(2004/C 70 E/214)

WRITTEN QUESTION E-3022/03

by Anna Karamanou (PSE) to the Commission

(14 October 2003)

Subject:   Funding of research into accident prevention

According to data produced by the European Accident Prevention Network, one third of fatalities in developed countries are caused by accidents, and young people are particularly affected.

In Greece, the number and frequency of fatal accidents of various types stand at extremely high levels.

In spite of this extremely worrying situation, the Commission recently cut the appropriations allocated to research into and prevention of accidents in European Union countries by 30 %, with the result that it has become considerably more difficult for the competent bodies to carry out their work.

Will the Commission support the proposals and requests made by the European Accident Prevention Network? What further steps will it take to reduce the number of fatal accidents and improve public safety?

Answer given by Mr Byrne on behalf of the Commission

(14 November 2003)

The Commission did not recently cut the appropriations allocated to research into and prevention of accidents in the Union by 30 %.

The proposals for financial support regarding accident and injury prevention received in the framework of the 2003 funding round of the Community public health programme are currently being evaluated. A decision on selection of projects to be financed is expected shortly. Several projects dealing with accidents and injuries have been presented in the selection process.