Debate: Implementation of the - cohesion policy
Date: MONDAY, 7 MARCH 2022
Speaker: Elisa Ferreira
Language: EN

But meanwhile, our structural long—term work does not stop, and finalising the 2021—2027 cohesion programming remains, in fact, a top priority. We started the preparation very early, already in 2019, and our expectation sincerely was that all the programmes would be ready by the end of 2020. As you know, the pandemic crisis affected every aspect of private and public life, and the Commission had to come up with new proposals. And now, how far behind are we? From previous MFF periods, at this point in time, it is true that almost all programmes had been submitted. In contrast today, we have adopted one partnership agreement, that of Greece. Twelve Member States have formally submitted theirs, together with a little over 100 draft programmes. However, it’s impossible to draw a comparison between the world of yesterday and the world of today, as we all know. In the last year, Member States focused, and rightly so, on the programming and delivering of CRII, of REACT and of the Recovery and Resilience Instrument. And in fact now I fully concur with this Parliament that in this difficult context, we must not lose sight of ensuring stable regional policy and investment in the long term. So, let’s note very quickly two or three topics. First, let’s focus on what can be done on the ground. Delay in formal submission does not mean absence of resources. At this moment, Member States have funds, both from CRII 2014—2020 and REACT—EU. Second, it should not prevent the implementation of projects to start already because, as you know, expenditure is already eligible from 1 January this year, provided that the programming tests accommodate them. Third, no amount will be lost – and here I answer directly your question – due to the delay in 2021. We have reallocated the 2021 money to the years 2022 to 2025. But, in 2022, we no longer have this luxury, so we cannot afford further delay. Fourth, once programmes are in place, the Commission has both soft and regulatory tools to help reduce implementation risks, and the risks of de-commitment. We’ll follow implementation almost in real time. Let me stress two more elements. Programme quality: cohesion programmes matter more than ever before, so quality is at the centre of our concerns, and they matter for a green and digital transition for all regions. I urge Member States to send fully mature, high—quality and pre—agreed programmes in full compliance, namely with the Charter of Fundamental Rights. And second, partnership: partnership – the evidence here is clear – successful programmes have strong partnerships, so we’ll monitor compliance with the Code of Conduct of Partnership. We will also encourage the full use of community—led local development, which is a true agent of change at local level, empowering people to be in charge of their own development strategies. This is the situation; the pandemic and the ensuing crisis put us behind. We are pursuing an ambitious recovery plan for Europe. We are facing a humanitarian and geopolitical challenge that we consider unthinkable. And in the midst of all this, we must ensure the cohesion policy continues to support a resilient, cohesive, long-term approach. This is our belief, and we believe that it is also the belief and interest of you, the European Parliament, and our European citizens. So thank you very much. We are together in this concern and in this objective.