Trevor Sargent
Question:48 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans, if any, his Department has to issue guidelines on the ethical framework of research into genetics in this country. [7492/98]
Written Answers. - Genetic Research.
All universities have been actively involved in genetic research for almost 20 years, with Trinity College, Dublin, being the first university to develop a major involvement in the area in 1979. Genetic engineering as a technology was developed in the early to mid-1970s and is now a cornerstone of research in the disciplines of biology, medicine and agriculture.
Among the areas of activity are plant biology, disease treatment in medicine, applications of use in the food industry and industrial microbiology. There are wide applications in many industries.
Genetic engineering is a major research activity for universities worldwide and is regarded as a very safe technology. It is a highly regulated area, both at a national level and at EU level, with the Environmental Protection Agency and the National Drugs Advisory Board having a role in this context. Accordingly, I do not consider it necessary to issue any guidelines on the matter, at this time.