1. Inter-RAC ICES Presentation Ann Bell Chair

2. What do RACs need ?? A point of entry into the Scientific Advisory system Providers of scientific advice to RAC Working Groups A co-ordinated approach to providing appropriate experts The scientific advice needs to be systematic not ad hoc Advice is also needed to ensure that advice from the RAC is credible – to provide quality control

3. RAC Advice Request Working Group Advice Request Scientific Point of Contact Identify Appropriate Scientific Expert(s) Provide Advice/Support to Working Group Advice to RAC and then Commission

4. What RACs need to do Co-ordinate their requests for scientific advice Liaise with one another in seeking that advice Avoid duplication of effort Develop partnerships between scientists- economists and the RACs

5. What Next?? Can ICES co-ordinate the supply of expertise to RACs? Or should the Commission co-ordinate the requests for advice? Or, can a partnership be created between ICES and EAFE? Or can a network of external scientific experts be created & co-ordinated by ICES? Or can Institute Directors set up a network? Or should the RACs find their own experts?

6. The RACs must provide well thought out advice, which is based on sound science. Can we work together to ensure that the RACs have access to the best scientific, technical and economic advice?