MEP laments EU's excessive bureaucracy on SMEs, NGOs

Labour MEP Marlene Mizzi said SMEs and NGOs are facing an uphill struggle when applying for EU funds.

Speaking during a plenary session of the European Parliament this week, Mizzi said the current bureaucratic procedures are excessive and unproductive.

“While transparency and accountability are very important, one should recognize that the current bureaucracy is discouraging those who have useful ideas and projects,” Mizzi said.

The Labour MEP, who also serves as vice-president of the EP's Monetary and Economic committee, appealed the European Parliament to address this issue without sacrificing the necessary controls and transparency.