Introduction from the Editor

Capturing the spirit of the European parliament

With fierce battles on issues as varied as the 20:20:20 renewable energy targets and the revision of the working time directive, to controversial dossiers on cross-border healthcare and telecoms reform, it’s been a packed year so far, both legislatively and politically for MEPs.

As always, The Parliament Magazine will be on hand to celebrate the work and achievements of parliamentarians over the last year. As last year’s winning MEP for the environment category Claude Turmes said, “This parliament is probably the best parliament in the world. Each of us on every dossier tries to reach agreement, and produce quality legislation.”

Once again, The Parliament Magazine’s MEP editor Catherine Stihler will be on hand to compère the show, hosted this year by The Stanhope Hotel. We look forward to meeting many of the new parliamentarians at the awards, following June’s elections, as well as welcoming back a few familiar faces.

If you are interested in attending, please send an email to rsvpmepawards09@dods.eu

Brian Johnson
Managing editor, The Parliament Magazine

Introduction from the publisher

The 5th annual MEP Awards, hosted by The Parliament Magazine, will take place this Autumn with the election buzz still fresh in people’s minds. These awards, voted on by MEPs, provide us with a fantastic opportunity to welcome new members while celebrating the hard work and dedication of their predecessors. Last year over 400 MEPs were nominated and in a busy finale to the parliamentary session before the elections I expect this number to be exceeded.

I look forward to welcoming MEPs, guests and sponsors to The Stanhope Hotel on 3 November for a celebration of the past year’s work and a welcome to the new MEPs whose dedication to the EU has bought them to the European Parliament.

My thanks also go to The Brewers of Europe, for their official support of this year’s ceremony.

Martin Beck,
Publisher, The Parliament Magazine