CoR Plenary adopts McDonnell’s opinion on improving access to social services

During its 163rd plenary session, the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) overwhelmingly adopted Declan McDonnell’s opinion on improving access to social services.

Requested by the Hungarian Presidency, the opinion focuses on strengthening the role of local and regional authorities in tackling inequalities in access to social services across EU regions.

Key recommendations include targeted investments to enhance digital infrastructure, support upskilling initiatives, and expand essential services such as healthcare, housing, and education. The opinion emphasises the need for inclusive service provision, particularly for vulnerable populations, to ensure equitable and sustainable access to quality social services.

McDonnell’s opinion highlights the importance of addressing regional disparities to foster social inclusion and stability across the EU.

Notably, an outline of the opinion has been incorporated into the draft Conclusions of the upcoming Employment, Social Policy, Health, and Consumer Affairs Council.