Headlines July 2012
Final step for EU agencies deal
19/07/2012
After several months of negotiations with the European Parliament and Council, a joint statement on the future management of decentralised agencies has been signed on behalf of the European Commission by Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič.
The common approach, agreed in June, was endorsed by VP Šefčovič, European Parliament President Martin Schulz and Andreas Mavroyiannis, Deputy Minister for European Affairs, representing the Cyprus Presidency.
The common approach is designed to improve the agencies' governance and efficiency, and make them a more effective tool in implementing the policies of the EU. It includes a number of improvements to the management of these agencies, including the need for an objective impact assessment before deciding to create a new agency, criteria for the choice of the seat and the introduction of sunset or review clauses foreseeing the option of merging or closing down agencies.
The Commission will propose a roadmap for implementing the agreement by the end of 2012 at the latest, taking into account the unique features of each agency.
Croatian recruitment target announced as accession preparations enter final lap
12/07/2012
The Commission has set its sights on recruiting 249 Croatian nationals as a result of Croatia's accession to the EU on 1 July 2013. The decision is part of a package of documents adopted today, to ensure that administrative aspects of the accession process go smoothly.
Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič said: "I am delighted that after years of negotiations, we are finally entering the final lap towards Croatian membership of the EU. I am sure Croatia will make an enormous contribution to European integration, and I hope many of its brightest and best talented citizens will be inspired to do exactly that by coming to work in the European Institutions".
Preparing the ground for the next twelve months
04/07/2012
Speaking at the European Parliament in Strasbourg on Wednesday, Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič highlighted the European Commission's work programme for 2013, which will continue to develop the EU-wide measures to combat the economic crisis and stimulate growth.
V-P Šefčovič welcomed the European Parliament's close cooperation with the Commission on key dossiers designed to help Europe get through the current economic and financial crisis, and underlined that the decisions taken at the June European Council would open a new phase in the development of the EU, through closer economic and monetary union.
Among the issues to be prioritised by the Commission in the last full year of its current mandate will be the deepening of the Single Market; providing conditions for thriving network industries and services; completing the digital agenda; ensuring sustainability and resource efficiency; delivering a modern industrial policy; empowering people through skills and education; protecting citizens' rights; and promoting a strong Europe.
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