MEPs defend proposed joint siting of EU technology institute

MEPs have defended moves to site the proposed Europeaninstitute of innovation and technology (EIT) in Bratislava andVienna.

Critics have branded the plans as a waste of money but MEPs fromthe two neighbouring countries say that a split-site location wouldhave “symbolic” significance.

Austrian centre right deputy Paul Rübig said, “The two cities arevery close to each so there would be no problem with transportationor cost.”

Speaking at a news conference in parliament, Rübig said, “Slovakiais symbolic of the ‘new’ EU while the same can be said of Viennafor the ‘old’ EU.

“Placing the institute in the two cities would be symbolic of thenew relationship between ‘old’ Europe and ‘new’ Europe. In otherwords, the unification of Europe.”

His comments were echoed by Slovakian EPP-ED deputy Jan Hudacky,who said, “Putting the centre in these two cities would be anexample of a truly European integration.

“It would enable both cities to pool their experience and dynamismin order to demonstrate the crucial role of science and researchacross borders.”

Austrian Socialist MEP Hannes Swoboda agreed, saying, “There arefew, if any, practical problems to prevent the institute beingsituated in the two cities.

“I totally disagree with those who say it would be wasteful becauseit could bring huge benefits to two cities which already have manythings in common.”

Glossy brochures promoting the merits of the two cities were givenout to journalists at the news conference where science andresearch ministers from the two countries also appeared.

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