PRESS RELEASE No 67/2011 / 16 June 2011

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Realising regional potential: EESC urges

Commissioner Hahn to strengthen cohesion policy

On Thursday 16 June, the European Economic and Social Committee's (EESC) plenary session turned its attention towards cohesion policy in the presence of the European Commissioner for Regional Policy, Johannes Hahn.The EESC handed the Commissioner a number of brand new opinions with an abundance of recommendations for improvements to the EU cohesion policy.

In his opening speech Commissioner Hahn emphasised the importance of participation in formulating a successful regional policy. The inclusion of as many stakeholders from local, regional and national level as possible is the most effective approach, he argued. He affirmed that the EESC, in its role of a representative of civil society, can play a connecting role in this consultation. He discussed the worrying trend of jobless growth in some regions and insisted on the urgent need of putting an end to this negative phenomenon.

Commissioner Hahn asserted that regional policy remains a key component contributing to smart growth in the EU 2020 strategy, as it provides the development needed to move forward. He also indicated his will to simplify procedures within regional policy and provide transparency for the benefit of both SME's and citizens.

Responding to the Commissioner's speech, EESC President Staffan Nilssonconcurred with the Commissioner that "civil society is part of this debate and is a strong force in cohesion policy, especially in its implementation on the ground ". However, he warned that living society in rural areas should not be neglected, and the policy should not exclusively focus on urban areas.

Members used the opportunity to question the Commissioner.Mr van Oorschot (Employers' Group, Netherlands) called for accessibility in regional policy, with regulation reduced to ensure access especially for small companies, whilst Mr Dassis, EESC Employees' Group President stressed the importance of regional policy in shaping the future direction of a Europe of solidarity, peace and prosperity. Mr Andersen (Various Interests', Denmark) identified the inclusion of disabled people as a priority of the policy, to ensure the benefits of the regional development fund are shared.

Hahn's participation in the plenary session provided a timely opportunity to discuss the fifth Cohesion report published by the European Commission. The report represents the start of an official consultation on Cohesion policy, and the EESC added to this consultation, in expressing its view in two interlinked opinions.

The first associated opinion drawn up by Mr Cedrone (Employees' Group, Italy) directly addressed the fifth cohesion report and advocated a greater coordination between the EU 2020 strategy, cohesion policy and other EU policies. The second opinion, drawn up by Mr Baráth (Various Interests' Hungary), made the case foran improvement in the effectiveness and efficiency of both funding and spending. The opinion endorsed the development of a common strategic framework, to cover all EU funds and integrate EU financial instruments.Special attention was also given to the Danube strategy, where Mr Barath and Mr Manoliu (Employers' Group, Romania) worked as co-rapporteurs.

For more information please contact:

Peter Lindvald-Nielsen;

E-mail:

Head of EESC Communication Department

Tel: +32 2 546 9888

Rue Belliard/Belliardstraat 99 – 1040 Bruxelles/Brussel – BELGIQUE/BELGIË

Tel. +32 25469396 – Fax +32 25469764

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