At the request of the Board for the Authorisation of Plant Products and Biocides (Ctgb) a second international evaluation was made of the scientific processes used by the Ctgb and of the scientific quality of its decisions and other technical output in the first half of 2018, some 5 years after an initial similar scrutiny. The recent evaluation focussed not only on the same issues, thus allowing comparison with the 2013 visitation, but it also focussed on progress with respect to outreach and the role of the Ctgb in the EU. Furthermore, attention was given to the role of the Board, its relationship with the scientific staff and with the human resources management.
Positive second evaluation
The quality of the risk assessment of plant protection products and biocides in the Netherlands exceeds the scientific requirements. This was the conclusion of an international committee after evaluating the performance of the Board for the authorisation of plant protection products and biocides (Ctgb). This evaluation confirms that plant protection products and biocides authorised by the Ctgb comply with the safety requirements for humans, animals and the environment.
The committee reviewed the scientific process, the scientific results and the decision-making process of the Board and concluded that the Ctgb is an expert organisation that is valued internationally – both inside and outside Europe.
The international committee was particularly positive about the quality of the scientific output, the efficient and continuous adaptation of the assessment practice to changing European legislation and the active contribution of the Ctgb to the authorisation of biological and low-risk substances. It was also positive about the scope and role of the Ctgb in the European Union.
The Ctgb has submitted the evaluation report and a response with a corresponding plan of approach to the responsible ministeries: Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality (plant protection products) and Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management (biocides).