NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Caithness Area Place Planning community event

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Several public drop-in sessions are being held across Caithness during February with displays of options for the future masterplanning for the area.  Council officers will be on hand to explain the proposals and answer any questions.  

    The content of each session will vary slightly, with a mix of displays focussing on the draft Caithness Area Place Plan, the Highland Investment Plan, the Highland Local Development Plan and the Visitor Levy consultation.

    Communities and Place Committee Chair, Cllr Graham MacKenzie said: “These collaborative community events are an excellent opportunity for the public to come along and find out more about the future masterplanning for the area and ask questions and suggest ideas. It also opens the opportunity to connect and discuss further partnership working within our communities.”

    Plans on display and for discussion are:

    Highland Investment Plan – In May 2024 Highland Council approved the £2.1 billion twenty-year Highland Investment Plan.  This is a highly significant, long term infrastructure investment programme for the Highland area and is a radical solution to the significant challenges the Council faces in reducing, maintaining, and renewing our asset base, and is closely linked to plans to modernise Council service delivery. 

    A key element of this approach will be to establish Community Points of Delivery which will be places where a wide range of Council services, including education, can be delivered alongside other partner and community services as part of a future integrated operating model for partnership working.

    Thurso has been selected as one of the priority locations to develop a local place-based masterplan and this event will provide an opportunity to view the work that has been carried out to date and to gather feedback from members of the community. Further engagement with stakeholders will take place thereafter, and prior to reporting on the outcomes at a Council meeting in June.

    Highland Local Development Plan (HLDP) – The Highland Council is gathering evidence including the views of the public and local organisations to help formulate a new, statutory land use plan for Highland. This Plan will shape future planning application and other building investment decisions. The events will display and present the information we think is relevant to the future planning of Thurso, Wick, nearby large villages and the wider Caithness area but we want your views on what else we should consider. Planning staff will be available in Wick and Thurso to discuss the Plan and explain how to find out more and make comment. A consultation launched on 31 January on evidence, runs to 12 noon on 31 March 2025; a call for development sites launched the same day runs until 12 noon on 02 May 2025. For those that can’t make the events then more details of the Plan and access to the current consultation are available here 

    Caithness Area Place Plan (APP) – drafts of the Caithness Area Place Plan will be available.  This plan will capture the priorities for the area set out in other plans and those identified through previous community engagement sessions.  The APP provides the basis for place-centred service delivery and will act as a tool for funders, guiding investment into the area. 

    Visitor Levy – a public consultation is currently underway on the proposal to implement a Visitor Levy in Highland Visitor Levy Consultation | Visitor Levy | The Highland Council and officers will be present at the sessions in Wick and Thurso to informally answer any questions about the proposals and the consultation process.

    The drop-in sessions are as follows:

    Wednesday 12 Feb 2025 – Public Engagement Drop In – Pulteney Centre, Wick -1000-1530

    Tues 18 February 2025 – Public Engagement Drop In – Thurso Library – 1500-1930

    Weds 26 February 2025 – Public Engagement Workshop – Lybster Community Hall – 1400-1700

    For those who can’t attend any of the sessions, there will also be an on-line evening event on Wednesday 19 February 2025 –  to book a place please click here

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Project helps to renew interest in low-demand void housing

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Good progress is being made to create sustainable tenancies in Caithness by enhancing the appeal for re-letting of low-demand void council housing.

    The Council’s Void-Plus Policy involves improvements being made to voided properties to increase the appeal of these homes. There are low demand issues in Caithness so a choice-based letting scheme currently operates in the area. This means housing applicants can register an interest in a property which will then be considered by the service.

    Cllr Glynis Campbell Sinclair, Housing and Property Chair said: “Our Housing Management Team has already undertaken a host of work to progress this project so far including completing surveys, reports and engaging with sites and services.

    “The initial results do indicate that this approach is working as previously void properties have successfully received offers from housing applicants following improvement works. I am also glad to note that the feedback from tenants who are now living in these homes have expressed satisfaction with the condition of the properties.”

    The project is one of many included within the Council’s five-year Delivery Plan which is committed to securing social and economic transformation in the Highlands.

    4 Feb 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Minority Leader Harold Jones II and Sen. Sally Harrell to Hold Press Conference on Protecting Reproductive Freedom

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA (February 4, 2025) — On Wednesday, February 5, at 2:00 p.m., Senate Minority Leader Harold Jones II (D–Augusta) and Sen. Sally Harrell (D–Atlanta) will hold a press conference on Senate Resolution 84. SR 84 proposes a constitutional amendment that would aim to protect access to abortion. It also aims to protect both those who seek an abortion and those who assist a pregnant individual in accessing an abortion from prosecution.

    EVENT DETAILS:                      

    • Date: Wednesday, February 5, 2025
    • Time: 2:00 p.m.
    • Where: 203 Coverdell Legislative Office Building, 18 Capitol Square, S.W., Atlanta, Georgia 30334
    • This Event is Open to the Public.

    MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:

    We kindly request that members of the media confirm their attendance in advance by contacting Jantz Womack at SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    More information about SR 84 can be found here.

    # # # #

    Sen. Harold V. Jones II serves as the Democratic Leader. He represents the 22nd Senate District, which includes portions of Richmond County. He may be reached at 404.656.0036 or via email at harold.jones@senate.ga.gov

    Sen. Sally Harrell represents the 40th Senate District which includes portions of DeKalb and Gwinnett County. She may be reached by phone at (404) 463-2260 via email at sally.harrell@senate.ga.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: The Commission and High Representative Kaja Kallas welcome a major step towards holding Russia accountable for its war of aggression against Ukraine

    Source: European Commission

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 04 Feb 2025 Today, senior legal experts of the European Commission, the European External Action Service, the Council of Europe, Ukraine and 37 States concluded the legal work on the establishment of a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Statement by Commissioner Roswall on the state of water in the EU

    Source: EuroStat – European Statistics

    European Commission Statement Brussels, 04 Feb 2025 Ladies and gentlemen,
    I am very happy to be here today to present to you the state of our waters in the European Union. As you know, water is very high on the C…

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Enforcement of the Digital Markets Act – Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection

    Source: European Parliament

    Cyborg hand holding cloud of justice and law icon bubble © Production Perig / AdobeStock

    On 28 January 2025, the Chair of the Digital Markets Act Working Group (DMA WG), Mr Andreas Schwab, reported to Committee Members on the first meeting of the DMA WG of 16 January 2025. Members engaged in a discussion with the European Commission, who reaffirmed its commitment to a consistent and steady enforcement of DMA. One of the key takeaways is the need to advocate for reinforced staffing within the Commission.

    Another key point is the need to ensure a balanced regulatory approach in relation to gatekeepers. Members also emphasised the importance of further investigations into AI and cloud services. Representatives from academia and the European Cloud Service Providers also contributed on the enforcement of the DMA.
    On 23 January 2025, the Members of the DMA WG, together with the IMCO Chair and other MEPs sent a letter to Executive Vice-Presidents Virkkunen and Ribera. The letter (below) urged the Commission to expedite ongoing investigations, closely monitor AI and cloud services, and assess their potential designation as core platform services.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Visit to Washington DC – Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection

    Source: European Parliament

    Reinforcing the transatlantic bonds © European Parliament

    Between 24 and 28 February 2025, IMCO Members are going to visit Washington DC. The main aim of this delegation visit is to strengthen the transatlantic cooperation on key policy IMCO areas while obtaining feedback from U.S. stakeholders on the implementation and impact of major EU legislation, including the Digital Services Act (DSA), Digital Markets Act (DMA), EU AI Act, Cyber Resilience Act (CRA), Data Act, and Political Advertising Regulation.

    The visit will also address shared challenges in digital innovation, cybersecurity, AI, and fair competition, while informing IMCO’s parliamentary oversight and future legislative priorities.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Effectiveness of online tools against disinformation – E-000327/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000327/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová (Renew)

    Fact-checking has been shown to reduce the tendency to believe in disinformation[1], and the flagging of social media posts reduces the belief in and spread of disinformation[2].

    • 1.What tools will the Commission use to combat the spread of disinformation if very large online platforms (VLOPs) phase out their support for fact-checking (Meta) or do not even include it in their toolbox to combat the spread of disinformation (Google)?
    • 2.What tools does the Commission consider to be as good or more effective in the fight against disinformation?

    Submitted: 24.1.2025

    • [1] https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2104235118
    • [2] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352250X23001550?dgcid=author
    Last updated: 4 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – High cost of living in the outermost regions – E-002822/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is aware of the high costs of living in the outermost regions. A 2024 independent study on living conditions[1] puts the spotlight on substantial challenges in access to housing (as well as energy and water) in these regions.

    In line with the 2022 strategy for the outermost regions[2], and highlighted in its 2024 implementation report[3], the Commission supports these regions through policies and funds that seek to improve living conditions and alleviate poverty. For example, the cohesion policy funds support these regions with nearly EUR 10 billion between 2021 and 2027.

    Cohesion policy funds play a vital role in supporting access to affordable and adequate housing, as well as for access to basic services and infrastructure. In addition, the Recovery and Resilience Facility finances energy renovation of housing, to help reduce the energy bills of the most vulnerable households and increase their comfort. For instance, France’s recovery and resilience plan funds a programme for energy renovation of social housing, and initiatives to improve energy efficiency in private housing, including in its outermost regions.

    The ‘Programme of Options Specific to Remoteness and Insularity’ (POSEI) contributes to food autonomy, accessibility, and economic diversification in these regions with over EUR 4.5 billion. The European agricultural fund for rural development further supports their agri-food sector and rural development with over EUR 1 billion.

    Finally, the first-ever Commissioner for housing will deliver a European Affordable Housing Plan to address structural drivers and unlock public and private investment for affordable and sustainable housing. The Commission is establishing a Task Force on Housing to this end.

    • [1] Study on living conditions and access to selected basic needs in the EU outermost regions, (ECORYS — February 2024): https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/information-sources/publications/studies/2024/study-on-living-conditions-and-access-to-selected-basic-needs-in-the-eu-outermost-regions_en
    • [2] COMMUNICATION FROM THE COMMISSION TO THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT, THE COUNCIL, THE EUROPEAN ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COMMITTEE AND THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS Putting people first, securing sustainable and inclusive growth, unlocking the potential of the EU’s outermost regions (COM/2022/198 final): https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52022DC0198
    • [3] Report on the implementation of the communication: Putting people first, securing sustainable and inclusive growth, unlocking the potential of the EU’s outermost regions: https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/information-sources/publications/reports/2024/report-on-the-implementation-of-the-communication-putting-people-first-securing-sustainable-and-inclusive-growth-unlocking-the-potential-of-the-eu-s-outermost-regions_en
    Last updated: 4 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Regulation (EU) 2024/573 on fluorinated greenhouse gases – E-002924/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Regulation (EU) 2024/573[1] on fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases) includes prohibitions on placing on the market certain F-gas equipment, which are expected to be feasible from the date they apply, provide legal certainty to manufacturers and promote innovation. The latter is clearly evidenced by many new models of heat pumps for private residences that avoid the use of F-gases and are being shown at major trade fairs, e.g. Chillventa[2]. New production capacities have been created to produce such equipment.

    Conversely, there is no indication that the new F-gas Regulation, which only entered into force in March 2024, has adversely affected the uptake of heat pumps. Rather, a slowing growth of heat pump sales observed in some Member States is attributed by the European Heat Pump Association (EHPA) in its latest report[3] to changes or lack/removal of national support schemes, energy prices favouring gas and fossil fuels and other issues affecting end-users (high interest rates, renovation rate slow-down, inflation).

    The Commission intends to carry out a review of the F-gas Regulation by 2030 as provided for in the regulation.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/00573/oj
    • [2] https://www.chillventa.de/en
    • [3] EHPA (2024). European Heat Pump Market and Statistics Report 2024.
    Last updated: 4 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Irish fishing industry – E-002736/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission represents the EU in coastal States consultations with Norway, the Faroe Islands, and others, in line with the EU position approved by the Council and in coordination with Member States. The focus is on sustainable, equitable mackerel stock management. The Commission urges collective quotas aligned with scientific advice, addressing the stock’s critical state caused by excessive unilateral quotas.

    The Commission is also exploring options to reinforce its sustainability tools, for instance, by clarifying the scope of application of Regulation 1026/2012[1] for the conservation of fish stocks in relation to countries allowing non-sustainable fishing, which is subject to an ongoing ordinary legislative procedure.

    The total quota of Ireland for 2025 including transfers from the North Sea TAC (total allowable catches) amounts to 39 914 tonnes, agreed in line with the advice from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea for a 22% decrease. Ireland’s quota has decreased proportionately less than that of other Member States by virtue of the Council decision to grant Ireland a preferential treatment on mackerel (so-called Hague preferences)[2].

    Ireland was a main beneficiary of the EU support through the Brexit Adjustment Reserve until the end of 2023. Currently, Ireland’s fishers and coastal communities may benefit from the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) to modernise the fishing fleet, diversify income sources, and enable a sustainable blue economy in the affected communities.

    • [1] Commission proposal of 13 September 2024 to amend Regulation (EU) No 1026/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on certain measures for the purpose of the conservation of fish stocks in relation to countries allowing non-sustainable fishing OJ L 316 COM(2024) 407 final.
    • [2] Annex VII to Council Resolution of 3 November 1976 (‘The Hague Resolution’).
    Last updated: 4 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Safeguards attached to top-up support to the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) under the European Peace Facility (EPF) – E-003055/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The European Peace Facility (EPF) EUR 20 million top-up support measure covers the acquisition of non-lethal individual equipment for the Rwanda’s troops (RDF) deployed in Cabo Delgado and the costs of the transport of staff, equipment and supplies between Rwanda and Mozambique[1].

    The RDF was deployed at the request of the Government of Mozambique and was instrumental in tackling the security crisis in Cabo Delgado.

    Regardless of the assistance measure in question, the EU condemned Rwanda’s support for M23 and military presence on Congolese territory, and urged Rwanda to end its cooperation with M23 and withdraw its military forces from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)[2].

    It has also sanctioned two Rwandan military officers for their responsibility in sustaining the armed conflict, instability and insecurity in the DRC.

    Under the EPF, each assistance measure includes robust safeguards, which are duly implemented in the arrangements with the beneficiary to ensure compliance by the end users with the requirements and conditions established by the Council[3].

    This has been the case for the initial assistance measure as well as for the top-up adopted in November 2024. Failure to comply with international law and the said arrangements may result in the suspension or termination of the support. To date, the RDF deployment in Mozambique has fully complied with these arrangements.

    Major General Emmy Ruvusha, while mentioned by the United Nations (UN) group of experts[4], was not sanctioned by either the UN or the EU, nor is he an indicted war criminal.

    The EPF assistance measure is not intended for support to specific individuals or to the RDF as a whole, but to sustain the RDF deployment in Cabo Delgado, with the full support of the Mozambican authorities.

    • [1] Press release of 18 November 2024, https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2024/11/18/european-peace-facility-council-tops-up-support-to-the-deployment-of-the-rwanda-defence-force-to-fight-terrorism-in-cabo-delgado/
    • [2] Eastern DRC: Statement by the Spokesperson on the latest developments of 6 January 2025, https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/eastern-drc-statement-spokesperson-latest-developments_en
    • [3] Council Decision (CFSP) 2021/509 of 22 March 2021 establishing a European Peace Facility, and repealing Decision (CFSP) 2015/528, Article 62.
    • [4] Final report of the Group of Experts on the Democratic Republic of the Congo, https://documents.un.org/doc/undoc/gen/n23/123/80/pdf/n2312380.pdf

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EU humanitarian aid following the devastation caused by Hurricane Oscar in Cuba – E-002317/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission has closely followed the impacts of recent hurricanes in Cuba, including Hurricane Oscar as of 20 October 2024 and Hurricane Rafael as of 11 November 2024, compounding an already dire situation in the country that was also hit by earthquakes on 10 November 2024.

    The Commission deployed a humanitarian expert to the affected areas to assess the needs and responded immediately when the disasters stroke. In total, the Commission has allocated EUR 3.3 million in humanitarian assistance for the affected population in Cuba. These funds will contribute, inter alia, to the United Nations (UN) Action Plan for Hurricane Oscar Response in the sectors of food and health and will support the Cuban Red Cross in their emergency response in Eastern Cuba.

    Furthermore, the EU has deployed a humanitarian airbridge to transport more than 100 tons of humanitarian supplies from UN partners, EU, and Spanish stocks in 5 flights from its Panama hub to Cuba, which have provided relief to people affected by Hurricane Oscar. This emergency response complements an allocation of EUR 500 000 awarded in June 2024 to respond to urgent health and medical needs in the country. The Commission also continues to support disaster preparedness efforts in Cuba.

    Last updated: 4 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Ukrainian farmland increasingly US-owned – E-002526/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In Ukraine, legislation excludes the purchase of farmland by foreigners. Some large agricultural companies working in Ukraine operate on leased land. The overall amount of leased land concerned is estimated by researchers at 3-4.3 million hectares, which corresponds to about 7% to 10.5% of the 41 million hectares of agricultural land which Ukraine had in 2020. In general, the agricultural companies operating in Ukraine sell their products on the international commodities markets thus providing food security for about 400 million people around the world.

    The Commission supports Ukraine in maintaining and improving its export infrastructure, including via the Black Sea ports, so that it can continue contributing to global food security.

    The EU accession negotiations, policy conditionalities and financial support under the Ukraine Facility[1] contribute to the reforms of the agricultural sector of Ukraine and its regulation in line with EU standards. This benefits all private investors in the sector, particularly the EU ones, which are already familiar with this regulation. Moreover, Ukraine Facility offers incentives for European businesses to invest in Ukraine, including in the agricultural sector.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=OJ:L_202400792
    Last updated: 4 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Recent developments regarding methane emissions possibly not complying with EU-New Zealand free trade agreement – E-002719/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the European Union and New Zealand establishes the structures and procedures to analyse, discuss and address any matters which arise in relation to the FTA, including issues related to the Paris Agreement[1] on climate change.

    The Commission services are in contact with their New Zealand counterparts to prepare the first meetings of the committees established under the FTA, which are foreseen to take place in the first half of 2025. In these bilateral exchanges, various matters of interest and concern are being anticipated and discussed, including with regard to greenhouse gases such as methane.

    Independently from the FTA, the Commission is engaged with New Zealand in high level dialogues on climate change to intensify bilateral and multilateral climate cooperation, including on methane emissions. The first such dialogue took place in 2023, while the second one is expected to be held this year .

    If a potential matter of concern with regard to the commitments agreed in an FTA is identified, the Commission can formally engage with New Zealand with an aim to resolve the issue. In particular, the matter can be followed-up in the relevant committee of the FTA. If no solution were to be found with respect to a potential breach, the FTA foresees the possibility to resort to dispute settlement proceedings.

    The Paris Agreement is an essential element of the FTA and the Commission is committed to ensuring that its objective and purpose is respected, including in our relations with our closest partners.

    • [1] Key aspects of the Paris Agreement: https://unfccc.int/most-requested/key-aspects-of-the-paris-agreement
    Last updated: 4 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The status of payments requested from the Commission within the eight regional development programmes in Romania – E-002925/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The total European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) amount included in payment applications submitted by the Romanian regional development agencies to the Commission up to 30 November 2024 is EUR 113 million. Together with the additional amount of EUR 25 million which was submitted in December, the total amount of EUR 138 million has already been reimbursed to the Romanian regional authorities.

    2. The Commission has supported the eight regional development agencies, in close coordination with the Romanian central services. Until now, the focus was on the first phase of programme implementation, in particular preparation of transparent and non-discriminatory selection criteria and respect for EU horizontal principles[1]. This has contributed to timely publishing of adequate project guidelines and has created the conditions for a smooth start of the programmes, with evaluation and selection procedures either completed or currently well advanced. The good performance of the regional programmes is also shown by the projects selection rate of 34.4% of total allocation which is above the EU average of 30.9%.

    • [1] To ensure accessibility to persons with disabilities, gender equality, and take account of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, the principle of sustainable development and of the Union policy on the environment, including the DNSH (Do Not Significant Harm).
    Last updated: 4 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Shortcomings in the management of the Recovery and Resilience Facility – E-002577/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Commission welcomes the European Court of Auditors’ (ECA) acknowledgement in Special Report 14/2024 that the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) contributes to the EU’s green transition by, amongst other things, prompting Member States to include substantial climate measures (both reforms and investments) in their recovery plans. As noted in the Commission’s replies to the special report[1], ECA’s findings on the calculation of the RRF’s climate contribution are the mathematical consequence of ECA using more conservative climate coefficients than those provided for in the RRF Regulation[2]. The Commission notes that it is obliged to apply the methodology agreed by the two co-legislators and the specific coefficients set by the regulation. The Commission reiterates that the RRF is one of the key EU instruments to support the green transition, with an expected unprecedented EUR 276 billion contributing to climate objectives.

    2. The design of the RRF ensures that Member States receive significant financial support in return for the successful implementation of their reform and investment agenda, in line with EU priorities. The RRF has channelled significant resources to help Member States design and implement reforms and investments to increase the share of renewables in Member States’ energy mix, improve energy efficiency, cut pollution, boost the economy through green technologies, support sustainable transport, enhance climate resilience, and promote green skills. The Commission has been working closely with Member States to ensure the successful and timely implementation of the Facility.

    • [1] https://www.eca.europa.eu/Lists/ECAReplies/COM-Replies-SR-2024-14/COM-Replies-SR-2024-14_EN.pdf
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2021/241 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 February 2021 establishing the Recovery and Resilience Facility, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32021R0241
    Last updated: 4 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EU funding for flood relief and the provision of emergency aid – P-002687/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. and 3. On 29 November 2024, Poland submitted an application for the EU Solidarity Fund[1], which is being assessed by the Commission. If the conditions for mobilising the Fund are met, the Commission will determine the amount of financial assistance, within the limits of the financial resources available, propose it to the budgetary authority and make it available as quickly as possible.

    2. Poland will be able to make use of flexibilities under the 2021-2027 cohesion policy framework based on the recently adopted Regulation ‘RESTORE’[2], entered into force on 24 December 2024, following the co-legislative negotiations. Member States could reprogramme part of their European Regional Development Fund, European Social Fund Plus and Cohesion Fund allocations for actions and projects in response to natural disasters, including reconstruction and repair measures to alleviate the negative socioeconomic consequences of natural disasters. The increased EU financing and pre-financing rates will ease the budgetary pressure on affected Member States and regions.

    Poland will have 6 months from the entry into force of this regulation to submit amendments to its cohesion policy programmes to make use of the support and flexibilities provided in this context.

    • [1] Council Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002 of 11 November 2002 establishing the European Union Solidarity Fund (OJ L 311, 14.11.2002, p. 3) as amended by Regulation (EU) No 661/2014 of the European Parliament and the Council of 15 May 2014 (OJ L 189, 27.6.2014, p. 143) and by Regulation (EU) 2020/461 of the European Parliament and the Council of 30 March 2020 (OJ L 99, 31.3.2020, p. 9). https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:32002R2012
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2024/3236 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 December 2024 amending Regulations (EU) 2021/1057 and (EU) 2021/1058 as regards Regional Emergency Support to Reconstruction (RESTORE), available at this link : http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/3236/oj
    Last updated: 4 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – European companies following the introduction of sanctions – E-002556/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    From the outset, the sanctions have been designed and implemented to impose a heavy price on Russia and Belarus, whilst minimising adverse effects on the EU, its citizens and businesses.

    When developing sanctions packages, the Commission carefully considers their impact on EU operators and on individual Member States. Consultations with Member States and industry are aimed at preventing adverse impacts.

    Against the backdrop of Russia’s war of aggression, Ukraine has benefited from various EU support measures. The Autonomous Measures adopted by the European Parliament and the Council in June 2022 and renewed twice until June 2025 have provided duty and quota-free access for Ukrainian agricultural products to the EU market.

    The Commission has been monitoring the impact of these measures closely (monitoring reports are shared with the European Parliament’s Committee on International Trade) and has not found any adverse impact of liberalisation on the EU market.

    Concerning the possible establishment of a mechanism to mitigate the impact of sanctions, the Commission would like to recall that the adoption of sanctions takes into account impacts on the EU’s economy and operators and systematically requires the unanimous approval by the Member States.

    Last updated: 4 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Protection of the right to use cash in the European Union – E-002856/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Euro cash is granted legal tender status in the euro area[1]. In accordance with the Court’s jurisprudence[2], legal tender entails, in principle, the mandatory acceptance of cash, at full face value, with the power to discharge from a payment obligation.

    The Commission’s proposal[3] for a regulation on the legal tender of euro cash aims to safeguard the role of euro cash in practice, to ensure it is widely accepted as a means of payment and remains easily accessible for everyone across the euro area. The proposal does so by enshrining in legislation that cash acceptance is in principle mandatory across the euro area, and by requiring Member States to monitor cash acceptance and access and to take remedial measures where necessary.

    The proposal seeks to preserve the financial inclusion of vulnerable groups by ensuring that these groups, that are more dependent on cash, continue to have access to and are free to choose their preferred payment method, thus preventing discrimination against those who rely on cash for their payments.

    The proposal foresees that Member States would have to ensure that the legal tender principle of mandatory acceptance is not undermined by widespread refusals of cash through the unilateral and ex ante exclusion of cash by enterprises . They would have the obligation to monitor the level of ex ante unilateral exclusions of payments in cash and to take remedial measures if cash non-acceptance levels are deemed to undermine the mandatory acceptance of euro cash.

    • [1] Article 128 (1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union lays down the legal tender status of euro banknotes, and Article 11 of Regulation EC/974/98 does so with regard to euro coins.
    • [2] See judgment of 26 January 2021 in Joined Cases C-422/19 and C-423/19, Hessischer Rundfunk https://curia.europa.eu/juris/liste.jsf?num=C-422/19
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_23_3501
    Last updated: 4 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Recovery and Resilience Dialogue – 10.02.2025 – Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    On Monday, 10 February 2025, the Members from the Committee on Budgets and the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs will hold the first Recovery and Resilience Dialogue (RRD) since the entry into office of the new European Commission with Raffaele Fitto, Executive Vice-President of the Commission for Cohesion and Reforms and Valdis Dombrovskis, Commissioner for Economy and Productivity, Implementation and Simplification.

    During this 17th RRD meeting, the Commissioners will update the Members on the latest state of implementation of the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF). Members will be interested to hear about Member States’ progress towards achieving agreed milestones and targets, disbursed amounts, including partial payments, latest payment requests, and pending challenges, such as delayed requests.

    The Recovery and Resilience Dialogue is organised under Article 26 of the Regulation establishing the Recovery and Resilience Facility to ensure greater transparency and accountability in the implementation of the Facility.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Violation of the right to self-determination by the Albanian Government – E-000340/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000340/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Nikolaos Anadiotis (NI)

    The three recent Albanian Government decrees (Këshillit të Ministrave, 26/12/2024) on the application of Law 96/2017 “On the protection of national minorities”[1] constitute significant obstacles to the recognition of the Greek minority.

    The Albanian Government is essentially cancelling the right to self-determination and discouraging the registration of minorities. Specifically, it sets and imposes criteria and procedures (note the term “claims”, instead of “feels”); audit committees do not ensure that the nationality request is fully accepted, due to the absence of documents of origin from 2010; there is reference to data concerning the arbitrary and illegal registration of thousands of Greeks as being Albanian nationals, either from the formation of Albania (1913) or previously denounced censuses; the pyramid of approval up to ministerial level is time consuming; and the examining committee comprises first and foremost institutional agents, raising reasonable concerns about a lack of transparency.

    Since these practices violate the European Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities,

    • 1.What actions does the Commission intend to take to ensure that Albania complies with its international obligations regarding respect for the right to self-determination?
    • 2.Will the Commission link Albania’s development and progress in the accession negotiations – and the whole process – with requiring immediate reform of these practices?

    Submitted: 27.1.2025

    • [1] https://www.kryeministria.al/newsroom/vendime-te-miratuara-ne-mbledhjen-e-keshillit-te-ministrave-date-26-dhjetor-2024/.
    Last updated: 4 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Continued strengthening of the EU Solidarity Lanes to support Ukraine – E-000335/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000335/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Tomas Tobé (PPE), Jens Gieseke (PPE), Norbert Lins (PPE), Elena Nevado del Campo (PPE), Borja Giménez Larraz (PPE)

    In response to Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, the Commission launched the EU-Ukraine Solidarity Lanes in May 2022, the purpose being to establish logistics routes and enable trade in Ukrainian goods to continue[1]. The Solidarity Lanes have been very effective. In two years, they have allowed Ukraine to export around 162 million tonnes of goods. The total value of trade via the Solidarity Lanes is estimated at around EUR 192 billion[2].

    Continued support for Ukraine in every sector is crucial for ensuring the country’s resilience, and the Solidarity Lanes highlight the importance of functioning infrastructure in this regard. In light of this:

    • 1.How does the Commission plan to strengthen the Solidarity Lanes between the EU and Ukraine?
    • 2.What other measures does the Commission plan to take in order to meet Ukraine’s infrastructure needs?

    Submitted: 27.1.2025

    • [1] https://transport.ec.europa.eu/news-events/news/european-commission-establish-solidarity-lanes-help-ukraine-export-agricultural-goods-2022-05-12_en.
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/topics/eu-solidarity-ukraine/eu-assistance-ukraine/eu-ukraine-solidarity-lanes_en.
    Last updated: 4 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Drop in the productivity of shellfish gathering on the Galician coast: the case of the Arousa Estuary – E-000392/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000392/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Ana Miranda Paz (Verts/ALE)

    According to data from the shellfish gathering industry, the productivity of the Arousa Estuary in Galicia fell by almost 45 % in 2024, which implies an economic loss of almost EUR 16 million. This has an effect not only on the hundreds of direct jobs that this industry creates, but on the whole industrial supply chain.

    Abnormally high sea temperatures and heavy and irregular rainfall are killing commercial species. The lack of protection from water pollution is also a factor in shellfish mortality. However, according to data, only around 20 % of funds from the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) are aimed at environmentally sustainable small-scale fishing.

    Considering this:

    • 1.Will the Commission take action to alleviate the difficult situation of the shellfish sector in the Arousa Estuary and on the Galician coast in general?
    • 2.Does the Commission plan on restructuring the funding criteria to increase the percentage of EMFAF resources that are allocated to small-scale and traditional fishing activities, in order to tackle problems derived from shellfish mortality and loss of productivity?

    Submitted: 29.1.2025

    Last updated: 4 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Measures to limit the effects of the recent ecological disaster in the Black Sea – E-000084/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000084/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Victor Negrescu (S&D)

    For almost a month now, the Black Sea has been battling the devastating effects of the biggest environmental disaster in recent years, caused by two Russian oil tankers that sank in the Kerch Strait. Hundreds of birds, dozens of dolphins and thousands of marine organisms have died and the ecosystem has been contaminated with the substances released into the water, including thousands of tonnes of M100, a highly toxic petroleum product.

    • 1.Given these circumstances, I believe the Commission needs to take urgent action to limit the effects of this environmental disaster on the territorial waters of Romania and Bulgaria. What does the Commission intend to do to support the Black Sea states?
    • 2.Similarly, what EU financing solutions and mechanisms are available for Black Sea countries to restore maritime ecosystems, protect biodiversity, avert any risk to local communities and clean up the shores affected?

    Submitted: 12.1.2025

    Last updated: 4 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Several Swedish municipalities and regions are missing out on millions of kronor in electricity subsidies because they are being classified as farms – E-003014/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Concerning the first and second questions, the Commission cannot take position without further details. Both questions seem largely related to the interpretation of the national law, which the Commission cannot comment on.

    Nevertheless, Article 345 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union expresses the principle of neutrality in relation to the rules in Member States governing the system of property ownership.

    This implies that public bodies, such as municipalities or regions, may also carry out economic activities and then constitute undertakings, as defined in the jurisprudence of the EU Courts.

    However, the classification of such an entity as an undertaking is always relative to a specific activity. An entity that carries out both economic and non-economic activities is to be regarded as an undertaking only with regard to the former.

    It follows that EU competition law, including EU State aid law, does not require to qualify a municipality or region that carries out different activities, some of them economic and some non-economic, as an undertaking with regard to all its activities, but only with regard to those that are economic in nature.

    As such, these rules do not require to qualify the entirety of a municipality or region that, amongst many activities, also carries out the economic activity of primary agricultural production as a farmer, but rather only those activities that constitute such primary agricultural production.

    Moreover, the Commission is committed to bring down electricity prices for households and businesses to support the energy transition and the Union’s competitiveness.

    Therefore, the Commission is working on the Clean Industrial Deal and an Action Plan for Affordable Energy to be published in the first hundred days of this Commission, in line with the mission letters by the President of the Commission to the Executive Vice-President for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition[1] and to the Commissioner for Energy and Housing[2].

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/33d74e86-3a17-472c-ba93-59d1606bbc20_en?filename=mission-letter-ribera_0.pdf
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/35154547-48c1-4671-8d34-13e098859a57_en?filename=mission-letter-jorgensen.pdf

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Budgetary impact of new economic governance rules and the need for methodological transparency – E-002213/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The new Economic Governance Framework supports Member States in achieving fiscal sustainability as well as sustainable economic growth.

    Both are critical for the EU’s economic strength in today’s challenging global environment. In particular, the new framework encourages reforms and investments that will lay the foundations for long-term economic stability and sustainable growth.

    As part of the implementation of the new framework, the Commission recommended on 26 November 2024 to the Council to endorse the fiscal path contained in Portugal’s medium-term fiscal-structural plan, which corresponds to an annual fiscal adjustment of 0.1% of gross domestic product for the period 2025-2028[1].

    The new framework differentiates between Member States according to their fiscal position. As stipulated in Regulation 2024/1263[2], the Commission applies a replicable, predictable and transparent methodology to assess the plausibility of whether the projected public debt ratio is on a downward path or remains at prudent level. For the first round of medium-term plans, this methodology is described in the Debt Sustainability Monitor 2023[3].

    The prior Commission’s guidance to Member States, derived from the Commission debt projection framework, is published when the medium-term plan is submitted, in accordance with Article 9 of the regulation, together with spreadsheets allowing to reproduce the calculations.

    A working group for debt sustainability analysis has been established to explore possible methodological improvements.

    • [1] See : https://economy-finance.ec.europa.eu/economic-and-fiscal-governance/stability-and-growth-pact/preventive-arm/national-medium-term-fiscal-structural-plans_en#portugal
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1263
    • [3] See: https://economy-finance.ec.europa.eu/publications/debt-sustainability-monitor-2023_en
    Last updated: 4 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Articles 10, 11 and 12 of the EU Critical Raw Materials Act and their application to EU candidate countries – E-002393/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU Critical Raw Materials Act[1] (CRMA) is directly applicable to Member States only, therefore it does not prescribe obligations to non-EU countries, including as regards the specific requirements and timeframes covered by Articles 10, 11 and 12 referred to in the Honourable Member’s written question.

    As such, EU candidate countries are not directly bound by EU legislation until their full accession, unless it is specifically referenced or incorporated into international agreements.

    However, candidate countries are expected to gradually align their legislative framework with the EU acquis as part of their accession process.

    This alignment occurs in accordance with their transposition of relevant EU legislation into national law, which takes place progressively, with support and monitoring from the Commission.

    Therefore, while the CRMA does not directly apply to EU candidate countries, it serves as a complementary framework that may influence their strategic choices, and it will apply when these countries formally join the EU.

    When it comes to strategic projects, authorities of candidate countries are invited to consider the benefits to be granted to such projects in national policies, such as the permitting provisions.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2024/1252 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 April 2024 establishing a framework for ensuring a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials, OJ L, 2024/1252, 3.5.2024, http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1252/oj
    Last updated: 4 February 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The disappearance of Iranian student Ahoo Daryaei and the need to take measures against symbols of female repression in the EU – E-002406/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU strongly supports the fundamental aspiration of the people of Iran for a future where their universal human rights and fundamental freedoms are respected, protected and fulfilled.

    The EU has been following the case of student Ahou Daryaei from the beginning and will continue to monitor her situation very closely, also now when she returned to her family without any formal charges having been brought against her.

    The EU is using every opportunity, both publicly and in direct diplomatic contacts, to call on Iran to ensure respect for women and girls’ rights and to combat all forms of discrimination and violence in public and private life.

    The Commission promotes inclusion, diversity and unity in the EU. Issues regarding the wearing of religious clothing, such as the hijab, in the public sphere are a matter for Member States, subject to the judicial control by national courts and the European Court of Human Rights.

    Last updated: 4 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – DAND Constitutive meeting of 3 October 2024 – Delegation for relations with the countries of the Andean Community

    Source: European Parliament

    At its constitutive meeting on 3 October 2024, the Delegation for relations with the countries of the Andean Community (DAND) elected the following bureau member:

    Chair: Robert BIEDRON (S&D, Poland)

    1st Vice-Chair: tbc in the next meeting

    2nd Vice-Chair:     tbc in the next meeting

    MIL OSI Europe News –