Public Services’ Providers: Our Contribution for Convergence and Inclusion

Hans-Joachim Reck, CEEP President, expressed the view of public services employers at the autumn 2015 Tripartite Social Summit. He insisted in his speech on two key points: the refugee crisis and the public services contribution to competitiveness.

On the refugee crisis: 

“I want to thank Presidents Juncker and Tusk for keeping Europe together in these difficult times. We have to be conscious that the differences that persist between us put in jeopardy our burden sharing capacities when confronted to the refugees. Solidarity is the only path we can take and solidarity should remain our guiding approach. We all have to take our responsibilities.”

On public services contribution to Europe’s competitiveness

“As public services employers, we also have to be self-critical. For instance, about public administration, there is a quality problem in many countries, as they are not enough customer-oriented, citizen-oriented.

Overall, public services are essential for economic growth. I therefore propose to establish a benchmark platform at European level for quality management in public services. This is critical as Europe’s recovery requires a more efficient, modernised and speedy administration able to deliver for European enterprises’ competitiveness.”

On top of Mr Reck’s speech at the Tripartite Social Summit, CEEP addressed a letter to Heads of State and Government in view of the Council meeting and published its biannual ‘Pulse of Public Services’, presenting the main challenges faced by public services’ providers in Europe.