Local view for "http://purl.org/linkedpolitics/eu/plenary/2004-11-17-Speech-3-239"

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"en.20041117.9.3-239"2
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"I am one of those who would have preferred it if your Commission had been elected three weeks ago. Had that been the case, you would have already started your work. Upon reflection, however, I think that benefit can be derived from what has occurred. The first lesson is that the European Union – and, in particular, the European Commission – must appreciate that it should not interfere in matters relating to faith, morality and ethics. I have in mind, in particular, delicate issues relating to abortion, euthanasia, cloning, the family and marriage, which are all very sensitive topics concerning which there are different opinions in the various Member States of the European Union. Following the events of recent weeks, I think that you, Mr Barroso, would be very wise to distance yourself from such topics and to avoid any incidents. After all, if we really believe in the principle of subsidiarity and in unity in diversity, we must allow the individual States to regulate such matters according to their nations’ circumstances. The second lesson that we can draw from what occurred is that the European Parliament is strengthening its position and is steadily becoming more determined in the role it plays in the decisions taken by the European Union. This strengthened role of the European Parliament places the European Commission under greater scrutiny and makes it more accountable. At the same time, however, the European Commission will in this way be building up its own strength as it will be increasing its legitimacy in the eyes of the public. That is to say, Mr President-elect, after has what occurred we now have a stronger Parliament. We also, however, have a Commission that is stronger as it is more open to inspection and scrutiny by the representatives directly elected by the European people. We have thus reduced the democratic deficit in Europe and have moved the European Union a step closer to its citizens. Thank you."@en1

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