Written answers

Thursday, 21 July 2011

Department of Education and Skills

European Globalisation Adjustment Fund

7:00 pm

Photo of Joanna TuffyJoanna Tuffy (Dublin Mid West, Labour)
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Question 156: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he plans to examine proposals issued by the European Commission on the 10 June 2011 to continue the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, EGAF, until the end of 2013 (details attached) and on the 29 June 2011 it issued further proposals for EU spending between 2014 to 2020; if so, if, in view of the fact that the current EGAF regulation limits spending to the two years from the date of application as opposed to the date of approval, he will consider these current regulations during this process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22095/11]

Photo of Ciarán CannonCiarán Cannon (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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The European Commission has issued proposals to extend the temporary crisis-related derogation that allows the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) to be used for workers made redundant as a result of the current financial and economic crisis in addition to those losing their job under the normal qualifying scenario, namely changes in global trade patterns. This derogation is currently due to expire on 30 December 2011. The Commission's proposal would extend it until 31 December 2013, which is also the end of the current implementation period provided for under EGF Regulation (EC) No. 1927/2006.

Ireland is supportive of the extension of the global financial and economic crisis derogation as it will allow for an increased number of scenarios which could trigger further applications for EGF support.

Generally, the implementation period for delivery of services to EGF eligible persons commences with the date of submission of the EGF application by the EU Member State. Regulation (EC) No. 546/2009 amending Regulation (EC) No. 1927/2006 provides for an implementation period of 24 months and also allows in certain cases for this period to commence 3 months after the date of submission of the EGF application. This provision is not up for review at this time. I do, however, understand that a review of the EGF with a possible proposal to continue it beyong 2013 is to begin in the near future. I can assure you that Ireland will participate actively in that review process and will seek to introduce whatever measures that will improve the operation of the EGF in practice.

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