41 organisations petition MPs on suspension of EU funds

Representatives of 41 organisations gathered outside Parliament this evening and handed over a petition on the suspension of EU funds for the Youth in Action & Life Long Learning Programmes to MPs as they were entering the House for today’s sitting.

In their petition, the organisations appealed to Parliament and the Maltese delegations in the European Parliament to guarantee the reinstatement of the programmes as soon as possible for the benefit of all students, youths and organisations.

“Funds entrusted by the Commission to EUPA were meant to be managed in a sound manner for the benefit of the ultimate beneficiaries - young people, youth NGOs, and students.

“This whole issue revolves around the sound administration of public funds, and no student, youth or organisation should be made to suffer.

“EUPA is also the people’s fiduciary, and should be made aware that due to mismanagement, hundreds of individuals now risk losing the opportunity of a lifetime.”

The organisations said they understood that intended beneficiaries might have to face extra costs and burdens as a consequence of the Commission's actions.

“These have to be compensated in full,” they said.

This year, €4 million were entrusted by the Commission for the benefit of students, youth organisations and other NGOs. Money should not be lost due to EUPA failing to satisfy accountability standards, they added.

“We are pleased that an inquiry was launched into the issue and demand a thorough and speedy investigation to ensure that those responsible will be held accountable for their actions.

“Furthermore, we want to make sure that no approved projects are derailed, no available funds are lost and that the suspension on both programmes is removed as soon as possible.

“We note with satisfaction that EUPA is committing itself to providing university students with clear answers as early as next week.

“However, we stress the importance that EUPA does not adopt a piecemeal approach in finding effective solutions to the issue. One solution could be that, until undergoing investigations are carried out, the Commission itself sets up a temporary procedure for students, youth organisations and NGOs to submit their applications.

“We encourage all members of the House of Parliament and the Maltese delegations in the European Parliament to follow the spirit of unity among student organisations, youth organisations and NGOs, to address this problem effectively in the same spirit,” they said.