PAC’s Terms of Reference

Final version adopted by GA on 23 February 2006 from the draft prepared by F. Neuwirth in January 2006

1. Goal

The ALADIN Policy Advisory Committee advises the General Assembly in consultation with and proposals from the Programme Manager (see the the matrix of the ALADIN work).

2. Objectives

1. Review and update of the ALADIN strategic objectives, taking into account user requirements and the application priorities of the Members and acceding Members

2. Prepare strategic plans relating the agreed strategic objectives to a scientific and development strategy

3. Advise with the assistance of the Programme Manager on any cooperation or other strategic issue, including new proposed activities or perspectives

4. Support the Programme Manager in the negotiation of strategic cooperation agreements, based on negotiation mandates defined by the General Assembly

5. Review the Annual ALADIN report about the work plan and the realisation of the manpower commitments of Members and acceding Members, as presented by the Programme Manager

6. Submit recommendations to the General Assembly

3. Approach and Functions

• The Policy Committee is composed of six persons, plus a Chairperson and a Vice-Chairperson, all designated by the General Assembly. The PAC members represent the full Membership of the ALADIN Consortium and bring together strategic expertise on science, applications, management and policy. In exceptional cases deputies in agreement with the Chairperson of PAC can represent the members of PAC in the PAC meetings.

• Unless otherwise agreed, the PAC Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson are designated among General Assembly members, in order to facilitate efficient liaison with the General Assembly.

• The PAC Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson are appointed by the General Assembly for a period of two years and may be appointed not more than once.

• The PAC reports to the General Assembly and meets at least once a year, prior to the ordinary meeting of the General Assembly.

• The PAC may invite observers and experts to take part in the meetings.