At the recent stakeholder workshop, which took place in Durham 16 and 17 September, participants discussed ideas and suggestions regarding strategic perspectives for the remaining 2007-2013 Programme period.

North Sea Commission attended the event and presented their strategic focus for the coming years. Potential cooperation between the North Sea Commission and the Programme was also discussed.

The issue of holding the next Call for Applications in spring 2010 was discussed. Should this be the case, applicants will be informed about possibilities and any limitations within specific priorities well in advance. Potential beneficiaries should be encouraged to develop projects within Priority 3. It is expected that these issues will be further discussed and decided on at the Monitoring Committee meeting No 5, 29-30 October.

The SWOT analysis, carried out as part of the Operational Programme for the NSRP 2007-2013, was found to be still valid, with minor exceptions. Several additional topics that might be relevant for the Programme were identified, especially with reference to the financial crisis, climate change and demographic change. There were also suggestions about the possible thematic focus for future programming periods. Potential additional topics will be further discussed by the MC.

Concerning the evaluation of the current Programme, the Monitoring Committee will be recommended to opt for an ongoing evaluation approach, as suggested by the European Commission.

The issues discussed at the workshop will be presented to the Monitoring Committee at the meeting 29 and 30 October. Any decisions on the issues discussed will be posted on the Programme website.