I have proposed that the University of Guelph present proposals, on the basis of an expanded rationale, for its hosting the Headquarters for INESP to various Canadian and International organizations (UN, World Bank, CIDA, IDRC, NAFTA, and so on), and from that Headquarters to develop INESP with centres in Latin America, Africa, Asia, etc. (The idea of Guelph as HQ has been endorsed informally by many colleagues world wide, including members of the FAO “INTID” group, AAA (Asian Apicultural Association), ICPBR, in Latin America, Asia, Africa, Europe, USA, etc.).

I have proposed that the University of Guelph ear-mark one of the NSERC Millenium Chairs for the purpose of appointing a senior Canadian scientist to the Directorship of INESP-HQ. (The concept that U of G is a centre of excellence in the area of pollination and apiculture is readily justified from all respects, existing personnel, library holdings and facilities, existing communications networks, etc.).

I have proposed that the University of Guelph offer to provide space as follows for INESP-HQ: Director’s Secretariat with offices of the Director and support staff, two offices for scholars visiting INESP, ca. 1000 sq ft laboratory space for Director and research team, and 500 sq ft. laboratory space for visitors, and 20 person capacity conference room. (The sort of laboratory space required is not expensive because highly sophisticated equipment is not needed for most work in pollination biology. Collaborative arrangements for joint research in other laboratories would be expected to eventuate).

I have proposed that the University of Guelph offer to provide support staff (secretary and technician) as part of the package. (Presumably the technical support could be from the NSERC Millenium Chair’s budget).

I have proposed that INESP be designated as part of the Office of Research and that the proposal emphasize the collaborative nature of INESP on the U of G campus with faculty in various colleges, especially OAC and CBS, and with other organizations on campus, such as International Programs. The interdisciplinary nature of INESP will be the foundation for its success.

I am willing to place my sabbatical leave (starting January 2001 for one year) in the context of the above proposal.

Proposal for International Endorsement of the Principal of INESP

A list of organizations that would be approached as being willing to support in principal that the INESP initiative is valuable and needed, and that the University of Guelph should commit support to the idea through Professor Kevan, as proposed above. There would be no commitment to financial contribution in these endorsements, although endorsers would likely be approached for support after the first year of activity.