Brussels, 13/12/2011 (Agence Europe) - On Tuesday 13 December, the European Parliament approved payment of €3.9 million from the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) for the Italian regions of Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol. The aid will help 528 workers who were made redundant by 323 construction industry firms find new jobs. Italian MEP Barbara Matera (EPP) welcomed the decision highlighting the very definite effect of such a move but, at the same time, regretted the Council decision of 2 December not to extend the EGF by two more years in the light of the current financial crisis (see EUROPE 10507). “I think it was an irresponsible decision by the Council in a time of severe crisis and sacrifice for the citizens of Europe. They now withhold their support for the labour market, underlining the principle of solidarity that characterises Europe, as well as the trust that our citizens have in the institutions”, she said. (JK/transl.rt)