The development of the services sector for jobs creation

The European Parliament adopted a resolution based on the own-initiative report drafted by Rodi KRATSA (EPP-ED, GR) on job creation in the services sector. (Please see the document dated 27/11/03.) Parliament drew particular attention to the fact that demographic developments in a majority of Member States are such that the work in the area of care for the elderly should be accorded higher status, not least among young people. Furthermore, Member States should recognise domestic work performed by third parties as a proper occupation. Parliament called on the Member States to increase the supply of services providing care for children and the elderly, in order to make it possible to reconcile family and professional life in practice. It underlined public responsibility in terms of controlling and guaranteeing the quality and affordability of such services. Finally, Parliament pointed to the role and contribution of services to the local economy and regional convergence. In view of the role of the social economy in terms of inclusion and job creation, it asked the Member States to promote policies to support specific service sectors, taking account of the advantages (location, environment, infrastructure, culture) and the needs of local regions.�