Austria and Luxembourg have not indicated their intention to introduce a general ban on the importation of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to their jurisdiction. Under the provisions of Article 16 of Council Directive 90/220/EEC, both member states have initiated provisional prohibition action in relation to one specific genetically modified maize product which was approved under the marketing provisions of the directive in 1997. This limited and provisional prohibition action by Austria and Luxembourg is being addressed by the European Commission in the context of the procedures provided for under Article 21 of the directive. I indicated in the reply to Question No. 102 of 26 November 1997 that Ireland would not support proposals from the European Commission requiring Austria and Luxembourg to repeal their prohibition action. That position is unchanged.
My Department is currently examining the written responses to the national consultation paper on genetically modified organisms and the environment which I issued on 24 August 1998. Pending the completion of this process, and a review of national policy and procedures in this area which I intend to complete as soon as possible, I do not intend to initiate action under Article 16 of Directive 90/220/EEC.
