We need to rediscover a sense of European patriotism which links European, national, regional and local levels – emphasized the European Commission Vice-President Frans Timmermans, while discussing the REFIT programme and the 2017 work programme of the European Commission with the Members of the European Committee of the Regions at its December plenary session.
"Patriot is someone who loves his country and nationalist is someone who hates other countries. We need European patriots today. Either we will be successful together or we will fall apart" he warned.
Better regulation and cutting red tape is necessary, claimed the Commissioner, arguing that REFIT could arguably produce results for citizens. However any success requires overcoming implementation problems, where local and regional authorities could be of help and the CoR's close collaboration with the European Commission has potential to help bring in results.
President of the CoR Markku Markkula underlined that dialogue, inclusiveness and transparency should remain at the centre of a credible legislation from the EU. He stressed that CoR membership is much more powerful than the body's institutional remits.
Speaking on behalf of EPP Group, Wim van de Donk insisted that more can be done from local or regional perspectives but the CoR needs to be recognised as political partner:
"Participation in a group of non-governmental stakeholders would not allow CoR to use its full potential in contributing the vast expertise from the ground – he underlined -Regions and cities play a vital role in reducing red tape, administrative burden and compliance costs. We don't represent the business sector, social categories or specific economic interests - but the voice of citizens".
ECON Commission Chair Christian Buchmann shared a few suggestions which could facilitate fostering growth, employment and innovation in Europe – and were warmly welcomed by the Commission Vice President:
"We need to simplify the ESI-Funds, we need a new culture of "single auditing" and to impose a sunset legislation framework"
Finally former CoR President Michel Lebrun raised concerns on perception of Europe among the citizens: "It is a problem how the EU is perceived by people: mainly by divisions rather than successes. Regional authorities are ready to help you reverse that. We continue the Citizens' Dialogues –an initiative I started and we wish to have Commission on board with us" – he insisted.
"I am available to you and will ensure tighter cooperation with the Commission also with a direct link to the regions that you represent here" promised Vice President Timmermans in response.
