Decision COP III/23

Recalling decision I/4 of the first meeting of the Conference of the Parties,

Reiterating its gratitude to the Government of Canada for the generous offer to host the Permanent Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity,

Noting with concern the difficulties encountered by the Permanent Secretariat in making the transition, in particular the difficulties associated with the establishment of efficient and timely services and with recruitment of staff,

Taking note with appreciation of the efforts of the Executive Secretary to continue the functions of the Permanent Secretariat in these circumstances and urging him to continue his efforts to meet the needs of the Convention,

1. Invites the Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme and the Executive Secretary of the Convention on Biological Diversity to develop procedures, making an effort to conclude by 27 January 1997, with respect to the functioning of the Permanent Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity, to clarify and make more effective their respective roles and responsibilities;

2. Stresses that these procedures must provide for the managerial autonomy and efficiency of the Permanent Secretariat and its responsiveness to the needs of the Convention, and must ensure the administrative accountability of the Executive Secretary to the Conference of the Parties;

3. Stresses also that the procedures must be in accordance with the United Nations financial and staff rules and regulations and with decision I/4 of the Conference of the Parties and should as far as possible, and where appropriate, follow the Personnel, Financial and Common Services arrangements agreed to between the United Nations and the Framework Convention on Climate Change;