The Focal Point - www.efsafocalpoint.be
The cooperation and networking strategy adopted by the Management Board in 2006 stipulates that the Advisory Forum must establish “Focal Points” for EFSA in the Member States. These Focal Points concern the national networks of risk managers, the national authorities, research institutes, consumers and other stakeholders in the field of risk assessment in the context of EFSA’s mandate. The decisions concerning the composition of these Focal Points are a matter for the different Member States.
Their role consists in keeping EFSA and the other members of the Forum up to date with scientific developments and risk assessment issues in their country, as well as communication in the fields that are the responsibility of the Advisory Forum. The network of Focal Points is responsible for the organisation and coordination of the risk assessment institutes in the Member States, and is closely involved in the preparation and implementation of the work programmes of EFSA and the national authorities.
The main tasks of the Focal Point are the following:
1. He/she must ensure the exchange of information:
- With regard to the development of risk evaluation initiatives in Belgium or at EFSA;
- With regard to the communication of scientific results of primary importance;
- With regard to the work programmes requiring close collaboration between EFSA and the competent institutions in Belgium.
2. He/she must provide an opinion:
- On the scientific actions which may be undertaken in the context of the cooperation with the Article 36 organisations;
- On proposals to change and update the list of competent organisations in Belgium (Article 36 list);
- On the allocation of tasks to organisations on the list;
- On the development and continuous updating of a database of experts and organisations in Belgium which could assist both EFSA and the national authorities in the field of food safety or animal and plant well-being.
3. He/she must provide support:
- By disseminating information about EFSA in Belgium;
- By organising, in Belgium, an exchange of information and documentation regarding the scientific activities of EFSA;
- By guaranteeing an interface between EFSA and the national stakeholders;
- By ensuring the visibility of EFSA in Belgium.
The Focal Point for Belgium is Ms Leen Meulenbergs, Head of the International Relations department. The alternative Focal Point is Ms Laurence Ballieux.
Contact: efsafocalpoint@health.fgov.be
Newsletter: EFSA IN FOCUS
Published on 28/10/2009 – Page last updated on 28/10/2009