The European Parliament is to meet for a plenary session from 1 to 4 September 2008
European Parliament
© Europa
- from: 01.09.2008
- to: 04.09.2008
- In: Brussels, European Parliament
The European Parliament meets every month in Strasbourg for its plenary session, but this first autumn session will exceptionally be held not in Strasbourg but in Brussels, because of the repairs being carried out on the false roof of the Parliament chamber in Strasbourg.
The main discussions planned for this plenary session, at which the Council is being represented by a minister of the French Presidency, concern the following points :
- The situation in Georgia: On 1 September the Council, represented by Bernard Kouchner, will inform the MEPs of the conclusions of the European Council which is being held earlier on the same day to discuss the conflict in Georgia. The MEPs plan to adopt a resolution on this subject on 3 September.
- Justice: On 1 September MEPs are scheduled to debate three reports concerning the European Judicial Network, the strengthening of Eurojust and the application of the principle of mutual recognition to default judgments. Rachida Dati will represent the Council on these subjects.
- Social package: Council and Commission declarations are planned for 2 September to present the texts relating to the social package, except those on health. These texts relate to European Works Councils, discrimination, the mobility of young volunteers and aid for employment and training. Xavier Bertrand is charged with representing the Council during this session.
- 2009 budget: The Council, represented by Eric Woerth, is to present to MEPs the draft general budget for 2009 during a session scheduled on 2 September.
- Electronic communications: On 2 September MEPs debate several texts from the telecoms package, designed to overhaul the rules on electronic communications (telephones, Internet, broadcasting, etc.). These texts aim to coordinate the use of frequencies, create a European body of national regulators, and strengthen consumer rights. The Council is represented in this area by Luc Chatel and Eric Besson.
- Human rights and development: Jean-Pierre Jouyet is to represent the Council on 3 September for debates on the evaluation of Community sanctions in support of human rights and the 5th Millenium Development Goal on maternal health.
- Environment: Nathalie Kosciuscko-Morizet is to represent the Council on 4 September for a debate concerning the evaluation of the Mid-Term Review of the Environment and Health Action Plan (2004-2010). The minister is also to answer oral questions concerning the progress on the Directive on soil protection.
Alongside the plenary session, Ministers Jouyet, Vondra and Malmström will hold a press conference on 2 September at 15:00 on the programme of the trio French, Czech and Swedish presidencies.
The agenda of European Parliament plenary sessions is subject to modification by the Conference of Presidents of the political groups.
- Updated: 23.12.2008
