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TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION OF EUROPE |
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Taxpayers Association of Europe awards Taxpayers’ Prize to Jean-Claude Juncker and Bodo Hombach According to TAE President Rolf Baron von Hohenhau, the European Taxpayers’ Prize symbolises the never-ending struggle for survival, strength and the right of self-assertion. And it also symbolises ”Europa” or Europe. A Europe that, in line with the objective of the Taxpayers Association of Europe, has to be open to lofty visions, a Europe of the regions, of citizens and taxpayers, and not of bureaucracy and regulation. The two prize-winners are especially well suited to the symbolic meaning and intention of the prize, according to the Taxpayers Association of Europe. Jean Claude Juncker, Prime Minister of Luxemburg, is synonymous with the stability of the Euro. His commitment to the interests of the European taxpayers before and after the introduction of the Euro as well as his efforts for the stability of the community currency are commendable. Luxemburg may be small in comparison to the other member states, said President von Hohenhau, but Prime Minister Juncker is one of the great politicians of Europe. Juncker always strives for a consensus in the Council of Ministers. Yet he does not belong to those who would prefer to give up on unification in favour of national interests. Luxemburg sets an example for Europe where economic development and public debt are concerned. Prime Minister Juncker is also involved in competition. Hence, Luxemburg has a high economic openness, stimulating competition on the production markets and, said Rolf von Hohenhau, leading to a very high level of productivity and below average EU prices. The key figures are in favour of Juncker’s policy. Luxemburg grows rapidly, has low unemployment and budget surpluses despite low taxes. As a representative of a small country, Juncker is an enforcer of consequent EU deregulation and reform policy, which are in the interests of all citizens of Europe. Bodo Hombach excelled in his position as former Balkan co-ordinator for the stability treaty of South East Europe. His efforts for a more efficient use of resources is, said Taxpayer President von Hohenhau, a considerable contribution in the battle against the waste of public money. In a short period of time, Hombach has made an extraordinary successful achievement. He introduced a concept for development, and at the same time a concept for self-help, supporting peace by means of cross-border co-operation. He introduced the condition that support would only be given when the Balkan nation in questions started the battle against crime and corruption and adjusted its toll and tax legislation to European standards. This was the key to and a milestone for achieving a more efficient use of public funding. For Taxpayers Association of Europe public waste is as damaging to society as tax evasion. In both cases, damage is inflicted upon society and the nation. Both activities should be punished. Taxpayers Association of Europe especially welcomes, said President von Hohenhau, the Green Paper of the Commission on the protection of the financial interests of the European Communities and the appointment of a European Public Prosecutor. This would be a step in the right direction, towards improving EU financial controls. Inquiries: TAE-Office Munich, Michael Jäger: Phone: ++49/89/12600820
Brussels, July 9th, 2002
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