Europe Day - EU Open Doors
On 9 May 1950, Robert Schuman, the first President of the European Parliamentary Assembly, presented his proposal on the creation of an organised Europe, indispensable to the maintenance of peaceful relations.
This proposal, known as the 'Schuman declaration', is considered to be the beginning of the creation of what is now the European Union. Since then 9 May has become Europe Day, which, across the EU, is celebrated with activities, festivals, lectures, public events and a diverse range of cultural and artistic presentations and entertainments. The aim of all this activity is to bring European institutions closer to its citizens and the peoples of the Union closer to one another.
In 2013 the European Union is also celebrating 20 years since the European Union was official brought into being through Maastricht Treaty (formally, the Treaty on European Union or TEU), 2013 has been designated the "European Year of Citizens” because the Maastricht treaty established in Article 2 of the treaty, for the first time, the rights and protections of Europe’s Citizens. Because of this, 9 May 2013 will have a very strong citizens focus across the EU.
For the UK, 2013 marks the 40th anniversary of the UK joining the European Economic Community, the predecessor of the European Union.
The Council has marked the 9 May in a number of ways over the years, from simply raising the EU Flag at HQ to hosting events, presentations and quizzes.
What's happening this year
The Council will once again mark Europe Day with a series of activities.
9th May 2013 is a full Council day and the Members Longe will play host to a small exhibition showing some of the key projects that the EU has funded in the Highlands
The Council Staff canteen will serve European inspired food and members will be treated to a European menu at their lunch.
On 9th may a European quiz will be launched giving members of the public a chance to win a prize.
Also on 9th may a primary School European quiz will be launched giving schools a chance to win £200 towards school, resources
And finally, also on 9th May, the Council will ensure the EU flag flies at HQ and the Town House to mark the day.