MEP launches Forum for Freelance workers

4.14.17pm GMT Mon 1st Feb 2010

John Niland, Liz Lynne MEP and John Brazier at the launch of the EU Independent Professionals Forum

Liberal Democrat Euro MP Liz Lynne has hosted the first meeting of a new forum for independent professionals, or freelancers, in the European Parliament in Brussels.

The purpose of the forum, set up by Liz along with a freelance professional, will be to connect national and international associations representing freelance workers, who are playing an increasingly important role in the EU's economy.

Estimates suggest 5-10% of the workforce are now classified as freelancing or independent, but they are all too often ignored or neglected by policy makers.

Liz Lynne, MEP for the West Midlands region in the UK, has a powerful post as First Vice President of the European Parliament's Employment and Social Affairs Committee.

Commenting after the success of the launch event last week Liz Lynne said; "More and more people are deciding they want to work for themselves and it is only right that MEPs do more to take their concerns and needs into account.

"While large employers and trade unions regularly lobby in Brussels, all too often independent workers find they have no way into the policymaking agenda, which is why I am so delighted we have taken the initiative and launched this forum successfully.

"As lawmakers, we need to develop a better appreciation of how freelancers work and the discrimination and challenges that some face often only because of the size of their business."

Ends

Caption: (from left) John Niland, Liz Lynne MEP and John Brazier