Research-Industry Task Forces [Last update: 25.01.1999] The research-industry task forces were established by the European Commission in response to the need to stimulate and better coordinate the European research effort in a number of key strategic sectors which are essential for the competitiveness of European industry, employment and quality of life. In general terms, the task forces have the following specific objectives: To define research priorities in strict consultation with the socio-economic actors; To reinforce coordination between Community, national and private research activities; To stimulate and promote an environment favourable to innovation. Initially, six task forces were launched in 1995 on the initiative of Commissioners Cresson (Research, education and training), Bangemann (Industry, telecommunications and information technologies) and Kinnock (Transport). Two further ones, concentrating on maritime systems and environmentally-friendly water technologies, were subsequently established. The experience of the task forces has been exploited in the development of the 5th Framework Programme. Task force reports: "Environment - water" see final report Fifth Framework Programme | 10.01.2000