Brussels, 29/09/2011 (Agence Europe) - On Thursday 29 September, the European Parliament approved an extension of the scope of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) to help workers affected by the economic and financial crisis until the end of 2013. The EGF's role and budget will be re-examined next year, but in the light of the instability on the markets and the danger of low economic growth, it is crucial to keep up momentum, explained French S&D MEP Pervenche Berès (S&D), ahead of the vote on the resolution she tabled. By a large majority (495 to 63 with 13 abstentions), MEPs decided to grant the EGF the additional mandate, as suggested by the European Commission. It still needs the agreement of the Council of Ministers. Berès warned that if the Council of Ministers refuses to extend the fund and decides to cut off aid for redundant workers who have fallen victim to the crisis, then this would be grist to the mill of the Eurosceptics. (JK/transl.fl)