Atlantic Area: EU policy for the Atlantic area initiated by Alain Cadec MEP

Following Alain Cadec's initiative, the EU has decided to launch a policy for Atlantic regions within two years. "I have fought for more than a year for strong EU action in the Atlantic area. We will soon have instruments for an ambitious policy in our regions", explained Alain Cadec MEP.

In 2012 and 2013, public and private Atlantic stakeholders will participate in the design of an action plan made of concrete projects. The strategy will then be launched in 2014 and will benefit from EU, national and regional funding. Alain Cadec, Rapporteur on the Atlantic Strategy for the European Parliament, will launch a public consultation on the precise content of this policy through a questionnaire which will be sent to all stakeholders.

Alain Cadec is asking for a pragmatic spatial planning policy. "We will stimulate our coasts and their hinterland working together with regional and local authorities on projects focused on accessibility". Among these projects, emphasis will be put on motorways of the sea and railway connections with the centre of Europe.

The strategy will also implement an ambitious industrial policy to enhance the competitiveness of Atlantic strategic business sectors. "Our maritime industries must be sectors of excellency. We will help our enterprises to succeed in the challenging context of globalisation", explained Alain Cadec. The Atlantic Strategy will thus focus on naval industry, marine energies, fisheries and tourism.