Vol. 487 No. 8
11 Mr. Farrelly asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his views on genetic engineering of food, for example, the genetic sugar beet trials which are being carried out in Carlow, Cork, Kildare, Meath, Tipperary and Wexford; if he will take into consideration the concerns expressed by many people in connection with this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5117/98]
As I mentioned in reply to Parliamentary Question No. 126 of 17 February 1998, genetically engineered crops have considerable potential for the production of safer and cheaper food. Genetically modified organisms have been used extensively in the production of food and food ingredients in some countries.
This Department has no direct function in this matter. Essentially, the question of trials for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is a matter for the Environmental Protection Agency. That body is charged with ensuring that the trials abide by all the EU legislative requirements. The conditions under which food and food ingredients from genetically engineered crops are sold is a matter for the Department of Health and Children.
Product development research is ongoing world-wide, including limited field trials of genetically modified sugar beet plants in this country. Pending the outcome of the development research stage on new products, it would be inappropriate to come to any conclusions on their possible future use for food or feed purposes.
I am conscious of public concern regarding genetically modified products, their development and use should be carefully monitored and should proceed on a precautionary basis in the best interests of both consumers and the environment.
European Union legislation concerning the deliberate release of genetically modified organisms into the environment for development research purposes and, in appropriate cases, the subsequent placing on the market of novel foods and novel food ingredients, are implemented at national level by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Health and Children respectively.
12 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if the Monsanto Corporation has been in contact with his Department in relation to their further plans in this country; and, if so, the details of the nature of these contacts. [5113/98]
There have been no direct contacts between the Monsanto Corporation and my Department in regard to its further plans in this country. However, at a recent informal meeting attended by a representative of a public relations company involved with the corporation a number of issues of a general nature were discussed, including gene technology.
