CoR members backed today by a large majority a PES-led resolution on the European Commission's proposal for a Council decision to invoke Article 7 of the EU Treaty against Poland. It takes position on some relevant aspects for local and regional authorities in the procedure against Poland for breaching the EU Law.
Commenting on the Resolution, the Group's First Vice-President, Christophe Rouillon, stressed that: "We share the European Commission's concerns regarding the Polish government’s modifications of laws that have resulted in a lack of independent and legitimate constitutional review and of judicial independence. However, we are concerned about the potential suspension of EU fundings, which would have serious consequences on Polish regional and local authorities in case the Polish government fails to address the EU's concerns.
"Cities and regions must under no circumstance be held hostage by policies pursued by national governments", he pointed out, reiterating the CoR's position against any macroeconomic conditionality.
The resolution provides a timely input on the European Parliament's resolution on the same topic, scheduled to be adopted at the EP's Plenary Session of 7-8 February.
