06/02/2012 President
Strasbourg, 06.02.2012 - "While the whole of Europe is in the grip of a dreadful cold spell, which is reported to have killed over 300 people, we all have a moral duty to show solidarity to the most vulnerable of our fellow citizens", said the President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), Jean-Claude Mignon, speaking today.
"Reporting the presence of any homeless persons who are outdoors exposed to the bad weather, taking an interest in the health of elderly neighbours who live alone, giving a helping hand to the charities working in the streets, these are ways of not just providing comfort, but also saving lives, in the present situation."
"While I have no doubt that our governments are making every effort to help the destitute, I wish to applaud the discreet but vital role being played by NGOs as they endeavour day after day to help those in greatest need. Our support for them strengthens the model of Europe that we wish to see: a project based on solidarity and fraternity," he concluded.