/ Interview with MEP Ana-Claudia Tapardel, chair of the new intergroup on Tourism

In December 2014, the European Parlaiment agreed on the creation of a parliamentary intergroup on the "Development of European Tourism, Cultural Heritage, Ways of Saint James’ and other European Cultural Routes” for the legislature 2014-2019.

HOTREC asked MEP Ana-Claudia Tapardel (Romania, S&D), the Chairperson of this new intergroup, to share her opinions about the importance of tourism for the European Parliament and about her priorities for this new intergroup.

1) Is the creation of an intergroup on the "Development of European Tourism, Cultural Heritage, Ways of Saint James’ and other European Cultural Routes” the sign that tourism will be more prioritised by the European Parliament?

Certainly!

The newly created intregroup is the first of its kind that brings together members of different committees, national delegations and political groups to discuss issues that are relevant to European tourism development.

Receiving the support of over 200 MEPs to the creation of this intergroup sends a very strong signal. We want to do more to maintain Europe's place as the number 1 destination in the world. We want to do more to make European tourism more accessible and more sustainable. We want to create policies that will ensure the tourism industry will continue to create jobs and foster European growth.

Given the support we received to the creation of the intergroup from the European Commission, as well as the private sector, I am certain that European tourism will be a top priority topic for this legislature.

2) How in practice do you see the functioning of this new Intergroup, and in particular its relation with the work of the various EP Committees?  

Because the intergroup is not linked to any particular committee, this initiative allows a framework for exchange of views between MEPs from various committees on horizontal issues affecting tourism. To name a few: regional development (REGI committee), the cultural aspect of tourism (CULT Committee), gastronomy (AGRI committee), access to remote regions and tourism connectivity (TRAN Committee), Visa policy (LIBE/JURI Committee) , tourism tax (IMCO Committee), the promotion of Europe as a touristic destination, etc.

Although there are many issues involved, my idea was to assign active members of the intergroup with the responsibility of a theme, based on their expertise, experience and interest. As a group we would set common objectives and a work programme. While I write these words, we have yet to hold a first meeting, I can share with you that one of my objectives this year is to lobby for a European year on Tourism.

3) As the chair-person for this intergroup, what will be your priorities?

As I mentioned before, the European year on Tourism would be a main priority for me for the impact it can have on the tourism sector in Europe. A European year will not only provide support to the European tourism sector, but it will also allow a broader discussion with stakeholders and policy-makers on challenges and opportunities that the EU tourism sector holds.

Another priority for me is to promote the revision of the 2010 Communication on Tourism.

There have been many changes in Europe that have affected the tourism sector in the past years. These are linked with the enlargement in 2013, as well as the financial crisis which impacts tourist behaviour and markets of origin.

Therefore I plan to lobby, via the intergoup, the European Commission to present a new strategy on European Tourism to replace, or at least update the 2010 Communication.