Trevor Sargent
Question:106 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the research, if any, using genetically modified fish; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11263/99]
Written Answers. - Fisheries Protection.
Trevor Sargent
Question:107 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources his views on the desirability or otherwise of the release of genetically modified salmon or other fish into national waters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11264/99]
Trevor Sargent
Question:108 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the body or Department responsible for granting permission for the release of genetically modified salmon or other species into national inland waters and seas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11265/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 106 to 108, inclusive, together.
The Environment Protection Agency – EPA – is the responsible body for implementing the 1994 regulations governing transgenic or genetically modified organisms – GMOs – in this country. These regulations give effect to EU directive 90/219 EEC and 90/220 EEC on the matter. Before any transgenic fish can be released into national waters the consent of the EPA must be obtained.
I have been advised by the Marine Institute that they are not aware of any research work being carried out on genetically modified salmon in this country and that generally there is strong opposition to the use of such salmon in the Irish salmon farming industry.
The Irish Salmon Growers Association – ISGA – which is the representative body for the salmon farmers, has also informed me that the industry itself is not in favour of the use of transgenic salmon. I understand that in 1996 in Galway the International Salmon Growers Association passed a resolution outlawing the use of transgenic salmon by its member associations and that in response to this the ISGA endorsed this policy at national level in early 1997.