Brussels, 15/01/2013 (Agence Europe) - With regard to education, youth, culture, audiovisual and sport, the Irish Presidency will - like previous presidencies - continue to focus on the repercussions of the economic and financial crisis and the means to restore growth. The new programmes proposed by the European Commission (Erasmus for All, Creative Europe, and Europe for Citizens), will also be at the centre of discussions, and an agreement with the European Parliament (EP) is expected during the first six months of 2013.
Education. The EUROPE 2020 strategy recognised the importance of education and training in overcoming the economic crisis, curbing unemployment and bringing more social cohesion. The Irish Presidency will continue the work begun by previous Presidencies in order to achieve these objectives. Reaching an enviable level of quality and equality in education will be one of its priorities. The next Education Council in February is, therefore, expected to adopt conclusions on the “Rethinking education” strategy presented by the Commission in mid-November to encourage member states to re-model their education systems to better fit the world of work. Another important issue is the new “Erasmus for All” programme. During its presidency, Ireland hopes to reach an agreement with the European Parliament. The role of teachers for quality teaching will also be on the programme with conclusions due to be adopted by the Education Council on 16 May.
Youth. The Irish Presidency will organise a debate in the Council on the importance of non-formal education for social inclusion and youth employment, which are crucial for achieving the EUROPE 2020 objectives for youth.
Culture/Audiovisual. Work will continue on the new “Creative Europe” and “Europe for Citizens” programmes with a view to an agreement with the EP so that these programmes can be set up in 2014.
Sport. The key objectives of the Irish Presidency with regard to sport will be based on the priorities set out in the European Union's work plan for sport, especially the problems linked to sportspeople's dual careers (guaranteeing high level athletes an adequate school education as well as specific arrangements for higher level studies, so as to ensure a future for those who abandon their sports career). Another priority will be to consider the economic repercussions of sport and more sustainable systems of funding for different sports disciplines. (IL/transl.fl)