91997E2361

WRITTEN QUESTION E-2361/97 by Nikitas Kaklamanis (UPE) to the Commission (10 July 1997)

Subject: Traditional costumes of EU Member States

There is no doubt that traditional dress forms a crucial part of the cultural heritage of all regions. In many EU regions there are workshops and craft centres specializing in the manufacture of this type of clothing, an activity which makes a great contribution to preserving local customs.

Will the Commission say in what framework and on what scale financial assistance could be provided for these small companies?

Answer given by Mr Papoutsis on behalf of the Commission (8 October 1997)

The Commission recognises the contribution made by traditional trades and the craft industry to Europe's cultural heritage, and this year it co-financed a conference entitled 'Tradition and modernity: keys for European arts and crafts in the year 2000'.

As provided for in Article 130 of the EC Treaty and the 'Third Multiannual Programme for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in the European Union (1997-2000) ((Doc COM(96) 591. )), the Commission launches actions to assist the craft sector and small enterprises. These actions are primarily launched through calls for proposals published in the Official Journal.

The objectives of the latest call for proposals to assist craft enterprises and small enterprises were transnational cooperation, joint participation in trade fairs and shows in European Economic Area (EEA) countries, promotion of the culture and spirit of enterprise, financing and access to credit, vocational training, access to information and services through computer applications, and the training of Euro-advisers.

As part of the Community's regional policy, there are also a certain number of aid schemes aimed at small enterprises and craft enterprises, provided that these are located in regions which are eligible for regional development funds.