The VRWB regrets that it was only consulted at a later stage about such an important initiative and then only via a quick report. The basis for the decree was already laid by means of the so-called Supplementary Decree at the end of 2006.
Even so, the Council acclaims the Hercules programme: this structural financing for medium and large-sized research infrastructure meets a clear requirement.
The VRWB does worry about the complex mechanism that was built up around Hercules, and makes proposals for simplification. Even as far as financing is concerned (eligible costs and support percentages), the Council formulates recommendations. The requirements of personal injection of institutions should however not be such a heavy burden that it becomes counterproductive.
The minister followed the VRWB opinion in a number of points and modified the draft decision on this basis.