Erwin Pröll, Governor of Lower Austria, said he was optimistic at the end of one and a half day's discussion and this optimism was based on the time as well as the spirit of the debate. On the one hand, a clear unease can be felt at all European levels. But on the other hand there is also a distinct will to counteract this unease. Europe is now at a crossroads: the enlarged Europe also calls for a deepening and must make more room for democratic development.
He said that application of the principle of subsidiarity has added value for all of Europe. In order to make real use of this win-win situation, a balance must be found between the directions of Europeanism and regionalism, and the incredible potential of the regions must be mobilized. What is more, there must be constant discussion with citizens, even on the lowest political level, about questions on the European level. According to Pröll, sometimes non-regulation is the best regulation. But this requires courageous politicians who stand up for their goals and do not shirk responsibility: “Every regulation stifles a bit of originality, but Europe’s opportunity lies in originality and change”.
Everybody professes support for the principle of subsidiarity, but the path from the real to the ideal is a stony one. Pröll declared himself convinced that the conference at St. Pölten would clear away some of these stones if the resolve to give the small, manageable entities a chance was maintained. In conclusion, Pröll expressed the hope that the Subsidiarity Conference had contributed to turning the objection to Europe into affirmation of Europe.
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