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UN Administrative Meeting Date: 17, January 2007, 10:00 AM Venue: OCHA, Jerusalem Final Minutes Attendees:

Samuel Mukasa UNICEF smukasa@uniecef.org Joan Byrne UNESCO j.byrne@unesco.org Wolfgang Weiszegger UNSCO weiszegger@un.org Ana Rodriguez UNSCO rodriguez4@un.org Mayyada Malki UNFPA mayyada.malki@undp.org Thafer Abu Ghannam WFP thafer.abu-ghannam@wfp.org Jean Lausberg DSS j.lausberg@unrwa.org Dalal Abu-Saleh ILO dalal.abusaleh@un.org Maha Abu Ghosh OHCHR maha.abu-ghosh@undp.org Carolyn Squire OCHA squirec@un.org Maureen Koussa OCHA koussa@un.org Francois Del Marmol UNRWA f.delmarmol@unrwa.org Khaled Shahwan UNDP khaled.shahwan@undp.org Rebekah Kosinski UNDP rebekah.kosinski@undp.org A meeting with Administrative representatives from OCHA, UNSCO, UNICEF, UNDSS, UNESCO, UNFPA, UNRWA, OHCHR, WFP, ILO & UNDP was held in order to discuss issues relating to administration / operations / security. Issue 1: Training OCHA questioned agencies regarding training as they are concerned that their national staff do not receive sufficient training. At UNDP, fixed term staff meet with their supervisors at the beginning of each year to discuss their TORs. Based upon this, UNDP determines what kind of training is necessary for the staff in order to fulfill their responsibilities. There are a variety of training facilities, including:

• Online courses (security courses, sexual harassment etc.) • Workshops • Group training (inside and outside the country).

At UNESCO staff have different levels of language proficiency and disponibility the office may consider, as an option, that staff find their respective teachers rather than group training. These requests would be granted within the limits of the budget available and costs paid by the office directly to the school.

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It was agreed that it would be beneficial and economical for organizations to share training. Furthermore, it was suggested to have one trainer for all UN agencies (UNV post - cost share basis) to determine common training to all agencies and to plan and manage the training. The UNV can be paid out of the training budget. UNSCO CAO provided participants with information regarding training opportunities:

• United Nations System Staff College Turin: http://www.unssc.org/ • United Nations Intranet Site: http://iseek.un.org (Topics - Career

Management - Training) Action: Agencies to check what training allowances are available at Headquarters. Issue 2: Reclassification of National Posts / Promotion of National Staff (OCHA)

OCHA expressed their concern with regard to Reclassification of National Posts. Due to constant changes in the policy, it has proven to be very difficult to reclassify national posts. To date OCHA have had very few reclassifications and promotions, but they were all at G Level. OCHA Management reclassified 1 post last year as NOB, but to date has not advertised the post and/or promoted the incumbent into it. OCHA questions other agencies how they manage to accomplish this task. UNSCO have found the process of reclassification to be very time consuming as their headquarters work on it for 6 – 12 months. On the other hand, UNDP has the advantage of working on it locally. With the delegation of authority, the Deputy Special Representative of Operations works on the promotion of national posts from G1 to G6. Promotion of National staff to G7 and NOA is done through Headquarters (timeframe: 2 weeks), and promotion to NOB, NOC, NOD is done locally. Issue 3: Long Term Agreements (LTAs) for Procurement

UNICEF proposed that it would be beneficial and economical if UN organizations can agree to expand their LTAs for procurement to include other agencies. UNDP for example, has LTAs for Furniture, Vehicle Insurance and Travel and are willing to include any agencies. Action: Participants agree to list all LTAs for the next UN administrative meeting. Issue 4: Vehicle Insurance

As discussed in previous meetings, UNICEF stated that they are required to have third party vehicle insurance. UNTSO have a Worldwide liability insurance policy with American International Group (AIG) which provides third-party coverage. This insurance programme covers

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the entire region. Due to the limitations related to financial liability as set out by AIG, which is considered insufficient according to the Israeli Authorities, all UNTSO vehicles are additionally insured for coverage which is valid for vehicle operation in Israel only. The Israeli comprehensive insurance does not include Third Party coverage but covers injury. UNDP recently procured insurance with NIC which has the combination of comprehensive, third party coverage and ACT. Other agencies have decided to be included in UNDP’s LTA for vehicle insurance. Issue 5: Any other business

Rest and recuperation (R & R) The criteria for R & R received from HQs was presented to the participants and was followed by a discussion pertaining to the complex issue of R & R in Jerusalem. It was agreed that the criteria be briefed to all heads and that the option of putting up an exceptional case rests with the Head of agencies. In addition, the UNSCO CAO, was requested to provide a further briefing to the heads of agencies. It is worth indicating that WFP and UNICEF wanted the UN Heads of Agencies to thoroughly study and review the R & R issue for being fair for the UN staff working in Jerusalem and not getting the R & R as of 1 January. OCHA vacancy announcement (see attachment).

UNDP to prepare Directory for 2007 ASAP

Next meeting: 14, February 2007, 10 AM at UNFPA Jerusalem. Agenda: - Arab Bank representatives to provide briefing - Follow-up on Training - UNV Programme - Any other business

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UN Administrative Meeting Date: 5, December 2007, 10:00 AM Venue: UNFPA, Jerusalem

Attendees:

Joan Byrne UNESCO j.byrne@unesco.org Sam Mukasa UNICEF smukasa@unicef.org Thafer Abu Ghannam WFP thafer.abu-ghannam@wfp.org Wolfgang Weiszegger UNSCO weiszegger@un.org Mayyada Malki UNFPA mayyada.malki@undp.org Joumana Malki UNOPS joumanas@unops.org Djibrilla Modi UNOPS djibrillam@unops.org Maha Abu Ghosh OHCHR maha.abu-ghosh@undp.org Hiba Risheq FAO hiba.risheq@undp.org Khaled Shahwan UNDP khaled.shahwan@undp.org Rebekah Kosinski UNDP rebekah.kosinski@undp.org Johan Potgieter UNDP johan.potgieter@undp.org Gerlienke Meijer UNDP gerlienke.meijer@undp.org Christian Lherisson WHO clh@who-health.org Husein Shahin UNOCHA shahinh@un.org Michael Antoine UNTSO antoine2@un.org A meeting with representatives from UNESCO, UNICEF, WFP, UNSCO, UNFPA, UNOPS, OHCHR, WHO, UNTSO, UNOCHA, FAO and UNDP was held to discuss a UN approach for issues relating to operations in order to avoid duplication of work and to benefit from savings due to economy of scale. AGENDA: 1. UNSCO points

a) Status of MoU for support to the Quartet Representative b) Status of MoU for the UN Common House in Ramallah c) Settlement of Staff Counsellor share for the period 1 Jan - 31 Mar 07 (pre-paid by

UNSCO) d) Recording of services (in kind contributions included) to the Quartet

Representative 2. OHCHR points

a) Current restriction over the Israeli Banks working in Gaza

3. OCHA points a) Follow-up on training for security guards b) Procurement issue between OCHA & UNDP

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4. UNDP points

a) UNDP’s Security Advisor to brief participants about UNDP’s security responsibilities.

b) Armoured vehicles stationed in Gaza c) SC committee meeting: Friday 14 December at 10:00 AM at UNDP.

UNSCO started the meeting by informing that Robert Serry will be the new Special Coordinator for UNSCO. Mr. Serry will be in Jerusalem for one week in the middle of December, after which he will attend the Paris donor conference and then return to the oPt early January 2008. The Deputy Special Coordinator, Maxwell Gaylard, arrived this week and will remain for December and January. Issue 1 a) Status of LoU for support to the Quartet Representative UNDP has finalized the LoU, in the attachment to the LoU UNDP umbrella agencies are mentioned as well. UNSCO requested a copy of the LoU. Issue 1 b) Status of MoU for UN Common House in Ramallah UNDP confirmed that the MoU is ready for the signatures of the UN agencies, for which Raed Nashashibi (Ramallah) is responsible. Issue 1 c) Settlement of Staff Counsellor share UNSCO notified attendees that there are still some outstanding amounts to be paid to UNSCO in relation to the counsellor services (details attached to minutes). Issue 1 d) Recording of services to Quartet Representative Mr. Nick Basky (CAO for the Office of the Quartet Representative) asked how many agencies provide in-kind services to the Quartet. Currently, UNDP, UNSCO, UNTSO and UNDSS are involved. Decision: UNDP will collect all in-kind contributions lists. Issue 2 a) Restriction Israeli banks working in Gaza An OHCHR colleague from Gaza asked what would happen in the case that Israeli banks stop transferring to Gaza. Both UNDP and UNSCO confirmed that so far there are no problems. UNRWA, according to UNSCO, is not worried either. UNESCO raised a problem: when their Arab bank is transferring to an Israeli bank, the Israeli bank recently started requesting details about the signatories. UNSCO and UNDP advised UNESCO to check with their own bank first. Issue 3 a) Follow up on training for security guards OCHA mentioned that this issue had been raised about three months ago and that DSS would follow up. Some attendees, among others UNSCO and UNFPA, noted that trainings have taken place. There is a general interest for additional trainings though (cost share). DSS can be requested to implement such trainings.

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Issue 3 b) Procurement UNDP and UNOCHA OCHA received orders from Geneva that purchases over $2,500 should go through the UNDP. UNDP Procurement has not replied to OCHA inquiry. UNDP will set up a meeting for OCHA with the Head of the Procurement Unit to discuss the possibilities and methods for cooperating. UNDP emphasized that there is no need for approval if UN agencies need services from the UNDP (cc to DSR (O)) is sufficient. UN agencies are responsible for their follow-up though. Issue 4 a) UNDP security responsibilities (FSA) UNDP: The only agencies being covered by the UNDP security umbrella are UNIFEM and UNV. At the moment there is no MoU on security issues between the UNDP and other UN agencies within IWG. The issue of a MoU is being researched (examples from other countries are researched) and in the case it will realize, a system of cost recovery will be used when services are requested. UNDP does give recommendations on security issues like MOSS compliance when it comes to UNDP buildings also being used by other agencies, but the DSS is responsible for the overall security situation in the country (each agency however stays responsible/accountable for their own security). The implementation of the recommended security measures stays the responsibility of each agency. If an MoU will be set up, detailing all responsibilities, the UNDP FSA will become responsible for those agencies security support on a cost share basis. Question UNICEF: Ramallah building. FSA: This building will be inspected today and recommendations will be sent out in a week or two. Suggestion UNICEF: Copy the recommendations to the administration of all agencies, not only the heads of agencies. Issue 4 b) Armoured vehicles stationed in Gaza Due to Israel’s security concern over armoured vehicles in Gaza, the new Israeli requirement is that written confirmation should be received that the armoured vehicle is stationed in Jerusalem, not in Gaza. Only an international can drive this vehicle into Gaza and the vehicle should remain with the international (for short term stay only). WHO and UNOPS need to confirm with the UNDP in writing that the vehicles are stationed in Israel. It was noted that all agencies working in Gaza need the armoured vehicles. UNDP: if the rule is accepted by sending written confirmation to UNDP, then agencies should comply with it. UNICEF: SMT recommended all internationals travel in Gaza by armoured vehicles, but how should this be implemented if the vehicles cannot stay? All agree that a proposal should be discussed to solve the issue, something of a coordination and control system in Gaza. UNDP: UN agencies should ensure the Israeli authorities that the armoured vehicles are controlled, for instance by having the DSS in charge of the vehicles and ensuring that internationals are in control of the vehicles. It should be brought up in the December 6 meeting of Heads of Agencies. Final suggestion: UNDP SR to send a letter to all Heads of Agencies operating under the administrative umbrella of UNDP/PAPP highlighting this problem and the suggested solution after obtaining initial approval of the DSS. Action taken: this letter was sent on December 6 before the meeting of the Heads of Agencies on that same day (letter attached to minutes).

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Issue 4 c) SC Committee meeting December 14 at 10:00AM at UNDP Reminder for nomination and attendance. Other matters discussed: UNDP reminded attendees that all UNDP umbrella agencies should have their lease contracts (including also arnona exemption, etc.) done through the UNDP. UNSCO: fuel situation in the Gaza Strip. There are fears that offices will be out of fuel and power. UNDP expects that this will not happen, as with food. UNSCO: VAT in Gaza. There is a directive from Ramallah not to pay taxes in Gaza. UNDP: zero-VAT letters are obtained from the Ministry of Finance in Ramallah (per contract) and the coordination between the West Bank and Gaza Strip is accepted. OHCHR: this year 60th anniversary of the Declaration of Human Rights. Banner will be placed on the Common House building in Ramallah. UNDP alerted that security clearance needs to be obtained. Question WFP: WFP is looking for a sub-office in Ramallah, if anybody knows a suitable space, please contact Thafer Abu Ghannam from WFP. Next UN Administrative Meeting: Wednesday 9, January 2008 at 10:00 AM at the UNDP.

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UN Administrative Meeting Date: 8, August 2007, 10:00 AM Venue: UNDSS, Jerusalem Final Minutes Attendees:

Sam Mukasa UNICEF smukasa@unicef.org Jean Lausberg UNDSS j.lausberg@unrwa.org Thafer Abu Ghannam WFP thafer.abu-ghannam@wfp.org Edwin Nicolas UNRWA e.nicolas@unrwa.org Emma Creighton UNOPS emmac@unops.org Joan Byrne UNESCO j.byrne@unesco.org Shamsul Haque UNSCO shamsul.haque@un.org Cecilia Mcgill UNTSO mcgill@un.org Rania Katan WHO rka@who-health.org Christian Lherisson WHO clh@who-health.org Wafa Hammoud FAO wafa.hammoud@undp.org Hiba Risheq FAO hiba.risheq@undp.org Khaled Shahwan UNDP khaled.shahwan@undp.org Rebekah Kosinski UNDP rebekah.kosinski@undp.org A meeting with representatives from UNDSS, UNICEF, UNSCO, UNTSO, UNESCO UNRWA, UNOPS, WFP, WHO, FAO & UNDP was held to discuss a UN approach for issues relating to administration / procurement / operations / security in order to avoid duplication of work and to benefit from savings due to economy of scale. AGENDA:

1. Increase in the Salary scale for SC contracts

2. Harmonization of consultancy fees

3. Rest and Recuperation in Gaza duty station

4. Lease Agreements

5. Armored Vehicle

6. Any other business

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Issue 1: Increase in salary scale for SC contracts Following UNTSO’s work on the salary survey for the fixed term scale, an approved increase of salaries was 2.5 % for National Officer and General Scale categories. UNDP’s SC committee met and based on UNDP rules and regulations and taking into consideration budget constraints recommended the following:

- The new SC salary scale incorporating the 2.5% increase be effective as of 1 August 2007

- The new SC salary scale be applied upon renewal of contracts as per UNDP headquarter guidelines.

- An additional paragraph in the annex is to be added for paternity leave. The majority of the UN representatives at the meeting disagreed with UNDP’s approach and instead recommended for the new salary scale to be applicable to all SC contracts (present & new) as of 1 August 2007. Action: UNDP suggested creating a UN working group to deal with this matter on an urgent basis. All agreed. Issue 2: Harmonization of consultancy fees UNFPA requested for UNDP to raise the issue pertaining to harmonization of consultancy fees. Regretfully the UNFPA representative was not available to elaborate on this matter. UNDP headquarters instructed Procurement to handle SSA contracts as this is a contractual issue. It is noteworthy to point out that the SSA restriction of 11 months has been lifted and is now open for three years or more. Action: It was suggested to form a working group (linked with issue No. 1) Issue 3: Rest and Recuperation in Gaza duty station With regard to R & R in Gaza duty station, it was pointed out by the DSS that International staff working for UNRWA is on a 6 week R & R cycle, UNICEF and OCHA International staff is on an 8 week cycle, whereas the UNDSS Security Officer does not have the same entitlements. UNDSS has addressed this issue with the Resident Coordinator, Kevin Kennedy who suggested raising it with ICSC headquarters. This is not a UNDP decision to make it a 6 or 8 weeks cycle, rather this is an ICSC decision. Action: The DSS intends to raise their concern with ICSC headquarters. UNDP are willing to help.

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Issue 4: Lease Agreements UNDP is responsible for handling lease agreements (for offices) on behalf of the UN agencies operating under its umbrella. It is imperative that the UN agencies in question comply with UNDP instructions when submitting their requests. See attachment regarding instructions. Issue 5: Armored Vehicle When UNDP recently imported an armored vehicle into the country, they faced a problem with registration as the he Israeli traffic department insisted on receiving the exact weight of the vehicle (after armoring) to ensure that it corresponded with Israeli Transportation rules and regulations. Due to the fact that the vehicle proved to be overweight, UNDP was forced to return the vehicle back to Jordan. Hence, for future reference, UN agencies must ensure that they obtain a certificate from the manufacturer. AOB

- UNDSS CAO briefed representatives on Blair’s upcoming mission. The UN has agreed to provide logistical support to the special envoy team, which consists of 25 people. The various agencies are currently in the process of preparing for the first mission, scheduled to take place in September. Each mission will consist of 10 days a month, every month for at least 18 months.

- Due to their mandate, UNTSO and UNRWA are exempt from paying the exit fees

at the bridge.

- With regard to Arnona, only five senior UN staff are exempt from paying municipality taxes. A brief history of Arnona: When Teddy Koleg was the mayor of Jerusalem he granted both International and National staff to be exempt from paying Arnona. His successor changed the rules and only allowed for Internationals to be excused. The rules were changed yet again when a new major came into and only allowed for diplomats to be freed from paying. Approximately four years ago, it was decided to only allow for five senior staff to be exempt from paying Arnona.

- UNTSO raised the issue concerning the exorbitant rental prices in the country and

feels this is due to the fact that EC and consulate diplomats are spoiling the market. UNTSO recommended for the agencies to do something about this matter.

Next meeting: 5 September 2007, at 10:00 AM. Venue: UNESCO, Ramallah

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UN Administrative Meeting Date: 5, July 2007, 10:00 AM Venue: UNDP, Jerusalem Final Minutes Attendees:

Sam Mukasa UNICEF smukasa@unicef.org Ana Rodriguez UNSCO rodriguez4@un.org Mayyada Malki UNFPA mayyada.malki@undp.org Lisa Abu Shanab ILO lisa.abushanab@undp.org Carolyn Squire OCHA squirec@un.org Hussein Shahin OCHA shahinh@un.org Jean Lausberg UN DSS j.lausberg@unrwa.org Khaled Shahwan UNDP khaled.shahwan@undp.org Rebekah Kosinski UNDP rebekah.kosinski@undp.org A meeting with representatives from UNICEF, OCHA, UNSCO, ILO, DSS, UNFPA & UNDP was held to discuss a UN approach for issues relating to administration / procurement / operations / security in order to avoid duplication of work and to benefit from savings due to economy of scale. AGENDA:

1. Salary increase for fixed term staff

2. UNDP license plates for official vehicles

3. Israeli Banks

4. Training for Security Guards

5. Hazard Pay

6. Access to official phones

7. UN drivers License

8. Cost Shared Security Expenses (DSS)

9. Other security business

10. Procurement meeting

11. Any other Business

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Issue 1: Salaries UNICEF raised the results of the latest salary survey on the 2.5 % increase in salary for national fixed term staff. UNICEF believed that the salary would have increased further had the British Embassy and RAD cooperated. UNTSO is the leading agency dealing with this matter and did not call for a meeting when the British embassy refused to cooperate. Action: UNDP to approach UNTSO on behalf of all the agencies. Issue 2: UNDP license plates for official vehicles UNICEF enquired about the number of UNDP license plates for official vehicles. Initially UNDP started out with a total of 20 UNDP license plates until the Programme expanded and began to accommodate requests from agencies under their umbrella. For every expansion, UNDP were required to send justification to Beit Eil. Today UNDP has more than120 license plates for official vehicles. Issue 3: Israeli Banks UNICEF requested from a New York Bank investigating company to examine the performance of the following Israeli Banks;

- Bank Leumi - Bank Hapoalim - Bank Mizrahi.

It was confirmed that the two most recommended Banks in Israel are Bank Hapoalim and Bank Leumi, with Bank Hapoalim in the lead. Action: UNICEF agreed to share the report with the agencies. Issue 4: Training for Security Guards UNFPA enquired about the possibility of providing training for all UN security guards. The DSS confirm that they do not have the capacity to do this. In the past, UNTSO security officers provided training to UNSCO and UNRWA and also traveled to the West Bank to provide training. The DSS CAO signed certificates for the UN guards who underwent training. Action: UN Admin representative are committed to cost sharing training for their security guards through DSS.

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Issue 5: Hazard Pay A question regarding disbursement of hazard pay was raised. On a monthly basis, UNDP collects copies of the security clearances as well as the car trip tickets in order to disburse hazard payment to their staff. ILO, UNFPA and OCHA confirmed that they have a similar procedure in place. UNSCO issues Movement of Personnel (MOPs) forms. It was noted that some staff even ask for Hazard pay when traveling to Hizmeh checkpoint. Issue 6: Access to official phones UNICEF enquired about the practice in UN agencies regarding access to official mobile phones. In the past UNDP provided official phones to everyone; however due to budget constraints, only Senior Managers, Programme Management Officers, drivers and various focal points have access to official mobile phones. At UNSCO all 68 of their staff have mobile phones. All private calls are refunded. Issue 7: UN drivers License UNDSS proposed that staff who have a UN drivers license should be authorized to drive any UN agency’s official vehicle. For example, if a staff member has a UNDP drivers license he / she should be entitled to drive an UNTSO vehicle. Action: UNDSS agreed to raise this issue at the next SMT meeting. Issue 8: Cost Shared Security Expenses CAO DSS expressed concern that the radio room operators are on SC and not Fixed Term because when evacuation takes place the radio operators will have to maintain services etc. Action: Inspite of the cost implications, the UN representatives suggested it would be good idea to change their contracts to fixed term basis for 2008. Issue 9: Other security business

- UNDP advised the agencies to alert the DSS in advance when expected to receive any visitors with weapons. An example of a successful incident was when the police went to UNFPA and the DSS were notified in advance and therefore everything worked out according to plan.

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- Following the Fatah and Hamas conflict, the security situation has exacerbated and therefore extra precaution must be taken. It has been recommended by the DSS to ensure that all officials vehicles traveling to phase three must be;

1. 4 X 4 Vehicle 2. marked 3. UN flag 4. communication with radio room

UNRWA Area staff continue to commute to the West Bank in their UN Puntos, while International Staff are required to travel in 4 X 4 vehicles. Issue 10: Procurement meeting OCHA suggested to call for a Procurement meeting. Action: UNDP to follow up. Any other Business

- UNDP is facing a problem with registration for their armored vehicle as the Israeli traffic department insists on receiving the exact weight of the car to ensure that it corresponds with Transportation rules and regulations. The Israelis will force the vehicle out of the country unless we provide them with the details – which cannot be retrieved. The DSS confirmed that the UNRWA had an issue with their registration

NEXT UN ADMIN MEETING: Wednesday 8, August 2007, 10:00 AM at UNDSS, Jerusalem.

UN Administrative Meeting Date: 23, May 2007, 10:00 AM Venue: Government House, Jerusalem Final Minutes Attendees:

Wolfgang Weiszegger UNSCO weiszegger@un.org Paul Thompson UNTSO thompson3@un.org Samuel Mukasa UNICEF smukasa@unicef.org Tanja Manenti-Popovic FAO tanja.manenti-popovic@undp.org Alexis Bonell UNOPS alexisb@unops.org Mayyada Malki UNFPA mayyada.malki@undp.org Rania Katan WHO rka@who-health.org Thafer Abu Ghannam WFP thafer.abu-ghannam@wfp.org Lisa Abu Shanab ILO lisa.abushanab@undp.org Carolyn Squire OCHA squirec@un.org Hussein Shahin OCHA shahinh@un.org Khaled Shahwan UNDP khaled.shahwan@undp.org Rebekah Kosinski UNDP rebekah.kosinski@undp.org A meeting with Administrative representatives from UNTSO, UNSCO, UNICEF, UNFPA, UNOPS, OCHA, WFP, WHO, ILO, FAO & UNDP was held in order to discuss issues relating to administration / operations / security. AGENDA:

1. DPKO’s regional conducts and discipline unit 2. Use of Vehicles for Non-Official Business 3. UN security guard and driver uniform 4. Importing official vehicles 5. UN Certificates 6. US dollar value 7. UNTSO’s medical center 8. Presentation on UN pension fund 9. Salary survey for National staff 10. UNLP 11. Friday prayers 12. AOB

Issue 1: DPKO’s regional conducts and discipline unit DPKO has established a regional conducts and discipline unit. The chief of unit, Mr. Wayne Hayde, was present at the Admin meeting and briefed representatives on the general discipline and conduct issues. DPKO recognized the need to have a comprehensive approach to addressing misconduct and thus it was decided to establish a unit dedicated to addressing these issues. The team focuses mainly on providing specialized training in the following areas;

• Abuse of authority • Sexual Harassment • Harassment • Fraud

Since other UN agencies do not have such a system in place, attendees were encouraged to take advantage of the training services. In fact UNRWA has approached the conducts unit requesting for training. Contact details are as follows: Mr. Wayne Hayde Chief, Conduct and Discipline Unit UNIFIL, UNFICYP, UNTSO/UNSCO, UNDOF, UNLB PO Box 7476, Beirut, Lebanon Tel: 1-212-963-3003/4 ext: 6727 961 1 827 727 Fax: 961 1 827 740 Mob: 961 70 913 568 Email: hayde@un.org UNDP requires for all recruited staff to complete the online training courses pertaining to abuse of power, sexual harassment and gender balance - available on the UNDP / PAPP intranet; http://intra.undp.ps Issue 2: Use of Vehicles for Non-Official Business

WFP raised an issue concerning the policy for non-official use of vehicles. At UNDP, newly recruited International staff may use a UNDP vehicle for a period of maximum one month. For more information, Standard Operation Procedures (SOPs) for Vehicle Management are available on UNDP / PAPP’s intranet; http://intra.undp.ps. Other agencies are more flexible regarding this issue.

Issue 3: UN security guard and driver uniform

It was suggested at last month’s Admin meeting that all UN organizations should agree on a common uniform for UN security guards and drivers. The representatives agreed that currently UNTSO has the most presentable uniform for their guards and drivers. UNTSO has shared the vendor information with the agencies.

Issue 4: Importing official vehicles UNOPS questioned UNDP whether there is a limitation on the number of official vehicles that can be imported into the country. UNDP has reached its quota therefore when procuring additional vehicles, it is necessary to show justification that the programme has expanded and that the number of staff has increased. Issue 5: UN certificates UNOPS enquired about the possibility of presenting the UN certificate at border crossings in lieu of UNLPs (in addition to providing the MOFA yellow card, UN identity card and passport with visa for back-up). Action: UNDP to find out more information about the UN certificates. It is doubtful however that UN certificates can be presented at Erez, since staff are required to show their visas. Issue 6: US dollar value UNRWA sent a message to UNDP expressing their growing concern re the US dollar rate against the Israeli Shekel and have requested for UNDP to raise this issue with HQs. Since UNDP’s Special Representative is not the Resident Coordinator, UNDP enquired whether UNSCO’s Resident Coordinator would be willing to follow up on this matter. UNSCO’s CAO has agreed to share this info with the Resident Coordinator and follow up. Issue 7: UNTSO’s Medical centre As a follow up to last month’s meeting, UNTSO is not in the position to open up the services of their medical centre to UN sister agencies. Please be reminded that Dr. Michael Shapira of Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital was recently appointed a UN Certified Physician in Israel. He has been providing excellent medical support to UNTSO staff members since 2002 and thus was recommended as UNEP.

Issue 8: Presentation on UN pension fund Mr. Abdul Farook's, UNICEF’s Senior Operations Manager who was here on a temporary mission, provided a comprehensive presentation on UN pension fund which is now available on DVD for 20 NIS. Should your agency wish to receive a copy(s), please contact Rebekah Kosinski, UNDP. Issue 9: Salary survey for National staff UNTSO survey committee is working with HQs on this issue and is replying to their specific questions and will revert to all UN agencies in due course. Issue 10: UNLPs Recently UNDP received instructions from HQs to put UNLPs in safekeeping when not in use. All representatives agreed to implement this immediately. Issue 11: Friday prayers Friday prayers were also discussed and the issue of compensation. Most of the agencies require for their staff to compensate. WFP increased their working hours during the week (Mon – Thurs. from 8:00 am - 4:30 pm) so that Fridays are half days. It was unanimously agreed to implement HQs instructions immediately. *AOB

• UNSCO’s new Special Coordinator is Mr. Michael Williams • Heads of Agency meeting will take place this Friday. • UNSCO has not yet received signed MOUs from OCHA and FAO. OCHA’s

representative informed that the MOU is with Geneva HQ for review. FAO'S representative was under the impression that UNSCO would sign the MOU first (which was done after the meeting).

• UNICEF is still facing difficulties with Bank Leumi as the Bank cannot decipher what kind of entity UNICEF is. Their USD account is still pending approval. UNDP’s DSR (O) has offered to accompany Mr. Mukasa to Bank Leumi to deal with this issue.

• Updated list of the procurement group (note changes to WFP)

UN Procurement / Admin Officers

Name Title Agency Email Address

Ms. Sharon Sorensen

Supply & Logistics Officer

UNICEF ssorensen@unicef.org

Mr. Hussein Shahin

Facilities Supervisor OCHA shahinh@un.org

Ms. Inas Odeh Admin Assistant

UNESCO i.odeh@unesco.org

Ms. Mayyada Malki

Finance and Admin Associate

UNFPA mayyada.malki@undp.org

Ms. Hala Al-Hashweh

Procurement Officer UNTSO al-hashweh@un.org

Ms. Fida Amasheh Admin Assistant UNIFEM fida.amasheh@unifem.org

Ms. Areej Zbeidi Procurement Officer WFP areej.zbeidi@wfp.org

Mr. Edwin Nicolas Head of Administration UNRWA e.nicolas@unrwa.org

Ms. Tanja Manenti-Popovic

Operations Consultant FAO tanja.manenti-popovic@undp.org

Ms. Lisa Abu-Shanab

Admin Assistant ILO lisa.abushanab@undp.org

Ms. Maha Abu Ghosh

Admin Assistant OHCHR maha.abu-ghosh@undp.org

Ms. Rania Katan Admin Assistant WHO rka@who-health.org

Mr. Jean Lausberg Chief Security Advisor UNDSS j.lausberg@unrwa.org

Ms. Janyna Rhor Procurement Specialist UNDP janyna.rhor@undp.org

Mr. Shehadeh Habash

Procurement Associate UNDP shehadeh.habash@undp.org

Mr. Omar Abu El Hawa

Procurement Assistant UNDP omar.abu-el-hawa@undp.org

Next UN Admin meeting: 6, June 2007, 10 AM at UNDP office, Ramallah

UN Administrative Meeting Date: 25, April 2007, 10:00 AM Venue: OCHA, Jerusalem Final Minutes Attendees:

Abdul Farook UNICEF afarook@unicef.org Tanja manenti-popovic FAO tanja.manenti-popovic@undp.org Javier Arina – Iraeta WHO arinairaetaj@who.int Joan Byrne UNESCO j.byrne@unesco.org Wolfgang Weiszegger UNSCO weiszegger@un.org Ana Rodriguez UNSCO rodriguez4@un.org Lisa Abu Shanab ILO lisa.abushanab@undp.org Carolyn Squire OCHA squirec@un.org Hussein Shahin OCHA shahinh@un.org Shehadeh Habash UNDP shehadeh.habash@undp.org Omar Abu El Hawa UNDP omar.abu-el-hawa@undp.org Khaled Shahwan UNDP khaled.shahwan@undp.org Rebekah Kosinski UNDP rebekah.kosinski@undp.org A meeting with Administrative representatives from UNICEF, OCHA, UNSCO, UNESCO, WHO, ILO, FAO & UNDP was held in order to discuss issues relating to administration / operations / security. AGENDA:

1. Salary survey for Nationals 2. 4 wheels drives - Requirement for phase three areas 3. Armored vehicles 4. Gaza security advisory 5. Appointment of Dr. Shapira as UNEP 6. ICSC hardship questionnaires 7. UN Security guard & driver uniform 8. Post reclassification 9. Presentation by Mr. Abdul Farook (UNICEF) on UN pension fund 10. UNSCO office in Ramallah 11. UNDP retreat 12. UNDP Promotion Board

Issue 1: Salary survey for Nationals The salary survey for national staff is currently being reviewed. The survey is prepared every two years and in between a local review must be done. UNTSO is the leading agency responsible for handling this issue and so far none of the agencies have received any information regarding the status of the review. UNSCO’s CAO has agreed to follow up with UNTSO regarding this issue and will revert to us.

UNESCO raised their concern with regard to budgeting the salary for their staff when there is constant fluctuation of the US dollar exchange rate. UNDP suggested that this issue be addressed in the salary survey. Issue 2: 4 wheels drives - Requirement for phase three areas: As a requirement for MOSS compliance, the DSS and the SMT decided that only 4 wheel official vehicles (‘field vehicles’) should be used for phase three areas. This was enforced a couple weeks ago (02/04/07) UNDP has a limited number of 4 wheel drives and therefore had no option but to plan the trips to phase three areas in order to accommodate as many number of staff as possible. UNDP’s transportation / logistic unit has scheduled trips to Ramallah, Nablus and Bethlehem. UNDP’s SR suggested to re-assess the security phases of various areas in the West Bank. The UNDSS is currently investigating this and the final decision will be made with the SMT. Issue 3: Armored vehicles UNDP informed the Admin representatives that the Israelis will not authorize customs clearance unless we can confirm that an International will be driving the armored vehicle. UNSCO has two armored vehicles, the World Bank has one, OCHA has two, UNRWA has two. WHO representative questioned whether or not it is important to procure another armored vehicle when there seems to be enough vehicles to be shared amongst the agencies. Should your agency require usage of an armored vehicle, contact the UNDSS in Gaza (coordinates) FAO has recommended that the agencies utilize the UN procurement group / contact list to share information regarding offers for second hand vehicles. Names of the UN procurement group are as follows: It was suggested to create a procurement working group in order to discuss and share material, contracts, list of vendors etc in order to avoid duplication of work and so that vendors can regard the UN as one single buyer.

UN Procurement / Admin Officers

Name Title Agency Email Address

Ms. Sharon Sorensen

Supply & Logistics Officer

UNICEF ssorensen@unicef.org

Mr. Hussein Shahin

Facilities Supervisor OCHA shahinh@un.org

Ms. Inas Odeh Admin Assistant

UNESCO i.odeh@unesco.org

Ms. Mayyada Malki

Finance and Admin Associate

UNFPA mayyada.malki@undp.org

Ms. Hala Al-Hashweh

Procurement Officer UNTSO al-hashweh@un.org

Ms. Fida Admin Assistant UNIFEM fida.amasheh@unifem.org

Amasheh Mr. Thafer Abu Ghannam

Admin Officer WFP thafer.abu-ghannam@wfp.org

Mr. Edwin Nicolas

Head of Administration

UNRWA e.nicolas@unrwa.org

Ms. Tanja manenti-popovic

Office Manager FAO tanja.manenti-popovic@undp.org

Ms. Lisa Abu-Shanab

Admin Assistant ILO lisa.abushanab@undp.org

Ms. Maha Abu Ghosh

Admin Assistant OHCHR maha.abu-ghosh@undp.org

Ms. Rania Katan Admin Assistant WHO rka@who-health.org

Mr. Jean Lausberg

Chief Security Advisor

UNDSS j.lausberg@unrwa.org

Ms. Janyna Rhor Procurement Specialist

UNDP janyna.rhor@undp.org

Mr. Shehadeh Habash

Procurement Associate

UNDP shehadeh.habash@undp.org

Mr. Omar Abu El Hawa

Procurement Assistant

UNDP omar.abu-el-hawa@undp.org

Issue 4: Gaza security advisory UNSCO brought to attention that the Gaza security advisory circulated on the 25 April 25, 2007 provided advance notice that Israeli action will take place in Gaza within the next 48 hours. Issue 5: Appointment of Dr. Shapira as UNEP in Israel According to UNTSO, Dr. Michael Shapira of Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital has been providing excellent medical support to UNTSO staff members since the year 2002. and they have recommended to appoint him as UNEP in Israel. My understanding at this stage is that we should obtain a recommendation from UNDP/ WHO then send again to MSD New York.

Dr. Dhruba Koirala Medical Officer UNTSO, Jerusalem

Issue 6: ICSC Questionnaire for Hardship Duty Stations The surveys for Israel, East Jerusalem, West Bank and Gaza duty stations will need to be submitted to ICSC Head quarters on October 1, 2007. UNDP will hand over this issue to UNSCO in order for the Res. Rep coordinator in order to facilitate the proper assessment of the duty stations. Last year we were required to prepare separate questionnaires for each of the West Bank duty stations in question (Hebron, Nablus, Jenin, Tulkarem, Bethlehem, Qalqiliya, Ramallah and Jericho). Action: UNDP’s focal point (Rebekah Kosinski) will forward the questionnaire to UNSCO’s CAO. Issue 7: UN Security guard & driver uniform Issue 8: Post reclassification Issue 9: Presentation on UN pension fund Mr. Abdul Farook (UNICEF Operations) is inviting all UN fixed term National and International staff (including spouses) to his presentation on UN pension fund. The presentation will take place on Thursday 3, May 2007 between 9:30 am – 12:00 pm at the Notredam auditorium (venue to be confirmed soon). Issue 10: UNSCO office in Ramallah UNSCO CAO informed representative that a few UNSCO staff will be moving into their new office in Ramallah (taking over UNESCO in UNDP’s building) Issue 11: UNDP retreat UNDP management has decided to hold a retreat during the second week of June 2007. The retreat will consist of two parts; the first part will be workshop sessions for various UNDP staff (Gaza, Jerusalem and WB), consultants, facilitators, and UNDP staff from Hqs, etc. to review, discuss and recommend on the future strategic framework for PAPP. This will take place from Tuesday the 12th of June till Friday the 15th of June 2007 inclusive. The second part of the retreat (recreational) will be for all PAPP staff from Jerusalem, Gaza and West Bank The venue will be the Intercontinental Hotel, Jericho. UNSCO and UNICEF arranged their staff retreat to take place in Amman at the Radisson hotel and also managed to coordinate for their Gaza staff to attend.

Issue 12: UNDP Promotion Board OCHA enquired about the UNDP promotion board. In response UNDP’s DSR (O) informed the attendees that the CRG met regarding the RCAs in March 2007 and that the promotions have not been yet finalized. Next meeting: Wednesday, 23 May 2007, 10 AM at Government House.

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UN Administrative Meeting Date: 14, March 2007, 10:00 AM Venue: UNDP, Jerusalem Draft Minutes Attendees:

Abdul Farook UNICEF afarook@unicef.org Sharon Sorensen UNICEF ssorensen@unicef.org Tanja manenti-popovic FAO tanja.manenti-popovic@undp.org Maha Abu Ghosh OHCHR maha.abu-ghosh@undp.org Hala Al-Hashweh UNTSO al-hashweh@un.org Inas Odeh UNESCO i.odeh@unesco.org Ana Rodriguez UNSCO rodriguez4@un.org Mayyada Malki UNFPA mayyada.malki@undp.org Rasha Abu Shanab UNFPA rasha.abushanab@undp.org Thafer Abu Ghannam WFP thafer.abu-ghannam@wfp.org Lisa Abu Shanab ILO lisa.abushanab@undp.org Carolyn Squire OCHA squirec@un.org Hussein Shahin OCHA shahinh@un.org Edwin Nicolas UNRWA e.nicolas@unrwa.org Janyna Rhor UNDP janyna.rhor@undp.org Shehadeh Habash UNDP shehadeh.habash@undp.org Omar Abu El Hawa UNDP omar.abu-el-hawa@undp.org Khaled Shahwan UNDP khaled.shahwan@undp.org Rebekah Kosinski UNDP rebekah.kosinski@undp.org A meeting with representatives from UNICEF, OCHA, FAO, UNSCO, UNTSO, UNESCO, UNRWA, UNTSO, WFP, ILO & UNDP was held to discuss a UN approach for issues relating to administration / procurement / operations / security in order to avoid duplication of work and to benefit from savings due to economy of scale. AGENDA:

1. UN procurement

2. OCHA to raise the following issues:

- National Uncertified Sick Leave - National Certified Sick leave - Emergency Leave and how all of the above pertain to contract type. - Zone warden contracts

3. Telephone and mobile usage policy (UNFPA)

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Issue 1: UN Procurement It was agreed at the last UN Administrative meeting (14/02/07) to invite UN Procurement Officers to the next meeting in order to ensure transparency and an open discussion regarding contracts / long term agreements for supply of various types of items as well as communication(s), mobile telephones (Jawwal and Orange) /VHF/ satellite and their usefulness in all areas, plus the vendor(s) used to procure these items. Each Procurement representative briefed the participants on their various local and International contracts / long term agreements. UNDP presented a list of their current LTAs (see attachment). Most UN agencies that are under UNDP’s umbrella do their procurement directly through UNDP. UNRWA’s high value contracts are all centralized through their headquarters, however they are considering to decentralize their procurement. UNICEF has a total of 15 local LTAs which are primarily for educational items. They are currently in the process of entering into a contract for IT equipment, and are inviting other UN agencies to join them. In addition UNICEF has 33 International contracts for various different items. UNTSO System Contracts entered into by the DPKO Procurement division in New York for supply of different types of items like vehicles(Toyota, Nissan, Hyundai, Renault, etc), vehicle spares, communication and IT equipments, food rations, camping equipments, generator spares, etc. The number runs into hundreds of such contracts. Similarly locally also UNTSO has several Long term agreements for the supply of various items such as fuel, hardware supplies, plumbing, electrical, masonry, communication, stationery, toner cartridges, motor vehicle parts, etc, and also long term agreements for services like gardening services, cleaning services, car-wash services, rental services, building maintenance services, vehicle repair services, communications services, laundry, air-conditioner maintenance etc. It was suggested to create a procurement working group in order to discuss and share material, contracts, list of vendors etc in order to avoid duplication of work and so that vendors can regard the UN as one single buyer.

UN Procurement / Admin Officers

Name Title Agency Email Address

Ms. Sharon Sorensen

Supply & Logistics Officer

UNICEF ssorensen@unicef.org

Mr. Hussein Shahin

Facilities Supervisor OCHA shahinh@un.org

Ms. Inas Odeh Admin Assistant

UNESCO i.odeh@unesco.org

Ms. Mayyada Malki Finance and Admin Associate

UNFPA mayyada.malki@undp.org

Ms. Hala Al-Hashweh

Procurement Officer UNTSO al-hashweh@un.org

Ms. Fida Amasheh Admin Assistant UNIFEM fida.amasheh@unifem.org

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Mr. Thafer Abu Ghannam

Admin Officer WFP thafer.abu-ghannam@wfp.org

Mr. Edwin Nicolas Head of

Administration UNRWA e.nicolas@unrwa.org

Ms. Tanja manenti-popovic

Office Manager FAO tanja.manenti-popovic@undp.org

Ms. Lisa Abu-Shanab

Admin Assistant ILO lisa.abushanab@undp.org

Ms. Maha Abu Ghosh

Admin Assistant OHCHR maha.abu-ghosh@undp.org

Ms. Rania Katan Admin Assistant WHO rka@who-health.org

Mr. Jean Lausberg Chief Security Advisor UNDSS j.lausberg@unrwa.org

Ms. Janyna Rhor Procurement Specialist

UNDP janyna.rhor@undp.org

Mr. Shehadeh Habash

Procurement Associate

UNDP shehadeh.habash@undp.org

Mr. Omar Abu El Hawa

Procurement Assistant

UNDP omar.abu-el-hawa@undp.org

Issue 2: Certified and Uncertified sick leave The UN rules and regulations state that UN staff members are granted uncertified sick leave for 7 working days per year. Medical certificates are required when sick leave continues for a period of more than 3 consecutive working days. OCHA expressed their concern about how some staff members are using their uncertified sick leave for reasons other than their own sickness as well as that of their immediate family. UNDP pointed out that this is acceptable as each staff member is entitled to chose how to spend their own uncertified sick leave. In addition, OCHA raised the issue of how some zone wardens are accumulating their CTO so that they end up taking a few days off. The attendees brought to the attention that there should be a limit on accumulating CTO. Issue 3: Telephone and mobile usage policy UNFPA enquired about the internal policy of personal usage of telephones and mobile phones. UNDP has a tab system (Abbas company) which tracks all calls made per landline and at the end of each month, the staff member is required to reimburse UNDP for any personal phone calls. With regard to mobile phones, UNDP pays 250 NIS per month for all outgoing official phones calls and the staff member is required to pay Next UN Admin meeting: Wednesday 18 April, 2007 10:00 AM at OCHA.

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UN Administrative Meeting Date: 14, February 2007, 10:00 AM Venue: UNFPA, Jerusalem Final Minutes Attendees:

Abdul Farook UNICEF afarook@uniecef.org Joan Byrne UNESCO j.byrne@unesco.org Wolfgang Weiszegger UNSCO weiszegger@un.org Ana Rodriguez UNSCO rodriguez4@un.org Mayyada Malki UNFPA mayyada.malki@undp.org Fida Amasheh UNIFEM fida.amasheh@unicef.org Thafer Abu Ghannam WFP thafer.abu-ghannam@wfp.org Jean Lausberg DSS j.lausberg@unrwa.org Dalal Abu-Saleh ILO dalal.abusaleh@un.org Carolyn Squire OCHA squirec@un.org Rania Katan WHO rka@who-health.org Edwin Nicolas UNRWA e.nicolas@unrwa.org Francois Del Marmol UNRWA f.delmarmol@unrwa.org Khaled Shahwan UNDP khaled.shahwan@undp.org Rebekah Kosinski UNDP rebekah.kosinski@undp.org A meeting with Administrative representatives from UNFPA, OCHA, UNSCO, UNICEF, UNDSS, UNESCO, UNRWA, WHO, WFP, ILO & UNDP was held in order to discuss issues relating to administration / operations / security. AGENDA:

1. Presentation by Arab Bank Representative 2. UNV Learning Manager 3. ICSC Questionnaire 4. Rest & Recuperation 5. Any other business

Issue 1: Arab Bank Mr. Firas Najjab, bank manager of Arab Bank in Ramallah attended the meeting in order to brief UN Admin officers on the general history of Arab Bank and the various services it offers the UN. When Abdul Hameed Shoman established the Arab Bank in Jerusalem in 1930, he wanted to build an institution that would serve the Arab world. The growth of the Arab Bank has come against a background of both regional political turbulence and spectacular growth and development. The Arab Bank has 300 branches all over the

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world, yet primarily concentrated in the Arab world. There are 14 branches in the major cities of the West Bank and Gaza. Arab Bank offers a range of direct banking services covering Internet Banking (Arabi Online), Phone Banking (Hala Arabi), SMS Banking and ATM Banking. Arab Bank ATMs enable the customer to execute banking transactions, which has proven to be less time consuming. CORPORATE BANKING A focal point from the bank will be designated to assist in account management. Within corporate banking, Arab bank provides the following services: Deposit Account:

- Current account - Call account - Fixed deposit account - Savings

Loans / Credit Facilities:

- Car loan - Hiring loan - Purchase - Overdrafts - Short term loans

Remittance services:

- Transfer outward and inward - Foreign currency buy / sell - Travelers cheques - Drafts – outward - Drafts purchase / collection

PERSONAL BANKING Same as above Contact information: For more information visit the Arab Bank website at: www.arabbank.ps or www.arabbank.com (Global) Mr. Firas Najjab, bank manager of Ramallah Branch. Contact number: 0599237458

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Issues raised by UN Admin officers to Arab Bank representative:

1. UNESCO expressed their concern regarding delays in transferring funds from New York Headquarters to the Arab bank. In response, Mr. Najjab remarked that any mistake in the account details would cause this delay. In addition, UNESCO is facing problems with timely delivery of bank statements. Mr. Najjab assured UNESCO that he would intervene by initiating contact with UNESCO’s branch.

2. WFP questioned Mr. Najjab regarding banks charges for installments. Mr. Najjab explained that the Arab Bank is not affiliated with the service agent, Israeli Credit Card (ICC) and therefore customers are charged for interest.

3. UNESCO raised another issue concerning exorbitant bank charges for bank charges. The Bank will offer more reasonable rates to for those who transfer funds frequently, and so Mr. Najjab said he would look into this issue.

4. UNSCO mentioned that they have received complaints from staff regarding delays in salary transfers (from Bank Leumi to Arab Bank). Mr. Najjab stated that transfer of funds should be accredited within 2 days. Any delay is due to the fact that two different banks are involved.

5. UNDP questions Arab Bank representative whether there would be any restriction for a UN staff member to open an account. The Answer is No. Furthermore, Mr. Najjab confirmed that the same services are available for both Nationals and Internationals.

6. UNDP also raised a question concerning the facilities that would be available in the event of a crisis. Arab Bank representative affirmed that the bank has a department specifically geared towards ‘business continuity management’.

Issue 2: UNV Learning Manager

Further to last month's UN Administrative meeting in which the participants proposed to assign an International or National UNV to all UN agencies to work as a learning manager, the following details pertaining to the estimated cost for an International UNV ( including travel expenses, etc) and a national UNV were presented to the Admin officers.

Contract duration

Normal pro forma rate for International UNV

6-month post:

$ 27,580

12-month post:

$ 47,170

Extensions:

Costs for extensions of contracts will depend on the length of the initial contract, and also of the UNV’s number of dependents. Contact the UNV office for tailored information.

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Contract duration

Normal pro forma rate for National UNV Specialist

6-month post:

$ 7,615.08

12-month post:

$ 15,230

Extensions:

Costs for extensions of contracts will depend on the length of the initial contract, and also of the UNV’s number of dependents. Contact the UNV office for tailored information.

UNDP established draft Terms of References for the proposed UNV which were also shared with the agencies (see attached). It was suggested by the DSS to make this an extra-budgetary project as opposed to cost – share basis, stating that the latter can be problematic. On the other hand, UNDP strongly believe that the UN should be responsible for financing the development of its own staff. Action: It was agreed that the UN Agencies need more time, check with Heads of Agencies and confirm their participation in this arrangement. * So far, OCHA, UNESCO and UNDP have confirmed that they will not be involved. Issue 3: ICSC Questionnaire

It was suggested by UNDP DSR (O) to circulate the ICSC questionnaire to all heads of agencies and for them to start working on the questionnaire well in advance. Issue 4: Rest and Recuperation

Following last month’s meeting, the criteria for R & R received from HQs was presented to the Heads of agencies and we are awaiting their final decision. Issue 5: Hazard Pay for SC holders

WFP were questioned for providing their SC field workers with hazard pay. In response, WFP confirmed that this was a management decision and that although SC holders are not considered ‘staff members’ they do have similar entitlements to the staff member (including maternity leave, Van Breda Health insurance). Although WFP are bound to UNDP’s rules and regulations, they have their own staff rules which may state that SC holders are entitled to Hazard Pay. Issue 6: Security Clearance

UN DSS FSCO has been approving retroactive security clearances and is warning the agencies that he will stop doing this as of Friday 09/02/2007. Once the FCSO raises his concern at the next SMT meeting, he will circulate a message ensuring that everyone is aware of this matter.

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Issue 7: Overtime

A question about the limit for overtime per month was addressed to the various UN agencies. Most agencies confirmed that the maximum amount of overtime hours per month is 40. The DSS only authorizes overtime for weekends. UNSCO does not have funds available for overtime payments. Staff are compensated through time off only *See attached UNDP Rules and Regulations for Overtime. Issue 8: Other Security related business:

- The training on Advanced Security in the Field must be done before the end of February or the staff member will not be security cleared.

- Following an incident whereby a UN staff was stopped by IDF and his private vehicle confiscated because a UN sticker was displayed on his private vehicle, it has been advised to remove UN stickers from private vehicles.

- From a security point of view it is preferable to use Orange or Jawwal mobile phones as opposed to Mirs.

- Internationals on SSA should possess a multiple entry visa to Gaza.

Issue 9: Any other business:

- Only the 5 staff members under secretary General level are entitled to receive discounts on Arnona.

- Some UN Agencies are required to pay exit fees at Alenby bridge. UNDP has tried to resolve this issue by contacting the Legal Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs but have not received a final answer yet.

Post meeting note: UNSCO CAO has confirmed that Mr. Kevin Kennedy, Deputy Special Coordinator in his capacity as Development Coordinator is de-facto the Resident Coordinator. In this respect, issues and concerns pertaining to R&R and the post classification will be raised with the Resident Coordinator, Mr. Kevin Kennedy.

Next meeting: 14, March 2007, 10 AM at UNICEF. Participants are encouraged to invite their Procurements Officers / Communication Officers to the next meeting to ensure transparency and an open discussion regarding communication(s), mobile telephones/VHF and their usefulness in all areas, plus the Vendor(s) used to procure these items. Procurement officers are requested to bring along all their Long Term Agreements to the meeting.