Brian O'Shea
Question:100 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his Department's policy in regard to genetically modified food; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20975/02]
Written Answers. - Genetically Modified Organisms.
Policy in respect to genetically modified food is developed on an EU basis while the Minister for Health and Children has overall competence regarding negotiations at EU level. The current proposals on GM food and feed are being negotiated in the Agriculture Council. I have responsibility for the animal feed aspects of the proposals and I am advised by my colleague the Minister for Health and Children in relation to the food aspects. The Food Safety Authority of Ireland is the competent authority for the enforcement of EU legislation pertaining to genetically modified food.
The policy in relation to GM food and feed continues to be guided by the need to provide strict safety assessment with regard to human and animal health and the environment. The Minister of Health and Children and I are both anxious to ensure that consumers and farmers will be in a position to exercise a choice in relation to the purchase of food and feed through the introduction of an appropriate labelling system for GM products.