Yesterday, 17 September 2012, EFN members discussed key nursing challenges with members of the European Parliament, the Permanent Representations and the European Commission. MEP Phil Prendergast hosted the Roundtable “Modernisation of the Mutual Recognition of Professional Qualifications”, with the concrete aim of debating on the crucial points affecting nurses and their education. MEP Phil Prendergast opened the debate emphasizing the need for a political impetus to protect nurses and patients. Máximo Gonzalez, President of the Spanish General Council of Nursing, a member of EFN, held a speech on the introduction of competencies in the legislation, drawing attention to the fact that the nursing profession has evolved hugely, thus there is an evidenced need to modernise the minimum requirements. MEPs present at the meeting, in particular MEP Bernadette Vergnaud took the floor and agreed that despite the current crisis, governments should not cut on health systems, but invest more on the education and training, encouraging a high level of mobility. The Permanent Representations joined the debate and it was clear that Member States want to achieve the same goal and that there is a room for dialogue and compromise. Particular attention was given to Ms Corinna Boelhoff, from the German Permanent Representation, who explained the rationale behind the German position in keeping the ten-years’ requirement and reinforced the need for dialogue and compromise. Finally, Sheila Dickson, from the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation, a member of EFN, stressed the need to speak with a strong voice and to carry on the dialogue with the EU Institutions – “nurses are at the top of the political discussions and EFN will remain committed to supporting them in achieving a highly qualified mobile workforce”, she concluded.