Research RTD, 7th Euratom Framework Programme 2007-2011: fusion energy, nuclear fission and radiation protection specific programme

 The committee adopted the report by Umberto GUIDONI (EUL/NGL, IT) amending - under the consultation procedure - the specific programme implementing the 7th EURATOM Framework Programme (2007-2011) for nuclear research and training activities. In the legislative resolution, the committee said that the indicative financial reference amount indicated in the legislative proposal must be compatible with the ceiling of heading 1a of the new multiannual financial framework, and pointed out that the annual amount would be decided within the annual budgetary procedure. It also adopted a new Article 5a stipulating that the Commission should provide prior information to the budgetary authority whenever it intends to depart from the breakdown of expenditure stated in the remarks and annex to the annual budget.

In other amendments, the committee stipulated that the essential aim of nuclear research activities should be "both to ensure a safer peaceful use of nuclear energy (safety) and to help avert its misuse for military purposes (security)". While emphasising the EU's strong commitment to research into renewable energies, the report also stressed the "major role" which nuclear energy could play in achieving secure and sustainable energy supply within the EU. Lastly, it introduced a new section into the Annex stressing the importance of disseminating information to the public on nuclear energy, inter alia through multi-annual campaigns, with the aim of encouraging debate and facilitating decision-taking.