Commission Work Programme: implementation is key

The Juncker Commission has presented a simple, focused work programme which includes all important priorities. This is a new approach which is welcomed by the EPP Group! Vice-Chairman József Szájer underlined: "We welcome this change, but implementation will be key." The EPP Group sees the proposal as a logical step as it is in line with the priorities of the Investment Package presented a few weeks ago.

In his speech Vice-Chairman Szájer warned that having too many priorities in the legislative programme would be counter-productive. Formulating the Commission Work Programme shouldn't resemble the decoration of a Christmas tree, where everyone gets to put their favourite decoration on the tree. Concentration on key issues involves dropping others. These issues include creating all the conditions needed for more jobs, more mobility on the labour market and therefore better educational skills, notably in IT; achieving the Single Market to the benefit of both consumers and economic actors; establishing a real Single Market for energy, ensuring energy security and supply; and going further towards a real and secure Digital Single Market. The EPP Group favours measures reducing bureaucracy at all stages: at the national and regional levels, using taxpayers' money in a more efficient way, fighting against tax fraud and tax evasion, simplifying life for farmers, SMEs, and others in the economic chain, because entrepreneurship needs a friendly environment, without unnecessary administrative burdens and obstacles, with capital facilities and access to financing.

People want an efficient Europe, dealing with important issues, having a positive influence on their life and being recognised as a key player in the global world.

We should therefore resolutely change our way of thinking, organising ourselves at the EU level to achieve results. The EPP Group is in favour of a new deal, allowing Commission, Council and Parliament to define EU priorities together.