Youth: Community action programme 2000-2004

The Conciliation Committee reached agreement on a joint text for the Youth for Europe programme. The agreement essentially involved setting the programme's budget at EUR 520m, entailing an increase of EUR 30m on the Council's original offer. Provision was also made for a review clause on the financial framework. On enlargement, the Commission would submit a report on its financial implications and, if appropriate, a proposal for the adjustment of the financial framework. On that basis, adjustments to the programme would be decided by the codecision procedure. Besides the agreement on the financial aspects, Parliament was also pleased with the compromise whereby the European Voluntary Service participants might continue to enjoy the social protection provided by their countries of origin. A new article ensuring access to health care for all programme participants was also included, and agreement was also reached on a number of other amendments proposed by Parliament, for example, on a more flexible age limit and the provision of information.�