I am aware of the European Parliament resolution of 17 April 2020 on EU coordinated action to address the COVID-19 pandemic and its consequences.
This is a wide ranging resolution comprising 72 items covering: a united and decisive response to a shared crisis; European solidarity and action in the health sector; European solutions to overcoming the economic and social consequences; protecting democracy, rule of law and fundamental rights; external action, international solidarity and cooperation; and a post-crisis Union that is stronger, and delivers more effective action to its citizens.
As the Deputy will be aware, the Government has put in place a broad range of measures at a national level providing significant support to the economy and society through the pandemic.
At a European level, the €750 billion Next Generation EU recovery instrument, along with the EU’s budget for the next seven years, is central to the Union’s response to the pandemic.
The aim of Next Generation EU is to help repair the immediate economic and social damage brought about by the pandemic and to prepare for a post-Covid Europe that is greener, more digital, more resilient and fit to face the future.
These are objectives that align well with the steps the Government is taking at a national level in response to the pandemic and to prepare for the recovery.
Whether funded nationally or by the EU, the Government is committed to ensuring that beneficiaries of public support meet all appropriate obligations, whether at a domestic and EU level.