Research RTD, 6th framework- programme 2002-2006: nuclear energy, Euratom programme

The committee adopted the report by Konstantinos ALYSSANDRAKIS (EUL/NGL, GR) approving the programme under the consultation procedure, subject to a number of amendments aimed at improving certain aspects of the proposed specific programme, while maintaining its overall orientation and structure. The main points of the amendments were as follows: - the EU world-wide leadership in fusion technology should be confirmed by firmly supporting a European site for hosting ITER (International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor - a project for developing fusion energy); - the use of the JET (Joint European Torus) facilities should be phased out progressively according to the schedule of the ITER realisation and to the availability of financial resources; - research was particularly needed on waste characterisation and waste packages; - future needs should be analysed in common as a matter of urgency in the framework of the ERA, given that all existing research reactors were built before 1970 and would be unable to meet the challenges of future research; - research aimed at military purposes should be specifically excluded from Community funding, in line with the proposal's stated aim that activities under the programme shall be carried out in compliance with fundamental ethical principles. �