MEP David Casa has called on his political group in the European Parliament to lead the debate on social issues.

He submitted a document indicating how the EPP will aim to move forward on social policy.

“Continued unemployment, in-work poverty and, more recently, the refugee crisis are creating a significant strain on EU social systems,” Mr Casa said.

Mr Casa is calling for measures to foster a strong culture of entrepreneurship, take full advantage of the employment potential of the digital market, enhance EU instruments that help jobseekers find work placements and improve EU fund allocations. He is also insisting for the improvement of numerous measures intended to address the gaps in antidiscrimination legislation.

“Social issues in Europe require the urgent attention of policymakers. The financial crisis that has led to continued unemployment, most critically among young people, has contributed to social crises in certain parts of Europe.

“The EU has demonstrated that measures implemented at EU level can have a fundamental impact on citizens’ lives but there is still a great deal more that has to be done,” Mr Casa insisted.