MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the welfare of the most vulnerable groups in society in the context of the protracted pandemic

B9‑0156/2021

Motion for a European Parliament resolution on the welfare of the most vulnerable groups in society in the context of the protracted pandemic

The European Parliament,

– having regard to Article 3(5) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

– having regard to Rule 143 of its Rules of Procedure,

A. whereas new strains of the coronavirus are causing the immune system to no longer recognise the virus, rendering existing vaccines ineffective, and even people who had previously fallen ill with COVID-19 are falling ill again and experiencing severe symptoms;

B. whereas the latest strains of the virus are 30-70 % more deadly than the original strain;

C. whereas there are no vaccines against a mutating virus and it is not clear that they will be developed, and if they are, it is not clear when it will be possible for billions of people to be vaccinated;

D. whereas the unemployment rate in December 2020 was higher compared with December 2019 in all but two EU Member States;

E. whereas people who are unable to work cannot buy food or pay utility bills or rent;

1. Calls on the European Commission and Parliament to draw up a strategy for the provision of food and shelter, etc., to the most vulnerable groups in society in the event of prolonged quarantine, namely: families with infants and young children, single mothers and the elderly.