"EU citizens want to have access to more films, songs, books, and TV channels. Modernising EU rules to give consumers more choice of content reflects the aspirations of citizens and a must in the internet age. This is precisely what I will be pushing for as Rapporteur."

MEP Therese Comodini Cachia from the EPP Group made these remarks after being appointed Rapporteur by the Committee on Legal Affairs in the European Parliament.

Comodini Cachia remarked that such reform will not only make a much wider catalogue of content accessible to consumers but also make it easier for students, teachers and schools to access digital material, support researchers in public mission projects in their work and improve the preservation of cultural heritage.

"Moreover, the reform will aim to facilitate access to published work for persons who are blind or visually impaired to access books and other content in formats that are accessible to them."

Comodini Cachia emphasised that more investment in the creative and cultural industries was needed. She reiterated that "without creators, consumers cannot have access to content and thus their work must be recognised and valued."

Over the next weeks Comodini Cachia will continue to meet stakeholders in Malta and Brussels to ensure that the reform works in digital lifestyles. She encouraged stakeholders to come forward with their proposals.

Therese Comodini Cachia has extensive experience in the sector and has already served as EPP Group rapporteur on relevant EU directives. The reform of the sector is a much expected step as current EU rules date back to 2001 and do not reflect the realities of the internet era and the rapidly-changing behaviour of viewers online.

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