Malta Presidency Briefing January - June 2017

DeHavilland EU Welcome

On 1 January, takes over the Presidency of the Council of the EU from Slovakia. This means that over the next six months, Malta will chair the meetings of the Council, mediate between the Council and Parliament, and help steer the direction of EU policy.

This briefing gives an overview of what legislation can be expected during the Presidency, the key figures, main events, as well as detailing the politics of Malta and the country’s agenda. On the following page, two Maltese MEPs kindly agreed to introduce the Presidency and give us their take on what it should focus on.

Last updated 13 January 2017 MEP Marlene Mizzi MEP Partit Laburista- S&D Partit Laburista- S&D

“This year, Malta will lead the Presidency of the “On 1 January 2017, for the first time since its Council of the for the first time. This accession in 2004, Malta will assume the six-month is a historic moment for Malta, and a chance for the rotating Presidency of the EU. Having the EU fundamental values of progress, social inclusion and Presidency for first time is always challenging for economic growth that the country holds so dear to be smaller countries, but having the Presidency in such promoted at European level. turbulent times in Europe and in the world will make their work particularly more difficult and demanding. It is time, for Malta to prove that despite the country’s size, Malta is ready to be a European leader on all fronts. Europe is undergoing drastic changes, which may deeply affect our societies. It is not amiss to say that it will also bring many extra problems Given the turbulent times Europe finds itself facing, there has never been to the Maltese Presidency, which will have the most challenging task of a more pertinent time for a dynamic and innovative leadership - and given uniting Member States under a single European voice. This is a litmus its current leadership, Malta can offer this. test for Malta and for Europe, but I am convinced that despite its size the The months ahead will not be an easy road to go down. The growing rise of Maltese presidency will be a success. I am saying that not because it is the far right and eurosceptisism will see Europe enter a new era which will my country, but because I know the determination, professionalism and test its founding principle of solidarity - but if we stick to our values and commitment with which the Maltese government has been preparing for our core belief that Europe is stronger together, we will surely pull through the Presidency in the last year. these turbulent times. Europe needs a proactive leadership that helps encourage a balance European citizens have become increasingly dissatisfied with the European between the preservation of cultural heritage and innovative growth and Union, as it often fails to convince them that it truly represents their progress in European economies, while safeguarding the rights and needs interests and aspirations. Therefore, I am glad to learn that Malta will of European families and citizens, including the rights of minorities. take up the Presidency well aware that the continuing sustainability of the EU needs to be ensured, and that the Union's bureaucracy needs to be I have no doubt that the Maltese Presidency will aim to do this, and will addressed in order to reconnect with the citizens. help lead Europe through the current scenario. The upcoming path may be rocky, but with solid leadership and a clear direction Europe will The next six months must be about putting European citizens at the heart persevere. of the agenda. Europe needs to start listening to its people and act on their concerns and aspirations. I am pleased that important issues like migration, the single market, security, social inclusion, Europe’s neighbourhoods and the maritime industry will be the top priorities for the Maltese Presidency. I also hope that Malta will address the issues of particular importance for completing the Digital Single Market and promoting smart and fair growth that fosters innovation and jobs for the future. The Presidency Understand what it means and Malta’s priorities p. 5

The Politics Place the EU’s challenges in the Maltese political context p. 8

The People Meet the ministers who will chair the Council meetings p. 11

The Policy Get the insights into key policies p. 18

The Events Stay connected with the key dates for the next 6 months p. 31

The Trio See who takes over from the Maltese Presidency p. 34 The Presidency Understand what it means and Malta’s priorities What is a Presidency?

Each of the 28 Member States take it in turn to hold the Pres- ‘trilogue’ meetings with the Parliament and Commission. The idency of the Council of the EU, changing every six months, informal agreements, which often represent the breakthrough but acting within Trios of countries. It is the first EU Pres- on a legislative proposal, depend on the negotiating skills of idency held by Malta which joined the Union in 2004. The the Presidency, and are often used to measure a country’s Council is co-legislator with the , but has success in the role. exclusive competence over sensitive areas, such as tax policy. The Council meets in ten configurations, divided by policy The Presidency is crucial for EU policy making, but the ad- area, which the national ministers of the Presidency chair. For ministrative burden is significant, in particular for smaller instance, the Environment Council meetings are attended by Member States. The advantages for the country holding the national Environment Ministers and chaired by the Environ- Presidency are therefore not obvious, particularly as it must ment Minister of the rotating Presidency, in this case, of Mal- be politically neutral. The Presidency acts as an honest broker: ta. the country cannot be seen as pushing its own agenda too hard. Therefore, the Trio of countries have an 18 month pro- The Presidency mediates between the Member States, and is gramme to follow with overarching aims that must be com- responsible for drawing up compromise texts. When agree- pleted by the time the final country has finished holding the ment is reached, the Presidency will represent the Council at Presidency.

Malta takes over from Slovakia as the third country in the trio Council Strategic Agenda of countries to lead the Council. Along with the Netherlands • Jobs, growth and competitiveness and Slovakia, the Maltese Presidency will progress the over- arching aims of increasing jobs, growth and competitiveness, • Activating and protecting all the citizens empowering citizens, advancing the energy union and climate • Energy union & future-oriented climate policy policy, bettering freedom, security and justice, and enhancing the EU as a global actor. However, these aims are not ex- • Freedom, security and justice haustive. New developments and challenges may need to be • The EU as a strong player on the global stage addressed if they appear. In this case, those will particularly relate to the aftermath of the UK referendum on EU member- ship and the migration crisis.

Back to menu 6 What are the priorities?

The Maltese Presidency will be largely defined by its work in the EU’s trade tools. It will also continue progressing the the areas of migration and security. protection of worker’s rights and social security, gender balance, and employment levels among youth. We will try to make as much progress as possible on the various aspects of the migration phenomenon, keeping with the “comprehensive approach to migration. However this can only be Single Market possible if we all collaborate together in a spirit of solidarity The Presidency will simultaneously push for progress in the - , Deputy Prime Minister development of Capital Markets Union, Energy Union and Digital Single Market. The incoming Presidency will also face challenges related to employment, social security, Single Market and in large part Financial Stability the planned Brexit negotiations. Malta is prioritising the strengthening of EU’s fiscal stability Maltese Deputy Prime Minister Louis Grech underscored the and representation of the Euro area in the International Presidency’s dedication to engage in restoring the citizens’ Monetary Fund. It will also work on measures to combat tax trust in the EU. In relation to its priorities, the Maltese avoidance and evasion. Presidency will focus on six areas: Europe’s Security and Neighbourhood Migration The Presidency will seek to raise EU’s internal security The Presidency will look towards reforming the EU’s through proposals to revise the firearms legislation, combat approach to migration and review its asylum policy and terrorism, and tackle organised crime. Externally, Malta will the Dublin mechanism. It will also work on proposals that also focus on the EU’s defence and external stability. will help to better manage the entry into and exit from the Schengen Area. Maritime Economic Growth and Social Inclusion Malta’s transport focus will be on maritime affairs, in particular the promotion of the sector under the EU Malta will focus on stimulating levels of investment, job Integrated Maritime Policy. growth and economic development, and strengthening Back to menu 7 The Politics Place the EU’s challenges in the Maltese political context National politics

Malta is the European Union’s smallest Member State – both EU Membership in terms of population and size – and holds the Presidency of the Council of the EU for the first time. Its determination Malta joined the European Union as part of the fifth to make a success of this role should not, however, be enlargement round with the Czech Republic, Estonia, Cyprus, underestimated: the slogan featuring on the home page of the Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia. Maltese Presidency website reads: In March 2003, the country held a referendum on joining the EU, with a narrow majority voting in favour of becoming a member, but then opposition rejected the results. The victory of the Nationalist Party in the 2003 general “The ambition, planning and energy in implementing its elections confirmed the result of the referendum and Malta programme will see Malta truly come of age as an influential EU became part of the EU on 1 May 2004. member.

Ahead of its Presidency, Commissioner President Jean-Claude Migration Juncker said Malta was a "serious and hard-working country" that, although a small country, has its own ambitions. Despite seeing a lower number of migrants than EU countries such as Greece and Italy, as an island relatively close to the Malta’s political landscape has been dominated by two North-African coast Malta has been at the forefront of the parties since the country became independent, namely Partit migration crisis in recent years. Unlike countries in Eastern Nazzjonalista (the Nationalist Party, PN) and Partit Laburista Europe, however, Malta has been less vocal about the crisis (the Labour Party, PL). The most recent parliamentary and its Prime Minister expressed his support for the EU’s elections took place in March 2013, returning a majority for relocation scheme. More recently, Malta’s Prime Minister Partit Laburista. Its leader, , was inaugurated said that migrants whose asylum requests have been rejected as Prime Minister and still holds the position today. Marie should be deported so long as their countries of origin are Louise Coleiro Preca was elected President by the parliament safe. in 2014.

Back to menu 9 EU affairs

Maltese deputy Prime Minister Louis Grech forecast that the possible if we all collaborate together in a spirit of solidarity". next six months are expected to be particularly challenging In light of the rising terrorist threat, the Presidency brings for the EU, as "the Union is being put to the test, and a new Malta serious responsibility in the field ofsecurity . Although impetus is needed to avoid further setbacks". the primary competence on internal security lies with Member States, the Presidency will work on the implementation of the Renewed Internal Security Strategy and the Roadmap to The UK exiting the EU enhance information exchange and information management.

Following the UK’s Brexit vote, UK Prime Minister Theresa Rising Euroscepticism & National Elections May has announced that she intends to invoke Article 50 in March 2017, kicking off negotiations for the withdrawal of the UK from the EU. Negotiations are expected to alter the Within the upcoming semester, a number of key Member agenda, as well as the schedule, of the Presidency. "There States are scheduled to hold national elections. Meanwhile, will not be a situation where the UK will have a better deal Euroscepticism and nationalism are on the rise in the EU, than it has today. It simply cannot be", Maltese Prime Minister with a number of Member States’ political groups questioning Joseph Muscat said, reiterating that this is truly the position of the effectiveness of the EU and even membership of the EU. the Presidency and that he does not see it changing. National elections in Germany, France, the Netherlands and Italy are set to take place during the Maltese Presidency. Migration & Security

The Maltese Presidency will take place in the midst of one of the greatest challenges in EU history. As its predecessors, “The Union is being put to the test, and a new impetus is needed to Malta is expected to push for a holistic approach on avoid further setbacks. migration, as the systems that are currently in place seem to be failing. Maltese Minister for Home Affairs and National Louis Grech, Deputy Prime Minister Security Carmelo Abela stressed recently that "this can only be

Back to menu 10 The People Meet the ministers who will chair the Council meetings Louis Grech Ian Borg Christian Cardona Deputy Prime Minister Parliamentary Secretary Minister for the Economy, Minister for European Affairs Investment and Small Business

Louis Grech is the serving Deputy Dr Ian Borg became the Dr Christian Cardona is the , as well as Parliamentary Secretary for the current Minister for the Economy, Minister for European Affairs and EU Presidency 2017 and EU Funds Investment and Small Business. In Implementation of the Electoral almost immediately after being June 2016 he was also elected as Manifesto. He was elected as an MEP elected to the Maltese House of Deputy Leader for Party Affairs for in 2004 and again in 2009, a role he Representatives in 2013. the Labour Party. carried out until taking his seat in the He was a key member of the EU Maltese House of Representatives in The youngest member of the Parliamentary Committee during 2013. Executive, his role is to prepare for Malta’s negotiation process to join the Maltese Presidency of the Council the EU. Between 2008-2013 he was When younger, and having gradu- of the European Union and make the the Labour Party’s Spokesperson for ated as a Rhodes Scholar from the EU funds absorption process more Industry, Self Employed and Foreign University of Oxford, Mr Grech efficient and transparent. He has Investment. He had previously was instrumental in setting up and been part of the Maltese delegation to served as their Spokesperson for developing Air Malta. He has also the EU's Committee on the Regions Competition, Communication and served as Director for several banks since 2010. IT. in Malta. Dr Cardona has a background in law and holds a Masters degree in Shipping Law from the United Nations IMO. Back to menu 12 Owen Bonnici Carmelo Abela Minister for Finance Minister for Justice, Culture Minister for Home Affairs and and Local Government National Security

Edward Scicluna is Minister for Owen Bonnici has been Minister Carmelo Abela is has been Malta's Finance, a position he has occupied for Justice, Culture and Local Minister for Home Affairs and since his election to the House of Government since 2014. He was National Security since 2014. He Representatives in 2013. From 2009 elected to Parliament in 2008 has been an MP since 1996 and – shortly after he joined the Labour when just 27 years old and became was Deputy Speaker in the House Party – until 2013 he was an MEP Opposition Spokesperson for Youth of Representatives between 2003- and Vice-Chair of the European and Culture. 2010. He has been a government Parliament’s Committee on Economic Spokesperson for Education, Youth, and Monetary Affairs.. After Labour's election win in Sports and Culture, and Industry and 2013 he briefly held the position of Foreign Investment. Prior to his entry into politics, Parliamentary Secretary for Justice Mr Scicluna has held positions in before promoted to his current role. For many years Mr Abela had a a number of public and private position in banking. He was recently financial institutions. He has also elected to the Executive Committee acted as a consultant for the EU, of the Commonwealth Parliamentary UN agencies, and various national Association and is a Member of the governments and given economic Parliamentary Assembly for the advice to the OSCE. and IMF.

Back to menu 13 Michael Farrugia Minister for Education and Minister for the Family and Minister for Health Employment Social Solidarity

Evarist Bartolo has been Minister Michael Farrugia is the current Chris Fearne was only elected to for Education and Employment Minister for the Family and Social Parliament in 2013, but became since 2013. A Member of Parliament Solidarity. A practising doctor for Parliamentary Secretary for Health since 1992, he previously served as 31 years, he has held a number of just a year later and was appointed Minister for Education and National government positions surrounding Minister for Health in April 2016. He Culture between 1996 and 1998 and health. was also Chairman of the Foreign has done work in the European and European Affairs Committee. Affairs and Tourism departments. These include Minister for Health, Elderly Care and Family Affairs, After graduating in medicine, Mr Mr Bartolo is a known advocate of the Main Spokesperson for Health, Fearne worked as a paediatric doctor domestic civil rights. Before entering Elderly Care, Social Security, and surgeon in the UK and Malta. He politics he taught at De La Salle Social Welfare, Housing, ETC, is the founding Director of the Malta College and worked in the media, Cooperatives, and Labour party Institute for Medical Education and for the national broadcasting station representative on IVF. a Chair for the NGO Celebrities for and as a journalist and editor for a Kids. As a student he was involved number of organisations. in a number of youth organisations.

Back to menu 14 Chris Agius Joseph Mizzi Minister for Social Dialogue, Parliamentary Secretary for Research, Minister for Transport and Consumer Affairs and Civil Liberties Innovation, Youth and Sport Infrastructure

Helena Dalli is the current Minister Chris Agius has served as Joe Mizzi is the Minister for for Social Dialogue, Consumer Parliamentary Secretary for Transport and Infrastructure. He Affairs and Civil Liberties. She has Research, Innovation, Youth and is also Whip and Secretary of the previously been a Parliamentary Sport since 2014. In his two decades Labour Party, posts he has held since Secretary in the Office of the Prime in Parliament he has also been 1989. An MP for almost 30 years, he Minister. She is known for her Spokesman for the Employment has held numerous positions, largely work on human rights and equality Training Council concerning transport, maritime legislation, particularly bills on affairs, energy and oil exploration. domestic violence, gender identity, Mr Agius rose through the ranks gay equality, and a landmark law of Maltese politics from local Before entering politics, Mr Mizzi establishing transsexual rights. government. He was Secretary of the studied Telecommunications Cospicua Labour Party Committee and Electronics, was Propaganda Having been an MP since 1996, Ms until his election to Parliament and, Secretary of the Young Socialists, and Dalli is the third-longest serving before that, was the founder and had a varied career in industries such woman in Maltese political history. Secretary of a Socialist Youth Group as shipping, oil, media, and in the She is also a lecturer and newspaper branch. A keen sportsman, he is General Workers Union. He remains columnist. President of a Maltese football club. Operations Manager of Datatrak Ltd.

Back to menu 15 Emmanuel Mallia Minister for Competitiveness and Digital, Minister within the Office of the Maritime and Services Economy Prime Minister

Emmanuel Mallia is Minister for Competitiveness and Dr Konrad Mizzi is the Minister within the Office of the Digital, Maritime and Services Economy. Before this he Prime Minister. He has also served as Minister for Energy was Minister for Home Affairs and National Security, a and Water Conservation and then Minister for Energy position he attained upon his election to Parliament in and Health since becoming an MP in 2013. Within these 2013 and was removed from a year later after an alleged briefs he pushed through a number of public-private cover-up within the department. He has also sat on partnerships. committees set up under the auspices of the Council of Europe. After graduating from universities in Malta and the UK, Mizzi worked leading on major infrastructure and Mr Mallia is a professional lawyer, lecturer, legal advisor, telecommunications projects. He came under intense Partner at his own law firm, and has been part of the pressure earlier this year after revelations made in the defence team on several high-profile international criminal leaks. trials. He has been President of the Malta Red Cross for four years and is President of Casino Maltese and several sports clubs.

Back to menu 16 Roderick Galdes José Herrera Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture, Minister for Sustainable Development, the Fisheries and Animal Rights Environment and Climate Change

Roderick Galdes is the Parliamentary Secretary for José Herrera is the current Minister for Sustainable Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights within the Development, the Environment and Climate Change. Ministry for Sustainable Development, the Environment He has at various times been Parliamentary Secretary and Climate Change. He was previously Shadow for Local Government and Culture, Parliamentary Planning, Housing, Urban Development and Construction Secretary for Competitiveness and Economic Growth, Minister, Shadow Environment and National Heritage Shadow Minister for Justice, and Labour Spokesperson Minister, and Labour Representative on the Malta for the Central Bank, Financial Services and Maritime Environment and Planning Authority Board. Affairs.

Mr Galdes has been active in the Labour Party from Mr Herrera served on the Maltese-EU Joint Committee a young age, forming part of Labour's Youth Forum between 1996-1998, and was a part of both the National Executive, together with now Prime Minister Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs and Joseph Muscat. He was the youngest Councillor from 1994 European Affairs and the first group of Maltese MPs to and first Labour Mayor from 2001 in his native Qormi. take part in a session of the European Parliament.

He is a lawyer by profession and owns his own legal practice.

Back to menu 17 The Policy Get insights into key policies

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AGRIFISH TTE EYCS EPSCO ECOFIN

ENV GAC JHA COMPET FAC COMPET Competitiveness EU forecast Ministerial chairs

The main priority of the Maltese Presidency in the Competitiveness Council is advancing the Single Market, with particular attention for the Digital Single Market (DSM), although proposals relating to DSM initiative are discussed in various Council configurations. Particularly, as part of the work in the Competitiveness Council, the Maltese Presidency aims to conclude on the proposal on addressing geo-blocking in the internal market. Furthermore, the Maltese Presidency will prioritise the mobilisation of private investment, taking forward the upcoming package for services and further enhancing the environment for SMEs. Chris Concerning research and innovation, Malta will focus on making progress on the priorities of the Cardona European Research Area and on taking forward the Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA) initiative, for strengthening cooperation with neighbouring countries in the Mediterranean area. The Presidency will also aim to streamline the monitoring and reporting processes in research. In the field of space policy, Malta will concentrate on moving forward the Space Strategy for Europe, which was presented in autumn 2016.

Key ongoing proposals Expected key proposals

• Geo-blocking Regulation • Services Package Chris Agius • Revision of the Consumer Protection Cooperation Regulation • Copyright Reform

Back to menu 19 TTE Transport EU forecast Ministerial chair

Being an island nation, Malta relies heavily on the maritime sector and the country takes the helm of the EU at a time when the Commission has chosen 2017 as its Year of Maritime. It is therefore no surprise that maritime issues are at the centre of Malta’s transport priorities. In particular, the Presidency will work towards securing a political endorsement on International Ocean Governance. On the social aspect of the transport sector, Malta will address the wellbeing of workers in the transport sector through the ongoing revision of the Posting of Workers Directive. The emphasis of the Presidency will also be on ensuring the EU is responsive to the needs of the international shipping industry while taking a more global approach. Joseph Mizzi Malta equally expects to see the launch of the Western Mediterranean Sea Basin Initiative in Spring 2017 with the goal of improving maritime governance, building on existing strengths, and tackling weaknesses in the specific geographic area. As a gesture of dedication to the safety of citizens, the Presidency will continue working on Passenger Ship Safety legislation and is expected to move forward on the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Regulation trilogues. The Maltese Presidency also noted that it would organise a stakeholder and ministerial conference on Road Safety and work on a proposal for Rail Passenger Rights. Lastly, building on the agreement reached by the International Maritime Organisation, the Maltese Presidency will dedicate efforts totackling greenhouse gas emissions from global shipping. Equally, the Presidency will work on the implementation of the International Agreement on Emissions From Aircraft (GMBM) within the EU. Key ongoing proposals Expected key proposals

• Passenger Ship Safety package • Western Mediterranean Sea Basin Initiative • International Ocean Governance • RDE IV package • EASA Basic Regulation • Port Reception Facilities • Revision of Interoperability of Electronic Road Toll Systems in the Community Directive

Back to menu 20 TTE Telecommunications EU forecast Ministerial chair

Malta, as an island with no physical links to mainland Europe, is sensitive to the benefits of improved connectivity and digitalisation. It is of the opinion that “the dawn of the digital age has ushered in an era filled with new opportunities which were unimaginable even up to a few years ago creating growth and jobs”. This makes the completion of the Digital Single Market paramount for the EU. The Maltese Presidency lists the preparation for the upcoming roll-out of 5G as the first of its priorities in telecoms. Malta intends to conclude the discussions with the European Parliament on the Decision on the Use of the 470-790 MHz Frequency Band in the Union during the first months of its Presidency. Additionally, it will give top priority to the conclusion of the Wholesale Roaming Review file. Emmanuel Mallia Most of the work during the Maltese Presidency in the area of telecoms will focus on the proposed recast of the European Electronic Communications Code. As it believes that “delivering a new framework based on increased connectivity and clear rules will be essential”, Malta will strive to advance on the file as much as possible with a view to revisiting the progress in the Telecoms Council in June 2017. The Maltese Presidency also aims to pursue the conclusion of the file onCross-Border Parcel Delivery Services and on the promotion of Internet Connectivity in Local Communities and Public Spaces (WiFi4EU). It is awaiting the Commission launch of the initiatives on free flow of data and e-privacy before proceeding any further. Finally, as the Maltese Presidency coincides with the two-year anniversary of the launch of the Digital Single Market strategy, it will take stock of the ongoing legislative files that are part of the strategy.

Key ongoing proposals Expected key proposals

• Use of the 470-790 MHz Frequency Band • Initiatives on Free Flow of Data • Rules for Wholesale Roaming Markets Review • Revision e-Privacy Directive • Recast EU Electronic Communications Code • Internet Connectivity in Local Communities and Public Spaces (WiFi4EU)

Back to menu 21 TTE Energy EU forecast Ministerial chair

Energy Security and Efficiency are expected to be the two main priorities of the incoming Maltese Presidency, while the EU Member State will also start work on other aspects of the ‘Clean Energy for All Europeans’ package. On the energy security chapter, now that an informal agreement has been reached on the proposal for a revised decision on intergovernmental agreements in the field of energy, the new Presidency will devote its efforts to achieving a similar outcome on the proposal onmeasures to safeguard the security of gas supply. Konrad Mizzi On energy efficiency, two major initiatives under theClean ‘ Energy for All Europeans’ package – the revised Energy Efficiency and Energy Performance of Buildings Directives (EED and EPBD) – will be the focus of the Presidency’s attention. Malta will also strive to find an informal agreement on the revised Energy Efficiency Labelling Framework, currently subject of a heated debate between the Council and Parliament over procedural issues. Finally, Malta will look at the external dimension of energy, with a "particular emphasis on regional cooperation". In this regard, it is expected to hold a High Level Ministerial Meeting "to highlight the potential of the Mediterranean region".

Key ongoing proposals Expected key proposals

• Safeguarding the Security of Gas Supply • Communication Waste to Energy • Energy Efficiency Labelling • Legislative initiatives under the ‘Clean Energy for All Europeans’ package

Back to menu 22 AGRIFISH Agriculture & Fisheries EU forecast Ministerial chair

As regards the agriculture priorities, the Presidency will endeavour to finalise negotiations of the Regulation on Production and Labelling of Organic Products, which is still pending after six Presidencies. The Maltese will also aim at organising a ministerial brainstorming session on the future of CAP and any issues European farmers are expected to face in relation to food production. The so-called Omnibus proposal, which addresses the future of CAP is to be discussed during the April Council, where the Presidency hopes to reach some conclusions and define the ayw forward. Within the context of the current agricultural crisis, the Presidency will explore further opportunities for farmers, especially those that export to other parts of the world. International trade is also on the agenda, with the Presidency planning to look for opportunities, especially with Japan and other third Roderick Galdes countries, which may help to alleviate the agricultural crisis. On fisheries, the Parliamentary Secretary has highlighted the need to safeguard artisanal and small- scale fishermen, as short-term solutions are not sufficiently effective. The Presidency will therefore aim to put forward and establish a joint working group on fisheries management, data collection and fisheries monitoring and control. In reaction to the issues fish stocks are facing, the Maltese Presidency will seek to continue work towards the identification of areas that will allowrestocking of populations in a faster and more efficient manner. Any priorities the Presidency has set are based on its commitment to sustainable ways of working.

Key ongoing proposals Expected key proposals

• Production and Labelling of Organic • Multiannual Plan for Demersal Species in Products the Western Mediterranean • Omnibus Regulation • Regulation on the Conservation of Fisheries Resources and Protection of Maritime Ecosystems through Technical Measures

Back to menu 23 ECOFIN Economic & Financial Affairs EU forecast Ministerial chair

There is rarely a time when the ECOFIN Council is not busy with legislation, and the next six months will be no different. The Slovak Presidency secured breakthrough trilogue agreements on the Prospectus Regulation and the Money Market Funds Regulation before Christmas, and Malta will hope to do the same in 2017 for the Securitisation Package, a key part of the Capital Markets Union project, and new rules on Venture Capital Funds. In much earlier stages of the legislative process are the proposals on CCP Recovery and Resolution and on Business Insolvency, while March is expected to bring a revision of the key European Market Infrastructure Regulation (EMIR), keeping the pressure on the Maltese Presidency. Edward Scicluna The banking sector in particular has a lot to think about following the publication of a significant Package on Capital Requirements at the end of 2016. Malta will hope to take this forward, as well as the European Deposit Insurance Scheme, the third pillar of the Banking Union, which has run into opposition from several Member States, most notably Germany. In the field of tax, there is a recent package of proposals including the two-stageCommon Consolidated Corporate Tax Base (CCCTB) for the Presidency to get stuck into. First priority though will be the proposal on Hybrid Mismatches, which amends the recently-agreed Anti-Tax Avoidance Directive. Meanwhile work on the struggling Financial Transaction Tax will continue.

Key ongoing proposals Expected key proposals

• Capital Requirements Package • Action Plan on Retail Financial Services • CCP Recovery and Resolution • Revision of European Market • European Deposit Insurance Scheme Infrastructure Regulation (EMIR) • Revision of EuVECA/EuSEF Regulations • Framework on an EU Personal Pensions Framework • Proposal on Disincentives for Advisors, Promoters and Enablers of Aggressive Tax Planning Schemes Back to menu 24 ENV Environment EU forecast Ministerial chair

Climate Change and the Circular Economy are expected to top Malta’s environment agenda during the first half of 2017. In particular, Malta will strive to bring together Member States’ positions on the proposal for a Post-2020 EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) in view of a general approach at the first Environment Council. It will also seek to advance discussions on the proposals addressing sectors not covered by the EU ETS. Malta will also follow up on the recent international climate negotiations in Marrakech. The Presidency will seek to make further progress on the Circular Economy Package, including on waste targets, landfill of waste, packaging and packaging waste and end-of-life vehicles, batteries and José Herrera accumulators and waste electrical and electronic equipment. However, it is still unclear whether a negotiating mandate with the Parliament will be agreed during the next Environment Council. Other key environment milestones consist of the expected adoption of a Water Strategy for the Mediterranean during the Union for the Mediterranean Ministerial Meeting in April. Finally, climate change adaptation, marine litter and water re-use are expected to be discussed during an informal meeting of Environment Ministers in April as well.

Key ongoing proposals Expected key proposals

• Revision EU ETS Directive • Communication on Environmental • Effort Sharing Regulation and inclusion of Implementation Review (EIR) LULUCF sectors • Strategy on Plastics in the Circular • Circular Economy Package Economy • Action Plan on the Implementation of the Nature Directives • Recast Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) • Scope of the Directive on Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Back to menu 25 EPSCO Employment, Health, Social Policy & Consumers EU forecast Ministerial chairs

The Maltese Presidency aims to provide a platform where, through collaborative effort and in synergy with the Member States, health will be promoted in the EU. During its Presidency, Malta will take stock of the mid-term evaluation report (2014-2020) on the EU Action Plan on Childhood Obesity and identify the areas that need further action. Within this context, it will also present Draft Council Conclusions and voluntary guidelines for the procurement of healthy food for consumption in schools. A technical workshop on halting the rise of childhood obesity has been scheduled to take place in February. Rare diseases and access to innovative medicines are also in the spotlight, with the Maltese drafting Council Conclusions for negotiation, in an effort to promote voluntary structured cooperation within Evarist Bartolo Michael Farrugia the EU. To this end, a Ministerial Conference on ‘Developing Medicines for Rare Diseases’ will be held on 21 March, following the Informal Ministers’ Meeting on 19 and 20 March. Malta’s focus on HIV is timely, as a recent EU-wide upsurge calls for immediate action. The Presidency, in collaboration with the European Commission and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), is scheduled to bring together experts on prevention and control, to discuss how Europe can respond to this crisis.

Key ongoing proposals Expected key proposals

• EMA Amendment • Communication on Safety and Health • Revision of the Posting of Workers at Work Helena Dalli Chris Fearne Directive • Protection of Workers from Risks • Veterinary Medicinal Products related to Carcinogens • European Accessibility Act • Initiative concerning the Challenges of Work-Life Balance faced by Working Families

Back to menu 26 JHA Justice & Home Affairs EU forecast Ministerial chairs

In the area of justice, the Maltese Presidency will put special emphasis on two proposals which will remove barriers with regards to the sale of digital content and the online sale of goods. It will initiate discussions on the proposal on Business Insolvency. Discussions will also be taken forward on the proposal revising the ‘Brussels IIA’ Regulation. Security is one of the Maltese Presidency’s six main priorities and work on the fight against terrorism will therefore be high on the Justice Council’s agenda. In this regard, the Maltese Presidency will oversee the final adoption of theDirective on Combating Terrorism. Furthermore, the fight against fraud directed at the EU’s financial interests will remain an important Owen Bonnici element of the Council’s work. In this regard, the Maltese Presidency will continue with necessary work in relation to the establishment of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office, as well as the related revision of the Eurojust Decision. With regards to asylum, the Maltese Presidency will work to take forward the files on thereform of the Common European Asylum System (CEAS) as a matter of priority. These include discussions on the reform of the Dublin Regulation. The Maltese Presidency will build on the work done by the previous Presidencies with regard to Smart Borders and will take forward work on the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). Finally, the Maltese Presidency will carry forward the Council’s work on legal migration and visas, including by facilitating continued work on the Blue Card Directive for highly skilled third country nationals. Carmelo Abela Key ongoing proposals Expected key proposals

• Contracts for the supply of digital content and for • Harmonisation of Money Laundering the online sales of goods Criminal Offences and Sanctions • Directive on Combating Terrorism • Strengthening of Mutual Recognition of • European Public Prosecutor’s Office Criminal Assets’ Freezing and Confiscation • Reform of the Common European Asylum System Orders • Smart Borders

Back to menu 27 GAC General Affairs EU forecast Ministerial chairs

The General Affairs Council is a clearing house for a variety of miscellaneous topics not dealt with by other Councils, and does not really have a legislative role. It does however prepare for European Council summits, work on cohesion policy, and has a part in budget discussions along with the ECOFIN Council.

Currently it can be expected to discuss the future institutional set-up of the EU, in light of the 2016 British referendum, while Commission papers on improving the democratic scrutiny of EU processes will also be on the agenda. Louis Grech Enlargement also falls within the remit of the GAC, but any movement here is currently on hold.

Key ongoing proposals Expected key proposals

• None • Communication on Improving the "Comitology" Procedure • White Paper on the Future of the EU

Ian Borg

Back to menu 28 FAC Foreign Affairs EU forecast Ministerial chairs

Trade issues discussed in the Foreign Affairs Council during the Maltese Presidency will include the ratification of EU-Canada Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which is currently hampered by disageements on the national level. At the same time, another major agreement, EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement, is expected to be successfully finalised. An important trade issue that the Maltese Presidency will also work on is the proposal for the reform of EU Trade Defence Instruments (TDI).

At the global level, Malta will give substantial attention to theEuropean Neighbourhood Policy High Representative (ENP) and will seek to contribute to the stabilisation of Libya, Tunisia, and Syria and and raise Federica Mogherini cooperattion with Ukraine. The Presidency will also be able to contribute to broader EU’s priorities, particularly the proposal for a Defence Initiative and a proposal for an Instrument Contributing to Stability and Peace.

Key ongoing proposals Expected key proposals

• Global Strategy • New Defence Initiative • European Defence Action Plan • EU Strategy for Syria • Reform Trade Defence Instruments Christian Cardona

Back to menu 29 EYCS Education, Youth, Culture & Sport EU forecast Ministerial chairs

In the field of education, the Maltese Presidency will focus on promoting inclusion and diversity ensuring high-quality education for all, the New Skills Agenda for Europe, the European qualifications framework (EQF) and the Europass framework. Regarding youth, the Presidency has identified as priority issues the role of young people in the current skills agenda, implementation of the main recommendations of youth conferences, the fifth cycle of the structured dialogue and the mid-term review of the Youth Strategy.

Concerning culture and audiovisual, which are also part of the discussions in the EYCS Council, one of Evarist Bartolo the key legislative dossiers the Maltese Presidency aims to progress on is the proposed review of the Audiovisual Media Services Directive. Furthermore, it will continue work on international cultural relations and finalise work on the European Year of Cultural Heritage and on the European Capitals of Culture. On sport, the Maltese Presidency will concentrate on social inclusion and volunteering in sport as well as the EU Work Plan on Sport.

Key ongoing proposals Expected key proposals Chris Agius • Revision of the Audiovisual Media • Mid-term review of the Youth Strategy Services Directive • New Skills Agenda for Europe

Owen Bonnici Back to menu 30 The Events Stay connected with the key dates for the next 6 months Council calendar

Click on the DeHavilland EU 2017 Council Calendar on the next page to view our Live Document. For the most up to date version, bookmark the URL. DeHavilland EU will be updating this calendar throughout the year. Find the key below.

AGRIFISH Agriculture & Fisheries FAC Foreign Affairs COMPET Competitiveness GAC General Affairs ECOFIN Economic & Financial Affairs JHA Justice & Home Affairs ENV Environment TTE Transport, Telecoms & Energy EPSCO Employment, Health, Social & Consumers EYCS Education, Youth, Culture & Sport

The Council is a single institution, but it meets in 10 configurations, determined by policy area. Although there is no hierarchy, the General Affairs Council has a special coordination role and is responsible for institutional, administrative and horizontal matters. Any of the Council’s 10 configurations can adopt an act that falls under the remit of another configuration.

Back to menu 32 Click on the image below for DeHavilland EU’s Live Maltese Council Calendar

Last updated: 21 December 2016

Back to menu 33 The Trio

Malta is the third country in the Presidency Trio with the Netherlands (January-June 2016) and Slovakia (July-December 2016). The Netherlands started work on the Trio’s programme, followed by Slovakia, and now Malta continues work on the programme when the Slovak Presidency ends. The UK was due to hold the Presidency after Malta, but in light of the outcome of the referendum, the UK has handed over to Estonia.

Malta: January-June 2017 Estonia: July-December 2017 Bulgaria: January-June 2018 Austria: July-December 2018 Romania: January-June 2019 Finland: July-December 2019 Croatia: January-June 2020

Back to menu 34 DeHavilland EU

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