The ECR Group in the CoR hosted today a debate with Bogdan Rzońca, Chair of the Committee on Petitions of the European Parliament. The debate offered the opportunity to discuss the work of the Committee that deals with petitions from European citizens and how local and regional representatives can bring local issues to the attention of the European Parliament and to European lawmakers.

"The debate with Mr Rzońca has highlighted the deep connection between our Group in the European Committee of the Regions and our counterparts in the European Parliament. The work of the Committee of Petitions is often underestimated but it is of the utmost importance as it connects citizens with EU institutions and allows them to voice their issues and concerns", said ECR Group President Marco Marsilio.

Mr Rzońca underlined the number of petitions that come from local and regional authorities, as well as local associations, among others. "The work of the Committee on petitions is crucial to bring Europe closer to its citizens and to address problems and challenges that otherwise risk not to be heard at the highest decision-making levels.", Mr Marsilio concluded.