“The Future of ENTO” Meeting of the Directors of ENTO member organisations

Strasbourg, 9 November 2009

Speech by Ludmila SFIRLOAGA, President of the Chamber of Regions

CONCLUSIONS

Dear Presidents,

I would like to say just a few words in concluding this meeting.

First of all, I would like to stress that I am very pleased we were able to organise this important debate on the future of ENTO. It was very interesting and instructive to hear all your contributions, ideas and expectations.

1.       I am glad we have been able to speak frankly and openly in this meeting, and that your feedback were constructive, bringing many concrete ideas. I am convinced that this fruitful exchange of views will lead to a new definition of ENTO, and that you will be able to implement new projects and  ideas that will meet the expectations of your own member organisations.

In addition, I am also sure that the synergies between ENTO members will grow and that the co-operation with the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities will improve.

2.       I think our lively debate showed that ENTO is trapped in a rather difficult situation. Once again, we noticed the inability of your network to get rid of old experiences and move forward, looking positively to the future. As a result, I hope you will give yourselves the opportunity of continuing discussions on possible solutions and alternatives for ENTO´s future. Even though you disagree in many things, I am sure you will be able to find a common approach for all the member organizations.

3. I think we can draw some positive and negative conclusions of the debate on ENTO’s future. On the one hand, some members proposed very interesting, concrete and realistic projects for the future. On the other hand, it is still obvious that many of you continue to disagree on many points. This means that you have to continue the debate about future priorities and try to find out a solution and a rather different approach to satisfy your different expectations.

I will report to the Bureau of the Congress and to Mr Krug, who unfortunately could not be present today. This discussion will also be a very important contribution for the ENTO General Assembly which will take place tomorrow.

I would like to stress again that the Congress continues to be very interested in co-operation with your Network dedicated to the training of elected representatives and civil servants.

Thank you for your attention.