This week the ITER staff was asked to vote for a new Staff Committee. The Committee, which is elected every year with a one-year mandate, represents the professional interests of all ITER staff - including employment, working conditions, safety and general welfare - and facilitates communication between the Director-General and the staff on these matters.

The Committee consists of eight members and two alternates who meet with management on a regular basis. A number of Sub-Committees act as informal advisory boards on specific matters such as education, sport and cultural activities, and pensions and social insurance.

This year's staff participation in the elections - 71 % compared to 67% last year - clearly acknowledges the Staff Committee's role and accomplishments over the past years.