Lefteris NIKOLAOU-ALAVANOS

Policy topics Lefteris NIKOLAOU-ALAVANOS is active on

What Lefteris NIKOLAOU-ALAVANOS has said (68)

• 2026-07-09 “(11:14:36 - 11:15:31): This 20 tax ratio is aiming to get rid of the borders for European monopolies, and they want to focus the capital with the Chinese and The US. And this tax unity is going to benefit the people who have the capital. And this is something that isn't trying in the Greek law, but it's going to be giving gifts to these big groups. And that's going be done at the expense of the working people, it's going to lead to layoffs. And these workers' rights need to be respected within these restrictions of these laws. And there is this demand to have the pay index. This is part of what we had in the Draghi report. It was welcomed by the right wing parties in Greece, and the people should be turning the back on them. They need to organize themselves in order to defend themselves against the EU and these monopolies and their governments.”
  Priorities of taxation policy in the EU
• 2026-07-07 “(10:22:04 - 10:23:00): You're telling us that companies such as Volkswagen are able to compete. But if we look at what China is doing, we're seeing speculation in production. People are talking about making the criteria for climate change measures more flexible. But in the meantime, families are faced with fuel bills. We're seeing mass layoffs, rising poverty, a capitalistic structure that means whenever a crisis comes, it's the workers who must suffer for the sake of capital. We need to save jobs. We need collective”
  EU policy on forced redundancies
• 2026-07-07 “(10:23:13 - 10:24:20): Mercedes is decreasing wages by 20%. Volkswagen is shutting down factories and firing tens of thousands of workers. Stellantis has achieved a net loss of 20,000,000,000 last year, And the European Commission estimates that 600,000 jobs in the auto industry are at risk. And the commissioner is also saying that the automotive sector is in mortal danger. But only 10 years ago, we had in Europe the best auto industry in the world. The commission now points the finger at China and wants new regulations. But the crisis facing the European car industry is purely of our own making. It is the result of foolish ideologically driven policymaking at European level. Restrictive measures have stifled innovation and competition to instead impose a single technology chosen not by the consumer but by politicians. We should have never given in to the Dieselgate blackmail either. We need to reindustrialize Europe. Only a coalition of patriots, ECR, ECN,”
  2035 ICE phase-out: strict zero-emission target vs. flexibility for carmakers
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you. There are a number of features which define the European economy stagflation productivity problems and other factors too. Europe is also involved in what is going on in Ukraine. The war and in the Middle East. And the impact is on the employees because the multinationals in arms and energy and the banks are raking in the profits, but the employees are paying the price for that. I wonder whether you could say that interest rates are actually an asset for them. I feel that, in fact, the current policies are generating greater pressure on households because many people can't make ends meet. They can't pay off their loans. I wonder what you think about it.”
  Taxation of windfall profits
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you. I'm giving the floor to myself to ask a question. I'll listen to the original. We are having a debate today at which we will have had with Christine Lagarde also about the future of the euro and. And the possibility of having a safe asset as a specialist in financial stability. Would this allow us to welcome a bit more financial stability, monetary stability? And because the role of the ESM is very much discussed and where it's going to be going. What do you see as the role of the ESM in this new architecture? We've talked about looking at all of the tools that we have. It's only when we don't use these is that crises can can happen. We need to use all the tools at our disposal. But what do you think that SM can do in the current context?”
  ECB monetary policy
• 2026-06-17 “(16:19:26 – 16:20:32): the plan for electrification of the European Union is a reply supposedly to a problem where its strategy and the consequences of the imperialist wars created the situation. The multinationals are supported for competition for those who prevail. Let's say the Chinese in electrical vehicles, LNG is very expensive. Alternative forms of energy are very expensive. And we have energy poverty and high prices. And the Greek, we had created some units in Greece and they paid expensively, but this energy producing units were closed. People lost their jobs. And the public public authority producing energy means that, finally, the people pay and the environment is destroyed because we install these units for production of clean energy wherever they want. We don't go against the monopolies. Against this strategy, we're fighting for a popular good not to have this trade in energy, and we need to use the domestic, sources of energy such as like light.”
  EU approach to energy security (home-made vs import sources)
• 2026-06-16 “(11:50:11 – 11:51:21): The hypocritical title, to deescalate in the Middle East, the European Union is trying to hide the acceleration of the war, the escalation of it. In other words, the continued genocide of Israel against the people of Gaza, the bombing of the people of Lebanon, 3,000 dead, the the dirty war of Israel against Iran, and the consequences for the simple man on the street, inflation as well. The European Union is complicit in all of this. And, of course, we have the interests of major groups and major holdings as well simply supporting Israel. And this appearance, this simulacron of of defending human rights, All of this, of course, is leading to nothing else but the possibility of a US attack on Cuba as well. All of this is part of the same game. People have to fight against these imperialistic allied structures, The United States, the European Union as well in this particular instance. There's no other way. Thank you.”
  Relations with Israel - Palestine
• 2026-05-04 “Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Kallas on behalf of the European Commission 5.6.2026 Written question In relation to the Israeli interception of the flotilla on 30 April 2026, the EU has made clear that no attacks or any use of force against the flotilla, including drone strikes or seizures, are acceptable. The EU reiterates its call on Israel to respect international law, including international humanitarian law and international maritime law. The freedom of navigation under international law must be upheld. What the activists wish to achieve is raising awareness about the catastrophic situation in Gaza and delivering much needed aid to a people in desperate need. However, while the EU respects the humanitarian commitment of those aboard the flotilla and recognise the challenges in delivering aid to Gaza, the EU discourages flotillas as a form of aid delivery, as they risk the safety of their participants. The EU, including through outreach by the High Representative/Vice-President, remains in regular contact with Member States and with Israel regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza and reiterates our consistent call for rapid and unimpeded delivery of aid. In light of the catastrophic situation in Gaza and following a review of Israel’s obligations under Article 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement [1] which the High Representative/Vice-President conducted with the support of a majority of Member States, the President of the Commission proposed a package of measures during her State of the Union address in September 2025. Discussions continue in the Council on the package of measures presented by the Commission following the review. Any decision to suspend the Association Agreement requires unanimity in the Council, meaning the agreement of all 27 Member States. [1] https://eeas.europa.eu/archives/delegations/israel/documents/eu_israel/asso_agree_en.pdf.”
  Relations with Israel - Palestine
• 2026-03-10 “– Κυρία Πρόεδρε, η έκθεση διαπιστώνει το εκρηκτικό πρόβλημα της λαϊκής στέγης και το εκμεταλλεύεται για να ενισχύσει κατασκευαστικούς ομίλους και real estate. Όμως ρίζα του προβλήματος είναι η κατοικία εμπόρευμα που υποτάσσεται στους νόμους της μεγιστοποίησης του κέρδους, της προσφοράς και της ζήτησης. Τα προγράμματα κοινωνικής κατοικίας που αναφέρει είναι Συμπράξεις Δημόσιου και Ιδιωτικού τομέα. Η βραχυχρόνια μίσθωση είναι μία από τις αιτίες εκτόξευσης του κόστους στέγασης, ενώ το λαϊκό εισόδημα γίνεται «προσάναμμα» στην ιμπεριαλιστική πολεμική εμπλοκή της Ευρωπαϊκής Ένωσης και του ΝΑΤΟ στο Ιράν, στη Μέση Ανατολή, στην Ουκρανία. Η έκθεση στηρίζει ανοικτά τα «κοράκια» funds τραπεζών. Υπερασπίζεται τους fast track πλειστηριασμούς λαϊκής κατοικίας. Ανησυχεί για κοινωνικές αναταραχές και υποστηρίζει την καταστολή των κινητοποιήσεων ενάντια στους πλειστηριασμούς, όπου το ΚΚΕ πρωτοστατεί στην Ελλάδα. Ο εργαζόμενος λαός είναι αναγκαίο να απαιτήσει ολοκληρωμένο στεγαστικό σχεδιασμό με ευθύνη του κράτους για την κάλυψη των αναγκών του, την επανασύσταση του Οργανισμού Εργατικής Κατοικίας, αποκλειστικά κρατικό πρόγραμμα λαϊκής στέγης και απαγόρευση πλειστηριασμών· πρέπει να αντιπαλέψει την αιτία του προβλήματος, την εμπορευματοποίηση της γης και της στέγης, την καπιταλιστική αγορά που υπηρετούν και θωρακίζουν η Ευρωπαϊκή Ένωση, οι κυβερνήσεις και τα αστικά κόμματα.”
• 2026-03-09 “Answer given by Executive Vice-President Mînzatu on behalf of the European Commission 5.5.2026 Written question Recital (22) of Directive (EU) 2022/2041 [1] on adequate minimum wages states that well-functioning collective bargaining on wage-setting is an important means to ensure the adequacy of minimum wages. Directive (EU) 2022/2041 contains specific obligations for Member States concerning the promotion of collective bargaining (and not merely non-binding recommendations). In particular, Article 4(2) obliges Member States where the collective bargaining coverage rate is below 80% to establish action plans to promote collective bargaining and to notify them to the Commission [2] . The Commission is currently drafting its first report to the European Parliament and the Council on minimum wage protection under Article 10(3) of the directive, which will contain inter alia its analysis of these action plans. The Commission is aware of the adoption by Greece of Law 5278/2026, which has as its main objective to strengthen collective labour agreements, and will examine its compatibility with the provisions of Directive (EU) 2022/2041 in the context of the compliance assessment of the transposition that is currently being carried out. Article 1(3) and 1(4)(b) of Directive (EU) 2022/2041 indicate that this directive is without prejudice to the competence of Member States in setting the level of minimum wages [3] and that it shall not be construed as imposing an obligation on any Member State to declare collective agreements universally applicable. Moreover, the directive does not regulate the representativeness criteria that Member States may choose to establish for the negotiation of collective agreements. Finally, the Commission is not aware of any lack of compliance of Law 5278/2026 with Directive (EU) 2019/1192 [4] . [1] OJ L 275, 25.10.2022, pp. 33-47 — http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2022/2041/oj. [2] This is also the case of Greece, which notified its action plan to the Commission in December 2025. [3] Please also note that, according to Eurostat, there are only eight Member States (Bulgaria, Czechia, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Malta, Romania and Slovakia) where the minimum wage is currently below EUR 1 000 — https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php?title=Minimum_wage_statistics. [4] OJ L 186, 11.7.2019, pp. 105-121 — http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2019/1152/oj.”
  EU regulation on worker representation in company decisions · EU competences on social policies · Minimum wages harmonisation at EU level
• 2026-02-27 “E-000835/2026 Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Kallas on behalf of the European Commission The EU has been deeply concerned about the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza. The EU has called on the Israeli authorities, including on humanitarian access, dual-use policy and international non-governmental registration, to address the enormous needs of the population. The EU is totally opposed to forced displacement of the Palestinian population or to geographical or demographic changes in Gaza. The EU strongly condemns the ongoing extremist settler violence in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and recalls that Israel has the duty to protect civilians and hold perpetrators accountable. The EU is not a member of the Board of Peace and its participation as an observer at the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace in Washington, District of Columbia, focused on Gaza’s reconstruction, is to be seen as part of the EU’s commitment to the implementation of the ceasefire in Gaza and international efforts for recovery and reconstruction. The EU welcomed the adoption of UN Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 2803 and stands ready to work together with the US on the implementation of the comprehensive Peace Plan for Gaza. The EU has an important role to play in this context, being the biggest provider of external assistance to the Palestinians, including EUR 124 million in humanitarian aid confirmed for 2026 1 . The EU is committed to lasting and sustainable peace in accordance with the relevant UNSC resolutions, on the basis of the two-state solution, with the State of Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous, sovereign and viable State of Palestine living side-by-side in peace, security and mutual recognition, and Jerusalem serving as the future capital of both states. The EU supports the diplomatic efforts anchored in international law. 1 https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/mex_26_612.”
  Relations with Israel - Palestine
• 2026-02-24 “Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Kallas on behalf of the European Commission 11.5.2026 Written question The EU believes divergences should be resolved through diplomatic means. In this context, the EU supports ongoing diplomatic efforts, including dialogue between the US and Cuba towards diplomatic solutions. The EU recalls that, under all circumstances, the principles of international law and the UN Charter, including sovereignty and territorial integrity, must be upheld. The EU’s policy toward Cuba is guided by a principled commitment to human rights, international law, democratic values, and multilateral engagement. Cuba faces a severe socioeconomic crisis that risks becoming a humanitarian emergency. In view of the worsening humanitarian conditions in Cuba, the Commission has released an additional EUR 2 million in humanitarian aid in April 2026. This funding will contribute to provide logistics support to humanitarian partners delivering urgent relief to the most vulnerable, due to the current energy crisis and related difficulties on the distribution of food, health services and drinking water. This funding adds to the EUR 4 million already approved for 2026 to address the most urgent humanitarian needs of the Cuban people.”
  EU-Cuba relations · EU-US relations
• 2026-02-13 “E-000642/2026 Answer given by Ms Roswall on behalf of the European Commission The establishments mentioned in the question are covered 1 by the Seveso Directive 2 (SD). The decision to relocate or remove storage tanks is within the remit of national authorities. However, the SD emphasises the need for strict land-use planning, prioritising human health and environmental protection 3 . Member States must ensure appropriate consultation when planning the siting or modification of establishments 4 next to residential areas. They must conduct regular inspections 4 and prohibit the use of facilities where serious safety deficiencies are detected 5 . The SD requires operators to take necessary measures to prevent accidents and limit their consequences 6 . It requires that safety information and measures be communicated to local authorities 7 and the public 8 . It stresses the importance of preparing and implementing majoraccident prevention policies 9 . Following a major accident, competent authorities must 10 take necessary measures, conduct investigations, compel operators towards remedial actions, and inform affected individuals about the incident and mitigation efforts. Without further information, the Commission cannot assess if the above-mentioned provisions of the SD have been correctly implemented and will contact the Greek authorities to investigate this further. Regarding air quality, based on the report provided by Greece under the Ambient Air Quality Directive 11 , only exceedances of the nitrogen dioxide limit value were recorded in 2024, in air quality zone ZON-EL0003, which includes the municipality of Perama. These exceedances are mainly linked to traffic-related sources. Data for 2025 is not available yet and will be reported in September 2026. 1 As lower tier establishments, except for Coral which is upper tier; https://industry.eea.europa.eu/seveso/establishments. 2 Directive 2012/18/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 4 July 2012 on the control of majoraccident hazards involving dangerous substances, amending and subsequently repealing Council Directive 96/82/EC, OJ L 197, 24.7.2012, p. 1–37. 3 Article 13(1) and (2). 4 Article 20. 5 Article 19. 6 Article 5. 7 Article 8 and 11. 8 Article 14. 9 Article 8. 10 Article 17. 11 Directive 2008/50/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 May 2008 on ambient air quality and cleaner air for Europe, OJ L 152, 11.6.2008, p. 1–44.”
  Air quality policy
• 2026-02-10 “– Κυρία Πρόεδρε, οι βιοπαλαιστές αγροτοπαραγωγοί στην Ελλάδα, για 50 ολόκληρες μέρες στα μπλόκα, συσπειρωμένοι στην πανελλαδική επιτροπή τους, ξεμπρόστιασαν και στρίμωξαν την κυβέρνηση της Νέας Δημοκρατίας και την πολιτική της ΚΑΠ της Ευρωπαϊκής Ένωσης που επιταχύνουν το ξεκλήρισμα τους, την εγκατάλειψη της παραγωγής, τη συγκέντρωσή της σε λίγα χέρια. Σε αυτό το κάδρο εντάσσονται τα μέτρα δήθεν προστασίας του αμπελοοινικού τομέα, που στοχεύουν στη μείωση της προσφοράς, ώστε να προστατευτεί η κερδοφορία των μεγάλων οινοποιητικών ομίλων, χωρίς να εξασφαλίζουν εισόδημα για τους μικρούς παραγωγούς. Την ίδια ώρα η συμφωνία Ευρωπαϊκής Ένωσης-Mercosur, που είναι συμπλήρωμα της ΚΑΠ, και η Επιτροπή επιχειρεί αυθαίρετα να ενεργοποιήσει, ανοίγει διάπλατα την πόρτα σε φτηνά, αδασμολόγητα εισαγόμενα αγροτοκτηνοτροφικά προϊόντα από την Αργεντινή, τη Βραζιλία και από αλλού, ενισχύοντας τα κέρδη των μεταποιητών εμπόρων και ιδιοκτητών σούπερ μάρκετ και των εφοπλιστών. Απάντηση θα δώσουν οι βιοπαλαιστές της υπαίθρου που συνεχίζουν τον αγώνα επιβίωσής τους με μεγάλη κινητοποίηση την Παρασκευή 13 Φλεβάρη στην Αθήνα. Το ΚΚΕ στέκεται στο πλευρό τους στον κοινό αγώνα εργατών και αγροτών ενάντια στους αντιλαϊκούς σχεδιασμούς της Ευρωπαϊκής Ένωσης, των κυβερνήσεων και των αστικών κομμάτων.”
• 2026-02-06 “E-000479/2026 Answer given by Mr Šefčovič on behalf of the European Commission EU citizens are protected by some of the strictest food safety rules. All food needs to meet sanitary and phytosanitary requirements, such as bans of hormones and antimicrobials for growth promotion. Pesticide residues that create an unacceptable risk for consumers are not allowed. Rigorous border controls and audits ensure compliance with EU rules, requiring corrective action if issues arise, potentially suspending entry into the EU. On 9 December 2025, the Commission announced plans to increase audits by 50% over two years and establish a task force to enhance import controls 1 . The Commission aims to align production standards of imports, especially for pesticides and animal welfare. Concerning labour and environmental conditions, the agreement includes the latest trade and sustainable development standards 2 . It includes commitments to combat illegal logging, tackle deforestation and promote sustainable supply chains. It addresses labour standards, with both parties committing to respect, promote and effectively implement International Labour Organization core labour standards. It provides a platform for dialogue and cooperation, and the binding commitments can be enforced through a specific dispute settlement procedure. The Commission notes that on 9 January 2026, the Council decided to have the EU-Mercosur agreements 34 signed and provisionally applied. It also takes note of the European Parliament's Resolution requesting the opinion of the European Court of Justice on the compatibility of the EU-Mercosur agreements with the EU Treaties. The Commission is committed to sincere cooperation among EU institutions, including regarding their role in the conclusion process. 1 https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_25_2979. 2 Circabc (https://circabc.europa.eu/ui/group/09242a36-a438-40fd-a7af-fe32e36cbd0e/library/afa4395e-9d624958-8074-76c43f64e2b4/details?download=true). 3 https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-8371-2023-DCL-1/en/pdf. 4 https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-12417-2025-REV-1/en/pdf.”
  Due diligence in supply chains (environmental and human rights) · Trade relations with Mercosur · Import of agri-food products in the EU
• 2025-11-25 “E-004687/2025 Answer given by Ms Lahbib on behalf of the European Commission The Directive on combating violence against women and domestic violence 1 aims to ensure that all victims of violence against women and domestic violence across Europe can benefit from the same comprehensive set of strong measures of prevention, protection, support, access to justice and improved coordination and cooperation. In this regard, Article 25 of the Directive obliges Member States to ensure that specialist support services are available for victims and Member States are obliged to ensure that sufficient human and financial resources are available to provide these specialist support services. Recital 58 of the Directive further clarifies that specialist support could be provided by public authorities, victims’ support organisations, or other non-governmental organisations, taking into account the geography and demographic composition of the Member States. In addition, Member States are obliged to cooperate and hold regular consultations with civil society organisations, including non-governmental organisations working with victims, concerning the provision of adequate support to victims. Member States, including Greece, will need to implement this Directive by June 2027. During this period, the Commission is and will be holding implementation workshops to steer the timely and complete transposition of the Directive. 1 Directive (EU) 2024/1385 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 May 2024 on combating violence against women and domestic violence, OJ of 24.5.2024, L p. 1.”
  Gender roles, equality and inclusion
• 2025-11-05 “E-004359/2025 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Mînzatu on behalf of the European Commission The Commission actions are guided by the European Pillar of Social Rights (EPSR) which also promotes fair working conditions, the right to access early childhood education and care (ECEC) and timely access to affordable, preventive and curative healthcare of good quality. Directive 2019/1152 1 sets out minimum requirements promoting transparent and predictable working conditions. Directive 2003/88 2 lays down minimum requirements for the protection of the health and safety of workers by regulating working time. Alongside the Work-life balance Directive 3 , these instruments reflect fair working conditions principles from the EPSR and rights enshrined in the Charter of Fundaments Rights 4 . The EU Strategy on the Rights of the Child sets out a framework to protect the rights of all children, supported by the Council Recommendations establishing a European Child Guarantee 5 and on Early Childhood Education and Care: Barcelona targets for 2030 6 and the Commission Recommendation on integrated child protection systems 7 . While their implementation lies within the remits of national competences, the Commission supports it, including through funding 8 and monitoring. The Roadmap on Women’s Rights 9 promotes women’s health, including antenatal care, sexual and reproductive health, respecting Member States’ competence to organise their health systems. In line with the EPSR, the Commission supports the Member States including through the EU4Health programme 10 , and facilitating the exchange of good practices. 1 Directive 2019/1152/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 June 2019 on transparent and predictable working conditions, OJ L 186, 11.7.2019, p. 105–121. https://eurlex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2019/1152/oj/eng. 2 Directive 2003/88/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 4 November 2003 concerning certain aspects of the organisation of working time, OJ L 299, 18.11.2003, p. 9. https://eurlex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2003/88/oj/eng. 3 Directive (EU) 2019/1158 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 June 2019 on work-life balance for parents and carers and repealing Council Directive 2010/18/EU. https://eurlex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2019/1158/oj/eng. 4 e.g. right to working conditions which respect health, safety and dignity, limitation of maximum working hours, rest periods and paid annual leave. 5 Council Recommendation (EU) 2021/1004 of 14 June 2021 establishing a European Child Guarantee. https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reco/2021/1004/oj/eng. 6 Council Recommendation 2022/C 484/01 of 8 December 2022 on early childhood education and care: the Barcelona targets for 2030. https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legalcontent/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:32022H1220(01). 7 Commission Recommendation (EU) 2024/1238 of 23 April 2024 on developing and strengthening integrated child protection systems in the best interests of the child. https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reco/2024/1238/oj/eng. 8 e.g. European Social Fund Plus. 9 Communication COM/2025/97 final on A Roadmap for Women's Rights. https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legalcontent/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52025DC0097. 10 Regulation 2021/522 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 March 2021 establishing a Programme for the Union’s action in the field of health (‘EU4Health Programme’) for the period 2021-2027. https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/522/oj/eng.”
  EU policy on permanent and fixed-term employment · EU competences on social policies · Support for families
• 2025-10-17 “E-004103/2025 Answer given by Mr Várhelyi on behalf of the European Commission According to Article 168(7) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union 1 , Member States are responsible for the organisation and delivery of health services and medical care, including the management thereof and the allocation of the resources assigned to them. In 2020, 2022 and 2023, Greece received country-specific recommendations to ensure adequate and equal access to healthcare. They were reflecting, among others, the share of the surveyed population reporting forgone medical needs (12.1% in 2024) 2 . As concerns overall EU-level support to the Greek health system, please see the reply to parliamentary question E001242/2025 3 . Under the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), Member States design national recovery and resilience plans outlining reforms and investments addressing country-specific challenges identified through the European Semester. Those policy actions shall be in line with EU objectives and meet the specific RRF requirements. The measures funded under the Recovery and Resilience Plan, the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) 4 and the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) are expected to improve health services in Greece and support the principle of equal access to health services, efficiency and social cohesion. 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:12012E/TXT&from=en. 2 https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/databrowser/bookmark/bac814b3-7a51-4326-8709-5d060d9796e9?lang=en. 3 https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/-ASW_EN.html. 4 Greece has earmarked EUR 362 million from the ERDF to support health infrastructure and equipment at all levels of the National Health System across regions.”
  Public and private sectors role in healthcare services
• 2025-10-07 “E-003923/2025 Answer given by Mr Jørgensen on behalf of the European Commission The Commission takes note of the issues and concerns raised by the Honourable Member. The Commission put forward a European Affordable Housing Plan (EAHP) on 16 December 2025. It will also conduct an analysis of the impact of housing speculation and its economic consequences as well as propose follow-up actions where needed. Concerning auctions, the Commission notes that protection of primary residences, and regulation of electronic auctions as a way of acquisition of properties fall within the competence of the Member States. The Greek insolvency code 1 established a safety net for vulnerable debtors, with a temporary subsidy of their loan instalment in out-of-court restructuring and a sale-and-leaseback regime 2 . The Hellenic Asset Protection Scheme 3 is a scheme created and implemented by the Hellenic Government. Transfer of real estate between parties is regulated by national law and protection of consumers is a primary responsibility of national authorities and courts. There are no EU guidelines which would promote transfer of real estate. Comprehensive housing planning under the responsibility of Member States can indeed be a tool to evaluate national housing policies and offer solutions to the issues identified by such exercise. The Commission agrees that students and youth are particularly impacted by the housing crisis and the Commission intends to cover the matter in the EAHP. At the same time, the Commission notes that housing is a multifaceted issue. Most of the determinants influencing housing affordability fall largely within the competence of the Member States, and therefore any new avenue on housing will have to respect the principle of subsidiarity. 1 Law 4738/2020 transposing Directive (EU) 2019/1023. The new sale-and-leaseback regime aims to avoid past moral hazard behaviour and the adverse impact it has had in the cost of credit in Greece. An interim scheme has been established by the authorities to ensure a smooth transition until the sale-and-lease-back entity commences operations, according to which the state will provide financial support to eligible vulnerable debtors. 2 e.g. in case of insolvency or if their primary residence is about to be auctioned. 3 Also known as Hercules scheme, the aim of the scheme is to improve the asset quality of the banks by supporting securitisations of non-performing loan portfolios by providing state guarantees on senior tranches of securitizations. On the request of the Greek authorities, the Commission has approved the scheme as market conform (e.g. it does not involve State aid).”
  EU housing policy · Non-performing mortgages
• 2025-09-09 “E-003478/2025 Answer given by Mr Hansen on behalf of the European Commission The EU legislation requires that farmers have at their disposal the land for which they claim direct payments. As for the means for the national authorities to ascertain the fulfilment of this requirement, it is up to the Member States to lay down the conditions to determine whether the land is at the beneficiary’s disposal. Member States possess a margin of discretion to adopt the measures necessary to ensure effective protection of the financial interests of the EU 1 . Therefore, they may require an applicant to submit a certain type of document concerning the claimed area covered by the aid application (Geo-Spatial Application), provided that the objectives laid down in EU rules and the general principles of EU law, in particular the principle of proportionality, are respected. 1 Article 59 of Regulation (EU) 2021/2116 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 2 December 2021 on the financing, management and monitoring of the common agricultural policy and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1306/2013.”
  Direct payments to farmers (pillar 1)
• 2025-09-09 “E-003477/2025 Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Kallas on behalf of the European Commission On 29 August 2025, the EU learned about the decision of the United States government to refuse and revoke entry visas for members of the Palestinian Authority and the Palestine Liberation Organisation ahead of their participation in the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in New York in September 2025. On 30 August 2025, the High Representative/Vice-President, on behalf of the EU, urged for this decision to be reconsidered, recalling the existing headquarters agreements between the UN and its host state. The EU notes the UN General Assembly resolution adopted on 19 September 2025, which allowed the Palestinian President to address the UN eightieth session high-level debate by prerecorded video.”
  EU-US relations
• 2025-08-22 “E-003274/2025 Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Kallas on behalf of the European Commission Considering the catastrophic humanitarian situation, the High Representative/ Vice-President (HR/VP) decided, with the support of a majority of Member States (MS), to conduct a review of Israel’s compliance with Article 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement 1 . The review concluded that there are indications that Israel would be in violation of Article 2. Regarding Horizon Europe, the Commission’s proposal for a Council decision on partial suspension of the association agreement with Israel specifically concerns the participation of legal entities established in Israel from being eligible to participate in calls for grant and investment support funded under the Accelerator of the European Innovation Council (EIC) 2 . The proposal is currently under discussion in the Council. The HR/VP led the efforts to reach a humanitarian understanding with Israel, where Israel committed to improving the humanitarian situation in Gaza, based on concrete benchmarks. The EU will continue to closely monitor the implementation of the agreed actions and now that a ceasefire is in place will push for humanitarian aid to enter Gaza in much higher levels. Next steps on the proposals announced in the State of the Union speech by the Commission President will be discussed with Member States. The EU respects the humanitarian commitment of those on board of these humanitarian ships. Israel must fully comply with its obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law. In practical terms, the EU discourages flotillas as a means for aid delivery. Flotillas risk the safety of their participants and carry the potential for escalation. The EU’s focus will always be on delivering aid through proven and effective structures, with the EU’s partner organizations on the ground. The EU reiterates its unwavering commitment to lasting and sustainable peace in accordance with the relevant resolutions of the United Nations Security Council, on the basis of the twostate solution, with the State of Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous, sovereign and viable state of Palestine living side-by-side in peace, security and mutual recognition. 1 https://eeas.europa.eu/archives/delegations/israel/documents/eu_israel/asso_agree_en.pdf. 2 This would imply that legal entities established in Israel would no longer be eligible to participate in calls for grant and investment support under the Horizon Europe EIC Accelerator.”
  Jewish culture and antisemitism · Relations with Israel - Palestine
• 2025-08-22 “E-003275/2025 Answer given by Mr Jørgensen on behalf of the European Commission The Environmental Impact Assessment Directive 1 requires that projects likely to have significant effects on the environment by virtue, inter alia, of their nature, size or location be subject to an assessment of their environmental effects. For the categories listed in Annex II of this Directive, such as photovoltaic (PV) plants 2 , the authorities must determine whether an assessment is necessary through a case-by-case study or through previously set thresholds or criteria. This assessment is under the responsibility of the national authorities for the individual case, such as the one of this project. The Commission noted in the Vision for Agriculture and Food 3 the limited availability of fertile land in a context of growing competition for its use. In response, the Commission is working towards launching an EU observatory on Farmland to enhance transparency in land use changes and, among others, will help Member States take informed decisions on the regulation of farmland markets. Locally available renewables such as solar PV can contribute to produce electricity at lower prices than fossil fuels and to lower energy prices for local communities. EU legislation encourages the participation of local communities in renewable energy projects, which can take several forms, including benefit sharing mechanisms 4 . It also encourages Member States to tackle energy poverty by prioritising vulnerable and low-income households in energy efficiency and building renovation projects. Finally, mindful of the need to balance energy production with other public interests, the Commission has issued recommendations and guidance for Member States on promoting innovative technologies and forms of renewable energy deployment 5 , like agrivoltaics. 1 Directive 2011/92/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 December 2011 on the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment. OJ L 26, 28.1.2012, p. 1–21, as amended by Directive 2014/52/EU of 16 April 2014 - OJ L 124, 25.4.2014, p. 1–18. 2 Referred to in Annex II, 3 a) to the EIA Directive. 3 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0075. 4 Article 15d of Directive (EU) 2023/2413 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 October 2023 amending Directive (EU) 2018/2001, Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 and Directive 98/70/EC as regards the promotion of energy from renewable sources, and repealing Council Directive (EU) 2015/652. 5 https://energy.ec.europa.eu/document/download/fd9542e8-6eae-423a-a0edcc710a600473_en?filename=C_2025_4024_1_EN_ACT_part1_v7.pdf.”
  Energy (green transition) · EU policy on permitting for renewable energy projects
• 2025-07-31 “E-003214/2025 E-003155/2025 Answer given by Mr Várhelyi on behalf of the European Commission Measures to support control and eradication of Sheep pox and goat pox (SGP), may be eligible for EU co-funding, at a maximum rate of 30% 1,2,3 . Under these provisions, eligible costs include compensation for certain direct costs (e.g. mandatory culling of animals) or costs incurred for the implementation of mandatory control measures (e.g.cost of disinfection) but do not include other costs such as permanent staff recruitment. EU financial support for SGP surveillance is also possible for high risk areas through two cofinanced programmes (Transboundary Animal Diseases (TADs) and Trans-boundary High Risk Area Coordinated Epidemio-surveillance programme (THRACE)). The Member State concerned must first pay the afore mentioned expenditure for these measures to the beneficiaries and then submit a claim to the EU. Once this claim has been received and evaluated by the Commission then the amount of EU co-funding is tranferred to the competent authorities. Vaccination can be used as an additional measure in line with Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/361 4 and the EU SGP vaccine bank may supply doses of vaccine free of charge when requested. Furthermore, exceptional EU support 5 may be granted to cover market losses incurred by farmers located in areas under movement restrictions by veterinary measures. Specific support can be provided under the Greek Rural Development Programme 2014-2022 6 and the Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plan 2023-2027 7 for investments in restoration of agricultural potential following catastrophic events. In addition, in December 2024, a new measure (M23) was introduced under 2014-2022 Rural Development programmes (possible support to farms suffering a 30% loss of production or potential due to animal diseases) along 1 http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/690/oj. 2 Commission Implementing Decision of 21.12.2023 on the financing of the Programme for the internal market, competitiveness of enterprises, including small and medium-sized enterprises, the area of plants, animals, food and feed, and European Statistics and the adoption of the work programme for 2024-2027: https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/e6150e32-3fa5-4276-923ba36faf4fec1e_en?filename=C_2023_8926_F1_COMMISSION_IMPLEMENTING_DECISION_EN_V3_P1_31 19489.PDF. 3 Annex 3 to C(2023) 8926 final, Commission Implementing Decision of 21.12.2023: https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/c69d5f53-6966-420f-86287ff84bf91646_en?filename=C_2023_8926_F1_ANNEX_EN_V2_P1_3132789.PDF. 4 http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2023/361/oj. 5 Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 establishing a common organisation of the markets in agricultural products and repealing Council Regulations (EEC) No 922/72, (EEC) No 234/79, (EC) No 1037/2001 and (EC) No 1234/2007 (OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2013/1308/2024-11-08). 6 https://www.agrotikianaptixi.gr/metra-paa-pages/ependytika-epicheirimatika/. 7 https://www.agrotikianaptixi.gr/category/sskap-2023-2027/sskap-egkrisi-tropopoiiseis/ .”
  Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU · Agricultural funding
• 2025-07-24 “E-003075/2025 Answer given by Ms Lahbib on behalf of the European Commission The organisation of firefighting services, as well as the decision to develop and host rescEU 1 capacities, is a responsibility of Member States. RescEU focuses on pooling resources and supporting countries that choose to participate, striving for a more effective response to largescale emergencies, while operating within the framework of the Working Time Directive 2003/88/EC 2 as the relevant instrument safeguarding workers’ health and safety. The Directive sets minimum requirements for workers’ health and safety, including 11 consecutive hours of daily rest and 35 hours of weekly rest, with a 48-hour average weekly working time limit. Member States may adopt derogations from daily and weekly rest requirements for activities with continuous service or production, such as fire and civil protection services. In such cases, workers must receive equivalent periods of compensatory rest or, exceptionally, appropriate protection. RescEU consists of disaster response capacities designed to supplement, and not replace, national capacities, acting as a last line of defence when disasters overwhelm a Member State’s resources and the assistance available in the European Civil Protection Pool 3 . RescEU enables the EU to coordinate and finance cross-border assistance, enhancing and strengthening collective resilience. The EU has invested EUR 600 million in 12 new firefighting planes, hosted by six Member States, including Greece. 1 https://civil-protection-humanitarian-aid.ec.europa.eu/what/civil-protection/resceu_en. 2 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2003/88/oj/eng. 3 https://civil-protection-humanitarian-aid.ec.europa.eu/what/civil-protection/european-civil-protection-pool_en.”
  EU rules on hazardous working conditions · EU policy on permanent and fixed-term employment
• 2025-07-15 “E-002875/2025 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Mînzatu on behalf of the European Commission Contrary to being an anti-worker instrument, Directive 2003/88/EC 1 sets out minimum requirements for the protection of the health and safety of workers, including limits to working time (not more than 48 hours a week on average, including overtime), minimum daily and weekly rest (at least 11 consecutive hours of daily rest and 35 hours of uninterrupted weekly rest), paid annual leave (at least four weeks per year) and extra protection for night workers. Under the Directive, a 13-hour working day is allowed only if the average maximum weekly working time of 48 hours in the reference period of four months is respected. Member States may, by national law or collective agreements, derogate from some requirements of the Directive for specific activities 2 , or by collective agreements, for any activity. However, for all derogations the workers concerned must receive equivalent periods of compensatory rest or, exceptionally, other appropriate protection. As Directive 2003/88/EC does not harmonise the laws of Member States, it does not prevent them from applying national provisions or permitting the application of collective agreements more favourable to the protection of workers 3 . The Commission promotes social dialogue in line with the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union 4 . The Pact for Social Dialogue 5 of 5 March 2025 reaffirmed the importance of social dialogue in the EU. However, the functioning of national social dialogue, including that of the collective bargaining framework, falls under the responsibility of Member States. The Recommendation on strengthening social dialogue in the EU 6 advises Member States to ensure an enabling environment for social dialogue, enable collective bargaining at all appropriate levels and promote a higher collective bargaining coverage. 1 http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2003/88/oj. 2 Such as those involving the need for continuity of service or production, for example, under Article 17(3)(c) (viii), for workers concerned with the carriage of passengers on regular urban transport services. 3 Article 15 of Directive 2003/88/EC. 4 Article 152 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. 5 Pact for European social dialogue, concluded between the Commission and the EU-level social partners https://employment-social-affairs.ec.europa.eu/document/download/93c513bd-9faa-4ba7-a4c79a06505790fc_en?filename=Pact%20for%20European%20Social%20Dialogue_signed%20version.pdf. 6 http://data.europa.eu/eli/C/2023/1389/oj Adopted by the Council in June 2023, on a proposal from the Commission. The Commission will monitor, in consultation with Member States and the social partners, the implementation of the Recommendation at national level.”
  EU rules on hazardous working conditions · EU policy on permanent and fixed-term employment
• 2025-06-26 “E-002585/2025 Answer given by Ms Roswall on behalf of the European Commission According to air quality data made available 1 by Greek authorities, no exceedances above the limit or target values set in EU legislation 2 for benzene or heavy metals in ambient air were reported in Athens’ agglomeration 3 (exceedances were only reported for particulate matter). ETEKA and Oil One are covered 4 by the Seveso Directive 5 (SD). The SD does not cover the relocation of storage tanks or sites; this is within the remit of national authorities. However, the SD requires Member States to ensure appropriate consultations when planning the siting of new establishments or modifications to existing ones, particularly in proximity to residential areas 6 . The SD emphasises the need for strict land-use planning, prioritising human health and environmental protection 7 . The SD requires operators to take necessary measures to prevent accidents and limit their consequences 8 . It is for competent authorities to enforce such measures. Regarding the continued operation or change of use, it is essential that national competent authorities conduct thorough risk assessments and evaluations, based on operators’ inputs 9 . The SD requires that safety information and measures be communicated to local authorities 10 and the public 11 . It stresses the importance of preparing and implementing major-accident prevention policies 12 . Without further information, the Commission cannot assess if the above-mentioned provisions of the SD have been correctly implemented. In addition to the provisions of the SD, several EU occupational safety and health directives, such as the Framework Directive 13 , the Carcinogens, Mutagens and Reprotoxic Substances Directive 14 and the Chemical Agents Directive 15 apply to the protection of workers from 1 https://cdr.eionet.europa.eu/. 2 Directive 2004/107/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 December 2004 relating to arsenic, cadmium, mercury, nickel and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in ambient air, OJ L 23, 26.1.2005, p. 3–16; Directive 2008/50/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 May 2008 on ambient air quality and cleaner air for Europe, OJ L 152, 11.6.2008, p. 1–44. 3 Which includes Drapetsona, Keratsini and Perama. 4 As lower tier establishments, see https://espirs.jrc.ec.europa.eu/en/espirs/content. 5 Directive 2012/18/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 4 July 2012 on the control of majoraccident hazards involving dangerous substances, amending and subsequently repealing Council Directive 96/82/EC, OJ L 197, 24.7.2012, p. 1–37. 6 Article 13(3). 7 Article 13(1) and (2). 8 Article 5. 9 Article 11. 10 Article 8 and 11. 11 Article 14. 12 Article 8. 13 Directive 89/391/EEC on the introduction of measures to encourage improvements in the safety and health of workers at work, OJ L 183, 29.6.1989, p. 1. 14 Directive 2004/37/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 29 April 2004 on the protection of”
  Air quality policy
• 2025-06-19 “E-002478/2025 Answer given by Mr Micallef on behalf of the European Commission Through the Creative Europe programme 1 , the EU supports cross-border cooperation and innovation in the cultural heritage sector. While recognising the sector’s economic and social contributions, the programme’s core aim is to promote cultural diversity and fair access to cultural heritage sites. The EU also facilitates the exchange of information and good practices between Member States on issues of mutual interest including. on complementary sources of funding for cultural heritage, which are crucial to ensuring the sector’s long-term sustainability. Additionally, the EU has contributed substantially to the construction of the new Acropolis Museum, to the restoration of Acropolis Monuments and to the accessibility of the Acropolis Museum collections through support for digitization. These EU-funded projects have significantly contributed to preserving Greece's cultural heritage and making it accessible to a wider audience, aligning with broader EU objectives of promoting cultural tourism, social cohesion, and preservation of shared European heritage. Article 167 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) 2 stipulates that EU action is limited to encouraging cooperation between Member States and supporting and supplementing their actions, with a view to conserving and safeguarding cultural heritage of European significance. 1 https://culture.ec.europa.eu/creative-europe. 2 OJ C 202/1, 7.6.2016; https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:12016E/TXT.”
  EU and national cultural identities
• 2025-06-10 “E-002310/2025 Answer given by Mr Hansen on behalf of the European Commission 1. The accreditation of the paying agency OPEKEPE has been under probation by the Greek authorities since 10 September 2024. The Greek authorities prepared an action plan to remedy the deficiencies identified and the Commission is monitoring its implementation, including regarding the organisational structure of OPEKEPE. To date, the Commission has not received an official notification of the decisions regarding the future organisational structure of the paying agency. 2. The Vision for Agriculture and Food highlights the strategic role of the agri-food sector and identifies a roadmap to advance towards a more attractive, competitive, fit for future and fair agrifood sector. Income support will continue to play a crucial role under the future Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), in a more targeted way. Support not linked to production has encouraged the market orientation of the agricultural sector and has brought benefits to the climate and the environment. Specific tools to foster the development of specific sectors and types of production continue to exist in the form of coupled income support, sectoral interventions and productive investments. 3. It is the responsibility of the Member State to set up the aid application system in line with the requirements of Regulation (EU) 2022/1173 1 and to ensure that payments are disbursed to the beneficiaries in full and within the payment deadlines as laid down by Union law 2 after sufficient checks have been carried out by the national authorities. 1 Article 3, 4, 5, 7 of Regulation (EU) 2022/1173. 2 Article 38, Article 44 and Article 59 of Regulation (EU) 2021/2116 - http://data.eauropa.eu/eli/reg/2021/2116/oj.”
  Agricultural funding · Direct payments to farmers (pillar 1)
• 2025-05-30 “E-002178/2025 Answer given by Mr Tzitzikostas on behalf of the European Commission 1. The Commission has no evidence of a cause-and-effect relationship between a reduction of port fees for shipowners and a lack of safety of passengers, crew and port workers. With respect to port fees, in accordance with Article 13 of Regulation (EU) 2017/352 1 , the structure and the level of port infrastructure charges shall be determined according to the port’s own commercial strategy and investment plans. 2. Ports are crucial economic hubs for civilian and military cargo and personnel. The EU investments in dual-use infrastructure on the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) aim at boosting connectivity and increasing traffic volumes across all modes of transport, offering significant benefits for civilians in peacetime while significantly improving the military capabilities in case of crises. Moreover, by ensuring that sufficient ports across the EU are ‘military mobility-enabled’ 2 , the Commission facilitates the development of sufficient redundancies in the overall transport network, thereby decreasing rather than increasing the risks for individual ports. Military mobility and good logistical networks are also key elements of deterrence. 1 Regulation (EU) 2017/352 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 February 2017 establishing a framework for the provision of port services and common rules on the financial transparency of ports. 2 e.g. to onload/offload equipment and supplies, to dispose of sufficient storage space, to be appropriately connected to the road and rail network, to allow smooth inland forwarding of shipments.”
  EU policy on aviation safety
• 2025-05-20 “E-002009/2025 Answer given by Ms Lahbib on behalf of the European Commission The Commission is committed to ensuring the highest possible transparency in relation to the COVID-19 contracts it signed on behalf of the Member States. It has published the contracts 1 early on, while respecting the rights of the contractors under Regulation (EC) 1049/2001 2 , and replied to numerous requests for access to documents under the Regulation. The Commission remains committed to transparency, including by reviewing over time the decisions not to disclose certain information. The Commission is currently in the process of implementing the General Court’s ruling on cases T-689/21 and T-761/21 3 related to the disclosure of the contracts. The Commission considers that a question on criminal liability is for the competent authorities of the judiciary order to respond and that a question on political liability is for the institutions in charge of ensuring accountability of the relevant institutions at EU level under the EU Treaties, or at national level under the relevant national constitutional order to answer. 1 https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/coronavirus-response/public-health/eu-vaccinesstrategy_en#documents. 2 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2001/1049/oj/eng. 3 Commission statement on the ruling accessible at https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/statement_24_3866.”
  Transparency of EU medicines governance process · Covid-19 vaccines procurement
• 2025-05-14 “E-001921/2025 Answer given by Ms Lahbib on behalf of the European Commission Member States are primarily responsible for prevention and preparedness measures, including their firefighting services. The EU has a supporting competence in civil protection. RescEU 1 strengthens Europe’s disaster preparedness by establishing strategic reserves to respond to disasters, such as wildfires. Since its establishment, it has proven successful in the fight against wildfires, including in Greece. The independent peer review of the Greek wildfire risk management system carried out in the framework of the Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM) 2 , highlights the strengths of the current system and puts forward recommendations for reinforcing it. It advocates for building a more integrated wildfire risk management system in Greece, with a whole-of-society and whole-of-government approach, and with a long-term dedicated wildfire prevention budget. Cohesion Policy supports Greece in 2021-2027 with more than EUR 421 million to prevent climate-related fire risks, strengthening its overall fire prevention. Of this, EUR 328 million are allocated under the civil protection programme to procure essential firefighting equipment and support upskilling civil protection personnel 3 . Regulation (EU) 2018/841 4 aims to increase net removals in EU forests and soils; forest protection is a practical, cost-efficient and positive approach to revert the decreasing trend affecting the current sink. Regulation (EU) 2020/852 5 promotes market transparency and prevents greenwashing, providing a framework for identifying sustainable activities. It does not intend to establish rules for forest protection but to ensure that claims of environmental sustainability are credible and allow to channel capital into sustainable forestry activities. 1 https://civil-protection-humanitarian-aid.ec.europa.eu/what/civil-protection/resceu_en. 2 https://civil-protection-knowledge-network.europa.eu/news/ucpm-wildfire-peer-review-report-handed-overgreek-authorities. 3 In 2023, the General Secretariat for Civil Protection of Greece requested a UCPM independent peer review of its wildfire risk management system. The report, published in June 2024 puts forward recommendations for reinforcing the current system. While also highlighting the strengths of the current system, the report recommends building a more integrated wildfire risk management system in Greece, with a whole-of-society and whole-of-government approach, and with a long-term dedicated wildfire prevention budget. See: https://civilprotection-knowledge-network.europa.eu/news/ucpm-wildfire-peer-review-report-handed-over-greekauthorities. 4 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32018R0841. 5 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32020R0852.”
  Management of EU forests · EU policy on infrastructure for preventing climate-related disasters (floods, droughts, extreme weather etc.)
• 2025-05-14 “E-001944/25 Answer given by Mr Várhelyi on behalf of the European Commission The Substances of Human Origin (SoHO) Regulation 1 respects the principles recognised by the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU. The right for dignity and integrity of SoHO donors should always be considered, for example by ensuring that consent for donation is freely given and SoHO donors or their representatives are informed about the intended use of the donation. While the SoHO Regulation does not apply to activities related to collection of SoHO not intended for human application or manufacturing (e.g., collection of blood samples for research), SoHO donations exclusively for research without any human application should also comply with voluntary and unpaid donation standards. The European Health Data Space (EHDS) Regulation 2 aims to facilitate the reuse of health data for research, innovation and policy making. It will provide access to already available health data in an electronic format, collected for primary care and/or research. Member States remain responsible for the collection of this data at source. Therefore, the EHDS does not require the collection of new datasets from newborn babies. EHDS introduces multiple safeguards to protect EU citizens’ health data. This includes the analysis of anonymised or pseudonymised data, without patient identifiers, only inside a secure processing environment and by authorised users who hold a permit. All EU citizens will have the right to opt out from the reuse of their health data. Member States will decide whether the legal guardians will be able to opt out from the reuse of their babies’ health data. In addition, Article 4 of the SoHO Regulation as well as Article 51 of the EHDS Regulation allow Member States to introduce stricter measures and additional safeguards at national level. 1 Regulation (EU) 2024/1938 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2024 on standards of quality and safety for substances of human origin intended for human application and repealing Directives 2002/98/EC and 2004/23/EC OJ L, 2024/1938, 17.7.2024. 2 Regulation (EU) 2025/327 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 February 2025 on the European Health Data Space and amending Directive 2011/24/EU and Regulation (EU) 2024/2847 OJ L, 2025/327, 5.3.2025.”
  Processing of health data · Public and private sectors role in healthcare services
• 2025-05-02 “E-001798/2025 Answer given by Mr Micallef on behalf of the European Commission The European Commission supports the accessibility for all cultural heritage and will work to improve access to cultural heritage, with a special focus on young people. One of the first steps will be to develop a Culture Compass which will improve the strategic framework for culture at the EU level. The New European Agenda for Culture, adopted by the Commission in 2018 1 , provides the framework for cooperation on culture at the EU level. It highlights the positive contribution of culture to European society and social cohesion, as well as to the economy and international relations. The Commission supports the preservation of cultural heritage in Europe through its funding programmes and dedicated actions such as the European Heritage Awards, the European Heritage Days and the European Heritage Label. Under Article 167 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, the EU’s role is limited to encourage cooperation and to support and supplement Member States’ actions in the field of culture and cultural heritage. The Commission has no say in the management of, or access to, cultural heritage sites in the Member States. 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52018DC0267.”
  EU and national cultural identities · EU strategy for tourism development
• 2025-04-30 “E-001731/2025 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Mînzatu on behalf of the European Commission Directive (EU) 2022/2041 1 establishes a framework for, inter alia, the adequacy of statutory minimum wages and promoting collective bargaining on wage-setting. It does so in full respect of the autonomy of the social partners and the competence of Member States to set the level of minimum wages, in line with Article 153(5) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union(TFEU) 2 . The deadline for the transposition of this Directive was 15 November 2024. Greece has already notified its national transposition measures, and the Commission is currently assessing their compliance with the Directive. The transposition of this Directive has not led to any decrease in Greece’s statutory minimum wage 3 . In any case, the Directive cannot be used as grounds for reducing the general level of protection already provided to workers, in particular with regard to the lowering of minimum wages. As regards collective bargaining on wages, the Directive requires all Member States to promote it and hence its transposition cannot be deemed to undermine it. In addition, Member States in which the collective bargaining coverage rate is below the threshold of 80%, such as Greece, will have to establish an action plan to promote collective bargaining with a clear timeline and concrete measures to gradually increase this rate. The Directive does not establish a binding coverage rate objective nor obliges employers to conclude collective agreements, as this would be contrary to the principle of autonomy of the social partners. The Commission will analyse Greece’s action plan to promote collective bargaining once it is notified and will communicate this analysis to the European Parliament and the Council as part of the report foreseen in Article 10(3) of the Directive. 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2022/2041/oj/eng. 2 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A12008E153. 3 https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/databrowser/view/earn_mw_cur/default/table?lang=en.”
  EU competences on social policies · Minimum wages harmonisation at EU level
• 2025-04-28 “E-001684/2025 Answer given by Mr Várhelyi on behalf of the European Commission 1. According to Article 168(7) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union 1 , the responsibility for the organisation and delivery of health services and medical care, including mental health services, rests with the Member States. The Commission adopted a communication on a comprehensive approach to mental health 2 in June 2023 with 20 flagship initiatives and EUR 1.3 billion in funding opportunities. It has the main objective of addressing mental health issues through a holistic, prevention-oriented and cross-sectoral approach. Through one of the flagship initiatives, Member States receive tailored support from the World Health Organization to reform mental health systems 3 . The Commission also regularly discusses the challenges and progress of mental health policies in the Member States in the subgroup on mental health of the Public Health Expert Group 4 . 2. The Commission is aware of the mental health challenges faced by young people and is supporting Member States in capacity-building through the implementation of best practices targeting young people 5 , a multidisciplinary training and exchange programme for health and other professionals working with young people 6 , and the development of a prevention toolkit together with UNICEF 7 . The mission letter to the Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare includes the priority of addressing the impact of social media and excessive screentime on wellbeing and mental health of young people. Based on this, the Commission plans to launch an EU-wide inquiry to start an evidence-based debate on the issue. The specific scope, methodology, and timeline of the inquiry are being discussed. 1 http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:12012E/TXT&from=en. 2 https://health.ec.europa.eu/system/files/2023-06/com_2023_298_1_act_en.pdf. 3 https://www.who.int/europe/activities/partnering-with-the-european-union-(eu)-to-tackle-mental-healthchallenges#:~:text=WHO%20is%20partnering%20with%20the%20European%20Commission%20to,to%20take %20a%20comprehensive%20approach%20to%20mental%20health. 4 https://health.ec.europa.eu/non-communicable-diseases/expert-group-public-health_en. 5 https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/dyna/bp-portal/submission/search?call=Mental%20Health. 6 https://eu-promens.eu/eu-promens. 7 https://www.unicef.org/eca/press-releases/european-commission-and-unicef-announce-new-partnershipimprove-health-outcomes#:~:text=The%20threeyear%20partnership%20%E2%80%93%20Promoting%20a%20comprehensive%2C%20preventionoriented,consumption%20among%20children%20in%2029%20countries%20across%20Europe.”
  EU policy on mental health · Public and private sectors role in healthcare services
• 2025-04-22 “E-001603/2025 Answer given by Mr Jørgensen on behalf of the European Commission The EU Green Deal and its underlying legislative framework, in particular the ‘Fit for 55 Package’ were adopted by the co-legislators. As part of the Green Deal, the Just Transition Mechanism (JTM) mobilises ca. EUR 55 billion to support the most affected regions from the energy transition from 2021 to 2027. Western Macedonia is one of the regions receiving support under the JTM. Moreover, the Social Climate Fund will provide funding of up to EUR 86,7 billion from 2026 to 2032. The support measures and investments aim to address the social impact of the inclusion of greenhouse gas emissions from buildings and road transport within the scope of the Emission Trading System, for example by increasing energy efficiency and decarbonisation of heating and cooling of buildings, specifically targeting and benefiting vulnerable households, micro-enterprises and transport users. To tackle high energy prices and support those suffering from them, the Commission adopted the Affordable Energy Action Plan on 26 February 2025 1 . The measures set out in the plan aim at fostering energy efficiency and renewable energy deployment, accelerating permitting, grid deployment, boosting storage and electrification and reducing systems costs, helping to bring down energy costs and support both industry and households. 1 https://energy.ec.europa.eu/strategy/affordable-energy_en.”
  Energy transition (state support) · EU approach to energy security (home-made vs import sources)
• 2025-04-04 “P-001393/2025 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Fitto on behalf of the European Commission The EU Solidarity Fund (EUSF) 1 can only be activated at the request of Greece which has a deadline of 12 weeks as from when the first damage occurred, demonstrating that the total direct damage exceeds the thresholds specified in Article 2 Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002. The EUSF may cover a part of the costs for emergency and recovery operations incurred by public authorities 2 . Private damage is not eligible. Member States hit by natural disasters may also benefit from the flexibilities provided by the Regional Emergency Support to Reconstruction (RESTORE) Regulation which entered into force on 24 December 2024 3 . RESTORE primarily focuses on reconstruction, but it can also support disaster resilience. In the 2021-27 programming period, all EU-funded infrastructure with a lifespan of more than 5 years must undergo a climate proofing assessment. Although defence was identified as one of the priorities of the mid-term review, climate adaptation and disaster risk management continue to be key priorities for Cohesion Policy. For instance, interventions addressing flood, drought or desertification risks are part of the actions envisaged under the water priority 4 . Moreover, dedicating funding to defence remains voluntary. Directive 2007/60/EC 5 establishes a framework for the assessment and management of flood risks, aiming at the reduction of adverse consequences associated with floods. It stipulates that the Flood Risk Management Plans, drawn up by Member States, shall take into account inter alia costs and benefits, and shall in particular address all aspects of flood risk management focusing on prevention, protection, and preparedness. The design and implementation of concrete measures lies with the competent authorities. 1 Council Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002 of 11 November 2002 establishing the European Union Solidarity Fund (OJ L 311, 14.11.2002, p. 3) as amended by Regulation (EU) No 661/2014 of the European Parliament and the Council of 15 May 2014 (OJ L 189, 27.6.2014, p. 143) and by Regulation (EU) 2020/461 of the European Parliament and the Council of 30 March 2020 (OJ L 99, 31.3.2020, p. 9). https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legalcontent/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:32002R2012 2 This means, for example, the recovery of essential infrastructure, provision of temporary accommodation to the population, cleaning-up operations, and protection of the cultural heritage. 3 Regulation (EU) 2024/3236 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 December 2024 amending Regulations (EU) 2021/1057 and (EU) 2021/1058 as regards Regional Emergency Support to Reconstruction (RESTORE) https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/3236 4 https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/sources/communication/mid-term-review-2025/communication-mid-termreview-2025_en.pdf 5 Directive 2007/60/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2007 on the assessment and management of flood, OJ L 288, 6.11.2007, p. 27–34. https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2007/60/oj/eng”
  Cohesion and rural funding
• 2025-03-25 “E-001242/2025 Answer given by Mr Várhelyi on behalf of the European Commission According to Article 168(7) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union 1 , Member States are responsible for the organisation and delivery of health services and medical care, including the management thereof and the allocation of the resources assigned to them. In 2020, 2022 and 2023, Greece received country-specific recommendations to ensure adequate and equal access to healthcare, notably for primary healthcare. They were reflecting, among others, the share of the surveyed population reporting forgone medical needs for financial reasons (9% in 2024) 2 . The situation is worse for women and for lower income groups. Without prejudice to these national responsibilities, the grant component of the Greek Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP) includes reforms and investments, with an estimated cost of EUR 1,537 million 3 , to improve the resilience, accessibility, and sustainability of the healthcare system. The national public health prevention programme in particular aims to improve the quality of life of the population and enhance the resilience of the health system by ultimately reducing behavioural risk factors. Additionally, around EUR 280 million (EU allocation) has been allocated under the European Regional Development Fund to co-finance infrastructure and equipment at all levels of care in the Greek national health system 4 . Moreover, around EUR 250 million are allocated by the European Social Fund Plus towards investments to improve the accessibility and effectiveness of Greek primary healthcare services 5 . All these financial measures are expected to lead to improved health services in Greece and support the principle of equal access to health services, efficiency and social cohesion. 1 eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:12012E/TXT&from=en. 2 https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/databrowser/bookmark/bac814b3-7a51-4326-8709-5d060d9796e9?lang=en. 3 Data retrieved from European Commission’s FENIX database (data current as of 15 April 2025) 4 Data retrieved from European Commission’s Cohesion Open Data Platform, accessible via https://cohesiondata.ec.europa.eu/, data refer to spending categories 128 Health infrastructure, 129 Health equipment, 130 Health mobile assets (data current as of 15 April 2025). 5 Data retrieved from European Commission’s Cohesion Open Data Platform, accessible via https://cohesiondata.ec.europa.eu/, data refer to spending category 160 Accessibility, effectiveness & resilience of health systems (data current as of 15 April 2025).”
  Public and private sectors role in healthcare services
• 2025-03-19 “E-001155/2025 Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Kallas on behalf of the European Commission Following the violence in Syria’s coastal region, on 11 March 2025, the High Representative/Vice-President issued a statement 1 on behalf of the EU, strongly condemning the attacks and the horrific crimes against civilians including summary killings, many of which have been allegedly perpetrated by armed groups supporting the security forces of the transitional authorities. The EU called for a swift, transparent and impartial investigation to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice and welcomed the transitional authorities’ establishment of an independent investigative committee. The EU remains attentive to the actions of the new authorities in ensuring the protection of all Syrians upholding the universality and indivisibility of human rights and the principles of equality and nondiscrimination. On 17 March 2025, the EU hosted the ninth Brussels Conference on ‘Standing with Syria: Meeting the Needs for a Successful Transition’, committing nearly EUR 2.5 billion for 20252026. This is part of the EU’s continuous efforts in building a better future for the Syrian people. The EU’s humanitarian assistance is delivered through pre-certified partners in all parts of Syria, based on people’s needs, humanitarian principles and accountability to affected populations, emphasising transparency, efficiency and effectiveness. The EU’s nonhumanitarian assistance follows strict implementation parameters and extensive monitoring, including third party monitoring and risk assessments. The EU urges all external actors to respect Syria’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity. The EU is committed to supporting an inclusive, Syrian-owned and Syrian-led transition grounded on international law, human rights, fundamental freedoms, pluralism and tolerance among all components of society which guarantees the rights of all Syrians without any kind of discrimination and away from malign foreign interference. 1 https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2025/03/11/syria-statement-by-the-highrepresentative-on-behalf-of-the-european-union-on-the-recent-wave-of-violence/.”
  Conditions to access EU humanitarian aid · EU-Syria relations · EU Development & Humanitarian Aid
• 2025-02-04 “E-000485/2025 Answer given by Ms Albuquerque on behalf of the European Commission With a return on equity of 13.9%, in the third quarter of 2024, Greek banks’ profitability was ninth among 16 examined euro area countries 1 . One recent independent analysis shows that Greek banks lag behind their European peers in terms of net fee and commission income, representing approximately 17% of total operating income on average in the first half of 2024, below a typical level of around 22% in Europe 2 . Banks operating in the EU can in principle determine their fees and interest rates. Consumers are also free to choose the provider that fits their needs. While EU legislation generally does not regulate the level of charges, the Payment Account Directive (PAD) 3 requires that the services for payment account with basic features (referred to in Article 17) are offered free of charge or for a reasonable fee 4 . According to the Commission’s information, banks in Greece pay taxes 5 . Banks offset these tax obligations with eligible deferred tax assets (DTAs) or deferred tax credits (DTCs). Greek banks have accumulated large DTAs due to losses booked during the major restructuring of Greek government debt in 2012 6 and severe recession which led to tens of billions of euros in provisioning and hence the creation of new DTAs. A significant portion of Greek banks’ deferred tax assets which benefit from a government guarantee are deferred tax credits and qualify as CET1 7 capital. In June 2024, DTCs amounted to EUR 12.5 billion 8 and they follow a linear annual amortisation schedule, ending in 2041. Furthermore, a financial transaction tax applies to financial institutions operating in Greece. Regarding the 5% withholding tax on dividends, the taxation is a competence of Member State authorities. 1 ECB Supervisory banking statistics. 2 Morningstar DBRS analysis February 2025. 3 Directive 2014/92/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 July 2014 on the comparability of fees related to payment accounts, payment account switching and access to payment accounts with basic features, OJ L 257, 28.8.2014, p. 214–246. 4 Article 18 clarifies that the reasonable fees are established taking into account at least national income levels and average fees charged by credit institutions in the Member State concerned for services provided on payment accounts. 5 The nominal corporate tax rate in Greece for credit institutions that fall under the requirements of Article 27A of Law 4172/2013 is 29%, while it is 22% for other legal entities. 6 ‘Private Sector Involvement’. 7 Common Equity Tier 1. 8 Or 50% of banks’ CET1 capital.”
  EU policy on banks profits · Taxation of financial transactions
• 2025-02-04 “E-000486/2025 Answer given by Mr Dombrovskis on behalf of the European Commission The Commission would like to inform the Honourable Member that a reply was already provided in 2023 on a similar written question related to this issue, E-000432/2023 1 . The funds provided through the Public Investment Budget, constituted state support in the form of a grant for installation, rather than a loan. The grant issued under the rehabilitation program was provided with a state guarantee; therefore, any decisions regarding the write-off of outstanding obligations, annual service costs, or the suspension of enforcement actions would fall under the remit of the Greek authorities, not the Commission. 1 https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/-ASW_EN.html”
  Cohesion and rural funding
• 2025-02-03 “E-000449/2025 Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Kallas on behalf of the European Commission The EU has a longstanding commitment to a just and comprehensive resolution of the IsraeliPalestinian conflict, based on the two-state solution, with the State of Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous, sovereign and viable State of Palestine, living side by side in peace and security and mutual recognition, and with Jerusalem serving as the future capital of both states. The Palestinian people have suffered greatly and both Israelis and Palestinians deserve peace. The ceasefire in Gaza is a positive development, but there is a need for the next steps to be taken to bring a permanent end to hostilities, stability and peace to the region. The EU will continue to support the Palestinian Authority in its reforms with the aim to its return to Gaza. The international community must work with the Palestinians to rebuild Gaza, any discussion on the recovery and reconstruction of Gaza should involve the Palestinians, with the Palestinian Authority as its legitimate authority, and in this framework, the EU welcomes a proactive role from the United States in this reconstruction process. In accordance with United Nations Security Council resolution 2735 (2024), the EU rejects any attempt at demographic or territorial changes in the Gaza Strip and stresses the importance of unifying the Gaza Strip with the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority. The Association Agreement with Israel is the legal basis of the ongoing dialogue with the Israeli authorities and it provides important mechanisms to discuss issues and advance EU’s point of view. The EU is not considering suspending the EU-Israel Association Agreement. Suspension of the entire agreement would require unanimity of all 27 Member States.”
  EU-US relations · Relations with Israel - Palestine
• 2025-01-29 “E-000404/2025 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Mînzatu on behalf of the European Commission 1. and 3. The Commission is not aware of allegations made against the company Teleperformance. Complaints may also be made to the EU institutions. If an employer does not comply with the national legislation transposing EU directives or regulations, it is for the competent national authorities to apply and enforce citizens' rights under EU law. In such cases, it is primarily for Member States, including their judicial authorities, to ensure that employees' rights are effectively respected and protected. In its role as guardian of the Treaties, the Commission will monitor the situation and may decide to take appropriate action. 2. Directive 2019/1152 1 sets out minimum requirements to improve working conditions by promoting more transparent and predictable work for workers in all sectors of activity. Directive 2003/88 2 lays down minimum requirements for the protection of the health and safety of workers by regulating working time and rest time in all sectors of activity. These directives are not anti-labour but are legislative instruments which give specific form to fundamental rights enshrined in the Charter of Fundaments Rights, such as Article 31 on the right to working conditions which respect health, safety and dignity, to limitation of maximum working hours, to daily and weekly rest periods and to paid annual leave. The directives do not prevent Member States from applying national provisions or permitting the application of collective agreements more favorable to the protection of safety and health of workers 3 . Moreover, both directives allow for several derogations through collective agreements, thus respecting the autonomy of the social partners 4 . Neither of the two directives have any impact on the right to strike. 1 Directive 2019/1152/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 June 2019 on transparent and predictable working conditions, OJ L 186, 11.7.2019, p. 105–121 - https://eurlex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2019/1152/oj/eng 2 Directive 2003/88/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 4 November 2003 concerning certain aspects of the organisation of working time, OJ L 299, 18.11.2003, p. 9 - https://eurlex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2003/88/oj/eng 3 Article 15 of Directive 2003/88 and Article 20 (2) of Directive 2019/1152. 4 Among others in Articles 14 and Article 10 in Directive 2019/1152 and in Articles 17 and 18 of Directive 2003/88.”
  EU regulation of cross-border and posted workers · EU rules on hazardous working conditions · EU policy on employment subcontracting
• 2024-12-30 “E-003089/2024 Answer given by Mr Hansen on behalf of the European Commission The Commission is aware of the challenges facing the sector and is committed to help address them through the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). Under the CAP Strategic Plans (SP), beekeepers can benefit from apiculture support for investments/actions to improve production and marketing, combat beehive invaders and diseases, prevent damage caused by adverse weather and for restocking of beehives, amongst others. In addition, rural development (RD) interventions in these plans can also support farmers, including beekeepers, to restore agricultural production damaged by natural disasters and catastrophic events 1 , to introduce appropriate preventive actions and participate in risk management schemes. Further exceptional emergency measures 2 to support farmers affected by natural disasters were adopted in 2024 by co-legislators. Under the Greek SP for 2023-2027, over EUR 61 million 3 are earmarked for apiculture interventions such as for training and advisory services, to combat beehive invaders, facilitate transhumance and honey analysis to enhance quality and marketing. Additionally, over EUR 18 million 4 are available to beekeepers to introduce and maintain organic beekeeping under an agri-environment RD measure. Other RD interventions are also available for investments to modernise beekeeping and for processing and marketing. These measures provide timely assistance to farmers/beekeepers to restore their activity, undertake the necessary investments and put in place actions and practices to counteract the hazards and risks inherent to their work; whilst also helping to reduce production costs. 1 Also open to Greek beekeepers under the Greek CAP Strategic Plan 2023-2027. 2 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32024R3242&qid=1735899275178 3 Public expenditure for the period 2023 - 2027 of which half is Union contribution. 4 Public expenditure for the period 2023-2027 of which EUR 16 million is Union contribution.”
  Agricultural funding
• 2024-12-12 “E-002898/2024 Answer given by Mr Brunner on behalf of the European Commission Repeated migrant deaths at sea are a tragic reminder of the need for a comprehensive approach to migration management and renewed efforts to combat migrant smuggling. The EU supports Member States in migration management (e.g. through financial and operational support), with the objective of creating fair, efficient, and sustainable migration and asylum systems. At the same time, it will continue its work on preventing dangerous journeys from taking place. This is done by addressing the root causes of irregular migration and by reinforcing the existing framework to combat organised criminal networks along migratory routes to the EU. The granting of international protection must be carried out in line with the requirements set out in the Qualification Directive 1 which will be succeeded by the Qualification Regulation 2 and reflects the Geneva Convention 3 . Both the Geneva Convention and the EU asylum acquis, however, do not provide beneficiaries of international protection with the right to reside in their country of choice. The European Council Conclusions of 19 December 2024 4 reaffirmed the need to achieve conditions for safe, voluntary and dignified returns to Syria, as defined by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The Commission is constantly monitoring the situation in Syria and remains in contact with UNHCR. 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32011L0095 2 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=OJ:L_202401347 3 https://www.unhcr.org/media/convention-and-protocol-relating-status-refugees 4 https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/jhlenhaj/euco-conclusions-19122024-en.pdf”
  Asylum & border control
• 2024-10-18 “E-002168/2024 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Mînzatu on behalf of the European Commission The Commission acknowledges the concerns related the recent episodes of high inflation. While mitigating the social impacts on vulnerable households is the primary responsibility of Member States, the EU has also taken relevant legislative and non-legislative measures. For instance, Directive (EU) 2022/2041 1 aims to promote the adequacy of minimum wages to safeguard decent living and working conditions, including by promoting collective bargaining, also in line with Council Recommendation C/2023/1389 2 . The Euro Area Recommendation 3 also calls to support wage developments that mitigate the loss in purchasing power, in particular for low-income earners. And the EU is also pursuing policies to foster productivity, as the best way to achieve sustainable wage increases. The EU also supports Member States’ efforts to ensure that pension systems are resilient and adequate, while preserving the sustainability of public finances, for instance by analysis in the Pension Adequacy Reports 4 . The Recovery and Resilience Facility 5 is supporting a wide range of goals to make our economies and societies more resilient, including social measures, which account for around 25% of its total budget, as allocated in the national recovery and resilience plans. These cover a range of topics, from employment and skills, to childcare, health and social protection. As regards energy, the Electricity Directive 2019/944 6 allows Member States to apply public interventions in the price setting for the supply of electricity to vulnerable households, under certain conditions, notably that they are limited in time and proportionate. 1 Directive (EU) 2022/2041 of the European Parliament and the Council of 19 October 2022 on adequate minimum wages in the European Union (OJ L 275, 25.10.2022, p. 33–47) - https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legalcontent/EN/TXT/?uri=celex%3A32022L2041 2 Council Recommendation of 12 June 2023 on strengthening social dialogue in the EU (C/2023/1389) https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32023H01389 3 Council Recommendation of 12 April 2024 on the economic policy of the euro area (C/2024/2807) https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32024H02807 4 https://ec.europa.eu/social/main.jsp?langId=en&catId=89&furtherNews=yes&newsId=10854 5 Regulation (EU) 2021/241 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 February 2021 establishing the Recovery and Resilience Facility (OJ L 57, 18.2.2021, p. 17) - https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legalcontent/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32021R0241 6 Directive (EU) 2019/944 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 June 2019 on common rules for the internal market for electricity and amending Directive 2012/27/EU (recast) (OJ L 158, 14.6.2019, p. 125– 199) - https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2019/944/oj”
  Minimum wages harmonisation at EU level · Minimum income harmonisation at EU level · EU approach to electricity market and prices
• 2024-10-11 “E-002031/2024 Answer given by Mr Tzitzikostas on behalf of the European Commission The Commission would like to underline that the responsibility for maintaining and continuously improving railway safety rests with Member States, as specified in Article 4(1) of Directive 2016/798 1 . The Commission supports Member States in carrying out their obligations. To this end, a dedicated project ‘Technical support for the implementation and application of Union legislation on railway safety and interoperability in Greece’ funded by the Commission has been launched to support the Greek railway stakeholders in managing the railway system’s safety according to best European practices and in deploying the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS). The Commission also supports financially the roll-out of ERTMS along the Greek network. It is the Commission’s policy not to comment on rulings of national courts. 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32016L0798”
  EU support of rail transport · EU policy on aviation safety
• 2024-10-11 “E-002030/2024 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Fitto on behalf of the European Commission 1 and 3. The EU Solidarity Fund (EUSF) can only be activated at the request of Greece within 12 weeks as from when the first damage occurred, demonstrating that the total direct damage exceeds the thresholds specified in Article 2 of Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002 1 . The EUSF may cover part of the costs for emergency and recovery operations incurred by public authorities 2 . So far, Greece has not requested EUSF assistance for this disaster 3 . As for the flexibilities proposed under the legislative proposal ‘RESTORE - Regional Emergency Support to Reconstruction’ 4 , currently under co-legislative negotiations, they could be requested within four months of the entry into force of the Regulation. The date of entry into force depends on the co-legislative process.; there is strong commitment to make progress on both co-legislators’ side. The flexibilities proposed would apply for natural disasters that occurred as from 1 January 2024, but also for future natural disasters. This would provide a structural solution to natural disasters and avoid recurring changes to the regulatory framework for the same type of interventions. This would result in accelerating the access to support in the future and reducing administrative burden. 2. Meanwhile, based on Article 196 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, the EU has been encouraging cooperation between Member States under the Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM) 5 to improve systems’ effectiveness for preventing and protecting against disasters. 1 Council Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002 of 11 November 2002 establishing the European Union Solidarity Fund (OJ L 311, 14.11.2002, p. 3) as amended by Regulation (EU) No 661/2014 of the European Parliament and the Council of 15 May 2014 (OJ L 189, 27.6.2014, p. 143) and by Regulation (EU) 2020/461 of the European Parliament and the Council of 30 March 2020 (OJ L 99, 31.3.2020, p. 9). https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legalcontent/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:32002R2012 2 This includes, for example, the recovery of essential infrastructure, provision of temporary accommodation to the population, cleaning-up operations, and protection of cultural heritage. 3 Following Greece’s application, the Budget authority approved the mobilisation of EUR 101.5 million of EUSF assistance for Greece following the floods in September 2023. 4 This is a proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2021/1058 on the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Cohesion Fund and Regulation (EU) 2021/1057 on the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+). 5 https://civil-protection-humanitarian-aid.ec.europa.eu/what/civil-protection/eu-civil-protection-mechanism_en”
  Climate efforts
• 2024-10-03 “E-001939/2024 Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Borrell i Fontelles on behalf of the European Commission The EU has repeatedly called 1 on Israel to fully comply with its obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law, in all circumstances. As such, any actions by Israel must ensure the protection of the civilians and their access to the humanitarian aid 2 . In its conclusions of 17 October 2024 3 , the European Council reaffirmed its call for an immediate ceasefire, the unconditional release of all hostages, the urgent improvement of access and sustained distribution of humanitarian assistance at scale throughout Gaza, and an enduring end to hostilities, in line with United Nations (UN) Security Council Resolution 2735. The EU deplores the unacceptable number of civilian casualties, especially women and children, in Gaza and the West Bank, as well as the catastrophic levels of hunger and imminent risk of famine caused by the insufficient entry of aid into Gaza. It also recalls the need to fully implement the provisional measures orders rendered by the International Court of Justice on 26 January 2024, 28 March 2024 and 24 May 2024 4 . Israel has a legal obligation to ensure that humanitarian organisations have safe access to those in need, as recalled by the UN Security Council resolutions. The UN agencies, and in particular The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), are essential for the humanitarian response in Gaza. The EU will continue to support them. The EU expresses its grave concern over the legislation adopted by the Israeli Knesset forbidding contact between Israeli state entities and UNRWA, that will have far-reaching consequences. 1 https://www.eeas.europa.eu/delegations/un-new-york/eu-statement-%E2%80%93-un-general-assembly-1stcommittee-regional-disarmament-and-security-1_en?s=63; https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/2pebccz2/20241017-euco-conclusions-en.pdf; https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2024/09/26/statement-by-the-high-representative-onbehalf-of-the-eu-on-the-military-escalation-between-israel-and-hezbollah/ 2 Geneva Convention (IV), Geneva, 12 August 1949. 3 https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2024/10/17/european-council-conclusions-17-october2024/ 4 https://www.icj-cij.org/sites/default/files/case-related/192/192-20240126-ord-01-00-en.pdf; https://www.icjcij.org/sites/default/files/case-related/192/192-20240328-ord-01-00-en.pdf; https://www.icjcij.org/sites/default/files/case-related/192/192-20240524-ord-01-00-en.pdf”
  Relations with Israel - Palestine
• 2024-10-03 “E-001940/2024 Answer given by Mr Jørgensen on behalf of the European Commission Access to social housing or housing assistance for those in need is a principle enshrined in the European Pillar of Social Rights 1 . To achieve structural improvements and to support Member States in addressing barriers for affordable housing, the Commission will launch a European Affordable Housing Plan. It will offer technical assistance to cities and Member States, foster investments and strengthen skills in the housing sector. A European strategy for housing construction and a pan-European investment platform for affordable and sustainable housing will be part of the Plan. ‘My Home II’, a public investment measure supporting individuals and families with up to a certain income to finance the purchase of an accommodation, is included in the Greek recovery and resilience plan (RRP) 2 . It provides Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) loans (EUR 1 billion) at beneficial interest rates via the intermediation of commercial banks to private households. It is accompanied by the RRF-financed ‘Upgrade my home’ programme (EUR 300 million) for increasing the energy efficiency of existing accommodations. In addition, the Greek RRP contains the investment measure ‘Energy renovation on residential buildings’ or ‘Exoikonomo’ which aims to support 105 000 renovations, with primary energy savings of at least 30%. It also foresees actions targeting households eligible for the ‘social residential tariff’ with a higher support level, and other actions benefitting at least 50 000 vulnerable households. The Commission has no evidence suggesting that these RRF investments have an impact on house prices or prices in the construction sector. As to auctioning of social housing, the re-establishment of the Workers’ Housing Organization and other national actions, the primary responsibility for housing policies and investments remains with Member States. 1 https://employment-social-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies-and-activities/european-pillar-social-rights-buildingfairer-and-more-inclusive-european-union_en 2 https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/economic-recovery/recovery-and-resiliencefacility/country-pages/greeces-recovery-and-resilience-plan_en”
  EU housing policy · Non-performing mortgages
• 2024-08-30 “E-001575/2024 Answer given by Ms Johansson on behalf of the European Commission A steady increase in arrivals on the Greek islands in the second half of 2023 has contributed to a challenging situation, including on Samos. It has improved since, with faster registrations and occupancy in the Multi-Purpose Reception and Identification Centre (MPRIC) of Samos standing at 66% 1 . Daily water provision in the MPRIC of Samos has increased to 9 hours per day. The new healthcare project called ‘Hippocrates’ 2 (replacing PHILOS II) is being rolled out and is expected to offer renewed support towards comprehensive health provision. The Commission and the EU agencies will continue to support Greece in view of ensuring sufficient reception capacity and adequate standards of living. The new Reception Conditions Directive 3 gives more prominence to how Member States organise reception systems, by introducing possibilities and clarifying the actions Member States can undertake to manage their reception capabilities, including mechanisms to assess and address the needs of national reception systems and allocation of applicants for international protection to specific geographical areas or accommodation. Decisions on detention of applicants should be subject to the principles of necessity and proportionality and be based only on grounds set out in the Directive. This is accompanied by procedural safeguards to ensure that the applicants’ rights are upheld, and detention remains a measure of last resort, following an individual assessment of each case. Transposition and implementation of the new Reception Conditions Directive by Member States is a key part of the Pact on Migration and Asylum, to ensure efficient, rights-based and well-organised reception systems. 1 https://www.scribd.com/document/768803516/NSP-Eastern-Aegean-12-09 2 Hippocrates is implemented by IOM since July 2024 under the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF). 3 Directive (EU) 2024/1346 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 May 2024 laying down standards for the reception of applicants for international protection.”
  Asylum & border control
• 2024-08-30 “E-001574/2024 Answer given by Ms Ferreira on behalf of the European Commission 1. EUR 150 million have been allocated from the 2014-2020 Cohesion Policy programme ‘Transport Infrastructure, Environment and Sustainable Development’ to support the disaster management system of the affected Greek regions to address the consequences of the floods. Additionally, around EUR 13 million have been allocated from the ‘Competitiveness, Entrepreneurship and Innovation’ programme to support the adaptability of enterprises and workers affected by the floods. Under shared management Greece is responsible for the selection and implementation of projects in line with programme objectives and priorities. 2. The EU Solidarity Fund (EUSF) provides financial assistance to EU countries facing severe natural disasters according to the specific rules set out in Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002 1 . EUSF financial assistance is intended to supplement the countries’ own public expenditure to finance essential emergency and recovery operations. Following Greece’s application, the Budget authority approved mobilisation of EUR 101.5 million of EUSF assistance for Greece following the floods in September 2023. The EUSF aid calculation methodology has been established in 2023 and accepted by the European Parliament and the Council. Under the Greek Rural Development Programme 2014-2022, support is foreseen from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development for investments to restore agricultural and forestry potential following natural disasters, adverse climatic or catastrophic events amounting to EUR 45 million 2 . At the end of 2023, the Commission provided an additional exceptional funding of EUR 43 million through the agricultural crisis reserve 3 . These funds were paid to farmers around lake Karla by the end of May 2024. 1 Council Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002 of 11 November 2002 establishing the European Union Solidarity Fund (OJ L 311, 14.11.2002, p. 3) as amended by Regulation (EU) No 661/2014 of the European Parliament and the Council of 15 May 2014 (OJ L 189, 27.6.2014, p. 143) and by Regulation (EU) 2020/461 of the European Parliament and the Council of 30 March 2020 (OJ L 99, 31.3.2020, p. 9). 2 https://www.agrotikianaptixi.gr/prosklisi/1i-prosklisi-ekdilosis-endiaferontos-gia-tin-ypovoli-aitiseon-stirixissto-ypometro-5-2-tou-paa-2014-2022/ 3 Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2023/2820 of 15 December 2023 providing for emergency financial support for the agricultural sectors affected by natural disasters in Greece and Slovenia, OJ L, 2023/2820, 18.12.2023.”
  EU policy on infrastructure for preventing climate-related disasters (floods, droughts, extreme weather etc.)
• 2024-08-30 “E-001576/2024 Answer given by Mr Reynders on behalf of the European Commission The Commission is not aware of visits mentioned by the Honourable Members and cannot comment on matters which appear to fall under national competence. The Commission would like to recall that it condemns any form of violence and hatred, including manifestations of racism, antisemitism, xenophobia and other forms of intolerance which are incompatible with the EU values. Glorifying Nazism and trivializing the Holocaust have no place in European democracy. The Framework Decision on combating racism and xenophobia 1 obliges EU Member States to criminalise hate speech 2 . It is for the national authorities to establish whether the national criminal law provisions implementing the Framework Decision apply in specific circumstances, taking into account the context and the situation of each case. 1 Council Framework Decision 2008/913/JHA of 28 November 2008 on combating certain forms and expressions of racism and xenophobia by means of criminal law, L 328/55. 2 Hate speech is defined in the Framework Decision as public incitement to violence or hatred directed against a group of persons or a member of such a group defined by reference to race, colour, religion, descent or national or ethnic origin.”
  Jewish culture and antisemitism · EU-Ukraine relations
• 2024-07-31 “E-001460/2024 Answer given by Ms Kyriakides on behalf of the European Commission 1. EU actions in the field of medicines serve numerous objectives, recognising the crucial role of medicines for public and patient health. The Pharmaceutical Strategy for Europe 1 and the reform of the EU pharmaceutical legislation 2 aim at balancing several main objectives, including access to medicines, competitiveness of the EU pharmaceutical sector, as well as affordability of medicines for both patients and healthcare systems. The Commission’s reform proposal aims at facilitating earlier entry of generic and biosimilar medicines to improve affordability of medicines, at increasing the availability of comparative clinical data to support more evidence-based decisions on pricing, and at increasing the transparency of public funding for research and development of medicines. The proposal also contains measures aimed at enhancing the security of supply and preventing shortages of medicines. The European Parliament and the Council are currently discussing the reform, and the importance of those objectives is acknowledged by all three EU institutions. It remains that pricing and reimbursement decisions regarding medicines fall under the competence of the Member States and are based on national considerations on the allocation of national health budgets. To enhance affordability of medicines, the Commission promotes cooperation between national authorities, through exchange of information and best practices on national pricing, reimbursement and procurement policies. 2. Notwithstanding the actions enhancing affordability of medicines described in point 1, as already mentioned, pricing and reimbursement of medicines are a national competence, and the way Member States regulate in this area is outside the remit of EU law. 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52020DC0761 2 https://health.ec.europa.eu/medicinal-products/pharmaceutical-strategy-europe/reform-eu-pharmaceuticallegislation_en”
  Pharma price transparency · Pharmaceuticals regulation in EU
• “The Drudge Report. In a situation in which we are facing a great deal of conflict with Russia and China, as well as a new economic crisis, is expressing the needs of big economic groups. We're really facing an autumn for investment. France is potentially going into bankruptcy. Germany is struggling. They are offering support to big business groups. This attack on the people supports the European directives. It says that it's to promote US investment. This is the way in which the imperialist war against people takes place. The plan should be coming from workers who put forward their interests against the monopolies in the European Union.”
  EU policy on banks profits
• “During this day, the farmers in Greece, they are struggling and they are fighting to stay on their lands. It's something that becomes intolerable due to the common agricultural policies, the very low prices imposed by the big companies. They cannot protect it by the various destructions. And this is because of the economic politics of the European Union. And now the situation worsens due to the agreements of the Mercosur type that will increase the import of farming products, and this will be to the detriment of the income of the farmers. Against this policy of the government, against the lower standards, the farmers are fighting for the survival. Revival. They're claiming a lowering of the production cost with the state intervention not to tax the petrol they use. They should reduce the price of electricity 100% of reimbursement and guarantee for the products to have a stable income and to have full services.”
  Trade relations with Mercosur
• “The addiction of children to social media is a real problem. It causes is the fact that there are difficulties for the families. We have commercialization in every aspect of society and the wrong models. The application of DSA, DMA in the other pieces of legislation does not deal with the problem because they want to protect EU tech monopolies against their competition with US and Chinese monopolies. In order for them to have profits, they need to have these algorithms, the addictive systems, in order to be able to make kids addicted. Now, the kids are preferred targets for those conglomerates because they have no experience and no judgment. Your proposals, like the ones that the Greek government took. Uh, always, uh, try to say that the problem will be solved with individual responsibility. The solution is to fight for the needs of children and teenagers and smash capitalism. Barbarism. Capitalist barbarism.”
  Safety features & content control for child protection online
• “Now, the workers know full well that the new capitalist market. And quality jobs are things that are incompatible, and they know this from personal experience. The EU member states and big employers are dismantling collective agreements. People are working 13 hours a day and. Have to work until they're 67, even 69. And sometimes the retirement age is set at 71. This is because you want multinational companies to rake in profits and fight against the U.S. and China. We have a capitalist crisis. The workers are paying with their own blood. Uh, there is one person dies every two days. In Greece, four people died in two days and they are paying. Workers are playing this for their own blood. This bloodshed is terrible. We had a biscuit factory in Trikala in Greece, where people lost their lives. So, uh, people realize that the peoples have to struggle for collective bargaining agreements, decent wages, health and safety at the work, and to work five days a week, 35 hours a week.”
  EU policy on aging workforce and pensions
• “The Competitiveness Compass aims to mobilise stagnant capital because we are not getting maximum profits and to boost European multinationals when competing against China, the US when it comes to digital products, raw materials and the war industry. But this isn't because of structural weaknesses, as the commission says, but because of how capitalism works that lead to a crisis. We can see this in Germany, France, France and the eurozone. We have statements such as skilled and very educated labor, unique social infrastructure. But behind this lie something else. So workers are being bled dry, they're being taxed more, there's a cost of living crisis. And then we have what is happening in Ukraine with the Ukrainian-Russian people paying with their blood. Now, the only hope is for people to move forward with their struggle. We need to look at working class needs. And in Greece there will be a national strike on the 28th of February. We need to over, over, uh, overturn this barbarian capitalist system. And we need to focus on the needs of the working classes. Thank you.”
  European Semester (social dimension)
• “The Draghi Report was a lever for us to move towards a war economy, reducing social rights and pensions in order to increase conflict. We're talking about 800 billion Europe, million euros, Which meant that we increased working hours, increased, uh, exploitation. There's been people who've died in the workplace in Greece. Uh, and we're looking more like China than ever. We have a hard, uh, capitalist system has led to an increase in the cost of products of housing and, uh, benefits of reducing. The only people who win are monopolies. Today, we need to organize and struggle for collective agreements and better working rights against the capitalist system of exploitation and war.”
  EU policy on aging workforce and pensions
• “The recent blackout in Spain, Portugal, the serious problems that were created by it underline the anti-Christ nature of the energy strategy of the European Union. The same strategy of liberalisation of the market using only renewables, fast track reduction of lignite, giving guaranteed prices of sale to the various groups is followed. In Greece, it increases the energy poverty and the dangers for a blackout. And while the price of electricity goes very high and it's very difficult for families. It's a provocation. Today, the government of Dimokratia to present this strategy as a model for other services such as the railway. And while the European Union is prepared to spend $800 billion for the military industry, it says to the people you can correct batteries. So the production distribution of energy could not be a very expensive product, but it's a popular good. We we should the production by using all the means of production, could cover the needs of the families to protect the environment, health and the safety of the people who are workers. Thank you.”
  EU approach to electricity market and prices
• “Hills. Attica. Crete. These are just some of the thousands and thousands of hectares that have burnt in both Greece and Europe. The strategy, which is implemented by Greek governments as well, consider that prevention and mining and staffing of firefighters, something that is costly. It's this is the reason why we have so many shortcomings. It's not just about prevention. It's all about prevention. We have to look at the shortcomings, stop just patching things up. And that's why we start talking about individual responsibility, climate change and climate crisis and so on. And the weather People have to save the people in these cases on the basis of proper prevention, with full time staffing, with more support, more financial support and a proper firefighting fleet.”
  EU policy on infrastructure for preventing climate-related disasters (floods, droughts, extreme weather etc.)
• “A report with information about poverty. It was voted on by neoliberal people who have always served the capitalist policies of the European Union in increasing poverty. Energy poverty, reducing wages. Making homes a subject of commerce, a merchandise. Human beings have been left poor, but at the same time profits have been reaped. And nothing has been said about the defence industry and the funneling of money into it as well. Capitalists of the European Union have been readily and very, very quickly destroying all that is necessary for the simple man on the street to be able to live with respect and without poverty. So what we're calling for are collective bargaining agreements, and we feel that there are to be no sacrifices there no sacrifice as far as a social funding as well. People have to be able to live as they ought to live in the 21st century wood.”
  EU expenditure on social policy
• “(15:25:59 – 15:27:14): Thank you. European people are footing the bill. Prices are skyrocketing as a result of the war in Iran, is supported by the European Union. And as a result of, supporting Zelensky's regime and supporting The US and China, the energy crisis means that citizens are losing, but large businesses are not. The American stock market is recording huge profits. Our monetary policies are allowing all of this up and are allowing prices to increase in the 2026. You allowed for €6,000,000,000 to an increase of €6,000,000,000. How can you allow this? How can you allow European workers to pay such high bills? And, what are you doing about joint borrowing and joint procurement?”
  EU policy on banks profits
• “(11:21:23 – 11:22:03): We've already said at this podium in other at other occasions, all the Greek governments have pushed through legislation that goes against the interest of the working classes, and that has the stamp of the EU such as the bill on the 13 hour day and the fact that, labor inspectorates are hampered. Labor inspectorates, of course, are linked to the whole issue of health and safety at the workplace. All of this shows that the EU wants to help big multinationals, but it is at the expense of the working classes. Speaker is Mark Angen.”
  EU rules on hazardous working conditions
• “(11:18:48 – 11:20:22): The workers know full well that the new capitalist market and quality jobs are things that are incompatible, and they know this from personal experience. The EU member states and big employers are dismantling collective agreements. People are working 13 hours a day and have to work until they're 67, even 69, and sometimes their retirement age is set at 71. This is because you want multinational companies to rake in profits and fight against The US and China. We have a capitalist crisis. The workers are paying with their own blood. There is 1 person dies every 2 days in Greece. 4 people died in 2 days, and they're playing workers are playing this for their own blood. This blood shed is terrible. We had a biscuit factory in Tricola in Greece where people lost their lives. So people realize that the peoples have to struggle for collective bargaining agreements, decent wages, health and safety at the work, and to work 5 days a week, 35 hours a week. Olivera and 1 from mister Jaak Madison, do you accept? But in this case, if we take both, not with the second question, but just the I accept 1. You accept 1? Okay. Which? Mister Olivera. Mister Olivera. So please Thank”
  EU policy on aging workforce and pensions
• “We've already said at this podium and other at other occasions, all the Greek governments have pushed through legislation that goes against the interests of the working classes, and that has the stamp of the EU, such as the bill on the 13 hour day, and the fact that Labour inspectorates are hampered. Labour inspectorates, of course, are linked to the whole issue of health and safety at the workplace. All of this shows that the EU wants to help big multinationals, but it is at the expense of the working classes.”
  EU rules on hazardous working conditions