This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Scotland and Europe
20/03/2007
Scotland's recent experience of public consultations, such as the one that led to the smoking ban, is to be used by Europe in its plans to engage more effectively with its citizens.
First Minister Jack McConnell and the European Commission's Vice-President Margot Wallström met today in Brussels to launch a report on citizen engagement which draws on the Scottish experience since devolution.
And they discussed how Scotland will continue to work with the Commission to help 'build a bridge' between Europe and its citizens.
Mr McConnell said:
"European laws, regulations and decisions affect the lives of everyone. We need to find ways to deliver better regulation in the EU, so consultation and dialogue are essential.
"This report marks a new chapter in relations between the EU and devolved government. I am determined to seize the opportunities it creates and ensure that Scotland's voice and the voices of our people are heard more often, and with more impact, in Brussels."
Vice President Wallström said:
"Europe's new communication strategy is underpinned by three strategic principles. Listening to the citizen, communicating how our policies affect peoples' everyday lives, and connecting with citizens by going local.
We want to move away from monologue, and engage in a genuine dialogue with the citizens.
"Engaging with the government and the citizens of Scotland is an important element of developing that dialogue, and this report, and the work that will follow will make a significant contribution to the process."
Future work in Scotland will include:
- Better pre-legislative consultation on European issues - based on Scottish successes such as the smoking consultation
- Joint communications work between the Scottish government and the European Commission
- Bringing Europe closer to the people through regular events and visits by senior European officials