RTD 5th framework-programme 1998-2002: preserving the ecosystem. Specific Euratom programme

Following the successful conclusion of the conciliation procedure between the Parliament and the Council regarding the Fifth Framework Programme, the Parliament adopted its opinion on the specific programme for research and training on 'preserving the ecosystem' (1998-2002). The Parliament's Rapporteur was Marjo MATIKAINEN-KALLSTROM (SF, PPE). The title of the programme was amended to that of research and training on 'Nuclear Energy'. The overall budget for the programme will be 979 million ECU. Of this amount, 238.2 million ECU will be available for the 1998/99 period, and 740.8 million for the 2000/02 period. The Parliament also called for the establishment of a parliamentary committee to oversee the next step of nuclear fusion - the ITER programme involving co-operation with the US, Japan and Russia and several others designed to ensure more transparency and closer monitoring of thermo-nuclear fusion research. In addition, the Parliament wants to see a full assessment of current proposals for fusion reactors by an independent consultancy.�