Action programme in the field of lifelong learning; Commission implementing powers

2008/0025(COD)

The Committee on Culture and Education adopted a report drafted by Katerina BATZELI (PES, EL) and amended the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Decision No 1720/2006/EC establishing an action programme in the field of lifelong learning. The Commission had proposed eliminating the advisory procedure for selection decisions in order to simplify decision-making procedures in the interests of potential beneficiaries of the grants. The committee felt that comitology was important, and that it was necessary to replace the advisory procedure with an obligation on the Commission to inform the European Parliament and the Member States without delay about any measures taken for the implementation of the Decision without the assistance of a committee.

Accordingly, a new clause states that the Commission shall inform the Committee and the European Parliament, of all other selection decisions taken by the Commission for the implementation of the Decision, within two working days of the adoption of the decisions in question. This information shall include descriptions and an analysis of the applications received, a description of the assessment and selection procedure, and lists of both the projects proposed for funding and the projects rejected for funding.

The committee added that the Commission shall report to the European Parliament and the Council on the impact of the Decision 18 months after its entry into force.