This week, MEP Josianne Cutajar had double success in trilogue negotiations in relation to upcoming legislation aimed at enhancing digital accessibility and fostering a balanced tourism ecosystem, a statement read.

"On Monday, in her capacity as Socialist negotiator on the Committee for Industry and Technology (ITRE), MPE Cutajar successfully concluded negotiations on the Interoperable Europe Act, a legislative initiative set to facilitate online access to data in the public sector, as well as facilitating cross-border access to public services across all member states. The Act prioritizes minimizing administrative burdens, ensuring equal access for all citizens and businesses, and advocating for the continuous upskilling of public sector workers," it said.

"Wednesday marked a significant inter-institutional political settlement for the Short-Term Rentals (STR) Regulation. Leveraging her role as the main negotiator on behalf of the Committee for Transport and Tourism, Dr Cutajar worked to shape a regulatory framework that includes data and information sharing obligations, which will in turn lead towards a more balanced, transparent and sustainable tourism ecosystem. This will be highly relevant within the context of the growing Short Term Rentals market, rental accommodation commonly found on online platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com. The Regulation aims to bring various advantages, with benefits to local authorities, hosts, online platforms, hoteliers, guests, and local communities alike. Noteworthy elements successfully negotiated include an easier and more cost-effective registration process for hosts offering their property for short-term rental accommodation, coupled with strengthened safeguards against illegal listings."

Reflecting on this week of negotiations, MEP Cutajar expressed her satisfaction in contributing towards a digital transformation leading to more efficient, inclusive, and sustainable public and industrial sectors.