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At the last European Alliance Group meeting of 2016, members discussed their reflections on the future of the European Union and communicating Europe. 

Mr Stephen Gethins MP, Shadow SNP Spokesperson on Europe, Westminster led discussions on The Impact of the UK Leaving the EU on Scotland and this gave rise to a lively discussion on the impact of the devolved Nations as well as the wider context of the impact on neighbouring Member States.  Mr Callum McCaig MP also gave the business impact that would be caused by Brexit.

The Vision of the Flemish government on the EU was presented by Mr Hendrik Theunissen, Deputy Head of Cabinet of the Minister-president at the Flemish Government who highlighted their 10 point vision of the European Union.

A very interesting Catalan project of simplifying EU information and policies was presented by EA member Mr Amadeu Altafaj i Tardio, Permanent representative of Catalonia to the EU.  Finally the group had a stimulating discussion on Reflections on how the EU can communicate more effectively in which Mr Dennis Abbott, Managing Director Communications; Burson-Marsteller contributed to a very interesting discussion.

The European Alliance group President said that the discussion highlighted the importance of local and regional authorities in being the bridge with their respective regions and that the discussion would feed into policy over the coming year.