --- |

(f)

Dominique Laboureix for the function of Member of the Board;

| 2. | Instructs its President to forward this decision to the Council, the Commission and the governments of the Member States. |
| --- | --- |

2.

Instructs its President to forward this decision to the Council, the Commission and the governments of the Member States.

---

(1)  OJ L 225, 30.07.2014, p. 1.

---

Wednesday 17 December 2014

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/62 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/62

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P8_TA(2014)0085

Non-objection to a delegated act: arrangements for products originating in certain ACP-States

European Parliament decision to raise no objections to the Commission delegated regulation of 14 November 2014 amending Annex I to Council Regulation (EC) No 1528/2007 applying the arrangements for products originating in certain states which are part of the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group of States provided for in agreements establishing, or leading to the establishment of, Economic Partnership Agreements (C(2014)08355 — 2014/2954(DEA))

(2016/C 294/22)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the Commission delegated regulation (C(2014)08355), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission delegated regulation (C(2014)08355),

| — | having regard to the Commission’s letter of 26 November 2014 asking Parliament to declare that it will raise no objections to the delegated regulation, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission’s letter of 26 November 2014 asking Parliament to declare that it will raise no objections to the delegated regulation,

| — | having regard to the letter of 5 December 2014 of the Committee on International Trade to the Chair of the Conference of Committee Chairs, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the letter of 5 December 2014 of the Committee on International Trade to the Chair of the Conference of Committee Chairs,

| — | having regard to Article 290 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 290 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

| — | having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 1528/2007 of 20 December 2007 applying the arrangements for products originating in certain states which are part of the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group of States provided for in agreements establishing, or leading to the establishment of, Economic Partnership Agreements (1), and in particular to Articles 2(2) and 24a(6) thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 1528/2007 of 20 December 2007 applying the arrangements for products originating in certain states which are part of the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group of States provided for in agreements establishing, or leading to the establishment of, Economic Partnership Agreements (1), and in particular to Articles 2(2) and 24a(6) thereof,

| — | having regard to Regulation (EU) No 527/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 May 2013 amending Council Regulation (EC) No 1528/2007 as regards the exclusion of a number of countries from the list of regions or states which have concluded negotiations (2), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Regulation (EU) No 527/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 May 2013 amending Council Regulation (EC) No 1528/2007 as regards the exclusion of a number of countries from the list of regions or states which have concluded negotiations (2),

| — | having regard to the recommendation for a decision by the Committee on International Trade, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the recommendation for a decision by the Committee on International Trade,

| — | having regard to Rule 105(6) of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rule 105(6) of its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the fact that no objections have been raised within the period laid down in the third and fourth indents of Rule 105(6) of its Rules of Procedures, which expired on 16 December 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the fact that no objections have been raised within the period laid down in the third and fourth indents of Rule 105(6) of its Rules of Procedures, which expired on 16 December 2014,

| A. | whereas, pursuant to Regulation (EU) No 527/2013, Kenya ceased as of 1 October 2014 to be covered by the market access arrangement permitted under Regulation (EC) No 1528/2007; |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas, pursuant to Regulation (EU) No 527/2013, Kenya ceased as of 1 October 2014 to be covered by the market access arrangement permitted under Regulation (EC) No 1528/2007;

| B. | whereas Kenya, the European Union and its Member States concluded negotiations on an Economic Partnership Agreement on 16 October 2014; |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas Kenya, the European Union and its Member States concluded negotiations on an Economic Partnership Agreement on 16 October 2014;

| C. | whereas on 14 November 2014 the Commission adopted a delegated act to reinstate Kenya in Annex I of Regulation (EC) No 1528/2007; |
| --- | --- |

C.

whereas on 14 November 2014 the Commission adopted a delegated act to reinstate Kenya in Annex I of Regulation (EC) No 1528/2007;

| D. | whereas the Commission has stressed that a decision not to raise objections would limit Kenya’s potential trade diversion and loss of exports into the EU, reducing harm to the tuna, horticulture and cut flower sectors; |
| --- | --- |

D.

whereas the Commission has stressed that a decision not to raise objections would limit Kenya’s potential trade diversion and loss of exports into the EU, reducing harm to the tuna, horticulture and cut flower sectors;

| 1. | Declares that it has no objections to the delegated regulation; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Declares that it has no objections to the delegated regulation;

| 2. | Instructs its President to forward this decision to the Council and the Commission. |
| --- | --- |

2.

Instructs its President to forward this decision to the Council and the Commission.

---

(1)  OJ L 348, 31.12.2007, p. 1.

(2)  OJ L 165, 18.6.2013, p. 59.

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| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/63 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/63

---

P8_TA(2014)0086

Autonomous trade preferences for the Republic of Moldova ***I

European Parliament legislative resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Council Regulation (EC) No 55/2008 introducing autonomous trade preferences for the Republic of Moldova (COM(2014)0542 — C8-0128/2014 — 2014/0250(COD))

(Ordinary legislative procedure: first reading)

(2016/C 294/23)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the Commission proposal to the Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0542), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission proposal to the Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0542),

| — | having regard to Article 294(2) and Article 207(2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, pursuant to which the Commission submitted the proposal to Parliament (C8-0128/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 294(2) and Article 207(2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, pursuant to which the Commission submitted the proposal to Parliament (C8-0128/2014),

| — | having regard to Article 294(3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 294(3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

| — | having regard to the undertaking given by the Council representative by letter of 10 December 2014 to approve Parliament’s position, in accordance with Article 294(4) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the undertaking given by the Council representative by letter of 10 December 2014 to approve Parliament’s position, in accordance with Article 294(4) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

| — | having regard to Rule 59 of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rule 59 of its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on International Trade and the opinion of the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development (A8-0053/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on International Trade and the opinion of the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development (A8-0053/2014),

| 1. | Adopts its position at first reading, taking over the Commission proposal; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Adopts its position at first reading, taking over the Commission proposal;

| 2. | Calls on the Commission to refer the matter to Parliament again if it intends to amend its proposal substantially or replace it with another text; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Calls on the Commission to refer the matter to Parliament again if it intends to amend its proposal substantially or replace it with another text;

| 3. | Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments. |
| --- | --- |

3.

Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments.

---

P8_TC1-COD(2014)0250

Position of the European Parliament adopted at first reading on 17 December 2014 with a view to the adoption of Regulation (EU) No .../2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Council Regulation (EC) No 55/2008 introducing autonomous trade preferences for the Republic of Moldova

(As an agreement was reached between Parliament and Council, Parliament's position corresponds to the final legislative act, Regulation (EU) No 1383/2014.)

---

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/64 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/64

---

P8_TA(2014)0087

Tariff treatment for goods originating from Ecuador ***I

European Parliament legislative resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the tariff treatment for goods originating from Ecuador (COM(2014)0585 — C8-0172/2014 — 2014/0287(COD))

(Ordinary legislative procedure: first reading)

(2016/C 294/24)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the Commission proposal to Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0585), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission proposal to Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0585),

| — | having regard to Article 294(2) and Article 207(2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, pursuant to which the Commission submitted the proposal to Parliament (C8-0172/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 294(2) and Article 207(2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, pursuant to which the Commission submitted the proposal to Parliament (C8-0172/2014),

| — | having regard to Article 294(3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 294(3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

| — | having regard to the undertaking given by the Council representative by letter of 10 December 2014 to approve Parliament’s position, in accordance with Article 294(4) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the undertaking given by the Council representative by letter of 10 December 2014 to approve Parliament’s position, in accordance with Article 294(4) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

| — | having regard to Rule 59 of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rule 59 of its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on International Trade (A8-0056/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on International Trade (A8-0056/2014),

| 1. | Adopts its position at first reading hereinafter set out; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Adopts its position at first reading hereinafter set out;

| 2. | Calls on the Commission to refer the matter to Parliament again if it intends to amend its proposal substantially or replace it with another text; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Calls on the Commission to refer the matter to Parliament again if it intends to amend its proposal substantially or replace it with another text;

| 3. | Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments. |
| --- | --- |

3.

Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments.

---

P8_TC1-COD(2014)0287

Position of the European Parliament adopted at first reading on 17 December 2014 with a view to the adoption of Regulation (EU) No .../2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the tariff treatment for goods originating in Ecuador

(As an agreement was reached between Parliament and Council, Parliament's position corresponds to the final legislative act, Regulation (EU) No 1384/2014.)

---

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/65 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/65

---

P8_TA(2014)0088

Mobilisation of the Contingency Margin in 2014

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on mobilisation of the Contingency Margin, in accordance with point 14 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (COM(2014)0328 — C8-0020/2014 — 2014/2037(BUD))

(2016/C 294/25)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the Commission proposal to the European Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0328 — C8-0020/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission proposal to the European Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0328 — C8-0020/2014),

| — | having regard to the Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (1) (MFF Regulation), and in particular Article 13 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (1) (MFF Regulation), and in particular Article 13 thereof,

| — | having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, cooperation in budgetary matters and sound financial management (2), and in particular point 14 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, cooperation in budgetary matters and sound financial management (2), and in particular point 14 thereof,

| — | having regard to the joint statement on payment appropriations by the Parliament, the Council and the Commission, as agreed in the joint conclusions of 12 November 2013 (3), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the joint statement on payment appropriations by the Parliament, the Council and the Commission, as agreed in the joint conclusions of 12 November 2013 (3),

| — | having regard to the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2014, as definitively adopted on 20 November 2013, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2014, as definitively adopted on 20 November 2013,

| — | having regard to Draft amending budget No 3/2014, which the Commission adopted on 15 April 2014 (COM(2014)0329), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Draft amending budget No 3/2014, which the Commission adopted on 15 April 2014 (COM(2014)0329),

| — | having regard to the position adopted by the Council on 12 December 2014 on Draft amending budget No 3/2014 (16740/2014 — C8-0289/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the position adopted by the Council on 12 December 2014 on Draft amending budget No 3/2014 (16740/2014 — C8-0289/2014),

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0068/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0068/2014),

| A. | Whereas the implementation of the MFF 2014-2020 started with a huge backlog in payments, with unpaid bills amounting to some EUR 23,4 billion at the end of 2013 for Cohesion policy only, and a level of outstanding commitments (RAL) reaching EUR 221,7 billion at the same date, i.e. EUR 41 billion above what was originally foreseen when the MFF 2007-2013 was agreed; whereas this situation is unacceptable and requires urgent measures, having recourse to the flexibility mechanisms included in the MFF Regulation, with a view to not jeopardising the delivery of Union policies and programmes, as unanimously agreed in the MFF, but also to limiting the claims for interest on late payments and avoiding unduly increasing the economic exposure and vulnerability of beneficiaries of the Union budget; |
| --- | --- |

A.

Whereas the implementation of the MFF 2014-2020 started with a huge backlog in payments, with unpaid bills amounting to some EUR 23,4 billion at the end of 2013 for Cohesion policy only, and a level of outstanding commitments (RAL) reaching EUR 221,7 billion at the same date, i.e. EUR 41 billion above what was originally foreseen when the MFF 2007-2013 was agreed; whereas this situation is unacceptable and requires urgent measures, having recourse to the flexibility mechanisms included in the MFF Regulation, with a view to not jeopardising the delivery of Union policies and programmes, as unanimously agreed in the MFF, but also to limiting the claims for interest on late payments and avoiding unduly increasing the economic exposure and vulnerability of beneficiaries of the Union budget;

| B. | Whereas, in the framework of the budgetary conciliation for 2014, the Parliament, the Council and the Commission jointly agreed, in light of the need to ensure an orderly progression of payments and avoid any abnormal shift of the RAL onto the 2015 budget, to have recourse to the various flexibility mechanisms contained in the MFF Regulation, including the Contingency Margin; |
| --- | --- |

B.

Whereas, in the framework of the budgetary conciliation for 2014, the Parliament, the Council and the Commission jointly agreed, in light of the need to ensure an orderly progression of payments and avoid any abnormal shift of the RAL onto the 2015 budget, to have recourse to the various flexibility mechanisms contained in the MFF Regulation, including the Contingency Margin;

| C. | Whereas, after having examined all other financial possibilities to react to unforeseen circumstances, the Commission had proposed to mobilise the full amount of the Contingency Margin available to complement the payment appropriations in the general budget of the Union for the financial year 2014, above the payment ceiling; |
| --- | --- |

C.

Whereas, after having examined all other financial possibilities to react to unforeseen circumstances, the Commission had proposed to mobilise the full amount of the Contingency Margin available to complement the payment appropriations in the general budget of the Union for the financial year 2014, above the payment ceiling;

| D. | Whereas the Council does not share Parliament's and Commission's interpretation that the EUR 350 million in payment appropriations mobilised in 2014 in respect of the Special Instruments provided for in the MFF Regulation should be counted outside the payments ceiling, thus leaving a margin of EUR 711 million to be exhausted before having recourse to the Contingency Margin; whereas, accordingly, the decision remains open as to whether and to what extent the amount of EUR 350 million should be offset against the MFF margins for payments for current or future financial years; |
| --- | --- |

D.

Whereas the Council does not share Parliament's and Commission's interpretation that the EUR 350 million in payment appropriations mobilised in 2014 in respect of the Special Instruments provided for in the MFF Regulation should be counted outside the payments ceiling, thus leaving a margin of EUR 711 million to be exhausted before having recourse to the Contingency Margin; whereas, accordingly, the decision remains open as to whether and to what extent the amount of EUR 350 million should be offset against the MFF margins for payments for current or future financial years;

| E. | Whereas it has been agreed, in the framework of the negotiations on the 2014-2015 budgets package, to mobilise the Contingency Margin for an amount of EUR 2 818,2 million plus EUR 350 million, i.e. EUR 3 168,2 million; |
| --- | --- |

E.

Whereas it has been agreed, in the framework of the negotiations on the 2014-2015 budgets package, to mobilise the Contingency Margin for an amount of EUR 2 818,2 million plus EUR 350 million, i.e. EUR 3 168,2 million;

| F. | Whereas this mobilisation is not likely to sustainably address the recent payment shortages and the growing amount of outstanding commitments, but only to limit the increase in outstanding bills rolled over to the following year, which has grown by more than 50 % every year since 2010; |
| --- | --- |

F.

Whereas this mobilisation is not likely to sustainably address the recent payment shortages and the growing amount of outstanding commitments, but only to limit the increase in outstanding bills rolled over to the following year, which has grown by more than 50 % every year since 2010;

| G. | Whereas, incidentally, the financing of this mobilisation can take place at virtually no cost to national budgets due to other unexpected additional revenues for the year 2014; |
| --- | --- |

G.

Whereas, incidentally, the financing of this mobilisation can take place at virtually no cost to national budgets due to other unexpected additional revenues for the year 2014;

| H. | Whereas, moreover, the mobilisation of the Contingency Margin in 2014 does not entail any increase in the global ceiling for payment (EUR 908 billion in 2011 prices) of the MFF 2014-2020, as clearly set out in Article 13(4) of the MFF Regulation, since it is offset against the margins of future financial years, as set out in Article 13(3) of the MFF Regulation; |
| --- | --- |

H.

Whereas, moreover, the mobilisation of the Contingency Margin in 2014 does not entail any increase in the global ceiling for payment (EUR 908 billion in 2011 prices) of the MFF 2014-2020, as clearly set out in Article 13(4) of the MFF Regulation, since it is offset against the margins of future financial years, as set out in Article 13(3) of the MFF Regulation;

| 1. | Agrees with the mobilisation of the Contingency Margin for 2014, as presented in the annex; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Agrees with the mobilisation of the Contingency Margin for 2014, as presented in the annex;

| 2. | Underlines that the mobilisation of this instrument, as foreseen in Article 13 of the MFF Regulation, evidences, once more, the crucial need for the Union budget to be increasingly flexible; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Underlines that the mobilisation of this instrument, as foreseen in Article 13 of the MFF Regulation, evidences, once more, the crucial need for the Union budget to be increasingly flexible;

| 3. | Approves the decision annexed to this resolution; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Approves the decision annexed to this resolution;

| 4. | Instructs its President to sign the decision with the President of the Council and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Instructs its President to sign the decision with the President of the Council and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union;

| 5. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution, including its annex, to the Council and the Commission. |
| --- | --- |

5.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution, including its annex, to the Council and the Commission.

---

(1)  OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 884.

(2)  OJ C 373, 20.12.2013, p. 1.

(3)  Texts adopted, 20.11.2013, P7_TA(2013)0472.

---

ANNEX

DECISION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL

on the mobilisation of the Contingency Margin

(The text of this annex is not reproduced here since it corresponds to the final act, Decision (EU) 2015/435.)

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| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/67 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/67

---

P8_TA(2014)0089

Draft amending budget No 3/2014: Revenue from fines, interest payments, reimbursements and repayments — Payment appropriations — Establishment plans of the Commission, the Committee of the Regions and the European Data Protection Supervisor

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 3/2014 of the European Union for the financial year 2014, Section III — Commission (16740/2014 — C8-0289/2014 — 2014/2036(BUD))

(2016/C 294/26)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to Article 314 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 314 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

| — | having regard to Article 106a of the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 106a of the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community,

| — | having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 (1), and in particular Article 41 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 (1), and in particular Article 41 thereof,

| — | having regard to the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2014, as definitively adopted on 20 November 2013 (2), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2014, as definitively adopted on 20 November 2013 (2),

| — | having regard to the joint statement on payment appropriations by the Parliament, the Council and the Commission (joint statement of 12 November 2013), as agreed in the joint conclusions of 12 November 2013 (3), as well as the European Parliament and Commission statement on payment appropriations, as agreed in the same joint conclusions, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the joint statement on payment appropriations by the Parliament, the Council and the Commission (joint statement of 12 November 2013), as agreed in the joint conclusions of 12 November 2013 (3), as well as the European Parliament and Commission statement on payment appropriations, as agreed in the same joint conclusions,

| — | having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (4) (‘MFF Regulation’), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (4) (‘MFF Regulation’),

| — | having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (5) (‘IIA’), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (5) (‘IIA’),

| — | having regard to Council Decision 2007/436/EC, Euratom of 7 June 2007 on the system of the European Communities' own resources (6), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Decision 2007/436/EC, Euratom of 7 June 2007 on the system of the European Communities' own resources (6),

| — | having regard to Draft amending budget No 3/2014, which the Commission adopted on 28 May 2014 (COM(2014)0329), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Draft amending budget No 3/2014, which the Commission adopted on 28 May 2014 (COM(2014)0329),

| — | having regard to the Commission proposal to mobilise the Contingency Margin in 2014, adopted on 28 May 2014 (COM(2014)0328), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission proposal to mobilise the Contingency Margin in 2014, adopted on 28 May 2014 (COM(2014)0328),

| — | having regard to the joint conclusions approved by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the joint conclusions approved by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014,

| — | having regard to the position on Draft amending budget No 3/2014, which the Council adopted on 12 December 2014 and forwarded to Parliament on the same day (16740/2014 — C8-0289/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the position on Draft amending budget No 3/2014, which the Council adopted on 12 December 2014 and forwarded to Parliament on the same day (16740/2014 — C8-0289/2014),

| — | having regard to Rules 88 and 91 of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rules 88 and 91 of its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the letter of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the letter of the Committee on Foreign Affairs,

| — | having regard to the letter of the Committee on Development, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the letter of the Committee on Development,

| — | having regard to the letter of the Committee on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the letter of the Committee on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety,

| — | having regard to the letter of the Committee on Culture and Education, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the letter of the Committee on Culture and Education,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets and the opinion of the Committee on Regional Development (A8-0069/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets and the opinion of the Committee on Regional Development (A8-0069/2014),

| A. | whereas Draft amending budget (DAB) No 3/2014 to the 2014 general budget as originally presented by the Commission proposed to increase both the forecast of revenue stemming from fines and penalties, and other revenue by EUR 1 568 million and the payments appropriations by EUR 4 738 million across headings 1a, 1b, 2, and 4 of the multi-annual financial framework (MFF), with the aim of meeting payment needs until the end of the year by covering obligations stemming from past and current commitments; |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas Draft amending budget (DAB) No 3/2014 to the 2014 general budget as originally presented by the Commission proposed to increase both the forecast of revenue stemming from fines and penalties, and other revenue by EUR 1 568 million and the payments appropriations by EUR 4 738 million across headings 1a, 1b, 2, and 4 of the multi-annual financial framework (MFF), with the aim of meeting payment needs until the end of the year by covering obligations stemming from past and current commitments;

| B. | whereas the implementation of the 2014-2020 MFF started with a huge backlog in payments, with unpaid bills amounting to some EUR 23 400 million at the end of 2013 for Cohesion policy only, and a level of outstanding commitments (RAL) reaching EUR 221 700 million at the end of 2013, i.e. EUR 41 000 million above what was originally foreseen when the MFF 2007-2013 was agreed; |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas the implementation of the 2014-2020 MFF started with a huge backlog in payments, with unpaid bills amounting to some EUR 23 400 million at the end of 2013 for Cohesion policy only, and a level of outstanding commitments (RAL) reaching EUR 221 700 million at the end of 2013, i.e. EUR 41 000 million above what was originally foreseen when the MFF 2007-2013 was agreed;

| C. | whereas out of the total of DAB No 3/2014, only EUR 99 million is meant to cover 2014-2020 programmes under the cohesion policy, the rest relating to the closure of the 2007-2013 programmes (EUR 3 296 million) and payment needs stemming from other headings (EUR 1 340 million); |
| --- | --- |

C.

whereas out of the total of DAB No 3/2014, only EUR 99 million is meant to cover 2014-2020 programmes under the cohesion policy, the rest relating to the closure of the 2007-2013 programmes (EUR 3 296 million) and payment needs stemming from other headings (EUR 1 340 million);

| D. | whereas the Parliament, the Council and the Commission committed themselves through the joint statement of 12 November 2013 to ensure that the Union has the financial means available to cover its legal obligations in 2014 by safeguarding an orderly progression of payments and by having recourse to the various flexibility mechanisms included in the MFF Regulation, including Article 13 (the contingency margin); |
| --- | --- |

D.

whereas the Parliament, the Council and the Commission committed themselves through the joint statement of 12 November 2013 to ensure that the Union has the financial means available to cover its legal obligations in 2014 by safeguarding an orderly progression of payments and by having recourse to the various flexibility mechanisms included in the MFF Regulation, including Article 13 (the contingency margin);

| E. | whereas some delegations in the Council expressed reservations as to the use of the contingency margin in DAB No 3/2014, which is considered by the Parliament to be an unsubstantiated concern and in contradiction with the spirit of the MFF Regulation and the IIA; |
| --- | --- |

E.

whereas some delegations in the Council expressed reservations as to the use of the contingency margin in DAB No 3/2014, which is considered by the Parliament to be an unsubstantiated concern and in contradiction with the spirit of the MFF Regulation and the IIA;

| 1. | Takes note of DAB No 3/2014 as proposed by the Commission; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Takes note of DAB No 3/2014 as proposed by the Commission;

| 2. | Endorses the joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014 with the view to provide for reinforcements in payments, in the 2014 budget, on a number of budget lines up to a level of EUR 4 246 million, of which EUR 3 168 million will be mobilised through the Contingency Margin for 2014; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Endorses the joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014 with the view to provide for reinforcements in payments, in the 2014 budget, on a number of budget lines up to a level of EUR 4 246 million, of which EUR 3 168 million will be mobilised through the Contingency Margin for 2014;

| 3. | Welcomes in particular the increases in the payment appropriation for Heading 1a and Heading 4, which have been largely preserved in the final compromise depicted in the Joint conclusions of 8 December 2014; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Welcomes in particular the increases in the payment appropriation for Heading 1a and Heading 4, which have been largely preserved in the final compromise depicted in the Joint conclusions of 8 December 2014;

| 4. | Welcomes the increase in payment appropriations for Heading 1b which is the main area affected by the shortage of payments in the Union budget in general; considers nevertheless that this is the bare minimum to cover the actual needs until the end of 2014 and will not be sufficient to solve the recurrent snowball effect of unpaid bills that has been expanding since the 2010 budget; recalls, in particular, that the bulk of invoices under heading 1b are traditionally submitted by Member States towards the end of each financial year in order to prevent possible de-commitments due to the application of N+2 and N+3 rules; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Welcomes the increase in payment appropriations for Heading 1b which is the main area affected by the shortage of payments in the Union budget in general; considers nevertheless that this is the bare minimum to cover the actual needs until the end of 2014 and will not be sufficient to solve the recurrent snowball effect of unpaid bills that has been expanding since the 2010 budget; recalls, in particular, that the bulk of invoices under heading 1b are traditionally submitted by Member States towards the end of each financial year in order to prevent possible de-commitments due to the application of N+2 and N+3 rules;

| 5. | Supports the proposal for the mobilisation of the Contingency margin and underlines its interpretation of Article 3(2) of the MFF Regulation that payments related to special instruments must be counted over and above the ceilings; believes that any other interpretation undermines the basis for the political agreement on the 2014-2020 MFF, namely the understanding that specific and maximum flexibility should be implemented to allow the Union to fulfil its obligations; |
| --- | --- |

5.

Supports the proposal for the mobilisation of the Contingency margin and underlines its interpretation of Article 3(2) of the MFF Regulation that payments related to special instruments must be counted over and above the ceilings; believes that any other interpretation undermines the basis for the political agreement on the 2014-2020 MFF, namely the understanding that specific and maximum flexibility should be implemented to allow the Union to fulfil its obligations;

| 6. | Recalls that the adoption of DAB No 3/2014, DAB No 4/2014, DAB No 6/2014 and DAB No 8/2014 will reduce the share of the GNI contribution from Member States to the Union budget by a total of EUR 8 688 million and will therefore fully compensate the additional payment needs requested in DAB No 3/2014 as agreed in the Joint conclusions of 8 December 2014; |
| --- | --- |

6.

Recalls that the adoption of DAB No 3/2014, DAB No 4/2014, DAB No 6/2014 and DAB No 8/2014 will reduce the share of the GNI contribution from Member States to the Union budget by a total of EUR 8 688 million and will therefore fully compensate the additional payment needs requested in DAB No 3/2014 as agreed in the Joint conclusions of 8 December 2014;

| 7. | Approves the Council position on Draft amending budget No 3/2014; |
| --- | --- |

7.

Approves the Council position on Draft amending budget No 3/2014;

| 8. | Instructs its President to declare that amending budget No 2/2014 has been definitively adopted and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

8.

Instructs its President to declare that amending budget No 2/2014 has been definitively adopted and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union;

| 9. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments. |
| --- | --- |

9.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments.

---

(1)  OJ L 298, 26.10.2012, p. 1.

(2)  OJ L 51, 20.2.2014, p. 1.

(3)  Texts adopted of 20 November 2013, P7_TA(2013)0472.

(4)  OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 884.

(5)  OJ C 373, 20.12.2013, p. 1.

(6)  OJ L 163, 23.6.2007, p. 17.

---

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/70 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/70

---

P8_TA(2014)0090

Draft amending budget No 4/2014: Traditional own resources (TOR), VAT and Gross National Income (GNI) bases

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 4/2014 of the European Union for the financial year 2014, Section III — Commission (16741/2014 — C8-0290/2014 — 2014/2053(BUD))

(2016/C 294/27)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to Article 314 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 314 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

| — | having regard to Article 106a of the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 106a of the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community,

| — | having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 (1), and in particular Article 41 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 (1), and in particular Article 41 thereof,

| — | having regard to the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2014, as definitively adopted on 20 November 2013 (2), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2014, as definitively adopted on 20 November 2013 (2),

| — | having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (3), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (3),

| — | having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (4), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (4),

| — | having regard to Council Decision 2007/436/EC, Euratom of 7 June 2007 on the system of the European Communities' own resources (5), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Decision 2007/436/EC, Euratom of 7 June 2007 on the system of the European Communities' own resources (5),

| — | having regard to Draft amending budget No 4/2014, which the Commission adopted on 9 July 2014 (COM(2014)0461), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Draft amending budget No 4/2014, which the Commission adopted on 9 July 2014 (COM(2014)0461),

| — | having regard to the Amending letter No 1 to the Draft amending budget No 4/2014, which the Commission presented on 16 October 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Amending letter No 1 to the Draft amending budget No 4/2014, which the Commission presented on 16 October 2014,

| — | having regard to the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014,

| — | having regard to the position on Draft amending budget No 4/2014 which the Council adopted on 12 December 2014 and forwarded to Parliament on the same day (16741/2014 — C8-0290/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the position on Draft amending budget No 4/2014 which the Council adopted on 12 December 2014 and forwarded to Parliament on the same day (16741/2014 — C8-0290/2014),

| — | having regard to Rules 88 and 91 of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rules 88 and 91 of its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0076/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0076/2014),

| A. | whereas Draft amending budget (DAB) No 4/2014 concerns a revision of the forecast of Traditional Own Resources (TOR, i.e. customs duties and sugar sector levies), VAT and Gross National Income (GNI) bases, the budgeting of the relevant corrections concerning the United Kingdom, and a revision of the forecast of other revenue arising from fines, thereby resulting in a change in the level and distribution between Member States of their own resources contributions to the Union budget; |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas Draft amending budget (DAB) No 4/2014 concerns a revision of the forecast of Traditional Own Resources (TOR, i.e. customs duties and sugar sector levies), VAT and Gross National Income (GNI) bases, the budgeting of the relevant corrections concerning the United Kingdom, and a revision of the forecast of other revenue arising from fines, thereby resulting in a change in the level and distribution between Member States of their own resources contributions to the Union budget;

| B. | whereas DAB No 4/2014 also reduces budgetary commitment and payment appropriations for the European Data Protection Supervisor by EUR 248 460 and proposes some modifications to the nomenclature of the European Regional Development Fund to reflect the adopted legal basis; |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas DAB No 4/2014 also reduces budgetary commitment and payment appropriations for the European Data Protection Supervisor by EUR 248 460 and proposes some modifications to the nomenclature of the European Regional Development Fund to reflect the adopted legal basis;

| C. | whereas this DAB is crucial to avoid cash shortages that could lead to an implementation deficit in 2014; |
| --- | --- |

C.

whereas this DAB is crucial to avoid cash shortages that could lead to an implementation deficit in 2014;

| 1. | Takes note of DAB No 4/2014, as amended by Amending letter No 1 to DAB No 4/2014, which provides for a revision of the forecast of Traditional Own Resources (TOR, i.e. customs duties and sugar sector levies), on the basis of the Commission’s best estimates and certain other developments, as well as the further revision of the forecast of other revenue, arising from a series of fines that have become definitive and can therefore be budgeted; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Takes note of DAB No 4/2014, as amended by Amending letter No 1 to DAB No 4/2014, which provides for a revision of the forecast of Traditional Own Resources (TOR, i.e. customs duties and sugar sector levies), on the basis of the Commission’s best estimates and certain other developments, as well as the further revision of the forecast of other revenue, arising from a series of fines that have become definitive and can therefore be budgeted;

| 2. | Notes that the drop in TOR, forecast by some EUR 646,1 million, and in the VAT based own resource, by EUR 192,4 million, is compensated for by the above-mentioned fines for a cumulated amount of EUR 2 433 million and thus mechanically reduces the need for additional GNI contributions by EUR 1 594,5 million; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Notes that the drop in TOR, forecast by some EUR 646,1 million, and in the VAT based own resource, by EUR 192,4 million, is compensated for by the above-mentioned fines for a cumulated amount of EUR 2 433 million and thus mechanically reduces the need for additional GNI contributions by EUR 1 594,5 million;

| 3. | Notes that DAB No 4/2014, including Amending letter No 1 to it, provides for an overall decrease in the requirements for additional own resources, mainly due to the budgeting of fines and interests on late payments that have become definitive, amounting to EUR 2 433 million; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Notes that DAB No 4/2014, including Amending letter No 1 to it, provides for an overall decrease in the requirements for additional own resources, mainly due to the budgeting of fines and interests on late payments that have become definitive, amounting to EUR 2 433 million;

| 4. | Notes that DAB No 4/2014 proposes a reduction in both commitment and payment appropriations for the European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) of EUR 248 460 due to the delay in the appointment of the new EDPS and Assistant EDPS; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Notes that DAB No 4/2014 proposes a reduction in both commitment and payment appropriations for the European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) of EUR 248 460 due to the delay in the appointment of the new EDPS and Assistant EDPS;

| 5. | Endorses the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014 with the view to approve DAB No 4/2014 as originally proposed by the Commission, and amended by Amending letter No 1 to DAB No 4/2014, with the inclusions of the commitment appropriations from DAB No 6/2014 related to the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund and the reserve for the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreements, as well as the redeployment of the amount of EUR 248 460 of available payment appropriations identified in the line for the EDPS to the Humanitarian aid budget line 23 02 01; |
| --- | --- |

5.

Endorses the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014 with the view to approve DAB No 4/2014 as originally proposed by the Commission, and amended by Amending letter No 1 to DAB No 4/2014, with the inclusions of the commitment appropriations from DAB No 6/2014 related to the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund and the reserve for the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreements, as well as the redeployment of the amount of EUR 248 460 of available payment appropriations identified in the line for the EDPS to the Humanitarian aid budget line 23 02 01;

| 6. | Recalls that the adoption of this DAB will reduce the need for additional own resources for the Union budget by EUR 2 433 million and will therefore, together with the reduced shares of the GNI contribution from Member States to the Union budget resulting from DAB No 3/2014, DAB No 6/2014 and DAB No 8/2014, fully compensate for the additional payment needs requested in DAB No 3/2014, as agreed in the Joint conclusions of 8 December 2014; |
| --- | --- |

6.

Recalls that the adoption of this DAB will reduce the need for additional own resources for the Union budget by EUR 2 433 million and will therefore, together with the reduced shares of the GNI contribution from Member States to the Union budget resulting from DAB No 3/2014, DAB No 6/2014 and DAB No 8/2014, fully compensate for the additional payment needs requested in DAB No 3/2014, as agreed in the Joint conclusions of 8 December 2014;

| 7. | Approves the Council position on Draft amending budget No 4/2014; |
| --- | --- |

7.

Approves the Council position on Draft amending budget No 4/2014;

| 8. | Instructs its President to declare that amending budget No 3/2014 has been definitively adopted and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

8.

Instructs its President to declare that amending budget No 3/2014 has been definitively adopted and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union;

| 9. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments. |
| --- | --- |

9.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments.

---

(1)  OJ L 298, 26.10.2012, p. 1.

(2)  OJ L 51, 20.2.2014, p. 1.

(3)  OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 884.

(4)  OJ C 373, 20.12.2013, p. 1.

(5)  OJ L 163, 23.6.2007, p. 17.

---

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/72 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/72

---

P8_TA(2014)0091

Mobilisation of the EU Solidarity Fund: Floods in Italy — Earthquake in Greece — Ice in Slovenia — Ice and floods in Croatia

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund, in accordance with point 11 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (floods in Italy, earthquake in Greece, ice in Slovenia and ice and floods in Croatia) (COM(2014)0565 — C8-0137/2014 — 2014/2072(BUD))

(2016/C 294/28)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the Commission proposal to the European Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0565 — C8-0137/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission proposal to the European Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0565 — C8-0137/2014),

| — | having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002 of 11 November 2002 establishing the European Union Solidarity Fund (1), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002 of 11 November 2002 establishing the European Union Solidarity Fund (1),

| — | having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (2), and in particular Article 10 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (2), and in particular Article 10 thereof,

| — | having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (3), and in particular point 11 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (3), and in particular point 11 thereof,

| — | having regard to the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014,

| — | having regard to the letter from the Committee on Regional Development, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the letter from the Committee on Regional Development,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0073/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0073/2014),

| 1. | Approves the decision annexed to this resolution; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Approves the decision annexed to this resolution;

| 2. | Instructs its President to sign the decision with the President of the Council and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Instructs its President to sign the decision with the President of the Council and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union;

| 3. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution, including its annex, to the Council and the Commission. |
| --- | --- |

3.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution, including its annex, to the Council and the Commission.

---

(1)  OJ L 311, 14.11.2002, p. 3.

(2)  OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 884.

(3)  OJ C 373, 20.12.2013, p. 1.

---

ANNEX

DECISION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL

on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund

(The text of this annex is not reproduced here since it corresponds to the final act, Decision (EU) 2015/436.)

---

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/73 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/73

---

P8_TA(2014)0092

Draft amending budget No 5/2014: Floods in Italy (Sardinia) in 2013 — Earthquake in Greece — Ice in Slovenia — Ice followed by floods in Croatia in 2014

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 5/2014 of the European Union for the financial year 2014, Section III — Commission (16742/2014 — C8-0291/2014 — 2014/2073(BUD))

(2016/C 294/29)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to Article 314 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 314 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

| — | having regard to Article 106a of the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 106a of the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community,

| — | having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 (1), and in particular Article 41 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 (1), and in particular Article 41 thereof,

| — | having regard to the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2014, as definitively adopted on 20 November 2013 (2), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2014, as definitively adopted on 20 November 2013 (2),

| — | having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (3), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (3),

| — | having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (4), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (4),

| — | having regard to Draft amending budget No 5/2014, which the Commission adopted on 8 September 2014 (COM(2014)0564), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Draft amending budget No 5/2014, which the Commission adopted on 8 September 2014 (COM(2014)0564),

| — | having regard to the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014,

| — | having regard to the position on Draft amending budget No 5/2014 which the Council adopted on 12 December 2014 and forwarded to Parliament on the same day (16742/2014 — C8-0291/2014]), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the position on Draft amending budget No 5/2014 which the Council adopted on 12 December 2014 and forwarded to Parliament on the same day (16742/2014 — C8-0291/2014]),

| — | having regard to Rules 88 and 91 of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rules 88 and 91 of its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0078/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0078/2014),

| A. | whereas Draft amending budget No 5/2014 relates to the mobilisation of the EU Solidarity Fund (EUSF) for an amount of EUR 46 998 528 in commitment and payment appropriations in relation to the floods in Italy (Sardinia) during November 2013, an earthquake in Greece (Kefalonia), ice storms in Slovenia, and the same ice storms, followed by floods in Croatia, at end January/beginning February 2014; |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas Draft amending budget No 5/2014 relates to the mobilisation of the EU Solidarity Fund (EUSF) for an amount of EUR 46 998 528 in commitment and payment appropriations in relation to the floods in Italy (Sardinia) during November 2013, an earthquake in Greece (Kefalonia), ice storms in Slovenia, and the same ice storms, followed by floods in Croatia, at end January/beginning February 2014;

| B. | whereas the purpose of Draft amending budget No 5/2014 is to formally enter this budgetary adjustment into the 2014 budget; |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas the purpose of Draft amending budget No 5/2014 is to formally enter this budgetary adjustment into the 2014 budget;

| 1. | Takes note of Draft amending budget No 5/2014, as submitted by the Commission; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Takes note of Draft amending budget No 5/2014, as submitted by the Commission;

| 2. | Stresses the urgent need to release financial assistance through the EUSF to the countries affected by these natural disasters; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Stresses the urgent need to release financial assistance through the EUSF to the countries affected by these natural disasters;

| 3. | Underlines that the shortage of payment appropriations for 2014, which was the underlying reason for the presentation of Draft amending budget No 3/2014 and the accompanying proposal by the Commission to mobilise the Contingency Margin, excludes a priori the possibility of finding the resources for Draft amending budget No 5/2014 through redeployment; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Underlines that the shortage of payment appropriations for 2014, which was the underlying reason for the presentation of Draft amending budget No 3/2014 and the accompanying proposal by the Commission to mobilise the Contingency Margin, excludes a priori the possibility of finding the resources for Draft amending budget No 5/2014 through redeployment;

| 4. | Endorses the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014 with the view to approving the additional commitment appropriations amounting to EUR 47 million in budget 2014 and shifting the corresponding payment needs to the 2015 budget; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Endorses the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014 with the view to approving the additional commitment appropriations amounting to EUR 47 million in budget 2014 and shifting the corresponding payment needs to the 2015 budget;

| 5. | Approves the Council position on Draft amending budget No 5/2014; |
| --- | --- |

5.

Approves the Council position on Draft amending budget No 5/2014;

| 6. | Instructs its President to declare that amending budget No 4/2014 has been definitively adopted and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

6.

Instructs its President to declare that amending budget No 4/2014 has been definitively adopted and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union;

| 7. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments. |
| --- | --- |

7.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments.

---

(1)  OJ L 298, 26.10.2012, p. 1.

(2)  OJ L 51, 20.2.2014, p. 1.

(3)  OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 884.

(4)  OJ C 373, 20.12.2013, p. 1.

---

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/75 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/75

---

P8_TA(2014)0093

Draft amending budget No 6/2014: Revision of the forecast of traditional own resources, VAT and GNI contributions

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 6/2014 of the European Union for the financial year 2014, Section III — Commission (16743/2014 — C8-0288/2014 — 2014/2162(BUD))

(2016/C 294/30)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to Article 314 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 314 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

| — | having regard to Article 106a of the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 106a of the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community,

| — | having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 (1), and in particular Article 41 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 (1), and in particular Article 41 thereof,

| — | having regard to the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2014, as definitively adopted on 20 November 2013 (2), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2014, as definitively adopted on 20 November 2013 (2),

| — | having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (3), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (3),

| — | having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (4), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (4),

| — | having regard to Draft amending budget No 6/2014, which the Commission adopted on 17 October 2014 (COM(2014)0649), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Draft amending budget No 6/2014, which the Commission adopted on 17 October 2014 (COM(2014)0649),

| — | having regard to Amending letter No 1/2014 to the Draft amending budget No 6/2014, which the Commission adopted on 3 December 2014 (COM(2014)0730), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Amending letter No 1/2014 to the Draft amending budget No 6/2014, which the Commission adopted on 3 December 2014 (COM(2014)0730),

| — | having regard to the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014,

| — | having regard to the position on Draft amending budget No 6/2014, which the Council adopted on 12 December 2014 and forwarded to the Parliament on the same day (16743/2014 — C8-0288/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the position on Draft amending budget No 6/2014, which the Council adopted on 12 December 2014 and forwarded to the Parliament on the same day (16743/2014 — C8-0288/2014),

| — | having regard to Rules 88 and 91 of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rules 88 and 91 of its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0074/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0074/2014),

| A. | whereas Draft amending budget (DAB) No 6/2014 relates to the revision of the forecast of traditional own resources, VAT and GNI contributions, a reduction in the budgetary appropriations for the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund and the reserve for Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreements, as well as an increase in the budgetary appropriations for the European Ombudsman; |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas Draft amending budget (DAB) No 6/2014 relates to the revision of the forecast of traditional own resources, VAT and GNI contributions, a reduction in the budgetary appropriations for the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund and the reserve for Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreements, as well as an increase in the budgetary appropriations for the European Ombudsman;

| B. | whereas the overall impact of this DAB on revenue, following the adoption of Amending letter No 1/2014 to DAB No 6/2014, is a decrease in the requirements for own resources of an overall amount of EUR 4 095,5 million, comprising a reduction in Member States' GNI contributions of EUR 4 515,5 million and an increase in the amount of Traditional Own Resources of EUR 420 million; |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas the overall impact of this DAB on revenue, following the adoption of Amending letter No 1/2014 to DAB No 6/2014, is a decrease in the requirements for own resources of an overall amount of EUR 4 095,5 million, comprising a reduction in Member States' GNI contributions of EUR 4 515,5 million and an increase in the amount of Traditional Own Resources of EUR 420 million;

| C. | whereas the purpose of DAB No 6/2014 is to formally enter these budgetary adjustments into the 2014 budget; |
| --- | --- |

C.

whereas the purpose of DAB No 6/2014 is to formally enter these budgetary adjustments into the 2014 budget;

| 1. | Takes note of DAB No 6/2014, as submitted by the Commission and as amended by the Amending letter No 1/2014; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Takes note of DAB No 6/2014, as submitted by the Commission and as amended by the Amending letter No 1/2014;

| 2. | Notes that the decrease in budgetary appropriations related to the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund and the reserve for Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreements amounts to a total decrease of EUR 76,3 million in commitment appropriations and of EUR 6,2 million in payment appropriations, mainly resulting from the later adoption of the legal basis for the Fund and the updated assessment of the status of negotiations linked to the previously mentioned Fisheries Agreements; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Notes that the decrease in budgetary appropriations related to the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund and the reserve for Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreements amounts to a total decrease of EUR 76,3 million in commitment appropriations and of EUR 6,2 million in payment appropriations, mainly resulting from the later adoption of the legal basis for the Fund and the updated assessment of the status of negotiations linked to the previously mentioned Fisheries Agreements;

| 3. | Welcomes the proposal to use EUR 6,2 million of the savings in payment appropriations referred to in paragraph 2 to help finance possible humanitarian aid crises by the end of the year; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Welcomes the proposal to use EUR 6,2 million of the savings in payment appropriations referred to in paragraph 2 to help finance possible humanitarian aid crises by the end of the year;

| 4. | Underscores that the overall impact of DAB No 6/2014 on GNI contributions is a reduction of EUR 4 515,5 million and an increase of EUR 420 million in the forecasts for Traditional Own Resources; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Underscores that the overall impact of DAB No 6/2014 on GNI contributions is a reduction of EUR 4 515,5 million and an increase of EUR 420 million in the forecasts for Traditional Own Resources;

| 5. | Endorses the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014 with the view of accepting DAB No 6/2014 as amended by its Amending letter, including a shift of the expenditure side to DABs No 3/2014 and No 4/2014; |
| --- | --- |

5.

Endorses the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014 with the view of accepting DAB No 6/2014 as amended by its Amending letter, including a shift of the expenditure side to DABs No 3/2014 and No 4/2014;

| 6. | Recalls that the adoption of DAB No 6/2014 will reduce the need for Member States' GNI contributions by EUR 4 515,5 million and therefore, together with the reduced shares of the GNI contribution from Member States to the Union budget resulting from DAB No 3/2014, DAB No 4/2014 and DAB No 8/2014, will fully compensate for the additional payment needs requested in DAB No 3/2014 as agreed in the Joint conclusions of 8 December 2014; |
| --- | --- |

6.

Recalls that the adoption of DAB No 6/2014 will reduce the need for Member States' GNI contributions by EUR 4 515,5 million and therefore, together with the reduced shares of the GNI contribution from Member States to the Union budget resulting from DAB No 3/2014, DAB No 4/2014 and DAB No 8/2014, will fully compensate for the additional payment needs requested in DAB No 3/2014 as agreed in the Joint conclusions of 8 December 2014;

| 7. | Approves the Council position on Draft amending budget No 6/2014; |
| --- | --- |

7.

Approves the Council position on Draft amending budget No 6/2014;

| 8. | Instructs its President to declare that amending budget No 5/2014 has been definitively adopted and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

8.

Instructs its President to declare that amending budget No 5/2014 has been definitively adopted and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union;

| 9. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments. |
| --- | --- |

9.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments.

---

(1)  OJ L 298, 26.10.2012, p. 1.

(2)  OJ L 51, 20.2.2014, p. 1.

(3)  OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 884.

(4)  OJ C 373, 20.12.2013, p. 1.

---

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/77 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/77

---

P8_TA(2014)0094

Mobilisation of the EU Solidarity Fund: Floods in Serbia, Croatia and Bulgaria

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund, in accordance with point 11 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (Floods in Serbia, Croatia and Bulgaria) (COM(2014)0648 — C8-0223/2014 — 2014/2161(BUD))

(2016/C 294/31)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the Commission proposal to the European Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0648 — C8-0223/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission proposal to the European Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0648 — C8-0223/2014),

| — | having regard to the Council Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002 of 11 November 2002 establishing the European Union Solidarity Fund (1), and in particular Article 4(3) thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Council Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002 of 11 November 2002 establishing the European Union Solidarity Fund (1), and in particular Article 4(3) thereof,

| — | having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (2), and in particular Article 10 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (2), and in particular Article 10 thereof,

| — | having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (3), and in particular point 11 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (3), and in particular point 11 thereof,

| — | having regard to the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0075/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0075/2014),

| 1. | Approves the decision annexed to this resolution; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Approves the decision annexed to this resolution;

| 2. | Instructs its President to sign the decision with the President of the Council and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Instructs its President to sign the decision with the President of the Council and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union;

| 3. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution, including its annex, to the Council and the Commission. |
| --- | --- |

3.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution, including its annex, to the Council and the Commission.

---

(1)  OJ L 311, 14.11.2002, p. 3.

(2)  OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 884.

(3)  OJ C 373, 20.12.2013, p. 1.

---

ANNEX

DECISION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL

on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund

(The text of this annex is not reproduced here since it corresponds to the final act, Decision (EU) 2015/437.)

---

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/78 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/78

---

P8_TA(2014)0095

Draft amending budget No 7/2014: Floods in Serbia, Croatia and Bulgaria

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 7/2014 of the European Union for the financial year 2014, Section III — Commission (16744/2014 — C8-0292/2014 — 2014/2163(BUD))

(2016/C 294/32)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to Article 314 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 314 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

| — | having regard to Article 106a of the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 106a of the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community,

| — | having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 (1), and in particular Article 41 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 (1), and in particular Article 41 thereof,

| — | having regard to the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2014, as definitively adopted on 20 November 2013 (2), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2014, as definitively adopted on 20 November 2013 (2),

| — | having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (3), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (3),

| — | having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (4), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (4),

| — | having regard to Draft amending budget No 7/2014, which the Commission adopted on 17 October 2014 (COM(2014)0650), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Draft amending budget No 7/2014, which the Commission adopted on 17 October 2014 (COM(2014)0650),

| — | having regard to the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014,

| — | having regard to the position on Draft amending budget No 7/2014 which the Council adopted on 12 December 2014 and forwarded to the Parliament on the same day (16744/2014 — C8-0292/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the position on Draft amending budget No 7/2014 which the Council adopted on 12 December 2014 and forwarded to the Parliament on the same day (16744/2014 — C8-0292/2014),

| — | having regard to Rules 88 and 91 of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rules 88 and 91 of its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0072/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0072/2014),

| A. | whereas Draft amending budget No 7/2014 relates to the mobilisation of the EU Solidarity Fund (EUSF) for an amount of EUR 79 726 440 in commitment and payment appropriations in relation to the floods in Serbia and Croatia in May 2014 and the floods in Bulgaria in June 2014; |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas Draft amending budget No 7/2014 relates to the mobilisation of the EU Solidarity Fund (EUSF) for an amount of EUR 79 726 440 in commitment and payment appropriations in relation to the floods in Serbia and Croatia in May 2014 and the floods in Bulgaria in June 2014;

| B. | whereas the purpose of Draft amending budget No 7/2014 is to formally enter this budgetary adjustment into the 2014 budget; |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas the purpose of Draft amending budget No 7/2014 is to formally enter this budgetary adjustment into the 2014 budget;

| 1. | Takes note of Draft amending budget (DAB) No 7/2014, as submitted by the Commission; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Takes note of Draft amending budget (DAB) No 7/2014, as submitted by the Commission;

| 2. | Stresses the urgent need to release financial assistance through the EUSF to the countries affected by these natural disasters; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Stresses the urgent need to release financial assistance through the EUSF to the countries affected by these natural disasters;

| 3. | Underlines that the shortage of payment appropriations for 2014, which was the underlying reason for the presentation of DAB No 3/2014 and the accompanying proposal by the Commission to mobilise the Contingency Margin, excludes a priori the possibility of finding the resources for DAB No 7/2014 through redeployment; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Underlines that the shortage of payment appropriations for 2014, which was the underlying reason for the presentation of DAB No 3/2014 and the accompanying proposal by the Commission to mobilise the Contingency Margin, excludes a priori the possibility of finding the resources for DAB No 7/2014 through redeployment;

| 4. | Endorses the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014 with the view of approving the additional commitment appropriations amounting to EUR 80 million in budget 2014 and shifting the corresponding payment needs to the 2015 budget; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Endorses the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014 with the view of approving the additional commitment appropriations amounting to EUR 80 million in budget 2014 and shifting the corresponding payment needs to the 2015 budget;

| 5. | Approves the Council position on Draft amending budget No 7/2014; |
| --- | --- |

5.

Approves the Council position on Draft amending budget No 7/2014;

| 6. | Instructs its President to declare that amending budget No 6/2014 has been definitively adopted and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

6.

Instructs its President to declare that amending budget No 6/2014 has been definitively adopted and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union;

| 7. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments. |
| --- | --- |

7.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments.

---

(1)  OJ L 298, 26.10.2012, p. 1.

(2)  OJ L 51, 20.2.2014, p. 1.

(3)  OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 884.

(4)  OJ C 373, 20.12.2013, p. 1.

---

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/80 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/80

---

P8_TA(2014)0096

Draft amending budget No 8/2014: Surplus resulting from the implementation of the budget year 2013

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the Council position on Draft amending budget No 8/2014 of the European Union for the financial year 2014, Section III — Commission (16745/2014 — C8-0293/2014 — 2014/2225(BUD))

(2016/C 294/33)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to Article 314 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 314 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

| — | having regard to Article 106a of the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 106a of the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community,

| — | having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 (1), and in particular Article 41 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 (1), and in particular Article 41 thereof,

| — | having regard to the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2014, as definitively adopted on 20 November 2013 (2), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2014, as definitively adopted on 20 November 2013 (2),

| — | having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for years 2014-2020 (3), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for years 2014-2020 (3),

| — | having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (4), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (4),

| — | having regard to Council Decision 2007/436/EC, Euratom of 7 June 2007 on the system of the European Communities' own resources (5), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Decision 2007/436/EC, Euratom of 7 June 2007 on the system of the European Communities' own resources (5),

| — | having regard to Draft amending budget No 2/2014, which the Commission adopted on 15 April 2014 (COM(2014)0234), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Draft amending budget No 2/2014, which the Commission adopted on 15 April 2014 (COM(2014)0234),

| — | having regard to Draft amending budget No 8/2014, which the Commission adopted on 27 November 2014 (COM(2014)0722), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Draft amending budget No 8/2014, which the Commission adopted on 27 November 2014 (COM(2014)0722),

| — | having regard to the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014,

| — | having regard to the position on Draft amending budget No 8/2014, which the Council adopted on 12 December 2014 and forwarded to the Parliament on the same day (16745/2014 — C8-0293/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the position on Draft amending budget No 8/2014, which the Council adopted on 12 December 2014 and forwarded to the Parliament on the same day (16745/2014 — C8-0293/2014),

| — | having regard to Rules 88 and 91 of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rules 88 and 91 of its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0079/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0079/2014),

| A. | whereas Draft amending budget (DAB) No 8/2014 was presented by the Commission because the Conciliation Committee could not reach an agreement on Draft amending budget No 2/2014, which had the exact same purpose and content as DAB No 8/2014; |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas Draft amending budget (DAB) No 8/2014 was presented by the Commission because the Conciliation Committee could not reach an agreement on Draft amending budget No 2/2014, which had the exact same purpose and content as DAB No 8/2014;

| B. | whereas DAB No 8/2014 aims to enter in the 2014 budget the surplus from the 2013 financial year, amounting to EUR 1 005 million; |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas DAB No 8/2014 aims to enter in the 2014 budget the surplus from the 2013 financial year, amounting to EUR 1 005 million;

| C. | whereas the main components of that surplus are a positive outturn on income of EUR 771 million, an under-spending in expenditure of EUR 276 million, and a negative exchange rate difference of EUR 42 million; |
| --- | --- |

C.

whereas the main components of that surplus are a positive outturn on income of EUR 771 million, an under-spending in expenditure of EUR 276 million, and a negative exchange rate difference of EUR 42 million;

| D. | whereas on the income side the increase comes mainly from fines and interest on late payments (EUR 1 331 million), while the amount of own resources actually collected as compared to those budgeted is decreasing (- EUR 226 million) and revenue from surpluses, balances and adjustments is also in decline (-EUR 360 million); |
| --- | --- |

D.

whereas on the income side the increase comes mainly from fines and interest on late payments (EUR 1 331 million), while the amount of own resources actually collected as compared to those budgeted is decreasing (- EUR 226 million) and revenue from surpluses, balances and adjustments is also in decline (-EUR 360 million);

| E. | whereas on the expenditure side the under-implementation of appropriations for 2013 (EUR 107 million) and for 2012 (EUR 54 million) did not result from decreased absorption capacity but actually all available indicators point to the fact that there was a shortage of payment appropriations in both 2012 and 2013 budgets; |
| --- | --- |

E.

whereas on the expenditure side the under-implementation of appropriations for 2013 (EUR 107 million) and for 2012 (EUR 54 million) did not result from decreased absorption capacity but actually all available indicators point to the fact that there was a shortage of payment appropriations in both 2012 and 2013 budgets;

| F. | whereas Article 18 of the Financial Regulation provides that this amending budget shall be devoted solely to any discrepancy between the provisional accounts and the estimates and that any such surplus shall be entered in the Union's budget through this amending budget; |
| --- | --- |

F.

whereas Article 18 of the Financial Regulation provides that this amending budget shall be devoted solely to any discrepancy between the provisional accounts and the estimates and that any such surplus shall be entered in the Union's budget through this amending budget;

| 1. | Takes note of DAB No 8/2014 devoted solely to the budgeting of the 2013 surplus, for an amount of EUR 1 005 million, in accordance with Article 18 of the Financial Regulation, as submitted by the Commission and of the Council's position thereon; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Takes note of DAB No 8/2014 devoted solely to the budgeting of the 2013 surplus, for an amount of EUR 1 005 million, in accordance with Article 18 of the Financial Regulation, as submitted by the Commission and of the Council's position thereon;

| 2. | Notes that DAB No 8/2014 was presented by the Commission because the Conciliation Committee could not reach an agreement on DAB No 2/2014, which had the exact same purpose and contents, and which the Council had approved in its reading of 17 July 2014, while the Parliament had introduced an amendment to it in its position adopted on 22 October 2014 in order to maintain its political and procedural link with DABs No 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7/2014; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Notes that DAB No 8/2014 was presented by the Commission because the Conciliation Committee could not reach an agreement on DAB No 2/2014, which had the exact same purpose and contents, and which the Council had approved in its reading of 17 July 2014, while the Parliament had introduced an amendment to it in its position adopted on 22 October 2014 in order to maintain its political and procedural link with DABs No 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7/2014;

| 3. | Points out that the Conciliation Committee could not reach an agreement on the adoption of DAB No 2/2014 because of the differences in positions between the Parliament and the Council on the outstanding payment needs for 2014 and the package of DABs No 2 -7/2014 , and not on the contents of DAB No 2/2014 per se; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Points out that the Conciliation Committee could not reach an agreement on the adoption of DAB No 2/2014 because of the differences in positions between the Parliament and the Council on the outstanding payment needs for 2014 and the package of DABs No 2 -7/2014 , and not on the contents of DAB No 2/2014 per se;

| 4. | Recalls that the adoption of this DAB No 8/2014 will reduce the share of the GNI contribution from Member States to the Union budget by EUR 1 005 million and will therefore partly compensate for their contribution to the financing of DABs No 3, 5 and 7/2014; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Recalls that the adoption of this DAB No 8/2014 will reduce the share of the GNI contribution from Member States to the Union budget by EUR 1 005 million and will therefore partly compensate for their contribution to the financing of DABs No 3, 5 and 7/2014;

| 5. | Approves the Council position on Draft amending budget No 8/2014; |
| --- | --- |

5.

Approves the Council position on Draft amending budget No 8/2014;

| 6. | Instructs its President to declare that amending budget No 7/2014 has been definitively adopted and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

6.

Instructs its President to declare that amending budget No 7/2014 has been definitively adopted and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union;

| 7. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments. |
| --- | --- |

7.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments.

---

(1)  OJ L 298, 26.10.2012, p. 1.

(2)  OJ L 51, 20.2.2014, p. 1.

(3)  OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 884.

(4)  OJ C 373, 20.12.2013, p. 1.

(5)  OJ L 163, 23.6.2007, p. 17.

---

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/82 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/82

---

P8_TA(2014)0097

Union own resources — adjustment of Member States' national contributions *

European Parliament legislative resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a Council regulation amending Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1150/2000 implementing Decision 2007/436/EC, Euratom on the system of the European Communities' own resources (COM(2014)0704 — C8-0250/2014 — 2014/0332(NLE))

(Consultation)

(2016/C 294/34)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the Commission proposal to the Council (COM(2014)0704), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission proposal to the Council (COM(2014)0704),

| — | having regard to Article 322(2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union and Article 106a of the Euratom Treaty, pursuant to which the Council consulted Parliament (C8-0250/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 322(2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union and Article 106a of the Euratom Treaty, pursuant to which the Council consulted Parliament (C8-0250/2014),

| — | having regard to the letter from the Committee on Budgetary Control, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the letter from the Committee on Budgetary Control,

| — | having regard to Rule 59 of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rule 59 of its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0066/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0066/2014),

| A. | Whereas in the light of latest statistical revisions agreed by the Member States, it appeared that a number of Member States underpaid their due contributions to the Union budget over a number of years, while others overpaid theirs; whereas these deviations were driven by the major statistical changes notified by Member States; |
| --- | --- |

A.

Whereas in the light of latest statistical revisions agreed by the Member States, it appeared that a number of Member States underpaid their due contributions to the Union budget over a number of years, while others overpaid theirs; whereas these deviations were driven by the major statistical changes notified by Member States;

| B. | Whereas the rules currently in force, as unanimously agreed within the Council, would have resulted in the prompt correction of those under- and over-payments; |
| --- | --- |

B.

Whereas the rules currently in force, as unanimously agreed within the Council, would have resulted in the prompt correction of those under- and over-payments;

| C. | Whereas, as a general rule, Member States have paid in the past without significant delay the full amounts of their GNI and VAT based contributions to the Union budget, even in times of crisis and severe fiscal strain; |
| --- | --- |

C.

Whereas, as a general rule, Member States have paid in the past without significant delay the full amounts of their GNI and VAT based contributions to the Union budget, even in times of crisis and severe fiscal strain;

| D. | Whereas certain Member States which had benefited from past underestimation of their GNI expressed their reluctance to pay by the legal deadline the additional amounts due; |
| --- | --- |

D.

Whereas certain Member States which had benefited from past underestimation of their GNI expressed their reluctance to pay by the legal deadline the additional amounts due;

| E. | Whereas the Council called on the Commission to present a proposal to accommodate that situation by changing the concerned rules and allowing the deferral and payment by instalments of amounts due; |
| --- | --- |

E.

Whereas the Council called on the Commission to present a proposal to accommodate that situation by changing the concerned rules and allowing the deferral and payment by instalments of amounts due;

| F. | Whereas, in accordance with the on-going legislative revision, seven Member States decided not to enter in the EU account their respective GNI and VAT balances on the first working day of December 2014; whereas the Commission revised subsequently the amounts entered initially in the DAB No 6/2014, taking into account the amounts effectively made available on this date; |
| --- | --- |

F.

Whereas, in accordance with the on-going legislative revision, seven Member States decided not to enter in the EU account their respective GNI and VAT balances on the first working day of December 2014; whereas the Commission revised subsequently the amounts entered initially in the DAB No 6/2014, taking into account the amounts effectively made available on this date;

| G. | Whereas this takes place just after the institutions have completed a legislative process, which started in 2011, for the revision of the Own Resources legislation, and even before that new legislative package has entered into force; |
| --- | --- |

G.

Whereas this takes place just after the institutions have completed a legislative process, which started in 2011, for the revision of the Own Resources legislation, and even before that new legislative package has entered into force;

| H. | Whereas this proposal is part of the wider negotiation package concerning the 2014 amending budgets and the 2015 Budget; |
| --- | --- |

H.

Whereas this proposal is part of the wider negotiation package concerning the 2014 amending budgets and the 2015 Budget;

| I. | Whereas, for the sake of transparency, a report on the calculations and underlying data for VAT and GNI balance adjustments should be presented to the Parliament every year in the context of the budgetary procedure, allowing sufficient time for its consideration, and the Member States' decision as to the dates and level of instalments should be notified to the Parliament; |
| --- | --- |

I.

Whereas, for the sake of transparency, a report on the calculations and underlying data for VAT and GNI balance adjustments should be presented to the Parliament every year in the context of the budgetary procedure, allowing sufficient time for its consideration, and the Member States' decision as to the dates and level of instalments should be notified to the Parliament;

| J. | Whereas Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1150/2000 should therefore be amended accordingly; |
| --- | --- |

J.

Whereas Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1150/2000 should therefore be amended accordingly;

| 1. | Underlines that this proposal to amend Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1150/2000 finds its origin in the one-off consequences of the application of that Regulation for certain Member States; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Underlines that this proposal to amend Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1150/2000 finds its origin in the one-off consequences of the application of that Regulation for certain Member States;

| 2. | Deplores that the issue of the deferral of national contributions adjustments took precedence, within the Council, over finding a negotiating position on the 2014 and 2015 budgetary negotiations, which was only established on the final day of the 21-day conciliation period provided for in Article 314 TFEU and contributed to the failure of the Conciliation Committee to reach an agreement; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Deplores that the issue of the deferral of national contributions adjustments took precedence, within the Council, over finding a negotiating position on the 2014 and 2015 budgetary negotiations, which was only established on the final day of the 21-day conciliation period provided for in Article 314 TFEU and contributed to the failure of the Conciliation Committee to reach an agreement;

| 3. | Stresses that flexibility and urgency, which the Council unanimously calls for when it comes to the timing of Member States' contributions to the Union budget, are rejected by a number of its delegations when it comes to the smooth implementation of the MFF 2014-2020 and, in particular, the timely delivery of payments to beneficiaries of the Union budget; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Stresses that flexibility and urgency, which the Council unanimously calls for when it comes to the timing of Member States' contributions to the Union budget, are rejected by a number of its delegations when it comes to the smooth implementation of the MFF 2014-2020 and, in particular, the timely delivery of payments to beneficiaries of the Union budget;

| 4. | Is concerned by the proposed larger discretion left to Member States as to the timing of their additional contributions resulting from GNI adjustments to the Union budget; stresses that this creates a precedent that could have an impact on the Commission's treasury, the timing of payments to the beneficiaries of the Union budget and, ultimately, the credibility of the Union's budget; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Is concerned by the proposed larger discretion left to Member States as to the timing of their additional contributions resulting from GNI adjustments to the Union budget; stresses that this creates a precedent that could have an impact on the Commission's treasury, the timing of payments to the beneficiaries of the Union budget and, ultimately, the credibility of the Union's budget;

| 5. | Underlines the fact that this proposal makes the Own Resources system even more complex and is aimed at amending legislation that will soon be replaced, retroactively, by already agreed pieces of legislation; stresses, against this background, the crucial role of the High Level Group on Own Resources in delivering proposals for overcoming the deficiencies of the current system; |
| --- | --- |

5.

Underlines the fact that this proposal makes the Own Resources system even more complex and is aimed at amending legislation that will soon be replaced, retroactively, by already agreed pieces of legislation; stresses, against this background, the crucial role of the High Level Group on Own Resources in delivering proposals for overcoming the deficiencies of the current system;

| 6. | Acknowledges nevertheless the exceptionally high amounts of 2014 adjustments in the VAT- and GNI-based Own Resources, which may represent a high financial burden for certain Member States; |
| --- | --- |

6.

Acknowledges nevertheless the exceptionally high amounts of 2014 adjustments in the VAT- and GNI-based Own Resources, which may represent a high financial burden for certain Member States;

| 7. | Emphasizes that the Commission proposal is part of a wider negotiation package including the 2014 amending budgets and 2015 Budget and, therefore, refrains from rejecting it; |
| --- | --- |

7.

Emphasizes that the Commission proposal is part of a wider negotiation package including the 2014 amending budgets and 2015 Budget and, therefore, refrains from rejecting it;

| 8. | Approves the Commission proposal as amended; |
| --- | --- |

8.

Approves the Commission proposal as amended;

| 9. | Calls on the Commission to alter its proposal accordingly, in accordance with Article 293(2) of the TFEU and Article 106a of the Euratom Treaty; |
| --- | --- |

9.

Calls on the Commission to alter its proposal accordingly, in accordance with Article 293(2) of the TFEU and Article 106a of the Euratom Treaty;

| 10. | Calls on the Council to notify Parliament if it intends to depart from the text approved by Parliament; |
| --- | --- |

10.

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

| 11. | Asks the Council to consult Parliament again if it intends to substantially amend the Commission proposal; |
| --- | --- |

11.

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

| 12. | Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council and the Commission. |
| --- | --- |

12.

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

Amendment 1

Proposal for a regulation

Article 1 — paragraph 2

Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1150/2000

Article 10 — paragraph 7 a — subparagraph 2

| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| Member States may only apply the first subparagraph if they have informed the Commission before the first working day of December of their decision, and of the date or dates of entry of the amount of the adjustments in the account referred to in Article 9(1) of this Regulation. | Member States may only apply the first subparagraph if they have informed the Commission before the first working day of December of their decision, and of the date or dates of entry of the amount of the adjustments in the account referred to in Article 9(1) of this Regulation.
  The Commission shall notify the European Parliament and the Council of any such decision, including the concerned Member States, the number of instalments, the amount of each instalment and the dates of entry in the accounts. |

Text proposed by the Commission

Amendment

Member States may only apply the first subparagraph if they have informed the Commission before the first working day of December of their decision, and of the date or dates of entry of the amount of the adjustments in the account referred to in Article 9(1) of this Regulation.

Member States may only apply the first subparagraph if they have informed the Commission before the first working day of December of their decision, and of the date or dates of entry of the amount of the adjustments in the account referred to in Article 9(1) of this Regulation.
  The Commission shall notify the European Parliament and the Council of any such decision, including the concerned Member States, the number of instalments, the amount of each instalment and the dates of entry in the accounts.

Amendment 2

Proposal for a regulation

Article 1 — paragraph 2 a (new)

Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1150/2000

Article 10 — paragraph 8

| Present text | Amendment |
| --- | --- |
| | Paragraph 8 is replaced by the following: |
| ‘8.   The operations referred to in paragraphs 4 to 7 constitute modifications to revenue in respect of the financial year in which they occur.’ | ‘8.   The operations referred to in paragraphs 4 to 7 constitute modifications to revenue in respect of the financial year in which they occur.
  The Commission shall report to the European Parliament and the Council on the modifications of revenue under this Article
  .’ |

Present text

Amendment

Paragraph 8 is replaced by the following:

‘8.   The operations referred to in paragraphs 4 to 7 constitute modifications to revenue in respect of the financial year in which they occur.’

‘8.   The operations referred to in paragraphs 4 to 7 constitute modifications to revenue in respect of the financial year in which they occur.
  The Commission shall report to the European Parliament and the Council on the modifications of revenue under this Article
  .’

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| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/85 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/85

---

P8_TA(2014)0098

Mobilisation of the EU Solidarity Fund: Regions affected by disasters

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund, in accordance with point 11 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (COM(2014)0348 — C8-0021/2014 — 2014/2038(BUD))

(2016/C 294/35)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the Commission proposal to the European Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0348 — C8-0021/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission proposal to the European Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0348 — C8-0021/2014),

| — | having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002 of 11 November 2002 establishing the European Union Solidarity Fund (1), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002 of 11 November 2002 establishing the European Union Solidarity Fund (1),

| — | having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (2), and in particular Article 10 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (2), and in particular Article 10 thereof,

| — | having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (3), and in particular point 11 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (3), and in particular point 11 thereof,

| — | having regard to the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Joint conclusions agreed by the Parliament and the Council on 8 December 2014,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0077/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0077/2014),

| A. | Whereas, in line with Regulation (EU) No 661/2014 which amended Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002, an amount of EUR 50 000 000 is made available for the payment of advances through appropriations in the general budget of the Union; |
| --- | --- |

A.

Whereas, in line with Regulation (EU) No 661/2014 which amended Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002, an amount of EUR 50 000 000 is made available for the payment of advances through appropriations in the general budget of the Union;

| 1. | Approves the decision annexed to this resolution; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Approves the decision annexed to this resolution;

| 2. | Instructs its President to sign the decision with the President of the Council and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Instructs its President to sign the decision with the President of the Council and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union;

| 3. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution, including its annex, to the Council and the Commission. |
| --- | --- |

3.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution, including its annex, to the Council and the Commission.

---

(1)  OJ L 311, 14.11.2002, p. 3.

(2)  OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 884.

(3)  OJ C 373, 20.12.2013, p. 1.

---

ANNEX

DECISION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL

on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund

(The text of this annex is not reproduced here since it corresponds to the final act, Decision (EU) 2015/422.)

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| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/86 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/86

---

P8_TA(2014)0099

Mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument — financing of the Cypriot Structural Funds programmes

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument, in accordance with point 12 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (COM(2014)0349 — C8-0022/2014 — 2014/2039(BUD))

(2016/C 294/36)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the Commission proposal to the European Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0349 — C8-0022/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission proposal to the European Parliament and the Council (COM(2014)0349 — C8-0022/2014),

| — | having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (1) (MFF Regulation), and in particular Article 11 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (1) (MFF Regulation), and in particular Article 11 thereof,

| — | having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (2), and in particular point 12 thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (2), and in particular point 12 thereof,

| — | having regard to the new draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015, which the Commission adopted on 28 November 2014 (COM(2014)0723), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the new draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015, which the Commission adopted on 28 November 2014 (COM(2014)0723),

| — | having regard to the position on the draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015, which the Council adopted on 12 December 2014 and forwarded to Parliament the same day (16739/2014 — C8-0287/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the position on the draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015, which the Council adopted on 12 December 2014 and forwarded to Parliament the same day (16739/2014 — C8-0287/2014),

| — | having regard to its position adopted on 17 December 2014 (3) on the 2015 draft general budget, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its position adopted on 17 December 2014 (3) on the 2015 draft general budget,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0071/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0071/2014),

| A. | whereas after having examined all possibilities for re-allocating commitment appropriations under sub-heading 1b, it appears necessary to mobilise the Flexibility Instrument for commitment appropriations; |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas after having examined all possibilities for re-allocating commitment appropriations under sub-heading 1b, it appears necessary to mobilise the Flexibility Instrument for commitment appropriations;

| B. | whereas the Commission has proposed to mobilise the Flexibility Instrument, over and above the MFF ceilings, to complement the financing in the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015 for EUR 79,8 million in commitment appropriations in relation to the additional allocation from the Structural Funds to Cyprus, by a total amount of EUR 100 million for the year 2015; |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas the Commission has proposed to mobilise the Flexibility Instrument, over and above the MFF ceilings, to complement the financing in the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015 for EUR 79,8 million in commitment appropriations in relation to the additional allocation from the Structural Funds to Cyprus, by a total amount of EUR 100 million for the year 2015;

| 1. | Notes that, despite contained reinforcements in commitment appropriations on a limited number of budget items, the 2015 ceiling of sub-heading 1b does not allow for an adequate financing of important and urgent political priorities of the Union; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Notes that, despite contained reinforcements in commitment appropriations on a limited number of budget items, the 2015 ceiling of sub-heading 1b does not allow for an adequate financing of important and urgent political priorities of the Union;

| 2. | Agrees therefore with the mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument and amends the Commission proposal to finance the additional allocation for the Cypriot Structural Funds programmes under sub-heading 1b up to the amount of EUR 83,26 million; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Agrees therefore with the mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument and amends the Commission proposal to finance the additional allocation for the Cypriot Structural Funds programmes under sub-heading 1b up to the amount of EUR 83,26 million;

| 3. | Reiterates that the mobilisation of this instrument, as foreseen in Article 11 of the MFF Regulation, evidences, once more, the crucial need for the Union budget to be flexible; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Reiterates that the mobilisation of this instrument, as foreseen in Article 11 of the MFF Regulation, evidences, once more, the crucial need for the Union budget to be flexible;

| 4. | Reiterates its long-standing view that, without prejudice to the possibility for payment appropriations to be mobilised for specific budget lines through the Flexibility Instrument without prior mobilisations in commitments, the payments stemming from commitments previously mobilised through the Flexibility Instrument can only be counted over and above the ceilings; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Reiterates its long-standing view that, without prejudice to the possibility for payment appropriations to be mobilised for specific budget lines through the Flexibility Instrument without prior mobilisations in commitments, the payments stemming from commitments previously mobilised through the Flexibility Instrument can only be counted over and above the ceilings;

| 5. | Approves the decision annexed to this resolution; |
| --- | --- |

5.

Approves the decision annexed to this resolution;

| 6. | Instructs its President to sign the decision with the President of the Council and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

6.

Instructs its President to sign the decision with the President of the Council and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union;

| 7. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution, including its annex, to the Council and the Commission. |
| --- | --- |

7.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution, including its annex, to the Council and the Commission.

---

(1)  OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 884.

(2)  OJ C 373, 20.12.2013, p. 1.

(3)  Texts adopted, P8_TA(2014)0100.

---

ANNEX

DECISION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL

on the mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument

(The text of this annex is not reproduced here since it corresponds to the final act, Decision (EU) 2015/421.)

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| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/88 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/88

---

P8_TA(2014)0100

New general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015

European Parliament resolution of 17 December 2014 on the Council position on the new draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015 (16739/2014 — C8-0287/2014 — 2014/2224(BUD))

(2016/C 294/37)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to Article 314 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 314 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

| — | having regard to Article 106a of the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 106a of the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community,

| — | having regard to Council Decision 2007/436/EC, Euratom of 7 June 2007 on the system of the European Communities’ own resources (1), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Decision 2007/436/EC, Euratom of 7 June 2007 on the system of the European Communities’ own resources (1),

| — | having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 (2), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 (2),

| — | having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (3) (MFF Regulation), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (3) (MFF Regulation),

| — | having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (4) (IIA of 2 December 2013), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (4) (IIA of 2 December 2013),

| — | having regard to its resolution of 13 March 2014 on general guidelines for the preparation of the 2015 budget, Section III — Commission (5), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its resolution of 13 March 2014 on general guidelines for the preparation of the 2015 budget, Section III — Commission (5),

| — | having regard to its resolution of 17 April 2014 on Parliament’s estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2015 (6), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its resolution of 17 April 2014 on Parliament’s estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2015 (6),

| — | having regard to the draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015, which the Commission adopted on 24 June 2014 (COM(2014)0300), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015, which the Commission adopted on 24 June 2014 (COM(2014)0300),

| — | having regard to the position on the draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015, which the Council adopted on 2 September 2014 and forwarded to Parliament on 12 September 2014 (12608/2014 — C8-0144/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the position on the draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015, which the Council adopted on 2 September 2014 and forwarded to Parliament on 12 September 2014 (12608/2014 — C8-0144/2014),

| — | having regard to its resolution of 22 October 2014 on the Council position on the draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015 (7), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its resolution of 22 October 2014 on the Council position on the draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015 (7),

| — | having regard to the fact that the Conciliation Committee did not agree on a joint text within the twenty-one days referred to in Article 314(6) of Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the fact that the Conciliation Committee did not agree on a joint text within the twenty-one days referred to in Article 314(6) of Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

| — | having regard to the new draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015, which the Commission adopted on 27 November 2014 (COM(2014)0723), in accordance with Article 314(8) TFEU, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the new draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015, which the Commission adopted on 27 November 2014 (COM(2014)0723), in accordance with Article 314(8) TFEU,

| — | having regard to the conclusions of the budgetary trilogue on 8 December 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the conclusions of the budgetary trilogue on 8 December 2014,

| — | having regard to the position on the new draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015, which the Council adopted on 12 December 2014 (16739/2014 — C8-0287/2014) and forwarded to Parliament on the same day, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the position on the new draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2015, which the Council adopted on 12 December 2014 (16739/2014 — C8-0287/2014) and forwarded to Parliament on the same day,

| — | having regard to Rules 88 and 91 of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rules 88 and 91 of its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0067/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A8-0067/2014),

| 1. | Recalls that the ‘draft package’, as set out in the annex, which was agreed after difficult negotiations, by representatives of Parliament and Council during the trilogue of 8 December 2014 consists of three elements: Draft Amending Budgets No 3-8/2014 for an overall amount of EUR 49,8 million in commitment appropriations and an additional EUR 3 529,6 million from fresh money in payment appropriations, the Union budget for the year 2015 set at a level of EUR 145 321,5 million and EUR 141 214,0 million in commitment and payment appropriations respectively, and six joint statements as well as three unilateral statements; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Recalls that the ‘draft package’, as set out in the annex, which was agreed after difficult negotiations, by representatives of Parliament and Council during the trilogue of 8 December 2014 consists of three elements: Draft Amending Budgets No 3-8/2014 for an overall amount of EUR 49,8 million in commitment appropriations and an additional EUR 3 529,6 million from fresh money in payment appropriations, the Union budget for the year 2015 set at a level of EUR 145 321,5 million and EUR 141 214,0 million in commitment and payment appropriations respectively, and six joint statements as well as three unilateral statements;

| 2. | Underlines that, while enabling the Commission to respond to the most urgent payment needs in 2014, the level of additional payment appropriations brought to the 2014 budget will not be sufficient to solve the recurrent snowball effect of unpaid bills in 2015; hence, puts the emphasis on the joint statement on a payment plan which accompanies the agreement package on budget 2014 and budget 2015; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Underlines that, while enabling the Commission to respond to the most urgent payment needs in 2014, the level of additional payment appropriations brought to the 2014 budget will not be sufficient to solve the recurrent snowball effect of unpaid bills in 2015; hence, puts the emphasis on the joint statement on a payment plan which accompanies the agreement package on budget 2014 and budget 2015;

| 3. | Is convinced, however, that efforts need to be stepped up in the coming years with a view to reducing the level of unpaid bills to a sustainable level, with a particular focus on cohesion policy; stresses, in this respect, the joint commitment of the three Union Institutions to consider any possible means to reduce the level of those bills, as set out in the joint statement on a payment plan accompanying this year’s budgetary agreement; |
| --- | --- |

3.

Is convinced, however, that efforts need to be stepped up in the coming years with a view to reducing the level of unpaid bills to a sustainable level, with a particular focus on cohesion policy; stresses, in this respect, the joint commitment of the three Union Institutions to consider any possible means to reduce the level of those bills, as set out in the joint statement on a payment plan accompanying this year’s budgetary agreement;

| 4. | Welcomes the increase of EUR 244,2 million in the overall level of commitment appropriations compared to the original position of the Council of 2 September 2014; is satisfied with the fact that the EUR 521,9 million of cuts by the Council in commitments have been fully reversed and that a further EUR 170,7 million of commitments have been added, including the full package of pilot projects and preparatory actions and EUR 95 million for Horizon 2020, COSME, ERASMUS and humanitarian aid; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Welcomes the increase of EUR 244,2 million in the overall level of commitment appropriations compared to the original position of the Council of 2 September 2014; is satisfied with the fact that the EUR 521,9 million of cuts by the Council in commitments have been fully reversed and that a further EUR 170,7 million of commitments have been added, including the full package of pilot projects and preparatory actions and EUR 95 million for Horizon 2020, COSME, ERASMUS and humanitarian aid;

| 5. | Regrets however that the Council was once again not willing to complement its political declarations with sufficient budgetary resources regarding the support for jobs and growth and the Union's international commitments, which it demonstrated by not agreeing to budgeting up to the MFF ceiling in Headings 1a and 4; is pleased that the increases obtained in the negotiations correspond to Parliament's political priorities; regrets however, in this context, that the Council seems to not have any political priorities anymore and is solely interested in horizontally limiting the expenses as much as possible; |
| --- | --- |

5.

Regrets however that the Council was once again not willing to complement its political declarations with sufficient budgetary resources regarding the support for jobs and growth and the Union's international commitments, which it demonstrated by not agreeing to budgeting up to the MFF ceiling in Headings 1a and 4; is pleased that the increases obtained in the negotiations correspond to Parliament's political priorities; regrets however, in this context, that the Council seems to not have any political priorities anymore and is solely interested in horizontally limiting the expenses as much as possible;

| 6. | Welcomes the fact that, thanks to further assigned revenues identified in the Common Agricultural Policy after the presentation of the Commission's Amending letter No 1/2015, a solution has been found to finance EUR 273,6 million of emergency measures in response to the Russian food import ban without mobilising from the outset the reserve for crises in the agricultural sector; |
| --- | --- |

6.

Welcomes the fact that, thanks to further assigned revenues identified in the Common Agricultural Policy after the presentation of the Commission's Amending letter No 1/2015, a solution has been found to finance EUR 273,6 million of emergency measures in response to the Russian food import ban without mobilising from the outset the reserve for crises in the agricultural sector;

| 7. | Welcomes that the overall level of payment appropriations agreed for 2015 is an increase of 1,6 % compared to budget 2014, and is EUR 1 217,1 million above the initial Council reading; is particularly pleased that, thanks to a redeployment of EUR 448,5 million and the extra assigned revenues identified in the abovementioned amending letter, the payment levels obtained in Headings 1a and 4 are above the initial Draft Budget of 24 June 2014; |
| --- | --- |

7.

Welcomes that the overall level of payment appropriations agreed for 2015 is an increase of 1,6 % compared to budget 2014, and is EUR 1 217,1 million above the initial Council reading; is particularly pleased that, thanks to a redeployment of EUR 448,5 million and the extra assigned revenues identified in the abovementioned amending letter, the payment levels obtained in Headings 1a and 4 are above the initial Draft Budget of 24 June 2014;

| 8. | Notes however that, particularly with regard to payments, the budgetary negotiations have become more and more difficult over the past years, mainly due to the uncompromising position of the Council; underlines once again its position that the main function of the budgetary procedure should be to agree on the political priorities in budgetary commitments, whereas payments should simply be considered as a technical follow-up to honour these commitments; reminds the Council of the definitions of the type of appropriations in Article 10(3) of the Financial Regulation applicable to the general budget of the Union and its rules of application, stating that ‘payment appropriations shall cover payments made to honour the legal commitments entered into the financial year or preceding financial years’; |
| --- | --- |

8.

Notes however that, particularly with regard to payments, the budgetary negotiations have become more and more difficult over the past years, mainly due to the uncompromising position of the Council; underlines once again its position that the main function of the budgetary procedure should be to agree on the political priorities in budgetary commitments, whereas payments should simply be considered as a technical follow-up to honour these commitments; reminds the Council of the definitions of the type of appropriations in Article 10(3) of the Financial Regulation applicable to the general budget of the Union and its rules of application, stating that ‘payment appropriations shall cover payments made to honour the legal commitments entered into the financial year or preceding financial years’;

| 9. | Welcomes the fact that Council, in the end, agreed to the mobilisation of the Contingency Margin in 2014, even though to a lower amount than needed; welcomes furthermore the overall reinforcement of payments in the 2014 budget, on a number of budget lines up to a level of EUR 4,2 billion, of which EUR 3 168,2 million will be mobilised through the Contingency Margin for 2014, as well as the fact that the increases proposed in DAB No 3/2014 in payment appropriations for Heading 1a and Heading 4 have been largely preserved in the final compromise; notes that the reinforcements mainly target sub-heading 1b, where the bulk of the problem of unpaid bills at year-end currently lies; recalls that the Parliament, in its reading on the budget 2014, already envisaged the greater need for payment appropriations (the final agreement was EUR 983 million lower than the adopted Parliament position); calls on the Council not to try to artificially cut the Union budget every year; |
| --- | --- |

9.

Welcomes the fact that Council, in the end, agreed to the mobilisation of the Contingency Margin in 2014, even though to a lower amount than needed; welcomes furthermore the overall reinforcement of payments in the 2014 budget, on a number of budget lines up to a level of EUR 4,2 billion, of which EUR 3 168,2 million will be mobilised through the Contingency Margin for 2014, as well as the fact that the increases proposed in DAB No 3/2014 in payment appropriations for Heading 1a and Heading 4 have been largely preserved in the final compromise; notes that the reinforcements mainly target sub-heading 1b, where the bulk of the problem of unpaid bills at year-end currently lies; recalls that the Parliament, in its reading on the budget 2014, already envisaged the greater need for payment appropriations (the final agreement was EUR 983 million lower than the adopted Parliament position); calls on the Council not to try to artificially cut the Union budget every year;

| 10. | Disapproves however of the Council’s position of not using the full amount of the extra revenue from fines to cover outstanding payment needs; is of the opinion that until the payment crisis is resolved, all windfall revenue should be fully used to address this problem; recalls that the draft package has been reached because it was meeting the Parliament's demand to stabilise the outstanding payments problem; underlines however that a genuine solution to the Union payment crisis requires an adequate limit of unpaid bills; |
| --- | --- |

10.

Disapproves however of the Council’s position of not using the full amount of the extra revenue from fines to cover outstanding payment needs; is of the opinion that until the payment crisis is resolved, all windfall revenue should be fully used to address this problem; recalls that the draft package has been reached because it was meeting the Parliament's demand to stabilise the outstanding payments problem; underlines however that a genuine solution to the Union payment crisis requires an adequate limit of unpaid bills;

| 11. | Deplores that the issue of the deferral of national contribution adjustments took precedence within the Council over finding a negotiating position on the 2014 and 2015 budgetary negotiations, which position was only established on the final day of the 21-day conciliation period provided for in Article 314 TFEU and contributed to the failure of the Conciliation Committee to reach an agreement; |
| --- | --- |

11.

Deplores that the issue of the deferral of national contribution adjustments took precedence within the Council over finding a negotiating position on the 2014 and 2015 budgetary negotiations, which position was only established on the final day of the 21-day conciliation period provided for in Article 314 TFEU and contributed to the failure of the Conciliation Committee to reach an agreement;

| 12. | Recalls that, according to Article 310 TFEU, the revenue and expenditure shown in the Union budget shall be in balance; |
| --- | --- |

12.

Recalls that, according to Article 310 TFEU, the revenue and expenditure shown in the Union budget shall be in balance;

| 13. | Attaches the highest political importance to the joint statements agreed between the Parliament, the Council and the Commission, in particular on the payment plan and on the use of special instruments; insists on the payment plan being finalised as soon as possible and in any event before the adoption of the 2016 Draft Budget by the Commission; underlines once more that its approval of the MFF was based on the understanding that all special instruments in payments are accounted for over and above the ceilings and that any other interpretation would automatically trigger a re-opening of the MFF agreement; |
| --- | --- |

13.

Attaches the highest political importance to the joint statements agreed between the Parliament, the Council and the Commission, in particular on the payment plan and on the use of special instruments; insists on the payment plan being finalised as soon as possible and in any event before the adoption of the 2016 Draft Budget by the Commission; underlines once more that its approval of the MFF was based on the understanding that all special instruments in payments are accounted for over and above the ceilings and that any other interpretation would automatically trigger a re-opening of the MFF agreement;

| 14. | Reiterates its long-standing position that the payments of special instruments should be calculated over and above the MFF ceilings, as is the case for commitments; regrets that, once more, it has not been made possible to reach an agreement with the Council on this point; stresses, however, that all efforts need to be made towards a definite agreement on this point at the earliest possible date; |
| --- | --- |

14.

Reiterates its long-standing position that the payments of special instruments should be calculated over and above the MFF ceilings, as is the case for commitments; regrets that, once more, it has not been made possible to reach an agreement with the Council on this point; stresses, however, that all efforts need to be made towards a definite agreement on this point at the earliest possible date;

| 15. | Reaffirms its position that an in-depth reform of the system of own resources is vitally needed to get out of the current impasses in budgetary negotiations and therefore attaches the highest importance to the work of the High-Level Group on Own Resources, under the chairmanship of Mario Monti; |
| --- | --- |

15.

Reaffirms its position that an in-depth reform of the system of own resources is vitally needed to get out of the current impasses in budgetary negotiations and therefore attaches the highest importance to the work of the High-Level Group on Own Resources, under the chairmanship of Mario Monti;

| 16. | Regrets the unwillingness of both the Council and the Commission to provide Union agencies with the necessary resources, especially with regard to staff, to fulfil the mandates they were given by the legislative authority and underlines that the present agreement does not imply an acceptance by Parliament of the Commission's redeployment pool concept; furthermore, highly regrets the staff cuts in fee-financed agencies and considers them unjustified as far as the respective posts are not financed from the Union budget; |
| --- | --- |

16.

Regrets the unwillingness of both the Council and the Commission to provide Union agencies with the necessary resources, especially with regard to staff, to fulfil the mandates they were given by the legislative authority and underlines that the present agreement does not imply an acceptance by Parliament of the Commission's redeployment pool concept; furthermore, highly regrets the staff cuts in fee-financed agencies and considers them unjustified as far as the respective posts are not financed from the Union budget;

| 17. | Welcomes the reinforcement of appropriations for the new nine Judges to the Court of Justice; reiterates that all necessary measures shall be taken in order to complete the legislative procedure by 1 October 2015 allowing for an effective increase in their number; urges therefore the Council to find without any delay an agreement on the repartition of posts for the new Judges; requests a timely and up to date evaluation of the additional financial needs for new judges and their staff to be presented by the Court to the Council and Parliament; reiterates that the need for additional staff corresponding to the nomination of new Judges should be evaluated in a prudent way; |
| --- | --- |

17.

Welcomes the reinforcement of appropriations for the new nine Judges to the Court of Justice; reiterates that all necessary measures shall be taken in order to complete the legislative procedure by 1 October 2015 allowing for an effective increase in their number; urges therefore the Council to find without any delay an agreement on the repartition of posts for the new Judges; requests a timely and up to date evaluation of the additional financial needs for new judges and their staff to be presented by the Court to the Council and Parliament; reiterates that the need for additional staff corresponding to the nomination of new Judges should be evaluated in a prudent way;

| 18. | Welcomes the implementation of the first phase of the cooperation agreement between the Parliament and the European Economic and Social Committee and Committee of the Regions; believes that this agreement is a good example of finding synergies between the institutions which will increase efficiency and generate savings; expects the second phase of that agreement to be completed by July 2015; |
| --- | --- |

18.

Welcomes the implementation of the first phase of the cooperation agreement between the Parliament and the European Economic and Social Committee and Committee of the Regions; believes that this agreement is a good example of finding synergies between the institutions which will increase efficiency and generate savings; expects the second phase of that agreement to be completed by July 2015;

| 19. | Welcomes the budgetary neutral transfers of ‘common administrative costs’ for Commission staff in delegations from Section III (Commission) to Section X (EEAS) of the budget; reiterates that this transfer will respond to the simplification in the management of the administrative expenditure of the Union delegations and should not have any other impact on the administrative appropriations of the Commission nor on the working conditions of Commission staff in delegations; insists that the transfer be implemented through good cooperation between the EEAS and Commission; |
| --- | --- |

19.

Welcomes the budgetary neutral transfers of ‘common administrative costs’ for Commission staff in delegations from Section III (Commission) to Section X (EEAS) of the budget; reiterates that this transfer will respond to the simplification in the management of the administrative expenditure of the Union delegations and should not have any other impact on the administrative appropriations of the Commission nor on the working conditions of Commission staff in delegations; insists that the transfer be implemented through good cooperation between the EEAS and Commission;

| 20. | Regrets, in general, the Council's inability to find a common position, especially during the 21-day conciliation period and with regard to the adoption of the Draft Amending Budgets, and invites the Council and the Commission to agree jointly, at the beginning of 2015, on ways to improve the budgetary procedure with the aim of facilitating the adoption of the 2016 Union budget which should be the starting point of a new structural approach to the Union budget as to avoid unnecessary, returning conflicts as much as possible and to enhance the understanding among the interlocutors of the extent to which Union expenditures contribute to the shared commitment of growth and jobs for the Union; |
| --- | --- |

20.

Regrets, in general, the Council's inability to find a common position, especially during the 21-day conciliation period and with regard to the adoption of the Draft Amending Budgets, and invites the Council and the Commission to agree jointly, at the beginning of 2015, on ways to improve the budgetary procedure with the aim of facilitating the adoption of the 2016 Union budget which should be the starting point of a new structural approach to the Union budget as to avoid unnecessary, returning conflicts as much as possible and to enhance the understanding among the interlocutors of the extent to which Union expenditures contribute to the shared commitment of growth and jobs for the Union;

| 21. | Approves without amendment the Council position on the new draft budget for 2015 as well as the joint statements annexed to this resolution; |
| --- | --- |

21.

Approves without amendment the Council position on the new draft budget for 2015 as well as the joint statements annexed to this resolution;

| 22. | Instructs its President to declare that the budget has been definitively adopted and to arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

22.

Instructs its President to declare that the budget has been definitively adopted and to arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union;

| 23. | Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the other institutions and bodies concerned and the national parliaments. |
| --- | --- |

23.

Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the other institutions and bodies concerned and the national parliaments.

---

(1)  OJ L 163, 23.6.2007, p. 17.

(2)  OJ L 298, 26.10.2012, p. 1.

(3)  OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 884.

(4)  OJ C 373, 20.12.2013, p. 1.

(5)  Texts adopted of that date, P7_TA(2014)0247.

(6)  Texts adopted of that date, P7_TA(2014)0450.

(7)  Texts adopted of that date, P8_TA(2014)0036.

---

ANNEX

DRAFT PACKAGE

2015 budget — Joint conclusions

This draft package covers the following sections:

| 1. | 2015 budget |
| --- | --- |

1.

2015 budget

| 2. | 2014 budget — Draft amending budgets No 3/2014 to 8/2014 |
| --- | --- |

2.

2014 budget — Draft amending budgets No 3/2014 to 8/2014

| 3. | Joint statements |
| --- | --- |

3.

Joint statements

SUMMARY OVERVIEW

A.   
  2015 budget

According to the draft package:

| — | the overall level of commitment appropriations in the 2015 budget is set at EUR 145 321,5 million. Overall, this leaves a margin below the MFF ceilings for 2015 of EUR 1 760,1 million in commitment appropriations; |
| --- | --- |

—

the overall level of commitment appropriations in the 2015 budget is set at EUR 145 321,5 million. Overall, this leaves a margin below the MFF ceilings for 2015 of EUR 1 760,1 million in commitment appropriations;

| — | the overall level of payment appropriations in the 2015 budget is set at EUR 141 214,0 million. This includes an amount of EUR 126,7 million which relates to the mobilisation of the EU Solidarity Fund linked to draft amending budgets No 5/2014 and 7/2014; |
| --- | --- |

—

the overall level of payment appropriations in the 2015 budget is set at EUR 141 214,0 million. This includes an amount of EUR 126,7 million which relates to the mobilisation of the EU Solidarity Fund linked to draft amending budgets No 5/2014 and 7/2014;

| — | the Flexibility Instrument for 2015 is mobilised for an amount of EUR 83,3 million in commitment appropriations; |
| --- | --- |

—

the Flexibility Instrument for 2015 is mobilised for an amount of EUR 83,3 million in commitment appropriations;

| — | the 2015 payment appropriations related to the mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument for additional assistance to Cyprus in 2014 and 2015 are estimated by the Commission at EUR 11,3 million. |
| --- | --- |

—

the 2015 payment appropriations related to the mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument for additional assistance to Cyprus in 2014 and 2015 are estimated by the Commission at EUR 11,3 million.

B.   
  Budget 2014

According to the draft package:

| — | draft amending budgets No 3/2014 to 8/2014 are accepted as proposed by the Commission, with the exceptions set out in section 2; |
| --- | --- |

—

draft amending budgets No 3/2014 to 8/2014 are accepted as proposed by the Commission, with the exceptions set out in section 2;

| — | as a consequence, the level of commitment appropriations in the 2014 budget is increased by EUR 49.8 million, due to the mobilisation of the EU Solidarity Fund (amounting to EUR 126,7 million) linked to draft amending budgets No 5/2014 and 7/2014, which is partly compensated by the EUR 76,9 million reduction in commitment appropriations in draft amending budgets No 3/2014, 4/2014 and 6/2014 (mostly related to fisheries); |
| --- | --- |

—

as a consequence, the level of commitment appropriations in the 2014 budget is increased by EUR 49.8 million, due to the mobilisation of the EU Solidarity Fund (amounting to EUR 126,7 million) linked to draft amending budgets No 5/2014 and 7/2014, which is partly compensated by the EUR 76,9 million reduction in commitment appropriations in draft amending budgets No 3/2014, 4/2014 and 6/2014 (mostly related to fisheries);

| — | as a consequence, the level of payment appropriations in the 2014 budget is increased by EUR 3 529,6 million; |
| --- | --- |

—

as a consequence, the level of payment appropriations in the 2014 budget is increased by EUR 3 529,6 million;

| — | the Contingency Margin for 2014 is mobilised for an amount of EUR 2 818,2 million plus EUR 350 million in payment appropriations, in line with the joint statement on special instruments as set out in section 3.3 below. |
| --- | --- |

—

the Contingency Margin for 2014 is mobilised for an amount of EUR 2 818,2 million plus EUR 350 million in payment appropriations, in line with the joint statement on special instruments as set out in section 3.3 below.

1.   
  BUDGET 2015

1.1.   
  ‘Closed’ lines

Unless stated otherwise below in these conclusions, all budget lines not amended by either the Council or the European Parliament, and those for which the European Parliament accepted the Council's amendments during their respective reading are confirmed.

For the other budget items, the European Parliament and the Council have agreed on the conclusions included in sections 1.2 to 1.7 below.

1.2.   
  Horizontal issues

| a) | Decentralised agencies


  The EU contribution (in commitment appropriations and in payment appropriations) and the number of posts for all decentralised agencies are set at the level proposed by the Commission in the new Draft Budget (DB):
  Increases of establishment plan posts and the related appropriations as compared to the original DB:






  — | European Banking Authority (EBA): + 9 posts and + EUR 585 000; |
| --- | --- | --- |

a)

Decentralised agencies

The EU contribution (in commitment appropriations and in payment appropriations) and the number of posts for all decentralised agencies are set at the level proposed by the Commission in the new Draft Budget (DB):

Increases of establishment plan posts and the related appropriations as compared to the original DB:

—

European Banking Authority (EBA): + 9 posts and + EUR 585 000;

| — | European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA): + 3 posts and +EUR 195 000; |
| --- | --- |

—

European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA): + 3 posts and +EUR 195 000;

| — | European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA): + 4 posts and +EUR 260 000; |
| --- | --- |

—

European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA): + 4 posts and +EUR 260 000;

| — | European Asylum Support Office (EASO): + 4 posts and +EUR 260 000; and |
| --- | --- |

—

European Asylum Support Office (EASO): + 4 posts and +EUR 260 000; and

| — | European Police Office (EUROPOL): + 5 posts, combined with a reduction of -EUR 600 000); |
| --- | --- |

—

European Police Office (EUROPOL): + 5 posts, combined with a reduction of -EUR 600 000);

For FRONTEX, an increase in operational expenditure of EUR 20,0 million in commitment appropriations and in payment appropriations.

| b) | Executive agencies


  The EU contribution (in commitment appropriations and in payment appropriations) and the number of posts for executive agencies are set at the level proposed by the Commission in the new DB. |
| --- | --- |

b)

Executive agencies

The EU contribution (in commitment appropriations and in payment appropriations) and the number of posts for executive agencies are set at the level proposed by the Commission in the new DB.

| c) | Pilot Projects/Preparatory Actions


  A comprehensive package of 59 Pilot Projects/Preparatory Actions (PP/PA) is agreed, as proposed in the new DB, both for commitment and payment appropriations. When a PP or a PA appears to be covered by an existing legal basis, the Commission may propose the transfer of appropriations to the corresponding legal basis in order to facilitate the implementation of the action.
  This package fully respects the ceilings for PP and PA provided for in the Financial Regulation. |
| --- | --- |

c)

Pilot Projects/Preparatory Actions

A comprehensive package of 59 Pilot Projects/Preparatory Actions (PP/PA) is agreed, as proposed in the new DB, both for commitment and payment appropriations. When a PP or a PA appears to be covered by an existing legal basis, the Commission may propose the transfer of appropriations to the corresponding legal basis in order to facilitate the implementation of the action.

This package fully respects the ceilings for PP and PA provided for in the Financial Regulation.

| d) | Common administrative costs of EU Delegations


  The transfer of ‘Common administrative costs of EU Delegations’ from the Commission section to the EEAS section of the budget, as proposed in the new DB, is agreed. |
| --- | --- |

d)

Common administrative costs of EU Delegations

The transfer of ‘Common administrative costs of EU Delegations’ from the Commission section to the EEAS section of the budget, as proposed in the new DB, is agreed.

1.3.   
  Expenditure by headings of the financial framework — commitment appropriations

After taking into account the above conclusions on ‘closed’ budget lines, agencies and pilot projects and preparatory actions, the European Parliament and the Council have agreed on the following:

| a) | Sub-heading 1a


  Commitment appropriations are set at the level proposed by the Commission in the new DB to reflect the priority of contributing to enhancing access to finance through the EU budget, especially for the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs):










  (in EUR 1,000 ) |
| --- | --- |
| Budget line | Name | Reinforcements of commitment appropriations |
| 2015 DB | New 2015 DB | Difference |
| 02 02 02 | Improving access to finance for small and middle-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the form of equity and debt | 162 791,7 | 174 791,7 | 12 000,0 |
| 04 03 02 03 | Microfinance and Social Entrepreneurship — Facilitating access to finance for entrepreneurs, especially those furthest from the labour market, and social enterprises | 24 957,0 | 26 457,0 | 1 500,0 |
| 08 02 02 02 | Enhancing access to risk finance for investing in research and innovation | 337 534,7 | 342 534,7 | 5 000,0 |
| | Total | | | 18 500,0 |

a)

Sub-heading 1a

Commitment appropriations are set at the level proposed by the Commission in the new DB to reflect the priority of contributing to enhancing access to finance through the EU budget, especially for the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs):

(in EUR 1,000 )

Budget line

Name

Reinforcements of commitment appropriations

2015 DB

New 2015 DB

Difference

02 02 02

Improving access to finance for small and middle-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the form of equity and debt

162 791,7

174 791,7

12 000,0

04 03 02 03

Microfinance and Social Entrepreneurship — Facilitating access to finance for entrepreneurs, especially those furthest from the labour market, and social enterprises

24 957,0

26 457,0

1 500,0

08 02 02 02

Enhancing access to risk finance for investing in research and innovation

337 534,7

342 534,7

5 000,0

Total

18 500,0

Moreover, the following reinforcements of commitment appropriations as compared to the new DB are accepted:

| (in EUR 1,000 ) |
| --- |
| Budget line | Name | New 2015 DB | 2015 budget | Difference |
| 02 02 01 | Promoting entrepreneurship and improving the competitiveness and access to markets of Union enterprises | 106 561,8 | 108 561,8 | 2 000,0 |
| 02 04 03 02 | Fostering secure European societies | 148 235,9 | 153 235,9 | 5 000,0 |
| 08 02 01 01 | Strengthening frontier research in the European Research Council | 1 631 723,2 | 1 650 723,2 | 19 000,0 |
| 08 02 02 01 | Leadership in nanotechnologies, advanced materials, laser technology, biotechnology and advanced manufacturing and processing | 498 592,7 | 503 592,7 | 5 000,0 |
| 08 02 03 05 | Achieving a resource-efficient and climate change resilient economy and a sustainable supply of raw materials | 291 719,4 | 297 719,4 | 6 000,0 |
| 09 04 02 01 | Leadership in information and communications technology | 819 154,4 | 824 154,4 | 5 000,0 |
| 09 04 03 02 | Fostering inclusive, innovative and reflective European societies | 41 725,8 | 43 725,8 | 2 000,0 |
| 15 02 01 01 | Promoting excellence and cooperation in the European education and training area and its relevance to the labour market | 1 336 476,0 | 1 348 476,0 | 12 000,0 |
| 15 02 01 02 | Promoting excellence and cooperation in the European youth area and the participation of young people in European democratic life | 161 745,0 | 165 245,0 | 3 500,0 |
| 15 02 03 | Developing the European dimension in sport | 20 439,0 | 20 939,0 | 500,0 |
| 15 03 01 01 | Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions — generating, developing and transferring new skills, knowledge and innovation | 734 668,4 | 737 668,4 | 3 000,0 |
| | Total | | | 63 000,0 |

(in EUR 1,000 )

Budget line

Name

New 2015 DB

2015 budget

Difference

02 02 01

Promoting entrepreneurship and improving the competitiveness and access to markets of Union enterprises

106 561,8

108 561,8

2 000,0

02 04 03 02

Fostering secure European societies

148 235,9

153 235,9

5 000,0

08 02 01 01

Strengthening frontier research in the European Research Council

1 631 723,2

1 650 723,2

19 000,0

08 02 02 01

Leadership in nanotechnologies, advanced materials, laser technology, biotechnology and advanced manufacturing and processing

498 592,7

503 592,7

5 000,0

08 02 03 05

Achieving a resource-efficient and climate change resilient economy and a sustainable supply of raw materials

291 719,4

297 719,4

6 000,0

09 04 02 01

Leadership in information and communications technology

819 154,4

824 154,4

5 000,0

09 04 03 02

Fostering inclusive, innovative and reflective European societies

41 725,8

43 725,8

2 000,0

15 02 01 01

Promoting excellence and cooperation in the European education and training area and its relevance to the labour market

1 336 476,0

1 348 476,0

12 000,0

15 02 01 02

Promoting excellence and cooperation in the European youth area and the participation of young people in European democratic life

161 745,0

165 245,0

3 500,0

15 02 03

Developing the European dimension in sport

20 439,0

20 939,0

500,0

15 03 01 01

Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions — generating, developing and transferring new skills, knowledge and innovation

734 668,4

737 668,4

3 000,0

Total

63 000,0

As a consequence, and after taking into account pilot projects, preparatory actions and the transfer of the common costs of EU delegations to the EEAS section, the agreed level of commitments is set at EUR 17 551,7 million, leaving a margin of EUR 114,3 million under the expenditure ceiling of sub-heading 1a.

| b) | Sub-heading 1b


  Commitment appropriations are set at the level proposed in the new DB (pilot projects under sub-heading 1b).
  Taking into account pilot projects and preparatory actions, the mobilisation of EUR 83,3 million from the Flexibility Instrument for additional assistance to Cyprus, the agreed level of commitments is set at EUR 49 230,3 million. |
| --- | --- |

b)

Sub-heading 1b

Commitment appropriations are set at the level proposed in the new DB (pilot projects under sub-heading 1b).

Taking into account pilot projects and preparatory actions, the mobilisation of EUR 83,3 million from the Flexibility Instrument for additional assistance to Cyprus, the agreed level of commitments is set at EUR 49 230,3 million.

| c) | Heading 2


  Commitment appropriations are set at the level proposed by the Commission in the new DB.
  Based on the new elements that have emerged since the presentation of letter of amendment (LA) No 1/2015, notably the information on the actual uptake of the emergence measures taken since August 2014 to respond to the Russian food import ban, the final EAGF surplus for 2014 and the updated forecast of financial corrections to be collected in 2015, the emergency measures referred to above (including those related to the dairy sector in the Baltic States, for which the Commission adopted a further package on 26 November 2014, as well as for Finland once the conditions are met), can be financed within the appropriations requested in LA No 1/2015 without having recourse to the agricultural crisis reserve, thanks to this additional assigned revenue.
  As a consequence, and after taking into account pilot projects, preparatory actions and the transfer of the common costs of EU delegations to the EEAS section, the agreed level of commitments is set at EUR 58 808,6 million, leaving a margin of EUR 790.4 million under the expenditure ceiling of heading 2. |
| --- | --- |

c)

Heading 2

Commitment appropriations are set at the level proposed by the Commission in the new DB.

Based on the new elements that have emerged since the presentation of letter of amendment (LA) No 1/2015, notably the information on the actual uptake of the emergence measures taken since August 2014 to respond to the Russian food import ban, the final EAGF surplus for 2014 and the updated forecast of financial corrections to be collected in 2015, the emergency measures referred to above (including those related to the dairy sector in the Baltic States, for which the Commission adopted a further package on 26 November 2014, as well as for Finland once the conditions are met), can be financed within the appropriations requested in LA No 1/2015 without having recourse to the agricultural crisis reserve, thanks to this additional assigned revenue.

As a consequence, and after taking into account pilot projects, preparatory actions and the transfer of the common costs of EU delegations to the EEAS section, the agreed level of commitments is set at EUR 58 808,6 million, leaving a margin of EUR 790.4 million under the expenditure ceiling of heading 2.

| d) | Heading 3


  Commitment appropriations are set at the level proposed by the Commission in the new DB, in particular as regards the increase in operational expenditure of FRONTEX, which is offset by a corresponding decrease of budget item 18 02 01 01 (Support of border management and a common visa policy to facilitate legitimate travel).
  As a consequence, and after taking into account pilot projects and preparatory actions, the agreed level of commitments is set at EUR 2 146,7 million leaving a margin of EUR 99,3 million under the expenditure ceiling of heading 3. |
| --- | --- |

d)

Heading 3

Commitment appropriations are set at the level proposed by the Commission in the new DB, in particular as regards the increase in operational expenditure of FRONTEX, which is offset by a corresponding decrease of budget item 18 02 01 01 (Support of border management and a common visa policy to facilitate legitimate travel).

As a consequence, and after taking into account pilot projects and preparatory actions, the agreed level of commitments is set at EUR 2 146,7 million leaving a margin of EUR 99,3 million under the expenditure ceiling of heading 3.

| e) | Heading 4


  Commitment appropriations are set at the level proposed by the Commission in the new DB, in particular as regards the transfer of common administrative expenditure of EU delegations to the EEAS section of the budget.
  Moreover, the following reinforcements of commitment appropriations as compared to the new DB are accepted:










  (in EUR 1,000 ) |
| --- | --- |
| Budget line | Name | New DB 2015 | Budget 2015 | Difference |
| 21 03 01 04 | Support to peace process and financial assistance to Palestine and to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) | 264 500,0 | 286 500,0 | 22 000,0 |
| 23 02 01 | Delivery of rapid, effective and needs-based humanitarian aid and food aid | 872 446,0 | 882 446,0 | 10 000,0 |
| | Total | | | 32 000,0 |

e)

Heading 4

Commitment appropriations are set at the level proposed by the Commission in the new DB, in particular as regards the transfer of common administrative expenditure of EU delegations to the EEAS section of the budget.

Moreover, the following reinforcements of commitment appropriations as compared to the new DB are accepted:

(in EUR 1,000 )

Budget line

Name

New DB 2015

Budget 2015

Difference

21 03 01 04

Support to peace process and financial assistance to Palestine and to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA)

264 500,0

286 500,0

22 000,0

23 02 01

Delivery of rapid, effective and needs-based humanitarian aid and food aid

872 446,0

882 446,0

10 000,0

Total

32 000,0

However, the transfer of the EU Special Representatives from heading 4 to heading 5 (EEAS section) as proposed in the new DB is not accepted. Consequently, the commitment and payment appropriations on budget line 19 03 01 07 (EU Special Representatives, heading 4) are restored as proposed in the original DB.

As a consequence, and after taking into account pilot projects, preparatory actions and the transfer of the common costs of EU delegations to the EEAS section, the agreed level of commitments is set at EUR 8 408,4 million, leaving a margin of EUR 340.6 million under the expenditure ceiling of heading 4.

| f) | Heading 5


  The number of posts in the establishment plans of the Institutions and the commitment appropriations are set at the level proposed by the Commission in the new DB:






  — | the respective readings of the European Parliament and the Council, for their own sections of the budget; |
| --- | --- | --- |

f)

Heading 5

The number of posts in the establishment plans of the Institutions and the commitment appropriations are set at the level proposed by the Commission in the new DB:

—

the respective readings of the European Parliament and the Council, for their own sections of the budget;

| — | the reading of the European Parliament for the Court of Justice; |
| --- | --- |

—

the reading of the European Parliament for the Court of Justice;

| — | the reading of the European Parliament for the European Court of Auditors, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions; and |
| --- | --- |

—

the reading of the European Parliament for the European Court of Auditors, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions; and

| — | For the European External Action Service, the level of appropriations proposed by the Commission in the DB increased to take account of the budgetary-neutral transfer of appropriations related to the ‘common administrative costs of EU Delegations’ (as set out in Annex 1) from the Commission to the EEAS section of the budget. However, the transfer of the EU Special Representatives from heading 4 to the EEAS section under heading 5 as proposed in the new DB is not accepted. Consequently, no appropriations for this purpose are included in the EEAS section of the budget. |
| --- | --- |

—

For the European External Action Service, the level of appropriations proposed by the Commission in the DB increased to take account of the budgetary-neutral transfer of appropriations related to the ‘common administrative costs of EU Delegations’ (as set out in Annex 1) from the Commission to the EEAS section of the budget. However, the transfer of the EU Special Representatives from heading 4 to the EEAS section under heading 5 as proposed in the new DB is not accepted. Consequently, no appropriations for this purpose are included in the EEAS section of the budget.

Altogether, compared to the original DB, these changes lead to:

| — | a net reduction of 35 establishment plan posts, due to a reduction of 47 posts for the European Parliament which is partly offset by an increase of 12 posts for the Court of Justice; |
| --- | --- |

—

a net reduction of 35 establishment plan posts, due to a reduction of 47 posts for the European Parliament which is partly offset by an increase of 12 posts for the Court of Justice;

| — | a net reduction in appropriations of EUR 0,6 million, due to a reduction of EUR 1,4 million for the European Court of Auditors, EUR 1,4 million for the European Economic and Social Committee and EUR 0,4 million for the Committee of the Regions, which is partly offset by an increase of EUR 2,6 million for the Court of Justice; |
| --- | --- |

—

a net reduction in appropriations of EUR 0,6 million, due to a reduction of EUR 1,4 million for the European Court of Auditors, EUR 1,4 million for the European Economic and Social Committee and EUR 0,4 million for the Committee of the Regions, which is partly offset by an increase of EUR 2,6 million for the Court of Justice;

| — | the increase of EUR 71,5 million for the EEAS reflects the budgetary-neutral transfer of the ‘common administrative costs of EU Delegations’, which is completely offset in the Commission section in sub-heading 1a (EUR 0,6 million), heading 2 (EUR 0,1 million), heading 4 (EUR 45,7 million) and 5 (EUR 25,2 million). Overall, these transfers result in a net increase in appropriations under heading 5 of EUR 46,3 million. |
| --- | --- |

—

the increase of EUR 71,5 million for the EEAS reflects the budgetary-neutral transfer of the ‘common administrative costs of EU Delegations’, which is completely offset in the Commission section in sub-heading 1a (EUR 0,6 million), heading 2 (EUR 0,1 million), heading 4 (EUR 45,7 million) and 5 (EUR 25,2 million). Overall, these transfers result in a net increase in appropriations under heading 5 of EUR 46,3 million.

In addition, as compared to the new DB the following budgetary neutral transfer of posts and commitment appropriations from the Council to the Pay Master's Office is agreed, to take account of the transfer as of 1 January 2015 of the determination and management of pension rights of active and retired Council staff members to the PMO: an increase of 6 AST 7 establishment plan posts as well as an increase of EUR 504 000 in commitment appropriations in the Commission (section III) is completely offset by a reduction of 6 AST 7 establishment plan posts as well as a reduction of EUR 504 000 in commitment appropriations in the Council (section II).

As a consequence, taking into account pilot projects, preparatory actions as well as the transfer of the common costs of EU delegations to the EEAS section, the agreed level of commitments is set at EUR 8 660,5 million, leaving a margin of EUR 415,5 million under the expenditure ceiling of heading 5.

1.4.   
  Payment appropriations

The overall level of payment appropriations in the 2015 budget is set at EUR 141 214 040 563.

This includes an amount of EUR 126,7 million which relates to the mobilisation of the EU Solidarity Fund linked to draft amending budgets No 5/2014 and 7/2014, as well as an amount of EUR 440 million which relates to the shift of payment appropriations for the Youth Employment Initiative from the 2014 budget to the 2015 budget.

The distribution of the overall level of payment appropriations in the 2015 budget takes into account the following steps:

| a) | payment appropriations for non-differentiated expenditure as set out above, in particular under headings 2 and 5; and |
| --- | --- |

a)

payment appropriations for non-differentiated expenditure as set out above, in particular under headings 2 and 5; and

| b) | payment appropriations for the package of pilot projects and preparatory actions as set out above, are calculated as follows: payment appropriations for all new pilot projects and preparatory actions are set at 50 % of the corresponding commitments or at the level proposed by the European Parliament, whichever is lower; in the case of extension of existing pilot projects and preparatory actions the level of payments is the one defined in the DB plus 50 % of the corresponding new commitments, or at the level proposed by the European Parliament, whichever is lower; |
| --- | --- |

b)

payment appropriations for the package of pilot projects and preparatory actions as set out above, are calculated as follows: payment appropriations for all new pilot projects and preparatory actions are set at 50 % of the corresponding commitments or at the level proposed by the European Parliament, whichever is lower; in the case of extension of existing pilot projects and preparatory actions the level of payments is the one defined in the DB plus 50 % of the corresponding new commitments, or at the level proposed by the European Parliament, whichever is lower;

| c) | the EUR 123,3 million reduction in payment appropriations compared to the new DB is spread proportionally across all budget lines with differentiated appropriations which are not affected by step b) above, with the exception of the following budget lines, for which the level of payment appropriations is set at the level of the new DB:






  — | expenditure for sub-heading 1a (Competitiveness for Growth and Jobs) and heading 4 (Global Europe); |
| --- | --- | --- |

c)

the EUR 123,3 million reduction in payment appropriations compared to the new DB is spread proportionally across all budget lines with differentiated appropriations which are not affected by step b) above, with the exception of the following budget lines, for which the level of payment appropriations is set at the level of the new DB:

—

expenditure for sub-heading 1a (Competitiveness for Growth and Jobs) and heading 4 (Global Europe);

| — | Budget lines 04 02 17, 04 02 60, 11 06 12, 13 03 16 and 13 03 60 for the Convergence objective; and |
| --- | --- |

—

Budget lines 04 02 17, 04 02 60, 11 06 12, 13 03 16 and 13 03 60 for the Convergence objective; and

| — | International Fisheries Partnership Agreements. |
| --- | --- |

—

International Fisheries Partnership Agreements.

Based on the results obtained in step c) above, the following final adjustments are made:

| — | an amount of EUR 100 million is added to budget line 13 04 02 (Completion of Cohesion Fund (2007-2013)), offset by:






  — | a reduction of EUR 50 million on budget line 13 03 18 (Completion of European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) — Regional competitiveness and employment); and |
| --- | --- | --- |

—

an amount of EUR 100 million is added to budget line 13 04 02 (Completion of Cohesion Fund (2007-2013)), offset by:

—

a reduction of EUR 50 million on budget line 13 03 18 (Completion of European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) — Regional competitiveness and employment); and

| — | a reduction of EUR 50 million spread across budget lines with differentiated appropriations which are not affected by step b) above, for expenditure sub-heading 1 (Competitiveness for Growth and Jobs) and heading 4 (Global Europe), with the exception of budget line 23 02 (Humanitarian aid, food assistance and disaster preparedness), for which the amounts set in the new DB are retained. |
| --- | --- |

—

a reduction of EUR 50 million spread across budget lines with differentiated appropriations which are not affected by step b) above, for expenditure sub-heading 1 (Competitiveness for Growth and Jobs) and heading 4 (Global Europe), with the exception of budget line 23 02 (Humanitarian aid, food assistance and disaster preparedness), for which the amounts set in the new DB are retained.

1.5.   
  Budgetary remarks

As regards budgetary remarks, the new DB is approved, thus integrating amendments introduced by the European Parliament or the Council, except for budget lines 04 03 01 03 and 19 03 01 06, with the understanding that these amendments cannot modify or extend the scope of an existing legal base, or impinge on the administrative autonomy of institutions.

1.6.   
  New budget lines

The budget nomenclature as proposed by the Commission in the new DB will remain unchanged.

1.7.   
  Reserves

No amount is placed on conditional reserves for the Commission section.

2.   
  2014 BUDGET

| a) | The additional commitment appropriations (EUR 126.7 million) requested for the EU Solidarity Fund in DABs No 5/2014 and 7/2014 are approved. The corresponding payments are shifted to the 2015 budget. |
| --- | --- |

a)

The additional commitment appropriations (EUR 126.7 million) requested for the EU Solidarity Fund in DABs No 5/2014 and 7/2014 are approved. The corresponding payments are shifted to the 2015 budget.

| b) | DAB No 3/2014 is approved as proposed by the Commission, with a reduction of payment appropriations as follows:






  — | Rural development: EUR 90 million for the completion of rural development programmes 2007-2013 is not accepted taking into account the lower than expected declaration of payments submitted by Member States in November 2014. Moreover, a reduction of EUR 20 million on the new programmes is agreed; |
| --- | --- | --- |

b)

DAB No 3/2014 is approved as proposed by the Commission, with a reduction of payment appropriations as follows:

—

Rural development: EUR 90 million for the completion of rural development programmes 2007-2013 is not accepted taking into account the lower than expected declaration of payments submitted by Member States in November 2014. Moreover, a reduction of EUR 20 million on the new programmes is agreed;

| — | Youth Employment Initiative: a reduction of EUR 420 million for the Youth Employment Initiative is agreed. However, an amount of EUR 440 million of payment appropriations for the Youth Employment Initiative is added to the 2015 budget, as set out in section 1.4 above; |
| --- | --- |

—

Youth Employment Initiative: a reduction of EUR 420 million for the Youth Employment Initiative is agreed. However, an amount of EUR 440 million of payment appropriations for the Youth Employment Initiative is added to the 2015 budget, as set out in section 1.4 above;

| — | A further reduction of payment appropriations of EUR 648,1 million is agreed, distributed across the budget lines reinforced from the Contingency Margin while keeping unchanged the requested amounts for budget lines 13 03 16 (ERDF Convergence), 04 06 01 (FEAD), and 21 03 02 01 and 21 03 03 03 (Support for Ukraine). |
| --- | --- |

—

A further reduction of payment appropriations of EUR 648,1 million is agreed, distributed across the budget lines reinforced from the Contingency Margin while keeping unchanged the requested amounts for budget lines 13 03 16 (ERDF Convergence), 04 06 01 (FEAD), and 21 03 02 01 and 21 03 03 03 (Support for Ukraine).

Redeployment of payment appropriations:

| — | the redeployment proposed by the Commission in the ‘global transfer’ (DEC 31/2014) is accepted; |
| --- | --- |

—

the redeployment proposed by the Commission in the ‘global transfer’ (DEC 31/2014) is accepted;

| — | the redeployment proposed by the Commission for the Commission section in DAB No 6/2014 is accepted; however, the payment appropriations available for redeployment from the EMFF (administrative support expenditure) and the reserve for International Fisheries Partnership Agreements (in total EUR 6 150 900) are redeployed to Humanitarian aid (budget line 23 02 01); |
| --- | --- |

—

the redeployment proposed by the Commission for the Commission section in DAB No 6/2014 is accepted; however, the payment appropriations available for redeployment from the EMFF (administrative support expenditure) and the reserve for International Fisheries Partnership Agreements (in total EUR 6 150 900) are redeployed to Humanitarian aid (budget line 23 02 01);

| — | taking into account the current state of budget implementation and the outlook for year-end, a further redeployment amounting to EUR 30,4 million is agreed. This concerns the following budget lines:






  — | Article 01 03 02 (Macro-financial assistance): EUR 5 million; |
| --- | --- | --- |

—

taking into account the current state of budget implementation and the outlook for year-end, a further redeployment amounting to EUR 30,4 million is agreed. This concerns the following budget lines:

—

Article 01 03 02 (Macro-financial assistance): EUR 5 million;

| — | Article 04 03 02 (PROGRESS): EUR 10,0 million; |
| --- | --- |

—

Article 04 03 02 (PROGRESS): EUR 10,0 million;

| — | Article 12 02 01 (Internal market): EUR 1,2 million; |
| --- | --- |

—

Article 12 02 01 (Internal market): EUR 1,2 million;

| — | Article 17 03 51 (Public Health): EUR 0,7 million; |
| --- | --- |

—

Article 17 03 51 (Public Health): EUR 0,7 million;

| — | Item 18 02 01 02 (Prevention of and fight against crime): EUR 2.3 million; |
| --- | --- |

—

Item 18 02 01 02 (Prevention of and fight against crime): EUR 2.3 million;

| — | Item 21 09 51 01 (DCI Asia): EUR 2,5 million; |
| --- | --- |

—

Item 21 09 51 01 (DCI Asia): EUR 2,5 million;

| — | Article 33 02 02 (Promoting non-discrimination and equality): EUR 2.2 million; and |
| --- | --- |

—

Article 33 02 02 (Promoting non-discrimination and equality): EUR 2.2 million; and

| — | Articles 29 02 01 and 29 02 51 (Statistics): EUR 6,5 million. |
| --- | --- |

—

Articles 29 02 01 and 29 02 51 (Statistics): EUR 6,5 million.

The table below shows the resulting reinforcements and reductions of payment appropriations in DAB No 3/2014 (including redeployment through the ‘global transfer’, DAB No 6/2014 and the latest update of the state of play of budget implementation) as approved along the lines set out above:

| Budget lines | Name | DAB No 3/2014 Adopted |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 01 03 02 | Macro-financial assistance | -28 960 000 |
| 01 04 51 | Completion of programmes in the field of small and middle-sized enterprises (SMEs) (prior to 2014) | 12 000 000 |
| 02 02 02 | Improving access to finance for small and middle-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the form of equity and debt | 4 540 126 |
| 02 05 01 | Developing and providing global satellite-based radio navigation infrastructures and services (Galileo) by 2019 | 70 000 000 |
| 04 02 64 | Youth Employment Initiative | - 420 000 000 |
| 04 03 02 01 | Progress — Supporting the development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of Union employment and social policy and working conditions legislation | -2 950 000 |
| 04 03 02 03 | Microfinance and Social Entrepreneurship — Increasing access, and the availability of, financing for legal and physical persons, especially those furthest from the labour market, and social enterprises | -7 114 776 |
| 04 06 01 | Promoting social cohesion and alleviating the worst forms of poverty in the Union | 99 000 000 |
| 05 02 10 02 | Promotion measures — Direct payments by the Union | - 308 029 |
| 05 04 60 01 | Promoting sustainable rural development, a more territorially and environmentally balanced, climate-friendly and innovative Union agricultural sector | -20 000 000 |
| 05 06 01 | International agricultural agreements | -3 784 411 |
| 05 08 77 06 | Preparatory action — European farm prices and margins observatory | - 612 329 |
| 05 08 77 09 | Preparatory action — Union plant and animal genetic resources | - 600 000 |
| 05 08 77 10 | Pilot project — Agropol: development of a European cross-border Agribusiness Model Region | - 600 000 |
| 05 08 77 11 | Pilot project — Agroforestry | - 350 000 |
| 05 09 03 01 | Securing sufficient supplies of safe and high quality food and other bio-based products | -1 666 954 |
| 07 02 77 03 | Preparatory action — Strategic environmental impact assessment on the development of the European Arctic | 356 052 |
| 08 02 01 01 | Strengthening frontier research in the European Research Council | 24 970 695 |
| 08 02 02 02 | Enhancing access to risk finance for investing in research and innovation | 4 540 126 |
| 08 02 51 | Completion of previous research framework programme — Seventh Framework Programme — EC indirect action (2007 to 2013) | 50 000 000 |
| 08 04 01 | Construction, operation and exploitation of the ITER facilities — European Joint Undertaking for ITER — Fusion for Energy (F4E) | -8 800 000 |
| 08 04 51 | Completion of European Joint Undertaking for ITER — Fusion for Energy (F4E) (2007 to 2013) | -71 200 000 |
| 09 02 01 | Definition and implementation of the Union’s policy in the field of electronic communication | - 271 200 |
| 09 02 05 | Measures concerning the digital content, and audiovisual and other media industries | - 592 000 |
| 09 02 77 03 | Pilot project — European Centre for Press and Media Freedom | - 456 508 |
| 09 03 03 | Promoting interoperability, sustainable deployment, operation and upgrading of trans-European digital service infrastructures, as well as coordination at European level | -1 898 831 |
| 09 03 51 01 | Completion of the Safer Internet programme (2009 to 2013) | - 450 000 |
| 09 04 03 02 | Fostering inclusive, innovative and reflective European societies | 2 784 852 |
| 09 04 51 | Completion of the Seventh Framework Programme (2007 to 2013) | 105 000 000 |
| 11 01 04 01 | Support expenditure for maritime affairs and fisheries — Non-operational administrative and technical assistance | - 774 900 |
| 11 01 06 01 | Executive Agency for Small- and Medium-sized Enterprises — Contribution from European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) | - 809 000 |
| 11 03 01 (reserve) | Establishing a governance framework for fishing activities carried out by Union fishing vessels in third country waters | -69 567 000 |
| 11 06 12 | Completion of European Fisheries Fund (EFF) — Convergence objective (2007 to 2013) | 69 540 126 |
| 12 02 01 | Implementation and development of the internal market | -1 170 000 |
| 12 02 77 03 | Preparatory action — Single Market Forum | - 150 000 |
| 12 03 51 | Completion of previous activities in the field of financial services, financial reporting and auditing | - 669 803 |
| 13 03 16 | Completion of European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) — Convergence | 2 400 700 000 |
| 13 03 18 | Completion of European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) — Regional competitiveness and employment | 227 006 319 |
| 13 03 19 | Completion of European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) — European territorial cooperation | 179 334 992 |
| 13 03 77 09 | Preparatory action on an Atlantic Forum for the European Union Atlantic Strategy | - 433 000 |
| 13 05 63 02 | Cross-border cooperation (CBC) — Contribution from Heading 4 | -12 338 481 |
| 14 02 01 | Supporting the functioning and modernization of the customs union | 7 500 000 |
| 14 03 01 | Improving the proper functioning of the taxation systems | 2 500 000 |
| 15 02 01 01 | Promoting excellence and cooperation in the European education and training area and its relevance to the labour market | 138 119 479 |
| 15 03 01 01 | Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions — generating, developing and transferring new skills, knowledge and innovation | 40 861 137 |
| 16 03 01 03 | Information outlets | 1 600 000 |
| 16 03 01 04 | Communication of the Commission Representations and ‘Partnership’ actions | 1 000 000 |
| 16 03 02 03 | Online and written information and communication tools | 2 900 000 |
| 17 02 01 | Safeguarding consumers’ interest and improving their safety and information | -1 449 000 |
| 17 03 10 | European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control | -2 000 000 |
| 17 03 12 01 | Union contribution to the European Medicines Agency | -7 602 918 |
| 18 02 01 01 | Support of border management and a common visa policy to facilitate legitimate travel | -7 446 000 |
| 18 02 01 02 | Prevention and fight against cross-border organised crime and better management of security related risks and crisis | -9 236 000 |
| 18 03 51 | Completion of operations and programmes in the field of return, refugees and migration flows | 19 431 000 |
| 19 02 01 | Response to crisis and emerging crisis | 50 765 835 |
| 19 05 51 | Completion of actions in the field of relations and cooperation with industrialised third countries (2007 to 2013) | 3 600 000 |
| 20 02 01 | External trade relations, including access to the markets of third countries | 1 181 809 |
| 20 02 03 | Aid for trade — Multilateral initiatives | 1 000 000 |
| 21 02 07 | Food and nutrition security and sustainable agriculture | 6 000 000 |
| 21 02 40 | Commodities agreements | 20 000 |
| 21 02 51 01 | Cooperation with third countries in the areas of migration and asylum | 4 000 000 |
| 21 02 51 02 | Cooperation with developing countries in Latin America | 23 000 000 |
| 21 02 51 03 | Cooperation with developing countries in Asia, including Central Asia and the Middle East | 44 000 000 |
| 21 02 51 05 | Non-State actors in development | 2 000 000 |
| 21 02 51 06 | Environment and sustainable management of natural resources, including energy | 2 000 000 |
| 21 03 02 01 | Eastern Partnership — Human rights and mobility | 210 000 000 |
| 21 03 03 03 | Support to other multi-country cooperation in the neighbourhood | 40 000 000 |
| 21 03 51 | Completion of actions in the area of European Neighbourhood Policy and relations with Russia (prior to 2014) | 3 000 000 |
| 21 04 51 | Completion of the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (prior to 2014) | 3 000 000 |
| 21 05 51 | Completion of actions in the area of global threats to security (prior to 2014) | 2 000 000 |
| 21 09 51 01 | Asia | -2 500 000 |
| 22 02 51 | Completion of former pre-accession assistance (prior to 2014) | 45 000 000 |
| 23 02 01 | Delivery of rapid, effective and needs-based humanitarian aid and food aid | 256 150 900 |
| 23 03 51 | Completion of programmes and actions in the field of civil protection within the Union (prior to 2014) | - 500 000 |
| 24 01 07 | European Anti-fraud Office (OLAF) | -10 000 |
| 24 02 01 | Preventing and combating fraud, corruption and any other illegal activities affecting the Union’s financial interests | 942 750 |
| 24 04 01 | Supporting mutual assistance in customs matters and facilitating secure electronic communication tools for Member States to report irregularities | 680 612 |
| 26 01 09 | Publications Office | -22 000 |
| 26 01 23 01 | Office for Infrastructure and Logistics in Luxembourg | -13 000 |
| 26 02 01 | Procedures for awarding and advertising public supply, works and service contracts | - 250 000 |
| 26 03 01 01 | Interoperability solutions for European public administrations | 10 000 000 |
| 29 02 01 | Providing quality statistical information, implementing new methods of production of European statistics and strengthening the partnership within the European Statistical System | -11 294 249 |
| 29 02 51 | Completion of statistical programmes (prior to 2013) | -9 872 560 |
| 32 02 52 | Completion of energy projects to aid economic recovery | 65 000 000 |
| 33 02 01 | Ensuring the protection of rights and empowering citizens | -2 000 000 |
| 33 02 02 | Promoting non-discrimination and equality | -5 177 700 |
| 34 02 01 | Reducing Union greenhouse gas emissions | 6 000 000 |
| 34 02 04 | Contribution to multilateral and international climate agreements | -74 969 |
| 34 02 51 | Completion of former climate action programmes | 2 903 358 |
| XX 01 01 01 01 | Remuneration and allowances | - 317 000 |
| SEC 7 — 1 2 0 0 | Remuneration and allowances | -10 992 |
| SEC 9 — 1 1 0 0 | Remuneration and allowances | -5 843 |
| | Total | 3 529 620 715 |

Budget lines

Name

DAB No 3/2014 Adopted

01 03 02

Macro-financial assistance

-28 960 000

01 04 51

Completion of programmes in the field of small and middle-sized enterprises (SMEs) (prior to 2014)

12 000 000

02 02 02

Improving access to finance for small and middle-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the form of equity and debt

4 540 126

02 05 01

Developing and providing global satellite-based radio navigation infrastructures and services (Galileo) by 2019

70 000 000

04 02 64

Youth Employment Initiative

- 420 000 000

04 03 02 01

Progress — Supporting the development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of Union employment and social policy and working conditions legislation

-2 950 000

04 03 02 03

Microfinance and Social Entrepreneurship — Increasing access, and the availability of, financing for legal and physical persons, especially those furthest from the labour market, and social enterprises

-7 114 776

04 06 01

Promoting social cohesion and alleviating the worst forms of poverty in the Union

99 000 000

05 02 10 02

Promotion measures — Direct payments by the Union

- 308 029

05 04 60 01

Promoting sustainable rural development, a more territorially and environmentally balanced, climate-friendly and innovative Union agricultural sector

-20 000 000

05 06 01

International agricultural agreements

-3 784 411

05 08 77 06

Preparatory action — European farm prices and margins observatory

- 612 329

05 08 77 09

Preparatory action — Union plant and animal genetic resources

- 600 000

05 08 77 10

Pilot project — Agropol: development of a European cross-border Agribusiness Model Region

- 600 000

05 08 77 11

Pilot project — Agroforestry

- 350 000

05 09 03 01

Securing sufficient supplies of safe and high quality food and other bio-based products

-1 666 954

07 02 77 03

Preparatory action — Strategic environmental impact assessment on the development of the European Arctic

356 052

08 02 01 01

Strengthening frontier research in the European Research Council

24 970 695

08 02 02 02

Enhancing access to risk finance for investing in research and innovation

4 540 126

08 02 51

Completion of previous research framework programme — Seventh Framework Programme — EC indirect action (2007 to 2013)

50 000 000

08 04 01

Construction, operation and exploitation of the ITER facilities — European Joint Undertaking for ITER — Fusion for Energy (F4E)

-8 800 000

08 04 51

Completion of European Joint Undertaking for ITER — Fusion for Energy (F4E) (2007 to 2013)

-71 200 000

09 02 01

Definition and implementation of the Union’s policy in the field of electronic communication

- 271 200

09 02 05

Measures concerning the digital content, and audiovisual and other media industries

- 592 000

09 02 77 03

Pilot project — European Centre for Press and Media Freedom

- 456 508

09 03 03

Promoting interoperability, sustainable deployment, operation and upgrading of trans-European digital service infrastructures, as well as coordination at European level

-1 898 831

09 03 51 01

Completion of the Safer Internet programme (2009 to 2013)

- 450 000

09 04 03 02

Fostering inclusive, innovative and reflective European societies

2 784 852

09 04 51

Completion of the Seventh Framework Programme (2007 to 2013)

105 000 000

11 01 04 01

Support expenditure for maritime affairs and fisheries — Non-operational administrative and technical assistance

- 774 900

11 01 06 01

Executive Agency for Small- and Medium-sized Enterprises — Contribution from European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF)

- 809 000

11 03 01 (reserve)

Establishing a governance framework for fishing activities carried out by Union fishing vessels in third country waters

-69 567 000

11 06 12

Completion of European Fisheries Fund (EFF) — Convergence objective (2007 to 2013)

69 540 126

12 02 01

Implementation and development of the internal market

-1 170 000

12 02 77 03

Preparatory action — Single Market Forum

- 150 000

12 03 51

Completion of previous activities in the field of financial services, financial reporting and auditing

- 669 803

13 03 16

Completion of European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) — Convergence

2 400 700 000

13 03 18

Completion of European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) — Regional competitiveness and employment

227 006 319

13 03 19

Completion of European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) — European territorial cooperation

179 334 992

13 03 77 09

Preparatory action on an Atlantic Forum for the European Union Atlantic Strategy

- 433 000

13 05 63 02

Cross-border cooperation (CBC) — Contribution from Heading 4

-12 338 481

14 02 01

Supporting the functioning and modernization of the customs union

7 500 000

14 03 01

Improving the proper functioning of the taxation systems

2 500 000

15 02 01 01

Promoting excellence and cooperation in the European education and training area and its relevance to the labour market

138 119 479

15 03 01 01

Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions — generating, developing and transferring new skills, knowledge and innovation

40 861 137

16 03 01 03

Information outlets

1 600 000

16 03 01 04

Communication of the Commission Representations and ‘Partnership’ actions

1 000 000

16 03 02 03

Online and written information and communication tools

2 900 000

17 02 01

Safeguarding consumers’ interest and improving their safety and information

-1 449 000

17 03 10

European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control

-2 000 000

17 03 12 01

Union contribution to the European Medicines Agency

-7 602 918

18 02 01 01

Support of border management and a common visa policy to facilitate legitimate travel

-7 446 000

18 02 01 02

Prevention and fight against cross-border organised crime and better management of security related risks and crisis

-9 236 000

18 03 51

Completion of operations and programmes in the field of return, refugees and migration flows

19 431 000

19 02 01

Response to crisis and emerging crisis

50 765 835

19 05 51

Completion of actions in the field of relations and cooperation with industrialised third countries (2007 to 2013)

3 600 000

20 02 01

External trade relations, including access to the markets of third countries

1 181 809

20 02 03

Aid for trade — Multilateral initiatives

1 000 000

21 02 07

Food and nutrition security and sustainable agriculture

6 000 000

21 02 40

Commodities agreements

20 000

21 02 51 01

Cooperation with third countries in the areas of migration and asylum

4 000 000

21 02 51 02

Cooperation with developing countries in Latin America

23 000 000

21 02 51 03

Cooperation with developing countries in Asia, including Central Asia and the Middle East

44 000 000

21 02 51 05

Non-State actors in development

2 000 000

21 02 51 06

Environment and sustainable management of natural resources, including energy

2 000 000

21 03 02 01

Eastern Partnership — Human rights and mobility

210 000 000

21 03 03 03

Support to other multi-country cooperation in the neighbourhood

40 000 000

21 03 51

Completion of actions in the area of European Neighbourhood Policy and relations with Russia (prior to 2014)

3 000 000

21 04 51

Completion of the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (prior to 2014)

3 000 000

21 05 51

Completion of actions in the area of global threats to security (prior to 2014)

2 000 000

21 09 51 01

Asia

-2 500 000

22 02 51

Completion of former pre-accession assistance (prior to 2014)

45 000 000

23 02 01

Delivery of rapid, effective and needs-based humanitarian aid and food aid

256 150 900

23 03 51

Completion of programmes and actions in the field of civil protection within the Union (prior to 2014)

- 500 000

24 01 07

European Anti-fraud Office (OLAF)

-10 000

24 02 01

Preventing and combating fraud, corruption and any other illegal activities affecting the Union’s financial interests

942 750

24 04 01

Supporting mutual assistance in customs matters and facilitating secure electronic communication tools for Member States to report irregularities

680 612

26 01 09

Publications Office

-22 000

26 01 23 01

Office for Infrastructure and Logistics in Luxembourg

-13 000

26 02 01

Procedures for awarding and advertising public supply, works and service contracts

- 250 000

26 03 01 01

Interoperability solutions for European public administrations

10 000 000

29 02 01

Providing quality statistical information, implementing new methods of production of European statistics and strengthening the partnership within the European Statistical System

-11 294 249

29 02 51

Completion of statistical programmes (prior to 2013)

-9 872 560

32 02 52

Completion of energy projects to aid economic recovery

65 000 000

33 02 01

Ensuring the protection of rights and empowering citizens

-2 000 000

33 02 02

Promoting non-discrimination and equality

-5 177 700

34 02 01

Reducing Union greenhouse gas emissions

6 000 000

34 02 04

Contribution to multilateral and international climate agreements

-74 969

34 02 51

Completion of former climate action programmes

2 903 358

XX 01 01 01 01

Remuneration and allowances

- 317 000

SEC 7 — 1 2 0 0

Remuneration and allowances

-10 992

SEC 9 — 1 1 0 0

Remuneration and allowances

-5 843

Total

3 529 620 715

The resulting additional payment appropriations for DAB No 3/2014 are EUR 3 529,6 million, of which EUR 2 818,2 million plus EUR 350 million concern the mobilisation of the Contingency Margin, in line with the joint statement on special instruments as set out in section 3.3 below.

| c) | DAB No 4/2014, as modified by its letter of amendment, is approved as proposed by the Commission, with the inclusion of the commitment appropriations from DAB No 6/2014 related to administrative support expenditure for the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund and the reserve for the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreements in the Commission section). The amount of EUR 248 460 of available payment appropriations identified in DAB No 4/2014 (European Data Protection Supervisor) are redeployed to Humanitarian aid (budget line 23 02 01). The request for additional commitment and payment appropriations related to the European Ombudsman (section VIII) in DAB 6 is withdrawn, as set out in the letter of amdment to DAB No 6/2014. |
| --- | --- |

c)

DAB No 4/2014, as modified by its letter of amendment, is approved as proposed by the Commission, with the inclusion of the commitment appropriations from DAB No 6/2014 related to administrative support expenditure for the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund and the reserve for the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreements in the Commission section). The amount of EUR 248 460 of available payment appropriations identified in DAB No 4/2014 (European Data Protection Supervisor) are redeployed to Humanitarian aid (budget line 23 02 01). The request for additional commitment and payment appropriations related to the European Ombudsman (section VIII) in DAB 6 is withdrawn, as set out in the letter of amdment to DAB No 6/2014.

| d) | DAB No 6/2014, as modified by its letter of amendment, is approved as proposed by the Commission, as regards own resources. |
| --- | --- |

d)

DAB No 6/2014, as modified by its letter of amendment, is approved as proposed by the Commission, as regards own resources.

| e) | DAB No 8/2014 (= new DAB No 2/2014) concerning the 2013 surplus is approved as proposed by the Commission. |
| --- | --- |

e)

DAB No 8/2014 (= new DAB No 2/2014) concerning the 2013 surplus is approved as proposed by the Commission.

3.   
  JOINT STATEMENTS

3.1.   
  Joint statement on draft amending budget (DAB) 6/2014 (own resources) and amendment of Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) 1150/2000

‘The European Parliament and the Council agree to adopt Draft Amending Budget 6/2014 as amended by Amending Letter 1/2014.

In light of the Commission proposal to amend Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1150/2000 implementing Decision 2007/436 (EC, Euratom) on the system of the European Communities' own resources presented by the Commission on 12 November 2014, the European Parliament commits to provide its opinion to the amended Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1150/2000 in time to ensuring its adoption in the EP plenary session of December 2014 and the Council to adopt it as part of the overall package.’

3.2.   
  Joint statement on the mobilisation of the Contingency Margin

Joint statement on the mobilisation of the Contingency Margin

‘2014 has seen an unprecedented high amount of outstanding payments for structural and cohesion funds at the beginning of the financial framework, while a number of new programmes have been significantly frontloaded. Given this unique and exceptional situation which cannot be accommodated within the payment ceiling for 2014, the three institutions agree that the Contingency Margin will be mobilised for the financial year 2014 as a last resort.

The institutions recall that Article 13 of the MFF-regulation stipulates that “Amounts made available through the mobilisation of the Contingency Margin shall be fully offset against the margins in one or more MFF headings for the current or future financial years”.

The institutions agree to do their utmost to find appropriate solutions so that the exceptionally high level of outstanding payments of the structural and cohesion funds of the 2007-2013 period should not persist beyond 2014 and that, therefore, all efforts will be undertaken to ensure that the Contingency Margin will not be mobilised to finance outstanding commitments stemming from programmes for structural and cohesion funds in the financial years 2015-2020.’

3.3.   
  Joint statement on special instruments

Joint statement on special instruments

‘The institutions recall that the Contingency Margin is a last resort instrument which should therefore not be mobilised if there are still financial possibilities left. In the framework of the general budget for 2014 there is disagreement as to whether an amount of EUR 350 million in payment appropriations covering other special instruments is still available in the unallocated margin.

The institutions agree that it is of major importance to find an agreement in principle on the mobilisation of other special instruments for payments as quickly as possible.

However, as it has not been possible to reach such an agreement in the context of the negotiations of the package covering draft amending budgets for 2014 and the general budget for 2015 the institutions agree, so as to ensure a timely adoption of that package:

| — | The amount of EUR 350 million in payment appropriations is added to the Contingency Margin; |
| --- | --- |

—

The amount of EUR 350 million in payment appropriations is added to the Contingency Margin;

| — | To endeavour to find a rapid agreement on whether and to what extent other special instruments may be mobilised over and above the MFF ceilings for payments with a view to determining whether and to what extent the amount of EUR 350 million should be offset against the MFF margins for payments for current or future financial years; |
| --- | --- |

—

To endeavour to find a rapid agreement on whether and to what extent other special instruments may be mobilised over and above the MFF ceilings for payments with a view to determining whether and to what extent the amount of EUR 350 million should be offset against the MFF margins for payments for current or future financial years;

| — | To accompany — as appropriate — the above by the necessary modifications of the decision mobilising the Contingency Margin for the budget year 2014, or by any other legally necessary actions required to ensure full respect of the MFF Regulation and notably its Article 13(3).’ |
| --- | --- |

—

To accompany — as appropriate — the above by the necessary modifications of the decision mobilising the Contingency Margin for the budget year 2014, or by any other legally necessary actions required to ensure full respect of the MFF Regulation and notably its Article 13(3).’

3.4.   
  Commission statement on pre-financing of Operational Programmes in 2014 and the Youth Employment Initiative

Commission statement on pre-financing of Operational Programmes in 2014 and the Youth Employment Initiative

‘In the context of the timely and effective implementation of the 2014-2020 MFF, the European Commission confirms the pre-financing, in 2014, of Operational Programmes which have been formally submitted in 2014 and which meet the necessary conditions set in the corresponding legal acts.

Moreover, the Commission confirms that the Youth Employment Initiative remains a high political priority and that the transfer of the related payment appropriations from 2014 to 2015 will not delay its implementation.’

3.5.   
  Joint statement on the financing of the emergency measures in response to the Russian food import ban

Joint statement on the financing of the emergency measures in response to the Russian food import ban

‘Following the Russian food import ban, a series of emergency measures has already been adopted in August and September 2014, and a further package targeted to the dairy sector in the Baltic States has been approved on 26 November 2014. As soon as the conditions respecting the objective criteria required for eligibility are met, the Commission may propose another package targeted to the dairy sector in Finland.

In its Amending Letter (AL) 1/2015, the Commission announced its intention to finance, if needed, these measures through the reserve for crises.

Since the presentation of the AL 1/2015, the following three new elements have emerged, which allow the financing of those emergency measures without using the crisis reserve:

| — | According to the declarations of the Member States on the actual uptake of the measures adopted in August and September, the cost is reduced from the initially estimated EUR 344 million to some EUR 234 million. |
| --- | --- |

—

According to the declarations of the Member States on the actual uptake of the measures adopted in August and September, the cost is reduced from the initially estimated EUR 344 million to some EUR 234 million.

| — | The final surplus of the EAGF exercise 2014 is some EUR 230 million higher than anticipated in the AL 1/2015, which was still based on estimates. |
| --- | --- |

—

The final surplus of the EAGF exercise 2014 is some EUR 230 million higher than anticipated in the AL 1/2015, which was still based on estimates.

| — | The financial corrections to be collected in 2015 are expected to be higher than initially expected last October.’ |
| --- | --- |

—

The financial corrections to be collected in 2015 are expected to be higher than initially expected last October.’

Based on these three new elements, the emergency measures referred to above (including those related to the dairy sector in the Baltic States, and for Finland once the conditions are met) can be financed within the appropriations requested in the AL 1/2015 thanks to this additional assigned revenue without having recourse to the crisis reserve."

3.6.   
  Joint statement on payment appropriations

Joint statement on payment appropriations

‘The European Parliament, the Council and the Commission recall their shared responsibility, as laid down in Article 323 of the Treaty on the Functioning the European Union (TFEU), that “the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission shall ensure that the financial means are made available to allow the Union to fulfil its legal obligations in respect of third parties”.

The European Parliament and the Council recall the need to ensure, in the light of implementation, an orderly progression of payments in relation to the appropriations for commitments so as to avoid any abnormal level of unpaid invoices at year-end.

The European Parliament and the Council agree to set the level of payment appropriations for 2015 at EUR 141 214 040 563. They ask the Commission to initiate any necessary action, on the basis of the provisions of the MFF Regulation and the Financial Regulation, to cover the responsibility assigned by the Treaty and, in particular, after having examined the scope for reallocation of the relevant appropriations, with particular reference to any expected under-implementation of appropriations (Financial Regulation Article 41§ 2) to request additional payment appropriations in an amending budget to be presented as soon as it appears that appropriations entered in the 2015 budget are insufficient to cover expenditure.

The European Parliament and the Council will take position on any draft amending budget as quickly as possible in order to avoid any shortfall in payment appropriations. The European Parliament and the Council undertake to process swiftly any possible transfer of payment appropriations, including across financial framework headings, in order to make the best possible use of payment appropriations entered in the budget and align them to actual execution and needs.

The European Parliament, the Council and the Commission will, throughout the year, actively monitor the state of implementation of the 2015 budget, in particular under subheading 1a (Competitiveness for Growth and Jobs), sub-heading 1b (Economic, social and territorial cohesion) and rural development under heading 2 (Sustainable Growth: Natural Resources). This will take the form of dedicated inter-institutional meetings, in accordance with point 36 of the Annex of the Interinstitutional Agreement, to take stock of payment implementation and revised forecasts.

These meetings should take place at least three times in 2015 (in spring at the time of the presentation of the draft budget, in July ahead of the Council reading on the 2016 draft budget and in October before the beginning of the Conciliation) and be at political level in the presence of Members of the European Parliament, Members of the Council and the Commission Vice-President for Budget and Human Resources. The meetings should aim at reaching a joint assessment of the required level of payment needs, based on a thorough analysis of existing bills that have to be legally honoured and estimates for the rest of the year N and the year N+1.’

3.7.   
  Joint statement on a payment plan

Joint statement on a payment plan

‘The institutions agree to the objective to reduce the level of unpaid bills, with a particular focus on cohesion policy, at year-end down to its structural level in the course of the current MFF.

In order to reach this objective:

| — | the Commission agrees to present, along with the joint conclusions on Budget 2015, a most up to date forecast of the level of unpaid bills by end 2014; the Commission will update these figures and provide alternative scenarios in March 2015 when a global picture of the level of unpaid bills at the end of 2014, for the main policy areas, will be available; |
| --- | --- |

—

the Commission agrees to present, along with the joint conclusions on Budget 2015, a most up to date forecast of the level of unpaid bills by end 2014; the Commission will update these figures and provide alternative scenarios in March 2015 when a global picture of the level of unpaid bills at the end of 2014, for the main policy areas, will be available;

| — | on this basis, the three institutions will endeavour to agree on a maximum target level of unpaid bills at year-end which can be considered as sustainable; |
| --- | --- |

—

on this basis, the three institutions will endeavour to agree on a maximum target level of unpaid bills at year-end which can be considered as sustainable;

| — | on this basis and while respecting the MFF Regulation, the agreed financial envelopes of the programmes as well as any other binding agreement, the three institutions will engage to implement, as of 2015, a plan to reduce the level of unpaid bills corresponding to the implementation of the 2007-2013 programmes to the commonly agreed level by the mid-term review of the current multiannual financial framework. Such a plan will be agreed by the three institutions in due time before the presentation of the draft budget 2016. Given the exceptionally high level of unpaid bills, the three institutions agree to consider any possible means to reduce the level of those bills. |
| --- | --- |

—

on this basis and while respecting the MFF Regulation, the agreed financial envelopes of the programmes as well as any other binding agreement, the three institutions will engage to implement, as of 2015, a plan to reduce the level of unpaid bills corresponding to the implementation of the 2007-2013 programmes to the commonly agreed level by the mid-term review of the current multiannual financial framework. Such a plan will be agreed by the three institutions in due time before the presentation of the draft budget 2016. Given the exceptionally high level of unpaid bills, the three institutions agree to consider any possible means to reduce the level of those bills.

Every year, the Commission agrees to accompany its draft budget by a document evaluating the level of unpaid bills and explaining how the draft budget will allow for the reduction of this level and by how much. This annual document will take stock of the progress made so far and propose adjustments to the plan in line with updated figures.’

3.8.   
  Statement of the European Parliament on the mobilisation of the Contingency Margin as a last resort

Statement of the European Parliament on the mobilisation of the Contingency Margin as a last resort

‘The European Parliament regrets that the Council does not share its interpretation that the EUR 350 million in payment appropriations mobilised in 2014 in respect of the Special Instruments provided for in the MFF Regulation should be counted outside the payments ceiling, thus leaving a margin of EUR 711 million to be exhausted before having recourse to the Contingency Margin.

The European Parliament recalls that, in accordance with Article 13(1) of the MFF Regulation, the Contingency Margin is a last-resort instrument. Therefore, it is necessary to exhaust fully all other financial possibilities before having recourse to the Contingency Margin. In the context of the dispute between the European Parliament and the Council regarding the calculation of the available margin below the payments ceiling in 2014, it was not possible to reach a political agreement on the exhaustion of an available margin of EUR 350 million before having recourse to the Contingency Margin.

Recalling that the MFF Regulation is based on the principle of “specific and maximum possible flexibility” in order to allow the Union to fulfill its legal obligations in compliance with Article 323 TFEU (Recital 4 to the MFF Regulation), the Parliament considers that the interest of making available additional appropriations to honour outstanding legal commitments through a mobilisation of the Contingency Margin is paramount. Therefore, the Parliament accepts a mobilisation of the Contingency Margin, notwithstanding its interpretation that EUR 350 million remains available under the payments ceiling.

The European Parliament invites the Commission to carry over the unused margin of EUR 350 million in its 2015 technical adjustment of the global margin for payments under Article 6(1)(d) of the MFF Regulation.’

3.9.   
  Council statement on the mobilisation of the special instruments

Council statement on the mobilisation of the special instruments

‘The Council recalls that the special instruments can only be activated to cater for genuinely unforeseen circumstances.

It recalls that the Contingency Margin shall not result in exceeding the total ceilings of commitment and payment appropriations.

As regards other special instruments, the Council recalls that Article 3(2) of the MFF Regulation states that commitment appropriations may be entered in the budget over and above the ceilings of the relevant headings.

The Council invites the Commission, in calculating the global margin, to act in accordance with the MFF Regulation and without undermining the agreement reached between the three institutions on a Joint Statement on special instruments (3.3).’

---

Thursday 18 December 2014

| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/109 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/109

---

P8_TA(2014)0109

Non-objection to a delegated act: Ex ante contributions to resolution financing arrangements

European Parliament decision of 18 December 2014 to raise no objections to the Commission delegated regulation of 21 October 2014 supplementing Directive 2014/59/EU of the European Parliament and the Council of 15 May 2014 with regard to ex ante contributions to resolution financing arrangements (C(2014)07674 — 2014/2923(DEA))

(2016/C 294/38)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the Commission delegated regulation (C(2014)07674), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission delegated regulation (C(2014)07674),

| — | having regard to the Commission’s letter of 18 November 2014 asking Parliament to declare that it will raise no objections to the delegated regulation, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the Commission’s letter of 18 November 2014 asking Parliament to declare that it will raise no objections to the delegated regulation,

| — | having regard to the letter from the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs to the Chair of the Conference of Committee Chairs of 16 December 2014, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the letter from the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs to the Chair of the Conference of Committee Chairs of 16 December 2014,

| — | having regard to Article 290 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Article 290 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

| — | having regard to Directive 2014/59/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 May 2014 establishing a framework for the recovery and resolution of credit institutions and investment firms and amending Council Directive 82/891/EEC, and Directives 2001/24/EC, 2002/47/EC, 2004/25/EC, 2005/56/EC, 2007/36/EC, 2011/35/EU, 2012/30/EU and 2013/36/EU, and Regulations (EU) No 1093/2010 and (EU) No 648/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1), and in particular Articles 103(7) and (8) and 115(5) thereof, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Directive 2014/59/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 May 2014 establishing a framework for the recovery and resolution of credit institutions and investment firms and amending Council Directive 82/891/EEC, and Directives 2001/24/EC, 2002/47/EC, 2004/25/EC, 2005/56/EC, 2007/36/EC, 2011/35/EU, 2012/30/EU and 2013/36/EU, and Regulations (EU) No 1093/2010 and (EU) No 648/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1), and in particular Articles 103(7) and (8) and 115(5) thereof,

| — | having regard to the recommendation for a decision by the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the recommendation for a decision by the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs,

| — | having regard to the agreement within the Council on the implementing Regulation specifying uniform conditions of application of Regulation (EU) No 806/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to ex-ante contributions to the Single Resolution Fund (COM(2014)0710), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the agreement within the Council on the implementing Regulation specifying uniform conditions of application of Regulation (EU) No 806/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to ex-ante contributions to the Single Resolution Fund (COM(2014)0710),

| — | having regard to Rule 105(6) of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rule 105(6) of its Rules of Procedure,

| A. | whereas Article 130 of Directive 2014/59/EU (the BRRD Directive) requires Member States to apply the national measures necessary to comply with that Directive from 1 January 2015; |
| --- | --- |

A.

whereas Article 130 of Directive 2014/59/EU (the BRRD Directive) requires Member States to apply the national measures necessary to comply with that Directive from 1 January 2015;

| B. | whereas in order to apply the Directive, Member States must ensure that contributions are raised at least annually from the relevant credit institutions and investment firms (‘the institutions’) authorised in their territory (Article 103(1) BRRD Directive); |
| --- | --- |

B.

whereas in order to apply the Directive, Member States must ensure that contributions are raised at least annually from the relevant credit institutions and investment firms (‘the institutions’) authorised in their territory (Article 103(1) BRRD Directive);

| C. | whereas those contributions are to be adjusted to the risk profile of institutions in accordance with the criteria specified in a Commission delegated act; |
| --- | --- |

C.

whereas those contributions are to be adjusted to the risk profile of institutions in accordance with the criteria specified in a Commission delegated act;

| D. | whereas Article 103(7) of the BRRD Directive empowers the Commission to adopt delegated acts in order to specify the notion of adjusting contributions in proportion to the risk profile of the institutions, taking into account certain criteria enumerated in that article; |
| --- | --- |

D.

whereas Article 103(7) of the BRRD Directive empowers the Commission to adopt delegated acts in order to specify the notion of adjusting contributions in proportion to the risk profile of the institutions, taking into account certain criteria enumerated in that article;

| E. | whereas on 21 October 2014, in order to satisfy the latter empowerment, the Commission adopted the Commission delegated regulation supplementing Directive 2014/59/EU of the European Parliament and the Council of 15 May 2014 with regard to ex ante contributions to resolution financing arrangements; |
| --- | --- |

E.

whereas on 21 October 2014, in order to satisfy the latter empowerment, the Commission adopted the Commission delegated regulation supplementing Directive 2014/59/EU of the European Parliament and the Council of 15 May 2014 with regard to ex ante contributions to resolution financing arrangements;

| F. | whereas this delegated regulation may only enter into force at the end of the scrutiny period of Parliament and the Council, if no objection has been expressed either by Parliament or the Council, or if before the expiry of that period both Parliament and the Council have informed the Commission that they will not object; whereas the scrutiny period is set under Article 115(5) of the BRRD Directive as three months from the date of notification, i.e. until 21 January 2015, and it may be extended by a further three-month period; |
| --- | --- |

F.

whereas this delegated regulation may only enter into force at the end of the scrutiny period of Parliament and the Council, if no objection has been expressed either by Parliament or the Council, or if before the expiry of that period both Parliament and the Council have informed the Commission that they will not object; whereas the scrutiny period is set under Article 115(5) of the BRRD Directive as three months from the date of notification, i.e. until 21 January 2015, and it may be extended by a further three-month period;

| G. | whereas the smooth and timely implementation of the BRRD framework by 1 January 2015 requires that the national resolution authorities start calculating and collecting the contributions to the resolution financing arrangements as soon as possible and in any event by 1 January 2015; whereas this calculation and collection is to be carried out in accordance with the abovementioned delegated regulation; |
| --- | --- |

G.

whereas the smooth and timely implementation of the BRRD framework by 1 January 2015 requires that the national resolution authorities start calculating and collecting the contributions to the resolution financing arrangements as soon as possible and in any event by 1 January 2015; whereas this calculation and collection is to be carried out in accordance with the abovementioned delegated regulation;

| H. | whereas the delegated regulation should therefore enter into force in 2014, before the expiry of the scrutiny period referred to in recital F; |
| --- | --- |

H.

whereas the delegated regulation should therefore enter into force in 2014, before the expiry of the scrutiny period referred to in recital F;

| I. | whereas the agreement within the Council on the implementing regulation specifying uniform conditions of application of Regulation (EU) No 806/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to ex-ante contributions to the Single Resolution Fund, reached after an informal involvement of Parliament, is consistent with the above delegated regulation; |
| --- | --- |

I.

whereas the agreement within the Council on the implementing regulation specifying uniform conditions of application of Regulation (EU) No 806/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to ex-ante contributions to the Single Resolution Fund, reached after an informal involvement of Parliament, is consistent with the above delegated regulation;

| 1. | Declares that it has no objections to the delegated regulation; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Declares that it has no objections to the delegated regulation;

| 2. | Instructs its President to forward this decision to the Council and the Commission. |
| --- | --- |

2.

Instructs its President to forward this decision to the Council and the Commission.

---

(1)  OJ L 173, 12.6.2014, p. 190.

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| 12.8.2016 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 294/111 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.8.2016

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 294/111

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P8_TA(2014)0111

Association Agreement with Georgia ***

European Parliament legislative resolution of 18 December 2014 on the draft Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the Association Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community and their Member States, of the one part, and Georgia, of the other part (09827/2014 — C8-0129/2014 — 2014/0086(NLE))

(Consent)

(2016/C 294/39)

The European Parliament,

| — | having regard to the draft Council decision (09827/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the draft Council decision (09827/2014),

| — | having regard to the draft Association Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community and their Member States, of the one part, and Georgia, of the other part (17901/2013), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the draft Association Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community and their Member States, of the one part, and Georgia, of the other part (17901/2013),

| — | having regard to the request for consent submitted by the Council in accordance with Article 217 and Article 218(6), second subparagraph, point (a), Article 218(7) and Article 218(8), second subparagraph, of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (C8-0129/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the request for consent submitted by the Council in accordance with Article 217 and Article 218(6), second subparagraph, point (a), Article 218(7) and Article 218(8), second subparagraph, of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (C8-0129/2014),

| — | having regard to its resolution of 17 November 2011 containing the European Parliament's recommendations to the Council, the Commission and the EEAS on the negotiations of the EU-Georgia Association Agreement (1), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its resolution of 17 November 2011 containing the European Parliament's recommendations to the Council, the Commission and the EEAS on the negotiations of the EU-Georgia Association Agreement (1),

| — | having regard to its non-legislative resolution of 18 December 2014 (2) on the draft decision, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to its non-legislative resolution of 18 December 2014 (2) on the draft decision,

| — | having regard to Rule 99(1), first and third subparagraphs, Rule 99(2), and Rule 108(7) of its Rules of Procedure, |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to Rule 99(1), first and third subparagraphs, Rule 99(2), and Rule 108(7) of its Rules of Procedure,

| — | having regard to the recommendation of the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the opinion of the Committee on International Trade (A8-0041/2014), |
| --- | --- |

—

having regard to the recommendation of the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the opinion of the Committee on International Trade (A8-0041/2014),

| 1. | Gives its consent to conclusion of the agreement; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Gives its consent to conclusion of the agreement;

| 2. | Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the governments and parliaments of the Member States and of Georgia. |
| --- | --- |

2.

Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the governments and parliaments of the Member States and of Georgia.

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(1)  OJ C 153 E, 31.5.2013, p. 137.

(2)  Texts adopted, P8_TA(2014)0110.

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