EFA

In early February the European Commission published a Green Paper proposing major changes to EU research and innovation funding, in an effort to make it more accessible, efficient, and to increase its overall impact. The paper proposes to merge existing programmes including the Framework Programme for research and the Competitiveness and Innovation Programme, with changes coming into effect after 2013. Before finalising its proposal however, the Commission has launched a pubic consultation on the Green Paper and is seeking the views of interested organisations and individuals including patients. It is possible to make a submission to this until Friday 20th of May 2011. Participants can contribute via an online questionnaire, by sending a written response, by using the interactive blog or by participating in some of the planned events. The responses received will be carefully analysed by the Commission services and used to present a finalised proposal for approval by Parliament and Council. EFA plans to complete the online questionnaire and send a written response. More information