MEPs voice concern at ‘paralysis’ of Polish tribunal
PR dla Zagranicy
Paweł Kononczuk
14.09.2016 13:46
The European Parliament on Wednesday adopted a resolution voicing concern that the paralysis of Poland’s Constitutional Tribunal “is endangering democracy, fundamental rights and the rule of law”.
Members of the European Parliament vote in Strasbourg, France. Photo: EPA/PATRICK SEEGER
The move was backed by 510 MEPs, while 160 voted against.
The non-binding resolution, which followed a debate on Poland in the European Parliament on Tuesday, also referred to other issues that have caused concern among some MEPs.
These include laws backed by Poland's governing conservative Law and Justice (PiS) party on the media, police, the prosecution service, civil service, as well as anti-terror measures.
MEPs voiced concerns that changes in Poland are being carried out “without proper consultations" and urged the European Commission to assess such legislation in terms of its compatibility with EU law.
In April, the European Parliament passed a resolution warning that the “effective paralysis” of Poland's Constitutional Tribunal endangers the rule of law.
That resolution, which urged the government to respect decisions by Poland's Constitutional Tribunal, was criticised by Prime Minister Beata Szydło.
Sweeping changes introduced by Poland's Law and Justice party after coming to power in October have prompted concern in some quarters in the EU.
Law and Justice politicians have fended off criticism, defending laws passed by the PiS-dominated Polish parliament.
(pk)
Source: PAP