Parliament Magazine, Issue 295, 05/10/09

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EDEN: Special supplement Issue 295 5 October 2009 People first Pervenche Berès on poverty, unemployment and the social effects of the economic crisis the social repercussions in terms of unemployment, redistribution of wealth and rising poverty are still ahead of us EDEN: Destinations of excellence Brian Simpson, Gianni Pit EAN DEVELOPMENT OP kholm 22-24 Oct DAY UR Stoc ober E 200 S 9 eud ev g i n e o u r F u t u re ma I da ys .e u EuropeAid, Mostra, Panos, World Bank THE EUROPEAN WEEKLY www.neurope.eu World Future Council Powering a Renewable World Smart Solutions for a Sustainable Future Your call The EU Liaison Office of the World Future Council cordially invites you to Reception - Book Launch Debate Tuesday 13 October 2009, 18:30 21:00 European Parliament (Room ASP 1G2) Hosted by MEPs Rebecc Issue 295 5 October 2009 newsanalysis 6 Lisbon treaty Coverage of Irelands crunch vote on the Lisbon treaty, including reaction from MEPs and the bookies predictions 21 Striking a balance In the transition towards a more balanced and sustainable future, renewable energy sources have a key role to pl catherinestihler Editorial team Managing editor Brian Johnson Martin Banks Martha Moss Francesca Ross Louise Tait International Press Centre Boulevard Charlemagne 1 Box 2 Brussels 1041 Tel +32 (0)2 285 0828 newsdesktheparliament. www.theparliament.com Editorial board Editor Catherine Stihler MEP Edi IRISH LISBON TREATY REFERENDUM MEPs voice optimism over outcome of Irish EU treaty vote As the Parliament Magazine went to press on Friday after- noon, Irish prime minister Brian Cowen appeared optimistic of a yes vote as citizens turned out across the country. Reports from the Press Association sug newsanalysis Yes is bookies choice Irish bookmakers BoyleSports appeared more confident than the Irish government of a yes vote, when they took the decision to pay out to punters backing the treaty. Company spokesman Leon Blanche, said a positive outcome looks like a foregone conclusion at this stag CLIMATE CHANGE Action for a better future The stakeholder dialogue on climate change mitigation and social justice The King Baudouin Foundation is bringing together experts in climate change and social justice to debate the importance of a joint approach to achieve social fairness in mitigation po newsanalysis Off-target am not sure that Washington has fully understood the reasons for bitterness and frustration in the former Socialist countries to the news that the Americans have given up the installation of the elements for the anti- missile shield in the Czech Republic and Poland. No-one in parliament NEWS Schulz admits Socialists are in deep crisis The leader of parliaments socialist group has admitted that socialism is in deep crisis across Europe. The com- ments, by Martin Schulz, come in the wake of the drubbing socialists received in the German federal elections at the weekend. Sc ne wsanalysis EU must take urgent action to combat fake drugs A conference in parliament has been told that urgent action is needed to combat the fast-growing problem of fake drugs. Latest figures point to a huge 384 per cent rise in seizures of counterfeit medicines, which now represents the third animal welfare Animal welfare bites back s a Canadian who has lived in several European countries over the past few years I would like to echo much of what the Canadian ambassador to the EU, Ross Hornby, said in a recent interview with TheParliament.com. One matter where we differ is his view that t Dairy market Dealing with dairy Parliaments agriculture committee has called for better measures to tackle turbulent times in the dairy sector, says Paolo de Castro e are all aware that European agriculture plays an important role in the economic development of the EU. Recent turbulence in the marke newsanalysis Battle ahoy The fight over the telecoms package is far from over as parliament enters into the conciliation stage over digital reforms. Helga Trüpel explains D uring this years European election campaign, some observed that European issues were failing to ignite the enthusiasm of the pu breast health day Tennis player Arantxa Sánchez- Vicario, who is backing the Europa Donna campaign Active for breast health European women are being urged to get out and get fit to reduce their risk of breast cancer. Martha Moss reports T ennis champion Arantxa Sánchez-Vicario has added her voice to newsanalysis each year. Susan Knox, the executive director of Europa Donna, pointed to evidence showing that 30 Susan Knox to 60 minutes of exercise per day is enough to reduce the risk of breast cancer. Its time for everyone to get involved and get active for breast health, she said. So few know th EDEN: Special supplement EDEN background INSIDE: 2 United in diversity The commissions EDEN initiative aims to make the most of what Europe has to offer. Now in its third year, the message is getting across and its popularity is rising 5 Bin your bucket and spade Brian Simpson tells Louise Tait that European countries can l Office National du Tourisme B.P. 1001 L-1010 Luxembourg Tél.: +352 42 82 82 20 Fax: +352 42 82 82 30 infovisitluxembourg.lu sustainable tourism EDEN Bin your bucket and spade Brian Simpson tells Louise Tait that European countries can learn from each other about what it means to be sustainable, as tourists move away from bucket and spade holidays rian Simpson is a man in demand. Since taking over as chair of parliaments EDEN 2009 Award Winners Destination Europe Europe is full of emerging tourist destinations and boasts a unique combination of natural and cultural heritage, says Gianni Pittella he EDEN project promotes excellence in European tourism. Launched by the European com- mission as a pilot project in 2006, Events with international appeal and their contribution to Holland promotion T Holland Art Cities 2009-2010 he destination Holland uses major events that are held every other year and that have international appeal in its tourism promotions. Because of their unique character and unique offering, the KARS DESCRIPTION OF THE DESTINATION I n the north eastern corner of the country, stands Kars, on a high plateau at an altitude of 1,750 meters. It lies at the foot of a magnificent fortress, the Castle of Kars from the 12th century. According to archaeological excavations, this region had been inhab Social tourism EDEN Go calypso Kader Arif says holiday opportunities for the socially disadvantaged can put a spring in a citizens step and more cash in governments coffers ourism has been continuous- ly growing in Europe, to such extent that it now represents over four per cent of European GDP, var EDEN Belgian tourism Outside the walls of Wallonia Paul Furlan tells Francesca Ross why Wallonia has something for everyone and why it wants to throw open its doors to the world compared to some parts of France but the challenge for us is to build an international awareness of what we can offer, he flemish sustainable tourism EDEN Giving something back The Flemish regional government takes a broad view of sustainable tourism, Griet Geudens tells Louise Tait, because long-term development is about more than a dash for cash ver fancied Flanders? If youre thinking of making a trip, the experience COME AND DISCOVER THE CHARM OF THE OLDEST REPUBLIC IN THE WORLD I t is the oldest Republic in the world, declared World Heritage by UNESCO, being ... a unique city-state surviving as an exceptional testimony to the establishment of a representative democracy, based on civic autonomy and self-governa Eden network EDEN Community spirit Roy Maguire talks to Louise Tait about sustainable tourism and the key to unlocking the regions potential without harming the environment lonakilty, Irelands first ever recipient of the prestigious EDEN award, takes great pride in the gifts nature has bestowed. it. EDEN 2009 Award Winners And the winners are... Competing for recognition as destinations of excellence, this years awards focused on the preservation of protected areas. Here, we profile the winners Austria: A spectacular scene If youve never been to the Austrian Alps before, now you have the perfec 2009 Award Winners EDEN bulgaria: Natures phenomenon Sitting in Bulgarias south western Razlog valley, among the foothills of the Rila, Pirin and Rhodopes mountains, Belitsa has panoramic views aplenty. According to local legend, the town owes its name to a beautiful maiden named Bela Itsa, who chos EDEN 2009 Award Winners cyprus: An ancient paradise Rare species roam the rugged lands of Cyprus ancient Vouni Pangias . Resting in the Eastern boundaries of the Pafos district, the area is home to the four largest mammals that call the country home. One of them, the Cyprus Mouflon, is found only in www.spain.info We would like to introduce our Q for Quality Tourism, seeing this sign means enjoying a quality establishment with a team of people commited to you, who strive every day to offer you the best and most complete service. All your needs are a commitment to us which is why we have introdu D uring 2008 -2009, EDEN programme was implemented for the second time in Romania by the Ministry of Tourism. Following the national contest with the theme Tourism and Protected Areas, Apuseni Nature Park was declared Destination of Excellence, joining Horezu Depression, the winning destination of t 2009 Award Winners EDEN estonia: Sail through the seasons Ever thought four seasons in one year was more than enough? Well, Estonias Soomaa National Park is famed for going one better, adding its unique high-water season into the mix. Established to preserve and protect the many bogs, flood plains, EDEN 2009 Award Winners greece: An island retreat Located in the north east Aegean Sea, the Prefecture of Lesvos is one of Greeces most prized possessions, combining natural beauty and a history like no other. The island has a rich mythology and its roots date back to ancient times, when Persians ru EUROPE MEETS AT THE RENAISSANCE With 10 years of experience, the Renaissance Brussels Hotel knows about Europe. Over the years we have hosted delegations from countries all over the Union, and like Europe, the Renaissance is constantly evolving. Our meeting rooms and our restaurant have recently bee Georgia Europes best kept secret theres Georgian architecture The country is roughly the size a of lot Then our richly-frescoed churches Switzerland, but weve packed from mountains, weve If you talk about ours are higher than got plenty. And the Alps. In fact, our peaks are the loftiest in 2009 Award Winners EDEN ireland: Popular peninsula Travel to the south of the Emerald Isle, and a real gem awaits: the Sheeps Head Peninsula . The wild scenery, picturesque loughs and fantastic coastal views give the 40 kilometres peninsula an unri- valled charm. Jutting majestically into the Atlant EDEN 2009 Award Winners latvia: Fairytale forest Horseing around in the mystical Tervete Nature Park is a delight for many Latvians and their European cousins each year. Though, that said, there is more to this EDEN winner than simply horse-riding. The lakes are known for their plentiful fish stocks 2009 Award Winners EDEN luxembourg: Visit three countries in one day The tranquil Luxembourg Commune of Schengen will forever be linked to the 1995 treaty that bears its name, which opened up Europes borders to the free circulation of goods, services and people. However, what many people dont know i EUROPEAN BRAIN COUNCIL he European Brain Council (EBC) is a coordinating council formed by European organisations in neurology, neurosurgery, psychiatry, basic brain research, as well as patient organisations and industry. We work in close partnership with the European Commission and the European Pa 2009 Award Winners EDEN the netherlands: A model transformation Once a dilapidated and heavily pol- luted mining region with little or no nature, Park Gravenrode , situated in the Dutch province of Limburg is now a bustling area of wonder. Thanks to the foresight and diligence of local Dutch municip EDEN 2009 Award Winners romania: An explorers paradise Tucked away in western Romania lies the amazing Apuseni Nature Park , a moun- tainous region that has drawn many visitors (including the ancient Romans) with the promise of gold hidden within the Apuseni Mountains. Today this promise has been re 2009 Award Winners EDEN SPAIN: Flock from afar On a wing and a prayer thousands of exotic birds flock to the Ebro Delta Nature Park in the Cataluña region every year. Now, with the area fast developing as a sun-kissed holiday destination, tour- ists are joining them. For tucked away in the hinterlan EDEN Discover Europes Hidden Treasures Do you long for a destination that is known for its local charm, its beautiful landscapes and amazing history? Is it a place where the locals respect their lands and will do anything to protect them from harm your hearts desire? Well, in Europe, these possibili policyfocus Renewing Europe T Christine Lins explains the big ideas under discussion for reviving Europes energy policy he third European renewable energy policy conference (Erec) will be held from 16-17 November 2009 in Brussels and is organised by the European Renewable Energy Council in cooperati renewable energy See the light n the public domain, attention is becoming more and more focused on Decembers climate change conference in Copenhagen, on which the future of the planet, no less, depends. But among the developed countries and even within the EU itself there is less than unanimity abou policyfocus Striking a balance In the transition towards a more balanced and sustainable future, renewable energy sources have a key role to play, argues Anni Podimata T here are some lessons to be learned from the major long-term challenges facing us, such as global warming. Or, indeed, from disast renewable energy R evolution Investment in renewable energy will be good for the climate and job market alike, writes Sven Teske T Sven Teske is director renewable energy campaign at Greenpeace International he solutions to the economic crisis and the environ- mental crisis are far from being mutu policyfocus Up to the job Stéphane Pouffary believes that pan-European qualifications in the building sector would help promote renewable energy T he climate change issue is now accepted as fact by the international community and the next confer- ence of the parties, which will be held in December i Tuesday 3 November 2009 The Stanhope, Brussels Congratulations to our shortlisted MEPs Voting is now open to all MEPs until Friday 16th October. To vote, please visit www.theparliament.com/m Agriculture Economic and Monetary Affiairs Kartika Tamara Liotard Neil Parish Agnes Schierhuber Goran Färm Pe Development Energy Eugenijus Gentvilas Gabor Harangozo Filip Kaczmarek Claude Turmes Eija-Riitta Korhola Alyn Smith Environment Research and Innovation Matthias Groote Peter Liese Amalia Sartori Pia Elda Locatelli David Hammerstein-Mintz Paul Rübig Health Trade John Bowis Françoise Grossetête Alojz poverty and social exclusion Rough justice Vladimír Špidla sets out what the EU is doing to combat poverty and social exclusion T he EU is one of the richest areas in the world, but still too many European citizens have such limited resources that they cannot afford the basics in daily life. This is policyfocus The EUs social protection systems are among the most highly developed in the world, yet too many Europeans still live in poverty. The figures speak for themselves: 79 million people live below the poverty line (set at 60 per cent of their countrys median income). That represents 16 per c poverty and social exclusion We have seen in previous economic cycles most notoriously during the .com boom that growth doesnt automatically create employment or bring shared wealth and inclusion People first arliaments employment and social affairs com- mittee is currently setting out its work pr policyfocus shared wealth and inclusion. The development of atypical forms of work during the last period has even increased precarity and again raised the question of minimum revenue and minimum incomes. This means that as European legislators, we have to ensure that the few instruments we have at poverty and social exclusion People queue outside a government job centre in Madrid, Spain All-inclusive t is important that we have an active social security policy that provides the right tools and help for the individual. Finding the right rehabilitative measures and incentives will enable people policyfocus Social Europe Belgium will put social issues at the heart of its EU presidency in 2010, says Philippe Courard T he Belgian presidency during the second half of 2010 is of crucial importance, because at the very same time the Lisbon strategy will come to an end. This strategy was establis poverty and social exclusion No kidding Known as street children they are among the most marginalised young people in Europe. Martin Banks reports on a conference aimed at highlighting the plight of societys defenceless victims ccording to the UN, the number of street children the term used to refe Football belongs to everyone, everywhere UEFA is building thousands of mini-pitches across Europe, creating new public spaces for young people to play. With UEFA, football means solidarity. We redistribute the revenues from our competitions to all levels of the sport, amateur and professional. EDEN Discover Europes Hidden Treasures Do you long for a destination that is known for its local charm, its beautiful landscapes and amazing history? Is it a place where the locals respect their lands and will do anything to protect them from harm your hearts desire? Well, in Europe, these possibili