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  • MIL-OSI: Open Lending Appoints Veteran Financial Services Executive Massimo Monaco as Chief Financial Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Open Lending Corporation (NASDAQ: LPRO) (“Open Lending” or the “Company”), an industry trailblazer in automotive lending enablement and risk analytics solutions for financial institutions, today announced the appointment of Massimo Monaco as Chief Financial Officer, effective August 18, 2025.

    Mr. Monaco brings over two decades of executive finance leadership experience in the residential mortgage lending and financial services industries, and he is known for driving change, strengthening financial discipline, and building strong partnerships with internal and external stakeholders. Most recently, he served as Chief Financial Officer of Arc Home LLC, a residential mortgage lender, from 2018 to 2025, following his role as CFO at American Financial Resources from 2016 to 2018. His extensive background also includes various senior finance positions at PHH Corp. (formerly NYSE: PHH), one of the largest outsourcers of home loans in the United States. Mr. Monaco holds an MBA and a Bachelor of Arts from La Salle University.

    “Massimo’s extensive background in financial services and mortgage lending paired with his proven ability to develop and execute on the strategic vision of leadership teams make him an excellent addition to Open Lending’s executive management team,” said Jessica Buss, Chief Executive Officer of Open Lending. “His deep industry expertise and financial leadership will be invaluable as we continue to drive growth across our platform. We’re confident in the talent we have in place and look forward to working with Massimo during this exciting time for Open Lending.”

    “I am excited to join Open Lending at this pivotal moment in the Company’s journey,” said Mr. Monaco. “Open Lending’s innovative approach to lending enablement and risk analytics has established it as a trusted partner to financial institutions nationwide while enabling better results for both lenders and borrowers. I look forward to working with the team to drive continued growth and value creation for our stakeholders while furthering the Company’s mission to serve the underserved.”

    About Open Lending

    Open Lending (NASDAQ: LPRO) provides loan analytics, risk-based pricing, risk modeling, and default insurance to auto lenders throughout the United States. For over 20 years, we have been empowering financial institutions to create profitable auto loan portfolios with less risk and more reward. For more information, please visit www.openlending.com.

    Contact information:

    Investor Relations Inquiries:
    InvestorRelations@openlending.com

    Source: Open Lending Corporation

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Open Lending Appoints Veteran Financial Services Executive Massimo Monaco as Chief Financial Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Open Lending Corporation (NASDAQ: LPRO) (“Open Lending” or the “Company”), an industry trailblazer in automotive lending enablement and risk analytics solutions for financial institutions, today announced the appointment of Massimo Monaco as Chief Financial Officer, effective August 18, 2025.

    Mr. Monaco brings over two decades of executive finance leadership experience in the residential mortgage lending and financial services industries, and he is known for driving change, strengthening financial discipline, and building strong partnerships with internal and external stakeholders. Most recently, he served as Chief Financial Officer of Arc Home LLC, a residential mortgage lender, from 2018 to 2025, following his role as CFO at American Financial Resources from 2016 to 2018. His extensive background also includes various senior finance positions at PHH Corp. (formerly NYSE: PHH), one of the largest outsourcers of home loans in the United States. Mr. Monaco holds an MBA and a Bachelor of Arts from La Salle University.

    “Massimo’s extensive background in financial services and mortgage lending paired with his proven ability to develop and execute on the strategic vision of leadership teams make him an excellent addition to Open Lending’s executive management team,” said Jessica Buss, Chief Executive Officer of Open Lending. “His deep industry expertise and financial leadership will be invaluable as we continue to drive growth across our platform. We’re confident in the talent we have in place and look forward to working with Massimo during this exciting time for Open Lending.”

    “I am excited to join Open Lending at this pivotal moment in the Company’s journey,” said Mr. Monaco. “Open Lending’s innovative approach to lending enablement and risk analytics has established it as a trusted partner to financial institutions nationwide while enabling better results for both lenders and borrowers. I look forward to working with the team to drive continued growth and value creation for our stakeholders while furthering the Company’s mission to serve the underserved.”

    About Open Lending

    Open Lending (NASDAQ: LPRO) provides loan analytics, risk-based pricing, risk modeling, and default insurance to auto lenders throughout the United States. For over 20 years, we have been empowering financial institutions to create profitable auto loan portfolios with less risk and more reward. For more information, please visit www.openlending.com.

    Contact information:

    Investor Relations Inquiries:
    InvestorRelations@openlending.com

    Source: Open Lending Corporation

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: AMSC to Report First Quarter Fiscal Year 2025 Financial Results on July 30, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AYER, Mass., July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AMSC® (NASDAQ: AMSC), a leading system provider of megawatt-scale power resiliency solutions that orchestrate the rhythm and harmony of power on the grid™ and protect and expand the capability of our Navy’s fleet, announced today that it plans to release its first quarter fiscal year 2025 financial results after the market close on Wednesday, July 30, 2025. In conjunction with this announcement, AMSC management will participate in a conference call with investors and covering analysts beginning at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time on Thursday, July 31, 2025. On this call, management will discuss the Company’s recent accomplishments, financial results, and business outlook.

    Those who wish to listen to the live or archived conference call webcast should visit the “Investors” section of the Company’s website at https://ir.amsc.com. The live call can be accessed 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time by dialing 1-844-481-2802 or 1-412-317-0675 and asking to join the AMSC call.

    A replay of the call may be accessed 2 hours following the call by dialing 1-877-344-7529 and using conference passcode 4291224.

    About AMSC (Nasdaq: AMSC)
    AMSC generates the ideas, technologies and solutions that meet the world’s demand for smarter, cleaner … better energy™. Through its Gridtec™ Solutions, AMSC provides the engineering planning services and advanced grid systems that optimize network reliability, efficiency and performance. Through its Marinetec™ Solutions, AMSC provides ship protection systems and is developing propulsion and power management solutions designed to help fleets increase system efficiencies, enhance power quality and boost operational safety. Through its Windtec™ Solutions, AMSC provides wind turbine electronic controls and systems, designs and engineering services that reduce the cost of wind energy. The Company’s solutions are enhancing the performance and reliability of power networks, increasing the operational safety of navy fleets, and powering gigawatts of renewable energy globally. Founded in 1987, AMSC is headquartered near Boston, Massachusetts with operations in Asia, Australia, Europe and North America. For more information, please visit www.amsc.com.

    ©2025 AMSC. AMSC, American Superconductor, NEPSI, Neeltran, NWL, D-VAR, D-VAR VVO, Amperium, Gridtec, Marinetec, Windtec, Orchestrate the Rhythm and Harmony of Power on the Grid and Smarter, Cleaner … Better Energy are trademarks or registered trademarks of American Superconductor Corporation. All other brand names, product names, trademarks, or service marks belong to their respective holders.

       
    AMSC Contacts  
    AMSC Director of Communications: Investor Relations Contact:
    Nicol Golez LHA Investor Relations
    Phone: 978-399-8344 Carolyn Capaccio, CFA
    Nicol.Golez@amsc.com  Phone: 212-838-3777
      amscIR@allianceadvisors.com 
       

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Clarification regarding the lifting of measures against Kosovo – E-002940/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002940/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Riho Terras (PPE), Davor Ivo Stier (PPE), Merja Kyllönen (The Left)

    We would like the Commission to clarify the procedure for lifting the measures against Kosovo.

    • 1.Is a unanimous vote by the Council required to approve the lifting of the measures and what kind of procedure applies in this case, given that these measures are not sanctions that need to be renewed by unanimity every six months? Furthermore, to our knowledge, no vote took place in the Council when the measures were imposed in 2023.
    • 2.Could the Commission share any information it has on the impact of the EU measures – such as details of which programmes were suspended and an estimate of how many projects were affected by the freezing of funds under the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance?
    • 3.Last but not least: have the measures against Kosovo been successful in the opinion of the Commission, and what has the European Union achieved by implementing these measures?

    Submitted: 16.7.2025

    Last updated: 24 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – REACH review presented at CARACAL – E-002910/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002910/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Pietro Fiocchi (ECR)

    Commission President von der Leyen has clearly indicated that the focus of the new Commission is simplification and competitiveness. Nevertheless, it is striking that, despite this commitment, several legislative files are still being dealt with in a ‘business as usual’ way.

    The review of the Regulation on the registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals (REACH), presented at the meeting of Competent Authorities for REACH and Classification, Labelling and Packaging (CLP) (CARACAL) on 3 April 2025, does not seem to include any proposed simplifications that reduce the administrative burden for industry. The Commission seems intent on persisting with the same ideas and approach, even though they have proven ineffective. The comments received from EU industry stakeholders are highly critical, saying that it seems as though the Commission services live in a different world from their political leadership and president. Furthermore, they consider it absurd to call the proposals ‘simplification’ because it is as if the Competitiveness Compass, Clean Industrial Deal or economic crisis simply do not exist.

    • 1.How are the relevant services ensuring that the new Commission’s political orientation is being implemented in their directorates-general to align legislation with the Competitiveness Compass?
    • 2.Has the Commission assessed the economic impact of this ‘internal miscommunication’ that risks driving industry away from the EU and towards other more appealing markets?

    Submitted: 16.7.2025

    Last updated: 24 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Contamination from microplastics – E-002878/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002878/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Daniel Buda (PPE)

    Contamination from microplastics is becoming an increasingly serious public health issue. Recent studies have revealed the presence of microplastics in various food products, which can have negative effects on human health. Microplastics have also proved to be an emerging threat to bee populations.[1] Honey bees pollinate 80 % of agricultural crops and wild flowers and, together with other pollinators, contribute EUR 22 billion to the EU’s agricultural economy.

    • 1.Has the Commission initiated research and implemented regulations to monitor and limit the presence of these contaminants in the food chain?
    • 2.How does the Commission monitor the presence of microplastics and other contaminants in food, and what measures are planned to reduce this risk?
    • 3.Microplastic contamination often originates from third countries that do not manage waste adequately, and citizens are not sufficiently aware of the problem. How is the Commission investing in effective cooperation with third countries, and how is it contributing to public awareness campaigns to prevent contamination of the EU with microplastics originating from waste generated outside Europe?

    Submitted: 15.7.2025

    • [1] https://www.rewild.org/press/bees-under-threat-solutions-for-survival
    Last updated: 24 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Industry interests in environmental legislation and consequences of non-compliance – E-002920/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002920/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Rasmus Nordqvist (Verts/ALE)

    The state of EU surface waters remains critical, with fewer than 40 % achieving good ecological status and less than 30 % reaching good chemical status. In Denmark, only 29.9 % of surface waters are in good ecological status, and just 1.7 % are in good chemical status.

    This lack of progress is closely tied to the widespread non-implementation of EU environmental law. The Commission’s fourth Environmental Implementation Review estimates the annual cost of non-compliance at EUR 180 billion – about 1 % of EU gross domestic product. The report finds EU water directives broadly fit for purpose but poorly implemented.

    In Denmark, the Ministry of Environment has long failed to set binding limits for several harmful substances, hindering proper water quality assessments. These include heavy metals and chemicals such as nickel, arsenic and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Internal ministry documents suggest economic concerns for industry have influenced decisions on whether, and to what extent, to comply with EU law.

    • 1.How does the failure of Member States such as Denmark to set limit values affect enforcement and the overall effectiveness of the EU water directives?
    • 2.What steps will the Commission take to ensure Member States uphold environmental law over industrial interests?

    Submitted: 16.7.2025

    Last updated: 24 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Registration of applicants for international protection in Tunisia – E-002911/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002911/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Tineke Strik (Verts/ALE)

    In June 2024, the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) was ordered to cease the registration of applicants for international protection in Tunisia, which it had been performing due to the absence of a formal asylum procedure. Instead, the authorities indicated that they would assume responsibility for registration. At the same time, the UNHCR’s implementing partner, the Tunisian Council for Refugees, is being criminalised through arrests and legal action.

    • 1.Does the Commission agree that the ceasing of registration for international protection by the UNHCR leaves individuals with no remaining way to state their need for international protection – a fundamental right under international law – in Tunisia, and if not, what options can the Commission identify for an individual to apply for asylum?
    • 2.How does the Commission consider that the memorandum of understanding with Tunisia, which includes provisions on and funding for migration management, complies with its obligations under Article 21 of the Treaty on European Union[1], given that the people who are intercepted by the Tunisian authorities cannot exercise their basic human rights if they are in need of international protection?
    • 3.What efforts is the Commission making to ensure both the resumption of registration for international protection in Tunisia, and the protection of the UNHCR’s implementing partners?

    Submitted: 16.7.2025

    • [1] ‘The Union’s action on the international scene shall be guided by the principles which have inspired its own creation, development and enlargement, and which it seeks to advance in the wider world: democracy, the rule of law, the universality and indivisibility of human rights and fundamental freedoms, respect for human dignity, the principles of equality and solidarity, and respect for the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law.’.
    Last updated: 24 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Long-term financing and development of Rail Baltica in light of EU and NATO strategic objectives – E-002997/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002997/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Michał Dworczyk (ECR)

    Russia’s war against Ukraine has confirmed the crucial importance of military mobility for maintaining NATO and EU security. Therefore, Rail Baltica – as a pan-European project of strategic geopolitical and economic importance – not only strengthens the single market, but is also crucial to the security of the eastern flank.

    Given the continued delays in the implementation of the project, ongoing work on the new Multiannual Financial Framework, and the rapid exhaustion of funds under the Action Plan on Military Mobility 2.0, stable and long-term financing must be secured for the next stages of Rail Baltica, including from other European funds.

    I would therefore like to ask:

    • 1.How does the Commission plan to ensure stable and adequate co-financing for this project under the next EU Multiannual Financial Framework, given that the current annual calls for proposals do not provide the predictability necessary for the long-term planning of infrastructure investments?
    • 2.Given that the Commission has recognised Rail Baltica as a project of strategic importance for the EU’s security and military mobility, are additional support instruments – including dedicated financing mechanisms – planned to enable faster implementation of the project under future programmes on defence, military mobility and critical infrastructure?
    • 3.Is the Commission considering extending the route with a section from Warsaw to Ukraine and to allied countries in the Black Sea region[1]?

    Submitted: 18.7.2025

    • [1] This matter is raised in point 1 of Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2025/1332 of 9 July 2025, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=OJ:L_202501332.
    Last updated: 24 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Concerns over Portugal’s waste fee increases and compliance with Article 8a of the Waste Framework Directive – E-002906/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002906/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Ana Vasconcelos (Renew), João Cotrim De Figueiredo (Renew)

    The Portuguese Government has decided to almost double the fees that companies must pay to municipalities – from EUR 125 million in 2024 to EUR 235 million in 2025 – without proper consultation, clear performance goals or the infrastructure needed to improve recycling outcomes. This comes at a time when Portugal is already off track to meet its 2025 EU recycling targets.

    This decision risks undermining the principles of Article 8a of the Waste Framework Directive (WFD)[1], which require extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes to ensure fair cost allocation, efficient use of funds and clearly defined roles for public and private actors. Instead of reforming a dysfunctional system, the government has simply increased the financial burden on companies.

    The Commission flagged Portugal’s underperformance in its 2023 early warning report and has now opened an infringement procedure (INFR(2024)2145).

    • 1.What steps will it take to ensure Portugal complies with Article 8a of the WFD?
    • 2.Does the Commission consider Portugal’s brutal fee increases to be compatible with EU law and can Portugal collect a waste management fee without clearly linking it to actions supporting EU recycling targets?
    • 3.What action will it take if Portugal continues to miss its recycling targets and fails to address structural shortcomings?

    Submitted: 16.7.2025

    • [1] Directive 2008/98/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 November 2008 on waste and repealing certain Directives, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2008/98/2024-02-18.
    Last updated: 24 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Climate target for 2040 – E-002879/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002879/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Daniel Buda (PPE)

    The Commission proposes a 90 % reduction in greenhouse gas emissions as part of the pathway to climate neutrality by 2050. This measure supports clean industry, investment and energy security, and will be debated by Parliament and the Council.

    • 1.In view of the proposed climate goal of reducing net greenhouse gas emissions by 90 % by 2040, how does the Commission intend to ensure an equitable transition for Member States with less decarbonised economies so that they are not disadvantaged in the process of implementing the new measures, and so that their industrial competitiveness is not significantly affected?
    • 2.How will the Commission provide sufficient funds to ensure a fair transition to the 2040 climate goal so that no one and no region is left behind?

    Submitted: 15.7.2025

    Last updated: 24 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – European support for Bulgaria’s accelerated energy transition to alternative fuels – E-002905/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002905/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Ilhan Kyuchyuk (Renew)

    In view of the European Union’s goals of achieving climate neutrality and pursuing energy independence from third countries, the accelerated transition to alternative fuels is of key importance for Bulgaria. Imports of petroleum products continue to account for a significant share of the country’s energy balance, making it vulnerable both economically and strategically. At the same time, national capacity for investment in sustainable energy solutions remains limited, particularly in the context of the socio-economic challenges associated with the transformation of the energy sector.

    In the light of this,

    • 1.what specific mechanisms and instruments does the European Commission envisage to assist Bulgaria in accelerating its transition to alternative fuels?
    • 2.Are there any targeted programs within REPowerEU, the Just Transition Fund, or other initiatives through which our country can receive financial, regulatory or technical support to reduce dependence on imported petroleum products and increase energy sustainability?

    Submitted: 16.7.2025

    Last updated: 24 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Dropped landing obligation infringement procedures – P-002982/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002982/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Isabella Lövin (Verts/ALE)

    In July 2024, The Financial Times[1] reported that the Commission had dropped infringement proceedings launched in 2021 against France, Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands and Belgium for failing to enforce the EU’s ban on discarding unwanted fish at sea. These proceedings aimed to ensure compliance with the landing obligation, requiring catches, including by-catch, to be landed and counted against quotas. The Financial Times reported that the Commission ‘quietly’ dropped the cases without explanation, and that no evidence was seen that the breaches had been addressed.

    Experts have long warned that undocumented discards undermine quota monitoring and the scientific data underpinning fishing limits. Commission staff working document SWD(2025)0149 of 6 June 2025 echoed these warnings, citing a ‘lack of effective control measures adopted by Member States to date’[2], making such violations ‘very difficult to detect and confirm’. The European Fisheries Control Agency’s 2024 Annual Report[3] also found ‘low occurrence’ of detecting landing obligation infringements, while a recent report by the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency[4] found ‘ineffective monitoring and enforcement’ of this rule at Member State level.

    Considering the above:

    • 1.Did the Commission receive any evidence that the identified non-compliance was corrected before closing the five cases?
    • 2.Has it since verified that compliance has improved in the Member States concerned?

    Submitted: 17.7.2025

    • [1] https://www.ft.com/content/92f54b80-24b7-4b57-80f6-a2eadd2a8211?accessToken=zwAGHiDi-6u4kdOS9UuAJLdLV9OA9qLq3SqCEQ.MEUCIBrgX1ar-IVixBkl3pH23gfxiYiS9Z15xqG6RGm62OmIAiEAoJ1fXbcn6CY7R9bUzWpzT_sZxJMVxmOSZSO4nhPbXT0&sharetype=gift&token=1ba2b62f-8594-41df-ba65-7d2607e2fdde.
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/14725-Sustainable-fishing-in-the-EU-state-of-play-and-orientations-for-2026_en.
    • [3] https://www.efca.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2025-05/Annual%20Report%202024%20.pdf.
    • [4] https://cinea.ec.europa.eu/document/download/4a34e7aa-8548-4c4f-b8da-be8cdcf2681c_en?filename=Final%20report%20LO_en.pdf.
    Last updated: 24 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Human rights monitoring of EU border management funding in Libya – E-002912/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002912/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Tineke Strik (Verts/ALE)

    In its answer to Written Question E-000728/2025[1], the Commission states that it ‘monitors its programmes through regular reports from implementing partners, on-the-ground visits, independent expert evaluations and external monitoring’. However, this contradicts European Court of Auditors (ECA) Special Report 17/2024, which concluded that ‘there was no evidence of checks being carried out’.

    The ECA report also concluded that Commission staff possess no in-depth knowledge of the activities funded by the EU Emergency Trust Fund for Africa in Libya, including their location, and therefore cannot assess whether EU-funded equipment is being used as intended and in line with the do-no-harm principle.

    • 1.How many checks have been carried out on EU-funded assets in total?
    • 2.Can the Commission confirm whether it is in possession of a list of all EU-funded equipment, including its exact location?
    • 3.How does the Commission assess whether EU-funded equipment is being used as intended and in line with the do-no-harm principle?

    Submitted: 16.7.2025

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2025-000728-ASW_EN.html.
    Last updated: 24 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The 13-hour exhausting workday is a risk to life and safety for workers – E-002875/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002875/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Lefteris Nikolaou-Alavanos (NI)

    Two full city buses collided resulting in dozens of injuries, including to young children, as a result of the workers’ exhausting work schedules. The driver had worked two 16-hour shifts and two 8-hour shifts in the preceding days.

    The New Democracy Government is promoting a new anti-labour bill, which now provides for 13 hours of daily work for one employer. At the same time, an annual arrangement of working hours is being promoted with slashed overtime pay and the effective abolition of summer leave by cutting it into four. In Greece, almost one worker loses their life every week.

    This is an implementation of the anti-worker Directive 2003/88/EC, which provides that employers may employ workers from a few hours a day up to 78 hours a week and for up to 12 days of continuous work without a day off. At the same time, Directive (EU) 2019/1152 on ‘transparent and predictable working conditions’ imposes flexible forms of employment.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.What is the Commission’s position on the fact that the New Democracy Government is imposing an exhausting 13-hour working day on workers, citing the Commission’s 2023 Interpretative Communication, legalising ‘round-the-clock’ work and putting the lives and safety of workers at risk?
    • 2.What is the Commission’s position on the fact that, on the basis of EU directives, the Greek Government is not obliged to make mandatory the collective bargaining agreements that workers have achieved, struggling for permanent and stable employment, with humane working hours of 7 hours-5 days-35 hours, decent wages and health and safety rules in the workplace?

    Submitted: 15.7.2025

    Last updated: 24 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Retaliatory demolitions of properties in Albania – E-002943/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002943/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Fredis Beleris (PPE)

    Recently, the Albanian authorities seem to have engaged in demolitions of private tourist properties, with the most recent in the Thethi region, where some of the properties had been licensed by the authorities and taxes paid to the Municipality and the State for several years. The owners, both Albanians and European citizens, point out that these buildings are on their property and the demolitions are selective and occur without warning, during the tourist season. At the same time, they complain that the demolitions are retaliatory in nature and punish citizens for their actions in the recent elections, while the citizens in question were never given the right to appeal to the courts against the administrative acts of demolition.

    Acts such as these prove that the Albanian Government does not respect the separation of powers. As part of their accession process, candidate countries must fully comply with EU requirements on the rule of law, property and the right to a fair trial, as enshrined in Articles 17 and 47 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU and Protocol No 1 to the ECHR. These practices call into question the commitment to the European path and raise issues of discrimination against specific communities.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of any cases of arbitrary demolitions of properties by the Albanian authorities?
    • 2.What measures does the Commission intend to put in place to ensure that every citizen’s right to a fair trial against any administrative act is respected?

    Submitted: 16.7.2025

    Last updated: 24 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Türkiye’s use of pre-accession assistance (IPA) funds to finance espionage operations – Production of biometric passports – E-002880/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002880/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Nikolas Farantouris (The Left)

    Reliable and substantiated international reports[1] reveal that a large part of the EU’s IPA funds to Türkiye have been channelled by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s Government into funding espionage operations across Europe. The Turkish Ministries of the Interior and Foreign Affairs are alleged to have used hundreds of millions of euro to gather intelligence against Member States. The issue is further complicated by the fact that Türkiye is becoming a major producer of biometric passports and is already printing passports on behalf of Hungary and France,[2] while cooperation with the new Al-Jolani regime in Syria has also recently been announced.[3]

    In light of the above:

    • 1.What measures does the Commission intend to put in place to monitor the funds received by Türkiye in the framework of pre-accession assistance?
    • 2.Does the Commission intend to request the return of any funds not used for the purposes for which they were granted to Türkiye?
    • 3.Does the Commission intend to take measures to protect the biometric data of European citizens from non-EU countries such as Türkiye, which are involved in the collection and processing of such sensitive data?

    Submitted: 15.7.2025

    • [1] https://nordicmonitor.com/2025/06/eus-aid-to-turkey-diverted-to-spying-operations-in-europe-by-erdogan-government/
    • [2] https://www.biometricupdate.com/202209/turkey-to-print-hungarian-french-biometric-passports
    • [3] https://www.biometricupdate.com/202501/new-syrian-leadership-asks-turkey-to-supply-identity-cards-passports
    Last updated: 24 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Strategic autonomy and EU support for the New Caledonian nickel sector – E-002999/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002999/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    André Rougé (PfE)

    Nickel is vital for the strategic and industrial autonomy of Europe, which is dependent on production from China and Indonesia (in partnership with China) for 80 % of its nickel. That figure rises to 90 % for refined nickel.

    With Greek and Cypriot production shutting down and Finnish mineral reserves only meeting a small proportion of our countries’ needs, the New Caledonian nickel deposit is the main, if not the only, one in the world that is under EU sovereignty. In fact, the overseas territory is home to 25 % of the world’s lateritic nickel reserves.

    At a time when the EU is aiming to secure its supply chain with the Critical Raw Materials Act, New Caledonia is the only territory in a position to ensure that the EU stands a chance of producing 30 to 40 % of net-zero technologies.

    • 1.In light of this, what action does the Commission intend to take to restore the competitiveness of French nickel from New Caledonia?
    • 2.What trade measures does the Commission intend to adopt to counter the influx of Indonesian nickel – produced without complying with environmental, social and governance standards – and to prevent the objectives established in the Critical Raw Materials Act from becoming more and more difficult to achieve?

    Submitted: 18.7.2025

    Last updated: 24 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Granting of derogations having a significant impact on electricity prices in South-East Europe – E-002930/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002930/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Nikolas Farantouris (The Left)

    According to Article 16(8) of Regulation (EU) 2019/943,[1] electricity transmission system operators must ensure minimum levels of available capacity and are not allowed to limit the available volume of interconnection capacity as a means of resolving congestion within their own bidding zone. Exceptionally, derogations may be granted for reasons of maintaining the security of system operations, while avoiding discrimination between intra- and cross-zonal exchanges (paragraph 9 of the same Article).

    The Austrian transmission system operator (APG) has received six consecutive derogations,[2] essentially remaining outside the above requirements. By granting derogations consecutively, this exceptional possibility becomes an established situation, significantly affecting the volume of capacity provided to other states participating in the energy market. This, in turn, affects the price level, creating large differences in electricity prices on the day-ahead markets between South-East and Central Europe, significantly affecting households, businesses and industries in South-East Europe.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.Does the Commission consider the granting to APG of successive derogations justified, given their impact on electricity prices in South-East Europe?
    • 2.Will the Commission collaborate with ACER to end abuse of the derogation?
    • 3.What measures does the Commission intend to put in place to address the significantly higher electricity prices in the countries of South-East Europe, such as Greece?

    Submitted: 16.7.2025

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EL/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A02019R0943-20240716
    • [2] For instance in relation to 2025, see the request by APG (https://markt.apg.at/dokumenten-hub/apg-request-for-derogation-for-core-region-2025-englische-version/) and approval by the national body (https://www.e-control.at/documents/1785851/10641279/Bescheid%20vom%205.12.2024,%20V%20ELBM%2004%252F24%20an%20Austrian%20Power%20Grid%20AG/55bf1cad-f683-9b00-f023-d61054dc0995).
    Last updated: 24 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Irish initiative to boycott trade with Israel and its violation of EU trade competence – E-002928/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002928/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Bert-Jan Ruissen (ECR)

    In recent months, Ireland has revived the so-called Occupied Territories Bill[1], which aims to restrict or fully prohibit the importation to Ireland of any goods produced in Israeli settlements, including those in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. However, according to Article 3(1)(e) and Article 207 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), only the EU institutions may adopt trade restrictions or embargoes. Individual Member States are therefore not allowed to impose unilateral trade restrictions. Moreover, previous Commission statements[2] on an earlier version of the bill mentioned how it would be in breach of EU trade rules.

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of the renewed debate on the Occupied Territories Bill in the Houses of the Oireachtas (the Irish Parliament)?
    • 2.Does the Commission consider these developments compatible with EU trade competence under Article 207 TFEU, and if not, in what way do they constitute a breach?
    • 3.Will the Commission take legal action against Ireland if the adoption of this law breaches EU trade rules, and what form might such actions take?

    Submitted: 16.7.2025

    • [1] Leahy, P. ‘Foreign affairs committee begins discussions on contentious Occupied Territories Bill’, Irish Times, 1 July 2025, https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/07/01/foreign-affairs-committee-begins-discussions-on-contentious-occupied-territories-bill/.
    • [2] European Parliament, ‘Answer given by Vice-President Mogherini on behalf of the European Commission [to Written Question P-000081-2019]’, 14 February 2019, https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/P-8-2019-000081-ASW_EN.html.
    Last updated: 24 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ban on the use of fluorinated greenhouse gases for high-voltage electrical switchgear – E-002924/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002924/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Andreas Glück (Renew)

    Regulation (EU) 2024/573 on fluorinated greenhouse gases (f-gases) sets out an ambitious path for phasing out the use of f-gases in electrical switchgear. From 2032, f-gases with a global warming potential of one or more will be prohibited in new high-voltage electrical switchgear.

    For its current uses, sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) can be replaced with fluoronitrile (C4-FN) or vacuum technology. Fluoronitrile is the only alternative that has been tested at scale for high-voltage applications of more than 145kV. With a much lower global warming potential and low leakage rates, fluoronitrile represents an environmentally sound alternative to SF6 or vacuum technology. However, under Regulation (EU) 2024/573, it is set to be banned from 2032.

    According to Article 13, paragraph 13 of Regulation (EU) 2024/573, fluorinated gases with higher global warming potential can be used, if it has been established that the life cycle CO2 emissions of the switchgear are lower than equivalent equipment.

    • 1.Is the Commission planning to analyse the life cycle CO2 emissions of electrical switchgear using fluoronitrile as an insulation gas?
    • 2.Is the Commission aware that due to the strict phase-out timeline and the lack of alternatives, especially in the high-voltage range, many transmission system operators are currently ordering electrical switchgear using SF6 as an insulation gas?

    Submitted: 16.7.2025

    Last updated: 24 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Is the proposed Dutch waste treatment tax compatible with the self-sufficiency principle? – E-002944/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002944/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Sander Smit (PPE)

    The Netherlands plans to tax the waste sector an additional EUR 567 million annually from 2028. This disproportionate levy will make waste treatment in the Netherlands economically unattractive, leading to the displacement of waste to other Member States and third countries where treatment standards are lower. That will heighten the risk of waste being landfilled instead of being used for energy recovery in waste incinerators and recycled, resulting in higher methane emissions at EU level. The impending reduced treatment capacity will undermine not only the circular transition, but also cross-border circularity clusters, cross-border cooperation, regional heat supply and CO2 capture (CCU and CCS).

    Article 16 of Directive 2008/98/EC requires Member States to cooperate on an integrated network of waste installations so as to ensure EU-wide self-sufficiency.

    • 1.How is the Commission safeguarding Article 16 of Directive 2008/98/EC, now that fiscal pressure is disrupting cooperation with neighbouring border regions and could lead to a reduction in regional waste treatment capacity?
    • 2.What harmonising measures is the Commission planning to take under Article 192 TFEU so as to counter unilateral national tax measures that undermine EU self-sufficiency and cross-border cooperation?
    • 3.Does the Commission acknowledge that, in the context of an existing shortfall in EU waste treatment capacity, the ‘waterbed effect’ – caused by divergent national tax measures – is undermining the objectives of current EU waste legislation and the intended objectives of prospective circular-economy legislation?

    Submitted: 16.7.2025

    Last updated: 24 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Fee for handling parcels worth less than EUR 150 – E-002917/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002917/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Maria Grapini (S&D)

    The introduction of the handling fee in the E-commerce Communication is supposed to cover the increased supervision costs incurred when goods are placed in free circulation in the EU, specifically parcels with declared values less than EUR 150.

    The question is: how will the introduction of the fee collected at European level support the development of national customs authorities, which are feeling the shock of checking thousands of parcels worth less than EUR 150 coming from outside the EU?

    Submitted: 16.7.2025

    Last updated: 24 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Extension of the EU’s ‘roam like at home’ area to the Western Balkans – E-002926/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002926/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    András Gyürk (PfE), Annamária Vicsek (PfE), Tamás Deutsch (PfE), Csaba Dömötör (PfE), Viktória Ferenc (PfE), Kinga Gál (PfE), Enikő Győri (PfE), György Hölvényi (PfE), András László (PfE), Ernő Schaller-Baross (PfE), Pál Szekeres (PfE)

    The countries of the Western Balkans are crucial partners for the European Union. The integration of the Western Balkans was identified as a priority for EU enlargement in 2003 and five countries have since been granted candidate status. This fact, as well as the meaningful contribution of the millions of citizens of these countries to the EU economy, demonstrates the region’s commitment to EU values and policies.

    Therefore, it is concerning that while Ukraine’s inclusion in the EU’s roam like at home area is being fast-tracked to 1 January 2026, the same determination from the Commission seems to be missing for the Western Balkans. We firmly believe that the accession process to the EU should be merit-based and avoid the perception of double standards.

    • 1.Does the Commission share our assessment that a fast-tracked inclusion of the Western Balkans into the roam like at home area would send a much needed positive signal to the citizens of the region?
    • 2.Is the Commission ready to accelerate and complete the Western Balkans inclusion in the roam like at home area by 1 January 2026?

    Submitted: 16.7.2025

    Last updated: 24 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Shortcomings in the EU’s support to firefighters and the need to improve training and stability for volunteer firefighters – E-002873/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002873/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Aldo Patriciello (PfE)

    In recent years, according to the European Forest Fire Information System, more than 500 000 hectares of natural area have been destroyed by forest fires in the EU, with Italy, Spain, Greece and Portugal among the most affected countries.

    The EU promotes initiatives such as the exchange of good practices and the Civil Protection Mechanism, but these instruments are insufficient and fragmented, and do not have any structural impact on the most vulnerable territories.

    In particular, volunteer firefighters, who are key to managing forest fires, suffer from lack of training, recognition and job stability, limiting their ability to work effectively and safely.

    In the light of this:

    • 1.Will the Commission fund training courses and specific programmes to offer stable conditions to volunteer firefighters and professionally integrate them into the Member States’ national bodies?
    • 2.Will it allocate dedicated resources for the training, support and stable employment of volunteer firefighters, especially in the countries most affected by forest fires?

    Submitted: 15.7.2025

    Last updated: 24 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Public procurement in healthcare – E-002931/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002931/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Tomislav Sokol (PPE)

    The ongoing review of the EU’s Public Procurement Directive[1] presents a key opportunity to embed a modern, sustainability-driven approach to procurement across Member States, including in sensitive sectors such as healthcare.

    Public tenders increasingly include environmental criteria, often focused on greenhouse gas emissions, in line with the EU’s Green Deal and efforts to promote value-based, circular procurement. However, environmental considerations must be counterbalanced with a broader, more holistic view, particularly in sectors like healthcare, where the human component is central. Here, sustainability should be understood not only in environmental terms, but also in terms of its economic, social, and human impact, meaning patient outcomes, patient safety, and the well-being of the healthcare workforce.

    • 1.How will the Commission ensure that the revised Public Procurement Directive supports a holistic approach to the definition of sustainability – including human and economic impact in sectors such as healthcare?
    • 2.How will the Commission support procurement authorities in applying such an approach – e.g. through technical guidance, capacity-building or funding – to ensure a shared understanding of sustainability across Member States and a level playing field for economic operators?
    • 3.What steps will be taken to ensure sustainability criteria do not hamper innovation, safety or patient outcomes in healthcare environments?

    Submitted: 16.7.2025

    • [1] Directive 2014/24/EU of 26 February 2014 on public procurement, OJ L 94, 28.3.2014, p. 65, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2014/24/oj.
    Last updated: 24 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – CAP cuts as a result of increased military spending and the consequences of this on the sustainability of the agricultural sector – E-002998/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002998/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Irene Montero (The Left)

    Article 39 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union establishes that the common agricultural policy (CAP) should ensure a fair standard of living for the agricultural community, assure the availability of supplies and ensure supplies at reasonable prices. However, the EU is making more and more cuts to the CAP in order to increase resources for military spending and rearmament. The Multiannual Financial Framework 2028–2034 proposal, presented on 16 July 2025, strengthens instruments such as the European Defence Fund while reducing the CAP budget by at least 20 %. These cuts – coupled with production costs, an uneven playing field and red tape – are threatening the sustainability of the sector.

    In the light of the above:

    • 1.How will the Commission ensure economic and ecological sustainability for the agricultural sector, as well as generational renewal, against this backdrop of cuts?
    • 2.What measures will the Commission adopt to safeguard the agricultural sector in the face of geopolitical instability and the volatility of energy prices arising from increased military spending and international conflicts?
    • 3.How will the Commission prioritise support to a key sector for food sovereignty and strategic autonomy for the EU in the context of increased focus on defence?

    Submitted: 18.7.2025

    Last updated: 24 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Social leasing schemes and used vehicles – E-002996/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002996/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Majdouline Sbai (Verts/ALE)

    In its communication of 5 March 2025 entitled ‘Industrial Action Plan for the European automotive sector’ (COM(2025)0095), the Commission declared that social leasing schemes ‘can support affordable clean mobility for less advantaged consumers, while giving a direct boost to zero-emission vehicles sales’. In its recommendation of 22 May 2025 on transport poverty, the Commission recognised the need to establish social leasing schemes for both new and second-hand zero-emission vehicles. Yet it did not really detail how second-hand zero-emission vehicles could be included in these social leasing schemes.

    Given the large stocks of used vehicles currently present in the Member States and the opportunity to make them more accessible to vulnerable groups by including them in social leasing schemes:

    • 1.has the Commission already conducted impact studies on the inclusion of used vehicles in social leasing schemes, and would it be willing to share the results?
    • 2.what would be the Commission’s recommendations on how precisely to include them in the social leasing schemes?
    • 3.does the Commission envisage any EU legislation on the matter to avoid fragmentation of the EU single market and promote the inclusion of both EU new and used electric vehicles in social leasing schemes?

    Submitted: 18.7.2025

    Last updated: 24 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Backsliding on the 8th Environment Action Programme’s environmental indicators and inconsistencies with the Commission’s deregulatory approach – E-002874/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002874/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    César Luena (S&D)

    The EEA’s Monitoring report on progress towards the 8th EAP objectives – 2024 edition[1] revealed a shocking statistic: 20 out of the 28 headline environmental indicators are stagnating or backsliding. Despite this, the Commission insists on pursuing an agenda of legislative simplification and deregulation that jeopardises the 8th EAP objectives, the Green Deal and the EU’s international commitments.

    • 1.What is the Commission’s justification for pushing to reduce and deregulate environmental legislation given the widespread environmental backsliding highlighted in the EEA’s own official report?
    • 2.What specific measures will the Commission adopt to reverse this negative trend and how will it guarantee that future legislation (such as omnibus packages) does not further weaken environmental protection?
    • 3.Will the Commission commit to introducing a clause or principle of environmental non-regression in its agenda of regulatory simplification, as recommended by scientific and social organisations?

    Submitted: 15.7.2025

    • [1] https://www.eea.europa.eu/en/analysis/publications/monitoring-progress-towards-8th-eap-objectives
    Last updated: 24 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – ‘Choose Europe’ plan: budgetary transparency and impact on EU researchers – E-002760/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002760/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    András Gyürk (PfE)

    On 5 May 2025, the Commission announced the ‘Choose Europe’ initiative. According to statements made by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, this programme, with a budget of EUR 500 million, intends to attract researchers to Europe from countries outside the EU. However, the Commission failed to reveal the exact source of funding for this initiative. Furthermore, based on the Commission’s legal proposal, the Council implementing decision (EU) 2022/2506, prohibits 21 Hungarian universities and one Austrian university from receiving European research and development and innovation (RDI) funding. In practice, this significantly hinders these universities’ participation in Horizon Europe, even as consortium members.

    • 1.Can the Commission clearly identify all the budgetary sources that are funding this programme, and what criteria does the Commission intend to use to award the grants?
    • 2.Does the Commission consider the introduction of a new funding programme for researchers outside the EU while denying EU-based researchers access to European RDI funding a fair practice?
    • 3.Can the Commission unequivocally state that funding originally allocated to support EU-based scientists and research is not being reallocated to researchers from non-EU countries?

    Submitted: 7.7.2025

    Last updated: 24 July 2025

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