Identifier
Created
Classification
Origin
03ROME1601
2003-04-15 11:24:00
UNCLASSIFIED
Embassy Rome
Cable title:
FAO 102ND FINANCE COMMITTEE PREVIEW
how-toThis record is a partial extract of the original cable. The full text of the original cable is not available.
UNCLAS SECTION 01 OF 05 ROME 001601
SIPDIS
FROM FODAG
STATE FOR IO/S LISA JACOBSON AND IO/EDA WINNICK AND KOTOK
USDA/FAS FOR REICH AND HUGHES
ATHENS FOR CLEVERLEY
E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: AORC KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR ABUD FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO
SUBJECT: FAO 102ND FINANCE COMMITTEE PREVIEW
UNCLAS SECTION 01 OF 05 ROME 001601
SIPDIS
FROM FODAG
STATE FOR IO/S LISA JACOBSON AND IO/EDA WINNICK AND KOTOK
USDA/FAS FOR REICH AND HUGHES
ATHENS FOR CLEVERLEY
E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: AORC KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR ABUD FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO
SUBJECT: FAO 102ND FINANCE COMMITTEE PREVIEW
1. THIS IS AN ACTION REQUEST.
2. SUMMARY. THE 102ND SESSION OF THE UN FOOD AND
AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION (FAO) FINANCE COMMITTEE WILL
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 02 ROME 01601 01 OF 05 151122Z
MEET MAY 5-9, 2003. IMPORTANT ACTION ITEMS FOR THE U.S.
INCLUDE: REPORT ON FOLLOW-UP TO THE EXTERNAL AUDITOR'S
RECOMMENDATIONS; A PROPOSAL FOR A SPLIT CURRENCY
ASSESSMENT; THE PROGRAM OF WORK AND BUDGET FOR 2004-2005
AND A PROPOSAL TO CHANGE THE METHODOLOGY FOR DETERMINING
EQUITABLE GEOGRAPHIC REPRESENTATION OF STAFF. THIS CABLE
PREVIEWS AND REQUESTS GUIDANCE ON THE ITEMS FOR WHICH
DOCUMENTATION IS CURRENTLY AVAILABLE. END SUMMARY.
3. THE 102ND SESSION OF THE FAO FINANCE COMMITTEE (FC)
WILL MEET MAY 5-9. THIS CABLE PREVIEWS AND REQUESTS
GUIDANCE ON THE ITEMS FOR WHICH DOCUMENTATION IS
CURRENTLY AVAILABLE. GUIDANCE REQUIRED FOR CAPITAL
BUDGETING (SEE PARA 14); SUMMARY PROGRAM OF WORK AND
BUDGET (SEE PARA 19); SPLIT ASSESSMENT (SEE PARA 20) AND
GEOGRAPHICAL REPRESENTATION OF STAFF (SEE PARA 26).
SEPTEL WILL COVER REMAINING ITEMS AND THE MAY 7 JOINT
SESSION OF THE PROGRAM AND FINANCE COMMITTEES. ALL
DOCUMENTS CITED ARE AVAILABLE ON THE FAO WEB SITE
(WWW.FAO.ORG).
4. ITEM 1 AND 2, ADOPTION OF AGENDA AND TIMETABLE,
ELECTION OF VICE-CHAIRPERSON. FOR INFORMATION.
PART I, FINANCIAL AND BUDGET REPORTS
--------------
5. AGENDA ITEM 3, ANNUAL REPORT ON BUDGETARY PERFORMANCE
AND PROGRAM AND BUDGETARY TRANSFERS (DOCUMENT 102/3)
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 03 ROME 01601 01 OF 05 151122Z
BACKGROUND: THE FC REVIEWS THE REPORT ON BUDGETARY
PERFORMANCE FOR 2002 TO ENSURE THAT THE DIRECTOR GENERAL
HAS MANAGED THE APPROPRIATIONS SO AS TO ENSURE THAT
ADEQUATE FUNDS ARE AVAILABLE TO MEET EXPENDITURES DURING
THE BIENNIUM. TRANSFERS FROM ONE CHAPTER TO ANOTHER MUST
BE APPROVED BY THE FC. THE 102ND SESSION WILL BE
INFORMED OF THE LIKELY MAGNITUDE OF SUCH BUDGET
TRANSFERS, BUT THE FORMAL REQUEST FOR TRANSFERS WILL NOT
BE SUBMITTED UNTIL THE SEPTEMBER 2003 FC MEETING.
FOR DISCUSSION:
-- MANAGING APPROPRIATIONS: THE 2002 SPENDING REPRESENTS
50.1 PERCENT OF THE USD 651.8 MILLION APPROPRIATION FOR
2002-03. FULL UTILIZATION OF THE APPROPRIATION IS
FORESEEN IN THE BIENNIUM.
-- TRANSFERS: THE FAO IS EXPERIENCING A SHARP DECLINE IN
SUPPORT COST EARNINGS AS A RESULT OF THE CONTINUED
REDUCTION IN NON-EMERGENCY EXTRA-BUDGETARY PROJECTS. THE
SHORTFALL IS ESTIMATED AT USD 6.2 MILLION OVER THE
BIENNIUM. TRANSFERS WILL BE NEEDED TO COVER FIXED STAFF
COSTS PREVIOUSLY COVERED BY SUPPORT COST INCOME.
FODAG COMMENT: THE DOWNWARD TREND OF SUPPORT COST INCOME
AND ITS BUDGETARY IMPLICATIONS REQUIRE GREATER MANAGEMENT
ATTENTION.
6. AGENDA ITEM 4, FAO INTERIM ACCOUNTS AT DECEMBER 31,
2002 (DOC 102/4)
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 04 ROME 01601 01 OF 05 151122Z
BACKGROUND AND COMMENT: FOR INFORMATION ONLY
7. AGENDA ITEM 5, REPORT ON INVESTMENTS (DOC 102/5)
BACKGROUND AND COMMENT: FOR INFORMATION. THE FAO
INVESTMENT COMMITTEE MET IN JANUARY 2003 AND DECIDED TO
TERMINATE THE SERVICES OF THE LONG-TERM PORTFOLIO
MANAGER, FIDUCIARY TRUST INTERNATIONAL BASED ON THE
CONTINUING UNDERPERFORMANCE OF THE PORTFOLIO. THE FC
WILL BE UPDATED ON THE STATUS OF THE TERMINATION OF THE
CONTRACT AND THE NEW TEMPORARY ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE
PORTFOLIO. IN ADDITION, THE FIRST RESULTS OF A DETAILED
ASSET AND LIABILITY STUDY (REQUESTED IN MAY 2002) WILL BE
PRESENTED.
8. AGENDA ITEM 6, FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (DOC 102/6)
BACKGROUND: THE FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS REPORT SHOWS THE
FINANCIAL SITUATION BY INCOME AND EXPENDITURE AND REPORTS
ON ARREARS.
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED PTQ8914
PAGE 01 ROME 01601 02 OF 05 151122Z
ACTION IO-00
INFO LOG-00 MFA-00 AID-00 AMAD-00 CIAE-00 INL-00 EAP-00
EB-00 EUR-00 UTED-00 FDRE-01 FOE-00 TEDE-00 INR-00
L-00 DCP-01 NSAE-00 OES-00 OIC-02 CAEX-00 PER-00
IRM-00 SS-00 TEST-00 FMP-00 SAS-00 /004W
-------------- 5600CA 151123Z /38
R 151124Z APR 03
FM AMEMBASSY ROME
TO SECSTATE WASHDC 9265
USDA FAS WASHDC 2618
USMISSION USUN NEW YORK
AMEMBASSY ATHENS
UNCLAS SECTION 02 OF 05 ROME 001601
SIPDIS
FROM FODAG
STATE FOR IO/S LISA JACOBSON AND IO/EDA WINNICK AND KOTOK
USDA/FAS FOR REICH AND HUGHES
ATHENS FOR CLEVERLEY
E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: AORC KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR ABUD FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO
SUBJECT: FAO 102ND FINANCE COMMITTEE PREVIEW
FOR DISCUSSION:
-- TECHNICAL COOPERATION PROGRAM (TCP) AVAILABLE
APPROPRIATION CONTINUES TO INCREASE, INDICATING LONGER
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 02 ROME 01601 02 OF 05 151122Z
LAGS IN PROJECT EXECUTION.
-- LOSS OF 12.2 MILLION IN LONG-TERM INVESTMENTS. THE
GAP BETWEEN THE VALUE OF LONG-TERM INVESTMENTS AND FAO'S
SHARE OF STAFF-RELATED LIABILITIES HAS INCREASED.
-- AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2002, 43 MEMBERS HAD ARREARS
SUFFICIENT TO JEOPARDIZE THEIR RIGHT TO VOTE. TOTAL
ARREARS WERE USD 56.5 MILLION, OR 17.45 PERCENT OF THE
CURRENT ASSESSMENTS. WHILE MORE MEMBERS HAVE PAID IN
FULL, THE AMOUNT OF ARREARS (EXCLUDING U.S.) CONTINUES TO
INCREASE SLIGHTLY COMPARED TO PREVIOUS YEARS.
OVERSIGHT MATTERS
--------------
9. AGENDA ITEM 7, 2002 ANNUAL ACTIVITY REPORT OF THE
OFFICE OF THE INSPECTOR GENERAL (DOC 102/7)
BACKGROUND AND COMMENT: FOR INFORMATION, BUT OF
PARTICULARLY INTEREST GIVEN CRITICAL REPORT OF THE
EXTERNAL AUDITOR IN 2002. THE REPORT NOTES THAT THE
EXTERNAL AUDITOR SPECIFICALLY RECOMMENDED THAT ANOTHER
REVIEW OF THE INTERNAL CONTROLS OVER THE USE OF THE FAO'S
RESOURCES SHOULD BE CONDUCTED. AN EXPERT CONSULTANT WAS
CONTRACTED TO ASSIST IN DEVELOPING NEW RISK ASSESSMENT
METHODOLOGY. (SEE ALSO FOLLOW-UP TO REPORT OF THE
EXTERNAL AUDITOR). THIS DOCUMENT OTHERWISE PROVIDES A
LISTING OF THE ACTIVITIES OF THE OFFICE OF THE INSPECTOR
GENERAL. THE OIL-FOR-FOOD PROGRAM CONTINUES TO BE AN
AREA OF MAJOR AUDIT ATTENTION AND A TOP PRIORITY FOR THE
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 03 ROME 01601 02 OF 05 151122Z
ORGANIZATION. OTHER AUDITS CONDUCTED ON: FIELD
OPERATIONS IN AFGHANISTAN, LETTERS OF AGREEMENT, AUTHOR'S
CONTRACTS AND "TELEFOOD."
10. AGENDA ITEM 8, PROGRESS REPORT ON IMPLEMENTATION OF
THE EXTERNAL AUDITOR'S RECOMMENDATIONS (DOC 102/8)
NOT YET AVAILABLE.
11. AGENDA ITEM 9, PROGRAM OF WORK OF THE EXTERNAL
AUDITOR (DOC 102/9)
BACKGROUND AND COMMENT: THE EXTERNAL AUDITOR WILL EXAMINE
FAO'S TECHNICAL COOPERATION PROGRAM. MISSION SUPPORTS
THIS CHOICE.
12. AGENDA ITEM 10, APPOINTMENT OF THE INSPECTOR GENERAL
(DOC 102/10)
NOT YET AVAILABLE.
13. UN JOINT INSPECTION UNIT (JIU) REPORTS (SEE WEB
SITE).
BACKGROUND AND COMMENT: FOR INFORMATION. THE JIU REPORTS
ARE ALSO MADE AVAILABLE TO COUNCIL FOR COMMENT.
III. FINANCIAL POLICY MATTERS
--------------
14. AGENDA ITEM 12, CAPITAL BUDGETING (DOC 102/12)
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 04 ROME 01601 02 OF 05 151122Z
BACKGROUND: THE FC AT ITS LAST SESSION REQUESTED FURTHER
INFORMATION ON CAPITAL BUDGETING FOR FINANCING ONE-TIME
CAPITAL ITEMS.
DEPARTMENT GUIDANCE REQUESTED ON PROPOSAL TO INTRODUCE A
LIMITED FORM OF CAPITAL BUDGETING IN 2004-2005.
15. AGENDA ITEM 13, REVIEW OF PROJECT PROPOSAL TO
CONFIRM COMPLIANCE WITH FAO'S MANDATE (DOC 102/13).
BACKGROUND: FOR INFORMATION. THE FC ASKED TO BE INFORMED
OF THE MEANS FOR ENSURING THAT PROJECTS FUNDED FROM
VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS MET THE ORGANIZATION'S CRITERIA
FOR ACCEPTANCE OF SUCH CONTRIBUTIONS.
16. AGENDA ITEM 14, PROPOSAL TO ESTABLISH A SPECIAL FUND
FOR EMERGENCY AND REHABILITATION ACTIVITIES (DOC 102/14)
BACKGROUND: THE DG MAY AUTHORIZE THE CREATION OF TRUST
FUND ACCOUNTS ON HIS OWN AUTHORITY. THE PROPOSAL TO
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED PTQ8913
PAGE 01 ROME 01601 03 OF 05 151123Z
ACTION IO-00
INFO LOG-00 MFA-00 AID-00 AMAD-00 CIAE-00 INL-00 EAP-00
EB-00 EUR-00 UTED-00 FDRE-01 FOE-00 TEDE-00 INR-00
L-00 DCP-01 NSAE-00 OES-00 OIC-02 CAEX-00 IRM-00
SS-00 TEST-00 FMP-00 SAS-00 /004W
-------------- 5600D8 151123Z /38
R 151124Z APR 03
FM AMEMBASSY ROME
TO SECSTATE WASHDC 9266
USDA FAS WASHDC 2619
USMISSION USUN NEW YORK
AMEMBASSY ATHENS
UNCLAS SECTION 03 OF 05 ROME 001601
SIPDIS
FROM FODAG
STATE FOR IO/S LISA JACOBSON AND IO/EDA WINNICK AND KOTOK
USDA/FAS FOR REICH AND HUGHES
ATHENS FOR CLEVERLEY
E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: AORC KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR ABUD FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO
SUBJECT: FAO 102ND FINANCE COMMITTEE PREVIEW
CREATE A SPECIAL TRUST FUND FOR EMERGENCIES AND
REHABILITATION ACTIVITIES IS PROVIDED FOR FC INFORMATION.
THE TRUST FUND WOULD PROVIDE "SEED MONEY" TO RAPIDLY
INITIATE EMERGENCY OPERATIONS AND PROVIDING ADVANCE
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 02 ROME 01601 03 OF 05 151123Z
FUNDING WHEN A DONOR'S COMMITMENT HAS BEEN OBTAINED FOR
PROCUREMENT OF INPUTS.
DISCUSSION:
- THE SPECIAL FUND WILL HAVE A TARGET LEVEL OF USD 2
MILLION AND BE UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF THE ASSISTANT
DIRECTOR GENERAL FOR TECHNICAL COOPERATION
-- THE FUNDING IS TO COME FROM, INTER ALIA, DIRECT
CONTRIBUTIONS FROM DONORS; RETENTION/TRANSFER OF FUND
BALANCES AS AUTHORIZED BY DONORS; TRANSFER OF A SHARE OF
FUNDS FROM THE DIRECT OPERATING COST RECOVERY ACCOUNT.
17. AGENDA ITEM 15, INNOVATIVE MODELS FOR LEVERAGING
RESOURCES IN SUPPORT OF THE FIELD PROGRAM (DOC 102/15)
DOCUMENT NOT YET AVAILABLE.
18. AGENDA ITEM 16, INFORMATION NOTE ON THE COST OF THE
WORLD FOOD SUMMIT FIVE YEARS LATER.
DOCUMENT NOT YET AVAILABLE.
IV. BUDGETARY MATTERS
--------------
19. SUMMARY PROGRAM OF WORK AND BUDGET (SPWB) 2004-05
(DOC CL 124/3)
BACKGROUND: THE FC IS REQUESTED TO EXAMINE THE "FINANCIAL
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 03 ROME 01601 03 OF 05 151123Z
ASPECTS" OF THE SPWB, INCLUDING COST INCREASES, IMPACT OF
EXCHANGE RATES, ETC.
DISCUSSION:
-- THE SPWB PROVIDES ZERO REAL GROWTH (ZRG) AND REAL
GROWTH (RG) SCENARIOS.
-- THE ZRG BUDGET REPRESENTS A NET INCREASE OF 5.2
PERCENT OVER THE CURRENT ASSESSMENT.
-- THE RG BUDGET REPRESENTS A NET INCREASE OF 11 PERCENT
OVER THE CURRENT ASSESSMENT.
-- THE SPWB NOTES THAT UNFUNDED LIABILITIES FOR AFTER
SERVICE MEDICAL CARE, IF NOT ATTENDED TO SHORTLY "WILL
HAVE A SEVERE DEBILITATING EFFECT ON THE FINANCES OF FAO
IN COMING YEARS." FAO MEMBERS ARE ASKED TO ACCOMMODATE
THIS BY INCREASING ASSESSED CONTRIBUTIONS BY AN
ADDITIONAL USD 14.1 MILLION (A FURTHER 2.2 PERCENT.)
-- THE SPWB ALSO NOTES THAT, AT RECENT EXCHANGE RATES,
THE BUDGET EXPRESSED IN USD WOULD BE APPROXIMATELY USD 56
MILLION MORE. HOWEVER, THE INTRODUCTION TO THE SPWB
EXPRESSES THE DG'S EXPECATION THAT THE FC WILL RESOLVE
THIS QUESTION BY AOPTING A SPLIT CURRENCY ASSESSMENT.
DEPARTMENT UIDANCE REQUESTED ON FINANCIAL ASPECTS OF THE
SPB, INCLUDING OVERALL BUDGET LEVEL.
20. SPLIT ASESSMENTS (DOCS 102/18 AND 102/INF/18)
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 04 ROME 01601 03 OF 05 151123Z
BACKGROUD: THE FC HAS HAD THIS ITEM UNDER CONSIDERATION
SNCE ITS 95TH SESSION IN 2000. FAO MANAGEMENT APPERS
TO BE CONVINCED THAT A SPLIT ASSESSMENT SCHEM IS THE
BEST WAY TO MINIMIZE THE IMPACT OF EXCHAGE RATE
EXPOSURE. THE FC WILL BE REQUESTED TO EDORSE THE
PROPOSALS TO IMPLEMENT SPLIT ASSESSMENTWITH A VIEW TO
HAVING THE FAO BASIC TEXTS AMENDE AT THE NOVEMBER 2003
FAO CONFERENCE.
DEPARTMNT GUIDANCE REQUESTED.
21. AGENDA ITEM 19, SCAE OF CONTRIBUTIONS 2004-05 (DOC
102/19)
BACKGOUND AND COMMENT: FOR INFORMATION. AN ISSUE OF
MPORTANCE TO CERTAIN MIDDLE-INCOME COUNTRIES (REPULIC
OF KOREA, CHINA, ARGENTINA) WHOSE ASSESSMENT INCREASED
AS A RESULT OF THE NEW SCALE.
22. AGENDA ITEMS 20, 21, 22, BUDGET FOR THE EUROPEAN
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED PTQ8916
PAGE 01 ROME 01601 04 OF 05 151123Z
ACTION IO-00
INFO LOG-00 MFA-00 AID-00 AMAD-00 CIAE-00 INL-00 EAP-00
EB-00 EUR-00 UTED-00 FDRE-01 FOE-00 TEDE-00 INR-00
L-00 DCP-01 NSAE-00 OES-00 OIC-02 CAEX-00 IRM-00
SS-00 TEST-00 FMP-00 SAS-00 /004W
-------------- 5600EC 151123Z /38
R 151124Z APR 03
FM AMEMBASSY ROME
TO SECSTATE WASHDC 9267
USDA FAS WASHDC 2620
USMISSION USUN NEW YORK
AMEMBASSY ATHENS
UNCLAS SECTION 04 OF 05 ROME 001601
SIPDIS
FROM FODAG
STATE FOR IO/S LISA JACOBSON AND IO/EDA WINNICK AND KOTOK
USDA/FAS FOR REICH AND HUGHES
ATHENS FOR CLEVERLEY
E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: AORC KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR ABUD FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO
SUBJECT: FAO 102ND FINANCE COMMITTEE PREVIEW
COMMISSION FOR CONTROL OF FOOD AND MOUTH DISEASE; FOR THE
REGIONAL ANIMAL PRODUCTION AND HEALTH COMMISSION FOR ASIA
AND THE PACIFIC; AND FOR THE DESERT LOCUST COMMISSION.
(DOCS 102/20, 21, 22).
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 02 ROME 01601 04 OF 05 151123Z
BACKGROUND: FOR REVIEW AND COMMENT.
V. HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGEMENT
23. AGENDA ITEM 23, PROGRESS REPORT ON HUMAN RESOURCES
MANAGEMENT (DOC 102/23)
BACKGROUND: FOR INFORMATION.
24. AGENDA ITEM 24, STATISTICS OF PERSONNEL SERVICES
(DOC 102/24)
BACKGROUND: FOR INFORMATION. SOME SNAPSHOTS: BETWEEN 1994
AND 2002 PROFESSIONAL STAFF REDUCED BY 26 PERCENT;
GENERAL SERVICE BY 39 PERCENT. THE DECREASE IN PROJECT
STAFF (71 PERCENT) REFLECTS SIGNIFICANT REDUCTION OF
FIELD PROJECT OPERATIONS. AVERAGE AGE AND LENGTH OF
SERVICE FOR (NON-SENIOR) P POSITIONS HAS REMAINED FAIRLY
CONSTANT OVER THE LAST DECADE: 42 YEARS ON APPOINTMENT,
52 YEARS ON SEPARATION. SEVENTY-NINE PERCENT OF FAO
SENIOR STAFF AND 40 PERCENT OF FAO PROFESSIONAL STAFF
WILL HAVE REACHED THE MANDATORY RETIREMENT AGE BY 2012.
THE NUMBER OF WOMEN AT HEADQUARTERS HAS INCREASED FROM 21
TO 29 PERCENT SINCE 1995. ABOUT 60 PERCENT OF FAO STAFF
WORK AT HEADQUARTERS; THE REST ARE IN THE FIELD OFFICES.
25. ANNUAL REPORTS OF THE ICSC AND UN JOINT STAFF
PENSION BOARD TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AND SUMMARY OF THE
DECISIONS TAKEN (DOC 102/25)
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 03 ROME 01601 04 OF 05 151123Z
BACKGROUND: FOR INFORMATION: UNGA-APPROVED CHANGES WHICH
IMPACT SALARY SCALES, PENSIONABLE REMUNERATION. ALSO
CHANGES TO GENERAL SERVICE AND OTHER LOCALLY RECRUITED
CATEGORIES AND INCREASE IN EDUCATION GRANT.
VI. ORGANIZATIONAL MATTERS
--------------
26. AGENDA ITEM 26, METHODOLOGY FOR DETERMINATION OF
EQUITABLE GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION (CL DOC 124/15)
BACKGROUND: INITIALLY A REQUEST BY THE LATIN AMERICAN
GROUP AT THE LAST CONFERENCE TO EXAMINE OTHER
METHODOLOGIES. THE FAO HAS NOW PREPARED TWO ALTERNATIVES
FOR THE FC TO CONSIDER.
-- UNDER BOTH OPTIONS A BASE NUMBER OF POSTS (RATHER THAN
THE POSTS FILLED AT ANY GIVEN TIME) WOULD BE USED FOR
CALCULATIONS. (THIS IS SIMILAR WITH UN METHODOLOGY).
-- IN ADDITION, FAO PROPOSES TO INCREASE BY 341 THE
NUMBER OF POSTS THAT WOULD BE COUNTED UNDER GEOGRAPHICAL
DISTRIBUTION WHILE STILL EXCLUDING POSTS FUNDED FROM
VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS, LANGUAGE STAFF AND THE DIRECTOR
GENERAL. (COMMENT: IT IS UNCLEAR WHY THE POSTS WERE
FORMERLY NOT COUNTED. END COMMENT)
-- THE "WEIGHTING" SYSTEM WHEREBY POINTS ARE GIVEN FOR
HIGHER LEVEL POSITIONS WOULD BE ALTERED TO BE COMPARABLE
WITH THAT OF THE UN AND UNESCO. THIS WOULD SIGNIFICANTLY
REDUCE THE WEIGHT GIVEN TO HIGHER-RANKING POSITIONS (E.G.
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 04 ROME 01601 04 OF 05 151123Z
15 POINTS FOR THE DDG IN THE OLD SYSTEM WOULD BECOME ONLY
4.3 POINTS IN THE NEW SYSTEM).
COMMENT: THE FIRST OPTION INCREASES THE NUMBER OF
"UNDERREPRESENTED COUNTRIES" SLIGHTLY. THE SECOND OPTION
(WHICH FACTORS IN POPULATION SIZE) DRAMATICALLY REDUCES
THE NUMBER OF "OVER-REPRESENTED" COUNTRIES. BOTH OPTIONS
WOULD APPEAR TO BE DETRIMENTAL TO U.S. EFFORTS TO IMPROVE
REPRESENTATION (WITH THE SECOND BEING ESPECIALLY SO, AS
THE NUMBER OF OVERREPRESENTED COUNTRIES WOULD BE REDUCED
FROM 77 TO 12),DESPITE THE FACT THAT THE NEW SYSTEM
MIGHT ALSO MOVE THE U.S. CLOSER TO "EQUITABLE"
REPRESENTATION.
GUIDANCE REQUESTED: USDEL CONSIDERS BOTH OPTIONS
PROBLEMATIC FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF U.S. REPRESENTATION.
27. AGENDA ITEM 27, PROGRESS REPORT ON THE ORACLE
PROJECT (DOC 102/27)
BACKGROUND: FOR INFORMATION
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED PTQ8918
PAGE 01 ROME 01601 05 OF 05 151123Z
ACTION IO-00
INFO LOG-00 MFA-00 AID-00 AMAD-00 CIAE-00 INL-00 EAP-00
EB-00 EUR-00 UTED-00 FDRE-01 FOE-00 TEDE-00 INR-00
L-00 DCP-01 NSAE-00 OES-00 OIC-02 CAEX-00 IRM-00
SS-00 TEST-00 FMP-00 SAS-00 /004W
-------------- 5600F4 151123Z /38
R 151124Z APR 03
FM AMEMBASSY ROME
TO SECSTATE WASHDC 9268
USDA FAS WASHDC 2621
USMISSION USUN NEW YORK
AMEMBASSY ATHENS
UNCLAS SECTION 05 OF 05 ROME 001601
SIPDIS
FROM FODAG
STATE FOR IO/S LISA JACOBSON AND IO/EDA WINNICK AND KOTOK
USDA/FAS FOR REICH AND HUGHES
ATHENS FOR CLEVERLEY
E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: AORC KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR ABUD FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO
SUBJECT: FAO 102ND FINANCE COMMITTEE PREVIEW
VII. OTHER MATTERS
--------------
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 02 ROME 01601 05 OF 05 151123Z
28. WORKING METHODS OF FINANCE COMMITTEE, DATE AND
PLACE OF 103RD SESSION, ANY OTHER MATTERS. TAMLYN
UNCLASSIFIED
>
2003ROME01601 - Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
SIPDIS
FROM FODAG
STATE FOR IO/S LISA JACOBSON AND IO/EDA WINNICK AND KOTOK
USDA/FAS FOR REICH AND HUGHES
ATHENS FOR CLEVERLEY
E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: AORC KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR ABUD FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO
SUBJECT: FAO 102ND FINANCE COMMITTEE PREVIEW
1. THIS IS AN ACTION REQUEST.
2. SUMMARY. THE 102ND SESSION OF THE UN FOOD AND
AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION (FAO) FINANCE COMMITTEE WILL
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 02 ROME 01601 01 OF 05 151122Z
MEET MAY 5-9, 2003. IMPORTANT ACTION ITEMS FOR THE U.S.
INCLUDE: REPORT ON FOLLOW-UP TO THE EXTERNAL AUDITOR'S
RECOMMENDATIONS; A PROPOSAL FOR A SPLIT CURRENCY
ASSESSMENT; THE PROGRAM OF WORK AND BUDGET FOR 2004-2005
AND A PROPOSAL TO CHANGE THE METHODOLOGY FOR DETERMINING
EQUITABLE GEOGRAPHIC REPRESENTATION OF STAFF. THIS CABLE
PREVIEWS AND REQUESTS GUIDANCE ON THE ITEMS FOR WHICH
DOCUMENTATION IS CURRENTLY AVAILABLE. END SUMMARY.
3. THE 102ND SESSION OF THE FAO FINANCE COMMITTEE (FC)
WILL MEET MAY 5-9. THIS CABLE PREVIEWS AND REQUESTS
GUIDANCE ON THE ITEMS FOR WHICH DOCUMENTATION IS
CURRENTLY AVAILABLE. GUIDANCE REQUIRED FOR CAPITAL
BUDGETING (SEE PARA 14); SUMMARY PROGRAM OF WORK AND
BUDGET (SEE PARA 19); SPLIT ASSESSMENT (SEE PARA 20) AND
GEOGRAPHICAL REPRESENTATION OF STAFF (SEE PARA 26).
SEPTEL WILL COVER REMAINING ITEMS AND THE MAY 7 JOINT
SESSION OF THE PROGRAM AND FINANCE COMMITTEES. ALL
DOCUMENTS CITED ARE AVAILABLE ON THE FAO WEB SITE
(WWW.FAO.ORG).
4. ITEM 1 AND 2, ADOPTION OF AGENDA AND TIMETABLE,
ELECTION OF VICE-CHAIRPERSON. FOR INFORMATION.
PART I, FINANCIAL AND BUDGET REPORTS
--------------
5. AGENDA ITEM 3, ANNUAL REPORT ON BUDGETARY PERFORMANCE
AND PROGRAM AND BUDGETARY TRANSFERS (DOCUMENT 102/3)
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 03 ROME 01601 01 OF 05 151122Z
BACKGROUND: THE FC REVIEWS THE REPORT ON BUDGETARY
PERFORMANCE FOR 2002 TO ENSURE THAT THE DIRECTOR GENERAL
HAS MANAGED THE APPROPRIATIONS SO AS TO ENSURE THAT
ADEQUATE FUNDS ARE AVAILABLE TO MEET EXPENDITURES DURING
THE BIENNIUM. TRANSFERS FROM ONE CHAPTER TO ANOTHER MUST
BE APPROVED BY THE FC. THE 102ND SESSION WILL BE
INFORMED OF THE LIKELY MAGNITUDE OF SUCH BUDGET
TRANSFERS, BUT THE FORMAL REQUEST FOR TRANSFERS WILL NOT
BE SUBMITTED UNTIL THE SEPTEMBER 2003 FC MEETING.
FOR DISCUSSION:
-- MANAGING APPROPRIATIONS: THE 2002 SPENDING REPRESENTS
50.1 PERCENT OF THE USD 651.8 MILLION APPROPRIATION FOR
2002-03. FULL UTILIZATION OF THE APPROPRIATION IS
FORESEEN IN THE BIENNIUM.
-- TRANSFERS: THE FAO IS EXPERIENCING A SHARP DECLINE IN
SUPPORT COST EARNINGS AS A RESULT OF THE CONTINUED
REDUCTION IN NON-EMERGENCY EXTRA-BUDGETARY PROJECTS. THE
SHORTFALL IS ESTIMATED AT USD 6.2 MILLION OVER THE
BIENNIUM. TRANSFERS WILL BE NEEDED TO COVER FIXED STAFF
COSTS PREVIOUSLY COVERED BY SUPPORT COST INCOME.
FODAG COMMENT: THE DOWNWARD TREND OF SUPPORT COST INCOME
AND ITS BUDGETARY IMPLICATIONS REQUIRE GREATER MANAGEMENT
ATTENTION.
6. AGENDA ITEM 4, FAO INTERIM ACCOUNTS AT DECEMBER 31,
2002 (DOC 102/4)
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 04 ROME 01601 01 OF 05 151122Z
BACKGROUND AND COMMENT: FOR INFORMATION ONLY
7. AGENDA ITEM 5, REPORT ON INVESTMENTS (DOC 102/5)
BACKGROUND AND COMMENT: FOR INFORMATION. THE FAO
INVESTMENT COMMITTEE MET IN JANUARY 2003 AND DECIDED TO
TERMINATE THE SERVICES OF THE LONG-TERM PORTFOLIO
MANAGER, FIDUCIARY TRUST INTERNATIONAL BASED ON THE
CONTINUING UNDERPERFORMANCE OF THE PORTFOLIO. THE FC
WILL BE UPDATED ON THE STATUS OF THE TERMINATION OF THE
CONTRACT AND THE NEW TEMPORARY ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE
PORTFOLIO. IN ADDITION, THE FIRST RESULTS OF A DETAILED
ASSET AND LIABILITY STUDY (REQUESTED IN MAY 2002) WILL BE
PRESENTED.
8. AGENDA ITEM 6, FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (DOC 102/6)
BACKGROUND: THE FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS REPORT SHOWS THE
FINANCIAL SITUATION BY INCOME AND EXPENDITURE AND REPORTS
ON ARREARS.
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED PTQ8914
PAGE 01 ROME 01601 02 OF 05 151122Z
ACTION IO-00
INFO LOG-00 MFA-00 AID-00 AMAD-00 CIAE-00 INL-00 EAP-00
EB-00 EUR-00 UTED-00 FDRE-01 FOE-00 TEDE-00 INR-00
L-00 DCP-01 NSAE-00 OES-00 OIC-02 CAEX-00 PER-00
IRM-00 SS-00 TEST-00 FMP-00 SAS-00 /004W
-------------- 5600CA 151123Z /38
R 151124Z APR 03
FM AMEMBASSY ROME
TO SECSTATE WASHDC 9265
USDA FAS WASHDC 2618
USMISSION USUN NEW YORK
AMEMBASSY ATHENS
UNCLAS SECTION 02 OF 05 ROME 001601
SIPDIS
FROM FODAG
STATE FOR IO/S LISA JACOBSON AND IO/EDA WINNICK AND KOTOK
USDA/FAS FOR REICH AND HUGHES
ATHENS FOR CLEVERLEY
E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: AORC KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR ABUD FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO
SUBJECT: FAO 102ND FINANCE COMMITTEE PREVIEW
FOR DISCUSSION:
-- TECHNICAL COOPERATION PROGRAM (TCP) AVAILABLE
APPROPRIATION CONTINUES TO INCREASE, INDICATING LONGER
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 02 ROME 01601 02 OF 05 151122Z
LAGS IN PROJECT EXECUTION.
-- LOSS OF 12.2 MILLION IN LONG-TERM INVESTMENTS. THE
GAP BETWEEN THE VALUE OF LONG-TERM INVESTMENTS AND FAO'S
SHARE OF STAFF-RELATED LIABILITIES HAS INCREASED.
-- AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2002, 43 MEMBERS HAD ARREARS
SUFFICIENT TO JEOPARDIZE THEIR RIGHT TO VOTE. TOTAL
ARREARS WERE USD 56.5 MILLION, OR 17.45 PERCENT OF THE
CURRENT ASSESSMENTS. WHILE MORE MEMBERS HAVE PAID IN
FULL, THE AMOUNT OF ARREARS (EXCLUDING U.S.) CONTINUES TO
INCREASE SLIGHTLY COMPARED TO PREVIOUS YEARS.
OVERSIGHT MATTERS
--------------
9. AGENDA ITEM 7, 2002 ANNUAL ACTIVITY REPORT OF THE
OFFICE OF THE INSPECTOR GENERAL (DOC 102/7)
BACKGROUND AND COMMENT: FOR INFORMATION, BUT OF
PARTICULARLY INTEREST GIVEN CRITICAL REPORT OF THE
EXTERNAL AUDITOR IN 2002. THE REPORT NOTES THAT THE
EXTERNAL AUDITOR SPECIFICALLY RECOMMENDED THAT ANOTHER
REVIEW OF THE INTERNAL CONTROLS OVER THE USE OF THE FAO'S
RESOURCES SHOULD BE CONDUCTED. AN EXPERT CONSULTANT WAS
CONTRACTED TO ASSIST IN DEVELOPING NEW RISK ASSESSMENT
METHODOLOGY. (SEE ALSO FOLLOW-UP TO REPORT OF THE
EXTERNAL AUDITOR). THIS DOCUMENT OTHERWISE PROVIDES A
LISTING OF THE ACTIVITIES OF THE OFFICE OF THE INSPECTOR
GENERAL. THE OIL-FOR-FOOD PROGRAM CONTINUES TO BE AN
AREA OF MAJOR AUDIT ATTENTION AND A TOP PRIORITY FOR THE
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 03 ROME 01601 02 OF 05 151122Z
ORGANIZATION. OTHER AUDITS CONDUCTED ON: FIELD
OPERATIONS IN AFGHANISTAN, LETTERS OF AGREEMENT, AUTHOR'S
CONTRACTS AND "TELEFOOD."
10. AGENDA ITEM 8, PROGRESS REPORT ON IMPLEMENTATION OF
THE EXTERNAL AUDITOR'S RECOMMENDATIONS (DOC 102/8)
NOT YET AVAILABLE.
11. AGENDA ITEM 9, PROGRAM OF WORK OF THE EXTERNAL
AUDITOR (DOC 102/9)
BACKGROUND AND COMMENT: THE EXTERNAL AUDITOR WILL EXAMINE
FAO'S TECHNICAL COOPERATION PROGRAM. MISSION SUPPORTS
THIS CHOICE.
12. AGENDA ITEM 10, APPOINTMENT OF THE INSPECTOR GENERAL
(DOC 102/10)
NOT YET AVAILABLE.
13. UN JOINT INSPECTION UNIT (JIU) REPORTS (SEE WEB
SITE).
BACKGROUND AND COMMENT: FOR INFORMATION. THE JIU REPORTS
ARE ALSO MADE AVAILABLE TO COUNCIL FOR COMMENT.
III. FINANCIAL POLICY MATTERS
--------------
14. AGENDA ITEM 12, CAPITAL BUDGETING (DOC 102/12)
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 04 ROME 01601 02 OF 05 151122Z
BACKGROUND: THE FC AT ITS LAST SESSION REQUESTED FURTHER
INFORMATION ON CAPITAL BUDGETING FOR FINANCING ONE-TIME
CAPITAL ITEMS.
DEPARTMENT GUIDANCE REQUESTED ON PROPOSAL TO INTRODUCE A
LIMITED FORM OF CAPITAL BUDGETING IN 2004-2005.
15. AGENDA ITEM 13, REVIEW OF PROJECT PROPOSAL TO
CONFIRM COMPLIANCE WITH FAO'S MANDATE (DOC 102/13).
BACKGROUND: FOR INFORMATION. THE FC ASKED TO BE INFORMED
OF THE MEANS FOR ENSURING THAT PROJECTS FUNDED FROM
VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS MET THE ORGANIZATION'S CRITERIA
FOR ACCEPTANCE OF SUCH CONTRIBUTIONS.
16. AGENDA ITEM 14, PROPOSAL TO ESTABLISH A SPECIAL FUND
FOR EMERGENCY AND REHABILITATION ACTIVITIES (DOC 102/14)
BACKGROUND: THE DG MAY AUTHORIZE THE CREATION OF TRUST
FUND ACCOUNTS ON HIS OWN AUTHORITY. THE PROPOSAL TO
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED PTQ8913
PAGE 01 ROME 01601 03 OF 05 151123Z
ACTION IO-00
INFO LOG-00 MFA-00 AID-00 AMAD-00 CIAE-00 INL-00 EAP-00
EB-00 EUR-00 UTED-00 FDRE-01 FOE-00 TEDE-00 INR-00
L-00 DCP-01 NSAE-00 OES-00 OIC-02 CAEX-00 IRM-00
SS-00 TEST-00 FMP-00 SAS-00 /004W
-------------- 5600D8 151123Z /38
R 151124Z APR 03
FM AMEMBASSY ROME
TO SECSTATE WASHDC 9266
USDA FAS WASHDC 2619
USMISSION USUN NEW YORK
AMEMBASSY ATHENS
UNCLAS SECTION 03 OF 05 ROME 001601
SIPDIS
FROM FODAG
STATE FOR IO/S LISA JACOBSON AND IO/EDA WINNICK AND KOTOK
USDA/FAS FOR REICH AND HUGHES
ATHENS FOR CLEVERLEY
E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: AORC KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR ABUD FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO
SUBJECT: FAO 102ND FINANCE COMMITTEE PREVIEW
CREATE A SPECIAL TRUST FUND FOR EMERGENCIES AND
REHABILITATION ACTIVITIES IS PROVIDED FOR FC INFORMATION.
THE TRUST FUND WOULD PROVIDE "SEED MONEY" TO RAPIDLY
INITIATE EMERGENCY OPERATIONS AND PROVIDING ADVANCE
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 02 ROME 01601 03 OF 05 151123Z
FUNDING WHEN A DONOR'S COMMITMENT HAS BEEN OBTAINED FOR
PROCUREMENT OF INPUTS.
DISCUSSION:
- THE SPECIAL FUND WILL HAVE A TARGET LEVEL OF USD 2
MILLION AND BE UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF THE ASSISTANT
DIRECTOR GENERAL FOR TECHNICAL COOPERATION
-- THE FUNDING IS TO COME FROM, INTER ALIA, DIRECT
CONTRIBUTIONS FROM DONORS; RETENTION/TRANSFER OF FUND
BALANCES AS AUTHORIZED BY DONORS; TRANSFER OF A SHARE OF
FUNDS FROM THE DIRECT OPERATING COST RECOVERY ACCOUNT.
17. AGENDA ITEM 15, INNOVATIVE MODELS FOR LEVERAGING
RESOURCES IN SUPPORT OF THE FIELD PROGRAM (DOC 102/15)
DOCUMENT NOT YET AVAILABLE.
18. AGENDA ITEM 16, INFORMATION NOTE ON THE COST OF THE
WORLD FOOD SUMMIT FIVE YEARS LATER.
DOCUMENT NOT YET AVAILABLE.
IV. BUDGETARY MATTERS
--------------
19. SUMMARY PROGRAM OF WORK AND BUDGET (SPWB) 2004-05
(DOC CL 124/3)
BACKGROUND: THE FC IS REQUESTED TO EXAMINE THE "FINANCIAL
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 03 ROME 01601 03 OF 05 151123Z
ASPECTS" OF THE SPWB, INCLUDING COST INCREASES, IMPACT OF
EXCHANGE RATES, ETC.
DISCUSSION:
-- THE SPWB PROVIDES ZERO REAL GROWTH (ZRG) AND REAL
GROWTH (RG) SCENARIOS.
-- THE ZRG BUDGET REPRESENTS A NET INCREASE OF 5.2
PERCENT OVER THE CURRENT ASSESSMENT.
-- THE RG BUDGET REPRESENTS A NET INCREASE OF 11 PERCENT
OVER THE CURRENT ASSESSMENT.
-- THE SPWB NOTES THAT UNFUNDED LIABILITIES FOR AFTER
SERVICE MEDICAL CARE, IF NOT ATTENDED TO SHORTLY "WILL
HAVE A SEVERE DEBILITATING EFFECT ON THE FINANCES OF FAO
IN COMING YEARS." FAO MEMBERS ARE ASKED TO ACCOMMODATE
THIS BY INCREASING ASSESSED CONTRIBUTIONS BY AN
ADDITIONAL USD 14.1 MILLION (A FURTHER 2.2 PERCENT.)
-- THE SPWB ALSO NOTES THAT, AT RECENT EXCHANGE RATES,
THE BUDGET EXPRESSED IN USD WOULD BE APPROXIMATELY USD 56
MILLION MORE. HOWEVER, THE INTRODUCTION TO THE SPWB
EXPRESSES THE DG'S EXPECATION THAT THE FC WILL RESOLVE
THIS QUESTION BY AOPTING A SPLIT CURRENCY ASSESSMENT.
DEPARTMENT UIDANCE REQUESTED ON FINANCIAL ASPECTS OF THE
SPB, INCLUDING OVERALL BUDGET LEVEL.
20. SPLIT ASESSMENTS (DOCS 102/18 AND 102/INF/18)
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 04 ROME 01601 03 OF 05 151123Z
BACKGROUD: THE FC HAS HAD THIS ITEM UNDER CONSIDERATION
SNCE ITS 95TH SESSION IN 2000. FAO MANAGEMENT APPERS
TO BE CONVINCED THAT A SPLIT ASSESSMENT SCHEM IS THE
BEST WAY TO MINIMIZE THE IMPACT OF EXCHAGE RATE
EXPOSURE. THE FC WILL BE REQUESTED TO EDORSE THE
PROPOSALS TO IMPLEMENT SPLIT ASSESSMENTWITH A VIEW TO
HAVING THE FAO BASIC TEXTS AMENDE AT THE NOVEMBER 2003
FAO CONFERENCE.
DEPARTMNT GUIDANCE REQUESTED.
21. AGENDA ITEM 19, SCAE OF CONTRIBUTIONS 2004-05 (DOC
102/19)
BACKGOUND AND COMMENT: FOR INFORMATION. AN ISSUE OF
MPORTANCE TO CERTAIN MIDDLE-INCOME COUNTRIES (REPULIC
OF KOREA, CHINA, ARGENTINA) WHOSE ASSESSMENT INCREASED
AS A RESULT OF THE NEW SCALE.
22. AGENDA ITEMS 20, 21, 22, BUDGET FOR THE EUROPEAN
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED PTQ8916
PAGE 01 ROME 01601 04 OF 05 151123Z
ACTION IO-00
INFO LOG-00 MFA-00 AID-00 AMAD-00 CIAE-00 INL-00 EAP-00
EB-00 EUR-00 UTED-00 FDRE-01 FOE-00 TEDE-00 INR-00
L-00 DCP-01 NSAE-00 OES-00 OIC-02 CAEX-00 IRM-00
SS-00 TEST-00 FMP-00 SAS-00 /004W
-------------- 5600EC 151123Z /38
R 151124Z APR 03
FM AMEMBASSY ROME
TO SECSTATE WASHDC 9267
USDA FAS WASHDC 2620
USMISSION USUN NEW YORK
AMEMBASSY ATHENS
UNCLAS SECTION 04 OF 05 ROME 001601
SIPDIS
FROM FODAG
STATE FOR IO/S LISA JACOBSON AND IO/EDA WINNICK AND KOTOK
USDA/FAS FOR REICH AND HUGHES
ATHENS FOR CLEVERLEY
E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: AORC KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR ABUD FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO
SUBJECT: FAO 102ND FINANCE COMMITTEE PREVIEW
COMMISSION FOR CONTROL OF FOOD AND MOUTH DISEASE; FOR THE
REGIONAL ANIMAL PRODUCTION AND HEALTH COMMISSION FOR ASIA
AND THE PACIFIC; AND FOR THE DESERT LOCUST COMMISSION.
(DOCS 102/20, 21, 22).
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 02 ROME 01601 04 OF 05 151123Z
BACKGROUND: FOR REVIEW AND COMMENT.
V. HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGEMENT
23. AGENDA ITEM 23, PROGRESS REPORT ON HUMAN RESOURCES
MANAGEMENT (DOC 102/23)
BACKGROUND: FOR INFORMATION.
24. AGENDA ITEM 24, STATISTICS OF PERSONNEL SERVICES
(DOC 102/24)
BACKGROUND: FOR INFORMATION. SOME SNAPSHOTS: BETWEEN 1994
AND 2002 PROFESSIONAL STAFF REDUCED BY 26 PERCENT;
GENERAL SERVICE BY 39 PERCENT. THE DECREASE IN PROJECT
STAFF (71 PERCENT) REFLECTS SIGNIFICANT REDUCTION OF
FIELD PROJECT OPERATIONS. AVERAGE AGE AND LENGTH OF
SERVICE FOR (NON-SENIOR) P POSITIONS HAS REMAINED FAIRLY
CONSTANT OVER THE LAST DECADE: 42 YEARS ON APPOINTMENT,
52 YEARS ON SEPARATION. SEVENTY-NINE PERCENT OF FAO
SENIOR STAFF AND 40 PERCENT OF FAO PROFESSIONAL STAFF
WILL HAVE REACHED THE MANDATORY RETIREMENT AGE BY 2012.
THE NUMBER OF WOMEN AT HEADQUARTERS HAS INCREASED FROM 21
TO 29 PERCENT SINCE 1995. ABOUT 60 PERCENT OF FAO STAFF
WORK AT HEADQUARTERS; THE REST ARE IN THE FIELD OFFICES.
25. ANNUAL REPORTS OF THE ICSC AND UN JOINT STAFF
PENSION BOARD TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AND SUMMARY OF THE
DECISIONS TAKEN (DOC 102/25)
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 03 ROME 01601 04 OF 05 151123Z
BACKGROUND: FOR INFORMATION: UNGA-APPROVED CHANGES WHICH
IMPACT SALARY SCALES, PENSIONABLE REMUNERATION. ALSO
CHANGES TO GENERAL SERVICE AND OTHER LOCALLY RECRUITED
CATEGORIES AND INCREASE IN EDUCATION GRANT.
VI. ORGANIZATIONAL MATTERS
--------------
26. AGENDA ITEM 26, METHODOLOGY FOR DETERMINATION OF
EQUITABLE GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION (CL DOC 124/15)
BACKGROUND: INITIALLY A REQUEST BY THE LATIN AMERICAN
GROUP AT THE LAST CONFERENCE TO EXAMINE OTHER
METHODOLOGIES. THE FAO HAS NOW PREPARED TWO ALTERNATIVES
FOR THE FC TO CONSIDER.
-- UNDER BOTH OPTIONS A BASE NUMBER OF POSTS (RATHER THAN
THE POSTS FILLED AT ANY GIVEN TIME) WOULD BE USED FOR
CALCULATIONS. (THIS IS SIMILAR WITH UN METHODOLOGY).
-- IN ADDITION, FAO PROPOSES TO INCREASE BY 341 THE
NUMBER OF POSTS THAT WOULD BE COUNTED UNDER GEOGRAPHICAL
DISTRIBUTION WHILE STILL EXCLUDING POSTS FUNDED FROM
VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS, LANGUAGE STAFF AND THE DIRECTOR
GENERAL. (COMMENT: IT IS UNCLEAR WHY THE POSTS WERE
FORMERLY NOT COUNTED. END COMMENT)
-- THE "WEIGHTING" SYSTEM WHEREBY POINTS ARE GIVEN FOR
HIGHER LEVEL POSITIONS WOULD BE ALTERED TO BE COMPARABLE
WITH THAT OF THE UN AND UNESCO. THIS WOULD SIGNIFICANTLY
REDUCE THE WEIGHT GIVEN TO HIGHER-RANKING POSITIONS (E.G.
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 04 ROME 01601 04 OF 05 151123Z
15 POINTS FOR THE DDG IN THE OLD SYSTEM WOULD BECOME ONLY
4.3 POINTS IN THE NEW SYSTEM).
COMMENT: THE FIRST OPTION INCREASES THE NUMBER OF
"UNDERREPRESENTED COUNTRIES" SLIGHTLY. THE SECOND OPTION
(WHICH FACTORS IN POPULATION SIZE) DRAMATICALLY REDUCES
THE NUMBER OF "OVER-REPRESENTED" COUNTRIES. BOTH OPTIONS
WOULD APPEAR TO BE DETRIMENTAL TO U.S. EFFORTS TO IMPROVE
REPRESENTATION (WITH THE SECOND BEING ESPECIALLY SO, AS
THE NUMBER OF OVERREPRESENTED COUNTRIES WOULD BE REDUCED
FROM 77 TO 12),DESPITE THE FACT THAT THE NEW SYSTEM
MIGHT ALSO MOVE THE U.S. CLOSER TO "EQUITABLE"
REPRESENTATION.
GUIDANCE REQUESTED: USDEL CONSIDERS BOTH OPTIONS
PROBLEMATIC FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF U.S. REPRESENTATION.
27. AGENDA ITEM 27, PROGRESS REPORT ON THE ORACLE
PROJECT (DOC 102/27)
BACKGROUND: FOR INFORMATION
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED PTQ8918
PAGE 01 ROME 01601 05 OF 05 151123Z
ACTION IO-00
INFO LOG-00 MFA-00 AID-00 AMAD-00 CIAE-00 INL-00 EAP-00
EB-00 EUR-00 UTED-00 FDRE-01 FOE-00 TEDE-00 INR-00
L-00 DCP-01 NSAE-00 OES-00 OIC-02 CAEX-00 IRM-00
SS-00 TEST-00 FMP-00 SAS-00 /004W
-------------- 5600F4 151123Z /38
R 151124Z APR 03
FM AMEMBASSY ROME
TO SECSTATE WASHDC 9268
USDA FAS WASHDC 2621
USMISSION USUN NEW YORK
AMEMBASSY ATHENS
UNCLAS SECTION 05 OF 05 ROME 001601
SIPDIS
FROM FODAG
STATE FOR IO/S LISA JACOBSON AND IO/EDA WINNICK AND KOTOK
USDA/FAS FOR REICH AND HUGHES
ATHENS FOR CLEVERLEY
E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: AORC KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR KUNR ABUD FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO ABUD AORC FAO
SUBJECT: FAO 102ND FINANCE COMMITTEE PREVIEW
VII. OTHER MATTERS
--------------
UNCLASSIFIED
PAGE 02 ROME 01601 05 OF 05 151123Z
28. WORKING METHODS OF FINANCE COMMITTEE, DATE AND
PLACE OF 103RD SESSION, ANY OTHER MATTERS. TAMLYN
UNCLASSIFIED
>
2003ROME01601 - Classification: UNCLASSIFIED