1. Item 6: Improving assessment of GES Draft conclusions and Way forward

2. Summary of discussion
GES discussed the various work items ongoing in relation to GES; namely the review of the 2010 Decision, the review of Annex III, elements for a CU document and a cross cutting paper.
WG GES appreciated all the work but clearly confirmed that all these items are work in progress and further discussions are needed. Useful feedback was provided on all issues but the need for more detailed written consultation was agreed (see next slide)
Furthermore, the idea for a cross-cutting workshop was supported (see workshop slide)
The aim is to develop all these items further with the view to discussing and, where possible, agreeing them at the next WG GES.

3. Next steps
28/11/2014: WG GES comments on all draft documents (i.e. JRC/ ICES manuals, on cross cutting issues, Annex III, CU document)
Some EGs (D1, D2, D5) can also continue to comment until 28/11
21-23/01/2015 Cross cutting issues workshop, Copenhagen
Early Feb: revised JRC/ICES manuals circulated. If necessary, targeted meetings of EGs to address outstanding technical issues identified (if meetings then btw Feb/March)
25/03/ /04/2015: Next draft documents to be circulated to WG GES
22-23/04/2015: next WG GES meeting

4. Cross cutting workshop
Organised by: JRC/ICES/EEA
When/where: January 2015 (tbc), Copenhagen, EEA premises
Participation: invitation to WG GES with details on participation «rules»
Possible issues to be covered:
Integration of descriptors (figure 4)
Merging of criteria etc
Link to assessment methods under other EU law
Scales & aggregation
Terminology/glossary
State vs Pressure assessments
HOPE index?

5. Practical issues
CU document to be circulated and expected commenting clarified (UC, AW)
List of addressees for who should receive comments for which document (AC)