BITWRATHPLOOB World Tour

Political ‘Ploob
simon posted in Detours on June 18th, 2008

I felt it only right and proper that the ‘Ploob, during his time in “The Capital of Europe”, should visit some of the institutions which represent him (born in Denmark, he’s technically an EU citizen).

Well, when I say “visit”, of course I mean “stand outside”, as inside they’re a fairly uninspiring collection of offices and meeting rooms.

First up, the European Council, or “Justus Lipsius” building. This is where all the ministers of the Member States meet to reach their decisions. It’s also where, twice a year, the heads of state come for a summit. Later this week it’s where the new Irish Taoiseach will cower in a corner of the room while the other 26 countries glower at him.

The European Commission, on the other hand, is housed in dozens of buildings spread across Brussels, but the headquarters, home to the Commissioners themselves, is the Berlaymont building, handily located across the road from the Justus Lipsius. It used to be full of asbestos, but it’s safe now. Really, perfectly safe (cough).

A short walk away is the seat of European democracy - the European Parliament. At least, one of them. The other one’s in Strasbourg, and they shuttle back and forth between them once a month. (Yes, I know it doesn’t make any sense, but I don’t see it changing any time soon). Anyway, in honour of our elected representatives, we stopped first for a little liquid lunch…

‘Ploob was hoping to meet some MEPs in order to lobby them about ‘Ploob rights, recognition as a distinct culture with its own traditions, and to demand that ‘Ploobese be granted status as an official EU language, but there was no-one around - they’re all in Strasbourg this week…