On 30 September 2014, Carlos Moedas, Member designate of the EC in charge of Research, Science and Innovation, was heard by the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy of the European Parliament to test his general competences, European commitment and specific expertise related to his portfolio. He had the opportunity to make an opening statement before taking part in the question and answer session. Although the Parliament can only vote on the European Commission as a whole, a negative assessment of one of the candidates has in the past often led to the candidacy being withdrawn and replaced.

Brussels

Committee on Industry, Research and Energy

statement

hearing

MOEDAS, Carlos (PT, EC)

2014 Commissioners' hearings (T)

hearing of Carlos MOEDAS (T)

Hearing of Carlos MOEDAS (Portugal), Commissioner-designate for Research, Science and Innovation: extracts from the statement by Carlos MOEDAS

Title: Hearing of Carlos MOEDAS, Commissioner-designate in charge of Research, Science and Innovation

Arrival of Carlos MOEDAS (Portugal), Commissioner-designate in charge of Research, Science and Innovation, greetings to Jerzy BUZEK, Chair of ITRE Committee, atmosphere shots before the start of the hearing.

SOUNDBITE (Portuguese), Carlos MOEDAS, Commissioner-designate in charge of Research, Science and Innovation, "It's a great honour for me to be here today in this home of European democracy, thank you very much for the opportunity that you've given me to express my ideas here and to answer your questions".

SOUNDBITE (English), Carlos MOEDAS, Commissioner-designate in charge of Research, Science and Innovation, "Erasmus was the defining moment of my life, and the defining moment of so many in my generation. I was one of the first in my country to benefit from it".

SOUNDBITE (English), Carlos MOEDAS, Commissioner-designate in charge of Research, Science and Innovation, "My first priority is to advance with the creation of the framework conditions that enable the full potential of European research, science and innovation. We could achieve so much more if we had fewer barriers to research and innovation, if we had a growing capacity to attract global talent, if we had a rising tide for all member states to progress and advance thus increasing opportunities for sharing the very essence of innovation".

SOUNDBITE (English), Carlos MOEDAS, Commissioner-designate in charge of Research, Science and Innovation, "My second priority will be delivering on horizon 2020. We now need to ensure that the 80 billion of Horizon 2020 programme is implemented in the most effective and efficient way. At the same time we must pursue the simplification agenda, where we have been able to achieve so much already".

SOUNDBITE (English), Carlos MOEDAS, Commissioner-designate in charge of Research, Science and Innovation, "To deliver on Horizon 2020s goals we need to pay special attention to tackling the societal challenges faced by our citizens. Implementing the innovation investment package, developing innovative financial instruments, including for SMEs, and focusing on energy efficiency and competitive low charbon energy, especially on renewables".

SOUNDBITE (English), Carlos MOEDAS, Commissioner-designate in charge of Research, Science and Innovation, "My third priority will be to defend the value of excellence in science and research. The foundations for Europe's global standing and potential in research, science and innovation, rest on the creative freedom of its scientists and researchers. Especially those engaged in frontier research projects".

SOUNDBITE (English), Carlos MOEDAS, Commissioner-designate in charge of Research, Science and Innovation, "My focus will be delivery, delivery and delivery. In my European story and in my political experience I worked across institutions and sectors. I helped breaking silos, artificial silos, and worked towards the reforms that Europe desperately needs. If I'm confirmed I'm ready to place all my energy and my skills at the service of research, science and innovation as the bedrock of sustainable growth in Europe and for all European citizens. Thank you very much, muito obrigado". Applause, Jerzy BUZEK thanks the Commissioner designate.