MEP Mizzi calls for rapid implementation of Juncker's investment plan

During a debate in the European Parliament on the preparation of the European Summit meeting, MEP Marlene Mizzi said that the investment in the economy is a crucial component in prompting more rapid economic and social recovery from the crisis, whilst also ensuring higher and more persistent growth levels across the EU.

Later this week, EU leaders are set to close down the year with a final European Council, where member states will have a chance to adopt measures to combat the economic stagnation and high unemployment in Europe. In this context, they will discuss the Commission's initiative of mobilising 300 billion euro of investment over the period of 2015-2017.

During her intervention, Mizzi questioned if Juncker's investment plan, which is expected to be the main deliverable of the European Council, is the right change which Europe has been waiting for.

The MEP nevertheless acknowledged that the plan is definitely a step in the right direction, as it will help to shift the current gloomy trajectory in Europe to a higher sustainable growth and investment path, which will generate more economic activity and quality jobs, which is decisive in combating poverty and social exclusion, and in relieving the strain on social protection systems.

Before having the political endorsement of the Council, Mizzi demanded the Commission to provide further answers on some tricky questions on the type and nature of Member States’ and private sector contributions, the various fund-related governance issues and, last but not least, on the doubling use of financial instruments.