John Gormley
Question:130 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if the use of genetically modified organisms in Irish farming is part of the Government's short or long-term agricultural policy. [17752/97]
Written Answers. - Genetically Modified Organisms.
The use of genetically modified organisms in Ireland is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency. Apart from the growing of a very small acreage of genetically modified sugar beet, which was licensed on an experimental basis, there have been no other instances where such products have been approved for use in Irish farming.
While genetically modified organisms have been applied extensively in the production of food and food ingredients in some countries, their use is still the subject of ongoing research. Pending the outcome of this, it would be premature to take a decision on their long-term use in agriculture in Ireland.
My overriding concern in this matter would be to ensure that developments in this area would not have adverse effects on human health, animal health or on the environment.