MEP Cutajar appointed as a Socialist negotiator in Committee on Industry, Research and Energy

PL MEP Josianne Cutajar has been appointed as a Socialist negotiator in the ITRE committee, as regarding the certification of activities to remove carbon from the atmosphere, reducing the effects of pollution and improving air quality for all, the Labour Party said in a statement.

These activities and initiatives, which can be undertaken by farmers and other operators based in different sectors, regions and Member States, are essential in the EU’s pathway to achieving climate neutrality targets in light of the environmental challenges that we are facing, the statement read.

In comments related to her appointment, Josianne Cutajar stated that this framework constitutes an important safeguard for the credibility of carbon removal efforts within the EU and related investments, including in the field of blue carbon, which has great potential for islands and coastal regions such as Malta and Gozo.

This framework must be accompanied by research and innovation efforts and investment, she said.

The PL MEP also stated that it is essential that this proposal takes into adequate consideration the technical, structural and/or geophysical specificities of different regions and Member States, and that the administrative burden is kept to the minimum, especially for small farmers, operators and SMEs.

“The EU’s efforts and environmental targets, including via this certification process, will only be successful if accompanied by the necessary assistance in capacity building, skilling and financial support to Member States, regions, employees and entrepreneurs alike”, concluded MEP Cutajar.