Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)
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We have separate packages of proposals for decision. Both packages arise under the new EU framework programme for research and innovation, Horizon 2020. COM (2013) 495, COM (2013) 496, COM (2013) 501, COM (2013) 505 and COM (2013) 506 lay the legal framework for setting up joint undertakings through public private partnership with industry, for the implementation of strategic joint technology innovations under Horizon 2020. The purpose of the second package of proposals, COM (2013) 493, COM (2013) 497, COM (2013) 498 and COM (2013) 500, is to lay down the rules on the participation of the EU in the second research and development programme, to be jointly undertaken with several member states. These, which are aimed at supporting research and development in sectors not fully catered for by the market, such as in areas of active and assisted living, clinical trials in African countries, meteorology and research performing SMEs. As the joint committee has already had an opportunity to discuss these proposals directly with the Minister of State with responsibility for research and innovation, Deputy Sean Sherlock, in advance of the EU Competitiveness Council, and given that Ireland supports the proposals, it is proposed that these proposals do not warrant further scrutiny. Is that agreed? Agreed.