The 2018 GA meeting which took place on Thursday 3 May 2018 in Brugge, Belgium saw an increase in attendance from 2017. Hosted by Prince-Erachem, the meeting which lasted 5 hours saw several deliberations related to the last REACH deadline and its consequences thereafter including the possible re-structuring of the consortium. Some key decisions taken by way of vote are as follows:
Some highlights:
- Future structure of Mara: A more streamline structure to be established if the organisation is to continue functioning infinitely or in the event of a complete closure its mandate and members to be incorporated within the Mn trade association –The IMnI. Discussions are still on-going
- Collaboration: A clearly defined pathway for collaboration between Mara and the IMnI was established
- Data-sharing Regulation: Approval of the reimbursement structure (to be executed in phases) in accordance with regulation 2016/9
- Approval of the 2018 workplan and budget
Ferromanganese Slag - Dossier out of Compliance
The registered substance ferromanganese Slag (FeMn slag) received a Statement of Non-Compliance (SONC) from ECHA in April, 2018. ECHA’s dissatisfaction is on the “lack” of compliance with the chronic exposure endpoint – 90 days study. Mara, on behalf of the lead registrant had complied with this ECHA's Compliance check request by using a 90 days Oral study conducted on the analogue substance SiMn slag. Mara is working with the lead registrant to address this issue at member state level. The Spanish Competent Authority has been contacted and a meeting is scheduled for June 4. 2018.