Press release - President Sassoli press conference on COVID-19 developments and plenary votes

European Parliament President David Sassoli will hold a press conference tomorrow at 15.00 on the latest COVID-19 developments and major files on this week’s plenary agenda. He will also share information on the Parliament’s updated working procedures during the second wave of COVID-19 in Europe.

Follow the press conference LIVE on Parliament’s webstreaming or EbS.

Journalists can attend the press conference in person, respecting the precautionary measures in force (see below), but are, however, encouraged to participate remotely and ask questions via Skype.

Parliament will be using an interactive virtual press environment (with interpretation) based on Skype TX, in conjunction with the traditional EbS and web-streaming services.

If you wish to ask a question:

You only need to connect through Skype if you wish to ask a question.

Please use headphones and a microphone for better sound quality.

The system will be managed by Parliament’s media services and you will be placed in a queue (virtual waiting room) before being invited to ask your question(s).

If you have any trouble connecting, you can contact: +32 22834220 or use the Skype chat box.

After asking a question / listening to the reply (and any follow-up), you should then disconnect from Skype so that the next journalist in line can be connected to the press briefing room.

REMINDER: working conditions in Parliament for journalists in light of Coronavirus

Due to the current public health situation, and in an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19, Parliament is reducing the need for physical meetings on its premises. This is being done without compromising its role of democratic scrutiny and its ability to approve the necessary legislative measures to combat the virus and support the public, consumers, businesses and emergency services.

Parliamentary activities still taking place (including this week’s plenary session) will be web-streamed and can be followed by the media without requiring your physical presence on EP premises.

You are therefore advised not to come in person unless necessary. If you do so, please respect the recommended guidelines on physical distancing and hygiene. Please refrain from coming to EP premises if you present any symptoms of a respiratory infection or if you have knowingly been in contact with an infected person.