Commissioner encourages riskier proposals for ERDF innovative actions
Speaking at an ERDF (European Regional Development Funds) information day, European Commissioner for Regional Development Michel Barnier stressed the importance of innovative actions for less developed regions and encouraged new and potentially riskier proposals for the funds. Commissioner Barnier outlined three areas where action is needed: technological innovation as a basis for the regional economy, the eEurope region - using the information society to aid regional development, and sustainable development. 'In Europe, we have to learn together how to respond to the challenges with which we are confronted in the new economy. Innovative actions can contribute to this objective,' said the Commissioner. Those proposing new programmes of innovative actions for the ERDF should bear several things in mind, Mr Barnier emphasised. First, the Commissioner would like to see new proposals, which could entail some risks. 'In the area of innovation, we sometimes learn more from failure than from success,' stated Mr Barnier. Second, Commissioner Barnier would like to see active participation by all regional actors, both public and private, both in the conception of the programmes, and in their implementation. In his third point, Mr Barnier drew attention to the Commission's efforts to simplify and open up the programme: 'For our part, we have made an effort to simplify procedures and to ensure maximum transparency and financial security for this new generation of innovative actions. I ask you, for your part, to make an effort to ensure coherent and efficient management of the programmes.' Finally, the Commissioner stressed how important he views accompanying measures co-financed by the Commission, such as the creation of networks between regions and assistance to identify best practice. Commissioner Barnier talked about the worrying gap in R&D (research and development) investment between Europe and the USA, and between the most and least advanced Member States in this area. 'This report of technological underdevelopment could seriously compromise the chances of catching up in the less advanced regions,' said Mr Barnier, who added that this situation justifies intervention by the Commission.