The European Parliament’s rapporteur on Regulation 883/2004 on the coordination of social security rules, Germany’s Gabriele Bischoff (S&D), wrote to Polish Minister of Family, Labour and Social Policy Agnieszka Dziemianowicz-Bąk on Wednesday, 26 March, not only to express that the European Parliament’s negotiating team wishes to move towards an agreement but also to urge her “to engage in preliminary discussions with the European Parliament regarding possible compromises before presenting a new mandate to the Council.”
“This approach would enhance the chances of a successful outcome and prevent unnecessary backtracking on points already extensively debated under previous presidencies”, added the MEP, who had clearly expressed her concerns to Agence Europe on 20 March (see EUROPE 13604/29).
“On the specific question of the construction sector and the exemption of postings of less than three days from prior notification obligations, our position remains firm”, [stated] the MEP, deeming it irresponsible to revisit the, until now, agreed exception in the construction sector, which is known for its risks of fraud.
As for the export of unemployment benefits, “we are deeply concerned about the Polish Presidency’s proposal to reduce the duration from ten to six months for workers who have contributed for at least 24 months in a country of employment. Such a measure would unfairly penalise individuals who have made long-term contributions and contributed to stabilising national social security systems,” [she wrote].
Furthermore, “the European Parliament maintains its commitment to ensuring fair conditions for cross-border workers, including seasonal workers. We have consistently advocated for a fairer affiliation period, proposing three uninterrupted months and/or six interrupted months. While we acknowledge the challenges in the Council, we believe a compromise is achievable”, [she affirmed].
The MEP added, “The European Parliament stands ready to engage constructively, but we need clear indications that tangible progress is being made towards a compromise that takes into account the positions of both co-legislators.”
Link to the letter: https://aeur.eu/f/g50 (Original version in French by Solenn Paulic)