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The new Europe Direct information relays. The local face of the Commission’s strategy for dialogue with citizens. European Commission Representation in Finland. New EUROPE DIRECT Information Relays 2005-2008. Network of one single type of EU relays recreated for EU-25
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The new Europe Direct information relays The local face of the Commission’s strategy for dialogue with citizens EuropeanCommission Representation in Finland
New EUROPE DIRECT Information Relays 2005-2008 • Network of one single type of EU relays recreated • for EU-25 • in line with Financial Regulation • More relays • more relays in EU-15 • additionally: extended into EU-10 • More money • total budget greatly increased ~ 9.984.000 € • maximum grant increased • Offer to all EU institutions: EU information relays European Commission Representation in Finland
How many relays per MS? Number of relays pro MS calculated on the basis of following criteria: • Average number of EP seats (based on the population size) • Geographical area of the country European Commission Representation in Finland
Number of relayspro Member State European Commission Representation in Finland
Strategic objectives of the network: • Information and advice to the citizens • Feedback about citizens’ concerns vs. EU • Disseminating tailored messages • Promoting local and regional debate European Commission Representation in Finland
Examples of concrete actions by the relays • Informing the citizens : providing answers to their questions and access to printed, electronic and audiovisual information sources • Informing the local media on EU matters and reacting to stories misrepresenting the EU • Support to networking projects: help in establishing cross-border partnerships and exchanges • Participation and organisation of events : information days, fairs. European Commission Representation in Finland
EU-15 direct management EU-10 indirect management Management structure Commission Commission (Reps) MS intermediary bodies Host structure(s) Host structure(s) New relays New relays European Commission Representation in Finland
Contractual basis • Framework operating grant agreements for the period 2005-2008 – defines general missions and obligations of relays • Specific annual operating grant agreement for every year of activity – defines relays’ annual work programme European Commission Representation in Finland
Europe Direct in Finland • Call for proposal launched on 20 October 2004 • 28 proposals, 23 accepted • One block application of 20 points hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs • 3 other host organisations: JAKK – Adult Education Center, Nivala-Haapajärvi Sub-Region and Pro Agria-Lapin maaseutukeskus • Annual operating grant 15.000 – 24.000 € / point European Commission Representation in Finland
Europe Direct in Finland European Commission Representation in Finland
Support services offered centrally by the Commission • Regular supply of Documentation from Publications Office • Information services through Relays’ website « Europe Near You » and « Europa » website • Promotion activities • Training European Commission Representation in Finland
Support offered by Commission’s Representation • Welcome meetings for relays’ staff • Basic training/ information sessions • Network meetings • Documentation tailored to national issues • Promotion activities European Commission Representation in Finland