CoR calls for reforming training schemes and increasing resources to the Youth Employment Initiative

Tackling unacceptably high rates of youth unemployment is a top priority for EU regions and cities. In the opinion on the Youth Employment Package, drafted by the President of the Tuscany Region, Enrico Rossi (IT/PES) and adopted unanimously at the May plenary, the Committee of the Regions endorses the European Commission's efforts to harmonise and improve provisions for traineeships, apprenticeships and work placements. The CoR also warned Member States against providing insufficient funding for the Youth Employment Initiative which was launched at the European Council on 7-8 February, earmarking €6bn from the EU budget. Regions and cities are calling for the initiative to be strengthened and brought forward, starting already in 2013.