Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council, 05/10/2015, 5 October 2015

As we emerge from the crisis, social issues and employment need to be at the heart of our policies, hence the need to strengthen social governance. The five presidents' report puts forward a number of proposals which need to be discussed in the Council. ” Nicolas Schmit, Luxembourg minister for Labour, Employment and the Social and Solidarity Economy

Main results 

Social governance in the EU

The Council discussed how to deepen the social dimension in EU governance.

It endorsed the key messages of the report on social policy reforms which looks at the issues of social inclusion, pensions, health and long-term care.

The President of the Council, Mr Nicolas Schmit, Luxembourg minister for labour, employment and the social and solidarity economy declared: "As we emerge from the crisis, social issues and employment need to be at the heart of our policies, hence the need to strengthen social governance. The five presidents' report puts forward a number of proposals which need to be discussed in the Council. ” 

Mr Romain Schneider, Luxembourg minister for social security declared that “the Presidency will draw on the discussions of the relevant council configurations and their preparatory bodies and report back in writing to President Tusk ahead of the October European Council meeting.” 

Long-term unemployed

The Council discussed recommendations from the Commission on how to integrate the long-term unemployed into the labour market. Ministers referred to the main challenges and exchanged experiences at the national level in combating long-term unemployment. 

Pensions and health and safety at work

The Council endorsed the key messages of the report 'Adequate retirement incomes in the context of ageing societies' adopting conclusions. 

It adopted conclusions on the new agenda for health and safety at work which aim at encouraging better working conditions. 

Medical devices

Finally, the Council endorsed its negotiating position on two draft regulations aimed at ensuring that medical devices and in-vitro diagnostic medical devices are safe and of high quality. This allows the Luxembourg presidency to start talks with the European Parliament with a view to reach an agreement as early as possible. 

• Reform of the EU rules for medical and in vitro devices

• Outcome of meeting