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EUROPEAN COMMISSIONBudget

ExpenditureBudgetary procedure and synthesis, ABB and relations with the COBU

Brussels, March 2007

First Commission interim report on the implementation of Pilot Projects and

Preparatory Actions 2007

2

First Commission interim report on the implementation of Pilot Projects and Preparatory Actions 2007

Table of contents

INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................... 5

EXPENDITURE CYCLE OF A PILOT PROJECT OR A PREPARATORY ACTION .. 6

SUMMARY TABLE ON PILOT PROJECTS...................................................................... 7

SUMMARY TABLE ON PREPARATORY ACTIONS ..................................................... 8

IMPLEMENTATION OF PILOT PROJECTS..................................................................... 9

Consolidation of the Internal Market – Pilot Project for Cooperation and Cluster-Building among Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) (02 02 03 01)................................. 11

Transfer of Expertise through Mentoring in SMEs (02 02 03 03) ..................................... 12

Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs (02 02 03 04)................................................................ 13

Enlargement Programme for SMEs (02 02 05 01).............................................................. 15

Measures to Promote Cooperation and Partnerships between Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (02 02 05 05) ............................................................................................ 16

First measure: “Reinforcing synergies between public policies in support of e-Business for SMEs” .............................................................................................................................. 16

Second measure “Promoting the development of cross-border digital value networks in the Single Market”................................................................................................................. 17

Regions of Knowledge (02 02 06)........................................................................................ 18

European Destinations of Excellence (02 02 08) ................................................................ 20

The EU assuming its Role in a Globalised World – IPR Help Services for EU SMEs in Beijing (02 02 09).................................................................................................................. 23

Technological Transfer (02 02 10)....................................................................................... 24

Mainstreaming of Disability Actions (04 04 10)................................................................. 25

Energy Security Bio-fuels (06 04 07) .................................................................................. 32

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Security along the Trans-European Road Network (06 07 02) .......................................... 33

Individual Mobility of Upper Secondary Pupils (15 02 02 06)......................................... 35

Erasmus-style Programme for Apprentices (15 02 23)....................................................... 36

European Neighbourhood Scholarships at the College of Europe institutes (15 02 28)... 38

Cooperation between European institutes of Technology (15 02 29)................................ 39

Security Fund in the Fruit and Vegetable Sector (05 01 04 07) ......................................... 41

Sustainable Agriculture and Soil Conservation through Simplified Cultivation Techniques (05 01 04 08)...................................................................................................... 42

Forest Protection and Conservation (07 03 11)................................................................... 43

Risk Financing Model for Livestock Epidemics (17 01 04 04).......................................... 45

Fight against Terrorism –Completion (18 05 06)................................................................ 47

Cross Border Cooperation in Fight against Natural Disasters (07 04 02) ......................... 50

Citizenship (15 06 01)........................................................................................................... 52

European Political Foundations (15 06 07) ......................................................................... 56

Pilot Information Networks (PINs) (16 03 06).................................................................... 57

Transatlantic Measures for handling Global Challenges (19 05 03).................................. 61

European Emergency Judicial Assistance (21 04 04) ......................................................... 62

Minimising Administrative Burdens (26 01 08).................................................................. 65

IMPLEMENTATION OF PREPARATORY ACTIONS .................................................. 66

Support for SMEs in the New Financial Environment (02 02 03 02)................................ 68

Enhancement of European Security Research (02 04 02)................................................... 70

ENEA Preparatory Action on Active Ageing and Mobility of Elderly People (04 03 06)72

Security of conventional energy supplies (06 04 03 01)..................................................... 74

Creation of an Internet-based System for Better Legislation and for Public Participation (09 03 03)............................................................................................................................... 77

i2i Audiovisual Initiative (09 06 04) .................................................................................... 79

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Forestry (outside the EAGGF) (05 04 03 01)...................................................................... 82

NATURA 2000 (07 03 10) ................................................................................................... 83

European Migration Monitoring Centre (18 03 05) ............................................................ 87

Integration of Nationals of Non-Member Countries (18 03 06)......................................... 91

Financial Instrument for Return Management in the Area of Migration (18 03 08)......... 93

Migration Management – Solidarity in Action (18 03 12) ................................................. 95

Research and Evaluation Programme on Respect for Fundamental Rights (18 04 03).... 97

Support of Civil Society in the New Member States (18 04 04)........................................ 98

Exchange Programme for Judicial Authorities (18 05 01 03) ............................................ 99

Victims of terrorist acts (18 05 04)..................................................................................... 100

Public Health (17 03 04) ..................................................................................................... 102

Impact of Enlargement in EU Border Regions (22 02 05 05) .......................................... 104

Demining Activities in Cyprus (22 02 05 06).................................................................... 106

Conflict Prevention Network (19 04 04)............................................................................ 109

Aid for Poverty Related Diseases (ex 21 02 07 04 ) ......................................................... 112

Voluntary Technical Assistance (19 06 01 03).................................................................. 115

Preparatory action to reduce NBC Weapons and Small Arms (19 06 02 02) ................. 116

Business and Scientific Exchange with India (19 10 01 03) ............................................ 119

Business and Scientific Exchange with China (19 10 01 04)........................................... 121

Global Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Fund (GEEREF) (21 04 05) ............ 122

DG RESPONSIBLE AND CONTACT PERSONS.......................................................... 124A. Pilot projects ........................................................................................................................................124B. Preparatory Actions.............................................................................................................................125

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IntroductionThis is the first Commission interim report on the implementation of Pilot Projects and Preparatory Actions in 2007.

It covers the actions adopted by the Budgetary Authority for the Budget 2007, including those carried over from previous financial years. It identifies the authorising officersresponsible for the implementation of these actions and outlines the plans for implementation.

A second report will be transmitted with the Preliminary Draft Budget (PDB) 2008, as required by Article 49, point 6a and b of the revised Financial Regulation.

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Expenditure Cycle of a Pilot Project or a Preparatory ActionThe implementation of a Pilot Project or a Preparatory Action has to go through a certain number of steps, which are foreseen by the Financial Regulation. The procedures differ, depending on whether they concern procurements or grants. However, in both cases, before arriving at the final financing decision, the Commission has to prepare the way for the best use of the action or project, and the related budgetary appropriations.

First the specific objectives and ways of implementing the proposed action must be analysed and, on this basis, attributed to the responsible Directorate General. It may take several weeks before the final attribution is decided, especially when the action has links to several policy areas. Then, as foreseen by the Financial Regulation, the authorising officer and the manager responsible have to elaborate a sufficiently detailed framework, in respect of which the financing decision is finally taken. Only when all these preparatory phases are completed, can the financial implementation start.

The indicative deadlines can be summarised as follows:

Ø In the case of procurement, the preparation and the launching of the prior information notice can take from a minimum of 32 days to a maximum of 63 days.

Ø The tendering phase can take from a minimum of 85 days to a maximum of 195 days.

Ø The committing/contracting phase can take between a minimum of 55 days to a maximum of 203 days.

In the case of grants there are no compulsory deadlines to respect, except for the Annual Working Programme (AWP), which has to be adopted by 31 March of the year concerned. As soon as the AWP is adopted, the preparation of the calls for proposals takes 30 days on average, while answers are usually expected to arrive after a period of two months from the publication of the call for proposals. The length of time need for the evaluation of proposals depends on the number of responses, and it can take from a few days to more than 60 days. Once the grant agreements are signed, which takes a maximum of 30 days, the payment will be made as soon as the Commission receives the necessary information from the contractor, which must be carefully analysed. The process also requires the respect of the procedures of sound and efficient financial management.

The Commission would also like to point out the success of a Pilot Project or a Preparatory Action is to be measured on the sustainability of the results produced, andmuch less on the speediness of the commitments.

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Summary Table on Pilot projectsBudget 2005 Budget 2006 Budget 2007ABB

NomenclatureDG

responsible 2005 2006 2007 HeadingC.A. P.A. C.A. P.A. C.A. P.A.

Heading 1a02 02 03 01 ENTR PP1 PP2 Consolidation of internal market – pilot project for

cooperation and cluster-building among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)

6.00 5.00 3.00 4.50 p.m. 2.00

02 02 03 03 ENTR PP1 PP2 Transfer of expertise through mentoring in SMEs 2.00 2.00 3.00 3.00 p.m. 2.0002 02 03 04 ENTR PP1 Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs 3.00 3.0002 02 05 01 ELARG Enlargement programme for SMEs p.m. 1.60 p.m. 1.0002 02 05 05 ENTR PP1 Measures to promote cooperation and partnerships between

micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.2.00 2.00

02 02 06 RTD Regions of knowledge p.m. 0.60 p.m 0.5502 02 08 ENTR PP1 PP2 European Destinations of Excellence 1.00 0.50 1.00 0.8502 02 09 ENTR PP1 The European Union assuming its role in a globalised world 5.00 3.0002 02 10 ENTR PP1 Technological Transfer 2.00 2.0004 04 05 EMPL PP2 Mainstreaming of disability actions 3.00 3.00 p.m. 1.50 p.m. 2.0006 04 07 TREN PP1 Energy security bio-fuels 5.00 2.0006 07 02 TREN PP1 PP2 Security along the trans-European road network 5.50 5.50 2.00 3.6015 02 02 06 EAC PP1 PP2 Individual mobility of upper secondary pupils 2.50 2.00 p.m. 0.5015 02 23 EAC PP1 PP2 Erasmus-style programme for apprentices 2.00 2.00 2.00 1.70 p.m. 1.8015 02 28 EAC PP1 European Neighbourhood Policy scholarships at the College

of Europe0.80 0.80

15 02 29 EAC PP1 Cooperation between European institutes of technology 5.00 2.50Heading205 01 04 07 AGRI PP1 PP2 Security fund in the fruit and vegetables sector 0.50 0.5005 01 04 08 AGRI PP1 Sustainable agriculture and soil conservation through

simplified cultivation techniques2.00 2.00

07 03 11 ENV PP1 Forest protection and conservation 3.00 1.5017 01 04 04 SANCO PP2 Risk financing model for livestock epidemics 0.50 p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m.Heading 3a 18 05 06 JLS PP1 PP2 Completion of fight against terrorism 7.00 4.00 9.00 7.00 p.m. 6.00Heading 3b07 04 02 ENV PP1 PP2 Cross Border Cooperation in fight against natural disasters 6.50 6.50 p.m. 3.9015 06 01 EAC PP1 Pilot project in favour of citizenship 0.50 0.50 p.m. p.m.15 06 07 EAC PP1 European Political Foundations 1.00 1.0016 03 05 COMM PP1 Euroglobe 1.50 1.5016 03 06 COMM PP1 Pilot information networks (PINs) 5.00 3.00Heading 419 05 03 RELEX PP1 Transatlantic methods for handling global challenges 2.50 1.5021 04 04 RELEX PP1 European emergency judicial assistance 0.20 0.1021 04 06 AIDCO PP1 Water management in developing countries 3.00 0.00Heading 526 01 08 tbc PP1 Pilot Project: minimizing administrative burdens 2.00 2.00TOTAL Pilot Projects 40.00Annual ceiling Pilot Projects 46.00 52.10Margin left -6.00

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Summary Table on Preparatory actionsBudget 2005 Budget 2006 Budget 2007ABB

NomenclatureDG

responsible 2005 2006 2007 HeadingC.A. P.A. C.A. P.A. C.A. P.A.

Heading 1a02 02 03 02 ENTR AP2 AP3 Support for SMEs in the new financial environment 8.00 8.00 7.00 7.00 p.m. 7.00

02 04 02 ENTR AP2 AP3 Enhancement of European security research 15.00 8.00 15.00 19.00 p.m. 6.00

04 03 06 EMPL PP2 AP1 AP2 ENEA preparatory action on active ageing and mobility of elder people

(p.m.) (3.00) 1.50 0.75 3.00 1.50

06 04 03 01 TREN AP2 AP3 Security of conventional energy supplies p.m. p.m. 0.50 0.90 p.m. 0.70

09 03 03 INFSO AP1 AP2 Creation of an Internet-based system for better legislation and for public participation

2.00 2.00 5.00 3.8

09 06 04 INFSO Initiative i2i audiovisual p.m. 2.20 p.m. 1.00 - p.m.

Heading 205 04 03 01 AGRI AP2 AP3 Forestry (outside the EAGF and the EAFRD) 0.50 16.00 0.30 3.10 p.m. 0.38

07 03 10 ENV AP1 AP2 NATURA 2000 preparatory action 2.00 2.00 1.00 1.60

Heading 3a18 03 05 JLS AP3 European Migration Monitoring Centre 3.00 3.80 p.m. 1.80 p.m.

3.002.001.00

18 03 06 JLS AP2 AP3 Integration of nationals of non-members countries 5.00 6.00 5.00 5.75 p.m. 6.45

18 03 08 JLS AP1 AP2 AP3 Financial instrument for return management in the area of migration

15.00 8.00 15.00 10.00 p.m. 12.50

18 03 12 JLS AP1 Migration management – Solidarity in Action 15.00 15.00

18 04 03 JLS AP2 AP3 Research and evaluation programme on respect for fundamental rights

1.00 1.40 0.50 1.00 p.m. 0.80

18 04 04 JLS AP2 AP3 Support of Civil society in the new Member States 2.00 2.00 1.00 1.00 p.m. 2.80

18 05 01 03 JLS PP2 AP1 Exchange programme for judicial authorities (3.00) 2.50 3.00 2.80 p.m. 1.00

18 05 04 JLS PP2 AP1 Victims of terrorist acts (2.00) 1.00 2.00 1.20 p.m. 1.20

Heading 3b17 03 04 SANCO AP1 AP2 Public Health 2.00 1.04 p.m. 0.96

22 02 05 05 ELARG AP2 AP3 Impact of enlargement in EU border regions 4.00 16.98 p.m. 4.00 p.m. 3.00

22 02 05 06 ELARG PP2 AP1 De-mining activities in Cyprus p.m. p.m. 1.00 1.00 p.m. 0.40

Heading 419 04 04 AIDCO PP2 AP1 AP2 Conflict prevention network p.m. 0.90 1.50 1.25 1.50 1.2521 02 07 04 (old line)

AIDCO AP1 AP2 Aid for poverty-related diseases in developing countries, other than HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis

10.00 8.00 10.00 14.10

19 06 01 03 AIDCO AP2 Voluntary technical assistance p.m. 0.50 p.m. 0.20 p.m. 0.2019 06 02 02 AIDCO PP2 AP1 AP2 Preparatory action to reduce NBC weapons and small arms (3.00) (3.00) 3.00 2.50 p.m. 2.00

19 10 01 03 RELEX-AIDCO

AP1 Business and scientific exchange with India 7.00 5.00

19 10 01 04 RELEX-AIDCO

AP1 Business and scientific exchange with China 7.00 5.00

21 04 05 ENVI AP1 Global Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Fund (GEEREF)

5.00 5.00

TOTAL Preparatory Actions 47.5 86.54Annual ceiling Preparatory Actions 100.0Margin left 52.5

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Implementation of Pilot Projects

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Heading 1a

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Consolidation of the Internal Market – Pilot Project for Cooperation and Cluster-Building among Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) (02 02 03 01)

1. Objective The overall objective is to strengthen the performance and competitiveness of European SMEs by proposing linkages in international sector trade fairs in the border regions between the old and new EU Member States; and also in the context of other types of business events, notably in economic sectors affected by the 2004 enlargement.

2. Implementation The grant agreements were signed in December 2006. The project is thus in its initial phase. A first meeting, with the participation of the project coordinators was held in Brussels on 12 February 2007.2006 Budget: EUR 5 983 626.15 has been committed in December 2006, the first pre-financing payments are expected in February 2007.

3. Forecast for 2007Some main events of the individual projects are foreseen for the year 2007. For most of the projects, the intermediary report/payment request is due by November 2007. In the case of two others, implementation could start earlier.

Jan 2007 – Jun 2008 Project realisation – Matchmaking events at international fairs and clustering activitiesContinuous monitoring

Oct 2007 Second coordination meeting with project coordinators

Oct 2007- Jan 2008 Interim report and interim payment for 7 grant agreements

Apr 2008 Third coordination meeting with project coordinators

Aug 2008 Reception of final reports: 7 projects

Sept-Oct 2008 Pilot project business cooperation in border regions: Final payments: 7 projects

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Transfer of Expertise through Mentoring in SMEs (02 02 03 03)

1. Objective The aim of the tender is to promote mentoring schemes in EU Member States in order to enhance the knowledge and core competences that are essential for the successful transfer of business ownership. The contractor will: (1) select organisations in 19 EU Member States that have proven experience in providing mentoring to entrepreneurs; (2) ensure that the selected organisations provide mentoring to a total of at least 1 000 entrepreneurs who have just taken over (first year) small enterprises of less than 50 employees in the EU-27; (3) assess the quality and impact of the mentoring provided through standardised questionnaires; (4) submit a final report on the quality and impact of the mentoring provided.

2. Implementation On the recommendation of European Parliament DG ENTR launched a European “Pilot Action on the transfer of expertise through mentoring in SMEs” in December 2006. The contractor is EUROCHAMBRES, the association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry. The first steering committee meeting with EUROCHAMBRES took place on 23 January 2007. The kick-off meeting of EUROCHAMBRES with its subcontractors, i.e. chambers of commerce and industry in the Member States took place on 24 January.

2006 budget: EUR 3 million

3. Forecast for 200722/12/2006 Start of Pilot Action (Signature of Contract)

23/01/2007 First Steering Committee Meeting with EUROCHAMBRES

24/01/2007 Kick-off meeting EUROCHAMBRES + subcontractors

22/08/2007 First Interim Report => 4 000 man-days of mentoring delivered

22/04/2008 Second Interim Report => 8 000 man-days of mentoring delivered22/10/2008 Draft Final Report => 10 000 man-days of mentoring delivered

22/12/2008 End of Project: Final Report + Survey Results (mentoring impact)

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Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs (02 02 03 04)

1. Objective This action will seek to ensure that experience is exchanged and reinforced at the European level for the benefit of young entrepreneurs and potential entrepreneurs, by means of traineeships in another country, in SMEs in key or complementary sectors. Preliminary analysis will be conducted in order to explore existing needs of young entrepreneurs and of those seriously considering entrepreneurship, and to better define the scope of the action. This analysis should provide the input to a feasibility study on how this exchange could be efficiently organised. Building on the results of the study, it is envisaged to launch a pilot project in 2008 aiming to encourage trans-national mobilityof young entrepreneurs and potential entrepreneurs.

2. Implementation New pilot project in 2007.

3. Forecast for 2007

While the final objective of this proposal is to set up pilot projects to implement mobility schemes for young entrepreneurs - following to a certain extent the concept of the Erasmus programme for university students - this will have to be anticipated by a preliminary analysis of needs and feasibility.

In particular, the following preliminary steps have been identified as necessary:

• A Eurobarometer survey that will seek to identify the possible needs of young entrepreneurs in terms of training abroad, research of potential partners and exchange of experiences with young entrepreneurs in another country. This survey will address two main categories: 1) young people, for instance completing their university studies or following start-up training programmes, who have the intention to create their own company or are in the process of doing so; 2) young entrepreneurs already active, in order to ask them whether and how activities, such as the one proposed, would have helped them in the process of starting their company, and to what extent such an activity would still be beneficial to them as entrepreneurs.

• A feasibility study, complementing the information gathered through the survey, will seek to better define the scope of the actions and how they could be most effectively organised. The study will examine the various options about how a programme could be established, focussing for instance on identifying the profile of possible actors that would serve as contact points and promoters at national level.

The total budget foreseen for 2007 is EUR 1 million, which includes:− Eurobarometer survey (framework contract of DG COMM): EUR 500 000 − Feasibility study: EUR 500 000

Estimated timetable:

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February 2007 Preparation of a Eurobarometer survey (questionnaire)

March 2007 Contract signed for the Eurobarometer survey

April 2007 Draft Specifications of the call for tender for a feasibility study submitted to the Financial Unit (R1)

30 May 2007 Call for tender published for the feasibility study

30 June 2007 Final deadline to submit bids for the feasibility study

30 September 2007 Evaluation report following the call for tender for the feasibility study submitted to the Financial Unit (R1)

October 2007 Results of the Eurobarometer survey

December 2007 Financial commitment prepared and contract signed for the feasibility study

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Enlargement Programme for SMEs (02 02 05 01)

1. Objective In December 2002, the European Parliament created a new budget line to be implemented in 2003. This new budget line established a pilot programme to support cross-border business co-operation in the context of enlargement, with a view to preparing SMEs from the European Union for enlargement, and SMEs from the accession and candidate countries for the internal market.

2. Implementation The global commitment under this budget line was EUR 6 million. A call for proposals was launched in September 2003 and six grants were subsequently awarded for a total amount of EUR 5 982 242 to business representatives and business intermediary organisations. Projects focus on implementing pan-European business schemes to support business co-operation and networking between SMEs from the Accession and Candidate Countries, EU Member States, and the EFTA/EEA countries, as well as SMEs from regions and countries eligible for support under Tacis, Cards and Meda Programmes.

All contracts have currently been concluded; as of 31 December 2006, final reports for three projects have been submitted and final payments are in process of preparation. Two more final reports were received in early 2007. The outstanding final report is expected for the second half of March.

Until 31 December 2006, payments amounting to EUR 4.4 million have been executed.

3. Forecast for 2007No new actions are foreseen for 2007.

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Measures to Promote Cooperation and Partnerships between Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (02 02 05 05)

First measure: “Reinforcing synergies between public policies in support of e-Business for SMEs”1. Objective The general objective of this grant theme is to further promote the exchange of information and experience between public funded policies in support of e-Business for SMEs, with a special focus on reinforcing policy exchanges between the EU and the third countries.

Operational objectives:

– increase cooperation among public authorities, SME support networks and public-private partnerships in the field of e-Business promotion

– improve the effectiveness and efficiency of public policies in support of promoting e-Business for SMEs

– reinforce cross border networking– raise awareness about available e-Business policies– select and compile best policy practice examples– disseminate the results through the eBSN portal.


3. Forecast for 2007A call for proposals will be launched in the first quarter of 2007. The aim is to contribute financially up to 50% (EUR 120 000 each) to about 5 actions. The expected duration of each action is 6-9 months. The signature of the grant agreements is planned for the fourth quarter of 2007.

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Second measure “Promoting the development of cross-border digital value networks in the Single Market”1. Objective The aim of this project is to extend ICT promotion initiatives from individual SMEs to groups of enterprises interacting through value networks, at European level. This project intends to target an ecosystem of interrelated industry or services sectors of crucialimportance for Europe (to be chosen by the Member States through the eBSN Steering Group), with the objective to harmonise and standardise their business processes and data exchange models all over Europe. This is expected to optimise whole production andprocurement processes in this sector in Europe, in terms of profitability, time to market and reactivity.

Based on emerging relevant policy initiatives in certain Member States, including France, Denmark, Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands, and in anticipation of fragmentation, this action is meant to provide a European added value. At a later stage, it is envisaged that such approach will be extended to other industrial and services sectors.


3. Forecast for 2007A call for tenders will be launched in the second quarter of 2007. The budget for this call is EUR 1.4 million. The signature of the contract is planned before the end of 2007.

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Regions of Knowledge (02 02 06)

1. Objective The 2003 Pilot Action on Regions of Knowledge supports experimental actions at regional level that aim to develop ‘regions of knowledge’ in the area of technological development, cooperation between universities, and research at a regional level to stimulate the integration of regions in Europe. Such actions are expected to strengthen the regions' involvement and commitment towards the creation of the European Research Area as well as supporting the achievement of the Lisbon goals and the Barcelona objective.

The main aim of the action is to demonstrate the central role of knowledge in driving regional development and how regional actors' can effectively participate in formulating their regions' future. This should lead to blueprints and models for further activities, which need not be funded necessarily by the Union's budget. In addition, the objective is to catalyse collaboration on a transnational/transregional basis to enable learning between European regions and the identification of models and activities that can be implemented in different regions.

Project implementation is considered as part of the overall objective of setting up a Mutual Learning Platform for the Regions in the context of the 3% Barcelona objective.

The selected projects will help build or sharpen regional research and innovation strategies; strengthen regional public-private partnerships; lay down links between researchers, companies and financial institutions; and promote networking between technological innovators in various European regions. A significant part of the projects is devoted to Regional Foresight.

The selected projects fall into four specific areas: • Technology Audits and Regional Foresight (TARF) – these analyse the

regional economy and its technology fabric, and identify future development scenarios (5 projects);

• University-Driven Actions for Regional Development (UDARD) –demonstrate how universities can act as important technology relay points by providing expertise to local companies and public institutions, by stimulating technology creation and uptake, and by creating spin-off companies (4 projects);

• Mentoring initiatives – these help set up networks between technologically advanced and less favoured regions (3 projects);

• Supporting activities – workshops or conferences promoting the idea of technology-based regional development (2 projects).

Following a call for proposals published on the 1 August 2003 with a deadline for proposals on 17 September 2003, 53 proposals were received. 14 projects were selected following evaluation and negotiation. 6 contracts were signed by December 2003 and the remaining 8 contracts were signed during the first trimester of 2004.

2. Implementation

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2.1 Progress and results achieved During 2006, 5 projects have been completed under the pilot action, adding to the 7 projects completed in 2005. This means that 12 out of 14 projects are now finalised. Two projects were terminated by the Commission Services: one of them was not viable from a scientific and legal/financial point of view, the other had legal/financial problems.

The impact assessment of the pilot action was launched in February 2006 and completed in September 2006. According to the analysis provided, the Regions of Knowledge Pilot Action successfully brought the notion of territory into science-policy thinking and the role of science into regional development thinking. It managed to meet the main aim which was to demonstrate the central role of knowledge in driving regional development and encourage regional actors to participate effectively in formulating their region's future. It mobilised actors and provided a test-bed of actions which have influenced subsequent initiatives at both regional and European level. The pilot action managed also to demonstrate the demand, the potential and the need for measures in this area.

The projects financed under the pilot action provided valuable insights for the development of the activities on “Regions of Knowledge” now integrated inside the 7th

Framework Programme for RTD (2007-2013).

As regards the management of the projects by the consortia, it was not found to be without shortcomings: erroneous interpretations of the rules, regarding in particular the financial aspects, were noted. Thorough verifications and corrective actions were therefore deemed necessary before contracts could be considered definitively concluded.

2.2 Budget implementation2005 budgetExecution of 6 payments, for a total of EUR 368 875

2006 budgetExecution of 9 payments, for a total of EUR 420 368.12

3. Forecast for 2007Execution of 9 payments, for a total of EUR 550 000

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European Destinations of Excellence (02 02 08)

1. Objective The aim of this initiative is twofold: to draw attention to the value, diversity and shared characteristics of European tourist destinations, and to promote destinations where the economic growth objective is pursued in such a way as to ensure the social, cultural and environmental sustainability of tourism.

By awarding in a European-level event up to 27 destinations of excellence, the Commission can expect to: enhance visibility of the European tourist destinations, create awareness of Europe’s tourist diversity and quality, promote all European countries and regions, create a platform for the exchange of good practices at European level, promote networking between awarded destinations, and motivate other destinations to adopt sustainable tourist development models.

2. Implementation Description of the results obtained so far – 2006 budget:

In 2006, the Budget Authority approved the pilot project “European Destinations of Excellence” (EDEN) as a means of initiating Community action in support of European tourism, with funding totalling EUR 1 million.

The choice of the theme of excellence was made by the Commission, in close cooperation with the TAC (Tourism Advisory Committee) members. Rural tourism has been selected and a subtitle “Best Emerging Rural Destinations” has been added to the project title.

It was decided that only one destination per each participating Member State be awarded and that the selection be carried out at national level with a financial support provided by the Commission. Candidate countries were admitted to participate to the pilot project at their own costs.

The Commission established a set of general award criteria whilst participating countries had adopted more specific selection criteria to be taken into account for the national selection procedures.

A call for proposals was launched on 10 August 2006 to provide grants, of up to 50% of the eligible costs, aimed at supporting the national selection procedures.

Thirteen proposals were received. Two were considered inadmissible (because they dealt with concrete already on-going projects, out of the scope of the pilot project). One Member State had to withdraw at the very end of the evaluation procedure for administrative reasons. Two countries requested an extension of the deadline set for the submission of the proposals, which was not possible.

In conclusion ten countries are participating in the first edition of the pilot project (9 Member States + 1 Candidate Country): Austria, Belgium (Wallonia), Cyprus, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Malta + Croatia.

21

The agreements between the Commission and the applicants have all been signed by the end of 2006 and the activities have started as planned on 1 January 2007 for all participating countries.

Currently national selection procedures are ongoing (January - May 2007). Results will be communicated to the Commission in June 2007 and the validation will be carried out during the summer period. Awards will be presented at the occasion of the European Tourism Forum in Portugal (26-27 October 2007).

The total budget considered for the implementation of this action was EUR 1 million. EUR 900 000 was to be used for the above mentioned call for proposal, and the remaining EUR 100 000 was to be used to fund communication activities at European level to publicise the initiative, such as the production of a logo, a web site, press releases and a leaflet describing the award scheme.

At the end of 2006, only EUR 550 had been committed for the production of a logo. The nine agreements between the Commission and the applicants were signed only at the end of 2006 (total amount: EUR 360 818); therefore it was not possible to commit the entirebudget allocated. At the same time it was not possible to finance the production of a video since the budget proposed by the contractor of the COMM framework contract was much higher than the money allocated for the communication heading in the EDEN budget.

3. Forecast for 2007The following steps are foreseen:The call for proposals for the next award will be launched in April. The new call for proposals is being outlined with the same aim as the past one: to support the national administrations in selecting one destinations of excellence. The choice of the theme of excellence will once again be done in close cooperation with the TAC members and will be completed early March.

Calendar (tentative)

Launch of the restricted Call for Proposals: April 2007Submission of the Proposals: July 2007Evaluation and Commitment of the Budget: October 2007National Selection Procedure: December 2007 - April 2008Communication of Results to the Commission: May 2008Validation of the Award Criteria: June 2008Presentation of Awards: European Tourism Forum 2008

The Commission will invest in communications activities which include the production of a logo to identify the action. A video clip will be produced and will be distributed to the participating Member States to be used in their national promotional campaigns. A documentary promoting the award and the successful destinations will be disseminated through the internet, pan-European media companies, the European Tourism Destinations Portal and at the occasion of major events such as the European Tourism Forum. The video produced at the occasion of the award ceremony will be distributed to the winning destinations for use in their own promotional marketing strategies.

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The Commission will facilitate the creation of networks between awarded destinations, with the aim of facilitating the creation of platforms for the exchange of good practices at European level and possibly of encouraging other destinations to adopt similar sustainable tourist development models.

To be a success, the number of Member States participating in the project should increase to a minimum of twenty.

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The EU assuming its Role in a Globalised World – IPR Help Services for EU SMEs in Beijing (02 02 09)

1. Objective This action is designed to provide an advice service and gateway for EU SMEs that are facing IPR infringement problems from counterfeiting based in China. The project will benefit both EU-based SMEs and those sourcing from or dealing with Chinese companies.


3. Forecast for 2007The intention is to prepare the call for proposals by mid March with a view to launching the call by end of April. The aim is to sign the contract by the end of the year and to provide a pre-financing payment this year of EUR 0.5 million.

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Technological Transfer (02 02 10)

1. Objective The aim of the pilot scheme is to explore ways to facilitate the transfer of knowledge from universities and research organisations into the marketplace, in particular into SMEs. The project aims to help licensing agreements, collaboration agreements, or the creation of spin-offs by investing in and supporting technology transfer operations between universities and research laboratories and enterprises, including implementation fees in line with market practices.


3. Forecast for 2007Based on the justification approved by the EP that advocates the use of the European Investment Fund (EIF) and establishes the need to act at Community level; and following best practice in implementing the Community financial instruments, the Commission will use the European Investment Fund as the vehicle for implementing this pilot project, benefiting in particular from its experience in exploring the Technology Transfer Accelerator (TTA).

The total budget for the pilot project for 2007 is EUR 2 million, which will be committed at one time and transferred to the EIF as soon as the necessary agreements are in place after 1 May.

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Mainstreaming of Disability Actions (04 04 10)

1. ObjectiveThe EU has a long-standing commitment to promoting equality of opportunity for people with disabilities and endorsed the international move towards a human rights approach in the disability policy field. The EU commitment to equal rights for people with disabilities has also gradually been given appropriate legal embodiment at EU level in the form of enforceable anti-discrimination legislation on employment and occupation based on Article 13 of the Amsterdam Treaty.

The Social Affairs Council Conclusions of 2 December 2003 on the follow-up of the European Year of People with Disabilities and the promotion of equal opportunities for people with disabilities1 invited the Member States notably to pro-actively mainstream disability issues into relevant policy areas.

The two calls for proposals aimed at supporting pilot projects, intended to facilitate and encourage actions to mainstream disability issues in all relevant policy areas, at all and stages levels of policy making and with all relevant actors, including organisations representative of people with disabilities. The pilot projects are expected, in particular:

− to identify and/or develop the analytical and educational techniques and tools to be used for mainstreaming disability at the various levels concerned taking into account the actual situations in the 25 Member States;

− to develop EU and national knowledge on the strategy of mainstreaming, in particular, through exchange of experience and good practice as regards mainstreaming methodologies and evaluation of results;

− to identify/develop knowledge, exchange good practice and promote networking between the relevant stakeholders taking into account the priorities defined under item 4 below.

Objectives and priorities of the pilotprojects are described in detail in the official text of the call and the corresponding guidelines which were freely accessible at the DG EMPL web page.2

2. Implementation In total, two calls for proposals (first and second wave) have been published, one in 2004 and one in 2005.

Type and number of actions that have been financed:Two waves of projects were launched under this budget line. A total of EUR 5 570 732 million has been engaged. In 2004 there were 8 projects contracted following a call for proposals. In 2005, seven pilot projects (through open call for

1 http://europa.eu.int/comm/employment_social/index/7003_en.html(1) request received 9/02/2007 - under verification by the Financial and Operational Agent(2) http://europa.eu.int/comm/employment_social/calls/2005/vp_2005_006/tender_en.htm

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proposal) and one study (through open call for tender) have been selected for European Commission financial support.

Approach to the selection of beneficiaries Projects

Both calls were published on the web site of the DG EMPL. Evaluation committee, consisting of several European Commission civil servants from various directorates, was established to scrutinise the project proposals. Selection of proposals was based on the standard selection criteria that were communicated to all evaluators (members of the evaluation committee). Apart from the open call for proposal, one procurement procedure was launched in June 2005 with the award decision taken in December 2005 (see annex 3 for further details). Similar evaluation and selection procedure was used.

Currently there area 8 projects running for the first wave. The Commission is waiting for final report in order to proceed with the final payment.

There are 7 projects running for the second wave where the Commission is waiting for the interim reports in order to proceed with the interim payment.

Beneficiaries selected in 2004 (first wave)

Org. Date of signature of the contract

Duration of the contract

Funding assigned (€)

Advance payment (30%) -2004

Interim payment (40%) -2006

Final payment (30%) -2007

CNR – Istituto per le tecniche della costruzione

(IT)

23.11.2004 01.12.2004 –01.12.2006

415.830,79 124.749,24 91.147,91Forecasted for the 1st quarter 2007 – max estimated amount:199.933,64

The Leonard Cheshire Foundation

(UK)

19.11.2004 01.12.2004 –01.12.2006

294.055,34 88.216,60 117.662,13Request received for payment:59.859,68 (1)

The European Disability Forum(BE -European level association)

25.11.2004 01.12.2004 –01.12.2006

409.780,20 122.934,06 163.912,08Forecasted for the 1st quarter 2007 – max estimated amount:122.934,06

Adecco(ES) 25.11.2004 01.12.2004 –

01.12.2006493.086,09 147.925,83

179.084,13 Forecasted for the 1st quarter 2007 – max estimated amount:166.076,13

Info-handicap

(LU)24.11.2004 01.12.2004 –

01.12.2006354.954,52 106.486,36

112.329,24 Forecasted for the 1st quarter 2007 – max estimated amount:

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136.138,92Inclusion Europe(BE -European level association)

30.11.2004 01.12.2004 –01.12.2006

445.593,86 133.678,16172.449,04 Forecasted for

the 1st quarter 2007 – max estimated amount:139.466,66

FENACERCI(PT) 09.12.2004 01.12.2004 –

01.12.2006224.575,08 67.372,52

58.327,69 Forecasted for the 1st quarter 2007 – max estimated amount:98.874,87

Association pour la recherche sur la ville et l'habitat

(FR)

09.12.2004 01.12.2004 –01.12.2006

238.231,08 71.469,3294.413,08 Request

received for payment:71.469,32 (1)

In total (max estimation for final)

2.921.106,96

862.832,09 989.325,30 994.753,28

(1) request received /02/2007 - under verification by the Financial and Operational Agent

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Beneficiaries selected in 2005 (second wave)A) Open call for proposal (subvention)

(1) the interim payment for Fundacion Intras has been already processed, as the contractual period has been reduced from the original forecasted 24 months to 12 months. This modification has been justified as the original proposal received from the Fundacion (time schedule, budget and implementation timing) has been based on 12 months.

Organisation Date of signature of the contract



Advance payment (30%)

Interim payment (40%) – 2007

Fundación ONCE(ES)

19.12.2005 01.01.2006 –12.31.2007

482.667,39 144.888,22 Forecasted for the 1st quarter 2007 – max estimated amount:

193.066,96Fundación INTRAS(ES)

15.12.2005 01.01.2006 –12.31.2007

188.650,84 56.595,25 60.386,33 (1)

LIGHT FOR THE WORLD - Christoffel Development Cooperation(AU)

15.12.2005 01.01.2006 –12.31.2007


188.885,12Stiftelsen Institutet för Independent Living(SE)

22.12.2005 01.01.2006 –12.31.2007


185.595,56EWORX S.A.(GR)

15.12.2005 01.01.2006 –12.31.2007


180.842,56IRS EUROPA - interventi e ricerche sociali -società cooperativa(IT)

15.12.2005 01.01.2006 –12.31.2007


117.864,96Form'action André Renard A.s.b.l.(BE)

21.12.2005 01.01.2006 –12.31.2007


118.134,6In total (max estimation for interim)

2.649.625,21 794.975,57 1.044.776,09

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B) Tender (procurement)

Development during 2005 Projects 2004 – first waveEight projects financed under the first open calls for proposal (VP/004/008) started off the actions forecasted in the respective work programme. Advanced payments were released in December 2004. The promoters continually updated the responsible Commission official on the development. Several conferences were organised, some of them in Brussels (Build for All and Business and Disability projects). The midterm reports have been submitted to the Commission at the beginning of February 2006 and interim documents have been evaluated and all corresponding payments have been already released.

Projects 2005 – second waveIn spring 2005 the second call for proposal was published (VP/2005/006). In total, the Commission received 41 project proposals. 10 project proposals were considered ineligible and were excluded for formal reasons (lacking documents, etc). 31 project proposals were evaluated during September - November and were assigned a mark by a team of ten evaluators from various directorates of the DG EMPL. On the basis of points assigned seven project proposals were selected for funding. Award decision was taken in November and contracts signed in December 2005. First advanced payment was committed and released in December 2005. Actions within the framework of the projects started to be implemented as from 1 January 2006. One interim report (1) has already been processed and in conformity with the forecasted previsions, we are planning to settle the corresponding interim payments in the first quarter of 2007. In summer 2005, a tender procedure was launched in order to procure a study on the analysis of the ad-hoc module of the labour force survey and the EU-SILC data on people with disabilities. The

Organisation Nam of the project Date of signature of the contract



Applica sprl. (BE)

STUDY ON THE ANALYSIS OF THE AD HOC MODULE OF THE LABOURFORCE SURVEY AND THE EU-SILC DATA ON PEOPLE WITHDISABILITIES

28.12.2005 12 months 266.745,65

Organisation Nam of the project Advance payment -2006

Interim payment -2006

Last payment – forecasted for 2007

Applica sprl. (BE)

STUDY ON THE ANALYSIS OF THE AD HOC MODULE OF THE LABOURFORCE SURVEY AND THE EU-SILC DATA ON PEOPLE WITHDISABILITIES

53.349,,13 80.023,70 Forecasted for the 1st quarter 2007 – max estimated amount:133.372,83

In total (max estimation for final)

53.349,,13 80.023,70 133.372,83

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evaluation committee selected Applica SPRL to carry out the study and a contract was signed in December 2005. The study will be finalised in December 2006.

Development during 2006 Projects 2004 – first waveMid-term reports on the implementation of the first-wave pilot projects were submitted to the Commission in the beginning of February 2006 analysed and the corresponding interim payments already transferred to the subventions beneficiaries. The 8 projects financed under the first open calls for proposal carried out with their work following the actions forecasted in the respective work programme. The contractors continue to send information to the Commission on the work done. Several final conferences were organised and the Commission was invited to participate. Some of the projects have started to submit their final reports and asking questions about the documentation needed for closing the projects. It is expected to have all the reports by end February and proceed with the payment during March 2007.

Projects 2005 – second waveThe projects started on time following the signature of the contract. Preliminary discussions took place with the Commission as a kick of the projects. They worked according to the plan. Some contractual questions were placed due to operational changes in the projects that are currently under study and might lead to amendments. The results of the study on the Analysis of the ad-hoc module of the labour force survey and the EU-SILC data on people with disabilities will be presented to the Commission in December 2006.

3. Forecast for 2007The first wave of projects is finished but their closing is pending the submission and evaluation of the final reports. Only after approval of these reports will the final payment is done. Two projects have already submitted their reports and are under analysis by the Financial and Operational agents.

For the projects of the second wave the Commission is waiting for the interim report. It is expected that they will arrive on time as no formal significant delay has been notified by the beneficiaries.

For both waves, submission of reports is planned for end February 2007.

The study mentioned above is following the same time schedule.

Projects from the second wave have planned several events to present and discuss their results with experts from the field.

Challenges so far and future eventual problems:The main issue that could arrive is the delay in the reporting from the side of the projects. If this is the case, payments will suffer from a delay.

The projects have been reminded of their deadline and the details needed to be submitted with the payments in order to justify the claims.

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Positive result Most of the projects have produced very interesting reports that are useful from the point of view of mainstreaming disability issues.

In particular the Build for All project has produced a document for using accessibility as a criteria in the public procurement in the built environment. This is very relevant for the structural funds regulations that now have to consider accessibility.

The Edemat report produced a well written document that could be used for promoting the results of the projects and raise awareness among key actors.

They organised a very well attended conference.

The project dealing with development cooperation organised a conference on how to include disability issues in development cooperation. The document from the conference provided useful guidance for these implementations. This is very relevant given the importance provided to this subject in the UN convention. The results of this project can be used to facilitate the implementation of the Convention.

A similar situation was the one of the projects related to gender issues. The results of these projects are important to facilitate the implementation of the issues on gender and disability raised in the UN Convention.

The projects dealing with accessible tourism have been very active in mainstreaming the disability issues and participated actively in events organised by the tourism unit in DG ENTR among others. These activities contributed to raise awareness on the project results and the practical solutions for accessible tourism.The tender from Applica on an analysis of the ad-hoc module of the labour force survey and the EU-SILC data on people with disabilities was presented early 2007 to the High level group on disabilities. The presentations were highly appreciated by the Member States and will contribute to set the next priorities for the European action plan on disabilities.

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Energy Security Bio-fuels (06 04 07)

1. Objective This pilot project is intended to finance actions or measures in the field of energy security to promote the European Union’s self-sufficiency in renewable energy sources, in particular bio-fuels.


3. Forecast for 2007The expected results of this pilot project are as follows:

− A better knowledge of problems linked to the energy security to bring more appropriate answers;

− The intensification of information policies about the renewable energies;

− The development of a pilot project which could be replicated for other projects.

For 2007, the pilot project should focus on the bio-fuels in aviation industry.

The purpose of this particular initiative is different from research. It should aim at showing that, using existing technologies and systems, it is possible to rely on green propulsion in aviation.

The action therefore should aim at establishing the feasibility of building a demonstration, or a pilot prototype, of an aircraft using bio-fuels or other alternative sources of energy. Such a demonstration model needs to be useful in terms of mind-setting, and therefore needs to be operated in an environment accessible to non-specialist public.

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Security along the Trans-European Road Network (06 07 02)

1. Objective Le projet pilote sur la sécurité au sein du réseau routier transeuropéen a comme objectif général l'amélioration de la sûreté perçue par les chauffeurs routiers sur les aires de repos.

2. ImplémentationBudget 2006:

L'autorité budgétaire a alloué un budget de 5,5 millions d'euros à ce projet pilote pour développer des aires sécurisées de parking pour les poids lourds sur les axes principaux du réseau transeuropéen de transport (RTE-T). Ce projet, entre autres, accompagne la mise en place des règles sur le temps de conduite et de repos.

Le budget alloué par l'Autorité budgétaire pour 2006 a servi à financer deux actions :- Action 1 : un marché dans le contrat cadre d'une valeur de 147 750 € et

- Action 2 : des subventions après appel à propositions d'une valeur indicative de 5 352 250 euros.

Concernant l'action 1, en février 2006 a été effectué l'engagement budgétaire. Le paiement d'avance d'une valeur de 44 325 € a été réalisé en mars 2006. Il s'agit d'une première étude, réalisée à travers le contrat cadre assistance économique, pour examiner l’ampleur des problèmes de sécurité sur les aires d’autoroutes, estimer la demande et l'offre existante de parking sécurisé et recommander des critères qualifiant la sécurité des aires de parking. Les résultats ont été présentés lors de deux séminaires avec l'industrie et des représentants du Parlement européen et ont permis d'identifier une première série de besoin (y compris des points noirs) et de préparer un appel à proposition pour le cofinancement d'infrastructures nouvelles. Le paiement final est en cours.

Concernant l'action 2, il s'agit d'un appel à proposition qui a été publié le 23 juin 2006. L'évaluation des propositions, reçues par la Commission européenne en septembre/octobre 2006, a été achevée. Les négociations entre la Commission européenne et les proposants a eu lieu de octobre à décembre 2006. Le contrat sera signé en mars 2007 et il sera multi-bénéficiaire et ce, pour une durée maximale de deux ans. Un préfinancement sera versé au consortium à hauteur de 70% du contrat. Une évaluation ex-post sera conduite à la fin du contrat.

L'action retenue porte sur le développement de nouveaux standards de sécurité et la construction/l'aménagement de parking sécurisés sur au moins cinq sites dans quatre Etats membres. Le résultat doit servir de modèle qui peut être répliqué ultérieurement sans l’aide de la Commission.

3. Prévisions pour 2007Le principal thème proposé pour 2007 est la mise en place d’aires de repos sécurisées ayant de grandes capacités d’accueil et/ou la mise en place d'un mécanisme de certification.

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Plus précisément, les objectifs poursuivis pour 2007 sont dans la continuité de 2006. Ces objectifs sont :

i) La réalisation d’un ou plusieurs projets pilotes afin de promouvoir les « meilleurs pratiques » (« best practice ») en matière d’aménagement d'aires de repos des poids lourds sur le réseau transeuropéen afin d’en assurer la sûreté et/ou

ii) la mise en place d'un mécanisme de certification d'aires sécurisées de repos pour poids lourds (par exemple sous la forme d'un "drapeau bleu").

La Commission européenne publiera, avant juin 2007, un appel à proposition qui se concentrera sur la mise en place dans plusieurs Etats membres d'un mécanisme de certification de la qualité et du niveau de sûreté offert par les aires de repos destinées aux poids lourds.Les projets devront être mis en place de façon à pouvoir continuer à fonctionner comme des aires de repos sécurisées « normales » lorsque leurs financements cesseront.

Ils devront servir de modèles économiques pour d’autres aires de repos qui seront mises en place sans aide financière.

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Individual Mobility of Upper Secondary Pupils (15 02 02 06)

1. Objective The aim of the pilot is to prepare an individual pupil mobility scheme under the new Lifelong Learning Programme (Comenius sub-programme). This new action shall enable upper secondary pupils to undertake an individual mobility period of up to one year in a school abroad.

The contractor selected through a Call for Tender in 2006 shall assemble and analyse experience from existing pupil mobility actions and gather information on relevant features of school systems in different European countries. On the basis of this information, recommendations will be developed on the practical implementation of the future pupil mobility action. These recommendations shall be tested in practice with pupils from different countries participating in a pilot mobility phase.

2. Implementation 2006 budget: The contractor (the European Federation for Intercultural Learning) has submitted a first version of the first interim report on 9 February 2007. This report contains the results of the study of the current European context in relation to individual secondary school pupil mobility (overview of existing mobility schemes, overview of legal issues related to the mobility of minors, information on the recognition in different countries of study periods spent abroad). EFIL has also published mid-February a call for proposals for schools in 10 pilot countries to be involved in the pilot phase by sending pupils to their Comenius partner institutions abroad. The deadline for applications is 23 March 2007.

3. Forecast for 2007The contractor will submit in March the second interim report which should include a set of recommendations on the implementation of the new action.

Pilot mobility periods will take place in the autumn 2007. Comenius schools will send pupils to their partner schools abroad for periods of 3 or 6 months. The contractor will organise training sessions for participating pupils in the home country before departure, on arrival in the host country and again after they return to their home countries.

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Erasmus-style Programme for Apprentices (15 02 23)

1. Objective The European Parliament entered in the 2005 and 2006 budgets a new pilot line to explore the possibility to develop a new measure in the form of an Erasmus-type programme for apprentices and young persons in initial vocational training. This initiative by Parliament reflects the desire of the legislators to enable the mobility of apprentices and other young persons in initial vocational training as generalised and as integrated into training pathways as student mobility under the Erasmus scheme.

2. Implementation Year 2005 – Phase 1:The Commission launched three studies (contracted at the very end of 2005):• Move-it: a study on overcoming obstacles to mobility for apprentices and young

people in initial vocational education and training: the state of the art in the Member States and solutions to the obstacles.

• Reflector: focussed on the relation between a European credit transfer system for VET (ECVET) and the different systems of certification in the Member States.

• Connexion: focussed on the relations between ECVET and the offer of initial VET, apprenticeship included, and done viability of utilisation of the ECVET tools.

The three studies are in the process of being finalised.2005 budget:Commitment: EUR 1 998 084 Payment: EUR 0

Year 2006 – Phase 2:• This second phase builds on the studies launched in 2005; the effective

implementation was organised via a call for proposals and a call for tenders.• The call for proposals, led to the selection of 12 projects (from a total of 36

proposals submitted). They will develop and explore concrete mechanisms to strengthen the trans-national mobility of apprentices and other young people in vocational education and training. A maximum of EUR 150 000 per project was awarded, bringing the total budget for the 12 projects to EUR 1.6 million. The projects last between 15 and 21 months and they start between 1.12.2006 and 1.03.2007.

• Through the call for tender, a service contract was awarded to an organisation that will support and accompany the 12 projects. The contractor is also expected to collect the results of the different projects and write up a consolidated version of the main findings and solutions, which will then be made available to the public. This will allow us to disseminate and distribute them to a wide audience after completion of the projects. The contract lasts for 2 years.

2006 budget:Commitment: EUR 2 000 000 Payment: EUR 1 114 712


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No new actions are planned for 2007; the work on the studies contracted in 2005 will be completed, and the work with the projects contracted in 2006 will effectively start in 2007 (1st meeting with all projects in Brussels on 15 March 2007).Budget 2007Commitment: EUR 0 Payment: +/- EUR 1 950 000

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European Neighbourhood Scholarships at the College of Europeinstitutes (15 02 28)

1. Objective Le projet pilote financera des bourses d'étude en faveur d'étudiants venant des pays couverts par la politique européenne de voisinage (PEV) pour l'année académique 2007-2008.

Le Collège compte aujourd'hui 400 étudiants sur ses deux campus (situés l'un en Belgique et l'autre en Pologne). Ces étudiants suivent tous un programme, d'une durée d'un an, conduisant à l'obtention d'un mastère d'études européennes. A l'heure actuelle, ils viennent, dans leur toute grande majorité, des vingt-cinq Etats membres de l'UE. Aujourd'hui, seulement 2% des étudiants viennent de pays visés par la PEV, et moins de 1% viennent de Russie, un partenaire stratégique de l'UE. Pratiquement aucun de ces étudiants ne parvient à financer le coût de ses études au Collège ou à obtenir, dans son pays, une aide financière d'origine publique. Cette situation est manifestement préjudiciable au développement de la nécessaire expertise européenne dans les pays visés par la PEV. Fort de son ancienneté et de l'expérience qu'il a accumulée dans le domaine des affaires européennes, le Collège d'Europe est prêt à relever de façon innovante les défis évoqués de la politique européenne de voisinage en investissant dans les ressources humaines.

Cette argumentation fait la base de ce projet pilote qui a été demandé par le Parlement Européen avec un amendement du budget 2007.

2. Implémentation Nouveau projet pour2007

3. Prévisions pour 2007Un appel à propositions a été lancé en mars/avril 2007 afin de sélectionner des étudiants des pays du voisinage (les 17 pays ENPI du voisinage à l'Union européenne : pays du Maghreb, du Moyen Orient, la Russie et les autres pays au sud et à l'est comme l'Ukraine, la Georgia, l'Arménien et l'Azerbaïdjan) qui recevront des bourses pour étudier au Collège d'Europe (735.000 € prévus au total, ce qui devrait permettre de financer +/- 35 bourses).

Par ailleurs, une somme de 65.000 € a été prévue pour cofinancer les frais de sélection à la charge du Collège d'Europe.

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Cooperation between European institutes of Technology (15 02 29)

1. Objective En s'appuyant sur l'expertise existante, l'objectif est de renforcer les possibilités de transfert technologique de la recherche vers l'entreprise en mobilisant et en renforçant le potentiel offert par l'intégration des trois éléments du triangle du savoir (innovation, recherche et éducation).

2. Implémentation Nouveau projet pour 2007

3. Prévision pour 2007La Commission a l'intention de lancer un appel à propositions ouvert dans les prochains mois. Elle réfléchit actuellement au contenu des termes de référence sur la base du commentaire annexé à la ligne budgétaire.

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Heading 2

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Security Fund in the Fruit and Vegetable Sector (05 01 04 07)

1. Objective The tendering party should deliver the study on feasibility of:

• introducing a Community system for forecasting fruit and vegetable production by means of market monitoring centres at both Community and national level, tasked with anticipating crises in order to speed up response capabilities,

• introducing a security fund, managed by producer organisations and complementing the current crisis management scheme, to be used in the event of a crisis (large-scale price collapse, climatic disasters, etc.).

2. Implementation DG AGRI launched the open procedure for the tender on 12 August 2006 with publication in OJ of the tender notice and other tender documents. Only one offer was submitted by the deadline of 2 October 2006. The evaluation committee recommended rejecting this offer as it failed to meet the minimum requirements in terms of quality. DG AGRI followed this recommendation and decided to re-launch the call for tender in 2007.

3. Forecast for 2007The new open procedure for the tender will be triggered with the publication of Prior Information Notice in March 2007. The Award decision is expected to be taken in October and the appropriations committed in November.

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Sustainable Agriculture and Soil Conservation throughSimplified Cultivation Techniques (05 01 04 08)

1. Objective Un des objectifs de base de ce projet est d'encourager la connaissance et la diffusion du savoir-faire en matière de mise en œuvre de techniques culturales visant à une meilleure conservation des sols (" conservation agriculture") afin que la législation communautaire concernant le Développement Rural (période de programmation 2007-2013) puisse s'appliquer de manière appropriée dans ce domaine.

2. Implémentation Nouveau projet en 2007

3. Prévisions pour 2007À ce stade, les travaux préparatoires pour le lancement des procédures d'implémentation sont en examen. En conséquence, à ce moment (fin février), les services de la Commission ne sont pas en mesure de donner un calendrier des diverses étapes d'implémentation de ce projet pilote.

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Forest Protection and Conservation (07 03 11)

1. Objective In accordance with the budgetary remark under this item of the budget, the pilot project is intended to cover measures and actions for monitoring the effects of atmospheric pollution on forests, monitoring and preventing forest fires and collecting information and data on forest ecosystems, in order to ensure a continuity of forest fire prevention actions developed under the Forest Focus Regulation 2152/2003 which expired in December 2006.

Monitoring activities will address concerns relating to soil, biodiversity and forest sinks. These actions will involve grants and study and service contracts in addition to the financial contributions to the costs of programmes submitted by Member States and local authorities for activities to:

— continue and further develop the network of observation plots providing information on forest ecosystems,

— continue and further develop a forest fire information system,

— promote measures to prevent and combat forest fires, especially in regions classified as high-risk, as an extension of measures provided for under former Regulation (EEC) No 2158/92,

— promote reforestation measures for areas destroyed by fire, especially in nature reserves and protected areas, respecting the relevant bioclimatic and environmental features and using species and varieties suited to local conditions,

— promote and further develop the monitoring scheme and the evaluation of information gathered and develop a platform for exchange of data with and between Member States and other interested stakeholders,

— support reforestation programmes in fire-affected regions,

— investigate the causes and consequences of fires, which have been particularly serious in recent years, in particular for the European forestry sector,

— promote appropriate measures to prevent forest fires, such as firebreaks, forest tracks, access points, water points and forest management programmes.

2. Implementation This pilot project is implemented for the first time in 2007.

3. Forecast for 2007Approach intended

The Commission had, in its letter to the European Parliament on the implementability of amendments voted in the first reading, underlined that most of the measures proposed in the budgetary remark will normally be covered by the new instruments that will come into force within the 2007-2013 Financial Framework:

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- some of the proposed actions are already financed and will remain in the future primarily financed through Rural Development programmes (re-forestation measures, acquisition of fire-fighting means or other structural measures).

- Forest condition monitoring (the main Forest Focus part), as well as measures to prevent forest fires such as awareness-raising campaigns and special training for agents involved in forest fire prevention will fall within the scope of the LIFE+ programme.

The Commission further suggested that the amount foreseen for the pilot project could be redirected towards the Joint Research Centre for the further development of the European forest fire information system EFFIS, which is a key tool in the forest fire monitoring scheme.

It is therefore proposed to proceed through a joint implementation between DG ENV and the JRC.

In support to DG ENV, the JRC will further develop the European forest fire information system EFFIS. Remote sensing imagery has to be used for the rapid damage assessment of large forest fires, thus providing near-real time information to the Commission, the EP and the Member States.

Besides this, 4 calls for tender are planned to be published by the JRC:1 Creation of a European fuel map in order to help formulating fire prevention

measures and to estimate fire emissions.2. a study on forest fire emissions (calibration of remote sensing techniques to

identify fire intensity for a given fire in order to estimate the burned biomass).3. a study on socio-economical repercussions of forest fires4. a study on forest fire causes, their determination and harmonisation.

Timetable envisaged

Administrative arrangement in 2007, 4 calls to be published autumn 2007, first instalment late 2007, final payment 2009 (further details are pending agreement with the JRC).

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Risk Financing Model for Livestock Epidemics (17 01 04 04)

1. ObjectiveAnalyse the capacity of present financial instruments to handle the consequences of epidemic livestock disease outbreaks and assess whether "insurance schemes" or other similar financial schemes (mainly referred to as "cost-sharing schemes") covering direct and/or indirect costs can be considered viable options to prevent major financial risks for the Member States or for the Community budget and assess the feasibility of the "cost-sharing" schemes.

2. Implementation 2005 budget: EUR 500 000Credits totally committed by the end of 2005 as a contractor had been hired following a call for tender.

2006 budget: NAStudy completed by September 2006 and officially presented to stakeholders the 7 November 2006 during the Austrian-Finnish presidency conference. The report was published on the internet:http://ec.europa.eu/food/animal/diseases/strategy/main_report_part2_en.pdf

Payments made amounted to EUR 500 000.

3. Forecast for 2007Not applicable – the study is finished.

This report was used in the preparation of the Community Animal Health Policy (CAHP) 2007 – 2013. Commission's communication is planned in September / October.

Reactions from the Parliament and the Council are expected by the end of 2007 or in early 2008.

Based on these reactions guidance, the Commission would then launch a feasibility study for the implementation of a "community of cost sharing scheme in the area of animal diseases". The study would be financed under the operational budget lines of the Commission.

46

Heading 3a

47

Fight against Terrorism –Completion (18 05 06)

1. ObjectifsLe projet pilote lutte contre le terrorisme a pour objectif de mettre en œuvre tout le potentiel de la lutte contre le terrorisme et de donner un coup d'accélérateur aux activités communautaires visant à améliorer la sécurité des citoyens et à combattre le terrorisme, en particulier en comblant les lacunes entre les différentes activités communautaires existantes.

2. ImplémentationLe projet pilote, dont les deux décisions de financement ont été approuvées respectivement en septembre 2005 et octobre 2006, comporte une grande diversité d'actions dont la mise en œuvre s'est étalée en 2006 et 2007.

En ce qui concerne le budget 2005, soit 7 millions d'euros:

La plupart des actions du Programme de travail 2005 ont été lancées en 2006 et, par conséquent, les engagements individuels ont été accomplis pendant cette année – un total de 6 889 846 euros, en décembre 2006, soit un taux d'exécution de 98.4%. Les paiements n'ont pas dépassé la barre des 3 millions d'euros en 2006 et ils seront poursuivis en 2007.

Les principales actions menées concernent l'octroi de subventions et la passation de marchés pour l'acquisition de services ou travaux. Appel à propositions et autres subventions

• EPCIP (Programme européen pour la protection des infrastructures critiques) a connu un franc succès, son budget totalement utilisé, 10 subventions octroyées pour un total de 39 projets reçus (3 750 370.98 euros).

• Octroi d'une subvention dans le cadre des actions d'urgence prévues dans la décision, pour un montant de 241 605.50 euros.

Appels d'offres (pour des études et fournitures) dont les engagements s'élèvent à 2 854 099.61 euros et dont les plus importants:

• Etude sur les réseaux d’alerte transfrontalière utilisés au sein de l’UE par les services de police et création d’un Réseau d’Alerte concernant les Infrastructures Critiques (CIWIN) - 698 894 euros;

• Etudes sur la radicalisation violente (3 lots) – 447 115 euros;

• Etude "The economics of Terrorism" – 49 800 euros;

• Faraday cage – 1 244 000 euros;

• Risk assessment – 74 945 euros;

• Contrats avec des experts en radicalisation violente – 48 000 euros;

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• Conférences, réunions d'experts ainsi que l'appui aux réseaux d'experts -291 345.61 euros.

En ce qui concerne le budget 2006, soit 9 millions d'euros:

A l'instar du Programme de travail 2005, les actions du Programme de travail 2006 on été lancées l'année suivante, soit en 2007. Les principales actions menées concernent l'octroi de subventions et la passation de marchés pour l'acquisition de services.

Appel à propositions et autres subventions

• EPCIP - publié le 6/02/2007, soumission des propositions le 16/4/2007, budget 3 000 000 euros

• Prévenir la Radicalisation violente - publié le 30/02/2007, soumission des propositions le 16/4/2007, budget 750 000 euros.

• Octroi d'une subvention à Atlas en tant que monopole de facto et tel que prévu dans le Programme de travail (225 000 euros).

Appels d'offres (études) publiées:

• Étude sur les obstacles à la coopération et au partage d'informations entre les laboratoires médico-légaux et les autres organismes concernés de différents États membres et entre ceux-ci et leurs homologues des pays tiers – publié le 10/01/2007, délai le 5/3/2007 (150 000 euros);

• Étude sur les best practices dans la prévention de la radicalisation violente –publié le 10/01/2007, délai le 5/3/2007 (150 000 euros)

• Étude visant à apprécier l'ampleur, au niveau de l'UE, de l'utilisation abusive des organismes à but non lucratif aux fins du financement d'activités criminelles, publié le 1/3/2007, délai le 16/4/2007 (100 000 euros)

La décision de financement (C2006(5025)) est en cours de modification afin d'accueillir les modifications entre-temps intervenues et de maximiser l'utilisation de l'enveloppe budgétaire disponible.

3. Prévisions pour 2007Les actions seront poursuivies dans les cadre des Programmes adoptés par le Conseil pour 2007/2013, et notamment de la Décision 2007/124/CE, Euratom établissant le Programme «Prévention, préparation et gestion des conséquences en matière de terrorisme et autres risques liés à la sécurité»3.

3 OJ n° L58 du 24.02.2007, p. 1.

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Heading 3b

50

Cross Border Cooperation in Fight against Natural Disasters (07 04 02)

1. Objective The objective of the pilot project on cross border cooperation in the fight against natural disasters is to enhance cross border civil protection cooperation, raise awareness and provide a framework for closer cooperation in civil protection. This should be done by developing cross border early warning, coordination and logistical tools with a view to preventing or at least minimising the consequences of natural disasters. All with a view to further the resolution of the European Parliament adopted on 8 September 2005 on the fight against natural disasters, and the further report and resolutions adopted in 2006 on this matter.

Furthermore the pilot project should also further the Commissions proposal for a recast of the civil protection mechanism, presented on 26 January 2006. Therefore, the projects should test innovative approaches in the field of civil protection by developing operational cross border civil protection modules. Modules are specific, predefined arrangements of Member States' civil protection resources, consisting of equipment, personnel or a combination thereof. Their goal is to either perform support functions or to meet priority needs arising from emergencies. They should be fully interoperable, rapidly deployable and equipped.

2. Implementation The Call for Proposals was published on 28 July 2006 and the deadline for submitting proposals was 25 September 2006. 18 proposals were submitted and 6 have been selected, for a total budget of EUR 6 829 224 and a total grant amount of EUR 5 629 097.

The projects will develop cross border, multinational civil protection modules, which aim at enhancing the fight against specific disasters. Project activities include the setting up of a module, creating standard operating procedures, implement common training of civil protection personnel, execute multinational exercises testing the modules, exchanging civil protection experts and organise European workshops for the dissemination of the results of the projects.

2006 budget:

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Table 1: List of selected projectsApplicant

organisation name

Title of project

Disaster area/module

Member State

Beneficiary

Member State

Partners and/or

involved

Maximum amount of grant to

be awarded

(€)

EUCENTRE STEP Earthquakes/mobile assessment and command unit

IT PT, DE partner, all other

MS will be involved

€ 1.483.280

VECTOR COMMAND

EU Flood Command

Coastal floodings/Maritime Search and Rescue

command unit

UK IRL and SE partners,all other

MS will be involved

€ 1.094.646

Technisches Hilfswerk

EU-USAR : Relief cross

border

Earthquakes/Urban Search and Rescue

response and command unit

DE NL partner, all other

MS will be involved

€ 1.009.612

Technisches Hilfswerk

Flut -Management Cross Border

River floods/command unit

DE PL partner, all other

MS will be involved

€ 962.480

Direction de la Défense et de la Sécurité

FIRE 4 Forest Fires/response and command unit

FR IT, ES, PT partners, plus CY, GR, HU,

MT, SI, CZ associated

€ 900.000

Jelgava City Council

Fight Floods River floods/cross border response unit

LV LT partner, all other

MS will be involved

€ 179.079

EUR 6.5 million were budgeted, of which EUR 5 629 097 were allocated in grants to the projects selected. For most projects, work is due to start in the first quarter of 2007. The Commission will hold a kick-off meeting on the 23 March 2007, where all the projects will present their main objectives and expected milestones. Further information:

http://ec.europa.eu/environment/civil/prote/crossborder.htm

3. Forecast for 2007This pilot project was not prolonged in 2007.

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Citizenship (15 06 01)

Pilot Project on “Participatory Democracy: European Citizens in Movement”Contract 2006-2738 Unión de Coopeartivas Madrileñas de trabajo asociado1. Objective The project aims at addressing the issues such as democracy in economy (social economy, participatory budgets), citizen’s movements and local participation (agenda 21, development plans) and citizens’ participation in the EU. All the topics will include a gender perspective as a cross-cutting issue for all the project activities. The proposed project will employ “training of the trainers” approach, using the replication and multiplier effect for and through the partner organisations.

2. Implementation Description of the results obtained so far

• Good practice in citizen participation in Europe – January 2007

• Draft participatory democracy training kit – February 2007

• Training for trainers course (where kit will be tested) – 7-9 March 2007

• Final version of training kit – March 2007

2006 budget:Commited: EUR 75 000Prefinancing: EUR 52 500


• National Workshops (five different countries) – June and July 2007

• European Network for Participatory Democracy – June and July 2007

• Final Report – August 2007

Final payment planned by the end of the year 2007

Pilot Project on “European Residents in Regeneration Network”Contract 2006-2739 Quartiers en crise1. Objective The project seeks to create a sustainable network which will link citizens/residents, local decision-makers and community based organisations with EU institutions and establish an electronic platform to connect all the actors and to stimulate the exchange of best practices. Eight partners from the old Member States will participate in every phase of the project.


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• Ten Local Regeneration Fora (LRF) in project partner countries created – starting December 2006

• An electronic platform providing good practice case studies, member profiles, on-line forums, links to other resources, etc. – first version, January 2007

2006 budget:Committed: EUR 75 000Pre-financing: EUR 52 500


• A development workshop in Brussels, to which four delegates from each LRF will be invited – March 2007

• A report on citizens’ urban regeneration priorities, presenting it to the informal group of ministers that is responsible for urban policies – September 2007

After that the results of the project will be evaluated and used as a basis for the development of new categories of citizens' projects within Action 1 of the Europe for Citizens programme as of 2008.


Pilot Project on “Our rights, our responsibilities – Promoting Active EuropeanCitizenship among Youth in Europe"”Contract 2006-2740 World Association of Girl Guides and Girls Scouts Europe1. Objective The main objectives are to deliver training to youth leaders from girl scouts and guides organisations, to create a network of highly qualified and motivated youth leaders and to stimulate exchange of best practices and innovation in the area of European active citizenship. Partner organisations come from 9 countries, representing both old and new Member States.


• Training the Trainers – November 2006

• Holding six ‘Sustainability Seminars’ – December 2006 to March 2007

2006 budget:

Committed: EUR 47 500Pre-financing: EUR 33 250


• Holding a ‘Tools Fair’ in Spain – June 2007

• Developing the Citizenship Micro site – throughout the project

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After the June event the results of the project will be evaluated and used as a basis of development of citizens' projects within the Action 1 of the "Europe for Citizens" programme as of 2008.


Pilot Project on “European Citizens' Panel: What roles for rural areas in tomorrow's Europe?”Contract 2006-2471Association Européenne pour l'information sur le Développement local1. Objective The project aims to create a bottom-up mechanism to enable European citizens to draw up proposals on the future of rural areas in Europe. Citizens, stakeholders, local and European decision-makers will work together in seven regional level panel in the Member States and their delegates will draw the final recommendations in a European level panel. The project will bring together organisations from seven old Member States.


By February 2007 eight regional citizens' panels were organized (in Bavaria - DE, Durham and Cumbria - UK, Flevoland - NL, Rhône-Alpes - F, Wallonia - BE and Canton de Saint-Gall – Switzerland) – two of them being cross-border panels (Republic of Ireland/North Ireland and Hungary/Slovakia).

Representative of DG EAC – D4 participated in the regional citizens' panel in Wallonia in Spring 2007. The event highlighted the high quality of the entire project and a high potential of the impact on the European citizens to engage in the public space both on the regional and European level.

2006 budget:Committed: EUR 148.691Pre-financing: EUR 104 083.70

3. Forecast for 2007One European panel is to take place in April 2007 in which the delegates of the regional panels will meet with the representatives of EU institutions to present the results of their debate and to identify priorities for the European rural policy.Tool-kit, project report and DVD will be produced in April 2007

Following the April event the results of the project will be evaluated and used as a basis of development of citizens' projects within the Action 1 of the "Europe for Citizens" programme as of 2008.


Pilot Project on “EUR-ACTION: Citizens acting for Europe”Contract 2006-2742

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1. Objective Citizens’ panels at local level, with an opening conference and local training sessions for the participants beforehand, transition to European level through a trans-national citizens’ panel to exchange ideas between panels, international final conference and sustainability through final publication and website. The participants of the panels are ordinary citizens from the partner municipalities (ALDA network). Participants are also involved in the governance of the action, taking part in the process of selection of themes and with a delegation in the steering committee. The involved partners are spread along Europe: North-South and new-old Member States.


• Launch conference to identify citizens’ panels – February 2007

2006 budget:Committed: EUR 150 000Pre-financing: EUR 105 000


• Capacity building workshop on interacting with EU institutions – April 2007

• Trans-national citizens’ panel meeting – June 2007

• Final ‘local level’ conference – June 2007

• International conference and publication of project findings – July 2007

Final payment planned by the end of the year 2007.

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European Political Foundations (15 06 07)


2. Forecast for 2007The indicative planning is set out below. Further information will follow in the working document which accompanies the PDB 2008

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Euroglobe (16 03 05)

1. Objective This appropriation is intended to finance a pilot project for a mobile Globe theatre aiming to foster a European public space for debate, culture and learning.

2. Implementation This is the first year the pilot project is going to be implemented.

3. Forecast for 2007Euroglobe is a project aimed at bringing Europe closer to the citizens through a Shakespearian mobile theatre. The theatre (building and crew) is supposed to physically move from town to town in the countries successively holding the EU presidency.

The approach intended is to implement this project through a grant procedure. The DG COMM 2007 annual work programme on the financing of grants and contracts from operating appropriations (ref. C(2007) 750) will be amended consequently. A situation of monopole is currently under examination. Depending on the outcome, an award decision will be taken or an open call for proposals will be launched.

The timeframe desired is to have the Euroglobe ready to play shows before the end of the first EU-Presidency of the year 2007, that is to say before the end of June (see table 5 enclosed).

The risks, or possible implementation problems, are related to the technical and financial capacities of the applicant(s) to implement this large project, including the capacity to find the necessary co-funding.

Prospect for a legal base in the future

There is no prospect to develop this project in the form of a legal base. DG COMM implements its budget according to the Commission's prerogatives at institutional level and is not entitled to develop such a legal basis.

Pilot Information Networks (PINs) (16 03 06)

1. Objective

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This pilot project has as objective to create communities of parliamentarians (at national or regional level), of journalists and other European opinion makers with the aim to share information and knowledge on the European Union.

2. Implementation This is the first year this project is going to be implemented.

3. Forecast for 2007PINs will operate at two levels: the internet and meetings. Priority will be given to networks of European and national politicians on the current major themes of EU interest.

§ Internet and online tools: The internet and online tools which will be used must be designed and implemented by professionals. The Commission will launch an open call for tender to select a contractor who will then implement and manage the online project.

Estimated budget: EUR 2.5 million. The contractor shall be in place in November/December 2007.

§ Meetings in Brussels: These will be organised bringing together in different thematic groups national and European parliamentarians.

§ Events across EU: Six-seven events/meetings are planed to take place reflecting in each case a network theme. They will be jointly organised by the Europe Houses (COM-EP) in the Member States in the context of the pilot European Public Spaces.

Estimated budget for meetings: EUR 2.5 million. The meetings will be organised using framework contracts and/or procedures for small procurements.

Timetable envisaged:

The DG COMM 2007 annual work programme on the financing of grants and contracts (ref. C(2007) 750) from operating appropriations will be amended, and the adoption is planed for April-May.

Possible implementation problems

The risks are the usual risks related to large calls for tenders, including possible delays.

Prospect for a legal base in the future

There is no prospect to develop this project in the form of a legal base. DG COMM implements its budget according to the Commission's prerogatives at institutional level and is not entitled to develop such a legal basis.

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Heading 4

61

Transatlantic Measures for handling Global Challenges (19 05 03)

1. ObjectiveThe Commission welcomes the pilot project (EUR 2.5 million) on common transatlantic approaches to key international challenges adopted with the 2007 Budget. The Commission will launch a call for proposals to identify suitable innovative ventures between European and US policy makers to foster common approaches in areas such as environmental, energy, or other global issues of importance to EU-US dialogue.

2. ImplementationIt is too early in the implementation stage to describe any results yet. The financing decision is in the process of being drafted.

3. Forecast for 2007The pilot project might take the form of joint EU-US research projects incorporating workshops/conferences to bring together EU and US policy makers in these areas.

The Commission intends to give visibility to this pilot project by announcing its launching at the 30 April EU-US Summit. The aim is to fund innovative projects by policy-makers and stakeholders directed at identifying and promoting opportunities for EU-US leadership and co-operation in addressing global challenges. The financing envisaged would cover grants over a period of 18 months.

An indicative table on the timetable envisaged for the implementation is set out below. Since this is the first year for such a Pilot Project, it is hard to predict the response of grant beneficiaries which might be interested and the quality level of the proposals received.

Implementation of Pilot Projects and Preparatory Actions – Grants life cycleBudget

lineAnnual Work

Programme/Financing decision

Elaboration and Launch of Calls for proposals

Submission of proposals

Evaluation of proposals

Award decision

Budgetary Commitment

Grant agreement

Payment

19 05 03 April-May 2007

July 2007 September 2007

September 2007

October 2007

Nov-December

2007

December 2007

January 2008

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European Emergency Judicial Assistance (21 04 04)

1. Objective The appropriations 2007 are intended for the following measures:

A- defending accused persons and victims with local lawyers and ensuring that fair trials are held;

B- protecting and assisting defenders of human rights who have been threatened.

The aim of the project is to establish partnership relations for organising judicial support with the many lawyers' associations, lawyers' NGOs and trade associations for the legal professions in third countries.

2. Implementation New pilot project in 20072007 budget: EUR 200 000 commitment appropriations/EUR 100 000 payment appropriations2007 forecasts: EUR 200 000 commitment appropriations/EUR 0 payment appropriations

Remark: This pilot project is currently under the chapter (21 04 = environment and sustainable management of natural resources, including energy). It should be transferred to Article 19 04 02 as of 2008 (19 04 = European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights).

3. Forecast for 2007As regards measure A above: Urgency judicial support to Member State nationals, according to Legal Service this activity is under exclusive competence of the Member States.

As regards measure B above: This measure is not really a pilot action as it is already included in the new European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR), and should be included as an objective in the EIDHR Strategy 2007-2010 (expected to be adopted in June 2007).

The Commission will therefore propose that the available commitment appropriations be pooled with appropriations available under Article 19 04 02, in order to finance activities for protecting and assisting defenders of human rights, through grants awarded following a call for proposals.

This call for proposals will be part of the EIDHR Annual Action Programme 2007 and should be launched in autumn 2007. Contracting and first payment are not foreseen before 2008.

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Water Management in Developing Countries (21 04 06)

1. Objective The objectives presented in the decision are: in transboundary water management to promote inter governmental cooperation, to support actions at local level, to enhance resource protection against erosion, contamination, to promote harmonised decision processes at national and local level. In developing countries, this will be achieved trough exchanges, capacity building and support to the creation of the necessary organisation to manage and monitor watershed. Project ideas are currently under development. These could include, among others, an initiative in the Amazonian region, a transboundary river basin management project in a region shared by Central Asian countries and China. These two water basins have been identified because of their importance in fields like international relations, river basin and water management, ecological challenges and economic potential.

2. Implementation New pilot project in 2007

3. Forecast for 2007The approved budget of EUR 3 million will be committed during the year of 2007 through direct grant.

Approach intended

Built on the principle recommended within Integrated Water Resource Management, participatory approaches will be favoured. Cross-border exchanges will be promoted with the concerned government supporting international treaties. Across borders collaboration between stakeholders and capacity building to the local authorities and the population will be implemented. More activities will be identified during the identification phase until the formulation of the full project.

Timetable envisaged

- Definition of the objectives and actions 31 May- Inter-service Consultation completed: 30 June 2007- Financing Decision: 1 September 2007

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Heading 5

65

Minimising Administrative Burdens (26 01 08)

1. Objective Minimising administrative burdens.

2. Implementation New pilot project in 2007. DG ENTR will implement the project.

3. Forecast for 2007Discussion is ongoing as to how best to implement this pilot project. Details will follow in the working document accompanying the PDB.

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Implementation of Preparatory Actions

67

Heading 1a

68

Support for SMEs in the New Financial Environment (02 02 03 02)

1. Objective The overall objective of this preparatory action (PA) is to find ways to alleviate the difficulties of financing SMEs. This objective is to be achieved by enhancing the confidence and capacity of financial institutions, particularly from the new Members States, to provide loans (including financial leases) to SMEs in Member States with a low level of banking intermediation (i.e. mostly bank lending).

The Commission is testing the feasibility of a programme that finances technical assistance with the aim of achieving more bank loans for small amounts to SMEs through the Commission’s cooperation with international financial institutions (IFIs).

2. Implementation 2005 budget: The projects with Istrobanka (EBRD) and Medicinos Banka (KfW/CEB) are approved, signed and well on the way, with visible results in increased number of loans and appropriate schooling of personnel in banks. Both banks have drawn money from the corresponding trust accounts for those projects. The EU has also approved projects with other financial institutions but final agreements/signatures between these and IFIs are still outstanding.

2006 budget: The IFIs are still concentrating on the commitments of the earlier years so no result can be reported so far.

3. Forecast for 2007The Commission is pushing hard to finalise outstanding contracting with IFIs. This has already led to signature with one of the three IFI partners. A second contract is in the pipeline. However, negotiations with the third are advancing very slowly. IFIs are focusing on fulfilling the 2004-2005 commitments. IFIs are also in general experiencing difficulties in finding suitable partner banks to channel support. This has a knock-on effect on the 2006 contracting with IFIs, which has been delayed so far. The slow progress and start up phase of the preparatory action is mainly due to the fact that the IFI’s have already signed (under the SME Finance Facility) contracts with most of the suitable banks, and an extra effort is required to find and analyse new and small participating banks suited for the preparatory action programme. Another possible reason why the preparatory action has been slow to take off, might be that the banks which show interest in the preparatory action are mainly small, mostly regional banks with scarce personal capacities for projects like the preparatory action, and with little extra personnel capacity to allocate in the initial phase of such a co-operation.

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Enhancement of European Security Research (02 04 02)

1. Objective The Preparatory Action for Security Research (PASR) was launched for a period of three years (2004-2006). It is now finished. In 2007, PASR will start to be phased out. No more new research projects will be funded, and the existing projects will be finalised during 2007, 2008 and 2009.

The objectives of PASR were:• to prepare for a Community security research theme within the 7th RTD Framework

Programme (FP7), as from 2007;• to increase the security of the EU citizen, while respecting the Union values on

individual rights, democratic values, ethics and liberties;• to improve the industrial competitiveness of the EU industry;• to contribute to the building of European Security policy.

2. Implementation The Security Research activities of the Commission have started with PASR in 2004, with the first research projects were launched in 2005. The main goal of PASR has been reached, namely the start of a fully-fledged research theme within FP7 as from 2007 onwards.

To date, the impact of security research can be measured by the important involvement or participation of end-users in all the research projects funded, the participation of stakeholders of all the – at that time 25 - different MS, (except LU and CY) and the coverage of all programme areas and topics.

The PASR projects have contributed to the content of FP7, the definition of a future European Security Research Agenda, the continuation of technological development and research in the areas covered, the co-ordination with the European Defence Agency, and the increased co-operation among European Industry.

Work on the definition of security research theme in FP7 was supported by the European Advisory Board for Security Research, which drew on the experience of national administrations and industry and whose final report was published in October 2006. It is essential in this highly sensitive area to respect the concerns of the Member States without compromising the Community interest. The evidence of success in this regard is clear: the work programme for security research in FP7 for 2007 was agreed and adopted before the end of 2006.

The Budget of PASR:

2004 budget: EUR 15 million

2005 budget: EUR 15 million (+ EUR 316 500 EEA/EFTA contribution)

2006 budget: EUR 15 million (+ EUR 309 000 EEA/EFTA contribution)

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3. Forecast for 2007The third and last call of the PASR was launched in 2006.

For PASR, no new activities are foreseen in 2007. Security research is now well rooted in, and taken over by FP7.

The ongoing PASR activities in 2007 will mainly consist in finalising those PASR projects that were launched in 2004 and that have come to an end. The other research projects which started in 2005 and 2006 will be managed and followed up until their finalisation in 2008 and 2009.

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ENEA Preparatory Action on Active Ageing and Mobility of Elderly People (04 03 06)

1. Objective The ENEA pilot action concerning cooperation and exchange projects designed to improve the mobility of older persons was set up at the initiative of the budgetary authority through the introduction of a heading "ENEA pilot project on mobility of elderly people" into the 2003 budget. The budget line was intended to finance trans-national pilot projects that "encourage the establishment of exchange programmes for the elderly through specialised organisations tasked with developing resources for mobility and changes to infrastructure". The action aimed, in particular, to overcome obstacles to mobility of older persons in Europe who wish to play a full part in social and cultural activities or to develop contacts with people from other generations.

In 2005, the Budgetary Authority decided to establish a new preparatory action also under the name ENEA for 2006 and in 2006 for 2007. The purpose of the preparatory action is:

• to fund initiatives aimed at promoting active ageing and the employment of older women and men; and

• to finance measures to encourage the establishment of exchange programmes for the elderly through specialised organisations tasked with developing, inter alia, resources for mobility and adapting infrastructures, including within travel.

2. ImplementationENEA pilot action Through a call for proposals (VP/2003/022) launched in 2003, a total of eight projects was funded. Total spending amounted to EUR 3 120 292.19.

With a 2004 call for proposals (VP/2004/006) ten projects were funded and a total amount of EUR 1.543.726.48 was paid.

These 18 projects promoted mobility of the older people through short-term stays in another EU Member State and, primarily, enabled older persons to make profit of skills acquired previously and share their experiences, irrespective of their financial or social situation. Each project involved partners from at least three Member States and were carried out in 2004 and 2005 according to the 12-month-contracts.

An evaluation of the ENEA pilot action and these 18 funded projects is currently in progress and carried out by an independent external evaluator (Fondazione Giacomo Brodolini). The aim of the evaluation is to establish whether the pilot action has been successful with regard to its objectives and whether the experiences could be transferable and applied at a larger scale. The evaluation contract of twelve months duration was signed in December 2005 for an amount of EUR 33 840. The draft final evaluation report is expected to be available in March 2007.

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ENEA preparatory actionThe Commission published a call for proposals (VP/2006/018) on 1 September, and signed 18-month-contracts with four applicants whose projects met both of the objectives of the preparatory action, i.e. active ageing and mobility of older people. A total amount of EUR 1 493 105.27 was committed for four projects.

3. Forecast for 2007The European Parliament increased the amount available in 2007 for commitments under the ENEA preparatory action to EUR 3 million. The Commission is planning to launch a new ENEA call for proposals during the second quarter of 2007. The focus of the call will be on promoting active ageing through mobility. In addition, projects supporting the social integration of older people who have moved to another country after retirement could also be made eligible for funding under this preparatory action.

A major concern will be the sustainability of projects. They should have a positive impact in terms of promoting active ageing and the social integration of older people beyond the duration of EU funding. This lasting positive impact may be the result of continued employment or volunteer activity of older people beyond the duration of the project funding; it may also result from the project's activities being continued with support from other sources or from the possibility of exchange and transferring of experiences gained from a project.

In order to achieve such a lasting impact and establish structure that can continue beyond the period of EU grant support. Longer project duration (up to three years) could be envisaged.

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Security of conventional energy supplies (06 04 03 01)

1. Objective As argued in the first "EU Strategic Energy Review” (COM(2007)1) and confirmed in the conclusions of the European Council of March 2007, growing EU external energy dependence and the completion of the internal energy market make necessary an enhanced analysis of energy market for conventional energies. This could be reached through an observation and market analysis system; the current oil security legislation (i.e. directives 68/414/CEE, 73/238/CEE and 98/93/CE and decisions 77/706/CEE and 79/639/CEE), the directive concerning measures to safeguard security of natural gas supply (2004/67/EC) as well as the need to ensure the functioning of internal energy market will be the framework of this observation and analysis structure.The objective is to permit an effective monitoring of the essential data and issues contributing to the well-functioning and security of the internal energy market, facilitate the realisation of the necessary energy infrastructure and identify in advance potential threats to the regular and reliable supply of energy to and within the EU.

It will provide a user-friendly, reliable, consistent and centralised source of data and qualitative information within the Commission that will assist the Commission, the Member states, industry and other interested parties in making fully-informed decisions relevant to both policy and new investments and thereby ensuring the short term, medium term and long term security of energy supplies in the EU. Fostering competition and ensuring cost effective energy sources is an indispensable part of the Lisbon agenda.

Such a structure, to be effective, will require complex monitoring of market developments, assessments of risks, evaluations of impacts of measures on the security of energy supply, in internal and global markets. These must be based on objective, reliable and comparable data. Close co-operation with partner countries supplying and transiting resources to the enlarged EU will be required. The main tasks of this observation/analysis system are:

1. Monitoring the functioning of the internal and international oil and gas markets: based on analyses of economic and political developments and a permanent dialogue with partner countries.

2. Contributing to the implementation of a system for the physical monitoring of the oil and gas infrastructures inside and outside the EU: this concerns accident prevention and intervention, relating to strategic oil, gas and petroleum products infrastructures. A technical and economic feasibility study of a pan-European flow model for oil and gas involving a satellite-based communication system (Galileo) will be launched. A technical and physical implementation plan of the monitoring system will be developed. The participation of partner countries could be negotiated.

3. Monitoring oil and gas supplies to the EU and the procedures aimed at guaranteeing the security of these supplies in emergency cases: the aim is to ensure common understanding of the challenges and appropriate policy measures, minimizing the impact of emergency measures on the functioning of the internal energy market. In practice, this will involve monitoring of oil and gas demand and supply development,

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evaluation of Member State policies for emergencies, monitoring the transposition and implementation of relevant Community legislation, preparation of new proposals if necessary, including the development of common security of supply standards.

4. Monitoring level of stocks of oil, gas and oil products, procedures for the use of stocks and facilities, and implementation of measures to reduce oil and oil products consumption: the purpose is to ensure adequate stock levels and gas storage facilities, and to develop recommendations, on stocks and facilities use, and on means to reduce oil consumption.

5. Creation of a bank of objective, reliable and comparable data necessary to fulfil the above tasks: concretely, this means identification of the most appropriate design of database(s) to support the system’s work and mechanisms to collect and update the relevant data.

2. Implementation 2006 budget:

The system intended to meet the objectives above has been elaborated by a consortium of consulting firms chosen by means of an open tendering procedure (budget 2004). It consists of a comprehensive database and a ‘user-friendly’ web platform and reporting tool for the storing, management and dissemination/presentation of the data required by the Commission. A first functioning version of the system is available on trial basis from the end of 2006. A fully functioning version should be ready in 2007.

For the sake of achieving its goals, the system must be fed by relevant market and technical information and data coming partly from commercial sources which are not publicly available to the Commission. These data have been identified by the consultant, in consultation of and based on the needs of the Commission, as necessary for attaining the objectives of the observation system. An open tendering procedure was organized and has ended in December 2006.

This procurement action is based on the 0,5M euro resource available for 2006. It has ensured the establishment of the observation system and should also allow for a period of data use of 2 years. During this time, the system shall be also assessed as to its ability to be opened to other users (including the Member States’ authorities and, in a longer run, the public at large).

3. Forecast for 2007The final version of EMOS will be deployed in DG TREN in the middle of the year. The initial date for the end of the project being April 2007, the contract with the external developers will have to be extended until the end of the summer period, due to reasons initially unforeseen (among others, upstream changes in the Commission's IT environment).

During 2007, the Energy observatory will be established within DG TREN. The Commission will propose a legal base to fund the activities of the observatory, for which EMOS will most probably become the backbone. This legal base will enable the further

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development and maintenance of EMOS and the integration of all elements of the EU energy mix in the System.

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Creation of an Internet-based System for Better Legislation and for Public Participation (09 03 03)

1. Objective The eParticipation initiative is a Preparatory Action which aims at harnessing the benefits of the use of Information and Communications Technologies for better legislative processes and better legislation at all levels of governmental decision making and for an enhanced participation of the citizen in such processes.

The action addresses the legislation/legislative process at four stages:

• the legislation proposal formation stage

• the debate on draft legislation

• the implementation level, and

• the follow-up/monitoring of the legislation life cycle

2. Implementation The preparatory action started in 2006.

2006 budget: The call for proposals launched in 2006 was very successful, with the reception of 38 proposals of which 36 were eligible to be evaluated. Due to budgetary constraints, from the ten proposals that were retained in the evaluation only 6 have been funded. These six projects started work on 1 January 2007. In addition three calls for tender have been published in 2006 and the offers that were received are currently being assessed.

3. Forecast for 2007The budget for this preparatory action for 2007 is EUR 5 million. The 2007 work programme is scheduled to be approved March/April 2007. A consultation meeting with stakeholders took place on 16 February 2007. The call will focus on larger projects, mainly covering areas that were not sufficiently covered by the 2006 call and address Web 2.0 technologies. The timetable is described below. The commitment appropriations are foreseen to be fully committed by the end of the year. Payments will cover the pre-financing for 2007 call and some 2006 projects.

The main risk for implementation will be the inadequacy of the proposals received to the objectives of the work programme. Mitigation plan includes consultations with stakeholders at the early stage of preparation of the work programme (see above) to make sure that, on one hand, the work programme is adapted to the current state-of-art of the available technologies and procedures for e-participation, and on the other hand, that the stakeholders understand the objectives described in the work programme.

Calls for tenders for studies in the field of eParticipation also may be foreseen in the workprogramme.

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Towards the end of the year and based on mid-term results of the projects resulting from the 2006 Call and the proposals/input received following the 2007 Call the next steps for eParticipation – including the creation of a legal base – will be examined.

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i2i Audiovisual Initiative (09 06 04)

Action Préparatoire sur “la croissance et le secteur individuel: action préparatoire pour une initiative audiovisuelle i2i" (09 06 04 autrefois 09 05 05)

1. ObjectifsL’initiative proposée s’inscrivait dans le cadre de l’initiative du Conseil européen de Lisbonne et visait à inciter les établissements bancaires et financiers à investir dans le domaine des industries du contenu (audiovisuel), en favorisant la couverture des prêts qu’ils accordaient aux entreprises du secteur. L’action Préparatoire « Croissance et Audiovisuel : i2i Audiovisuel est destinée à faciliter l’accès des entreprises de l’industrie audiovisuelle aux financements externes que les établissements bancaires et financiers peuvent mettre à leur disposition.

L’action consistait en l’octroi de subventions destinées à cofinancer des garanties exigées par ces établissements bancaires et financiers et/ou une partie du coût d’un crédit de financement. 38 projets en 2002, 55 projets en 2003 et 69 projets en 2004 ont été retenus pour un financement au titre de cet instrument expérimental. Les bénéficiaires ont été sélectionnés sur base d’un appel à propositions.

2. Mise en application Budget 2005:

L’action préparatoire a cessé d’exister au 31 décembre 2004. Depuis, elle a été incluse dans le programme MEDIA Plus, suite à l’adoption de la Communication de la Commission : « Rapport sur les résultats de l’évaluation à mi parcours des programme MEDIA Plus et MEDIA Formation ». La base légale de l’action est le programme MEDIA Plus, Décision du Conseil 2000/821/EC, 20 Décembre 2000.Pour les exercices 2005 et suivants, la ligne budgétaire 09.050500, ne concernait que des crédits de paiement pour la liquidation de RAL des projets contractés jusqu’au 31/12/2004.

Les crédits de paiement pour l’exercice 2005 s’élevaient à 2,2M€, et ont été exécuté à 94%.

Budget 2006:

Des difficultés importantes tant techniques que pratiques ont été rencontrées au cours de l'année 2006. Le transfert de cette activité de la DG INFSO à l'Agence Exécutive (EACEA) nouvellement créée n'a été complet qu'à la seconde moitié de l'année (l'acte de délégation initial ne prévoyant pas cette activité) et il y a eu des retards techniques importants empêchant l'Agence d'accéder aux crédits nécessaires. Le travail de liquidation des RAL n'a pas pu commencer qu'à la mi-novembre et n'a pas pu se terminer en 2006.

La dotation en crédits de paiement pour 2006 était de 0.8M€ et seul un montant de 0.275M€ (ou 35%) a pu être exécuté.

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3. Prévisions 2007Le RAL au 31 décembre 2006 est de 0,5M€ représentant 15 contrats de 2002 & 2003 et quelques 24 contrats de 2004. Il est envisagé de clôturer tous les contrats pour septembre 2007.

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Heading 2

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Forestry (outside the EAGGF) (05 04 03 01)

1. Objective The purpose of the preparatory action is to develop a forest information and communication platform – EFICP – that could become the basis for internet-based information and communication system in the forestry sector at EU level. The main objective is to facilitate the access to and use of forest-related information and databases in the EU.

2. Implementation In 2004, DG AGRI established a sub-delegation with DG JRC for the execution of the preparatory action. Following the call for tenders issue in 2005 and the evaluation process, a contract with the awarded applicant was signed on 22 December 2005. The kick-off meeting of the EFICP preparatory action took place in Ispra (Italy) on 25 January 2006. A progress review meeting took place in Ispra on16 October 2006. Following this, there was a presentation of the progress of the work to the Standing Forestry Committee at the meeting held in Brussels on 18 December 2006.

In February 2007, a prototype (version I) of the EFICP software was produced (fully operational system with limited functionalities). EFICP version I allows for the demonstration of all capability requirements, such as resources discovery and access, data visualisation and retrieval, although restricted to a limited set of external services and databases.

The first pre-financing payment of EUR 281 817,58 (30% of the total) was done on 28 December 2005. The interim payment of EUR 375 756,78 (40% of the total) is planned to be made in March 2007 and the payment of the balance EUR 281 817, 58 is foreseen for March 2008 after approval of the final report.

3. Forecast for 2007The work in 2007 will focus on the development and implementation of a fully operational version of EFICP. The budget foreseen for this action was entirely committed (EUR 500 000 in 2004 and ERU 500 000 in 2005) and, therefore, no commitments will be made in 2007.

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NATURA 2000 (07 03 10)

1. Objective

In accordance with the budgetary remark of article 07 03 10, this appropriation is intended to cover preparatory actions for the management of the Natura 2000 network (i.e. biodiversity maintenance and monitoring, species re-introduction, infrastructure, compensation for landowners), including pilot projects, communication and information activities, and the development of methodologies and management models for sites with different characteristics and ownership.

2. Implementation Description of the results obtained so far – 2006 budget

The 2006 budget of EUR 2 million of the preparatory actions for the management of the Natura 2000 Network was divided into three open calls for tenders resulting finally 6 contracts with different organisations. These contracts are the following (including their objectives based on tender specifications and the current status of signed contracts):

1. ENV.B.2/SER/2006/0055 Linking management and financing of Natura 2000Objectives:

• to review and update the existing guidance handbook on financing Natura 2000.

• to further advise and support Member States in using the options of Community co-financing for Natura 2000 in the period 2007-2013. This is intended to be achieved by two different means:

⇒ Development of a IT tool to apply the guidance handbook on financing Natura 2000 in the framework of management planning.

⇒ Organisation of workshops in each Member State to explain and demonstrate on the spot the use of the developed tool.

The contract was granted to WWF Germany. The contract was signed in December 2006 and the work has started (first kick-off meeting has taken place). The contract duration is 18 months.

2. ENV.B.2./SER/2006/0057 Natura 2000 Networking ProgrammeObjectives:• to seek the provision of services for carrying out a Programme (Natura 2000

Networking Programme);• to promote general understanding of the network's objectives;• exchange of experience and good practice in management of Natura 2000 sites,• raise awareness by general public and stakeholders and encourage their participation

in the planning and management processes of the Network.

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The main objective of the project is the overall co-ordination of the Natura Networking Programme and the development of innovative methods for networking and experience exchange.

The actions foreseen are to be carried out in EU Member States and Candidate countries, mostly in relation to specific Natura 2000 sites.

The contract was granted to Eurosite (NL). The contract was signed in December 2006 and the contract is on-going. The project duration is 12 months.

3. ENV.B.2./SER/2006/0059 Natura 2000 Preparatory Actions (4 lots)This open call for tender was divided into 4 different lots meaning 4 separate contracts with different contractors.

Lot 1: Management models for Natura 2000 sitesThe objective is to provide detailed management models (best practise examples) for Natura 2000 sites with habitats and/or species which are in need of active recurring management.

The contract was granted to Spanish organisation, Atecma. The contract was signed in December 2006 and the first meeting with the contractor has taken place. This contract will last 15 months.

Lot 2: Pilot Natura 2000 Helpdesk to be integrated on the EUROPA websiteThe aim of this contract is to test needs and feasibility of an on-line information resource (centralised Natura 2000 "Helpdesk"). This includes establishing an on-line information service on the EUROPA website aiming to help especially site managers of Natura 2000 sites to find quickly and easily information on:

a) major events, like conferences, seminars and workshops on European level relating to Natura 2000 and particularly on site management issues (a centralised calendar integrated on the EUROPA website under the existing Nature page) and

b) references to major documents on management of Natura 2000 sites of semi-natural grasslands ("electronic library").

The contract was granted to Institute for European Environment Policy (UK). The contract was signed in December 2006 for 15 months. The first kick-off meeting has taken place and the contract is on-going.

Lot 3: Awareness raising campaign on large carnivoresObjectives:

• to increase general knowledge of EU citizens on 4 large carnivores (the Brown bear (Ursus arctos), the Wolf (Canis lupus), the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) and the wolverine (Gulo gulo)) in those Member States where large carnivores exists and b) to facilitate understanding of large carnivores conservation among authorities dealing with large carnivore management taking into account the obligations of the Habitats Directive and the new guidelines on population level management plans for large carnivores (expected to be ready in spring 2007).

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This contract was granted to Applied Ecology Institute of Rome (IT). The duration of the contract is 18 months. The first meeting with the contractor has taken place.

Lot 4. A Natura 2000 book This book will celebrate and explain the variety of the Natura 2000 network in popular way. It shall include examples of Natura 2000 sites with typical habitat types and species within all 7 bio-geograpical regions. The book is targeted to decision makers of EU and outside EU to promote the Natura 2000 Network.

The contract was granted to Nature Link International (BE). The contract was signed in December 2006 for 15 months. The first kick-off meeting has taken place and the contract is on-going.

3. Forecast for 2007Approach intended

1 – Calls for tender - Further support actions to the implementation and financing of NATURA 2000 will be the subject of procurement procedures. The calls for tenders will be directed at providing support for the Member States and other stakeholders with regard to the implementation of the Natura 2000 network.

In particular, it is intended to develop further our strategies for ensuring an appropriate level of financing for the Natura 2000 network. This will also include an increased emphasis on the economic and financial value of the network.

One of the other areas where we would like to concentrate attention is the effective management of Natura 2000 sites and to develop expertise and policies for this purpose.Finally, the Habitats' directive requires (article 10) the establishment of corridors and to ensure connectivity between different elements in the network, thereby ensuring that key species and habitats do not become isolated. This work will also address questions of the importance of land-use and landscape features in ensuring the protection of biodiversity and nature.

2.- Contacts have been launched with the European Environment Agency, in order to get a support in the reporting exercise on the implementation of the Habitats Directive (Art. 17), in particular in the elaboration of the Commission consolidated report, based on Member States reports.

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Heading 3a

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European Migration Monitoring Centre (18 03 05)

1. Objective Ce crédit est destiné à financer:

• un plan dáction pour lánalyse commune et l’amélioration de l´échange de statistiques en matière dásile et dímmigration,

• la création dún observatoire «virtuel» des migrations, par la création dún réseau de points focaux nationaux connectés entre eux ainsi qu´à une unité centrale.

Base légale:Actions préparatoires au sens de láccord interinstitutionnel du 6 mai 1999 entre le Parlement européen, le Conseil et la Commission sur la discipline budgétaire et lámélioration de la procédure budgétaire (JO C 172 du 18.6.1999, p. 1).

Documents de référence :-Conclusions du Conseil «Justice et affaires intérieures» de mai 2001 (7973/01.ASIM10). -Conclusions du Conseil européen de Thessalonique de juin 2003 (SI(2003)500).-Programme de travail annuel en matière de subventions et de marché, domaine de la Justice et Affaires intérieures pour 2004, adopté par la Commission le 24 mai 2004 (C/2004/1879) et incluant le cadre d’action pour les actions préparatoires de 2004 et le plan de travail annuel.

Modes de gestion :Il existe deux modes de gestion pour ce programme :• attribution de subventions. Les subventions attribuées dans le cadre de l’EMN

relèvent de l’article 110(1) du Règlement Financier et de l’article 168 des modalités d’exécution, c’est-à-dire qu’elles ne font pas l’objet d’un appel à propositions puisque les bénéficiaires à qui elles s’adressent se trouvent dans des situations de monopole de jure ou de facto.

• attribution de contrats de services pour des prestations diverses : animation du réseau, mise en place d’un système d’échange d’information, études, évaluation du programme.

2. ImplémentationBudget2005:a) Demandes de subventions

Il a été demandé aux Points de Contact Nationaux d'envoyer leur demande de subvention sous le budget 2005 pour le 14 octobre 2005: neuf demandes de NL, GR, EST, IT, BE, IR, AT, DE et SE ont été reçues. Les conventions ont été finalisées pour un montant total de 1 108 642, 19 €. La Décision d'attribution a été adoptée le 14 Juillet 2006.

b) Objectifs et priorités.The main objective under the 2005 budget was to secure the necessary conditions for completing the creation of a systematic basis for monitoring and analysing migration and asylum processes in the European Union. As the EMN preparatory action finished at the

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end of 2006, it was essential to prepare the basis for the further development of the network. The identification of the most appropriate set-up, structure and mandate of the EMN needed to be linked closely to the orientations and priorities of the post Tampere EU migration and asylum policy as laid down inter alia in The Hague Programme.

The following priorities were set for the EMN:Ø further develop and refine EMN’s analysis and research capacities by carrying

out selected studies.Ø accelerate the gradual and systematic enhancement of the EMN information

system.Ø prepare extension of the EMN information system to third party sources.Ø integrate EMN thesaurus in documentation activities and search procedures.Ø organise continuous updating of data and providing for appropriate uploading

and transmission methods.Ø give a detailed description of the intended information flows and business work

flows plus the required roles and responsibilities plus the time-frames among National Contact Points (NCPs) and European Commission (or third party responsible for the network operation) according to the preferred strategy option chosen in 2006 for future network development.

Ø improve communication, interaction and networking at the European level. Ø identify, index and link existing information sources to stress synergy effects and

avoid duplication of effort. Ø increase the visibility of EMN by making it better known among national,

European and international organisations, initiatives and institutions working in related areas, and by enhancing the website offers.

Ø address the question of the mandate, set-up and role of the NCPs, the scientific co-ordination and the Commission in the future EMN, after the end of the preparatory period.

Ø prepare the EMN repository management system (RMS) for distribution to and installation on national level.

Ø prepare general EMN system for ensuring continuous availability also after the end of the preparatory phase.

c) EMN NCP ActivitiesIn order to meet this objective and the priorities set, EMN NCPs were required to undertake the following activities:

Ø Networking – functioning national network; national network report on actions implemented; collaborations, including through twinning, with other EMN Members and other relevant EU entities; involvement in EMN meetings, including provision of four Work Progress reports.

Ø Data Collection, Presentation and Availability – all metadata used for studies entered into Information system; including (contingent on system availability for at least four months) at least 40 on legislation/case law, at least 100 publications, plus relevant organisation addresses.

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Ø Analysis and Research – national reports for Annual Policy Report 2006; Research Study III; two Small-Scale Studies; contribution to Annual Statistical Report 2003; Ad-Hoc Responses.

Ø Publicity and Visibility – raise profile of EMN through national dissemination of its outputs; involvement in EMN Conference 2006 plus others; contribution to Newsletters, maintenance of national website plus contribution to EMN website.

Ø Integration of New National Contact Points – active support new EMN Members, particularly participation in twinning activities.

d) EMN Co-ordinator 2006

An open Call for Tender to secure the services of a Service Provider to assist the Commission in the scientific and administrative coordination of the project by providing expertise and know-how both in further developing and managing the network in the last year of the preparatory phase, as well as by actively contributing to the network's analysis and research activity was published on 29 November 2005, with the deadline for submission of offers being 18 January 2006.

An Award Decision, awarding the contract to BIVS was signed on 1 June 2006. The contract with BIVS was then concluded on 28 July 2006 for 5.5 months up to 12 January 2007.

Activities required of the EMN Co-ordinator within their Work Programme for this contract (and related to the EMN's overall Work Programme) were:

Ø Stabilisation and enlargement of the EMN, monitoring and overall project management.

Ø Research, analysis, documentation, information collection and provisionØ Evolution of a sustainable computer-based EMN Information SystemØ Support for organisation of meetings, workshops and the final conferenceØ Enhancing national networking and facilitation of European and International

collaborationØ Enhancing visibilityØ Finalisation of the Preparatory Action and recommendations for the future

development2006 budget:No budget in 2006

3. Forecast for 2007As the preparatory phase finished at the end of 2006, steps towards the possible establishment of a legal base for the EMN have been taken. In November 2005, a Green Paper (COM(2005) 606) on the future of the EMN was published, with a two-month public consultation period. The independent external evaluation, which was completed in July 2005, was extensively used in the preparation of this paper. A selected experts' hearing was then held in April 2006. Subsequently, and following consultations also with

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the Committee on Immigration and Asylum, a proposal for a legal basis for the EMN, based on Article 66 of the EC Treaty, has been produced and is expected to be adopted by the Commission in the first quarter of 2007, for formal presentation to Council soon after. The intention would then be for any legal base decision to commence from 1 January 2008.

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Integration of Nationals of Non-Member Countries (18 03 06)

1. ObjectifPar le biais du Programme INTI, la Commission européenne soutient financièrement des actions visant à promouvoir l'intégration dans les Etats membres de personnes qui ne sont pas citoyens européens.

Ce crédit est destiné à financer des actions préparatoires relatives :• à la promotion de l’intégration des nationaux des pays tiers à travers des projets

spécifiques• au développement du dialogue avec la société civile• à la recherche et l’évaluation des meilleures pratiques• au développement des modèles d’intégration• à la création de réseaux au niveau européen

Une partie de ce crédit peut être utilisée pour s’attaquer aux causes premières des migrations

2. Mise en Oeuvre52 projets ont été cofinancés jusqu' à présent sur les budgets INTI 2003 (4 million €), INTI 2004 (6 million €), et INTI 2005 (5 million €). Le Programme INTI a renforcé des réseaux et l'échange d'informations et de bonnes pratiques entre les Etats Membres, leurs autorités régionales et locales et d'autres parties concernées. Le Programme a servi également à promouvoir le dialogue et la sensibilisation au niveau européen et à l'identification des indicateurs d'évaluation des politiques nationales dans le domaine de l'intégration. INTI est un petit programme transnational qui a remporté un grand succès. En 2006, de nouveau un budget de 5 million € a été prévu pour les Actions Préparatoires INTI. Suite à la décision de financement de la DG JLS, l’engagement global couvrant le programme de travail INTI 2006 a été fait en août 2006. Les priorités pour 2006, la dernière année pour INTI, sont basées sur l'expérience acquise des années précédentes et seront cohérentes avec les Principes de Base Communs adoptés par le Conseil dans le domaine de l'intégration et développés dans la Communication de la Commission sur un programme commun pour l'intégration (COM(2005)389 Final) du 1 septembre 2005.

La production du Manuel sur l’intégration à l’intention des décideurs politiques et des praticiens ('Handbook on Integration') est aussi un des grands succès d’INTI. Les versions dans toutes les langues officielles de l'UE de la première édition de ce Manuel ont été publiées sur le JLS Web Site en septembre 2006. La deuxième édition, qui a été finalisée à la fin de 2006 également, a déjà été traduite par la DGT dans toutes les langues officielles.

En vue de promouvoir l'échange d'informations et de bonnes pratiques sur l'intégration au niveau de l'UE, le projet pour la création d'un Site Web sur l'Intégration ('Web Site on Integration') a été lancé en décembre 2006 après une procédure de marché.

2005 Budget:

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Subventions:15 projets on été cofinancés principalement dans le domaine de soutien aux réseaux, aux échanges de bonnes pratiques, le dialogue interculturel et le développement des indicateurs communs d'évaluation.

Marché:Lancement du projet pour la création d'un Site Web sur l'intégration.

Publication du Manuel sur l'intégration dans toutes les langues officielles de l'UE.

2006 BudgetIl s'agit de la dernière année pour les Actions Préparatoires INTI.4 million € sont prévus pour des subventions suite à l'appel à propositions pour INTI 2006 lancé en août 2006, et dont la finalisation de l'évaluation est prévue pour avril 2007.

Le restant (1 million €) est réservé pour différentes actions de marché, notamment pour la phase II du Site Web sur l'intégration ; la publication d'une nouvelle édition du Manuel sur l'intégration; l'évaluation finale du Programme INTI; et le cofinancement de l'évaluation de la transposition de la législation communautaire adoptée sous le titre IV impactant sur l'intégration des ressortissants des pays tiers.

3. Prévisions pour 2007A partir de 2007, le nouveau Fonds pour l'Intégration des ressortissants de pays tiers qui fait partie du programme-cadre "Solidarité et gestion des flux migratoires pour la période 2007-2013", constitué de 4 Fonds, couvrira les besoins dans ces domaines, tout en appuyant l'intervention communautaire sur les concepts de solidarité et de partage des charges.

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Financial Instrument for Return Management in the Area of Migration (18 03 08)

1. ObjectiveThe general objective of the return preparatory actions is to deepen the practical co-operation among Member States in managing the return of illegally residing third country nationals. Hence, all the possibilities for a more integrated approach, on both national and community level, of return policy as well as general policies will be explored. It is expected that by cooperating on common projects best practices will be increasingly shared among Member States, such as the promotion of Assisted Voluntary Return Programmes for sustainable return, return counselling, the consideration of the possibilities of chartered flights and the organisation of joint return operations.

The budget available for the Return Preparatory Actions is of 15 million € per year for 2005 and 2006.

2. Implementation2005 budget:

The Work Programme for 2005 was adopted on 2 August 2005 and the call for proposals was launched in August 2005. The evaluation process was completed in April 2006 and the total amount of EUR 15 million was committed. The Award decision was signed at the beginning of April 2006. The projects proposed for co-financing amount to almost EUR 15 million, the available grant for 2005. Twenty projects were selected for co-financing but 2 were withdrawn by the applicants, one project from IOM (Return to Afghanistan) and one from the Slovenian National Authorities. Projects are now under implementation and to date, EUR 5 243 228 has been paid to the beneficiaries.

2006 budget:The Work Programme for 2006 was adopted on 14 August 2006 and the first call for proposals closed on 17 November 2006. The evaluation process of the project applications submitted took place from the end of 2006 to date. Thirty-one projects were submitted during the 2006 Call for Proposals. It is expected that between fifteen and twenty projects will be selected for EC co-financing, repeating the success of 2006. The Award Decision is expected in April 2007.The appropriations available for grants and tenders amount to EUR 15 million. Tenders will cover final evaluation of Return Preparatory Actions and outsourcing of reviews of transposition of EC legislation related to Return policy.

3. Previsions for 2007The Return Preparatory Actions will be finalised in 2007. Overall, the activities for 2007 will follow on from 2006, therefore monitoring of the 2005 projects will continue, and some of these projects will be finalised in 2007. Throughout, special attention will be given to the lessons learnt from previous years.

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During 2008 some 2006 projects will be still under implementation and will then be finalised. Several final payments will be made during 2008.

On the initiative of the European Parliament, the Preparatory Actions "Migration Management, Solidarity in Action" were established in 2007. One strand covers preparatory actions on Returns. As of 2008, the Return Fund (within the framework programme Solidarity and Management of Migrations Flows') will cover the needs for financial support to the EU Return policy.

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Migration Management – Solidarity in Action (18 03 12)

1. ObjectiveAs a complement to the framework programme entitled 'Solidarity and Management of Migration Flows' a new budget line has been created for implementation of actions in 2007. This new budget line "Preparatory Action: Migration management – Solidarity in action" will finance a number of actions in the area of migration which are complementary to the general framework programme but which have the potential to provide answers to the challenges posed by migratory flows. The appropriations amount to EUR 15 million.

The overarching objective of the action is to test certain hypotheses to deal with the challenges posed by certain migratory phenomena. These hypotheses are directly related to four types of actions:

§ Return actions based on integrated return plans;§ Employment actions for third country nationals having been returned to their

countries of origin under Community re-admission agreements;§ Information actions on the legal possibilities to emigrate to the EU and the

dangers of illegal immigration;§ Reception actions for third country nationals having arrived illegally in the

Member States by sea.

2. ImplementationThe draft annual work programme is being prepared based on the budgetary commentsand in the light of current developments in migratory flows. The financing decision is expected to be adopted in May 2007.

3. Forecast for 2007There will be two separate calls for proposals for the actions under Return, Employment for returnees and information on illegal immigration on the one hand and Reception on the other hand.

Publication of the notice of the calls for proposals: May 2007.

Deadline for submission of project proposals: July 2007.

Evaluation of proposals: August-September 2007.

Award Decision: October 2007.

Signature of Agreements: November 2007 onwards.

First payments made in December.

Indicative start date of projects will be mid-2007 and ending date end of 2008.

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A call for tender for a service contract setting up an EU immigration portal, informing on the one side on the dangers and consequences of illegal migrations and on the other side on actions on the legal possibilities to emigrate to the EU, will be published in June 2007.

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Research and Evaluation Programme on Respect for Fundamental Rights (18 04 03)

1. Objective This preparatory action is intended to finance actions concerning research and evaluation into respect for fundamental rights.

2. Implementation 2004 budget: EUR 1 500 000 commitment appropriations, used EUR 1 418 601.04, 95%.One call for proposals took place, resulting in six grant agreements signed. The final reports are due in the first quarter 2007. The network of independent experts has been supported and their results published.

2005 budget: EUR 1 000 000 commitment appropriations, used EUR 668 352.39, 67%.The network of independent experts has been supported and their results published.

2006 budget: EUR 500 000 commitment appropriations, used EUR 40 661.71, 8%. Due to a late adoption of the financing decision and some difficulties in the organisation of conferences with outside bodies the budget was not spent.

3. Forecast for 2007In 2007 no new actions are to be undertaken as the preparatory action has finished. There will be six final payments for the grant agreements signed following the 2004 call for proposals.

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Support of Civil Society in the New Member States (18 04 04)

1. Objective This preparatory action is intended to finance actions for the new EU Member States to support local NGO actions on respect for the rule of law, democracy, fundamental rights, transparency, the non-partisan nature of information and combating corruption.

Recipients of funding from this fund should be NGOs working in the following fields:

• public interest law (for example, fostering NGO laws and addressing unlawful practices by State authorities),

• good governance at central and local level (including respect for citizens' rights and administrative transparency),

• independence of the civil service,• anti-corruption.

2. Implementation 2004 budget: EUR 3 million commitment appropriations available, used EUR 2 978 082.17 EUR, 99%, following one call for proposals resulting in 32 grant agreements signed in December 2005. The final reports are due in the first quarter 2007. No descriptions of the results are yet available.

2005 budget: EUR 2 million commitment appropriations available, used EUR 1 945 984.96 EUR, 97%, following one call for proposals resulting in 20 grant agreements signed in December 2006.

2005 budget: EUR 1 million commitment appropriations available. The call for proposals being delayed the signatures of approximately ten grant agreements are foreseen for 2007.

3. Forecast for 2007Apart from the conduct of one call for proposals no further action will be undertaken.

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Exchange Programme for Judicial Authorities (18 05 01 03)

1. ObjectifsL'action était un projet pilote au budget 2005 (comme d'ailleurs en 2004) et une action préparatoire au budget 2006. L'objectif était de contribuer aux efforts déjà entrepris pour améliorer la qualité des systèmes judiciaires des États membres de l’Union européenne, notamment par le biais de la formation des magistrats, et de renforcer la coopération entre tous les acteurs concernés par la formation judiciaire (universités, établissements de formation professionnelle, conseils supérieurs de la magistrature, magistrats…) afin de garantir une meilleure compréhension mutuelle et l’échange des meilleurs pratiques.

2. Nature des actions financées, nombre et montants2005

Trois subventions attribuées, d'une valeur totale de € 1.677.970,93Réseau de formation judiciaire européenneOrganisation internationale de la migrationCour régionale de Krakowie.

2006

Attribution d'une subvention, sans appel à propositions, au Réseau de formation judiciaire européenne dans les circonstances de monopole de facto prévues par l'article 168 du Règlement n° 2342/2002, les modalités d'exécution du règlement financier des Communautés européennes.

Appel d'offre pour l'évaluation des 3 années du programme.

L'objectif de l'action préparatoire étant bien spécifique, l'échange des magistrats et de procureurs, les résultants seront jugés en termes de nombre d'échanges effectués ainsi que l'évaluation qualitative par les participants de la valeur ajoutée de ces échanges.

3. Prévisions pour 2007Une continuation de l'action préparatoire n'est pas prévue en 2007, ses objectifs étant inclus dans le programme spécifique "Justice pénale"4.

4 Council Decision, OJ 2007/126/JHA du 24.02.2007

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Victims of terrorist acts (18 05 04)

1. ObjectifsL'action était un projet pilote au budget 2005 (comme d'ailleurs en 2004) et une action préparatoire au budget 2006. L'objectif était de contribuer au financement de projets visant à aider les victimes d’actes terroristes et/ou les membres de leurs familles à surmonter, à l’aide d’un appui psychologique ou social fourni par des organisations et/ou leurs réseaux, les conséquences de la situation qu’elles ont vécue ainsi que le financement de projets visant à mobiliser le public contre le terrorisme sous toutes ses formes.

2. Nature des actions financées, nombre et montants2005: Sept subventions ont été attribuées, d'une valeur totale de €1.150.350,63.Subventions, suite à un appel à propositions.Contrat pour l'évaluation des 2 années du projet piloteSouth/North Armagh Victims Encouraging & Recognition (SAVER/NAVER) - UKFundación Universitaria Fray Francisco Jiménez De Cisneros - ESAyuntamiento de Donostia - ESVictim Support - UKForum Européen pour la Sécurité Urbaine - FRGuarda Nacional Republicana - PTKomenda Stoleczna Policji - PL

2006: Sept subventions ont été attribuées, d'une valeur totale de € 1.715.250 Subventions, suite à un appel à propositionsCroix-Rouge de Belgique – BEEuropean Forum for Restorative Justize v.z.w - BEStadt Koeln - DEFamilies Acting for Innocent Relatives – GBBritish Psychological Society – GBAyuntamiento de donostia/San Sebastian- ESAsociacion de ayuda a las victimas del 11 M - ESLe lancement d'un appel à propositions, ainsi que l'attribution et contractualisation des subventions en résultant, sont les indicateurs de mesure de la mise en œuvre de l'action.

Concernant les projets subventionnés en 2005 et 2006, ils étaient très hétérogènes, reflétant la multiplicité d'impacts des actions terroristes sur les citoyens et les actions développés pour le soutien des victimes. Les résultats attendus ont été, de ce fait, variés eux aussi. Leur évaluation servira à améliorer le soutien futur aux victimes de terrorisme

3. Prévision 2007Une continuation de l'action préparatoire n'est pas prévue en 2007, ses objectifs étant inclus dans le programme spécifique "Justice pénale5".

5 Council Decision, OJ 2007/126/JHA du 24.02.2007

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Heading 3b

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Public Health (17 03 04)

1. Objective The objective of this action is to prepare and develop SANCO's infrastructure to support Public Health emergency operations as well as help MS draft and test their own emergency procedures to face public Health crisis situations. An important aspect is also to develop cooperation between MS, third countries and other public bodies involved in such crisis.


The objectives described above have been met through the following actions:

a) Purchase of equipment for the main crisis room in Luxembourg and a small crisis room in Brussels – for an actual amount of EUR 854 000:These purchases have mainly been carried out through DG DIGIT framework contracts. Most of the equipment was delivered in 2006.At the end of 2006, the equipment of the crisis room was nearly completed.

b) Purchase of the development of specific softwares – for an actual amount of EUR 625 000:These developments have mainly been contracted to JRC ISPRA, to private companies (IRIS, UNISYS, ACCENTURE, SIEMENS).These developments are underway and will be finalised by the end of 2007.

c) Other preparatory actions relating to external communication and sharing of experiences on preparedness between MS - for an actual amount of EUR 505 000: Training has already taken place with MS's representatives for better preparation:- in Slovenia - 26 to 29 June 2006- in Greece – 25 to 27 October 2006- in Lithunia - 29 November to 1 December 2006- in Portugal – 22 to 26 January 2007

As far as external communication is concerned, a meeting took place in Athens on 28 –29 September with communication officials from MS's Health Ministries and a simulation exercise focused on communications has been prepared and will take place by end of May 2007.

Two videos have been produced on the preparatory measures the EU is setting up in case of a flu pandemic, these videos have been presented to a seminar of journalists that took place in Brussels on 17 October 2006.These actions were contracted within DG SANCO's framework contracts for communication and information (Weber Shanwick, Qwentes Kantor, Mostra and Cecoforma).

To note, an EU wide exercise on crisis preparedness focused on the gaps identified during earlier exercises and to test the equipments and procedures was also planned under this

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heading. But, as the cost of equipments appeared higher than foreseen, it could not be financed under budget line 17 03 04 and will be financed under the Public Health operational budget line 17 03 01 01.

3. Forecast for 2007In 2007, the actions allowing the objectives of the preparatory action to be meet will be completed:

- the crisis rooms will be totally equipped and the crisis exercise will allow to test them;- development of software will also be completed and be tested during the crisis exercise- the training on crisis preparedness and communication will have all taken place.

As far as financial matters are concerned, the bulk of the payments will take place.

Financingdecision Procedure used Evaluation

of tendersAward

decisionCommitting / Contracting Payment

1) Equipment IT framework contract NS NS May/Oct 2006 2006 and 2007

2) Software IT framework contract NS NS May/Oct 2006 2007

3) Other activities

31) Preparedness exercise * Negotiated procedure July 2006 Oct 2006 Oct 2006 2007

32) Sharing of experience between MS and training sessions

Communication framework contract NS NS April 2006 end 2006

and 2007

33) External Communication activity

Communication framework contract NS NS August 2006

till end 2006

End 2006 and mostly 2007

* Comme souligné au point 3.3, cet exercice sera financé sur la ligne opérationnelle Santé Publique 17 03 01 01 et non sur la ligne Action Préparatoire 17 03 04.

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Impact of Enlargement in EU Border Regions (22 02 05 05)

1. Objective The overall objective of the Preparatory Programme on the Impact of Enlargement in Border Regions is to strengthen the competitiveness of regions and economic sectorsparticularly affected by enlargement by helping them to cope with social and economic changes resulting from enlargement and to identify new opportunities in an enlarged Union.

In view of these key challenges to competitiveness, the specific objectives of the Programme are as follows:

− Qualification of vulnerable groups in border regions in sectors particularly affected by enlargement through the development and implementation of training programmes providing skills and competences in areas where the regions can gain a competitive advantages and create new sources of employment;

− Training of trainers/teachers in new areas in order to be able to deliver skills and competences in areas where regions can gain a competitive advantage and create new sources of employment;

− Develop common vocational training programmes between the business community and the education and vocational training sector;

− Develop and implement lifelong learning programmes at local level;

− Strengthen the capacities of local or region social partner organisations in border regions with the candidate countries for the development of strategies and plans for the workforce to adapt to the changing requirements of the labour market including the development of cross border networks;

2. ImplementationIn 2005 between 8 and 16 grant contracts between EUR 250 000 and EUR 500 000 (max. co-financing 75%) to social partner organisations in the EU in order to organise qualification programmes for vulnerable groups of the population in EU border regions with candidate and acceding countries. Max. amount available EUR 4 million.

Calendar

September 2005 financing decision, 30 September publication of call for proposals, deadline for submission of applications 16 December 2005.

End in 2006 of 22 contracts related to 2003 commitments (EUR 15.6 million)

22 grants awarded in 2004 have come to an end between June and November 2006. Final payments related to these contracts will be executed between August 2006 and May 2007.

Award of grant contracts resulting from call for proposals in 2005 from commitments in 2005 (EUR 4 million)

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The evaluation started mid January 2006 and ended in April 2006 with applicants being notified at the beginning of May. 9 contracts have been signed between September and December 2006. Advance payments have been processed between October 2006 and March 2007.

3. Forecast for 2007As for 2007, first year of implementation of contracts awarded in 2006 (budget 2005/€4 million); release of intermediate payments.

(1) The following are the expected results:

− Sustainable structures will have been created (training calendar, regular exchanges with the business community, human resources) to develop further training programmes and continuously provide new skills and competences to vulnerable groups adapted to the needs of border regions;

− New skills and competences will have been provided to vulnerable groups of the labour force in certain border regions and economic sectors that are likely to create new sources of employment;

− A pool of trainers and training material/methodologies will be available to provide continuous training to the labour force in border regions.

− Contacts and co-operation between training institutions and the business community will have been improved and in some cases institutionalised;

− Social partner organisations will have an improved know-how and contacts for the development and implementation of labour market strategies.

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Demining Activities in Cyprus (22 02 05 06)

1. Objective Before and after 1974 both sides laid defensive minefields. Following a de facto cease-fire, the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) inspected the deployment of the Cyprus National Guard and the Turkish and Turkish Cypriot forces, and a buffer zone was established between the areas controlled by the opposing forces. The defensive minefields laid by both sides were located within, and outside of, the buffer zone. The cease-fire lines extend approximately 180 kilometres across the island. The buffer zone varies in width from less than 20 meters to some 7 kilometres, and it covers about 3 per cent of the island, including some of the most valuable agricultural land on the Island.

De-mining has been referred to in several UN Security Council Resolutions on Cyprus including 1062 (1996) and 1251 (1999). Those resolutions called for the two sides to engage in de-mining, however the potential risk of having serving military from either side conducting de-mining in the buffer zone outweigh the potential benefit of clearing mines.

The objective of this project is to clear part of the known minefields, booby traps and suspected mined areas in the United Nations Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) controlled buffer zone and adjacent areas.

The highest priority for clearance in the programme is linked to the opening of new crossing points through the buffer zone targeting those areas where landmines are present or suspected and mine clearance activities are required before new crossing points can be established.

2. Implementation The contract for the implementation of this pilot project has been signed on 27 September 2004 with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for an amount of 2.5 MEUR. UNDP has set up a Mine Action Cell within the framework of the Partnership for the Future programme, which implements other EU-funded projects in Cyprus. UNDP has in turn contracted a specialised de-mining and a quality management subcontractor.

Under this project the following outputs also have been pursued:• Construction of a Mine Detection Dog Accreditation Area to ensure that the dogs

and handlers are competent to carry out the work in Cyprus to international standards;

• Development of technical standards and guidelines for the Mine Action project in Cyprus;

• Development and implementation of the accreditation process for Quality Assurance/Quality Control, and Clearance Contractors;

• Clearance of mines and unexploded ordnance (UXO): identified minefields, suspect mined areas and booby-trapped areas cleared of all landmines and UXO, in a cost effective and timely manner, in accordance with technical standards and guidelines for Cyprus and International Mine Action Standards.

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Implementation has started on 1 October 2004 with live mine clearance operations commencing on 17 November 2004.

Minefields previously recorded by UNFICYP in the International Management System for Mine Action (IMSMA) database do not match the actual size of the minefields on the ground. This because, over the years, UNFICYP has moved and relocated the protection fences, along the nearest primary or secondary road/track for the protection of civilian and UN staff.

In March 2005 the Mine Action Centre conducted a survey of the remaining minefields in the buffer zone. Although this survey was restricted, it was established with a reasonable degree of confidence that the remaining minefields may total as much as an additional 9 million square meters to the areas already cleared areas.

Consequently, this has left large expanses of land between the perimeter fences and the actual mined area unused. The MAC plans to reduce these sometimes-large areas through technical survey, in order to maintain efficiency and cost effectiveness. Technical survey, is the process used to investigate a suspect mined area using standard mine clearance drills and techniques, to establish and mark the accurate boundaries of a mined area.

At the end of 2006, 2,245,000 square meters of 25 minefields has been released. A total of 981 anti-personnel and 1336 anti-tank mines were destroyed. A number of suspected areas have been cancelled through technical surveys indicating that no mines were present in these areas.

2005 budget:In July 2005, the budgetary authorities agreed to strengthen the pilot project budget line with additional EUR 1.5 million, allowing for clearance of an additional 500 000 m². This funding lasted until June 2006.

2006 budget:Under the 2006 General Budget of the European Communities, commitment appropriations of EUR 1 million were approved for a preparatory action for de-mining activities for Cyprus to continue the activities started under the pilot project.

Funding Timelines and Linked Clearance Activities

EU Funding Funding Period for Clearance Activities Released area2.5m euro Oct 2004 – Dec 2005 900,000 m²1.5m euro Dec 2005 – June 2006 500,000m²1m euro July 2006 – December 2007 845,000m²

3. Forecast for 2007The third contract with the UNDP will end on March 2007, after which the preparatory action will be transformed into an element of the Special Aid Package to the Turkish Cypriot Community, so that de-mining and ordnance clearance activities will be continued.

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Heading 4

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Conflict Prevention Network (19 04 04)

1. Objective The overall objective is to increase, develop and pull together international knowledge and expertise in the field of conflict prevention, to ensure that all actors, including EU institutions, can access strong and independent analysis in this field in order to facilitate better informed and more evidence-based policy decisions.

The specific objective will be to enhance cooperation on conflict prevention issues among organisations that may complement each others' competences in terms of geographical scope and thematic areas, resulting in the establishment of an international network linking research institutions, think-tanks, academia and civil society organisations.

2. Implementation Pilot project / 2004 budget (budget line 19 04 05)The European Parliament decided to allocate for 2004 some 1, 125 million to this pilot project. A call for proposals was launched on 29 November 2004. A grant was awarded in June 2005 to the International Crisis group having as partners International Alert, the European Policy centre and the European Peace Building Liaison. The action started in October 2005 and ended in December 2006. The Beneficiary plans to submit the final report to the EC during the first quarter of 2007.

2005 budget: NonePreparatory Action / 2006 budget (budget line 19 04 05): The European Parliament voiced its support for maintaining a network and decided in December 2005 to allocate a preparatory action under the EIDHR chapter 19.04 with the budget line (19 04 05) and a sum of EUR 1.5 million for 2006 in order to support a Conflict Prevention Network (CPN).

This project will be concluded by a grant agreement to finance a network selected as a result of a call for proposals that was launched in November 2006. It was addressed to non profit-making entities, non governmental organisations and academia such as research institutes and universities. It was open not only to legal persons established in a Member State of the European Union and the European Economic Area but also in developing countries. The geographical coverage of the programme will be global. The grant awarded will not exceed a maximum amount of EUR 1.5 million for a maximum duration of 24 months. EC contribution will be limited to 80% of the total eligible costs of the Action. The European Commission plans to announce the award decision during the month of April 2007, after having finalized the evaluation procedure. The Action is planned to start in June 2007.

Description of the results obtained so far

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The Network financed in 2005 builds on a previous initiative and is lead by the Conflict Prevention Partnership, a cooperative effort between international non-governmental organisations – the International Crisis Group (Crisis Group), International Alert (Alert), European Policy Centre (EPC) and European Peacebuilding Liaison Office (EPLO) –. It focuses on helping to prevent, manage and resolve deadly conflict, and engage in peacebuilding in conflict-affected regions. The overall objective of the project has been to support the development of networking among research institutions, think-tanks, academia and civil society organisations worldwide, to pull together knowledge and expertise in order to develop external analytical experience in the field of conflict prevention. It has provided a platform for wider discussion and general awareness-raising on the conflict prevention dimensions of external assistance.The CPN is playing an important role in the implementation of the European Commission Communication on Conflict Prevention (COM (2001) 211) and the EU Programme for the Prevention of Violent Conflicts adopted by the Göteborg European Council.

This project has been quite innovative given the fact that research in the area of peace and conflict and the existence of specific NGOs focusing on conflict prevention was a relatively new phenomenon in the 1990s. CPN has provided a vehicle for organisations to come together and strengthen research, policy development and promote the role of civil society in Europe in the area of conflict prevention.

In particular, the Partnership has helped strengthen the capacities of the European Union, its Member States and its partner countries in conflict prevention, crisis management and peacebuilding, by supplying qualitative and independent analysis in this field and allowing them to make better informed and more evidence-based policy decisions. Its work is based on the interconnection between human rights, democracy and conflict prevention.

3. Forecast for 2007Preparatory Action / 2006 budget (budget line 19 04 05): See above. Call for Proposals to be closed in the beginning of March 2007. The deadline for the receipt of applications is 06 March 2007. The European Commission plans to announce the award decision during the month of April 2007, after having finalized the evaluation procedure. The Action is planned to start in June 2007.

In addition, the European Commission is considering the possibility to launch an evaluation at a later stage.

2007 budget (19 04 04): the Budgetary Authority has decided to allocate a similar amount from the 2007 budget to the CPN. The Commission reserves the right to extend the amount and the duration of the contract of the project selected with 2006 credits. Consequently, the activities of the selected Network under the Call for Proposals ref.: EuropeAid/124611/C/ACT/MULTI could be extended for 24 months maximum, using the 2007 credits.

It should be noted that the Parliament and the Council have now adopted a specific legal basis under which the follow-up to the CPN preparatory actions can be financed (Regulation (EC) No 1717/2006 establishing and Instrument for Stability). In addition, in response to the request of the European Parliament in the context of the negotiation of the

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Instrument for Stability, the Commission has launched a ‘Peacebuilding Partnership’ to strengthen its co-operation with non-state. The Partnership is designed to improve the impact of Community-funded interventions in the field of conflict prevention and crisis response by ensuring that the Commission has access to civilian expertise for conflict prevention and peacebuilding amongst Member States, European non-state actors and their partners in third countries.

In this context, the Commission plans progressively to integrate the Conflict Prevention Partnership into the Peacebuilding Partnership.

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Aid for Poverty Related Diseases (ex 21 02 07 04 )

1. Objective In the last 4 years funds of EUR 1, 3, 10 and 10 million respectively were committed as pilot projects for the "Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunizations" / "The Vaccine Fund" (GAVI/TVF) to support the strategy to reduce child mortality in 75 low income countries through vaccination programmes agreed with governments in partner countries.

GAVI is an alliance of public and private sector partners which provides financing for immunisation services in countries (currently 72) that have a gross national income (GNI) per capita of below US$ 1000. Four types of support are provided to these eligible countries:

a) to support efforts to improve and expand the national immunization programmes by strengthening immunization services (ISS);

b) enable countries to address weaknesses and improve the capacity of their health systems in order to increase and sustain high immunization coverage rates through opening a new funding stream for Health Systems Strengthening (HSS) beginning 2006

c) support the expansion of access to new and under-used vaccines (with a global focus on Hepatitis B, Haemophilus Influenzae type b and Yellow Fever); and

d) support injection safety as required to deliver vaccines according to the WHO standard.

In 2003 the Commission supported the Data Quality Audit Strategy of GAVI/TVF. The project was to conduct assessment and review of national immunisation program and health administrative reporting system through the immunisation data quality audit (DQA) in 19 eligible countries. The project used an external audit tool, developed by WHO, to evaluate the quality of immunisation reporting and to verify the accuracy of reported data. The general objective of the action was to improve performance of country vaccine programmes and to produce improved information for decision making process in county level as well as in international level.

Programming in 2004 focused on the "Financial sustainability planning". The Financial Sustainability Plan was designed to:

1) assess the current level of financial sustainability of countries to monitor progress toward financial sustainability and better management of national immunization programmes within health sector development, using simple qualitative indicators

2) assess the country capacity to formulate and implement a Financial Sustainability Plan using the framework and guidelines provided by the guidelines for Financial Sustainability Plan preparation developed by the GAVI FTF

3) help identify the strengths of countries current immunization programmes and highlight areas for further improvement in achieving financial sustainability, prior to submission of Financial Sustainability Plans - provide guidance and information on

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technical assistance and training needed to support and develop current immunization financing systems, structures, staffing and strategies..

In 2005 and 2006, the EC funded two actions aiming at increasing access to new and underused vaccines. For both actions the EC contribution was EUR 10 million.

The specific objective of both actions is to procure, deliver and distribute pentavalent vaccine to developing countries eligible for GAVI funding for a two-year period, and support injection safety as required to deliver vaccines according the WHO standard. GAVI eligible countries are defined as any country (currently 72) that has a gross national income (GNI) per capita of below US$ 1000. Under this action GAVI aims to increase access to new and under-used vaccines, including those for Hepatitis B (hepB) and Haemophilus Influenzae type b (Hib) in the world’s poorest countries.

The action funded under the 2005 budget targeted only Burundi, Rwanda and Uganda. The geographical coverage of action funded under the 2006 budget included all other GAVI-eligible countries.

The aim of GAVI is to reduce inequity in the access to new and under-used vaccines in developing countries, as they were not available to most people in the poorest developing countries prior to the creation of GAVI. The starting date of the action is 1 October 2006. The GAVI Alliance procures new vaccines for the following calendar year at the end of each year. This retroactive starting date would allow the GAVI to use the vaccines procured at the end of 2006 for the project in 2007.

The duration of the activity is 24 months including 3 months for procuring the vaccines for 2007, 12 months period (year 2007) for shipping and distribution of vaccine in beneficiary countries and 9 months for receiving the country progress reports from each country that has participated to the project.


The action "Contribution for the implementation, review and assessment of DQAs (Data Quality Audit) in 2004" was executed between 1/1/2004 and 31/12/2005. Thanks to this support, a DQA process was developed, which is now widely and regularly employed to confirm results in and provide guidance to all GAVI countries on data quality and management.

2004 budget:

The action "Financial sustainability planning" was executed between 15/2/2004 and 14/2/2006. It followed a methodology to help countries plan for the long term financing of their expanded immunization programmes within the overall framework of general health programmes and priorities. It implied a rigorous diagnosis of the current financial situation, a careful estimate of the future financial situation, the development of a realistic strategic plan to address the financial gaps and an action-oriented plan to implement the strategy including the engagement of key partners.

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2005 budget:

The action "Country support mechanism for Burundi, Uganda and Rwanda - Increasing access to new vaccines" started on 28/10/2005 and is expected to end on 27/10/2008. No results are available yet.

2006 budget:

The implementation of the action "Increasing access to new and underused vaccines" started on 1/10/2006 and should end on 30/9/2008. No results are available yet.

3. Forecast for 2007There are no new actions to be implemented in 2007.

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Voluntary Technical Assistance (19 06 01 03)

1. ObjectiveThis budget line was used to finance a feasibility study on the creation of a European Civil Peace Corps. The report focuses on the feasibility of ECPC for pre- and post-conflict activities (not traditional development). The study assumes that the profile of volunteers would be more professional than young and un-experienced volunteers due to the sensitive context in which they would be deployed. The report describes the existing relevant national and international structures for the provision of volunteers. It looks into the potential added value of such new programme to existing programmes in the EU. Emphasis has been on trying to identify to which degree it is possible to mobilise from among civil society the qualified human resources. Finally, ECPC has been studied in relation to other EU volunteer concepts and recruitment mechanism with possible links to ECPC.

2. Implementation 2005 implementationUnder the framework contract AMS/451, a specific contract was signed in 2005 with Business and Strategies in Europe SA. The activities started on April 25 2005 to end in December 2005. The Feasibility Study was submitted by the end of 2005. The total amount paid to B&S Europe was EUR 173 827.80.

2006 implementationFinal report communicated to other Commission services, namely DG RELEX, in order to share the findings of the Feasibility Study on the Establishment of a European Civil Peace Corps (ECPC). Decision and contract closed by AIDCO 04.

3. Forecast for 2007Nothing foreseen.

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Preparatory action to reduce NBC Weapons and Small Arms (19 06 02 02)

1. Objective It has been widely recognised that there is a need to develop better collective EU export control assistance and outreach activities in the context of the EU Strategy against the Proliferation of WMD. The Pilot Project 2004 in the Balkans (Croatia, Serbia Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina) (which is substantially complete) and the Pilot Project 2005 (which commenced earlier this year addressing China, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates and Serbia Montenegro) are establishing a basis for improved EU export control assistance based on EU best practice in the areas of legislation, licensing, enforcement and outreach to industry. These EU export control assistance actions are setting robust international standards for third country assistance and ensuring the sustainability, predictability and repeatability of future EU outreach action by building up a training framework and the modalities to better utilise Member States export control expertise. Pilot Projects 2004 and 2005 and the Preparatory Action of 2006, provide an enhanced basis for the Commission assistance programme foreseen for the longer (2007-20013) term under the Instrument for Stability.

2. Implementation After two years of Pilot Project (2004 and 2005), the Commission proposed to continue as a Preparatory Action (PA) in 2006 with an amount of EUR 3 million in commitment appropriations. The reason for requesting a PA is that only in 2006 the Commission will be able to collect essential lessons and to test an identified methodology, on the ground. The PA1 will be used to prepare a Communication and develop Strategies and Programming for these new policy areas under the new Stability Instrument.

The Order for Service of April 2006 identified the need to consolidate the activities launched under PP1 and PP2, namely to continue the SALW capacity building in SEE and to continue supporting WMD export control actions, but with a wider geographic scope.

Two projects were identified by the involved Commission services both for EUR 1.5 million:

• “EU Western Balkans SALW Control Support Plan - 2007”, and

• “Further expanding EU cooperation with third countries in Export Control of Dual Use Goods – Centre of Competence”.

SALWA regional approach is needed to control the flows of weapons both from existing stocks and the production chain towards the market (legal and illegal).

This Preparatory Action is targeted towards South Eastern Europe (Western Balkans), and is a continuation of PP2 (2005 budget) which is being implemented during 2006. The two projects should together be referred to as the EU Western Balkans SALW

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Support Plan. The scope of the project covers and integrates both the “supply” side (‘a regional Western Balkans Action Plan is needed to control the flows of weapons both from existing stocks and the production chain towards the market (legal and illegal)’ and the “demand” side.

Within the Western Balkans the impact of uncontrolled proliferation and possession of SALW continue to constitute a major threat to social and economic development. Specifically, they contribute to the continued proliferation of criminal elements and organized crime, which has a negative influence on social and economic development. There is also a similar negative effect on security and confidence building measures during the transitional period of many of the countries within the region towards membership of European institutions. Recent national and sub-regional SALW Surveys, clearly indicate that large numbers of illegal SALW are still present in the countries of the region, and that the development of integrated, holistic national SALW control strategies are necessary to counter this significant threat. These SALW Surveys are the first qualitative and quantitative comprehensive assessment of the SALW situation within countries, and the impact on society as a whole; they have now proved to be the first essential step in the development of a SALW control intervention, and provide much of the information for the detailed components of this EU/EC SALW control intervention.

Compliance with relevant EU/EC legislation and agreements is highly desirable for the nations of the Western Balkans as they move towards further European integration.

This preparatory action should moreover transform SEESAC into the South AND Eastern Europe Clearinghouse for the Control of SALW. This will then make it an operational resource available to the Commission to provide project development, technical advisory, project monitoring and evaluation support to the EU within the wider CIS.

As under PP2, the project is implemented by UNDP Belgrade (through the South Eastern Europe Clearinghouse for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons - SEESAC) and started implementation in January 2007 and has duration of 12 months.

WMD

In the context of the EU WMD strategy and UNSCR 1540, in order to deliver export control assistance and prevent the transfer of WMD-related materials and technology to countries of concern and non-state actors, the Commission has utilized funds provided by the European Parliament in the 2004 and 2005 budgets to explore the feasibility of delivering improved EU export control outreach.

It is widely recognised that there is a need to develop better collective EU export control outreach services. The Pilot Project 2004 in the Balkans (Croatia, Serbia Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina) and the Pilot Project 2005 (China, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates and Serbia Montenegro), together with the TACIS export control project with the Russian Federation (with a EUR 3 million euros budget and implementation over three years) are establishing a basis for improved EU export control assistance. To ensure the sustainability, predictability and repeatability of EU outreach action, the PA 2006 would build upon the existing experience, ensure continuity and follow-up of activities initiated during the Pilot Projects 2004 and 2005, and provide a link between these activities and the assistance programme foreseen for the longer term.

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The PA 2006 both continues the work of strengthening dual-use export controls deepening the work with the third countries already identified; it could as well address a limited number of new beneficiary countries. However, whilst it would share this broader goal with its predecessor projects, the 2006 project would also develop and test new instruments to better meet the requirements for EU outreach in the context of the WMD strategy. It will seek to better replicate EU export control assistance. It would (a) build upon the lessons learnt and work accomplished under previous projects, both regarding specific target countries and the broader lessons for EU activity, (b) test implementation modalities (for example aimed at improving the way EU expertise is exploited) and training programmes (on enforcement, licensing etc) and (c) it would also seek to identify and find solutions to any weaknesses that could reduce the effectiveness of EU outreach.EU export control assistance would benefit from strengthened coherence. A modest training capability for officials from acceding countries as well as for officials from countries receiving EU export control assistance will be part of the project.

Establishing such a capability to better replicate export control outreach will therefore prepare and support more effective long-term assistance. It will help create a centre of competence which could lend crucial support to the EU’s non-proliferation policy.

As under PP2, the project is implemented by Germany’s Federal Office of Economics and Export Control (BAFA), as the skills and knowledge to undertake such a project only exist in Member States. It started implementation in January 2007 and has duration of 24months.

3. Forecast for 2007For 2007, no commitment appropriations for the PA are foreseen. The actions in the field of SALW and WMD are integrated into the new Instrument for Stability (19 06 03).

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Business and Scientific Exchange with India (19 10 01 03)

1. ObjectiveThis preparatory action is intended to support exchanges between European and Indian business executives, industry representatives, and scientists and research institutions in order to improve links between EU businesses and researchers in the context of India’s fast-growing economy. The Commission supports the enhancement of such contacts between the EU and India, especially in view of India’s emergence as a global economic player. Business and research co-operation represent key areas under the Strategic Partnership with India, which was launched in 2004, and are firmly embodied in the Joint EU-India Action Plan adopted in 2005. The action is in line with the European Parliament’s resolution on the Commission's Annual Policy Strategy (APS) (paragraph 4), which noted that “insufficient attention has been given … to the vast and very rapid changes underway in the global economy, notably in emerging economies such as India and China”.

2. ImplementationNew preparatory action for 2007

3. Forecast for 2007The following activities will be formulated in 2007 in preparation for a Commission financing decision in the fourth quarter of the year:

Establishment of a Business and Technology Centre (EUR 7 million)The Commission envisages the opening of a business and technology centre focusing on key sectors with the active involvement of key business from both sides with the objective to strengthen EU-India business and research co-operation and promote exchanges, partnerships and co-operation. The Centre would also help raising awareness about existing European programmes in the fields of Science and Technology co-operation as well as Business and Industry Co-operation and other linked sectors. Both sections should organise exchanges and visits to improve the understanding between EU and Indian Scientists/Researchers/Industry representatives.

Business co-operationAs EU investments and trade with India are growing, there is a real need for a one stop shop for centralised information on rules, regulations, standards, best practices, and generally trade and investment related matters. The promotion of business contacts and exchanges will facilitate trade and investments. Exchange of information will improve the knowledge of each other markets. The need and demand for such centralized information is likely to grow with the initiation of negotiations and the expected conclusion of a Free Trade Agreement with India. The Commission hence envisages the opening of a Business Centre to serve the interests of business and industry representatives, and which should focus on providing information and promote exchange of information, in particular with regard to key market-barriers. This will underpin our on-going efforts to improve the information flow with regard to market access in trade and investment.

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Scientific and industrial co-operationAs India is recording a rapid growth rate, its need for new technologies, applied research and industrial co-operation in several areas is growing. Europe is in the forefront in many of the relevant areas such as green technologies, smart solutions in areas of health and education, food and agriculture, renewable energy sources, transport solutions, and many other specific fields. Clearly, there is a huge untapped potential for closer co-operation and more concrete involvement of key stakeholders i.e. industry associations, government agencies, business and research institutions. The Science and Technology section of the Centre should thus focus on the following tasks: (i) exchange of know-how and information on advanced technologies through the organisation of events and visits, preparation of studies and publications in selected areas (ii) facilitate projects of common interest, in particular giving support to joint partnerships by industry and research institutions (iii) acting as the co-ordination centre for technology transfer policy issues through regular meetings with key policy and industry actors, supporting EU-India dialogues in various sectors of interest iv) disseminating information about existing European research programmes, and Indian programmes and v) promoting networking and partner searching.

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Business and Scientific Exchange with China (19 10 01 04)

1. ObjectiveThis preparatory action is intended to support exchanges between European and Chinese business executives and scientists in universities and research institutions in order to improve links between EU businesses and researchers in the context of China’s fast-growing economy. The action is in line with the European Parliament’s resolution on the Commission's Annual Policy Strategy (APS) (paragraph 4), which noted that “insufficient attention has been given … to the vast and very rapid changes underway in the global economy, notably in emerging economies such as India and China”.

2. ImplementationNew preparatory action for 2007

3. Forecast for 2007The following activities will be formulated in 2007 in preparation for a Commission financing decision in the fourth quarter of the year:

Scientific Training Programme (Approximately EUR 3million to EUR 3.5 million)A scientific training programme will be developed, targeted primarily at potential out-going EU researchers with the objective of facilitating their participation in Chinese research programmes. China is becoming a Research and Development world power and the EU has a strong interest in taking an active part in and benefiting from its R&D programmes and activities. The promotion of the mobility of EU researchers in the Chinese context is a challenge which could be met through the provision of language training, internships in appropriate Chinese organizations, and through the dissemination of knowledge and understanding on how Chinese research systems function.

Dissemination of information on China to the European business and scientific community (Approximately EUR 3million to EUR 3.5 million)The objective of the action is to analyse the effect of China’s economic rise, to provide policy advice on EU response and adjustment mechanisms, and to develop European networks on China. It will be targeted primarily at supporting EU business, scientific, and academic operators. Activities will be in line with the objectives of the Lisbon Agenda and could include, inter alia:• research on China;• the dissemination of analysis, research, and information;• the promotion of networking and exchanges between European companies and

business associations, scientific and academic operators, and NGO organizations operating in China and in Europe;

• the financing and organization of training and events;• the promotion of Chinese language teaching in Europe.

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Global Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Fund (GEEREF) (21 04 05)

1. Objective The purpose of this appropriation is to support the creation of a Global Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Fund (GEEREF), to mobilize private investments, in particular in developing countries and emerging economies, which draws on the Patient Capital Initiative launched by the European Commission in 2004.The key features of the proposed innovative public-private financing mechanism aim to :(1) create affordable "patient" risk capital so as to increase access to risk capital for renewable energy entrepreneurs and project developers,

(2) increase engagement of private sector experts and investors, and

(3) increase the leverage of public sector funds. In addition to the strong focus on Developing Countries, Europe and its neighbouring countries will also be considered.

2. Implementation N/A: New for 2007

3. Forecast for 2007The intention of creating the GEEREF was announced in Communication COM(2006)583 final of 6 October 20066.

It is intended to use the funds available through the Preparatory Action to support a Regional Fund Support Facility (the “Facility”) to be established in parallel with the Global Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Fund.

The objective of the Facility will be to support the creation and the operations of Regional Funds, including the development by these regional funds of energy efficiency and renewable energy projects and enterprises. The Support facility is crucial to realize the full development potential of GEEREF’s investment objectives and for mitigating the risks associated with investing in developing countries and economies in transition, particularly for ensuring access to funds by actors in less advanced regions. By closely aligning the Facility with the GEEREF, a much needed "One Stop Shop" will be created, thereby reducing the transaction costs incurred by small and medium scale business developers in developing countries and economies in transition.

It is expected that the Facility will be established in co-operation with, and managed by, the Trustee holding the mandate from the European Commission to subscribe to the GEEREF.7 Whilst the facility will not form part of the GEEREF’s investment capital, its

6 Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament - Mobilising public and private finance towards global access to climate-friendly, affordable and secure energy services: The Global Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Fund7 The selection of the EC's Trustee is currently ongoing. It is expected that the EC will appoint a European public finance institution (with a global mandate) as its Trustee, in line with the EC Financial Regulations.

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operating rules will be closely aligned with the governance and investment process of GEEREF to ensure maximum effectiveness and to create the necessary synergies. The Facility's policy will be an integral part of the GEEREF’s Investment Policy. The investment manager of GEEREF will assist the Trustee subject to the conditions set out in the agreement with the Trustee and to the guidelines and procedures approved by the Board of the GEEREF. An investment committee will be established specifically for supervising the tasks of the investment manager carried out in the context of the Facility. This investment committee will consist of three members among which one member of GEEREF’s Board of Directors. Timetable envisaged- Trustee Selected: 1 May 2007- Objectives, Tasks, and Outputs defined with relevant actors: 1 May 2007- Inter-service Consultation completed: 31 May 2007- Financing Decision: 30 July 2007 - Award Decision/ Funds Committed/ Contracted: 1 September 2007- Funds Paid: 30 September 2007 (following establishment of GEEREF)

Possible implementation problemsThe envisaged time table is highly interrelated with the timetable for implementing the GEEREF funding under the Thematic Programme for Environment under the Development Cooperation Instrument (DCI, budget article 21 04 01). Delays in the ENRTP/GEEREF timetable could directly affect the timetable for this preparatory action. (e.g. delays in reaching agreement on EC Trustee and/or GEEREF Fund Manager).

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DG responsible and contact personsA. Pilot projects

Nomenclature Heading DG responsible Contact person 2007

02 02 03 01 Consolidation of internal market – pilot project for cooperation and cluster-building among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)

ENTR I. NEMETH

02 02 03 03 Transfer of expertise through mentoring in SMEs ENTR H. NAU02 02 03 04 Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs ENTR S. BALDASSARRI02 02 05 01 Enlargement programme for SMEs ELARG P. SCHLUETER02 02 05 05 Measures to promote cooperation and partnerships between

micro, small and medium-sized enterprisesENTR T. MIKKELI

E. IORDANA02 02 06 Regions of knowledge RTD V. KOLLIA02 02 08 European destinations of excellence ENTR F. IANNIELLO02 02 09 The European Union assuming its role in a globalised world ENTR S. MITCHELL

C. ALLEN02 02 10 Technological Transfer ENTR V. VANHANEN04 04 05 Mainstreaming of disability actions EMPL L. LETHE05 01 04 07 Security fund in the fruit and vegetable sector AGRI I. PAPADIMITRIOU05 01 04 08 Sustainable agriculture and soil conservation through

simplified cultivation techniquesAGRI I. PAPADIMITRIOU

06 04 07 Energy security bio-fuels TREN O. LEFEBVRE06 07 02 Security along the trans-European road network TREN O. LEFEBVRE07 04 02 Pilot project Cross Border Cooperation in fight against natural

disastersENV A. BOILLOT

07 03 11 Forest protection and conservation ENV A. BOILLOT15 02 02 06 Individual mobility of upper secondary pupils EAC P. HEINÄMÄKI

S. CONZE15 02 23 Erasmus-style programme for apprentices EAC B. LHERITIER15 02 28 European Neighbourhood Policy scholarships at the College of

EuropeEAC P.MARTINEZ MACIAS

A. VERLI15 02 29 Cooperation between European institutes of technology EAC B. LHERITIER15 05 02 Pilot project for participation of young people EAC B. LHERITIER15 06 01 Pilot project in favour of citizenship EAC P. TYCHTL15 06 07 European Political Foundations EAC S. WILMET16 03 05 Euroglobe COMM B. FETELIAN16 03 06 Pilot information networks (PINs) COMM M. CAMHIS17 01 04 04 Risk financing model for livestock epidemics SANCO M. CAZZANIGA18 05 06 Completion of fight against terrorism JLS J. NUNES DE ALMEIDA19 05 01 01 Transatlantic methods for handling global challenges RELEX Y. SIOUD 21 02 17 Cultural cooperation with developing countries AIDCO P. SEGERS21 04 04 European emergency judicial assistance AIDCO P. SEGERS21 04 06 Water management in developing countries AIDCO P. SEGERS26 01 08 Pilot project: minimising administrative burdens ENTR A. RUDKA

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B. Preparatory Actions

Nomenclature Heading DG responsible Contact person 2007

02 02 03 02 Support for SMEs in the new financial environment ENTR C. GANSLANDT02 04 02 Enhancement of European security research ENTR P. DE SMET

K. VAN GOEY04 03 06 ENEA – Preparatory action on mobility of elderly people EMPL A. KIVINIEMI05 04 03 01 Forestry (outside the EAGGF) AGRI I. PAPADIMITRIOU06 04 03 01 Security of conventional energy supplies TREN O. LEFEBVRE07 03 10 NATURA 2000 – Preparatory action ENV A. BOILLOT09 03 03 Creation of an Internet-based system for better legislation and

for public participationINFSO M. LAFFINEUR

09 06 04 i2i audiovisual initiative INFSO M. LAFFINEUR17 03 04 Public Health SANCO M. CAZZANIGA18 03 05 European Migration Monitoring Centre JLS M. GUIN18 03 06 Integration of nationals of non-member countries JLS M. GUIN18 03 08 Financial instrument for return management in the area of

migrationJLS M. GUIN

18 03 12 Migration management – Solidarity in Action JLS M. GUIN18 04 03 Research and evaluation programme on respect for fundamental

rightsJLS B. WALTON

18 04 04 Support of Civil society in the new Member States JLS B. WALTON18 05 01 03 Exchange programme for judicial authorities JLS P. J. CSONKA 18 05 04 Victims of terrorist acts JLS J. NUNES DE ALMEIDA19 06 02 02 Reducing NBC weapons and small arms AIDCO P. SEGERS19 02 13 Voluntary technical assistance programme AIDCO P. SEGERS19 04 04 Conflict prevention network AIDCO P. SEGERS19 06 01 03 Voluntary technical assistance AIDCO P. SEGERS19 10 01 03 Business and scientific exchange with India AIDCO - RELEX M. PENNINGTON

M. SAMI19 10 01 04 Business and scientific exchange with China AIDCO - RELEX S. CANTELL

WILKINSON 21 02 07 04 Aid for poverty-related diseases in developing countries, other

than HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosisAIDCO P. SEGERS

21 04 05 Global Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Fund (GEEREF)

AIDCO - ENV P. SEGERSA. BOILLOT

22 02 05 05 Impact of enlargement in EU border regions ELARG P. SCHLUELTER22 02 05 06 Demining activities in Cyprus ELARG H. VISSER

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