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IFCS/FSC/06.22 rev118 May 2006

67th Forum Standing Committee Meeting27-29 March 2006

Budapest, Hungary

FINAL MEETING REPORT

1.0 Opening

The IFCS President, S. Wilbulpolprasert, welcomed participants1, and thanked the Government of Hungary for hosting the meeting. He noted that this is a particularly important meeting, as the Forum Standing Committee (FSC) must finalize the agenda and programme for Forum V.

Dr Gabor Kapocs, Deputy Secretary of State, Ministry of Health, welcomed participants on behalf of the Hungarian Government. He emphasized Hungary's commitment to chemical safety stressing the importance of prevention of negative impacts from the use of chemicals while enjoying their advantages. He paid tribute to the work and accomplishments of the IFCS and expressed high appreciation for the contribution that Prof Gyorgy Ungvary has made nationally, regionally and internationally.

2.0 Adoption of Agenda

The proposed agenda (Document: IFCS/FSC/06.12 rev1) was adopted. The President requested J. Katima to serve as co-chair of the meeting and to chair a session should the President be unable to attend. J. Katima agreed to the arrangement.

3.0 Acceptance of Record of 66th Meeting

The record of the 66th meeting (IFCS/FSC/06.11 rev1) was accepted.

4.0 Forum V - Theme: Chemical Safety for Sustainable Development

4.1 Local arrangements/organization - update

Chemol Travel, the conference organizer engaged by the Government of Hungary, made a presentation on the conference facilities, Budapest Congress & World Trade Center, and provide information on conference hotel arrangements, local transportation and other related matters.

4.2 Agenda and programme

The President stated that the FSC must consider and take final decisions on plenary/decision items during the meeting so that the preparations for Forum V could be successfully completed. The Secretariat reviewed the procedures and process for preparing the agenda for sessions of the Forum referring to the following IFCS documents:

IFCS Terms of Reference (IFCS/FORUM III/ 23w Annex 1)14. Agenda

The Secretariat, in consultation with and under the guidance of the President of the Forum, shall prepare a Provisional Agenda for each session of the Forum, including a recommendation for the meeting rapporteur. Any participant in the Forum may request the Secretariat to include specific items in the Provisional Agenda prior to its distribution. The Provisional Agenda shall be communicated to all participants in the Forum at least two months before the opening of the session. After the communication of the Provisional Agenda and before

1 List of Participants - Annex 1

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the adoption of the Agenda by the Forum, participants may propose only items of an important and urgent nature.

Forum Standing Committee Terms of Reference (IFCS/FORUM III/23w Annex5):Role and responsibilities

The Forum Standing Committee will guide the process of development of meeting materials and documents following the practice of lead country/sponsor/organization approach to preparing materials for agenda items.

The Secretariat also reviewed the types and structure of official Forum meeting documents that have been established by the FSC ( IFCS/FSC/01.63rev2).

4.2.1 Plenary/Decision items

4.2.1.1 Forum V Plenary Open Information/Discussion Session on Applying Precaution in the Context of Chemicals Safety ( IFCS/FSC/06.08 rev2)

The Secretariat introduced the proposal providing background information on its origin. The idea was put forth by the Secretariat in response to the difficulties encountered in the SAICM negotiations and the number of developing and CEIT country delegates that had contacted the IFCS Secretariat for information as they did not understand what the substantive issues and obstacles in the debate on precaution were that blocked agreement and action. The Secretariat explored the idea of an open information/discussion session on the topic at Forum V with a number of IFCS participants and receiving positive support prepared a proposal which the FSC had considered at its previous teleconference. The FSC had established a Working Group (Co-Chairs J. Stober and J. Tickner) to finalize the proposal and agreed to consider the final draft at its meeting in Budapest 27-29 March 2006.

J. Tickner provide information on the content of the proposal and the process the WG undertook to prepare the paper. He presented the rationale and proposed objectives and organization of the session highlighting the major areas to be discussed and resolved.

FSC input on the "objectives" included the following points: Relationship to science/based on scientific evidence - note science always contains a degree

of uncertainty Cost effective socio-economic considerations Terminology - use the term "precaution" as it avoids the difficulties with the terminology of

precautionary principle/approach Major issue for trade unions who, recognizing the lack of understanding and clear explanations

aim for agreement and common understanding Address issue of what the difficulties are in the opening presentation setting the scene but not

as a legal analysis; address issue of complexity of topic but focus on how to take action Avoid definitions/defining Useful to have a dialogue how applied in practice and tools used; case examples would be

constructive and a dialogue to overcome difficulties that block positive action focus on commonalities in case studies prepare global guidelines - harmonize use of precaution at global level cite SAICM OPS text on risk reduction and ICCMM Resolution requesting that IFCS play role

in the implementation of SAICM

FSC provided the following input on the structure of the Forum V plenary session: G. Karlaganis offered F. Perrez, Switzerland to make the opening overview presentation

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Include case study examples of lessons learnt when things do not go as planned (ref. Late lessons from early warnings: the precautionary principle 1896-2000 EEA Environment issue report No 22)

Examples helpful but not sufficient - focus on national implementation for better common understanding how to use

Reflect regional diversity and balance of issues

The FSC agreed to include the topic in the Forum V plenary agenda and to prepare two documents for the Forum V session: a Thought Starter based on the FSC meeting document and a Background Information document comprising a compilation of information, examples and tools submitted by countries and other stakeholders in response to a written request and interviews. The FSC agreed Goals/Objectives, workplan and potential session topics/case examples are presented in Annex 2. The WG was charged to undertake the preparation of the documents and the organization of the plenary session. Additional members for the WG should be communicated to the Secretariat by the end of the week.

4.2.1.2 MDGs as levers for advancing international chemicals management

P. Silkavaute informed the FSC on the President's communications with Jeffry Sachs. Jeffry Sachs is unavailable to participate in Forum V or to contribute to the preparation of a meeting document of the topic of MDGs and chemicals management. The Secretariat raised the question whether or not given the short time remaining prior to Forum V if work could be undertaken to adequately prepare a substantive and valuable plenary item? She recalled previous FSC meeting discussions where the FSC had acknowledged the necessity of involving other experts. In the absence of a positive response from J. Sachs - can any of the FSC recommend another person to prepare the paper?

M. Dreyer offered to assume the leadership to prepare item for Forum V assuming the role previous undertaken by Matthias Kern. He expressed the view that the topic should be broader than MDGs as the indicators agreed for these are narrow and do not relate directly to health and environment.

FSC had an open discussion on the development of the topic and offered a number of suggestions including the following:

Focus should relate strongly to SAICM implementation and the statements and commitments of governments to integrate chemicals management into development assistance

Previous draft of paper had attempted and failed to quantify issues. Any revision should be more general.

Need for input from development assistance agencies Linkages should be made to poverty reduction strategies

In response to a question, M. Gubb stated that the SAICM secretariat had not yet considered what guidance materials for countries may be provided on the issue.

The FSC agreed to include the topic "The Sound Management of Chemicals and Poverty Reduction" on the Forum V plenary agenda. The session will focus on:

How unsound use of chemicals undermines development goals How sound management of chemicals contributes to fighting poverty

A WG chaired by M. Dreyer was established to prepare the Forum Thought Starter paper and organize the session. R. Visser agreed to provide contact names of IOMC partners at the World Bank and UNDP to M. Dreyer and inform other IOMC partners of an open invitation to participate if they so wished. FSC members were asked to forward to M. Dreyer and the Secretariat names of others interested and available to contribute to the WG.

4.2.1.3 Consolidated International Data Base on Hazardous Properties of Substances

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The Secretariat presented the background and status of discussion on the proposal for a Forum V plenary agenda item on the topic of a Consolidated International Data Base on Hazardous Properties of Substances. The organization of a side event to inform on existing and planned publicly available sources of information on hazard data/hazardous properties of substances is being considered. The side event is being considered to respond to the need for information on how existing efforts respond to the Forum IV recommendation. If present efforts do not completely respond to the recommendation - are there practical ways to suggest that the Forum IV recommendation be more fully addressed to meet the needs particularly of developing countries and CEIT? The Secretariat has proposed to the US EPA, a lead sponsor of the OECD Global HPV Portal Project, that they organize such a side event together with Dr Phil Wexler, NIH, USA who is organizing a side event on his project World Library of Toxicology, Chemical Safety and Environmental Health. J. Shoaff informed the FSC that he discussed the request with P. Wexler and P. Wexler was open to broadening the scope of his planned side event and will organize it to address the broader issues.

B. Erikson requested that the side event in addressing the important topics of availability and accessibility consider the availability of MSDS. MDSDs were often the only sources of information for workers and the quality of the information provided was in many cases questionable. Making them available would provide the opportunity to comment and hopefully result in improved quality. K. Kunzer was requested to provide information from industry on how MDSD are made available. S. Clarkson was requested to contact the UNECE GHS SC Canadian Chair for information on how the issue of MDSD, which are integral to GHS, are taken up in the GHS implementation efforts and how the topic is being addressed in the UNITAR/ILO GHS Capacity Building Programme. This information will be considered with the side event presentations.

The FSC agreed that this topic would be addressed in a side event to be organized by the US and not scheduled as a plenary decision item.

4.2.1.4 Future of IFCS (IFCS/FSC/06.14)

G. Karlaganis presented the draft Thought Starter on the Future of the IFCS that had been prepared by the FSC WG. He informed the FSC on the process used to prepare the draft and reviewed the contents of the paper highlighting points and items he considered important. A draft decision for Forum V was presented in Annex 3 . The decision was drafted to include proposed revised terms of reference (TOR) to be prepared by the FSC. Other IFCS adopted guidelines concerning Officers, the FSC and NFPs as well as elections needed to be reviewed in conjunction with the discussion on revised TOR for IFCS. G. Karlaganis then led a section by section review of the document.

Sections 1., 2. and 3.1 received no comments and were accepted as drafted.

Section 3.2 Possible future role of IFCS

FSC members made the following observations and points: consider in the future what would be discussed by IFCS, why these issues, how results used and added

value of that result vs SAICM process or similar process in IGOso issues identified in SAICM OPS and GPA for future discussion such as: PBTs, vPvBs, CMRs,

heavy metals; o many issues in GPA are in need of further examination and discussion to support

implementationo reports will be made available to ICCM and other international chemical regimeso Section 3.3 covers added value

ICCM held an open discussion and made a clear conscience decision (Resolution 3) to request IFCS to continue a unique role

concerning open brain storming process and connecting issues relevant to SAICM, need to consider efficiencies of procedures and back to back meetings are one option

paper should specify clearer link with SAICM process - issues where IFCS has a unique role to play;

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period until ICCM2 is a critical time as the it is the period beginning SAICM implementation - SAICM ICCM intersessional work limited to regional meetings and Quick Start Programme (QSP) Executive Board Meetings - for at least next 3 years these are important reasons for IFCS to continue, need to keep stakeholders talking to each other which IFCS has a proven track record of achieving; should define role for this period and then judge future after ICCM2

consider options including sun setting IFCS include what the ramifications of sun setting of IFCS would be i.e. what would not be done;

elements in section 3.2 are things not done elsewhere - if IFCS does not exist then these functions will not be done

o openness of discussions, collective brainstorming among all stakeholders o open dialogue on difficult questions; o ability to get partners to sit together and hash out problems/issueso discussion not blocked by political positioningo opportunity to discuss emerging issues and trigger innovative ways of working at national and

other levelso capability to create working groups to bring stakeholders together - only fora where this

capability exists

M. Gubb provided the following information on SAICM intersessional work: Regional group meetings - the secretariat envisions to have 2 rounds before ICCM2 Regional Focal Points - remains to be seen what can be made of network QSP Executive Board - responsibilities are potentially wide ranging as the scope of the QSP ICCM rules of procedure: open ended working group will be convened prior to ICCM2 to draft -

probably 6 months before

The President observed that no members disagreed with or challenged the possible role presented in section 3.2.

Section 3.3 received no comments and was accepted as drafted.

Section 4.0 Actions requested by Forum V

G. Karlaganis requested FSC guidance on the structure and content of revised Terms of Reference (TOR) and related guidelines on Officers, FSC and NFP.

FSC made the following observations and points: TOR must link to SAICM process TOR must continue to provide existing flexibility in process and procedures TOR para 1.4 should correspond to section 3.2 in Thought Starter the type of credentials or accreditation of government representatives should be considered in light of

the proposed future role and functions; one possibility was to establish a system similar to that used by OECD e.g. designation through UN Mission in Geneva

decision making process - should this remain the same scheduling of sessions - include options, flexibility streamlining and more efficient ways of working - less costs and bureaucracy - should be considered;

e.g. smaller meetings, no officerso VPs important to maintain as link with region group members provides representation and

legitimating mechanismo IFCS experience with ISG meetings - fundamental operating procedure of openness and

transparency of meetings resulted in minimally smaller participation in meetings; resources required for preparations of ISG meetings were on the same scale as full Forum sessions

o FSC - important component to drive processo recent experience showed scheduling of IFCS meetings back to back with other international

meetings resulted in only small cost savings

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On Wednesday morning, G. Karlaganis presented a revised draft Thought Starter and proposed revisions to the FSC Terms of Reference and Guidelines for NFP. No revisions were proposed for the guidelines on the Role of the President or Regional Roles and Responsibilities for Vice Presidents. The revision incorporated the comments and suggestions of FSC members. He highlighted the particular sections in the text where the link and relevance of the future IFCS work to the SAICM process was expressed. He did not see his mandate to include the option to sun set IFCS. His vision for the next 3 years was to continue with FSC teleconferences, convene 2 face to face FSC meetings and Forum VI in the late 3rd quarter or early 4th quarter of 2008 preferable in Africa. He noted the offer of Senegal at Forum IV to host Forum VI and offered the Geneva Conference Centre as an alternative location should it not be possible to convene Forum VI in Senegal or another African country. This work schedule would allow the Forum to uniquely contribute in the intersessional period before ICCM2 and to provide timely contributes to ICCM2. In response to the previous day's discussion, he proposed that the Forum V agenda include a discussion session on possible future topics for the Forum. He said the Swiss government would be happy to host one FSC face to face meeting during the period and the President agreed that Thailand would be willing to host a second FSC meeting in the Spring of 2008 outside Bangkok.

U. Schlottmann and other FSC members expressed support for the 3 year vision presented by G. Karlaganis. U. Schlottmann expressed the view that in the end ICCM and IFCS should come together, but time was needed to analyse how this should be achieved.

M. Gubb said that future ICCM meetings were proposed to be held back to back with IGO governing body meetings and the planning for ICCM2 was proceeding for it to be held back to back with the World Health Assembly in 2009. He observed that it may be more practical to schedule FVI in the 3rd or 4th quarter of 2008 as suggested by G. Karlaganis. The President asked the FSC if could accept G. Karlaganis's proposal for Forum VI. No objections were raised.

Concerning the sustainability of financing for IFCS, FSC members made the following observations: Future funding requirements should be estimated based on the proposed future role and functioning of

the IFCS It is important to distinguish between the components of resources for IFCS:

o Trust Fund for administrative costso Twinning Funds for developing country and NGO participation in Forum sessionso In-kind resources - traditionally have been substantive and important for the IFCS established

way of working - in the proposed future role it may be important to be able to provided limited amount of funding support for scientist/experts from developing country who are not government staff

o Forum sessions - host country is responsible for all organizational administrative costs of Forum session except twinning

FSC members had responsibilities to assist with fund raising IFCS budget not large relative to other UN bodies and departments

S. Clarkson noted that only his department in Canada contributed to IFCS and will continue funding contributions at some level. E. Nieto said the Asia Pacific region wanted IFCS to continue and the 49 countries in region will look for resources. U. Schlottmann said the FSC should reflect on the issue of streamlining to reduce bureaucracy. He believed the IFCS accomplished a tremendous amount in its way of working with a small secretariat.

G. Bengtsson proposed that the FSC should consider a contingency plan if the necessary staff contract arrangements can not be made. J. Katima, session Chair, said the FSC could discuss contingency plan but not part of the work preparing the Thought Starter.

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J. Katima, session Chair, summarized stating that the ICCM had requested the IFCS to continue. Members who wished to propose other options, including sun setting, could prepare additional documents and make the proposal during the plenary discussions at Forum V. In such a manner, the thought starter provides background and options on possible roles for the Future of IFCS, but it may not propose multiple options for consideration and does not represent the breadth of discussions that may be had on the issue at Forum V.

G. Karlaganis said he had taken note of any additional comments and they could be accommodated. He proposed the following process to finalize the Thought Starter: complete revised version of Thought Starter to be distributed by 7 April to WG for comment WG submit comments in writing (track changes) by 21 April if no substantive comments, then the Thought Starter finalized and distributed for information to FSC at

May teleconference; if substantive comments, then FSC discuss and finalize during May teleconference.

The FSC agreed to the process.

4.2.1.5 Heavy metals - need for further global action ?

G. Karlaganis provided information on the objectives and agenda for Swiss sponsored side event on heavy metals to be held on 23 September 2006 immediately prior to Forum V. He said the side event supports the WSSD Plan of Implementation item on chemicals managements and the SAICM Overarching Policy Strategy risk reduction objectives as well as implementation of activities in the SAICM Global Plan of Action. He noted that the outcome of UNEP's work on mercury, lead and cadmium has addressed numerous aspects of the issues related to exposure and related environmental and human health concerns, but does not address them comprehensively. The response to the invitation by UNEP, through a letter dated 20 May 2005, inviting Governments, particularly those of developing countries and countries with economy in transition, and other stakeholders to identify, in consultation with stakeholders, priority partnership areas as soon as possible, with the goal of identifying a set of pilot partnerships by 1 September 2005 has been limited : responses had been received only from 18 Governments (5 of which are OECD Member States) and one non-governmental organization. The aim of the side event is to provide the opportunity to discuss sources of exposure and solutions to problems through a case studies approach - which will help to identify obstacles faced by developing countries and countries with economy in transition and find out their particular needs. A discussion in Forum V plenary will provide an additional important opportunity to further examine the issues and problems - the output may be a compilation of the items identified for which the Forum V may wish to consider in the immediate future. This would help provide guidance to countries who are eager to start implementing SAICM and follow up on the heavy metals priorities.

General comments from the FSC: K. Kunzer noted the difficulty of using the term "heavy metals" as it was not defined. The

SAICM documents refer to "mercury and other metals". Good to identify some of the under recognized sources of exposure Global needs should include all regions and all sectors Questions for open discussion session should focus on commonalities of areas and topics

listed; what items need global support in order to be addressed

The FSC agreed to include the outcome of the side event on the Forum V plenary agenda for further discussion of the topic Heavy metals - need for further global action?

4.2.1.6 Administrative items

The issue of the FSC Terms of Reference, National Focal Points and Officers Guidelines, elections and future finances were addressed under agenda item 4.2.1.4.

Forum V rapporteur - proposals

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The Forum will designate the individual to serve as meeting rapporteur at the Opening Session. The Secretariat described the role of the rapporteur who oversees the process of preparing the meeting report. Lead sponsors for Forum Plenary agenda items have the main responsibility for drafting any Forum decisions or recommendations as well as the relevant section in Meeting Summary Report on their agenda items. The rapporteur prepares the meeting report based on their input.

FSC members agreed to send proposals to Secretariat by 1 September 2006 and to consider the nominations at its teleconference in early September.

4.2.1.7 Other Plenary/Decision items on specific topics

Toys and chemical safety

J. Weinberg proposed the topic of toys and chemicals safety be included in the agenda noting that it was an issue being addressed in the US and European Union countries and raised the question of the situation in developing countries. It was a cross cutting issue where actions and practice can be based on substantive evidence. Products taken off the market in developing countries remained available in the market in developing countries. Information on different approaches - regulatory and voluntary - would provide practical examples. The topic was different in character than those to be addressed in the session on precaution and went beyond the issue of metals. J. Katima supported the proposal stating that developing countries faced a major problem with the influx of second hand toys. He noted that the problems posed could be due to ignorance.

The proposal was supported by the FSC and the Secretariat agreed to take the lead in preparing the Forum V meeting paper and organizing the plenary session. FSC members were requested to send nominations for working group members to the IFCS Secretariat by 10 April 2006. Noting it will be important to have nominations of those who are knowledgeable about the issue and particularly from developing countries who are informed on any special circumstances and issues in developing countries, all regional representatives and NGO members were requested to provide nominations. J. Shoaff offered to contact the Consumers Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Consumers Union in the USA to provide input; K. Kunzer agreed to discuss with industry the participation of representatives and S. Rengam agreed to provide a contact at Consumers International.

4.2.2 Opening Session (IFCS/FSC/06.19)

The FSC agreed that the Opening Session will be held Monday 25 September 2006 at 10h00.

Representative of Government of Hungary

Z. Szabo informed the FSC that the President of Hungary had accepted the invitation to make an address at the Opening Session. In addition, the Minister of Health would also make a statement.2

Keynote address

Thailand provided an update on the invitations to Hon. Prof. Wangari M. Maathai, EBS, M.P., Assistant Minister for Environment and Natural Resources, Kenya and Prof. J. Sachs. As reported under agenda item 4.2.1.2, Prof Sachs had declined the invitation to make a keynote address at Forum V. Prof Wangari 's staff expressed her interest as the Forum's work meets her priority work areas for 2006 and requested more information on the IFCS. Letters providing information and encouraging her to accept the invitation had been sent by M. Ciraj and H. Calvacanti, but a response had not yet been received.

2 Note from Secretariat: In subsequent discussions, Z. Szabo informed the Secretariat that the Hungarian Minister of Environment was available also to participate in the Opening Session and address the Forum.

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The FSC was asked to consider other possible candidates as there was room in the programme for more than 1 keynote address. Suggestions brought forth included: Nobel Laureate chemist from USA (U. Schlottmann) President of Slovenia (M. Ciraj) - he had participated in UNCED and supports and encourages

sustainable development via a number of channels including a non-governmental organization that he leads. M. Ciraj noted that she had not yet explored the possibility with his office, but was willing to do so.

Spanish Minister of Environment (B. Erikson) - female politician who could provide a focus on commitment and influence

Prominent scientist in health area Iranian Vice President and Minister of Environment (A. Mousavi) Woman working a grass roots level for sustainable development (President) - S. Rengam supported the

proposal and agreed to work with President to identify individuals Lecture from scientist working in Hungarian Ministry of Health (Z. Szabo)

The FSC advised that the President in consultation with the Secretariat pursue the following: Prof Wangari - continue to explore participation with a deadline for confirmation set at 31 May 2006 The following proposals will be informally explored and information will be provided by 30 April 2006:

o President of Slovenia - invite in capacity of NGO (M. Ciraj)o Minister of Environment, Spain (B. Erikson)o Vice President and Minister of Environment, Iran (A. Mousavi)o Grass roots panel of women - focus on what happens at the local level (S. Rengam with input from

FSC)

The FSC will consider the organization of the Opening Session further at its next teleconference.

Awards

The Secretariat reviewed the types of IFCS awards (Award of Merit and Special Recognition Award)and the nomination and selection process. The nominations received were under review by the President and Vice Presidents. Recommendations would be presented to the FSC in May.

4.2.3 Monitoring Progress

4.2.3.1 President's Progress Report including 12 Year History of IFCS - draft (IFCS/FSC/06.15)

P. Slikavute provided a status report on the drafting of the various chapters and requested input specifically on chapters 2 and 3. The President's Progess Report is included as part of chapter 3. J. Weinberg kindly accepted to write chapter 4 in April/May. Reviewers had not ye been identified for all the chapters. The first full draft will be available in July and the document will be finished in August.

B. Erikson noted that chapter 1 needed to include minor chemical incidents and also suggested that chapter 5 The Way Forward would be more appropriately placed as an Introduction or Preamble.

The President explained that the Report on the 12 year history of IFCS was his personal idea to prepare and it would be an INF document for Forum V. He said the document needed to be short so it would be read.

In response to a question concerning the report's relationship to the Simple Indicators of progress report (IFCS/FSC/06.09 rev1), the Secretariat explained the history, development and process for preparing the Simple Indicators Progress 2004-2005 Report of National Governments. The Report provides a quantitative summary of submissions but no analysis as this was to be covered in the President's Progress report. It will be continually updated until Forum V as new reports are received from IFCS National Focal Points. She indicated that this would be the last year for the Report as the ICCM has assumed the responsibility for

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monitoring progress and had given the task of collecting information to the SAICM secretariat. J. Shoaff noted the value of having consistent and thorough information provided by such a Report and B. Erikson said the experience of the IFCS and FSC input should be passed on to the SAICM secretariat.

4.2.3.2 Reports requested by previous Forum sessions

The Secretariat reviewed the information provided in the FSC working paper (IFCS/FSC/04.06rev4) noting the status of each item and suggested how each might be reported to Forum V. The FSC agreed that all the items, with exceptions as noted below, will be included in the President's progress Report.

4.2.3.2a INFOCAP (IFCS/FSC/06.17)

U. Schlottmann proposed and the FSC agreed to include brief information on INFOCAP in the President's Progress Report and to also prepare a separate INF paper to inform on INFOCAP and the events since Forum IV. This would keep INFOCAP in the forefront.

4.2.3.2b Addressing the widening Gap Initiative (IFCS/FSC/06.18)

The Secretariat and A. Mousavi presented the meeting paper providing an update to the FSC on the activities and efforts on the initiative since Forum IV. U. Schlottmann expressed support for reporting progress in both the President's Progress Report and in a separate INF paper. He said a plenary discussion would draw attention to the slow progress and help to stimulate ideas.

The FSC considered how to provide a report to Forum V and if a plenary discussion on the topic could provide new concrete ideas that would be constructive. G. Bengtsson suggested that it may be premature to have a plenary discussion and it may be better to schedule a discussion in a side event. M. Dreyer support a plenary session as the issue was directly linked to the poverty reduction/MDGs topic.

J. Weinberg offered that the problem was not one of providing advise and information, but of providing assistance. He requested M. Gibb to provide information on the SAICM secretariats activities specifically the function to provide assistance in preparing project proposals. M. Gibb said that the link was recognized including the role and functions of the Quick Start Programme (QSP), but at this time no action has been taken on it as the priority was to get resources in place and the secretariat established.

B. Erikson expressed the hope that a plenary session could identify solutions. He noted that SAICM focuses mainly on what governments can and should do, but others such as industry and public interest NGOs had the ability to contribute. He hoped that a plenary discussion would offer the opportunity to look for new partnerships and encourage the SAICM secretariat to give priority to the matter. K. Kunzer said that industry was willing to contribute to the session information on the role they can play in capacity building.

A. Mousavi agreed to lead the organization of a session for Forum V. He also agreed to bring to the agenda of the QSP Executive Board meeting in late April the report of the Expert Group for consideration and follow up commitment. In consultation with a number of FSC members, he suggested that a plenary session may include several items: 1) progress report, and 2) south-south cooperation. They had also considered the topic of the "double standard" of multi national practice in industrialized and developing countries, but had put that aside due to lack of time to prepare. The Secretariat had drawn their attention to the related Forum III agreed action item and recommendation on "Information Exchange for Chemical Production Decision Making" that had not yet been acted on.

Concerning the south-south cooperation, the FSC considered that this should not be seen as a shift in burden from developed to developing countries. The topic should only go forward if at least 2 or 3 countries were willing to serve as the nucleus and commit domestic resources for this. The President and A. Mousavi agreed that Thailand and Iran would discuss the matter within their governments and report back on the possibility of leading the work. The secretariat noted that a function of the SAICM secretariat is to promote

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the establishment of networks of SAICM stakeholders and suggested that support might be explored from this source. If a commitment was obtained from two or more governments, then a thought starter paper would be prepared and side event organized for Monday lunch time with the outcome of the discussions brought forward to plenary.

The FSC agreed that:- a brief progress report on the Widening Gap initiative would be included in the President's Progress Report and a separate more detailed INF progress report document would be prepared- a plenary session on Address the Widening Gap among countries in following chemical safety polices would be included in the Forum V agenda;

o A. Mousavi would lead the organization of the sessiono the session would include a progress report o if commitments from several developing countries to support a south-south cooperation initiative for

assistance in chemicals management were obtained, a side event would be organized to discuss the matter and its outcome brought forward to plenary.

- A. Mousavi will bring to the agenda of the QSP Executive Board meeting in late April the report of the Expert Group for consideration and follow up commitment.

4.2.3.2c Others

Prevention of Illegal International Traffic in Toxic and Dangerous Products

A. Olanipekun said that there was no progress in getting UNEP Focal Points to bring the issue forward to the agenda of the UNEP Governing Council and there had been no action by the IOMC organizations on the IFCS Priority for Action (F1) adopted in 2000. Illegal international traffic was included in the SAICM OPS as an objective and specific activities to address the objective were included in the SAICM Global Plan of Action. She suggested that IFCS might give guidance to SAICM on how the activities could be carried out.

M. Gubb informed the FSC that UNEP was organizing a symposium in November 2006 to identify what the problems are and what obstacles and gaps exist. He said that SAICM regional meetings held prior to the symposium would have the opportunity to discuss the topic and provide input to the symposium. He suggested that the President write to UNEP for more information. The Secretariat suggested that UNEP could be invited to submit a report for Forum V in the manner of a room document. The Secretariat noted that the Commission on Human Rights had for some time a Special Rapporteur on the subject of illegal traffic and a number of reports had been prepared that could provide information for the symposium. She suggested that the Special Rapporteur be invited to participate in the symposium.

GHS

G. Karlaganis proposed that UNITAR and ILO be invited to organize a side event similar to the one they sponsored during the ICCM with the objective of providing an update on their organizations capacity building activities. R. Visser agreed to transmit the request to UNITAR and ILO and suggested that other organization may also be interested in participating in a side event if organized. K. Kunzer said industry would contribute providing information on its capacity building work.

4.2.4 Side Events

4.2.4.1 Heavy Metals - 23 September 2006 (IFCS/FSC/06 INF7, IFCS/FSC/06 INF8, IFCS/FSC/06 INF9)

G. Karlaganis updated the FSC on the planning for the side event. He requested assistance from R. Visser to arrange the presenters from UNIDO and UN ECE. R. Visser agreed to contact UNIDO, but not UNECE as he has no responsibility for UN ECE. Working Group lunches on each metal will be organized and nominations for co-chairs/co-rapporteurs are sought. Countries and other participants will be invited to distribute materials and discussion on experiences will be encouraged during the working lunches.

11


4.2.4.2 Clean Production & Clean Technology

R. Visser stated that he had requested information from UNIDO but had not yet received it. It could be discussed at the IOMC/IOCC meeting in April. J. Weinberg suggested that the event include the topic of artisinal mining. J. Shoaff expressed the US interest in collaborating on the side event, but has not yet been able to discuss the matter with UNIDO. 4.2.4.3 Ecologically sound and integrated pest and vector management

S. Rengam informed the FSC that she discussed the side event with R. Quijano and PAN planned to organize the side event as proposed. The event will also address the issue of pesticide poisoning and include case studies.

4.2.4.4 Others

World Library of Toxicology, Chemical Safety, and Environmental Health (IFCS/FSC/06 INF3)

Information on this side event was provided to FSC for its 64th Meeting, 13 October 2005 and was discussed under agenda item 4.2.1.3 Consolidated International Data Base on Hazardous Properties of Substances. P. Wexler, the sponsor, has requested the side event be scheduled for Tuesday, lunch time.

Essential role pf public interest NGOs and civil society

J. Weinberg announced that a side event on this topic was being considered.

Asbestos - a global threat

B. Erikson announced that a side event on asbestos was under consideration. A decision would be made by late June/early July.

4.2.5 Exhibits

Chemol Travel, the conference organizers engaged by the Government of Hungary, provided initial information on the arrangements available. A range of booth sizes at different costs would be available. The exhibit area is located in a heavily trafficked main hallway area near the snack bar. Details will be provided to the IFCS Secretariat and made available on the Forum V website. The Secretariat clarified that exhibit space was available to IFCS participants only and not to commercial enterprises.

4.2.6 Time schedule for Forum V (IFCS/FSC/06.16)

The FSC to considered the scheduling of working day, order of items and allocation of time for presentation/introduction of item and discussion and programme items.

The FSC considered the importance of regional group discussions on topics after they had been presented in plenary and agreed to schedule a half day for these on Wednesday. The FSC requested the Hungarian local organizing committee to organize field trips on Thursday afternoon similar to the trips organized during Forum IV. Field trips would provide interesting educational value while at the same time allowing adequate time for preparing the meeting report.

The Secretariat presented a draft General Time Schedule based on the agreed plenary agenda items and other requests. The FSC agreed to the draft as presented in Annex 3.

12


4.2.7 Communications and media

The Secretariat informed that FSC that the ENB will be covering Forum V. She recalled the experience and results from previous sessions of the Forum. A significant effort had been made to attract the attention of the media around the world with very limited success. She suggested that limited time and resources, if any, be spent on this for Forum V. She requested that the FSC consider if any additional media outreach should be undertaken and if so how and by whom?

A number of FSC members were of the opinion that unless there was a controversial or new topic or a world renown keynote speaker the Forum V agenda would not be of general interest to the press. The Hungarian Government offered to seek the advice and assistance of the media office at the Ministry of Health. The possibility of a press conference following the Opening Session in which the Hungarian President, Hungarian Ministers, IFCS President and keynote speaker(s) would participate would be explored once the keynote speaker(s) had been confirmed. The FSC accepted with appreciation the offer from Hungary.

4.2.8 Time schedule for FV preparations

The Secretariat presented a revised time schedule. The schedule was amended to take into account the FSC decisions during its meeting. The schedule would be kept in constant review by the FSC as preparations for Forum V progressed.

4.3 VP Reports on Regional Activities

E. Nieto provided a detailed report on regional efforts in 2005 and a proposed regional framework for activities in 2006. The report covered workshops held and planned on regional identified priority topics. A proposal for funding support for a regional meeting in the Philippines prior to Forum V has been submitted to OPCW. It was hoped to organize the meeting in August 2006. The VP regional report will be made available on the IFCS website.

J. Katima reported that the African region had concentrated its efforts in 2005 on SAICM including IFCS contributions to the SAICM development process. Initial contact had been made with OPCW concerning the organization of a workshop on illegal traffic, but due to scheduling difficulties the discussion had been put on hold.

J. Shoaff reported that a WEOG teleconference had been held the previous week to exchange views on the agenda for forum V, the future of IFCS and Twinning support. U. Schlottmann requested that the WEOG VP convene a regional WEOG meeting on 24 September 2006 prior to the start of Forum V.

4.4 IFCS Champions Reports President

The President requested the Secretariat to update the FSC on recent activities of the Champions Groups. The Secretariat informed the FSC that the Children & Chemical Safety Group had published a Global Guide to Resource to support the implantation of the Forum IV recommendations. The Guide was available on the IFCS website and in printed format in 3 languages (E, F, S). Similar web based resource guides were under preparation by the OSH Champions Group and the ATP Champions Group. Members of the children & Chemical Safety Champion Group were actively promoting action on the Forum IV recommendations at a range of national and international meetings, the most recent was at the Occupational and Environmental Health: Emergencies in Developing Countries held Feb28 - Mar3, 2006 in Quito, Ecuador.

The Secretariat agreed to assist the President's advisors in obtaining information on the efforts of the Champions Groups for the President's progress Report.

4.5 Communications

13


Agenda item not taken up.

4.6 FCS Financial Report - Status report (IFCS/FSC/06.17)

The Secretariat presented the financial report providing an update on the contributions received. Sufficient funds had been received for the IFCS Trust Fund to adequately support the preparations for Forum V. Germany, Switzerland and Sweden each had made substantive additional contributions to the Trust Fund. The Trust Fund needs to have an available balance of approximately 400 000USD at the end of September 2006 to support the secretariat. WHO has instituted new rules and procedures concerning staff contracts that applied to IFCS secretariat staff.

The Secretariat reported on the status of the Twinning Funds to support participation in Forum V. It was estimated that 315 000 USD was needed. Funding request letters had been sent to key donors in February following the advice of the FSC. The list of recipients was provided in an annex to the financial report.

J. Weinberg said it was likely that the public interest NGOs would be convening a meeting prior to Forum V in Budapest and were hoping that the IFCS NGO Twinning Fund would be able to support participation in Forum V. The Secretariat said that if funds were available they wished to make similar arrangements with the NGOs as was done for Forum IV as these provided the most cost effective means of supporting participation.

Members suggested sending Funding request letters all the OECD countries, even those that had previously indicated that they would not be able to make a contribution. U. Schlottmann requested that FSC members consider who might be approach with a funding request and make additional proposals later in the meeting. He said that Germany would respond positively to the request. He asked the Secretariat how the funds should be specified - NGO or governments. The Secretariat said it would be best to allow for the greatest flexibility - to make undesignated contributions. G. Kalaganis pledged 50 000 CHF from Switzerland in 2006. He has contacted SDC with a funding request for Forum V Twinning and requested the Secretariat to also write a request letter to the Director.

Concerning the funds needed in September 2006 to support the secretariat in 2007, U. Schlottmann stated that Germany would be making its usual contribution to IFCS in 2007, but it would be impossible to contribute 2007 funds early. He asked that the President write to the WHO Director General to request an exemption to the WHO rules for IFCS staff. The President agreed to do so.

4.7 Senior Professor Service for Sustainability and Chemical Safety: A Curricular Model for M. Sc. Courses for Natural Scientists in the Developing Countries

U. Schlottmann provided the FSC with an update on the good progress made. The Senior Professor Service for Sustainability and Chemical Safety has received the German UNESCO Prize. Other chemical societies would be contacted soon and invited to participate. The project has initiated partnership discussions with Gadjah Mada University in Indonesia . Prof. Hopf and Prof. Bahadir have planned a visit to there with the aim of learning about the chemistry department, discussing mutually interesting aspects of the project with colleagues and the responsible persons in the adminsitration in order to prepare a Dual Degree Agreement between the universities. They will also give lectures on several topics. U. Schlottmann agreed to provide a 1 page report to the President for the Progress report.

4.8 Follow-up to any outstanding agenda item business

Provisional Agenda for Forum V (IFCS/FSC/06.21)

The Secretariat presented the draft Provisional Agenda for Forum V (Annex 4). The draft incorporated the decisions taken by the FSC during the meeting. J. Shoaff inquired as to which items were decision items.

14


The Secretariat stated that Thought Starter papers were being prepared for the agenda chemicals management topics and that it was up to participants at Forum V to propose any actions or recommendations for agreement and adoption by the Forum. In addition Forum V was requested to take a decision on the future of IFCS. The President referred to the IFCS Terms of Reference which allows any participants to propose and agenda item before the adoption of the Agenda by the Forum. The FSC supported the draft agenda and agreed to submit to the Secretariat any revisions to topic titles by Friday 31 March 2006.

Other items

Follow-up discussions on other items is reported under respective agenda items.

4.9 SAICM - Implementation update

M. Gubb in his capacity as SAICM Secretariat provide an update on the work efforts since ICCM. The issue of the ICCM meeting report was awaiting clearance by the ICCM President and rapporteur. The secretariat was focusing on the practical aspects of establishing itself. Meetings of the QSP Implementing Committee and Executive Board have been scheduled for late April. The processes for requesting designation of focal points - regional, national and NGO - had been initiated. Planning discussions for regional meetings were under way and it was anticipated, pending funding support, that an African regional meeting would be convened in early September 2006 in Cairo. Initial discussion on the information clearing housing function had taken place and the secretariat will be contacting IFCS in the near future to discuss INFOCAP. The QSP Trust Fund administration would be established in Nairobi in early April and the available funds in 2006 were estimated between 4 and 5 million USD.

4.10 Other business

Forum V - government participation

U. Schlottmann requested that the FSC reflect on ways to improve government participation at Forum V and discuss the matter at the next FSC teleconference.

Sino-German Symposium on Chemical Management

U. Schlottmann informed members on the plans for a Sino-German Symposium on Chemical Management to beheld 10-12 July 2006 in Beijing. The agenda included a range of topics such as chemical industry trade issues, legislation, implementation of international agreements, OECD mutual acceptance of data programme, chemical accidents and emergencies.

Next FSC teleconferences/meetings

The following meeting schedule was agreed:12 May 2006 68th Teleconference28 June 2006 69th Teleconference 5 September 2006 70Th Teleconference24 September 2006 71st Meeting, Budapest, Forum V

The FSC agreed to consider the need for additional teleconference as the work in preparing Forum V progressed.

15


Closure

The J. Katima in his capacity as co chairman, thanked the FSC for their commitment and contributions to the meeting. He also thanked the IFCS Secretariat for their support in organizing the meeting, and the Government of Hungary for the excellent arrangement in hosting the meeting.

16


Annex 1

Governments

CanadaDr Steve ClarksonDirectorEnvironmental Contaminants Bureau, Health CanadaRoom 5-079269 Laurier Avenue WestAddress locator 4905COttawa ON K1A0K9CanadaTel: +1 613 957 3133Fax: +1 613 952 9798Email: [email protected]

ChinaMs Yingwa ShenDeputy DirectorChemical Registration CenterSEPANo. 8 DayangfangAnwaiBeijing 100012ChinaTel: +86 10 8491 5168Fax: +86 10 8491 5168Email: [email protected]

GermanyDr Michael DreyerHead of ProjectGTZ Convention Project on Chemical SafetyTulpenfeld 2Bonn D-53113GermanyTel: +49 228 985 7014Fax: +49 228 985 7018Email: [email protected] Prof Dr Ulrich SchlottmannHead, Division of Chemical SafetyFederal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear SafetyRobert Schuman Platz 3Bonn 53175GermanyTel: +49 228 305 2740Fax: +49 228 305 3524Email: [email protected]

HungaryDr Zoltán Szabó

17


Acting Director GeneralFodor Jossef National Center for Public HealthNagyvarad ter 2Budapest 1096HungaryTel: +36 1 476 11 36Fax: +36 1 215 68 98Email: [email protected]

Dr Zoltán OcskóSenior AdviserMinistry of Agriculture1055 BudapestKossuth tér 11HungaryTel: +361 3014515Fax: +361 3011644Email: [email protected]

Dr Kristóf KozákSenior AdviserMinistry of Environment and Water1011 BudapestFő u 44-50Tel: +361 4573503Fax: +361 2012491Email: [email protected]

Dr Zita FáskertiAdviserMinistry of Environment and Water1011 BudapestFő u 44-50Tel: +361 4573502Fax: +361 2012846Email: [email protected]

IranMr Syed Ali Mohamad MousaviDeputy SecretaryNational Authority for Chemical ConventionsMinistry of Foreign Affairs of the I.R. of IranBuilding 8 West,Tehran IranTel: +98 21 61154448 / 61154421Fax: +98 21 6740094/66740094Email: [email protected]

NigeriaMrs Abiola I. OlanipekunChief Environmental ScientistSpecial Adviser to IFCS Vice President, African RegionFederal Ministry of Environment

18


Department of Pollution Control Plot 444 AguiyIronsi StreetMaitaira, AbujaNigeriaTel: +234 95234119/4136317+234 802 3175742Fax: +234 95234119/4136317Email: [email protected]

PhilippinesDr Ethelyn P. NietoUndersecretaryDepartment of HealthSan Lazaro CompoundRizal AvenueSta. CruzManila PhilippinesTel: +63 711 6067(direct line)Email: [email protected]

SloveniaDr Marta CirajDirectorNational Chemicals BureauMinistry of Health, National Chemicals BureauMali Trg 6Ljubljana SI-1000SloveniaTel: +386 1 47 86 039 Mobile: +386 16141769440Fax: +386 1 47 86 266Email: [email protected]

SurinameDr Jules F. M. De KomToxicology Focal PointSecretariat DirectorMinistry of HealthH. Arronstraat 64 BParamaribo SurinameTel: +597 477601 or 597 44 2222 Ext. 578Fax: +597473 923Email: [email protected] [email protected]

SwitzerlandDr Georg KarlaganisHead of the Substances, Soil & Biotech. Div.Federal Department of Environment, Transport, Energy & CommunicationsFederal Office for the EnvironmentBern CH-3003SwitzerlandTel: +41 31 32 26 955

19


Fax: +41 31 32 47 978Mobile: +41794159962 Email: [email protected]

Tanzania (United Republic of)Prof Jamidu KatimaUniversity of Dar es SalaamPO Box 35131Dar es Salaam Tanzania (United Republic of)Tel: +255 22 2410 754Email: [email protected]

ThailandMs Phattipon AJALANANTForeign Relations OfficerInternational Health GroupBureau of Policy and StrategyOffice of Permanent SecretaryMinistry of Public HealthTiwanon RoadMuang DistrictNonthaburi 11000ThailandTel: +6625901366Fax: +6625918562Email: [email protected] [email protected] Duangtip HongsamootPharmacist 8National Programme on Chemical SafetyFood and Drug AdministrationMinistry of Public HealthTiwanon Road, Muang DistrictNonthaburi 11000ThailandTel: +662 5907021Fax: +662 5907287Email: [email protected] Mrs Supranee JongdeepaisarlProgram Coordinator for Environmental Research and Development,Thailand Research Fund14 th. Floor SM Tower, 979/17-21 Phaholyothin Rd, Sam Sen Nai, PhayathaiBangkok 10400ThailandTel: +66 2298 0455 Ext.189Fax: +66 2298 0476Email: [email protected]

Dr Aurus KongpanichPharmacist 7National Progamme on Chemical Safety Food and Drug Administration

20


Ministry of Public HealthTiwanon Road, Muang DistrictNonthaburi 11000ThailandTel: +66 2 590 7289; 590 7021Fax: +66 2 590 7287Email: [email protected]

Ms Pornpit SilkavuteResearch Manager, Health Systems Research Institute (HSRI)Ministry of Public HealthTiwanon Road, Muang DistrictNonthaburi 11000ThailandTel: +66 2 951 1286 93 Extn.127Fax: +66 2 951 1295Email: [email protected] Dr Suwit WibulpolprasertSenior Advisor on Health EconomicsThe Office of Permanent SecretaryMinistry of Public HealthTiwanon Road, Muang DistrictNonthaburi 11000ThailandTel: +66 2 59 0 1122Fax: +66 2 59 1 8513Email: [email protected]; [email protected]

United States of AmericaMr John ShoaffInternational CoordinatorOPPT US Environmental Protection Agency1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NWWashington DC 20460United States of AmericaTel: +1 202 564 0531Fax: +1 202 564 0529Email: [email protected]

IGOIOMCDr Robert VisserDeputy Director, Evnironment DirectorateOrganization for Economic Cooperation and Development2 rue André PascalParis Cédex 16 F-75775FranceTel: +33 1 45 24 93 10Fax: +33 1 45 24 16 75Email: [email protected]

United Nations Environment Programme

21


Dr Matthew GubbSAICM SecretariatChemicals BranchDivision of Technology, Industry and EconomicsUnited Nations Environment Programme15, Chemin des AnémonesChâtelaineGeneva CH-1219SwitzerlandTel: +41 22 9178200Fax: +41 22 7973460Email: [email protected]

22


NGO

Asia Pacific Association of Medical ToxicologyDr Irma MakalinaoAssociate Professor and Board MemberAsia Pacific Association of Medical Toxicologyc/o University of the Philippines College of MedicineDepartment of Pharmcology and Toxicology547 Pedro Gil StreetErmita Manila 1000 PhilippinesTel: +63 25218251Fax: +63 25218251Email: [email protected]

Environmental Health FundMr Jack WeinbergNorthern Co-ChairEnvironmental Health FundInternational POPs Elimination Network407 South Dearbon, Suite 1500Chicago IL 60605United States of AmericaTel: +1 312 566 9314Fax: +1 312 408 0682Email: [email protected]

ICFTUMr Bjorn EriksonIndustrial HygenistLandsorganisasjonen i NorgeYoungsgaten 11Oslo N-0181NorwayTel: +47 2306 1714Fax: +47 2306 1753Email: [email protected]

International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA)Ms Kathleen KunzerSenior Director, Global AffairsAmerican Chemistry Council1300 Wilson BourlevardArlington VA 22209United States of AmericaTel: +1 703 741 5177Fax: +1 703 741 6177Email: [email protected]

23


Pesticide Action Network (PAN)Ms Sarojeni V. RengamPesticide Action Network (PAN) Asia PacificP.O. Box 117010850 Penang MalaysiaTel: +604 6570271Fax: +604 6583960Email: [email protected]@panap.net

Other

Prof Dr Joel A. TicknerSpecial Advisor to IFCS SecretariatAssistant ProfessorUniversity of MassachusettsLowell Center for Sustainable ProductionOne University AvenueLowell MA 01854United States of AmericaTel: +1 978 934 2981 Home +1 978-582-3371Fax: +1 978 934 2025Email: [email protected]

Dr Gunnar BengtssonSpecial Advisor to the IFCS PresidentLuruddsvägen 32Ekero SE-17854SwedenTel: +46 8 560 20276Email: [email protected]

IFCS Secretariat

Dr Judy A. StoberIFCS Executive SecretaryIFCSc/o World Health Organization20 Avenue AppiaCH-1211 Geneva 27SwitzerlandTel: +41 22 7913650Fax: +41 22 7914875Email: [email protected]

24


Mrs P.E. Lynch-KeepIFCS Secretariatc/o World Health Organization20 Avenue AppiaCH-1211 Geneva 27SwitzerlandTel: +41 22 7913873Fax: +41 22 7914875Email: [email protected]

25


Annex 2

IFCS Forum V Session on PrecautionAs of March 28, 2006 (revision)

Goals/Objectives

The goal of the discussion is not to determine how countries should interpret or implement precaution or debate definitions of precaution, but rather to understand experiences in applying precaution in chemicals safety and to identify tools and approaches that are widely applicable across nations to effect more health and ecosystem protective decisions with regards to chemicals management. This can allow a more open and fruitful discussion that can provide practical advice and input to advance chemicals safety efforts particularly at the local level. The use of precaution recognizes that there are different approaches to decision-making in the face of uncertainty.

The objectives of the Plenary Open Discussion Session are:

1. To advance open dialogue and understanding about how precaution is applied in practice with regards to chemical safety to protect health and environment and implementation of goals identified in IFCS declarations and recommendations and the SAICM Overarching Policy Strategy (OPS).3

In this context, an open dialogue will provide an opportunity to increase understanding of rationales for applying precaution and the basis of the concerns expressed by some countries regarding discussions in intergovernmental forums on precaution issues.

2. To discuss practical tools and approaches for implementing precaution in chemicals safety decision-making.

In this context what are some elements of and range of tools for the application of precaution decision-making in the context of chemicals safety? Such a discussion will include the different scientific and regulatory capacities of countries as well as the types of chemical safety concerns such countries face.

3. To discuss the practical experience of individual countries and other stakeholders with regards to application of precaution in chemical management activities with the goal of sharing and developing lessons learnt, both positive and negative.

4. To better understand commonalities and differences in tools and approaches for applying precaution in chemical safety and to discuss benefits, barriers, needs, and opportunities to help improve chemicals management at a range of levels as well as potential next steps to achieve this objective.

This will allow for brainstorming obstacles as well as tools and approaches to assist appropriate incorporation of precaution in decision making. This will also provide an opportunity to outline what tools and support could be used in countries to appropriately apply precaution in decision making with regards to chemicals management. Given the short length of the session, it will also serve to help outline next steps, such as possibly to outline tools and approaches to assist countries in applying precaution in chemicals safety and discussions of common understandings.

Workplan for Leading to IFCS Forum V

3 The SAICM OPS refers to appropriate application of the precautionary approach.

26


1. Working group (immediate)a. Establish Working Group (immediate)b. Plan regular working group teleconferences

2. Session Structure (April – May 15)a. Draft and finalize session structure

3. Case examples/presentations (April-August)a. Finalize list of case examples, including number b. Develop guidelines for case examples/presentationsc. Hold discussion with case example presenters/panelists

4. Background Thought starter Paper (by May 15)a. Revise and update background document

i. Background/rationaleii. Goals/Objectives of sessioniii. Session Structure/questions

b. Finalize background thought starter paper for translation c. Develop final plenary questions

5. Research for information paper (April-August)a. Determine appropriate way to solicit information from countries and other stakeholders on

current tools/approaches/frameworks for applying precaution in domestic chemicals safety activities. Determine research questions – ie what is the goal of the research, what information are we trying to obtain?

b. Develop interview questions for interviews with active IFCS members

Potential Session Topics

General ideas Represent a variety of approaches and perspectives from a variety of regions. Focus on

government cases including “new” people.

Overview Introduction to the concept of precaution from Rio to Today (Switzerland)

Possible Case examples Application of precaution in protection of children’s health

o Hungarian experience in implementation of precaution with respect to children’s health and chemical safety

Contribution of science to decision-making under uncertainty Lessons learnt from failures to apply precaution – EEA report Late Lessons (question as to which

case from the Late Lessons cases and/or overall lessons) Lessons learned from case(s) where application of precaution led to problems (case to be

determined) Cases from developing countries – success story and one where issues/barriers faced Substitution as an application of precaution Phthalates in children’s toys and medical devices (especially neonatal intensive care units). WTO SPS and chemical safety Implementation of precaution in the Stockholm Convention San Francisco City Implementation of precautionary principle ordinance Green chemistry/design for environment, rapid screening, perfluorinated compounds and Food

Quality Protection Act efforts of USEPA

27


Annex 3

Forum V

Proposed General Time Schedule

28


Friday22 September

Saturday23 September

Sunday24 September

Monday25 September

Tuesday26 September

Wednesday27 September

Thursday28 September

Friday29 September

0800-0900

R

E

G

I

S

T

R

A

T

I

O

N

R

E

G

I

S

T

R

A

T

I

O

N

R

E

G

I

S

T

R

A

T

I

O

N

FSC FSC FSC FSC

0900-1000

Regional Groupst.b.d.





1000-1100

Swiss Sponsored

Side

Event-Health &environmental concernsassociatedwithheavy metals:global needs forfurtheraction?

IPCS INCHEM(tentative)

Plenary:

OpeningAwards

Organizational MattersPPR4

Administrative items

Plenary:

Applying precaution in the context of chemical safety

Plenary:

Future of IFCS:Possible future topics for the

Forum(e.g. PBTs, vPvBs, CMRs)

___

Toys & Chemical Safety

Plenary:

Plenary items brought back for follow up

consideration

Plenary

Elections

Future Meetings

Other business

Review of conclusions and

recommendations

Adoption of Report

1100-1200

1200-1300

1300-1400

Side Events

Side Event:

Hazard Data -available sources

(title t.b.d.)

Side Events Side Events

1400-1500

FSC2 Meeting

1500-1600

REG

GRPS

Plenary:

Future of IFCS___

Sound Management of Chemicals

and Poverty Reduction

Plenary:

Heavy Metals - need for further global action?

___

Addressing the Widening Gap

Regional Groups Field Trips

1600-1700

REGISTRATION

(16H00-19H00)

1700-1800

1800 Reception hosted by Switzerland

Reception hosted by the Government of Hungary

FSCt.b.d.

30 minutes after close of plenary

4 President's Progress Report 2Forum Standing Committee29

IFCS FSC 06.2128 March 2006

Annex 4

Chemical Safety for Sustainable Development

PROPOSED PROVISIONAL AGENDA

convening on Monday 25 September 2006 at 10h00

1. Opening of the meeting

2. Organizational matters concerning Forum V

- report on preparations for Forum V- adoption of agenda- adoption of provisional timetable

3. IFCS administrative items

4. President’s Progress Report

5. Future of IFCS

6. Millenium Development Goals and the Sound Management of Chemicals5

7. Applying Precaution in the context of chemical safety

8. Heavy Metals - need for further global action?

9. Addressing the widening gap among countries in following the chemical safety policies

10. Toys and chemical safety

11. Election of IFCS Officers and Forum Standing Committee Members

12. Future sessions of the Forum

13. Any other business

14. Review of conclusions and recommendations

15. Adoption of Report of the Meeting

16. Closing of the Meeting

5 Title changed to "The Sound Management of Chemicals and poverty reduction"

30

IFCS FSC 06.2128 March 2006

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