# CE2004070EN.01015801.xml

| 20.3.2004 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | CE 70/158 |
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20.3.2004

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

CE 70/158

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(2004/C 70 E/165)

WRITTEN QUESTION E-2894/03

by Konstantinos Hatzidakis (PPE-DE) to the Commission

(29 September 2003)

Subject:   Work experience programme (STAGE) in Greece

Subject:

The data processing and communications work experience programme for unemployed graduates (STAGE), introduced in 2002 in the ‘information society’ operational programme of the third Community Support Framework in Greece, was presented by the Greek Government as a particularly successful venture, reportedly providing full financial support for as many as 4 100 jobless for the duration of the programme (nine months). However, there have been complaints that the programme, which has been in operation for a number of years does not entitle participants to employment stamps and is not recognised by the Higher National Council for the Selection of Public Service Personnel (ASEP) as previous work experience or employment. Furthermore, it does not entitle those who successfully complete the programme to an OAED (Manpower Employment Organisation) professional training certificate, despite the fact that this is the body responsible for organising the programme.

Does the Commission not consider that the trainees in question are being treated unfairly and that it reflects badly on the programme itself? Will it make representations to the Greek authorities accordingly?

Answer given by Mrs Diamantopoulou on behalf of the Commission

(5 November 2003)

(5 November 2003)

The Honourable Member's question relates to an action under measure 3.5 of the ‘Information Society’ Operational Programme of the 3rd Community Support Framework (CSF) for Greece. The aim of this action, which is cofinanced by the European Social Fund (ESF), is to give young unemployed graduates the possibility to have a training period of nine months in the field of Information Society.

According to the Managing Authority of this Operational Programme:

| — | during the training period, the participants are covered by medical insurance only; |
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during the training period, the participants are covered by medical insurance only;

| — | their participation is not recognised as work experience by the public administration. However, the Greek Ministry of Interior and Public Administration is acting to pass a legislative amendment through the Greek Parliament so that these training periods are recognised as work experience; |
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their participation is not recognised as work experience by the public administration. However, the Greek Ministry of Interior and Public Administration is acting to pass a legislative amendment through the Greek Parliament so that these training periods are recognised as work experience;

| — | a certificate of attendance is granted by the Greek Employment Organisation (OAED) to all participants completing the training period. |
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a certificate of attendance is granted by the Greek Employment Organisation (OAED) to all participants completing the training period.

The Commission is in contact with the Greek Authorities to discuss ways to improve the direct or indirect effects of this action.

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