27/07/2009 (Agence Europe) - In response to the new measures proposed by the Commission to simplify the management of European funds to help the regions tackle the crisis (EUROPE 9946), the president of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), Mario Sepi said that he was delighted to see that the Commission is focusing on the housing needs of communities faced with social exclusion, particularly the Roma. The Commission is therefore responding to the expectations outlined by the EESC on 24 March, noted Mr Sepi. The latter was also pleased that, “the new proposals reflect our commitment to reinforce European social capital as a way of achieving social peace”. In his declaration, Mr Sepi concluded that, “it is now up to Member States to take responsibility, act in the spirit of solidarity and make the most of the new opportunities.