Irish Research Scientists discuss Fifth Framework Programme
The Irish Research Scientists' Association (IRSA) has recently completed a discussion document on the European Union's Framework Programmes for Research and Technological Development which contains its initial reaction to the "Preliminary guidelines for the Fifth Framework Programme", adopted by the Commission in July 1996. In general, IRSA welcomes the Commission's proposals for the Fifth Framework Programme whilst stressing that the objectives set out by the Community should be based on the strengths of European researchers rather than imposed from above. The Irish scientists also insist on the need for the EU to continue to directly support research as this has helped, in the past, to develop and sustain Union-wide projects that deal with Union-wide problems (relating, for example, to public health, energy, the environment). IRSA believes that there is some scope to simplify the management of the Framework Programme and perhaps move to a more regionally devolved management structure. In particular, they suggest that the RTD programmes under the current Fourth Framework Programme could have their remits broadened so as to reduce the total number of programmes while increasing their overall scope.
Kraje
Ireland