Structural Fund: innovatory measures in the framework of the ERDF (actions art. 10 ERDF) 1995-1999

Adopting the report by Mr Richard HOWITT, the committee called on the Commission to provide guidelines for these innovative actions under Article 10 of the ERDF regulation which were clear, concise and flexible, but which would not act as a constraint to innovation or creativity. It therefore called on the Commission to promote communication and exchanges between those involved in inter-regional cooperation, using modern technologies and information superhighways. The HOWITT report suggested that the aim of promoting sustainable local and regional development and the participation of and partnership between local and regional actors should underlie all activities under Article 10. However, the HOWITT report deplored the fact that environmental sustainability had not been identified as a priority under Article 10 and suggested that this be integrated in all spatial planning projects and local and regional development strategies. It also requested a new area of action to encourage citizenship participation and democratic initiatives in order to combat the exclusion of disadvantaged groups and encourage local authorities to involve cooperatives and non-profit-making organizations. The committee adopted 18 amendments and introduced 2 new recitals referring to the fact that national legislation in several Member States prevented local and regional authorities from entering into dialogue with partners in other Member State. This hampered inter-regional cooperation and development and meant that a legal framework at Community level was urgently required.�