Member of the European Parliament · Spain · S&D · Partido Socialista Obrero Español
- 2026-02-17 “E-000678/2026 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Séjourné on behalf of the European Commission As regards purely technical essential health and safety requirements, e-scooters and e-bikes (with an auxiliary electric motor having a maximum continuous rated power of less than or equal to 250 watts), often referred to as Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs), are currently covered by the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC 1 with harmonised product safety provisions. These provisions do however not regulate the safety needs specifically for on-road use of such PMDs, which may explain a fragmented approach throughout Member States. Indeed, in 2024, a study 2 prepared on behalf of the Commission examined the challenges and opportunities associated with regulating PMDs for on-road use. More recently, the Commission adopted a mid-term report on the implementation of the EU road safety framework 3 where it committed to drawing conclusions on the potential benefits of harmonising technical specifications of PMDs 4 . The Commission also committed to preparing guidance to Member States and regional and local administrations on what issues should be taken into account to ensure the safety of riders and other road users during the use of PMDs; this should expand on the guidance set out in the 2021 Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans Topic Guide on Safe Use of Micromobility 5 . 1 Directive 2006/42/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 May 2006 on machinery, http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2006/42/oj. 2 European Commission: Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs, Study on the need for harmonised rules to support the rise of micro mobility and increased road safety for personal mobility devices – Final report (1.0), Publications Office of the European Union, 2024, https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/4286a092-a55f-11ef-85f0-01aa75ed71a1. 3 COM(2026) 77 final, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:52026DC0077. 4 As requested by Transport Ministers at the Transport, Telecom and Energy Council meeting in December 2025. 5 https://urban-mobility-observatory.transport.ec.europa.eu/sustainable-urban-mobility-plans/expert-cornersump-reference-materials_en.”
Road transport environmental policy · EU transport infrastructure integration
- 2025-07-10 “P-002816/2025 Answer given by Mr Tzitzikostas on behalf of the European Commission Under EU law, EU air carriers are entitled to freely operate aircraft under wet lease from other EU air carriers, except where this would lead to endangering safety 1 . Air carriers are also required to inform passengers at the time of reservation of the identity of the operating air carrier or carriers, or where the identity is not known at the time of reservation, as soon as such identity is established 2 . 1. The Commission regularly monitors developments in the EU air services market, and notes that wet leasing is a common practice to increase operational flexibility. Updated information on levels of wet leasing will be gathered to support the impact assessment for the review of Regulation 1008/2008 3 . 2. The Commission is aware of concerns about labour practices such as false self-employment or which undermine social or labour standards. They have also been discussed through the subgroup on social matters related to aircrews 4 that has developed several recommendations 5 to Member States and stakeholders to tackle them, since it is for Member States authorities to enforce the applicable laws for aircrews operating in their jurisdiction. Such practices are not a feature of wet leasing per se, although some ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance) air carriers have been criticised for alleged use of such practices. 3. As part of the review of Regulation 1008/2008, the Commission is looking at possible measures to support the enforcement of applicable labour law, including in case of wet lease. The forthcoming open public consultation 6 will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to comment on this and other issues related to wet leasing. 1 Article 13 of Regulation (EC) No 1008/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 September 2008 on common rules for the operation of air services in the Community (Recast), OJ L 293 31.10.2008, p. 3, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2008/1008/oj/eng. 2 Article 11 of Regulation (EC) No 2111/2005 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 December 2005 on the establishment of a Community list of air carriers subject to an operating ban within the Community and on informing air transport passengers of the identity of the operating air carrier, and repealing Article 9 of Directive 2004/36/EC, OJ L 344, 27.12.2005, p. 15–22. 3 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2008/1008/oj/eng. 4 https://ec.europa.eu/transparency/expert-groups-register/screen/expertgroups/consult?lang=en&groupID=3118. 5 For example, see below the link to the paper on ‘enforcement of applicable law’ prepared by the working group on self-employment and enforcement of applicable law. The paper includes recommendations aiming to improve the situation at national and EU level. https://ec.europa.eu/transparency/expert-groupsregister/screen/meetings/consult?lang=en&meetingId=22235&fromExpertGroups=true. 6 https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/14620-Aviation-EU-air-services-rulesrevision-_en.”
EU policy on aviation safety · EU Competition policy
- 2025-06-17 “E-002440/2025 Answer given by Mr Hoekstra on behalf of the European Commission The Commission’s proposal of 16 July 2025 for the 2028-2034 Multiannual Financial Framework sets an ambitious target of dedicating 35% of the overall budget to climate and environment objectives. This target is designed to ensure substantial and sustained budgetary support for the Union’s priorities, including climate adaptation and resilience. The proposal includes an enhanced system to monitor EU spending by tracking how activities contribute to climate change adaptation and resilience. The Commission proposes to increase funding for the Union Civil Protection Mechanism and Union Health Emergency Preparedness and Response to EUR 10.7 billion, for a faster and more effective response to emergencies. The incorporation of the European Union Solidarity Fund into the EU Facility under the National and Regional Partnerships Fund will maximise synergies with the implementation of the plans, providing a top-up to national allocations in case of natural or man-made disasters. The overall amount for the EU solidarity over the period would be EUR 20.1 billion. The Emergency Aid Reserve, also currently a special instrument, will be covered by Global Europe’s cushion. The Commission has started preparing a European Climate Resilience and Risk Management Integrated Framework, which will set out a comprehensive framework and plan for action to support EU countries on climate resilience and preparedness. It is expected to be adopted during the second half of 2026 and will be developed in close contact with relevant stakeholders through a broad, open and participatory process.”
Climate efforts · EU policy on infrastructure for preventing climate-related disasters (floods, droughts, extreme weather etc.)
- 2025-06-04 “E-002252/2025 Answer given by Mr Tzitzikostas on behalf of the European Commission Passenger transport-on-demand services such as service offered by taxis and Private Hire Vehicle with driver (PHV) complement the local public transport offer. Taxi and PHV offer overwhelmingly local passenger transport services. Cross-border services exist, notably in border regions, but account only for a very small fraction of all taxi and PHV services. The sector is therefore fragmented by nature. There is no specific EU legislation in the field of taxis and PHV and Member States are responsible for regulating the sector, in line with general/horizontal EU law, such as the Treaties (notably Article 49 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union 1 which guarantees the freedom of establishment). In this context, the Commission continues to pursue infringements of EU law, notably the freedom of establishment enshrined in Article 49 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, which constitutes one of the fundamental pillars of the Single Market. The Commission has, in its 2022 Notice on well-functioning and sustainable local passenger transport-on-demand (taxis and PHV) 2 , clarified the limits established by EU-law of how Member States may regulate the sector. It does not exclude to update this Notice and/or to take another initiative, the details of which have still to be defined. 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/treaty/tfeu_2008/art_49/oj/eng. 2 OJ C 62, 4.2.2022, p. 1.”
EU transport infrastructure integration · EU Competition policy
- 2025-06-03 “P-002223/2025 Answer given by Mr Hansen on behalf of the European Commission 1.The Commission Communication ‘A Vision for Agriculture and Food’ 1 stresses the link between food, territory and seasonality, reconnecting farmers to consumers. Currently, the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) recognizes the importance of short supply chains to improve the farmers’ position in the value chains. CAP support for cooperation can be dedicated to the promotion of short supply chains and local markets. In 2024, the Commission has also proposed targeted amendments of the Regulation establishing a Common Market Organisation for agricultural products to strengthen the position of farmers in the supply chain, including through a better definition of short supply chains. 2.As highlighted in the Vision, public procurement can help to increase the consumption of local, seasonal products, and food produced with high environmental and social standards, including from organic farming and short supply chains. The Vision also stresses the role of local authorities in shaping food environments and fostering dialogue to improve the affordability and availability of healthy, high-quality food. The Organic Action Plan encourages the purchase of organic food in canteens and the use of green public procurement. Finally, the Commission Joint Research Centre is preparing a report on criteria for sustainable public procurement for food, which could provide support to public authorities to use sustainable public procurement and improve sustainability throughout the food chain. 1 https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/overview-vision-agriculture-food/vision-agriculture-and-food_en.”
EU framework for voluntary quality and sustainability terms in food marketing
- 2025-04-23 “E-001627/2025 Answer given by Mr Tzitzikostas on behalf of the European Commission Sustainable urban mobility is a priority for the Commission which pursues its promotion as means for reducing pollution, congestion and increasing the quality of life of urban areas across the EU. This is confirmed through legal requirements introduced in the TransEuropean Transport Network (TEN-T) Regulation 1 applicable to 431 urban nodes which requires the adoption of a Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP) by 2027. The Regulation also contains specific guidelines for sustainable urban mobility planning where the integration of active mobility (walking, cycling) is required 2 . The Commission has a significant role in setting up and promoting a coherent policy and legislative framework for urban mobility, however, the choice of implementing measures and their design, is the prerogative of the local and regional authorities, based on the legal set-up of each Member State. The implementation and prioritisation of policies such as cycling infrastructure or pedestrian zones, falls predominantly under the national and local jurisdictions. The Commission will closely monitor the implementation of the TEN-T Regulation and advocate for sustainable mobility by supporting Member States and cities to implement SUMPs through assistance, guidance and incentives, encouraging local governments to align with EU objectives. 1 REGULATION (EU) 2024/1679 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 13 June 2024 on Union guidelines for the development of the trans-European transport network, amending Regulations (EU) 2021/1153 and (EU) No 913/2010 and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1315/2013. 2 ANNEX V of the TEN-T Regulation: SUSTAINABLE URBAN MOBILITY PLANNING GUIDELINES FOR URBAN NODES.”
Road transport environmental policy · EU funding for transportation
- 2025-04-23 “E-001629/2025 Answer given by Mr Tzitzikostas on behalf of the European Commission Transport poverty is indeed a serious problem in many rural areas. In its Recommendation on transport poverty 1 , the Commission puts forward different policy measures to Member States that should, if implemented, contribute to mitigating transport poverty in rural areas. The Commission shares the view that improvement in transport services can further benefit the economic development of rural and structurally weak regions. The Commission’s longterm vision for Europe’s rural areas 2 calls on Member States and regions to develop sustainable rural mobility strategies, with the overall objective of creating ‘stronger, connected, resilient and prosperous rural areas by 2040’. Preventing and mitigating transport poverty is also one of the priorities in the development of the European transport network, and for EU support instruments such as Cohesion policy funds including Interreg, Recovery and Resilience Facility, and the Social Climate Fund, to ensure seamless mobility and accessibility for all users. 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reco/2025/1021/oj/eng. 2 COM (2021) 345 final, https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/en/newsroom/news/2021/06/30-06-2021-longterm-vision-for-rural-areas-for-stronger-connected-resilient-prosperous-eu-rural-areas.”
EU funding for transportation · EU transport infrastructure integration
- 2025-04-11 “E-001500/2025 Answer given by Mr Hoekstra on behalf of the European Commission All sectors, including maritime transport, need to contribute to the EU climate neutrality goal by 2050. The EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) and FuelEU Maritime are key policies to achieve this objective. In its report 1 on the monitoring of the implementation of the ETS Directive 2 in relation to maritime transport, the Commission did assess trends on port connectivity using data on port liner shipping connectivity index. The analysis revealed no significant difference in the evolution of connectivity of EU transhipment ports compared to neighbouring non-EU transhipment ports. It, however, showed the high impact of the Red Sea crisis on maritime traffic in 2024. The Commission also assessed planned investments in ports, both in the EU and neighbouring countries, showing no noticeable turnaround compared to ongoing trends. The Commission will continue closely monitoring the situation, and will take action if needed. The Commission will also continue analysing greenhouse gas emissions in its regular annual reports, with the next one covering 2024 data expected towards the end of the year. The forthcoming EU Port Strategy will look at all major issues facing ports. It will notably focus on security and competitiveness. Social aspects, including the need to ensure safe and secure working conditions, will also be covered. The implementing act 3 identifying neighbouring container transhipment ports must be updated every two years. The next update is foreseen by end 2025, based on the criteria defined in the legislation. 1 COM(2025) 110 final - https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52025DC0110. 2 Directive 2003/87/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 October 2003 establishing a scheme for greenhouse gas emission allowance trading within the Community and amending Council Directive 96/61/EC (OJ L 275, 25.10.2003, p. 32). 3 Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2023/2297 of 26 October 2023 identifying neighbouring container transhipment ports pursuant to Directive 2003/87/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council.”
Decarbonisation of maritime transport
- 2025-04-08 “P-001419/2025 Answer given by Mr Hansen on behalf of the European Commission In the political guidelines for the Commission mandate 2024-2029, the Commission commits to address regional and social disparities and ensure all citizens have an effective right to stay in the place they call home. This is in line with the Communication on the long-term vision for the EU’s rural areas 1 and further enhanced in the Vision for agriculture and food, which commits to strengthen participatory local development tools (i.e. LEADER/CLLD) and other forms of cooperation (i.e. Smart villages), to update the EU Rural Action Plan 2 in 2025 and to strengthen the Rural Pact. Most Member States have identified demography as one of the major challenges with potential negative effects on balanced territorial development, including in rural and remote areas. Consequently, Member States can use the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD), Cohesion policy funding as well as the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) strategic plans to help addressing demographic challenges. Integrated development, promoted by Cohesion policy are crucial to help regions, notably those facing demographic decline or a talent development trap. The Commission stepped-up efforts to support these regions 3 , notably via the ‘Talent Booster Mechanism’ and the Harnessing Talent Platform. 4 The Commission considers important to strengthen those investments to attract people, particularly young generations, to rural and remote areas. To strengthen cooperation between all governance levels, in 2022 the Commission launched and continues to facilitate a Rural Pact. The Pact produced guidance on how to improve policies for rural areas 5 and encourages national and regional governments to make official commitments to the Pact. 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/resource.html?uri=cellar:6c924246-da52-11eb-895a01aa75ed71a1.0003.02/DOC_1&format=PDF 2 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/resource.html?uri=cellar:6c924246-da52-11eb-895a01aa75ed71a1.0003.02/DOC_2&format=PDF 3 https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/sources/communication/harnessing-talents/harnessing-talentsregions_en.pdf 4 https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/policy/communities-and-networks/harnessing-talent-platform_en 5 https://ruralpact.rural-vision.europa.eu/publications/making-rural-pact-happen-member-states_en”
Cohesion and rural funding
- 2025-02-05 “P-000546/2025 Answer given by Mr Hansen on behalf of the European Commission Property ownership is a Member State competence. Therefore, Member States decide on the adoption and implementation of agricultural land market regulations, provided that the Treaty freedoms are respected. However, it is necessary to increase transparency and cooperation between Member States on this area, as access to farmland is an essential element for agriculture. In this regard, as announced in the Vision for Agriculture and Food 1 , responding to the European Parliament’s request and following the recommendation from the Strategic Dialogue, the Commission will work towards establishing an ‘EU Observatory for Agricultural Land’, starting with a pilot project this year 2 . It will enhance transparency and cooperation in land transactions and transfers of land use rights, price trends and market behaviour, changes in land use, and loss of agricultural and natural land. The Observatory will also help Member States take informed decisions on the regulation of their farmland markets. Access to granular data on agricultural land values and rents at EU level is limited. Information on land transactions and transfers of land use rights is not widely compiled, analysed and published across the EU. Therefore, there is insufficient information to confirm or deny that large foreign investment funds are buying up agricultural land, or that they are determining the cost of land. In this sense, this pilot project will bring clarity to this matter. Lastly, the Commission is analysing further proposals at EU and at Member States level to facilitate access to land, credit and knowledge for young farmers. The Generational Renewal strategy, announced in the Vision for Agriculture and Food, will propose concrete and innovative measures in this regard. 1 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament and the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee, and the Committee of the Regions ‘A Vision for Agriculture and Food: Shaping together and attractive farming and agri-food sector for future generations’ COM(2025) 75 final: https://eurlex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0075 2 ‘PP 08 25 01 — EU observatory for agricultural land, control and access to farmland’, as adopted in the European Parliament legislative resolution of 27 November 2024 on the ‘2025 budgetary procedure: Joint text’: https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/TA-10-2024-0050_EN.html#”
Agricultural funding
- 2024-10-17 “P-002139/2024 Answer given by Mr Hoekstra on behalf of the European Commission 1. The Commission fully shares the concerns of the Honourable Member about the EU shortage of drivers 1 . 2. At EU level, the adoption and implementation of the Mobility Package 2 aims to address this issue supporting better working conditions and social conditions for bus drivers. The revision of the driving and rest times rules for occasional passenger transport was also adopted 3 to recognise the specificity of the work pattern of bus drivers. However, increasing the attractiveness of the profession also requires a basket of measures involving Member States and stakeholders. The Commission is assisting them through Erasmus+ 4 , the European Social Fund+ 5 , the reinforced Youth Guarantee 6 and InvestEU 7 . The ‘Women in Transport – EU Platform for Change’ 8 initiative has also fostered many actions with women as drivers. Improving the perception of drivers by society, enhancing security and securing career perspectives, are examples of other measures which will contribute to bring more interest into this profession. Attracting bus drivers from third countries with the necessary skills, experience while ensuring equal treatment with EU nationals, can also be part of the solution and the EU is working on specific schemes for that purpose such as the EU talent pool initiative. 3. The Commission has not yet noted a noticeable impact of the bus driver shortage on territorial connectivity but is carefully monitoring the situation. The Commission proposal to amend Regulation (EC) No 1073/2009 9 aims to address these shortcomings and to develop long-distance bus services, helping to reduce road congestion and transport emissions. It also intends to offer more affordable transport services to citizens, particularly those on lower incomes. 1 Labour shortages of drivers, including bus drivers, in the EU are high on the Commission's agenda, as illustrated in particular by the recent ‘Action Plan to address labour and skills shortages’, COM(2024) 131 final. 2 Regulation (EU) 2020/1054 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 July 2020, Regulation (EU) 2020/1055 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 July 2020 and Directive (EU) 2020/1057 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 July 2020, all OJ L 249, 31.07.2020. 3 Regulation (EU) 2024/1258 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 April 2024 amending Regulation (EC) No 561/2006 as regards minimum requirements on minimum breaks and daily and weekly rest periods in the occasional passenger transport sector and as regards Member States’ power to impose penalties for infringements of Regulation (EU) No 165/2014 committed in another Member State or in a third country (OJ L, 2024/1258, 2.5.2024). 4 https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/ 5 https://european-social-fund-plus.ec.europa.eu/en 6 https://ec.europa.eu/social/main.jsp?catId=1079&langId=en 7 https://europa.eu/investeu/home_en 8 https://transport.ec.europa.eu/transport-themes/social-issues-equality-and-attractiveness-transportsector/equality/women-transport-eu-platform-change_en 9 Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EC) No 1073/2009 on common rules for access to the international market for coach and bus services (COM(2017) 647 final, 8.11.2017).”
Gender roles, equality and inclusion · Driving licences
- 2024-09-12 “E-001690/2024 Answer given by Mr Serafin on behalf of the European Commission The impacts of floods can indeed be very severe; hence, the Commission adopted a legislative package amending Cohesion and Common Agriculture Policy rules to support and ease the budgetary pressure on affected Member States. These legal changes would allow for up to 100% EU funding of certain post-flood projects. When it comes to EU funding, the priority is to ensure the use of the resources available under the current budget 1 and NextGenerationEU investment projects 2 . The design of the future Multiannual Financial Framework and its instruments 3 will need to start with ‘what’ we want to finance to then see ‘how’ the EU can best deliver on its objectives and maximise results on the ground. Looking forward, a more robust approach to European crisis management and civil preparedness is needed, shifting from reaction to proactive readiness, which also applies beyond crisis management. This requires a modernised and more flexible budget and, as per the President of the Commission’s political guidelines 4 , to step up the work on climate resilience and preparedness. As part of its future European Climate Adaptation Plan 5 , the Commission will map the risks and preparedness needs and assess the need for future legislation on climate resilience and preparedness and present options 6 . 1 https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/eu-budget/long-term-eu-budget_en 2 https://next-generation-eu.europa.eu/index_en 3 The recast of the Financial Regulation sets out that post-2027 programmes, where feasible and appropriate in accordance with the relevant sector-specific rules, are to be implemented to achieve their set objectives without doing significant harm to the environmental objective of climate change adaptation. 4 https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/e6cd4328-673c-4e7a-8683f63ffb2cf648_en?filename=Political%20Guidelines%202024-2029_EN.pdf 5 https://commission.europa.eu/document/27658b9f-f1f8-4e3a-b265-1ccbd7c2af82_en 6 https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/eab354d1-64d2-450f-8ed4eb3d42661974_en?filename=mission-letter-hoekstra.pdf”
Energy (green transition)
- 2024-09-10 “P-001667/2024 Answer given by Mr Hoekstra on behalf of the European Commission The Commission is aware of the closure of road RN134 in France, leading to Spain through the Somport tunnel. The Commission is concerned about the severe consequences that this disruption will have for the economy of the regions on both sides of the border, not only for road hauliers, but also local companies and their employees. It is the Commission’s understanding that traffic along road RN134 became de facto impossible following the damage caused by extreme rainfall in the area. The Commission has contacted the French authorities, who have reported that the InterDepartment Directorate for The Atlantic Roads (DIRA) has now carried out a technical assessment on the ground, based on which it presented a proposal to repair the damage. According to this proposal, the DIRA estimates that the works would be concluded during 2025, although the traffic could already be restored in January 2025. The Commission does not oversee the road works carried out by Member States. Nevertheless, the Commission trusts that the responsible bodies will work diligently to reestablish the traffic as soon as possible. The Commission also understands, based on the explanations received, that the French authorities opened a dialogue with their Spanish counterparts, including two meetings on 10 and 24 September 2024. The Commission is committed to monitor and ensure the safe flow of passengers and goods along this section of the comprehensive trans-European transport network.”
EU funding for transportation · EU transport infrastructure integration
- “Commissioners asked the rapporteur of the Tran opinion on NRP and the Connecting Europe mechanism. I'd like to relay the serious concern of the Tran committee. We have two key financing instruments for territorial development and the cohesion of the EU. Transport is a key pillar of the single market, and that is why it's absolutely vital to make sure that there's a consistent European vision and supervision between now and the cross-border nature of the CEF. The Tran committee believes it's a priority that the tent projects get appropriate support through these plans. In particular, it's vital to ensure continuity for these cross-border transport projects. I'm going to illustrate this by giving you a specific example. There is no point in investing CEF money in the cross border stretches between France and Spain. If after that, you cannot make sure that the key national borders tour stretch, for example, doesn't get it now, the added value, the European added value of this projects will be compromised. So we also have to make sure that, uh, recharging stations, uh, traffic signals and uh, road safety also get support from the member states. And that is why I have two questions to ask. First of all, how will the European Commission guarantee that the. Uh, dovetail with CEF and the T and T priorities? And are you planning to adopt specific measures, such as strengthening the role of the European Corridor Coordinators and or assume more responsibility within the Commission? Thank you.”
EU transport infrastructure integration
- “Mr. president commissioner talking about a robust and competitive Europe is to reduce the economic, social and territorial inequalities in different parts of Europe. We need a resilient Europe, one which works for all of the regions, making sure that they can all reach live up to their maximum potential. But this has to be a way of improving people's daily lives. And cohesion policy is our best chance of doing just that. That is why it's time now to have a modern and strengthened policy that is people centred. Commissioner. We need to add political priorities to the agenda. And obviously there are global challenges which are increasingly complex, but at times these problems simply repeat themselves and our regions, particularly rural areas, need investments in connectivity as well as in basic services. So could you let us know how you're going to guarantee the future of cohesion policy, providing responses to the needs of our regions, and make sure that you heed the voice of our local and regional authorities in the process. Thank you very much, Mr. President.”
Cohesion and rural funding
- “(14:40:42 – 14:43:26): you, chair. As reporters, I had a clear objective to ensure that transport is which has been a historically central part of Tahitian policy, and I want to ensure that it receives the share it should in the next budget to strengthen specific objectives related transport in order to ensure that member states have credible plans and proper funding when it and this is essential to make project and key projects such as finalizing TNT networks, sustainable urban mobility plans, decarbonization of transport, and deployment of alternative, charging networks. We also have to ensure that these objectives are met. Therefore, we suggest that at least 20% of the budget under the fund should be destined to transport and avoid that it be spread out under other policies and also to ensure that this is a binding objective in line with the 2024 deadlines. Similarly, I wanted to focus on territorial cohesion. To complete, corridors is essential, but we also have to improve connectivity of rural, peripheral, and outermost regions and their connectivity. This means equal opportunities and the right to stay in your own territory. We need affordable, clean transport that is accessible. This will help to address transport poverty as a key aspect of social inclusion. I also emphasize the need of road safety, life cycle maintenance, and climate adaptation. It's also important to develop dual use infrastructure, and this is part of a policy that should also focus on greater resilience. Finally, we focus on tourism specifically. We recognize its role in employment and regional development, and we want to see at least 5% of the budget to support the future sustainable tourism strategy in the EU. Finally, transport should be seen as a cross cutting driver of cohesion and competitiveness. I'm sure that our debate will be constructive and that the final result will meet, the high expectations upon this report. Thank you.”
EU funding for transportation
- “Thank you very much. President. Commissioner. Public transport is not just about mobility. It is also a tool for equality, for cohesion and for social justice. In Spain, buses account for 60% of passenger journeys. Public passenger journeys. It connects cities and villages, and it also guarantees the right to transport for everyone wherever they live. We have a working model. We have a model which is accessible, high quality and stable, with reasonable prices and with public private cooperation, which works very well. I think Europe should have a look at this model as an example. And in fact, the European Commission does recognize in its 2024 report that the policy of promoting public transport in Spain is an example when it comes to guaranteeing that people can access transport. So the European framework should strengthen systems such as ours which guarantee territorial cohesion. And there are financial instruments such as the Social Climate Fund, which should serve to fund public transport because it is a key tool when it comes to achieving sustainable, affordable and efficient mobility. We want affordable mobility, which is high quality and this is a matter of equality, and equality is the basis of our European project. Thank you. Mr..”
EU support of rail transport
- “Thank you very much. Commissioners, we are concerned with the disappearance of articles for admissibility and award criteria. The commission says that they want to give more flexibility. But we don't know how that how quality and sustainability and cooperation will be guaranteed of these projects. Another question. You spoke about the importance of cross-border connections, and we want to know how those will be coordinated. How will the coordinate national plans, and how can the Parliament ensure that the funding of these national connection points can complement these cross-border connections? And finally, the priority here is to complete the corridors. But having funds for studies, or rather, will there be funding for studies looking into these various different corridors? Thank you.”
EU transport infrastructure integration
- “Thank you, Madam President. Commissioner, thank you very much for this presentation. This is a step in the right direction. We don't know whether it'll be enough, though. The housing crisis which our citizens face, especially our younger citizens and especially in rural areas, is one which requires far reaching, courageous measures. In the Aragon region, the People's Party is keeping housing out of reach. Encouraging speculation and leaving it in the hands of the market. As socialists, we defend the human right to housing. We don't see housing primarily as a business. For that reason, we need to build affordable public housing, which remains affordable forever. Keep it out of the claws of vulture funds and speculation so that people come and stay in rural areas. Only in that way can we have housing, which is decent and affordable for all Europeans.”
EU housing policy
- “Gracias, president. Thank you very much indeed. The chair. First of all, I'd like to thank you for the presentation. Now, the study from the European Commission gives a very relevant but very concerning data. One is that it can't be used to justify going back and making situations worse in terms of, you know, having to sleep in the cabin, even in a safe area. The second is the gender perspective. The gender. The studies says that only 7% of drivers are women, and many don't feel safe. In fact, 74% of women drivers have suffered some kind of sexual harassment. So we would certainly like a more in-depth analysis of this. And the study doesn't include specific proposals and clear proposals for facing this issue. The Commission needs to provide us responses to this. I'd like to hear if you have anything to say on this. And additionally, the lack of safe parking spaces is very alarming. Only 7000 of the total uh, cover, uh, provide a sufficient, uh, uh, security and uh, 47,000 are. Uh, have some kind of levels for safety, but, uh, who's it going to actually supervise and monitor these in an independent way? And what steps will the Commission take to guarantee that existing parking places, uh, really are going to meet all of these conditions and that any new ones automatically do? Uh, because otherwise standards are just something on paper. And, uh, once again, this is not going to be an attractive job for young people or for women. Thank you.”
Gender roles, equality and inclusion
- “Thank you very much. President. Commissioner. The agreement of the Council on Passenger Rights is backstepping, which is unjustifiable. Rather than move forward for greater protection, much more robust protection, we're taking steps backwards. And the airlines have a broader margin in order to deal with the situation. The threshold, that four hour threshold increasing it is unacceptable. What can we say to our citizens that their time is worth less. Socialists believe in a Europe that protects, and this particular agreement creates greater difficulties as far as reimbursement and compensation. It's not automatic, and it doesn't reduce the burden upon the passenger in claiming their rights. Quite to the contrary, it complicates, it causes delay. And, um, we can't just push these people aside. And of course, this negotiation must involve passengers as well. We as Parliament are going to try to change the focus, shift it, to make it clear that it's not a privilege, it's a right, and rights are not negotiated in this particular fashion.”
EU policy on aviation safety
- “(11:55:00 – 11:55:59): Thank you chairman, and thank you to the rapporteurs for their presentations. In the Tran Committee, we remain concerned about the risk of renationalization as a result of the NRP structure. It could reduce the role of the regions and municipalities. Those are the people who within member states, are supporting this area. We can't have a fair Europe, and thus we have fair funding and multilevel governance, is effective. With regards to transport, we would be grateful if the rapporteurs could clearly recognize the direct link between reducing the territorial imbalances and investment in the TNT network. Article 77 of the TFEU expressly links the cohesion fund to the funding of TNT projects. Indeed, in the previous financial framework, nearly 20% of cohesion funding was earmarked for transport.
At the same time, we would also be grateful if the EU projects could also include cross border transports. And as regards military mobility, we think this should be an objective, and we believe that we ought to have the principle of dual use prevailing. Infrastructure should, above all, serve all citizens and territorial cohesion. Finally, we reject the getting rid of a reference to sustainability in tourism, especially when it comes to ports and the European sustainable tourism strategy. It is sending a wrong the wrong message, and these are debates which we have already moved beyond. Thank you.”
EU transport infrastructure integration
- “Thank you very much, Chair. First and foremost, I'd like to thank the co rapporteurs and the shadow rapporteurs for their work. We're working at the technical level and making progress there, but I'd like to lay out our priorities now. Europe cannot be left behind on transport. And in SND, we think it's essential to guarantee that we have sufficient budgetary resources. They need to be ambitious, going up to 81,600,000,000. Now as indicated, the cross border projects are the heart of Europe. Therefore, we are in favor of co funding construction up to 60% with the possibility of an additional 5% when implemented through co governance shared co governance structures. We need to motivate member states to actually execute these projects and to work together. Now I agree that mobility needs to reach all territories, and it's very urgent to meet the time frame for the 10 t regulations and step up work on corridors. That said, projects in the global network are key to ensure equal opportunities and also concretely in rural areas. Essential projects like this 1 are beneficial not only for our territories, but to boost transportation of goods. We need to recall the time we're living in. Right now, investing in mobility means bolstering European strategic independence, and we also need to ensure we boost geographic balance with the idea of dual use projects front and front and center. Various projects like European standard lines are important, and we also need to boost credibility for investors and those supporting projects, including climate resilience as 1 of the key factors when determining how funds are distributed. Thank you.”
EU funding for transportation
- “Thank you very much, president. The stip is key. If Europe is to continue leading the movement for sustainable fuels in maritime transport and aviation, they're vital for our connectivity and competitiveness. But it's also these fuels are the most difficult to decarbonise, refuel EU and fuel EU. Give us the possibility of moving forward, but they're only going to be a success if the sustainable alternative fuel industry, uh, progress and can, uh, develop on a large scale. We need investment in order to make sure the fact that we're leaders translates into practice. We need to mobilize billions of euros by 2027, and we need this support to also be reflected in the next MFF. And Europe alone cannot manage this. We have the IMO and the international community that needs to align to our standards, and it's only if we have clear rules and standards that investments will feel safe and secure and will be able to push forward with investment, because we shouldn't just be leaders of the transition. We need to win the transition. We need public, institutional and private commitment to this. Thank you.”
Decarbonisation of aviation sector · Decarbonisation of maritime transport
- “Thank you. President. Commissioner from the Socialist Group and the Transport Committee. We defend a European budget that strengthens the mechanism to connect Europe and the European transport network. Cross-border projects need to be accelerated to make sure that we reach the peripheries as well. We need to take account of poverty in the situation of transport. We want to make sure that we get sustainable mobility, inclusive mobility. We believe that dual mobility, civil, civilian and military is important within this context. So we suggest that we need to start funding this again and investment in dual use infrastructure. And do remember that the workers in the transport sector need to move towards a more competitive and sustainable economy. More investment in a re skilling, especially in the automotive sector and a budgetary line, especially for sustainable tourism. A fair, better connected Europe will move forwards. United.”
EU funding for transportation
- “(17:10:56 – 17:12:21): Thank you, chair, and thank you to the reporters as well. The study does reflect a concern that already exists in this parliament, which is the risk of renationalization of the EU budget. In transport, this could undermine the, interoperability of the network, particularly in the, less well connected regions.
However, I would like to focus on an interesting conclusion, which is that we need better investment. So this needs better coordination, as you said, between instruments, proper guidelines focusing on connectivity territorial cohesion.
So I have a number of questions in light of this. How can we avoid greater flexibility leading to greater fragmentation in investments? Secondly, what type of mechanisms exist or could be created to ensure more effective coordination between funds?
And with capacity limits in some member states and regions, how can we ensure coherent integration of goals such as resilience, decarbonization, and security in, selecting and running projects, particularly when we don't have basic, indicators and guidelines? Thank you.”
EU transport infrastructure integration
- “Thank you, Madam Chairman. And welcome, Commissioner. I'd like to congratulate you, because I realize these have been very intense days of work. We're in a phase where the European project is being called into question. Now, the commission is going to have to give a firm and responsible lander answer and allocating as many resources for the citizens and, uh, companies, because otherwise we're feeding Euro sceptic skepticism with respect. So we've got to complete the European transport network before 40 will cost us 240 million, and the Commission wants 70 million for, uh, mobility, military mobility. So we're talking about a higher budget than the current one, but it's insufficient. We'd like this 51.5 billion, uh, for infrastructure and, uh, could be, uh, become, uh. Doors open for security. Let me ask you if you think that this budget will be able to cover all the products in the network, in the global network.”
EU funding for transportation
- “Thank you. Chair. Now, as the rapporteur on the review of the weights and measures, let me just say that in the review in 2026 will be absolutely decisive because if we want to introduce zero emission lorries, then we need to ensure that we have the necessary infrastructure in place in order to help this in terms of the scale, the power and the coverage. Now, a number of these points have already been addressed by the Commission representatives presentation, but I have got a couple of additional questions for him. First, what about the what about increasing the recharging stations for HGVs? Second, what about the fact that it's not just a question of how many charging stations we have, but also what the network capacity is overall, including the megawatt amounts? What will the Commission do about that? And finally, what financial instruments will be used in order to support this more ambitious goal? Now there's afeard, of course, but there's also the competitiveness fund where there could be synergies found, or also the Clean Corridors initiative. How will all of this different pieces of the puzzle fit together? Thank you.”
EV charging infrastructure
- “Thank you. 2024 was the hottest year, beating all European records. We've seen Historic droughts, extreme heat. At the same time, we saw the worst floods since 2013. Natural disasters. They are no longer freak events. And there is a clear cause. Climate change. We are seeing ever worse effects of climate change. We need to mitigate the impact of climate change on Europe. That must be a priority. Our different regions need resources. The next budget. The European Climate Action Plan needs sufficient resources. We must stand firm against climate deniers. That is a priority. We know that prevention can save lives. We in the socialists will always stand up to those that deny what is needed. We will stand firmly shoulder to shoulder with our different regions.”
Climate efforts
- “Thank you. President. Investing in European transport means supporting security, social cohesion, economic development and employment. These objectives are more important than ever now to strengthen our single market and improve our competitiveness. Of course, the movement of our goods and people also depend on this. This is particularly important for peripheral countries such as Spain or border regions such as Aragon. We need to invest in quality infrastructure to ensure we have good connections with our neighbouring countries in this complex international situation. Investing in civil infrastructure for military use will be key, so as to prepare for potential crises and protect European citizens. We have to invest in transport. It doesn't just mean building infrastructure, it means building our future and the security of Europe. Therefore, Commissioner, in the future military mobility plan and the coming European budget, we want to see more financing for civil and military projects. Thank you.”
EU funding for transportation
- “Thank you very much. I'd like to begin by congratulating the rapporteurs for the work they've done. Our message to the commission is clear. The single fund that the the commission is suggesting undermines a whole range of other projects. For example, the CEF mechanism, which has been the key in driving cross-border projects across Europe. The next transport budget requires a larger budget. And above all, it needs more Europe. On the one hand, we need more European communications so we can have a transport corridors and strengthen critical infrastructures, for example, our ports. We need more European projects for interconnection, for energy, and we need more Europe when it comes to the future military mobility plan, because these are military mobility and humanitarian aid need to arrive straight away when we need when we need them. So we need to strengthen and civil infrastructure for military use now must include tourism as well. There needs to be a specific envelope for tourism to achieve sustainability in this area. Thank you very much for the Regi Committee, please.”
EU funding for transportation
- “Thank you, Madam Chairman. Welcome, ministers. Mr. Danielson, you mentioned the weight and dimensions. Now, as a reporter of the subject. This dossier response corresponds to two files like competitive news. And the new plan is very important for Vince companies to opt for zero emissions lorries. And you were saying we have to move forward and reach agreement. Let's do it. Let's go from work to action in your president. I would like I hope that you will allow us to make these moves forward. Can we be optimistic to this effect? Thank you.”
Road transport environmental policy
- “Thank you very much. Welcome to the Commissioner. Once again. We've received the European plan quite positively, one on high speed rail. But I have a number of questions about it. Firstly, increasing speed implies higher energy consumption. How are you going to ensure that that increase will not lead to higher ticket prices? Secondly, we think that there isn't really enough, uh, clear, uh, analysis, uh, between high speed rail and transport poverty. It's important that member states provide discounts or some kind of support systems in Spain if we're going to shift to this high speed rail system. And then there is the impact in terms of jobs. And in the environment when it comes to this high speed rail network, we're talking about half a million additional jobs, which would be multiplied by 1.3 by 2040. Have you looked at similar results? Those are the figures for the 20 programme. Have you looked at similar possibilities for this plan?”
EU support of rail transport
- “Thank you. I have a question for the speaker. Thanks to the combination of the Recovery Funds, it has been possible to make significant progress on the Mediterranean Corridor. The Government of Spain has invested heavily. Do you believe Europe should maintain strong financial commitments to the corridors, especially in countries like Spain that are making major efforts, including the change of track gauge, which also enables dual (civil–military) use? The other issue relates to something already mentioned here. Not just the executive agreement for the Madrid–Lisbon connection. Do you consider that a similar instrument would be appropriate for the border section between Spain and France, so that France finally commits to the agreed timelines? We believe we must use all available tools to ensure France delivers, because the latest delays are unacceptable for the overall coherence of the Corridor.”
EU transport infrastructure integration
- “Thank you very much. 2027 will be a key transition year moving between two MFF multiannual financial frameworks. Against this backdrop, the Transport Committee asks for reinforcement of the CEF so that we can support projects and have a future oriented and resilience oriented infrastructure policy. Against the background of ever more hostility. Transport has a key role to play in terms of defence in Europe, so we need to defend infrastructure projects that really support military mobility with a 360 degree integrated approach. So European transport must also be more social and inclusive and just we need support for the just climate transition and that we include measures for combating poverty in transport areas as well. We also need to give transport tourism the place it deserves in the policy and in the budget. There should be a dedicated budget line to develop a sustainable tourism strategy.”
EU funding for transportation
- “(15:00:18 – 15:01:14): Thank you, chair. Firstly, thank you very much indeed to all representatives of the political groups for their contributions. So, I'm sure they will enrich, the report considerably. And thank you to the commission for your contribution. As I said, we don't agree on the model, but, with our contribution and with our responsibilities here in the transport committee, we have to continue to move forward to set out our objectives and priorities. As I said in my first intervention, we want to ensure that to the transporter lies at the heart of the project going forward. We want to ensure that transport networks, become a reality to bring Europe together and make it more competitive. Thank you.”
EU transport infrastructure integration