Malta against more rules that hamper EU funds absorption – Louis Grech

Malta is in favour of flexibility in EU procedures that make it possible for funds to be carried over from year to year, but it is against a compulsory review clause, EU Affairs Minister Louis Grech said.

Speaking during the General Affairs Council in Brussels, held to discuss the EU’s budget for 2014-2020 and to prepare for the European summit taking place tomorrow, Mr Grech argued that the compulsory review clause  “this would create uncertainty to beneficiaries and businesses, particularly in the current climate”.

He said it “will severely hamper the implementation of programmes both financially and administratively whilst having a negative impact on public finances”.

During discussions on the budget, the Irish Presidency informed ministers on the state of play in the discussions with the European Parliament.

The Irish Presidency has started discussions involving the European Council, European Parliament and European Commission as the three main EU Institutions to finalise the deal with the European Parliament. The goal is to reach an agreement by the end of June.

The council also discussed energy and taxation issues in preparation for the upcoming European Council summit.

The European summit will take place tomorrow and will be attended by Prime Minister Joseph Muscat.