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| Women In Government's Board of Directors visits European Parliament |
Women In Government’s Board of Directors traveled to Paris, France, and Brussels, Belgium, for five days in October on a study mission dedicated to learning about improving world health through local policy.
In Paris, the Board visited the sanofi-aventis headquarters to learn about research breakthroughs in medicines. They also toured a biotech facility where they learned about ongoing innovative cancer research and saw the process of how cancer medications are actually made. Additional discussions took place around H1N1 and the World Health Organization, as well as the latest science in treating atrial fibrillation. The Board was pleased to have the opportunity to learn about ways to support local policy to encourage innovation, access to quality of care around many different diseases, and foster collaboration among diverse stakeholder groups.
Sen. Nan Orrock (GA) said, “I learned that biotech research facilities, at home and abroad, have a shortage of American scientists and most often rely on researchers from other nations. This wake-up call underscores the need for stronger focus on directing our students into the sciences and preparing them for this rapidly growing field -- the place where the race for the cure will be won!”
The Board also traveled to Brussels, where they met with the Transportation and Tourism (TRAN) Committee of the European Union Parliament. The two groups discussed innovative ways to mitigate congestion, improve air quality, save energy and improve quality of life within local communities; the issues that Europe faces in developing transportation infrastructure; the competencies of the European Parliament in transport policy; and the role of Member States in developing European transport policies.
Speakers representing the European Union Parliament included:
- Mr. Brian Simpson, Chairman of the TRAN Committee
- Ms. Silvia-Adriana Ticau, Vice-Chairwoman of the TRAN Committee
- Ms. Niki Tzavela, Vice-Chairwoman of the Delegation for relations with the United States
- Bernard von Wullerstorff and Jeremie Pelerin, UNIFE
- Ms. Rosa Sanz, General Secretary of ADIF
The Board had opportunities to learn about rail infrastructure and the successes of high-speed rail investments, and were enthused about bringing the knowledge and models of the European Union back to their home states.
Rep. Mary Sue McClurkin (AL, Chair of the Board) said, “The time spent with members of Parliament gives me a greater appreciation for how government works in Europe and the similarities of the challenges in transportation. It was exciting, delightful, and a mentally challenging adventure. Thank you for the opportunity of a lifetime.”
