Press Release

01/12/2009

Entry into force of Lisbon Treaty: a new beginning for Europe. Joseph Daul MEP, Chairman of the EPP Group

"The Lisbon Treaty marks an important turning point in the evolution of the European institutions and the relations they will now have with each other. It is clear that it is the Parliament that comes out stronger from the Lisbon Treaty, because it becomes a co-decision maker, equal to the Council of Ministers, on all topics that fall under EU jurisdiction," said Joseph Daul, welcoming the entry into force of the new Treaty on Tuesday 1 December.

"It is my political group, the EPP Group, that largely inspired and drafted this treaty," emphasised Daul. "The entry into force of this new 'toolbox' that will make Europe more effective, more visible on the international stage and more democratic proves once again that it is the EPP political family that is the driving force in Europe," said the Chairman of the most influential political group in the European Parliament.

Joseph Daul called on the Council of Ministers to "evolve in the new context of the Lisbon Treaty, to demonstrate greater transparency in carrying out its work. Ministers must adopt a more responsible attitude and stop congratulating themselves on national victories or accusing Europe of all evils as soon as they return from Brussels", the EPP Group Chairman insisted.

"I also want the Council to work more closely than in the past with the Parliament, which as of now has an equal legislative role on all subjects, including the budget. The Council President could participate, for example - as does the Commission President, José Manuel Barroso - to a question-and-answer session with a free debate on any topic with MEPs" he proposed.

Referring to the revision of the EU budgetary framework for 2013, which will dominate the legislative term, Daul indicated that "the question of Europe's budget is first and foremost a political issue and a choice of priorities for Europe. The coming into force of the Lisbon Treaty will allow a more open debate, without restriction, on all these questions".

"We have been occupied looking after our institutions a lot over recent years, and I'm convinced we have done a good job because, without effective institutions Europe does not work well. It is now time to turn the page and to better explain to Europeans the how and why of Europe. My Group wants to lead this debate, in close cooperation with the Commission and Council," concluded Daul.

For further information:
Joseph Daul MEP, Chairman of the EPP Group, Tel: +32-2-2847525
Antoine Ripoll, Chairman's Spokesman, Tel: +32-475-856290


Notes to Editors:
The EPP Group is by far the largest political group in the European Parliament with 265 Members.