Tense struggle for €15 000
About two hours were given today to the delegates of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe for the election of a new secretary general.
Three candidates are nominated for the post promising a salary of 15 000 euros a month - Antonella Cagnolati, Andreas Kiefer and Leo Platvoet.
At today's session none of the candidates had an opportunity to present their virtues. However, they availed themselves an opportunity during a meeting with the Congress factions.
"I am a post-war child." Italian Antonella Cagnolati addressed the members of the - European People's Party/ Christian Democrats Group. She is said to be supported by Silvio Berlusconi.
Before presenting the programme of reforms, currently divorced Antonella Cagnolati found it necessary to mention that she had been fortunate enough to marry a Greek and has excellent children.
At the end of her speech Mrs. Cagnolati said she matches the criteria required for the position: she is competent and has a professional background.
Antonella Cagnolati who served as Deputy Secretary General for several years, thinks the Congress must quickly respond to the reform of the CoE, otherwise its role will be significantly reduced, and local democracy will be paid less attention to in the European political agenda.
One of the delegates asked Leo Platvoet what posture the Congress will take the when the governments violate the European Charter of Local Self-Government.
Mr. Platvoet gave a diplomatic answer. He said one should be armed with patience and roughness but the governments must respect the Charter. This is the most important thing because, in fact, the governments entered the EU on their own initiative.
Andreas Kiefer promised to contribute to the reforms underway in the Council of Europea if the delegates voted for him.
The election results will be released at the end of the day.
