EMEA endorses 2010 work program and budget of $289.8 million

The European Medicine's Agency's (EMEA) Management Board adopted the Agency's Work program and draft budget for the year 2010, which marks the final year of the 'Road Map to 2010.' The budget totals 198,187,000 euros (around $289.8 million), compared to 194,389,000 euros in 2009, which includes forecast fee revenue of 152,780,000 euros (2009: 140,966,000 euros) and total European Union contributions of 37,112,000 euros (2009: 46,790,000 euros). The Board approved an increase of 37 posts in the staff numbers to a maximum ceiling of 576 (2009: 530 euros).

In line with the road map, the priorities for the Agency in 2010, in addition to conducting its core-activities, include strengthening of the European medicines network, improving safety-monitoring of medicines, co-operating with international partners, fostering transparency and provision of information, and stimulating innovation and improved availability of medicines.

The Management Board endorsed a draft road map to 2015 that will be released in late January 2010 for three months' public consultation. The new road map builds on achievements under the current strategic document and focuses on improving the operation of the core-business, addressing public health needs, facilitating access to medicines and optimising the use of medicines in the coming years.