Agreement reached on austerity measures and reforms for European civil service

European Commission

Press release

Representatives of the Member States endorsed a package of austerity measures and reforms for the European civil service which will save €2.7 billion by 2020, and €1.5 billion a year in the long term.

Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič said: "I welcome the decision of the Member States and of the Legal Affairs Committee. This deal is an appropriate response to the crisis, which also preserves the ability of the European institutions to fulfil their mission. Although no-one can be entirely satisfied with the outcome, it is a reasonable compromise. Negotiations have been very tough, but I am glad that we found an acceptable compromise. The European civil service will be further modernised, in particular through a better link between pay and responsibilities. Whoever goes through one of the tough recruitment procedures must be ready to work hard for Europe and its citizens, including longer working hours and a higher retirement age".

The proposal includes:

http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_IP-13-629_en.htm