David SASSOLI, EP President, addresses to the people of Strasbourg concerning the plenary sessions in Strasbourg.

Brussels

statement

SASSOLI, David Maria (S&D, IT, S&D, IT)

Coronavirus outbreak (T)

Statement by David SASSOLI, EP President on the Plenary sessions in Strasbourg: address to the people of Strasbourg

SOUNDBITE (French), David SASSOLI, EP President, I would like to explain to the French and residents of Strasbourg the exceptional nature of the decision to relocate the plenary sessions of the European Parliament to Brussels in March and April. This was not an easy decision. Holding the plenary session of the Parliament in Strasbourg, following the evolution of the COVID-19 epidemic, implied significantly increased risks for the health not only of the deputies and the staff members but also of the regional population in Strasbourg because of the displacement of large numbers of people. In the same spirit of responsibility, in order to limit the spread of the disease, we had to revise the work schedule of the European Parliament, even in Brussels, to ensure the exercise of its essential functions.

SOUNDBITE (French), David SASSOLI, EP President, Strasbourg remains and will continue to remain the seat of the European Parliament. Symbol of the reconciliation of Europe after the Second World War and the desire for peace of Europeans. It is also at the heart of a contemporary Europe. The European Parliament is at home in a city rich in civic and cultural initiatives, at the heart of the values ​​of Europe that we defend. And the European Parliament is grateful for Strasbourg&rsquo;s continuous efforts to welcome it. Know that, as soon as the health situation allows it, we will do everything possible to respect the commitments of the European treaties with regard to the monthly plenary sessions of the European Parliament. We are living in difficult times but the time to kiss again will soon come.