Recommendation for a Council Recommendation on the economic policy of the euro area

EESC opinion: Recommendation for a Council Recommendation on the economic policy of the euro area

Key points:

  • The EESC welcomes the European Commission's recommendation for a positive fiscal stance for the euro area that also respects the long-term fiscal sustainability objectives.
  • The EESC encourages the European Commission to allow for significant increases in public investment which, under specified conditions, should not be taken into account when calculating the deficit targets of the Stability and Growth Pact (SGP).
  • The EESC welcomes the emphasis on building on the existing Investment Plan, which should ensure that funds are directed towards countries in which investment has fallen particularly severely.
  • The EESC welcomes the European Commission's call for a symmetrical adjustment shared both by Member States with deficits and those with surpluses.
  • Productivity growth should be a priority objective of structural reforms. These should ensure the fair distribution of productivity gains in order to ensure stronger demand and supply-side improvements.
  • Strengthening and promoting social and civil society dialogues both at the national and the euro area level is of paramount importance for agreeing and successfully implementing the policies that are necessary for recovery and long-term economic sustainability.
  • Effective measures against money laundering, tax offenses, the use of tax havens and unfair tax competition between Member States will also help to achieve the objectives of the SGP.
  • The EESC supports the creation of a European Deposit Insurance Scheme and calls for the creation of a common backstop for the Single Resolution Fund of the banking union to be speeded up.
  • The EESC supports the initiatives to complete EMU, including a strong European Pillar of Social Rights, more fiscal flexibility and a fiscal capacity for the euro area with a Euro Treasury.
  • The EESC calls for a clear commitment of the Member States to implement the policies they agree on at Council level, thus avoiding uncertainty and creating a conducive investment environment.