----

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II Preparatory Acts

Committee of the Regions

61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005

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Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Communications from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament Prevention, preparedness and response to terrorist attacks Prevention of and the fight against terrorist financing through measures to improve the exchange of information, to strengthen transparency and enhance the traceability of financial transactions Preparedness and consequence management in the fight against terrorism Critical infrastructure protection in the fight against terrorism

(2006/C 81/01)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

HAVING REGARD TO the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament of 20 October 2004 on Prevention, preparedness and response to terrorist attacks (COM(2004) 698 final),

HAVING REGARD TO the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament of 20 October 2004 on the Prevention of and the fight against terrorist financing through measures to improve the exchange of information, to strengthen transparency and enhance the traceability of financial transactions (COM(2004) 700 final),

HAVING REGARD TO the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament of 20 October 2004 on Preparedness and consequence management in the fight against terrorism (COM(2004) 701 final),

HAVING REGARD TO the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament of 20 October 2004 on Critical infrastructure protection in the fight against terrorism (COM(2004) 702 final),

HAVING REGARD TO the European Commission's decision of 12 November 2004 to consult it on these questions, in accordance with Article 265(1) of the Treaty establishing the European Community,

HAVING REGARD TO its President's decision of 3 November 2004 to instruct its Commission for Constitutional Affairs and European Governance to draw up an opinion on the subject,

HAVING REGARD TO the Treaty on the European Union and especially Title I Common provisions and Title VI Provisions on police and judicial cooperation in criminal matters and the Treaty establishing the European Community,

HAVING REGARD TO the Treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe signed on 29 October 2004 and in particular Title I Definition and objectives of the Union in the first part, the whole of the second part entitled The Charter of Fundamental Rights of the Union, Chapter IV Area of freedom, security and justice, and finally Title III Internal policies and activities in the third part,

HAVING REGARD TO the action programme to combat terrorism adopted by the European Council on 21 September 2001,

HAVING REGARD TO the revised action programme on combating terrorism adopted by the European Council on 18 June 2004,

HAVING REGARD TO the conclusions of the European Council of 17 December 2004,

HAVING REGARD TO the declaration of the European Council of 25 March 2004 on combating terrorism,

HAVING REGARD TO the framework decision of the Council of 13 June 2002 on combating terrorism,

HAVING REGARD TO the framework decision of the Council of 13 June 2002 on the European arrest warrant and extradition procedures between Member States,

HAVING REGARD TO the framework decision of the Council of 13 June 2002 on joint investigation groups,

HAVING REGARD TO the framework decision of the Council of 15 March 2001 on arrangements for victims in criminal proceedings,

HAVING REGARD TO the reports of the European Parliament on the referrals in question,

HAVING REGARD TO the local and regional dimension of the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice (CdR 61/2003 (1)),

HAVING REGARD TO its resolution in support of local elected representatives under threat in the Basque country (CdR 72/2003 fin (2)),

HAVING REGARD TO its opinion on the Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on Reinforcing the civil protection capacity of the European Union (CdR 241/2003 fin (3)),

HAVING REGARD TO its opinion on the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament on Crime Prevention in the European Union (CdR 355/2003 fin (4)),

HAVING REGARD TO the declaration on cross-frontier civil protection adopted at Udine on 27 May 2005 by its Commission for Sustainable Development,

HAVING REGARD TO its draft opinion (CdR 465/2004 rev.1) adopted on 14 June 2005 by its Commission for Constitutional Affairs and European Governance (rapporteur: Mrs Theodora Bakogianni, Mayor of Athens (EL/EPP),

unanimously adopted the following opinion at its 61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005 (meeting of 12 October):

1.   The views of the Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions

1.1   Comments on the Commission Communication on Prevention, preparedness and response to terrorist attacks

1.2   Comments on the Commission Communication on the Prevention of and fight against terrorist financing through measures to improve the exchange of information, to strengthen transparency and enhance the traceability of financial transactions

1.3   Comments on the Commission Communication on Preparedness and consequence management in the fight against terrorism

1.4   Comments on the Commission Communication on Critical infrastructure protection in the fight against terrorism

2.   Recommendations of the Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions

2.1   Terrorist attacks: prevention, preparation and response

2.2   Preventing and combating the financing of terrorism through measures to improve the exchange of information, transparency and traceability of financial transactions

2.3   Fight against terrorism: preparation for and management of the consequences

2.4   Protection of critical infrastructure in the fight against terrorism

Brussels, 12 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

----

(1)OJ C 73 of 23.3.2004, p. 41.

(2)OJ C 244 of 10.10.2003, p. 53.

(3)OJ C 43 of 18.2.2005, p. 38.

(4)OJ C 43 of 18.2.2005, p. 10.

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Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on Better Lawmaking 2004 and Better Regulation for Growth and Jobs in the European Union

(2006/C 81/02)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

Having regard to the European Commission report of 21 March 2005 on Better Lawmaking 2004 COM(2005) 98 final and its annex SEC(2005) 364;

Having regard to the Communication from the European Commission of 16 March 2005 on Better Regulation for Growth and Jobs in the European Union COM(2005) 97 final and its annex SEC(2005) 175;

Having regard to the decision of the European Commission on 21 March 2005 to consult it on this subject, under the first paragraph of Article 265 of the Treaty establishing the European Community;

Having regard to the decision of its President of 20 January 2005 to instruct the Commission for Constitutional Affairs and European Governance to draw up an opinion on this subject;

Having regard to the Protocol governing arrangements for cooperation between the European Commission and the Committee of the Regions signed by their respective presidents on 20 September 2001 (DI CdR 81/2001 rev. 1);

Having regard to the White Paper on European governance of 25 July 2001 COM(2001) 428 final;

Having regard to its global opinion of 2 July 2003 on the Follow-up to the White Paper on European Governance (CdR 19/2003 fin (1));

Having regard to its opinion of 20 November 2003 on Better lawmaking 2002 and Updating and simplifying the Community acquis (CdR 62/2003 fin (2));

Having regard to the draft opinion of its Commission for Constitutional Affairs and European Governance on The application and monitoring of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality (CdR 220/2004);

Having regard to its draft opinion (CdR 121/2005 rev. 1) adopted on 14 June 2005 by its Commission for Constitutional Affairs and European Governance (rapporteur: Mr Delebarre, former Minister of State — Mayor of Dunkirk (FR/PES);

adopted the following opinion unanimously at its 61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005 (meeting of 12 October):

1.   The Committee of the Regions' views

1.1   Applying the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality

The Committee of the Regions

1.2   Structured dialogue, consultation processes and contract-based partnerships

The Committee of the Regions

1.3   Extended impact assessment and expertise

The Committee of the Regions

2.   Recommendations of the Committee of the Regions

2.1   Recommendations on the entire Better Lawmaking package

The Committee of the Regions

2.2   Recommendations on the tripartite agreements and contracts

The Committee of the Regions

2.3   Recommendations on the impact assessment

The Committee of the Regions

2.4   Recommendations on improving the rules on growth and employment in the European Union

The Committee of the Regions

2.5   General recommendations

The Committee of the Regions

Brussels, 12 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

----

(1)OJ C 256 of 24.10.2003, p. 24.

(2)OJ C 73 of 23.3.2004, p. 38.

(3)  Opinion CdR 50/99 fin (Better lawmaking 1998) - Opinion CdR 18/2000 fin (Better lawmaking 1999) - Opinion CdR 62/2003 fin (Better lawmaking 2002).

(4)  Draft opinion of its Commission for Constitutional Affairs and European Governance of 5 February 2005 on The application and monitoring of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality (CdR 220/2004).

(5)  See, for example, COM(2003) 811 final, Dialogue with associations of regional and local authorities on the formulation of European Union policy of 19 December 2003.

(6)  See opinion CdR 62/2003 fin.

(7)  Communication from the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on the interinstitutional agreement on Better lawmaking - OJ 2003/C 321/01 of 31 December 2003.

(8)  Conclusions and recommendations of the High-level Group on Governance and the EU, The Hague - 9 and 10 December 2004.

(9)  Communication from the European Commission on Dialogue with associations of regional and local authorities on the formulation of European Union policy, COM(2003) 811 final of 23 November 2003.

(10)  White Paper on European governance COM(2001) 428 final of 25 July 2001.

(11)  Presidency Conclusions, Brussels European Council of 22-23 March, 7619/05.

(12)  Protocol on cooperation between the Committee of the Regions and the Commission, signed in Brussels on 20 September 2001.

(13)  Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Proposal for a Council Regulation laying down general provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund and the Cohesion Fund - CdR 232/2004 fin of 13 April 2005.

(14)  Protocol governing arrangements for cooperation between the European Commission and the Committee of the Regions, signedby their respective presidents on 20 September 2001 - DI CdR 81/2001 rev. 1.

(15)  Opinion CdR 62/2003 fin.

(16)  Communication on Better Regulation for Growth and Jobs in the European Union of 16 March 2005 - COM(2005) 97 final andits annex SEC(2005) 175 and Better lawmaking 2004 of 21 March 2005 - COM(2005) 98 final and its annex SEC(2005) 364.

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Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Communication from the Commission Third progress report on cohesion: Towards a new partnership for growth, jobs and cohesion

(2006/C 81/03)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

Having regard to the Communication of the European Commission — Third progress report on cohesion: Towards a new partnership for growth, jobs and cohesion, adopted on 17 May 2005 COM(2005) 192 final, {SEC(2005)632};

Having regard to the decision of the European Commission of 17 May 2005, to consult it on this subject, under the first paragraph of Article 265 of the Treaty establishing the European Community;

Having regard to the decision of its President of 19 May 2005 to instruct its Commission for Territorial Cohesion Policy to draw up an opinion on this subject;

Having regard to the Third report on economic and social cohesion — A new partnership for cohesion, convergence, competitiveness and cooperation — COM(2004) 107 final, adopted by the European Commission on 18 February 2004;

Having regard to its opinion on the Third Report on Economic and Social Cohesion (CdR 120/2004 fin) (1);

Having regard to its opinion on the financial perspective: Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament: Building Our Common Future: Policy Challenges and Budgetary Means of the Enlarged Union 2007-2013 (CdR 162/2004 fin) (2);

Having regard to its opinion on the Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) (CdR 233/2004 fin) (3);

Having regard to its opinion on the Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the Cohesion Fund (CdR 234/2004 fin) (4);

Having regard to its opinion on the Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the European Social Fund (CdR 240/2004 fin) (5);

Having regard to its opinion on the Proposal for a Council Regulation laying down general provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund and the Cohesion Fund (CdR 232/2004 fin) (6);

Having regard to its draft opinion (CdR 141/2005 rev. 1) adopted on 24 June 2005 by its Commission for Territorial Cohesion Policy (rapporteur: Mr Michael Schneider, State Secretary, representative of Saxony-Anhalt to the Federal Government (DE/EPP);

adopted the following opinion at its 61st plenary session, held on 12/13 October 2005 (meeting of 12 October):

The views of the Committee of the Regions

I.   Continuing economic and social disparities in the enlarged Union

The Committee of the Regions

II.   The EU's cohesion policy and the Lisbon Agenda

The Committee of the Regions

III.   The future of the cohesion policy and the agenda for growth and employment

The Committee of the Regions

Brussels, 12 October 2005

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

----

(1)OJ C 318 of 22.12.2004, p. 1.

(2)OJ C 164 of 5.7.2005, p. 4.

(3)OJ C 231 of 20.9.2005, p. 19.

(4)OJ C 231 of 20.9.2005, p. 35.

(5)OJ C 164 of 5.7.2005, p. 48.

(6)OJ C 231 of 20.9.2005, p. 1.

(7)  Council Regulation (EC) No. 1260/1999 of 21 June 1999 laying down general provisions on the Structural Funds, OJ L 161 of 20.6.1999, p. 1.

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Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Integrated Guidelines for Growth and Jobs (2005-2008) Communication from the President, in agreement with vice-President Verheugen and Commissioners Almunia and Spidla including a Commission recommendation on the broad guidelines for the economic policies of the Member States and the Community (under Article 99 of the EC Treaty) and a Proposal for a Council Decision on guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (under Article 128 of the EC Treaty)

(2006/C 81/04)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

Having regard to the Integrated guidelines for growth and jobs (2005-2008), including a Commission recommendation on the broad guidelines for the economic policies of the Member States and the Community (under Article 99 of the EC Treaty) and a Proposal for a Council Decision on guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States COM(2005) 141 final — 2005/0057 (CNS);

Having regard to the decision of the European Commission of 12 April 2005 and of the Council of 22 April 2005 to consult it on this subject, under the first paragraph of art. 265 and 128 of the Treaty establishing the European Community;

Having regard to its President's decision of 19 May 2005 to instruct the Commission for Economic and Social Policy to draw up an opinion on this subject;

Having regard to the Resolution of the Committee of the Regions on revitalising the Lisbon strategy adopted on 24 February 2005;

Having regard to its draft opinion (CdR 147/2005 rev. 1) adopted on 29 June 2005 by its Commission for Economic and Social Policy (Rapporteur: Mrs Pauliina Haijanen, Member of the Board, Regional Council of Southwest Finland, and member of Laitila Town Council (FI-EPP);

unanimously adopted the following opinion at its 61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005 (meeting of 12 October):

1.   The Committee of the Regions' views

General comments

The Committee of the Regions

2.   The Committee of the Regions' recommendations

The Committee of the Regions

The integrated guidelines and national reform programmes

Brussels, 12 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

----

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Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Communication from the Commission: Mobilising the brainpower of Europe: enabling universities to make their full contribution to the Lisbon Strategy

(2006/C 81/05)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

Having regard to the Communication from the Commission: Mobilising the brainpower of Europe: enabling universities to make their full contribution to the Lisbon Strategy (COM(2005) 152 final);

Having regard to the decision of the European Commission of 3 June 2005 to consult it on this subject, under the first paragraph of Article 265 of the Treaty establishing the European Community;

Having regard to the decision of its Bureau of 12 April 2005 to instruct its Commission for Culture and Education to draw up an opinion on this subject;

Having regard to the decision of the Lisbon European Council approving the concept of the European Research Area and thus laying the foundations for a common European policy on science and technology;

Having regard to the opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Mid-term review of the Lisbon Strategy (CdR 152/2004 fin) (1);

Having regard to the Communication from the Commission ‘The role of universities in the Europe of knowledge’ (2) and the outlook opinion of the CoR on The role of universities in local and regional development within the context of a Europe of knowledge (CdR 89/2003 fin) (3);

Having regard to the opinion of the Committee of the Regions on Establishing an integrated action programme in the field of lifelong learning (CdR 258/2004 fin);

Having regard to the opinion of the Commission for Culture and Education, adopted on 11 July 2005 (CdR 154/2005 rev. 1) (rapporteur: Mr Gerd Harms, Delegate to the Federation and for European Affairs of the Land of Brandenburg, State Secretary in the State Chancellery (DE/PES));

Whereas:

unanimously adopted the following opinion at its 61st plenary session (meeting of 12 October), held on 12-13 October 2005:

1.   The Committee of the Regions' views and recommendations

General comments

The Committee of the Regions

2.   Increasing challenges

The Committee of the Regions

3.   The core modernisation agenda: attractiveness, governance, funding

The Committee of the Regions

4.   Priorities for action

The Committee of the Regions

Brussels, 12 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

----

(1)OJ C 43, 18.2.2005, p. 1.

(2)  COM(2003) 58 final.

(3)OJ C 73, 23.3.2004, p. 22.

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Own-initiative Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on EU maritime policy — a question of sustainable development for local and regional authorities

(2006/C 81/06)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

HAVING REGARD TO the decision of the Bureau of the Committee of the Regions, at its meeting on 25 January 2005, to instruct the Commission for Sustainable Development (DEVE) to draw up an own-initiative opinion under Article 265 of the EC Treaty on EU maritime policy — a question of sustainable development for local and regional authorities;

HAVING REGARD TO the 2005 work programme (1) of the Committee of the Regions' Commission for Sustainable Development (DEVE), which is to pay ‘particular attention to the integrated, horizontal approach to EU maritime policy’;

HAVING REGARD TO Articles I-13 and I-14 of the Treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe (2), which refers to aspects of maritime policy;

HAVING REGARD TO the opinion of the Committee of the Regions of 9 April 2003 on the Commission Communication Towards a strategy to protect and conserve the marine environment, COM(2002) 539 final (3);

HAVING REGARD TO the Commission Communication of 2 March 2005Towards a future EU maritime policy: a European vision for oceans and seas;

HAVING REGARD TO the Commission Communication of 26 January 2005 on Strategic objectives 2005-2009 (4), which refers to the particular need for ‘an all-embracing maritime policy aimed at developing a thriving maritime economy and the full potential of sea-based activity in an environmentally sustainable manner’;

HAVING REGARD TO the Recommendation of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2002 concerning the implementation of integrated coastal zone management in Europe (5);

HAVING REGARD TO the White Paper European transport policy for 2010: time to decide of 12 September 2001 (6);

HAVING REGARD TO the draft opinion adopted on 28 June 2005 by the Commission for Sustainable Development (CdR 84/2005 rev. 1) (rapporteur: Mr Döring, Minister for Justice, Employment and European Affairs of Schleswig-Holstein, DE-PES);

Whereas:

adopted the following opinion at its 61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005 (meeting of 12 October):

1.   Views of the Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions

Introduction

Integrated approach as the overarching principle

Individual policies

Trade, transport, shipbuilding and port industries

Fisheries and mariculture

Energy, marine minerals, marine technology

Marine environment

Tourism

Coastal protection

Island dimension

Marine resources in the foreign policy dimension and in the neighbourhood policy

Instruments of an integrated maritime policy

Research and education

Spatial planning and monitoring

Public awareness

Inland dimension

2.   The Committee of the Regions' recommendations

The Committee of the Regions

Brussels, 12 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

----

(1)  CdR 7/2005 rev. 1.

(2)OJ C 310 of 16.12.2004, p. 1.

(3)  CdR 24/2003 fin.

(4)  COM(2005) 12 final.

(5)OJ L 148 of 6.6.2002, p. 24.

(6)  White Paper: European transport policy for 2010: time to decide, COM(2001) 370 final.

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Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Communication from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions: Winning the Battle Against Global Climate Change

(2006/C 81/07)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

Having regard to the Communication from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions: Winning the Battle Against Global Climate Change (COM(2005) 35 final);

Having regard to the decision of the European Commission of 9 February 2005 to consult it on this subject, under the first paragraph of Article 265 of the Treaty establishing the European Community;

Having regard to the decision of its Bureau, of 22 February 2005, to ask the Commission for Sustainable Development to draw up an opinion on this subject;

Having regard to the conclusions of the Council of 22 and 23 March 2005, and of the Environment Council of 7 March 2005;

Having regard to the European Parliament resolution of 12 May 2005 on the Seminar of Governmental Experts on Climate Change;

Having regard to its opinion of 18 November 1999 on the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament, Preparing for Implementation of the Kyoto Protocol, COM(1999) 230 final — CdR 295/1999 fin (1);

Having regard to its opinion of 21 September 2000 on the Green Paper on Greenhouse-gas emissions trading within the European Union and the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament on EU policies and measures to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions: Towards a European Climate Change Programme (ECCP), COM(2000) 87 final and COM(2000) 88 final — (CdR 189/2000 fin (2));

Having regard to its draft opinion (CdR 65/2005 rev. 1) adopted on 28 June 2005 by the Commission for Sustainable Development (rapporteur: José Macário Correia, Leader of Tavira Municipal Council (PT/EPP));

Whereas:

adopted the following opinion unanimously, at its 61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005 (meeting of 12 October):

1.   Views of the Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions

2.   Recommendations of the Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions

Brussels, 12 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

----

(1)OJ C 107, 3.5.2002, p. 76.

(2)OJ C 192, 12.8.2002, p. 59.

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Opinion of the Committee of the Regions Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament The 2005 Review of the EU Sustainable Development Strategy: Initial Stocktaking and Future Orientations

(2006/C 81/08)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

Having regard to the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament on The 2005 Review of the EU Sustainable Development Strategy: Initial Stocktaking and Future Orientations, COM(2005) 37 final;

Having regard to the decision of the European Commission on 9 February 2005 to consult it on this subject, under Article 265(1) of the Treaty establishing the European Community;

Having regard to the decision taken by its Bureau on 12 April 2005 to instruct the Commission for Sustainable Development to draw up the opinion on the subject;

Having regard to the Communication from the Commission on A Sustainable Europe for a Better World: A European Union Strategy for Sustainable Development (Commission's proposal to the Gothenburg European Council), COM(2001)264 final;

Having regard to the Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions onTowards a global partnership for sustainable development, COM(2002) 82 final;

Having regard to the Communication from the Commission of 15 January 2002 to the Spring European Council in Barcelona on 15 and 16 March 2002, at which a new impetus was given to the strategy, adopted two years earlier at the Lisbon summit (COM(2002) 14), to make Europe the world's most dynamic, competitive and sustainable knowledge-based economy;

Having regard to the exploratory opinion from the European Economic and Social Committee adopted on 28 April 2004, NAT/229 — CESE 661/2004;

Having regard to the Declaration on Guiding Principles for Sustainable Development from the European Council on 16 and 17 June 2005;

Having regard to its opinion on the Communication on Towards a thematic strategy on the sustainable use of natural resources, COM(2003) 572 final — CdR 11/2004 fin (1));

Having regard to its opinion of 14 November 2001 on the Commission Communication entitled Ten years after Rio: Preparing for the World Summit on Sustainable Development in 2002, (COM(2001) 53) — CdR 37/2001 fin (2);

Having regard to its opinion of 15 June 2000 on the Proposal for a Decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on a Community framework for cooperation to promote sustainable urban development, (COM(1999) 557 final — 1999/0233 (COD)) — CdR 134/2000 fin (3);

Having regard to its opinion of 17 February on the Communication from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament, the Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on Directions towards sustainable agriculture, (COM(1999) 22 final) — CdR 183/1999 fin (4);

Having regard to its opinion on the Communication from the Commission on Trade and Development — Assisting developing countries to benefit from trade (COM(2002) 513 final) — CdR 100/2003 fin (5);

Having regard to its opinion on the Proposal for a Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on Services in the internal market (COM(2004) 2 final-2004/0001 (COD) — CdR 154/2004 fin (6);

Having regard to its draft opinion (CdR 66/2005 rev. 1) adopted on 28 June 2005 by its Commission for sustainable development (rapporteur: Ms Mona-Lisa Norrman, Member of Jämtland County Council, (SE/PES));

Whereas

adopted the following opinion unanimously at its 61st plenary session of 12 and 13 October 2005 (meeting of 12 October):

1.   The Committee of the Regions' views

General remarks

The Committee of the Regions

International trade

Dialogue and cooperation

The local and regional perspective

Focus on citizens

Public health, security and equality

Environmentally-driven businesses and green jobs

Objectives, measures and monitoring

Instruments for implementing sustainable development

—   Environmental management systems

The EU's Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) should be improved and adapted to sustainable development issues and needs. An environmental management system should be developed, including economic, ecological and social concerns.

—   Public procurement

Including environmental requirements in public procurement contracts is a powerful tool for encouraging changes in production and consumption patterns in society. It should be further strengthened by, for example, highlighting the possibility of taking into account the environmental benefits of locally produced goods and services. Public procurement currently accounts for 15 % of the EU's GDP, or around EUR 1,000 billion.

—   Technology procurement

Technology-procurement procedures should be developed, particularly in the fields of waste, energy, transport, water supply and sewerage, roads and other infrastructure. These are areas where the public sector has a responsibility at local and regional level.

Research and development

There is an urgent need to develop new and more environmentally sound technologies. The Commission's initiative to establish a number of technological platforms built on cooperation between the research community and the private business sector is a step in this direction. Discussions are being conducted by, for example, the European Parliament on the creation of ‘socially motivated research platforms’ for the express purpose of supporting and promoting sustainable development-related R&D. The Committee of the Regions endorses this initiative and would stress the need to extend it to include research and development in the fields of social and behavioural sciences. Specific initiatives are also needed to ensure that research results can be translated into practical action to further sustainable development at local and regional level.

—   Information and public awareness

The Commission has, inter alia, adopted minimum standards for stakeholder consultation prior to decision-making in the environmental field. In addition, various initiatives have been taken to encourage the involvement of the private business sector in the drive for sustainable development. The Commission is not always the best messenger here.

—   Cooperation and exchange of experience

The possibility to exchange experience and accumulate new knowledge through cooperation and interaction between various players are important parts of sustainable development efforts. A large number of organisations and networks within the EU are working to this end.

—   Monitoring and evaluation

Monitoring and evaluation tools are needed to enable effective and targeted action to be taken to promote sustainable development. Health and environmental impact assessments are two examples, but more needs to be done to develop these tools.

—   Market-based instruments

A number of market-based instruments are currently in use in the EU, such as environmentally-related taxes, emission-trading schemes and subsidies. These instruments need to be developed further, with the aim of ensuring that the prices of all economic activities reflect their true cost to society.

—   Spatial planning

Many of the measures needed to promote sustainable development touch upon land and water use at local and regional level and are linked to spatial planning, like the implementation of the EU water directive or the thematic strategies for the urban environment and waste.

—   Legislation

Legislation is another important tool for promoting sustainable development. However, some parts of both Community-wide and national legislation do not fully support efforts to promote sustainable development. Priority should be given to improving and developing existing legislation. In addition, coherence between different laws should be re-examined and improved, with the aim, inter alia, of establishing a simpler regulatory environment. Legislation should be backed up by new instruments and methods based on agreements between the social partners. Examples of this approach include agreements concluded in the context of the open coordination method, the Aalborg Charter and tripartite contracts.

2.   The Committee of the Regions' recommendations

The Committee of the Regions

Brussels, 12 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

----

(1)OJ C 121, 30.4.2004, p. 47

(2)OJ C 107, 3.5.2002, p. 9

(3)OJ C 317, 6.11.2000, p. 33

(4)OJ C 156, 6.6.2000, p. 40

(5)OJ C 23, 27.1.2004, p. 8

(6)OJ C 43, 18.2.2005, p. 18

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Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on The period of reflection: the structure, subjects and context for an assessment of the debate on the European Union

(2006/C 81/09)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

HAVING REGARD TO the decision of the European Parliament of 6 September 2005 to consult it on this matter, under the fourth paragraph of Article 265 of the Treaty establishing the European Community;

HAVING REGARD TO the decision of its President of 27 July 2005 to appoint, in accordance with Rule 40(2) of the Rules of Procedure, Mr Franz Schausberger, Representative of Land Salzburg in the Committee of the Regions (AT-EPP) and Cllr Lord Tope, Greater London Authority (UK/ALDE) as rapporteurs-general for the opinion on this matter;

HAVING REGARD TO the Treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe signed by the heads of state or government on 29 October 2004 (CIG 87/04 rev. 1, CIG 87/04 Add 1 rev. 1, CIG 87/04 Add 2 rev. 1);

HAVING REGARD TO its opinion of 17 November 2004 on the Treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe (CoR 354/2003 fin (1));

HAVING REGARD TO its report of 6 November 2001 on Proximity (CdR 436/2000 fin);

adopted the following opinion at its 61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005 (meeting of 13 October):

VIEWS AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS

The Committee of the Regions:

(a)   Context

(b)   Structure of the debate

(c)   Subjects for reflection

General scope

Topical issues for the debate

(d)   Assessment

Brussels, 13 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

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(1)OJ C 71 2005 of 22.3.2005, p. 1

(2)  Appendix

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APPENDIX

Proposed CoR roadmap for a decentralised debate during the period of reflection

Starting points

Measures envisaged for 2006-2009

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Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on Women and Poverty in the European Union

(2006/C 81/10)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

Having regard to the decision of the European Parliament of 11 May 2005 to consult it on the subject of Women and Poverty in the European Union, under the fourth paragraph of Article 265 of the Treaty establishing the European Community;

Having regard to the decision of its President of 19 May 2005 to instruct its Commission for Economic and Social Policy to draw up an opinion on this subject;

Having regard to Article 2 of the EC Treaty (1), which states that the promotion of equality between men and women is one of the tasks of the Community;

Having regard to Article 3 of the EC Treaty, which states that the Community shall aim to eliminate inequalities, and to promote equality, between men and women in all the policies of the European Union;

Having regard to Article 13 of the EC Treaty, which gives the Commission the right to take appropriate action to combat discrimination of all kinds, including discrimination based on sex;

Having regard to Article 141 of the EC Treaty, which stipulates that the principle of equal pay for male and female workers for equal work or work of equal value be applied;

Having regard to Article 23 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, which stipulates that the principle of equality between women and men must be ensured in all areas;

Having regard to the Conclusions of the Lisbon Summit (2000), which set the aim of achieving an overall employment rate of 70 % and to increase the number of women in employment to 60 % by 2010;

Having regard to the Council Decision establishing a Programme relating to the Community framework strategy on gender equality (2001-2005) (2);

Having regard to its Opinion on Equal Opportunities for Women and Men in the European Union (CdR 161/1996 fin);

Having regard to its Opinion on the Commission Communication Towards a Community framework strategy on gender equality (2001-2005) and the Proposal for a Council Decision establishing an action programme relating to the Community framework strategy on gender equality (3) (CdR 233/2000 fin);

Having regard to its Opinion on the Proposal for a Council Directive implementing the principle of equal treatment between women and men in the access to and supply of goods and services (4) (CdR 19/2004 fin);

Having regard to its Opinion on the Communication from the Commission on establishing the guidelines for the second round of the Community Initiative EQUAL concerning transnational cooperation to promote new means of combating all forms of discrimination and inequalities in connection with the labour market: Free movement of good ideas (5) (CdR 96/2004 fin);

Having regard to its Opinion of 18 November 2004 on the Green Paper on Equality and non-discrimination in an enlarged European Union (6) (CdR 241/2004 fin);

Having regard to its Opinion on the Proposal for a Regulation on the European Social Fund (7) and the Proposal for a Decision establishing a Community Programme for Employment and Social Solidarity — PROGRESS (8) (CdR 240/2004 fin);

Having regard to its Opinion on the Communication from the Commission on the Social Agenda (9) (CdR 80/2005 rev.1);

Having regard to the Declaration of the Fourth World Conference on Women adopted in Beijing on 15 September 1995 (Beijing Declaration), and the Platform for Action appended thereto;

Having regard to the Millennium Development Goals (MDG), and more especially the goals to ‘promote gender equality and empower women’ and to ‘improve maternal health’;

Whereas, in accordance with the Beijing Declaration, ‘eradication of poverty based on sustained economic growth, social development, environmental protection and social justice requires the involvement of women in economic and social development, equal opportunities and the full and equal participation of women and men as agents and beneficiaries of people-centred sustainable development’;

Having regard to its draft opinion (CdR 151/2005 rev.1) adopted on 29 June 2005 by the Commission for Economic and Social Policy (rapporteur: Ms Mireille Lacombe (FR/PES), Member of Puy-de-Dôme Council, France),

Unanimously adopted the following opinion at its 61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005 (meeting of 13 October).

1.   The views of the Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions

2.   The recommendations of the Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions

Brussels, 13 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

----

(1)  References of the treaties in force (Nice Treaty).

(2)OJ L 17 of 19.1.2001, p. 22.

(3)OJ C 144 of 16.5.2001, p.47 (COM(2000) 335 final – 2000/0143 CNS).

(4)OJ C 121 of 30.4.2003, p.25 (COM(2003) 657 final – 2003/0265 CNS).

(5)OJ C 318 of 22.12.2004, p.15 (COM(2003) 840 final).

(6)OJ C 71 of 23.2.2005, p.62 (COM(2004) 379 final).

(7)OJ C 164 of 5.7.2005, p.48 (COM(2004) 493 final – 2004/0165 COD).

(8)OJ C 164 of 5.7.2005, p.48 (COM(2004) 488 final – 2004/0158 COD).

(9)  COM(2005) 33 final.

(10)  EU-25 – The at-risk of poverty threshold is defined as 60 % of the average national income, including benefits. Eurostat 2001.

(11)  44 % of women of working age are in employment in the EU.

(12)  Eurostat 2003. The wage gap ranges from 4 % in Malta to 25 % in Cyprus.

(13)  60 % of the over 65s and almost 2/3 of the over 75s.

(14)  For example, the average gap between women's and men's monthly pensions in France is 42 % (EUR 848 as against EUR 1416); in Spain the gap is 37 % (EUR 405 as against EUR 650) and in Austria, the figures vary from EUR 734 to EUR 1334.

(15)  CoR opinion on the Communication from the Commission on the social dimension of globalisation – the EU's policy contribution on extending the benefits to all (COM(2004) 383 final).

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Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Proposal for a Council Decision on the principles, priorities and conditions contained in the European Partnership with Croatia

(2006/C 81/11)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

HAVING REGARD TO the Proposal for a Council Decision on the principles, priorities and conditions contained in the European Partnership with Croatia (COM(2004) 275 final);

HAVING REGARD TO the European Commission's decision of 17 November 2004 to consult it under the first paragraph of Article 265 of the Treaty establishing the European Community;

HAVING REGARD TO its Bureau's decision of 15 June 2004 to instruct the Commission for External Relations to draw up an opinion on the European Commission's strategy on progress in the enlargement process;

HAVING REGARD TO the Presidency Conclusions of the June 2003 Thessaloniki European Council and the December 2004 Brussels European Council;

HAVING REGARD TO the Council Decision of 13 September 2004 on the principles, priorities and conditions contained in the European Partnership with Croatia;

HAVING REGARD TO the European Parliament report on the application by Croatia for accession to the European Union (A5-0206/2004);

HAVING REGARD TO the 2003 European Commission report on stabilisation and association;

HAVING REGARD TO the April 2004 Communication from the Commission: Opinion on Croatia's application for membership of the European Union (COM (2004) 257 final);

HAVING REGARD TO the Council Decision concerning the conclusion of the association and stabilisation agreement between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Croatia, of the other part;

HAVING REGARD TO the Council Decision of 3 October 2005 in favour of opening accession negotiations with Croatia;

HAVING REGARD TO the declarations and recommendations adopted by the EU-Croatia Joint Parliamentary Committee on 5 October 2005;

HAVING REGARD TO its draft opinion (CdR 499/2004 rev.2), adopted by the Commission for External Relations on 30 June 2005 (rapporteur: Mr Gottardo, member of the Friuli Venezia Giulia Regional Council (IT/EPP));

CONSIDERING the added value of Croatia's prospective accession to the European Union, in terms of political stability and consolidating democracy in the Balkans, providing an example for the other countries in the region;

WHEREAS respect for democratic principles, the rule of law, human rights, the rights of minorities and fundamental freedoms is essential if a country is to benefit from Community assistance for strengthening its institutions and preparing for accession to the European Union;

adopted the following opinion at its 61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005 (meeting of 13 October):

The Committee of the Regions' comments and recommendations

The Committee of the Regions:

1.   Principles, priorities and conditions contained in the European Partnership with Croatia

2.   Entry into force of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement (SAA)

3.   Opening of accession negotiations

4.   Community pre-accession assistance

5.   Implementation of the 2001 constitutional reform on devolution

Brussels, 13 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

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(1)  Articles 7 and 9, Title II – Political dialogue (SAA), Article 116 (SAA)

(2)  Article 8, Title II – Political dialogue (SAA)

(3)  Article 8(2), Title II – Political dialogue (SAA)

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Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament on the Tenth anniversary of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership: A work programme to meet the challenges of the next five years

(2006/C 81/12)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

HAVING REGARD TO the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament on the Tenth anniversary of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership: A work programme to meet the challenges of the next five years (COM(2005) 139 final);

HAVING REGARD TO the European Commission's decision of 3 June 2005 to consult it under the first paragraph of Article 265 of the Treaty establishing the European Community;

HAVING REGARD TO the decision of its Bureau of 12 April 2005 to instruct its Commission for External Relations to draw up an opinion on this subject;

HAVING REGARD TO its outlook opinion of 21 April 2004 on The Euro-Mediterranean Partnership and local and regional authorities: the need for coordination and a specific instrument for decentralised cooperation (CdR 327/2003) (1);

HAVING REGARD TO the Conclusions of the conference Towards a new Euro-Mediterranean Area which, on its initiative, brought together local and regional representatives in Livorno, Italy on 31 October 2003 (CdR 350/2003);

HAVING REGARD TO the Conclusions of the First Session of the Euro-Mediterranean Parliamentary Assembly held in Cairo in March 2005;

HAVING REGARD TO the Conclusions of the 7th Euro-Mediterranean Ministerial Conference, held in Luxembourg on 30 and 31 May 2005;

HAVING REGARD TO the report on Euro-Mediterranean Partnership, Ten years after Barcelona: Achievements and Perspectives, prepared by FEMISE;

HAVING REGARD TO the report on Barcelona Plus: Towards a Euro-Mediterranean Community of Democratic States, prepared by EuroMeSCo;

HAVING REGARD TO the declaration of Euro-Mediterranean mayors approved by the Eurocities' Euromed Commission in Byblos on 27 September 2003;

HAVING REGARD TO its Resolution on the 6th Euro-Mediterranean Ministerial Conference (CdR 357/2003) (2);

HAVING REGARD TO its draft opinion (CdR 142/2005 rev. 1), adopted by the Commission for External Relations on 30 June 2005 (rapporteur: Ms Terron i Cusi, Secretary-General of the Patronat Catalá pro Europa — Government delegate of the Generalidad de Cataluña in Brussels (ES/PES));

unanimously adopted the following opinion at its 61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005 (meeting of 13 October):

1.   Views of the Committee of the Regions

1.1   General comments

The Committee of the Regions,

1.2   Stocktaking of the Barcelona Process

The Committee of the Regions,

1.3   Proposed initiatives and work programme

The Committee of the Regions,

2.   The Committee of the Regions' recommendations

The Committee of the Regions,

Brussels, 13 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

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(1)OJ C 121 of 30.4.2004, p.18.

(2)OJ C 73 of 23.3.2004, p. 77.

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