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National GM system is world leading
West Australian
28/11/05
The announcement by Minister Chance that the WA Government is going to fund tests to achieve “independent data” on the safety of genetically modified (GM) foods (‘State GM study splits farmers’, 28/11/2005) raises some very interesting questions.
Firstly, Australia has implemented one of the most stringent gene technology regulatory frameworks in the world. Overseen by the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) it requires the assessment of GM products on a case-by-base basis to assess impacts on human health and safety and the environment. Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) complements this and assesses the safety of GM foods produced in Australia or imported from overseas. In spite of very detailed studies no evidence has been found which might indicate that foods produced from approved GM crops are any different to that from non-GM crops.
Secondly, the “independent” researchers, funded to undertake this research are not known for their impartiality in the GM debate. One of the directors is an active member of the extended Greenpeace team, campaigning against GM crops. One must question the degree of ‘independence’ this research will generate.
Finally, a few questions must be asked in relation to the project itself. What process did Minister Chance undertake to ensure the scientific credentials and ‘independence’ of these researchers? How will the trial be designed? In what peer-reviewed scientific journal will the results be published? How much of taxpayers money is being committed to fund this project?
While it did take some time for a problem to be identified with the recently axed field pea research, this highlights the extensive and thorough testing process in place. At the beginning, the key assessment was in terms of the ‘pest resistant’ characteristics of the crop. It would have been meaningless to assess the ‘health’ aspect before ascertaining that the modification itself, the primary purpose for the research, had been successful.
The approach by Minister Chance, to fund a group campaigning against GM crops, is disappointing and flies in the face of Australia’s existing world class, science-based GM product approval process.
Paula Fitzgerald
Executive Director
Agrifood Awareness Australia Limited
Canberra
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