 Much of Europe is still in shock following the attacks that took place in Paris last month. The EPP Group in the Committee of the Regions stands in solidarity with the French people and will mark its group meeting on the 3rd of December with a minute of silence. This is also the chance to prepare for the last plenary session of the year where Donald Tusk, President of the European Council, will share his views on the role of EU regions and cities in the Council's work. He will place a strong emphasis on the European response to migration and integration of refugees alongside Demetrius Avromopoulos, Commissioner on Migration, Home Affairs and Citizenship. Speaking on behalf of the EPP Group, Michael Schneider will call for measures to help local and regional authorities who are the first point of contact for refugees arriving in Europe. A further highlight will be a debate with Franz Timmermans, the first Vice-President of the European Commission. He will speak about better regulation. The Committee of the Regions position on this topic has been led by Spiro Spiridon, who wants EU lawmaking to focus on areas with a direct regional impact and which affect citizens' everyday lives and businesses. Wim van der Donk will take the floor for the EPP Group. Turning to their main opinions on the agenda, Louis Gomez will share his work on the role of the social economy in restoring growth and getting people back to work. In particular, he wants Europe's non-profit organisations, social enterprises and charities to be able to enjoy the advantages of the internal market and free movement. And as we look ahead to 2016, the EPP Group will continue to support those who are working hard on the ground on the challenges facing Europe's regions and cities.