Interoperability of and access to trans-European networks for the electronic interchange of data between administrations (IDA)

The Council agreed on a general approach, pending the Opinion of the European Parliament, on the updating of the second phase of the programme, under way since 1999, to promote the establishment and use of trans-European networks for the electronic interchange of data between administrations (IDA). The Council instructed the Presidency to forward this approach informally to the Parliament with a view to reaching an agreement at the first reading if possible. The Council's approach concerns two proposals designed to amend: - Decision 1719/1999/EC on a series of guidelines, including the identification of projects of common interest, for IDA networks; - Decision 1720/1999/EC adopting a series of actions and measures in order to ensure interoperability of and access to IDA networks. The aim of the programme is to facilitate the interchange of data in order, inter alia, to support the implementation of Community policies. The amendments concern: - adapting the committee procedure to the new rules on the subject (introduced by Decision 1999/468/EC); - extending the programme to certain non-Community countries; - introducing a financial reference for the period 2002-2004, namely EUR 39,8 million for the "guidelines" Decision and EUR 34,2 million for the "interoperability" Decision; - taking account of new initiatives such as the eEurope Action Plan.�