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19/05/2022

EU news you can use

REPowerEU: A plan to rapidly reduce dependence on Russian fossil fuels and fast forward the green transition (18/05/2022)

The European Commission has presented a plan to end the EU’s dependence on Russian fossil fuels and tackle the climate crisis. The REPowerEU Plan proposes energy savings, diversification of energy supplies, and the accelerated roll-out of renewable energy to replace fossil fuels in homes, industry and power generation. Executive Vice President Frans Timmermans said: "It is more urgent than ever that Europe becomes master of their own destiny, increase its resilience and sovereignty, and continue to lead the world in facing the climate crisis."

Northern Ireland Protocol: Statement by Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič following this week's announcement by the UK Foreign Secretary (17/05/2022)

In a statement following Tuesday's announcement by UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss, Commission Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič said: "Should the UK decide to move ahead with a bill disapplying constitutive elements of the Protocol as announced today by the UK government, the EU will need to respond with all measures at its disposal. Our overarching objective is to find joint solutions within the framework of the Protocol. That is the way to ensure legal certainty and predictability for people and businesses in Northern Ireland. With political will and commitment, practical issues arising from the implementation of the Protocol in Northern Ireland can be resolved."

Spring 2022 Economic Forecast: Russian invasion tests EU economic resilience (16/05/2022)

According to the Commission's spring Economic Forecast, Ireland's GDP is expected to increase by 5.4% in 2022 (2nd highest in the EU after Portugal) and by 4.4% in 2023, slightly slower than previously expected due to higher inflation, supply bottlenecks and uncertainty created by the Russian aggression against Ukraine. The forecast also predicts that Ireland's rate of inflation will peak around mid-2022 and moderate thereafter as the impact of high energy prices starts to wane.

Ukraine: European Commission presents plans for the Union's immediate response to address Ukraine's financing gap and the longer-term reconstruction (18/05/2022)

The European Commission has set out plans for the EU's immediate response to address Ukraine's financing gap, as well as the longer-term reconstruction framework. The war has resulted in a collapse of tax, export and other revenues, compounded by large scale illegal appropriation of assets and export goods including in the agricultural sector. The Commission this week proposed to grant Ukraine additional macro-financial assistance of up to €9 billion in 2022. It also proposed a new instrument, 'RebuildUkraine', which would be dedicated to financing the reconstruction effort and aligning Ukraine's economy to the EU.

EU steps up action to strengthen EU defence capabilities (18/05/2022)

In light of the Russian military aggression against Ukraine, EU Heads of State or Government committed to “bolster European defence capabilities”. The Commission this week presented an analysis of the defence investment gaps, and proposed measures and actions to strengthen the European defence industrial and technological base. Commissioner Breton said: "We are presenting a clear roadmap of the defence capabilities in which it is most urgent to invest together, better and in Europe. To turn this vision into reality, we are proposing a European framework for joint acquisition supported by the EU's budget."

Audiovisual Media Services Directive: Commission refers Ireland to the Court of Justice of the EU (19/05/2022)

The European Commission has decided to refer Ireland and four other EU Member States to the Court of Justice of the European Union over their failure to transpose the revised Audiovisual Media Services Directive with a request to impose financial sanctions. The revised Directive provides EU-wide media content standards for all audiovisual media, both traditional TV broadcasts and on-demand services, in addition to video-sharing platforms. The aim is to create a safer, fairer and more diverse audiovisual landscape.

445 young Irish people selected under latest round of DiscoverEU (18/05/2022)

445 Irish 18 year olds are to receive free travel passes to travel around Europe between 1 July 2022 and 30 June 2023 under the latest round of DiscoverEU announced this week. They will also benefit from pre-departure information meetings and a Discount card, which will give them access to more than 40,000 discount opportunities related to culture, transport, accommodation, food and many more. The second round of DiscoverEU applications will open in October 2022.

Waterford city to take part in the Partnerships for Regional Innovation pilot project (17/05/2022)

Waterford city has been selected to take part in the Partnerships for Regional Innovation pilot, a joint Commission / Committee of the Regions initiative. Participants in the project will share good practices and co-develop and test tools to mobilise multiple sources of funding and policies, and connect regional and national programmes to EU initiatives for the green and digital transformations. EU Research Commissioner Mariya Gabriel said: "These Partnerships allow us to build bridges to facilitate synergies of investment and innovative solutions."

Commission and EIB join forces to support Member States hosting people fleeing Russia's unjustified invasion of Ukraine with advisory platform for investments (19/05/2022)

The Board of Directors of the European Investment Bank (EIB) has approved a €4 billion credit line (or programme loan) to help national authorities, cities, regions and local communities in all EU Member States address urgent investment needs and help welcome and integrate people fleeing the war against Ukraine. The EIB credit line will make financing available for the development of key infrastructure and services for refugees and host communities, such as housing, schools, hospitals and access to jobs.

Commission launches a phone helpline for those fleeing the war in Ukraine (16/05/2022)

The European Commission has launched a dedicated phone helpline in Ukrainian and Russian to provide information and assist those fleeing the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The helpline aims to assist people fleeing Ukraine by answering their questions and providing a wide range of practical and useful information, from the conditions on entering and travelling in the EU, to access to rights and opportunities, such as education, jobs or healthcare.

Commission welcomes political agreement on new rules for securing winter gas storage (19/05/2022)

The European Commission has welcomed the political agreement reached this week between the European Parliament and EU Member States on the legislative proposal for minimum gas storage obligations proposed by the Commission. The proposed regulation aims to ensure that storage capacities in the EU are filled before the winter season and can be shared between member states in a spirit of solidarity.

Member States, workers and employers agree on the need to recognise COVID-19 as an occupational disease (19/05/2022)

EU Member States, workers and employers in the EU Advisory Committee on Safety and Health at Work (ACSH) this week reached an agreement on the need to recognise COVID-19 as an occupational disease in health and social care and in domiciliary assistance and, in a pandemic context, in sectors where there is an outbreak in activities with proven risk of infection. If recognised as an occupational disease in a Member State, workers in relevant sectors, who have contracted COVID-19 at the workplace, may acquire specific rights according to national rules, like the right to compensation.

Coronavirus: Commission secures an agreement with BioNTech-Pfizer to ensure Member States have access to the vaccines they need (16/05/2022)

The European Commission and BioNTech & Pfizer have reached an agreement to ensure Member States have access to Covid19 vaccines when they need them for the months ahead, including future variant adapted vaccines if authorised. The agreement will adapt the originally agreed contractual delivery schedules. Doses scheduled for June and throughout the summer will now be delivered in September and during the autumn and winter period 2022, when Member States will more likely need additional stocks.

COVID-19: Commission steps up funding to vaccination roll-out in Africa (13/05/2022)

The European Commission has announced its intention to step up funding to accelerate the roll-out and uptake of vaccines and other COVID-19 tools in Africa, with a further €400 million in support. Of this, €300 million will support vaccination in Africa through the COVAX Facility and other partners while €100 million will support access to other COVID-19 tools: diagnostics, therapeutics and strengthening health systems.

A new Blue Economy Observatory to monitor and promote the sustainability of our ocean related activities (19/05/2022)

The European Commission this week launched the EU Blue Economy Observatory, a new knowledge dissemination platform for the sustainability of our oceans, seas and coastal areas. The new observatory will focus on socio-economic components of the maritime related sectors. It will provide a detailed picture of ocean-related activities, with the latest data, scientific evidence, insights, market information and findings in the EU Blue Economy.

State aid: European Commission approves 2022-2027 regional aid map for Northern Ireland (17/05/2022)

The European Commission has approved under EU State aid rules and in line with the Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland, Northern Ireland's map for granting regional aid from 1 January 2022 to 31 December 2027, within the framework of the revised Regional aid Guidelines (‘RAG'). Northern Ireland's regional aid map defines the regions eligible for regional investment aid. The map also establishes the maximum aid intensities in that eligible region.

Council gives green light to new rules for cross-border energy infrastructure (17/05/2022)

The Council of the EU this week adopted a revised Trans-European Networks for Energy (TEN-E) Regulation. Among other things, the new rules will end support for new natural gas and oil projects and introduce mandatory sustainability criteria for all projects. They will simplify and accelerate permitting and authorisation procedures. The revised rules also put the emphasis on the role of energy from renewable sources regarding all assets, including smart gas grids.

Data Governance Act approved (17/05/2022)

The Council of the EU this week approved new rules to promote the availability of data and build a trustworthy environment to facilitate their use for research and the creation of innovative new services and products. The Data Governance Act (DGA) will set up robust mechanisms to facilitate the reuse of certain categories of protected public-sector data, increase trust in data intermediation services and foster data altruism across the EU.

Astronomers reveal first image of the black hole at the heart of our galaxy (13/05/2022)

The first image of a massive hole at the centre or our galaxy were revealed last week by EU supported astronomers. The image, in unprecedented resolution, was produced by Event Horizon Telescope (EHT), a global scientific collaboration, where scientists funded by the European Research Council, through BlackHoleCam project, have played a key role.

Antitrust: Commission carries out unannounced inspections in the fashion sector (18/05/2022)

The European Commission this week started unannounced inspections at the premises of companies active in the fashion industry in several Member States.The Commission has concerns that the companies concerned may have violated Article 101 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union and Article 53 of the European Economic Area Agreement, which prohibit cartels and other restrictive business practices.

EU allocates €25 million in humanitarian aid for Palestinians (16/05/2022)

The EU this week announced €25 million in humanitarian aid to meet the basic needs of vulnerable Palestinians in the West Bank, East Jerusalem and Gaza. The funding will focus on providing healthcare assistance, including mental care for trauma, to those affected by the continued violence, the ramifications of the blockade on Gaza and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. Funding will also focus on improving access to schooling of Palestinian boys and girls to uphold their right to education.

Ireland accounts for 9% of the EU’s bovine population: Eurostat (19/05/2022)

New figures from Eurostat show that there were over 6.6 million cattle in Ireland in 2021, the third highest share in the EU after France (17.3 million) and Germany (11 million) and accounting for 9% of total EU numbers. In the EU as a whole, there were over 75.6 million cattle in 2021, 3% lower than in 2010. The Eurostat figures also show that there were over 1.7 million pigs in Ireland in 2021 and almost 4 million sheep.

Friday 20 May: Discussion: Mental Health and LGBTQ+ Youth (16/05/2022)

To mark International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia 2022 the European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland is organising a discussion on mental health issues and LGBTQ+ young people. Speakers include: Maria Walsh, MEP; Moninne Griffith, CEO BeLonG To Youth Services; Rory O’Neill, AKA Panti Bliss, “Gender Discombobulist” and “Accidental activist”. The event will be moderated by Aifric Ní Chríodáin, Executive Director, ShoutOut. This event will take place in Europe House, Dublin on 20 May 2022 from 3:00pm-4:00 pm. Prior registration required - please email events-epdublin@europarl.europa.eu.

Friday 20 May: Foreign Affairs Council (Development) (16/05/2022)

The Foreign Affairs Council in its development configuration will be chaired by the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell. It will exchange views on the global implications of the Russian aggression against Ukraine, with a focus on food security and the multilateral response.

Monday 23 May: General Affairs Council (16/05/2022)

The Council will hold an exchange of views on the draft conclusions to be adopted by the special meeting of the European Council on 30-31 May 2022. As part of the Article 7(1) TEU procedure, the Council will also hold a hearing on Hungary. The presidency will inform the Council on the Conference on the Future of Europe, which concluded on 9 May, followed by an exchange of views.

Monday 23 May: European Economic Area Council (17/05/2022)

At the 54th session of the European Economic Area (EEA) Council, ministers will discuss the overall functioning of the Agreement on the European Economic Area (EEA Agreement). They will also hold a policy debate on reducing strategic dependencies in the fields of raw materials and energy. The EEA Council is expected to adopt conclusions on the cooperation between the EU and the EEA EFTA (European Free Trade Association) states, including on the digital transformation and the green transition.

Monday 23 May: Eurogroup (16/05/2022)

The Eurogroup will meet on 23 May, in Brussels. On the agenda: Macroeconomic and fiscal developments in the euro area, including the European Commission Spring Forecast; Upcoming vacancy of Managing Director of the ESM; and Banking Union - discussion on a draft work plan.

Tuesday 24 May: Agriculture and Fisheries Council (18/05/2022)

EU agriculture ministers will meet in Brussels to discuss the spread of the highly pathogenic avian influenza and a strategic approach to the development of vaccination. Ministers will further exchange views on the situation of agricultural markets in view of the situation in Ukraine. Also on the agenda: agricultural markets, epidemiosurveillance platforms; keeping of companion animals and soil protection.

Tuesday 24 May: Economic and Financial Affairs Council (18/05/2022)

Economy and finance ministers will discuss the economic and financial consequences of the sanctions imposed on Russia after its unprovoked and unjustified military invasion in Ukraine.

Thursday 26 May: Insights from the IPCC’s Sixth Assessment Report (16/05/2022)

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is the UN body for assessing the science related to climate change. The IPCC’s three working groups, prepare comprehensive Assessment Reports about the state of scientific, technical, and socio-economic knowledge on climate change; its impacts and future risks; and options for reducing the rate at which climate change is taking place. On Thursday lunchtime, 26 May, Professor Debra Roberts, Co-Chair of Working Group II and Professor Jim Skea, CBE, Co-Chair of Working Group III, will present key conclusions from the Sixth Assessment Report and reflect on the broader implications of the IPCC’s findings during this decisive decade for climate action.

Monday 30 and Tuesday 31 May: Special meeting of the European Council (16/05/2022)

The special meeting of the European Council will take place on Monday 30 and Tuesday 31 May 2022 in the Europa building in Brussels. Further details will be available in due course.

Wednesday 1 June: Access2Markets Seminar (17/05/2022)

The European Commission's Directorate General for Trade is inviting companies, business organisations, trade promotion professionals, and other interested parties to join its virtual training seminar on Access2Markets on Wednesday 1 June from 8 am to 10 am. On the agenda: explanation of Access2Markets, its different import and export sections, barriers, Single Entry Point, Statistics, ROSA the Rules of Origin self-assessment tool, My Trade Assistant for Procurement and a Q&A session. Anyone interested in attending this free seminar should register before 1 pm on Tuesday 31 May.

Thursday 2 June: Talk with Witold Szabłowski (Poland) - online event as part of the European Book Club (18/05/2022)

On Thursday evening, 2 June, award-winning Polish journalist Witold Szabłowski will speak at an online European Book Club event hosted by the Embassy of Poland in Ireland. Participants will be brought on a journey to post-communist countries to discover the true stories of people nostalgic for life under tyranny. The event will be moderated by RTE journalist Zbyszek Zalinski.

LIFE 2022 Calls for proposals open: €598 million to help make your green project ideas come true (17/05/2022)

The European Commission this week launched the 2022 LIFE Programme Calls for project proposals. This year, there is €598 million available. LIFE will fund projects under its four sub-programmes: nature and biodiversity - €242 million; circular economy and quality of life - €158 million; climate change mitigation and adaptation - €99 million; and the clean energy transition - €98 million.

Scientific Traineeships at the Joint Research Centre (19/05/2022)

Applications are currently open for paid graduate traineeships in the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC). The place of traineeship can be one of the following JRC sites: Ispra (Italy), Geel (Belgium), Petten (the Netherlands) or Karlsruhe (Germany). The traineeship session will start on 1 October 2022 and will run for a fixed period of 5 months.

12/05/2022

EU news you can use

Statement by Vice-President Šefčovič on the Protocol on Ireland / Northern Ireland (11/05/2022)

In a statement following a phone call with UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss on the implementation of the Protocol on Ireland / Northern Ireland, Commission Vice President Maroš Šefčovič said: "It continues to be of serious concern that the UK government intends to embark on the path of unilateral action. This is despite a series of wide-ranging and impactful solutions proposed by the EU, based on our intensive engagement with all representatives in Northern Ireland. These proposals would substantially improve the way the Protocol is implemented."

Fighting child sexual abuse: European Commission proposes new rules to protect children (11/05/2022)

The European Commission has proposed new EU rules to prevent and combat child sexual abuse online. The proposal sets obligations for companies to detect and report the abuse of children, with strong safeguards guaranteeing the privacy of all. A new independent EU Centre on Child Sexual Abuse will be set up to help EU countries, companies and local authorities establish robust prevention measures, ensure that offenders are brought to justice and support victims. Worldwide, around 85 million pictures and videos depicting child sexual abuse were reported in 2021 alone.

President von der Leyen addresses closing event of the Conference on the Future of Europe (10/05/2022)

Addressing the closing event of the Conference on the Future of Europe on 9 May, President von der Leyen said: "You have proven that this form of democracy works. And I believe, we should give it more room, it should become part of the way we make policy. This is why I will propose that, in the future, we give Citizens' Panels the time and resources to make recommendations before we present key legislative proposals."

Commission to establish Solidarity Lanes to help Ukraine export agricultural goods (12/05/2022)

As part of the EU's solidarity response with Ukraine, the Commission this week presented a set of actions to help Ukraine export its agricultural produce. Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine and its blockade of Ukrainian ports, Ukrainian grain and other agricultural goods can no longer reach their destinations. With today's Communication, the Commission sets out an action plan to establish ‘Solidarity Lanes' to ensure Ukraine can export grain, but also import the goods it needs, from humanitarian aid to animal feed and fertilisers.

State aid: Commission will phase out State aid COVID Temporary Framework (12/05/2022)

The European Commission will phase out the State aid COVID Temporary Framework, adopted on 19 March 2020 and last amended on 18 November 2021, enabling Member States to remedy a serious disturbance in the economy in the context of the coronavirus pandemic. Executive President Margrethe Vestager said the Framework had "allowed Member States to act quickly and effectively to help companies hit by the crisis, while ensuring that support remained limited to those in actual need."

State aid: Commission approves €45 million Irish support measure for fishery-processing sector in the context of Brexit (10/05/2022)

The European Commission has approved, under EU State aid rules, a €45 million Irish scheme to support the fish-processing sector affected by the effects of the withdrawal of the UK from the EU. The scheme will run until 31 December 2023. The beneficiaries are small and medium-sized enterprises active in the processing and preserving of fish, crustaceans and molluscs.

State aid: European Commission approves €5 million Irish scheme to support Helicopter Emergency Medical Services in the context of the coronavirus pandemic (12/05/2022)

The European Commission has approved a €5 million Irish scheme to support Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) charity operators in Ireland affected by the coronavirus pandemic. The scheme was approved under the State aid Temporary Framework. Under the scheme, the aid will take the form of direct grants. The measure is aimed at mitigating the liquidity shortages that the beneficiaries are facing and at ensuring the operation of a vital emergency medical service.

European Commission launches visionary 3D “Voice your Vision” platform in Ireland (12/05/2022)

The European Commission wants young Irish people to have a say on the future direction of the EU and is inviting them to upload voice recordings with their thoughts on a range of issues from the future of Europe to mental health, inclusion, and climate change on its new "Voice your Vision" platform. The platform was launched as part of the European Year of Youth 2022 with the objective of empowering young Irish people and young Europeans in general to voice their own vision of the future.

Syria and the region: close to €6.4 billion mobilised during the 6th Brussels Conference (11/05/2022)

The international community pledged close to €6.4 billion for 2022 and beyond during the sixth Conference on 'Supporting the future of Syria and the Region', organised by the European Union in Brussels this week. Out of this amount, over €4.8 billion was pledged by the EU, with over €3.1 billion coming from the European Commission and €1.7 billion from the EU Member States. The EU and its Member States have remained the largest donors supporting people in Syria and the region since the beginning of the crisis in 2011, mobilising €27.4 billion overall.

New recommendations on the wearing of face masks on planes to come into effect from 16 May (11/05/2022)

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) have issued an update to the health safety measures for air travel, paving the way for a relaxation of the need to wear medical masks on board a flight from 16 May, but noting that a face mask is still one of the best protections against the transmission of COVID-19. Vulnerable passengers will still be advised to wear a face mask as will people taking flights to or from a destination where mask-wearing is still required on public transport.

EU-Japan Digital Partnership launched (12/05/2022)

At their summit in Tokyo this week, EU and Japan leaders launched the EU-Japan Digital Partnership. The Partnership will help the EU and Japan achieve their shared goals in key areas such as: a secure 5G, "beyond 5G" and 6G technologies; safe and ethical artificial intelligence applications; the resilience of global supply chains in the semiconductor industry; green data infrastructures; and the development of digital skills for workers. President von der Leyen said: "It is the first partnership of this kind that we conclude with any partner."

Consumer protection: Commission adopts stronger consumer rules for online financial services (11/05/2022)

The European Commission has proposed to reform the current EU rules on Distance Marketing of Consumer Financial Services, which govern financial services sold at a distance. The Commission wants to give stronger consumer protection to those concluding contracts (for mortgages, consumer credit, insurance etc.) over the internet. This includes clearer rules on what, how & when sellers must provide pre-contractual information as well as making it easier to cancel a contract online, thanks to a withdrawal button.

Implementation of sanctions: Commission publishes consolidated list of travel bans (11/05/2022)

The European Commission has published a consolidated list of travel bans in its EU Sanctions Map tool. Member State authorities as well as EU citizens can use the tool to see who is subject to a travel ban under EU sanctions measures, and therefore are prevented from travelling to the EU. Commissioner Mairead McGuinness said: “It is important that there is full transparency on this issue and for our citizens to know which individuals are subject to travel bans. This includes those who are implicated, in one way or another, in Russia's unjustified aggression against the people of Ukraine."

MSCA: €857 million for researchers and organisations in 2022 (12/05/2022)

A new round of funding is now available under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) to support researchers’ training, skills and career development and organisations involved in research activities. With a budget totalling €6.6 billion over 2021-2027, the MSCA support researchers from all over the world, at all stages of their careers and in all disciplines. The action also funds organisations with support for excellent doctoral, postdoctoral programmes and collaborative research and innovation projects.

Commission steps up support to displaced researchers from Ukraine (11/05/2022)

The Commission has officially announced the launch of the MSCA4Ukraine scheme, part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions. It will support displaced researchers from Ukraine for them to continue their work in academic or non-academic organisations in Europe. The scheme will also allow them to re-establish themselves in Ukraine to rebuild the country's research and innovation capacity.

Commission boosts Horizon Europe budget to support green, health and digital innovations and displaced researchers of Ukraine (11/05/2022)

The European Commission this week adopted an amendment to the Horizon Europe Work Programme 2021-2022, increasing the budget by nearly €562 million to further support EU Missions. Of this additional amount, €507.1 million is dedicated to the five EU Missions. Launched in September 2021, the Missions aim to achieve ambitious goals in health, climate and the environment by 2030.

New EU Plan to address trafficking risks for people fleeing the war in Ukraine (12/05/2022)

Over 5.4 million people have arrived in the EU since the beginning of the war in Ukraine. The vast majority of them are women and children - particularly vulnerable to trafficking in human beings. A new anti-trafficking plan, developed under the lead of the EU Anti-Trafficking Coordinator, aims at raising awareness, reinforcing the prevention against trafficking in human beings, enhancing the law enforcement and judicial response, as well as improving identification and support to victims.

Corporate taxation: Commission proposes tax incentive for equity to help companies grow, become stronger and more resilient (11/05/2022)

The European Commission has proposed a debt-equity bias reduction allowance, or DEBRA, to help businesses access the financing they need and to become more resilient. This measure will support businesses by introducing an allowance that will grant to equity the same tax treatment as debt. The proposal stipulates that increases in a taxpayer's equity from one tax year to the next will be deductible from its taxable base, similarly to what happens to debt.

Eurobarometer on Youth: Young Irish people (09/05/2022)

A new Eurobarometer on the European Year of Youth shows that young Irish people (aged 15 to 30 years) tend to be less aware than their EU counterparts of certain EU-funded opportunities to stay in another EU country such as Erasmus+ youth exchanges, Erasmus+ for pupils aged 11-18, and Erasmus+ for apprentices and entrepreneurs. Awareness of Erasmus+ programme for students aged 18+, and of DiscoverEU was, however, above the EU average. The survey also showed that young Irish people (15-30 years) were the most likely at 67% to have participated in activities such as sports clubs, volunteering or youth clubs over the last 12 months.

Antitrust: Commission adopts new Vertical Block Exemption Regulation and Vertical Guidelines (10/05/2022)

The European Commission this week adopted the new Vertical Block Exemption Regulation (‘VBER') accompanied by the new Vertical Guidelines. The revised rules provide businesses with simpler, clearer and up-to-date rules and guidance. The new rules will help them to assess the compatibility of their supply and distribution agreements with EU competition rules in a business environment reshaped by the growth of e-commerce and online sales. The revised VBER and Vertical Guidelines will enter into force on 1 June 2022.

Irish SMEs most likely to report incidences of cybercrime (12/05/2022)

A new Eurobarometer survey on SMEs and Cybercrime reveals that one in three (32%) Irish SMEs had experienced at least one type of cybercrime over the 12 months prior to the survey, a little above the EU average of 28%. The most common types of cyber crime experienced by them were phishing, account take over or impersonation attacks (11%) and viruses, spyware or malware (9%). The survey also shows that Irish SMEs (87%) were the most likely to report incidences of cybercrime with 38% reporting to the police and 34% to their internet service provider. On average, only 54% of EU SMEs reported such incidences.

Thursday 16 May: Insights from the IPCC’s sixth assessment report (12/05/2022)

This IIEA webinar will be addressed by Professor Debra Roberts is Co-Chair of Working Group II, which assessed the vulnerability of socio-economic and natural systems to climate change, negative and positive consequences of climate change and options for adapting to it, and by Professor Jim Skea, CBE, is Co-Chair of Working Group III, which focused on climate change mitigation, assessing methods for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and removing greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. In this panel discussion, the two Co-Chairs will present key conclusions from the Sixth Assessment Report and reflect on the broader implications of the IPCC’s findings during this decisive decade for climate action.

Monday 16 May: EU-Canada Joint Ministerial Committee meeting (11/05/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available at the link below.

Monday 16 May: Foreign Affairs Council (10/05/2022)

Foreign affairs ministers will discuss current affairs, including High Representative, Josep Borrell's recent visit to Chile. The Council will then hold an exchange of views on the Western Balkans. Ministers will also review the latest developments in the Russian aggression against Ukraine. Finally, they will informally exchange views with the Western Balkans foreign affairs ministers.

Tuesday 17 May: Brussels Economic Forum (10/05/2022)

The Brussels Economic Forum (BEF) is the flagship annual economic event of the European Commission. For over 20 years, it has gathered high-level European and international policymakers, academics, civil society and business leaders to identify key challenges and debate policy priorities for the European economy. To mark the European Year of Youth 2022, the Brussels Economic Forum will look at the economy of the next generation and shine a spotlight on youth. This year's event is taking place in a hybrid format. However, there are a limited number of places for people wishing to attend in person.

Tuesday 17 May: Foreign Affairs Council (Defence) (10/05/2022)

The Foreign Affairs Council in its defence configuration will be briefed by High Representative Josep Borrell about current affairs, reviewing a number of recent developments and upcoming events. The Council will then exchange views on the implementation of the Strategic Compass, with a focus on the future of CSDP (Common Security and Defence Policy) missions and operations. EU ministers of defence will then have a discussion on the Russian aggression against Ukraine. They will exchange views with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg (tbc) and the Minister of Defence of Ukraine, Oleksiy Reznikov, via videoconference.

Wednesday 18 May: European Union Military Committee (EUMC), EU chiefs of defence (12/05/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available at the link below.

Wednesday 18 May: EU Finance Days (online event) (10/05/2022)

EU FINANCE DAYS 2022 in Ireland takes place online on Wednesday 18 May. The event is organised by the European Commission services & Representations in cooperation with the European Investment Bank Group and the Enterprise Europe Network. During the event, the new financial and support programmes will be presented by experts. The event will take place online and is composed of several sessions covering the different aspects of the funding programmes. Participants will be able to interact with expert speakers and ask questions on the topics covered.

Thursday 19 May: Belarus in the New European Disorder: Challenges for the EU (10/05/2022)

On Thursday lunchtime, 19 May, French political scientist Dr Anaïs Marin will address an IIEA webinar on "Belarus in the New European Disorder: Challenges for the EU". In her address, Dr Marin will contend that the war provides the EU with a rare opportunity to review its neighbourhood relationship with Belarus, and to design tailored policies aimed at better supporting the democratic forces and civil society of that country which could ultimately excise it from Russia’s influences.

Thursday 19 May: EU Values Across Sectors (06/05/2022)

EU Values Across Sectors is a Europe-wide conference where representatives from various sectors will have the opportunity to learn, reflect on and discuss their role in promoting EU values in their work with young people and communities. With lots of interesting speakers and digital interaction, this event will showcase how Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps can fund projects that support these values of human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, rule of law and human rights. This event is a joint collaboration between The Wheel’s Access Europe programme and Léargas, the National Agency for Erasmus+ and European Solidarity Corps in Ireland.

Friday 20 May: Foreign Affairs Council (Development) (10/05/2022)

Friday 20 May: Discussion: Mental Health and LGBTQ+ Youth (10/05/2022)

Monday 30 and Tuesday 31 May: Special meeting of the European Council (10/05/2022)

The special meeting of the European Council will take place on Monday 30 and Tuesday 31 May 2022 in the Europa building in Brussels. Further details will be available in due course.

Traineeships in the European Parliament (12/05/2022)

Applications are currently open for Schuman traineeships in the European Parliament. The Schuman traineeships are paid and can be undertaken at one of the European Parliament’s official places of work – Brussels, Luxembourg and Strasbourg – or in its Liaison Offices in the Member States. Applicants must: be aged 18 or over; be nationals of a Member State of the European Union or an accession/candidate country (a very limited number of traineeships to nationals of other countries can also be offered); hold a university level diploma; and have a thorough knowledge of one of the official EU languages and a very good knowledge of a second.

Evaluation of the Environmental Liability Directive (12/05/2022)

The European Commission has launched a public consultation on the evaluation of the Environmental Liability Directive (Directive 2004/35/CE), the Community framework aimed at preventing and remedying damage to soil, water and biodiversity, under the "polluter pays" principle. The Commission is inviting citizens and stakeholders for their views on the implementation of the existing rules. The consultation is open until 4 August 2022.

Payment services – review of EU rules (10/05/2022)

The European Commission has launched a public consultation to gather evidence for the revised Payment Services Directive review and to inform its work on open finance. The revised Payment Services Directive (“PSD2”) is the basis for payment rules in the EU. It includes rules to make online payments services easier and safer, promote innovative payment services, strengthen the rights of users and protect them against fraud and abuse. The consultation is open until 2 August 2022.

05/05/2022

EU news you can use

President von der Leyen addresses the European Parliament on the social and economic consequences for the EU of the Russian war in Ukraine (04/05/2022)

In an address this week to the European Parliament Plenary, President von der Leyen presented the sixth package of sanctions, as well as the EU relief and reconstruction efforts. She said: "We now propose a ban on Russian oil. This will be a complete import ban on all Russian oil, seaborne and pipeline, crude and refined. We will make sure that we phase out Russian oil in an orderly fashion, in a way that allows us and our partners to secure alternative supply routes and minimises the impact on global markets. This is why we will phase out Russian supply of crude oil within six months and refined products by the end of the year."

Future of Europe: Conference Plenary agrees final set of proposals (04/05/2022)

The Conference on the Future of Europe Plenary session met for the last time on 28 & 29 April when it agreed to a set of 49 detailed proposals covering a wide range of subjects from climate change to health, migration and the EU in the world. This follows a year long series of discussions, deliberations and collaboration by citizens from across Europe, on the kind of Europe they would like to live in. Commission Vice-President Dubravka Šuica said: "Our engaged and inspiring citizens have shown us the direction they wish Europe to take. Now it is our task, of the EU Institutions, to make it happen."

European Health Union: A European Health Data Space for people and science (03/05/2022)

The European Commission this week launched the European Health Data Space (EHDS), a health-specific data sharing framework establishing clear rules, common standards and practices, infrastructures and a governance framework for the use of electronic health data by patients and for research, innovation, policy making, patient safety, statistics or regulatory purposes. EU Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakides said the European Health Data Space "places the citizens at its centre, empowering them with full control over their data to obtain better healthcare across the EU."

8 in 10 Irish people agree that Ukraine should join the EU when it is ready: Eurobarometer (05/05/2022)

A new Eurobarometer on the EU response to the war in Ukraine reveals that 79% of Irish people agree that Ukraine should join the EU when it is ready. The survey also shows that a large majority (69%) of Irish people agree that since the war in Ukraine started, the EU has been united (69%) and fast (59%) in its response. When asked about how they felt about the sanctions, 86% approved the economic sanctions against Russia. A large majority of Irish people (70%) also agreed that the war in Ukraine shows we need greater military cooperation within the EU. The fieldwork for the survey was carried out in mid-April.

Standing with Ukraine: Commission announces new aid worth €200 million for displaced people (05/05/2022)

The European Commission has announced a new aid package of €200 million to support displaced people in Ukraine, in the context of the International Donor's Conference convened jointly by Poland and Sweden. Close to 8 million people, two-third of whom are children, have been internally displaced since the beginning of Putin's war in Ukraine. More than 5.3 million have left Ukraine to seek shelter in the EU and neighbouring countries.

EU announces an additional €52 million to support the long-term resilience, recovery and reforms in the Republic of Moldova (05/05/2022)

The European Union is to mobilise an additional €52 million for the Republic of Moldova to advance the country's long term resilience, recovery and reforms, in particular via the implementation of the flagships foreseen in the Economic and Investment plan for its Eastern partners and support the implementation of the EU-Moldova Association Agreement.

Antitrust: Commission sends Statement of Objections to Apple over practices regarding Apple Pay (03/05/2022)

The European Commission this week informed Apple of its preliminary view that it abused its dominant position in markets for mobile wallets on iOS devices. By limiting access to a standard technology used for contactless payments with mobile devices in stores (‘Near-Field Communication (NFC)' or ‘tap and go'), Apple restricts competition in the mobile wallets market on iOS. Executive Vice-President Margrethe Vestager, in charge of competition policy, said: "In our Statement of Objections, we preliminarily found that Apple may have restricted competition, to the benefit of its own solution Apple Pay. If confirmed, such a conduct would be illegal under our competition rules."

Winners of ‘Aistritheoirí Óga 2022’ (Young Translators) announced (29/04/2022)

The winners of the 'Aistritheoirí Óga 2022' (Young Translators) contest were announced at an award ceremony in Dublin last week. Five secondary school students made the list - one from each of the four provinces in Ireland, who translated from English to Irish, and one who was selected for her excellent translation from French to Irish. This year's winners come from Carlow, Galway, Kerry, Roscommon and Tyrone. Cainnear Nic Réamoinn from Coláiste Chroí Mhuire in Galway was awarded the overall prize for the best translation in the country.

EU energy ministers meet to discuss securing energy supply (03/05/2022)

At an extraordinary meeting earlier this week, EU energy ministers discussed supply concerns following the suspension of gas deliveries by Gazprom to some member states. They reaffirmed their commitment to work towards the gradual elimination of the EU's dependence on Russian fossil fuels. The Ministers and the Commission agreed to continue their coordinated contacts with international partners and reliable suppliers and to rapidly establish the European Gas Purchasing Platform, in order to guarantee the EU's energy supply at affordable prices.

Joint Statement between the United States and the European Commission on European Energy Security (03/05/2022)

The EU-US Task Force on Energy Security met in person in Washington last week to review progress on diversifying natural gas supplies to Europe and reducing Europe’s demand for natural gas. The two sides discussed the EU Energy Purchase Platform and plans to establish a framework to accelerate diversification of gas supply, including additional LNG supplies. They also discussed options to reduce Europe’s demand for natural gas, including with the deployment of heat pumps, technologies that promote energy efficiency and savings such as smart thermostats, and renewable energy.

Friday 6 May: A Strategic Compass for EU Security and Defence (03/05/2022)

Vice Admiral Hervé Bléjean, Director General of the European Union Military Staff, will address an IIEA webinar on the Strategic Compass for EU Security and Defence on Friday morning, 6 May. In his address, Vice Admiral Hervé Bléjean will discuss the main points of the compass, and the primary security challenges which face the EU.

Monday 9 May: Celebrate Europe Day 2022 – All About Youth! (29/04/2022)

Join us online for our hybrid Europe Day event organised in partnership with the European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland and the EU agency, Eurofound. 2022 is the European Year of Youth and this event will reach out to the local community to bring together up to 100 young people aged 16-29, as well as an online audience from around Ireland, to learn, listen and engage on key issues and opportunities for young people in the EU. The Minister for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne T.D. and Ciarán Cuffe MEP, will open this hybrid event at Eurofound’s conference centre, which will be moderated by Harry McCann, Member of the European pool of young journalists. The Ambassador of Ukraine to Ireland, Ms Larysa Gerasko, is also among the speakers. For details of this and other Europe Day events, click on the link below.

Monday 9 May: Concert - The Music of Edith Piaf - Celebrating Europe Day (03/05/2022)

To celebrate Europe Day 2020 and to mark the French Presidency of the Council of the EU, singer Jeanette Byrne will be performing a selection of songs by legendary French chanteuse Edith Piaf at Blanchardstown Library on Monday 9 May at 6.30pm. This event is organised by the Europe Direct Blanchardstown. It is free to attend but places are limited and advance registration is required.

Monday 9 May: Europe Day event at Letterkenny Europe Direct Centre (03/05/2022)

The Letterkenny Europe Direct Centre will host an in-person event with presentations focused on ‘An Economy that works for people’ and ‘NextGenerationEU: Ireland’s recovery and resilience plan’. Speakers will include Joy Harron from the Strategic Funding Unit and Economic Development of Donegal County Council and Toni Forrester, CEO of the Letterkenny Chamber of Commerce.

Tuesday 10 May: Sustainable Fashion Workshop with Europe Direct Blanchardstown Library (03/05/2022)

Europe Direct Blanchardstown Library is hosting a workshop on sustainable fashion on Tuesday evening, 10 May. Participants will learn how to recycle and repurpose old clothes using visible mending and patch making. The event is free to attend but places are limited and advance registration is required.

Tuesday 10 May: Supporting the future of Syria and the region - Brussels VI Conference (03/05/2022)

Information on this conference will be available at the link below.

Tuesday 10 May: Reaffirming “the Conscience of Europe” (03/05/2022)

Ireland will assume the Presidency of the Council of Europe’s Committee of Ministers on 20 May 2022. This coincides with a time of turmoil and a series of challenges to multilateralism on our continent. In this address to the IIEA, Minister for Foreign Affairs, and incoming Chair of the Committee of Ministers, Simon Coveney TD, and the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Marija Pejčinović Burić will discuss the Council of Europe’s role in responding to Russia’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine and offer a preview of Ireland’s Presidency.

Thursday 12 May: The Artificial Intelligence Act: Finding a Balanced Approach (03/05/2022)

Yordanka Ivanova, Legal and Policy Officer in the European Commission in the unit responsible for AI Policy Development and Coordination, will address an IIEA webinar on "The Artificial Intelligence Act". In her address to the IIEA, Ms Yordanka Ivanova will outline the thinking underpinning the AI Act proposal and she will discuss the latest developments and debates in relation to the proposed Act.

Monday 16 May: Foreign Affairs Council (03/05/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available at the link below.

Tuesday 17 May: Brussels Economic Forum (03/05/2022)

Tuesday 17 May: Foreign Affairs Council (Defence) (03/05/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available at the link below.

Wednesday 18 May: EU Finance Days (online event) (05/05/2022)

Friday 20 May: Foreign Affairs Council (Development) (03/05/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available at the link below.

Friday 20 May: Discussion: Mental Health and LGBTQ+ Youth (03/05/2022)

Monday 30 and Tuesday 31 May: Special meeting of the European Council (03/05/2022)

The special meeting of the European Council will take place on Monday 30 and Tuesday 31 May 2022 in the Europa building in Brussels. Further details will be available in due course.

Security officers in the European Commission (05/05/2022)

The European Commission has published vacancy notices for temporary agent positions for Armed Security Officers within the Security Directorate of the Directorate General for Human Resources and Security. Candidates must: be a national of one of the Member States of the European Union; meet any obligations under national laws on military service; meet the character requirements for the duties concerned; and have a clean criminal record and enjoy full rights as a citizen of an EU Member State.

European Destinations of Excellence (EDEN) (29/04/2022)

The European Destinations of Excellence (EDEN) initiative rewards the best achievements in sustainable tourism and green transition practices in smaller destinations. The competition is open to destinations with a population of between 25,000 and 100,000. The deadline for applications is 1 June 2022 at 4 pm (Irish time). Ireland already has a number of European Destinations of Excellence with the most recent winner being Strandhill, Co Sligo.

European Capitals of Smart Tourism (29/04/2022)

The European Capital of Smart Tourism competition is an EU initiative which recognises outstanding achievements by European cities as tourism destinations in four categories: sustainability, accessibility, digitalisation as well as cultural heritage and creativity. The competition is open to cities with a population of over 100,000. The deadline for applications is 1 June 2022 at 4 pm (Irish time).

Farm to Fork: Commission seeks views on New Genomic Techniques (03/05/2022)

The European Commission has launched a public consultation calling on civil society, public authorities, business operators and everyone interested to provide their views on New Genomic Techniques (NGTs) for plants. NGTs are capable of altering the genetic material of organisms which could be used for food, industrial or pharmaceutical purposes. The consultation is open until 22 July 2022.

28/04/2022

EU news you can use

Press statement by President von der Leyen following the announcement by Gazprom on the disruption of gas deliveries to certain EU Member States (27/04/2022)

In a statement following the announcement by Gazprom earlier this week on the disruption of gas deliveries to certain EU Member States, President von der Leyen said: "Gazprom's announcement that it is unilaterally stopping gas delivery to certain EU Member States is another provocation from the Kremlin. But it comes as no surprise that the Kremlin uses fossil fuels to try to blackmail us. This is something the European Commission has been preparing for, in close coordination and solidarity with Member States and international partners. Our response will be immediate, united and coordinated."

Digital Services Act: Commission welcomes political agreement on rules ensuring a safe and accountable online environment (26/04/2022)

The European Parliament and EU Member States reached a provisional agreement this week on the Digital Services Act (DSA), which was proposed by the Commission in December 2020. The DSA follows the principle that what is illegal offline must also be illegal online. It aims to protect the digital space against the spread of illegal content, and to ensure the protection of users’ fundamental rights. It will apply to all online intermediaries providing services in the EU.

Dublin and Cork among 100 cities participating in EU Mission for climate-neutral and smart cities by 2030 (28/04/2022)

The European Commission this week announced that Dublin and Cork are the Irish cities among the 100 EU cities that will participate in the EU Mission for 100 climate-neutral and smart cities by 2030, the so-called Cities Mission. The Cities Mission will receive €360 million of Horizon Europe funding covering the period 2022-23, to start the innovation paths towards climate neutrality by 2030. In light of the overwhelming interest from 377 cities to join the mission, the Commission is also putting in place support for cities that were not selected.

COVID-19: Commission calls on Member States to step up preparedness for the next pandemic phase (27/04/2022)

The European Commission this week proposed a set of actions to manage the current phase of the COVID-19 pandemic and prepare for the next one. It is calling on Member States to take actions before autumn to ensure vigilance and continued coordination of health preparedness and response. EU Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakides said it was "crucial that Member States maintain a high level of vigilance and preparedness for new outbreaks and variants– the pandemic is not yet over. We need to do more to vaccinate globally, now that vaccine supply is no longer a challenge."

State aid: Commission approves €18 million Irish scheme to support the road haulage sector in the context of Russia's invasion of Ukraine (27/04/2022)

The European Commission has approved an €18 million Irish scheme to support the road haulage sector in the context of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The purpose of the scheme is to provide liquidity support to road haulage operators affected by the fuel prices increase caused by the current geopolitical crisis and the related sanctions. The measure will be open to road haulage operators of all sizes with a valid operating license in Ireland that are affected by the current crisis

4 top Irish researchers awarded ERC advanced grants (27/04/2022)

The European Research Council this week announced the winners of its 2021 Advanced Grants competition. The funding, worth in total €624.6 million, will go to 253 leading researchers across Europe. Four of the researchers are from Ireland - 3 from UCD and 1 from NUI Maynooth. ERC Advanced Grants are designed to support excellent scientists and scholars in any field at the career stage when they are already established research leaders, with a recognised track record of research achievements.

Irish architects win 2022 EU prize for contemporary architecture - Mies van der Rohe Awards (27/04/2022)

Grafton Architects (Dublin) has won the 2022 EU Architecture Prize (the Mies van der Rohe Award) for the Town House – Kingston University, London. This is the first time that a university building has won the architecture prize, and it shows the potential of public educational projects with the quality of this one, which dignifies people’s lives through education and togetherness and gives equal educational possibilities to everybody.

EU takes steps to suspend all duties on imports from Ukraine (27/04/2022)

The European Commission this week proposed to suspend for one year import duties on all Ukrainian exports to the European Union. The proposal would also see the suspension for one year of all EU anti-dumping and safeguard measures in place on Ukrainian steel exports. This far-reaching step is designed to help boost Ukraine's exports to the EU. The EU is also already taking measures on the ground to facilitate overland goods transport to help to get Ukrainian products out into the world.

Russian war crimes in Ukraine: Commission proposes to reinforce the mandate of Eurojust to collect and preserve evidence of war crimes (27/04/2022)

The European Commission has proposed to amend the Eurojust Regulation to give the Agency the legal possibility to collect, preserve and share evidence on war crimes. Since March, Eurojust has been supporting an EU joint investigation team looking into the possible war crimes committed in Ukraine. While Eurojust has practical experience on international crimes, the existing Regulation did not envisage a situation of this scale and crimes of this extent, requiring an update in Eurojust's legal base.

EU and international partners put forward a Declaration for the Future of the Internet (28/04/2022)

The European Union, the United States, and several international partners this week proposed a Declaration for the Future of the Internet, setting out the vision and principles of a trusted Internet. Partners support a future for the Internet that is open, free, global, interoperable, reliable and secure and affirm their commitment to protecting and respecting human rights online and across the digital world. So far, 60 partners have endorsed the Declaration, including all EU Member States, and more countries are expected to follow suit in the coming weeks.

President von der Leyen and Prime Minister Modi agree to launch EU-India Trade and Technology Council (27/04/2022)

Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed this week to launch the EU-India Trade and Technology Council. The Council will steer and coordinate technical and operational work on trade, trusted technology and security. President von der Leyen said: "For the European Union, the partnership with India is one of our most important relationships for the coming decade and strengthening this partnership is a priority."

EU Commission joins EU Climate Pact (22/04/2022)

The European Commission, with its 32,000 staff and offices in each EU country, including Ireland, has pledged to become climate neutral by 2030. The pledge covers 3 areas: making buildings more energy efficient, being smarter about work-related travel and making IT infrastructure greener. EU Commissioner Johannes Hahn said: "If society needs to change, we, as an institution, must also transform the way we work, and demonstrate our ability to set the example of moving towards a sustainable and climate-neutral society".

Safety Gate: Motor vehicles and toys top the list of dangerous non-food products this year (27/04/2022)

The European Commission this week published its annual report on the Safety Gate, the EU rapid alert system for dangerous non-food products. For the first time, the highest number of alerts was notified in the category “motor vehicles” category, followed by “toys” and “electrical appliances and equipment”. The two most notified products for Ireland were chemical products and electrical appliances and equipment. In 2021, authorities of the participating countries of the Safety Network exchanged 2,142 alerts through the system including 49 alerts from Ireland.

Legal migration: Attracting skills and talent to the EU (28/04/2022)

The European Commission this week proposed an ambitious and sustainable legal migration policy. The set of proposals also includes specific actions to facilitate integration of those fleeing Russia's invasion of Ukraine into the EU's labour market. Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson, said: "Legal migration is essential to our economic recovery, the digital and green transition and to creating safe channels to Europe, while reducing irregular migration. With today's package, we are simplifying the application process for living and working in the EU and improving rights for residents and their family members."

Commission to register new European Citizens' Initiative (27/04/2022)

The European Commission has decided to register a European Citizens' Initiative entitled ‘End The Slaughter Age'. The organisers of the initiative call on the Commission to exclude livestock farming from activities eligible for agricultural subsidies and to include ethical and ecological alternatives, such as cell farming and plant proteins. They also ask to introduce incentives for the production and sale of plant-based and cellular agricultural products.

Thursday 28 April: EU Smedia Award 2022 (27/04/2022)

The winners of the 2022 National Student Media (Smedia) Awards will be announced on Thursday evening, 28 April, at a ceremony in the Aviva Stadium, Dublin. A special award, the EU Smedia award, will be given to the best article covering EU affairs and printed in a student publication in the previous year. The winner of this award will receive a cash prize of €1,000 and have their piece published in a regional or on-line newspaper. The EU Smedia award is funded by the European Commission Representation in Ireland.

Sunday 2 May: Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council (Energy) (28/04/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available at the link below.

Tuesday 3 May: Eurogroup meeting (27/04/2022)

The Eurogroup will meet in inclusive format on 3 May, via videoconference, to discuss a draft work plan on the banking union.

Monday 3 May: Informal video conference of economy and finance ministers (28/04/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available at the link below.

Wednesday 4 May: Ensuring an Inclusive Digital Transformation in the EU (22/04/2022)

The Wheel, in collaboration with the European Citizen Action Service (ECAS) and The Consultation Institute, is organising an online session on Wednesday morning 4 May bringing together civil society organisations, citizens and experts to discuss how to make the digital transformation in Europe truly accessible and inclusive for all. The event is free but registration is limited.

Wednesday 4 May: Zeitenwende – A turning point or more of the same? (22/04/2022)

On Wednesday lunchtime 4 May, Ambassador Christoph Heusgen, Chairman of the Munich Security Conference, will address an IIEA webinar on "Zeitenwende – A turning point or more of the same?". Faced with war in Ukraine, Germany’s first post-Merkel government has proclaimed a “Zeitenwende” – a turning point in history. In his address to the IIEA, Ambassador Heusgen will take stock of Germany’s role in the face of Europe’s gravest security crisis in decades.

Monday 9 May: Celebrate Europe Day 2022 – All About Youth! (27/04/2022)

Monday 9 May: Concert - The Music of Edith Piaf - Celebrating Europe Day (22/04/2022)

Monday 9 May: Europe Day event at Letterkenny Europe Direct Centre (27/04/2022)

Tuesday 10 May: Sustainable Fashion Workshop with Europe Direct Blanchardstown Library (22/04/2022)

Tuesday 10 May: Supporting the future of Syria and the region - Brussels VI Conference (27/04/2022)

Information on this event will be available at the link below.

Monday 16 May: Foreign Affairs Council (22/04/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available at the link below.

Tuesday 17 May: Foreign Affairs Council (Defence) (22/04/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available at the link below.

Tuesday 17 May: Brussels Economic Forum (22/04/2022)

Friday 20 May: Foreign Affairs Council (Development) (22/04/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available at the link below.

Monday 30 and Tuesday 31 May: Special meeting of the European Council (28/04/2022)

The special meeting of the European Council will take place on Monday 30 and Tuesday 31 May 2022 in the Europa building in Brussels. Further details will be available in due course.

Sustainable EU food system –new initiative (28/04/2022)

Within the framework of its Farm to Fork Strategy, the Commission has launched a public consultation on its initiative to achieve a sustainable EU food system. The consultation aims to gather opinions and evidence from all relevant stakeholders on the key issues the initiative aims to address. It takes a high-level approach, focusing on overarching issues related to food system sustainability. It is open until 21 July 2022.

21/04/2022

EU news you can use

Ukraine: EU boosts humanitarian aid with additional €50 million (19/04/2022)

The EU is to allocate a further €50 million in humanitarian funding to support the people affected by Russia's war on Ukraine, including €45 million for humanitarian projects in Ukraine and €5 million for Moldova. The funding will be used to provide emergency medical services, access to safe drinking water and hygiene, shelter and protection, cash assistance, and support against gender-based violence. This funding is part of the €1 billion support package pledged by the European Commission at the global pledging event ‘Stand Up For Ukraine'.

Green Deal: EU announces €1 billion worth of commitments to protect the ocean (20/04/2022)

The EU has announced €1 billion worth of commitments to protect the ocean. The commitments cover: marine protected areas; tackling marine pollution; confronting the ocean-climate crisis; creating sustainable blue economies; advancing sustainable small-scale fisheries and aquaculture; and achieving a safe, just and secure ocean. Commissioner for Environment, Oceans and Fisheries, Virginijus Sinkevičius, said: "The sum the EU is committing today is significant, but not as significant as the role that the ocean plays for our very existence. It provides us clean air, regulates the climate, hosts a large part of biodiversity on Earth and is key for our economy."

Irish writer shortlisted for the 2022 EU Prize for Literature (19/04/2022)

Irish writer Tadhg Mac Dhonnagáin is one of the 14 nominees for the 2022 EU Prize for Literature for his novel Madame Lazare. The novel tells the story of Levana and her frail grandmother Hana Lazare who, as a young Jewish refugee, had to flee her home in Estonia to avoid persecution and shifts in time and place between Paris, Brussels and the Aran Islands. The winner of the Prize will be announced on 22 April. The aim of the Prize, which is supported by the Creative Europe programme of the European Union, is to recognise the best emerging fiction writers in Europe.

EU closer to introducing a common charger (21/04/2022)

The EU is working on making USB type-C the common charging standard for small electronic devices. This week MEPs meeting in the Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee agreed on the USB Type-C port as the new standard for portable devices. Once the European Parliament as a whole has approved this draft negotiating position at the May plenary session, MEPs will be ready to start talks with EU governments on the final shape of the legislation.

Lebanon: €20 million in humanitarian aid for the most vulnerable people (21/04/2022)

Soaring food prices caused by Russia's war in Ukraine are adding further strain to the compounding crises in Lebanon, which imports 96% of its wheat from Russia and Ukraine. To support the most vulnerable segments of the population in Lebanon, the EU this week allocated an additional €20 million in humanitarian aid to respond to rising food insecurity and other needs. This funding will target the vulnerable Lebanese people, as well as refugees living in the country.

Council agrees recommendation on the exchange of Ukrainian banknotes into EU currencies (19/04/2022)

The Council of the EU has agreed a recommendation on the exchange of Hryvnia banknotes into the currency of EU Member States hosting people escaping the war in Ukraine. The recommendation invites Member States to set up national schemes that would allow for the conversion of hryvnias under similar conditions across the EU. The schemes would allow displaced persons from Ukraine, including children, to exchange up to 10,000 hryvnias (approximately € 310), per person.

Forced displacement from Ukraine: the role of the diaspora (19/04/2022)

A new thematic story in the Atlas of Demography shows the regional distribution of the Ukrainian diaspora in the EU. The mapping can be used to indicate where displaced persons from Ukraine are most likely to seek refuge. In the context of the current displacement crisis, the presence of large Ukrainian communities within a Member State can be a good indication of where the Ukrainian refugees are likely to seek refuge.

Friday 22 April: Europe at a time of crisis and transformation (19/04/2022)

Former German minister and lawyer and specialist in EU law, Peter Altmaier will address an IIEA webinar on "Europe at a time of crisis and transformation" on Friday lunchtime, 22 April. The EU is facing a number of unprecedented crises and challenges at once: the ongoing Russian war against Ukraine, the economic consequences of both the war and the COVID-19 pandemic, and the geographical and technological transformations required in order to meet the ambitious goal of carbon neutrality by 2050. In his address, Peter Altmaier will discuss how Europe can emerge stronger from this challenge, provided the necessary strategic choices and decision are made in due time.

Tuesday 3 May: Video conference of the Eurogroup (19/04/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available at the link below.

Wednesday 4 May: Ensuring an Inclusive Digital Transformation in the EU (19/04/2022)

Monday 9 May: Concert - The Music of Edith Piaf - Celebrating Europe Day (20/04/2022)

Tuesday 10 May: Sustainable Fashion Workshop with Europe Direct Blanchardstown Library (20/04/2022)

Monday 16 May: Foreign Affairs Council (19/04/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available at the link below.

Tuesday 17 May: Brussels Economic Forum (19/04/2022)

Tuesday 17 May: Foreign Affairs Council (Defence) (19/04/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available at the link below.

Friday 20 May: Foreign Affairs Council (Development) (19/04/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available at the link below.

Invitation to tender concerning a negotiated procedure for the supply of a marquee and ancillary equipment at the National Ploughing Championships in Ratheniska, Co. Laoise on 20th to 22nd September 2022 (19/04/2022)

The European Commission Representation in Ireland intends issuing a call for tenders for the supply of a marquee and ancillary equipment at the National Ploughing Championships. The estimated maximum budget attributed to this project is €30,000 (excl. VAT). If you are interested in this tender, please request the documents by sending an email to COMM-IE-TENDERS@ec.europa.eu before 15 April 2022.

European Social Innovation Competition: 2022 edition kicks off (20/04/2022)

The 10th edition of the European Social Innovation Competition – the challenge prize - was recently launched. The prize recognises social innovation projects that shape the local innovation ecosystem and promote game-changing innovation. It is open to social innovators from EU Member States and countries associated to Horizon Europe. The deadline to apply is 17 May 2022.

Combating child sexual abuse - review of EU rules (20/04/2022)

This consultation will inform the evaluation and revision of the EU Child Sexual Abuse Directive, and give citizens and stakeholders an opportunity to provide their feedback on current and future challenges in combatting child sexual abuse, sexual exploitation and child sexual abuse material and possible ways to reinforce, develop and update the existing framework. It is open until 13 July 2022.

Ecodesign requirements for vacuum cleaners (19/04/2022)

The European Commission has launched a public consultation on ecodesign requirements for vacuum cleaners. This initiative will assess whether battery-operated and robot vacuum cleaners which were initially excluded from Regulation 666/2013, which sets minimum energy efficient requirements for vacuum cleaners, can be included under its scope. Moreover, it will consider setting requirements for materials and evaluate the lifetime of vacuum cleaners. The consultation is open until 30 June 2022.

Find out what the EU has done for your county: 26 new county reports (20/04/2022)

Ireland’s membership of the European Union has had a huge impact on all of our lives. The updated county reports, published by the European Commission Representation in Ireland, take a look at some of the communities, businesses, farmers, schools, universities and cultural organisations who have benefited from EU support across Ireland on a county level.

13/04/2022

EU news you can use

EU-UK relations: European Union ensures continued supply of medicines to Northern Ireland, as well as Cyprus, Ireland and Malta (12/04/2022)

The European Commission welcomed the swift adoption this week by the Council of the European Union of the proposals to ensure the continued long-term supply of medicines from Great Britain to Northern Ireland and to address outstanding supply concerns in Cyprus, Ireland and Malta. Vice-President Šefčovič said: “We now have a lasting solution, which was delivered in record time. I will continue to work closely with the UK government to ensure predictability, legal certainty, and the prosperity of all communities in Northern Ireland.”

Stand Up For Ukraine: 9.1 billion euros pledged in support of internally displaced and refugees (11/04/2022)

Last weekend's “Stand Up for Ukraine” global pledging event and campaign has raised €9.1 billion for people fleeing the Russian invasion including €1 billion from the European Commission. In addition, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development announced an additional €1 billion in loans to cover the needs of the people displaced by the invasion. Of this €10.1 billion total, €1.8 billion will go towards internally displaced persons while €8.3 billion is for refugees in frontline EU Member States and countries.

Ukraine: EU agrees fifth package of restrictive measures against Russia (08/04/2022)

The EU has adopted a fifth package of restrictive measures against Putin’s regime in response to its brutal aggression against Ukraine. Together with the four previous packages, these sanctions will further ramp up economic pressure on the Kremlin and cripple its ability to finance its invasion of Ukraine. The package includes a ban on: imports from Russia of coal; Russian vessels from accessing EU ports; Russian and Belarusian road transport operators. It also includes sanctions on key oligarchs and businesspeople, high-ranking Kremlin officials, proponents of disinformation and information manipulation as well as family members of already sanctioned individuals.

Ukraine: Council agrees on third tranche of support under the European Peace Facility for total €1.5 billion (13/04/2022)

The Council of the EU this week adopted two assistance measures under the European Peace Facility (EPF) that will allow the EU to further support the capabilities and resilience of the Ukrainian Armed Forces to defend the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the country, and protect the civilian population against the ongoing Russian military aggression. The EU will add €500 million to the resources already mobilised under the EPF for Ukraine, thereby tripling the initial budget to €1.5 billion

Aviation safety: 20 Russian airlines added to EU Air Safety List (11/04/2022)

The European Commission this week updated the EU Air Safety List, which is the list of airlines that are subject to an operating ban or operational restrictions within the European Union, because they do not meet international safety standards. Following the update, 21 airlines certified in Russia are now included on the EU Air Safety List. This reflects serious safety concerns due to Russia's forced re-registration of foreign-owned aircraft, knowingly allowing their operation without valid certificates of airworthiness.

‘Freeze and Seize Task Force': Almost €30 billion of assets of Russian and Belarussian oligarchs and entities frozen by the EU so far (08/04/2022)

As of last Friday, 8 April, EU Member States had frozen almost €30 billion of assets of Belarusian and Russian oligarchs & entities, according to the ‘Freeze and Seize Task Force' set up by the Commission to ensure better coordination of the enforcement of EU sanctions against Russian and Belarusian individuals and companies. Commissioner Mairead McGuinness said: "Through the Freeze and Seize Task Force and other fora we are coordinating our sanctions with international partners, not least with the US. But implementation is essential for sanctions to be effective on the ground –that is my key priority."

Ukraine: EU humanitarian operation in the Republic of Moldova enhances assistance for refugees (12/04/2022)

A humanitarian operation in Moldova is being rolled out this week through the European Humanitarian Response Capacity (EHRC) to enhance the EU emergency response and support humanitarian partners already active in the field. The operation consists of the set-up of a warehouse in Chisinau for humanitarian partners and the delivery of over 1,200 tents and 4,000 blankets for people displaced by the conflict. This aid comes on top of EU humanitarian funding of €8 million already provided to Moldova this year.

Intellectual property: Commission boosts protection of European craft and industrial products in the EU and beyond (13/04/2022)

The European Commission has proposed new EU rules to protect the intellectual property for craft and industrial products, such as Donegal tweed, that rely on the originality and authenticity of traditional practices from their regions. The proposed new regulation would enable producers to protect craft and industrial products associated with their region and their traditional know-how, both in Europe and beyond. While these products benefit from a European and sometimes global reputation and standing, producers have so far lacked an EU indication protection linking their products' origin and reputation to their quality.

New European Bauhaus: innovative Irish start-up selected for financial support (12/04/2022)

Luna Systems (Ireland) was one of 20 innovative European start-ups and scale-ups that were this week selected from over one thousand applications for EIT (European Institute of Innovation & Technology) funding. The 20 selected ventures will receive grants and services to help them drive sustainable change and improve the overall quality of life of European citizens, thus supporting the New European Bauhaus aims of building beautiful and sustainable experiences. Luna is an AI-camera based solution that provides real time information to cities and operators of rental scooters and bikes.

Employment and Social Developments in Europe Quarterly Review looks into factors behind the gender pay gap among young people (11/04/2022)

The latest edition of the Employment and Social Developments in Europe (ESDE) Quarterly Review, published this week, finds that young women (aged 25-29) face a 7.2% unadjusted gender pay gap at the start of their professional careers in the EU labour market. This is about half of the pay gap for all workers, indicating larger pay inequalities among older workers. In Ireland, the unadjusted gender pay gap for young women is somewhat lower than the EU average at 3.9%. This could be partly explained by the large share of Irish women working in public service jobs which tend to offer higher salaries than the private sector.

Energy Security: Commission hosts first meeting of EU Energy Purchase Platform to secure supply of gas, LNG and hydrogen (08/04/2022)

In order to secure the EU's energy supply at affordable prices in the current geopolitical context and to phase out dependency on Russian gas, the European Commission has established with the Member States an EU Platform for the common purchase of gas, LNG and hydrogen. The Platform will help ensuring security of supply, in particular for the refilling of gas storage facilities in time for next winter.

Ukraine: EU facilitates coordinated steps by telecom operators to help refugees stay connected (08/04/2022)

To help Ukrainians in Europe to stay in touch with family, use Internet & access reliable information, telecom operators based in the EU and Ukraine have agreed to secure & stabilise affordable or free roaming and international calls between EU and Ukraine. The European Commission and have facilitated this joint statement and welcomed its signature by 27 operators, with more joining, in the EU and Ukraine.

Covid19: Excess mortality down to +7% in the EU in January and February (13/04/2022)

Excess mortality in the EU reached a new peak of +26% in November and +23% in December, 2022 before falling to around +7% in January and February 2022 according to Eurostat. In Ireland, excess mortality was at +2.6% in February 2022 down from a 2021 peak of +21.4% in January. Excess mortality is the % of additional deaths compared with average monthly deaths in 2016-2019.

Thursday 21 April: The Digital Markets Act: Reshaping Europe’s Digital Economy (11/04/2022)

On Thursday lunchtime, 21 April Andreas Schwab MEP will address an IIEA webinar on the Digital Markets Act: Reshaping Europe’s Digital Economy. The Digital Markets Act aims to address the dominance of very large digital technology companies that have been dubbed “gatekeepers” by the European Commission, and to transform how Europe’s digital economy works. In his address, Andreas Schwab will outline the development of the DMA since the Commission’s initial proposal and will discuss what future the DMA might herald for Europe’s digital economy.

Friday 22 April: Europe at a time of crisis and transformation (11/04/2022)

Tuesday 3 May: Video conference of the Eurogroup (11/04/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available at the link below.

Wednesday 4 May: Ensuring an Inclusive Digital Transformation in the EU (11/04/2022)

Monday 16 May: Foreign Affairs Council (11/04/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available at the link below.

Tuesday 17 May: Foreign Affairs Council (Defence) (11/04/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available at the link below.

Friday 20 May: Foreign Affairs Council (Development) (11/04/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available at the link below.

Youth4Regions programme for aspiring journalists (11/04/2022)

Applications are now open for the sixth edition of the EU Youth4Regions programme, which is aimed at young journalists and students of journalism. Thirty-eight young journalists will be selected to meet in Brussels from 8-14 October 2022 to follow training, receive mentorship from experienced journalists, and visit the EU institutions and media organisations. Applications are open until 11 July 2022. The Commission will cover all costs for the participants.

Targeted consultation on the functioning of the Money Market Fund Regulation (12/04/2022)

The European Commission has launched a targeted public consultation to evaluate the adequacy of EU rules on money market funds (MMF). MMFs are investment funds that invest predominantly in short-term debt such as securities issued by banks, businesses or governments, thereby playing a key role in financing the economy. The consultation is open until 13 May 2022 and is targeted at relevant stakeholders and users of money market funds (MMFs), and in particular to investors and managers of MMFs.

Excise duty on alcohol and alcoholic beverages (12/04/2022)

The European Commission has launched a public consultation on excise duty on alcohol and alcoholic beverages. The aim of the consultation is to gather the views of all relevant stakeholders on the minimum excise duty rates for alcohol and alcoholic beverages. The consultation is open until 4 July 2022.

Find out what the EU has done for your county: New county reports for Munster (12/04/2022)

07/04/2022

EU news you can use

Stand Up For Ukraine: mobilisation of funding and support for Ukrainians in full swing (07/04/2022)

This Saturday, 9 April, the global pledging event Stand Up For Ukraine convened jointly by President von der Leyen and Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau will take place. The European Commission and the Government of Canada, in partnership with international advocacy Global Citizen, are calling on governments, private companies and citizens to contribute to this global solidarity effort. The funding and other types of support raised will go to catering for the needs of internally displaced people in Ukraine and of those who have fled the country following the Russian invasion.

Ukraine: President von der Leyen addresses European Parliament plenary (06/04/2022)

In a speech to the European Parliament this week, President von der Leyen said: "We will hold accountable those who are responsible for war crimes. The perpetrators must pay. After Bucha, more than ever, Europe stands firmly with Ukraine. We stand with Ukrainians in their devastated cities and their bomb shelters. We stand with them in their parliament, surrounded by sandbags and barricades. We stand with the millions who flee the invaders. And we will do everything in our power to ensure that they can return home safely."

Ukraine: EU ready to send Joint Investigation Teams to document war crimes (05/04/2022)

Following a phone call earlier this week with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President von der Leyen said: "The EU has set up a Joint Investigation Team with Ukraine to collect evidence and investigate war crimes and crimes against humanity. The EU is ready to reinforce this effort by sending investigation teams on the ground to support the Ukrainian Prosecution Services. Eurojust and Europol are ready to assist."

Ukraine: Commission proposes fifth round of sanctions against Russia (05/04/2022)

The European Commission this week proposed a fifth round of sanctions against Russia. President von der Leyen said: “The four packages of sanctions have hit hard and limited the Kremlin's political and economic options. We are seeing tangible results. But clearly, in view of events, we need to increase our pressure further. Today, we are proposing to take our sanctions a step further. We will make them broader and sharper, so that they cut even deeper in the Russian economy.”

European Commission Representation presents the annual 2022 Eurobarometer Report for Ireland (06/04/2022)

The 2022 Eurobarometer Report for Ireland, published this week, reveals that Irish citizens are the most likely to have a positive image of the EU at 71% and to be optimistic about the future of the EU at 88%. The report also shows high levels of trust among Irish citizens in the EU institutions. Head of the European Commission Representation in Ireland, Barbara Nolan, said: “The Covid pandemic has been a very difficult period for so many and as Ireland begins to return to a ‘new normal’ this spring, it is encouraging to see that Irish people continue to hold a very positive view of the European Union and remain optimistic for the future.”

Ukraine: Council approves immediate disbursement of €3.5 billion to EU countries welcoming refugees (05/04/2022)

As part of the EU's efforts to support Ukraine after Russia's invasion, EU ambassadors this week endorsed a Commission proposal giving member states immediate access to more initial funding from REACT-EU (Recovery Assistance for Cohesion and the Territories of Europe), as well as facilitating the provision of basic needs and support for refugees from Ukraine. A total of €3.5 billion will be paid out this year as increased initial pre-financing under REACT-EU, one of the largest post-pandemic recovery programmes aimed at reinforcing cohesion policy funds and the Fund for European Aid to the Most Deprived (FEAD). Member states with higher numbers of arrivals, as either transit countries or countries of final destination, will receive a larger share.

Ukraine: Commission helps professionally qualified refugees access jobs in the EU (06/04/2022)

The European Commission has published a recommendation on the recognition of academic and professional qualifications for people fleeing Russia's invasion of Ukraine. It will provide Member States' authorities with guidance and practical advice to ensure a quick, fair and flexible recognition process. To support Member States in the quick, fair and flexible recognition of qualifications, the Commission has taken a number of actions, including the creation of a resource hub on Ukrainian qualifications where information can be shared.

Ukraine: Commission adopts proposal for conversion of hryvnia banknotes by people fleeing Ukraine (01/04/2022)

The European Commission has adopted a proposal on the conversion of hryvnia (Ukrainian) banknotes into the currency of host Member States by persons fleeing the war in Ukraine. One of the immediate needs of people fleeing the war in Ukraine is to convert their hryvnia banknotes into the currency of their host country. The Commission's proposal aims to promote a coordinated approach for all Member States to offer those fleeing from Ukraine the same conditions for converting their hryvnia banknotes into local currency independently of the Member State that hosts them.

Moldova: EU steps up its support with an additional €53 million (07/04/2022)

The European Commission this week announced an additional €53 million to help the Republic of Moldova cope with the multiple repercussions of the Russian military aggression against Ukraine. This €53 million budget support comes in addition to other ongoing crisis support provided by the EU to Moldova.

EU Electronic Communications Code: Commission refers Ireland to the Court of Justice of the EU (06/04/2022)

The European Commission has referred ten Member States, including Ireland, to the Court of Justice of the European Union over their failure to fully transpose and communicate to the Commission how national measures transpose the EU Electronic Communications Code. The Code modernises EU telecoms rules to the benefit of consumers and industry by stimulating competition, driving investments, strengthening the internal market and consumer rights.

Psychoactive substances: Commission urges Ireland to communicate measures necessary to define isotonitazene as a drug (06/04/2022)

The European Commission is to send a reasoned opinion to Ireland for failing to notify it of any measures to enact Commission Delegated Directive (EU) 2020/1687 into national law. This Directive adds a new psychoactive substance - isotonitazene - to the definition of 'drug' contained in EU law. The Directive is part of the EU's legal framework to combat drug trafficking and limit the supply and consumption of illegal drugs.

Commission's Technical Support Instrument to help 17 Member States curb their reliance on Russian fossil fuels (07/04/2022)

The Commission is to offer technical support to help 17 Member States phase out their reliance on Russian fossil fuels, in line with the REPowerEU plan for more affordable, secure and sustainable energy. The technical expertise will help Member States to identify and implement the best policy reforms and investments in areas such as diversifying energy supplies, accelerating the transition to renewable energy and increasing energy efficiency, in order to reach these joint European ambitions. Member States that requested and will receive this support over the coming months include Ireland.

NUI Galway project to receive European Innovation Council funding (07/04/2022)

A project led by NUI Galway is one of 39 cutting edge research projects selected this week for European Innovation Council (EIC) Pathfinder funding. The project, under the category of "novel routes to green hydrogen production" will receive over €3.4 million in funding. The EIC Pathfinder scheme supports the exploration of bold ideas for radically new technologies.

Agriculture: Short-term outlook report shows strain on various EU agri-food sectors (05/04/2022)

The European Commission this week published the latest short-term outlook report for EU agricultural markets. The report concludes that Russia's military aggression against Ukraine has significantly disturbed global agricultural markets. This has created more uncertainty regarding the future availability of grains and oilseeds, and has added a layer of instability to already tense markets.

New European Bauhaus: Commission launches ‘NEB LAB' with new projects and call for Friends (07/04/2022)

The European Commission has just launched the NEB LAB, a ‘think and do' tank to make the New European Bauhaus a reality through concrete and tangible projects. By connecting the initiative's growing community and sharing ideas, it will bring about beautiful, sustainable, and inclusive changes on the ground. The launch of the ‘NEB LAB' starts with a call for Friends of the New European Bauhaus to involve companies and public actors such as regions, villages and cities, more directly in the NEB.

Commission adopts disclosure rules on sustainable investments (07/04/2022)

The European Commission this week adopted technical standards to be used by financial market participants when disclosing sustainability-related information under the Sustainable Finance Disclosures Regulation (SFDR). Commissioner for Financial Services, Financial Stability and Capital Markets Union Mairead McGuinness said: "Financial institutions and financial products subject to our disclosure rules will have to screen their investment portfolios and report accordingly. This means more transparency in the market, giving investors better information to make investment decisions in line with their sustainability preferences."

EU develops strategic reserves for chemical, biological and radio-nuclear emergencies (06/04/2022)

To improve the EUs preparedness and response to public health risks such as chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) threats, the European Commission is building up strategic reserves of response capacities through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. This includes a €540.5 million rescEU strategic stockpile, established in close collaboration with the Health emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA).

Sulfoxaflor: Commission restricts the use of harmful pesticide for pollinators (07/04/2022)

Delivering on its commitment to protect pollinators and build sustainable food systems, the European Commission will adopt, in the coming weeks, legislation restricting the use of Sulfoxaflor, a pesticide which can have adverse impacts on wild bees, to indoor use only. The Regulation will now be adopted by the Commission this spring.

Food crisis: the EU takes action to support Africa's Sahel and Lake Chad regions (06/04/2022)

In the context of the aggravation of the food security and nutrition due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the European Union is reinforcing its political and financial commitment to partner countries in Africa. A total of €554 million in 2022 will be targeted at increasing food security in Sahel and Lake Chad, where millions of people already suffer an acute situation and whose situation could worsen.

Financial services: European Commission adopts additional equivalence decisions for US exchanges (05/04/2022)

The European Commission has adopted a decision declaring that a number of United States exchanges supervised by the US Securities Exchange Commission (SEC) are equivalent to EU regulated markets. As a result, derivatives traded on these US exchanges will now be treated as exchange-traded derivatives under EU law. Commissioner Mairead McGuinness, responsible for Financial Stability, Financial Services and the Capital Markets Union, said: “These decisions are in the interest of the EU - we want our capital markets to be better integrated with other international markets. We look forward to continued good cooperation between the EU institutions and agencies and the US Securities and Exchange Commission.”

MSCA awards €405 million for doctoral programmes (05/04/2022)

The European Commission has announced the results of the 2021 Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) call for Doctoral Networks. It will fund a total of 144 doctoral programmes with €405 million with the prospect of training over 1,500 doctoral candidates in and outside academia. Once the grant agreements are finalised, the complete list of funded projects will be published.

Ireland is the third largest exporter of medicinal products: Eurostat (07/04/2022)

New Eurostat figures show that Ireland was the third largest exporter of medicinal and pharmaceutical products in the EU in 2021 with exports worth €38 billion. Germany (€56 billion) and Belgium (€46 billion) were the largest exporters and also the largest importers of these products. The Eurostat figures also show that the EU’s trade surplus in medicinal and pharmaceutical products reached €136 billion in 2021 with exports worth €235 billion and imports worth almost €100 billion.

Friday 8 April: Europe is our Future: What the EU Can Do for Your Business (01/04/2022)

This virtual event, which is co-organised by the IIEA and Enterprise Ireland, will provide an overview of the benefits of trading and doing business in the EU Single Market and will discuss the funding opportunities the EU provides for Irish SMEs. Speakers include: Frances Fitzgerald MEP; Robert Schroder, Head of External Communications for the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA); Daniela Angione, Research and Grants Officer, Innopharma; Anne Lanigan, Regional Director for the Eurozone, Central and Eastern Europe, Enterprise Ireland; Sonia Neary, CEO of Wellola; and Margaret Rae, Founder of Konree Innovation.

Friday 8 April: Stand Up for Ukraine Global social media rally (07/04/2022)

Many of the world’s top artists, entertainers, athletes, and advocates will join Global Citizen, for the “Stand Up for Ukraine” social media rally on April 8 into April 9. The campaign aims to mobilize billions to help refugees from Ukraine and conflicts around the world.

Friday 8 April: The Future of EU and NATO Defence Cooperation (01/04/2022)

On Friday lunchtime 8 April, Pawel Herczynski, Managing Director for Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) and Crisis Response in the CSDP and Crisis Response services at the European External Action Service (EEAS), will address an IIEA webinar on "The Future of EU and NATO Defence Cooperation". As the EU faces an increasingly diverse threat spectrum, Mr Herczynski will discuss the ways in which the EU is cooperating with other multilateral organisations, such as NATO, to enhance Europe’s security.

Monday 11 April: Foreign Affairs Council (01/04/2022)

The Foreign Affairs Council will exchange views on recent events and current affairs regarding external relations. Ministers will then discuss the latest developments concerning the Russian aggression against Ukraine, after the European Council of 24-25 March 2022. Lastly ministers will review the Global Gateway, the new European strategy to boost smart, clean and secure links in digital, energy and transport sectors and to strengthen health, education and research systems across the world.

Tuesday 12 April: General Affairs Council (06/04/2022)

Ministers will hold a country-specific discussion under the annual dialogue on the rule of law. They will also exchange views on the Conference on the Future of Europe, including on the next steps.

Wednesday 4 May: Ensuring an Inclusive Digital Transformation in the EU (07/04/2022)

New recruitment procedure for Irish language translators (06/04/2022)

The European Commission is recruiting Irish language translators to work in Brussels. If you would like to join the team and do important and interesting work for a generous salary, please email DGT-GA-EARCAIOCHT-EOLAS@ec.europa.eu (as Gaeilge) as soon as possible for further information. Your full application must be submitted by 4pm on 29 April 2022. A selection of candidates will be invited to sit a written translation test at the European Commission offices in Dublin (or in Brussels).

DiscoverEU: new call to allow even more young people to travel (06/04/2022)

DiscoverEU, the Commission's action that allows 18-years-olds to explore Europe mostly by train, is opening its first application round of 2022. From tomorrow 7 April at noon until 21 April at noon, young people living in Erasmus+ programme countries and born between 1 July 2003 and 30 June 2004 will be able to apply for one of 35,000 free travel passes.

European Citizen's Prize 2022 (01/04/2022)

Awarded every year by the European Parliament, the European Citizen's Prize goes to projects organised by people or organisations that encourage: mutual understanding and closer integration between people in the EU; cross-border cooperation that builds a stronger European spirit; and EU values and fundamental rights. People, groups, associations or organisations can apply with a project for the European Citizen's Prize or can nominate a project. MEPs can also submit a nomination. The deadline to apply is 18 April 2022.

European Social Innovation Competition 2022 (01/04/2022)

The European Social Innovation Competition (EUSIC) recognises social innovation projects that shape the local innovation ecosystem and promote game-changing innovation. This year’s challenge concerns ‘the future of living, innovation for affordable and sustainable housing districts’. The theme fulfils the objectives of the New European Bauhaus movement: to re-invent our current way of living to meet the goals of the European Green Deal. Three awards of €50,000 each will go to the best socially innovative projects. The deadline to apply is 17 May 2022.

Consultation on package travel (07/04/2022)

The European Commission is seeking information from stakeholders that may have an interest or expertise in the Package Travel Directive about their experiences, perceptions and opinions regarding the application of the current rules and about the potential impacts of options for future action. The consultation is open until 10 May 2022.

Consultation on sustainability ratings and credit ratings (05/04/2022)

The European Commission has published a call for evidence and a targeted consultation on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) ratings and sustainability factors in credit ratings. This consultation will help the Commission gain a better insight into the functioning of the market for ESG ratings, as well as a better understanding of how credit rating agencies incorporate ESG risks into their creditworthiness assessments. The consultation is open until 6 June.

Targeted consultation on a digital euro (05/04/2022)

The European Commission has launched a targeted consultation on a digital euro. The aim is to collect information on expected impacts on key industries (financial intermediation, payment services, merchants), users (consumer associations, retailers’ associations), chambers of commerce and other stakeholders in international trade. The consultation is open until 14 June 2022.

The European Commission Representation in Ireland intends issuing a call for tenders for the supply of a marquee and ancillary equipment at the National Ploughing Championships. The estimated maximum budget attributed to this project is €25,000 (excl. VAT). If you are interested in this tender, please request the documents by sending an email to COMM-IE-TENDERS@ec.europa.eu before 15 April 2022.

31/03/2022

EU news you can use

Stand Up for Ukraine: European Commission and Government of Canada team up with Global Citizen to mobilise support for refugees (28/03/2022)

The European Commission and the Government of Canada have announced the launch of a global campaign to raise funding in support of people fleeing the invasion of Ukraine, in partnership with international advocacy organisation Global Citizen. The President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on the international community on behalf of his citizens who have been displaced by the war, saying: “On 9 April, the biggest online event ‘Social Media Rally' will support people who were forced to flee Ukraine. I'm inviting everybody: musicians, actors, athletes, businessmen, politicians, everybody. Everyone who wants to join this movement and ‘Stand Up for Ukraine'.”

Stand Up For Ukraine: private sector can now donate in-kind support via new system (29/03/2022)

As part of the ‘Stand Up For Ukraine' campaign, the European Commission is launching a new donation system to help match in-kind donations from the private sector with the needs of refugees and internally displaced people in Ukraine, Moldova and neighbouring EU Member States. The Commission is in direct contact with Ukrainian and neighbouring civil protection authorities and receives continuous updates on urgently needed items on the ground such as medicines, vaccines, medical equipment, tents, beds, etc.

Ukraine: 10-Point Plan on stronger European coordination on welcoming people fleeing the war (29/03/2022)

The European Commission has proposed a 10-Point action plan for stronger European coordination on welcoming people fleeing the war against Ukraine. It includes measures such as creating an EU registration platform for exchanging information on beneficiaries of temporary protection and national protection statuses, as well as a mapping of reception capacity and accommodation to match the offers of Member States. It also includes the development of a common anti-trafficking plan to prevent trafficking and exploitation.

The European Commission and the United States open new chapter in their energy cooperation (25/03/2022)

President Ursula von der Leyen and US President Joe Biden met last Friday morning (25 March) in Brussels. They committed to working together to support Europe's energy security for the coming winters and to sustainably reduce Europe's energy dependency on Russia by investing in the clean energy transition. The United States will strive to ensure additional liquefied natural gas (LNG) volumes for the EU market of at least 15 bcm in 2022 with expected increases going forward. In parallel, the Commission will work with the governments of EU Member States to accelerate review and permit procedures for LNG infrastructure.

Green Deal: New proposals to make sustainable products the norm and boost Europe's resource independence (30/03/2022)

The European Commission this week proposed new rules to make almost all physical goods on the EU market more friendly to the environment, circular, and energy efficient throughout their whole lifecycle from the design phase through to end-of-life. The Commission also presented a new strategy to make textiles more durable, repairable, reusable and recyclable, to tackle fast fashion, textile waste and the destruction of unsold textiles, and ensure their production takes place in full respect of social rights. European consumption of textiles has the fourth highest impact on the environment and climate change.

Circular Economy: Commission proposes new consumer rights and a ban on greenwashing (30/03/2022)

The European Commission has proposed to update EU consumer rules to help consumers take informed and environment-friendly choices when buying products. Consumers will have a right to know how long a product is designed to last for and how, if at all, it can be repaired. In addition, the rules will strengthen consumer protection against untrustworthy or false environmental claims, banning ‘greenwashing' and practices misleading consumers about the durability of a product.

State aid: Commission approves prolongation and modification of Irish risk equalisation scheme (31/03/2022)

The European Commission has approved, under EU State aid rules, the prolongation and modification of an existing Irish risk equalisation scheme to compensate insurers for the provision of private medical insurances. Under the scheme, private health insurers, whose customers have a higher risk profile than the market average, continue to obtain payments from a Risk Equalisation Fund. The Fund will be financed via a duty imposed on all private health insurers. In practice, the state-owned insurer, VHI Insurance, is expected to be a net beneficiary of the scheme, while its competitors are expected to be net contributors.

State aid: Commission approves €50 million Irish scheme to support the beef sector affected by the coronavirus pandemic (25/03/2022)

The European Commission has approved a €50 million Irish scheme to support the beef sector affected by the coronavirus pandemic. The scheme was approved under the State Aid Temporary Framework and the aid will take the form of direct grants. The measure will be open to farmers and companies active in the beef sector in Ireland. The aim of the scheme is to address the liquidity needs of the beneficiaries and to help them continue their activities during and after the pandemic.

Road safety in the EU: fatalities in 2021 remain well below pre-pandemic level (28/03/2022)

An estimated 19,800 people sadly lost their lives on EU roads in 2021, or 44 deaths per million inhabitants. On average across the EU, 52% of road traffic fatalities occurred on rural roads, 40% in urban areas and 8% on motorways. Ireland, at 27 deaths per million inhabitants, was one of 9 EU countries to register its lowest ever level of road fatalities in 2021. The EU's target is to reduce road deaths and serious injuries by 50% by 2030.

European Commission and United States Joint Statement on Trans-Atlantic Data Privacy Framework (28/03/2022)

The European Commission and the United States have have agreed in principle on a new Trans-Atlantic Data Privacy Framework, which will foster trans-Atlantic data flows and address the concerns raised by the Court of Justice of the European Union in the Schrems II decision of July 2020. Under the Trans-Atlantic Data Privacy Framework, the United States is to put in place new safeguards to ensure that signals surveillance activities are necessary and proportionate in the pursuit of defined national security objectives, establish a two-level independent redress mechanism with binding authority to direct remedial measures, and enhance rigorous and layered oversight of signals intelligence activities to ensure compliance with limitations on surveillance activities.

Commission strengthens geographical indications to preserve high quality and reinforce protection (31/03/2022)

The European Commission is proposing to review the geographical indications (GIs) system for wine, spirit drinks and agricultural products. Among the measures proposed: a shortened and simplified registration procedure; better online protection; possibility to include sustainability clauses; and empowering GI producers’ groups. Ireland currently has 16 products that are registered and protected across the EU ranging from meat and fish products to Irish poitín and the Waterford blaa.

Destination Earth – new digital twin of the Earth to help tackle climate change and protect nature (30/03/2022)

Together with partnering organisations, the European Commission this week launched the Destination Earth initiative to help tackle climate change. Supported with an initial €150 million of EU funding, the goal is to develop a highly accurate digital model of the Earth that will help monitor, model and predict natural and human activity, and develop and test scenarios for more sustainable development.

Commission authorises four genetically modified crops for use as food and animal feed (31/03/2022)

The European Commission this week authorised three genetically modified crops (1 soybean, 1 oilseed rape and 1 cotton) and renewed the authorisation for one genetically modified cotton crop used for food and animal feed. All of these GMOs have gone through a comprehensive and stringent authorisation procedure, including a favourable scientific assessment by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). The authorisation decisions do not cover cultivation but only the import of the above-mentioned GMO crops.

Customs Union: Commission publishes new tool to help Member States control prohibited and restricted goods at EU borders (31/03/2022)

The European Commission has published a list of EU laws that prohibit or restrict certain goods and substances from the EU. Controlled goods exist in many key priority areas such as the protection of health and life of humans, animals or plants, the protection of the environment, the protection of consumers and the protection of industrial and commercial property. The list will help customs and other authorities tasked with enforcing controls at EU borders to identify and access the applicable legislation more easily.

Republic of Tunisia joins Horizon Europe, the world’s largest research and innovation programme (29/03/2022)

The European Commission and Tunisia this week signed an agreement granting the Republic of Tunisia association status to Horizon Europe, the EU’s research and innovation programme for 2021-2027. This means that Tunisian researchers, innovators and research entities can now participate in the €95.5 billion programme under the same conditions as entities from EU Member States.

6% of Irish people against Covid19 vaccination: new EU survey on attitudes to vaccination (31/03/2022)

A new Eurobarometer survey reveals 85% of Irish respondents are pro-vaccination (vaccinated & received a booster or would like to receive one), 5% are vaccine hesitant (may consider getting vaccinated/vaccinated but refuse booster) and 6% are against vaccination. The survey also shows that 82% of Irish people agree that the benefits of Covid vaccines outweigh the risks while 80% believe vaccines authorised in the EU are safe and 74% agree vaccines are the only way to end the pandemic. The survey also shows a large majority of Irish respondents are satisfied with government and EU handling of the vaccination strategy.

Average hourly wage costs slightly above average in Ireland (28/03/2022)

New figures from Eurostat estimate that average hourly labour costs were €33.5 in Ireland in 2021, up from €32.4 in 2020. The Euro Area average was €32.8 while the EU average was €29.1. The lowest costs were recorded in Bulgaria (€7.0) and Romania (€8.5), and the highest in Denmark (€46.9), Luxembourg (€43.0) and Belgium (€41.6). The two main components of labour costs are wages & salaries and non-wage costs (e.g. employers' social contributions).

Thursday 31 March: Ireland's Conference on the Future of Europe, Dublin (28/03/2022)

On Thursday evening 31 March, European Movement Ireland will host Ireland's Conference on the Future of Europe at The Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin, 23 O’Connell Street Upper, Dublin 1. This unique opportunity is aimed at those between the ages of 18-30 to discuss and vote on ideas that have been put forward by the people of Ireland about what Europe might look like in the future. Speakers include Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne TD.

Friday 1 April: EU-China summit via video conference (30/03/2022)

The main focus of the summit will be on the war in Ukraine, the engagement of the international community to support Ukraine, the dramatic humanitarian crisis created by Russia's aggression, its destabilising nature for the international order and its inherent global impact. The leaders will also discuss the state of bilateral relations and areas of shared interest such as climate change, biodiversity and health, as well as ways to ensure a more balanced and reciprocal trade relationship.

Friday 1 April: Webinar - Rare Diseases in Ireland & the EU – Finding Innovative Solutions (28/03/2022)

On Friday 1 April, Frances Fitzgerald MEP and the European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland will host a webinar on "Rare Diseases in Ireland & the EU – Finding Innovative Solutions". This webinar will provide speakers and those in attendance to have a cutting-edge and solutions-focused discussion on the opportunities and challenges in the rare diseases landscape in Ireland and the EU.

Monday 4 April: Eurogroup (28/03/2022)

On the agenda: Euro area macro-economic situation and outlook; trade-offs in the design of a digital euro between privacy and other policy objectives; housing market developments in the euro area and policy implications; and Banking Union Update.

Monday 4 and Tuesday 5 April: Education, Youth, Culture and Sport Council (28/03/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available at the link below.

Tuesday 5 April: DiscoverEU Webinar by Léargas (28/03/2022)

Léargas is organising a webinar for young people on Discover EU on Tuesday afternoon 5 April.

Tuesday 5 April: The Future of France: the 2022 French Presidential Election (28/03/2022)

This IIEA webinar will explore the context and potential implications of the 2022 French Presidential elections, with the first round scheduled to take place on 10 April 2022, and what this may mean for the future of France, Ireland, and the EU. Dr. Emmanuelle Schon-Quinlivan will explore the EU level implications of the election, and Lara Marlowe will discuss the impact that the election may have on internal political dynamics in France.

Tuesday 5 April: Economic and Financial Affairs Council (28/03/2022)

On the agenda: global minimum level of taxation for large corporations; the economic and financial aspects of Russia’s war in Ukraine; preparation for G20 and International Monetary Fund meetings; European financial architecture for development - Ukraine; and the strategic autonomy of the EU as regards economic and financial issues.

Wednesday 6 April: Online event - Launch of the 2022 Eurobarometer Report for Ireland (29/03/2022)

The European Commission Representation in Ireland, in co-operation with European Movement Ireland, is hosting an online event, ‘Launch of the 2022 Eurobarometer Report for Ireland’ on Wednesday morning, 6 April. The key findings from the report will be presented by Luke Reaper, Managing Director, Behaviour & Attitudes and author of the Report. This will be followed by a Q&A session with participants. The event will be moderated by Barbara Nolan, Head of the European Commission Representation in Ireland.

Thursday 7 April: Agriculture and Fisheries Council (28/03/2022)

On the agenda: food security; the market situation for agri-food products and the situation of the EU’s agricultural sector, with a particular focus on the impact of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine; the ongoing revision of the land use, land use change and forestry (LULUCF) regulation; geographical indications; and avian influenza.

Friday 8 April: Europe is our Future: What the EU Can Do for Your Business (30/03/2022)

Friday 8 April: The Future of EU and NATO Defence Cooperation (28/03/2022)

Saturday 9 April, Stand Up For Ukraine: global pledging event for refugees and internally displaced people taking place, Warsaw (30/03/2022)

In recognition of Poland's essential role in supporting refugees fleeing the invasion of Ukraine, the Stand Up For Ukraine pledging event, convened by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau will take place in Warsaw on 9 April. Artists from around the world have already joined the campaign - including Bono, Madonna, Elton John, Miley Cyrus, Adam Lambert, Céline Dion or Alanis Morissette, to name just a few.

Monday 11 April: Foreign Affairs Council (30/03/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available at the link below.

Tender No. COMM/DUB/2022/MVP/0188 concerning a negotiated procedure for temporary staff services (28/03/2022)

The European Commission Representation in Ireland is planning to launch a call for tenders the provision of agency workers services. Companies wishing to take part in the proceedings are invited to indicate their interest by 7th April by 00:00 via the e-Tendering platform. The proceedings will be conducted via the e-Tendering platform.

New European Bauhaus: 3 new calls to support citizens, cities and towns (30/03/2022)

The European Commission this week announced three new calls to make the New European Bauhaus (NEB) a reality on the ground. The support is intended specifically for citizens, cities and towns to take the New European Bauhaus project deep into their communities. The first and second calls focus on citizen engagement activities and co-creation of public spaces with citizens. The third and last call provides technical assistance to small and medium-sized municipalities.

EU organic awards open for applications (25/03/2022)

Applications for the first EU organic awards have now been launched and are open until 8 June 2022.. The awards aim to raise awareness amongst the wider public about organic production and its benefits by putting the spotlight on innovative and sustainable projects. There are 7 different categories and 8 awards. Award winners will receive a non-financial recognition award and greater public visibility for your project.

Measures on access to in-vehicle data (31/03/2022)

The European Commission is gathering stakeholders’ views regarding the current state of play of access to vehicle data, functions and resources, as well as their views on a range of possible measures that could improve the situation, and the costs, impacts and possible risks of these measures. The consultation is open until 21 June 2022.

Healthy Data – your views on the reuse of health data (30/03/2022)

The healthy data e-consultation has two main aims: to listen to citizens and patients’ views on health data secondary use and sharing and on the role, if any, that they would like to play in the management and use of their related health data; and to increase citizen awareness, engagement and empowerment on the topic, so that everyone can, if they chose, develop informed opinions and take an active role in the use of their health data. The consultation was launched by TEHDAS, Sciensano (Belgium), the Health Data Hub (France) and the NHS Confederation (United Kingdom) to provide recommendations on the role of citizens in the future European Health Data Space.

Targeted revision of the Cosmetic Products Regulation (28/03/2022)

The European Commission has launched a public consultation about the targeted revision of the Cosmetic Products Regulation. The aim of the consultation is to gather opinions with a view to further improving existing provisions on the safety of different dangerous substances and their use in cosmetics. The consultation is open until 20 June 2022.

24/03/2022

EU news you can use

Ukraine: Commission launches special call to support Member States welcoming refugees from Ukraine and the phasing out of their reliance on fossil fuels from Russia (21/03/2022)

The European Commission has launched a special call under the Technical Support Instrument (TSI). Member States may immediately send requests to the Commission for technical support in the following areas: building institutional and operational capacity to welcome people fleeing the war in Ukraine; enhancing the social and economic integration of refugees from Ukraine; making the best use of available EU funds to provide accommodation for families or unaccompanied children; and phasing out of the Member States' reliance on fossil fuels from Russia.

Ukraine: EU support to help Member States meet the needs of refugees (23/03/2022)

Since the unprovoked and unjustified Russian invasion of Ukraine, some 3.5 million people have arrived in the EU in the space of just four weeks. Beyond the immediate support provided in terms of assistance at the border, reception and civil protection, the EU is taking further steps to help Member States ensure beneficiaries can effectively access their right to education, healthcare, accommodation and jobs. Vice-President Margaritis Schinas said: “The temporary protection directive is now in place and is giving millions of people immediate access to medical care, schools, jobs and housing. Today the Commission is outlining a series of further measure to help Member States give life to these rights in practice."

European Commission acts for global food security and for supporting EU farmers and consumers (23/03/2022)

The European Commission this week presented a range of short and medium-term actions to enhance global food security and to support farmers and consumers in the EU in light of rising food prices and input costs. This includes a support package of €500 million for EU farmers, of which almost €16 million will be available for Irish farmers. Agriculture Commissioner Janusz Wojciechowski said: “Our first priority is to make sure that Ukrainians have enough food, fuel and water. We will also help them to continue planting and growing cereals and oilseeds, much needed for themselves and for the world and facilitate their exports. The EU is an agricultural superpower and we will ensure that our farmers have the Commission's full support to respond to the global needs for food.”

European Commission outlines options to mitigate high energy prices with common gas purchases and minimum gas storage obligations (23/03/2022)

The European Commission this week set out ideas for collective European action to address the root causes of the problem in the gas market and ensure security of supply at reasonable prices for next winter and beyond. This included a legislative proposal introducing a minimum 80% gas storage level obligation for next winter to ensure security of energy supply, rising to 90% for the following years. To address concerns about continued high energy prices, the Commission also adopted a Communication setting out the options for market intervention at European and national level, and assessing the pros and cons of each option.

Today the Ukrainian flag is the flag of freedom: President von der Leyen to the European Parliament (23/03/2022)

In a speech yesterday (Wednesday) to the European Parliament, President von der Leyen said: "Every day, thousands of Ukrainians keep taking to the streets to protest against the invasion. In Kherson, in Berdyansk, in Melitopol, they are waving their blue and yellow flags in the faces of the occupying soldiers. And they have not stopped, even after Russian soldiers have beaten them and shot some of them down. Honourable Members, if freedom has a name, its name is Ukraine. And the Ukrainian flag is today the flag of freedom."

State aid: Commission adopts Temporary Crisis Framework to support the economy in context of Russia's invasion of Ukraine (23/03/2022)

The European Commission this week adopted a Temporary Crisis Framework to enable Member States to use the flexibility foreseen under State aid rules to support the economy in the context of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Vice President Margrethe Vestager said: "We need to mitigate the economic impact of this war and to support severely impacted companies and sectors. And we need to act in a coordinated manner. With this in mind, the Commission will enable Member States to use the flexibility foreseen under State aid rules to tackle this unprecedented situation, while protecting the level playing field in the Single Market."

Ukraine: Commission launches one-stop-shop to support researchers (22/03/2022)

The European Commission this week launched the ‘European Research Area for Ukraine' (ERA4Ukraine) portal, a one-stop-shop for information and support services to Ukraine-based researchers and researchers fleeing Ukraine. The portal aims to help affected researchers find housing and job opportunities, facilitate the recognition of their diplomas, and offer other services. Commissioner Mariya Gabriel said: "Pending the ratification of Ukraine's association to Horizon Europe, we have made sure successful beneficiaries can already receive funding from the EU R&I programmes."

Enforcing sanctions against listed Russian and Belarussian oligarchs: Commission's “Freeze and Seize” Task Force steps up work with international partners (21/03/2022)

The European Commission's ‘Freeze and Seize' Task Force, set up to ensure EU-level coordination to implement sanctions against listed Russian and Belarussian oligarchs, has now stepped up its action at international level. It will work alongside the newly established 'Russian Elites, Proxies, and Oligarchs (REPO)' Task Force, under which the EU operates together with the G7 countries as well as Australia. Commissioner Mairead McGuinness said: "We need to ensure that those who provide services - financial, legal and others - to oligarchs to facilitate sanctions evasion are fully aware of the risks they run. We will investigate any and all efforts to breach our sanctions legislation and there will be consequences for violations."

Ukraine refugees: Operational guidelines to support Member States in applying the Temporary Protection Directive (21/03/2022)

To help people fleeing the war in Ukraine, the EU agreed to activate the Temporary Protection Directive. The Directive became immediately applicable on 4 March and offers immediate protection and a clear legal status to millions of people. The European Commission has now presented operational guidelines to support Member States in applying the Directive. The comprehensive guidelines will help those arriving to have a consistent and effective level of rights and the Member States to assume their new responsibilities.

State aid: Commission approves 2022-2027 regional aid map for Ireland (22/03/2022)

The European Commission has approved under EU State aid rules Ireland's map for granting regional aid from 1 January 2022 to 31 December 2027 within the framework of the revised Regional aid Guidelines ('RAG'). Ireland's regional map defines the Irish regions eligible for regional investment aid. The map also establishes the maximum aid intensities in the eligible regions.

EU strengthens partnership with WHO to boost local manufacturing and access to vaccines, medicines and health technologies in Africa (24/03/2022)

The European Commission and the World Health Organization (WHO) are strengthening their partnership to improve equitable access to safe, effective, and quality-assured vaccines, medicines and health technologies in Sub-Saharan Africa. The EU–WHO partnership will assist the African Union in reaching its target of increasing local vaccine production, in Africa and for Africa.

Personal pensions: The pan-European personal pension product (“PEPP”) applies as of this week (22/03/2022)

The pan-European personal pension product (“PEPP”) Regulation, adopted in 2019, entered into application this week. This will pave the way for a new voluntary EU-wide scheme for people to save for their retirement, and a broad range of financial institutions across the EU will be able to offer it. Commissioner Mairead McGuinness said: “As a complement to public pensions, PEPP caters for the needs of today's younger generation and allows people to better plan and make provisions for the future. From today, personal pension providers are able to provide PEPP across the EU with one single registration."

SURE: Third report shows continued success in protecting jobs and supporting recovery (24/03/2022)

The European Commission has published its third bi-annual report on the implementation and impact of SURE, the €100 billion instrument designed to protect jobs and incomes affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The report finds that SURE has been successful in cushioning the impact of the pandemic and supporting the recovery in 2021. A total of almost €90 billion has already been disbursed to EU Member States of which Ireland received just under €2.5 million.

New database on projects funded by EU Cohesion funding (22/03/2022)

The European Commission has just launched a new public online platform called Kohesio that provides information on over 1.5 million projects in all 27 Member States financed by the European Regional Development Fund, the Cohesion Fund and the European Social Fund since 2014. Click on the interactive map on the link below to find details of the almost 800 projects financed in Ireland.

EU Digital COVID Certificate: EU launches new revocation feature (21/03/2022)

The European Commission this week adopted an EU mechanism to allow fraudulent or erroneous EU Digital COVID Certificates to be revoked. This means that, once a certificate is revoked in one EU Member State, it will also show up as invalid in other Member States. Since the EU Digital COVID Certificate system started in July 2021, more than 1.7 billion certificates have been issued.

TCD researcher wins ERC Consolidator Grants (21/03/2022)

TCD researcher Emma Tomlinson has won an ERC (European Research Council) consolidator grant for her project to quantify the formation and evolution of the Archaean lithospheric mantle. ERC consolidator grants aim to support mid-career researchers and help them consolidate their teams and conduct pioneering research on topics and with methods of their choosing.

Applications for the European Master in Law, Data and Artificial Intelligence closing shortly (23/03/2022)

Applications for the European Master in Law, Data and Artificial Intelligence are closing on 31 March. The course has been developed as a response to the legal, technical and ethical challenges of digitisation. Businesses and public institutions require experts to legally, ethically and safely process data, in particular in the context of the use of AI systems. The course aims to educate the leaders who will achieve the goals of the EU Digital Compass. Through a two-year fully integrated study curriculum, including up to three mobility periods, work placements, language courses, summer schools and networking opportunities, EMILDAI will produce legal and technical professionals with a solid expertise in data protection, data governance, cybersecurity, AI law and ethics.

Fight against drugs: Commission initiates ban on two harmful new drug substances (21/03/2022)

The European Commission has proposed to ban two new drug substances across the European Union: 3-MMC and 3-CMC. The two substances are life threatening due to their toxicity. They have been available in the EU since at least 2012 and 2014, respectively. Both substances are mainly sold as a powder, but also available as tablets and capsules. 27 deaths associated with 3-MMC were reported across five Member States, and 10 deaths associated with 3-CMC in two Member States.

Yemen: Commission pledges €154 million for conflict-affected people (21/03/2022)

The European Commission has announced €154 million for 2022 to support those most in need in Yemen at a high-level pledging event for Yemen co-hosted by the United Nations, Sweden and Switzerland. The EU and its Member States have pledged over €371 million in total, showing a solid commitment to address the dire funding gap of this crisis. The new EU funding will address the most urgent needs arising from the crisis as well as support efforts to reach a peaceful settlement of the conflict.

NextGenerationEU: European Commission completes the second successful bond issuance in 2022 (22/03/2022)

The European Commission this week raised a further €10 billion for NextGenerationEU through its second bond syndication of 2022. The 10-year bond, due on 6 July 2032, brings the total financing raised under the programme to €91 billion. This placement will continue to support Europe’s economic recovery under the Recovery and Resilience Facility and the other EU-budget programmes funded through NextGenerationEU.

Ireland records second highest level of per capita GDP in the EU in 2021 (24/03/2022)

New estimates from Eurostat show that Ireland recorded a per capita GDP of 221% of the EU average, expressed in purchasing power standards (PPS), in 2021. This was the second highest in the EU after Luxembourg at 277% of the EU average. There were substantial differences between EU Member States, however, in terms of GDP per capita, with the lowest recorded in Bulgaria (55% of the EU average), Greece (65%), Slovakia (68%) and Croatia (70%). Eurostat points out that the high level of GDP per capita in Ireland can be partly explained by the presence of major multinational companies holding intellectual property and that a large part of the income is returned to the companies’ ultimate owners abroad.

Thursday 24 and Friday 25 March: European Council (21/03/2022)

The European Council will discuss Russian military aggression against Ukraine, security and defence, energy, economic issues, COVID-19 and external relations. US President Joe Biden will be joining EU leaders during the first day of the European Council for a discussion on support for Ukraine and its people and on strengthening transatlantic cooperation in response to Russia’s aggression.

Saturday 26 March: eTwinning Ireland National Conference (24/03/2022)

On Saturday, 26 March, eTwinning Ireland will host the second annual National Conference on the theme of "Our Future Beautiful, Sustainable, Together: Schools and the New European Bauhaus". This will be a hybrid event taking place both online and in person, in the Alex Hotel, Dublin 2.

Monday 28 March: Extraordinary Justice and Home Affairs Council (22/03/2022)

EU home affairs ministers will meet in Brussels to discuss European coordination for the reception of people fleeing the war in Ukraine. They will focus on: the implementation of material and financial support for member states; the monitoring and coordination of travel within the EU; the reception of refugees from the Republic of Moldova; and, external border control and security issues.

Tuesday 29 March: Conference - Inspiring Plurilingualism: Stakes and perspectives in Europe (23/03/2022)

As part of the French Presidency of the Council of the EU, and in association with EUNIC Ireland and the European Commission Representation in Ireland, the Embassy of France in Ireland is hosting the Conference "Inspiring Plurilingualism: Stakes and perspectives in Europe" at Eurofound in Loughlinstown, Dublin 18 on Tuesday morning 29 March. The event will be opened by Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne T.D. and H.E. Vincent Guérend, French ambassador to Ireland. It will be moderated by Dr Déirdre Kirwan.

Tuesday 29 March: A new Festival of European Languages - a culture trail (22/03/2022)

Join the European Union's cultural institutes and the European Commission on Tuesday afternoon, 29 March for a new Festival of European Languages. In the form of a culture trail, participating organisations will invite members of the public to explore the possibilities of plurilingualism, by dipping into the culture and language of a variety of countries. The new festival aims to promote language learning and an interest in plurilingualism through a series of linguistic and cultural activities.

Tuesday 29 March: Free screenings in Ireland for LUX Audience Week, Dublin (22/03/2022)

The three films nominated for a LUX award (Flee, Great Freedom and Quo Vadis, Aida?) are being screened in cinemas around the EU and in Ireland during the week beginning 28 March. In Ireland, Quo Vadis, Aida? will be screened in the Lighthouse Cinema in Dublin on Tuesday 29 March at 6pm. The screening will be followed by a live-streamed Q&A with the film crew recorded from Belgium. The film is about Aida, an English teacher and translator, who strives to save her husband and children from the invading Serbian forces during the Srebrenica massacre by taking refuge in a United Nations camp. Tickets are free.

Tuesday 29 March: Free screening of Lux Award nominee, Galway (23/03/2022)

LUX Award nominee, Quo Vadis, Aida?, will be screened in the Pálás Cinema in Galway on Tuesday 29 March at 6pm. The screening will be followed by a live-streamed Q&A with the film crew recorded from Belgium. The film is about Aida, an English teacher and translator, who strives to save her husband and children from the invading Serbian forces during the Srebrenica massacre by taking refuge in a United Nations camp. Tickets are free.

Tuesday 29 March: Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council (Health) (21/03/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available shortly at the link below.

Wednesday 30 March: International Justice under probe - A prosecutor’s view on armed conflict and the road to delivering justice (22/03/2022)

IIEA webinar featuring Ladislav Hamran, President of Eurojust. Offering an inside view on judicial cooperation in response to armed conflict Ladislav Hamran will discuss the shape and form in which prosecutors and judges work together across borders in view of delivering justice to communities in dire need of it.

Thursday 31 March: Ireland's Conference on the Future of Europe, Dublin (21/03/2022)

Friday 1 April: Webinar - Rare Diseases in Ireland & the EU – Finding Innovative Solutions (22/03/2022)

Monday 4 April: Eurogroup (22/03/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available at the link below.

Tuesday 5 April: DiscoverEU Webinar by Léargas (24/03/2022)

Léargas is organising a webinar for young people on Discover EU on Tuesday afternoon 5 April.

Tuesday 5 April: The Future of France: the 2022 French Presidential Election (22/03/2022)

Léargas launches €60,000 Micro Grant Scheme to celebrate European Year of Youth (22/03/2022)

A total of €60,000 in funding to support events and activities for young people in Ireland has been announced by Léargas to celebrate European Year of Youth. The funding is part of the European Year of Youth Micro Grants Scheme which will make grants of €500 to €5,000 available to youth organisations, schools, clubs and community groups, as well as informal groups of young people, across the country. These grants are co-funded by the European Commission and the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.

European Sustainable Energy Awards (21/03/2022)

The 2022 European Sustainable Energy Awards were recently launched. The awards recognise outstanding individuals and projects for their innovation and efforts in energy efficiency and renewables. There are four categories: innovation; local energy action; woman in energy; and young energy trailblazer. Anyone in the EU can submit a recent project – from a local initiative to an industry-wide programme – or a profile of a person that is helping the citizens, industry and public sector work towards achieving the EU Green Deal objectives. The deadline to apply is Thursday 14 April 2022.

State aid rules for banks in difficulty (21/03/2022)

The consultation aims to gather views on the State aid rules for banks in difficulty from all parties who have an interest in the matter, such as individuals or groups, academia and research institutions. The consultation is open until 9 June 2022.

EU pollinators initiative (21/03/2022)

The consultation aims to collect stakeholder views on the implementation of existing policies and to gather input on how to implement the objectives of the EU pollinators initiative and meet the commitment to reverse the decline of pollinators by 2030, as per the EU biodiversity strategy for 2030. The consultation is open until 9 June 2022.

16/03/2022

EU news you can use

Ukraine: EU adopts fourth package of sanctions against Russia (15/03/2022)

The Council of the European Union this week adopted a fourth package of restrictive measures against Russia in response to its brutal aggression against Ukraine and its people. It has decided to prohibit all transactions with certain state-owned enterprises, new investments in the Russian energy sector and the provision of credit rating services to any Russian person or entity. Additionally, the EU has introduced further trade restrictions for iron and steel, as well as for luxury goods.

Ukraine: European Commission launches webpage for people fleeing the war in Ukraine (16/03/2022)

The European Commission has launched a new webpage containing information for people fleeing the war in the Ukraine. The webpage is available in English, Ukrainian and Russian and includes information about crossing the border into an EU country, eligibility for temporary protection and applying for international protection, as well as travel rights inside the European Union.

Ukraine: EU disburses €300 million in emergency Macro-Financial Assistance to Ukraine (14/03/2022)

The European Commission has disbursed €300 million in emergency Macro-Financial Assistance (MFA) to Ukraine. The disbursement of funds was fast-tracked to help enhance Ukraine's macroeconomic stability in the context of Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified invasion. This is the initial part of a first €600 million instalment under Ukraine's new €1.2 billion emergency MFA programme.

Ukraine: EU's first medical evacuation operation transfers Ukrainian children from Poland to Italy (14/03/2022)

On March 13, the EU coordinated the first MEDEVAC operation by transferring chronically ill paediatric patients from Poland to Italy. The operation was financially and operationally supported by the EU Civil Protection Mechanism and is part of the European solidarity mechanism for intra-EU medical transfers of refugees and displaced people. The operation was carried out by an Italian medical team at the request of and in close cooperation with Poland.

Capital Markets Union: Commission proposes simpler rules to make settlement in EU financial markets safer and more efficient (16/03/2022)

The European Commission has proposed changes to the Central Securities Depositories Regulation. Central Securities Depositories operate the infrastructure that enables the settlement of securities (such as shares or bonds) in financial markets. Commissioner Mairead McGuinness said: "We want to make our Central Securities Depositories more efficient and competitive, while preserving financial stability. Today's review does just that – by reducing red tape for Central Securities Depositories that want to expand their activities cross-border, we are creating a truly single market for securities settlement in the EU, and promoting competition in the market."

New Transitions Performance Index 2021: Denmark and Ireland lead the way (14/03/2022)

Denmark and Ireland are European and global transition leaders according to the second edition of the Transitions Performance Index (TPI) published this week by the Commission’s Directorate General for Research and Innovation. Switzerland is in first place on the Index followed by Denmark (2nd) and Ireland (3rd). The Index ranks EU Member States and 45 other countries, representing 76% of the world's population, on their performance between 2011 and 2020 in four specific transitions – economic, social, environmental and governance.

Commissioner McGuinness visits Signpost Farm, Co Cavan (15/03/2022)

During a recent visit to Ireland, Commissioner McGuinness visited the farm of Alan Clarke at Kilinkere in County Cavan where she had the opportunity to see first-hand the work that farmers are doing to reduce gaseous emissions. The farm supplies Lakeland Dairies and is part of the Signpost Programme, a collaborative initiative led by Teagasc that aims to improve environmental sustainability on Irish farms. Measures adopted on the farm include a focus on sustainability using clover, boosting biodiversity by planting trees and hedgerows, and low emission slurry spreading.

Statement by President von der Leyen on Intel's announcement of its investment plans in the EU (16/03/2022)

In a statement welcoming Intel's announcement this week of its investment plans in the EU, President von der Leyen said: "In total, more than 43 billion euros of public investment, both EU and national investments, will support the EU Chips Act until 2030. It will make Europe a more attractive place for tech companies to invest in cutting-edge chips development and production. This is why I see today's announcement by Intel as a first major achievement under the EU Chips Act. An 80 billion euros investment over the next decade across the entire semiconductor value chain."

Future of Europe: Conference Plenary dedicated to citizens' proposals (15/03/2022)

The most recent meeting of the Plenary of the Conference on the Future of Europe took place last weekend in Strasbourg, France. Joined by Ukrainian citizens and Members of Parliament, the Plenary dedicated a second full session to taking stock of recommendations from the Conference's Citizens' Panels, including the one that took place recently in Dublin.

‘Fur Free Europe': Commission decides to register new European Citizens' Initiative on banning fur in the EU (16/03/2022)

The European Commission has decided to register a European Citizens' Initiative entitled ‘Fur Free Europe'. The organisers of the initiative call on the Commission to introduce an EU-wide ban on keeping and killing animals for the purpose of fur production. They also ask for a ban on placing such fur and products containing it on the EU market. If a European Citizens' Initiative receives one million statements of support within one year from at least seven different Member States, the Commission will have to react.

EU counters steel subsidies resulting from export restrictions on raw materials and transnational subsidies from China (16/03/2022)

The EU has imposed anti-subsidy duties on imports of stainless steel cold-rolled flat products originating in Indonesia and also India. With Indonesia at the forefront, the EU is countering the highly trade-distorting export restrictions on key raw materials — linked also to Chinese financing. Additionally, the EU is taking action against preferential financing provided by China to Indonesia, as part of a complex subsidy arrangement designed for export to the EU.

EU Digital COVID Certificate: over 1.7 billion EU Digital COVID certs issued (15/03/2022)

A new report on the impact and implementation of the EU Digital COVID Certificate shows that, since the launch of the system in July 2021, Member States have issued over 1.7 billion certificates, facilitating free movement at a time when travel was restricted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The EU certificate has also become a global standard, connecting not only the 27 EU Member States, but also 35 third countries to the EU system. In February, the Commission proposed to extend the EU Digital COVID Certificate Regulation until 30 June 2023, as it is unclear to date how the situation will evolve after the summer.

Commission proposes new internal rules for the implementation of the EU's agreements with the UK (14/03/2022)

The European Commission last week adopted two legislative proposals on rules and procedures for the implementation and enforcement of the EU-UK Withdrawal Agreement and Trade and Cooperation Agreement. The proposals establish a procedure to consult EU Member States prior to the adoption of any measure that may be needed to protect the Union's interests under these Agreements.

Commission invites regions and communities to join the Mission Adaptation to Climate Change (14/03/2022)

The European Commission has launched an invitation to EU regions and communities to join the EU Mission on Adaptation to Climate Change. The Mission’s objective is to support 150 regions and communities to accelerate their transformation towards climate resilience by helping them understand, prepare for and manage climate-induced risks.

Commission seeks candidates for the ERC Scientific Council (14/03/2022)

The independent Standing Identification Committee, which was set up by the European Commission in 2020, has begun the search for candidates for membership of the Scientific Council of the European Research Council (ERC). Nominations are accepted until 6 May 2022, (11 am Irish time). The Commission appoints members of this Scientific Council, the ERC’s governing body, further to a recommendation from the Identification Committee.

Antitrust: Commission opens investigation into possible anticompetitive conduct by Google and Meta, in online display advertising (14/03/2022)

The European Commission has opened a formal antitrust investigation to assess whether an agreement between Google and Meta (formerly Facebook) for online display advertising services may have breached EU competition rules. The investigation concerns a September 2018 agreement, which Google code-named “Jedi Blue”, between Google and Meta for the participation of Meta's Audience Network in Google's Open Bidding programme. The Commission is concerned that the agreement may form part of efforts to exclude ad tech services competing with Google's Open Bidding programme.

EU acts to improve reciprocal access to international procurement (15/03/2022)

The EU institutions have reached a political agreement to give the EU greater leverage to get access to public procurement markets outside the EU, boosting opportunities for EU companies. The EU public procurement market is one of the largest and most accessible in the world. However, many of the EU's major trading partners apply restrictive practices in their markets that discriminate against EU businesses.

Thursday 17 to Friday 18 March: 8th Cohesion Forum - Recover, rebuild, reconnect (15/03/2022)

The 8th Cohesion Forum will bring together some 2,000 representatives of EU institutions, national, regional and local authorities from all Member States, social and economic partners, non-governmental organisations and representatives of the academic sector. The Forum will be held in hybrid format and participants, both online and on-site, will have access to two keynote speeches, three high-level panel discussions, and three parallel breakout sessions covering core issues relevant to Europe’s post-pandemic recovery and the future of EU cohesion policy. Speakers include: Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Parliament President Roberta Metsola, French President Emmanuel Macron, Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms Elisa Ferreira and Commissioner for Jobs and Social Affairs Commissioner Nicholas Schmit.

Monday 21 March: Supporting Democracy: Women in Leadership, Equality and Empowerment in Europe (14/03/2022)

On Monday morning, 21 March, European Movement Ireland and the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung are hosting an online event, ‘Supporting Democracy: Women in Leadership, Equality and Empowerment in Europe’. This event will examine the importance of gender equality in supporting and advancing functioning democracies, democratic norms and values in Europe. The role of women in multilateralism and geopolitics will also be discussed, particularly in the context of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Monday 21 March: Agriculture and Fisheries Council (14/03/2022)

EU agriculture ministers will discuss measures to guarantee food security in the EU, both in the immediate aftermath of the invasion of Ukraine and from a longer-term perspective. The likely impact of the war on food supplies in non-EU countries may also be considered. Also on the agenda: strategic plans foreseen in the new common agricultural policy and applying EU standards to agri-food imports.

Monday 21 to Saturday 26 March: Climate Action – What can I do? Series of FREE online talks (14/03/2022)

Europe Direct Waterford, Waterford Libraries and Waterford Council’s Environment Department are coming together to host a week of FREE online events from 21st – 26th March. The events will explore what action we can all take to contribute to the Waterford and National Climate Action Plans to create a better local and national environment for the present and the future. All talks are FREE but booking is essential.

Monday 21 March: Foreign Affairs Council and Foreign Affairs Council (Defence) (14/03/2022)

On the agenda: Russia's military aggression against Ukraine and the situation in Mali; an informal exchange of views with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and European Integration of the Republic of Moldova, Nicu Popescu; and, a discussion on the Strategic Compass. EU defence ministers will also discuss defence-related questions regarding the Russian aggression against Ukraine, and informally exchange views (via videoconference) with Ukraine's Minister for Defence, Oleksii Reznikov.

Tuesday 22 March: General Affairs Council (15/03/2022)

Agenda highlights: funding of European political parties and foundations and the European Council meeting on 24 and 25 March 2022. Also on the agenda: the European Semester and the Conference on the Future of Europe.

Wednesday 23 March: Tripartite Social Summit (14/03/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available shortly at the link below.

Thursday 24 March: The Macroeconomic Outlook for the Euro Area and its Implications for the ECB’s Monetary Policy (14/03/2022)

On Thursday morning, 24 March, Frank Elderson, Member of the ECB Executive Board and Vice-Chair of the ECB’s Supervisory Board will address an IIEA webinar on the macroeconomic outlook for the euro area and its implications for the ECB’s monetary policy.

Thursday 24 and Friday 25 March: European Council (14/03/2022)

Information on this meeting will be available shortly at the link below.

Tuesday 5 April: 'Europe, let's cooperate!' interregional cooperation forum (16/03/2022)

The 8th edition of 'Europe, let's cooperate!' interregional cooperation forum takes place online on 5 April 2022. The day focuses on launching the call for project proposals in 2021-2027. Register now to participate and meet policymakers, experts and people involved in regional development from all across Europe.

Administrators in the field of Audit (16/03/2022)

The EU is looking for highly qualified administrators (AD7) in the field of audit. Recruited experts will work at the European Court of Auditors (ECA), based in Luxembourg. Applicants must hold EU citizenship and know at least two official EU languages: a thorough knowledge of one language and a satisfactory knowledge of English or French. They must also have: either a university degree of at least 4 years of studies followed by at least 6 years’ relevant professional experience, or a university degree of at least 3 years of studies followed by at least 7 years’ relevant professional experience.

Pre Notification of Tender - No. COMM/DUB/2022/MVP/0188 concerning a negotiated procedure for temporary staff services (16/03/2022)

The European Commission Representation in Ireland is planning to launch a call for tenders for the provision of temporary staff services. If you are interested in this tender, please send an email to COMM-IE-TENDERS@ec.europa.eu before the 1st April 2022.

European Cyber Resilience Act (16/03/2022)

The European Commission has launched a public consultation to gather the views and experiences of all relevant parties on the forthcoming European Cyber Resilience Act which seeks to establish common cybersecurity rules for digital products and associated services that are placed on the market across the European Union. The results of the public consultation will feed into the Commission's proposal for legislation that is expected later this year. The consultation is open until 25 May 2022.

Restriction of the use of hazardous substances in electronics (14/03/2022)

The European Commission has launched a public consultation on the revision of EU rules restricting the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. The aim of the consultation is to enable all interested stakeholders, including members of the public, to provide evidence and give views on the best options to improve the RoHS Directive. The consultation is open until 2 June 2022.

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