The European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authorities (EIOPA) launches the Call for Expression of Interest regarding the setting up of EIOPA Stakeholder Groups, the Insurance and Reinsurance Stakeholder Group (IRSG) and the Occupational Pensions Stakeholder Group (OPSG), following the expiration of their mandates later this year. The objective of the Stakeholder Groups is to ensure a close dialogue between EIOPA and representatives of industry, consumers and academics. EIOPA consults the Stakeholder Groups on actions concerning regulatory technical standards and their implementation as well as guidelines and recommendations to the extent that these do not concern individual financial institutions. Members of the Stakeholder Groups can submit opinions and advice to EIOPA on any issue related to its tasks. Additionally, the Stakeholder Groups are expected to notify EIOPA of inconsistent application of European Union law as well as inconsistent supervisory practices in the different European member states. The Regulation establishing EIOPA foresees that the Stakeholder Groups consist not only of representatives from industry and relevant professional associations, but also of consumers, users of insurance and reinsurance services (for IRSG) and beneficiaries of pension schemes (for OPSG). Furthermore, at least five of each Stakeholder Group members shall be independent top-ranking academics. The members representing non-profit organisations, namely consumers, academics and trade unions (employee) representatives, are entitled to an adequate compensation. Gabriel Bernardino, Chairman of EIOPA, stressed the importance of the Stakeholder groups to EIOPA’s work. “Stakeholder Groups are an important part of EIOPA’s governance. They help us to analyse and assess the impact of our activities from different angles and perspectives. The richness of the debate and opinions of the Stakeholder Groups comes from the very diverse interests represented such as consumers, industry, employees’, users and academics. Their input is crucial for the practical implementation of EIOPA’s mandate to ensure stability and consumer protection. I would, therefore, encourage all interested individuals to apply to be a member of the EIOPA Stakeholder Groups”. Information on the eligibility criteria and the selection process of the Stakeholder Groups members is available on EIOPA website: https://eiopa.europa.eu/about-eiopa/organisation/stakeholder-groups/stakeholder-groups-selection-process-2013/index.html]]>
