The European Commission is to strengthen the resources devoted to managing the development of the Global Monitoring for Environment and Security (GMES) initiative. In a decision taken on 8 March, the Commission is establishing a new focal point for its GMES-related activities.
To be known as the GMES Bureau, it will be responsible for the development of an implementation strategy for GMES. It will develop a federated and structured demand for GMES services across the Commission and promote GMES to both stakeholders and to the wider general public.
The tasks of the Bureau will include:
- Identifying GMES priorities;
- Developing data policy and mechanisms to ensure long-term data access;
- Developing partnerships based on international cooperation;
- Reviewing the operation of GMES pilot services under an agreed methodology; and monitoring relevant research and technology.
The GMES Bureau’s pan-Commission role will be reflected in its staffing. Organisationally, it will be a new unit within the Directorate-General for Enterprise. However, the decision has been proposed jointly by Vice-President Verheugen and Commissioners Potočnik and Dimas. Staff working in or associated with the Bureau will be drawn from several Directorates General, including users of GMES services, such as the Directorates-General for Agriculture and Rural Development and for Fisheries and Maritime Affairs.
When it becomes operational on 1 June, the Bureau will be guided by a Steering Committee composed of representatives all Directorates-General with an active interest in GMES. The Commission has already commenced internal recruitment procedures to ensure a timely appointment of the head of the Bureau.
The Commission’s Decision also looks ahead to the next phase of the GMES initiative. The tasks of the Bureau will include developing proposals for managing GMES as it goes beyond Commission needs to include other European Union institutions and bodies. The Bureau should therefore have the capability to evolve towards the introduction of other participants, including the Member States.
For more on the objectives and tasks of the GMES Bureau, click here |
